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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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Southern Europe Battles Intense Heat Wave: Acropolis Closed, Firefighters Perish in Italy

 

A severe heat wave sweeping across southern Europe has led to significant disruptions and tragic losses. In Greece, authorities were compelled to close the Acropolis, the nation’s most iconic cultural site, for several hours on Wednesday due to soaring temperatures. Tourists visiting the Parthenon temple atop the Acropolis faced extreme heat, with temperatures forecasted to reach up to 42°C (107°F) in some areas.

Meanwhile, in Italy, the heat wave has had deadly consequences. Two firefighters tragically lost their lives while combating a fire in the Basilicata region. The Italian government has issued severe heat warnings for multiple cities, including Palermo and Sicily, urging residents, especially the elderly, to stay indoors.

The heat wave, driven by hot air masses from Africa, is expected to persist through the weekend, with temperatures potentially peaking at 43°C (109°F). Other countries in the region, such as Albania and North Macedonia, are also grappling with wildfires and extreme heat, prompting emergency responses and international assistance.

As southern Europe continues to endure these extreme conditions, authorities are taking measures to protect both residents and tourists from the relentless heat.



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