Posted inCanadian News LJI News Ontario

Ford pulls US ad campaign after Trump halts trade talks

Ontario Premier Doug Ford's $75-million ad campaign against US tariffs, featuring Ronald Reagan, backfired and led to President Trump halting trade talks. Experts criticized Ford's approach as ineffective and unprofessional, emphasizing that trade issues should be handled by Ottawa, not provinces. Unity among provinces is vital for successful negotiations.
Posted inAlberta News Education Politics

Alberta Government announces plan to take action on ‘classroom complexity’

The Alberta government plans to address rising classroom complexities and aggression by forming a Class Size and Complexity Task Force. Premier Danielle Smith pledged to enhance classroom safety by hiring 3,000 teachers and 1,500 support staff over three years. Data will be collected to improve educational standards and support for diverse student needs.
Posted inAlberta News Education Politics

Alberta to use Notwithstanding Clause to send teachers back to classrooms

Alberta's government is mandating teachers to return to work following the largest strike in the province's history by invoking the Notwithstanding Clause to enforce a previously rejected contract. This includes a 12 percent wage hike and new hires. The ATA criticized the move, claiming it infringes on constitutional rights, while fines for non-compliance are introduced.
Posted inCanadian News LJI News Ontario

Immigration debate at forefront as budget decisions loom

Small communities in Northwest Ontario, like Fort Frances and Atikokan, rely heavily on foreign-born workers to fill critical job vacancies, especially in healthcare. Local leaders emphasize the necessity for more immigrants to sustain businesses and communities amid labor shortages. Political debates continue on immigration policies, impacting local economies.
Posted inAlberta News Canadian News Climate

Climate and energy hot topics for federal NDP leadership decision

As five candidates compete for the NDP leadership, they discuss worker support and party rebuilding amidst differing views on climate and energy policy. Avi Lewis, seen as the most progressive, advocates for aggressive climate action, while Heather McPherson aligns with moderate party views. Rob Ashton, a labor leader, seeks clarity on fossil fuels and energy strategies.
Posted inAlberta News Education LJI News

Still no deal: Back to work order and recall possible for Alberta’s teachers

A recall petition for Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides has been submitted in Calgary-Bow, requiring 16,006 signatures by January 2026. Petitioner Jennifer Yeremiy claims Nicolaides favors privatization over public education, while he defends his policies as a mandate from his 2023 election. The provincial government is also considering back-to-work legislation for striking teachers.
Posted inAlberta News Climate Politics

Vegreville Town Hall Rejects Premier Smith’s Oil Well Cleanup Scheme

Alberta's "Drill and Dash" policy threatens to shift $60 billion in oil and gas well cleanup costs to taxpayers, angering farmers and landowners. At a Vegreville town hall, community members criticized the Mature Asset Strategy, alleging it undermines environmental standards and perpetuates industry negligence, prompting grassroots opposition and organization.
Posted inCanadian News LJI News Ontario

Ontario school Trustee involved in costly trip to Italy resigns

Mark Watson, a trustee of the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board, resigned after spending over $10,000 in taxpayer funds on a criticized trip to Italy. His resignation follows a proposed bill aimed at removing him, with the Education Minister emphasizing accountability. Other trustees repaid their expenses, but Watson still owes funds.
Posted inAlberta News Canadian News LJI News

Canada’s rural post offices remain under scrutiny

Bob Gill of Shebandowan expresses concern over rural Canada Post outlets like his, which face potential closure amid the corporation's $1 billion annual losses. Federal Minister Joel Lightbound assures rural deliveries are secure but acknowledges a shift in policy regarding post office closures. Canada Post aims to adapt its services due to changing delivery patterns.
Posted inLJI News Politics Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan teachers pleased with Throne Speech addressing public education

The Saskatchewan Teacher’s Federation (STF) expressed satisfaction with the government's acknowledgment of public education in the recent Throne Speech, viewing it as a commitment after years of underfunding. STF President Samantha Becotte highlighted the need for ongoing collaboration and further funding to address challenges in schools and support students effectively.