Looking Back at 2020 and Looking Forward to 2021
December 28, 2020
There's no doubt, 2020 has been a very long and difficult year for many Canadians — we've definitely felt it here in Avalon. Like always, we've pulled together and in doing so, things are finally starting to look up.
We are not out of this crisis yet, but we know that as we look towards the new year, this pandemic will draw to a close. We will get through this, together, by continuing to do what we know will keep each other safe: washing our hands, keeping 2 metres apart, downloading COVID alert, staying home as much as possible, listening to our local public health authorities, and accessing vaccine resources as they continue to become available.
This time of year is a time to think about the future, but also to reflect on the year we’ve had.
Our government has been working around the clock and using every tool in our toolbox to keep people safe and get Canada through this storm.
Here are just a few things we’ve done together this year:
- We took, and will continue to take, action to support all Canadians through the pandemic, including with: the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, to help employers keep their employees on the payroll and the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, to support Canadians who lost their jobs or income because of COVID-19.
- We acted quickly to keep Canadians safe by procuring more personal protective equipment, supporting Provinces and Territories, investing in science and research, and securing a diverse vaccine portfolio.
- We cut taxes for the middle class and the people working hard to join it.
- We banned the harmful practice of conversion therapy in Canada.
- We reduced cell phone bills by 25% by 2022.
- We banned dangerous assault rifles to keep Canadians safe.
- We introduced our strengthened climate plan, giving us a clear path to net-zero emissions by 2050.
- We ratified the new NAFTA, and protected thousands of Canadian jobs.
Since the start of the pandemic, front-line workers across the country have been working tirelessly around the clock to protect the health and well-being of all Canadians. From health care workers to grocery store workers, they have gone above and beyond to ensure our health and safety throughout this pandemic. Just as they have been there for us, we will continue to be there for them.
Our number one priority has been and will always be to do whatever it takes, for as long as it takes, to support Canadians through this crisis.
I am confident 2021 will be a better year for all of us!
Happy New Year Avalon,
Ken
