TORONTO – Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, issued the following statement in response to today’s monthly employment release by Statistics Canada:

“Employment in Ontario increased by 53,000 in August as more businesses re-open and more people return to work. And as our #TeamOntario vaccine campaign continues, we are providing businesses and workers with the tools they need to stay open and stay safe. That’s why, starting September 22, proof of vaccination will be required to access certain businesses and settings.

It is more important than ever to ensure we are well-prepared for any future challenges. That is why Ontario has invested an additional $50 million in the renewed Ontario Together Fund in 2021-22. The Ontario Together Fund is helping to support local innovators and businesses to further enhance Ontario’s domestic supply chain capacity, promote Ontario’s MedTech ecosystem and build up our manufacturing sector.

Our government has also continued to support economic growth across the province. That is why Ontario is investing more than $100 million over four years through the Regional Development Program, supporting distinct regional priorities and challenges. The program provides cost-shared funding to businesses, municipalities and economic development organizations to help local communities attract investment, diversify their economies and plan for long-term sustainability and growth.

In addition, as announced in the 2021 Ontario Budget, Ontario is temporarily enhancing the Regional Opportunities Investment Tax Credit by investing $61 million, resulting in total tax credit support of about $155 million by 2022-23.

Our government will continue to do whatever it takes to protect people’s health and protect jobs as we continue the fight against COVID-19 together.”