The Canadian Press has released a roundup of significant stories to keep readers informed about the latest developments in Canada.

Liberal Party Expands Lead Over Conservatives: Leger Poll

A recent Leger poll indicates that the federal Liberal Party is expanding its lead over the Conservative Party ahead of the upcoming election. The poll, conducted over the past weekend, reveals that 44 percent of decided voters plan to cast their ballots for the Liberals, compared to 38 percent who support the Conservatives. This marks a two-point increase for the Liberals since last week, while the Conservatives have seen a one-point decrease in support.

Quebec to Present Budget Amid U.S. Tariff Concerns

Quebec's finance minister, Éric Girard, is scheduled to present the province's budget today, emphasizing support for both businesses and workers as fears of U.S. tariffs loom. The upcoming fiscal year's budget is projected to reflect a deficit exceeding $11 billion, surpassing last year's record figure. Premier François Legault has indicated that the budget will allocate resources to Investissement Québec, the province's investment arm, along with newly announced loan programs designed to assist businesses that are facing challenges due to U.S. tariff threats.

Other Important News We’re Following...

Long-Term Alberta NDP MLA Announces Resignation

In Alberta, the resignation of Rod Loyola, a longstanding New Democrat member of the legislature, has set off preparations for a third provincial byelection since the 2023 provincial vote. Elected for the first time in 2015, Loyola secured his third term representing the Edmonton-Ellerslie riding two years ago. The Alberta Speaker's office has confirmed that his resignation will officially take effect on the upcoming Tuesday. This resignation follows the departure of former Alberta NDP leader Rachel Notley in December, which has created an opportunity for the newly elected leader Naheed Nenshi to contest in a byelection in Edmonton-Strathcona, although the date for this election has yet to be determined.

Concerns Raised Over Quebec's Nurse Recruitment Program

An internal report has uncovered serious issues within a Quebec government initiative aimed at recruiting foreign nurses to address staffing shortages in the province. The Immigration Department's report highlights that newly recruited nurses have encountered significant challenges, including inadequate housing, childcare, and transportation options upon their arrival in Quebec. Furthermore, these nurses have experienced high levels of stress resulting from an intense training regimen, cultural adjustment, and the fear of failing in their roles. The $65 million program intends to bring in 1,500 foreign nurses to work in Quebec's regions facing acute nursing shortages by the year 2028.

BC Ferries Disclaims Connection to Medical Incident

BC Ferries has issued a statement asserting that it bears no responsibility for a medical incident that resulted in six passengers becoming ill, two of whom required hospitalization. This incident occurred on Saturday during an afternoon sailing from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen, where passengers in a stairwell needed medical assistance. Sonia Lowe, a representative from BC Ferries, indicated that B.C. Emergency Health Services is better equipped to address the cause of the sickness, affirming that the incident did not involve BC Ferries' property, infrastructure, or operations.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on March 25, 2025.