EXCERPTS

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday announced additional economic measures to help Canadians affected by the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Trudeau said the government will spend up to $82 billion, including $27 billion in direct support for Canadian workers and businesses.

“These are extraordinary times, our government is taking extraordinary measures,” Trudeau said. “The measures we’re announcing today will provide up to $27 billion dollars in direct support to Canadian workers and businesses, plus $55 billion to meet liquidity needs of Canadian businesses and households through tax deferrals to help stabilize the economy.”

Trudeau said combined, the $82 billion in support represents more than three per cent of Canada’s GDP.

He said the money will be disseminated through a combination of direct supports for workers and businesses and tax deferrals.

More to come