July 27, 2020

Government of Canada Announces Creation of Essential Services Contingency Reserve Through Safe Restart Agreement

To ensure that essential service organizations have access to key supplies needed to keep members safe throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, last week the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, announced that, as part of the Safe Restart Agreement, the Government of Canada is establishing the Essential Services Contingency Reserve, to which essential service organizations can apply for temporary, urgent access to personal protective equipment (PPE) and other critical supplies.

The Contingency Reserve complements existing PPE support being provided to frontline health care workers by the Public Health Agency of Canada. It helps other essential service organizations bridge urgent, short-term gaps in their supplies to avoid any significant disruptions in services to Canadians. This includes all critical infrastructure sectors, including the food sector.

Starting August 3rd, the ESCR will be accepting applications for PPE and will assist essential services providers, outside the health sector, that urgently require PPE to obtain supplies and continue operations. PPE including N95 and KN95 respirators, surgical masks, and gloves will be available.

Industry associations are encouraged to apply on behalf of their respective sectors.

Eligible associations and organizations will be able to apply online for a range of equipment, available for purchase at cost. Support provided to provincial or territorial governments will not be cost recovered. Full details on the Contingency Reserve, including the application process and eligibility criteria, are available on the Essential Services Contingency Reserve web page.