Dear Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce Members and Supporters.
In our latest newsletter, Issue 147 released last Thursday afternoon we referenced the following point subsequent to the information provided for employers about the Payroll Relief Fund that the Federal Government was offering at the time.
* We will continue to advocate for increased payroll support so that our businesses can maintain current staffing levels.
That afternoon I'd been on the phone along with colleagues from across the Country and Cabinet Ministers from the Trudeau Government. Our push during that call was for a much better relief program and for the immediate and urgent need of cash-flow support for our businesses.
It should be pointed out that no one organization made this happen. It's the overall value of advocacy efforts by the collective who make things happen.
For us in Port Alberni I extend my gratitude to the Businesses and Organizations, along with the many individuals who have supported us for years. That support has permitted me to enter these conversations on behalf of all of our businesses, and by default all of our employers.
I currently have four scheduled calls during the week starting of course on Monday. We'll continue to ADVOCATE for our businesses and I'll continue to stand by the reference above that simply says: "We are unapologetic for our support of business....."
So what's next? Well, first I encourage all businesses to keep on top of the programs being offered. Now more than ever you MUST self-educate on these programs. There are many being offered by the various levels of Government. Read them, figure out how they might pertain to your business and the stability of it.
Some links that we recommend you be bookmarking:
Payroll Subsidy
(I point out that as this is written - Sunday, March 29th - the information has NOT YET been updated to the new program announced on Friday. That's how fast things are changing. The Government cannot keep up with the Government. Not a criticism at all, simply a FACT. Check that site often. It should be updated by Monday.)
Work Sharing Program
This program was identified in our latest newsletter but we're promoting it again. It's a program that may well suit many of our local employers. This program is also ever-changing as Advocates, including ourselves, push for reduced and/or eliminated waiting periods. The prime benefit of this program is that it allows you as employers to find creative ways to maintain your business and by default keep your employees.
The New Canada Emergency Business Account:
This program assists our businesses with much needed cash that we hope will keep many afloat during these troubled times. Through our surveys we discovered that the biggest single concern of all was the worry about cash-flow. Make sure to understand the program and confirm that your business qualifies.
Here is another link that can help you with your business plans moving forward. Like ALL links out there in today's world you must check frequently for updates.