Foreign interference watchdog to be named next month, public safety minister says

The gravesite of British Major General Robert Ross, who led the burning of the White House in 1814 during the War of 1812, saw many visitors this week, including Larry and Connie Tremain from Arizona. Ross, buried in Halifax, N.S., after his death at the Battle of North Point, remains a surprising figure for many Americans, who often lack awareness of this historical event and its implications for U.S.-Canada relations. Want More Context? 🔎

Gregor Robertson, the minister overseeing the federal agency that supported a B.C. Ferries' contract for ships from China, announced that Ottawa is considering a "buy Canada" policy, which has historically been weaker than the "buy American" strategy. This development comes amid disappointment over Toronto city council's decision to limit sixplexes to only nine wards. Want More Context? 🔎

Winnipeg police issued a warning about Jason Mark Bard, a 35-year-old convicted rapist and violent offender, who has been released from custody and is expected to reside in the city. Bard, whose criminal history includes sexual assault, choking, and multiple violent offenses, is considered a high risk to re-offend against adult females, despite having completed treatment for sexual offenses. Want More Context? 🔎

More than 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants are voting on a new contract after a strike in August 2023, which temporarily grounded flights. The tentative agreement includes significant pay increases and stipulations for paid ground time, but if rejected, only the pay portion will go to arbitration while other terms remain final, with the contract lasting until March 31, 2029. Want More Context? 🔎

Residents in Gold Canyon, Arizona, are witnessing a decline in Canadian buyers for vacation homes, driven by strained U.S.-Canada relations and a cooling U.S. housing market. Redfin reports a 22% drop in Canadian searches for U.S. properties, with many Canadians opting to sell their homes due to political dissatisfaction and economic factors, including tariffs and a weakening Canadian dollar. Want More Context? 🔎

The Conservative Party of Canada, led by Pierre Poilievre, has overtaken the Liberals in a recent Abacus poll, garnering 41% support compared to the Liberals' 39%, amid rising concerns over affordability and the economy. While Carney's approval remains strong at 49%, more Canadians (69%) feel it's time for a change, with many viewing Conservatives as better suited to address economic issues. Want More Context? 🔎