Canada

The backlog of surgeries in Canada post-pandemic is diminishing, but wait times for hip and knee replacements and cancer surgeries remain longer than pre-COVID levels, with only 68% of hip surgeries meeting the 26-week benchmark in 2024. Contributing factors include a shortage of specialists, limited operating room resources, and an aging population, prompting provinces to expand outpatient surgeries and private clinic options. More Context

Pride Toronto is facing a significant financial shortfall due to several corporate sponsors withdrawing their support, a situation attributed by the festival’s executive director to a decline in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives among American companies following the Trump administration. This development raises concerns about the future sustainability of the festival. More Context

B.C. Regional Chief Terry Teegee's WarningB.C. Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief Terry Teegee emphasized that governments must not expedite major projects at the cost of First Nations rights, stating that lack of early consultation will lead to court challenges that will ultimately delay such projects. More Context

Summary Government House Leader Steven MacKinnon rejected the Bloc Québécois’ proposal to split Bill C-5 into two parts for separate study, arguing it addresses urgent economic needs and mobilizes support for national projects. Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized the bill's passage as a top priority before the House recess on June 20, despite concerns from the Assembly of First Nations regarding insufficient consultation time, while Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre supported fast-tracking without consensus. The bill aims to lift internal trade barriers and expedite major projects through streamlined environmental assessments. Full Article

Summary Mounties are actively searching for Lilly and Jack Sullivan, two Nova Scotia siblings missing since May 2, 2025. Despite conducting lie detector tests, reviewing surveillance footage, and collecting numerous tips, investigators have found no evidence of abduction and have not confirmed the children's status. The search involves multiple RCMP units and specialized teams, with extensive searches conducted at their home and surrounding areas, as the children's stepfather, Daniel Martell, claims they likely slipped outside unnoticed. Full Article

BC Ferries has sparked controversy after awarding a shipbuilding contract to China's CMI Weihai, a decision criticized by Conservative MP Jeff Kibble, who accused the Liberal government of undermining Canadian interests while providing $30 million in subsidies. Despite concerns from B.C. Transportation Minister Mike Farnworth about the implications of sourcing from a country perceived as economically aggressive, he stated BC Ferries is independent and he cannot block the deal. BC Ferries' CEO defended the choice, citing a lack of Canadian bidders and emphasizing that trade policy issues are for governments to manage. Full Article

A B.C. man, Mark Keenan, avoided jail time for child pornography charges after a judge deemed his collection of six images "relatively modest." Judge Andrew Tam sentenced him to a conditional two-year sentence, partially due to Keenan's community ties and lack of prior criminal history. Despite Keenan's claims of conducting an undercover sting operation, evidence of his arousal by the images and graphic communications undermined his defense; he will serve the first 18 months under house arrest, followed by probation. Full Article

Liberal MP Sukh Dhaliwal raised concerns with Prime Minister Mark Carney about inviting India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the upcoming G7 summit, amidst tensions following the murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, linked by Canada to Indian agents. Other MPs, including Gurbux Saini, echoed these concerns, emphasizing that India's actions have implications for Canadian safety and human rights. Carney defended the invitation, citing India's significant role in global trade, while Sikh groups continue to protest Modi's participation, urging MPs to address their concerns. Full Article

Former NDP MP Charlie Angus stated he will not run for party leadership, labeling the recent election campaign an "unmitigated disaster" for the New Democrats, who lost 17 seats, including that of former leader Jagmeet Singh. Angus emphasized the need for the party to reconnect with grassroots members and criticized its shift towards a leader-focused approach, suggesting that the NDP's loss of official party status compromises its parliamentary effectiveness. He expressed support for interim leader Don Davies and advocated for a return to in-person engagement over digital platforms to revitalize the party. Full Article

Lauren Kyle McDavid's Instagram Taunt After the Edmonton Oilers' 6-1 win in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final, Lauren Kyle McDavid, wife of star player Connor McDavid, posted a subtle taunt on Instagram directed at the Florida Panthers. She shared a screenshot explaining why Alberta is rat-free, referencing the Panthers' unofficial mascot, the rat, which has been part of the team's culture since a player famously killed one in 1995. While attending a bachelorette party in Greece, Kyle McDavid's post resonated with the ongoing rivalry and the tradition of fans throwing plastic rats onto the ice. Full Article