Menu

Surrey Board of Trade Wants BC Government to Provide Financial Support for Businesses and Organizations Forced to Shut Down

The majority of businesses and organizations that are forced to shut down are small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). These businesses are locally owned and operated and require the support of the government.

“As some businesses or industries are asked to shut down temporarily and wait for health and safety plans to be approved with new guidance by the Provincial Health Officer, they still have payroll and other expenses that they are obligated to pay,” said Anita Huberman, CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade. “When businesses and organizations are asked to shut down temporarily, they can’t just apply for the federal government programs, since not all businesses meet eligibility requirements, and it takes time for funds to be approved, such as with the wage subsidy or rental programs through the federal government.”

“Immediate support is necessary.”

“It is understandable that restrictions must be increased due to the exponential increase in COVID-19 cases in BC, and specifically in the Lower Mainland. Tourism, arts and culture industries for example are severely impacted in this pandemic. We need to avoid blanket approaches in dealing with the coronavirus. Don’t punish all businesses for the sins of a few.”

CALL TO ACTION TO BC GOVERNMENT:
Provide financial support to temporarily suspended businesses.

-30-

Anita Huberman, 604-634-0342, anita@businessinsurrey.com