More Canadians are worrying about the economy and over half are cutting discretionary spending: CIBC  Poll

Longer term financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic beginning to show in Canadians' financial plans; saving money and avoiding debt are now top goals

TORONTO, June 29, 2020 /CNW/ - COVID-19's impact on the economy is causing many Canadians to worry about the future: 79 per cent of respondents in CIBC's Financial Priorities Poll say they are concerned about continued recessionary times next year, compared to 55 per cent who said they feared an economic downturn in a December 2019 survey.

Economic worries may be a factor in why many Canadians are adjusting their financial habits.

CIBC Poll (CNW Group/CIBC)



Many respondents (63 per cent) say they have significantly cut down on discretionary spending and more than half (55 per cent) agree they need to get a better handle on their finances this year.

"It's understandable that Canadians are worried about the economy and are feeling uncertain about the impact on their ambitions, but this is a time when good financial advice conversations are most valuable, including assessing your overall situation, looking at opportunities to improve cash flow, and adjusting your financial plan if necessary," said Laura Dottori-Attanasio, Group Head, Retail and Business Banking, CIBC. "It's a positive sign that many Canadians are taking a responsible approach to the situation by making changes to their spending and working to limit unnecessary debt. Good cash flow management now can help you through the current situation, and over the longer term free up funds to divert towards savings or other goals."

The survey also found that 46 per cent of Canadians say the economic impact of the pandemic has adversely affected their finances and a similar number (47 per cent) feel it will take more than a year to get their personal finances back on track. Canadians are prioritizing building an emergency fund in 2020, citing this as a top goal for the remainder of the year, followed by steering clear of adding on debt. Of the 22 per cent of respondents who've had to borrow more in the past 12 months, the number one reason was for day-to-day items (38 per cent) followed by a loss of income (28 per cent).

"The impact of the pandemic will be felt by Canadians for some time. While we have a long way to go to get back to a normal economy, taking charge of your finances now with a savings and debt management plan is an important step towards putting your personal finances back on track," added Ms. Dottori-Attanasio.

The survey also found:
Top financial goals for the remainder of 2020 are: generally saving as much as possible (37 per cent), and avoiding taking on more debt (36 per cent)
Close to three-fourths of Canadians (74 per cent) say the uncertainty of the current environment makes it difficult to plan ahead, and over half (54 per cent) are generally worried about their financial future
The number of people who say they've taken on more debt is lower (22 per cent) than in December 2019 (28 per cent). Among those who have taken on more debt, 38 per cent say they did so to cover day-to-day expenses or due to loss of income (28 per cent) and job loss (18 per cent, +9 per cent from December 2019)
Regionally, the poll found differences in how Canadians are tightening their wallets. Residents in the Prairies say they are cutting discretionary spending the most, led by 76 per cent of those in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, and 69 per cent of Albertans, compared to the national average of 63 per cent
At 58 per cent, taking on more debt to pay for day-to-day items was the highest in British Columbia, 20 per cent higher than the national average of 38 per cent

Disclaimer

From June 8th to June 9th 2020 an online survey of 1,517 randomly selected Canadian adults who are Maru Voice Canada panelists was executed by Maru/Blue. For comparison purposes, a probability sample of this size has an estimated margin of error (which measures sampling variability) of +/- 2.5%, 19 times out of 20. The results have been weighted by education, age, gender and region (and in Quebec, language) to match the population, according to Census data. This is to ensure the sample is representative of the entire adult population of Canada. Discrepancies in or between totals are due to rounding.

About CIBC

CIBC is a leading Canadian-based global financial institution with 10 million personal banking, business, public sector and institutional clients. Across Personal and Business Banking, Commercial Banking and Wealth Management, and Capital Markets businesses, CIBC offers a full range of advice, solutions and services through its leading digital banking network, and locations across Canada, in the United States and around the world. Ongoing news releases and more information about CIBC can be found at www.cibc.com/en/about-cibc/media-centre.html.

ON THE ROAD TO SOCIALIZING CAPITALISM
The DUCA Impact Lab and the School for Social Entrepreneurs in Canada build an international PPE supply chain specifically for local community agencies


The DUCA Impact Lab

TORONTO, June 29, 2020 /CNW/ - As Ontario begins to loosen restrictions, a group of social-service agencies have a new source of personal protective equipment thanks to the efforts of an informal network of far-flung volunteers, businesses, and organizations.

This initiative addresses a key gap in PPE supply efforts throughout the COVID-19 crisis — providing PPE for people who work in essential community services such as women's and homeless shelters, meal programs, and drop-ins, among others.

Unlike other services, including hospitals and long-term care homes, many social-service organizations weren't prepared with PPE on hand and, amid a global surge in demand, had little hope of getting any. Governments have not stepped up fast enough. Agencies have been faced with the impossible choice to stop essential services, scale back, or operate with less PPE than they should.

That's why staff at the School for Social Entrepreneurs (SSE) in Canada reached out to the School's local community and their contacts across continents to create a new PPE supply chain leveraging the BMW Foundation Herbert Quandt's Responsible Leaders Network and the League of Intrapreneurs.

"All these private citizens said, 'Not on my watch,' Marjorie Brans, Director of Impact at SSE says. Ordinary people all over the world wanted to do something to help when COVID-19 hit. On their own, they felt helpless, but by working together in a network they were able to make a difference for people who have been overlooked during this crisis. This is the everyday leadership we need"

DUCA Financial Services Credit Union, through its charitable foundation, the DUCA Impact Lab, donated the cash to help kickstart the initiative and purchase the supplies, including gloves, masks, and gowns. "DUCA is delighted to donate to support this impactful and timely initiative which very much aligns with DUCA's purpose to help People do more, be more and achieve more especially during these times" says Doug Conick, President & CEO of DUCA Credit Union and Chair of the DUCA Impact Lab.

"This is a global network that came together in the face of so many challenges. It's an example of the creative ingenuity brought to light by the crisis, and a refreshing reminder that interdependence with the global community can solve local challenges," Keith Taylor, Executive Director of DUCA Impact Lab, says.

Mobile Medics International, a non-profit that provides medical aid during humanitarian crises and health care to underserved populations, helped procure the PPE. Founder Teresa Gray says when it comes to social-service workers, "In the face of COVID, unrecognized means under-protected."

West Neighbourhood House, a non-profit multi-service agency in west Toronto, was one of the recipients.

"Thanks to DUCA Credit Union, the DUCA Impact Lab and these incredible volunteers, we have PPE to keep our Personal Support Workers safe as they work in the homes of seniors; and our drop-in workers safe as they maintain support and connections with homeless people. It's not medical care, but it's essential care," Executive Director Maureen Fair says.

Fair praised the volunteers who worked together across multiple time zones for weeks to comb the globe for sources of PPE. A BMW Foundation Responsible Leader in India was even inspired to transform his family's clothing factory, the Signet Group, to make PPE.

The gift from DUCA Credit Union was managed through through the Maitri Platform International Project Fund at Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) Canada, which helps Canadians to support charitable projects around the world. To contribute to the fund or learn more, visit the page on CanadaHelps.

About DUCA Financial Services Credit Union:
DUCA Financial Services Credit Union Ltd. (DUCA) was formed in 1954 and has grown from a single branch Credit Union in Toronto to branches across the GTA and Central Ontario with over 70,000 Members. DUCA provides comprehensive banking services to both individuals and businesses through an innovative Co-Operative Banking model. With no-fee banking, attractive mortgage and lending rates, a Profit Sharing program that rewards Members, and a commitment to communities through the DUCA Impact Lab, DUCA is an excellent alternative to traditional banking institutions. For more information visit www.duca.com.

About West Neighbourhood House:
West Neighbourhood House is a non-profit multi-service community organization serving all age groups and the diverse populations of downtown west Toronto. West NH has continued to provide in-person care to local seniors in their homes with dedicated Personal Support Workers and Meals on Wheels. West NH's drop-in for homeless people has also stayed open to provide basic needs such as toilets, showers, laundry, telephone and internet as well as case management and advocacy for housing, income supports, treatment programs, legal help and medical care. Learn more at: http://www.westnh.org/

About Mobile Medics International:
Mobile Medics International (MMI) is a 501(C)3 non-profit, volunteer organization that provides medical care to victims of natural disaster and humanitarian crises. MMI was founded to provide basic healthcare to those who may not be able to access medical facilities in a disaster or those who are medically underserved. As its name implies, MMI is a mobile team that specializes in reaching patients in remote areas. From weather-related catastrophes to refugee crises worldwide, MMI volunteers are ready to respond and help those affected. Learn more at: https://www.mobilemedicsinternational.org/

About the School for Social Entrepreneurs Canada:
A project of MakeWay's Shared Platform, The School for Social Entrepreneurs is a global leader in activating people and organizations to make positive social and environmental change by contributing to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. SSE works with executives, entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, change makers, rebels, boat-rockers, and anyone who wants to disrupt the status quo for a more equitable and just world. Learn more at: www.the-sse.ca

SOURCE The DUCA Impact Lab

For further information: Marjorie Brans, mbrans@sseontario.org
Related Links

https://ducaimpactlab.com/


Organization Profile

The DUCA Impact Lab

Kaddish - Ofra Haza עפרה חזה קדיש

Why do I cry at night?
Oh why do I feel so bad? Something holds me tight It's something in the air. I have a prayer, a prayer, A prayer from my heart Night after night after daylight, Memories of home... בְּחַיֵּיכוֹן וּבְיוֹמֵיכוֹן - קַדִּישׁ⁠ עַל יִשְׂרָאֵל תַּלְמִידֵיהוֹן - קַדִּישׁ⁠ עַל נֶחָמָה עַל שֵׁיזָבָא - קַדִּישׁ⁠ עַל רְפוּאָה וּגְאֻלָּה - קַדִּישׁ⁠ עַל סְלִיחָה וְכַפָּרָה - קַדִּישׁ⁠ עַל הַצָּלָה עַל הַצָּלָה - קַדִּישׁ⁠ עַל נֶחָמָה - קַדִּישׁ⁠ עַל רְפוּאָה - קַדִּישׁ⁠ עַל סְלִיחָה - קַדִּישׁ⁠ וְכַפָּרָה עַל הַצָּלָה עַל הַצָּלָה - קַדִּישׁ⁠ אוֹ - קַדִּישׁ דְּרַבָּנָן אוֹ - קַדִּישׁ דַּאֲמִירָן בְּעָלְמָא דִּי בְרָא - קַדִּישׁ⁠ הוּא יִתְגַּדַּל וְיִתְקַדַּשׁ - קַדִּישׁ⁠ עַל נֶחָמָה עַל שֵׁיזָבָא - קַדִּישׁ⁠ עַל רְפוּאָה וּגְאֻלָּה - קַדִּישׁ⁠ בְּחַיֵּיכוֹן וּבְיוֹמֵיכוֹן - קַדִּישׁ⁠ עַל יִשְׂרָאֵל תַּלְמִידֵיהוֹן - קַדִּישׁ⁠ עַל שְׁלָמָא - קַדִּישׁ⁠ מִן שְׁמַיָּא - קַדִּישׁ⁠ יְהֵא לָנָא - קַדִּישׁ⁠ וְכַפָּרָה עַל הַצָּלָה עַל הַצָּלָה - קַדִּישׁ⁠ Bachayechon uvyomechon - kaddish Al Israel talmidehon - kaddish Al nachamoh al sheizovo - kaddish Al rafuoh uge'uloh - kaddish Al salichoh wachaporoh - kaddish Al hasoloh al hasoloh - kaddish Al nachomoh - kaddish Al rafuoh - kaddish Al salichoh - kaddish Wachaporoh al hasoloh al hasoloh - kaddish Oh - Kaddish de'rabanan Oh - Kaddish da'amiran Ba'olamo di voro - kaddish Huyitgadal weyitkadash - kaddish Al nachamoh al sheizovo - kaddish Al rafuoh uge'uloh - kaddish Bachayechon uvyomechon - kaddish Al Israel talmidehon - kaddish Al shalomo - kaddish Min shamayo - kaddish Yehe lano - kaddish Wachaporoh al hasoloh al hasoloh - kaddish M'yiten shama'i keri'oh Hamah gurah v'hamaym ka li retoh Ha samovim rachu'ah Hamah hareh 'al kah teru'ah For salvation, Kaddish, For redemption, Kaddish, For forgiveness, Kaddish, For health, Kaddish, For all the wars victims, Kaddish, For all the holocaust victims, Kaddish Why do I cry at night? Why do I feel so bad? Something holds me tight It's something in the air. I have a prayer, a prayer, A prayer from my heart Night after night after daylight, Memories of home...

Landmark Decision Released: Ontario Government and Psychiatrists are Liable for Unethical Experimental Programs Involving Mentally Ill Patients


ROCHON GENOVA LLP


TORONTO, June 29, 2020 /CNW/ - On June 25, 2020, Justice Edward M. Morgan of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice released his judgment in a civil lawsuit brought by 28 former patients of the Oak Ridge Division of the Penetanguishene Mental Health Centre against the government of Ontario and two psychiatrists, Dr. Elliott T. Barker and Dr. Gary J. Maier, for subjecting patients to coercive, unethical and degrading human experimentation, without their informed consent from 1966 to 1983.

In a 310-page decision delivered after 53 days of trial evidence and submissions, Justice Morgan held that Ontario and the psychiatrists involved in operating the experimental programs breached their fiduciary duties and committed assault and battery by subjecting these patients to unethical and medically meritless programs.

The "flagrant and outrageous" programs were developed by Dr. Barker and implemented by him and Dr. Maier with the knowledge, and under the supervision, of the Crown. In the Defence Disruptive Therapy program, patients were administered high doses of mind-altering, hallucinogenic, and demystifying drugs, placed and restraints and supervised by "patient observers". In the Capsule, groups of up to eight patients were placed nude in a small, windowless room, shared an exposed toilet and were fed liquid food through straws in the wall. In the Motivation, Attitude and Participation program (MAPP), patients were subjected to "tortuous punishment", beginning with four days of solitary confinement followed by a strict regime that required them to sit motionless for hours, while "patient teachers" meted out punishments. As noted by Justice Morgan, the patients at Oak Ridge lived under the constant shadow of MAPP, described by Plaintiffs' expert, renowned forensic psychiatric Dr. John Bradford, as "positional torture".

The programs were designed to break down and change the Plaintiffs' personalities using techniques such as drug-induced delirium and hallucination, brainwashing and positional torture, with no apparent plan for reconstructing them once they had been broken down. Participation in the programs was a "condition for gaining freedom" from the maximum-security institution, withdrawal was prohibited and non-participation was punished, often at the hands of other patients.

Justice Morgan rejected Ontario's argument that it did not owe the Plaintiffs fiduciary duties because of its mandate to protect public safety: "it is not part of the Crown's custodial duty to administer mind altering hallucinogens or pain and anguish-inducing Scopolamine to the Plaintiffs. The Crown has no public safety obligation to place the Plaintiff stark naked in isolated and close quarters with each other in the Capsule, or to require them to sit rigidly immobile for hours on end in MAPP at the mercy of another patient, or 'patient-teacher', with a mental health background similar to their own. There is no conflict between the 'observation, care, and treatment' duty of the Crown toward the Plaintiffs and the protection and safety obligation of the Crown toward the public."

Justice Morgan found that the doctors and the Crown caused the Plaintiffs short and long-term harm that they did not deserve and that, in some cases, changed the trajectory of their lives.

One of the Plaintiffs, Danny Joanisse, was sent to MAPP on a number of occasions and was administered hallucinogenic drugs. He was also cuffed to a convicted pedophile murderer in the Capsule. In finding that the Defendants caused Mr. Joanisse significant short and long-term harm, Justice Morgan stated: "[h]e entered Oak Ridge as a 15-year old with a mental disorder that could have been dealt with benevolently so that, even if there was no cure, there would not be further infliction of harm. Instead, he was humiliated, degraded, and deprived of any sense of security".

Mr. Joanisse's experience is but one example of the meritless, abusive and experimental conduct of the Defendants. Another Plaintiff was 16 years old when he was admitted to Oak Ridge. He spent 6 of his 8 months at Oak Ridge in solitary confinement. The Court found that he was tormented while in Oak Ridge: "[r]eading [his] clinical history for those 8 months in 1971 is to read a tale of neglect and irresponsibility by Dr. Barker, Dr. Boyd and the entire institution. He was subjected to harmful lengths of confinement for the most petty of reasons and at the whim of other patients, with no hope of freeing himself from that cycle". While he went on to lead a successful life, this, according to Justice Morgan, "is a testament to his mental strength... One can suffer pain and continued harm and yet have the strength to persevere with life."

Joel P. Rochon, co-lead trial counsel, welcomed the decision: "This landmark decision underscores the inviolability and the right to human dignity of every person, regardless of who they are — no one should be exposed to dehumanizing and degrading treatment and experimentation. This decision sends a strong message that, in treating vulnerable, marginalized members of society, medical professionals are and have always been very much bound by ethical obligations and standards of professional conduct grounded in the Hippocratic Oath, the Nuremberg Code and the Declaration of Helsinki."

Professor Bernard Dickens, a leading medical ethicist at the University of Toronto, testified that the programs failed to meet the ethical standards of the day, including the ethical obligation of a physical to do no harm and to practice medicine with the best interest of the patient in mind. He opined that "the Province of Ontario did not provide adequate oversight of the patients' welfare and rights, leaving vulnerable, mentally-ill patients to the custody and care of psychiatrists who,… embarked on experimental programs in conditions that fell short of the ethical standards of the day".

Dr. John Bradford testified that no other institution in the world has ever employed these radical techniques. The lack of resources or inadequate staffing was not, and has never been, an acceptable justification for delegation of the doctors' core professional duties to untrained patients.

The Defendants' experts, including Dr. Stephen Hucker, conceded in cross-examination that the programs were unprecedented, unethical, and inhumane. Another defence expert, Dr. Jonathan Freedman, admitted that the Plaintiffs should never have been subjected to these programs.

The Plaintiffs were represented at trial by Joel P. Rochon, Peter R. Jervis, Golnaz Nayerahmadi and Adam Babiak of Rochon Genova LLP. The decision is a determination of liability on the merits in a lawsuit that began 20 years ago. The trial will now proceed to its second phase, which will involve a determination of damages, including whether punitive damages should be awarded against Ontario and the doctors.

SOURCE ROCHON GENOVA LLP
Related Links

www.rochongenova.com


Organization Profile

Rochon Genova LLP

Scarborough-born superstar The Weeknd donates half a million dollars to support frontline hospital workers at Scarborough Health Network 

Scarborough Health Network Foundation


SCARBOROUGH, ON, June 29, 2020 /CNW/ - Multi-platinum selling singer, songwriter and record producer Abel Tesfaye, better known as The Weeknd, has donated $500,000 CAD to Scarborough Health Network (SHN) in support of COVID-19 relief efforts through sales of his popular line of XO face masks. The donation is a leading gift to the health network's COVID-19 Emergency Fund, which now totals more than $2.7 million.

"I was raised in Scarborough and felt it was important to give back to the community that raised me during the hard times of this pandemic," said Tesfaye, a.k.a. The Weeknd.

The Weeknd - Photo by Pari Dukovic (CNW Group/Scarborough Health Network Foundation)

Since the outset of the pandemic, the Grammy Award-winning Scarborough native has been raising awareness and support for many charities, including SHN Foundation. All of the proceeds from sales of The Weeknd's XO face masks will be donated to COVID-19 relief, with the artist matching every dollar raised.

"Our vibrant and diverse community represents the best of Canada, and we are fortunate to have ambassadors like The Weeknd in our corner," said Elizabeth Buller, President and CEO, SHN. "This gift will help our community hospitals continue to deliver exceptional care for the people of Scarborough in the wake of COVID-19, and demonstrates to our courageous staff and physicians that their critical work does not go unnoticed or unappreciated."

SHN's COVID-19 Emergency Fund was established to support frontline staff and doctors by addressing urgent and changing equipment needs. This includes equipment such as ventilators, ICU beds, vital signs and ECG monitors, as well as personal protective equipment (PPE), health and wellness supports for frontline workers, and other urgent needs. More than 3,500 community donors have contributed to the Fund to date.

"Like The Weeknd, many of my fellow frontline workers either come from Scarborough or call this community home. It is amazing to see one of our own on the world stage, giving back during our community's time of need; generous support like this inspires us to keep going," said Dr. Elaine Yeung, Corporate Chief and Medical Director, Medicine. "This gift represents Scarborough's incredible spirit and collective passion for shaping a brighter, healthier future."

"Throughout the pandemic, SHN Foundation has worked to inspire the generosity that will support our courageous frontline staff in their work," said Alicia Vandermeer, President and CEO, SHN Foundation. "Thanks to The Weeknd's phenomenal support for our hospitals, and that of thousands of donors over the past several months, we are ensuring that our health care teams have everything they need to safely treat all of our patients."

For more information about how to support SHN through COVID-19, visit SHNFoundation.ca. To learn more about and purchase The Weeknd's XO face masks, visit shopca.theweeknd.com.

About Scarborough Health Network Foundation
Situated in one of the most diverse communities in Canada, Scarborough Health Network (SHN) Foundation inspires the support necessary to improve patients' lives through exceptional care at Scarborough Health Network across three hospitals and eight satellite sites. Since its inception, the Foundation has worked with generous donors, volunteers and community members to raise funds needed to build state-of-the-art infrastructure and purchase the latest medical technology, supporting the SHN's vision to be Canada's leading community teaching health network.

About Scarborough Health Network
Across our three hospitals and eight satellite sites, Scarborough Health Network (SHN) is shaping the future of care. Our many programs and services are designed around the needs of one of Canada's most vibrant and diverse communities. We are home to North America's largest nephrology program, as well as the designated cardiac care and spine centre for Scarborough and surrounding communities to the east. We are proud to be a community-affiliated teaching site for the University of Toronto and partner with a number of other universities and colleges, helping to train the next generation of health care professionals. Learn more at shn.ca.

SOURCE Scarborough Health Network Foundation

For further information: Media contacts: Phil Sach, Scarborough Health Network Foundation, psach@shn.ca, 647-707-5028; Lisa Cipriano, Scarborough Health Network, lcipriano@shn.ca, 416-356-7950

Organization Profile

Scarborough Health Network Foundation

MindFuel saw a 207% increase in users across Canada from March to May 2020

Demand for Online Learning Resources Continues to Rise as Longer-Term Distance Learning Becomes New Reality 

MindFuel

CALGARY, AB, June 29, 2020 /CNW/ - With schools and school boards continuing to shift to online formats throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, online educational resources are seeing a large spike in users to help supplement their learning.

MindFuel, a national education technology leader that brings STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) to life for students, teachers and parents, has been providing no-cost access to all of their K-12 STEM education resources, and saw an average 207% increase in Canadian users from during March through May 2020.

The most significant increases occurred in Northwest Territories at 1475%, Yukon at 550%, Quebec at 237%, Ontario at 202%, and British Columbia at 124%.

The total number of virtual classrooms supported during the learn-from-home period exceeded 60,000, with the most dramatic increase occurring in Ontario and Quebec on MindFuel's student engagement platform – Wonderville French. In order to support educators and parents to adapt to distributed learning, MindFuel created a series of instructional webinars focused on building a community of learners through distance education, critical to student engagement.

In 2018 alone, globally, MindFuel delivered 3.9 million STEM learning experiences across 14,000 communities in 195 countries. In 2020, MindFuel is expected to increase that number significantly.

"COVID-19 has caused a massive disruption to in-classroom learning, and we don't want to see children's learning suffer or fall behind. To ease this burden on teachers, students and parents, we have been providing easy access to all of our online educational platforms," said Cassy Weber, CEO of MindFuel. "Our programs are developed by educators for educators and have been designed to encourage curiosity and inspire students through interactive games, real-life and animated videos, comics and more. We're providing libraries of resources to allow students to dive deeper into STEM subjects that pique their interest and most importantly, to ensure they remain engaged in their learning, while supporting educators and parents in their shift to distributed learning."

While some provinces have recently reopened schools, it remains unclear what the new school year will look like for Canadian students in terms of in-classroom learning. MindFuel is preparing for additional educational supports for the anticipated continued increase in demand for virtual teaching and learning tools. Throughout the summer months, MindFuel's STEM learning resources will remain available to parents and year round schools.

"While families await further information on return to school plans, it is clear that online learning will be a large component of this system," said Weber. "We are ramping up our online supports so that we can meet anticipated higher future demands from parents and teachers."

About MindFuel

MindFuel is a registered charity, established in 1990, focused on creating future generations of innovators and problem-solvers. As a digital literacy and online learning pioneer, MindFuel is helping Canada diversify its economy through a focus on online STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education resources and in-field learning. Recognized with many awards of excellence, MindFuel supports teachers with 21st century learning services and helps immerse students in the fun world of STEM through blended learning, which includes both digital and hands-on training, critical to advancing Canada's Innovation Agenda. MindFuel places a large emphasis on empowering girls, Indigenous youth and students in rural and remote regions to pursue studies and careers in STEM. In 2018-19, MindFuel programming reached hundreds of thousands of students across Canada in both French and English and is used in over 170 countries around the world.

For more information on programming, please visit mindfuel.ca.

SOURCE MindFuel

For further information: Media inquiries: Paula Worthington, For MindFuel, paula@worthingtonpr.com, (403) 585-2429
Related Links

http://www.sciencealberta.org


Organization Profile

MindFuel


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Front-Line Registered Nurses, Registered Practical Nurses, and Health-care Professionals Hold a Peaceful Protest to Repeal Bill 124




Ontario Nurses' Association

WATERLOO, ON, June 29, 2020 /CNW/ - Hundreds of front-line registered nurses, registered practical nurses and health-care professionals will hold a peaceful protest today to encourage the repeal of Bill 124.

Health-care workers from Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph and surrounding areas will be rallying from noon until 2 p.m. at Waterloo Town Square.

Bill 124 is wage-suppression legislation that was passed by the Ford government late last year. The Bill negatively impacts female-dominated professions including registered nurses, registered practical nurses, nurse practitioners, and health-care professionals. It limits wage increases to a maximum of one per cent total compensation each year for three years. It interferes with Charter rights to freely bargain, and it is gender biased.

ONA is the union representing more than 68,000 registered nurses and health-care professionals, as well as 18,000 nursing student affiliates, providing care in hospitals, long-term care facilities, public health, the community, clinics and industry.

WHAT:

Peaceful protest by nurses and health-care professionals regarding the repeal of Bill 124.


WHEN:

Monday, June 29 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.


WHERE:

Waterloo Town Square, 75 King Street South, Waterloo


www.ona.org; Facebook.com/OntarioNurses; Twitter.com/OntarioNurses instagram.com/ontario.nurses

SOURCE Ontario Nurses' Association

For further information: Sarah-Jane Wilke, 519-575-8475; Sheri Trudel, 519-577-9920
Related Links

www.ona.org


Organization Profile



Ontario Nurses' Association

The Ontario Nurses’ Association (ONA) represents the heart and soul of Ontario's healthcare — the nurses and allied health workers on the front lines. As an organization, ONA not only represents them at the bargaining table, but is their collective voice to the world. ONA...


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Investing in Net-Zero Energy Residential Buildings Across Canada


Natural Resources Canada


OTTAWA, ON, June 24, 2020 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada is building a clean energy future that will strengthen the economy, create good jobs and support the natural resource sectors. This will be more important than ever as we prepare to reopen the economy and plan our recovery.


The Honourable Seamus O'Regan, Canada's Minister of Natural Resources, today announced an investment of over $2,445,000 toward the construction of energy-efficient residential buildings across Canada. The funding will support a project led by the Canadian Home Builders' Association (CHBA) that will enable seven housing builders to construct net-zero energy and net-zero energy ready residential buildings in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario.

Buildings and homes contribute approximately 17 percent of Canada's greenhouse gas emissions. Net-zero energy buildings are designed and constructed to produce at least as much energy as they consume on an annual basis.


The project is looking to demonstrate it is possible to construct net-zero energy ready housing with reduced cost and construction time, which will in turn inspire energy-efficient changes throughout Canada's construction industry. The investment is part of the government's commitment to fight climate change, advance our clean energy future, and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Federal funding is provided through Natural Resources Canada's Green Infrastructure program, which aims to accelerate the deployment and market entry of next-generation clean energy infrastructure in Canada.

By enhancing the pace and scale of clean technology, we significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Quotes


"More energy-efficient homes means less emissions in our atmosphere and more money in the pockets of Canadians. It's a win-win. That's how we'll get to net-zero emissions by 2050, with partners like the Canadian Home Builders' Association."


The Honourable Seamus O'Regan
Canada's Minister of Natural Resources


"To be able to give large numbers of Canadians the option of living in homes that are even more efficient than those built to the current building code, without negatively impacting affordability, we need to find new solutions, technologies and approaches. This partnership between the residential construction industry and the federal government to facilitate information-sharing and research among industry leaders who are voluntarily striving to build low-rise multi-family residential buildings to net-zero energy levels using pre-fabrication is an important step in getting us closer to that goal."


Kevin Lee, Chief Executive Officer
Canadian Home Builders' Association


Associated Links

Green Infrastructure
Project description
Canadian Home Builders' Association


Follow us on Twitter: @NRCan (http://twitter.com/nrcan)

SOURCE Natural Resources Canada

For further information: Natural Resources Canada, Media Relations, 343-292-6100, NRCan.media.RNCan@canada.ca; Ian Cameron, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Natural Resources, 613-447-3488, Ian.Cameron@canada.ca
Related Links

www.nrcan.gc.ca


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Natural Resources Canada


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Métis Nation Launches Métis Veterans Legacy Program

Métis National Council 

I LIVE IN METIS NATION IN EDMONTON

OTTAWA, ON, June 29, 2020 /CNW/ - The Métis National Council (MNC) is pleased to announce the launch of the Métis Veterans Legacy Program. The Program is an integral part of the $30 million agreement signed by Canada and the Métis Nation on June 13, 2019 to honour Métis Veterans of the Second World War including the payment of compensation. The Agreement was accompanied by an apology from Canada for the wrongs Métis WWII Veterans experienced upon their return to Canada.

"Our Nation has waited 75 years for this. Canada's apology to our Veterans has resonated throughout the Métis Homeland with reverence," says MNC Veterans Minister David Chartrand who led efforts over two decades to seek justice for the Métis Veterans who served in WWII. "Those we have lost during our struggle for recognition can finally rest in peace, knowing they have been recognized and honoured for their contributions and sacrifice. Our Nation rejoices as we celebrate the surviving WWII Veterans and honour them as they receive their Recognition Payment."

The Métis Nation Veterans Legacy Program (MVLP) has two objectives:

To recognize, through individual Recognition Payments, Second World War Métis Veteran's pre- and post-war experiences that may have negatively impacted their demobilization success; and

To support commemorative initiatives through the Commemoration Program that promotes awareness and appreciation of our Métis Veterans' sacrifices and contributions throughout the Métis Nation and all of Canada.

As very few of the Second World War Métis Veterans are still living, Minister Chartrand has initiated Phase I of a campaign throughout the Métis Homeland to identify our living WWII Métis Veterans. During the past year, 23 WWII Métis Veterans have been presented with their $20,000 Recognition Payments, along with the heartfelt thanks of the Métis Nation, an apology from the Government of Canada, a ceremonial Métis Sash and a hand-beaded traditional Métis broach. The Program will support further efforts to identify all other Second World War Métis Veterans living and present them with their Recognition Payment as soon as possible.

In consideration of those Veterans who passed during the negotiation period with Canada, Phase II of the campaign was initially designed to compensate the spouses and common-law partners of deceased WWII Métis Veterans who passed after January 2016. In addition, should the spouse or common-law partner have also passed, the surviving children of the Veteran are entitled to receive equal portions of the $20,000 Recognition Payment.

After careful consideration and deliberations with community members and family members of our WWII Veterans, Minister Chartrand announced today that the policy is now inclusive of Recognition Payments being presented to all surviving spouses and common-law partners regardless of when their loved one passed. The policy remains the same that if the spouse or common-law partner has also passed, all living children of a WWII Métis Veteran who has passed after January 2016 are eligible to receive equal portions of the $20,000 Recognition Payment.

"The importance of family remains the essence of the Métis Nation," states Minister David Chartrand. "Our WWII Métis Veterans who have passed would want to take care of their families and ensure their future and prosperity. Phase II of the MVLP will accomplish this and help the families of our Veterans heal, and take comfort knowing their loved one is being honoured as a Hero of this country."

Phase III is the Commemoration Program which is expected to be launched in August of 2020. The intent of the Commemoration Program is to keep the Second World War Métis Veterans' legacy alive by promoting awareness and appreciation amongst Métis and the Canadian public of their achievements and sacrifices for generations to come. It will support the work that Métis communities have traditionally undertaken to honor our Veterans such as the erection of monuments and ceremonies as well as undertake new initiatives. Grassroots consultations with Métis Nation citizens will assist in identifying the scope and eligibility requirements of these initiatives as we further develop the Commemoration Program.

In April 2020, Métis National Council launched a new Métis Veterans on-line portal to support efforts to recognize Veterans and promote commemoration of their immense contributions and sacrifices. You can also use the portal to apply online for the Recognition Payment. (visit: www.metisveterans.ca)

"Our Heroes Today, Tomorrow, and Forever."

The MNC represents the Métis Nation in Canada at the national and international levels. The Métis Nation's homeland includes the 3 Prairie Provinces and extends into the contiguous parts of British Columbia, Ontario, the Northwest Territories and the United States. There are approximately 400,000 Métis Nation citizens in Canada, roughly a quarter of all Aboriginal peoples in the country.

SOURCE Métis National Council

For further information: Ke Ning, Métis National Council, ken@Métisnation.ca, c: 613-297-5193
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Ontario Long term care home negligence class action

Koskie Minsky LLP

TORONTO, June 29, 2020 /CNW/ - Koskie Minsky LLP has commenced a class proceeding against the Province of Ontario in respect of the widespread illness, suffering and loss of life among long-term care home residents due to COVID-19.

The class action is brought on behalf of all individuals who reside or resided in long-term care homes in Ontario where one or more individuals tested positive for COVID-19, and their parents, spouses, siblings and children.

It is alleged that Ontario's longstanding systemic failures to properly regulate and oversee long-term care homes in Ontario. It is further alleged that the system was primed for rapid spread of a disease like COVID-19. In addition, it is alleged that Ontario failed to take steps to protect residents, and that the measures Ontario did implement were inadequate and amount to "too little too late".

Kirk Baert, a partner at Koskie Minsky, has stated: "This case concerns systemic issues that have plagued long-term care homes in Ontario for years. The Province has long been aware of these issues and has ignored them for far too long."

SOURCE Koskie Minsky LLP

For further information: If you are interested in participating in the class action, please contact us at Toll Free: 1-833-630-1787 or Email: longtermcareclassaction@kmlaw.ca
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