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Winter Tires: Essential Insights for Safe Winter Driving

  Life as a driver in Canada can be costly, and the debate over the necessity of winter tires is ongoing. Here are some key points to consider: Winter Tire Benefits : Winter tires, marked with the alpine symbol, offer superior traction in icy and snowy conditions. They have wide tread grooves and soft rubber compounds that remain pliable in freezing temperatures, significantly improving safety. Cost and Usage : While winter tires can be expensive, ranging from $800 to $2,000, they are a worthwhile investment for those who drive frequently in winter conditions. All-season tires lose traction below 7°C, making winter tires a safer choice. Legal Requirements : Quebec mandates winter tires from Dec. 1 to March 15, and British Columbia requires them on most routes from Oct. 1 to April 30. Other provinces recommend but do not require them. Performance : Studies show that winter tires can reduce stopping distances by up to 30% compared to all-season tires, enhancing overall vehicle safety dur

Federal Contracting Scandal: The ArriveCan App Controversy


  • Contracting Overview: Three companies involved in the ArriveCan app development received over $1-billion in federal contracts since 2011. The firms, Coradix Technology Consulting, Dalian Enterprises, and GCStrategies, have been suspended pending investigations into alleged misconduct.

  • Parliamentary Scrutiny: The sharp increase in federal outsourcing, from approximately $8-billion in 2016 to over $21-billion last year, has led to parliamentary scrutiny. Allegations include inflated résumés and a reliance on IT staffing firms that subcontract work for commissions.

  • Indigenous Procurement Strategy: Dalian, an aboriginally owned company, partnered with Coradix for contracts under the federal Procurement Strategy for Indigenous Business. Audits are underway to ensure compliance with program rules.

  • Conflict of Interest Concerns: Revelations of conflict of interest have emerged, including a case where a public servant was involved with a contracting company. The Treasury Board disclosed 162 conflict-of-interest declarations for the 2023-24 fiscal year, with ongoing reviews.

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