The following are rough notes of Justine Trudeau, Canada’s Prime Minister, to Canadians, delivered shortly after 10:30 am Pacific Time.
Justine Trudeau:
Canadian response is based on science and evidence. As the situation evolves, so too with the response. Canada will take increasingly aggressive steps to keep Canadians safe.
International Travel
We are closing borders to non-Canadians and non-permanent residents. This does not apply to citizens of the United States.
Airlines will receive the formal order to ban all travelers presenting symptoms. Airlines will do a basic health assessment of each traveler. Anyone with symptoms will not be able to enter Canada. An assistance program will be introduced for Canadians abroad.
Canadian travelers will be able to get assistance to help them get home, or to cover costs while they are forced to stay abroad.
Only the four following airports will accept international flights
- Toronto Pearson Airport
- Quebec Trudeau Airport
- Vancouver International Airport
- Calgary International Airport
These are exceptional circumstances calling for exceptional measures. “These measures will help save lives,” said Trudeau.
If you are returning from international travel, you must self-isolate for 14 days. Avoid non-essential travel outside of Canada. It’s time for Canadians abroad to come home. Canadians must stay at home.
Economic Information
$10 million will be available to help businesses.
The economic impact is shifting hourly. “We are prepared to see Canadians through this time.” Announcements are expected as soon as tomorrow.
Healthcare Information
It’s time to take every precaution to keep Canadians safe. Announcements will be coming in the following days how support will be extended to Canadian families.
Indigenous Information
The feds are also working with Indigenous communities.
On Social Distancing
Social distancing does not mean we have to stop talking to each other. Phone, email. Buy only what you need at the store. Ask your neighbor if you can pick anything up for them.
