QUEEN’S PARK — Mike Schreiner released the following statement following the passage of Bill 189, the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Support and Protection Act, 2020:
“I did not oppose today’s legislation because the people of Ontario need us to work together.
Extending the state of emergency ensures that we do not ease off physical distancing, which saves lives. This bill also gives some relief to students and municipalities.
But sadly, this bill leaves a lot of Ontarians waiting for help that doesn’t seem to be on the way.
The government had a month to come up with a comprehensive relief plan, and yet they are allowing too many people to fall through the cracks.
This legislation does not help workers and Ontarians with disabilities who do not qualify for federal relief.
It does not help local businesses who might go under because they cannot afford rent.
It does not help municipalities who need provincial aid to keep providing vital services.
And it does not provide more resources to address the surging demand for mental health support.
The government set aside $3.8 billion in contingency funds and it must be prepared to use this financial assistance to help the people who need it now.”