The impacts that Covid-19 and social distancing, closures and cancellations have on many Canadians are far-reaching and unprecedented, and the potential for bankruptcy, closures and job losses is very real.

Independently-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, consultants, part-time and casual workers and those who are part of the gig economy are vital to our economy, and the effects of Covid-19 will hit them hard.  Many of those workers do not currently qualify for Employment Insurance, and many businesses are facing tax deadlines and payments that could bankrupt them if they have decreases in revenue.

Therefore, we are asking that the Canadian Federal and Provincial Governments to support us and provide relief. Here are some ways how:

1. Make changes to the EI Special Benefits for Self Employed people to allow access for people who experience loss of work or income as a result of the impacts of Covid-19, waive the 12-month waiting period and reduce the 700 hour requirement for casual and part-time workers.

2.  Temporarily suspend business tax payments,

3. Suspend mortgage, rent and utility payments -- as other countries like Italy have done for their citizens.