We commend the federal government’s responsible and targeted package of measures to protect Canadians from COVID-19 and to address the economic consequences of the current health emergency. More may be required going forward, but at this point it makes sense to hold off on major economic stimulus measures until the extent of the impact is better understood.

We encourage the federal government to stay in close contact with employers, labour leaders, educators and others who are monitoring the situation on the ground and are responsible for the health and safety of their respective communities. The Business Council of Canada and its member companies will continue to keep the government updated on the economic implications.

We look forward to this week’s First Ministers’ Meeting to assess how the federal government responds to the hardship currently being inflicted on the energy sector. The TMX pipeline project, Coastal GasLink and other trade-enabling infrastructure are needed now more than ever. It is also vitally important for governments to chart a lasting path forward on economic reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.