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Air Transat Faces Flight Suspensions Amid Pilot Strike Notice

  Air Transat has announced it will gradually suspend flights starting Monday following a 72-hour strike notice issued by its pilots’ union. The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), representing roughly 700 pilots, delivered the notice after nearly a year of unsuccessful negotiations with the airline’s parent company, Transat A.T. Inc. Background The union filed the strike notice on Sunday, giving pilots the legal right to walk off the job as early as Wednesday. Last week, pilots voted 99% in favor of strike action , underscoring their frustration over stalled contract talks. ALPA leaders emphasized that pilots do not want to strike but feel compelled to act after management failed to meet demands for a modernized agreement. Airline Response Air Transat confirmed it will begin suspending flights gradually between December 8 and 9 to prepare for a possible full shutdown. The company stated it is working “around the clock” to reach a deal and minimize disruption for trave...

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Bank of Canada’s Rate Decision Hangs in the Balance Amid Trade Turmoil and Election Uncertainty

The Bank of Canada is facing a tough call on its latest interest rate decision, with market expectations nearly split between a rate cut and a pause. The central bank has already made seven consecutive cuts since June 2024, bringing its policy rate to 2.75%. However, ongoing trade tensions with the U.S. and uncertainty surrounding the upcoming federal election have complicated the outlook.

Recent inflation data showed a slowdown, with March’s annual inflation rate cooling to 2.3%. This has given policymakers more room to consider another rate cut, but concerns remain about the broader economic impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian businesses and consumers. Some economists argue that a cut is necessary to cushion the economy, while others warn that holding steady might be the safer move.

Governor Tiff Macklem has acknowledged the “pervasive uncertainty” created by shifting trade policies, stating that multiple economic outcomes remain plausible. With consumer confidence shaken and the housing market struggling, the Bank’s decision today could have significant ripple effects across the economy.

Will the Bank of Canada opt for another cut, or will it hold firm in the face of uncertainty? The answer will shape Canada’s economic trajectory in the months ahead.

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