Sue Dewar cartoon, Dec. 17, 2024

The minority Liberal government's major projects bill, C-5, passed its second reading in the House of Commons with a vote of 304-29 and is set for committee study this week, following fast-tracking by the Conservatives. The bill grants the federal government powers to expedite natural resource and infrastructure projects and will undergo scrutiny from various stakeholders, with a Senate pre-study also underway. Need More Context? 🔎

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced significant support for Ukraine during a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the G7 Summit, including sanctions on Russia, $2 billion for military supplies, and a $2.3-billion loan for infrastructure rebuilding. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude and highlighted recent Russian missile attacks on Kyiv, reaffirming Ukraine's readiness for peace negotiations. Need More Context? 🔎

The B.C. Supreme Court has certified a class-action lawsuit against McKinsey & Company, alleging the consultancy advised opioid manufacturers and contributed to marketing strategies that resulted in the over-prescription of opioids. This legal action highlights the province's efforts to hold the firm accountable for its role in the opioid crisis. Need More Context? 🔎

Historian David Saint-Pierre dedicated months to locating an artifact from the Empress of Ireland, ultimately tracking down Ronald Stopani, who had recovered a Marconi wireless telegraph machine during a 1970s dive. In March, Stopani generously donated the artifact to the museum dedicated to the ship's history, marking a significant moment in preserving maritime heritage. Need More Context? 🔎

As cannabis becomes more potent and widely available, emergency departments report a rise in cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), characterized by severe vomiting and abdominal pain in frequent users. A study found a 13-fold increase in CHS-related visits in Ontario post-legalization, particularly among youth, highlighting the need for awareness among clinicians and the public about this condition. Need More Context? 🔎

Missiles fired from Iran targeted Israel in retaliation for a pre-emptive strike on June 13, 2025, aimed at its nuclear capabilities, resulting in casualties and damage despite Israel's missile defense systems like Iron Dome, David's Sling, and The Arrow, which collectively achieved an 80-90% interception rate. The effectiveness of these systems varies, with Iron Dome less suited for long-range missiles, highlighting the importance of U.S. support and potential inventory limitations in future engagements. Need More...