The Decibel

In this discussion, health reporter Kelly Grant and business of healthcare reporter Chris Hannay dive into the challenges that cancer patients face in accessing vital therapies like CAR-T drugs. They explore the complexities of Canada's drug approval and pricing processes, detailing why even approved treatments can take years to reach patients. The duo highlights the stark implications of these delays through personal stories, underscoring the urgent need for reforms to prioritize patient access over bureaucratic hurdles.

Jeff York, the Africa Bureau Chief at The Globe and Mail, shares his insights on the ongoing conflict in Sudan and the UAE's controversial role in supplying arms. He discusses the staggering human toll, with millions displaced and the atrocities committed by the RSF. York unveils evidence linking the UAE to the RSF, highlighting geopolitical motives involving Sudanese gold. Despite calls for accountability, foreign leaders remain hesitant to confront the UAE. The conversation delves into the dire humanitarian crisis and the bleak prospects for peace in the region.

International correspondent Nathan VanderKlippe delves into the explosive release of Jeffrey Epstein's documents. He discusses how these revelations highlight connections to Donald Trump and the ensuing public outcry. VanderKlippe explores the shifting dynamics within Trump's base and the Canadian figures linked to Epstein, including the controversial scientist Lawrence Krauss. With insights into the political implications and the effects on Trump's presidency, this conversation unpacks a scandal that continues to captivate audiences across North America.

Join Kate Helmore, a food policy reporter at The Globe and Mail, as she unpacks the soaring prices of beef in Canada. She delves into the impact of severe drought on ranchers, leading to significant herd declines and sky-high retail costs. Kate explains how this has affected both consumers and restaurants, and discusses the challenges of rebuilding the national herd in the coming years. She also touches on the role of meatpacking consolidation and explores potential policy options to support ranchers in this turbulent time.

In this discussion, retailing reporter Susan Krashinsky Robertson unpacks the failed bid of B.C. billionaire Ruby Liu to acquire former Hudson’s Bay leases. Liu, known for her real estate prowess but lacking major retail experience, envisioned revitalizing the Bay. The conversation reveals intense landlord skepticism, courtroom drama, and Liu's controversial practices, including discrepancies in hiring commitments. The implications of this case on future lease assignments also emerge, leaving listeners curious about Liu’s next moves.

Adam Radwanski, a feature writer and policy columnist for The Globe and Mail, joins to discuss Prime Minister Mark Carney's new nation-building projects aimed at rejuvenating Canada's economy. The focus is on strategic sectors like energy and mining, sparking vital conversations about the role of the new Major Projects Office. Radwanski explores why certain projects were chosen, the significance of critical minerals, and the complexities of resource development, including the Cilicims LNG proposal that faces legal challenges.

Salmaan Farooqui, a personal finance reporter at The Globe and Mail, dives into the Canadian rental market. He reveals Edmonton as the top renter-friendly city, thanks to its affordability. Prairie cities are highlighted for offering great opportunities and lower costs. Farooqui discusses the impact of new housing completions on rent in Vancouver and the unexpected migration trends towards Alberta for cheaper rentals. He also shares insights on current rental dynamics, suggesting renters can negotiate deals while they last.

In this discussion, Campbell Clark, chief political writer at The Globe and Mail, dives into the recent turmoil within the Conservative Party as two MPs defect. He explores the implications of Chris d’Entremont’s floor crossing to the Liberals and Matt Jeneroux's resignation, emphasizing the fragility of the minority government. Campbell analyzes why MPs choose to switch sides, past defections, and the potential consequences for Pierre Poilievre's leadership. This upheaval also provides Mark Carney with a unique opportunity to advance his agenda.

Justine Hunter, a BC politics reporter for The Globe and Mail, discusses a groundbreaking B.C. Supreme Court ruling granting Cowichan First Nation title to 800 acres, including private land. She explains how this decision complicates the balance between Aboriginal and private property rights, raising governance questions and causing local uproar. Hunter highlights the potential for negotiations between the Crown and Cowichan, the implications for other Canadian land claims, and the overarching need for clarity in Indigenous rights as the nation navigates reconciliation.

James Bradshaw, an institutional investing reporter for The Globe and Mail, joins to discuss Canada’s ambitious plans for a $500 billion boost in private investment. He breaks down Canada’s productivity issues, emphasizing the importance of firm investments for economic growth. The conversation covers the 'productivity super deduction' aimed at incentivizing businesses to reinvest, as well as challenges like U.S. tariffs and regulatory hurdles. Bradshaw also notes how infrastructure spending is expected to attract private capital and the cautious optimism from business leaders about these changes.