Trudeau clarified that the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) was not designed to be given to those who take trips to foreign countries and therefore miss work.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed media from Rideau Cottage in Ottawa, providing updates on the Liberals' response to the COVID-19 pandemic, while addressing recent criticism that sickness benefits would be given to those who returned from vacations abroad.
Trudeau clarified that the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) was not designed to be given to those who take trips to foreign countries and miss work for quarantining.
"This is not the time to vacation abroad," said Trudeau in French. "We need to hold on and be strong."
Trudeau said that the CRSB was designed for workers to take paid sick leave in the scenario that their employer doesn't offer it. Trudeau said the intent was "never" to send a cheque for those "who decided to go on vacation."
Speaking directly to those who traveled, Trudeau said that the benefit "was not prepared for you. For those who were upset reading the reporting over the weekend. I share the frustration and anger. We are correcting the situation quickly," the prime minister said.
"I've asked the ministers responsible to come up with solutions rapidly to ensure that it is there to keep Canadians safe... Not as a way of paying for quarantine after a vacation."
Regarding confirmed reports of various politicians across party lines who have left the country for vacations, Trudeau said he was "disappointed" to find out that two of his caucus members had travelled. Those members have since resigned from their committee roles.
Loading this lets YouTube set cookies and collect data.
View on YouTubeLibby’s Desk
Commentary and must-reads from Libby’s desk, straight to your inbox.
TPM Newsletter
The Post Millennial’s top stories, delivered to your inbox.
