MP Viersen Urges Liberals to Adopt ‘Back to Work Bonus’ to Help Workers & Small Business

Today, Arnold Viersen, Member of Parliament for Peace River–Westlock joined his Conservative colleagues in announcing a new Conservative proposal to improve the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) – called the Back to Work Bonus.

With concerns emanating over the federal government’s handling of CERB, with the lack of support for small business a chief concern, Conservatives have put forward constructive solutions to amend Liberal programs and get Canadians the help they need. 

“Conservatives are focused on getting workers and businesses in our local communities and across the country back on their feet,” Mr. Viersen said.

Canadians who lost their jobs because of COVID-19 will continue to receive their full $2,000 CERB, according to a press release by Viersen’s office.

As businesses reopen, workers who make between $1,000 and $5,000 per month would qualify for a CERB top-up that would be gradually phased out by 50 cents for every extra dollar earned over the $1,000 threshold. 

For a part-time server making $2,000 per month, the Back to Work Bonus would result in a top-up of $1,500, for a total monthly income of $3,500.

“Our plan is flexible and generous because Conservatives believe it should always pay to work,” MP Viersen said. “After all this country has been through, Canadians should not be penalized for picking up work anywhere our communities and businesses need help. We’re going to keep working to get all Canadians the help they need.”

Viersen argues that the Back to Work Bonus will help workers, local businesses, and drive Canada’s economic recovery.

“As our province mOves forward with its reopening plan, I’ve heard from many residents and local business owners throughout Northern Alberta, wondering how reopening of our local economy will affect them,” MP Viersen said. “I’ve listened to your concerns and expectations for the future, and I’m proud to announce another Conservative proposal to help you get ahead.” 

Under the current Liberal plan, workers lose their entire CERB when they earn even one dollar over the $1,000 monthly limit.