AGP Executive Report

Digital Safety Law: Canada introduced legislation to ban social media for kids under 16, with exemptions only if platforms prove they can keep children safe, alongside new rules for AI chatbots and a Digital Safety Commission that could levy penalties up to 3% of global revenue or $10M. Banking & Prices: The Bank of Canada held its key rate at 2.25% for a fifth straight meeting, citing a “dilemma” between slowing growth and inflation pressures tied to energy prices. World Cup Focus: Canada opens FIFA World Cup 2026 Group B at home in Toronto against Bosnia and Herzegovina, but injuries to key players add pressure to the hosts’ chances. Sports Spotlight: The RBC Canadian Open tees off this week at TPC Toronto in Caledon, with Ryan Fox defending his title and a $9.8M purse on the line. Public Safety & Crime: A Canadian man was sentenced to 33 years in the U.S. for a sextortion scheme targeting more than 145 children. Foreign Policy: Canada joined a UK-Australia-Canada peace fund for Israel-Palestine and faced fresh diplomatic heat after Russia branded Canada a “warmonger” over a Ukraine drone deal. Weather: Saskatchewan was hit by a tornado near Oxbow rated preliminary EF-3, Canada’s strongest since 2023.

Canada-U.S. trade & infrastructure: Prime Minister Mark Carney said the Gordie Howe International Bridge may open “a little longer” than expected, even as a ribbon-cutting is set for Friday after Trump-linked threats. Preventive health: Ottawa launched a new National Advisory Committee on Preventive Health Services to update cancer screening guidelines, replacing a suspended task force. Economy & inflation: The Bank of Canada held its key rate at 2.25% for a fifth straight time, citing weak growth and a dilemma from higher energy prices. World Cup build-up: Canada kicks off its home opener vs Bosnia on Friday in Toronto, but captain Alphonso Davies is expected to miss with a hamstring injury. Agriculture biosecurity: Canada temporarily restricted certain Texas livestock imports after a second New World screwworm case was confirmed in South Texas. Tech & legal services: A report says AI search is creating a new visibility gap for Canadian law firms. Housing snapshot: StatCan data shows asking rents in many metro areas fell in Q1 2026, with notable drops in Ottawa–Gatineau and Vancouver. Sports update: Victoria Mboko withdrew from her Queen’s Club singles match after an injury.

Aviation Fraud: Peel police have arrested former Air Canada captain Geoffrey Wall, accused of flying 900+ domestic and international flights over 17 years using fraudulent credentials, including allegedly lacking the top-level licence required to captain. Airline Response: Air Canada says safety wasn’t compromised, pointing to training and competency checks, while noting the pilot is no longer employed. Energy Deals: ADNOC is eyeing Canada upstream and LNG opportunities via its XRG arm, as Canada pushes to market “safe, secure” energy. Health & Business: Apotex priced an upsized IPO at the top of its range, raising about C$1.3B. Wildlife & Trade: A second New World screwworm case was confirmed in South Texas, prompting Canada to temporarily restrict certain Texas livestock imports. Social Policy: A new report finds Canada’s gender wage gap is even larger for white-collar freelancers, with women earning less on average. Politics: A racist far-right group is trying to gain legitimacy in Canadian politics, according to reporting. Sports: Janine Sonis hit a hat trick as Canada beat Costa Rica 6-0 in a women’s friendly. Infrastructure: Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed the Gordie Howe Bridge will open by the end of the week despite earlier U.S. threats.

Health Policy: Health Canada has approved GSK’s Nucala (mepolizumab) for adults with COPD who have raised blood eosinophils and aren’t adequately controlled on standard inhalers, aiming to cut moderate-to-severe flare-ups. Economy & Trade: Canada’s merchandise trade surplus rose again in April, boosted by higher energy prices and gains in most categories, though economists warn it can also hide weaker spots. Public Safety & Justice: Peel Regional Police charged former Air Canada pilot Geoffrey Wall, alleging he flew more than 900 flights as a captain without the proper airline licence over 2009–2025; Air Canada says safety wasn’t compromised and no other cases were found. Foreign Affairs: Canada announced another round of sanctions on Israelis tied to “extremist settler violence” in the West Bank, as Israel pushes back over claims of fueling antisemitism at home. World Cup Canada: Canada added Jayden Nelson to the men’s World Cup roster after Marcelo Flores’ ACL injury, while training plans for other injured players remain unchanged. Agriculture: Canada temporarily restricted Texas livestock imports after a second New World screwworm case in South Texas.

Governor General in the spotlight: Retired Supreme Court justice Louise Arbour was sworn in as Canada’s 31st governor general, with PM Mark Carney and a ceremonial swearing-in on Parliament Hill marking the transition. Canada–China ties: Chinese President Xi Jinping sent congratulations to Arbour, saying relations are “sound and steady” and ready to advance the China–Canada strategic partnership. Trade and tariffs pressure: The U.S. is weighing a new forced-labour probe and a possible 10% tariff on Canadian goods, while Canada pushes back on the claim it isn’t enforcing its forced-labour rules. Health update: B.C. officials say a Canadian who tested positive for hantavirus after a cruise ship outbreak has recovered; three others remain in quarantine without symptoms. Food and cost of living: Ottawa has started one-time payments under the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, with enhanced quarterly support beginning in July. Public services: Saskatoon transit fares rise July 1, including adult single rides from $3 to $3.50. Agriculture biosecurity: Canada temporarily restricts livestock imports from Texas after a second New World screwworm case was confirmed in South Texas.

Governor-General Sworn In: Retired Supreme Court justice Louise Arbour was installed as Canada’s 31st governor general, calling for peaceful management of differences and warning against overreliance on AI. AI Strategy: Ottawa launched its “AI for All” national strategy, aiming to protect sovereignty, build public trust and create new opportunities, including jobs and better public services. Trade/Security: Two U.S. lawmakers proposed blocking Chinese-connected vehicles from entering the U.S. through Canada and Mexico, citing data and surveillance risks. Defence Procurement: Canada is weighing a larger mixed fighter plan—potentially pairing F-35s with Saab Gripens—to reduce dependence on U.S. supply chains. World Cup Build-Up: Canada Post is adjusting mail service around Toronto FIFA events, warning of minor disruptions; TSN also announced its World Cup broadcast team. Economy/Markets: A Thunder Bay economist says Canada’s “technical recession” talk doesn’t match the tiny GDP dip, while markets stayed positive midday. Sports & Culture: Caissie Levy won her first Tony Award for “Ragtime,” and Canadian tennis players Andreescu and Shapovalov opened grass-court seasons with losses at the Libema Open.

Streaming Policy Shake-Up: Ottawa is set to direct the CRTC to scrap key requirements forcing foreign streamers to fund Canadian local news and niche broadcasters, rolling back parts of the Online Streaming Act after trade pressure and cost concerns. World Cup Injury Update: Canada’s Moise Bombito has been ruled out of the 2026 squad after not fully recovering from a leg injury, with Ralph Priso and Luc de Fougerolles among potential replacements. Diplomacy & Trade: Prime Minister Mark Carney heads to France and Ireland ahead of the G7, aiming to deepen ties on trade, defence, AI, critical minerals and pharmaceuticals. Lobbying Accountability: Democracy Watch says the federal lobbying commissioner has let off 895 of 912 violators, and Duff Conacher is set to press MPs at a House of Commons ethics review. Agriculture & Biosecurity: Canada temporarily restricts livestock imports from Texas after a second screwworm case, with Texas officials calling it an overreaction. Tourism Boost: Parks Canada reports a record 26.2 million visitors in 2025-26, generating about $6.5B in nearby community spending. Municipal Leadership: Tim Tierney was acclaimed president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, pledging focus on infrastructure, housing and homelessness.

World Cup roster shake-up: Canada is set to replace injured defender Moise Bombito on its 26-player squad after a leg injury won’t be ready in time for the tournament opener vs. Bosnia in Toronto. Prime Minister diplomacy: Mark Carney heads to Ireland next week for meetings with Taoiseach Micheál Martin and President Catherine Connolly, then to France for the G7 summit. Economy watch: Economists say Canada’s “technical recession” label (two straight quarters of GDP contraction) doesn’t capture the full picture, pointing to broader labour and cost pressures. Wildfire readiness: Ottawa is putting $47.8M over five years into Parks Canada wildfire preparedness, including equipment and risk-reduction work. Sports—rugby sevens: Canada women take bronze after beating the U.S. 21-19, following a narrow semifinal loss to New Zealand. Sports—athletics: Sarah Mitton earns bronze at the Stockholm Diamond League with a 19.89m shot put. Travel—airlines: Air Canada and Abra Group sign an MoU to deepen connectivity and loyalty benefits across the Americas.

World Cup roster & fitness: Canada will replace defender Moïse Bombito on its 26-player World Cup roster after a tibia issue left him not healthy enough to compete, with Luc de Fougerolles poised to step in for the opener vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina. Team Canada spotlight: Jesse Marsch named the 26-man squad, leaning on a younger group and insisting goals will come despite a 1-1 warm-up draw with Ireland. Volleyball momentum: Canada’s women beat France 3-1 in Quebec City before a North American record crowd, with Kiera Van Ryk leading the scoring. Public safety & environment: Parks Canada set a no-stopping zone along the Bow Valley Parkway after “bear jams,” while wildfires continue evolving across the country and Environment Canada issued a tornado watch for southeast Saskatchewan. Trade & economy: Canada added 87,800 jobs in May and unemployment fell to 6.6%, but USMCA talks are set to miss the July 1 review deadline, raising uncertainty. Health & justice: A Canadian plea deal means a man who sold suicide poison in Canada won’t face prosecution in Scotland, sparking outrage. Agriculture: Canada temporarily banned Texas livestock imports after a New World screwworm discovery. Culture & community: Canada Post honoured Vancouver’s Little Sister’s Book & Art Emporium with a 2SLGBTQ+ rights stamp.

Jobs & Economy: Canada added 87,800 jobs in May and the unemployment rate fell to 6.6%, with full-time hiring driving the surprise. Local Labour: Greater Sudbury also reported gains, adding 900 full-time jobs while shedding 600 part-time roles. World Cup Canada: FIFA reversed its controversial water-bottle stance, allowing sealed bottles in U.S. and Canada stadiums, after backlash. Health Care: A St. John’s physician, Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi, was named president of the Canadian Medical Association, with a focus on strengthening primary care. Public Safety & Environment: Environment Canada warns Nova Scotia could face wildfire risk again, and Parks Canada is expanding grizzly bear collaring in Banff. Aviation: Air Canada is suspending Cuba service indefinitely. Defence Procurement: HD Hyundai broadened its Canada submarine bid pitch in Ottawa, tying it to energy and industrial supply-chain plans. Justice: Three British men admitted roles in the death of a Canadian restaurant owner after an unpaid bill dispute. Opinion & Policy: Multiple pieces argue Canada should revisit spending priorities, including aid levels, and debate how to tackle antisemitism and MAID policy.

World Cup Tune-Up: Canada and Ireland played to a 1-1 draw in Montreal, with Canada dominating early but conceding after a penalty and rebound goal by Chiedozie Ogbene; Maxime Crépeau made key saves as the hosts learned a sharp lesson ahead of the tournament. Public Safety & Wildlife: Parks Canada introduced a legally enforceable no-stopping zone on the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff to stop visitors crowding bears and blocking train escape routes. Antisemitism & Hate: Canadian Jews are split over PM Mark Carney’s new antisemitism council as police arrested a suspect in an arson attack on a Montreal synagogue. Islamophobia Response: CMPAC launched a policy handbook targeting anti-Muslim discrimination and calling for accountability and Charter-protecting reforms. Economy & Jobs: Statistics Canada reported Canada added about 88,000 jobs in May and unemployment fell to 6.6%, while Nanaimo’s jobless rate stayed among the highest at 8.5%. Policy & Cost of Living: Carney’s grocery benefit rollout begins, while separate reporting warns Iran conflict could add $648 to household fuel costs this year. Sports Business: Rugby Canada extended coach Stephen Meehan’s contract through the 2027 men’s World Cup. Travel & Events: FIFA updated World Cup rules so fans in Canada and the U.S. can bring one factory-sealed disposable water bottle; cricket World Cup qualifying matches in King City will be closed to spectators over security concerns. Defence Cooperation: Canada and South Korea held a joint naval drill off the west coast involving submarines, frigates and helicopters.

Jobs Report: Canada added 88,000 jobs in May and the unemployment rate fell to 6.6%, with gains led by construction, information, transportation and food services, even as economists warn trade uncertainty could still bite. Recession Debate: The C.D. Howe Institute says it’s too early to call a recession despite two quarters of GDP contraction, arguing the weakness isn’t broad or persistent enough. Trade Tension: The U.S., Mexico and Canada are set to miss the July 1 USMCA renewal deadline, raising the odds of months of talks and tariff uncertainty, while bilateral discussions on trade irritants ramp up. AI Push: Prime Minister Mark Carney launched “AI for All,” targeting 250,000 AI-related jobs and a big boost in AI adoption, plus faster work-permit processing for AI professionals. Immigration & Travel: Canada tightened entry rules for sea arrivals from Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, requiring eTAs for most visa-exempt travellers. Local Life: Montreal’s Les Premiers Vendredis street-food festival returns with free admission and 40+ food trucks. Sports: Nick Suzuki won the Selke Trophy and Cole Caufield captured the Lady Byng for the Canadiens.

AI Strategy Rollout: Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled Canada’s long-awaited “AI for All” plan, aiming to boost AI adoption from just over 12% to 60% by 2034, create up to 250,000 jobs, and add $200B to the economy, with funding for a government-backed supercomputer, data centres, AI company support, and workforce training—while critics warn the plan doesn’t do enough on job impacts and AI rules. Energy & Trade Ties: Canada and South Korea expanded cooperation on energy security, critical minerals and strategic industries, with potential CA$100B economic impact. Aviation Safety: Transport Canada issued an emergency order over possible PW210 turboshaft cracks on Leonardo AW169 and Sikorsky S-76 helicopters, requiring inspections by set flight-time/start deadlines. Forestry Shake-Up: Forest ministers agreed old timber approaches won’t work, pointing to homegrown barriers like regulation and underinvestment as they prepare an action plan. Labour Update: Canada Post workers ratified new collective agreements through Jan. 31, 2029, ending a dispute marked by strikes and government intervention. Community & Culture: Canada Post unveiled new Places of Pride stamps honouring 2SLGBTQIA+ pioneers and sites. Sports: Canada’s women’s volleyball team beat the U.S. 3-0 for the first time in Nations League history, and Canada dominated FIBA U18 AmeriCup group play with record rebound totals.

AI for All: Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled Canada’s new national AI strategy, promising billions for AI adoption, a C$500M tech growth fund, and targets of 250,000 jobs and 3% GDP growth by 2031. Privacy & Security: Tech firms including Signal warned Canada’s lawful access bill could force them to weaken encryption, raising fears of broader surveillance and cyber risk. Trade & Tariffs: Canada is preparing for new U.S. “forced labour” tariff pressure, with Carney saying Canada will reinforce its own measures. Euthanasia Oversight: A case review says an Ontario man cried “help me” during a botched MAiD euthanasia because expected sedation didn’t work until later medication. Sports & Culture: Rugby Canada extended coach Stephen Meehan through the 2028 Olympics; McDonald’s Canada rolled out FIFA World Cup 2026 meals and collectibles; and the Sault will host the 2027 Canadian Masters Cross-Country Ski Championship. Business & Consumer: Walmart+ launches in Canada with delivery and Crave perks; Costco reported May Canada comparable sales up 9.2%.

Trade & Tariffs: Canada will extend US steel and aluminum tariff-rate quotas and tariff relief for another year, aiming to protect workers and give industry more certainty. Economy Watch: New GDP data has Canada meeting the “technical recession” definition after two straight quarters of decline, sparking fresh debate over what it means for everyday finances. Culture & Media: Ottawa ordered the CRTC to revisit its plan to triple required streamer contributions for Canadian content, saying it won’t raise costs for Canadians and will instead invest hundreds of millions to support music and media. Infrastructure: Canada and Quebec unveiled nearly $10B in infrastructure funding over the next decade, targeting transit, healthcare, housing-enabling projects and community facilities. Forestry Crisis: Federal ministers announced about $130M more for forestry as a task force warns the sector’s biggest problems are homegrown, with sawmill closures and job losses continuing. Northern Lights & Weather: Environment Canada reported heavy rainfall totals in the Airdrie area, while forecasts point to possible northern lights chances in eastern Canada. Wildlife: Canada endorsed a plan to move the last captive whales from Ontario’s Marineland to aquariums in the US and Spain. Business: Lockheed Martin Canada invested $9.5M in Air Inuit to upgrade Boeing 737-800 aircraft serving Nunavik. Food Security: Food Banks Canada gave Alberta a “D-” in its poverty report card, citing affordability pressures and gaps in healthcare and housing.

Forced Labour Tariffs: Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada will soon introduce new forced-labour-in-supply-chains legislation after the U.S. proposed a 10% tariff on Canada and other partners, with a higher 12.5% duty on many countries, following a U.S. probe into enforcement gaps. Trade Pressure: Canada is also pushing the U.S. and Mexico to renew USMCA for 16 years as Washington weighs broader tariff moves and revives “51st state” rhetoric. Streaming Rules Under Review: The federal government has ordered a CRTC review of its decision to triple streaming contributions to Canadian content, as the Online Streaming Act review deadline nears and costs could flow to consumers. Dairy Transparency Fight: A new report questions consistency in Canada’s supply-management system after a Chinese-owned processor became a major milk buyer, while documents show at least $24 million in federal support—raising questions about how much more public money may be involved. World Cup Build-Up: Canada’s Alphonso Davies trained separately as he faces uncertainty for the opener, while Gabriela Dabrowski reached the French Open mixed doubles final. Economy & Labour: RBC warns of a looming labour squeeze driven by retirements and immigration cutbacks.