Trudeau warns of second wave in address to the nation

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says much of Canada is already in the second wave of COVID-19.

In a rare address following a throne speech earlier in the day, Trudeau laid out the federal government’s plan to guide the country through the pandemic and help revive the economy.

Speaking from his office on Parliament Hill, the Prime Minister spelled out a troubling scenario for the country.

“In our four biggest provinces, the second wave isn’t just starting, it’s already underway,” he said. “We’re on the brink of a fall that could be much worse than the spring.”

In a plea to the nation, the Trudeau said people need to take the appropriate measures to protect themselves. He added this is no time for any parties and that no one is invincible to the virus.

The Prime Minister used the address to highlight the speech from the throne where he vowed the following:

• help provinces ramp up testing
• extend the wage subsidy for businesses
• create a national child care system
• national standard for long term care
• a green recovery plan for the economy

 

While all opposition parties have criticized the plan, it remains unclear if they will vote against it in a confidence vote.

Like Dr. Tam, the Prime Minister says the country is at a crossroads, adding "we can bend the curve. We can build a stronger future. We can define the change" #cdnpoli

— Cormac Mac Sweeney (@cmaconthehill) September 23, 2020

 

Trudeau stressed that it’s not too late the change the direction of the country. He says we can’t make changes before thanksgiving, but if Canadians change their behaviour and start practicing proper health advice we may be able to salvage Christmas.

“We can bend the curve, we can build a stronger future, we can define the change.”