Home Blog Page 260

Ottawa Paramedic Dispatch System Cuts ER Delays

Ottawa’s new paramedic dispatch system slashes ER offload delays and reduces level zero events, improving emergency response times citywide since April 2024.

Improved Offload Metrics After Dispatch Upgrade
In April 2024, the Ottawa Paramedic Service launched a medical priority dispatch system, allowing urgent cases to receive immediate crews while deferrable calls are scheduled later. This change has led to a significant drop in ER offload delays, easing pressure on both paramedics and emergency departments across the city.

Dramatic Reduction in ‘Level Zero’ Events
According to the 2024 Ottawa Paramedic Service Report, minutes spent at ‘level zero’—when no ambulances are available—fell from 52,995 in 2023 to 11,373 in 2024, down from 73,060 in 2022. The steep decline underscores how prioritizing critical calls and redirecting non-urgent ones can free up crews more consistently.

Hospital Programs Target Handover Bottlenecks
Ottawa hospitals have implemented multiple mitigation strategies aimed at speeding patient transfers:

  • Paramedic Response Unit: Single-paramedic vehicles assess and triage patients on scene.

  • Dedicated Offload Nurses: Specialized ER staff receive care handovers directly from paramedics.

  • Vertical ‘Fit 2 Sit’ Program: Nearly 4,500 stable patients were moved to waiting rooms, releasing crews sooner.

  • Targeted Diversion Clinics: Almost 900 individuals were taken to a specialized clinic instead of the ER.

Faster Emergency Responses Citywide
Paramedic response targets approved by City Council were met in 2024: life‑threatening calls reached within eight minutes, 75% of the time (up from 68% in 2023), and urgent calls arrived within 10 minutes, 76% of the time (up from 68.8%). Sudden cardiac arrest responses also improved, meeting the six‑minute target 70.2% of occasions.

Call Volumes and Staffing Trends
Last year, paramedics handled 121,461 calls—down from 127,107 in 2023—and completed 173,053 responses, compared with 193,127 the previous year. To support faster service, the city hired 14 new full‑time paramedics in 2023 and 28 in 2024, with budgeted funding for 27 additional stations in 2025.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Whistleblower Warned of Boeing 787 Flaws a Year Before Ahmedabad Crash

An Air India flight bound for London crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on Friday, in what is being described as one of the most devastating aviation tragedies in recent memory. The aircraft, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, was carrying 242 passengers and crew. Officials confirm that there is at least one survivor.

Among the passengers were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, one Canadian, and seven Portuguese nationals. The cause of the crash remains under active investigation by Air India and India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

The aircraft involved, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, is widely considered a flagship model for long-haul travel. Marketed as both fuel-efficient and technologically advanced, the Dreamliner has long been a point of pride for U.S.-based Boeing. However, this incident casts renewed scrutiny on the aircraft’s safety track record, particularly in light of past internal warnings.

Engineer’s Warning Echoes After Tragedy

Last year, Boeing engineer Sam Salehpour alleged serious structural flaws in the 787’s construction. With nearly two decades at Boeing, Salehpour claimed that manufacturing defects — particularly gaps in the fuselage assembly — could compromise the aircraft’s structural integrity over time. He told the U.S. Senate that these flaws could lead to premature wear and, in worst-case scenarios, catastrophic failure.

Salehpour also accused Boeing of retaliating against him for raising concerns, transferring him involuntarily to a different aircraft program. His lawyers stated that Boeing “chose speed and profits over safety,” ignoring the issues he flagged.

Boeing has strongly denied the allegations, expressing continued confidence in the Dreamliner’s safety. A statement issued by the company reiterated that the aircraft model “meets all regulatory standards,” and denied any retaliation against Salehpour.

Following the whistleblower’s testimony, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration launched an inquiry. While the FAA concluded that currently active Dreamliners were “in compliance with existing safety regulations,” it did not disclose further details about ongoing internal evaluations.

A Second Voice Raises Alarms

In June 2024, another whistleblower — Richard Cuevas, a contractor working with Spirit AeroSystems (a key Boeing supplier) — came forward. Cuevas alleged that his dismissal followed safety complaints related to the Dreamliner’s forward pressure bulkhead, a component critical for maintaining cabin pressure at altitude.

He has filed complaints with both the FAA and the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, asserting that the aircraft’s assembly inconsistencies were not only overlooked but misrepresented in public communications.

His attorneys argue that Cuevas’s observations, if accurate, raise serious questions about transparency and quality control within the Dreamliner program.

Boeing’s Response and Global Impact

In the wake of the Ahmedabad crash, Boeing has issued a brief statement expressing readiness to support Air India during the ongoing investigation. The manufacturer has not commented on whether prior safety warnings could be connected to this incident.

The flight’s crew reportedly issued a mayday call shortly after takeoff, but communication was lost soon after. The nature of the crash and the speed of the aircraft’s descent remain unclear.

This crash is already prompting renewed international scrutiny of Boeing, including from Canadian aviation safety officials who are monitoring the situation closely, given the Canadian national aboard and the model’s global usage.

More details are expected as black box data is recovered and analyzed.

Study Links Excessive Screen Time to Child Behavior Issues

A global study finds screen time fuels a harmful cycle in children, increasing emotional struggles and aggressive behavior while also being used as a coping tool.

New Research Uncovers Harmful Cycle of Screen Use

A sweeping global study published this week in the journal Psychological Bulletin has found that children who spend more time on screens—including phones, tablets, TVs, and gaming consoles—are at higher risk of developing emotional and behavioral issues. The findings reveal a troubling cycle: screens may cause problems like anxiety or aggression, but are also used by children to cope with those very issues.

Largest Review of Its Kind Offers Strong Evidence

Led by researchers at Queensland University, the meta-analysis reviewed more than 100 studies involving nearly 300,000 children under age 10 across several countries, including Canada, the U.S., Australia, and Germany. Each study tracked screen time and emotional outcomes over at least six months, offering the most comprehensive evidence to date on screen time’s impact on young children.

Gaming and Emotional Issues Closely Linked

The study found gaming consoles were particularly tied to emotional difficulties. While violent games weren’t solely to blame, time spent gaming—regardless of content—was more strongly linked to issues like low self-esteem and emotional dysregulation than passive screen use like watching TV or using educational apps. Boys were more likely to use gaming as an emotional escape, while girls showed a higher risk of emotional challenges from prolonged screen use.

Early Exposure and Excessive Use Raise Risks

Researchers observed that screen time under age two (excluding video chats) and exceeding one hour for ages 2–5 or two hours for older kids correlated with worsening outcomes. Children who regularly surpassed recommended screen time limits were significantly more likely to develop socio-emotional problems, including sleep disruption, social withdrawal, and aggressive behavior.

Experts Urge Parents to Monitor and Engage

Dr. Michael Noetel, one of the study’s authors, emphasized that screen use often starts as a coping strategy but can turn into a self-reinforcing loop. Canadian digital literacy expert Kara Brisson-Boivin added that parents should look beyond quantity and focus on why children are turning to screens. She recommends co-viewing, discussing screen habits with children, and ensuring screens are not used as the default emotional crutch.

Canadian Guidelines and Parental Action Steps

According to the Canadian Paediatric Society, screens should be avoided entirely under age two and limited to one hour daily for children under five. Older children and teens should aim for no more than two hours per day, with screens turned off at least one hour before bedtime. Experts also advise removing devices from bedrooms at night to avoid sleep issues.

Signs Screen Use May Be Harmful

Warning signs include tantrums when devices are removed, loss of interest in other activities, or declining academic and social engagement. Brisson-Boivin stresses that while occasional screen use is acceptable, consistent reliance on it can be a red flag for deeper emotional struggles.

Empowering Kids to Self-Regulate

Rather than enforcing rigid rules, experts suggest involving children in creating screen time boundaries. “Kids are smart,” said Brisson-Boivin. “When we empower them to be the pilots of their own experience, we build trust and long-term media literacy.”

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Ottawa Cuts Beach Water Testing to Weekly Amid Criticism

Ottawa Public Health shifts beach water testing from daily to weekly, citing science and delays—critics call it risky and demand reinstatement of daily tests.

Health Officials Shift to Weekly Testing

Starting June 21, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) will reduce water quality testing at city beaches from daily to weekly, citing a desire to align with provincial standards. The decision follows a review of the agency’s beach water monitoring program and has sparked public concern over swimmer safety during the summer season.

Safety Rationale Behind the Change

According to Matthew Ruf, Safe Food and Water Program Manager at OPH, the daily test results were not “real-time” due to 24-hour lab processing delays. He emphasized the importance of environmental cues—such as recent rainfall, cloudy water, algae, or dead fish—as more immediate and reliable indicators of unsafe swimming conditions.

Critics Warn of Increased Health Risks

Laura Reinsborough, Executive Director of Ottawa Riverkeeper, sharply criticized the change, calling it a “huge step backwards.” She warned that reducing the frequency of testing could lead to greater exposure to harmful bacteria like E. coli, especially when visual surveys are relied on without lab-confirmed data.

Data Analysis Raises False Risk Concerns

Reinsborough cited her organization’s analysis of three years of data showing that a switch to weekly testing would produce an estimated 20% rate of inaccurate safety assessments. This could lead to beaches either being closed on safe days or open on unsafe ones, undermining public trust in beach advisories.

Public Demands Transparency and Action

In response, Ottawa Riverkeeper launched a petition to reinstate daily testing, garnering over 400 signatures in under 48 hours. The group argues that maintaining daily data is essential to help residents make informed decisions about when it is safe to swim, particularly during the busy summer months.

Water Safety Still a Priority, Says OPH

Despite criticism, OPH maintains that 85% of test results meet safety standards for E. coli. Officials believe that enhancing public awareness about non-testing risk factors will encourage residents to make more holistic safety decisions. However, they have not ruled out revisiting the policy if public concern persists.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Canadian Sikhs Face Threats as Modi G7 Invite Sparks Uproar

More than a dozen Canadian Sikhs are under assassination threat, advocacy group says, urging Ottawa to cancel Modi’s G7 invite and probe Indian interference.

Advocacy Group Warns of Assassination Threats in Canada

More than a dozen Canadian Sikhs are living under active threats to their lives, according to the World Sikh Organization (WSO). Speaking at a news conference on June 13 on Parliament Hill, WSO legal counsel Balpreet Singh said the threats originate from Indian intelligence agencies, raising urgent concerns about foreign interference and public safety.

Activists Demand Action Against Indian Interference

Joined by Sikh Federation (Canada) spokesperson Moninder Singh, the WSO is calling on the federal government to rescind Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation to next week’s G7 Summit. The activists are also demanding a public inquiry into Indian foreign interference, and the termination of intelligence-sharing agreements between Canada and India.

Surveillance and Fear Disrupt Daily Life

Both speakers described living under constant surveillance and police warnings. Moninder Singh revealed he had been forced to leave his home for months, make custody arrangements for his children with RCMP and child services, and avoid public events, including family weddings and school visits. Balpreet Singh said he has received at least six direct warnings from law enforcement about credible threats to his life in recent years.

Report Reveals Past Threat to Political Leader Jagmeet Singh

The conference followed a Global News report earlier Thursday that revealed former NDP leader Jagmeet Singh was also targeted by a suspected Indian government agent in 2023. The incident prompted police protection, though authorities no longer consider him under imminent threat. WSO representatives criticized the removal of his security detail, calling it a dangerous oversight.

Cross-Party Concern Over Safety and Sovereignty

Political figures across the spectrum expressed concern. Heather McPherson, NDP foreign affairs critic, called the alleged targeting of a sitting political leader a “clear indication of foreign interference.” Interim Conservative leader Andrew Scheer emphasized that threats to public officials should be taken seriously by national security agencies.

Liberal Divide Over Modi’s G7 Invitation

Prime Minister Mark Carney has defended India’s G7 presence, citing the country’s geopolitical importance amid global challenges. However, members of Carney’s own Liberal caucus raised concerns this week, reflecting growing unease within the government. While some MPs, including Charles Sousa, have defended the invitation, others see it as incompatible with national security concerns.

Backdrop of Deteriorating Canada-India Relations

Tensions between Ottawa and New Delhi have escalated since the 2023 assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh leader and pro-Khalistan activist, who was killed outside a B.C. gurdwara. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the RCMP alleged Indian agents were involved in the murder, a claim India has denied. The incident remains a flashpoint in bilateral relations.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Canada Faces Second-Worst Wildfire Season on Record

Canada’s 2024 wildfire season is already the second-worst on record, burning 3.7 million hectares as officials warn of more danger ahead.

Massive Area Burned by June Marks Historic Season

Canada’s 2024 wildfire season is shaping up to be the second most destructive in the country’s history, officials from Public Safety Canada confirmed during a technical briefing in Ottawa on June 13. As of this week, wildfires have scorched approximately 3.7 million hectares—a landmass six times the size of Prince Edward Island.

July Brings Heightened Risk in Western Canada

Federal officials warned that southern British Columbia, along with parts of the Northwest Territories and Yukon, faces the highest fire danger in July. Fire behavior is expected to intensify in those regions due to prevailing drought conditions and high fuel loads. The fire season’s severity mirrors that of 2023, the worst in recorded history.

Sixfold Increase Over Decade’s Seasonal Average

Typically, by mid-June, the 10-year average area burned in Canada sits around 800,000 hectares. This year’s figure already exceeds that by more than four times, and the fire season is far from over. Officials emphasized that the data suggests a sharp upward trend in both fire frequency and intensity across the country.

Extreme Heat to Persist Across Provinces

According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, higher-than-normal temperatures are forecast across much of the country through August. While elevated heat levels are expected particularly in provinces east of Manitoba, wildfire risk will remain most critical in central and western Canada, where conditions remain unusually dry.

Climate Conditions Driving Dangerous Fire Patterns

Experts attribute the record-breaking fire behavior to a combination of climate-driven temperature spikes, reduced precipitation, and shifting wind patterns. These conditions contribute to faster-spreading and harder-to-control wildfires. Officials have urged communities, especially in high-risk zones, to remain vigilant and to follow evacuation protocols if issued.

Government Response and Future Preparedness

Public Safety Canada stated it is coordinating with provincial agencies and Indigenous communities to strengthen fire response measures. Resources such as aerial firefighting units, cross-border support agreements, and emergency communications systems are being mobilized in preparation for further outbreaks through the summer.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Spotify, Google Cloud Outages Hit Thousands of Users

Major online services like Spotify, Discord, and Google Cloud were disrupted Thursday, with outages traced to a Google Cloud service issue.

Massive Outage Disrupts Major Online Platforms
On Thursday afternoon, June 13, widespread internet service disruptions impacted thousands of users across popular platforms including Spotify, Google Cloud, and Discord. According to outage monitoring site Downdetector, the peak of the disruption saw over 46,000 Spotify users, 14,000 Google Cloud users, and 11,000 Discord users reporting issues. The interruptions also affected services like Snapchat and Character.ai.

Root Cause Traced to Google Cloud Disruption
The outages were linked to a technical failure within Google Cloud, one of the world’s largest cloud computing providers. Cloudflare, a global content delivery and internet infrastructure company, confirmed the issue stemmed from a Google Cloud outage. “A limited number of services at Cloudflare use Google Cloud and were impacted,” the company said in a statement.

Service Providers Respond to Outage Reports
Google acknowledged the disruption in a brief public statement: “We are currently investigating a service disruption to some Google Cloud services,” a spokesperson said. While Amazon Web Services was initially mentioned in outage reports, AWS confirmed its systems were operating normally. Spotify representatives directed media inquiries to Google’s public status dashboard, signaling Google Cloud as the source of the issue.

Recovery Efforts Underway as Services Resume
By Thursday evening, Cloudflare reported gradual recovery across its affected services, including its Workers KV data storage tool. Downdetector also showed a decline in outage reports from affected platforms. Google’s Cloud status page continued to post live updates as engineers worked to resolve lingering service degradation.

Impact Underscores Web’s Cloud Dependency
The incident highlights the growing dependence on cloud service providers to support the global digital infrastructure. Google Cloud handles roughly 12% of the world’s cloud computing needs, trailing behind Amazon Web Services (30%) and Microsoft Azure (21%), according to Synergy Research Group. In 2018, Google claimed its infrastructure delivered 25% of worldwide internet traffic.

Not the First, and Likely Not the Last
While Thursday’s outage was disruptive, it is not without precedent. Major cloud outages have previously paralyzed web traffic—including a 2021 AWS failure and a Cloudflare incident in 2020. More recently, services like ChatGPT and X (formerly Twitter) have also experienced brief but noticeable disruptions. As more global platforms rely on centralized cloud systems, the ripple effect of any service failure continues to grow.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

King Charles Visits Canada Amid Rising U.S. Tensions

King Charles begins a symbolic Canada visit as Trump stirs controversy with talk of annexation. Ottawa stresses sovereignty during the monarch’s two-day stay.

Royal Visit Highlights Canada’s Sovereignty

King Charles III arrived in Ottawa on Monday, June 10, marking his first official visit to Canada as head of state. The highly symbolic two-day trip aims to reinforce Canada’s sovereignty and cultural identity amid escalating tensions with the United States. Accompanied by Queen Camilla, the monarch’s visit comes at a time of intense diplomatic posturing following provocative remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Ceremonial Duties and Cultural Engagements

Charles, 76, who continues cancer treatment, began his trip with a series of public engagements, including a tree-planting ceremony at Rideau Hall and meetings with local community organizations. On Tuesday, he is set to deliver the Speech from the Throne at the State Opening of Parliament—only the second time in Canadian history a reigning monarch has done so. This ceremonial act underscores his constitutional role and signals solidarity with the current government’s national agenda.

Ottawa Responds to Trump’s Annexation Claim

The royal visit coincides with heightened political rhetoric from Donald Trump, who has repeatedly floated the idea of Canada becoming the United States’ 51st state—claims that are both unfounded and deeply unpopular in Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney, who campaigned on resisting Trump-era politics, emphasized in a recent statement that the King’s speech will support an “ambitious plan” for domestic reform and a “new economic and security relationship” with the U.S.—on Canadian terms.

Diplomatic Signal to Washington

The visit is widely seen as a coordinated message from both Buckingham Palace and Ottawa to reject any notions of U.S. overreach. Canada’s High Commissioner to the UK, Ralph Goodale, stated last week that the King would “reinforce the power and strength” of Canada’s sovereignty. The statement echoed Carney’s earlier remark to Trump: “Canada is not for sale. It won’t be for sale, ever.”

Balancing UK-U.S. Relations

The timing of the visit is diplomatically delicate. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly seeking closer cooperation with the U.S., particularly on Ukraine and trade, while King Charles must maintain neutrality. Sources from Buckingham Palace told UK media that the King and Queen are “mindful” of the gravity of the visit and hope it will be “short but impactful.”

Historic Yet Strategic Royal Moment

While short in duration, the King’s visit carries heavy political and symbolic weight. As Canada reasserts its independence on the world stage, the monarch’s presence highlights the strength of the constitutional bond while reinforcing the nation’s autonomy. With tensions high and the global spotlight focused on Ottawa, this royal visit may prove to be one of the most consequential in recent Canadian history.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Finfluencers vs. Financial Experts: Who Do Canadians Trust?

0

Who Are Canadians Really Listening To—Finfluencers or Financial Advisors?

In a country where money matters more than ever, the battle for Canadians’ trust in financial guidance is heating up. On one side are certified professionals with years of experience. On the other? A new wave of social media personalities—better known as finfluencers—who are reshaping how people learn about money. As financial literacy in Canada evolves, the question is no longer whether Canadians are seeking advice, but rather who they’re turning to—and why.

It turns out, for many, the answer isn’t as clear-cut as it used to be.

Rise of the Finfluencer: Authenticity Meets Accessibility

Armed with ring lights, quick tips, and relatable content, finfluencers have made financial education feel less intimidating. They simplify jargon, share personal wins (and losses), and often speak the same language as their followers. For young Canadians, especially those between 18–34, platforms like TikTok and Instagram are where financial journeys now begin.

A recent national survey revealed that over 40% of Canadians under 30 have followed a finfluencer for financial advice. For this group, trust is built not through credentials, but through consistency, relatability, and lived experience.

That said, not all finfluencers are created equal—some partner with banks, others push crypto schemes or risky investment products. While many offer useful content, others walk a fine line between education and entertainment.

Traditional Experts Still Hold Ground—Especially Among Older Canadians

Despite the digital shift, traditional financial advisors, planners, and banking professionals haven’t lost relevance. In fact, 65% of Canadians over 40 say they still rely on certified professionals for their long-term financial decisions. The key factor? Accountability. Unlike finfluencers, financial advisors are regulated and required to act in their clients’ best interests.

In times of market volatility, people often look for advice that’s grounded in experience and data—not hype. For complex decisions like retirement planning, estate management, or navigating tax laws, Canadians continue to value the expertise of professionals.

The Trust Divide: What’s Driving It?

So, why do younger Canadians gravitate towards finfluencers while older Canadians lean toward advisors? Several factors are at play:

  • Accessibility: Finfluencers offer free, bite-sized advice available 24/7.

  • Tone and Style: Social media content feels informal, human, and personal—something traditional institutions often lack.

  • Representation: Many finfluencers come from diverse backgrounds and share stories that feel culturally relevant and inclusive.

  • Cost: Professional advice often comes at a price. For those just starting out, that can be a barrier.

However, that trust can be fragile. Once burned by poor advice, followers often retreat toward more established voices.

Can They Coexist?

The smart money is on hybrid models. Many advisors are now building personal brands on platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn to reach new audiences. Meanwhile, reputable finfluencers are seeking certification or collaborating with licensed professionals to boost their credibility.

Canada’s financial literacy landscape doesn’t have to be a battleground—it can be a partnership. As long as the advice is transparent, fact-based, and ethical, there’s room for both old-school and new-school approaches.

Final Thoughts

The truth is, finfluencers are here to stay—but they’re not replacing financial advisors anytime soon. They’re reshaping how financial education is delivered, not necessarily who Canadians trust with their most critical money moves.

In the end, financial trust in Canada is built on clarity, transparency, and consistency—whether that comes from an expert in a suit or a creator with a smartphone.

Top AI & Machine Learning Courses in Canada (2025 Guide)

Your 2025 Guide to the Best AI & Machine Learning Courses in Canada

If you’re looking to build a career in artificial intelligence, Canada should be high on your radar. The country has emerged as a global hub for tech innovation—and more importantly, offers some of the most comprehensive AI courses Canada has to offer. Whether you’re an aspiring data scientist or a seasoned engineer aiming to specialize in machine learning courses, Canadian institutions are serving up world-class programs worth exploring.

From intensive bootcamps to graduate-level certifications, there’s no shortage of learning options tailored to different experience levels and goals. Even better? Many of these programs are backed by cutting-edge research and strong industry partnerships—giving you not just theory but hands-on experience with real-world tools.

Why Canada Is a Top Destination for AI Education

Canada isn’t just home to snow-covered peaks and poutine—it’s also home to a booming AI industry. Cities like Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Edmonton are brimming with AI startups, research labs, and innovation hubs. Institutions in these cities offer direct access to industry experts, live projects, and mentorship from leaders in the field.

So if you’re serious about AI, studying in Canada gives you more than a degree. It offers a launchpad into an industry that’s shaping the future.

Top AI & Machine Learning Programs You Should Consider

  1. University of Toronto – Master of Science in Applied Computing (AI Specialization)
    One of Canada’s top-ranked universities offers a program focused on machine learning, data science, and practical industry exposure. Students complete internships at companies like Google, NVIDIA, and Shopify.
  2. University of British Columbia (UBC) – Master of Data Science (MDS)
    UBC’s MDS program focuses heavily on statistical models, programming, and real-world machine learning applications. It’s a 10-month full-time program that blends academic rigor with hands-on learning.
  3. Mila – Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute (Montreal)
    Founded by AI pioneer Yoshua Bengio, Mila is a powerhouse in deep learning research. It collaborates with McGill University and Université de Montréal, offering AI research opportunities, internships, and deep learning-focused education.
  4. University of Alberta – MSc in Computing Science (Machine Learning Track)
    The University of Alberta is globally recognized for AI research. Its faculty is home to key contributors to the development of reinforcement learning, a subfield of AI. The machine learning track offers a strong theoretical foundation.
  5. York University – Certificate in Machine Learning
    For working professionals, this part-time program provides a flexible yet rigorous introduction to key AI and machine learning concepts. Ideal if you’re looking to upskill while staying employed.
  6. Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) – AI and Machine Learning Certificate
    Offered through the Chang School of Continuing Education, this course is designed for developers and IT professionals who want a fast-track, project-based AI experience.
  7. Vector Institute – Scholarships & Industry Programs
    Vector partners with several Ontario universities to support master’s-level AI education. They offer scholarships, research projects, and industry placements that link students with companies working on advanced AI problems.

What You’ll Learn in These Courses

Across these programs, you’ll find some common threads—no matter your level. Expect to dive into:

  • Supervised and unsupervised learning 
  • Neural networks and deep learning 
  • Natural language processing (NLP) 
  • Computer vision 
  • Reinforcement learning 
  • Data preprocessing and model evaluation 
  • Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, and other tools 

More advanced tracks may even explore AI ethics, algorithmic fairness, and edge computing.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right AI or machine learning program depends on your background, career goals, and learning style. The good news? Canada offers something for everyone—whether you’re after a full-time degree, a professional certificate, or a research opportunity. With global demand for AI talent only rising, these AI courses in Canada could be your best step forward.

So gear up, explore your options, and don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn from some of the world’s best minds in tech.

Surrey Man Killed in Targeted Shooting Had Clean Record

0

Satwinder Sharma, 56, was fatally shot while working in Surrey’s Fleetwood area. Police confirm he had no criminal history. Investigation ongoing.

Man Fatally Shot in Surrey Identified as Abbotsford Resident

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has identified the victim of a fatal shooting in Surrey, British Columbia, as 56-year-old Satwinder Sharma of Abbotsford. The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon, June 5, while Sharma was at work in Surrey’s Fleetwood neighbourhood.

Shooting Took Place Near Fleetwood Community Centre

The fatal shooting happened outside a business near the intersection of 160 Street and 84 Avenue—directly across from the Fleetwood Community Centre. The area is known for high pedestrian activity, especially during weekday afternoons.

Victim Had No Criminal History, Say Investigators

According to IHIT, Sharma had no known criminal background. “At this time, there is no indication that Mr. Sharma was involved in any criminal activity,” said Sgt. Freda Fong in a Thursday news release.

Police Say Attack Was Targeted, Motive Still Unknown

IHIT confirmed that Sharma appears to have been specifically targeted, though investigators have yet to determine a motive. Police continue to gather surveillance footage and witness statements from nearby businesses.

Emergency Crews Unable to Save Victim

Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures at the scene, but Sharma was pronounced dead shortly after their arrival. His sudden death in a public setting has left many in the local community in shock.

Officers Appeal for Public Assistance

Surrey Police cordoned off several businesses in the area following the shooting. IHIT is urging anyone with dashcam footage or information from around 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on June 5 to contact investigators or Crime Stoppers anonymously.

Family Grieves as Investigation Continues

IHIT says it is working closely with Sharma’s family, who are grieving the unexpected loss. “Our thoughts are with Mr. Sharma’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” said Sgt. Fong. Authorities continue to pursue all leads in what is now Surrey’s latest high-profile homicide case.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

NHL Fines Oilers’ Jake Walman After Game 3 Meltdown

NHL Hits Jake Walman with Double Fine After Fiery Game 3

Tensions boiled over as Jake Walman and the Edmonton Oilers crumbled in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final. The NHL fines came swiftly on Tuesday after Walman’s outburst in the third period against the Florida Panthers, a game that ended in a dominant 6-1 Florida win.

After falling behind early, Edmonton briefly rallied with a power-play goal from Corey Perry. However, Sam Reinhart answered quickly for Florida, and the Panthers never looked back. Their offensive onslaught gave them a 2-1 series lead, but the real drama unfolded in the final frame.

The Oilers completely lost their composure in the third period. They racked up 16 penalties, totaling an eye-popping 75 minutes. Two of those were on Walman, who was twice called for roughing after landing punches on Panthers’ forward Matthew Tkachuk. Then, adding insult to injury, Walman was caught on camera spraying water from the Oilers’ bench toward Florida’s bench.

The NHL’s Department of Player Safety acted fast. Walman was fined $5,000 for the roughing incident, the maximum allowed under the collective bargaining agreement. On top of that, he received another $5,000 fine for unsportsmanlike conduct tied to the water-squirting moment.

This marks a low point in an otherwise productive playoff run for Walman. The 29-year-old defenseman, who has logged eight points across the postseason, was expected to bring grit—not controversy—to Edmonton’s lineup.

His journey through the league has been anything but linear. Walman began with the St. Louis Blues, then moved to the Detroit Red Wings in 2022. In 2024, he was traded to the San Jose Sharks, and just months later, he landed in Edmonton at the trade deadline.

Now, with Game 4 looming on Thursday in Sunrise, Walman and the Oilers must regroup. The puck drops at 8 p.m. ET, and Edmonton will aim to level the series before momentum swings too far in Florida’s favor.