Trudeau announces new funds for farmers, vaccine development and urges Canadians to stay home

COVID-19/coronavirus update: March 23, 2020

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced new funds Monday to support farmers and to assist researchers working to develop and test vaccines as the number of COVID-19 infections continues to rise in Canada.

Speaking outside his residence at Rideau Cottage, Trudeau said there will be a $5-billion credit program to support farmers. He also announced $192 million in new funding for the development and production of vaccines to stop the spread of the virus.

Trudeau also pleaded with Canadians to stay home whenever possible and to practise social distancing, warning that no one is invincible during this time of a global pandemic.

“Please follow the recommendations of our public health officials. We have to trust them and we have to listen,” he said.

Trudeau’s remarks come as the federal government launches a $30-million advertising campaign to raise awareness about the measures to stop the spread of infection.