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Canada’s Jobless Rate Rises to 6.8% Despite December Hiring

          A employee sorts batteries on a conveyor belt at a recycling facility in Port Colborne, Ontario. Canada’s unemployment rate climbed to 6.8% in December , even though the economy added 8,200 jobs during the month. The increase in unemployment wasn’t driven by widespread layoffs but by a surge in the number of people entering the labour force and actively looking for work. December Highlights Unemployment rate: Up from 6.5% to 6.8% Employment: Net gain of 8,200 jobs Labour force: Expanded significantly, outpacing job creation Full-time work: Increased Part-time work: Declined Why the Rate Rose Economists point out that the rise in unemployment reflects renewed labour market participation , not a weakening economy. More Canadians felt confident enough to start job hunting, but hiring didn’t keep pace with the influx of job seekers. This marks the fourth straight month of employment growth , yet December also saw the largest increas...

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Seniors Express Frustration Over Exclusion from Federal $250 Cheque Program

 

A growing number of seniors are voicing outrage after discovering they are ineligible for a new federal initiative aimed at distributing $250 relief cheques to certain low-income groups. The program, designed to address rising costs of living, has left many older Canadians feeling overlooked, particularly those on fixed incomes who say they are struggling to make ends meet.

The federal government announced the plan as part of its broader effort to support vulnerable populations during a period of economic uncertainty. However, eligibility criteria for the cheques prioritize younger low-income households and families, excluding many seniors who fall just outside the income thresholds.

“It’s disappointing,” said one senior from Toronto. “We’re already dealing with skyrocketing prices for essentials like food and medication, and now we’re being left behind.” Advocacy groups, including the Canadian Association for Retired Persons (CARP), have called on the government to expand the program to include older adults, arguing that they face unique financial pressures.

A government spokesperson defended the plan, stating it targets those deemed most in need, but indicated that additional measures to support seniors might be introduced in the future. For now, many older Canadians are calling for immediate action to ensure they are not left out of critical relief efforts.


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