The Canadian Press has provided a roundup of significant stories highlighting recent developments in Canada, covering policy changes, economic challenges, and important local events.
Carney's Move to Eliminate Carbon Price Officialized
Prime Minister Mark Carney made headlines with a dramatic document signing on March 14, 2025, to officially eliminate the consumer carbon price, a move that has not quelled the political debate surrounding the policy. The opposition Conservative Party has accused Carney of presenting a deceptive document, arguing that only an order-in-council sanctioned by the governor general can modify such regulations. Tyler Meredith, a political adviser with prior experience in the Liberal government, clarified that the document signed by Carney is a record of decision that is meant to lead to the formal order-in-council. Subsequently, the required order-in-council was signed by the governor general and published online on March 15, 2025.
Hudson's Bay Liquidation Case Returns to Court
The iconic Hudson's Bay Company is set to return to court on March 17, 2025, seeking approval to initiate the liquidation of its entire business, which may jeopardize over 9,000 jobs. The company, recognized as Canada's oldest business, cites a lack of financing despite extensive efforts to find a solution that would allow it to maintain some operations. Aiming to conclude the liquidation by June 15, 2025, Hudson's Bay remains hopeful of securing capital and negotiating with key stakeholders, particularly its landlords, to avert a complete closure.
Terrebonne Byelection
Voters in Terrebonne, located northeast of Montreal, are heading to the polls today to fill the seat left vacant by former economy minister Pierre Fitzgibbon, who resigned from politics in September 2024. Fitzgibbon, a prominent figure in François Legault’s Coalition Avenir Québec, held the position since the party came to power in 2018, in a riding that has historically been a stronghold for the sovereigntist Parti Québécois dating back to 1976. A total of nine candidates will compete for the lone vacant seat in the 125-member legislature.
Tolls Abolished on Halifax Harbour Bridges
Effective March 17, 2025, motorists will enjoy toll-free access to the bridges crossing Halifax Harbour. This change follows a pledge made by the governing Progressive Conservatives during last fall's provincial election campaign to eliminate the tolls that have been in place since the Angus L. Macdonald Bridge was inaugurated 70 years ago. Minister Fred Tilley hailed the decision as a positive development for commuters, enabling smoother and more affordable travel between Dartmouth and Halifax. The Halifax Harbour Bridges, which manages the two structures, announced that approximately 200,000 MacPass account holders will receive refunds in the coming weeks.
Polytechnique Montréal Receives Landmark Donation
In a significant boost for innovation, Polytechnique Montréal has announced a $50 million donation from Quebec-born philanthropist Pierre Lassonde, aimed at establishing an institute focused on disruptive innovation. The engineering school, part of Université de Montréal, has termed this gift the largest in its history. Lassonde, who graduated in engineering and built his fortune in the mining sector, emphasized the urgent need to invest in homegrown talent and intellectual capital to further advance progressive projects.
Reflecting on the First COVID-19 Lockdown in Ontario
As Ontario approaches the five-year anniversary of the first COVID-19 lockdown, many residents are looking back at the abrupt changes that took place. Implemented to “flatten the curve” of the pandemic, the lockdown was initially scheduled for just two weeks but extended for several months, evolving into a complex landscape of public health measures. As part of the commemoration, The Canadian Press spoke to five Ontarians about their experiences during this unprecedented time.
