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Claim Your Share: Navigating the $500-Million Bread Price-Fixing Settlement

  Canadians who purchased packaged bread between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2021 , may be eligible for compensation from a $500-million class-action settlement . This lawsuit accused major grocery chains, including Loblaw Companies Ltd. and George Weston Ltd. , of participating in a price-fixing scheme that artificially inflated bread prices. Who Can Apply? Eligible claimants include individuals and businesses that bought packaged bread in Canada during the specified period. The settlement covers most packaged bread products , but excludes fresh in-store baked goods, artisan loaves, and frozen bread. How to File a Claim Once the settlement process is finalized, an online claims porta l will be available for submissions. Claimants will need to provide details about their bread purchases, though proof of purchase is not required for claims up to $25 . Those who previously received a $25 Loblaw gift card  in 2018–2019 can still apply, but the gift card amount will be deduc...

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Canada Expects Hotter-Than-Average Summer with Elevated Wildfire Risk

 

Canada is bracing for a hotter-than-usual summer, accompanied by slightly below-average precipitation in central regions. Government officials issued this warning on Tuesday, signaling little relief from ongoing drought and an elevated risk of wildfires.

Last year, Canada faced its worst-ever fire season, with over 6,600 blazes scorching 15 million hectares—an area approximately seven times the annual average. Factors such as low snowfall during an abnormally warm winter and widespread drought prompted authorities to caution that 2024 could be another “catastrophic” year for fires.

While the 2024 fire season has been quieter so far, with 511,000 hectares burned year-to-date across Canada (compared to 4.7 million hectares at the same point in 2023), wildfire activity typically intensifies during July and August.

Key Points:

  1. Weather Models: Meteorologists predict warmer-than-normal temperatures across most of the country over the next three months. However, reliable precipitation forecasts are challenging, except for central Canada and the British Columbia coast.

  2. Drought Conditions: Despite recent rain improving drought conditions in some areas, 45% of the country remains abnormally dry.

  3. Air Quality Advisory System: In response to last summer’s feedback, the federal Environment Ministry is introducing a new air quality advisory system and daily smoke forecast maps to inform Canadians about health risks from wildfire smoke.

As Canadians prepare for the upcoming season, vigilance and readiness are crucial. A warmer summer, combined with drier conditions, heightens the risk of wildfires and smoke. Let’s stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect our communities and natural landscapes.


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