N.S. government takes extended vacation from press gallery availabilities

Calgarian Linda Slater, 83, faced unbearable knee pain during a two-year wait for an orthopedic surgeon, prompting her to use her retirement savings to pay $33,000 for a knee replacement at a private clinic in Toronto, including travel expenses. Her situation raises questions about the lengths individuals will go to for timely medical procedures. Want More Context? 🔎

CBC News reports that three federal government bodies failed to conduct mandatory privacy safeguard checks before launching a $68-million overhaul of Canada’s asylum system, which was ultimately halted last year, leaving it incomplete. Experts warn that the absence of timely privacy evaluations could jeopardize the personal data of vulnerable individuals. Want More Context? 🔎

The Ontario Provincial Police alerted that purchasing Hells Angels support gear funds organized crime, prompting Walmart and Amazon to cease sales of such merchandise following a violent incident involving a rival biker club. The retailers' swift action came after public outcry and a request from Quebec's public security minister, although some items remained available online despite the warnings. Want More Context? 🔎

Canadian athlete Sarah Mitton showcased her shot put prowess with a best throw of 19.81 metres, winning the event at a World Athletics Continental Gold meet in Beijing. Teammate Andre De Grasse also returned to form after a nearly three-month hiatus, both athletes delivering strong performances ahead of the upcoming World Athletics Championships. Want More Context? 🔎

The 2005 reality show Rock Star: INXS featured 15 contestants vying to become the lead singer of the iconic Australian band INXS, culminating in a win for J.D. Fortune, a self-described country boy from Pictou County, N.S. This victory represented the fulfillment of his lifelong dream. Want More Context? 🔎

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe is set to lead a trade mission to China, marking the first by a Canadian premier in six years, to advocate for better market access for canola amid rising tensions with China and the U.S. Despite acknowledging the federal government's role in resolving trade issues, Moe aims to represent Saskatchewan's interests, especially following China's imposition of high tariffs on Canadian canola exports. Want More Context? 🔎