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Country in Chaos – What will this spiraling descent mean for our families, our livelihoods, and the very fabric of our Canadian identity?

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3 days ago

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BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“I can say we’re not united. There’s still a number of our members who think we need a change in leadership and I’m one of them,” Liberal Ontario MP Chad Collins

Our nation teeters on the precipice of chaos. A once-proud government now spirals out of control, gripped by a reckless disregard for fiscal responsibility. The printing presses churn relentlessly, flooding the economy with devalued currency, while unchecked spending gorges on our collective future. Our leader, adrift in a sea of indecision and self-serving pronouncements, has lost the helm, leaving us adrift in a storm of uncertainty. The question that haunts us all: What will this spiraling descent mean for our families, our livelihoods, and the very fabric of our Canadian identity?

Despite serious questions about Trudeau’s future given what transpired on Monday with the resignation of Chrystia Freeland, Housing Minister Sean Fraser announced that he will not seek re-election, four sources confirmed to The Globe and Mail on Sunday. He will stay on as MP until the general election.

Three of the sources said he was leaving for family reasons. Two of the sources said his announcement means he will be removed from cabinet when the Prime Minister shuffles his senior team, which could come as soon as this week.

This major shakeup and the political uncertainty it prompted, revived calls for Trudeau to resign, both from other party leaders and within his own caucus. The prime minister, according to sources, is now said to be considering prorogation (​​formal ending of a session of Parliament), as well as his options as leader.

I am unsure of how many of us follow Canadian politics closely, but I will get you caught up to date as to what has been happening. There is frustration reportedly connected to disagreements over measures such as the two-month GST/HST pause and the in-limbo $250 workers’ benefit cheques, as well as the government’s ability to abide by its fiscal anchors.

The federal government tabled a fall economic statement on Monday, December 16th, 2024, that calls for more than $20 billion in new spending and explains how last fiscal year’s deficit ballooned to $61.9 billion.

Along with showing that the federal government blew its own deficit target by more than $20 billion, the document — overseen by Chrystia Freeland before her resignation — includes pledges to address U.S. president-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House.

They include $1.3 billion for a border security package over six years — part of Ottawa’s plan to fend off Trump’s threat of steep tariffs — although the 270-page document doesn’t explain exactly how that money will be spent (again, a lack of transparency). The government is also earmarking billions of dollars to boost Canadian businesses amid global uncertainty. Remember back in 2015 when Stephen Harper warned us that Trudeau would bring about non-stop deficits.

He was right!

This fiscal update comes as Canada navigates choppy waters in its most important trading relationship. Trump has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, citing concerns about border security, migrants and illegal drugs, especially fentanyl. Tariffs at that level could cripple Canada’s economy.

The fall economic statement signals that the government is willing to spend more on the Canada Border Services Agency, the RCMP, Public Safety Canada and the Communications Security Establishment, but it’s light on details about how that money will be spent (again, a lack of transparency).

The government has suggested it will be buying helicopters and drones to strengthen monitoring of the shared border.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faced frustrated MPs at a hastily arranged caucus meeting late Monday, December 16th, 2024, following Chrystia Freeland’s shocking decision to resign from cabinet just before she was to deliver the government’s much-anticipated fall economic statement.

Chrystia Freeland — who worked as a journalist and author prior to getting into politics, has been Canada’s Deputy Prime Minister since 2019, and Finance Minister since 2020.

She’s been in the high-ranking posts as the country grappled with an affordability crisis and high interest rates and remained steadfast in her economic management amid pushback from some economists who were critical of what they characterized as inflationary federal spending. The rising tension between the Prime Minister’s Office and Chrystia Freeland’s office was first reported this summer by the Globe and Mail, citing unnamed sources in Trudeau’s office who were concerned about Chrystia Freeland’s economic communications chops.

Chrystia Freeland wrote a letter, which is now going viral on the internet; in it she shares her thoughts about what transpired. Below I have shared a snippet of her letter, enough to show the frustration that she has been feeling.

“Dear Prime Minister,

It has been the honour of my life to serve in government, working for Canada and Canadians. We have accomplished a lot together.

On Friday, you told me you no longer want me to serve as your Finance Minister and offered me another position in the cabinet.

Upon reflection, I have concluded that the only honest and viable path is for me to resign from the cabinet.

To be effective, a Minister must speak on behalf of the Prime Minister and with his full confidence. In making your decision, you made clear that I no longer credibly enjoy that confidence and possess the authority that comes with it.

For the past number of weeks, you and I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada…”

It appears that Justin Trudeau’s track record as a so-called feminist is terrible. He’s been an equal opportunity oppressor to some strong women who have worked under his leadership. Some of these powerful women include Celina Caesar-Chavannes, Jody Wilson-Raybould, Eva Nassif and now Chrystia Freeland members of his own cabinet who all resigned.

About 15 MPs took to the microphone to address Prime Minister Trudeau at that meeting. Most of the speakers said he has to step down after mismanaging his once-crucial relationship with Chrystia Freeland, the outgoing Deputy Prime Minister.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre called for the government to hold a confidence vote on the economic update immediately. The House of Commons is scheduled to break Tuesday for the holidays. Also speaking to reporters on Monday, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre reiterated his call for a “carbon tax election.”

“Justin Trudeau has lost control, and yet he clings to power,” Poilievre said, later adding, “Ms. Freeland has been Mr. Trudeau’s most trusted minister now for a decade, for nine years. She knows him better than anyone, and she knows that he’s out of control.”

In an accompanying statement, Poilievre said the country “Simply cannot go on like this.” “The Prime Minister has lost control, yet he clings to power,” he said during question period.

“I think the only path forward for us is to choose a new leader and present a new plan to Canadians with a different vision,” he said.

In addition to Housing Minister Sean Fraser, the Prime Minister also needs to replace Transport Minister Pablo Rodriguez, who quit to run for Quebec Liberal leadership; Randy Boissonnault, who left cabinet under a cloud of controversy this fall; and four other ministers who announced in October they won’t run in the next election campaign. Those ministers are: National Revenue Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau, Northern Affairs Minister Dan Vandal, Sports Minister Carla Qualtrough and Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.

One of Prime Minister Trudeau’s main supporters Jagmeeet Singh has also chimed “Instead of focusing on these issues, Justin Trudeau and the Liberals are focused on themselves. They’re fighting themselves instead of fighting for Canadians, and for that reason, today, I’m calling on Justin Trudeau to resign,” Singh said. How quickly tables do turn.

Dr. Leslyn Lewis had her own thoughts on this situation and shared them on Twitter. “Justin Trudeau is desperate and out of control. His right hand, the first female Finance Minister and Deputy PM has resigned. Today, he will push Canada over a $40-billion economic guardrail, plunging Canadians further into debt. It’s clear his intention is to give away Canadians’ money in hopes of winning the election.

Does he think Canadians are dumb, or does he just not care that he’s killing our economy?”

So where has that left us Canadians? Apparently, Dominic LeBlanc was sworn in as our Finance Minister following Chrystia Freeland’s departure — an apparent attempt by Trudeau to deploy a close confidant as he struggles to stabilize his shaky government and restore some confidence in the government. Dominic LeBlanc, who has been friends with the Prime Minister since childhood, is one of Trudeau’s most trusted lieutenants.

Community, our country today faces a grave challenge. The recent revelations emanating from our political offices are nothing short of a national scandal. This is not merely political infighting; it strikes at the very heart of our democracy. Canadians, long accustomed to a sense of stability and order, are now witnessing a potential seismic shift. The foundations of our nation may be crumbling before our eyes. This is not the time for apathy or complacency. Now more than ever, we must remain vigilant, demand transparency, and hold our elected officials accountable. The future of Canada hangs in the balance.

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We, as humans are guaranteed certain things in life: stressors, taxes, bills and death are the first thoughts that pop to mind. It is not uncommon that many people find a hard time dealing with these daily life stressors, and at times will find themselves losing control over their lives. Simone Jennifer Smith’s great passion is using the gifts that have been given to her, to help educate her clients on how to live meaningful lives. The Hear to Help Team consists of powerfully motivated individuals, who like Simone, see that there is a need in this world; a need for real connection. As the founder and Director of Hear 2 Help, Simone leads a team that goes out into the community day to day, servicing families with their educational, legal and mental health needs.Her dedication shows in her Toronto Caribbean newspaper articles, and in her role as a host on the TCN TV Network.

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The People-to-People Programme opens doors to the heart of the Bahamas

Published

2 days ago

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December 31, 2024

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BY SIMONE J. SMITH

Snow falls softly outside the window. Inside, you shiver in a thick sweater, nursing a steaming mug of tea. Your condo feels cold and dreary. Ugh, this winter is never going to end. I have all these vacation days piling up. I can’t just let them go to waste.

You open your laptop, browsing travel websites. Images of sunny beaches and turquoise waters flash across the screen. “What am I doing? I need to escape this cold, grey misery.” You click on an article about the Bahamas. A picture of a vibrant, colorful village catches your eye.

“The Bahamas? Now that sounds interesting.” You start researching the Exumas, intrigued by the People-to-People Programme. Through this unique cultural exchange programme, visitors are welcomed into the homes of trusted, friendly locals, creating friendships and paving the way to gain special insight into true Bahamian lifestyle.

There’s something even more special about joining what they call a Sip Sip – a relaxed, good-natured gossip session with neighbours. As you read through the website, you see where: colourful stories are shared, contagious laughter flows, and the warmth of Exuma takes centre stage.

Ahh! You smile, imagining yourself immersed in the local culture, sipping on a tropical drink, surrounded by friendly faces. This sounds perfect. A chance to truly connect with the people and experience the real Bahamas.

The People-to-People Programme is an immersive experience that allows travelers to directly connect with Bahamian locals. Guided by the belief that “locals know best,” the programme carefully pairs visitors with volunteer ambassadors who are eager to showcase their: culture, traditions, and favourite spots. Whether it’s: finding the best fish fry in town, exploring hidden beaches, or savouring authentic local dishes, the People-to-People Programme opens doors to the heart of the islands. Guests can enjoy a plethora of memorable moments, gaining one-of-a-kind access to the Bahamas’ warm hospitality.

It’s simple: it is said that if you want to understand a destination, get to know the people who call it home. Imagine how it would feel if when visiting a new place for the first time that the moment you step through their door, you’re welcomed like family, sharing not just a meal, but meaningful stories, traditions, and laughter.

One such family is the Rolle family in Little Exuma. With the People-to-People Programme, you can join them for a traditional Bahamian feast at any of their three family-run eateries. Here, you’ll experience the island through the tantalizing aromas and mouthwatering tastes that are freshly served for your delight.

Next, enter the humble abode of the local-born artist, Fletcher Tinker, famous for his masterful woodworking and artistry skills. Whether it’s a casual dinner with new friends, a stroll through the bustling streets of Exuma, or swimming in the clear blue waters with friendly pigs, you’ll find that every interaction through People-to-People offers a deeper, more heartfelt connection to The Bahamas. This isn’t just sightseeing, it’s an invitation to feel the island’s heartbeat.

Enough reading. How could you resist this invitation? To join the People-to-People Programme, simply complete the guest registration form online, where you’ll provide key details to customize your experience. This information helps tailor your experience and match you with a local ambassador who will enhance your stay by sharing their culture and lifestyle. Choose which island(s) you’ll visit and select your interests from a variety of options.

Whether it’s arts and crafts, music, sports, or outdoor adventures, you’ll be matched with a local ambassador who shares your passions and will offer an unmatched, personalized experience. Just fill in your contact information, trip itinerary, and any special requirements, and click! Sit back and prepare for an unforgettable cultural journey.

To learn more about The Bahamas’ People-to-People Programme, visit https://www.bahamas.com/plan-your-trip/people-to-people. Discover how you can connect with local ambassadors and explore The Bahamas through the eyes of the people who know it best.

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The Canadian Government continues to pay lip service to ongoing issues of systemic discrimination and racism

Published

2 days ago

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December 31, 2024

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BY PAUL JUNOR

There has been evidence presented during the two weeks of hearings in Toronto to the lawyers representing the government. As 2024 comes to an end, there is faith and hope that there will be a favourable outcome. If the lawsuit is certified, it will make a significant impact on the lives of former and current Black public federal service employees.

The petition was started on December 2nd, 2020, and is directed to: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Anita Anand (President, Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat) and Arif Virani (Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada). As of Thursday, December 12th, 2024, there have been 34,409 signatures out of a total of 35,000. The petition noted that it is on behalf of tens of thousands of Black federal public service employees who have faced systemic discrimination and racism at the hands of their employer, the Government of Canada.

The Coalition Against Workplace Discrimination and the Michaelle Jean Foundation led by the Black Class Action Secretariat delivered the signatures of the petition to the Prime Minister’s Office located on 80 Wellington Street in Ottawa on Tuesday, February 10th, 2024 (International Human Rights Day).

The focus of the petition is directly related to the Black Class Action lawsuit. The focus of the lawsuit is on three specific areas in which Black public servants are affected including:

  • Barriers to promotion
  • Lack of career advancement opportunities
  • Pervasive anti-Black racism

The petition focuses on the following:

  • Canada’s acknowledgment of systemic racism
  • Ongoing discrimination despite acknowledgments
  • Government’s failure to act, despite previous settlements

The Facebook post on Monday, December 9th, 2024, by the Black Class Action Secretariat states, “The fight for justice for Black public service workers is increasing at a critical moment. On December 10th, 2024, we’ll deliver 35,000 signatures to the Prime Minister’s Office, demanding action on the Black Class Action lawsuit. This petition is a call for equity, accountability, and justice. It’s time for the government to deliver the change Black Canadians deserve.”

The petition calls on the Government of Canada to implement the following four measures in the lawsuit.

  • Establishing a new designated category under the Employment Equity Act for Black Canadians to ensure proportional representation and to address the unique challenges faced by Black public servants.
  • Developing and implementing a comprehensive diversity and equity plan to ensure proportional representation of Black Canadians at all levels of government.
  • Creating a Black Equity Commission to monitor, report, and ensure accountability for anti-Black racism within the federal public service.
  • Issuing a formal apology from the Prime Minister of Canada for the historic and ongoing discrimination against Black public servants.

Sharon DeSousa, National President of the Public Service Alliance of Canada states, “This government must stop denying justice for thousands of Black workers who have endured systemic racism in our public service. Settling the Black Class Action lawsuit and implementing these long overdue changes to the Employment Equity Act are critical steps to remedy decades of injustices and discrimination for workers.”

Nathan Prier, President of the Canadian Association of Professional Employees states, “International Human Rights Day commemorates the global pledge to secure the inalienable rights entitled to every human being, regardless of race, colour, religion, or sex. The Canadian government continues to pay lip service to ongoing issues of systemic discrimination and racism but has failed to make meaningful change that will impact the lives of everyday Canadians.”

Nicholas Marcus Thompson, President and CEO of the Black Class Action Secretariat states, “It has been nearly a year to the day when Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan committed to creating a designated category under the Employment Equity Act, and that promise still has not been realized. With a federal election around the corner, all of the progress that has been made through our advocacy work is in jeopardy of being lost. It is imperative that this government see this through.”

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The sooner you remove ultra processed foods from your diet, the closer you will be to a healthier, happier you

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2 days ago

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December 31, 2024

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BY SIMONE J. SMITH

It is convenience that often lures busy Torontonians into the clutches of processed foods. Grab-and-go meals, flashy packaging, and the promise of instant gratification make it all too easy to succumb to the allure of the drive-thru, or the supermarket aisles overflowing with pre-packaged snacks.

While these options may seem like a time-saver, their impact on our health can be a slow and insidious erosion of vitality. Today, we’ll delve into the hidden costs of this convenience, exploring how these readily available options may be compromising our well-being. We’ll also offer practical strategies for breaking free from the processed food trap and cultivating healthier eating habits, even in the midst of a hectic Toronto lifestyle.

Over the past few years, there’s been a growing number of studies about ultra processed foods and how they are responsible for the increase in chronic health concerns today. According to recent studies, ultra processed foods now constitute 50% to 60% of the daily energy intake among high-income countries, and low-and middle-income countries are starting to follow in our disastrous footsteps.

If you look past their attractive packaging and “enjoyable” flavours — properties that are intentionally given to these foods to make them more marketable and appealing to consumers — you’ll see that these convenient, mass-produced foods are putting your health in jeopardy.

A recent Swedish study provides compelling evidence that ultra processed foods increase all-cause mortality, especially among women. The October 2024 study aimed to understand the molecular impact of consuming ultra processed food and how it affects mortality.

The researchers used data from the Malmö Diet and Cancer cohort study, which began in 1991, and involved 27,670 participants. The participants were asked to keep a food diary, recording their daily meals for a week, and were interviewed as well about their diet. Their blood samples were also collected and analyzed.

In the featured study, the primary subgroups that make up the participants’ processed food intake included: starchy foods and breakfast cereals (26%), beverages (23.3%), sugary products (18.4%), sauces and fats (15.5%) and meat and fish (13.6%). These are all classified as “NOVA 4 foods.” What are NOVA 4 foods? Here’s a summary of the NOVA categories:

  • NOVA 1 (Unprocessed or minimally processed foods) — These are edible plant and animal products (whole foods) that are minimally modified or preserved to improve their shelf life and ease of preparation.
  • NOVA 2 (Processed culinary ingredients) — They undergo grinding, refining and pressing. Honey, salt, sugar, butter and vegetable oils fall under this category.
  • NOVA 3 (Processed foods) — These are made by combining NOVA 1 and 2 — Group 2 foods are added to Group 1 foods to enhance their “durability and sensory qualities.”
  • NOVA 4 (ultra processed foods and drinks) — They contain little to no Group 1 components and are industrial formulations that use unusual additives outside of Group 2. These foods are mass-produced and highly processed for high palatability.

After analyzing their blood results, the researchers found that higher intake of ultra processed foods was associated with “unfavorable lipid profiles,” including reduced HDL, or “good cholesterol” and increased VLDL or “bad cholesterol.”

These findings show that there is a positive association between ultra processed food consumption and mortality from: cardiovascular disease, cancer. and respiratory disease. Again, a stronger link was seen in female and older participants, compared to male participants.

In an article titled, “Ultra-processed Foods and Human Health: an Umbrella Review and Updated Meta-Analysis of Observational Evidence,” researchers reviewed existing meta-analyses and publications involving ultra processed food consumption, covering a wide time period — from the inception of these foods up until 2023.

The results were startling, as they showed that ultra processed foods were associated with 25 different negative health outcomes among: adults, children and adolescents. These include respiratory diseases, kidney, liver, or gastrointestinal diseases, mental health problems and more.

We’re all hooked, it’s true, but remember, it’s not about deprivation, it’s about liberation. The sooner you remove ultra processed foods from your diet, the closer you will be to a healthier, happier you. Start small. Trade that sugary fizz for sparkling water. Swap those processed chips for a vibrant rainbow of veggies. Each bite of whole, unadulterated goodness is an investment in your well-being. It’s a chance to reclaim your health, one delicious, nourishing choice at a time.

REFERENCES:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0261561424003807

https://www.news-medical.net/health/The-NOVA-Method-of-Food-Classification.aspx

https://www.clinicalnutritionjournal.com/article/S0261-5614(24)00122-5/fulltext

Eating Ultraprocessed Foods Raises Mortality Risks, Especially for Women

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