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5 Things to Know Today — June 11, 2026

  The Bank of Canada confirmed its fifth straight rate hold yesterday, oil slipped back toward $89 a barrel after fresh U.S. strikes on Iran, and Canada Post workers officially have a new contract. Here is what every Canadian needs to know heading into Wednesday. 1 of 5 — Interest Rates Bank of Canada holds at 2.25% — for the fifth time in a row The Bank of Canada kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 2.25% on June 10, marking five consecutive holds since late 2025. Governor Tiff Macklem said the central bank is trying to balance two opposing forces: inflation pushed higher by elevated energy costs from the Middle East war, and an economy that has barely grown in recent quarters. "Economic weakness combined with rising inflation is a dilemma for monetary policy," Macklem told reporters, adding that holding the rate "balances those risks" for now. What it means for you: Variable-rate mortgage holders and borrowers with lines of credit get another month of pa...

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Macron Faces Farmer Fury: Protests Erupt at Paris Agricultural Fair

 


French President Emmanuel Macron encountered a chorus of boos and whistles as he stepped onto the stage at the Paris Agricultural Fair. The disgruntled farmers, their frustrations simmering, squarely pointed fingers at Macron, accusing him of insufficient support for their struggling industry.

For months, farmers across France have raised their voices in protest. Their grievances echo through the rolling fields and bustling markets. They demand better living conditions, streamlined regulations, and robust protection against what they perceive as unfair foreign competition. The stakes are high, and the agricultural sector’s survival hangs in the balance.

As the fair gates swung open, several dozen protesters breached security barriers, their anger palpable. Macron, scheduled to address the crowd, faced a sea of discontent. Riot-clad police formed a human shield, preventing the demonstrators from reaching the president. Whistles pierced the air, and slogans called for his resignation.

In a separate room, Macron met with representatives from France’s main farmers’ unions. He acknowledged their plight, promising “floor prices” for agricultural products to stabilize incomes. An emergency relief plan for struggling farms would kick off imminently. But the farmers pressed him further. “Give oxygen to the farmers,” one implored. Macron defended his administration’s efforts, emphasizing that progress had been made.

The Paris Agricultural Fair, delayed by hours due to the protests, eventually commenced. Macron, surrounded by Normandy cows and wheels of camembert cheese, navigated the exhibition. Whistles persisted, punctuating his interactions with farmers. Meanwhile, across Europe, agricultural communities rallied against bureaucratic hurdles and restrictive environmental rules.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the fairgrounds buzzed with tension. Macron’s promise of change hung in the air, a delicate balance between political resolve and farmer fury.


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