12.11.2025

"Canadians Respond Coolly to New Federal Budget"

Here is a roundup of stories from The Canadian Press designed to bring you up to speed… Federal budget falls flat on affordability: poll New polling suggests Canadians had a lukewarm response to the federal budget released last week — leading one pollster to argue all parties should think twice before mounting an election campaign over the spending plan

The Canadian Press has released a comprehensive roundup of recent stories, providing insights into significant developments across various sectors in Canada.

Federal Budget's Mixed Reception

Recent polling data reveals that Canadians have responded rather lukewarmly to the federal budget presented by Prime Minister Mark Carney on November 4, 2025. According to a Leger survey, only 30 percent of respondents expressed approval of the budget, while 37 percent reported a negative view. The survey also highlighted that just 15 percent of households believe the budget will positively affect their personal finances, juxtaposed with 32 percent who foresee negative impacts. Andrew Enns, Leger’s executive vice-president for central Canada, noted that despite some broad support for key spending initiatives in defense and infrastructure, the budget ultimately failed to address pressing affordability concerns faced by Canadians.

G7 Diplomats Converge to Discuss Ukraine Crisis

Top diplomats from the Group of Seven (G7) nations gathered in Southern Ontario to engage in discussions regarding the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. The meeting, which includes foreign ministers from France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, along with representatives from the European Union, aims to address the escalating situation as Russia intensifies its attacks on the Ukrainian power grid, leading to widespread blackouts ahead of winter. Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister, Anita Anand, emphasized that the G7 meeting would reaffirm collective support for Ukraine amidst the continued aggression from Russia, as diplomatic efforts stall.

Concerns Raised Over Mental Health Care in Prisons

The federal prison ombudsman has voiced serious concerns regarding the lack of adequate mental health care within Canada's correctional system. In the latest annual report, Correctional Investigator Ivan Zinger outlined that insufficient policies and training, coupled with a notable shortage of specialized treatment options, significantly undermine the Correctional Service of Canada's efforts to provide essential mental health services to inmates. Zinger indicated that urgent transfers to external, secure community-based psychiatric hospitals are often necessary for inmates experiencing severe mental health crises, underscoring a critical gap in the current system.

Policy Proposals at UCP Meeting

Grassroots members of Premier Danielle Smith's United Conservative Party (UCP) are set to debate a range of new policy proposals at the party's annual general meeting in Edmonton later this month. Prominent among these proposals is the reintroduction of coal-powered electricity to Alberta's grid and measures to limit which flags may be displayed on public property. Other suggestions include requiring temporary residents to pay for healthcare services. While the UCP government is not obligated to enact these proposals, political analysts suggest that the premier’s political viability could hinge on her willingness to incorporate at least some of these 35 proposals into her agenda.

Holiday Hiring Trends Report

A new report by Indeed Canada suggests that while there is an increase in holiday job postings—up 12 percent compared to the previous year—job seekers may still face tough competition in the labor market due to elevated unemployment rates. Senior economist Brendon Bernard noted that the uptick in seasonal hiring is a reflection of broader economic patterns, but the context remains challenging for those seeking employment during the holidays.

Grey Cup Fever Among Fans

As the Grey Cup approaches, superfans of the Saskatchewan Roughriders and the BC Lions are gearing up for the festivities. Lance Hackewich, a staunch supporter of the Roughriders, proudly displays an array of memorabilia, including a 75-year-old loaf of bread from 1951, which commemorates the year the Roughriders competed in the 39th Grey Cup, ultimately losing to the Ottawa Rough Riders. This quirky piece of history, described as resembling a "large crouton," highlights the passionate connection fans have with their teams and the history of Canadian football.

This summary captures key stories reflecting political, social, and economic dynamics in Canada, showcasing various perspectives and pressing issues within the country.