We’ve heard and understand your concerns about our front-line healthcare workers having the tools they need to fight COVID-19. Since we put out a call for this equipment almost 5,000 companies have offered to help. Here’s our update on the situation.

Purchasing made-in-Canada ventilators from Thornhill Medical, @CAE_Inc, Ventilators for Canadians, @StarFishMedical & other manufacturing partners, including Linamar, through an accelerated process. We are working with these companies to produce up to 30,000 ventilators.

We are also working with one of Canada’s Nobel Prize-winning researchers, Dr. Art McDonald, who is leading a team of scientists to develop an easy-to-produce ventilator using off-the-shelf, easily accessible parts.

We also heard that our medical workers were concerned about having enough gowns to keep them safe on the front-line. Through engaging with industry, we learned that some material used for construction house wrap and car air bags can be repurposed for medical-grade gowns.

These are just a few amazing examples of Canada’s innovative spirit and generosity. We know that the best approach to a difficult situation is collaboration, and we will continue to work with our industry and research partners as we work to fight #COVID19.