Canadian politics news covering the federal government, Parliament, party leadership, provincial politics, elections, and major Canadian policy debates.
Federal Health Minister Marjorie Michel announced a one-year extension of $1.2-billion in funding for mental health, addictions, and home care. Provincial and territorial ministers met in Winnipeg to address the renewal, with Manitoba's minister noting the federal government is listening to concerns about the Canada Health Transfer.
Janine Rogan contends that direct financial incentives like baby bonuses fail to reverse declining birth rates, citing Canada’s low fertility despite the Canada Child Benefit. She compares these efforts to South Korea’s extensive support system, which has also failed to boost its global-low fertility rate, suggesting monetary aid targets the wrong issue.
The Globe and Mail editorial board contends that Canadian authorities exhibit a troubling culture of secrecy regarding the Tumbler Ridge massacre investigation. The piece argues that critical details emerging from US sources rather than domestic officials undermines public trust and reflects a broader pattern of reticence within Canada's justice system.
Canadian Industry Minister Mélanie Joly warned Cleveland-Cliffs faces forced asset divestment or penalties if it proceeds with planned Stelco layoffs. The minister emphasized that market conditions cannot excuse breaches of employment guarantees tied to the 2024 acquisition. Stelco maintains it is complying with its legal obligations despite the cuts.
The Globe and Mail argues that Chrystia Freeland’s memoir, Unreliable Boyfriend, highlights her transformation from a diminutive journalist into Canada’s most powerful female politician. The commentary contends that her narrative effectively chronicles her diplomatic confrontation with the Trump administration and her decisive role in removing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Donald J. Savoie argues that a leaner public service is more effective, contrasting the efficient, surplus-generating federal government of the 1960s with today's bloated bureaucracy plagued by delivery failures like Phoenix and ArriveCAN.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford argued on Wednesday that Canada must plan as if US tariffs are permanent, signaling a shift in bilateral relations. Speaking in Toronto, Ford asserted that the historic economic partnership with the United States has fundamentally changed and can no longer be relied upon for prosperity.
The Globe and Mail editorial board argues that the Canadian government should halt plans to recognize a Palestinian state after President Mahmoud Abbas postponed elections, violating conditions that excluded Hamas. The piece contends that Ottawa's policy relies on commitments the Palestinian Authority has now breached.
Keith Creel argues that Bill C-39 is insufficient to ensure labour stability, which he deems essential for Prime Minister Mark Carney’s economic agenda. While supporting the bill’s transparency measures, he contends it fails to provide bold enough action to prevent disruptive work stoppages in critical sectors like railways.
Commentary contends that separatist rhetoric in Alberta and Quebec threatens economic stability and business confidence. A Dalhousie University professor critiques survey bias in referendum questions, while a Toronto businessman argues that political disaffection with Canada harms regional economies and citizen well-being.