The provincial government is helping small and medium sized businesses during the COVID-19 shutdown.
Minister of Business Geoff MacLellan made the announcement at a press conference Friday afternoon.
“Our focus here today is on those most impacted,” he said. “Today we are announcing $161 million to immediately address cash flow and access to credit for Nova Scotia’s small and medium sized enterprises.”
Maclellan says they’re deferring payments and interest on government business loans, and workers compensation payments until Jun. 30, and will underwrite up to $100,000 for businesses who normally wouldn’t qualify for a loan.
He says they’re also adding $15 million to speed up the province’s internet infrastructure programs and make it easier to work from home.
Premier Stephen McNeil announced Nova Scotia Student Loan payments are being deferred for six months, starting Mar. 30.
Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Robert Strang confirmed one new case of COVID-19 for a total of 15 in the province, five confirmed and 10 presumptive.
