OTTAWA — The House of Commons decided to shut down Friday for five weeks to help ensure MPs do not contribute to the spread of COVID-19.
All parties agreed to the measure, which means MPs will miss two sitting weeks, as they had previously planned to be away next week and two weeks in April.
The agreement among MPs hastens passage of the new trade deal among Canada, the United States and Mexico, with a vote in the Senate expected this afternoon.
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However, the federal budget, slated for March 30, won't be delivered that day. It's postponed to a time yet to be chosen.
The House is scheduled to next meet Monday, April 20.
Government House leader Pablo Rodriguez says the Commons could come back sooner if an emergency requires a meeting.
"We will face this together, and we will get through this together," he said.
Concerns about COVID-19 have prompted cancellation of many large gatherings and sporting events.
Conservative House leader Mark Strahl said the official Opposition would still work to hold the government to account during the unfolding health crisis.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 13, 2020.
The Canadian Press
