The Canadian Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) is being made available to even more people so they can receive $2,000 per month in emergency assistance.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced today that the benefit will now be expanded to include anyone making up to $1,000 a month or less, seasonal workers and anyone whose Employment Insurance (EI) has run out since January 1.

Speaking in Ottawa, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces expanded eligibility for Canada Emergency Response Benefit.

Newly eligible groups include:

—people making $1000 or less per month
—seasonal workers
—people whose EI has run out since January 1#CERB #cdnpoli #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/bmDjewM8ln

— CPAC (@CPAC_TV) April 15, 2020

"Maybe you're a volunteer firefighter or a contractor who can pick up some shifts, or you have a part-time job in a grocery store. Even if you're still working or if you want to start working again, you'll probably need help in making ends meet," he said.

Eligibility criteria for the CERB faced heavy criticism from the Conservatives this week who said that it was driving some people into further poverty.

The news also follows Trudeau's announcement last week that eligibility for the CERB would be available to more Canadians whose employment situation has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Today's announcement did not include students, an issue that has caused contention, but Trudeau said he would be speaking more on that soon.

He also noted that news regarding commercial rent relief will also be coming as many businesses across the country say they are facing difficulty covering rent and operating costs.