Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said a new deal has been reached to provide personal protective equipment for frontline health care workers.
Speaking on Tuesday morning in Ottawa, Trudeau said a contract has been signed with General Motors to produce 10 million face masks.
“As we speak, GM employees are already making these masks. They will keep people safe and help slow the spread of COVID-19,” he informed Canadians during his opening remarks.
“For the auto workers in Oshawa, Ontario, this contract will support good, well-paying jobs in an industry that has faced tough times.”
This announcement comes as multiple flights transporting PPE have made their way to Canada.
Information from May 19 by Public Services and Procurement Canada shows a small amount of equipment such as face shields, gloves, ventilators and masks have arrived in the country after millions were expected to be received.
Trudeau also announced more help is coming for the agriculture and food industries hit hard by the pandemic. He mentioned that the funding will be made available for up to 700 youth jobs in the sector.
“This will support the people who put food on our plates while creating new opportunities for young people,” shared Trudeau. “This builds from what we have already done, from connecting more Canadians of every age with work in the sector, to supporting seasonal workers.”
(With files from CJGX and Moises Canales)
