Major progress on goals for first 100 days
When our government was sworn in last October, we promised to continue to rebuild the economy, grow the middle class, finish the fight against COVID-19, and address the ongoing threat of climate change. After the first 100 days, I am pleased to report that we have made significant progress on these goals.
One of our first priorities was creating over 1 million jobs by ensuring workers and businesses had the necessary supports to come roaring back. Thanks to the hard work of Canadians, this goal has been surpassed with the economy recovering 108 percent of jobs lost to COVID-19.
Our measures have also supported small businesses, including extending the CEBA and RRRF repayment deadlines to the end of 2023. The recovery also hinges on allowing parents, especially mothers, to participate in the workforce. That is why we’re delivering on our promise to make $10-a-day early learning and child care a reality across the country. Our plan is already making high-quality child care more affordable for families. We successfully signed agreements with nine provinces and all three territories.
For far too long, many Canadians have been forced to choose between going to work sick or paying their bills. This has especially been the case during the pandemic specifically with frontline workers. To do our part, our government introduced 10 days of paid sick leave and raised the minimum wage to $15-an-hour in federally regulated sectors.
From strengthening and extending pandemic supports to banning the harmful and degrading practice of conversion therapy, our bills in Parliament have delivered real change to improve the lives of Canadians. In December, we tabled Bill C-5 to address systemic racism within the criminal justice system and repeal mandatory minimum sentencing for non-violent crimes.
As Canadians, we know that climate change is both our biggest long-term threat as well as a tremendous economic opportunity. To build on our tried and true carbon pricing, we recently launched our Emission Reduction Plan consultations to help us meet our goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. We have also committed to slashing methane emissions from oil and gas at least 75 percent below 2012 levels and banning thermal coal by 2030.
While these achievements are promising, there is still much to do. Our government will continue working tirelessly to serve the people of Scarborough–Rouge Park and create a better future for all Canadians.
Adjusting Border Measures
With the Omicron variant past its peak, our government has begun a phased easing of travel restrictions as we move towards a more long-term management of COVID-19. Beginning on February 28, fully-vaccinated travellers will only be subject to random arrival testing, with no quarantine for travellers awaiting test results. Children under 12 years old, travelling with fully vaccinated adults, will continue to be exempt from quarantine.
Travellers can now use a rapid antigen test result taken 24 hours before departure or a molecular test result taken no more than 72 hours before departure to meet pre-entry requirements. All rapid antigen tests must be administered by a recognized laboratory, health-care entity or telehealth service.
As of February 28, The government will adjust its Travel Health Notice and will no longer recommend Canadians to avoid non-essential purposes. Travellers should continue to recognize the risks associated with international travel given the high incidence of Omicron in certain countries and take the necessary precautions.
Connect with us by contacting my office at 416-283-1414 or Gary.Anandasangaree.C1@parl.gc.ca.