COVID-19 pandemic - Minister Jean Boulet Makes a Positive Assessment of the Temporary Aid for Workers Program

QUÉBEC, April 8, 2020 /CNW Telbec/ - The Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Solidarity and Minister Responsible for the Mauricie Region, Jean Boulet, announced that the Temporary Aid for Workers Program (PATT COVID-19) will end at 4:00 p.m. on April 10, 2020. The program has provided financial support to more than 13,000 Quebecers and represents an investment of over $14.5 million.   

Launched on March 16, at the beginning of the crisis, the program was intended to provide financial assistance to workers subject to an isolation measure who were not eligible for an income replacement program. The government wanted to make sure that no one would be concerned about the loss of income caused by self-isolation. The program helped stem the spread of COVID-19 in Québec.

Suspension of the PATT COVID-19 will ensure that the various financial assistance measures announced by the different levels of government are complementary. On April 6, the Government of Canada launched the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, which is available to the majority of workers eligible for the PATT COVID-19. 

All applications will be processed

The government wants to reassure Quebecers that all of the applications received will be processed. Applicants will be notified as soon as possible of the decision regarding their file. This will also be the case for all applications for administrative review under study.

From now until the end of the PATT COVID-19, applications must be made by telephone. Personalized assistance will be provided to help people determine if they are eligible for the program. Applicants are invited to call the Red Cross at 1-800-863‑6582 to speak with an agent.

Quote:

"I'm proud to say that our program has provided financial assistance to nearly 13,000 people who had to self-isolate in order to stem the spread of the virus. We acted swiftly so that these people could protect themselves as well as others and would not have to worry about losing their income. Rest assured that I and my federal counterparts are keeping a close eye on the situation to ensure that no one is overlooked. We will take the necessary steps to ensure that everyone receives the help they need during this challenging period."

Jean Boulet, Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Solidarity and Minister Responsible for the Mauricie Region

Highlights:

• For more information about the coronavirus, visit quebec.ca/coronavirus.

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SOURCE Cabinet du ministre du Travail, de l'Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale

Source: Caroline d'Astous, Press Officer, Office of the Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Solidarity and Minister Responsible for the Mauricie Region, Telephone: [phone]; Information: Media Relations, Direction des communications, Ministère du Travail, de l'Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale, Telephone: [phone]

Related Links

https://www.mtess.gouv.qc.ca