HALIFAX — Nova Scotia farmers can now apply to a $1.2-million government program aimed at covering workplace health and safety costs associated with preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Agri-Food Canada is providing $983,500 of the total funding for the emergency on-farm support fund, while the province is adding about $246,000.

Farms with five or more workers can be eligible for up to 75 per cent of eligible costs for things such as personal protective equipment, to a maximum of $50,000. 

In a news release issued Friday, Nova Scotia Agriculture Minister Keith Colwell says it is a priority to ensure all workers can perform their jobs safely during the pandemic.

Colwell says supporting farm workers ensures the protection of a high-quality food supply.

Farmers seeking to apply for funding must do so online before Dec. 31.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 23, 2020.

The Canadian Press

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