Daily Update: June 15th, 2021

June 15, 2021 | Daily Update

Today, the Government of Canada launched the Ask the Experts campaign, featuring experts answering common questions about COVID-19 vaccines.

Free rapid COVID-19 testing kits are now available to businesses

Visit gncc.ca/workplace-self-screening-kits to learn more and reserve kits for your organization.

Government of Canada launches Ask the Experts campaign to encourage vaccine uptake

Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health, announced the launch of the Ask the Experts advertising campaign. This campaign features short videos by trusted experts answering some of the most common questions people have about the COVID-19 vaccines. These videos will encourage vaccine uptake by providing people across Canada with credible COVID-19 vaccine information so they can make informed choices.

These experts are answering some common questions that Canadians have. To make sure that Canadians have the information they need to make informed decisions about their health, the government has created the Ask the Experts campaign so Canadians can hear directly from healthcare professionals and other experts about what vaccination means and does.

The GNCC believes that mass vaccination is our quickest and best route to ending the pandemic and economic recovery, and encourages all eligible people to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Ontario supporting the identification and commemoration of Indian Residential School burial sites

The Ontario government is providing $10 million to help support the identification, investigation, protection and commemoration of Indian Residential School burial sites across the province. The funding will also ensure that culturally appropriate, trauma-informed mental health supports are available for Indian Residential School survivors, their families and Indigenous communities.

Across Canada, over 150,000 Indigenous children were forcibly removed from their families and communities and sent to Indian Residential Schools between 1870 and 1996. According to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, there were 18 Indian Residential Schools in Ontario; the last of these closed in 1991, with some sites since repurposed, abandoned or destroyed.

Roughly 8,000 of Canada’s estimated 80,000 Indian Residential School Survivors lived in Ontario at the time of the Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) estimated that at least 426 children who attended Indian Residential Schools in Ontario are known to have died, while an unknown number are still missing.

Ontario helping youth explore careers in the skilled trades

The Ontario government is investing almost $4 million through Support Ontario Youth to help up to 2,100 young people access training and networking opportunities to become future electricians, plumbers, millwrights, automotive service technicians and horticulture technicians. This funding will help deliver 70 one-day boot camps in communities that have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic to provide youth with hands-on training, resume writing help and introductions to prospective employers in the industrial, construction, motive power and service sectors.

Youth from more than 25 communities across Ontario, including Ottawa, London, Hamilton, Chatham and Sault Ste. Marie will gain experience working with tools, writing resumes and interviewing.

To be considered for the boot camp, applicants must fill out a 17-question questionnaire through Support Ontario Youth’s website. A software program called “talent sorter” will determine their compatibility with their selected trade. Students and adults interested in attending a boot camp can apply on the Safe Ontario Youth website at https://www.supportontarioyouth.ca/

Town of Pelham receives top municipal award for work on by-election

On Tuesday, June 15, 2021, the Town of Pelham, collaboratively with three other municipalities, was named the recipient of this year’s E.A. Danby Award for its role in developing, sharing, and executing safe and successful practices during last year’s by-election.

The E.A. Danby Award is a tiered awards program based on the size of the municipality. Along with members from the City of Ottawa, the City of Windsor, and the City of Cambridge, Pelham staff developed protocols and procedures for running a by-election during the COVID-19 pandemic. Of note, the working group members from the four municipalities and the leaders of their respective by-elections were all women.

The by-election in 2020 was the first in Pelham since 2011, and despite being held during the peak of the pandemic and among stringent public health measures, 2020 saw an increase in voter turnout.

Niagara Medical Officer of Health offers COVID-19 briefing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcQzGYnBfyY

Brock researchers awarded more than $2.3M in federal NSERC and SSHRC grants

Brock University has been awarded $1.4 million in grants from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and $923,911 from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC).

Reading Recommendations

A statistical portrait of Canada’s diverse LGBTQ2+ communities

Statistics Canada

Canada is home to approximately one million people who are LGBTQ2+, accounting for 4% of the total population aged 15 and older in 2018.

Although much has been accomplished since the beginning of the new millennium, including the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2005, and protecting gender expression and identity in the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Criminal Code in 2017, concerns remain, given the spike in hate crimes targeting LGBTQ2+ Canadians in 2019.

Pride Season brings together members of diverse communities who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, Two-Spirit, or those who identify with another non-binary gender or minority sexual identity (LGBTQ2+) and allies in celebrating one of Canada’s greatest strengths that is diversity and inclusion. To mark Pride Season, we are painting a demographic and social profile of Canada’s diverse LGBTQ2+ communities based on published analyses. Much of the data in this release focus on LGB Canadians (lesbian, gay, bisexual), since Statistics Canada has been collecting detailed information on these communities since 2003.

U.S., Canada set to discuss lifting of border restrictions -sources

Reuters

U.S. and Canadian officials are set to meet Tuesday to discuss how to eventually lift pandemic-related border restrictions between the two countries, but no immediate action is expected, sources briefed on the matter told Reuters on Monday.

U.S. and Canadian business leaders have voiced increasing concern about the ban on non-essential travel at land borders because of COVID-19 that was imposed in March 2020 and has been renewed on a monthly basis since. The measures, which also apply to the U.S.-Mexico border, do not affect trade or other essential travel.

Niagara COVID Stats Tracker (June 5)

December 18December 25January 1January 8January 15January 22January 29
Reproductive number1.41.81.41.11.00.70.9
New cases per 100,000101.2267.3469.8575.8507.1295.5250.6
New cases per day (not including outbreaks)60.7178.7311.7376.9325.4182.7145.7
Percent of hospital beds occupied97%95.2%98.2%103.2%104.5%103.6%106%
Percent of intensive care beds occupied78.8%77.3%87.9%87.9%90.9%89.4%93.9%
Percentage of positive tests6.1%15.6%28.1%28.6%26.6%21.2%16.2%

These data show the status of the COVID-19 pandemic in Niagara. The Province of Ontario is now using a provincewide approach to reopening, and these data no longer have any influence on Niagara’s restrictions.

Data are drawn from Niagara Region Public Health.

Guide

Reproductive number: the average number of new cases each case causes. If each person infects one other person, the rate is 1; if each person infects two people, the rate is 2. Under the outdated COVID-19 response framework, the target for “green-prevent” was less than 1. Niagara Public Health has indicated that this number should be consistently below 1 for Section 22 orders to be lifted.

New cases per 100,000: the total number of new cases per week identified per 100,000 population. Under the outdated COVID-19 response framework, the target for “green-prevent” was less than 10. Niagara Public Health has indicated that this number should be consistently below 15 for Section 22 orders to be lifted.

New cases per day: the total number of new cases identified per day over seven days using a rolling average. This number does not include identified outbreaks.

Percent of hospital beds occupied: the total percentage of the Niagara Health System’s hospital beds currently in use. The average occupancy rate of both acute care beds and total hospital beds in Ontario was 96 per cent in 2018-19. It should be noted that this rate was the highest (worst) in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Percent of intensive care beds occupied: the total percentage of the Niagara Health System’s intensive care hospital beds currently in use. The average occupancy rate of both acute care beds and total hospital beds in Ontario was 96 per cent in 2018-19. It should be noted that this rate was the highest (worst) in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Percentage of positive tests: the percentage of COVID-19 tests that were positive. Under the outdated COVID-19 response framework, the target for “green-prevent” was less than 0.5%.

Niagara COVID vaccination tracker (June 15)

Niagara’s most up-to-date vaccination numbers are presented below, along with comparison data from Ontario, Canada, and G7 countries.

Total doses administered in Niagara: 360,669

Total doses administered in Niagara since yesterday: 5,852

Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen will begin when Ontario has vaccinated 70% of adults with one dose, 20% of adults with two doses, has positive public health indicators, and has been in Step One for at least 21 days.

Percentage of population with one dosePercentage of population fully vaccinated
Niagara82.7%78.2%
Ontario84.6%79.1%
Canada84.7%78.6%
United States75%64%
United Kingdom78%72%
Germany76%74%
France80%77%
Italy83%76%
Japan80%79%
World63%53%

Data are drawn from Niagara Region, the Government of Ontario, and Oxford University’s Our World in Data project.

Information on government grants, resources, and programs, policies, forms, and posters for download and use, are available here.The GNCC is here to support you. Contact us with any questions you have.
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Daily Update: June 14th, 2021

June 14, 2021 | Daily Update

Niagara Public Health has offered an outline of indicators that it may be safe to lift current Section 22 orders.

Free rapid COVID-19 testing kits are now available to businesses

Visit gncc.ca/workplace-self-screening-kits to learn more and reserve kits for your organization.

Niagara Public Health offers clarification on Section 22 orders

Niagara Public Health has, in conversation with the GNCC, offered an outline of indicators that it may be safe to lift current Section 22 orders on retailers and on food and beverage service businesses. Public health is currently monitoring two primary indicators: the number of cases per 100,000 people, and the reproductive number (both are tracked in the Niagara COVID status updates at the end of every GNCC Daily Update).

Ideally, Public Health is looking for a sustained caseload of 15 per 100,000 or fewer, and to be at least consistently below 25. For the past ten days, Niagara has trended between 35 and 40. The typical number in the summer of 2020 was 5. Figures on June 8 indicated Niagara was still substantially above the provincial average and even markedly above Toronto. Niagara fell behind Peel and Hamilton, both of which have also enacted strong Section 22 orders on local businesses.

Niagara reproductive number

Ontario reproductive number

Public Health is also monitoring the reproductive number (Rt), which is the number of new cases each infection creates (e.g. if each infected person goes on to infect two other people, the Rt is 2). While Niagara had briefly dipped down to 0.8, it has gone back up to about 1.0. This number would have to hold at significantly less than 1.0 or, preferably, continue to fall, indicating that the rate of infection is slowing, before lifting the orders. The provincial average is currently at about 0.7 and has been falling.

 

The GNCC urges all Niagara residents and organizations to comply with all public health measures and advice, and asks that everyone eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine should get one as soon as possible.

Ontario accelerates second doses of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine

The Ontario government is further accelerating the second dose interval for individuals who received their first dose of an AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to eight weeks. Individuals who received their first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine are eligible to book their second dose appointment at an interval of eight weeks or more with informed consent.

Individuals can choose between a second dose of AstraZeneca or an mRNA vaccine, at an eight to 12-week interval, recognizing that while waiting 12 weeks helps to ultimately provide more protection, some may choose to receive their second dose sooner to have the increased protection provided by a second dose earlier.

Ontario releases plan for professional and elite-level sport reopening

The Ontario government is releasing a framework for select Ontario professional and elite-amateur sport leagues and events that outlines the minimum requirements that must be met for a safe return to play.

A small number of professional and elite-amateur sport leagues and events will be able to return to play under stringent public health and safety protocols. This is in advance of the broader return to play for amateur and recreational sport that will be enabled through the Roadmap to Reopen, which will allow sport and recreation to resume in incremental steps throughout summer.

WanderLost Lincoln helps kick-start tourism recovery

In early spring, the Town of Lincoln received $83,920 in funding to help launch a new WanderLost Lincoln event concept from the Government of Ontario, through the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries’ Reconnect Festival and Event Program. With the Province’s extended Stay at Home Order coming into effect in April, the Town delayed the launch of WanderLost and focused on activating online tactics such as Mother’s Day and Father’s Day gifting to keep the destination top of mind.

With the Province safely moving into Phase One of its Reopening Framework, the Town of Lincoln can now fully activate this program and begin to realize the program’s potential to create a greater awareness of Lincoln as a tourism destination in its own right, as well as create qualified, revenue generation opportunities for local tourism business partners.

For more information on how to participate, please contact Paul Di Ianni, Director, Economic Development and Communications
at 905-563-2799 ext. 272 or PDiIanni@lincoln.ca.

Lower sales in petroleum, coal, and transportation equipment lead to manufacturing sales decline in April 2021

Manufacturing sales

Manufacturing sales

Manufacturing sales fell 2.1% to $57.1 billion in April, on lower sales in 11 of 21 industries. Much of the decline was attributable to lower sales of transportation equipment and petroleum and coal products.

The machinery industry posted the largest sales gain, followed by the wood product and chemical industries.

Manufacturing sales excluding the transportation equipment industry increased 1.5% in April, the 12th consecutive monthly gain.

Although the Canadian auto industry has been affected by the global shortage of semiconductor chips since January, the impact worsened in April as every major auto manufacturer had to halt or ramp down production. Motor vehicle sales were down by over one-third (-36.5%) to $2.3 billion in April, the largest month-over-month decrease since April 2020. In the motor vehicle parts industry, sales fell 19.0% to $1.9 billion, the lowest level since May 2020. The semiconductor chip supply shortage is expected to continue throughout the second quarter. Exports of motor vehicles and parts decreased 18.1% in April.

Wood product sales rose 6.5% to a record-high $4.9 billion in April, mainly on higher prices. Sawmills and wood preservation manufacturing accounted for most of the gain.

In Ontario, sales fell 5.5% to $23.9 billion in April, the lowest level since June 2020. Following a sales increase in March, many auto and auto part assembly plants had to ramp down production again in April because of the semiconductor chip shortage, resulting in lower sales of motor vehicles (-37.7%) and motor vehicle parts (-19.6%).

Reading Recommendations

Factbox: What are G7 countries pledging on vaccine doses?

Reuters

Reuters has reported that Canada is in talks to donate excess doses through COVAX, although it has not yet made public any firm commitment of donations, or said how much it plans to donate. U.S. President Joe Biden plans to buy and donate 500 million doses of the Pfizer Inc (PFE.N) coronavirus vaccine to more than 90 countries. He has also called on the world’s democracies to do their part to help end the pandemic.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that “the G7 will pledge to distribute vaccines to inoculate the world by the end of next year, with millions coming from surplus UK stocks.” Britain says that G7 leaders are expected to agree to provide 1 billion doses via dose sharing and financing to end the pandemic in 2022.

How the Canadian economy can continue to benefit from U.S. battle with China

CBC News

When Jerome Powell, the world’s most powerful central banker, meets with the media this Wednesday, nobody expects him to say the soaring inflation we’re seeing has forced him to hike interest rates.

Despite data out last week showing year on year inflation has shot up to levels unseen for 13 years, most economists expect the U.S. Federal Reserve is not yet ready to end the stimulus low rates offer to an economy that has once again become an engine of North American and global growth.

Some worry Canada will be left out of the hot U.S. economic revivial, due to the U.S. Buy America strategy, but a series of developments last week offer evidence that this country can continue to profit by supplying the needs of its bigger neighbour.

Niagara COVID Stats Tracker (June 5)

December 18December 25January 1January 8January 15January 22January 29
Reproductive number1.41.81.41.11.00.70.9
New cases per 100,000101.2267.3469.8575.8507.1295.5250.6
New cases per day (not including outbreaks)60.7178.7311.7376.9325.4182.7145.7
Percent of hospital beds occupied97%95.2%98.2%103.2%104.5%103.6%106%
Percent of intensive care beds occupied78.8%77.3%87.9%87.9%90.9%89.4%93.9%
Percentage of positive tests6.1%15.6%28.1%28.6%26.6%21.2%16.2%

These data show the status of the COVID-19 pandemic in Niagara. The Province of Ontario is now using a provincewide approach to reopening, and these data no longer have any influence on Niagara’s restrictions.

Data are drawn from Niagara Region Public Health.

Guide

Reproductive number: the average number of new cases each case causes. If each person infects one other person, the rate is 1; if each person infects two people, the rate is 2. Under the outdated COVID-19 response framework, the target for “green-prevent” was less than 1. Niagara Public Health has indicated that this number should be consistently below 1 for Section 22 orders to be lifted.

New cases per 100,000: the total number of new cases per week identified per 100,000 population. Under the outdated COVID-19 response framework, the target for “green-prevent” was less than 10. Niagara Public Health has indicated that this number should be consistently below 15 for Section 22 orders to be lifted.

New cases per day: the total number of new cases identified per day over seven days using a rolling average. This number does not include identified outbreaks.

Percent of hospital beds occupied: the total percentage of the Niagara Health System’s hospital beds currently in use. The average occupancy rate of both acute care beds and total hospital beds in Ontario was 96 per cent in 2018-19. It should be noted that this rate was the highest (worst) in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Percent of intensive care beds occupied: the total percentage of the Niagara Health System’s intensive care hospital beds currently in use. The average occupancy rate of both acute care beds and total hospital beds in Ontario was 96 per cent in 2018-19. It should be noted that this rate was the highest (worst) in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Percentage of positive tests: the percentage of COVID-19 tests that were positive. Under the outdated COVID-19 response framework, the target for “green-prevent” was less than 0.5%.

Niagara COVID vaccination tracker (June 14)

Niagara’s most up-to-date vaccination numbers are presented below, along with comparison data from Ontario, Canada, and G7 countries.

Total doses administered in Niagara: 354,807

Total doses administered in Niagara since yesterday: 2,939

Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen will begin when Ontario has vaccinated 70% of adults with one dose, 20% of adults with two doses, has positive public health indicators, and has been in Step One for at least 21 days.

Percentage of population with one dosePercentage of population fully vaccinated
Niagara82.7%78.2%
Ontario84.6%79.1%
Canada84.7%78.6%
United States75%64%
United Kingdom78%72%
Germany76%74%
France80%77%
Italy83%76%
Japan80%79%
World63%53%

Data are drawn from Niagara Region, the Government of Ontario, and Oxford University’s Our World in Data project.

Information on government grants, resources, and programs, policies, forms, and posters for download and use, are available here.The GNCC is here to support you. Contact us with any questions you have.
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Daily Update: June 11th, 2021

June 11, 2021 | Daily Update

Today, Ontario has officially begun Step One of reopening, hopefully the beginning of a successful reopening process and economic recovery.

Free rapid COVID-19 testing kits are now available to businesses

Visit gncc.ca/workplace-self-screening-kits to learn more and reserve kits for your organization.

Ontario moves into Step One of the Roadmap to Reopen

Today, Ontario has officially begun Step One of the Roadmap to Reopen plan, hopefully marking the beginning of a successful reopening process and economic recovery. Visit gncc.ca/roadmap-to-reopen-step-one-what-you-need-to-know for a guide on what to expect and what your obligations are.

Canada is easing its travel restrictions. Here’s what you need to know

After more than a year of travel restrictions that have impacted most Canadians, the federal government has finally begun to ease the rules, the CBC is reporting.

Ottawa has embarked on Phase 1 of a multiphase approach to lift its travel restrictions. However, the government warns that the process will be gradual — based on scientific data and not people’s pleas to reopen the borders.

Here’s what changes are happening soon and what to expect as more Canadians get vaccinated.

Average national case count drops more than 80% since third wave peak

Canadian Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Theresa Tam today announced that the average national case count had dropped more than 80% since the peak of the third wave to under 1,550 cases reported daily. Likewise, the average number of people with COVID-19 being treated in our hospitals each day has dropped almost 60% since the peak to less than 1,850 daily. Of these, on average, less than 800 were being treated in intensive care units, which is down more than 45% from the peak, and average daily deaths are down 40% to 31 deaths being reported daily.

As of June 4th, 70% of the eligible population, aged 12 years or older, have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 9% have received two doses.

Ontario will extend temporary wage increase for personal support workers

The Ontario government is investing $141 million to extend the temporary wage increase for personal support workers and direct support workers in publicly funded home and community care, long-term care, public hospitals, and social services sectors. This temporary wage increase will continue until August 23, 2021.

The province has been providing a temporary wage increase since October 1, 2020, to over 158,000 workers who deliver publicly funded personal support services.

Reading Recommendations

How Homeownership Can Reduce Inequality

Canadian Real Estate Association

For many Canadians, a home represents a secure, stable asset and an investment in their future.

Despite the challenges with housing affordability across the country, research shows homeownership can play a significant role in reducing inequality—with benefits that extend across income levels, ages and regions.

This isn’t limited to high-income households—in fact, it’s more significant for lower-income households, according to data laid out in our recently released white paper, The Homeownership Dividend for Canadians. For many lower-income households, a principal residence may be their only source of wealth, which means the benefits are even more pronounced.

Canada proposes to settle indigenous lawsuit after discovery of children’s remains

Reuters

Canada has reached a proposed settlement with a group of indigenous survivors of the now-defunct residential schools for the abuse they suffered, a federal minister said on Wednesday, ending a 14-year fight for justice.

The settlement comes as the government is scrambling to deal with a national outcry after the remains of 215 indigenous children were discovered at a former residential school in Kamloops, British Columbia. The government has been under pressure to stop legally opposing indigenous people’s requests for compensationand acknowledgement in court following the discovery.

Under the latest agreement, the government will provide C$10,000 ($8,259.00) to each survivor involved in the class action lawsuit and create a C$50 million indigenous-led nonprofit to support wellbeing and cultural learning.

Canadians’ net worth surges on housing but renters left behind

Bloomberg News

The pandemic real-estate boom has made some Canadians richer, while others languish.

The net worth of the nation’s households increased by about $770 billion (US$633 billion) in the first three months of 2021, a record 6 per cent gain, to $13.7 trillion, Statistics Canada said in a report Friday. Since the start of 2020, that figure has increased by more than $2 trillion, largely thanks to rising home prices.

But the data also show that windfalls are going largely to homeowners and older Canadians. Households that own their home accounted for almost all of the gains in the first quarter — $730 billion. The wealth of renters was up just $43 billion. That disparity also comes as rising home values make owning increasingly out of reach for many Canadians.

Canada to commit to sharing up to 100 million COVID-19 vaccine doses

CBC News

Canada will commit to sharing up to 100 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines with the world in a formal announcement that will come later in the G7 summit, the country’s high commissioner to the United Kingdom said Friday.

Ralph Goodale’s remarks came as pressure increased on the Liberal government to clearly outline its strategy to contribute to a growing international effort to immunize the world’s population more quickly.

Earlier in the day, a government official speaking on background floated the 100 million figure to the media contingent travelling with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to the G7 — his first foreign trip since the onset of the pandemic.

Featured Content

National Partnerships to Support Immigrant Employment

Niagara Workforce Planning Board

For ten years, the Niagara Workforce Planning Board has been a proud member of the Immigrant Employment Councils of Canada. Operating with a pan-Canadian scope, the IECs strive to inspire new program innovations that will increase employer engagement and foster strategic partnerships to strengthen labour market outcomes for skilled immigrants across Canada.

As part of this mission, the IECs have developed a free online resource hub. The hub, which can be accessed through this link, houses resources that are dedicated to supporting employers who are interested in hiring and mentoring immigrant talent. Employers accessing the learning hub will realize a competitive advantage in attracting, hiring, training, and retaining qualified immigrant talent.

One such tool that will be housed in the hub is an employer playbook on strategies for immigrant inclusion in the workplace. Developed by the Immigrants Work Coalition, the playbook is a collection of easy-to-implement strategies that will help employers bolster immigrant inclusion. As COVID-19 has accelerated some hiring and recruitment challenges, the playbook will provide employers with ways to recruit talented candidates, add diverse perspectives to their organization, and foster an inclusive workplace. The playbook can be accessed through this link.

Niagara COVID Stats Tracker (June 5)

December 18December 25January 1January 8January 15January 22January 29
Reproductive number1.41.81.41.11.00.70.9
New cases per 100,000101.2267.3469.8575.8507.1295.5250.6
New cases per day (not including outbreaks)60.7178.7311.7376.9325.4182.7145.7
Percent of hospital beds occupied97%95.2%98.2%103.2%104.5%103.6%106%
Percent of intensive care beds occupied78.8%77.3%87.9%87.9%90.9%89.4%93.9%
Percentage of positive tests6.1%15.6%28.1%28.6%26.6%21.2%16.2%

These data show the status of the COVID-19 pandemic in Niagara. The Province of Ontario is now using a provincewide approach to reopening, and these data no longer have any influence on Niagara’s restrictions.

Data are drawn from Niagara Region Public Health.

Guide

Reproductive number: the average number of new cases each case causes. If each person infects one other person, the rate is 1; if each person infects two people, the rate is 2. Under the outdated COVID-19 response framework, the target for “green-prevent” was less than 1.

New cases per 100,000: the total number of new cases per week identified per 100,000 population. Under the outdated COVID-19 response framework, the target for “green-prevent” was less than 10.

New cases per day: the total number of new cases identified per day over seven days using a rolling average. This number does not include identified outbreaks.

Percent of hospital beds occupied: the total percentage of the Niagara Health System’s hospital beds currently in use. The average occupancy rate of both acute care beds and total hospital beds in Ontario was 96 per cent in 2018-19. It should be noted that this rate was the highest (worst) in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Percent of intensive care beds occupied: the total percentage of the Niagara Health System’s intensive care hospital beds currently in use. The average occupancy rate of both acute care beds and total hospital beds in Ontario was 96 per cent in 2018-19. It should be noted that this rate was the highest (worst) in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Percentage of positive tests: the percentage of COVID-19 tests that were positive. Under the outdated COVID-19 response framework, the target for “green-prevent” was less than 0.5%.

Niagara COVID vaccination tracker (June 11)

Niagara’s most up-to-date vaccination numbers are presented below, along with comparison data from Ontario, Canada, and G7 countries.

Total doses administered in Niagara: 339,876

Total doses administered in Niagara since yesterday: 5,451

Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen will begin when Ontario has vaccinated 70% of adults with one dose, 20% of adults with two doses, has positive public health indicators, and has been in Step One for at least 21 days.

Percentage of population with one dosePercentage of population fully vaccinated
Niagara82.7%78.2%
Ontario84.6%79.1%
Canada84.7%78.6%
United States75%64%
United Kingdom78%72%
Germany76%74%
France80%77%
Italy83%76%
Japan80%79%
World63%53%

Data are drawn from Niagara Region, the Government of Ontario, and Oxford University’s Our World in Data project.

Information on government grants, resources, and programs, policies, forms, and posters for download and use, are available here.The GNCC is here to support you. Contact us with any questions you have.
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Engage: Social Kickoff – How Real Connections Can Change Your Life

June 10, 2021 | NEXTNiagara Videos

The #FiftyTwoCoffees Story

Bobby Ray will join us to share the story of #FiftyTwoCoffees, an initiative he created that “exceeded all expectations.” More than 80 young professionals participated in the program, committing to meet, one-on-one and face-to-face, to sharing each others’ stories through social media for the community to see. The #FiftyTwoCoffees program served to harness the power of modern technology and social media while at the same time re-engaging young professionals in the effective practice of building relationships with peers through human conversation.

Speaker: Bobby Ray
#FiftyTwoCoffees Coordinator, North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce

Bobby has been a young professional committee member with the North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce since 2013 and is the founder of a networking program that launched and subsequently received provincial recognition in 2019 by virtue of an award presented by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.

A sport administrator by trade, Bobby has found a way to blend his career and his passion for supporting local small business with the creation of #FiftyTwoCoffees, an initiative that he calls “a league for coffee meetings”.

Bobby credits networking for his every professional gain including sitting on prominent boards in his community, hosting world sporting championships, and making advancements in his career.

Connect:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/bobbyrayca
Twitter: https://twitter.com/bobbyrayca
Website: https://bobbyray.ca/

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Daily Update: June 10th, 2021

June 10, 2021 | Daily Update

Niagara Health inpatient COVID-19 activity is at its lowest since April 8, and some postponed surgical services will resume.

Free rapid COVID-19 testing kits are now available to businesses

Visit gncc.ca/workplace-self-screening-kits to learn more and reserve kits for your organization.

Ontario will move to Step One of the Roadmap to Reopen on June 11, 2021

Visit gncc.ca/roadmap-to-reopen-step-one-what-you-need-to-know for a guide on what to expect and what your obligations are.

Niagara Health gradually lifting COVID-19 emergency measures

Niagara Health inpatient COVID-19 activity is at its lowest since April 8. ICU capacity is stabilizing, which enables the surgical program to ramp up services postponed during the third wave. The system will be at approximately 70% capacity with surgical procedures by the end of next week. Based on provincial direction, Niagara Health is planning to reintroduce inpatient non-emergent and non-urgent surgeries and procedures.

“The demands and stresses on our staff, physicians and the community have been significant, especially during the third wave,” says Dr. Johan Viljoen, Chief of Staff at Niagara Health. “We’d like to acknowledge the hard work and compassion of our staff and physicians during this uniquely challenging time as well as the support and commitment from the community by following public health measures and getting vaccinated.”

Note: Niagara Health and Niagara Public Health are separate organizations. This announcement does not affect public health restrictions related to COVID-19.

Feds to lift 14-day quarantine requirement for fully vaccinated Canadian travellers

The federal government has announced that fully vaccinated Canadian travellers will no longer need to spend 14 days in quarantine upon arriving home, the Canadian Press and 680 News have reported.

It will apply to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who have had a full course of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Health Minister Patty Hajdu made the announcement during a news conference, saying affected travellers will still have to take a COVID-19 test on arrival — and stay in isolation until the test comes back negative.

Ontario launches applications for 2021-22 Seniors Community Grant

The Ontario government is investing $5 million in the 2021-22 Seniors Community Grant program to help enable municipalities and local organizations to deliver programs for older adults to stay active in their communities.

This funding is an increase of $1 million from last year’s grants, allowing the province to help more grass-roots organizations positively impact the lives of older adults. Beginning Friday, June 11th, applicants can apply through Transfer Payment Ontario (formerly Grants Ontario) online at Ontario.ca/GetFunding. The deadline for all applications is July 15, 2021 at 5PM EST.

Ontario Further Accelerates Second Doses in Delta Hot Spots

As Ontario prepares to move to Step One of its Roadmap to Reopen at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, June 11, 2021, the province is further expanding eligibility for accelerated second doses in Delta hot spots to ensure a strong level of protection against COVID-19 and variants.

Beginning 8:00 a.m. on Monday, June 14, 2021 individuals who live in Delta hot spots in Halton, Peel, Porcupine, Toronto, Waterloo, Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph and York public health units and also received their first dose of an mRNA vaccine on or before May 9, 2021 will be eligible to book their accelerated second dose appointment through the provincial booking system (for Peel and Toronto public health units), directly through public health units that use their own booking system and through participating pharmacies.

Employment programs from social assistance to be merged into Employment Ontario

A new provincial system will combine employment programs from social assistance, such as Ontario Works Employment Assistance and Ontario Disability Support Program Employment Supports, into Employment Ontario.

This new approach includes the establishment of service system managers, who will oversee the planning, design and delivery of employment services in each catchment areas. This initiative builds on the success of three prototype regions in Peel, Hamilton-Niagara and Muskoka-Kawarthas, which began in 2020.

Niagara Region confirms membership of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee

Niagara Regional Council has appointed two councillors and eight community members to its new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee (DEIAC). They will be joined by representatives from the Women’s Advisory Committee and the Accessibility Advisory Committee.

Canadian Chamber raises alarm on potential for wave of closures after COVID is beaten

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has cautioned that Canada’s travel, hospitality, and tourism industry sectors will remain unable to reach their full activity for many quarters. Several factors are converging to limit their recovery, including the likely uneven rollback of travel restrictions; public health regulations that limit capacity in venues; and the need to build customer confidence after a long campaign by governments to encourage Canadians to stay home and avoid large gatherings. The runway to recovery is much longer for businesses in these sectors than for others that no longer need government support.

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce provided a 12-point plan (PDF link) to help policymakers tailor their supports for these sectors.

Investment in building construction increases again in April

Total investment in building construction increased 6.3% to $19.9 billion, Statistics Canada reports. Residential construction investment performed strongly in April, rising for a 12th consecutive month. In contrast, non-residential construction has not fully returned to pre-COVID-19 levels. However, it increased by 0.9% this month.

Residential construction reported an 8.1% gain, bringing total investment to $15.3 billion in April.

Investment for single-family homes was up 8.9%, as all provinces except Nova Scotia posted increases. Ontario accounted for the majority of the growth (+12.8%), driven by renovation projects in the census metropolitan area (CMA) of Toronto and new construction in the CMA of Hamilton.

Brock updates Stages of Recovery, will move to new stage Monday

With the Province of Ontario moving into Step 1 of its new Roadmap to Reopen plan on Friday, June 11, Brock University has updated its own reopening procedures. The updated Brock Stages of Reopening/Recovery (PDF link) document better aligns with the new provincial framework and follows all current regulations set by Niagara Region Public Health.

The document also supports the University’s continued planning for a significant return to campus in September, with most classes offered in person and some offered online or in a hybrid format. Brock is also planning for the reopening of student residences, dining facilities and other amenities on campus.

Reading Recommendations

Thanks to a coming boost to Canada’s vaccine supply, pandemic victory is finally in sight

The Globe and Mail

Forget about “one-dose summer, two-dose fall.” It was already out of date when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau coined the phrase less than a month ago, and with Public Services and Procurement Minister Anita Anand’s announcement on Wednesday of pending deliveries of millions of Moderna doses, it’s now ancient history.

This country is on the verge of having enough juice to give a first and second shot to every Canadian who wants it by early August, or even late July.

Canada’s vaccination campaign leads the G7, the G20 and the OECD in the share of population with a first dose. That remarkable performance is because of this country’s early focus on first shots, and the eagerness with which Canadians have lined up to get them. The United States has a far larger vaccine supply – enough to have double-dosed everyone weeks ago – yet suffers from a debilitating shortage of willing arms.

Ontario to introduce legislation invoking notwithstanding clause Thursday

CTV News

The Progressive Conservatives are set to introduce legislation Thursday that would invoke the notwithstanding clause, giving the Ontario government the ability to restore changes to election finance law that a judge had declared unconstitutional.

The notwithstanding clause is a rarely-used power that gives government the ability to override certain laws in the charter for a five-year term.

MPPs are being called back to the Legislature from their summer break so the government can introduce the bill.

The government is expecting to pass the bill, with the notwithstanding clause, as early as Monday, marking the first time in Ontario‘s history that section 33 of the Canadian charter will be used to override a court ruling.

Four things we need to get right for the reopening of offices

Canadian Chamber of Commerce

Canadians all want to return to a semblance of normal as quickly as possible, and for many, that includes going back to the office. The nature of work has changed significantly in the last 18 months however, and our workplaces need to adapt quickly.

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce today released a 21-point plan to provide guidance for businesses and policy recommendations for governments on four key areas for the re-opening of the economy: health/safety, teleworking, skills/training and the future of customer engagement.

Niagara COVID Stats Tracker (June 5)

December 18December 25January 1January 8January 15January 22January 29
Reproductive number1.41.81.41.11.00.70.9
New cases per 100,000101.2267.3469.8575.8507.1295.5250.6
New cases per day (not including outbreaks)60.7178.7311.7376.9325.4182.7145.7
Percent of hospital beds occupied97%95.2%98.2%103.2%104.5%103.6%106%
Percent of intensive care beds occupied78.8%77.3%87.9%87.9%90.9%89.4%93.9%
Percentage of positive tests6.1%15.6%28.1%28.6%26.6%21.2%16.2%

These data show the status of the COVID-19 pandemic in Niagara. The Province of Ontario is now using a provincewide approach to reopening, and these data no longer have any influence on Niagara’s restrictions.

Data are drawn from Niagara Region Public Health.

Guide

Reproductive number: the average number of new cases each case causes. If each person infects one other person, the rate is 1; if each person infects two people, the rate is 2. Under the outdated COVID-19 response framework, the target for “green-prevent” was less than 1.

New cases per 100,000: the total number of new cases per week identified per 100,000 population. Under the outdated COVID-19 response framework, the target for “green-prevent” was less than 10.

New cases per day: the total number of new cases identified per day over seven days using a rolling average. This number does not include identified outbreaks.

Percent of hospital beds occupied: the total percentage of the Niagara Health System’s hospital beds currently in use. The average occupancy rate of both acute care beds and total hospital beds in Ontario was 96 per cent in 2018-19. It should be noted that this rate was the highest (worst) in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Percent of intensive care beds occupied: the total percentage of the Niagara Health System’s intensive care hospital beds currently in use. The average occupancy rate of both acute care beds and total hospital beds in Ontario was 96 per cent in 2018-19. It should be noted that this rate was the highest (worst) in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Percentage of positive tests: the percentage of COVID-19 tests that were positive. Under the outdated COVID-19 response framework, the target for “green-prevent” was less than 0.5%.

Niagara COVID vaccination tracker (June 10)

Niagara’s most up-to-date vaccination numbers are presented below, along with comparison data from Ontario, Canada, and G7 countries.

Total doses administered in Niagara: 334.334

Total doses administered in Niagara since yesterday: 5,016

Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen will begin when Ontario has vaccinated 70% of adults with one dose, 20% of adults with two doses, has positive public health indicators, and has been in Step One for at least 21 days.

Percentage of population with one dosePercentage of population fully vaccinated
Niagara82.7%78.2%
Ontario84.6%79.1%
Canada84.7%78.6%
United States75%64%
United Kingdom78%72%
Germany76%74%
France80%77%
Italy83%76%
Japan80%79%
World63%53%

Data are drawn from Niagara Region, the Government of Ontario, and Oxford University’s Our World in Data project.

Information on government grants, resources, and programs, policies, forms, and posters for download and use, are available here.The GNCC is here to support you. Contact us with any questions you have.
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Engage: She-Covery

June 10, 2021 | NEXTNiagara Videos, WIN Videos

The COVID-19 crisis is having a disproportionate economic impact on women, with women’s labour force participation rate falling to its lowest in 30 years. Existing systemic inequalities pre-pandemic have been further exacerbated by recent shut-down measures, resulting in what some economists are calling a “she-cession,” as more women have lost their jobs and fewer women than men are re-gaining employment. As Canada begins to re-open, we will examine the path of the she-covery and identify immediate and longer-term challenges — and opportunities.

Speaker:

Grace Eldajani
Vice Chair, Women in Niagara Council

Grace Eldajani is a Certified Events Manager at White Oaks Conference Resort and Spa in Niagara on the lake. Born and raised in Niagara Falls, she is a graduate from Niagara College with a Bachelor degree in Business with specific focus on hospitality and tourism operations.

She has worked in the Niagara tourism industry for 20 years and has held a number of management positions in various hotel operations. Grace acquired her Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) designation through the Events Industry Council and continued to move into Convention, Event planning, Management and Sales for large hotel properties throughout Niagara. Grace is Vice Chair of the Women in Niagara Council which is an advisory council to the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce with a focus on fostering the growth and success of women in business in Niagara. WIN Council is dedicated to advocating on behalf of women in business in Niagara to ensure we “build back better” as a community with a strong focus on the “she-covery” post pandemic.

In her spare time she enjoys traveling and spending time making memories with her husband and three daughters.

Connect:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/womeninniagara
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GNCC_WIN
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-eldajani-cmp-b1592424/

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Engage: Work–Life Balance & Showing Up Powerfully

June 10, 2021 | NEXTNiagara Videos

Discover the importance of work–life balance and approaching life and work with the right mindset. Topics include physical fitness and the effects on mental health; utilizing patience and understanding in conversation and relationships; keeping an organized schedule; presenting a strong and professional image; the shift from young adult to adult — and what they don’t tell you. Life is challenging. Make lemonade!

Speaker:
Justin Vaillancourt
Owner/Creative Director, JD Louis Creative Media

Justin has had a love for film and television his whole life. That passion was magnified when he chose study it at Sheridan Tech in Oakville. Graduating with honours. Since graduating, Justin has held contracts with some of the largest clients in Southern Ontario such as the Toronto Maple Leafs, Fallsview Casino, Cineplex, Hilton, Sheraton, Rogers & Canon. He specializes in creating projects that have a high budget feel without the additional expense. He’s professionally trained and been working since 2001 in the fields of editing, lighting, camera, directing, visual effects, animation & design and photography. Justin is a hard working perfectionist that focuses on every last detail.

Connect:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/jdlouismedia
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jdlouismedia
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-vaillancourt-67049186/

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Engage: The Beginner’s Guide to Starting a Social Impact Organization

June 10, 2021 | NEXTNiagara Videos

This workshop is aimed at empowering participants to be community-oriented leaders and social innovators and to translate their passions into impactful organizations that drive social change. Learn skills, resources and inspiration to start either a non-profit or a social enterprise. Discover the clear pathway to turn a social issue into a community-driven, impact-focused organization. This session is perfect for participants just starting with a social issue they care about and business owners looking to pivot to a social enterprise. Turn your ideas into impact.

Speakers:

Nour Hage
Co-Founder and President, Civiconnect

Nour Hage is a founder and President of Civiconnect, a youth focused non-profit that strives to prepare young people to lead compelling and fulfilling lives. He finds optimism, strategy and dedication to be the most valuable qualities for continual success in operating any company. In the 3 years since founding Civiconnect, Hage has been instrumental in directing and operationalizing a non-profit company that is both self-sustaining and the recipient of multi-million dollar partnerships.

Hage studied at Brock university, where he founded another educational non-profit, Datathon, specialized in introducing students to the fast and rapidly growing world of data analytics and AI. Datathon, over the course of 4 years, became Brock’s largest annual academic conference, with 400 participants in the room and an additional 600 abroad at 8 institutions. The event garnered the interest of executives from some of the largest companies in Canada who came to speak and network with students.

Nour enjoys PC strategy games and board games, he is currently eagerly awaiting a time when he can have people seated around a table again.

Connect:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nour-hage/

Kailene Jackson
Co-Founder, Civiconnect

As a lifelong resident of Niagara, Kailene is familiar with the challenges facing youth in the region and is committed to building inclusive and prosperous communities. To accomplish this vision, Kailene co-founded Civiconnect, a youth-led non-profit that empowers youth by addressing the many barriers facing youth with respect to employment and civic engagement. Civiconnect equips youth with the skills necessary to succeed by providing work integrated learning opportunities, facilitating technical and soft skills development and connecting youth to SMEs through the newly launched Youth Skills Studio. Additionally, Civiconnect encourages youth civic engagement and participation in political process by increasing civic literacy through skill-building workshops, town hall events, educational campaigns, and connecting youth to local policymakers.

Kailene is a currently in her MA in International Relations at Brock University after completing her BA (Hons.) in Political Science and Sociology last year. Kailene has also worked at Brock University in three different departments and has a wealth of expertise in supporting young people and helping them grow. Kailene also has work experience in the entrepreneurial sector and is knowledgeable about innovation and small business management. Additionally, Kailene is passionate about gender equality and sits on Brock’s Sexual Violence Advisory Panel and many other women’s committees in addition to focusing her graduate research on Canada’s Feminist Foreign Policy.

Connect:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/@kailenejackson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kailene-jackson/

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Engage: Crush it with Personal Branding

June 10, 2021 | NEXTNiagara Videos

Personal branding is no longer a “buzz word”. It’s becoming weaved into the very fabric of the online entrepreneurial conversation. While social media is becoming harder and harder to stand out – one platform is beginning to take the business world by storm – LinkedIn. The platform is quickly becoming a fresh new channel for business activity and personal brand building. While many entrepreneurs and professionals quickly pounce on one of the best opportunities in social media – the ones who become more human, pay attention to the details, and execute consistently will WIN.

Speaker: Fabio Marrama
Director, Product Innovation, Meridian Credit Union

Fabio Marrama is one of Southern Ontario’s top business and marketing professionals. He’s an engaging speaker and has built one of the most highly engaged personal brands on LinkedIn. He’s a Top 40 Under 40 Business Achievement Award Winner, Video Content Creator with more than 10 million views and a community of thousands of entrepreneurs and professionals on the platform. He has been mentioned in top publications like Forbes and Social Media Examiner, has guest-appeared on multiple Top 100 Podcasts on iTunes and is endorsed by global influencers like Jay Shetty. Fabio is the Director, Product Innovation at Meridian Credit Union, Founder of Expert Altitude, a proud husband and father and a passionate leader of the cooperative movement in Canada.

Connect:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/fabiomarrama
Twitter: https://twitter.com/fabiomarrama
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fabiomarrama/

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