Conservatives propose back-to-work bonus to encourage economic recovery

Even though the Canadian unemployment rate is at historically high levels, some companies are having trouble recruiting workers.

Part of the problem, according to the federal Conservatives, is that people cannot continue to collect the $2,000-per-month Canada Emergency Response Benefit if they earn $1 more than the $1,000 earnings exemption.

"This barrier makes it difficult for Canadians to re-enter the workforce as businesses may only be able to offer part-time hours for the first couple of months," the Opposition party stated today.

The Conservatives have proposed that workers who earn between $1,000 and $5,000 per month would qualify for a "Back to Work Bonus".

It's described as a "CERB top-up that would be gradually phased out (by 50 cents for every dollar earned over $1,000)".

The Parliamentary Budget Office has pegged the cost of this policy adjustment at $3.1 billion.

"Conservatives believe it should always pay to work,” party leader Andrew Scheer said. “By making the CERB more flexible and generous, workers will have the support they need to transition back into the workforce.”