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  4. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau holds 29th call with premiers on COVID-19 response
Ottawa, Ontario

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs Dominic LeBlanc held the 29th call with Canada’s provincial and territorial premiers to discuss their shared response to the global COVID-19 pandemic. They were joined by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, Dr. Theresa Tam.

First Ministers continued their discussions on the COVID-19 situation, noting the increase in COVID-19 cases across the country that has forced many jurisdictions to impose stricter public health measures. Noting that today is World Health Day, the Prime Minister recognized the toll the pandemic is taking on all Canadians, including on their mental health. First Ministers discussed the need to encourage Canadians not to let their guard down, recognizing the solidarity among all Canadians in every province and territory.

The Prime Minister provided an update on the vaccine rollout, highlighting that Canada has delivered over 10 million doses to provinces and territories and recognizing their efforts in getting these doses into the arms of Canadians. First Ministers talked about working collaboratively to reinforce the safety and efficacy of vaccines. Dr. Tam provided an update on the AstraZeneca vaccine, highlighting Canada’s strong regulatory approval process.

The Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to support provinces and territories in all of their response efforts. He noted the various support programs available to Canadians, including Employment Insurance, the Canada Recovery Benefit, the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit, and the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit, as well as supports available to businesses, such as the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, the Canada Emergency Business Account, and the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy, including the lockdown support available. He highlighted how these measures are supporting Canadians and helping premiers make tough decisions to ensure the health and safety of Canadians.

The Prime Minister also engaged premiers on borders. They agreed to collaborate on potential adjustments to border measures. The Prime Minister emphasized that any adjustments to border measures will be based on scientific evidence and made only once it is safe to do so. First Ministers agreed that now is not the time to adjust any border measures or to travel.

All First Ministers firmly reiterated their commitment to a collaborative, Team Canada approach to fighting and ending the COVID‑19 pandemic.

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