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Statistics Canada Begins Major Workforce Overhaul, Cutting 850 Positions

    Statistics Canada says it will be cutting around 850 of its staff along with 12 per cent of its executive team. Statistics Canada is moving ahead with a major restructuring that will see roughly 850 jobs eliminated , including a portion of its executive ranks. The agency confirmed that it has entered a formal workforce adjustment period, with affected employees set to receive notices over the next two weeks. The cuts are part of a broader federal initiative to reduce public service spending. With more than 7,200 employees as of early 2025, Statistics Canada is among several departments facing significant downsizing as the government seeks long‑term budget efficiencies. Union representatives have raised concerns about the impact on the agency’s ability to maintain the quality and timeliness of national data. Management, however, has emphasized that voluntary departures and early retirement incentives will be used where possible to ease the transition. The announcement m...
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Peak of Sensitive Cherry Blossoms in Toronto Faces Frost Threat

 

As Toronto eagerly anticipates the annual cherry blossom peak, a sudden threat looms overhead. The delicate cherry blossoms, known for their vibrant displays, are at risk due to the possibility of frost. With overnight lows expected to dip below freezing and little to no wind, the potential frost could jeopardize the blossoms’ beauty

The High Park cherry blossoms are currently in their most sensitive stage regarding weather threats, specifically frost. As of April 19, they reached Stage 5, with a minority of sakura flowers having opened up in the park, representing nearly 20% growth. However, warmer weather is needed for them to enter full bloom. Other parts of the city, including near the University of Toronto, have already experienced trees in full bloom as early as April 15 this year.

Unfortunately, frost poses a hazard to the quality of this year’s bloom. In previous years, extreme cold temperatures led to disappointing displays. For instance, in 2016, 14 consecutive frosts during the first half of April resulted in only a 25% peak bloom in early May. Two years later, the situation was even worse, with three consecutive frosts late into April after a 10-day mild stretch. The killing frost materialized during the flower’s most sensitive stage, causing the bloom to fail to materialize.

The critical temperature for cherry blossoms is colder than -2°C, beyond which damage can occur. Let’s hope that this year’s flowers prove extra resilient as Toronto faces back-to-back consecutive frosts and another forecasted event that may impact the bloom. 

If you’re in Toronto, consider visiting High Park this weekend to witness the cherry blossoms for yourself. Fingers crossed that Mother Nature is kind to these delicate blooms! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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