Coronavirus (COVID-19) National News

OTTAWA — While researchers across the planet race to find a vaccine for COVID-19, a new poll suggests Canadians are divided over whether getting it should be mandatory or voluntary — setting up a potentially prickly public health debate if a vaccine

The latest numbers of confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases in Canada as of 4 a.m. ET on April 28, 2020: There are 48,500 confirmed and presumptive cases in Canada.

Some key developments are coming this week in the country's relentless struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic. They begin today with businesses being allowed to apply for the federal government's $73 billion wage subsidy program.

The latest numbers of confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases in Canada as of 4:00 a.m. on April 27, 2020: There are 46,895 confirmed and presumptive cases in Canada.

Harmony Beef resumed operations on March 31

OTTAWA — When the Archdiocese of Toronto cancelled services at its 225 parishes due to COVID-19, it faced a big financial hit, along with difficult layoffs and pay cuts for clergy.

The latest numbers of confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases in Canada as of 4:00 a.m. on April 26, 2020: There are 45,354 confirmed and presumptive cases in Canada.

OTTAWA — The European Union is planning a major pledging conference early next month to help fill the World Health Organization's funding gaps, and it expects Canada to play a key role.

OTTAWA — Expectant mothers who have been left out of a key COVID-19 emergency-aid program will receive financial help, and will qualify for federal benefits when they go on maternity leave, says Canada's employment minister.

OTTAWA — The federal government is providing rent relief to businesses that can't afford to pay their landlords at a time when their operations are seriously curtailed or shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic.