A recent assessment of Canada's federal finances indicates that the government's fiscal position has deteriorated due to strategic decisions involving tax cuts and the abolition of counter-tariffs. According to Randall Bartlett, the deputy chief economist at Desjardins, this year's federal deficit is projected to reach a staggering $74.5 billion, which is $6 billion higher than previous estimates from the parliamentary budget officer. The analysis, published ahead of the November 4, 2025 budget, highlights that increased expenditures on defense and infrastructure, combined with tax relief measures implemented over the summer, are contributors to this growing deficit.
In international relations, tensions between India and Canada continue as India has denied Canada's request to increase the number of its diplomats in New Delhi. Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Patnaik clarified that while Foreign Minister Anita Anand suggested a willingness to restore full diplomatic staffing, accreditation issues must first be addressed. He emphasized the importance of "reciprocal trust" between the two nations, underscoring the need for diplomatic rapport in the wake of past accusations against India involving alleged involvement in the assassination of a Sikh activist in Canada.
On the political front, the federal New Democratic Party (NDP) is gearing up for its leadership battle. Five candidates are set to present themselves at a forum organized by the Canadian Labour Congress, scheduled for Wednesday evening. The contenders include documentary filmmaker Avi Lewis, Alberta MP Heather McPherson, union leader Rob Ashton, B.C. city councillor Tanille Johnston, and organic farmer Tony McQuail. The forum serves as a significant opportunity for these candidates to connect with party members as they vie to succeed Jagmeet Singh, who resigned following the last election. Currently, MP Don Davies is filling the role of interim leader.
In education, the focus has shifted to Alberta, where a provincewide teachers strike is now in its 12th school day. Premier Danielle Smith's government is preparing to unveil its throne speech, initiating the fall legislative session amid growing protests from parent groups advocating for increased funding for education. These groups are expected to rally at the legislature in support of teachers, as there are indications that legislation to compel teachers back to work may be introduced in the coming week.
Accessibility in the workplace has also taken a significant step forward with the launch of a new online tool called AccessPath. Developed by the Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work, this resource aims to help businesses evaluate and improve workplace accessibility for employees with disabilities. Coinciding with National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the tool addresses the concerning statistic that 49 percent of employed Canadians with disabilities experience barriers in their work environments.
Additionally, a major development in animal welfare has occurred in Nova Scotia, where the government has granted approval for the establishment of North America’s first coastal sanctuary for captive whales. The Whale Sanctuary Project announced that it received a 20-year lease for 83 hectares of Crown land near Wine Harbour, Nova Scotia. This decision marks a significant leap forward for the organization, which aims to create a safe haven for whales and further its mission of fostering animal welfare.
