Dear DGC Members,

As most of you know, this morning the federal government announced initial details for new programs meant to provide income support to workers impacted by the coronavirus outbreak, but who are not eligible for EI.

Information on these programs is still incomplete, but here's what we know so far:

The Emergency Care Benefit will provide workers who do not qualify for EI with a $900 biweekly benefit if they are unable work because they are sick, are caring for someone who is sick, have children who are not in school (due to school closures) or have been told to self-isolate. The Guild is currently seeking clarification on whether this includes workers whose regular place of employment has shut down, but also meet the above criteria.

The Emergency Support Benefit to assist self-employed workers who are currently unemployed due to coronavirus, but do not qualify for EI, will be administered through the Canada Revenue Agency - not through the existing Employment Insurance program - and details on how to apply have not yet been provided. $5 billion has been earmarked for this program, but no details have been provided on the amount of individual benefits.

You can find more information about the new benefits announced today from the Government of Canada, here.

The Guild is already making inquiries to the government on the specific amount for individual payments available under the Emergency Support Benefit and you can rest assured we will be pressing the government to ensure these measures treat all Canadians equally and provide full and equal support to independent contractors such as our members.

In solidarity,

Dave Forget
National Executive Director
Directors Guild of Canada