Thank you for the question.
We've seen the use of economic recovery benefits, sickness benefits and family caregiver benefits change along with the waves of the pandemic. Each time more severe restrictions have been implemented, the use of these benefits has increased. People use the benefits when there's a need for them. As the restrictions are lifted, the number of applications goes down.
In terms of the profile, we know that family caregivers, for example, are mostly women. About 60% of the applicants are women. These women are taking care of children as a result of school closures or looking after parents since facilities are closed because of COVID‑19. They can't go back to work. In addition, some of the lower income or self‑employed workers may not have the protections provided by regular employment that would enable them to take time off.
This program addresses some major shortcomings. Given the uncertainty surrounding the course of the pandemic, it provides a significant public health measure and ensures that individuals don't need to return to work and potentially put others at risk.