Day One | January 13, 2025
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Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau Resigns and Liberal Party Sets March 9 Leadership Vote
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau?announced his resignation?on January 6, 2025, following mounting pressure from some members of the Liberal Party and declining poll numbers. Parliament has been prorogued until March 24, with the Liberal Party scheduling a leadership vote for?March 9. Two candidates have officially declared their intention to run - Ottawa MP Chandra Arya and former Montreal MP Frank Baylis - while eight other high-profile Liberals, including several current cabinet ministers, are considering entering the race. Potential candidates, including former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney and former finance minister Chrystia Freeland, have until January 23 to declare their candidacy and must pay a $350,000 entry fee.
Canada Prepares Targeted Tariff Response to Trump's Import Duty Threats
Canadian officials are?developing retaliatory measures against potential U.S. tariffs, focusing on specific products including steel, ceramics, plastics, and orange juice. The strategic response comes ahead of President-elect Donald Trump's January 20 inauguration and his proposed 25 percent across-the-board tariffs on Canadian imports. Trade experts indicate Canada is signalling readiness for targeted retaliation while avoiding a broader trade war, with government officials planning to finalize their approach during next week's federal-provincial meeting in Ottawa.
Transport Minister Anita Anand Declines Leadership Bid and Future Re-election
Transport Minister Anita Anand announced that?she will not participate in the Liberal Party leadership race?to succeed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and will not seek re-election as Oakville's Member of Parliament. Anand, who has served in multiple cabinet positions since 2019, including as Minister of National Defence and President of the Treasury Board, will continue executing her current roles until the next election. In her statement, Anand expressed her intention to return to academia, where she previously worked as a law professor specializing in capital markets regulation at the University of Toronto.
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Premier Smith Visits Mar-a-Lago and Talks with U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump
Over the weekend Premier?Danielle Smith traveled to Mar-a-Lago, where she spoke with President-elect Donald Trump.?In a post on social media, Smith stated that they “had a friendly and constructive conversation” in which she “emphasized the mutual importance of the U.S. – Canadian energy relationship, and specifically, how hundreds of thousands of American jobs are supported by energy exports from Alberta.” Smith added that she also spoke to several “key allies” of the incoming administration and was encouraged by their support of “strong energy security relationship with Canada.” The social media post was accompanied by photos of Premier Smith alongside Donald Trump and Kevin O’Leary. Premier Smith will hold a media availability from Mar-a-Lago today.?
Acute Care Alberta Details and AHS Leadership Changes Announced
Details on Acute Care Alberta and the leader of the new agency were announced by Health Minister Adriana LaGrange on January 8th.?The agency is the third of four pillars in Premier Danielle Smith’s restructuring of health care, following the launch of Recovery Alberta and Primary Care Alberta. Dr. Chris Eagle has been appointed as both chairman and interim president and CEO of Acute Care Alberta. The government also announced the departure of President and CEO of AHS Athana Mentzelopoulos. Deputy health minister Andre Tremblay will temporarily step in to fill the role.??
Alberta Government Partners with Enbridge to Boost Heavy Oil Exports to the U.S.
On January 6th, the Alberta government?announced an agreement signed with Enbridge, aiming to increase exports of the province's heavy oil to the United States.?The agreement will create a working group to evaluate future transport, storage, terminaling, and market access opportunities across the company’s network. The group will also work to cut red tape and increase the efficiency of regulations and permitting approvals. Premier Smith stated that the deal with Enbridge will be the first of many similar agreements with oil companies that do business in the province.?
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Team P.E.I. hits the road to combat potential trade tariffs
Premier King and a?delegation?of 21 elected officials, business leaders, and key sector representatives are kicking off a five-day trade mission throughout the northeastern United States to strengthen ties ahead of potential trade tariffs.? With 80 per cent of the Island’s exports destined for US markets, the seafood and agriculture sectors in particular are concerned about the impacts which could top hundreds of millions of dollars. Team P.E.I. will be?meeting?with state senators, consumers and business groups in Maine and New Hampshire.
N. S. Liberals plan lengthy leadership race
Party members will not elect their next leader until November 21, 2026, almost two years after the N.S. Liberals were reduced to only two seats in the provincial election.? The lengthy race mirrors similar processes in P.E.I. and will also give the party some space to take stock of the federal election result. According to party president Margaret Miller, the leadership race?rules?will be determined during a future board meeting.
N.L. Hydro and Hydro-Quebec MOU passes after contentious debate
After four contentious days of debate, a majority of MHAs?voted?to proceed with negotiations with Hydro-Quebec in order to reach formal contracts for new long-term energy deals.? The PC caucus walked out of the legislature prior to the final vote to highlight their concerns with a lack of independent review and oversight.? A new independent, expert panel led by the Consumer Advocate will provide?oversight?during the negotiations and Premier Furey has?promised?that any definitive contracts will be debated in the legislature.
Global cybersecurity breach impacts Atlantic schools
Current and former students as well as staff across Atlantic Canada have had their personal information stolen as part of the global PowerSchool cybersecurity breach.? Provinces are?investigating?the extent of the breach, which Nova Scotia has confirmed impacted the social insurance numbers of certain employees in Cape Breton.? Those impacted in Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador will be?notified?in the coming weeks.
Cold and flu season straining P.E.I.’s healthcare resources
Health P.E.I. has set up a?Overcapacity Command Table?to deal with the fact that hospitals across the Island are?over capacity?leading to hours-long wait times in emergency rooms and limited bed availability.? At the same time, a shortage of long-term care beds is creating a ‘bottleneck’ according to the Nursing Home Association of P.E.I.? A tender is expected to add an additional 175 beds across the province over time, but that won’t meet current demand, as there were more than 260 people waiting to be placed as of August 2024.? Islanders who need care are being encouraged to look to alternatives such as pharmacies, virtual care, and walk-in clinics.?
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B.C. Conservatives call for review of 2024 election, claiming ‘irregularities’ in voting
The B.C. Conservatives are?questioning the province's election outcome, alleging that non-Canadian citizens may have voted. Leader John Rustad presented 45 cases of voting “irregularities” and called for more stringent voter requirements, such as proof of citizenship. However, he admitted he lacks evidence to prove these claims. The B.C. Conservatives’ allegations include cases of people voting in the wrong riding and one person voting twice. Elections B.C. stated there are no current rules requiring voters to prove citizenship and noted only two cases of non-citizens voting in the 2020 election due to misunderstandings. Premier David Eby criticized Rustad's claims as part of a trend of “American-style politics” in B.C. Elections B.C. will review the allegations before deciding on an investigation.
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B.C. reviews flagship programs in face of federal uncertainty
The B.C. government has?expressed concerns?about the impact of Ottawa's current paralysis on key programs that rely heavily on federal funding, such as housing, infrastructure, and childcare. Premier David Eby warned that the prorogation of Parliament could delay promised funds, including $215 million for the Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade. The B.C. government’s flagship programs, like new housing investments and subsidized daycare, are heavily dependent on federal support. Despite the uncertainty, Eby emphasized the need to maintain these programs with or without federal assistance. He stated that he does not expect Trudeau's successor to cut federal child-care supports, as they are crucial for families struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. B.C. Finance Minister Brenda Bailey will present the next provincial budget on March 4, amid this significant fiscal pressure. ?
B.C. could produce 2.2 million tonnes of hydrogen by 2050
British Columbia’s?hydrogen strategy?is positioning the province as a leader in low-emissions hydrogen production. The strategy seeks to generate 2.2 million tonnes of hydrogen annually by 2050 to support its CleanBC emissions-reduction goals. While hydrogen offers a promising alternative to fossil fuels for sectors like transportation and heating, significant challenges remain for the industry, including the need for large-scale renewable power, cost-effective transportation infrastructure, and global demand. Key projects in the province, such as Prince George’s proposed hydrogen hub, face delays due to power shortages. Government and local leaders, however, remain optimistic about future use cases for hydrogen. Despite hurdles, B.C. continues investing in hydrogen innovation, with initiatives like refueling stations and partnerships with Indigenous groups indicating long-term commitment to the resource.
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Ontario Proposes the “Fortress Am-Can” Energy Alliance?
On Wednesday, Ontario Premier Doug Ford?proposed?a plan to establish a strategic alliance between Canada and the U.S. named “Fortress Am-Can.” The alliance would enhance and expand the integrated electricity grids and natural gas and oil pipelines between Ontario and the U.S. to promote cross-border energy flows. Ford’s proposal came weeks after he?threatened?to cut off Ontario’s energy supply to the U.S. if President-elect Donald Trump implements a 25% tariff on all imports from Canada. The Premier has been active on U.S. media outlets to highlight his proposals and defend Canadian trade interests.
Premier Ford Refuses to Rule Out Early Election?
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Premier Ford?refused?to rule out an early election in Ontario, saying he is focused on avoiding tariffs proposed by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Premier Ford is?reportedly?seeking a new mandate from Ontarians amid economic uncertainty generated by a second Trump presidency. Ontario’s next general election is scheduled to take place in June 2026, but could happen as soon as this Spring.
Ontario Launches New Initiative to Enhance Border Security?
The Ontario government has?launched?“Operation Deterrence,” an initiative to enhance security and address criminal activity on the Ontario-U.S. border. As part of the initiative, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) will have an emergency response team of 200 officers who will conduct patrols to identify and prevent illegal border activity with the help of aircraft, helicopters, and other vehicles. The OPP has conducted 6,000 hours of focused patrols since December 6, 2024. Premier Ford also called on the federal government to enhance its efforts in safeguarding border security, stating that a coordinated “Team Canada” approach with “more boots on the ground” is the only way to ensure the safety of Canadian and American communities.
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City of Toronto to Invest $3 million to Combat Congestion
Mayor Olivia Chow and Barbara Gray, General Manager of Transportation Services,?announced?the addition of 75 new traffic agents to address city congestion. The City of Toronto plans to increase its traffic agents from 25 to 100 by the end of the year, with a?$3 million investment. The agents will primarily work to prevent drivers from ‘blocking the box’ at key intersections, including downtown areas, construction zones, and locations near special events. A 2023 report highlighted their effectiveness, with agents reducing travel time by 33% and increasing car throughput by 25%. Despite challenges in hiring and retaining agents, the city is committed to continuous hiring process, with 48 new recruits set to begin training this spring. This initiative aims to enhance traffic flow and solidify the agents’ role as essential to the city’s transportation system.
Toronto District School Board (TDSB) Announces New Director?
Clayton La Touche was appointed as?Director of Education for Toronto District School Board?(TDSB), effective Feb. 10, 2025. With a career spanning multiple leadership roles, including assistant deputy minister at the Ministry of Education, La Touche brings a strong commitment to equitable student outcomes and public education. La Touche has a long history with the TDSB, beginning his career as a teacher in 1994, and since 2001, he has been on the secondment to the Ministry of Education. La Touche will take over from Colleen Russel-Rawlins who retired in November 2024. His appointment will follow a four-month recruitment process, while Stacey Zucker, Interim director will remain in the role until La Touche starts.
Brampton Mayor Set to Reveal Budget and Tax Implications
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown is introducing the?city’s budget plan for 2025,?utilizing the strong mayor powers granted by the provincial government in 2023. This is the second year Mayor Brown has used these powers, giving him final authority over the budget. The budget will set property tax rates and determine funding for city services, salaries, maintenance, and new initiatives. These discussions are notably later than those in most major municipalities, which finalized their budget by late 2024. Brampton city council has scheduled seven special meetings over the next two weeks for deliberations, providing councillors the opportunity to question agenda items and propose amendments.?The 2025 Proposed Budget for Brampton?includes a 2.9% property tax increase, adding $194 annually to the average home. The budget includes key investments, such as $15.5 million for Downtown Revitalization, $300 million for Brampton Transit’s third facility, and $10 million for the TMU School of Medicine, along with $4.9 million for a second hospital.? The first meeting is scheduled for Monday January 13, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by three additional meetings on Tuesday, January 14, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday, January 16, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Friday, January 17, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The proposed budget is expected to be approved on Monday January 20, 2025.
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PSPP Criticizes Trudeau and Poilievre for Neglecting Quebec
Paul St-Pierre Plamondon (PSPP) condemned both Justin Trudeau and Pierre Poilievre for?disregarding Quebec’s interests. He labeled Trudeau as one of Canada’s worst prime ministers, citing high deficits, mass immigration, and divisive "woke" policies, including appointing an Islamophobia commissioner. PSPP argued Trudeau’s governance worsened Quebec’s situation compared to his father’s era. PSPP expressed skepticism about Poilievre’s leadership, accusing him of prioritizing Western Canadian interests while ignoring Quebec. He criticized Poilievre’s refusal to grant Quebec full immigration control, deliver $6 billion in health transfers, or stop opposing Quebec’s secularism law. PSPP warned of potential environmental deregulation and favoritism towards oil companies under Poilievre. In response, the federal Conservatives assured they would respect Quebec’s jurisdiction while protecting its citizens. PSPP, however, insisted the root issue lies in Canada’s political framework, which he claims inherently marginalizes Quebec, reinforcing his call for Quebec sovereignty.
PSPP Calls for "Team Quebec" to Counter Trump Tariff Threats
Parti Québécois leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon (PSPP) has called on Premier Fran?ois Legault to?form a "Team Quebec"?to address tariff threats from incoming U.S. President Donald Trump. PSPP proposes a coalition of opposition parties, academics, and organizations to craft a unified Quebec strategy, emphasizing the province’s unique economic interests. He criticized Canada’s history of neglecting Quebec during U.S. trade negotiations, warning that sectors vital to Quebec, such as aluminum, forestry, and SMEs trading with northeastern American states may be sidelined in favor of Ontario’s automotive and Alberta’s energy industries. PSPP stressed the urgency of immediate action, recommending the team prepare clear demands ahead of provincial premiers’ trip to Washington on February 12.
Ghislain Picard Steps Down as AFNQL Regional Chief After 30+ Years
Ghislain Picard, regional chief of the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador (AFNQL) since 1992, has announced he?will not seek another term.?Known for his humility and unwavering dedication, Picard has been a steadfast advocate for First Nations rights, focusing on policing, youth, and justice issues. Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak praised Picard’s stability and expertise, calling his departure a significant loss. Quebec’s First Nations leaders and government officials have also commended his legacy. Picard’s leadership has left a lasting impact on First Nations communities across Quebec and Labrador. ?
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