Coronavirus: Over 1,000 CAF members sent to Quebec long-term care homes, more to come by mid-May

The federal government says that by mid-May 1,350 Canadian Forces soldiers will be deployed to 25 Quebec long-term care homes hard hit by COVID-19.

Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan says 1,020 will be deployed as of Thursday at 20 long-term care homes, mainly in the Montreal area.

Of those on the ground, about two-thirds are working in the homes while one-third are providing help with logistics and deliveries.

READ MORE: Working in schools, daycares safe for people under 70, Quebec deputy premier says

Premier François Legault made a request for military help on April 22, asking at the time for 1,000 soldiers.

1:02 Coronavirus outbreak: Trudeau praises 265 CAF members deployed to five long-term care homes in Ontario

Grappling with a shortage of 11,500 health-care workers, Legault said earlier this week he hadn’t received word whether Ottawa would be able to supply the soldiers requested.

READ MORE: Canadian Forces arrive at Montreal seniors’ residences, health authorities rushing to train volunteers

Get weekly health news

Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday.

Sign up for weekly health newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Sajjan explained while the military would like to move quickly, training personnel takes time.

The Quebec government is expected to detail a wage top-up for essential health workers when Treasury Board President Christian Dubé joins Legault at a briefing Thursday afternoon.