As the coronavirus pandemic puts hundreds of thousands of Canadians out of work, the Trudeau government is promising to help foreign countries as much as possible.
During the Prime Minister’s update on Thursday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told reporters that Canada will be providing more to the international community to fight the spread of coronavirus.
“We’re going to do whatever it takes. That means making sure the World Health Organization or our public health agencies have the resources they need,” he said.
On Wednesday, the United Nations launched an appeal for $2 billion from the international community to help in their fight against coronavirus.
When asked about the appeal, Trudeau refused to say how much Canada might contribute to the United Nations’ efforts, but said Canada will be working closely with international organizations.
Last week the government announced $50 million in new foreign aid to help other countries during the global coronavirus pandemic. In the same week, nearly 1 million Canadians filed for employment insurance.
International Development Minister Karina Gould defended the funding, criticizing those who say the government should have used the money to help Canadians in need.
Gould added that foreign aid is necessary right now as coronavirus knows no borders.
44% of Canadian workers say the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in a job loss or reduced hours.
