May 18, 2021

Your CFA Update on COVID-19

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CFA joins 61 business groups calling for a plan to reopen the economy

As Canada nears a major milestone in the vaccination campaign, business groups from across the country, including the Canadian and provincial and territorial chambers, have written the Prime Minister to urge him to take a leadership role in developing a clear and consistent roadmap out of lockdown. 

The letter states that a clear and predictable plan for a gradual and safe return to a more normal life would instill public confidence while demonstrating concern for the physical, mental and economic health of Canadians. The letter — copies of which were sent to the premiers — is signed by the heads of more than 60 business organizations representing companies of all sizes, in all regions of the country, employing millions of Canadians.

Read the Letter

B.C. government ending climate-action program for municipalities

The program was created in 2010 after B.C. implemented a carbon tax, and provides all local and regional governments grants equal to the amount of tax they paid. In exchange, cities must disclose how they used the money to further their climate goals, with the majority also reporting their greenhouse gas emissions. 

Last year, approximately $8.4 million was given to municipalities through CARIP, of which around $1.2 million went to the City of Vancouver.

Municipal Affairs Minister Josie Osborne said that while CARIP was being discontinued, the province was providing $11 million in funding this year for climate projects in municipalities, and would consult with them on alternatives going forward. 

Canada-U.S. border restrictions extended another month to June 21

he Canada-U.S. border will remain closed to non-essential travel for at least another month, just days before the current agreement was set to expire.

Non-essential travel restrictions have been in place between the two countries since March 21, 2020. The provision exempts the flow of trade and commerce, as well as vital health-care workers such as nurses who live and work on opposite sides of the border.

The CFA's 2021 Annual Accomplishments Report is available now

Focusing on each of the four pillars of the CFA’s strategic plan, this report outlines our Association accomplishments over the past year, including many exciting “firsts,” in the key areas of community, education, advocacy, and lead generation. Read it here! 

National vaccine advisory panel recommends Pfizer shot for anyone 12 and up

Canada's national vaccine advisory panel is now recommending Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for anyone aged 12 and up, according to the country's chief public health officer, backing up recent provincial efforts to start vaccinating younger Canadians.

Dr. Theresa Tam made the announcement during an update Tuesday from federal officials, noting that the National Advisory Council on Immunization (NACI) now recommends a standard two-dose vaccination schedule of the Pfizer shot for any eligible Canadians between 12 and 18, following an earlier Health Canada authorization for younger teens.

Quebec announces easing of COVID-19 restrictions starting May 28

Quebec's premier announced earlier today that the province will begin lifting the curfew across the province on May 28 and masks no longer mandatory in most situations by the end of August.

The vast majority of the province will be an "orange zone" as of May 31, which means indoor dining at restaurants will be allowed and gyms can reopen. All kids will be sent back to school full time as well. As it stands in Quebec, third-year high school students and above have been going to school every other day. Eating on patios and decks outside of restaurants will begin when the curfew is lifted, and people will be allowed to gather in groups of eight on private properties, but outdoors only.

Starting June 25, people who have had two doses will be allowed to gather indoors without distancing.

Festivals will also be allowed, summer camps will open and large entertainment venues will be welcoming up to 2,500 people with 250 people per section.

By the end of August, most mask requirements will be lifted, except for perhaps public transit and a few other exceptions.

Premier Legault said this success relies on everybody to do their part by getting vaccinated. Quebec set a goal of administering the first vaccine dose to 75 per cent of adults by June 24, but now officials expect to reach that goal by June 15.

P.E.I. to extend pause on border entries for another 2 weeks

P.E.I. has again delayed the date of entry for seasonal residents to the province due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Last month, P.E.I. announced it would be putting a pause on those entries as part of stricter border measures to limit the importation and spread of COVID-19. According to an updated section of the province's website, that has been delayed again, this time until June 1.

Business Recovery Summits On-Demand Videos Now Available for Purchase!

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COVID-19's impact on the world is creating waves across all sectors and industries.

Every member of the CFA community is dealing with an issue that is affecting the world, our industries, our communities, our businesses, and our people.

We would like to hear from you if you have any topics, issues or questions to navigate turbulent times in order to support you further: 

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If you would like to subscribe all your franchisees to receive our COVID Update, please contact Alex Mann at amann@cfa.ca.