Mr. Speaker, since the beginning of the pandemic, I have been listening to the Orléans business community, and I am proud of the actions taken by the government to date.
Thanks to the business emergency fund and, more importantly, its expansion, an audiology company with a payroll of $46,000 or a ventilation company with a payroll of $1.3 million is now eligible for an interest-free emergency loan.
I also welcome the Canada emergency wage subsidy initiative, which will help many employers retain or rehire their employees. The subsidy covers 75% of an employee’s pay.
I know that many Orléans businesspeople are anxiously awaiting to hear about the next measure that will be brought in to help them, namely the Canada emergency commercial rent assistance program for small business.
I want to say to those businesses that are still concerned that I will continue to work with the government and to raise their concerns.
Finally, I would like to salute all those in Orléans working in essential services. We salute them and we say thank you.