COVID-19/coronavirus update: March 17, 2020

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says a package of financial supports is on the way to help millions of Canadians and businesses get through the COVID-19 crisis — and he isn’t ruling out an extension to the tax filing deadline.

During a news conference outside his residence at Rideau Cottage, Trudeau urged Canadians to stay home and follow recommended steps to stop the spread of infection, saying steps taken now can help save lives. He said the government is also looking at temporarily recalling Parliament to bring in emergency economic measures.

“Tomorrow we will be making another major announcement on economic actions to support Canadians as quickly as possible. By the end of the week, we will have more to say about changes for the upcoming tax season,” he said.

Trudeau also said the government is examining the Emergencies Act to determine if it should be invoked, or if there are other ways for the government to take steps to protect the public.

Trudeau said the government will introduce measures such as employment insurance supports and direct income supports for those who don’t qualify for employment insurance.

“We’re going to be flowing income supports to millions of Canadians. We’re going to make sure that we’re able to weather this crisis in the right way,” he said.