COVID Alert is now available for free download in Newfoundland and Labrador through the Apple or Google Play app stores. The app can let people know of possible exposures before symptoms appear.
Newfoundland and Labrador is the second province to launch the app, which has been in use in Ontario since the end of July. Other provinces and territories are expected to follow in the coming weeks and months.
The use of COVID Alert is completely voluntary. The app does not use GPS or track a user’s particular geographic location. It does not share a person’s name, address or telephone contacts. The app does not collect or store any personal health information.
How to download COVID Alert.
Calls for proposals for the provincial government’s Development of Secondary Forestry Processing Innovation Pilot Projects are now open.
This initiative, announced on June 12, is providing $400,000 to support up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs for approved industry sector business proposals up to a maximum of $100,000. \Project proposals must include the introduction of innovative products or the commencement of secondary processing that primarily utilizes locally grown wood.
These initiatives are part of a plan to support employment in rural communities and help open new markets and products for renewable resource-based businesses during the COVID-19 global pandemic, including $9.6 million in funding to create jobs and develop forest sector products and markets.
The deadline for proposals is September 30, 2020. The application form is available at the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture website.
Prince Edward Islanders who have tested for COVID-19 can now access their negative test results online.
After an individual is tested for COVID-19, their negative test results will be available for them to access at COVID-19 Test Results within 72 hours.
Individuals must enter their PEI Health Card number information, date of birth, and date of testing to access the results. Only negative test results are displayed online. The Chief Public Health Office will continue to contact individuals directly if they have tested positive.
For more information, read about COVID-19 Testing in PEI.
The provincial government announced financial support for tourism businesses in regions are suffering the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The government allocated $5.4 million to Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, and $1.5 million to the Eastern Townships.
The funds come from the implementation of the 2020-2022 Regional Tourism Partnership Agreement.
The provincial government is extending protection to prevent temporary layoffs from automatically becoming permanent job losses until January 2, 2021.
Under Ontario labour laws, termination of an employee after 13 weeks of being temporarily laid off triggers termination and severance obligations.
This measure does not apply to employees represented by a trade union.
Read the official release to learn more.
The provincial government is investing $9.3 million in 11 training projects to help approximately 2,000 students and job seekers prepare for auto and advanced manufacturing careers.
The funding will support projects from a range of organizations, including auto manufacturers, industry associations, training providers and public universities and colleges.
Click here to find out where the funding will be spent.
The provincial government is providing law enforcement agencies in Brandon and Winnipeg with more than $8 million through the Manitoba Restart Program to support the construction of new or enhancement of existing police detention facilities.
Justice Minister Cliff Cullen said the investment will also support jobs in the construction industry.
Read the official government news release.
As part of Alberta’s Recovery Plan, the provincial government announced new job-creating conservation projects.
Up to 125 jobs will be supported in conservation-related activities, including seed gathering and tree planting. Projects will also focus on culvert and bridge replacement, as well as repairs to water crossings that help recover at-risk species and protect habitat.
Learn more about Alberta’s Recovery Plan.
Alberta Innovates and Western Economic Diversification Canada are providing $6.3 million to the Smart Sustainable Resilient Infrastructure Association. This funding will create immediate and future jobs in Alberta for testing energy-efficient innovation and technology in the construction sector.
These investments will immediately create 50 jobs, with more in the future, and further allow for the training of students and professionals.
Read the official release to learn more.
As part of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, the Government of Canada, the Alberta government, municipalities, and community organizations will put $178.2 million toward 18 infrastructure projects in northern Alberta, creating some 1,050 jobs in those communities.
These projects are part of the more than $10-billion infrastructure spending announced as part of Alberta’s Recovery Plan
Read the federal government release, and the Alberta government release.
British Columbia is delaying implementation dates for changes to provincial sales tax and B.C.’s carbon tax until April 2021. The delay is intended to help businesses and families through the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery.
To further support businesses, the employer health tax 2020 quarterly instalment dates are being extended.
Read the official release to get complete details on the changes and extensions.