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COVID-19 Updates as of March 18

March 18, 2020
By Bob Peters

Cornwall Ontario – In a effort to combat the spread of COVID-19, many Cornwall organizations and businesses are taking steps to limit public interactions. The following information may be of use to businesses and employers in the City. Please note that the following is provided from information sources as of March 18 2020.

MUNICIPAL SERVICES

Municipal offices and recreation facilities are closed to the public, including those of Cornwall Economic Development, Cornwall Tourism and the Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre. While our office will be closed to the public, staff continue to work and are accessible via phone and email.

Essential municipal services will continue to be delivered, including water purification, wastewater treatment, emergency services, and Cornwall Transit. Waste collection will continue. More information is available from the City website at:

https://www.cornwall.ca/en/city-hall/covid-19-response.aspx

Please use the Contact Us form on the ChooseCornwall.ca website to connect with Economic Development staff.

STATE OF EMERGENCY

Premier Doug Ford has declared a state of emergency for the Province of Ontario. This announcement included a list of certain establishments that must close immediately (including all bars and restaurants with the exception of those that provide takeout or delivery).

TRADE AND TRAVEL

Canada and the U.S. have agreed to temporarily restrict all non-essential travel across the border. Commercial trade and supply chain activities will not be affected.

FINANCIAL AID

In addition to previously announced employment and health care supports, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has unveiled a sweeping $27-billion emergency aid package that offers immediate and direct help to Canadians and businesses, plus $55-billion in tax deferrals, to help them survive the severe economic downturn caused by the coronavirus pandemic. More info here:

https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-trudeau-unveils-82-billion-in-aid-tax-deferrals-for-coronavirus/

Intake for the Rural Innovation Initiative has been extended until April 17.

Facebook has announced a future grant program to assist companies affected by COVID-19.

Canada’s six largest banks have announced plans to provide support to personal and small business banking customers. Assistance could include up to a six month deferral on mortgage payments.

The Business Development Bank of Canada has increased assistance available to entrepreneurs.

LINKS TO SHARE

Eastern Ontario Health Unit: https://eohu.ca/en
Cornwall Community Hospital: https://www.cornwallhospital.ca/
Government of Canada: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Resources for Canadian businesses
Business Development Bank of Canada: Support for Entrepreneurs impacted by coronavirus
Export Development Canada: Managing Impact on Global Supply Chains
Employment Insurance and Labour and Occupational Health and Safety: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) – Employment and Social Development Canada
Provincial Links (Ontario): Ontario Ministry of Health – stats and self assessment tool
Canadian Chamber of Commerce: Pandemic Preparedness for Business

SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES (AND NEIGHBOURS)

Many local small businesses have been forced to close temporarily to assist public safety efforts. Some residents may not be able to move freely due to self-isolation or other reasons. Now is an excellent time to consider how you might be able to support local businesses and residents. Options include purchasing goods and services online, and/or gift certificates.

COMMUNITY HELPLINE

The City of Cornwall has opened a helpline for residents with concerns and requests for support. The phone number is 613-933-6282 ext. 3129, and will be manned Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., by bilingual staff. If the line is busy, residents may leave a voicemail, which will be returned. For health concerns, residents should continue to call the Eastern Ontario Health Unit: 1-800-267-7120.

TOURISM SURVEY

The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) has launched a new survey seeking feedback from tourism businesses on the economic impact of Covid-19. The feedback will be used in discussions with Ontario Tourism Minister Lisa MacLeod to help shape an economic recovery package.