Hello everyone, and happy Labour Day.

Today, we celebrate the hardworking women and men who build a stronger Canada – and a better future for us all every single day.

My friends, you are the backbone of our country, and you’ve always been at the heart of our success.

And thanks to the hard work and advocacy of unions, we’ve taken action to protect collective bargaining rights, strengthen the Canada Pension Plan, and make workplaces safer for all Canadians.

Now I know the last few months have been difficult for many of you and your families, and your colleagues.

If you’ve been working on the front lines, you’ve risked your health to provide the services and care that Canadians count on.

You’ve helped us throughout this crisis by caring for our loved ones, and to recognize the important role you’ve had, we worked with provinces and territories to provide a temporary wage boost for you.

And if you found yourself unable to work or your hours were cut back because of COVID-19, we provided financial support through the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy and the Canada Emergency Response Benefit.

And as Canadians transition back to EI benefits, we’re going to make sure the EI program is more flexible and generous so you can get the help you need, when you need it most.

We will always support Canada’s workers, because together we can build a stronger country, for everyone.

Once again, thank you for everything you’ve done – and continue to do – to create communities that we’re all proud to call home. 

Stay safe and healthy everyone, and enjoy today.