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Myanmar Earthquake: Death Toll Climbs to 3,145 Amid Ongoing Rescue Efforts

The devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar nearly a week ago has claimed at least 3,145 lives, with search and rescue teams continuing to recover bodies from the rubble. The 7.7 magnitude quake, which had its epicenter near Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, caused widespread destruction, including collapsed buildings, damaged roads, and destroyed bridges.  Humanitarian aid groups are working tirelessly to provide survivors with medical care and shelter, as thousands remain homeless and vulnerable to disease outbreaks. The United Nations estimates that over 17 million people have been affected by the disaster, with more than 9 million severely impacted.  In response to the crisis, Myanmar's military government has declared a temporary ceasefire to facilitate relief efforts. However, ongoing challenges, including communication blackouts and difficult-to-reach areas, have hindered the full assessment of the disaster's impact.  The coming days will be critical in d...

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CPA Canada lays off 80 staff amid provincial divisions

 

CPA Canada, the national organization that represents chartered professional accountants across the country, has announced that it is cutting 20% of its workforce, or about 80 staff, as it faces a challenging operating environment.

The decision comes as two of the largest provincial oversight bodies, CPA Ontario and the Quebec CPA Order, are preparing to leave CPA Canada by the end of this year, following a disagreement over governance and financial issues.

CPA Canada president and CEO Pamela Steer said in a memo to staff last week that the organization had to streamline its operations “in order to position CPA Canada for long-term sustainability.”

She said that despite many discussions and efforts, it was clear that Ontario and Quebec would not change their current path, which means they will exit the national agreement that was signed in 2013 to unify the various professional accounting organizations and designations.

The split will have significant implications for the accounting profession in Canada, as CPA Canada is responsible for setting standards, coordinating education and exams, and advocating for the public interest, while the regional organizations are responsible for regulation and enforcement.

Both CPA Ontario and the Quebec CPA Order have said that their departure will not undo the unification of the profession, but rather allow them to focus on their own members and stakeholders.

However, CPA Canada has said that their decision puts the profession at risk of fragmentation and inconsistency, and undermines the credibility and reputation of the CPA designation.

The two provincial groups have cited concerns about CPA Canada’s financial transparency regarding education programs, which the national body has disputed. They have also sought stronger representation on the national board, which CPA Canada has said would compromise its independence and accountability.

CPA Canada said it will continue to work with the remaining provincial and territorial bodies to ensure the delivery of high-quality services and programs for its members and the profession. It also said it will explore new opportunities and partnerships to advance the CPA brand and the public interest.

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