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Trump Signals Iran War Deal ‘Soon’ as Strait of Hormuz Stays Open, Easing Market Fears

                                   U.S. President Donald Trump said a deal to end the Iran war could come “soon,”   President Donald Trump said a deal to end the Iran war could come “soon,” a comment that helped calm global markets as the vital Strait of Hormuz remains open to commercial shipping. The waterway, which handles roughly one‑fifth of the world’s oil supply, has been a central concern for investors since the conflict began. With tankers continuing to move through the strait, oil prices have stabilized after weeks of volatility. Analysts note that even the perception of reduced risk in the region can ease pressure on global inflation, particularly in energy‑dependent economies like Canada. For Canadian households, a more stable oil market could help limit further increases in gasoline, transportation, and food costs. Equity markets reacted cautiously but positively,...
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Return to Office Linked to Surge in Public Servant Sick Days


Sick Leave on the Rise Among Federal Workers Post-Pandemic

New data from the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat reveals a steady increase in the number of sick days taken by federal public servants since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the remote work peak in 2020–21, public servants averaged just 5.9 sick days. But as in-person work resumed, that number climbed to 8.1 in 2021–22, 8.8 in 2022–23, and reached 9.2 days in 2023–24.

Experts suggest several factors behind the uptick. Dr. Alykhan Abdulla, a family physician, attributes the rise to increased exposure to illness, delayed access to healthcare, and mental health challenges. He also notes that during the pandemic, many employees worked from home while mildly ill, avoiding formal sick leave.

Departments like the Canada Border Services Agency and Correctional Service Canada consistently reported the highest sick leave usage. A recent survey indicated that employees in these agencies were among the least likely to recommend their workplace, hinting at deeper systemic issues.

As the federal government continues to push for more in-office work, the growing number of sick days may signal a need to reassess workplace health policies and support systems.


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