Update to CRA Members- Message from CEO Nathalie McGregor- COVID 19

Dear CRA Members,

Like you, we have been watching events unfold around the world in relation to the Coronavirus (COVID-19). In the past week we have seen unprecedented responses to this outbreak, entire school systems have shut down, major cultural and sporting events are cancelled or on hold, and trade shows, including our own Quebexpo have been postponed or cancelled.

As this outbreak continues to unfold, we know that you are being bombarded with information. The Canadian Rental Association is committed to providing you with as much relevant information as possible.

Our event rental members are being disproportionately affected by this outbreak and many have seen disastrous levels of postponements and cancellations in what should be one of the busiest seasons of the year. There is widespread fear and market-crashing panic happening around us, with near daily announcements, restrictions, and cancellations.

Tomorrow, we will begin surveying our members to attempt to assess the financial consequences of this outbreak on our industry. We will keep you updated on the results of those surveys.

Linked to this message we are providing members with COVID-19 signage that can be posted for your customers and employees. CUSTOMER POSTER EMPLOYEE POSTER

Additionally, the Government of Canada has announced measures that are available to assist your businesses and your employees including the Work-Sharing Program and waiving the one-week waiting period for Employment Insurance sickness benefits. Financing solutions including COVID-19 related bridge financing has also been made available through Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and Export Development Canada (EDC).

We are closely monitoring this rapidly developing situation and will be providing updates as additional information becomes available. The Canadian Rental Association is committed to working together with you to help you manage through these challenging times. In the meantime please reach out with any suggestions you have for how we can support your business, this industry, or the general public.

Stay safe, stay healthy.

The Canadian Rental Association

Additional Information about Canada’s National and Provincial Response to the COVID-19 Outbreak can be found at:

Employment Insurance – Expanded programs for COVID-19 including immediate access to EI Sickness Benefits for employees affected by COVID-19

https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/corporate/notices/coronavirus.html

BDC – Business Loans and Bridge Financing

https://www.bdc.ca/en/pages/special-support.aspx?special-initiative=covid19

EDC – Assistance for Canadian Exporters

https://www.edc.ca/en/campaign/coronavirus-covid-19.html

Government of Canada – Response to COVID-19

https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/canadas-reponse.html

Provincial Information