The Decibel

The allure of Hallmark Christmas films draws viewers into a whimsical world often set in the fictional town of Almonte. Discover how this picturesque location has transformed into a holiday hotspot, with 24 movies filmed there in recent years. Hear the inspiring story of a woman who transitioned from employee to bookstore owner during the pandemic. Experience the vibrant community spirit during events like 'Light Up the Night' and explore the enchanting Cedar Hill Christmas Tree Farm, where holiday magic truly thrives.

John Ibbitson, a seasoned columnist for The Globe and Mail, dives deep into the turmoil facing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Liberal Party. He sheds light on Chrystia Freeland's resignation and the ensuing power struggles. The discussion covers a shocking $20 billion budget deficit from the Fall Economic Statement, raising red flags about Canada’s fiscal future. Ibbitson also explores the implications of recent by-election losses and strategies the Liberals might adopt as they gear up for the 2025 elections.

In this discussion, investigative reporters Grant Robertson and Kathryn Blaze Baum delve into the harrowing Canadian listeria outbreak linked to plant-based milks, which tragically resulted in three deaths. They uncover the alarming fact that the food facility associated with the outbreak hadn't been inspected for years, raising serious questions about Canada's food safety protocols. The duo explains the failures of a new inspection algorithm that was supposed to prioritize high-risk sites but instead overlooked crucial inspections, highlighting the profound impact on affected families.

Marieke Walsh, a seasoned political reporter for The Globe and Mail, delves into the tumultuous resignation of Chrystia Freeland as Canada’s finance minister. She discusses the surprising tensions between Freeland and Prime Minister Trudeau and their implications for the Liberal Party. Walsh highlights the chaotic atmosphere in Parliament and the sudden appointment of a new finance minister. The conversation touches on public skepticism surrounding economic measures and the broader challenges Trudeau faces amid calls for his leadership to be reassessed.

In this discussion, Patrick Brethour, Editorials Editor at The Globe and Mail, reveals key findings from the editorial board on Canada's immigration system. He dives into the recent government decision to cut immigration targets, addressing public concerns over its impact on the economy and labor force. The conversation also critiques the reliance on temporary foreign workers to fill labor gaps and highlights the urgent need for reforms to streamline processes and improve the integration of newcomers amidst rising challenges.

Mark MacKinnon, Senior International Correspondent for The Globe, discusses the surprising fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime after 13 years of civil war. He highlights the celebrations among Syrians amidst the chaos and the multifaceted power struggle involving global players like Iran, Turkey, the U.S., and Russia. MacKinnon delves into the origins of the uprising, the role of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, and the complicated future for refugees weighing their return against ongoing instability. An eye-opening exploration of a pivotal moment in Syrian history!

John Ibbitson, a seasoned reporter and columnist for The Globe and Mail, joins health reporter Kelly Grant to discuss their book, ‘A Nation's Paper.’ They delve into the newspaper's 180-year influence on Canada’s history, highlighting its pioneering coverage from the 1918 Spanish flu to the COVID-19 pandemic. They reflect on the challenges of media representation during crises and the evolving societal perceptions of immigration. Their engaging insights reveal the complex relationship between journalism and the Canadian narrative.

Susan Krashinsky Robertson, a Globe business reporter, shares her insights on Librela, the controversial arthritis drug for dogs. Some pet owners celebrate its effects, claiming happier, more comfortable pets. However, troubling cases of adverse reactions, including severe lethargy and even death, raise serious concerns. Krashinsky discusses her interviews with pet owners and veterinarians, revealing a critical divide about the drug's safety and the need for better communication in veterinary care. The growing popularity of Librela prompts a closer examination of its risks and regulatory practices.

Jeff Gray, a seasoned journalist covering Ontario politics for The Globe and Mail, joins to discuss Premier Doug Ford's controversial plan to dismantle homeless encampments. He explores the government's proposed legislation allowing police to arrest individuals refusing to leave these camps. There's a deep dive into the implications of invoking the notwithstanding clause, sparking debate over legal rights versus public safety. Gray also highlights the challenges mayors face in balancing mental health support against the backdrop of rising homelessness.

André Picard, health columnist for The Globe, dives into the urgent implications of the recent avian flu cases, including Canada’s first human infection. He discusses alarming transmission rates among species, like pigs and poultry, and the economic impact on livestock. Picard emphasizes the crucial need for pandemic preparedness, drawing lessons from COVID-19. He also highlights strategies for preventing the virus's spread, including biosecurity measures and vaccine development challenges. This discussion calls for heightened vigilance against future outbreaks.