The Government of Canada is continuing its work to modernize the Employment Insurance (EI) program. On Friday, April 29, 2022, we launched the second phase of our consultations with Canadians and key stakeholders to help us build a better EI program.
The second phase of consultations explores the adequacy of EI benefits by examining whether the amount and duration of EI benefits meet the objectives of the program and the needs of those contributing to EI. It also focuses on how to ensure the financial sustainability of the EI program by balancing costs with benefits and limiting the need for premium increases. The input we receive will inform future changes to help the program meet the realities of today’s workforce. We need an EI program for the 21st century – one that better meets the current and future needs of workers and employers.
Roundtable discussions will take place with worker and employer groups, and other EI experts, beginning in mid-May. All Canadians are welcome to provide feedback by visiting the Consulting with Canadians website. The deadline to submit feedback is July 29, 2022.
Having a strong, modernized EI program will help prepare Canada for future economic challenges. While Canada’s economic recovery is well underway, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us the need for an EI program that provides workers with the supports they need, while encouraging workforce participation.
During the first phase of consultations from August 2021 to February 2022, more than 1,900 Canadians and 200 stakeholder groups from across the country representing workers, employers, unions, industry groups, and academics, shared their experience and expertise.
We heard about the importance of reforming the EI program so that it is simpler, more responsive, inclusive, and sustainable. We need a program to better support workers in times of need while promoting attachment to the workforce particularly during times of labour shortages.
To help inform Canadians, we have released a “What We Heard Report”, which summarizes the key takeaways from the first phase of consultations.
I look forward to continuing the conversation with people from across Fleetwood—Port Kells so that together we can improve the EI program for both workers and employers.
We appreciate your participation in this important effort of modernizing Canada’s Employment Insurance program.
