Thank you, Burlington, for the sacrifices you have made and how you have come together these past four months as we have collectively confronted the biggest crisis our world has seen since World War II.

We are only in the position we are in, with decreasing caseloads and able to slowly reopen the economy, because Canadians like you followed the guidelines and instructions of public health officials.

We need to be very clear, we are not out of the woods yet. We have only to look at the situation south of the border to remind ourselves that we need to continue to take public health measures seriously as, left unchecked, COVID-19 can quickly take off.

As we continue to learn more about the virus and how it spreads, we will continue to update measures and guidelines accordingly. I was pleased that Burlington City Council unanimously adopted a motion to make masks mandatory in indoor public spaces. This decision is consistent with advice from the Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization. For the latest information, please visit Canada.ca/coronavirus.

The health and safety of Canadians has been the top priority of the federal government from day one. That is why we have extended the border closure to non-essential travel for another 30 days.

It is why we have made unprecedented and quick investments in Canadians and Canadian businesses to ensure we get through this crisis and are able to thrive once again.

On July 8, we released our federal economic snapshot. While the numbers are sobering, it also represents swift action that enabled Canadians to flatten the curve.

There are still challenges on the horizon. But we will get through this. COVID-19 has demonstrated that collective action can make a difference. It has shown us that compassion yields results and that taking decisions based on science and evidence are crucial.

Have a safe, healthy and happy summer and enjoy the amazing community we have here in Burlington: the outstanding restaurants, bars and cafes, our beautiful parks and outdoor spaces and support our outstanding local businesses.

Let’s all keep doing our part.