The federal and provincial agriculture departments have put up $2.25 million to help provincially-inspected meat-packing plants
The money is for purchasing additional personal protective equipment, redesigning workstations, supporting employees who require mandatory isolation, and work-site mobility and transportation.
Applications to the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs open Tuesday. It will be distributed on a first-come basis until it’s gone.
“We are tremendously grateful to our meat processors who are providing an essential service to put food on our tables during this unprecedented time. The health and safety of these individuals on the frontlines is paramount,” said federal Agriculture Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau.
Ontario Agriculture Minister Ernie Hardeman said “our meat processors and their hard-working employees play a critical role in keeping our entire food supply chain safe and strong, while supplying us with fresh, high-quality, and nutritious food.
“Today’s announcement is an important step in keeping our essential workers healthy and safe during COVID-19 and beyond.”
Monte McNaughton, Ontario Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development said “the health and safety of agri-food workers, and all workers across Ontario, is a top priority.
“Meat processing employees are rightly being recognized as unsung heroes for their role in putting food on our tables during COVID-19.”
