Canada News Live: Advocates press Ottawa to split online harms bill to speed up passage

British Columbia Conservative Party staff are refusing to provide statements to the RCMP regarding an alleged blackmail incident, party leader John Rustad confirmed, according to a report in The Globe and Mail. The refusal to cooperate with the law enforcement investigation comes as Rustad's leadership of the provincial party is undergoing a months-long review process that commenced the previous weekend. The RCMP is currently investigating the allegations of blackmail from within the party's staff.

The British Columbia government is projecting a significant economic boost from hosting seven FIFA World Cup games in Vancouver in 2026, according to a report in The Globe and Mail. Provincial leaders anticipate that the event will attract substantial spending from out-of-province and international fans, which is expected to benefit local industries. The projection underpins the public investment in the tournament, which Canada is co-hosting with the United States and Mexico.

Ontario's Infrastructure Minister stated that a decision on a temporary site for the Ontario Science Centre has not yet been made, despite a previous government pledge to open a temporary facility by next January, as per a report in The Globe and Mail. This delay introduces significant uncertainty and potential for cost overruns for the broader, controversial redevelopment of Ontario Place, which is slated to include the new permanent science centre. The lack of a decision fuels criticism regarding the provincial government's project management and fiscal planning, potentially impacting public-private partnerships and investor confidence in the large-scale waterfront project. The continued ambiguity affects not only the future of the educational institution but also the financial viability and execution schedule of the associated new concert venue and private spa development.

Child safety advocates and tech experts are urging the federal government to split the proposed online harms legislation, Bill C-63, to expedite the passage of measures targeting child abuse, according to a report in The Globe and Mail. The push is to separate the widely supported components aimed at combating online child sexual abuse material from the more contentious provisions targeting hate speech. This strategy is being proposed as a way to overcome legislative delays that have stalled previous attempts to regulate online content, allowing for faster implementation of critical child safety protections while the more complex debate over hate speech and its impact on free expression is addressed separately.

Two men face charges in an alleged fraud case involving approximately $66,000 from the Bowness Ratepayers Scout and Guide Hall Association in Calgary, according to a report in the Calgary Herald. The charges were laid following an investigation into financial irregularities reported by the community group. The case involves the alleged misappropriation of funds from the non-profit organization, which serves the Bowness community.

Independent theatres received top honors at this year's 26th annual Betty Mitchell Awards, which celebrate excellence within Calgary's professional theatre community, according to a report in the Calgary Herald. Among the prominent winners was "Our Fathers, Sons, Lovers and Little Brothers," a solo show created by Makambe K. Simamba. The production was originally from Toronto's Tarragon Theatre and was presented locally by Verb Theatre, highlighting the success of smaller, independent shows in the city's arts scene.

Calgary's City Council has formally supported a program aimed at improving the city's resilience to hailstorms, which are expected to be a significant issue in the future, according to a report in the Calgary Herald. Despite this endorsement, the council has not committed any budget or financial resources to implement the program. The decision reflects a conceptual approval of the initiative's importance without an immediate plan for its funding.

A new multi-purpose facility has opened in Calgary's Varsity community, combining a fire station with affordable housing units and a daycare, the Calgary Herald says in a report. The development addresses a significant increase in local emergency service demand, with the area experiencing a 55 per cent rise in fire calls and a 35 per cent increase in medical rescue calls. This integrated approach aims to improve emergency response times while also providing solutions for housing and childcare affordability on a single public property.

A groundbreaking ceremony has marked the start of construction for a new $120 million engine maintenance hub at the Calgary International Airport, according to a report in the Calgary Herald. The project was highlighted by federal officials, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Melanie Joly, as a major development for both Calgary and Canada's aerospace industry. The new facility is poised to enhance the country's aerospace capabilities and contribute to economic development in the region.

A lawyer in Alberta is moving to expand a COVID-related class-action lawsuit to include smaller corporations as plaintiffs seeking compensation for economic damages from pandemic-era public health restrictions, according to a report in the Calgary Herald. The legal action, led by lawyer Jeffrey Rath, argues that small and medium-sized enterprises should not be precluded from seeking redress for financial losses. This lawsuit is part of a series of legal challenges in Canada against government measures enacted during the pandemic and could have significant financial implications for the provincial and/or federal governments if successful, as any compensation would be paid from public funds.

A hospital in British Columbia is currently studying a virtual cardiac rehabilitation program aimed at improving healthcare access for patients in rural and remote areas, according to a report in Global News. The initiative seeks to address persistent challenges in the province, such as long travel distances and limited availability of specialized care. If the study proves successful, the ultimate goal is to expand the virtual care program across the entire province.

An arrest warrant has been issued for a teacher from Edmonton, Alberta, who is wanted on child pornography charges, Global News says in a report. Police have identified the accused as a teacher at St. Oscar Romero Catholic High School, a publicly funded school in the city's west end. The issuance of the warrant signifies a legal step allowing for the apprehension of the suspect to face formal charges.

A volunteer firefighter in Saskatchewan is awaiting sentencing next month after setting fire to hay bales 30 times, according to a report in CBC. A judge in the province is scheduled to deliver the sentencing decision in the case, which involves the repeated arson of agricultural property by an individual serving in a position of public trust.

The Nova Scotia government has confirmed that a two-year, $1.35 million home-sharing contract resulted in only 60 tenants signing leases with landlords, Global News says in a report. The program, which has now concluded, showed limited uptake despite the significant taxpayer-funded expenditure.

A court in Toronto has set an October 2026 trial date for Aiden Pleterski, the self-styled 'Crypto King' from Ontario, as per a report in CBC. Pleterski is facing allegations that he defrauded investors out of more than $40 million in a large-scale cryptocurrency and foreign exchange investment scheme. The scheduling of the trial marks a significant development in the legal proceedings against him.

Former Conservative Senate leader Donald Plett stated he is 'very, very unhappy' with the Conservative Party's management of its candidate nomination processes, according to a report in The Hill Times. Due to this dissatisfaction, Plett has not ruled out the possibility of running for a position on the party's national council, which is the influential governing body responsible for administration and overseeing the party's nomination rules.

Conservative Party Leader and Leader of the Official Opposition, Pierre Poilievre, has aired the second interview in his ongoing "get to know the team" series, as per a report in The Hill Times. The series, which is being distributed on social media platforms, features Poilievre in conversation with individual members of his caucus. This communication initiative is aimed at introducing Conservative Members of Parliament to the public in a more personal format.

A long-serving provincial lawmaker from British Columbia is urging the federal Conservative Party to examine its candidate nomination process after his own candidacy for a federal run was rejected, according to a report in La Presse. The request from the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) follows the party's decision to block his participation in an internal nomination contest that was held in April.

Senator Patrick Brazeau experienced a medical emergency and collapsed in the Canadian Senate chamber on Wednesday, June 25, CBC News said in a report. The incident occurred while the upper house was actively debating a significant piece of legislation from Prime Minister Mark Carney's government, referred to as the major projects bill. Proceedings in the chamber were halted as a result of the senator's collapse.

Opioid-related deaths in Canada saw a 17% decline in 2024, with a total of 7,146 deaths recorded for the year, as per a report in Global News. Data released Wednesday by the Public Health Agency of Canada indicates that despite the decrease, an average of nearly 20 people still died each day from opioid toxicity. A significant concentration of these fatalities occurred in just three provinces, which accounted for 80% of all deaths nationwide.

Montreal Victoire captain Marie-Philip Poulin has won the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s (PWHL) Billie Jean King MVP Award for the 2024-25 season, AP says in a report. At an awards ceremony in Ottawa, Poulin was also named the league's forward of the year. During the season, she led the league with 19 goals and finished fourth in scoring with 26 points over 30 games. Poulin was previously a finalist for both awards in the PWHL's inaugural 2024 season.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has announced a $14 billion government investment to build a new hospital in Mississauga, according to a report in Global News. The project is slated to add more than 350 new beds and is being positioned by the province as what will become the largest teaching hospital in Canada. This investment comes as the Peel Region experiences rapid population growth and the provincial healthcare system faces challenges with overcrowding and staffing.

A new summer outlook from Deloitte warns that ongoing tariff uncertainty could push Canada into a 'modest recession', according to a report in Global News. Despite this significant risk, the forecast projects the Canadian economy will still grow by 1.1% by the end of 2025. The report also anticipates that economic growth will accelerate to 1.6% in the following year.

Canada's annual inflation rate held steady at 1.7% in May, unchanged from April, as per a report in CBC News. The data from Statistics Canada indicated that while the headline inflation figure was stable, there was a notable slowdown in the rate of increase for rental prices. This marks the fifth consecutive month that the inflation rate has stayed within the Bank of Canada's target range of 1% to 3%, a key factor that could influence the central bank's upcoming decisions on its policy interest rate.

An Ontario appeal court has reinstated two red light camera tickets in Toronto that were previously paused by a Justice of the Peace, according to a report in the National Post. The higher court's decision, articulated by Justice David Rose, found that the lower court justice had overstepped their authority in pausing the tickets. This ruling effectively validates the City of Toronto's automated enforcement system and means the challenged tickets will proceed, reinforcing the legal standing of the city's red light camera program.

The Edmonton Oilers have traded forward Evander Kane to the Vancouver Canucks, a move that clears significant salary cap space for the two-time defending Western Conference champions, AP said in a report. In the deal announced Wednesday, Vancouver acquired Kane and his full $4 million salary in exchange for the 117th pick in the upcoming NHL draft. The trade frees up $5.125 million on Edmonton's salary cap, providing financial flexibility as a new contract for Leon Draisaitl takes effect and a raise is anticipated for Evan Bouchard.

Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie is defending his actions after grabbing a news camera when a journalist attempted to ask him a question at a public event, according to a report in Global News. The incident occurred during the opening of a playground in the Steveston area of Richmond. When a Global News cameraman approached Mayor Brodie for questioning, the mayor responded by physically taking hold of the camera.

Canadian Football League (CFL) Commissioner Stewart Johnston stated that the league's financial model is "not sustainable" with only two of its teams currently turning a profit, according to a report in Global News. Johnston, who was appointed to the position in April, also highlighted that a key part of improving the league's financial health is to foster an early love for the game among potential new fans to help increase attendance.

The independent body responsible for enforcing Canada's election laws is reporting a massive spike in the number of complaints received following a recent election campaign, CBC News says in a report. These complaints were filed by citizens expressing concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. An increase in public complaints does not necessarily correspond to an increase in confirmed violations, as each allegation must be investigated to determine its validity.

The Ontario government, led by Premier Doug Ford, has announced plans to construct a five-storey, $400-million parking garage at the Ontario Place waterfront site in Toronto, The Globe and Mail says in a report. Ford stated the publicly funded structure would generate revenue and be designed to "blend in" with the shoreline. The garage is a critical piece of infrastructure for the larger, controversial redevelopment of the site, which is set to include a large, privately operated spa and waterpark by Therme Group, and has faced public criticism over the privatization of public land.

Canadians often face costly and difficult international money transfers through traditional banks, with some observers pointing to a lack of competition in the country's banking sector, according to a report in CBC News. While established financial institutions' wire transfers can be complex, newer competitors in the financial technology space are offering simpler and more accessible alternatives. However, customers must make an effort to find and use these options outside of the conventional banking system to realize the potential benefits.

An evacuation alert has been issued by the government of Yukon for areas surrounding Ethel Lake in the central part of the territory, The Globe and Mail said in a report. The alert, which advises residents to be prepared to leave on short notice, is in response to a wildfire burning northeast of Ethel Lake Road and east of the community of Stewart Crossing.

Alberta's government has floated a proposal to fundamentally change its fiscal relationship with Ottawa by replacing the federal equalization program with expanded provincial tax-collection powers, according to a report in the National Post. The plan, inspired by a fiscal decentralization scheme recently discussed by Quebec, aims to allow Alberta to collect more tax revenue directly, bypassing the federal government's role in redistribution. This proposal is the latest development stemming from long-standing grievances in the province regarding what its government views as unfairness in the national equalization formula and presents a new challenge for federal-provincial fiscal relations under Prime Minister Mark Carney's government.

Alberta's government is proposing a significant shift in its fiscal relationship with Ottawa, suggesting it could collect a larger share of taxes within the province instead of participating in the federal equalization program, according to a report in the National Post. The plan, framed as "cutting out the middle man," draws inspiration from Quebec's model of fiscal autonomy and aims to address long-standing grievances in Alberta regarding its net-contributor status to the federation. This proposal, which aligns with recommendations from the province's 2020 "Fair Deal Panel," would fundamentally challenge Canada's system of fiscal federalism and has significant implications for both federal and provincial governments across the country.

The Fête nationale holiday on Tuesday, June 24, was the hottest June day in Montreal since meteorological record-keeping began, according to a report in Global News. The record-breaking heat occurred during Quebec's national holiday, a day typically marked by significant outdoor public celebrations, parades, and gatherings.

The Nova Scotia government is considering replacing municipal police forces with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) if they do not meet provincial standards, as per a report in Global News. This potential move is part of a broader initiative by the province to restructure and modernize its policing services. The government is evaluating an expanded role for the RCMP, which could see the federal police force take over duties from local agencies deemed non-compliant with new or existing benchmarks.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is conducting investigations or taking enforcement action in 66 separate cases concerning suspected senior Iranian officials who may have gained entry into Canada, The Globe and Mail said in a report. These actions aim to determine if the individuals are inadmissible under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, which can bar entry to senior members of governments engaged in terrorism or systematic human rights violations. The 66 cases represent active files that could result in various outcomes, including removal proceedings, if inadmissibility is proven by the agency.

Approximately 6,000 people from Flin Flon, Manitoba, and its surrounding region are returning to their homes after being displaced by wildfires, according to a report in The Globe and Mail. The evacuation affected about 5,000 residents from the city itself and an additional 1,000 from the adjacent area who were forced to flee because of the threat from nearby blazes. Authorities have now lifted the evacuation order, permitting the safe return of the displaced residents.

The government of Nova Scotia is implementing a significant overhaul of its policing model, focusing on changes to records systems and staffing, according to a report in The Globe and Mail. The move follows six recommendations from a committee established in the wake of the 2020 mass shooting, which raised critical questions about the response from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). These reforms are aimed at addressing systemic failures identified during the inquiry into the tragedy and improving public safety and police accountability within the province.

A new survey indicates that a significant majority of Canadian alcohol consumers are boycotting U.S. products long-term, according to a report in The Globe and Mail. The findings show that 69% of Canadian drinkers surveyed have stopped buying U.S. wine and spirits and do not plan to purchase them again. This consumer action is described as a voluntary boycott, distinct from official government tariffs, and is linked to sentiment stemming from past trade disputes between Canada and the United States.

DHL Express and Unifor, the union representing its workers in Canada, have reached a tentative collective agreement, Global News says in a report. According to the union, the details of the proposed deal will remain confidential until after a ratification vote is conducted by the membership. That vote is expected to be held within the next few days.

Alberta-based journalist Candis McLean won a defamation case against Michelle Stewart, a professor at the University of Regina, after a judge found Stewart liable for her comments about McLean's book, according to a report in The Globe and Mail. The ruling noted that Stewart had referred to the book as "racist garbage." The judge's decision was based in part on the finding that Stewart had not read the entire book before making the public comment.

Google is pushing back against potential new regulations in Canada, urging the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) to "exercise caution and restraint" on the issue of mandatory data-sharing, according to a report in The Globe and Mail. The statement was made during a federal regulatory hearing where the CRTC is exploring its expanded mandate to oversee online streaming services. The potential rules would compel digital platforms to share data with the regulator, likely to ensure compliance with Canadian content discoverability and contribution requirements.

French sporting goods retailer Decathlon is set to close its five Greater Toronto Area stores this summer, according to a report in Global News. The company's decision affects all of its locations in the Toronto region.

Montreal's Marie-Philip Poulin has won the inaugural Billie Jean King MVP award for the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL), The Globe and Mail says in a report. Poulin was also named the league's forward of the year and led the PWHL with 19 goals during its inaugural season.

An audit from the Auditor-General of Newfoundland and Labrador has identified potential fraud and questionable expenses related to billings from a travel nurse company, as per a report in The Globe and Mail. The report highlights significant irregularities, including the company billing the province nearly $100,000 for electric-vehicle rentals that were designated for nurses who were not physically present in the province at the time the charges were incurred. These findings raise serious concerns about the oversight of healthcare contracts and the use of public funds.

A preliminary report from Commissioner of Canada Elections Caroline Simard has found no evidence that foreign interference affected the outcome of a recent spring campaign which concluded on April 28, Global News says in a report. The commissioner's office noted that it received over 16,000 complaints related to the campaign, which were assessed as part of the investigation into electoral integrity. The findings are part of ongoing efforts to monitor and counter foreign interference in Canadian democratic processes.

Cremations and burials of unclaimed bodies being held in storage are set to begin this week in Newfoundland and Labrador, CBC News says in a report. The provincial health authority, Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services (NLHS), has contracted Barrett’s Funeral Home to carry out the dispositions. This action addresses a backlog of deceased individuals who remained unclaimed by next of kin.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow has issued an apology after the city closed its public swimming pools amid a heat wave, according to a report in the National Post. In response to the situation, Ontario Premier Doug Ford clarified that the provincial government was not responsible for the decision. Ford stated that no inspector from the Ministry of Labour had ordered the city to shut down the pools, indicating the decision was made at the municipal level.

A joint peer review of Canada's fossil fuel subsidies, initiated in 2018 with Argentina, has stalled after the Argentinian government ceased communication, according to a report in The Globe and Mail. The review, which was part of Canada's G20 commitment to phase out inefficient subsidies by 2025, was originally expected to take only two years. The halt in cooperation, reportedly linked to political and economic shifts in Argentina, now jeopardizes Canada's ability to meet this long-standing international target and complicates its domestic climate goals, such as achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

The law firm Waddington and Pottinger Law LLP in Thunder Bay, Ontario, is offering free legal name change services throughout June in recognition of Pride Month, according to a report in CBC News. The pro bono initiative aims to assist individuals, particularly those in the LGBTQ2+ community, by removing the financial and administrative barriers associated with the legal process. The report notes that the service is also being utilized by people outside the LGBTQ2+ community for various personal reasons.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow issued an apology following the closure of public swimming pools during a significant heat wave, an event that drew public criticism, the National Post said in a report. In response to suggestions that provincial regulations were the cause, Ontario Premier Doug Ford stated that no inspector from the Ministry of Labour had ordered the city to shut down the pools. The incident has highlighted tensions between municipal and provincial governments over responsibility for public services, particularly during public safety situations like extreme weather.

A 17-year-old girl has been charged in connection with a stabbing in Winnipeg that was interrupted by bystanders, according to a report in Global News. Winnipeg police stated the teenager is facing charges of robbery, aggravated assault, and seven counts of failing to comply with a release order.

The provincial government of Nova Scotia has decided it will not pay for air conditioners for low-income individuals with health issues, according to a report in Global News. This policy decision comes after a woman on income assistance previously succeeded in forcing the province to cover the cost of her air conditioner through an appeal. The current stance by the Progressive Conservative government indicates it will not extend this as a general benefit, prioritizing fiscal management amid public health concerns over the impact of increasingly frequent heatwaves.

The death of a 56-year-old man, which occurred last year at a tent encampment in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, has now been ruled a homicide by Halifax Regional Police, Global News says in a report. Authorities have officially reclassified the case and are now conducting a homicide investigation into the circumstances surrounding the man's death.

A betting website is now accepting wagers on the opening date of Toronto's long-delayed Eglinton Crosstown LRT, a development that underscores deep public cynicism regarding the provincially managed infrastructure project, according to a report in Global News. The multi-billion dollar transit line, overseen by Ontario's Metrolinx agency, has faced years of setbacks due to construction, technical, and contractual issues, pushing its completion far beyond the original 2020 target. The situation has significant political and economic implications, damaging the credibility of Metrolinx and reflecting poorly on the Ontario government's oversight of major projects. The ongoing delays also carry substantial economic costs from commuter disruption and lost revenue for businesses along the Eglinton corridor.

In response to a recent cyberattack, Nova Scotia Power has expanded its offer of free credit monitoring for all past and current customers to five years, according to a report in Global News. The utility company had previously offered a two-year monitoring service before extending the protection period.

A graduation ceremony at London South Collegiate Institute in Ontario was interrupted on Tuesday night after the building was struck by powerful lightning, as per a report in Global News. Video of the incident shows the moment the strike occurred, causing damage to the school building and halting the event.

To combat a severe shortage of family doctors, the Nova Scotia government has signed agreements with two universities in Lebanon to create a direct recruitment pipeline for physicians to the province, Global News says in a report. The initiative is a direct response to the ongoing healthcare crisis in the province, which has one of the highest percentages of residents in Canada without a family doctor. These agreements are intended to bring more internationally-trained family doctors to Nova Scotia to improve access to primary care for its citizens.

The arena in Hamilton, formerly known as FirstOntario Centre, will be renamed the TD Coliseum after developer Oak View Group (OVG) secured a naming rights agreement with TD Bank, Global News says in a report. The deal is a key financial component for OVG's planned large-scale, privately-funded renovation of the venue. This project is a central part of Hamilton's broader downtown revitalization strategy.

A man has sustained serious injuries after being shot by a Peel Regional Police officer in Brampton on Wednesday morning, Global News says in a report. As is standard procedure in such cases in Ontario, the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has invoked its mandate to investigate the incident. The SIU is a civilian law enforcement agency that investigates circumstances involving police and civilians that have resulted in a death, serious injury, or allegations of sexual assault.

A salmonella outbreak linked to recalled salami has sickened 72 people across Canada, with the majority of cases concentrated in Alberta, according to a report in Global News. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is investigating the outbreak, which prompted a recall of the contaminated salami product. Officials are advising consumers to check for the recalled product and discard it to prevent further illness.

The Law Society of Ontario (LSO), the self-regulating body for the legal profession in the province, is maintaining secrecy over complaints and investigations involving its members, as per a report in the National Post. This policy means that details, even concerning serious allegations like sexual harassment and other significant misconduct, are not made public. The lack of transparency prevents the public from accessing potentially critical information when choosing legal representation, as details of investigations often remain confidential unless and until there is a formal finding of misconduct.

NHL player Evander Kane announced Wednesday that he has been traded from the Edmonton Oilers to the Vancouver Canucks, AP says in a report. Kane confirmed the move to his hometown team in British Columbia and thanked the Oilers for his time there. His agent, Dan Milstein, also confirmed an agreement is in place between the two Canadian teams, though the specific terms of the trade involving the winger were not immediately disclosed.

Internal government documents show Ontario is failing to meet its 2030 climate change goals, directly contradicting public assurances from the province's new environment minister that they are 'on track', according to a report in CBC. Civil servants reportedly informed the minister that the province is not on pace to achieve its target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30% from 2005 levels with less than five years remaining. This revelation raises questions about the government's transparency and the accuracy of its public statements on environmental policy.

The average asking price for rental units in Montreal has increased by nearly 71% since 2019, according to a report in CBC. The data, released by Statistics Canada on Wednesday, highlights a significant rise in the cost for new tenants seeking housing. This figure represents the price landlords are listing for vacant units, which is distinct from the average rent paid by existing tenants whose increases are subject to provincial guidelines. The nearly 71% increase is a cumulative figure over the five-year period.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford is seeking federal support from Prime Minister Mark Carney's government for a proposal to construct a deep-sea port on James Bay, according to a report in CBC. The plan has drawn immediate criticism, with opponents arguing the project is unrealistic and condemning the failure to consult with Indigenous communities. When asked for specifics about the project, including a potential location, the premier's office stated that more details would be shared at a later time.

Two nurses have publicly detailed violent incidents they endured while working in the emergency department at Eagle Ridge Hospital in Port Moody, British Columbia, as per a report in CBC News. The incidents include one nurse being threatened with a machete and another suffering a dislocated jaw in an assault. The nurses are alleging that the Fraser Health Authority has not only failed to provide a safe working environment but has also attempted to silence employees who raise safety concerns.

Canada's national trucking industry is renewing its call for the federal government to take action against a business model it labels 'Driver Inc.,' a practice it alleges is a $1-billion scam, CBC News says in a report. The industry group claims that this model involves trucking companies misclassifying employee drivers as independent contractors. This misclassification reportedly allows companies to avoid paying standard employee-related costs such as vacation pay, overtime, and contributions to the Canada Pension Plan and Employment Insurance, leading to significant revenue loss for the government and creating unfair competition.

A woman from Winnipeg has reported being forced to remove her hijab by Flair Airlines staff while boarding a flight at a Toronto airport, an experience she described as humiliating, according to a report in CBC News. The incident, which her family states highlights a need for better staff training, occurred during the airline's boarding process and not during the official security screening conducted by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA). This has prompted public discussion regarding religious accommodation, potential discrimination, and the application of airline policies versus federal security protocols.

A study from the University of British Columbia's psychology department indicates that recycling rates in British Columbia and Alberta could be enhanced by introducing a lottery-style incentive, according to a report in CBC. The research suggests that when returning containers, people could be given the choice between reclaiming the standard 10-cent deposit or opting for a small chance to win a larger prize, such as $1,000. This behavioral economics approach, leveraging the appeal of a potential large reward over a guaranteed small one, is proposed as a method to increase participation in existing provincial deposit-refund systems.

U.S. prosecutors report that Canadian citizen Antonio Palazzolo has fled before his sentencing in the United States for a fraud charge to which he had already pleaded guilty, according to a report in the National Post. Palazzolo had been permitted to stay in Canada while awaiting his sentencing. Prosecutors allege that during this period of release, he continued to commit frauds nearly identical to the one for which he was convicted.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Ontario is sponsoring a rally outside the U.S. consulate but has distanced itself from an initial promotional poster titled 'Hands off Iran', according to a report in the Ottawa Citizen. The union described the poster as 'an early unapproved draft version' and clarified the demonstration's official purpose. CUPE Ontario stated the group is calling for 'an end to war between Iran and Israel' and de-escalation of the conflict.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated on Wednesday that a governmental review of the planned C$19 billion ($13.29 billion) order for 88 F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin will be concluded by the end of summer, as per a report in Reuters. The review was initiated in March by Carney amid a trade conflict with the United States, as Canada explores options to diversify its defense procurement.

The Canadian government has directed Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to maintain a target where one-quarter of the country's labour force consists of immigrants and refugees, the National Post says in a report. This directive formalizes a goal for the composition of the workforce. Notably, data from Statistics Canada in 2022 indicated that immigrants already constituted 27.5% of the Canadian labour force, suggesting the 25% target may function as a floor or stabilization point rather than a new goal to be reached.

Canada's former Justice Minister, Sean Fraser, stated he dislikes political slogans like 'soft on crime' but affirmed he will not 'diminish' the public's concerns on the matter, according to a report in the Ottawa Citizen. Fraser described public scrutiny on crime as an 'early warning system' that signals a need for the government to examine the issue, acknowledging the concerns raised by the public.

Recently released government polling indicates a slim majority of Canadians feel that current immigration levels are too high, even after the former Liberal government's policy adjustment to stabilize targets, according to a report in the Ottawa Citizen. This public sentiment is reportedly driven by a growing concern over Canada's "capacity issue," which refers to the perceived strain on national infrastructure and public services such as housing and healthcare. The findings suggest that the move in late 2023 to cap annual newcomer arrivals at 500,000 by 2025 has not fully assuaged public apprehension about the country's ability to absorb the population growth.

The federal government has decided to withhold the budget for this year's Canada Day festivities in Ottawa and Gatineau until after the celebrations have concluded, according to a report in The Globe and Mail. These large-scale events in the nation's capital, which typically feature concerts, cultural displays, and fireworks, usually have a budget that amounts to several million dollars. The decision to delay the release of the spending details for the main national celebration is a departure from the common practice of providing an estimated budget beforehand.

The provincial government in Manitoba is moving forward with plans to alter a highway intersection where a bus crash resulted in 17 fatalities, according to a report in Global News. Three distinct options are being evaluated for the infrastructure change, which comes in response to the tragic incident. However, the plan is reportedly facing some controversy.

The Law Society of Ontario (LSO), the self-regulating body for lawyers and paralegals in the province, is facing scrutiny over its policy of keeping details of complaints and investigations confidential, according to a report in National Post. This practice applies to the pre-hearing stages and includes allegations of serious misconduct such as sexual harassment. While formal disciplinary hearings and their final outcomes are typically made public, the secrecy surrounding initial complaints and investigations that do not advance to a formal hearing is drawing criticism as part of a wider public demand for more transparency and accountability from professional organizations in Canada.

The Canadian Senate has adopted a programming motion to expedite the passage of a major projects bill from Prime Minister Mark Carney's government, Global News says in a report. This procedural move places the legislation on a strict schedule, limiting debate within the upper chamber. A final vote on the high-priority bill is now mandated to occur by the end of Friday, June 27, 2025.

Four people are facing charges related to alleged drug trafficking after a police operation in Langford, British Columbia, resulted in the seizure of 20 firearms and cocaine, according to a report in The Western Standard. The individuals were charged after an investigation led to the discovery of the illicit substances and weapons. The accused are currently proceeding through the legal system.

A court in Ottawa heard testimony that the Lam family, concerned about their mother's increasingly abusive actions, had placed her in a nursing home for a three-day period months before she died. The testimony highlights the family's stated worries and the actions they took in response to her behaviour leading up to her death. The trial proceedings are shedding light on the circumstances within the family prior to the events being litigated.

Ottawa's Bluesfest organizers have announced a lineup change for the July 17 show, according to a report in the Ottawa Citizen. The previously scheduled artist, G-Eazy, is no longer performing and has been replaced by an unnamed Canadian rapper.

A new report from consulting firm MNP warns that the Alberta government's 'Care-First' auto insurance proposal could lead to higher costs for drivers, according to a report in The Western Standard. The analysis indicates that retaining a limited right to sue within the new system could increase annual premiums by as much as $136 per driver. The 'Care-First' model is intended to be a hybrid system, moving towards a no-fault approach for immediate care while preserving some legal recourse for more serious incidents.

A case is advancing to British Columbia’s highest court to rule on whether public universities are constitutionally obligated to protect freedom of expression under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, according to a report in The Western Standard. The court will also decide if the provincial government can be held legally liable when universities fail to uphold these rights. The legal challenge stems from broader public debate over free speech and academic freedom on Canadian university campuses.

A new survey indicates that 25% of Canadian federal public servants feel their career progression has been hindered by insufficient language training, as per a report in Ottawa Citizen. The findings were released just after the implementation of new language requirements for supervisors in designated bilingual regions across the country. These new rules are part of a wider government effort to modernize and strengthen the Official Languages Act, which mandates that federal services be available in both English and French.

The federal cabinet under Prime Minister Mark Carney has appointed Nancy Hamzawi as the new president of the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), according to a report in The Western Standard. Hamzawi's appointment marks the fifth leadership change at the head of the agency within the last five years.

Elections BC has acknowledged it failed to follow procedure in the provincial riding of Surrey-Guildford, The Western Standard says in a report. The admission concerns an election where BC Conservative candidate Honveer Singh Randhawa lost to the BC NDP's Garry Begg by a narrow margin of 22 votes. The specific nature of the procedural error was not detailed in the report.

Canada's federal government plans to table legislation this fall that includes tougher bail and sentencing provisions, Global News says in a report. According to Fraser, the bill will implement, at a minimum, the crime policies that the Liberal Party promised during a previous federal election. The government is also reportedly considering the inclusion of additional reforms in the proposed legislation.

In Saskatchewan, the official opposition NDP is increasing its scrutiny of the provincial government's management of Crown corporations, questioning claims of strong financial performance and affordable services, The Western Standard says in a report. The challenge arises as concerns grow over potential rate hikes for essential services provided by these publicly owned entities. This political pressure contests the government's narrative, which has highlighted record investments in infrastructure and the delivery of affordable services to residents.

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation has released its annual Teddy Waste Awards, which identify what the advocacy group considers to be the most significant instances of government waste in Canada, as per a report in The Western Standard. The awards call out a range of expenditures, including government spending on alcohol, poorly executed tourism advertisements, and a novelty hotline for a river. The annual announcement from the non-governmental watchdog group aims to draw public attention to what it frames as fiscal mismanagement and a lack of accountability in government spending.

The town of Wasaga Beach in Ontario has launched a Spotify playlist as a marketing initiative to capture its summer vibe and attract visitors, according to a report in Global News. The town, which claims to have the world's longest freshwater beach, receives more than two million visitors annually and is using the playlist to enhance its appeal as a popular tourist destination.

Small business owners in White Rock, British Columbia, are demanding action after several smash-and-grab incidents over the weekend caused financial losses and operational disruptions, as per a report in Global News. The thefts, one of which was captured on security footage released by the RCMP, involved a suspect using a large rock to break into the Crystal Smoke and Convenience store. The events have highlighted the growing security concerns and costs faced by local entrepreneurs, leading to public statements about the impact of property crime on the business community.

Calgary City Council has voted to support reconsidering its approval process for housing developments, aiming to fast-track applications in response to significant population growth, according to a report in the Calgary Herald. The initiative is a direct response to an influx of over 260 new residents per day, a trend driving urgent housing demand. Mayor Jyoti Gondek stated the move is necessary to accelerate homebuilding. The policy change is seen as a significant benefit for developers and homebuilders, as it is expected to reduce project timelines and costs, thereby encouraging further investment in the city's real estate market.

Calgary's Hangar Flight Museum is seeking $60 million in funding for a significant expansion that would triple its current size, according to a report in the Calgary Herald. The funding request, aimed at various levels of government, coincides with the museum celebrating its 50th anniversary. The institution has also recently completed major accessibility upgrades to its facilities as it plans for future growth.

Police in Calgary, Alberta, have seized 817 air guns in the first five months of 2025, a figure that is more than double the number confiscated during the same timeframe in the previous year, according to a report in the Calgary Herald. The Calgary Police Service expressed alarm at the significant increase, issuing a warning that such items are not toys and can be used in criminal activities. This rise in seizures highlights a growing public safety concern in the city regarding the misuse of air guns, which often resemble real firearms.

The Calgary Stampede and the University of Calgary are continuing a research partnership focused on improving animal welfare and safety, according to a report in the Calgary Herald. The collaboration, which is part of an ongoing response to public scrutiny over animal treatment, aims to create the safest possible conditions for animals participating in events. This initiative represents the latest effort by the Stampede to address long-standing concerns and incidents related to animal welfare.

The municipal government of Calgary has abandoned a plan to pave a parking lot and implement paid parking at Edworthy Park, the Calgary Herald says in a report. Area councillor Terry Wong confirmed the reversal, stating he was glad the city had dropped the initiative. The decision follows public concern over proposals that impact free access and green space in the city's parks.

A joint investigation between the Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service and the Calgary Police Service, named "Project Buffalo," has resulted in multiple charges being laid against several individuals, the Calgary Herald said in a report. The operation highlights inter-agency cooperation between the self-administered Indigenous police force and the municipal service. A key detail from the investigation is that none of the individuals charged are members of the Tsuut’ina Nation, indicating the criminal activity originated from outside the community.