High rates of unemployment confirm need for financial supports to remain during re-opening of our economy – CEWS extension a positive step

“Unemployment numbers released today paint a difficult, but not surprising picture of how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our national economy.

“Alberta’s unemployment rate is one of the highest in the country, a consequence of the dual challenges posed by COVID-19 and the pre-pandemic collapse in oil prices.

“The road to recovery will be slow and uneven, but we will come through this if we are united in our efforts and our resolve.

“We have urged all levels of government to keep financial supports in place as we carefully re-open the economy with the health of Canadians as the top priority.

“Today, we welcome the federal government’s decision to extend the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy beyond June 6, 2020, which reflects what we’ve asked for on behalf of the business community.

“The grit and resiliency of all Canadians is the reason why we’ll recover from this stronger than ever. We look forward to working with all levels of government on behalf of the business community to ensure critical support is in place for our future success.”

Sandip Lalli, President & CEO, Calgary Chamber of Commerce

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About the Calgary Chamber

The Calgary Chamber is an independent non-profit, non-partisan business organization. For 129 years the Chamber has worked to build a business community that nourishes, powers and inspires the world.