Some Canadians are now facing the prospect of being away from home for weeks — or even for months. Speaking on Saturday, Justin Trudeau promised that his government would do its best to repatriate any locals that are stranded overseas due to COVID-19 in Canada. However, he admitted that there will be some people unable to get home. Addressing the public for the sixth time in as many days, the Prime Minister acknowledged that there are still many stranded Canadians around the world. After closing Canada’s borders earlier this week, Trudeau committed to doing whatever he could to get people back into the country. However, speaking on Saturday he confirmed that not everybody can be repatriated. “As we make these decisions, factors like the number of Canadians there, airspace closures and the local situation are being taken into account,” the PM explained. “Now we won’t be able to reach everyone,” he noted, adding “But we’re going to do our best to help those we can.” During his statement, Trudeau also confirmed that those who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or those who have symptoms of the virus will not be allowed to board a flight into the country. “We need everyone to do their part,” he said. Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed Canadians on the #COVID19 situation, and announced measures the Government of Canada is taking to help Canadian travellers find a way to get home. Announcement details: https://t.co/fHw1WfONLe pic.twitter.com/lAfaiwxDSl— CanadianPM (@CanadianPM) March 21, 2020 When it comes to flying Canadians back home, the Prime Minister confirmed that the country’s airlines were “all in,” and would repatriate citizens wherever possible. “I want to thank the staff from pilots to air crews, for their professionalism and dedication during a very difficult time for the industry, when people are worried for their jobs and futures, they are still stepping up to help,” he said. In addition to promising reasonable ticket prices for all upcoming flights, Trudeau also offered an emergency government loan of up to $5,000 for people unable to return to Canada. As we work to bring home Canadians stranded abroad, I want say thanks to the airport staff and @CanBorder personnel who will be greeting them when they land. Thank you for your professionalism, your dedication, and for always rising to the challenge.— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) March 21, 2020 Between Monday and Wednesday next week, WestJet is expected to operate more than 30 flights to help stranded Canadians get home. On Saturday, Air Canada returned 444 residents from Morocco, as borders continue to shut down around the world. The first of our special flights to bring Canadians home has departed from Casablanca to Montreal on flight #AC2003, carrying 444 Canadians and an incredible crew. We look forward to reuniting them with their loved ones tonight. #FlyTheFlag pic.twitter.com/k9jEkE3LIb— Air Canada (@AirCanada) March 21, 2020 The Prime Minister has asked all Canadians abroad to register with Global Affairs Canada. More information can be found here.
