10/3: Canada Covered

The sky-high cost of real estate in the Vancouver area has people in the Lower Mainland looking at creative solutions to be able to afford their own homes. For some, that has meant going halfers on a house with total strangers, splitting the mortgage and the space. Vancouver Sun reporter Lori Culbert joins the show to discuss why this is taking off in Vancouver, what some of the pros and cons are, and how co-homeowners are managing the arrangements. Background reading: How pricey is Vancouver real estate? Strangers are pooling money to buy houses Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a tale of two towns. Both nestled in the picturesque Rocky Mountains. Both a hot tourist draw in winter and summer alike. But Jasper and Banff, situated along Alberta’s western border couldn’t feel more different. National Post reporter, and producer of this podcast, Tyler Dawson joins the show to discuss the factors that saw Banff take off to become a glitzy destination for globe-trotters, why Jasper feels a little more rugged, and why locals in the smaller centre may prefer it that way. Jasper versus Banff: Why one mountain town soared and the other didn't Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The $20 million gold heist at Pearson airport in April caught headlines because of the brazen nature of the crime, but it also struck some as eerily similar to another 70 years ago. The theft of gold bars from Toronto’s airport had gone unsolved for seven decades, until now. National Post reporter Adrian Humphreys joins the show to discuss how he was able to identify the culprits of the 1952 gold heist, how they likely got away with it, and why there probably wasn’t a happy ending to this underworld tale. Background reading: 'My dad got the gold': I solved the great Toronto airport heist of 1952 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A longtime member of the Ontario Provincial Police has finally been fired after being convicted of multiple offences, including several assaults, drug charges and a sexual assault which he recorded on his phone. Jason Redmond was sentenced to six years for the sexual assault and is awaiting sentencing for assaulting another female victim. Sabrina Bedford, a reporter with the Brockville Recorder and Times, joins the show to discuss Redmond’s history with the OPP, what led to his downfall in law enforcement, and why there are changes coming to make it easier to fire disgraced cops. Background reading: A bad cop stayed on the payroll for years, committing rape and other serious crimes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Canada Revenue Agency is going after a trio of former Blue Jays stars, to the tune of millions of dollars. The players, Jose Bautista, Josh Donaldson, and Russell Martin are fighting with the taxman relating to what amounts to a dispute over taxes and retirement income. National Post political reporter Chris Nardi joins the show to discuss what the issue is, why these players may have run afoul of Canadian tax rules, and why the case could potentially make it harder to attract top athletes to Canada. Background reading: Hosing Bautista: Why the CRA is going after former Blue Jays for millions in taxes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ten years ago this month, Calgary and many other southern Alberta communities were hit with unprecedented flooding. Five people were killed, more than 100,000 were forced out of their homes, and the damage toll was in the billions of dollars. Calgary Herald Deputy editor Monica Zurowski joins the show to discuss the impacts of the flood, how people are still affected a decade later, and whether officials are prepared for another disaster of that scale. Check out the Calgary Herald for full flood anniversary coverage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When politicians retire, or lose an election, unless they’re very high profile, they tend to drop quickly from the public’s attention. Despite developing a network of contacts and building a busy calendar while in office, once the political fanfare goes away, it can be a lonely and isolating life for many. National Post political reporter Bryan Passifiume joins the show to discuss how former MPs cope with life after politics, why it can lead to depression, and what the public may not understand about the return to civilian life. Background reading: From power to powerless: The high costs of a political life Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the era of big league sports, how does the Canadian Football League compete against all the options out there for fans? It’s something surely on the mind of CFL commissioner Randy Ambrosie as the league is set to kick off the 2023 season, with teams looking to improve on attendance and gain new fans. Postmedia national sports columnist Scott Stinson joins the show to discuss the overall shape of the league, why it struggles in some markets, and whether expansion plans will come to fruition. Background reading: As the CFL kicks off with big plans, the storied league struggles for relevance Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Voters in Canada’s largest city go to the polls in late June to elect a new mayor, after the surprise resignation of John Tory earlier this year. Dozens of candidates have lined up to replace Tory, though the campaign has coalesced around a few front-runners. Toronto Sun columnist Brian Lilley joins the show to discuss the main contenders, what issues are front-and-centre, and whether this campaign is catching the attention of Torontonians. Background reading: LILLEY: Can anyone beat Olivia Chow for mayor? Better hope so! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Danielle Smith and the United Conservative Party fought off a strong challenge from Rachel Notley and the NDP Monday night to win the Alberta election. The UCP stands to lose a few seats, and perhaps some cabinet ministers, even as the NDP hopes for major gains don’t appear to have materialized. National Post reporter and producer of this podcast Tyler Dawson joins the show to discuss the results, the likely turning point for Smith and the UCP, and why it was taking so long to count ballots. Background reading: UCP wins majority government, but loses key seats Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the last few weeks alone there have been dozens of deliberately set fires in the Montreal area, with several tied to organized crime. What’s driving this wave of arsons, and arsons in general, of which there have been hundreds this year? In many cases, competition and extortion. Montreal Gazette reporter Rene Bruemmer joins the show to discuss who the target of these arsons are, what organized crime groups are potentially behind them, and whether police fear the potential for increased violence. Background reading: Who's torching cars, restaurants and businesses across Montreal? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former governor general David Johnston has revealed the findings of his investigation into allegations of election interference and whether there should be a full public inquiry. Despite calls for such an inquiry, and concerns about public trust in the process, Johnston is instead pursuing public hearings into some, but not all, areas of the interference issue. Postmedia parliamentary bureau chief and National Post columnist John Ivison joins the show to discuss some of Johnston’s findings, the refusal to hold a public inquiry, and why the biggest problem with Johnston’s investigation is likely still Johnston himself. Background reading: The fatal flaw in David Johnston's Chinese interference report is David Johnston Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fire departments, like similar organizations, have had to undergo changes to adapt to modern times. But what happens when change is slow to come, or meets organizational resistance? In a recent report, Edmonton’s fire department was shown to still grapple with bullying, harassment and discrimination among the ranks. Edmonton Journal city hall reporter Lauren Boothby joins the show to discuss the findings of the report, how current and former firefighters feel the city is doing at addressing the concerns, and why change can be a challenge. Background reading: Edmonton fire struggles with discrimination, bullying and diversity; trust in leadership broken Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Concerns are being raised over safe supply programs in Canada because of what’s being done after drugs are administered to users in the program. A National Post investigation found many users are selling their safe supply drugs to other users so they can in turn buy stronger opioids on the street. National Post columnist Adam Zivo joins the show to discuss the findings of his investigation, why addiction physicians are worried, and what, if anything is being done to stop the practice. Background reading: Drug fail: The Liberal government's 'safer supply' is fuelling a new opioid crisis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

King Charles has been officially crowned, and the people of the Commonwealth have returned to their daily lives. But the momentous event has once again sparked questions about whether Canada needs to be tied to the monarchy at all. National Post reporter Joseph Brean joins the show to discuss what Canadians feel about the monarchy, why there are compelling reasons to end ties to the Crown, and ultimately why it’s not likely to happen. Background reading: 'People love pageantry' — Why Canada will stick with the monarchy and King Charles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Could the Canadian curse finally lift in the Stanley Cup Playoffs? It’s been 30 years since a team from this side of the border hoisted the top prize in hockey, and heading into the second round, two Canadian teams were being eyed by oddsmakers as the favourites to make the finals. Postmedia national sports writer Scott Stinson joins the show to discuss why a Canadian team winning the Stanley Cup is a perennial topic, what makes the Leafs and Oilers the favourites, and what it could mean to Toronto or Edmonton to have their team take the league title. Background reading: Maple Leafs favoured to win the Stanley Cup in latest odds Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Polls show Alberta’s election will be a close race, and could ultimately come down to which leader voters like more. UCP leader Danielle Smith and NDP leader Rachel Notley are definitely political opposites, but as people? They may not be as different as you’d imagine. National Post reporter, and producer of this podcast, Tyler Dawson joins the show to discuss how each leader got her political start, how those closest to them would describe the leaders, and how the election could hinge on personal popularity. Background reading: The comeback queens: Rachel Notley vs Danielle Smith in the battle for Alberta Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Albertans go to the polls in late May, but the campaign is already in full swing. Danielle Smith’s UCP and Rachel Notley’s NDP are jockeying for position in what polls are showing is going to be an extremely tight race for control of the legislature. Edmonton Journal legislature reporters Matthew Black and Lisa Johnson join the show to break down key issues of the campaign, which ridings could be close, and why the battle will largely be fought over Calgary. Background reading: UCP and NDP both pledge personal income tax freeze Smith defends taxpayer dollars for Calgary arena infrastructure as NDP calls for transparency Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You’ve seen the headlines: Teen fatally stabbed on Transit in B.C., a man seriously injured after being knifed while waiting for a bus in Edmonton, a woman dying after being set on fire in Toronto. From coast to coast, Canada has seen an uptick in what police are calling unprovoked stranger attacks. They’re not just happening in big cities either. National Post reporter Tristin Hopper joins the show to discuss what’s driving these sometimes deadly assaults, what it has meant to how safe Canadians feel, and what can be done to address the issue. Background reading: Background reading: Canada is seeing violent crime like never before. What's behind the wave of killings and attacks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are social media apps like TikTok causing users to exhibit signs of disorders like Tourette’s or other conditions? Or because people seem to congregate in communities online, is social media just amplifying what’s already there? National Post reporter Tyler Dawson, who also produces this podcast, joins the show to discuss research showing young people are acquiring symptoms via social media use, what may be causing these tics, and whether some people are faking symptoms for online clout. Background reading: Your kid suddenly has Tourette’s? 'TikTok tics' may be to blame Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nearly three years after Canada’s worst mass killing, a report looking into the RCMP response has been released. The Mass Casualties Commission report has laid blame on the RCMP’s handling of the incident and suggested sweeping police reform. National Post political reporter Ryan Tumilty joins the show to discuss where the inquiry found the RCMP failed, what changes it recommends to the national police force, and whether there is political will for major reform. Background reading: Key witnesses ignored, no warnings: N.S. mass shooting inquiry lays blame on RCMP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a story of the Sixties Scoop. Of a family torn apart and separated for decades before being reunited. This is also a story of identity, and the long-lasting effects that these separations can have on a family. London Free Press reporter Randy Richmond joins the show to discuss how one family was separated by the Sixties Scoop, ultimately re-united and how they had to reckon with their own histories, and come to terms with trauma and tragedy. Background reading: The boy with two names: A scattered family, a nation's shame, a death in jail Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A number of NHL players have kicked off controversy by refusing to wear rainbow-themed jerseys as part of their teams’ Pride Night festivities. It has put the notion of the players’ individual beliefs at odds with the league’s attempts to grow the game, and make more people feel included in the hockey world. Postmedia national sports columnist Scott Stinson joins the show to discuss how the NHL has responded to these cases, what the refusal means to the league’s efforts for inclusivity, and what more can be done to promote the message that hockey is in fact for everyone. Background reading: NHL's Pride Nights were to send a message of inclusivity. They are doing the opposite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As calls grow for more action from the Liberal government on allegations of election interference by China, there were new developments this week. The PMO released the mandate for special rapporteur David Johnston and, after several days of pushing back against the suggestion, it was announced Justin Trudeau’s chief of staff would appear before MPs looking into the issue. National Post political reporter Bryan Passifiume joins the show to discuss what Johnston will be looking into, what we hope to learn from Telford’s appearance at committee, and whether it’s likely we’ll see a public inquiry into election interference. Background reading: PMO releases mandate for 'special rapporteur' tasked with probing foreign interference allegations Trudeau's chief of staff Katie Telford to testify on foreign interference at committee: PMO Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

They’re potentially lurking in grasslands and forests across several provinces, prepared to cause devastation, eating and digging their way through crops and gardens, and could even wind up in our cities. Wild hogs are a growing problem in Canada, especially on the prairies, where they’ve become an invasive species. Tyler Dawson, National Post reporter and producer of this podcast, joins the show to discuss how wild hogs have thrived here, why they’re such a pesky animal to deal with, and why our neighbours to the south are worried about a porcine invasion. Background reading: Latest border-crossing crisis for U.S.: a potential flood of Canadian 'super pigs' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The illegal border crossing at Roxham Road in southern Quebec has seen an uptick of asylum seekers in recent months, taking us close to the record levels we saw in 2017. The surge has seen some politicians call for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to close the entry point once and for all. But some feel that will only cause more problems. National Post political reporter Chris Nardi visited the area and joins the show to discuss what he saw on the ground, what local officials have to say about the issue, and what some feel is the most viable solution. Background reading: Life on Roxham Road, where frustrations mount and hundreds of illegals cross over every day Private buses, food and hotel rooms: Behind the booming, multi-million-dollar business of Roxham Road Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The recent cyberattack on Canadian retailer Indigo has served as a reminder for how disruptive such invasions can be in a world so reliant on digital properties. But what happens when those attacks disrupt the operations of governments, even small ones. Emma McPhee, a reporter for Brunswick News, joins the show to discuss how a similar ransomware attack affected the city of Saint John, what can make a government vulnerable, and what we all have to be wary of when it comes to cyber security. Background reading: Anatomy of a cyberattack — How a 'Russian Mafia group' took Saint John hostage Read the full Safety Net series Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In advance of a spring election, Alberta’s United Conservative government unveiled its latest budget, the first under Premier Danielle Smith. It’s a blueprint for big spending, but is it a recipe for an election win? Calgary Sun columnist Rick Bell joins the show to discuss how the government hopes this fares them well on voting day, whether it leaves any room for the NDP to pick up votes, and whether it has helped the government solidify support among the public. Background reading: Danielle Smith's budget boss draws election line in the sand Bell: Will the real Danielle Smith please stand up? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fuelled in part by people looking for recreational activities during the COVID-19 pandemic, an unlikely sport has become one of the hottest things going in North America. Pickleball, almost a strange hybrid of tennis and ping pong, has gained tens of thousands of new members in Canada in the last two years. But why is it so popular? National sports writer Dan Barnes joins the show to discuss why people are gravitating towards the sport, whether there are enough courts to facilitate the surge in participation, and why some have designs on getting pickleball into the Olympics. Background reading: Pickleball craze has Canadians of all ages headed for court Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chinese government activity related to our elections is once again in the spotlight. Recently uncovered intelligence information suggests a sophisticated plan to interfere in the 2021 federal election, targeting Conservative candidates to the benefit of the Liberals. National Post political reporter Catherine Levesque joins the show to discuss the nature of the allegations, what the response has been from the prime minister and his opponents, and whether MPs will be investigating this further. Background reading: Trudeau claims there are 'inaccuracies' in the leaked documents about Chinese interference Liberal MP accuses Tories of using Trump-like tactics in questioning past election results Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The much talked about “Just Transition” plan, designed to move workers to greener, more sustainable jobs, has been unveiled, with a new name. Now called the Sustainable Jobs plan, the initiative was released with little fanfare, and light on details, according to critics. Tyler Dawson, National Post reporter and producer of this podcast, joins the show to discuss what the Sustainable Jobs plan covers, what it’s lacking, and why it’s still ruffling feathers in Alberta. Background reading: Liberals' 'just transition' clean energy jobs plan is a plan for more plans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A year to the day after police started dismantling the large-scale Freedom Convoy protest that had blockaded a large swath of downtown Ottawa, Justice Paul Rouleau delivered his report into the federal government's use of the Emergencies Act to deal with the movement. While he ultimately found the threshold was met to invoke the act, there was plenty of blame to throw around as to how we got there. National Post political reporter Ryan Tumilty joins the show to discuss Justice Rouleau’s main findings, where agencies and governments dropped the ball, and what recommendations he makes to address problems in the future. Background reading: Trudeau government justified in using unprecedented powers of Emergencies Act: ruling Trudeau expresses regret for denouncing Freedom Convoy protesters as 'fringe minority' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just a few months into his third term as mayor of Canada’s largest city, John Tory announced his resignation on Friday. The resignation follows revelations he had an affair with a 31-year-old staffer, and forces the city to hold a byelection in the coming months. National Post columnist Chris Selley joins the show to discuss how the revelations came to light, what it does to Tory’s legacy in politics and business, and what issues his replacement will have to deal with. Background reading: Chris Selley: John Tory's political career ends in the stupidest way imaginable John Tory still hasn't officially resigned after admitting affair — and he may not have to Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The premiers and the prime minister met in Ottawa to hammer out a new funding agreement that many hope will address some real pressure points in our health-care system. Ultimately, the deal amounts to about $200 billion, but will that be enough to address the strain on hospitals, or get Canadians better access to doctors? National Post political reporter Ryan Tumilty joins the show to discuss the details of the deal, how the premiers have reacted, and whether the provinces will ultimately accept it. Background reading: Trudeau offers premiers $46.1 billion in new money over next decade for health care Early signs premiers will accept Trudeau's 'disappointing' health-care offer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recent violence on Toronto transit has sparked fears among riders and pushed police and city officials to act to address the problem. But some are wondering whether the measures will actually improve safety or deal with underlying issues. National Post reporter Adrian Humphreys joins the show to discuss how severe the violence has been, whether riders feel the measures taken are enough, and if it’s an indication that Toronto is facing a spike in violent crime. Background reading - 'Toronto turning into Gotham city': Random violence pushing Toronto to tipping point Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The notion of the Trudeau government’s Just Transition legislation has created fears in Alberta that the feds are coming for oil jobs. This, in turn, has sparked outrage from politicians on the left and the right, with Premier Danielle Smith leading the charge against legislation, which has yet to be unveiled. National Post reporter, and producer of this podcast, Tyler Dawson joins the show to discuss the political outrage over Just Transition in Alberta, why Danielle Smith has taken a slightly less combative tone with the prime minister, and how the issue could factor into the upcoming Alberta election. Background reading: Alberta Premier Smith calls for meeting with Trudeau over Just Transition Rob Breakenridge: Trudeau would be well-advised to accept Smith's invitation, bluff or not Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It was an international hit that potentially brought Canada’s gang wars to tourist hotspots in Thailand. The violence left one man dead, and sparked an international manhunt for at least two suspects. Vancouver Sun crime reporter Kim Bolan joins the show to discuss the victim’s links to Canada’s criminal underworld, what we know about the suspects, and what this assassination says about B.C.’s ongoing gang war. Background reading - A murder in Phuket: B.C. gang conflict moves overseas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For most Canadians, we think nothing of the ability to wake up and open social media apps on our phones, log onto our laptops for work, or tune into high-definition streaming on our TVs. But in Canada, that is not the reality for many people. For people living in remote areas, or living on low incomes, the simple act of accessing the internet is either too slow, too expensive, or not available. Jessica Mundie, the 2022 recipient Michelle Lang Fellowship in Journalism, joins the show to discuss why it’s so hard for some Canadians to access the internet, who is most affected and what the federal government is doing to try to remedy the problem Background reading: Inaccessible, unreliable, unaffordable: The struggle to get internet in rural Canada Read the whole Left Behind series here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The federal government is expected this year to unveil the much talked about “Just Transition” legislation. The concept has been the subject of much controversy in recent weeks, with Alberta and its oil industry expected to be greatly affected by the plan But what does it entail? Calgary Herald business columnist Chris Varcoe joins the show to discuss what Just Transition is, how many jobs it could affect, and what industry has to say about it. Background reading: Ottawa's 'just transition' rhetoric adds to oilpatch labour crunch As Alberta oil output hits record heights, Smith warns federal emissions cap will shut-in production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Canada has allowed medical assistance in dying for more than five years now, but the issue has remained charged as the law continues to change. An increase in requests for the practice means providers are stretched thin, and there is an ongoing debate around expanding MAID to include mental illnesses. National Post Health Reporter Sharon Kirkey joins the show to discuss why there is a growing backlog of MAID patients, the debate over expanding the practice and why controversy over whether doctors should be bringing it up before patients do. Background reading: Canada's expanding MAID program leading to a crisis in supply of 'willing' doctors Canadian doctors encouraged to bring up medically assisted death before their patients do Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The world of online dating and dating apps have opened up a potentially vast network of possible matches. But as technology changes, and expectations for what makes a good partner change, the dating landscape can be even trickier to navigate. National Post reporter, and producer of this podcast, Tyler Dawson joins the show to discuss how the language of dating has changed, what challenges single Canadians face, and why it leads to some people feeling lonelier than before. Background reading: What's your attachment style? How the language of dating — and screening — has changed Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brenda Lucki’s time as commissioner of the RCMP has been eventful, to say the least. She entered the post four years ago as the RCMP was confronting issues of workplace harassment, the treatment of Indigenous peoples, racism, and a need for internal reform, but things really came to a head in 2022. National post reporter Adrian Humphreys joins the show to discuss Lucki’s high-profile testimony at two public inquiries, apologies and calls for her resignation, and whether she could see her contract renewed in 2023. Background reading: 'A wounded leader': Inside RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki's terrible year Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When it comes to the public service, how do women fare compared to men, especially in higher-ranking positions? Is headway being made when it comes to breaking the glass ceiling? New analysis out of B.C. shows that there’s still a way to go. Lori Culbert and Nathan Griffiths from the Vancouver Sun join the show to discuss their detailed analysis of 125,000 public servants’ salaries, how women stack up against men, especially in senior positions, and what some feel the solution needs to be. Background reading: List of B.C.'s 100 highest-paid public servants reveals it's still a rich man's world Most teachers are women, most school bosses are men Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the city’s most high-profile killing since the death of Tina Fontaine, Winnipeg has been rocked by the serial murders of four Indigenous women earlier this year. And there is controversy around the police investigation and whether enough is being done to recover their remains from an area landfill. Winnipeg Sun reporter Glen Dawkins joins the show to discuss the investigation, what we know so far about the accused killer, and how this tragedy has strained relations between the police and the community. Background reading: Smyth has no plans to resign, police considering outside help in landfill search Calls to search Manitoba landfills for murder victims sent to Ottawa, WPS commits to working group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the main functions of governments, especially local governments, is building stuff. And that stuff doesn’t get much bigger than mass transit projects. But what happens when those projects are hit with delays, operational problems, or even safety issues? Ottawa Citizen reporter Blair Crawford and Edmonton Journal columnist Keith Gerein join me to discuss problems two major LRT projects in Canada, a scathing review into one of them, and how these issues could make it harder to get public buy-in on similar projects in the future. Background reading: Report blames failures in leadership, 'deliberate malfeasance' for LRT troubles Keith Gerein: Ottawa's LRT debacle may hold lessons for Edmonton's Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After months of build-up, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith finally unveiled the legislation that was key to her leadership win. The Alberta Sovereignty Within a United Canada Act may have had a softer name than initially proposed, but it was met with controversy over how it would operate. Calgary Sun columnist Rick Bell joins the show to discuss what’s in the new bill, why some aspects of it have forced the Smith government to walk it back, and how it could be applied to federal law. Background reading: Vindicated! Smith under fire, UCP retools sovereignty act Bell: Danielle Smith misses her Ralph Klein moment Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside has long dealt with social issues stemming from homelessness and addiction, and to many, the situation has only gotten worse. Social agencies are feeling the strain, and the public is pressuring politicians to do more to solve the problem. Vancouver Sun columnist Douglas Todd joins the show to discuss why there’s a feeling that the problems are worse than ever, the new B.C. premier’s controversial proposals to address some of the issues, and how public compassion could be failing the people in the Downtown Eastside. Background reading: Douglas Todd: Why compassion is failing Vancouver’s most distressed neighbourhood David Eby's bold plan to take ownership of the DTES Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the course of six weeks of testimony, Canadians heard from police and municipal officials in Ottawa, provincial representatives and even from organizers of the so-called Freedom Convoy that occupied the capital for weeks earlier this year. This was all building to the appearance by senior members of Justin Trudeau’s cabinet, and the PM himself, as they looked to justify the government’s use of the Emergencies Act to dismantle what had become a disruptive protest. In the second of a special two-part look at the Emergencies Act inquiry, National Post political reporters Chris Nardi and Ryan Tumilty join the show to discuss how intelligence officials viewed the convoy, how blockades at the border in Alberta and Ontario changed the conversation, and how, ultimately, ministers explained the government’s actions. Background reading: As Emergencies Act inquiry closes, commissioner says he has the evidence he needs 'No confidence' in police plan: Trudeau says he had no alternative to Emergencies Act Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Was the Freedom Convoy a threat to public safety when it occupied downtown Ottawa earlier this year? Was the federal government’s use of the Emergencies Act justified? Did Ottawa drop the ball in planning for the convoy’s arrival? These are just some of the questions arising from six weeks of testimony before the Public Order Emergency Commission and Justice Paul Rouleau. In the first of a special two-part episode, National Post political reporters Chris Nardi and Ryan Tumilty join the show to discuss what the inquiry into the use of the emergencies act looked at, how it has shown how unprepared police were to handle the convoy, and what that lack of preparedness meant in the overall response to the occupation. Background reading: Lack of 'coherent plan' from Ottawa police made RCMP, OPP 'reluctant' to help them with protest: Bill Blair Emergencies Act was helpful but 'not necessary' to clear Freedom Convoy: Ontario deputy solicitor general Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

According to reports, intelligence officials have warned the prime minister that China covertly funded candidates in the 2019 election. While it’s not clear yet who these candidates were, it’s not the first time the Chinese regime has tried to influence our politics, and apparently not illegal. National Post columnists Terry Glavin joins the show to discuss how this funding works, the extent of other forms of foreign influence in our politics, and why attempts to address it have been stymied. Background reading: What's it going to take for the Liberals to crack down on Chinese subterfuge? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices