The isolation centre in Windsor for temporary foreign workers will be staying open.
The Public Health Agency of Canada has committed $17.8-million over 12 months to cover operating costs at the facility. The isolation centre will continue to be operated by the Canadian Red Cross.
“Protecting essential workers, especially those who are supporting Canada’s food chain and economy, is critical. Today’s announcement of a safe, voluntary isolation site in Windsor-Essex means that we can help protect temporary foreign workers in the region from the spread of COVID-19 and variants of concern – something that will benefit everyone in these communities,” said Minister of Health Patty Hajdu.
The 125-room site will be used for all migrant workers who need to isolate after testing positive or coming in close contact with a positive case of COVID-19.
“Windsor-Essex will welcome thousands of agricultural workers in the coming weeks and months. This critical federal funding will provide local public health officials with a reliable isolation site for those who are unable to quarantine safely," said Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk.
The new funding for the facility will come into effect on April 1, 2021.
In February, the City of Windsor indicated it would have to close the facility after the previous funding model left a $2-million gap. This new funding will ensure the facilities' operations for the next 12 months. To date, the facility has housed over 1,000 workers.