Newsroom - Experts /newsroom/channels_item/20 en Experts: Canadian federal government deficit /newsroom/node/314907 <p>The federal government’s deficit for the 2023-2024 fiscal year that ended in March 2024 was announced Monday. It was $61.9 billion, significantly higher than the $40.1 billion deficit that had been promised.</p> <p>SM has experts who can share their insights on this subject: </p> <p><b>Julian Vikan Karaguesian </b>is a lecturer in the Department of Economics at SM and worked for Canadian<b> </b>Ministry of Finance for more than 25 years.</p> Tue, 17 Dec 2024 17:02:29 +0000 SM Experts: Resignation of Canadian Finance Minister /newsroom/node/314902 <p>Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland has resigned from cabinet, but said she will continue as a member of Parliament. In her announcement, she cited differences with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau over economic policy and responses to American economic nationalism, and said the prime minister had told her that he no longer wanted her to remain Minister of Finance.<br /> <br /> SM has an expert who can share his insights on this subject: </p> Mon, 16 Dec 2024 16:17:55 +0000 SM Expert: Newfoundland and Labrador, Quebec reach Churchill Falls hydro deal   /newsroom/node/314896 <p>The provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador and Quebec have reached a tentative deal regarding power generated by the Churchill Falls development. It would replace an agreement that has been a sore point for Newfoundland and Labrador. The new deal would provide long-term security for Quebec and would see the two provinces work together on a future hydro-electric development.   </p> <p>SM has an expert who can share his insights on this subject:    </p> Thu, 12 Dec 2024 19:15:32 +0000 SM Experts: 2024 Holiday Season /newsroom/node/314889 <p>Winter brings its own set of health risks, from slips and falls to snow-shovelling heart strain, as well as seasonal weight gain and illnesses from gatherings or travel.</p> <p><a href="/newsroom/mitch-shulman"><b>Mitch Shulman</b></a><b>, MD, Associate Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine, and attending physician, Montreal General and Royal Victoria hospitals,</b> can share his expertise on preventing winter injuries, recognizing and managing heart-attack symptoms and staying healthy through the holiday season.</p> Tue, 10 Dec 2024 19:38:40 +0000 SM Expert: Syria and fall of President Bashar al-Assad  /newsroom/node/314885 <p>President Bashar al-Assad fled to Moscow after opposition fighters occupied the capital, Damascus, early on Sunday morning. SM has an expert who can share his insights on this subject:  </p> <p><strong><a href="/politicalscience/daniel-douek" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Daniel Douek</a> is Faculty Lecturer</strong> in the Department of Political Science. </p> <p><span class="spamspan"><span class="u">Daniel.douek</span> [at] <span class="d">mcgill.ca</span><span class="e"><!--target="_blank"--></span></span> (English, French) </p> Mon, 09 Dec 2024 16:06:26 +0000 SM Expert: Jump in Canadian unemployment rate   /newsroom/node/314883 <p>Statistics Canada announced today that the unemployment rate reached 6.8 per cent in November, the highest level since January 2017, apart from during the pandemic years.  SM has an expert who can share his insights on this subject: </p> <p><a href="/economics/fabian-lange" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Fabian Lange,</a> Professor and Canada Research Chair in Labour and Personnel Economics, Department of Economics. His expertise includes labour economics, earnings inequality and health and population economics. </p> Fri, 06 Dec 2024 19:55:35 +0000 SM Experts: Random police traffic checks /newsroom/node/314879 <p>Quebec’s Minister of Justice announced the province plans to ask the Supreme Court of Canada to overturn a decision made by Quebec's Court of Appeal earlier this year banning random police traffic checks because they violate Charter rights and can lead to racial profiling.</p> <p>SM has experts who are available to share their insights on the subject:</p> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 21:18:28 +0000 SM Experts: Protecting children from online harms /newsroom/node/314877 <p><b>Experts: Protecting children from online harms</b></p> <p>The Canadian government announced Wednesday it is splitting the online harms bill in two to speed up passage of measures to protect children from online predators and other perils.</p> <p>These experts from SM are available to share their insights:</p> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 15:58:41 +0000 SM Expert: Mental health declining among Quebec high school students, report finds /newsroom/node/314856 <p>A report released today by <a href="https://statistique.quebec.ca/en/communique/eleves-secondaire-plan-psychologique?utm_source=dialoginsight&amp;utm_medium=email">Institut de la statistique du Québec </a>finds that mental health issues are on the rise among high school students. The data indicate that rates of anxiety, depression, ADHD and other issues have been increasing since 2010.</p> Wed, 27 Nov 2024 16:39:41 +0000 SM Expert: World AIDS Day 2024 /newsroom/node/314854 <p><a href="https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-aids-day/2024">World AIDS Day</a>, observed on Dec. 1, is a global effort to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS, which affects nearly 40 million people worldwide.</p> <p><a href="/familymed/bertrand-lebouche"><b>Bertrand Lebouché</b></a><b>, Associate Professor, Department of Family Medicine, and Clinician Scientist, Research Institute of the SM Health Centre, </b>can share his expertise on HIV prevention and improving patient care.</p> Tue, 26 Nov 2024 20:39:38 +0000 SM Experts: U.S. president-elect Donald Trump said he plans to impose a 25-per-cent tariff on all goods from Canada and Mexico /newsroom/node/314852 <p>Experts: U.S. president-elect Donald Trump said he plans to impose a 25-per-cent tariff on all goods from Canada and Mexico</p> <p>These experts from SM are available to share their insights:</p> <p><a href="/desautels/vivek-astvansh" title="/desautels/vivek-astvansh"><b>Vivek Astvansh</b></a><b>, Associate Professor, Desautels Faculty of Managemen</b>t, has expertise in Canada-U.S. trade relations, including supply chains, and in Canadian NATO defence spending.</p> Tue, 26 Nov 2024 17:28:42 +0000 SM Expert: The science behind seasonal mood changes /newsroom/node/314833 <p>Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression linked to the changing seasons, particularly during fall and winter when daylight hours decrease. The reduced sunlight and lower vitamin D levels can lead to changes in mood, energy and sleep patterns. As well, the recent change back to standard time from daylight savings can disrupt circadian rhythms, with similar results.  </p> Mon, 18 Nov 2024 21:32:18 +0000 SM Expert: Quebec to ban heating with fossil-fuel natural gas by 2040  /newsroom/node/314839 <p>The Quebec government recently announced its plan to prohibit heating homes with fossil-fuel natural gas by 2040 as part of its broader efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. </p> <p>An expert from SM is available to comment on this topic:  </p> Tue, 19 Nov 2024 19:25:17 +0000 SM Expert: The war in Ukraine /newsroom/node/314837 <p>After receiving U.S. permission to do so, Ukraine is firing long-range missiles supplied by the United States into Russia for the first time, senior U.S. and Ukrainian officials have said.</p> <p><a href="/politicalscience/maria-popova"><b>Maria Popova</b></a><b>, Associate Professor, Jean Monnet Chair, Department of Political Science</b> at SM is available to share her insights.</p> <p><span class="spamspan"><span class="u">Maria.popova</span> [at] <span class="d">mcgill.ca</span></span> (English, Russian, Spanish)</p> Tue, 19 Nov 2024 16:06:49 +0000 SM Expert: Social media users moving from X to Bluesky   /newsroom/node/314825 <p>Expert: Social media users moving from X to Bluesky  </p> <p>Since the U.S. presidential election, more than 1 million users have moved from X to Bluesky. The social media platform now has over 15 million users compared to 9 million in September. </p> Thu, 14 Nov 2024 16:33:05 +0000 SM Expert: Government of Canada shuts down TikTok offices /newsroom/node/314823 <p><b>Expert: Government of Canada shuts down TikTok offices </b></p> <p>The Canadian federal government has ordered TikTok Technology Canada, Inc. to wind up its business operations in Canada due to concerns about national security.</p> Thu, 14 Nov 2024 14:41:21 +0000 SM Expert: Digital detox challenge for youth during 24h PAUSE /newsroom/node/314817 <p>The <a href="https://pauseyourscreen.com/24h-pause/">24h PAUSE</a> is held every third Sunday in November, inviting teens and young adults to set aside their screens for 24 hours. The event encourages young Quebecers to be mindful of their screen use and of the risks linked with hyperconnectivity.</p> Tue, 12 Nov 2024 15:10:34 +0000 SM Experts: COP 29 climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan  /newsroom/node/314815 <p>Government leaders, scientists and activists are convening in Baku, Azerbaijan, for the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 29). Dubbed the “Finance COP,” this year's summit aims to mobilize financial support to help lower-income countries reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  </p> <p>Experts from SM are available to comment:  </p> Mon, 11 Nov 2024 20:34:57 +0000 SM Expert: First suspected human case of avian flu in Canada /newsroom/node/314813 <p>A teenager in British Columbia has been hospitalized with a suspected case of H5N1 avian flu, marking the first human infection in Canada during the recent outbreak. The global spread of bird flu in poultry farms and wild bird populations has led to sporadic human cases, raising concerns over its potential public health impact. </p> Mon, 11 Nov 2024 18:37:29 +0000 SM Experts: U.S. presidential election /newsroom/node/314757 <p> </p> <p>The American elections are upon us and polls suggest it is going to be a tight race between the two candidates, Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.</p> <p>These experts from SM are available to share their insights:</p> Fri, 25 Oct 2024 19:11:13 +0000 SM Experts: Movember 2024 /newsroom/node/314769 <p><a href="https://ca.movember.com/support-us?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwj4K5BhDYARIsAD1Ly2rI53iJHzNYFVkHZF-7ma7J6l90S-41FsHeo5AYpkTviZOthwoYDxgaAgfiEALw_wcB" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Movember</a> is an annual campaign held in November to raise awareness and funds for men’s health issues, including prostate and testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention.  </p> <p>These experts from SM are available to comment on this topic:  </p> Thu, 31 Oct 2024 15:06:57 +0000 SM Experts: Potential high-speed rail between Quebec City and Toronto  /newsroom/node/314766 <p>The federal government is expected to announce plans to move forward with a high-speed rail project linking Quebec City and Toronto, with electric trains reportedly capable of reaching speeds of 300 km/h. Although no official announcement has been made, sources suggest the new line would significantly reduce travel time between Montreal and Toronto — from the current 5.5-hour drive, or more than five hours by train, to just three hours by train — and include stops in cities such as Ottawa, Laval and Trois-Rivières, all while operating on a dedicated track.  </p> Tue, 29 Oct 2024 15:25:41 +0000 SM Experts: Halloween 2024  /newsroom/node/314752 <p><!-- x-tinymce/html --></p> <p>With Halloween approaching, SM experts are available to offer insights on a range of related topics.  </p> Thu, 24 Oct 2024 20:56:07 +0000 SM Experts: Canada to reduce numbers of permanent and temporary immigrants for next two years /newsroom/node/314750 <p>The Government of Canada announced Thursday that it plans to reduce the numbers of both permanent and temporary immigrants admitted to the country over the next two years (2025-2027).</p> <p>These experts from SM are available to share their insights:</p> Thu, 24 Oct 2024 19:13:24 +0000 SM Experts: Quebec to allow advance MAID requests /newsroom/node/314748 <p>Quebec will allow advance requests for medical assistance in dying (MAID) as of Oct. 30. People with certain serious illnesses, such as Alzheimer's disease, will be permitted to apply for MAID before they lose the capacity to consent.</p> <p>These experts from SM are available to share their insights on this topic:</p> Thu, 24 Oct 2024 14:07:14 +0000 SM Expert: How time changes can disrupt our biological clock /newsroom/node/314746 <p>On Nov. 3, Quebecers will turn their clocks back one hour for the seasonal time change. Tuesday, the Quebec government launched a public consultation on whether the biannual switch should be abolished in the future.</p> Thu, 24 Oct 2024 13:17:00 +0000 SM Expert: Feathered dinosaurs appear to have used wings for speed  /newsroom/node/314726 <p>Small, feathered dinosaurs appear to have used their wings to run at speeds previously thought impossible without flight, according to a new study by an international team of scientists, including SM Biology Professor <a href="/newsroom/hans-larsson" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Hans Larsson</a>. The <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2413810121">study</a>, published in The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), sheds new light on the origins of bird flight.</p> Mon, 21 Oct 2024 19:23:53 +0000 SM Experts: Hydro-Québec unveils $3B wind farm project in Lower St. Lawrence  /newsroom/node/314720 <p>Hydro-Québec and L'Alliance de l'énergie de l'Est are partnering to develop a new wind farm in the Lower St. Lawrence region, aiming to generate up to 1,000 megawatts of power. This $3 billion project, announced on Wednesday, will span 700 square kilometres of public land, including parts of Kamouraska and Témiscouata. The Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk First Nation is among the project partners, contributing to this large-scale initiative as part of the growing demand for renewable energy. </p> <p>These experts from SM are available to share their insights on this topic:  </p> Thu, 17 Oct 2024 18:50:04 +0000 SM Expert: 150th anniversary of first intercollegiate rugby game in North America to be marked with SM vs. Harvard match   /newsroom/node/314718 <p>On Oct. 19 at 4:30 p.m., the SM Redbirds will face off against the Harvard Crimson at Molson Stadium in a historic rugby match commemorating the 150th anniversary of the first intercollegiate rugby game in North America. </p> <p>The Covo Cup, first established in 1974 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the SM-Harvard rugby encounter in 1874, honours this storied rivalry. SM, holding a 24-14 series lead, will also unveil a special 150th anniversary uniform at the game. </p> Thu, 17 Oct 2024 15:50:13 +0000 SM Experts: How will this year’s fall colours be affected by climate change?   /newsroom/node/314709 <p>As autumn brings a burst of colour to Eastern Canada and the Northeastern United States, two experts from SM are available to shed light on the science behind the vibrant hues and how they might be affected by climate change.  </p> Fri, 11 Oct 2024 18:22:49 +0000 SM Expert: Bringing Shackleton’s shipwrecked Endurance back to life after 100 years  /newsroom/node/314707 <p>After more than 100 years submerged in the icy waters of Antarctica, Sir Ernest Shackleton’s legendary ship, Endurance, has been revealed in stunning 3D detail, thanks to new subsea scanning and 3D reconstruction technology developed by Deep Ocean Search, <a href="https://voyis.com/endurance-expedition-with-voyis-technology-on-bbc-news/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Voyis Imaging Inc.</a> and Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering <a href="/mecheng/james-forbes" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">James Forbes</a> and his research group, <a hre=""></a></p> Fri, 11 Oct 2024 17:43:13 +0000 SM Expert: Conspiracy theories hindering Hurricane Milton relief effort /newsroom/node/314703 <p>Conspiracy theories alleging that Hurricane Milton was geo-engineered and was directed to hit areas with a concentration of Republican voters are rife on social media platforms and there are concerns that this is hindering disaster relief efforts. Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this issue:</p> Fri, 11 Oct 2024 15:23:16 +0000 SM Experts: 2024 state of the climate report  /newsroom/node/314690 <p>A <a href="https://academic.oup.com/bioscience/advance-article/doi/10.1093/biosci/biae087/7808595?searchresult=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">new report</a> by some of the world’s top climate scientists examines key indicators and finds that the world is “on the brink of an irreversible climate disaster.” The authors found that 25 out of 35 indicators used to track the planet's climate risk, from ocean temperatures to tree-cover loss, are at record levels.</p> Tue, 08 Oct 2024 16:32:04 +0000 SM Expert: Quebec launches fall vaccination campaign /newsroom/node/314688 <p>Quebec began rolling out its fall vaccination campaign against respiratory viruses on Monday, starting with vulnerable populations. Along with flu shots, a new COVID-19 vaccine adapted to the latest variants is available. This year, Quebec is among the first provinces to offer free RSV vaccines to infants, aiming to reduce the strain on hospitals. </p> Tue, 08 Oct 2024 15:30:00 +0000 SM Experts: Lithium battery fire near Port of Montreal  /newsroom/node/314643 <p>A fire started Monday night in a container holding 15,000 kilograms of lithium batteries near the Port of Montreal, causing thick smoke and prompting the city to issue a precautionary lockdown notice for some residents. </p> <p>These experts from SM are available to share their insights on this topic.  </p> Tue, 24 Sep 2024 15:29:52 +0000 SM Experts: World Alzheimer Report 2024 /newsroom/node/314635 <p><!-- x-tinymce/html -->A new edition of World Alzheimer Report, to be published Sept. 20, 2024, will take a deep dive into how perceptions of dementia have changed over the past five years. It builds on a <a href="https://www.alzint.org/resource/world-alzheimer-report-2019/">2019 report</a> that found one in four people believed nothing could be done to prevent dementia, while evidence suggests 40 per cent of cases could be delayed or prevented by addressing modifiable risk factors.</p> Wed, 18 Sep 2024 19:48:58 +0000 SM Expert: A jump in whooping cough cases /newsroom/node/314604 <p>“Whooping cough cases are on the rise in Canada, with some provinces reporting sharp increases compared to pre-pandemic averages. More than 11,670 cases have been reported in Quebec so far this year, a significant jump from the annual average of 562 cases between 2015 and 2019.” (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/whooping-cough-increase-reported-across-canada-1.7306419" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can comment on this issue:</p> Tue, 03 Sep 2024 17:16:04 +0000 SM Expert: Canada’s first-ever national oral health survey /newsroom/node/314602 <p>Preliminary results of the Canadian Oral Health Survey (COHS), released August 27, highlight disparities in insurance coverage and indicate dental visits have almost returned to pre-pandemic levels. Residents of Quebec were the least likely to have dental insurance, while Albertans were the most likely. The COHS is Canada’s <u> </u>first-ever national oral health survey. (<a href="https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/240827/dq240827b-eng.htm?utm_source=mstatcan&amp;utm_medium=eml&amp;utm_campaign=statcan-statcan-mstatcan" target="_blank">Statistics Canada</a>)</p> Tue, 03 Sep 2024 14:13:35 +0000 SM Expert: A potential strike by Air Canada pilots /newsroom/node/314600 <p>“Air Canada is offering passengers who have booked flights around the date of a possible pilot strike next month some increased flexibility in rebooking their travel. The airline says progress has been made in its negotiations and it hopes to reach a deal, but it still faces the <a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-air-canada-pilots-overwhelmingly-vote-to-approve-strike-mandate/?cmpid=rss" target="_blank">possibility of a strike </a>by its 5,400 pilots as early as Sept.</p> Fri, 30 Aug 2024 14:00:28 +0000 SM Expert: St-Henri triplex collapse   /newsroom/node/314596 <p>The exterior wall of a triplex in St-Henri collapsed onto an adjacent construction site Monday afternoon, exposing the inside of the apartments much like a dollhouse. (<a href="https://montrealgazette.com/news/local-news/exterior-wall-of-st-henri-triplex-collapses-leaving-gaping-hole-in-side">Montreal Gazette</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can comment on this topic.  </p> Wed, 28 Aug 2024 17:48:08 +0000 SM Experts: Canada’s two major railways resume service as railroaders return to work /newsroom/node/314592 <p>Trains began to trundle along the tracks of Canada’s two major railways on Monday after the federal labour board ended a four-day work stoppage that snarled supply chains and upended commutes. Amid a bitter labour dispute, the Canada Industrial Relations Board on Saturday ordered Canadian National Railway Co. and Canadian Pacific Kansas City Ltd. to resume operations and 9,300 workers to return to their posts at 12:01 a.m. ahead of binding arbitration set to begin this week. The union has vowed to fight the labour board’s decision in court, framing the outcome as a win for big business.</p> Mon, 26 Aug 2024 21:00:28 +0000 SM Expert: How does public opinion impact Montreal's major transit projects?  /newsroom/node/314590 <p>A recent <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sciencedirect.com%2Fscience%2Farticle%2Fpii%2FS0967070X24002294%3Fvia%253Dihub&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cclaire.loewen%40mcgill.ca%7C6f44cca34b3d45c7416708dcc38ef364%7Ccd31967152e74a68afa9fcf8f89f09ea%7C0%7C0%7C638600265931901906%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=bv5hKziV4PIJICZccuovynz0Rg23ipVBdnnzzfDREB8%3D&amp;reserved=0" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">study</a> of 3884 people reveals differing public opinions on Montr</p> Fri, 23 Aug 2024 19:05:04 +0000 SM Expert: Discovery of new Earth-like planet could shed light on what makes a planet habitable /newsroom/node/314358 <p>In an exciting breakthrough for astronomy and the search for extraterrestrial life, a team of international scientists, including key support from SM researchers, has announced the discovery of Gliese 12 b, a temperate, Earth-sized exoplanet just 40 light-years away — a relatively neighbourly 378 trillion kilometres from earth. (<a href="https://theconversation.com/the-discovery-of-a-new-earth-like-planet-could-shed-further-light-on-what-makes-a-planet-habitable-234127">The Conversation</a>)</p> Mon, 05 Aug 2024 15:31:01 +0000 SM Expert: 5 reasons why Canada should consider moving to a  4-day work week /newsroom/node/313954 <p>Nine out of 10 Canadians are interested in a four-day work week, <a href="https://blog.talent.com/en/canadians-would-love-a-four-day-work-week-but-are-concerned-about-its-implementation" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">according to a recent survey</a>, making it their most desirable benefit ahead of health care, flexible scheduling and additional vacation days.</p> Wed, 31 Jul 2024 20:34:35 +0000 SM Experts: 2024 Paris Olympics   /newsroom/node/313313 <p>The 2024 Paris Olympics, held from July 26 to August 11, will mark the third time Paris has hosted the Summer Games. Featuring sports like baseball, softball, and debuting breakdancing, the event emphasizes sustainability and innovation. Iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées will be sites for celebrating sports, culture, and environmental consciousness.</p> Mon, 22 Jul 2024 15:03:28 +0000 SM Expert: Trump and Vance formally nominated for 2024 presidential election at RNC /newsroom/node/312376 <p>Donald Trump <a href="https://www.cnn.com/politics/live-news/rnc-republican-national-convention-07-15-24/index.html">has named</a> US Sen. JD Vance as his running mate, further elevating the Ohio Republican who has adopted the former president’s populist agenda after years of pointed criticism of Trump. “After lengthy deliberation and thought, and considering the tremendous talents of many others, I have decided that the person best suited to assume the position of Vice President of the United States is Senator J.D.</p> Tue, 16 Jul 2024 20:48:49 +0000 SM Expert: Heat waves linked to climate change with Canada’s new tool /newsroom/node/312179 <p><!-- x-tinymce/html -->The Greater Montreal area is under a heat warning Monday as a warm and humid air mass could lead to a humidex value of 40. Environment and Climate Change Canada recently released the first results from its rapid extreme weather event attribution system, showing that human-caused climate change significantly increased the likelihood of recent heat waves in Quebec, Eastern Ontario, and Atlantic Canada​.</p> Mon, 15 Jul 2024 18:10:10 +0000 SM Expert: Hydro-Québec announces first major $9 billion wind power project  /newsroom/node/310730 <p>Hydro-Québec's first "mega" wind farm will be built in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region. The state-owned company is due to make the announcement on Wednesday. The project, which will be the second largest in the world, will cover an area 13 times the size of the island of Montreal. (<a href="https://ici.radio-canada.ca/nouvelle/2085253/hydro-quebec-premier-grand-projet-eolien-saguenay-lac-saint-jean" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Radio-Canada</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can comment on this topic:  </p> Wed, 03 Jul 2024 18:07:14 +0000 SM Experts: Canada needs national strategy to monitor online gambling harms: report  /newsroom/node/310635 <p>Canada needs a national strategy to monitor gambling-related harms and control the deluge of advertisements that followed Ontario’s legalization of commercial online gambling and sports betting, according to a new report from the group that wrote the country’s alcohol guidelines. (<a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-canada-needs-national-strategy-to-monitor-online-gambling-harms-report/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Globe and Mail</a>) </p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can comment on this topic:  </p> Tue, 02 Jul 2024 17:05:25 +0000 SM Expert: Montreal braces for Moving Day amid housing crisis /newsroom/node/310623 <p>The rental market has continued to tighten over the past year in Greater Montreal. After declining from 3% in 2021 to 2% in 2022, the overall vacancy rate was 1.5% in 2023—one of the lowest rates seen in 20 years.</p> Wed, 26 Jun 2024 19:36:55 +0000 SM Expert: Canada's dental plan expands to cover children, people with disabilities /newsroom/node/310620 <p>Children under 18 and people with disabilities will be eligible for the federal government's dental plan starting June 27. The newly eligible group accounts for 1.2 million additional Canadians who will be able to access the program. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/dental-care-canada-children-1.7223042" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CBC News</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can comment on this topic:</p> Tue, 25 Jun 2024 18:31:44 +0000 SM Expert: Boeing under Senate scrutiny amid airline industry turmoil /newsroom/node/310594 <p>On June 18, Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun will testify before a Senate panel about the company's safety crisis, addressing lawmakers' questions on quality control issues and whistleblower allegations (<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/06/05/boeing-ceo-dave-calhoun-senate-hearing.html" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CNBC</a>).</p> Mon, 17 Jun 2024 18:18:17 +0000 SM Expert: Concerns over Canada’s hydro capacity /newsroom/node/310578 <p>Lower-than-normal rain and snow have reduced Canada’s hydropower production, raising worries in the industry about the effects of climate change. In March, U.S. electricity exports to Canada reached their highest level since at least 2010. The increasing flow of power north is part of a worrying trend for North America. (<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/06/03/business/energy-environment/canada-hydropower-electric-grids.html?unlocked_article_code=1.w00.UEkJ.J6oZbriL3GBz&amp;smid=nytcore-ios-share&amp;referringSource=articleShare&amp;u2g=i&amp;sgrp=c-cb">New York Times</a>)</p> Wed, 05 Jun 2024 20:13:52 +0000 SM Expert: Satellite mission to decode clouds’ role in climate change /newsroom/node/310559 <p>The EarthCARE satellite, a groundbreaking mission set to enhance our understanding of clouds and aerosols in the climate system, is ready for launch. Scheduled to lift off from California's Vandenberg Space Force Base aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket no earlier than May 28, 2024, this mission aims to provide invaluable data on cloud-aerosol interactions. These insights will significantly contribute to our knowledge of climate change and inform future strategies for climate adaptation and mitigation.</p> Fri, 24 May 2024 16:11:06 +0000 SM Expert: Treating healthcare as a calling, not a business  /newsroom/node/310493 <p>Because healthcare is a calling, we must cease trying to run it like a business, according to SM Professor Henry Mintzberg. In a new <a href="https://bmjleader.bmj.com/content/early/2024/04/14/leader-2023-000912#ref-1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">commentary</a> published in BMJ Leader, he discusses how the corporatization of healthcare is changing the practice of medicine, causing many physicians to feel alienated from their work. </p> Wed, 15 May 2024 19:42:18 +0000 SM Expert: How wildfire haze is harming human health /newsroom/node/310489 <p>Wildfires have led Environment Canada to issue air quality advisories for parts of British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories, as forecasters warn the smoke could drift farther east. Wildfire-related haze could also move east into Ontario and Quebec, affecting areas from Georgian Bay to Quebec City (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/climate-and-environment/air-quality-alerts-issued-as-wildfire-smoke-spreads-east-from-western-canada-1.6886080" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CTV News</a>) </p> Tue, 14 May 2024 17:01:57 +0000 SM Experts: The impact of AI on education  /newsroom/node/310486 <p>ChatGPT and other generative AI tools are changing the way students learn, from grade school to grad school. On April 25, the Higher Council of Education, jointly with the Commission on Ethics in Science and Technology, submitted a <a href="https://www.cse.gouv.qc.ca/des-recommandations-pour-encadrer-lutilisation-de-lia-generative-en-enseignement-superieur/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">report</a> calling for the supervision and regulation of AI in higher education in Quebec.   </p> Wed, 08 May 2024 16:18:08 +0000 SM Experts: National Hospice Palliative Care Week | May 5-11 /newsroom/node/310480 <p>National Hospice Palliative Care Week in Canada is a time to celebrate and highlight the incredible work to provide quality palliative care across the country. (<a href="https://www.chpca.ca/campaigns/national-hospice-palliative-care-week/" title="Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association.">Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can comment on this topic:</p> Tue, 07 May 2024 18:12:34 +0000 SM Expert: Donald Trump’s historic hush money trial /newsroom/node/310457 <p>In New York, former U.S. President Donald Trump is standing trial on felony charges linked to hush money payments made to an adult film actress prior to the 2016 election. The historic criminal trial, the first of its kind involving a former American president, unfolds against the backdrop of the 2024 presidential race. </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can comment on this topic: </p> Wed, 24 Apr 2024 18:11:03 +0000 SM Experts: Planet vs. Plastics | Earth Day 2024 /newsroom/node/310455 <p>Every year, millions of people across the globe gather on Earth Day (April 22) to celebrate the environmental movement. The 2024 theme, "Planet vs. Plastics", aims to raise awareness of the harms of plastic pollution for human and planetary health. This year's focus comes ahead of an historic UN treaty on plastics, which is expected to be agreed by the end of 2024.  (<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-68610073" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">BBC News</a>) </p> <p><strong>Here are some experts from SM who can comment on this topic: </strong></p> Fri, 19 Apr 2024 17:35:08 +0000 SM Experts: Canadian federal budget 2024 /newsroom/node/310447 <p>Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland will present the next budget in the House of Commons on April 16, with the government facing considerable political pressure over the economy. Ms. Freeland says the economic plan will be about “building more homes, faster, making life more affordable and creating more good jobs.” (<a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-federal-budget-2024-april-16/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">The Globe and Mail</a>) </p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can comment on this topic: </p> Mon, 15 Apr 2024 15:56:48 +0000 SM Expert: Instagram cracks down on teen sextortion /newsroom/node/310422 <p>Instagram is aiming to make it harder for potential scammers and criminals to coerce teens into sending nude photos and extort them for money. The company announced on Thursday it is testing new features to curb an alarming trend called financial sextortion, which often targets kids and teenagers. (<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/11/tech/meta-sextortion-tools/index.html" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CNN</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can comment on this issue: </p> Thu, 11 Apr 2024 20:29:40 +0000 SM Experts: Green hydrogen /newsroom/node/310408 <p>AtkinsRéalis, formerly known as SNC-Lavalin, says it has been awarded the engineering contract for the Projet Mauricie green hydrogen hub in Quebec. The development is the latest milestone for the $4-billion Mauricie project, which is being developed by TESCanada H2 Inc. The company is proposing to build a "green hydrogen" production plant in the Mauricie region of Quebec, between Montreal and Quebec City, that will be powered exclusively by renewable electricity.</p> Mon, 08 Apr 2024 13:26:41 +0000 SM Expert: The ‘sandwiched' generation of caregivers in Canada /newsroom/node/310401 <p>Who provides unpaid care in Canada's care economy? In 2022, 13.4 million Canadians aged 15 years and older (42%)—over  two in five people in this age group—provided unpaid care in the previous 12 months to children younger than 15 years old or to youth aged 15 years and older and adults with a long-term condition or disability. Of these unpaid caregivers, 13% provided care to both of these care-dependent groups, meaning that 1.8 million Canadians older than 15 years were "sandwiched" between multiple care responsibilities.</p> Tue, 02 Apr 2024 20:27:56 +0000 SM Expert: Baltimore bridge collapse /newsroom/node/310395 <p>Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early on Tuesday after a container ship smashed into a pylon, sending eight people into frigid water below. Authorities stopped people from using the bridge after getting a mayday call, which Maryland's governor said saved lives. (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/here-s-what-we-know-about-the-baltimore-bridge-collapse-1.6822793" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CTV News</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can comment on this issue: </p> Wed, 27 Mar 2024 16:50:16 +0000 SM Expert: Canada’s carbon tax to increase on April 1  /newsroom/node/310378 <p>With the federal government under pressure to freeze its planned increase to the carbon tax, policy experts are calling for a clear-eyed debate over the legislation and its role in the country's climate goals. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, along with seven premiers, have called for the scheduled April 1 hike to be scrapped, saying it will only make inflation worse. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/climate/carbon-tax-controversy-1.7151551" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)  </p> Fri, 22 Mar 2024 17:19:54 +0000 SM Expert: HIV epidemic on the rise, with more cases in Quebec than national average /newsroom/node/310368 <p>The HIV epidemic is on the rise again in Canada, with an 'alarming increase' of 24.9 per cent in reported cases across the country in 2022, according to the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research. The Public Health Agency of Canada reported 1,833 new cases of HIV in 2022. Men aged 30 to 39 are the category with the highest rates. (<a href="https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/hiv-epidemic-on-the-rise-again-with-more-cases-in-quebec-than-national-average-1.6765242" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CTV News</a>) </p> Wed, 20 Mar 2024 14:51:39 +0000 SM Expert: World Happiness Report 2024 /newsroom/node/310366 <p>The World Happiness Report reflects a worldwide demand for more attention to happiness and well-being as criteria for government policy. It reviews the state of happiness in the world today and shows how the science of happiness explains personal and national variations in happiness. The report’s release aligns with the United Nation’s International Day of Happiness, March 20, 2024. (<a href="https://worldhappiness.report/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">World Happiness Report</a>) </p> Tue, 19 Mar 2024 19:02:39 +0000 SM Expert: National Cannabis Survey /newsroom/node/310362 <p>New data show that, in 2023, five years after non-medical cannabis use was legalized, over one-third of younger adults aged 18 to 44 years and one in seven adults aged 45 years and older had used cannabis in the previous 12 months. The National Cannabis Survey is used to understand cannabis use and purchasing patterns in Canada, its impact on the economy, and to inform evidence-based national and provincial strategies, policies, and programs.</p> Tue, 19 Mar 2024 14:46:15 +0000 SM Experts: Total Solar Eclipse | April 8, 2024  /newsroom/node/310060 <p>On April 8, 2024, a spectacular and rare celestial event is set to unfold over Canada, the United States and Mexico – a total solar eclipse. As the Moon aligns perfectly between Earth and the Sun, temporary darkness will sweep across parts of the country, captivating countless spectators. Quebec hasn't witnessed a total solar eclipse in over 50 years, and it will be over 80 years before the next one. (<a href="https://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/astronomy/eclipses/total-solar-eclipse.asp" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Government of Canada</a>) </p> Thu, 14 Mar 2024 16:22:23 +0000 SM Expert: Advocating for children's health on World Sleep Day /newsroom/node/309900 <p>About 30 per cent of children suffer from sleep disorders, with profound implications for their physical and emotional health, as well as their academic performance. Despite the prevalence and impact of these disorders, access to effective interventions is limited in Quebec and worldwide. On March 15, International World Sleep Day, sleep researchers are <a href="https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/introduction-to-pediatric-sleep-disorders-to-the-non-sleep-specialist-tickets-781554820507?aff=oddtdtcreator" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">raising awareness about this critical need.</a> </p> Tue, 12 Mar 2024 20:39:30 +0000 SM Expert: The resurgence of measles in Canada /newsroom/node/309541 <p>As measles continues its slow spread across communities in the country, health officials are urging Canadians to stay vigilant and keep their vaccinations up-to-date. Health Minister Mark Holland said he is “deeply concerned” with the global measles outbreak and its potential impact on Canada. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/10333370/measles-canada-mark-holland-deeply-concerned/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Global News</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this issue: </p> Fri, 08 Mar 2024 15:41:15 +0000 SM Experts: International Women's Day | March 8  /newsroom/node/309459 <p>March 8 is International Women's Day, a global day of recognition celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and girls, and raising awareness of the work left to be done. (<a href="https://cfc-swc.gc.ca/commemoration/iwd-jif/index-en.html" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Status of Women Canada</a>)  </p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can provide comment on this topic:  </p> Thu, 07 Mar 2024 15:37:24 +0000 SM Expert: Too warm, too soon? Canada’s Spring 2024 forecast   /newsroom/node/309286 <p>Most Canadians can look forward to a warmer-than-normal spring, but they should also brace for the season’s "profound mood swings," according to The Weather Network's latest outlook. The forecast predicts that the unusually mild winter seen across much of the country thanks to El Niño conditions will pave the way for even more pleasant weather in the coming weeks, but not without some interruptions.</p> Tue, 05 Mar 2024 17:27:24 +0000 SM Expert: Canada’s new online harms bill  /newsroom/node/308860 <p>The Liberal government is proposing heavier sentences, new regulatory bodies and changes to a number of laws in new legislation to tackle online abuse. The Online Harms Act proposes to police seven categories of harmful content online. Those categories include content used to bully a child and content that encourages a child to harm themselves. They also include hate speech, content that incites violence or terrorism, content that sexualizes children or victims of sexual violence, and sexual content that is posted without consent.</p> Thu, 29 Feb 2024 16:54:09 +0000 SM Expert: A new gold rush? The search for natural hydrogen in Canada  /newsroom/node/308416 <p>After helping to discover the world's first deposit of natural hydrogen in West Africa, which kick-started a search for the buried gas around the world, Denis Brière hopes his next breakthrough will be in Canada. Brière is a petrophysicist and vice-president of Calgary-based Chapman Hydrogen and Petroleum Engineering, which plans to begin testing and drilling in northern Ontario this summer in the hopes of finding enough hydrogen underground to produce and market the gas.</p> Fri, 23 Feb 2024 20:17:54 +0000 SM Expert: Two years of Russia-Ukraine war /newsroom/node/308322 <p>February 24 will mark the second anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Throughout the war, thousands of Ukrainian civilians have been killed. One-fourth of the country remains displaced. Numerous cities and villages have been destroyed, and experts predict it will take over one trillion dollars to rebuild the country. (<a href="https://thehill.com/opinion/international/4475135-two-years-on-thousands-of-ukrainian-children-still-forcibly-displaced-by-russia/">The Hill</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this issue:</p> Thu, 22 Feb 2024 18:43:50 +0000 SM Experts: International Day of Women and Girls in Science | February 11 /newsroom/node/307697 <p>February 11 marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science – a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology communities, and that their participation should be strengthened. Diversity in research expands the pool of talented researchers, bringing in fresh perspectives, talent and creativity. This day is a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology communities and that their participation should be strengthened.</p> Fri, 09 Feb 2024 17:19:31 +0000 SM Experts: Valentine’s Day | Heart Month 2024 /newsroom/node/307688 <p>February is Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of cardiovascular health and an opportunity to focus on what we can do to improve our heart health. Heart disease is the second leading cause of death for both men and women in Canada. (<a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/news/2024/02/message-from-the-minister-of-health-and-minister-of-sport-and-physical-activity--heart-month-february-2024.html" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Government of Canada</a>). </p> Tue, 06 Feb 2024 15:27:42 +0000 SM Expert: Canada’s housing market outlook in 2024  /newsroom/node/307676 <p>Interest rates will continue to dictate the outcome of Canada’s housing market in 2024 with the first and second halves showing different pictures. RBC’s latest housing report projects slow activity and softer prices in the early part of the year as the Bank of Canada maintains its policy rate at a two-decade high and home ownership stays out of reach for many potential buyers. But a pivot toward rate cuts mid-year will get the wheels turning faster over the second half or perhaps even sooner.</p> Wed, 31 Jan 2024 15:57:07 +0000 SM Expert: Record number of invasive strep A infections in Canada  /newsroom/node/307643 <p>The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has noted more than 4,600 invasive group A streptococcus samples from 2023 – the highest Canada has seen. Group A streptococcus, a bacteria that can cause illnesses like strep throat, can develop into acute infections that can lead to pneumonia, a flesh-eating disease, or toxic shock syndrome. Some Canadians across the country that contracted the bacteria have developed infections requiring hospital treatment.</p> Thu, 25 Jan 2024 19:26:13 +0000 SM Expert: Alzheimer’s Awareness Month | January 2024  /newsroom/node/307639 <p>January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in Canada. More than 650,000 people have dementia in this country, and that number is expected to spike by 187% over the next 30 years, according to the Alzheimer Society of Canada. For people living with dementia, participating in activities they enjoy is key to maintaining their sense of self and quality of life.   </p> Wed, 24 Jan 2024 15:12:50 +0000 SM Experts: Four changes to Canadian laws to watch for in 2024  /newsroom/node/307596 <p>A new year often brings new federal regulations and rules. In 2024, there will be a slew of new laws that come into effect with significant implications, including changes to Canada’s bail system, new timelines for the dental insurance program, a new tax on foreign tech companies, and changes to the federal carbon tax. </p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can provide comment on these topics: </p> Wed, 17 Jan 2024 20:49:44 +0000 SM Expert: Meta will limit reach of harmful content to teens on Facebook and Instagram   /newsroom/node/307584 <p>Facing increased scrutiny over its social networks’ effects on teenage users, Meta announced Tuesday that teens on Facebook and Instagram will see less content related to self-harm and eating disorders. Meta already filters such content out of the feeds it recommends to users, such as Instagram’s Reels and Explore. But under a set of changes rolling out over the next few months, harmful posts and stories won’t be shown to teens “even if [they’re] shared by someone they follow,” the company said in a statement.</p> Tue, 16 Jan 2024 15:07:25 +0000 SM Experts: B.C. to offer Canada’s first at-home, self-screening test for cervical cancer  /newsroom/node/307581 <p>B.C. residents will soon become the first in Canada to have access to an at-home, self-screening test for cervical cancer. About 200 people are diagnosed with cervical cancer a year in the province, according to Premier David Eby. He said doctors in B.C. have been looking for ways to improve the diagnosis of human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause cervical cancer. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/10213661/bc-cancer-care-update/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Global News</a>) </p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can comment on this topic:  </p> Thu, 11 Jan 2024 19:17:07 +0000 SM Experts: 2024 U.S. presidential election /newsroom/node/307570 <p><!-- x-tinymce/html -->U.S. President Joe Biden will lay out what he sees as the stakes of the 2024 presidential election — democracy and freedom — in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, on Jan. 6, his first campaign event of the new year. “This Saturday will mark the three-year anniversary of when, with encouragement from Donald Trump, a violent mob breached our nation's Capital. It was the first time in our nation's history that a president tried to prevent the peaceful transfer of power," said Biden-Harris campaign manager Julie-Chavez Rodriguez.</p> Thu, 04 Jan 2024 15:32:35 +0000 SM Experts: 2023 Holiday Season /newsroom/node/307529 <p>The SM Media Relations Office suggests the following sources for your holiday stories:</p> Wed, 13 Dec 2023 19:09:01 +0000 SM Expert: Health Canada approves updated COVID-19 vaccine ahead of holidays /newsroom/node/307525 <p>Amidst the onset of respiratory illnesses this flu season, Canada has fortified its defences against the persistent threat of COVID-19 with the approval of another vaccine. Health Canada on December 5 approved the updated Novavax vaccine, marking the third updated booster available to Canadians alongside those from Pfizer and Moderna. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/10149249/novavax-updated-covid-vaccine-health-canada-approval/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Global News</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this topic: </p> Wed, 13 Dec 2023 18:26:32 +0000 SM Expert: Myths and preconceptions of privacy in the age of AI  /newsroom/node/307522 <p>Protecting people from their personal information being used against them is more important every day as our lives become increasingly interconnected through data-driven products and services. In his new book, Ignacio Cofone challenges us to reevaluate conventional wisdom about data, showing how many of the rules that govern the information economy are outdated in today’s social and economic reality.  </p> <p><!-- x-tinymce/html -->Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this topic:</p> Mon, 11 Dec 2023 18:04:30 +0000 SM Expert: Canada’s winter forecast and the critical factor of El Niño /newsroom/node/307518 <p>El Niño will be a major contributing factor to how the season ahead plays out. El Niño has a reputation for bringing mild winters to much of Canada and it appears that this winter will feature one of the strongest El Niño events on record. So, can we expect a mild winter across the country this year? The answer is not so simple. (<a href="https://www.theweathernetwork.com/en/news/weather/seasonal/canada-2023-2024-winter-forecast-a-look-at-cold-temperatures-possible-polar-vortex-snowfall-amounts-and-el-nino-effect" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">The Weather Network</a>) <br /></p> Fri, 08 Dec 2023 16:14:29 +0000 SM Expert: Canada reaches online news deal with Google /newsroom/node/307501 <p><!-- x-tinymce/html -->The Canadian government has reached a deal with Google over the Online News Act that will see the tech giant pay $100 million annually to publishers, and continue to allow access to Canadian news content on its platform. Canadian Heritage Minister Pascale St-Onge announced the "historic development" regarding the implementation of Bill C-18 on Wednesday, after the tech giant had threatened to block news on its platform when the contentious new rules come into effect next month.</p> Thu, 30 Nov 2023 18:54:34 +0000 SM Expert: International Day of Persons with Disabilities | December 3 /newsroom/node/307498 <p><!-- x-tinymce/html -->Since its proclamation in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly in resolution 47/3, the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) has been celebrated annually on 3 December around the world. The observance of the IDPD aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and to mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. (<a href="https://social.desa.un.org/issues/disability/events/2023-international-day-of-persons-with-disabilities-idpd">United Nations</a>)</p> <p><!-- x-tinymce/html --></p> Thu, 30 Nov 2023 15:57:42 +0000 SM Experts: World AIDS Day | December 1 /newsroom/node/307495 <p>Every year, on December 1, the world commemorates World AIDS Day. People around the world unite to show support for people living with and affected by HIV and to remember those who lost their lives to AIDS. (<a href="https://www.un.org/en/observances/world-aids-day">United Nations</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can comment on this topic:</p> <p><b><a href="https://mcgill.ca/microimm/anne-gatignol">Anne Gatignol</a>, Full Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Experimental Medicine</b></p> Wed, 29 Nov 2023 20:20:10 +0000 SM Expert: With 420,000 Quebec public workers off the job today, unions announce 3 more strike days /newsroom/node/307435 <p>The unions representing hundreds of thousands of public sector workers who walked off the job today have announced three more strike days planned for November 21 to 23 unless a deal can be reached before then. About 420,000 public sector workers are striking as part of a one-day walkout meant to put pressure on the Quebec government. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/health-care-education-strike-labour-talks-1.7017853">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can comment on this topic:</p> Mon, 06 Nov 2023 15:28:29 +0000 SM Expert: Halloween candy, 'shrinkflation' and spending habits /newsroom/node/307424 <p>Halloween is a celebration often spent indulging in chocolate, binging scary movies, and perhaps investing time and money into creative costume designs. But for many Canadians, the preparations can be costly. For candy alone, the average household will spend anywhere from $25 to $40, according to experts. (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/business/halloween-candy-shrinkflation-and-spending-habits-what-experts-say-could-change-this-spooky-season-1.6615095">CTV News</a>)<br /> <br /> Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Mon, 30 Oct 2023 20:34:44 +0000 SM Expert: How climate change can affect fall colours  /newsroom/node/307418 <p>The customary reds, oranges and yellows of the trees, marking the arrival of fall, may have appeared early this year, or not at all. The dramatic summer weather that brought wildfires in some parts of the country and heavy rain in others is being reflected in fall colours across Canada, researchers say.</p> Tue, 24 Oct 2023 20:22:12 +0000 SM Expert: Weather extremes influence the rise and fall of insect populations /newsroom/node/307375 <p>Insect populations are widely influenced by weather anomalies, with decreasing numbers observed during unfavorable conditions and a spike in normal periods, according to a new study. The study published in <i>Nature</i> tries to resolve a debated topic: Are insect populations declining? Several studies have reported a decline in insect populations and diversity while others have questioned this. (<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06402-z">Nature</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this issue:</p> Tue, 03 Oct 2023 16:25:15 +0000 SM Experts: Mounting tensions between Canada and India /newsroom/node/307372 <p>Canada has updated its travel advisory for its citizens in India as tensions mount between the two countries over the murder of Canadian Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. In a recent update, the Canadian government cautioned about the potential for demonstrations and “negative sentiments” toward Canada in the wake of allegations that Indian government agents may be linked to the killing of Nijjar. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/9983176/canada-india-travel-advisory/">Global News</a>)</p> Tue, 26 Sep 2023 20:17:01 +0000 SM Expert: House Republicans to open Joe Biden impeachment inquiry /newsroom/node/307339 <p>U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said he is directing a House committee to open a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden over his family's business dealings. McCarthy said the House investigation has found a "culture of corruption" around the Biden family. Members such as Marjorie Taylor Greene and Matt Gaetz, representatives from Georgia and Florida, respectively, have been among those pushing for an inquiry. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/us-house-biden-impeachment-inquiry-1.6964053">CBC News</a>)</p> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 19:57:11 +0000 SM Expert: Pierre Poilievre’s first Conservation Convention as party leader /newsroom/node/307329 <p>Federal Conservatives are gathering in Quebec City this week for a policy convention that observers say presents as much political peril as opportunity. The convention, which starts Thursday in a province where the Tories have often sought to make gains, comes as polls indicate the party has been gaining support, with leader Pierre Poilievre regularly attacking the government on affordability issues. (<a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-conservative-party-convention-quebec-city/">The Globe and Mail</a>)</p> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 19:31:36 +0000 SM Experts: Wildfires and air pollution /newsroom/node/301948 <p>Wildfires have burned through more than one million hectares in Alberta this spring and have forced thousands from their homes. Quebec, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, British Columbia, and the Northwest Territories are also battling active fires (<a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-wildfire-air-pollution-health-side-effects/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Globe and Mail</a>). </p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can provide comment on this issue: </p> Tue, 30 May 2023 16:25:57 +0000 SM Experts: Canadian astronomers set to join Ariel space mission /newsroom/node/306787 <p>This week Canada announced it will contribute to the European Space Agency’s Ariel mission. A first mission of its kind, the Ariel space telescope will launch in 2029 to study the atmospheres of distant exoplanets outside of our solar system. Up to 12 Canadian astronomers, including SM experts, will be at the front row of the mission, with privileged access to its data. <!-- x-tinymce/html -->(<a href="https://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/news/articles/2023/2023-07-25-canada-to-contribute-to-esa-exoplanet-mission.asp">Canadian Space Agency</a>)</p> Mon, 24 Jul 2023 15:33:25 +0000 SM Expert: Hollywood actors go on strike after SAG-AFTRA talks collapse /newsroom/node/306861 <p>The union representing more than 150,000 television and movie actors is on strike, joining screenwriters who walked out in May to create Hollywood’s first industrywide shutdown in 63 years. (<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/article/actors-strike-why.html">New York Times</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can comment on this topic:</p> <p><a href="/sociology/contact-us/faculty/eidlin" target="_blank"><b>Barry Eidlin</b></a><b>, Associate Professor, Department of Sociology</b></p> Tue, 25 Jul 2023 13:47:41 +0000 SM Experts: WHO's cancer research agency to list aspartame sweetener a possible carcinogen /newsroom/node/305057 <p>Aspartame, used in products such as diet sodas and chewing gum, will soon be listed as "possibly carcinogenic to humans" for the first time by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the World Health Organization's (WHO) cancer research arm. (<a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/whos-cancer-research-agency-say-aspartame-sweetener-possible-carcinogen-sources-2023-06-29/">Reuters</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can comment on this topic:</p> Mon, 03 Jul 2023 18:49:51 +0000 SM Experts: Montreal prepares for moving day amid continuing housing crisis /newsroom/node/304536 <p>The vacancy rate in Montreal is at two per cent this year, for the third year in a row. The price for a three-bedroom, family sized-apartment generally starts at $1,500 a month. While the average price for a two-bedroom apartment is roughly $1,050 a month, according to the Canadian Housing and Mortgage Corporation, units under $1,000 are disappearing fast. (<a href="https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/moving-day-how-inflation-and-a-housing-shortage-may-complicate-quebec-renters-plans-1.6423904" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CTV</a>) </p> Tue, 27 Jun 2023 19:42:06 +0000 SM Expert: Montrealers 65 and up can ride public transit for free starting in July /newsroom/node/304526 <p>Public transit in Montreal will soon be free for people age 65 and over. Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante made the announcement on Twitter on Wednesday. The measure is expected to be included in the city's 2023 budget, set to be released next week. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/montreal-free-public-transit-65-and-up-1.6815681" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CBC</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can comment on this topic:  </p> Tue, 27 Jun 2023 17:42:19 +0000 SM Experts: COVID-19 pandemic no longer a 'global health emergency' according to WHO /newsroom/node/299764 <p>The World Health Organization (WHO) has ended the global COVID-19 emergency, citing increased immunity, fewer deaths and less pressure on hospitals. The pandemic, which was first declared an international crisis on January 30, 2020, resulted in unprecedented lockdowns, economic upheaval and the deaths of at least seven million people worldwide and more than 52,000 people in Canada. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/canada-who-pandemic-no-longer-emergency-1.6833775">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can provide comment on this issue:</p> Wed, 10 May 2023 21:01:43 +0000 SM Experts: Coronation of King Charles III /newsroom/node/299026 <p>King Charles III is set to be crowned alongside the Queen Consort at a lavish ceremony in Westminster Abbey on Saturday, May 6. The investiture will form part of a long weekend filled with celebrations for the new monarch, ranging from street parties to concerts. The King ascended the throne after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in September last year, making him the oldest new monarch in British history. (<a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/royal-family/2023/05/02/king-charles-coronation-date-time-what-happen-ceremony/">The Telegraph</a>)</p> Tue, 02 May 2023 15:11:13 +0000 SM Expert: Federal public servants union inks tentative deal with feds /newsroom/node/298495 <p>The country's largest federal public-sector union reached a tentative contract agreement with the government, covering more than 120,000 public servants across the country and bringing them back to work after a 12-day strike. The tentative deals come after a push from the union for wage increases that compensate for inflation, along with a host of other demands, including language on remote-work arrangements.</p> Tue, 18 Apr 2023 21:35:44 +0000 SM Expert: Trump pleads not guilty to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records /newsroom/node/298446 <p>Donald Trump, the former U.S. president and front-runner for the 2024 Republican nomination, pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records after an investigation into hush money paid to a porn star. While falsifying business records in New York on its own is a misdemeanor punishable by no more than one year in prison, it is elevated to a felony punishable by up to four years in prison when done to advance or conceal another crime. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/trump-arraign-new-york-1.6800564">CBC News</a>)</p> Tue, 04 Apr 2023 20:40:24 +0000 SM Experts: Canada and U.S. reach border deal on irregular migrants /newsroom/node/297458 <p>The Trudeau government has reached a long-discussed deal with the United States on irregular migration which will allow Ottawa to close the Roxham Road irregular crossing at the Canada-U.S. border. The deal would close a loophole in the agreement, which came into force in 2004 and currently prevents Canadian law enforcement from turning back asylum seekers who enter Canada from the United States at border locations that are not official ports of entry. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/deal-roxham-road-migrants-biden-trudeau-1.6788358">CBC News</a>)</p> Fri, 24 Mar 2023 19:57:19 +0000 SM Expert: Putin arrest warrant issued over war crime allegations /newsroom/node/296615 <p>The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin. The court alleges he is responsible for war crimes, including the unlawful deportation of children from Ukraine to Russia. It says the crimes were committed in Ukraine from 24 February 2022, when Russia launched its full-scale invasion. Moscow has denied allegations of war crimes during the invasion.</p> Fri, 17 Mar 2023 20:07:11 +0000 SM Experts: International Women's Day | March 8 /newsroom/node/294890 <p>March 8 is International Women's Day, a global day of recognition celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and girls, and raising awareness of the work left to be done. (<a href="https://cfc-swc.gc.ca/commemoration/iwd-jif/index-en.html" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Status of Women Canada</a>) </p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue: </p> Tue, 07 Mar 2023 21:55:33 +0000 SM Expert: Canada bans TikTok on all government devices /newsroom/node/293907 <p>Ottawa announced it is banning TikTok from all government-issued mobile devices in response to privacy and security concerns. The federal government said it will also block the Chinese-owned social media app from being downloaded on official devices in the future. The new rule follows the app’s intense scrutiny in the United States and also concerns of covert Chinese influence on Canadian affairs. (<a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-tiktok-ban-canada-government-devices/?login=true" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Globe and Mail</a>) </p> Wed, 01 Mar 2023 19:46:37 +0000 SM Expert: East Palestine, Ohio train derailment /newsroom/node/292303 <p>While officials have repeatedly sought to assure residents that the water and air in East Palestine, Ohio, are safe after the derailment of a train carrying hazardous materials earlier this month, anxiety has permeated the community amid reports of rashes, nausea and headaches. While it was deemed safe for evacuated residents to return home on February 8, community members have questioned how safe their village is and the validity of the air and water tests. (<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/20/us/ohio-train-derailment-east-palestine-monday/index.html">CNN</a>)</p> Mon, 20 Feb 2023 17:56:54 +0000 SM Experts: Black History Month /newsroom/node/289092 <p>During Black History Month, Canadians celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians and their communities who, throughout history, have done so much to make Canada a culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous country. (<a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/black-history-month/about.html" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Government of Canada</a>) </p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can comment on this topic: </p> Wed, 01 Feb 2023 16:01:41 +0000 SM Experts: The science behind 'The Last of Us' /newsroom/node/288649 <p>HBO’s hotly anticipated TV adaptation of the acclaimed <i>The</i> <i>Last of Us</i> game series premiered on January 15, showcasing the world after a devastating fungal pandemic wiped out most of humanity, a fictional brain infection that experts say is inspired by a very real set of fungi that can hijack their hosts and turn them into zombies. (<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/roberthart/2023/01/16/the-last-of-us-zombie-infection-is-real-heres-what-scientists-say-about-the-threat-to-humans/?sh=7e3c4b132a6e">Forbes</a>)</p> Mon, 23 Jan 2023 21:29:10 +0000 SM Expert: Can the new AI tool ChatGPT replace human work? /newsroom/node/288639 <p>There's a new artificial intelligence (AI) tool in town, and it's getting massive mainstream attention. <a href="https://chat.openai.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">ChatGPT</a> is a program where users can type in a question or a task, and the software will come up with a response designed to mimic a human. It was trained using billions of examples of text across the Internet. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/chatgpt-artificial-intelligence-1.6681401" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CBC</a> News) </p> Wed, 18 Jan 2023 20:12:13 +0000 SM Expert: 25 years later, Quebec remembers ice storm that plunged province into darkness /newsroom/node/288609 <p>Twenty-five years ago, the rain began in what would become the 1998 ice storm that eventually left millions of Quebecers in the dark, some for over a month. It was one of the worst natural disasters in Canadian history, and many still have vivid memories of those cold and difficult days and nights. (<a href="https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/it-sounded-like-gunshots-memories-of-the-quebec-1998-ice-storm-1.6216274" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CTV News</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can comment on this topic: </p> Fri, 06 Jan 2023 19:53:46 +0000 SM Expert: Kevin McCarthy offers deal to end Republican deadlock over Speaker vote /newsroom/node/288607 <p>The contours of a deal that could make Republican leader Kevin McCarthy the House Speaker have begun to emerge after three grueling days and 11 failed votes in a political spectacle unseen in a century. Republicans are trying to elect their new House Speaker — this time, against the backdrop of the second anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/mike-mccarthy-republican-speaker-house-congress-1.6705575">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Fri, 06 Jan 2023 15:50:20 +0000 SM Experts: 2022 Holiday Season /newsroom/node/288565 <p>The SM Media Relations Office suggests the following sources for your holiday stories:</p> <p><a href="#exercise_active">Exercise and staying active</a> | <a href="#giving_back">Giving back</a> | <a href="#holiday_shopping">Holiday shopping</a> | <a href="#mental_health">Mental health</a> | <a href="#parenting_relationships">Parenting and relationships</a> | <a href="#safe_healthy">Staying safe and health</a> | <a href="#traveling_holidays">Traveling during the Holidays</a> | <a href="#tree_shopping">Tree shopping</a></p> Mon, 12 Dec 2022 15:13:46 +0000 SM Experts: Russia's invasion of Ukraine /newsroom/node/284435 <p>Here are some experts from SM who can provide comment on this issue:</p> <p><a href="#climate">Climate implications</a> | <a href="#disinformation">Disinformation</a> | <a href="#economic_policy">Economic sanctions</a> | <a href="#canadian_policy">Foreign policy</a> | <a href="#supply_chain">Investments and supply chains</a> | <a href="#politics_eastern_europe">Russian and Ukrainian politics</a></p> Wed, 19 Jan 2022 16:26:36 +0000 SM Experts: World AIDS Day | December 1   /newsroom/node/288549 <p>World AIDS Day brings together people from around the world to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and demonstrate international solidarity in the face of the pandemic. The day is an opportunity for public and private partners to spread awareness about the status of the pandemic and encourage progress in HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care around the world. (<a href="https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-aids-day" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">WHO</a>) </p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue: </p> Thu, 01 Dec 2022 15:27:52 +0000 SM Expert: World's largest active volcano erupts in Hawaii /newsroom/node/288542 <p>Early Tuesday, lava is shooting 100 feet to 200 feet (30 to 60 metres) into the air as Hawaii's Mauna Loa, the world's largest active volcano, erupts for the first time in nearly 40 years. (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/climate-and-environment/mauna-loa-in-hawaii-is-erupting-what-are-the-hazards-for-communities-and-the-world-1.6172750" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CTV</a>) </p> <p>Fiona D’Arcy, PhD candidate, Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences </p> Tue, 29 Nov 2022 15:53:41 +0000 SM Experts: COP 15 UN Biodiversity Conference /newsroom/node/288534 <p>Despite on-going efforts, biodiversity is deteriorating worldwide, and this decline is projected to worsen with business-as-usual scenarios. The <a href="https://www.cbd.int/conferences/2021-2022" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">UN Biodiversity Conference</a> will convene governments from around the world in Montreal from December 7 to 19 to agree to a new set of goals for nature over the next decade through the Convention on Biological Diversity <a href="https://www.cbd.int/post2020/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">post-2020 framework</a> process.</p> Wed, 23 Nov 2022 20:57:38 +0000 SM Experts: U.S. midterm elections /newsroom/node/288490 <p>Control of the U.S. Congress hung in the balance early Wednesday as Democrats showed surprising strength, defeating Republicans in a series of competitive races and defying expectations that high inflation and President Joe Biden's low approval ratings would drag the party down. (<a href="/newsroom/fr">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can provide comment on this issue:</p> <p><strong><a href="/sociology/contact-us/faculty/eidlin">Barry Eidlin</a>, Associate Professor, Department of Sociology </strong></p> Wed, 09 Nov 2022 16:31:29 +0000 SM Expert: Ontario government's use of notwithstanding clause in union dispute /newsroom/node/288471 <p>The Ontario government filed an application with the labour board to stop job action from a union of 55,000 education support workers who walked off the job to defy the passing of a bill that stripped them of their right to strike. On November 3, Ontario used the Constitution’s notwithstanding clause to strip an education workers union of its right to strike in an attempt to avoid disrupting classrooms. However, many schools were closed Friday, and more than a million students were at home, as the union defied the government and walked out.</p> Fri, 04 Nov 2022 18:03:54 +0000 SM Expert: Right whale population continued to decline in 2021 /newsroom/node/288454 <p>The population of critically endangered North Atlantic right whales continued to decline in 2021, according to the latest estimate that puts the surviving population at 340. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/north-atlantic-right-whale-population-decline-continues-1.6628003" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CBC News</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this topic:  </p> Tue, 25 Oct 2022 15:59:02 +0000 SM Expert: Hydro-Quebec seals $2 billion deal to buy New England power firm /newsroom/node/288421 <p>Canada’s Hydro-Quebec agreed to buy Great River Hydro LLC and its 13 hydroelectric generating stations in a $2 billion deal, expanding its footprint in the northeastern US where it’s been supplying electricity for decades. (<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-10-12/hydro-quebec-in-2-billion-deal-to-buy-new-england-power-firm" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Bloomberg</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this topic:  </p> Wed, 12 Oct 2022 15:44:22 +0000 SM Experts: 2022 Quebec election results /newsroom/node/288335 <p>François Legault has been elected for a second mandate as Quebec premier with a majority government. Addressing supporters at his campaign headquarters, Legault told a large crowd that some of his key priorities will be the economy and tackling inflation. (<a href="https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/more-proud-more-rich-legault-wins-2022-quebec-election-with-a-majority-government-1.6094461">CTV News</a>). </p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> <p> </p> Fri, 26 Aug 2022 15:51:41 +0000 SM Expert: World Alzheimer's Day 2022 /newsroom/node/288373 <p><em>The World Alzheimer Report 2022 – Life after diagnosis: Navigating treatment, care and support</em>, co-authored by experts from SM, focuses on the urgent need for significant improvements to essential post-diagnosis treatment, care and support services for the over 55 million people living with dementia across the globe and robust plans to support the forecast 139 million people by 2050.</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this topic: </p> Wed, 21 Sep 2022 13:34:12 +0000 SM Experts: Queen Elizabeth, Canada's head of state, dead at 96 /newsroom/node/288356 <p>Queen Elizabeth, Canada's head of state and the longest-reigning British monarch, has died. Elizabeth became Queen in 1952, at the relatively tender age of 25, and presided over the country and the Commonwealth, including Canada, for seven decades. Those 70 years as monarch were recognized during this year's Platinum Jubilee events, which reached their height in London in early June. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/queen-elizabeth-obituary-1.6575696" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Thu, 08 Sep 2022 15:51:55 +0000 SM Expert: Hudson's Bay to resurrect discount retail chain Zellers /newsroom/node/288311 <p>Discount department store Zellers hopes to make a comeback next year, a decade after the Canadian chain shuttered most of its locations. Hudson's Bay Co. says Zellers will debut a new e-commerce website and expand its brick-and-mortar footprint within select Hudson's Bay department stores across the country in early 2023. The company says the relaunched Zellers will offer "a digital-first shopping journey that taps into the nostalgia of the brand." (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/hbc-resurrects-zellers-1.6553473" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> Thu, 18 Aug 2022 18:50:44 +0000 SM Expert: Pope Francis apologizes for forced assimilation of Indigenous children at residential schools  /newsroom/node/288273 <p>The first day of Pope Francis's "penitential pilgrimage" began with a heartfelt apology delivered at the site of one of Canada's largest residential schools and ended with blessings and songs at an intimate service in the only designated Indigenous church in Canada. In a morning event in a First Nation community in central Alberta, Pope Francis apologized for members of the Catholic Church who co-operated with Canada's "devastating" policy of Indigenous residential schools.</p> Wed, 27 Jul 2022 13:18:16 +0000 SM Experts: Random COVID-19 testing resumes at four major airports /newsroom/node/288259 <p>Mandatory random COVID-19 testing resumed on Tuesday, July 19 for vaccinated travellers coming into Canada through four major airports. The tests for select passengers landing in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal will be completed outside the airports, either through an in-person appointment or a virtual appointment for a self-swab test. (<a href="https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2022/07/19/random-covid-19-testing-resumes-at-four-major-airports-tests-to-be-done-offsite.html" target="_blank">Toronto Star</a>)</p> Tue, 19 Jul 2022 20:37:12 +0000 SM Expert: Sri Lanka acting president declares emergency amid protests /newsroom/node/288257 <p>Sri Lanka's acting president on Monday declared a state of emergency giving him broad authority amid growing protests demanding his resignation two days before the country's lawmakers are set to elect a new president. Ranil Wickremesinghe became acting president on Friday after his predecessor, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, fled abroad and resigned after monthslong mass protests over the country's economic collapse. (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/sri-lanka-acting-president-declares-emergency-amid-protests-1.5991589" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CTV News</a>) </p> Mon, 18 Jul 2022 18:09:56 +0000 SM Experts: Abortion banned in multiple US states just hours after Roe v Wade overturned /newsroom/node/288119 <p>Abortion was already illegal in multiple US states in late June, with bans introduced within hours of Roe v Wade being overturned, as cities erupted in protest at the landmark ruling. It came after the US supreme court abolished the constitutional right to abortion, more than 50 years after it was established, leaving individual states to decide. It is ultimately expected to lead to abortion bans in about half of the states. (<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jun/25/abortion-banned-in-multiple-us-states-just-hours-after-roe-v-wade-overturned">The Guardian</a>)</p> Tue, 03 May 2022 18:57:18 +0000 SM Expert: Canadians seeking closure are finally holding funerals delayed by COVID-19 /newsroom/node/288215 <p>The mandates may be lifted, but COVID-19 continues to shape how families across Canada mourn. Funeral directors say the COVID-19 pandemic has so altered what it means to mourn that it might be a while before there is any community consensus of how and when to have a funeral. While many families feel the time is right to finally mourn, others feel like too much time has passed, and they no longer plan to hold a service. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/summer-funeral-memorials-two-years-1.6488758" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> Wed, 22 Jun 2022 15:29:28 +0000 SM Expert: Airport delays /newsroom/node/288207 <p>While the air transport industry welcomed news that millions of unvaccinated Canadians will soon be allowed to fly, experts and unions said a new influx of travellers could worsen the ongoing delays at airports across the country. The government announced that starting June 20 proof of vaccination will not be required to board a train or a plane in Canada. As of May 22, just over 18 per cent of Canadians — almost seven million people — did not have at least two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.</p> Thu, 16 Jun 2022 19:21:38 +0000 SM Expert: Leftist former guerrilla and populist outsider head to runoff in Colombia presidential election /newsroom/node/288184 <p>Colombia’s election will go to a runoff between two opposing anti-establishment candidates on 19 June after voters on Sunday were unable to pick a president outright. Gustavo Petro, a leftist former guerrilla and onetime mayor of Bogotá, won the largest share of the vote, with 40%, but fell short of the 50% required to win outright and prevent a second round. Petro’s rival in the runoff will be Rodolfo Hernández, a business magnate and social media firebrand, who is viewed as a conservative, populist outsider.</p> Wed, 08 Jun 2022 13:20:21 +0000 SM Expert: Ontario’s right to disconnect act /newsroom/node/288179 <p>While Ontario’s right to disconnect law sounds like a good idea, experts say it’s important to observe the impact of the practice on the well-being of employees and its practical application in the workplace before considering a pan-Canada approach. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/8894368/canada-right-to-disconnect-work/" target="_blank">Global News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Mon, 06 Jun 2022 19:46:17 +0000 SM Expert: B.C. will decriminalize up to 2.5 grams of hard drugs /newsroom/node/288177 <p>British Columbia is set to become the first province to decriminalize possession of small amounts of illicit drugs. Canadians 18 years of age and older will be able to possess up to a cumulative 2.5 grams of opioids, cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA within B.C. as of Jan. 31, 2023. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/drug-decrim-threshold-1.6477327" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CBC News</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this issue:  </p> Mon, 06 Jun 2022 17:52:10 +0000 SM Experts: Gun violence and legislation /newsroom/node/288171 <p>New gun control legislation the federal government tabled Monday includes a national freeze on the purchase, sale, importation and transfer of handguns in Canada. The legislation comes after a number of mass shootings in the United States, including a recent shooting at an elementary school that killed 19 children and two adults in Uvalde, Texas. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/handguns-liberal-bill-1.6470554" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CBC News</a>) </p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue: </p> Thu, 02 Jun 2022 13:54:26 +0000 SM Experts: Quebec to use HPV test to screen for cervical cancer, replacing Pap test /newsroom/node/288169 <p>Quebec says it will start using human papillomavirus tests as its primary screening tool for cervical cancer, replacing the Pap smear. The Health Department says the province will systematically offer HPV testing for cervical cancer screening to all women aged 25 to 65, every five years. Earlier this year, the Institut national d’excellence en santé et en services sociaux reported that the HPV test is more sensitive than a Pap smear and could allow patients to collect their own test samples.</p> Wed, 01 Jun 2022 17:15:40 +0000 SM Experts: Quebec summer forecast calls for heat, humidity and severe thunderstorms /newsroom/node/288167 <p>A hot, "unstable and sticky" summer awaits Quebecers, according to The Weather Network, which predicts periods of abundant heat, often followed by severe thunderstorms. This will be the "fifth consecutive summer where temperatures will be above seasonal normals, which has never happened since we started compiling data" in 1942, according to André Monette, chief meteorologist at The Weather Network. (<a href="https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/montreal-summer-forecast-calls-for-heat-humidity-and-severe-thunderstorms-1.5925670" target="_blank">CTV News</a>)</p> Tue, 31 May 2022 18:50:52 +0000 SM Experts: COVID-19 /newsroom/node/197611 <p>Researchers are struggling to explain why Quebec had the country's highest official COVID-19 death toll, but a relatively low number of excess deaths. A study — titled Excess mortality, COVID-19 and health-care systems in Canada — looked at excess deaths, which refers to when observed deaths exceed expectations based on previous years' data, between March 2020 and October 2021. Quebec only had 4,033 excess deaths in that period, despite reporting 11,470 COVID-19 fatalities — almost three times more. It's the biggest gap recorded in Canada during the pandemic.</p> Tue, 21 Jan 2020 17:17:27 +0000 SM Expert: Monkeypox /newsroom/node/288157 <p>A growing number of countries, including Canada, the U.S., Spain, Portugal, and the U.K, are reporting an unusual outbreak of monkeypox. What makes these cases notable is the disease is relatively rare and there are no clear links between some of the infections, raising concerns about community spread and undetected cases. (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/monkeypox-what-is-it-and-how-does-it-spread-1.5910706" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CTV News</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this issue:</p> Fri, 20 May 2022 16:42:09 +0000 SM Expert: Alberta Premier Jason Kenney steps down as UCP leader /newsroom/node/288155 <p>Premier Jason Kenney threw Alberta politics into a tailspin on May 18 when he narrowly won a United Conservative Party (UCP) leadership review vote only to announce he was quitting the top job. Kenney said anger from party and caucus members over decisions he made to limit personal liberties during the COVID-19 pandemic led to open criticism of his leadership and ultimately the underwhelming vote of support in the review. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/8846607/jason-kenney-ucp-leadership-vote-results-alberta/" target="_blank">Global News</a>)</p> Thu, 19 May 2022 19:27:05 +0000 SM Expert: Son of Philippine dictator appears to win election in a landslide /newsroom/node/288135 <p>The namesake son of late Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos appeared to have been elected Philippine president by a landslide in an astonishing reversal of the 1986 "People Power" pro-democracy revolt that ousted his father. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/philippines-election-1.6447546" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this issue:</p> Tue, 10 May 2022 19:36:51 +0000 SM Experts: Asian Heritage Month | May 2022 /newsroom/node/288127 <p>May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada, a time to reflect on and recognize the many contributions that Canadians of Asian heritage have made and continue to make to Canada. Asian Heritage Month has been celebrated since the 1990s. In December 2001, the Senate of Canada adopted a motion proposed by Senator Vivienne Poy to officially designate May as Asian Heritage Month in Canada. In May 2002, the Government of Canada signed an official declaration to announce May as Asian Heritage Month.</p> Mon, 09 May 2022 16:15:30 +0000 SM Expert: Severe hepatitis of 'unknown origin' in children being investigated in Canada /newsroom/node/288114 <p>Public health officials say they're investigating cases of severe liver disease "of unknown origin" among children in Canada as global scientists race to understand a mysterious hepatitis outbreak that has affected nearly 200 youths around the world. The latest available data from the World Health Organization shows at least 169 cases of acute hepatitis of unknown origin have been reported in close to a dozen countries, with the bulk of the reports — 114 — from the U.K. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/liver-disease-mystery-1.6431872" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> Mon, 02 May 2022 20:07:40 +0000 SM Expert: Elon Musk to buy Twitter for $44B US /newsroom/node/288109 <p>Elon Musk has sealed a deal to acquire Twitter for $44 billion US. The move comes after the richest man in the world started buying shares in the company in March, complaining that the social media network wasn't doing enough to ensure free speech. The company rebuffed his advances for weeks before the two sides struck a deal over the weekend that was made official on April 25. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/musk-twitter-monday-1.6429802" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CBC News</a>) </p> Thu, 28 Apr 2022 19:54:33 +0000 SM Expert: Federal Budget 2022 /newsroom/node/288081 <p>The federal Liberals unveil their latest budget that aims to balance promises made in the 2021 election campaign, in the pact with the NDP, and recently to Canada's global defence allies. The 2022 budget released Thursday includes more than $31 billion in new spending over the next five years. It’s targeted at speeding the flow of goods through the country’s supply chains, boosting housing supply and jolting businesses out of an anemic period of investment. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/8742169/liberals-2022-federal-budget-billions-new-spending/" target="_blank">Global News</a>)</p> Thu, 07 Apr 2022 20:45:28 +0000 SM Experts: Amazon workers at New York warehouse vote to unionize /newsroom/node/287842 <p>Amazon warehouse workers in the Staten Island borough of New York City voted to unionize on Friday, marking the first successful U.S. organizing effort in the online retail giant's history and handing an unexpected win to a nascent group that fueled the union drive. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/amazon-union-vote-1.6405360" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CBC News</a>) </p> <p><strong><a href="/newsroom/barry-eidlin" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Barry Eidlin</a>, Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology </strong></p> Fri, 01 Apr 2022 18:16:52 +0000 SM Experts: Canada releases plan for a 40 per cent cut in carbon emissions by 2030 /newsroom/node/287755 <p>Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault released the government's plan to dramatically curb greenhouse gas emissions over the next eight years to meet ambitious 2030 reduction targets. It's a plan that leans heavily on deep cuts in the electricity, oil and gas and transportation sectors. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/canada-2030-emissions-reduction-plan-1.6401228" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CBC News</a>) </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Sibeal McCourt, PhD candidate, Department of Geography </strong></p> Thu, 31 Mar 2022 20:01:30 +0000 SM Experts: Does Quebec's secularism law speak to the younger generation? /newsroom/node/286595 <p>Researchers from SM and Concordia universities have <a href="https://www.concordia.ca/artsci/research/law-21.html?utm_source=vanity&amp;utm_campaign=law21">teamed up</a> to examine how Quebec's secularism law, Law 21, is affecting the career choices and experiences of discrimination of students, particularly in the province's faculties of law and education. The law, which bans some public servants, including teachers in the public system and prosecutors, from wearing religious symbols at work, was implemented in June 2019.</p> Fri, 18 Mar 2022 16:57:27 +0000 SM Expert: Endometriosis Awareness Month | March 2022 /newsroom/node/286511 <p>Endometriosis is a common and sometimes debilitating condition experienced by women of reproductive age that may cause chronic pelvic pain and is sometimes associated with infertility. Even though endometriosis has been researched extensively, it is a complex disease that can be challenging to diagnose and treat. (<a href="https://www.yourperiod.ca/endometriosis/what-is-endometriosis/" target="_blank">Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this issue:</p> Thu, 17 Mar 2022 17:22:47 +0000 SM Experts: International Women's Day | March 8 /newsroom/node/286078 <p>March 8 is International Women's Day, a global day of recognition celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and girls, and raising awareness of the work left to be done. (<a href="https://cfc-swc.gc.ca/commemoration/iwd-jif/index-en.html" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Status of Women Canada</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Thu, 03 Mar 2022 20:43:50 +0000 SM Experts: Canadian inflation hits a new three-decade high /newsroom/node/286063 <p>Inflation hit a new three-decade high in January, heaping more pressure on the Bank of Canada to raise interest rates for the first time since the pandemic started. The consumer price index rose 5.1 per cent in January from a year earlier, accelerating from December’s pace of 4.8 per cent and marking the first time since 1991 that inflation has surpassed 5 per cent, according to Statistics Canada. It was the 10th consecutive month that inflation has exceeded the Bank of Canada’s target range of 1 per cent to 3 per cent.</p> Wed, 23 Feb 2022 17:07:52 +0000 SM Experts: Black History Month | February 2022 /newsroom/node/285092 <p>Every February, people in Canada are invited to participate in Black History Month festivities and events that honour the legacy of Black Canadians and their communities. The theme for Black History Month 2022 is <b>February and Forever: Celebrating Black History today and every day</b>. (<a href="https://www.canada.ca/fr/patrimoine-canadien/campagnes/mois-histoire-des-noirs.html" target="_blank">Canadian Heritage</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Wed, 26 Jan 2022 21:21:58 +0000 SM Experts: International Mother Language Day | February 21 /newsroom/node/286050 <p>International Mother Language Day recognizes that languages and multilingualism can advance inclusion, and the Sustainable Development Goals’ focus on leaving no one behind. UNESCO believes education, based on the first language or mother tongue, must begin from the early years as early childhood care and education is the foundation of learning. </p> Fri, 18 Feb 2022 16:09:38 +0000 SM Experts: Valentine’s Day and Heart Month | February 2022 /newsroom/node/286017 <p>February is Heart Month, a time to bring attention to the importance of cardiovascular health, and what we can to reduce our risk of cardiovascular disease. Heart disease affects approximately 2.4 million Canadian adults, and is the second leading cause of death in Canada. (<a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2017/02/heart_month.html" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Government of Canada</a>) </p> <p>Valentine’s Day brings up important questions related to consumerism, love and relationships, and other topics. </p> Wed, 09 Feb 2022 14:13:37 +0000 SM Experts: International Day of Women and Girls in Science | February 11 /newsroom/node/286015 <p>The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated on 11 February, is implemented by UNESCO and UN-Women, in collaboration institutions and civil society partners that aim to promote women and girls in science. This Day is an opportunity to promote full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls.</p> Tue, 08 Feb 2022 17:37:21 +0000 SM Experts: Remaining trucker convoy protesters won’t leave until COVID-19 restrictions ease /newsroom/node/285708 <p>Crowds have thinned out considerably on Parliament Hill and the surrounding area, where anti-COVID restrictions demonstrators have been protesting for days. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he will not meet with anyone involved, noting reports that some participants have been seen harassing local businesses, waving Nazi flags, defecating on residential lawns, urinating on National War Memorial and stealing food from the homeless. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/8585359/trucker-convoy-protesters-ottawa-covid-19-restrictions/" target="_blank">Global News</a>)</p> Wed, 02 Feb 2022 22:36:24 +0000 SM Experts: International Day of Education | January 24 /newsroom/node/284534 <p>The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed January 24 as the International Day of Education, in celebration of the role of education for peace and development. The theme of the fourth International Day of Education is “Changing Course, Transforming Education.” Transforming the future requires an urgent rebalancing or our relationships with each other, with nature as well as with technology that permeates our lives, bearing breakthrough opportunities while raising serious concerns for equity, inclusion and democratic participation (<a href="https://en.unesco.org/commemorations/educationd&lt;/body&gt;&lt;/html&gt;"></a></p> Thu, 20 Jan 2022 17:42:12 +0000 SM Experts: One-year anniversary of the January 6 U.S. Capitol riot /newsroom/node/283766 <p>President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris will deliver remarks to mark the one-year anniversary of the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. The insurrection, which began as members of Congress worked to certify the results of the 2020 presidential election, commanded the nation's attention as violent scenes of rioters attacking officers and destroying parts of the Capitol were broadcast live across the country. (<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/02/politics/biden-january-6-speech/index.html" target="_blank">CNN</a>)</p> Wed, 05 Jan 2022 21:35:24 +0000 SM Experts: 2021 Holiday Season /newsroom/node/283709 <p>The SM Media Relations Office suggests the following sources for your holiday stories:</p> <p><a href="#exercise">Exercise and staying active</a> | <a href="#giving">Giving back</a> | <a href="#mental_health">Mental health</a> |  <a href="#newyear">New Year's resolutions and goals</a><b> | </b><a href="#safety">Safer holidays</a><b> |</b><a href="#christmastree">Sustainable tree shopping</a><b> | </b><a href="#travel">Traveling during the Holidays</a> |</p> Wed, 08 Dec 2021 14:14:15 +0000 SM Expert: U.S. diplomats to boycott 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics /newsroom/node/283711 <p>The United States has announced a diplomatic boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in China – a move that has been heavily criticized by Beijing. The White House said no official delegation would be sent to the Games because of concerns about China's human rights record but said U.S. athletes could attend and would have the government's full support. (<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-59556613" target="_blank">BBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Wed, 08 Dec 2021 16:55:03 +0000 SM Experts: International Day for Persons with Disabilities | December 3 /newsroom/node/283681 <p>Celebrated on December 3rd, the International Day for Persons with Disabilities mobilizes support for critical issues relating to the inclusion of persons with disabilities, promotes awareness-raising about disability issues and draws attention to the benefits of an inclusive and accessible society for all. (<a href="https://en.unesco.org/commemorations/personswithdisabilitiesday" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">UNESCO</a>)  </p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:  </p> Thu, 02 Dec 2021 16:50:29 +0000 SM Expert: Proposed Rogers-Shaw deal bad for Canada, says Telus /newsroom/node/283665 <p>On November 22<sup>nd</sup>, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission began five days of public hearings into the proposed purchase of Shaw Communications by Rogers Communications. Telus says Rogers will be large enough to buy foreign content, such as TV shows and movies, which it will hold exclusively so other companies don’t have access to it. If Rogers can’t do so, it will raise rates or delay access to services in an effort to hamper competition, says Telus.</p> Fri, 26 Nov 2021 17:53:58 +0000 SM Expert: International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women | November 25 /newsroom/node/283657 <p>Every year, from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (World Human Rights Day), Canadians observe the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. It is an opportunity to come together to call out, speak up and renew our commitment to end gender-based violence. (<a href="https://women-gender-equality.canada.ca/en/commemorations-celebrations/16-days.html" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Women and Gender Equality Canada</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue: </p> Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:10:03 +0000 SM Experts: COP 26 United Nations Climate Change Conference /newsroom/node/282996 <p>The twenty-sixth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 26) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will be hosted by the United Kingdom, in partnership with Italy. The summit will bring parties together to accelerate action towards the goals of the Paris Agreement and the UNFCCC. More than 190 world leaders will participate, along with tens of thousands of negotiators, government representatives, businesses and citizens for twelve days of talks. (<a href="https://www.un.org/en/un-climate-change-conference-cop-26" target="_blank">United Nations</a>)</p> Mon, 01 Nov 2021 14:19:26 +0000 SM Expert: Sudan army seized power to prevent civil war says coup leader /newsroom/node/282513 <p>Sudan's coup leader, Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has said the military seized power to prevent "civil war". He added that the deposed Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok was being kept at the general's house "for his own safety” but has now returned home. Protests are continuing for a second day in the capital, Khartoum, with roads, bridges and shops closed. Phone and internet lines are also disrupted. (<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-59052260" target="_blank">BBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Fri, 29 Oct 2021 17:39:15 +0000 SM Expert: Whistleblower Frances Haugen says Facebook making online hate worse /newsroom/node/282252 <p>Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen told British lawmakers that the social media giant stokes online hate and extremism, fails to protect children from harmful content and lacks any incentive to fix the problems, providing strong momentum for efforts by European governments working on stricter regulation of tech giants. While her testimony echoed much of what she told the U.S. Senate earlier this month, her appearance drew intense interest from a British parliamentary committee that is much further along in drawing up legislation to crack down on social platforms.</p> Wed, 27 Oct 2021 14:22:54 +0000 SM Experts: Inflation at almost two-decade high complicates Bank of Canada rate plan /newsroom/node/282066 <p>The cost of just about everything in Canada was more expensive in September, pushing headline inflation to its highest in almost two decades and complicating the Bank of Canada’s plans to keep interest rates pinned near zero until well into 2022. Prices are being driven higher around the world by an extreme mismatch between supply and demand. Suppliers are now scrambling to catch up, clogging ports and other transportation lanes that are dealing with their own pandemic-related issues. (<a href="https://financialpost.com/news/economy/canadas-annual-inflation-rate-hits-4-4-in-september-highes&lt;/body&gt;&lt;/html&gt;"></a></p> Tue, 26 Oct 2021 13:43:49 +0000 SM Expert : Anand to defence, Joly to foreign affairs: Trudeau announces major cabinet shakeup /newsroom/node/282101 <p>Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is kicking off his third mandate with a monumental shift in his cabinet lineup that makes significant changes to senior portfolios. Anita Anand becomes only the second woman in Canadian history to take on the role of Defence minister and Mélanie Joly received a major promotion this morning, moving up from minister of Economic Development and Official Languages to a much higher profile as Foreign Affairs minister.</p> Tue, 26 Oct 2021 17:42:49 +0000 SM Expert: New Alberta mayors, councilors bring diversity to provincial councils /newsroom/node/281936 <p>The 2021 municipal election was historic in Alberta, where Edmonton elected its first mayor of colour and Calgary its first female mayor. Calgary’s new mayor, Jyoti Gondek, says the diversity of the city’s incoming council will bring “strength to decision-making” at a time when a significant number of women and people of colour were elected to municipal offices across Alberta. Mayor-elect Amarjeet Sohi, a Sikh immigrant from India, will be the first person of colour to lead Edmonton.</p> Mon, 25 Oct 2021 20:45:55 +0000 SM Expert: Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp back online after global outage /newsroom/node/278398 <p>Facebook and Facebook-owned apps Instagram and WhatsApp were up and running again late Monday after being hit by an outage that affected users around the world. The social media giant said the disruption to network traffic "had a cascading effect on the way our data centres communicate, bringing our services to a halt." It said there is no evidence that user data was comprised. It was the largest such outage ever tracked by the web monitoring group Downdetector, which collates complaints about web outages.</p> Wed, 06 Oct 2021 16:04:59 +0000 SM Expert: Amazon faces Teamsters union drive at Canadian warehouse /newsroom/node/276838 <p>Amazon.com Inc. could be facing its first unionization battle in Canada after a Teamsters local filed for a union vote for workers at the e-commerce giant’s fulfilment centre near Edmonton. If the Alberta Labour Relations Board verifies application, all workers at the YEG 1 fulfilment centre in Nisku, Alberta, who were employed as of September 13 will be able to vote on joining the union. In order to have a union vote filing approved in Alberta, the union must demonstrate 40 per cent of workers at a given job site have signed a petition for union representation.</p> Mon, 27 Sep 2021 13:44:31 +0000 SM Expert: Strength of a party's climate change plan could help influence federal election results /newsroom/node/275599 <p>Climate change is a hot-button issue in this federal campaign, and data shows that a party’s environmental strategy could help influence its results in at least 9 ridings where races were neck-and-neck in the last election. Environics Analytics analyzed all 338 Canada’s federal electoral districts and found environmental issues are important to a wide swath of Canadians. The data and analytics firm found that voters in 46 ridings had above average concerns – compared to the national average – for the way their lifestyles have an impact on the world around them.</p> Fri, 17 Sep 2021 16:04:51 +0000 SM Expert: From COVID-19 conspiracies to rigged voting machines, misinformation plagues federal election /newsroom/node/275448 <p>Misinformation linked to the COVID-19 pandemic is playing a larger-than-expected role in the federal election, fuelling protests and support for the People’s Party of Canada, experts say. Throughout the election, hostile protests have dogged the campaign of Liberal leader Justin Trudeau. On Monday, anti-vaccination protests targeted hospitals across the country – the ongoing protests have also garnered significant media coverage, getting more attention than issues like Afghanistan or gun control.</p> Thu, 16 Sep 2021 20:53:13 +0000 SM Expert: Involvement of rural communities crucial for Canada’s recovery /newsroom/node/275411 <p>As the federal election campaign heats up, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) is calling on all parties to work with cities and communities of all sizes to drive a stronger, more inclusive nationwide recovery—releasing a package of achievable frontline solutions to pressing challenges, from job creation to climate change to the housing crisis. (<a href="https://fcm.ca/en/news-media/news-release/election-2021-municipalities-lay-out-frontline-solutions" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">FCM</a>) </p> Thu, 16 Sep 2021 16:53:44 +0000 SM Expert: Sikh-Canadians to play an integral part to Canadian election outcome /newsroom/node/275207 <p>NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has emerged as the most likable of the federal party leaders as Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau’s popularity sinks amid the election campaign, a new poll suggests. The Ipsos poll conducted exclusively for Global News found Singh was the only party leader who was viewed more positively than negatively, with 45 per cent approval versus 39 per cent disapproval among those surveyed. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/8145113/canada-election-ipsos-leadership-singh/" target="_blank">Global News</a>)</p> Wed, 15 Sep 2021 15:18:46 +0000 SM Expert: Main federal parties all say they'll make housing more affordable /newsroom/node/275187 <p>Canadian voters will be hearing a similar message from each of the major federal parties during the current election campaign: housing has grown too expensive, and we have a plan to fix it. The consensus reflects the increasingly dire state of housing in Canada, experts say, which affects everyone from prospective homeowners feeling squeezed out of the market to lower-income families languishing on waiting lists for affordable housing. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/affordable-housing-2021-election-1.6145799" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> Wed, 15 Sep 2021 13:21:29 +0000 SM Expert: Record number of Indigenous candidates running in federal election /newsroom/node/274598 <p>A record number of Indigenous candidates are running in the federal election this year with what they say is a goal of advancing meaningful change in Canada's relationship with First Nations, Inuit and Metis. The Canadian Press analyzed party websites, as well as reached out to each party, to determine how many Indigenous candidates are hoping to get elected in Canada's 338 ridings on Sept. 20. The analysis determined there are at least 77 candidates this year compared with 62 in 2019.</p> Wed, 08 Sep 2021 15:59:39 +0000 SM Expert: Taliban's rapid advance across Afghanistan /newsroom/node/272855 <p>Taliban insurgents entered Kabul after previously taking control of all of Afghanistan's other major cities apart from the capital. Prior talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government on a political understanding that could lead to a peace deal, backed by the United States and its allies, have failed to make significant progress. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/taliban-afghanistan-timeline-1.6141890" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Thu, 19 Aug 2021 19:24:42 +0000 SM Expert: Canada headed for a federal election on Sept. 20 /newsroom/node/272649 <p>Following a meeting with Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau this morning, Governor General Mary Simon approved his request to dissolve Parliament, triggering the issuing of the election writs and formally beginning Canada's 44th federal election. The campaign will last 36 days — the minimum campaign length permitted by law. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/federal-election-call-1.6141189" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Tue, 17 Aug 2021 12:23:11 +0000 SM Experts: Forest fires and smog /newsroom/node/271141 <p>More than 130 forest fires were burning in northwestern Ontario on Sunday, July 25, with Environment Canada issuing air quality statements for much of the region due to smoke. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/thunder-bay/forest-fires-northwestern-ontario-1.6116624">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> <p><a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=ZaW8ZbsAAAAJ&amp;hl=en"><b>Mohammad Reza Alizadeh</b></a><b>, PhD candidate, Department of Bioresource Engineering</b></p> Wed, 28 Jul 2021 20:17:13 +0000 SM Experts: Ottawa tested facial recognition on millions of travellers at Toronto’s Pearson airport /newsroom/node/270382 <p>The federal government quietly tested facial recognition technology on millions of unsuspecting travellers at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport in 2016. The six-month initiative, meant to pick out people the Canada Border Services Agency suspected might try to enter the country using fake identification, is detailed in a document obtained by <i>The Globe and Mail</i> through a freedom of information request. The project is the largest known government deployment of the technology in Canada to date.</p> Tue, 20 Jul 2021 17:22:30 +0000 SM Expert: Tokyo 2020 Olympics /newsroom/node/270478 <p>The world needs to see that Japan can stage a safe Olympics, the country's prime minister told sports officials on Tuesday, July 20 ahead of the Tokyo Games. Tens of thousands of athletes, officials, games staff and media have arrived in Japan amid a local state of emergency and widespread opposition from the general public. Health experts in Japan have questioned allowing so many international visitors for the games. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/sports/olympics/olympics-tokyo2020-prime-minister-availability-1.6109229" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> Wed, 21 Jul 2021 17:29:11 +0000 SM Experts: Inuk leader Mary Simon named Canada's 1st Indigenous governor general /newsroom/node/269914 <p>Inuk leader Mary Simon has been chosen as the next governor general — the first Indigenous person ever to be appointed as the Queen's representative in Canada. During a news conference at the Canadian Museum of History, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the Queen has accepted his recommendation to appoint Simon — a past president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the national Inuit organization — as the 30th governor general. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/trudeau-gg-mary-simon-1.6091376" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> Tue, 06 Jul 2021 21:48:12 +0000 SM Expert: Bank of Canada should start issuing digital currency, experts say /newsroom/node/269900 <p>Some technologists are telling the Bank of Canada (BoC) that its wait-and-see approach when it comes to issuing digital currencies runs the risk of leaving it behind in the race to innovate globally. Although its Governor Tiff Macklem said in April that the pandemic has accelerated the digital economy and “the case for a digital currency becomes more compelling,” the central bank says it has no immediate plans to launch a digital loonie. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/video/7963776/bank-of-canada-should-start-issuing-digital-currency-experts-say" target="_blank">Global News</a>)</p> Wed, 23 Jun 2021 15:16:29 +0000 SM Experts: Indigenous initiatives at SM /newsroom/node/269898 <p>In June, we commemorate National Indigenous History Month 2021 to recognize the history, heritage and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada.</p> Wed, 23 Jun 2021 13:35:11 +0000 SM Expert: Green Party's Annamie Paul survives emergency meeting over leadership /newsroom/node/269875 <p>The leadership of the Green Party's Annamie Paul is safe — for now — after party brass decided late Tuesday not to kick-start a process that could have ultimately ousted her as leader of the party. Tuesday night's decision follows a difficult few weeks for the party, which has been ripped apart by internal disputes over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/annamie-paul-leadership-1.6067380" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Wed, 16 Jun 2021 14:03:23 +0000 SM Experts: U.S. seeking $25M from Air Canada for being slow to refund customers /newsroom/node/269873 <p>The U.S. Department of Transportation is seeking a $25.5 million US penalty against Air Canada for "failing to provide consumers prompt refunds" after cancelling their flights amid the COVID-19 pandemic. In a "notice of enforcement proceeding" issued by the department on Tuesday, June 15, the Office of Aviation Consumer Protection says Air Canada "unlawfully failed to provide timely refunds" for flights between the United States and Canada that were cancelled or significantly changed. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/air-canada-refunds-u-s-1.6066398">CBC News</a>)</p> Tue, 15 Jun 2021 20:36:45 +0000 SM Experts: FDA approves much-debated Alzheimer's drug panned by experts /newsroom/node/269362 <p>U.S. government health officials approved the first new drug for Alzheimer's disease in nearly 20 years, disregarding warnings from independent advisers that the much-debated treatment hasn't been shown to help slow the brain-destroying disease. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said it granted approval to the drug from Biogen based on results that seemed “reasonably likely” to benefit Alzheimer's patients. (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/fda-approves-much-debated-alzheimer-s-drug-panned-by-experts-1.5459470" target="_blank">CTV News</a>)</p> Tue, 08 Jun 2021 20:48:35 +0000 SM Experts: Pride Month | June 2021 /newsroom/node/269333 <p>June is Pride Month in Canada. It is a time when we celebrate diversity and LGBTQ+ communities, acknowledge their history, the hardships they have endured, and the progress that has been made. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatchewan/community/celebrating-pride-month-2021-1.6041475" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Tue, 08 Jun 2021 14:25:05 +0000 SM Expert: World Food Safety Day | June 7 /newsroom/node/269253 <p>World Food Safety Day (WFSD) celebrated on 7 June 2021 aims to draw attention and inspire action to help prevent, detect and manage foodborne risks, contributing to food security, human health, economic prosperity, agriculture, market access, tourism and sustainable development. This year’s theme, ‘Safe food today for a healthy tomorrow’, stresses that production and consumption of safe food has immediate and long-term benefits for people, the planet and the economy. (<a href="https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-food-safety-day/2021">WHO</a>)</p> Mon, 07 Jun 2021 18:49:47 +0000 SM Experts: Remains of 215 children found buried at a former residential school /newsroom/node/268554 <p>Preliminary findings from a survey of the grounds at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School have uncovered the remains of 215 children buried at the site in British Columbia. In a statement, the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation explained they hired a specialist in ground-penetrating radar to carry out the work, and that their language and culture department oversaw the project to ensure it was done in a culturally appropriate and respectful way.</p> Mon, 31 May 2021 21:04:41 +0000 SM Expert: Belarus faces sanctions over Ryanair ‘hijacking’ /newsroom/node/267989 <p>Western powers prepared to pile sanctions on Belarus and cut off its aviation links after it scrambled a warplane to intercept a Ryanair aircraft and arrest a dissident journalist’. In a video posted online, the detained blogger, Roman Protasevich, 26, said he was in good health, being held in a pretrial detention facility in Minsk, and acknowledged having played a role in organizing mass disturbances in the capital last year. The comments were immediately dismissed by his allies, including his father, as having been made under duress.</p> Fri, 28 May 2021 20:30:21 +0000 SM Experts: International Day for Biological Diversity | May 22 /newsroom/node/265915 <p>As the global community is called to re-examine our relationship to the natural world, one thing is certain: despite all our technological advances, humans are completely dependent on healthy and vibrant ecosystems for water, food, medicines, clothes, fuel, shelter, and energy, just to name a few. The 2021 theme, “We’re part of the solution”, was chosen to be a continuation of the momentum generated last year under the over-arching theme, “Our solutions are in nature”, which served as a reminder that biodiversity remains the answer to several sustainable development challenges.</p> Mon, 17 May 2021 18:22:25 +0000 SM Expert: Quebec tables Bill 101 language law reforms /newsroom/node/265372 <p>The long-awaited bill clad with extensive measures to strengthen and protect the role of the French language in Quebec has been unveiled after months of discussions. Bill 96 aims to “reinforce” French as the “common language” in the Quebec nation and seeks to change the Canadian Constitution to ensure that French is recognized as the only official language of the province. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/7858324/quebec-bill-101-french-language-reform/" target="_blank">Global News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Fri, 14 May 2021 19:39:53 +0000 SM Experts: Escalating violence between Israelis and Palestinians /newsroom/node/265175 <p>Israel hit three multi-storey towers as it hammered the Gaza Strip with airstrikes, and militants in the territory fired barrages of rockets at Israel, in the most severe outbreak of violence since the 2014 Gaza war, with no resolution in sight. The fighting has taken on many hallmarks of that devastating 50-day conflict between Israel and Hamas, but with a startling new factor: large, heated protests by Israeli Arabs in support of those living in the territories as well as counter-violence by Jewish Israelis.</p> Thu, 13 May 2021 19:51:15 +0000 SM Experts: Scottish National Party promise independence referendum after election win /newsroom/node/264809 <p>The Scottish National Party is promising to hold a second independence referendum after election results announced Saturday saw pro-independence candidates gain a majority in the Scottish parliament. In her victory speech, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said her party, which wants to break away from the United Kingdom, had delivered a "historic and extraordinary" win after finishing with 64 seats in the Scottish parliament, one short of a majority. (<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/05/09/uk/uk-elections-scotland-independence-gbr-intl/index.html" target="_blank">CNN</a>)</p> Tue, 11 May 2021 19:11:41 +0000 SM Expert: Facebook board upholds Donald Trump suspension /newsroom/node/264628 <p>Former U.S. President Donald Trump won't return to Facebook – at least not yet. Four months after Facebook suspended Trump's accounts for inciting violence that led to the deadly Jan. 6 Capitol riot, the company's quasi-independent oversight board upheld the bans. But it told Facebook to specify how long they would last, saying that its "indefinite" ban on the former president was unreasonable. The ruling, which gives Facebook six months to comply, effectively postpones any possible Trump reinstatement and puts the onus for that decision squarely back on the company.</p> Mon, 10 May 2021 19:46:59 +0000 SM Experts: Laurent Commission on Children's Rights and Youth Protection /newsroom/node/263302 <p>Quebec is being called on to turn "anger into action" in a landmark report into the province's youth protection services, two years after the death of a seven-year-old girl in Granby shocked the public and raised questions about the system. The report, released on May 3, calls for a wide range of changes, including increased funding for preventive programs aimed at helping children in distress, an independent commissioner to oversee the youth projection system and a charter of children's rights.</p> Tue, 04 May 2021 20:20:49 +0000 SM Expert: Affordable housing crisis in Quebec /newsroom/node/263000 <p>Premier François Legault says he recognizes there is a shortage of affordable housing in Quebec but says his comments that a person can rent an apartment in Montreal for between $500-$600 a month have been misinterpreted. A survey published by <i>La Presse</i> last weekend revealed the average price of a Montreal apartment is about $907 a month and often these units are in terrible shape. (<a href="https://montrealgazette.com/news/quebec/roasted-for-comments-on-housing-legault-denies-being-out-of-touch-with-low-income-quebecers" target="_blank">Montreal Gazette</a>)</p> Mon, 03 May 2021 14:18:19 +0000 SM Experts: Apple users can say no to being tracked with new software update /newsroom/node/261899 <p>Apple rolled out a software update for its mobile devices that gives users the option of stopping apps from tracking their location and sharing other identifying information with third parties. Services such as Facebook and others currently have the ability to track users on mobile devices in order to learn more about them to target advertisements and other location-based services to them. In some instances, the tracking is in place even if the user is not actively using the app in question.</p> Wed, 28 Apr 2021 15:09:36 +0000 SM Experts: World Intellectual Property Day | April 26 /newsroom/node/261096 <p>The World Intellectual Property Day shines a light on the critical role of small and medium-sized enterprises in the economy and how they can use intellectual property (IP) rights to build stronger, more competitive, and resilient businesses. (<a href="https://www.wipo.int/ip-outreach/en/ipday/" target="_blank">World International Property Organization</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Fri, 23 Apr 2021 16:07:02 +0000 SM Experts: Ex-cop guilty of murder and manslaughter in death of George Floyd /newsroom/node/260936 <p>A former Minneapolis police officer was convicted Tuesday of murder and manslaughter for pinning George Floyd to the pavement with his knee on the Black man's neck in a case that triggered worldwide protests, violence and a furious reexamination of racism and policing in the U.S. (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/ex-cop-derek-chauvin-guilty-of-murder-and-manslaughter-in-death-of-george-floyd-1.5394195" target="_blank">CTV News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Thu, 22 Apr 2021 14:24:57 +0000 SM Expert: Quebec court upholds most of province’s secularism law /newsroom/node/260778 <p>Quebec’s secularism law is largely legal, a Superior Court judge ruled on Tuesday, April 20, even as he acknowledged it violates the rights of Muslim women and has cruel and dehumanizing consequences for those who wear religious symbols. Justice Marc-André Blanchard upheld the bulk of the religious symbols law, while striking down clauses pertaining to English-language school boards and a ban on members of the provincial legislature wearing face coverings. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/7772987/quebec-secularism-law-bill-21/">Global News)</a></p> Wed, 21 Apr 2021 13:04:52 +0000 SM Experts: Earth Day | April 22 /newsroom/node/260677 <p>Earth Day, celebrated annually on 22 April, will again see more than 1 billion people participating in activities around the world to draw attention to the urgency of the climate crisis and environmental degradation and the need for immediate action. Many important environmental events have happened on Earth Day since its inception in 1970, including the signing of the Paris Agreement in 2016. The theme for this year – the second Earth Day Live digital event - is: Restore our Earth.</p> Tue, 20 Apr 2021 20:08:04 +0000 SM Experts: Federal Budget 2021 /newsroom/node/260536 <p>The federal government unveiled its spending plans to manage the remainder of the COVID-19 crisis and chart an economic course in a post-pandemic Canada. The Liberals’ first budget in two years outlined the government’s plans for a national child-care system, including what strings will be attached to any spending. There were also measures to boost the supply of affordable housing and money aimed at greening the economy as the Liberals look to chart a path for promises on climate change.</p> Mon, 19 Apr 2021 20:28:39 +0000 SM Expert: Proposed extension of RAMQ to undocumented children criticized /newsroom/node/259848 <p>Bill 83, which aims to extend Quebec health insurance coverage (RAMQ) to children born here to migrant parents who have a precarious status, does not pass the test, according to several organizations that care for the rights of young children. According to Doctors of the World Canada, which runs a clinic for migrants in this category, Bill 83, which was introduced by the Minister of Health, creates new and unnecessary administrative procedures along with obstacles that stand in the way of it achieving the desired objectives.</p> Wed, 14 Apr 2021 21:00:06 +0000 SM Expert: Supreme Court’s carbon tax decision /newsroom/node/257105 <p>In a 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court of Canada has ruled the federal Liberal government's carbon pricing regime is constitutional — a major decision that allows Ottawa to push ahead with its ambitious plan to ensure every province and territory has a price on carbon to curb greenhouse gas emissions. Some provinces — notably Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan — have forcefully opposed the carbon tax, arguing natural resources are in the provinces' jurisdiction under the Constitution.</p> Thu, 25 Mar 2021 17:14:55 +0000 SM Expert: Canada ranks 15th in latest World Happiness Report /newsroom/node/256832 <p>While happiness may have felt far off as the COVID-19 pandemic raged across the globe, the latest World Happiness Report (WHR) has ranked Canadians in 15th place, slipping down from the 10th position the previous year. The report is released annually by a team of independent researchers and weighs six variables: income, freedom, trust in government, healthy life expectancy, social support, and generosity. (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/lifestyle/canada-ranks-15th-in-latest-world-happiness-report-finland-takes-top-spot-1.5354134" target="_blank">CTV News</a>)</p> Fri, 19 Mar 2021 20:41:16 +0000 SM Expert: Rogers and Shaw merge in $26 billion transaction /newsroom/node/256675 <p>Rogers Communications Inc. has struck a deal to acquire Shaw Communications Inc., a takeover that will reshape the country’s telecom landscape provided it receives regulatory approval. The purchase of the Calgary-based telecommunications company would give Rogers a bigger national footprint with deeper access to the West and a national wireline network, according to analysts assessing the transaction, while Rogers itself touted the potential for $1 billion in synergies.</p> Tue, 16 Mar 2021 15:51:15 +0000 SM Experts: International Women's Day | March 8 /newsroom/node/256645 <p>This year, the theme for the International Women’s Day, “<i>Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world</i>,” celebrates the tremendous efforts by women and girls around the world in shaping a more equal future and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and highlights the gaps that remain. Women of the world want and deserve an equal future free from stigma, stereotypes, and violence; a future that’s sustainable, peaceful, with equal rights and opportunities for all.</p> Wed, 03 Mar 2021 20:59:44 +0000 SM Experts: Mars 2020’s Perseverance landing in Jezero Crater /newsroom/node/256628 <p>NASA’s science rover <em>Perseverance</em>, the most advanced astrobiology laboratory ever sent to another world, streaked through the Martian atmosphere on Thursday, February 18 and landed safely on the floor of a vast crater, its first stop on a search for traces of ancient microbial life on the Red Planet. (<a href="https://nationalpost.com/news/world/space-how-to-watch-nasa-mars-rover-perseverance-landing" target="_blank">National Post</a>)<br /> <br /> Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:<br /> <br /></p> Thu, 18 Feb 2021 18:52:23 +0000 SM Expert: Millions of Texans are still without power as winter storms continue /newsroom/node/256631 <p>A rare deep freeze in Texas that raised demand for power forced the U.S. state's electric grid operator on Monday to impose rotating blackouts that left nearly three million customers without electricity. The cold snap sweeping Texas reached the northern part of neighboring Mexico as well, where authorities said 4.7 million users lost power early on Monday, February 15. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/texas-winter-storm-power-outages-1.5914371" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this issue:</p> Fri, 19 Feb 2021 18:51:48 +0000 SM Experts: Federal government approves Air Canada purchase of Transat A.T. Inc. /newsroom/node/256613 <p>The federal government has approved Air Canada's purchase of competing airline Transat A.T. Inc. under a series of strict terms and conditions the government says "are in the interest of Canadians." A statement released by the transport minister's office said the impact of COVID-19 was a key factor in the final decision to approve the purchase. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/federal-government-air-canada-transat-1.5911340" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Fri, 12 Feb 2021 20:31:54 +0000 SM Experts: Black History Month | February 2021 /newsroom/node/256580 <p>During Black History Month, Canadians celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians who, throughout history, have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous nation it is today. (<a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/black-history-month/about.html">Government of Canada</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Mon, 01 Feb 2021 19:28:41 +0000 SM Expert: Military forces stages coup in Myanmar /newsroom/node/256582 <p>Myanmar’s military staged a coup Monday and detained senior politicians including state counsellor and Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi — a sharp reversal of the significant, if uneven, progress toward democracy the Southeast Asian nation has made following five decades of military rule. (<a href="https://apnews.com/article/myanmar-coup-aung-san-suu-kyi-dda3d013897e14d5d0bd44d19eac9cd1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Associated Press</a>) </p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this topic: </p> Mon, 01 Feb 2021 20:07:19 +0000 SM Experts: Julie Payette stepping down as governor general /newsroom/node/256434 <p>Governor General Julie Payette and her secretary, Assunta di Lorenzo, are resigning after an outside workplace review of Rideau Hall found that the pair presided over a toxic work environment. Last year, an independent consulting firm was hired by the Privy Council Office to review reports that Payette was responsible for workplace harassment at Rideau Hall. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/governor-general-payette-step-down-1.5882675" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Fri, 22 Jan 2021 16:23:32 +0000 SM Experts: International Day of Education | January 24 /newsroom/node/256438 <p>The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed January 24 as the International Day of Education, in celebration of the role of education for peace and development. The theme of the 3<sup>rd</sup> International Day of Education is ‘Recover and Revitalize Education for the COVID-19 Generation’. Now is the time to power education by stepping up collaboration and international solidarity to place education and lifelong learning at the center of the recovery. (<a href="https://en.unesco.org/commemorations/educationday" target="_blank">UNESCO</a>)</p> Fri, 22 Jan 2021 17:37:02 +0000 SM Experts: United States set to rejoin the Paris Climate Agreement /newsroom/node/256404 <p>U.S. President Joe Biden returned the United States to the worldwide fight to slow global warming in one of his first official acts Wednesday and immediately launched a series of climate-friendly efforts that would transform how Americans drive and get their power. Biden signed an executive order rejoining the Paris climate accord within hours of taking the oath of office, fulfilling a campaign pledge. (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/biden-signs-order-rejoining-paris-climate-accord-hours-into-presidency-1.5275650" target="_blank">CTV News</a>)</p> Thu, 21 Jan 2021 20:09:12 +0000 SM Experts: Joe Biden’s presidential inauguration /newsroom/node/256326 <p>Joe Biden will be sworn in as the 46th president of the United States on Wednesday under a pledge to "heal" the country as it grapples with an ongoing pandemic, economic uncertainty and deep political divisions. Extra security measures will be in place following the violence that erupted at the U.S. Capitol on January 6 as rioters sought to stop Congress from certifying the president-elect's win over Donald Trump. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/us-inauguration-joe-biden-how-to-watch-1.5879119">CBC News</a>)</p> Tue, 19 Jan 2021 21:37:45 +0000 SM Expert: Canada continues to ‘make the case’ for Keystone XL to Joe Biden’s team /newsroom/node/256319 <p>Canada’s Natural Resources Minister Seamus O’Regan says the government is continuing to “make the case” for the Keystone XL pipeline expansion despite reported plans from Joe Biden to immediately quash the project. His comments come on the heels of reports that Biden is planning to cancel the planned pipeline expansion as one of his first moves after becoming U.S. president. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/7583384/keystone-pipeline-biden-oregan-canada-united-states/" target="_blank">Global News</a>)</p> Tue, 19 Jan 2021 20:11:52 +0000 SM Expert: Couche-Tard's retail lab on campus gives peek at tech trials /newsroom/node/256154 <p>Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. and SM are opening a retail lab in Montreal that will let consumers get a taste for technologies that may transform retail in the in the current and post-COVID-19 pandemic world. It will give SM faculty and students a chance to do research and testing in a real retail environment. (<a href="https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/couche-tard-s-retail-lab-on-campus-gives-peek-at-tech-trials-1.1549227" target="_blank">BNN Bloomberg</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Fri, 15 Jan 2021 21:15:08 +0000 SM Experts: Pro-Trump chaos on Capitol Hill /newsroom/node/255780 <p>Last week pro-Trump protesters stormed the legislature as lawmakers were set to review the Electoral College votes that made Joe Biden the president. (<a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-congress-confirmation-joe-biden-donald-trump-explainer/">Globe and Mail</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> <p><strong><a href="/history/staff/wendell-adjetey">Wendell Nii Laryea Adjetey</a>, Assistant Professor, Department of History and Classical Studies</strong></p> Wed, 06 Jan 2021 20:59:43 +0000 SM Experts: 2020 Holiday Season /newsroom/node/251831 <p>The SM Media Relations Office suggests the following sources for your holiday stories:<br /> <br /></p> Wed, 02 Dec 2020 20:58:11 +0000 SM Experts: Black Friday and holiday shopping during the COVID-19 pandemic /newsroom/node/250515 <p>In normal times, the holiday shopping season is when retailers and other businesses can make the money they need to survive leaner months. But with lockdowns being implemented in parts of the country, and rising COVID-19 infections, bringing those customers into the store is difficult if not impossible. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/radio/costofliving/shopping-in-the-time-of-covid-19-business-fears-the-second-hand-trend-and-how-colours-influence-what-we-buy-1.5808862" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> Tue, 24 Nov 2020 17:43:43 +0000 SM Expert: 2020 National Cyber Threat Assessment /newsroom/node/249782 <p>The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security has named China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea’s state-sponsored cyber activity as posing the “greatest strategic threats” to Canada’s critical infrastructure, intellectual property, and political events like elections.</p> Fri, 20 Nov 2020 20:20:23 +0000 SM Experts: Quebec’s Plan for a Green Economy /newsroom/node/249131 <p>Premier François Legault announced his government's long-awaited plan to tackle climate change on Monday, November 16, after one of the main elements was revealed over the weekend: a ban on the sale of new gas-powered vehicles, starting in 2035. The government is devoting $6.7 billion over the next five years to deal with climate change. The bulk of that money will go to subsidies for the purchase of electric vehicles. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/quebec-green-plan-1.5802976" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> Tue, 17 Nov 2020 19:29:47 +0000 SM Expert: Quebec-Massachusetts electric energy transportation /newsroom/node/249129 <p>Hydro-Québec's energy corridor project, which will potentially supply electricity to the New England power grid, mainly to Massachusetts, has just passed an important milestone. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued the federal environmental permit for the New England Clean Energy Connect (NECEC) transmission line project. (<a href="https://www.journaldemontreal.com/2020/11/05/nouvelle-angleterre-autorisation-importante-pour-hydro-quebec" target="_blank">Journal de Montréal</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM who can provide comment on this issue:</p> Tue, 17 Nov 2020 19:20:22 +0000 SM Experts: Joe Biden wins U.S. presidential election /newsroom/node/248088 <p>Democrat Joe Biden defeated President Donald Trump to become the 46th president of the United States on Saturday, November 7, positioning himself to be a leader who "seeks not to divide but to unify" a nation gripped by a historic pandemic and a confluence of economic and social turmoil. Biden crossed the threshold of 270 electoral college votes with a win in his home state of Pennsylvania. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/biden-trump-us-election-saturday-1.5793885" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> Thu, 12 Nov 2020 21:30:59 +0000 SM Experts: Quebec City attack highlights need for discussion on mental health /newsroom/node/246168 <p>Quebec is hoping to reduce wait lists and widen access to help by injecting $100 million into mental health services as the novel coronavirus pandemic continues, an announcement that was pushed up following a deadly sword attack in the province’s capital that killed two and left five injured. (<a href="https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2020/11/02/extra-mental-health-supports-in-place-in-grief-stricken-quebec-after-sword-attack.html" target="_blank">Global News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can provide comment on this issue:</p> Tue, 03 Nov 2020 15:19:35 +0000 SM Experts: 2020 U.S. presidential election /newsroom/node/244010 <p>With early voter turnout setting a record and U.S. business districts boarding up for fear of election day unrest, U.S. President Donald Trump and Democratic challenger Joe Biden stumped on the campaign's last day on Monday November 2 in states expected to decide who wins. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/trump-biden-last-day-campaign-1.5786141" target="_blank">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Mon, 19 Oct 2020 13:51:22 +0000 SM Expert: NXIVM leader Keith Raniere sentenced to 120 years in prison /newsroom/node/245489 <p>Disgraced self-improvement guru Keith Raniere, whose followers included millionaires and Hollywood actors, was sentenced to 120 years in prison on Tuesday, October 27 for turning some adherents into sex slaves branded with his initials. The sentencing was the culmination of several years of revelations about Raniere's program, NXIVM, which charged thousands of dollars for invitation-only self-improvement courses at its headquarters near Albany, N.Y., along with branches in Mexico and Canada.</p> Thu, 29 Oct 2020 20:33:51 +0000 SM Experts: Halloween spike in nut allergies  /newsroom/node/245398 <p>A new study from researchers at SM is looking into the link between holidays and nut allergies in children. The study found that bouts of anaphylaxis brought on by peanut allergies increased by 85 per cent on Halloween and 60 per cent on Easter, compared to the rest of the year. (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/mobile/health/study-reveals-the-most-harmful-holidays-for-children-with-nut-allergies-1.5113989">CTV News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Wed, 28 Oct 2020 18:53:17 +0000 SM Experts: World Mental Health Day | October 10 /newsroom/node/242514 <p>World Mental Health Day, on October 10<sup>th</sup>, comes at a time when our daily lives have changed considerably as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The past months have brought challenges to many, particularly for people with mental health conditions, many experiencing even greater social isolation than before. (<a href="https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-mental-health-day/world-mental-health-day-2020" target="_blank">World Health Organization</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM who can provide comment on this issue:</p> Thu, 08 Oct 2020 20:20:11 +0000 SM Experts: Joyce Echaquan’s death: Racism in the healthcare system /newsroom/node/241906 <p>Quebec’s coroner’s office will be looking into the death of Joyce Echaquan, an Indigenous woman from the Atikamekw Nation of Manawan and a mother of seven children, who passed away amid troubling circumstances in a Joliette hospital on Monday, September 28. Before her death, Echaquan took a cellphone video from her hospital bed and livestreamed it on Facebook. Near the end of the video, which lasts around seven minutes, hospital personnel enter the room. The staff members can be heard insulting Echaquan and making derogatory comments about her.</p> Fri, 02 Oct 2020 18:46:06 +0000 SM Experts: International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste | September 29 /newsroom/node/241523 <p>This year represents the first ever observance of the International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste. The COVID-19 pandemic continues generating significant challenges to food security in many countries. These challenges include disruptions in supply chains, quarantine measures, and the closure of much of the hospitality industry and schools. All these measures have resulted in a loss of markets for producers and distributors, making the situation even more challenging. (<a href="https://www.un.org/en/observances/end-food-waste-day">United Nations</a>)</p> Mon, 28 Sep 2020 14:14:27 +0000 SM Experts: The return of ‘Fridays for Future’ /newsroom/node/240959 <p>While the COVID-19 pandemic continues to overshadow most other topics in 2020, Canadian activists are joining demonstrators around the world to bring climate change back into the conversation. Protests, walkouts, and sit-ins are expected to take place in several Canadian cities, including Vancouver, Ottawa, Montreal, and Halifax, on Friday and Saturday to mark the return of the global Fridays for Future movement led by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.</p> Fri, 25 Sep 2020 19:53:46 +0000 SM Experts: Trudeau’s Throne Speech /newsroom/node/240455 <p>As Canada's parliament returns and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau seeks to put an ethics scandal behind him, his government will unveil its plans this week for the country's pandemic response and recovery. The Liberal government is expected to announce plans to tackle both the immediate crisis – a new surge in COVID-19 cases as the country enters the colder months - and to a roadmap for a longer-term recovery. (<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/election-us-2020-54239060">BBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Tue, 22 Sep 2020 21:00:58 +0000 SM Expert: MEC to be acquired by private U.S. investment firm /newsroom/node/239734 <p>Tens of thousands of people have signed on to a petition hoping to stop the sale of Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) to a private U.S. firm. The sale was announced Monday September 14 and will see Los Angeles-based private investment firm Kingswood Capital Management acquire the business and its assets. As a result, the retailer will no longer operate as a member-owned co-operative. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/7339722/petition-save-mountain-equipment-co-op-sale-us-firm/">Global News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Thu, 17 Sep 2020 19:49:47 +0000 SM Experts: International Equal Pay Day | September 18 /newsroom/node/239677 <p>International Equal Pay Day, celebrated for the first time this 18 September, represents the longstanding efforts towards the achievement of equal pay for work of equal value. Across all regions, women are paid less than men, with the gender pay gap estimated at 23 per cent globally. Gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls continues to be held back owing to the persistence of historical and structural unequal power relations, poverty and inequalities and disadvantages in access to resources and opportunities that limit women’s and girls’ capabilities.</p> Thu, 17 Sep 2020 13:22:12 +0000 SM Expert: Tariffs on Canadian aluminium /newsroom/node/232596 <p>The Canadian government will impose retaliatory measures valued at $3.6-billion on the United States in response to new American tariffs on Canadian aluminum announced by President Donald Trump this week. Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland said the retaliatory tariffs will take effect in 30 days, after Ottawa consults Canadians on precisely which American products to target.</p> Fri, 07 Aug 2020 22:28:53 +0000 SM Experts: Beirut explosion /newsroom/node/232366 <p>Beirut has forged a grim connection with Halifax — two port cities linked together in tragedy by catastrophic explosions a century apart. Lebanon said the Beirut explosion was caused by 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate — which was stored unsafely in a warehouse after being confiscated from a cargo ship in 2014 — being ignited. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/halifax-beirut-explosion-aid-lebanon-1.5675794">CBC News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:<b> </b></p> Thu, 06 Aug 2020 21:33:42 +0000 SM Experts: Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden nears decision on running mate /newsroom/node/232053 <p>As Joe Biden nears the announcement of his vice-presidential choice, the top contenders and their advocates are making final appeals. The leading contenders include California Sen. Kamala Harris, California Rep. Karen Bass and Obama national security adviser Susan Rice. The selection amounts to the most significant choice Biden has confronted in his nearly five-decade political career. He has pledged to select a woman and is facing calls to choose the first Black woman to compete on a presidential ticket.</p> Wed, 05 Aug 2020 13:24:51 +0000 SM Experts: Wildfires in Quebec /newsroom/node/218671 <p>Quebec has gone from 13 forest fires on Saturday June 20 to 20 fires on Sunday, including one which is still out of control in Lac-Saint-Jean, and which is heading towards the Saguenay, already ravaging more than 62,396 hectares of forest since last Tuesday. (<a href="https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/forest-fires-continue-to-rage-in-quebec-amid-heat-wave-1.4993457#:~:text=MONTREAL%20%2D%2D%20Quebec%20has%20gone,of%20forest%20since%20last%20Tuesday.">CTV Montreal</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Tue, 23 Jun 2020 21:33:04 +0000 SM Experts: Summer in the time of COVID-19 /newsroom/node/218294 <p>The arrival of warmer weather in the Northern Hemisphere raises the question of whether summer could slow the spread of the coronavirus outbreak. While warmer weather typically ends the annual flu season in temperate zones, climate alone has not stopped the COVID-19 pandemic from sweeping any part of the globe. (<a href="https://nationalpost.com/pmn/health-pmn/summer-might-slow-coronavirus-but-is-unlikely-to-stop-it-2">National Post</a>)</p> Mon, 22 Jun 2020 14:26:47 +0000 SM Expert: International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict | June 19 /newsroom/node/217266 <p>The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict on June 19 raises awareness of the need to put an end to conflict-related sexual violence, to honour the victims and survivors of sexual violence around the world. It also pays tribute to all those who have courageously devoted their lives to and lost their lives in standing up for the eradication of these crimes. (<a href="https://www.un.org/en/observances/end-sexual-violence-in-conflict-day/messages">United Nations</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Thu, 18 Jun 2020 19:57:28 +0000 SM Experts: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day | June 15 /newsroom/node/216090 <p>The World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an official United Nations International Day acknowledging the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue. Since 2006, communities throughout the country and around the world have honoured this day to raise the visibility of elder abuse by organizing events to share information and promote resources and services that can help increase seniors’ safety and well-being.</p> Fri, 12 Jun 2020 14:50:29 +0000 SM Experts: George Floyd’s death: Racism and police brutality /newsroom/node/214244 <p>Demonstrators gathered to denounce racist violence and police impunity both in the U.S. and in Montreal. The death of George Floyd in Minneapolis has sparked nightly protests in major U.S. cities. The Montreal rally was a solidarity gathering with American anti-racism activists, but organizers say it is also an opportunity to express their own anger at the treatment of marginalized people in Quebec and elsewhere in Canada. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/george-floyd-montreal-police-racism-protest-1.5592643">CBC News</a>)</p> Tue, 02 Jun 2020 17:01:48 +0000 SM Experts: Hot weather and heat waves /newsroom/node/213092 <p>Environment Canada issued a special weather statement for the Montreal area, warning that temperatures are forecasted to reach between 30 and 33 C this week. (<a href="https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/montreal-to-get-first-taste-of-real-summer-heat-as-temps-forecasted-to-top-30-1.4952494">CTV News</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> <p><b><a href="/infect-diseases/division">Leighanne Parkes</a>, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases</b></p> Wed, 27 May 2020 14:02:41 +0000 SM Expert: International Day for Biological Diversity | May 22 /newsroom/node/212049 <p>May 22 is <a href="https://www.un.org/en/events/biodiversityday/">International Day for Biological Diversity</a>. As the global community is called to re-examine its relationship to the natural world, one thing is certain: despite all our technological advances we are completely dependent on healthy and vibrant ecosystems for our water, food, medicines, clothes, fuel, shelter and energy, just to name a few. The 2020 theme “Our solutions are in nature” emphasizes hope, solidarity and the importance of working together at all levels to build a future of life in harmony with nature.</p> Thu, 21 May 2020 14:22:52 +0000 SM Expert: World Migratory Bird Day | May 9 /newsroom/node/209878 <div><a href="https://www.worldmigratorybirdday.org/">World Migratory Bird Day</a> is May 9. The Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), the African-Eurasian Waterbird Agreement (AEWA) and Environment for the Americas (EFTA) have joined forces to strengthen global recognition and appreciation of migratory birds.</div> Tue, 05 May 2020 15:42:51 +0000 SM Experts: World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2020 /newsroom/node/209116 <p>On April 28, the <a href="https://www.un.org/en/observances/work-safety-day">UN World Day for Safety and Health at Work</a> will focus on the enormous challenges facing governments, employers, workers and their organizations as they try to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and protect safety and health at work. Beyond the immediate crisis, there are also concerns about resuming activity in a manner that sustains progress made in suppressing transmission.</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> <p> </p> Thu, 23 Apr 2020 14:35:45 +0000 SM Experts: Earth Day’s 50th anniversary | Lessons learned from the pandemic /newsroom/node/209019 <p><a href="http://www.earthday.org/earth-day-2020/">Earth Day</a>’s mission is to diversify, educate and activate the environmental movement worldwide. Growing out of the first Earth Day in 1970, Earth Day Network is the world’s largest recruiter to the environmental movement, working with more than 75,000 partners in over 190 countries to drive positive action for our planet.</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Wed, 22 Apr 2020 15:48:47 +0000 SM Expert: Democratic U.S. presidential nomination /newsroom/node/199590 <p>To avoid a contested convention and block the path of Sen. Bernie Sanders to the Democratic U.S. presidential nomination, the field of contenders needed to get smaller and the vote of Democratic moderates had to coalesce behind one candidate – in less than a week, both of those requirements have now been fulfilled. Former vice-president Joe Biden's stunning performance in the Super Tuesday primaries not only resurrected his foundering third attempt for the U.S.</p> Tue, 25 Feb 2020 15:29:59 +0000 SM Experts: International Women's Day | March 8 /newsroom/node/200620 <p>March 8 is International Women's Day, a global day of recognition celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and girls, and raising awareness of the work left to be done. (<a href="https://cfc-swc.gc.ca/commemoration/iwd-jif/index-en.html">Status of Women Canada</a>)</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Tue, 03 Mar 2020 22:42:54 +0000 SM Expert: Extradition trial of Julian Assange /newsroom/node/199591 <p>The U.S. government began outlining its extradition case against Julian Assange in a London court on February 24, arguing that the WikiLeaks founder is not a free-speech champion but an "ordinary" criminal who put many lives at risk with his secret-spilling. U.S. authorities want to try Assange on espionage charges that carry a maximum sentence of 175 years in prison over the 2010 publication of hundreds of thousands of secret military documents and diplomatic cables. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/london-assange-extradition-hearing-1.5473468">CBC News</a>)</p> Tue, 25 Feb 2020 15:41:58 +0000 SM Expert: Montreal residents decry Airbnb rentals /newsroom/node/198441 <p>The sound of people vomiting at 3 a.m., neighbours who open their windows to scream “I love you, Montreal!” at all hours of the night and a frat house atmosphere taking over the building. This is how Manon Wascher describes the “Airbnb nightmare” she has gone through since the apartment complex she lives in on Guy St. was sold four years ago. Wascher says there are between 30 and 50 of the building’s 230 units being rented on the popular travel website.</p> Tue, 11 Feb 2020 17:44:48 +0000 SM Expert: U.S. Primaries, Democratic Party results /newsroom/node/198412 <p>The Iowa Democratic Party says it will release some results of Monday night’s caucuses Tuesday afternoon, blaming inconsistencies in reporting for the delay. Many of the candidates have already moved on to New Hampshire, which holds its primaries in a week. (<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/iowa-caucuses-2020-live-updates/2020/02/04/23561bd6-4707-11ea-bc78-8a18f7afcee7_story.html">Washington Post</a>)</p> <p>Here is a SM expert who can comment on this topic:</p> Tue, 04 Feb 2020 20:05:08 +0000 SM Experts: Black History Month | February 2020 /newsroom/node/198393 <p>Every February, Canadians are invited to participate in Black History Month festivities to honour the legacy of Black Canadians, past and present.</p> <p>Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this topic:</p> <p><a href="/dise/philip-s-s-howard"><b>Philip S. S. Howard</b></a><b>, Assistant Professor, Department of Integrated Studies in Education</b></p> Thu, 30 Jan 2020 19:07:41 +0000 SM Expert - Brexit - what comes next? /newsroom/node/198390 <p>Boris Johnson has set out his vision for a trade deal with the EU, saying there is "no need" for the UK to follow Brussels' rules. The PM called for a Canada-style free trade deal, saying the UK would return to the Withdrawal Agreement if such a deal was not reached. (<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-51351914">BBC</a>)</p> <p>The SM experts who can talk about this subject are:</p> <p><a href="/history/brian-cowan">Brian Cowan</a>, Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair in Early Modern British History, Department of History and Classical Studies </p> Thu, 30 Jan 2020 16:38:52 +0000 SM Smog in Montreal /newsroom/node/198405 <p>A smog warning is still in effect for the Greater Montreal area Monday as high concentrations of pollutants are expected to infiltrate the air. According to Environment Canada, this could "result in poor air quality, especially in urban areas where pollutant emissions are higher." (<a href="https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/smog-warning-still-in-effect-for-greater-montreal-1.4791796">CTV</a>)</p> <p>SM expert who can comment on the issue:</p> Mon, 03 Feb 2020 18:50:41 +0000 SM Expert - Air Quality in Delhi /newsroom/node/198396 <p>Rain lashed parts of Delhi on Tuesday as the air quality remained in the “very poor” category in several areas of the national capital.</p> Thu, 30 Jan 2020 20:44:07 +0000 SM Expert: “SIM Swapping” /newsroom/node/197705 <p>The scam, known as "SIM swapping," involves fraudsters moving or "porting" phone numbers to a new device and then gaining access to personal information through apps and other data. Researchers at Princeton University's Center for Information Technology detailed the many ways that SMS two-factor authentication can go wrong, including multiple failings on the part of carriers to vet SIM-swap requests. (<a href="https://www.wired.com/story/apple-fbi-iphones-skype-sms-two-factor/">WIRED</a>)<br /> <br /> Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:<br /></p> Wed, 22 Jan 2020 16:56:14 +0000 SM Expert: Medical assistance in dying /newsroom/node/196613 <p>Hurrying to meet a looming court deadline, the federal government has given Canadians two weeks to weigh in on how far to extend access to medical aid in dying. Along with online consultations, federal cabinet ministers will be holding in-person discussions with experts across the country. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/consultations-medical-aid-in-dying-1.5422850">CBC</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Wed, 15 Jan 2020 17:44:30 +0000 SM Expert: Iran - U.S. Crisis /newsroom/node/196203 <p>Iran promised vengeance after a U.S. air strike in Baghdad on Friday killed Qassem Soleimani, Tehran’s most prominent military commander and the architect of its growing influence in the Middle East. Soleimani, a general who headed the overseas arm of the Revolutionary Guards, was regarded as the second most powerful figure after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. (<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-iraq-security-blast/u-s-says-terminated-top-iran-general-to-thwart-attack-on-americans-idUSKBN1Z11K8">Reuters</a>)</p> Mon, 13 Jan 2020 16:10:38 +0000 SM Expert: Earthquakes /newsroom/node/196198 <p>Early this morning, an earthquake of 4.0 magnitude, was felt in areas from Rigaud to Montreal to Saint-Bruno, and in parts of eastern Ontario, New York state and Vermont as well. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/earthquake-montreal-west-island-1.5424607">CBC</a>)</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.eps.mcgill.ca/~crowe/">Christie Rowe</a></strong>, from the Faculty of Earth and Planetary Science is available to provide background and comment on the earthquake.</p> Mon, 13 Jan 2020 15:43:35 +0000 SM Experts: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to ‘step back’ from senior royal duties /newsroom/node/195701 <p>The Queen has agreed to allow Prince Harry and Meghan to move part-time to Canada during a “period of transition” after senior royals had “constructive discussions” Monday. “Although we would have preferred them to remain full-time working Members of the Royal Family, we respect and understand their wish to live a more independent life as a family while remaining a valued part of my family,” the Queen said in a statement. (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/queen-agrees-to-transition-for-harry-and-meghan-part-time-move-to-canada-1.4764379">CTV News</a>)<br /> <br /></p> Fri, 10 Jan 2020 22:07:18 +0000 SM Experts: Ukrainian airplane crashes near Iran’s capital, killing 176 passengers /newsroom/node/195332 <p>The Ukraine International Airlines jet, Flight PS752, hurtled into farmland outside of Tehran only minutes after taking off from the capital’s main international airport on Wednesday morning. Fifty-seven Canadians were among the 176 people killed when a Ukrainian passenger plane crashed near Iran’s capital only minutes after takeoff. (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/canadians-among-176-killed-in-passenger-plane-crash-in-iran-1.4757783">CTV News</a>)<br /> <br /> Here are some experts from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Wed, 08 Jan 2020 22:19:42 +0000 SM Expert: Australia bushfires /newsroom/node/195305 <p>Australia continues to burn after more than a month of raging bushfires, and it doesn't appear the smoke-filled skies will be clearing any time soon. More than five million hectares have burned, 19 people have died, and 21 people are missing. Tens of thousands of people were forced to flee their homes. More than eight million more were under an emergency order. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/australia-bushfires-1.5414325">CBC</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Wed, 08 Jan 2020 19:29:57 +0000 SM Experts: 2019 Holiday Season /newsroom/node/190026 <p><strong>The SM Media Relations Office suggests the following sources for your holiday stories:</strong></p> Wed, 04 Dec 2019 21:49:26 +0000 SM Expert: Dutch high court decision - reduced carbon emissions a human right /newsroom/node/191766 <p>The Dutch high court has just upheld a decision that obliges the Dutch government to reduce its carbon emissions by at least 25% by 2020 to protect the human rights of its citizens. (<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2019/12/20/business/bc-eu-netherlands-climate-case.html">New York Times</a>)</p> <p>This SM  expert can provide comment on this issue:</p> Fri, 20 Dec 2019 22:17:20 +0000 SM Experts: Trump impeached for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress /newsroom/node/188215 <p>Donald Trump became the third U.S. president to be impeached as the House of Representatives formally charged him on two counts on Wednesday, December 18. The first count charges him with abuse of power for allegedly pressuring the president of Ukraine to investigate his Democratic rivals while crucial U.S. security aid was being withheld. The second charges him with obstruction of Congress for stonewalling investigative efforts. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/scannable-trump-impeachment-vote-1.5401967">CBC News</a>)</p> Fri, 15 Nov 2019 15:55:55 +0000 SM Expert: Cyber security, cyber attacks, and data breaches /newsroom/node/191323 <p>Cyber security breaches at <a href="https://business.financialpost.com/technology/lifelabs-hack-may-have-compromised-personal-info-of-15-mln-canadians-2">LifeLabs</a>, <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/potential-scope-of-desjardins-data-breach-widens-to-include-another-2-million-credit-card-holders-1.5391021">Desjardins</a>, <a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/business/capital-one-target-of-massive-data-breach-6-million-canadians-impacted-1.4528804">Capital One</a>, and <a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/6012007/transunion-data-compromised-canadians/">TransUnion</a> underscore t</p> Wed, 18 Dec 2019 15:56:16 +0000 SM Expert: Female-only spaces /newsroom/node/191163 <p>Are female-only spaces discriminatory? It was the conversion of an all-female gym into a mixed gym that triggered the debate. This past fall, the Éconofitness Sports Centre in the Old Rosemont borough of Montreal announced that it would admit men as of December 20, 20219. The decision did not suit a segment of the customer base, that has since tried to put pressure on management. (<a href="https://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/201912/15/01-5253864-discriminatoires-les-gyms-pour-femmes.php">La Presse</a>)<br /> <br /></p> Tue, 17 Dec 2019 16:18:38 +0000 SM Expert: Second phase of air passenger rights comes into effect in Canada /newsroom/node/191085 <p>With the holiday season fast approaching and Canadians finalizing their travel plans, the federal government’s second wave of air passenger protections has come into full effect. As of Dec. 15, airlines now must abide by the Canadian Transportation Agency’s (CTA) second set of rules intended to protect travellers when their trips don’t go as planned. (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/passenger-bill-of-rights-the-air-travel-rules-coming-into-effect-in-december-1.4692503">CTV News</a>).</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Mon, 16 Dec 2019 21:50:47 +0000 SM Expert: 2019 UK election /newsroom/node/190538 <p>The U.K. election campaign is entering its final days. On Thursday, the country will head to the polls for the third time in under five years. The incumbent Tory, Boris Johnson, is promising to "get Brexit done." Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn is proposing another referendum. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/radio/frontburner/amidst-profound-political-crisis-u-k-heads-to-the-polls-1.5388945">CBC</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> <p><b>John A. Hall, James SM Professor of Sociology, SM</b></p> Tue, 10 Dec 2019 16:44:58 +0000 SM Expert: Russia Banned from Olympics and Global Sports for 4 Years Over Doping /newsroom/node/190445 <p>Global antidoping leaders agreed unanimously on Monday to banish Russia from international sports — including next summer’s Olympic Games in Tokyo — for four years, the latest and severest punishment yet connected to a years long cheating scheme that has tarnished global sport. (<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/09/sports/russia-doping-ban.html">New York Times</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> <p><b>Lindsay Duncan, Associate Professor and William Dawson Scholar, Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education</b></p> Mon, 09 Dec 2019 18:51:12 +0000 SM Expert: COP25 - UN Climate Change Conference /newsroom/node/190001 <p>As the global climate emergency intensifies and greenhouse gas emissions continue to grow, governments will gather in Madrid for the UN Climate Change Conference COP25, from December 2 to 13, to take the next crucial steps in the UN climate change process. (<a href="https://unfccc.int/news/cop25-to-be-the-launchpad-for-significantly-more-climate-ambition-0">United Nations</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> <p><b>Sébastien Jodoin, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Law, SM</b></p> Wed, 04 Dec 2019 16:30:04 +0000 SM Expert: World AIDS Day /newsroom/node/189415 <p>Across the country, the week of November 21 to December 1 marks Canadian HIV/AIDS Awareness Week. It’s an occasion to raise awareness surrounding HIV/AIDS issues nationally and culminates in the international observance of World AIDS Day on December 1st of each year – a day dedicated to increasing awareness of HIV/AIDS issues worldwide. (<a href="https://www.cdnaids.ca/events/world-aids-day/">Canadian AIDS Society</a>)<br /> <br /> Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Thu, 28 Nov 2019 16:10:53 +0000 SM Expert: Black Friday shopping /newsroom/node/189342 <p>Black Friday is just around the corner, but Black Friday deals are already here. While the exact date of the North American shopping extravaganza this year is Nov. 29, many retailers have turned what used to be a weekend of special deals into a weeks-long marathon of advertising and price-slashing. (<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/6182752/black-friday-2019-canada-shopping-tips/" target="_blank">Global News</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Wed, 27 Nov 2019 21:33:56 +0000 SM Expert: Health concerns related to the use of e-cigarettes (“vaping”) /newsroom/node/188818 <p>Although electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) were initially marketed as a potential smoking-cessation aid and a safer alternative to smoking, the long-term health effect of e-cigarette use (“vaping”) is unknown. Vaping e-liquids expose the user to several potentially harmful chemicals, including diacetyl, a flavouring compound known to cause bronchiolitis obliterans with inhalational exposure. (<a href="https://www.cmaj.ca/content/early/2019/11/20/cmaj.191402">CMAJ</a>)<br /> <br /> Here is a list of experts from SM who can provide comment on this issue:<br /> <br /></p> Thu, 21 Nov 2019 22:01:46 +0000 SM RONA-Lowe’s recent closures and layoffs /newsroom/node/188700 <p>Hardware store chain Lowe's announced Wednesday, November 20, a major restructuring that will shutter 34 of its stores across the country. Lowe's currently owns 67 stores in Canada, as well as 21 Réno-Dépôt stores and just over 400 Rona outlets, in addition to 100 stores under other banners. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/lowes-canada-rona-stores-closing-1.5365968">CBC News</a>)<br /> <br /> Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Wed, 20 Nov 2019 18:25:15 +0000 SM Experts: Federal cabinet selection /newsroom/node/188684 <p>Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to unveil his new cabinet Wednesday, with significant changes expected to important portfolios such as foreign affairs, environment and climate change, and intergovernmental affairs. (<a href="https://ipolitics.ca/2019/11/17/what-were-watching-trudeau-to-unveil-new-cabinet-on-wednesday/">iPolitics</a>)</p> <p>Here are experts from SM that can provide comment on these topics:</p> Wed, 20 Nov 2019 14:47:52 +0000 SM Experts: Impact of transit construction on travel behaviour and health of Montreal residents /newsroom/node/188188 <p>Montreal is undertaking a major overhaul of its transportation networks and services, with major projects like the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) and the Pie-IX bus rapid transit (BRT) underway. To examine the impacts of projects that are under-construction on the travel behaviour and the health and well-being of Montreal residents, researchers at SM are inviting commuters to participate in the <a href="https://surveys.mcgill.ca/ls/815441">Montreal Mobility Survey</a>.</p> <p>Here are experts that can provide comment on the preliminary results:</p> <p> </p> Tue, 12 Nov 2019 21:57:56 +0000 SM Experts: Understanding the sexual exploitation of minors in Quebec /newsroom/node/188187 <p>A new commission is looking into the sexual exploitation of minors in Quebec. In November, the commission launched its public consultations in Quebec City to develop a better understanding of the extent of the issue. Later it will travel to Montreal and Val-d'Or to meet with individuals and organizations that work to fight sexual exploitation. (<a href="https://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/201911/06/01-5248656-le-reseau-de-la-sante-doit-mieux-identifier-les-victimes-dexploitation-sexuelle.php">La Presse</a>)</p> Tue, 12 Nov 2019 21:52:35 +0000 SM Expert: Quebec’s youth and child protection services /newsroom/node/188155 <p>Quebec’s commission into youth rights and protection continues its public consultations across the province in an effort to identify challenges facing its youth protection services. Created in response to the death of a seven-year-old girl in Granby in April, the commission will hear from youth, families, experts and caseworkers. (<a href="https://montrealgazette.com/news/local-news/look-past-behaviour-to-treat-original-trauma-youth-protection-commission-told">Montreal Gazette</a>)</p> <p>Here is an expert from SM that can provide comment on this issue:</p> Fri, 08 Nov 2019 20:51:53 +0000 SM Expert: Perspectives on the 2019 Federal Elections /newsroom/node/188048 <p>The federal election is in less than two weeks and recent poll results show that 1 in 10 Canadians are still undecided about who will get their vote. Meanwhile discussions about the possibility of a minority government are on the rise. As a result, the SM Institute for the Study of Canada has decided to organize a panel discussion on a range of election topics, including “undecided” voters and their impact on the results of the elections, measuring undecidedness, voter polarization and gender and politics.</p> Mon, 07 Oct 2019 20:17:26 +0000 SM Expert: Brexit /newsroom/node/187971 <p>The deadline for Brexit is October 31 and the uncertainty persists. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson suspended parliament until October 14 and now a Scottish court ruled that Boris Johnson’s decision to suspend Parliament was illegal. (<a href="https://beta.washingtonpost.com/world/scottish-court-rules-johnsons-suspension-of-britains-parliament-was-illegal/2019/09/11/84265a36-d40a-11e9-8924-1db7dac797fb_story.html">Washington Post</a>)</p> <p> </p> Thu, 12 Sep 2019 16:48:13 +0000 SM Experts: Federal elections 2019 /newsroom/node/187518 <p>Here are the SM experts available to comment on the upcoming Canadian Federal Election. The election is scheduled to take place on October 21, 2019.</p> Tue, 27 Aug 2019 18:53:36 +0000 SM Expert: Fake newspaper sites /newsroom/node/183389 <p>Two websites claiming to be the pages for newspapers located in Quebec are the latest in a series of fake sites.  The sites have extensive mastheads with staff titles, pictures and names.  Stories posted on this site are translations or rewrites of original stories posted by other media outlets.  These sites are earning revenue with little effort through Google AdSense.  <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/quebec-fake-newspapers-1.5228905?cmp=newsletter-news-digests-montreal">CBC</a></p> Tue, 30 Jul 2019 20:07:05 +0000 SM Expert: Capital One Financial data theft /newsroom/node/183334 <p>"Capital One Financial Corp announced Monday that the FBI has arrested an alleged hacker who reportedly accessed the personal information of as many as six million people in Canada and 100 million people in the United States." <a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/5700226/capital-one-data-breach-canada/">Global</a></p> <p><strong><a href="/ahcs/people-contacts/faculty/gabriella-coleman">Gabriella Coleman</a>, Professor, Faculty of Arts, SM</strong></p> Tue, 30 Jul 2019 15:56:40 +0000 SM Expert: Are mosquitoes driving you crazy? /newsroom/node/181708 <p>It is a particularly bad mosquito season in Montreal. "More snow in winter, more floods in spring, you'll get more mosquitoes." (Source: <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/prevent-mosquito-bites-repellent-1.5213916?cmp=rss">CBC</a>)</p> Wed, 24 Jul 2019 15:42:06 +0000 SM Expert: New rules lay out rights of Canadian airline passengers /newsroom/node/179090 <p>The federal government has unveiled <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/new-air-passenger-protections-kick-in-today-1.5211506">new protections for airline passengers</a>, rules designed to make sure both airlines and the people who fly on them are up to date on what they are entitled to when things go wrong. (Source: <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/air-travel-rights-rules-1.5211981">CBC</a>)</p> Tue, 16 Jul 2019 15:53:04 +0000 SM Expert: Gulf of Oman tankers attacked /newsroom/node/168837 <p>An attack on two tankers in the Gulf of Oman occured this morning. All crew members were evacuated and are safe, according to the owners of the two ships. (Source: <a href="https://www.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/gulf-of-oman-incident-latest-intl/index.html">CNN)</a></p> <p>Here's a SM expert that can provide analysis and context on the current developing situation in the Middle East:</p> Thu, 13 Jun 2019 20:28:26 +0000 SM Expert: Food Safety and Food Recall Warnings /newsroom/node/168805 <p>Food recall warnings by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency occurs almost every week in Canada.</p> <p>Here's an expert who can answers questions about food safety:</p> Thu, 13 Jun 2019 17:09:51 +0000 SM Life after (and during) a PhD – a project designed to change expectations & the culture of the academy /newsroom/node/168556 <p>For the past four years a cross-Canada project developed by SM, <a href="http://tracemcgill.com">TRaCE</a>, has been gathering stories and data about life after (and during) a humanities PhD.</p> <h3>The goal?</h3> <p>To shift the expectations of PhD students away from a single-minded focus on a future in academe (since only about 30% will end up with tenure-track jobs) and give them a sense of a range of satisfying possible careers.</p> Wed, 12 Jun 2019 15:59:21 +0000 SM What will be the next big things in astronomy? /newsroom/node/165972 <p>It’s been an exciting time for astronomy lovers in the past few years: the first black hole picture amazed, many exoplanets have been discovered, gravitational waves were observed for the first time.</p> <p>Now, what will be the next big things in astronomy?</p> <p>Astronomers from across Canada will gather in Montreal June 17-20 to discuss emerging topics that could lead to big new advances in the field in the coming decade.</p> Thu, 30 May 2019 17:40:09 +0000 SM Expert: Tornado Season in the US /newsroom/node/165965 <p>“After a slow start, tornado season in the United States has suddenly become supercharged, with 500 twisters touching down over the past month and 12 consecutive days with eight or more of the devastating whirlwinds.” CBC</p> <h3><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eyad-atallah-831a47a4/?ppe=1">Eyad Atallah</a>, Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, SM</h3> <blockquote> <p>“The active and dangerous tornado season in the United States raises questions about connections to climate change.”</p></blockquote> Thu, 30 May 2019 17:33:48 +0000 SM Expert: Theresa May quits /newsroom/node/164700 <p>"Theresa May has said she will quit as Conservative leader on 7 June, paving the way for a contest to decide a new prime minister." (<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-48395905">BBC</a>)</p> <p>Here's a SM professor who's available to comment in the media on what it means for the United Kingdom:</p> Fri, 24 May 2019 13:50:27 +0000 SM Expert: Narendra Modi Elected with "historic mandate" in India /newsroom/node/164495 <p>"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has thanked the people of India for giving him a "historic mandate" of five more years in office, after a landslide victory in the general election." (<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-48389130">BBC</a>)</p> Thu, 23 May 2019 20:15:39 +0000 SM Expert: 2019 European Parliament election /newsroom/node/163110 <p>Between 23 and 26 May 2019, the EU’s citizens will elect a new European Parliament. Polls are showing a rise of euroskeptic but also green parties in most countries, while the party groups that are traditionally best represented in the European Parliament seem to be on the losing end.</p> <p>To discuss the election, a public forum will be held with four EU experts who will discuss the current key issues of EU integration and engage in an open debate with the event’s participants.</p> <p>For interviews:</p> Thu, 16 May 2019 18:50:18 +0000 SM Experts: Air Canada will buy Air Transat /newsroom/node/163065 <p>Air Canada will buy Air Transat, offering $13 a share, or about $ 520 million, for its rival. (<a href="https://www.lapresse.ca/affaires/entreprises/201905/16/01-5226315-air-canada-va-acheter-transat.php">La Presse</a>)</p> <p>Here are experts to comment what this transaction means for the consumers and the industry:</p> Thu, 16 May 2019 13:32:56 +0000 SM Media Advisory: Talking Science in the Age of Fake News /newsroom/node/162684 <p>Members of the media are invited to attend an event celebrating the 20<sup>th</sup> anniversary of SM’s Office for Science and Society.</p> Tue, 14 May 2019 14:37:23 +0000 SM Expert: WhatsApp security flaw /newsroom/node/162679 <p>"WhatsApp has revealed a vulnerability in its system that could have allowed hackers access to its users' phones, with a London-based human rights lawyer possibly among the targets.<br /> The encrypted messaging service, owned by Facebook (FB), said Monday that it had discovered and fixed the vulnerability the attackers had sought to exploit. The hackers could implant malicious code on a victim's phone by placing a voice call to the victim on WhatsApp." (<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/05/14/tech/whatsapp-attack/index.html">CNN</a>)</p> Tue, 14 May 2019 14:26:35 +0000 SM Experts: Secularism Bill 21 /newsroom/node/161559 <p>Legislative hearings into Quebec's secularism bill started yesterday and will run until May 16. Here's an expert from SM that can provide comment on that issue:</p> Wed, 08 May 2019 15:00:19 +0000 SM Experts: 2019 Quebec Floods /newsroom/node/160092 <p>Here are SM professors who can comment on the flooding situation in Quebec:</p> Mon, 29 Apr 2019 19:52:46 +0000 SM Expert: World Maternal Mental Health Day (May 1) /newsroom/node/159668 <p>May 1 is <a href="https://wmmhday.postpartum.net/fr/"><b>World Maternal Mental Health Day</b></a>. Life changes around pregnancy make women more vulnerable to mental illness. The negative cycle of poverty and mental illness impact on a woman’s ability to function and thrive. This may also directly affect her foetus or child, with long-lasting physical, cognitive and emotional outcomes. Mental health care provides the necessary support to empower women to identify resources and personal capabilities.</p> Fri, 26 Apr 2019 20:27:12 +0000 SM Expert: Earth Day (April 22) /newsroom/node/158603 <p>Each year, Earth Day—April 22—marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970.</p> Thu, 18 Apr 2019 18:18:27 +0000 SM Expert: how to restore Notre-Dame de Paris? /newsroom/node/158298 <p>"A fire swept across the top of the Notre Dame Cathedral while the soaring Paris landmark was under renovations Monday, collapsing its spire and threatening one of the world's greatest architectural treasures." (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/everything-is-burning-fire-engulfs-notre-dame-cathedral-in-paris-1.4380501">CTV News</a>)</p> Tue, 16 Apr 2019 17:45:48 +0000 SM Expert: 100th anniversary of the International Labour Organization /newsroom/node/156996 <p>On April 11, the <strong>International Labour Organization</strong> (ILO) will celebrate its 100<sup>th</sup> anniversary and <strong><a href="/law/about/profs/blackett-adelle">Adelle Blackett</a></strong>, Canada Research Chair in Transnational Labour Law and Development, is available to discuss with reporters why this organization is still relevant today.</p> Tue, 09 Apr 2019 14:47:12 +0000 SM Expert: Ethiopian Airlines air crash /newsroom/node/150883 <p>"A jetliner carrying 157 people crashed shortly after takeoff from the Ethiopian capital Sunday, killing everyone aboard and carving a crater into the ground, authorities said. At least 35 nationalities were among the dead, including 18 Canadians." (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/ethiopian-airlines-crash-1.5050532">CBC</a>)</p> Mon, 11 Mar 2019 15:48:20 +0000 SM Experts: New Canada's Food Guide /newsroom/node/134676 <p>"Instead of eating four food groups, Canadians are now encouraged to follow three guidelines on what to eat regularly, what to avoid and the importance of cooking and preparing meals at home." (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/canada-food-guide-unveil-1.4987261">CBC</a>)</p> <p>Here are two SM experts from the School of Human Nutrition who are available to answer media requests on the newly released Canadian food guide:</p> Tue, 22 Jan 2019 15:22:10 +0000 SM Experts: What to expect from Brexit? /newsroom/node/133009 <p>The March 29th Brexit deadline is coming fast for the United Kingdom and the European Union. What then can we expect from Brexit? Here are SM experts available to answer your questions:</p> Wed, 16 Jan 2019 15:22:18 +0000 SM Experts: COP24 UN Climate Change Conference /newsroom/node/112451 <h3><a href="/law/about/profs/jodoin-sebastien">Sébastien Jodoin</a>, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Law, SM</h3> <blockquote></blockquote> Tue, 04 Dec 2018 20:02:16 +0000 SM Experts: US Midterm Elections 2018 /newsroom/node/93959 <p>Here are SM professors and researchers that are available to comment on the upcoming 2018 US midterm elections on November 6, 2018:</p> Wed, 24 Oct 2018 19:32:48 +0000 SM Expert - Cyber security /newsroom/node/84845 <p>Organized crime is moving online and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police is struggling to keep up, according to a briefing note prepared for RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki when she took over the top job earlier this year. <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/lucki-briefing-binde-cybercrime-1.4831340">CBC</a></p> <p><a href="http://allenmendelsohn.com/mcgill/">Allen Mendelsohn</a> – Faculty Lecturer, Faculty of Law, SM</p> <p>Allen Mendelsohn is a Montreal lawyer specializing in internet law. He teaches The Internet and Privacy course at the Faculty of Law.</p> Mon, 24 Sep 2018 18:56:11 +0000 SM Expert: Hurricane Florence /newsroom/node/82402 <p>"With a Category 4 hurricane rapidly approaching and weather officials issuing a hurricane warning for more than 300 miles of coastline, more than 1 million people faced a choice Tuesday: stay home and take their chances with the storm, or compete with heavy traffic to drive inland." (<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2018/09/11/us/hurricane-florence-south-east-coast-wxc/index.html">CNN</a>)</p> Wed, 12 Sep 2018 15:28:55 +0000 SM Experts: World Suicide Prevention Day (Sept. 10, 2018) /newsroom/node/80505 <h3><a href="/tcpsych/faculty/robertwhitley">Rob Whitley</a>, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, SM</h3> Wed, 05 Sep 2018 18:37:01 +0000 SM Experts - Federal Court of Appeal revokes construction approvals for Trans Mountain /newsroom/node/78847 <p>"In a stunning blow, the Federal Court of Appeal has quashed the government's approvals to build the Trans Mountain expansion project — a major victory for Indigenous groups and environmentalists opposed to the $7.4-billion project." (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/tasker-trans-mountain-federal-court-appeals-1.4804495">CBC </a>)</p> Thu, 30 Aug 2018 16:14:52 +0000 SM Experts - NAFTA negotiations /newsroom/node/78038 <p><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/krzysztofpelc/">Kryzsztof Pelc</a>, Political Science, SM</p> <p>Professor Pelc's research examines the international political economy, with a focus on international rules. He also look at the rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO).</p> <p><span class="spamspan"><span class="u">kj.pelc</span> [at] <span class="d">mcgill.ca</span></span> (English, French)</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Canada ready to make concessions on dairy to secure NAFTA deal</strong></p> Mon, 27 Aug 2018 15:14:46 +0000 SM Experts - Quebec election campaign /newsroom/node/76754 <h3><a href="/misc/article/misc-welcomes-graham-fraser">Graham Fraser</a>, Visiting Professor, SM Institute for the Study of Canada </h3> <p>Distinguished author and journalist Graham Fraser joined the SM Institute for the Study of Canada as a visiting professor. Fraser served as the sixth Commissioner of Official Languages from 2006 to 2016, becoming the longest-serving Commissioner in this post. With an extensive knowledge of language issues and cultural policy in Québec and Canada, he's available to provide comments on the current Quebec elections.</p> Thu, 23 Aug 2018 15:31:07 +0000 SM Experts - Back to school /newsroom/node/74058 <p><b>Social anxiety</b></p> <p><a href="/edu-ecp/tina-montreuil">Tina Montreuil</a>, Assistant Professor, Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, SM</p> <p>Professor Montreuil is the Director of Childhood Anxiety and Regulation of Emotions Laboratory (C.A.R.E.) Research Group at SM. She can talk about social anxiety in children and how parents can help their children overcome anxiety.</p> <p><span class="spamspan"><span class="u">Tina.montreuil</span> [at] <span class="d">mcgill.ca</span></span> (English, French)</p> Thu, 16 Aug 2018 19:40:55 +0000 SM Expert: Saudi Arabia expels Canadian envoy over criticism /newsroom/node/68599 <p>"Saudi Arabia expelled the Canadian ambassador on Monday and froze "all new business" with Ottawa over its criticism of the ultraconservative kingdom's arrest of women's rights -- yet another warning to the West reflecting Riyadh's new assertive foreign policy." (<a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/saudi-arabia-expels-canadian-envoy-over-criticism-1.4042100">CTV News</a>)</p> Mon, 06 Aug 2018 14:39:20 +0000 SM Experts: Radar evidence of liquid water on Mars /newsroom/node/62696 <p>"A Mars orbiter has detected a wide lake of liquid water hidden below the planet’s southern ice sheets. There have been much-debated hints of tiny, ephemeral amounts of water on Mars before. But if confirmed, this lake marks the first discovery of a long-lasting cache of the liquid." (<a href="https://www.sciencenews.org/article/mars-may-have-lake-liquid-water-search-life">Science News</a>)</p> Wed, 25 Jul 2018 16:04:02 +0000 SM Experts: AIDS 2018 conference (July 23-27) /newsroom/node/62673 <p>"The International AIDS Conference is the largest conference on any global health issue in the world. First convened during the peak of the AIDS epidemic in 1985, it continues to provide a unique forum for the intersection of science, advocacy, and human rights. Each conference is an opportunity to strengthen policies and programmes that ensure an evidence-based response to the epidemic. The 22nd International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2018) will be hosted in Amsterdam, Netherlands 23-27 July 2018." (<a href="https://www.aids2018.org/About">AIDS 2018</a>)</p> Wed, 25 Jul 2018 15:25:57 +0000 SM Expert: Order for 60 Airbus A220 jets /newsroom/node/58975 <p><span>“A new U.S. airline start-up announced its plans Tuesday to buy 60 Airbus A220-300 aircraft, with deliveries beginning in 2021. (…) Airbus markets and supports the A220 aircraft, which is manufactured under the recently finalized partnership agreement between Airbus, Bombardier &amp; Investment Québec.” (</span><a href="http://www.fox10tv.com/story/38664617/new-airline-to-buy-60-airbus-a220-300-aircraft">Fox</a><span>)</span></p> Tue, 17 Jul 2018 18:33:03 +0000 SM Expert: Trudeau in Latvia commits to extra troops, extended stay in NATO mission /newsroom/node/55604 <p>Canada will commit extra troops and remain in Latvia as part of NATO's mission to deter potential Russian aggression until 2023, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed Tuesday. (<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/trudeau-latvia-visit-nato-1.4740098">source: CBC)</a></p> <p><a href="/politicalscience/tv-paul" target="_blank">Prof. T.V. Paul</a>, <strong>James SM Professor of International Relations, Department of Political Science, SM</strong></p> Tue, 10 Jul 2018 14:02:57 +0000 SM Teens suffer more concussion during the World Cup /newsroom/node/45479 <p><span>SM professor Isabelle Gagnon and colleagues have recently shown that the number of teenagers in the Montreal area who were admitted to the emergency room because of injuries caused during an improvised soccer game had experienced peaks during World Cups organized between 1999 and 2014.</span></p> <p><strong><a href="/spot/isabelle-gagnon">Isabelle Gagnon</a>, Professor, School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, SM</strong></p> Fri, 15 Jun 2018 14:08:45 +0000 SM Expert: World Cup and knee injuries in soccer /newsroom/node/45477 <p>As the World Cup in Russia is ongoing, did you know that SM hosts a <a href="https://www.fifa.com/development/news/y=2016/m=8/news=mcgill-university-cbi-concordia-physio-sport-ndg-becomes-fifa-medical--2824363.html"> Medical Centre of Excellence</a> in partnership with <a href="https://www.cbi.ca/web/concordia-physio-sport/home">CBI-Concordia Physio Sport</a>?</p> Fri, 15 Jun 2018 14:05:55 +0000 SM Expert: Hurricane Season 2018 /newsroom/node/43869 <div>The first named storm, Alberto had already passed through the gulf coast by the end of May. There is a lot of anxiety concerning hurricanes this year, after the destruction they caused last year.</div> <div> </div> <div><strong><a href="/meteo/facultystaff/gyakum">John Gyakum</a>, Professor, Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, SM</strong></div> <div> <blockquote></blockquote></div> Thu, 07 Jun 2018 19:32:05 +0000 SM Expert: America may soon face its biggest labor strike in decades /newsroom/node/43864 <p>The Teamsters and UPS could be heading toward the nation's largest strike in decades. Source <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2018/06/05/news/companies/ups-teamsters-negotiations/index.html">CNN</a></p> <p><a href="/sociology/faculty/barry-eidlin">Barry Eidlin</a>, Professor of Sociology, SM</p> Thu, 07 Jun 2018 18:38:50 +0000 SM Experts: Guatemala volcano eruption /newsroom/node/43820 <p>“Rescuers scoured a lava- and ash-ravaged landscape in Guatemala for a third straight day on Wednesday in search of survivors and victims of Fuego volcano’s calamitous eruption, which has killed at least 99 people.” (<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-guatemala-volcano/rescuers-search-for-missing-near-guatemala-volcano-as-death-toll-climbs-idUSKCN1J22LP">Reuters</a>)</p> Thu, 07 Jun 2018 13:43:25 +0000 SM Experts: Federal government to buy Trans Mountain pipeline for $4.5B /newsroom/node/41935 <p>“The Liberal government will buy the Trans Mountain pipeline and related infrastructure for $4.5 billion, and spend billions more to build the controversial expansion.” (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/liberals-trans-mountain-pipeline-kinder-morgan-1.4681911">CBC</a>)</p> <p><a href="/law/about/profs/jodoin-sebastien"><strong>Sébastien Jodoin</strong></a><strong>, Faculty of Law, SM</strong></p> Tue, 29 May 2018 15:10:25 +0000 SM Experts: G7 /newsroom/node/40465 <p>The 2018 G7 Summit will take place from June 8-9 in the Charlevoix, Quebec. The SM experts who can comment on various issues related to the G7 meeting are:</p> <p><strong>Trade treaties &amp; World Trade Organization (WTO)</strong></p> <p><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/krzysztofpelc/">Krzysztof Pelc</a>, Department of Political Science, SM</p> Thu, 17 May 2018 20:42:08 +0000 SM Experts: W.H.O. calls on all nations to rid foods of artificial trans fats in the next five years /newsroom/node/40366 <p>The World Health Organization is calling on all nations to rid foods of artificial trans fats in the next five years. (Source <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/health/world-health-organization-trans-fats-eliminate-five-years-1.4661284">CBC news</a>)</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="/desautels/mcche/about-mcche/team">Andre Krumel Portella</a>, Postdoctoral fellow of nutrition and neuroscience at the SM Centre for the Convergence of Health and Economics</p> Wed, 16 May 2018 19:16:57 +0000 SM Expert: May 17 – International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia /newsroom/node/40165 <p>The International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia is observed on May 17 every year and aims to coordinate international events that raise awareness of LGBT rights violations and stimulate interest in LGBT rights work worldwide.</p> <p><strong><a href="http://exercisepsych.research.mcgill.ca/people.html">Shannon Herrick</a>, Master's student with the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, SM</strong></p> Mon, 14 May 2018 18:42:43 +0000 SM WHO says 19 dead, 39 infected so far in Congo Ebola outbreak /newsroom/node/40154 <p>A new volcanic fissure on Hawaii's Big Island sent gases and lava exploding into the air, prompting officials to issue calls for more evacuations as residents awaited a possible major eruption at Kilauea volcano's summit. (source <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-ebola-health-congo/who-says-19-dead-39-infected-so-far-in-congo-ebola-outbreak-idUSKCN1IF1CP">Reuters</a>)</p> <p> </p> Mon, 14 May 2018 15:38:20 +0000 SM Expert: New volcanic lava fissure in Hawaii prompts more evacuations /newsroom/node/40151 <p>A new volcanic fissure on Hawaii's Big Island sent gases and lava exploding into the air, prompting officials to issue calls for more evacuations as residents awaited a possible major eruption at Kilauea volcano's summit. (source <a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/new-volcanic-lava-fissure-in-hawaii-prompts-more-evacuations-1.3928454">CTV News</a>)</p> Mon, 14 May 2018 15:19:44 +0000 SM Expert: Israel and Iran trade fire /newsroom/node/39875 <p>Iran says it is ready to restart its nuclear program on an "industrial scale" in the wake of the decision by US President Donald Trump to abandon the deal that curbs the country's nuclear ambitions. (source <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2018/05/11/middleeast/iran-israel-syria-intl/index.html">CNN</a>)</p> <p> </p> Fri, 11 May 2018 18:52:26 +0000 SM Expert: Nursing shortages - National Nursing Week, May 7-13 2018 /newsroom/node/39771 <p>The Comité jeunesse of the Ordre des infirmières et infirmiers du Québec believes that the clinical and academic milieu must individually and collectively ensure a better integration of new nursing graduates into the workforce.</p> <p>(Link to <a href="https://www.oiiq.org/documents/20147/1306159/avis-integration-releve-ca-20180419-20.pdf/a2d6ba12-fae4-2bcb-547c-f0c66cb05493">report</a>)</p> Thu, 10 May 2018 17:39:20 +0000 SM Expert: Google Duplex / AI /newsroom/node/39770 <p>Google’s AI fest offers an ominous glimpse of the robot future: Machines fooling humans into thinking they are people raise obvious ethical concerns (source: <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/99635a6e-540b-11e8-b3ee-41e0209208ec">Financial Times</a>)</p> Thu, 10 May 2018 17:35:58 +0000 SM Expert : Trump pulls out of Iran Nuclear Deal /newsroom/node/39588 <p>"Trump pulls U.S. out of 'disastrous' Iran nuclear deal, will restore sanctions; President Donald Trump announced Tuesday the U.S. will pull out of the landmark nuclear accord with Iran, dealing a profound blow to U.S. allies and potentially deepening the president's isolation on the world stage." (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/trump-iran-nuclear-deal-1.4653154">CBC)</a></p> Tue, 08 May 2018 20:33:32 +0000 SM Experts: La Presse becomes a non-profit entity. /newsroom/node/39587 <p>"Montreal's La Presse to become non-profit entity; Desmarais family will donate $50M before severing ties" <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/montreal-s-la-presse-to-become-non-profit-entity-1.4653138">CBC</a></p> Tue, 08 May 2018 20:26:27 +0000 SM Amnesty for Caribbean Immigrants in Britain: A Question of Moral and Human Rights Protection /newsroom/node/37632 <p>Prime Minister Theresa May has apologised to Caribbean leaders over the Windrush generation controversy, at a Downing Street meeting. She said she was "genuinely sorry" about the anxiety caused by the Home Office threatening the children of Commonwealth citizens with deportation. The UK government "valued" the contribution they had made, she said, and they had a right to stay in the UK. It comes amid reports some are still facing deportation. (source BBC News)</p> <p> </p> Wed, 18 Apr 2018 17:36:09 +0000 SM Expert: March for our Lives /newsroom/node/35159 <p>These SM experts are available to comment on a Montreal protest to show support for stricter gun laws in the US:</p> <p>"<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/montrealers-show-support-for-u-s-youth-leading-movement-for-stricter-gun-laws-1.4589088">Montrealers show support for U.S. youth leading movement for stricter gun laws</a>", CBC News</p> Fri, 23 Mar 2018 20:10:01 +0000 SM Expert: Risks of Under-Age Drinking /newsroom/node/34361 <p>"Acute intoxication with alcohol is common in Quebec. Between January 1 and November 26, 2017, emergency services received 2,332 young people aged 12 to 24 for this reason. This equates to 214 cases per month, 49 cases per week or 7 cases per day." (<a href="https://www.inspq.qc.ca/publications/2360">Institut national de santé publique</a>)</p> Wed, 14 Mar 2018 18:33:17 +0000 SM Media advisory: Reaction to the 2018 Federal Budget /newsroom/node/33015 <p>Will the upcoming federal budget deliver and implement the Naylor report’s recommendations to fund and revitalize fundamental science research in Canada?</p> <p><strong>Martha Crago</strong>, Vice-Principal (Research and Innovation) at SM, is available to provide reactions in media interviews on Federal budget day on February 27, 2018, and on February 28.</p> Mon, 26 Feb 2018 22:01:02 +0000 SM Expert: Consumer-price inflation and U.S. monetary policy (Feb. 14, 2018) /newsroom/node/32951 <p>“Analysts forecast U.S. consumer price inflation, to be released on Wednesday, to have slowed to 1.9 percent in January from a year earlier, while the core measure is seen ticking down to 1.7 percent… An above-forecast figure could well spark a fresh selloff in stocks and bonds. Central bankers have not exhibited much concern over the equity rout, indicating they intend to push on with plans to tighten monetary policy this year.” (<a href="https://ca.reuters.com/article/topNews/idCAKBN1FW00K-OCATP">Reuters</a>)</p> Mon, 12 Feb 2018 18:32:49 +0000 SM Expert: Milk Price Hike in Quebec /newsroom/node/32925 <div>“The province’s Régie des marchés agricoles et alimentaires has authorized an increase in the price of milk. (…) The price hike generally ranges from four to six cents a litre.” (<a href="http://montrealgazette.com/news/local-news/quebec-marketing-board-authorizes-milk-price-hike" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Montreal Gazette</em></a>)</div> <div> </div> <div> </div> Fri, 02 Feb 2018 16:50:51 +0000 SM Expert: Hydro-Québec's Northern Pass electricity project rejected by New Hampshire /newsroom/node/32923 <div>“Regulators in the state of New Hampshire have rejected a major electricity project being piloted by Quebec's hydro utility and its American partner, Eversource.” (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/northern-pass-hydro-project-rejected-1.4515681" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">CBC</a>)</div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> <div><a href="/ece/francois-bouffard" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>François Bouffard</strong></a><strong>, Electrical and Computer Engineering, SM</strong></div> <div> </div> </div> Fri, 02 Feb 2018 16:44:48 +0000 SM Expert: Brexit /newsroom/node/32916 <p>“The government is to release a leaked Brexit analysis that shows the UK economy would be significantly worse off in every modelled scenario, after it decided not to oppose a Labour motion calling for the documents to be issued.” (<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2018/jan/31/government-will-not-oppose-labour-motion-on-leaked-brexit-papers">The Guardian</a>)</p> <p><a href="/history/brian-lewis"><strong>Brian Lewis</strong></a>, Professor of History, Department of History &amp; Classical Studies, SM</p> Wed, 31 Jan 2018 20:07:29 +0000 SM Expert: 'Super Blue/Blood Moon' coming on Jan. 31 /newsroom/node/32881 <blockquote> <p>NASA says that the next full moon will be a ‘super blue blood moon’. What does it mean? Kelly Lepo, coordinator of the SM Space Institute, is available to answer your questions. (<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/feature/super-blue-blood-moon-coming-jan-31">NASA</a>)</p> </blockquote> <p> </p> <p><strong><a href="http://msi.mcgill.ca/index.php?page=contact">Kelly Lepo</a>, Coordinator, SM Space Institute</strong></p> <p>(514) 398-4471, <span class="spamspan"><span class="u">Kelly.Lepo</span> [at] <span class="d">mcgill.ca</span></span></p> Mon, 22 Jan 2018 19:55:17 +0000 SM Expert: Philippine Volcano Erupts /newsroom/node/32880 <p><strong>Expert: Philippine Volcano Erupts</strong></p> <blockquote> <p>“The Philippines' most active volcano exploded thunderously Monday, sending a huge grey column of lava fragments, ash and steam into the sky and prompting authorities to warn that a violent eruption may be imminent.” (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/philippine-volcano-explosion-mount-mayon-1.4497787">CBC</a>)</p> </blockquote> <p> </p> <p><strong><a href="http://www.eps.mcgill.ca/groups/volcano/John_Profile.html">John Stix</a>, Earth and Planetary Sciences SM</strong></p> Mon, 22 Jan 2018 19:50:28 +0000 SM Experts: NAFTA negotiations in Montreal /newsroom/node/32879 <blockquote> <p>A sixth round of NAFTA negotiations is taking place this week in Montreal, with key players say the focus is on constructive discussion.” (<a href="https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/sixth-round-of-nafta-talks-underway-in-montreal-1.3770400">CTV News</a>)</p> </blockquote> <p> </p> <p><strong><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/krzysztofpelc/">Kryzsztof Pelc</a>, Political Science, SM</strong></p> Mon, 22 Jan 2018 19:44:23 +0000 SM Experts: Alzheimer’s disease /newsroom/node/32845 <p><a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/news/2018/01/ministerial_message-alzheimersawarenessmonthjanuary2018.html">January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in Canada</a>. SM and its affiliated institutions have experts in the following areas of Alzheimer’s detection and treatment who are available to comment:</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging (CCNA)) based at the  Jewish General Hospital: <a href="http://www.ccna-ccnv.ca">Website</a></strong></p> <p><strong>Early detection of AD through genetic and cognitive markers</strong></p> Thu, 18 Jan 2018 15:30:02 +0000 SM Experts: DACA and TPS /newsroom/node/32832 <p>Jose Mauricio Gaona, O’Brien Fellow at the SM Centre for Human Rights and Legal Pluralism</p> <p>Under US law, immigration authorities may exercise discretionary powers to allow otherwise inadmissible or removable aliens to enter or remain in the country. Such powers include, but are not limited to: (i) deferred actions, 8 U.S.C. § 1227(d)(2), e.g., DACA, (ii) parole to enter the U.S. on humanitarian grounds, 8 U.S.C. § 1182(d)(5)(A), and (iii) Temporary Protected Status for foreign nationals of designated states and circumstances, 8 U.S.C. § 1254(a), e.g., El Salvador, Haiti.</p> Mon, 15 Jan 2018 14:15:13 +0000 SM Expert: Labour groups protest Tim Hortons’ response to Ontario minimum wage /newsroom/node/32824 <p>Labour organizations across Ontario are holding rallies today to protest the actions some Tim Hortons franchises have taken in response to an increase in the province's minimum wage. (<em><a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/labour-groups-protest-tim-hortons-response-to-ontario-minimum-wage/article37553813/">The Globe and Mail</a></em>)</p> <p> </p> <p><strong><a href="/sociology/faculty/barry-eidlin">Barry Eidlin</a>, Professor of Sociology at SM</strong></p> Wed, 10 Jan 2018 19:16:48 +0000 SM Experts: Smog in Montreal /newsroom/node/32819 <p>“Officials in the city of Montreal have issued the latest of several smog alerts today and they hope to improve air quality by restricting the use of wood-burning appliances made popular after the devastating ice storm of 1998.” (<a href="http://www.rcinet.ca/en/2018/01/04/quebec-1998-electrical-failure-wood-burning/">RCI Net</a>)</p> Thu, 04 Jan 2018 20:18:25 +0000 SM Expert - Democrat Wins Senate Seat in Alabama (USA) /newsroom/node/32777 <p>“Doug Jones on Tuesday became the first Democrat in a generation to win a Senate seat in Alabama.” (<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2017/12/12/politics/alabama-senate-election-mainbar/index.html">CNN</a>)</p> <p><strong><a href="/politicalscience/harold-m-waller">Harold Waller</a>, Political Science, SM</strong></p> Wed, 13 Dec 2017 16:59:58 +0000 SM Expert: Geminids Meteor Shower /newsroom/node/32753 <p>The Geminids meteor showers will peak on the evening of Dec. 13 and continue until early morning Dec. 14. The meteors will be bright and you can see up to 120 meteors an hour stream across the sky. Observers need to go to areas with little light pollution. </p> <p><strong><a href="http://msi.mcgill.ca/index.php?page=people">Dr. Kelly Lepo</a>, SM Space Institute</strong></p> Thu, 07 Dec 2017 15:39:49 +0000 SM Expert: Why Walmart Is Changing Its Official Name /newsroom/node/32750 <p> Wed, 06 Dec 2017 19:50:58 +0000 SM What to look for in future Canada, China trade talks /newsroom/node/32736 <p>“Prime Minister Justin Trudeau landed in Beijing on Sunday, with expanding trade with China at the top of his agenda. As the United States under President Trump becomes increasingly protectionist, Canada is moving in the opposite direction.” (<em><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/12/03/world/canada/trudeau-trade-china-nafta-tpp.html">New York Times</a></em>)</p> <p><strong><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/krzysztofpelc/">Krzysztof J. Pelc</a>, Political Science, SM</strong></p> Mon, 04 Dec 2017 20:54:02 +0000 SM New Investment in Public Psychotherapy in Quebec /newsroom/node/32735 <p>“Quebec’s mental health is getting a boost as Health Minister Gaetan Barrette announced a $35 million public program to provide psychotherapy to those who need it.” (<a href="http://montreal.ctvnews.ca/barrette-announces-35-million-for-public-psychotherapy-treatments-1.3705269">CTV News</a>)</p> <p><strong><a href="/psychiatry/rob-whitley">Rob Whitley</a>, Department of Psychiatry, SM</strong></p> Mon, 04 Dec 2017 20:52:43 +0000 SM Expert: Mount Agung volcano eruption in Indonesia /newsroom/node/32706 <p>“A large eruption of Bali’s restless Mount Agung volcano could be imminent, Indonesian officials have said as they called for 100,000 people to leave the area.” (<em><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/27/mount-agung-100000-told-to-evacuate-as-bali-volcano-spews-huge-ash-cloud">The Guardian</a></em>)</p> <p><strong><a href="http://eps.mcgill.ca/~donb/">Don Baker</a>, professor and volcano expert at SM</strong></p> Mon, 27 Nov 2017 21:47:31 +0000 SM Expert: Why You Should Pay Attention to K-pop Group BTS Performing at The American Music Awards /newsroom/node/32684 <p><span>The K-pop boy group BTS (aka Bangtan Sonyeondan (Korean) or “Beyond the Scene” (English)) will be performing live at the American Music Awards (AMAs) this Sunday in Los Angeles. This will mark the first time that a K-pop group has had a solo stage performance on an American music awards show, after Psy performed with MC Hammer during the 2012 AMAs.</span></p> Fri, 17 Nov 2017 20:12:40 +0000 SM Experts: Trudeau’s visit in Vietnam, the TPP, and Myanmar /newsroom/node/32658 <p>Talks on the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement have stalled, and some news reports are laying the blame on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, according to <a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/3854335/trudeau-tpp-meeting-no-show/">Global News</a> and the <em><a href="http://nationalpost.com/news/politics/justin-trudeau-accused-of-sabotaging-trade-deal-and-infuriating-world-leaders-with-meeting-no-show">National Post</a></em>.</p> Fri, 10 Nov 2017 20:21:01 +0000 SM Expert: What’s happening in Saudi Arabia? /newsroom/node/32657 <p>“Hezbollah's leader said on Friday that Saudi Arabia had declared war on Lebanon and his Iran-backed group, accusing Riyadh of detaining Saad al-Hariri and forcing him to resign as Lebanon's prime minister to destabilize the country.” (<em><a href="https://beta.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/lebanon-president-aoun-tells-saudi-envoy-former-pm-must-return/article36902632/">The Globe and Mail</a></em>)</p> <p><strong><a href="/politicalscience/faculty/brynen">Rex Brynen</a>, Political Science, SM</strong></p> Fri, 10 Nov 2017 20:20:10 +0000 SM Expert: Global atmospheric CO2 levels hit record high /newsroom/node/32656 <p>“The concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increased at record speed last year to hit a level not seen for more than three million years, the UN has warned.” (<em><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2017/oct/30/global-atmospheric-co2-levels-hit-record-high">The Guardian</a></em>)</p> <p><strong>Eyad Atallah, Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, SM</strong></p> <p>He’s a research associate and course lecturer at SM. He can talk about the impact of climate change on weather patterns and discuss what lies ahead.</p> Fri, 10 Nov 2017 20:19:06 +0000 SM Experts: Bombardier to partner with Airbus on CSeries program /newsroom/node/32394 <p>Bombardier Inc. announced it has sold a majority stake in its CSeries passenger jet business to European aerospace giant Airbus for no cost. (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/bombardier-airbus-c-series-1.4357567">CBC</a>)</p> Tue, 17 Oct 2017 16:44:05 +0000 SM Experts: Municipal elections /newsroom/node/32389 <p>Here are SM researchers available and interested to comment on the municipal elections in Montreal:</p> <h3><a href="/urbanplanning/people/shearmur">Richard Shearmur</a>, School of Urban Planning, SM</h3> <p>Professor Shearmur is an urbanist who studies innovative municipalities, urban and regional development, and real estate.</p> <p><span class="spamspan"><span class="u">richard.shearmur</span> [at] <span class="d">mcgill.ca</span></span> (English, French)</p> Mon, 16 Oct 2017 12:36:58 +0000 SM Experts: NAFTA /newsroom/node/32375 <p>“Contentious new U.S. demands are set to hit NAFTA negotiating tables on Wednesday, threatening to push modernization talks toward collapse as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau again tries to remind U.S. President Donald Trump of the trade pact's merits.” (<a href="http://www.bnn.ca/nafta-talks-ratchet-up-in-d-c-as-u-s-extends-session-by-2-days-1.881503">BNN</a>)</p> <div> <p><strong><a href="/law/about/profs/bjorklund-andrea">Andrea Bjorklund</a>, Professor, Faculty of Law, SM</strong></p></div> Wed, 11 Oct 2017 15:34:25 +0000 SM Nobel Prize in Physics goes to gravitational wave scientists /newsroom/node/32353 <p>The Nobel Prize in Physics 2017 was divided, one half awarded to Rainer Weiss, the other half jointly to Barry C. Barish and Kip S. Thorne "for decisive contributions to the LIGO detector and the observation of gravitational waves". (<a href="https://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/physics/laureates/2017/">Nobel Prize</a>)</p> Tue, 03 Oct 2017 15:38:58 +0000 SM Experts: New U.S. Travel Ban Order /newsroom/node/32336 <p><span>“President Trump on Sunday issued a new order indefinitely banning almost all travel to the United States from seven countries, including most of the nations covered by his original travel ban, citing threats to national security posed by letting their citizens into the country.” (</span><em><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/24/us/politics/new-order-bars-almost-all-travel-from-seven-countries.html">The New York Times</a></em><span>)</span></p> Mon, 25 Sep 2017 18:27:59 +0000 SM Expert: German Election + Immigrant/Refugee Question /newsroom/node/32323 <p>The German election is on Sunday, September 24. One of the “hot” issues in the election is the number of immigrants/refugees that Germany has taken in.</p> <p><strong><a href="mailto:/sociology/faculty/thomas-soehl">Thomas Soehl</a>, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Sociology, SM</strong></p> <div> <p>He can talk about how German discomfort with immigrants/refugees may be related to the kind of nationalism that evolved after Germain loss of territory following the 1st World War.</p></div> Thu, 21 Sep 2017 16:28:49 +0000 SM Expert: Climate Change and How to Produce Food in a Smart Way /newsroom/node/32322 <p>The effects of climate change on food security and nutrition are one of the major challenges facing humanity in the coming decades. Reflection is needed in order to adapt the agri-food system to this new climate and social reality. SM professors are participating from<strong>September 24-27</strong> in the <strong>International Symposium on Food Security and Nutrition in the Age of Climate Change </strong>in Quebec City. (<a href="http://www.mrif.gouv.qc.ca/en/salle-de-presse/evenements-speciaux/colloque-san">Source</a>)<br /> <br /></p> Thu, 21 Sep 2017 16:24:30 +0000 SM Experts: Orange Butterflies in Quebec /newsroom/node/32303 <p>Orange butterflies have been spotted by many in the South of Quebec this weekend. Contrary to popular beliefs, they are not monarchs, but Painted Ladies.</p> <p><strong><a href="http://lyman.mcgill.ca/Boucher.html">Stéphanie Boucher</a>, Curator, Lyman Entomological Museum</strong></p> <div> <p>She’s an insect expert. She can answer your questions about butterflies.<br /> <span class="spamspan"><span class="u">stephanie.boucher</span> [at] <span class="d">mcgill.ca</span></span>, 514-398-7914 (English, French)</p></div> Mon, 18 Sep 2017 20:03:53 +0000 SM Expert: Montreal pitch as Amazon’s 2nd headquarters /newsroom/node/32268 <p>“Wanted: A place with a million people, a diverse population, good schools and malleable lawmakers. Room to accommodate up to 50,000 workers. Canadian provinces also welcome to apply.” (<em><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/07/technology/amazon-headquarters-north-america.html?hp&amp;action=click&amp;pgtype=Homepage&amp;clickSource=story-heading&amp;module=second-column-region&amp;region=top-news&amp;WT.nav=top-news">New York Times</a></em>)</p> Fri, 08 Sep 2017 20:03:27 +0000 SM Experts: Hurricane Irma /newsroom/node/32257 <p>“As a Category 5 with sustained winds of 185 miles per hour, Irma now ranks among the most powerful hurricanes (as measured by wind speed) ever recorded. Irma has sustained these 185 mph winds for more than 24 hours, a record length of time. And it’s one of the most powerful cyclones to ever make landfall.” (<a href="https://www.vox.com/science-and-health/2017/9/5/16254872/hurricane-irma-2017-caribbean-florida-keys-puerto-rico-wind-speed-record">Vox</a>)</p> Thu, 07 Sep 2017 17:11:54 +0000 SM Experts: Dreamers and DACA in the US /newsroom/node/32255 <p>“As 15 states and Washington DC filed suit against Donald Trump over the rescinding of protection for young people brought to the US illegally as children, House speaker Paul Ryan said such ‘Dreamers’ should ‘rest easy’ as Congress tackled immigration reform.” (<em><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2017/sep/06/paul-ryan-says-dreamers-should-rest-easy-over-expiring-daca-policy">The Guardian</a></em>)</p> Thu, 07 Sep 2017 17:08:30 +0000 SM Expert: Violence in Myanmar /newsroom/node/32254 <p>“The United Nations secretary-general, António Guterres, has appealed to Myanmar to end the violence that has led more than 120,000 Rohingya people to flee in the last two weeks, which he warned was ‘creating a situation that can destabilise the region’.” (<em><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/sep/05/more-than-120000-rohingya-flee-myanmar-violence-un-says">The Guardian</a></em>)</p> <div> <p><strong><a href="/politicalscience/faculty/kuhonta">Erik Kuhonta</a>, Political Science, SM</strong></p></div> Thu, 07 Sep 2017 17:05:48 +0000 SM Expert: Airbnb and the Quebec government /newsroom/node/32223 <p><em>“Airbnb and the Government of Quebec have finalized the first-ever tax agreement in Canada that will allow Airbnb to collect and remit the tax on accommodation on behalf of hosts using its residential sharing platform.</em></p> Wed, 30 Aug 2017 17:23:22 +0000 SM Expert: tree damage due to storms /newsroom/node/32198 <p>"The storm, which hit Tuesday afternoon and brought winds of up to 120 km/h, snapped tree branches, uprooted trees and downed hydro poles from the West Island over to the Saint-Henri neighbourhood, but authorities say there have been no reported injuries." (CBC)</p> <h3><a href="/plant/faculty/wees">David Wees</a>, Plant Science, Macdonald Campus, SM</h3> <p>David Wees' research interests include horticulture, greenhouses, sweet potatoes, and urban agriculture. He will answer questions from the media on tree damage due to storms.</p> Wed, 23 Aug 2017 19:05:38 +0000 SM Back-to-school experts /newsroom/node/32179 <h3>Minorities and bullying</h3> <p>Religious bullying &amp; religious literacy, inclusion of minorities in public education – <span class="spamspan"><span class="u">alice.chan</span> [at] <span class="d">mail.mcgill.ca</span><span class="a"> (Alice Chan)</span></span>, Ph.D Candidate, Department of Integrated Studies in Education (DISE), English only</p> Fri, 18 Aug 2017 20:01:24 +0000 SM Expert: Unemployment and the Aging Workforce /newsroom/node/32159 <p>“Bad news for anyone who still believes in freedom from work at 55. The number of women of this age and older who reported having jobs rose by 14,000 from June and by 66,000 from a year earlier. The number of working men aged 55 and older increased by 69,000 from 2016.” (<a href="http://www.macleans.ca/economy/economicanalysis/canadas-jobless-rate-slides-to-6-3/">Maclean’s</a>)</p> <p><strong><a href="http://www.fabianlange.ca/">Fabian Lange</a>, Associate Professor of Economics, SM</strong></p> Wed, 09 Aug 2017 18:46:56 +0000 SM Expert: National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls /newsroom/node/32158 <p>“A coalition composed mainly of relatives of missing and murdered Indigenous women is demanding the replacement of all remaining commissioners and a reset of the inquiry initiated by the federal Liberal government to look into the tragedy.” (<em><a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/inquirys-remaining-commissioners-must-resign-indigenous-families-say/article35900193/">The Globe and Mail</a></em>)</p> Wed, 09 Aug 2017 17:47:57 +0000 SM Strong Link Between Child Welfare and Youth Homelessness in Canada /newsroom/node/32157 <p>A new <a href="http://homelesshub.ca/childwelfare">report</a> shows that almost sixty percent (57.8%) of homeless youth in Canada report involvement with the child welfare system at some point in their lives. In comparison, among the general population in Canada, roughly 0.3% of youth have child welfare involvement. This suggests that youth experiencing homelessness are 193 times more likely than youth in the general population to report involvement with the child welfare system.</p> Wed, 09 Aug 2017 17:44:29 +0000 SM Expert: Impact of forest fires in Western Canada on unborn children /newsroom/node/32141 <p><strong>B.C. wildfire season worst in six decades, still far from over</strong><br /> “Kevin Skrepnek of the B.C. Wildfire Service said Thursday that 4,910 square kilometres of forest, bush and grassland have been torched, making 2017 the second worst in recorded history in terms of land destroyed. August is usually one of the busiest months for fire, so the situation could get worse, he added.”<br /> <a href="http://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/b-c-wildfire-season-worst-in-six-decades-still-far-from-over">Vancouver Sun</a></p> Fri, 04 Aug 2017 19:18:52 +0000 SM Expert: Air passenger bill of rights /newsroom/node/32130 <p>“A new air passenger bill of rights would punish airlines for keeping people on the tarmac longer than three hours, forcing them to compensate passengers. But it would not compel carriers to disembark a plane delayed for long periods.” (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/transat-bill-rights-ottawa-tarmac-1.4231286">CBC</a>)</p> <div> <p><strong><a href="/continuingstudies/instructors/biographies/gradek-john">John Gradek</a>, lecturer, School of Continuing Studies, SM</strong></p></div> Wed, 02 Aug 2017 15:51:19 +0000 SM Expert on Census 2016: More Canadians living alone and without children (August 2) /newsroom/node/32129 <p>“Canadians are living increasingly alone and without children, according to the latest census figures released by Statistics Canada.” (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/census-2016-marriage-children-families-1.4231163">CBC</a>)</p> Wed, 02 Aug 2017 15:45:24 +0000 SM Experts: Dairy, lumber and NAFTA (***UPDATED***) /newsroom/node/27489 <p>“U.S. President Donald Trump's surprisingly caustic complaints about trade with Canada in recent days could be setting the stage for a broader renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement than previously advertised.” (<em><a href="http://www.metronews.ca/news/canada/2017/04/25/dairy-lumber-additions-to-nafta-trump-administration-signals-that-s-the-goal.html">Metro News</a></em>)</p> <div> <p><strong><a href="/law/about/profs/bjorklund-andrea">Andrea Bjorklund</a>, Professor, Faculty of Law, SM</strong></p></div> Wed, 26 Apr 2017 20:48:13 +0000 SM Expert: male eating disorder on the rise /newsroom/node/32125 <p>In the United Kingdom, "the number of adult men being admitted to hospital with an eating disorder has risen by 70% over the past six years – the same rate of increase as among women," reports <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2017/jul/31/eating-disorders-in-men-rise-by-70-in-nhs-figures"><em>The Guardian</em></a>. Is there a similar trend in Canada? </p> Wed, 02 Aug 2017 13:11:54 +0000 SM Supreme Court: National Energy Board needs to consult with Indigenous peoples over energy projects /newsroom/node/32100 <p>“The Supreme Court of Canada has quashed plans for seismic testing in Nunavut, delivering a major victory to Inuit who argued they were inadequately consulted before the National Energy Board gave oil companies the green light to conduct this disruptive activity.” (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/supreme-court-ruling-indigenous-rights-1.4221698">CBC</a>)</p> Wed, 26 Jul 2017 18:01:33 +0000 SM Venezuela's Collapse: Rule of law and economy almost non-existent /newsroom/node/32090 <p> Mon, 24 Jul 2017 19:41:21 +0000 SM Expert: Giant iceberg breaks off Antarctica /newsroom/node/32063 <p>"One of the biggest icebergs on record has broken away from Antarctica, scientists said on Wednesday, creating an extra hazard for ships around the continent as it breaks up." (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/giant-iceberg-breaks-off-antarctica-1.4200787">CBC</a>)</p> Wed, 12 Jul 2017 14:45:50 +0000 SM Interest rates - Bank of Canada meeting (July 12, 2017) /newsroom/node/32056 <p>“For months the consensus has been that interest rates in Canada would remain stable right into 2018. Now Bank of Canada governor Stephen Poloz and his colleagues are dropping broad hints that the central bank will move a lot sooner, perhaps as early as next Wednesday’s meeting.” (<a href="https://www.thestar.com/business/personal_finance/2017/07/08/be-prepared-for-bank-of-canada-to-raise-interest-rates.html">Toronto Star</a>)</p> Mon, 10 Jul 2017 19:36:32 +0000 SM Venezuela: Peace offering from Maduro /newsroom/node/32055 <p>“The transfer of Venezuela's most prominent political prisoner from a military stockade to house arrest was widely viewed as a peace offering by President Nicolas Maduro to opponents who have led months of street protests against his beleaguered government.” (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/venezuela-unrest-democracy-1.4196834">CBC</a>)</p> <p><strong><a href="/politicalscience/faculty/oxhorn%C3%A0">Phil Oxhorn</a>, Department of Political Science, SM</strong></p> Mon, 10 Jul 2017 19:31:09 +0000 SM Expert: preventing concussions this summer /newsroom/node/32049 <p>This summer, whether in summer camps or sports leagues, children will practise outdoor sports. However, parents and educators need to be aware of the risk of head injury and concussion. Professor Isabelle Gagnon is available to speak about prevention and rehabilitation following a traumatic brain injury.</p> <div> <p><strong><a href="http://rimuhc.ca/web/research-institute-muhc/-/isabelle-gagnon-phd">Isabelle Gagnon</a>, Assistant Professor, School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, SM</strong></p></div> Thu, 06 Jul 2017 20:07:36 +0000 SM Expert : Rising Tension with North Korea /newsroom/node/32047 <p>“President Trump warned Thursday that North Korea could face “some pretty severe” consequences after its defiant test of an intercontinental ballistic missile, but Washington also confronted firm opposition from Russia and China over any possible response.” (<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/trump-warns-of-severe-consequences-for-north-korea-as-russia-china-balk-at-tough-us-talk/2017/07/06/f176634c-61ca-11e7-80a2-8c226031ac3f_story.html?utm_term=.408754db8e39">Washington Post</a>)</p> Thu, 06 Jul 2017 17:53:49 +0000 SM Experts: Molson plans new Montreal-area brewery /newsroom/node/32042 <p>“Molson-Coors is planning to build a brewery in the Montreal area instead of renovating its existing brewery on Notre-Dame St. E. (…) While the fate of the existing brewery hasn’t been decided, Lefebvre says the company won’t abandon the site.” (<em><a href="http://montrealgazette.com/business/local-business/were-building-for-the-future-molson-plans-new-montreal-area-brewery">Montreal Gazette</a></em>)</p> Wed, 05 Jul 2017 18:57:40 +0000 SM Expert: Omar Khadr to receive apology and compensation package /newsroom/node/32039 <p>“The Trudeau government is poised to offer an apology and a $10-million compensation package to former child soldier Omar Khadr for abuses he suffered while detained in the U.S. military prison for captured and suspected terrorists at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.” (<a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-to-offer-omar-khadr-apology-compensation-package/article35538745/">The Globe and Mail</a>)</p> Wed, 05 Jul 2017 17:58:31 +0000 SM Experts: U.S. travel ban /newsroom/node/26662 <p><em>The information below is outdated, you'll find a new version <a href="/newsroom/channels/news/experts-new-us-travel-ban-order-270594">here</a>.</em></p> <p>***</p> <p>Here are some SM professors available to comment on the US Executive order that suspends the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for 120 days and suspends entry by citizens of Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for 90 days:</p> Tue, 31 Jan 2017 15:13:26 +0000 SM Floods in Quebec /newsroom/node/28624 <p><strong><a href="http://www.douglas.qc.ca/researcher/suzanne-king?locale=en">Suzanne King</a>, Department of Psychiatry, SM and Douglas Institute</strong><br /> <br /> She can talk about the importance of keeping pregnant women away from stress, for themselves and their baby. Professor King is a specialist in prenatal maternal stress. She began the Iowa Flood Study right after major flooding in this US state in June 2008. Her group added disaster questionnaires to an existing study of pregnant women for whom mental health data had been collected prior to the flooding.</p> Tue, 09 May 2017 17:51:46 +0000 SM Expert: Sanctuary cities (***NEW***) /newsroom/node/27488 <p>“A judge in San Francisco on Tuesday temporarily blocked President Trump’s efforts to starve localities of federal funds when they limit their cooperation with immigration enforcement, a stinging rejection of his threats to make so-called sanctuary cities fall in line.” (<em><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/04/25/us/judge-blocks-trump-sanctuary-cities.html">The New York Times</a></em>)</p> <div> <p><strong><a href="/law/about/profs/muniz-fraticelli-victor">Víctor M. Muñiz-Fraticelli</a>, Professor of Law and Political Science, SM</strong></p></div> Wed, 26 Apr 2017 20:45:38 +0000 SM Expert: Ontario's Fair Housing Plan /newsroom/node/27487 <p>“Ontario's Fair Housing Plan introduces a comprehensive package of measures to help more people find affordable homes, increase supply, protect buyers and renters and bring stability to the real estate market.” (<a href="https://news.ontario.ca/mof/en/2017/04/ontarios-fair-housing-plan.html">Source</a>)</p> <div> <p><strong><a href="/desautels/desmond-tsang">Desmond Tsang</a>, Professor, Desautels Faculty of Management, SM</strong></p></div> Wed, 26 Apr 2017 20:43:32 +0000 SM Expert on Trade: Brexit, CETA, and Canada-China free trade /newsroom/node/26828 <p>What will be the impact of Brexit on Canada? What will happen with the new upcoming new Comprehensive and Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) this summer? Also, what can one expect from upcoming free trade talks between Canada and China?</p> <p><strong><a href="/law/about/profs/bjorklund-andrea">Andrea Bjorklund</a>, Professor, Faculty of Law, SM</strong></p> Thu, 30 Mar 2017 17:28:54 +0000 SM Expert: OECD report on Montreal’s employment and innovation /newsroom/node/26824 <p>The OECD has released a <a href="http://www.keepeek.com/Digital-Asset-Management/oecd/employment/city-of-talent-montreal_9789264268661-en#page1">report titled "City of Talent Montreal: An Action Plan for Boosting Employment, Innovation and Skills"</a>: “Montreal has huge potential to become one of the most dynamic cities across OECD countries, thanks to its talented and creative population. Yet the city has not demonstrated outstanding results in terms of job creation and collective wealth generation in the past few”.</p> Wed, 29 Mar 2017 17:38:50 +0000 SM Experts: Federal Budget 2017 /newsroom/node/26792 <p>Finance Minister Bill Morneau will introduce the federal government's latest budget on March 22, 2017.</p> <h3><a href="/law/about/profs/gold-richard">Richard Gold</a>, Faculty of Law, SM</h3> <p>His area of expertise is innovation policy, the clusters the government is announcing, and other programs they may mention to bolster how Canadian firms can become world players. He teaches in the area of intellectual property, international intellectual property, comparative intellectual property, innovation policy and intellectual property management.</p> Mon, 20 Mar 2017 20:00:36 +0000 SM Expert: NASA News Conference on exoplanet (Feb. 22, 2017) /newsroom/node/26729 <p>NASA will hold a news conference at 1 p.m. EST Wednesday, Feb. 22, to present new findings on planets that orbit stars other than our sun, known as exoplanets. The event will air live on NASA Television. (Source: NASA)</p> Wed, 22 Feb 2017 15:39:35 +0000 SM Expert on Israel: What's happening to the Two-state solution? /newsroom/node/26721 <p>"Palestinians reacted with anger and bafflement on Wednesday after the Trump administration apparently backed away from insisting that having two states — one for Israelis, one for Palestinians — was the only viable solution to the decades-long Middle East conflict." (<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/15/world/middleeast/trump-israel-two-state-solution.html">New York Times</a>)</p> <blockquote> <p><em>"The peace process has been moribund. Trump and Netanyahu have shaken it up but the implications are hard to anticipate."</em><br /> ​—Harold Waller</p></blockquote> Thu, 16 Feb 2017 20:01:18 +0000 SM SM at the American Academy for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) /newsroom/node/26712 <p><em>Hynes Convention Center - Boston</em></p> <h3><a href="https://aaas.confex.com/aaas/2017/webprogram/Session16826.html">Jumpstarting Neurological Research through Open Science – MNI &amp; SM</a></h3> <p>Friday, February 17, 2017, 1:30-2:30 PM/ Room 208</p> Tue, 14 Feb 2017 21:56:05 +0000 SM Expert: New influx of asylum seekers crossing US border /newsroom/node/26702 <p> Mon, 13 Feb 2017 16:11:46 +0000 SM Experts: Quebec mosque shooting /newsroom/node/26664 <p>Here are SM professors available to comment on the Quebec mosque shooting:</p> Tue, 31 Jan 2017 17:58:02 +0000 SM Experts: Donald Trump's Administration /newsroom/node/26649 <p>These SM experts are available to comment on decisions made by Donald Trump and his team:</p> Mon, 23 Jan 2017 20:35:12 +0000 SM Separated Fathers: Breaking the Isolation /newsroom/node/26606 <p>Around 40% of heterosexual marriage in Canada ends in divorce, and 70% of breakups are initiated by the woman. Robert Whitley, professor in social psychiatry at SM, directed a short documentary on a group of separated fathers in Montreal who discuss their struggles, challenges and perseverance. Documentary can be <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4DhW7Oc_YY">live-streamed here</a>.</p> Wed, 11 Jan 2017 18:26:16 +0000 SM Expert: “Intelligence report claims Russia has compromising information on Trump” /newsroom/node/26605 <p>"The chiefs of America’s intelligence agencies last week presented President Obama and President-elect Donald J. Trump with a summary of unsubstantiated reports that Russia had collected compromising and salacious personal information about Mr. Trump, two officials with knowledge of the briefing said.” (<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/10/us/politics/donald-trump-russia-intelligence.html">New York Times</a>)</p> Wed, 11 Jan 2017 18:05:44 +0000 SM Experts: US Presidential Inauguration (Jan. 20, 2017) /newsroom/node/26515 <div>These SM experts are available to comment on the US presidential inauguration of Donald Trump:</div> <h3><a href="/politicalscience/faculty/levy">Jacob Levy</a>, Dept. of Political Science, SM</h3> Thu, 22 Dec 2016 15:14:49 +0000 SM Expert: Famine in Nigeria /newsroom/node/26496 <p>“More than 2,000 people may have died of famine this year in parts of northeast Nigeria which cannot be reached by aid agencies due to an insurgency by Islamic militant group Boko Haram, hunger experts said on Tuesday.” (<a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/us-nigeria-boko-haram-aid-idUSKBN1421MQ">Reuters</a>)</p> Tue, 13 Dec 2016 17:41:02 +0000 SM Academic Freedom in a Volatile World /newsroom/node/26479 <p>The <a href="https://www.scholarsatrisk.org/">Scholars at Risk Network</a> organizes two sessions on December 8 in Ottawa to discuss threats to academic freedom.</p> <p>Around the world today, scholars are attacked because of their words, their ideas and their place in society.</p> Wed, 07 Dec 2016 19:29:57 +0000 SM Sea ice extent in Arctic and Antarctic reached record lows in November /newsroom/node/26477 <p>“Both the Arctic and Antarctic experienced record lows in sea ice extent in November, with scientists astonished to see Arctic ice actually retreating at a time when the region enters the cold darkness of winter.” (<em><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/dec/06/arctic-antarctic-ice-melt-november-record">The Guardian</a></em>) (<a href="https://nsidc.org/arcticseaicenews/2016/12/arctic-and-antarctic-at-record-low-levels/">National Snow &amp; Ice Data Center</a>)</p> Wed, 07 Dec 2016 19:27:17 +0000 SM Ottawa approves two pipelines, rejects one /newsroom/node/26455 <p>“Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced approvals for two major export pipelines Tuesday, while dismissing a third pipeline and imposing a ban on oil tanker traffic on the northern section of B.C.’s coast.” (<a href="http://business.financialpost.com/news/energy/ottawa-approves-two-pipelines-rejects-one-while-imposing-tanker-ban-on-northern-b-c-coast?__lsa=1980-1630">Financial Post</a>)</p> Wed, 30 Nov 2016 17:38:27 +0000 SM Tales from the South Pole /newsroom/node/26454 <p>SM astrophysicist <a href="http://www.astro.physics.mcgill.ca/group.php?gid=1008">Matt Dobbs</a> is spending a month at the South Pole helping to install a new camera in a huge telescope designed to help untangle mysteries of the universe by examining the cosmic microwave background -- the light left over from the Big Bang.</p> Wed, 30 Nov 2016 17:30:40 +0000 SM The Neuroscience of HIV: World AIDS Day (Dec. 1) /newsroom/node/26453 <p>Dec. 1 is World AIDS Day, a time to raise awareness about a disease that has afflicted 70 million people worldwide, 35 million of whom have died as a result.</p> <p>When most people think of AIDS, they generally do not think of a neurological disease, yet HIV infection can have an important impact on brain function. Untreated, HIV can cause severe dementia.</p> Wed, 30 Nov 2016 17:28:33 +0000 SM Why are 7 Million Canadians at greater risk of chronic disease? /newsroom/node/26431 <p>There is a growing body of evidence linking dental diseases to general health conditions, such as diabetes and pneumonia, and the barriers facing the estimated seven million Canadians who are unable to access dental care.</p> Wed, 23 Nov 2016 17:58:52 +0000 SM Fighting new viruses: should we make some mosquitoes extinct? (Nov. 23) /newsroom/node/26414 <p><span>Chris Cloutier will tackle the controversial issue of mosquito eradication </span><a href="/macdonald/about/events/fft">November 23 at 7:00 PM during a Food for thought talk at Macdonald Campus</a><span>.</span></p> Mon, 21 Nov 2016 17:50:21 +0000 SM Homework without tears (Nov. 21) /newsroom/node/26413 <p>For the last lecture of the five-week <em><a href="/edu-ecp/ep2016">Effective parenting series</a></em> featuring SM Educational Psychology professors, Professor Steven Shaw will focus on homework.</p> Mon, 21 Nov 2016 17:31:37 +0000 SM Universal Children’s Day (November 20) /newsroom/node/26412 <h3><strong><a href="/socialwork/people-real/faculty/cindy-blackstock">Cindy Blackstock</a>, School of Social Work, SM</strong></h3> <div> <blockquote> <p><em>“International Children's Day recognizes the rights and contributions of children worldwide including the right to non-discrimination.<br /> As Canada celebrates, the federal government fails to comply with three legal orders by the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal and a unanimous House of Commons Motion to cease racial discrimination against 165,000 First Nations children and youth.<br /></em></p></blockquote></div> Mon, 21 Nov 2016 17:27:18 +0000 SM APEC Peru 2016 (Nov. 19-20) /newsroom/node/26405 <p>Prime Ministrer Trudeau will attend the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, the year-long hosting of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings in Peru, which will culminate on 19–20 November 2016 in Lima. (<a href="http://pm.gc.ca/eng/news/2016/11/08/prime-minister-justin-trudeau-travel-cuba-argentina-and-peru">APEC</a>)</p> Fri, 18 Nov 2016 18:24:50 +0000 SM Experts: South Africa and others leave the ICC /newsroom/node/26404 <p>“Even as the International Criminal Court (ICC) suffered a blow from yet another country turning against it, Canada is continuing its fight to save it with a campaign of lobbying pressure and promised solutions.” <span>(</span><a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/canada-saddened-by-african-countries-decisions-to-leave-icc-dion/article32873597/">The Globe and Mail</a><span>)</span></p> Fri, 18 Nov 2016 18:22:04 +0000 SM Leonard Cohen dies at 82 /newsroom/node/26387 <p>“Leonard Cohen, the hugely influential singer and songwriter whose work spanned nearly 50 years, died at the age of 82.” (<a href="http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/leonard-cohen-dead-at-82-w449792">Rolling Stone</a>)</p> <div> <h3><strong><a href="https://willstraw.com/">Will Straw</a>, Department of Art History and Communication Studies, SM</strong></h3> <p>He’s available this afternoon to comment on the legacy of Leonard Cohen. He’s interested among other things in cultural industries, urban culture, film studies, Canadian culture and globalization.</p></div> Fri, 11 Nov 2016 18:58:12 +0000 SM Effective parenting: how to help your child overcome anxiety (Nov. 14) /newsroom/node/26386 <p>How parents can help their children overcome anxiety? Professor Tina Montreuil is the next speaker in the <a href="/edu-ecp/ep2016">Effective Parenting: New Trends And Approach</a> series. She will discuss strategies for parents to help their child overecome their anxiety. </p> <p><strong><a href="/edu-ecp/tina-montreuil">Tina Montreuil</a>, Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, SM</strong></p> Fri, 11 Nov 2016 18:54:08 +0000 SM Effective Parenting: New Trends and Approaches /newsroom/node/26369 <p><span>This </span><span>series of public lectures focuses on topics of concern for parents/guardians/grandparents in our fast-paced world and digital age. On November 7</span><span>, Dr. Adam Dubé,</span><span> will be giving a talk titled:</span><span> "<a href="/education/channels/event/effective-parenting-new-trends-and-approaches-dr-adam-dube-myths-and-merits-childrens-ipad-use-261864">The myths and merits of children's iPad use from the cradle to the classroom</a>”. </span></p> Mon, 07 Nov 2016 18:06:07 +0000 SM Experts: US 2016 Presidential Elections /newsroom/node/26030 <div>These SM experts are available to comment on the race for the White House:</div> <h3><a href="/politicalscience/faculty/levy">Jacob Levy</a>, Dept. of Political Science, SM</h3> <p>Jacob Levy is one of the world’s leading libertarian political theorists.</p> <p><span class="spamspan"><span class="u">jacob.levy</span> [at] <span class="d">mcgill.ca</span></span> (English)</p> Thu, 21 Jul 2016 19:44:14 +0000 SM International Criminal Court: South Africa's Withdrawal /newsroom/node/26326 <p>"South Africa's main opposition party on Monday tried to block a government plan to withdraw from the International Criminal Court, saying the move is illegal and that the country's top court should intervene.</p> Tue, 25 Oct 2016 19:21:08 +0000 SM DDoS Attack: what does it tell us? /newsroom/node/26312 <p><span>“Some major internet companies suffered service disruptions for several hours on Friday morning as internet infrastructure provider Dyn said it was hit by a cyber attack that disrupted traffic mainly on the U.S. East Coast.” (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/dyn-ddos-attack-websites-down-1.3815417">CBC</a>)</span></p> Fri, 21 Oct 2016 21:07:44 +0000 SM SM linguist helped on upcoming movie Arrival /newsroom/node/26307 <p>The upcoming Denis Villeneuve movie <em>Arrival</em> was filmed in Montreal and when the filmmakers went looking for a linguistics scholar to consult on the screenplay and offer on-set advice, they turned to SM. Prof. Jessica Coon supplied feedback on the film’s script, worked with the set crew, and some of her books from her office even wound up in the film. (<a href="http://mcgillnews.mcgill.ca/s/1762/news/interior.aspx?sid=1762&amp;gid=2&amp;pgid=1344&amp;utm_source=1132&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=MNEWS">SM News</a>)</p> Fri, 21 Oct 2016 17:08:47 +0000 SM The Media and the Environment /newsroom/node/26306 <p>The 2016 Beaverbrook Annual Lecture on Oct. 24 will present two speakers followed by a Q&amp;A with the audience on the overall issues of media and the environment.:</p> Fri, 21 Oct 2016 17:04:13 +0000 SM 135 years of theses available online /newsroom/node/26305 <p>135 years of SM graduate scholarship is now available <a href="/library-theses">online</a>. In 2012, SM Library went to the stacks of Rare Books and Special Collections and began digitizing print only theses and dissertations. The project took four years to complete and to date almost 7,000 theses have been digitized representing almost a million pages.</p> Fri, 21 Oct 2016 17:00:33 +0000 SM Cancer and Work (Oct. 19) /newsroom/node/26289 <p>Returning to work after any illness can be a challenge. For cancer survivors, the return to work can be especially difficult due to the effects of cancer and its treatment. Employers may lack understanding of cancer’s impact on work abilities, and how to provide accommodations. On Wednesday, October 19, <a href="https://www.cancerandwork.ca/">cancerandwork.ca</a>, a new resource, will bring this information together.</p> Mon, 17 Oct 2016 16:18:44 +0000 SM Coderre visit to Iran /newsroom/node/26288 <p>Denis Coderre made “an early October side trip to Iran to meet the mayor of Tehran, a prominent figure in the country’s repressive theocracy.” (<a href="http://news.nationalpost.com/news/montreal-mayor-denis-coderre-had-a-quiet-mission-to-iran-and-now-people-have-noticed">The National Post</a>)</p> Mon, 17 Oct 2016 16:13:29 +0000 SM EU-Canada trade pact at risk after Belgian region rejects deal /newsroom/node/26287 <p><span>"The Canada-European Union trade agreement has been dealt what could be a fatal blow after the Belgium’s Walloon parliament voted by a large margin on Friday not to accept the agreement." (</span><a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/international-business/european-business/belgian-parliament-rejects-eu-canada-free-trade-agreement/article32360429/">The Globe and Mail</a><span>)</span></p> Fri, 14 Oct 2016 18:13:53 +0000 SM Gambling in Canada /newsroom/node/26280 <p>"One-in-four say they have family or close friends who have a gambling problem, or have one themselves." (Source: <a href="http://angusreid.org/gambling/">Angus Reid</a>)</p> Thu, 13 Oct 2016 20:18:39 +0000 SM Bob Dylan Awarded Nobel Prize in Literature /newsroom/node/26279 <p>The Nobel Prize in Literature for 2016 is awarded to Bob Dylan "for having created new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition". (<a href="https://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/literature/laureates/2016/press.html">NobelPrize.org</a>)</p> Thu, 13 Oct 2016 20:09:17 +0000 SM Trudeau’s 1st year as a Prime Minister /newsroom/node/26275 <p>Last year, Justin Trudeau, the son of former prime minister Pierre Trudeau, became Canada’s new leader, ending 10 years of Stephen Harper rule.</p> Thu, 13 Oct 2016 19:58:22 +0000 SM Cholera in Haiti /newsroom/node/26273 <p><span>The number of cholera cases is on the rise Haiti after hurricane Matthew. (</span><a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/11/health/cholera-haiti-hurricane-matthew/index.html">CNN</a><span>)</span></p> Thu, 13 Oct 2016 19:49:53 +0000 SM Expert: Hurricane Matthew /newsroom/node/26231 <p>“Hurricane Matthew is poised to deliver a potentially catastrophic strike on Haiti beginning Monday, and poses a danger to eastern Cuba and Jamaica by Monday night.” (<a href="https://weather.com/storms/hurricane/news/hurricane-matthew-caribbean-haiti-jamaica-cuba-bahamas-forecast-oct2">The Weather Network</a>)</p> Mon, 03 Oct 2016 15:13:18 +0000 SM Colombia referendum: Voters reject Farc peace deal /newsroom/node/26239 <p>“Voters in Colombia have rejected a landmark peace deal with Farc rebels in a shock referendum result, with 50.2% voting against it.” (<a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-37537252">BBC</a>)</p> <h3><a href="/history/catherine-c-legrand">Catherine LeGrand</a>, Department of History, SM</h3> <blockquote> <p><em>"The close ‘no’ vote in the plebiscite on the recent peace accord is a shock that plunges Colombia into deep political-institutional crisis.  What comes next is not clear.”</em>—Catherine LeGrand</p></blockquote> Mon, 03 Oct 2016 18:20:53 +0000 SM Clinton, Trump poised for historic debate battle /newsroom/node/26214 <p> Mon, 26 Sep 2016 20:13:22 +0000 SM SM Symposium in Women's Health (Sept. 16) /newsroom/node/26170 <p>Each year, the Department of Obstetrics &amp; Gynecology at SM organize a symposium to review new studies and practices in order to help practicing gynecologists, family physicians, residents, fellows and allied health professionals with interest in Women’s Health. (<a href="/obgyn/symposium">Website</a>)</p> Tue, 13 Sep 2016 20:47:40 +0000 SM HMS Terror was found /newsroom/node/26168 <p>The second, HMS Terror, of the two Franklin Expedition shipwrecks was found earlier this month, Arctic Research Foundation expedition lead Adrian Schimnowski confirmed Monday. (<a href="https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2016/09/12/hms-terror-from-doomed-franklin-expedition-found.html">Toronto Star</a><span>)</span></p> <h3><a href="/meteo/facultystaff/tremblay">Bruno Tremblay</a>, Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, SM</h3> <p>As an expert on ice and snow in the Arctic, he can comment about this discovery.</p> Tue, 13 Sep 2016 20:14:50 +0000 SM World Suicide Prevention Day (Sept. 10, 2016) /newsroom/node/26137 <p>Each year, <a href="https://www.iasp.info/wspd/">World Suicide Prevention Day</a> has taken place on 10th September since 2003.</p> Thu, 08 Sep 2016 21:11:27 +0000 SM New agreement with Uber (Sept. 8, 2016) /newsroom/node/26134 <p>The Quebec government and Uber reached a deal late Wednesday night reports say.</p> <p><strong><a href="/sociology/faculty/barry-eidlin">Barry Eidlin</a>, Professor of Sociology at SM</strong></p> Thu, 08 Sep 2016 21:04:32 +0000 SM Expert: Burkini in France /newsroom/node/26109 <p>“France's highest administrative court has suspended a ban on full-body "burkini" swimsuits that was imposed in a town on the Mediterranean coast.” (<a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-37198479">BBC</a>)</p> <h4><a href="/sociology/faculty/weinfeld">Morton Weinfeld</a>, Department of Sociology, SM</h4> <blockquote> <p>“<em>I</em><em> agree with the French court decision today, but the burkini issue is really a symptom of a much deeper issue in France and Europe generally.</em>”<br /> —Morton Weinfeld </p></blockquote> Fri, 26 Aug 2016 18:12:11 +0000 SM Experts: Earthquakes in Italia and Burma /newsroom/node/26102 <p>A strong earthquake in central Italy reduced three towns to rubble as people slept early Wednesday, with reports that at least 50 people were killed and hundreds injured as rescue crews raced to dig out survivors.” (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/earthquake-italy-1.3733399">CBC</a>)</p> <p>“An earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.8 has shaken central Burma, the U.S. Geological Survey says.” (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/burma-myanmar-earthquake-1.3733531">CBC</a>)</p> Wed, 24 Aug 2016 14:52:36 +0000 SM Experts: Yellow Fever Epidemic in Congo and Angola /newsroom/node/26096 <p>“The World Health Organization's (WHO) emergency committee on deadly yellow fever will meet on Aug. 31 to review outbreaks in Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola, a spokesman said on Tuesday, as a major vaccination campaigns continues.” (<a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-yellowfever-idUSKCN10Y0RJ">Reuters</a> and <em><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2016/08/22/as-congos-globe-threatening-yellow-fever-pandemic-explodes-they-ask-where-is-the-vaccine/?hpid=hp_hp-morning-mix_mm-story-i%3Ahomepage%2Fstory">The Washington Post</a></em>)</p> Tue, 23 Aug 2016 13:20:07 +0000 SM The Great Canadian Sleepwalk – the road to good nights /newsroom/node/26091 <p><em>"To sleep - to sleep, perchance to dream</em>”, these words made famous by William Shakespeare, in the play <em>Hamlet</em> are familiar to many of us. But did you know that sleep is just as important as diet and exercise for a healthy lifestyle?</p> Tue, 16 Aug 2016 19:16:15 +0000 SM Expert: flossing /newsroom/node/26074 <p>"The world woke to the smell of burning floss last week, as thunderous applause met <a href="http://qz.com/748461/flossing-doesnt-do-what-you-think-it-does/">news reports</a> that there was, after all, no evidence for dentists recommending flossing.</p> Wed, 10 Aug 2016 19:45:51 +0000 SM Henry Mintzberg and “On the Earth, for the Earth” /newsroom/node/26068 <p>Hundreds of 2016 World Social Forum participants will meet to brainstorm new solutions to climate change on August 10 at Percival Molson Stadium.</p> <p><span>This is the wild idea of </span><a href="http://www.mintzberg.org/"><strong>Henry Mintzberg</strong></a><span>, internationally renowned management academic and professor of management studies at SM.</span></p> Mon, 08 Aug 2016 14:04:44 +0000 SM World Breast Feeding Week /newsroom/node/26067 <p>World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated every year from 1 to 7 August to encourage breastfeeding and improve the health of babies around the world. (<a href="http://www.who.int/mediacentre/events/2016/world-breastfeeding-week/en/">WHO</a>)</p> <p> </p> Mon, 08 Aug 2016 13:57:39 +0000 SM Elections in South Africa /newsroom/node/26066 <p> </p> <blockquote> <p>“South Africans are heading to the polls on Wednesday in what Barclays analysts have dubbed "the most important elections since the 1994 democratic transition" — back when Nelson Mandela was elected in the country's first elections post-Apartheid.” (<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/south-africa-local-elections-august-3-2016-8">Business Insider</a>)</p> </blockquote> <p> </p> Mon, 08 Aug 2016 13:55:32 +0000 SM Private Company Gets Approval To Put Lander on Moon /newsroom/node/26065 <p> </p> <blockquote> <p><span>“Moon Express, based in Cape Canaveral, Fla., announced Wednesday that it had received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration to set a robotic lander on the moon.” (</span><em><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/04/science/moon-express-faa.html">The New York Times</a></em><span>)</span></p></blockquote> Mon, 08 Aug 2016 13:48:47 +0000 SM Experts: Viruses in Rio 2016 /newsroom/node/26050 <div>“Just days ahead of the Olympic Games the waterways of Rio de Janeiro are as filthy as ever, contaminated with raw human sewage teeming with dangerous viruses and bacteria, according to a 16-month-long study commissioned by the Associated Press.” (<a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/olympics/rio-2016-water-pollution-virus-risk-danger-swimming-sailing-rowing-chance-of-infection-almost-a7165866.html" target="_blank"><em>The Independent</em></a>)</div> <div> </div> Tue, 02 Aug 2016 13:30:10 +0000 SM Brazil 2016: Politics, Olympics Games, and Zika /newsroom/node/25932 <h4><a href="/politicalscience/faculty/oxhorn">Philip Oxhorn</a>, Political Science, Founding Director of the Institute for the Study of International Development, SM</h4> <p>Professor Oxhorn is an expert in democracy, economic development and Latin American Comparative Politics. He can comment on social, political, and economic angles.</p> <p><a href="mailto:philip.oxhorn%40mcgill.ca"><span class="spamspan"><span class="u">philip.oxhorn</span> [at] <span class="d">mcgill.ca</span></span></a> (English, Spanish)</p> Wed, 01 Jun 2016 19:46:42 +0000 SM Expert: Turkey (July 21, 2016) /newsroom/node/26029 <p>"Turkey has banned all academics from leaving the country, cancelling their annual leave, as President Tayyip Erdogan's post-coup crackdown escalated to 'exceptional proportions'. One British academic at a state-run university in Istanbul told the Telegraph that foreign nationals had also been told to come back to work." (<em><a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2016/07/20/turkey-bans-academics-from-leaving-country-in-unprecedented-crac/">The Telegraph</a></em>)</p> Thu, 21 Jul 2016 11:03:49 +0000 SM SM expert: Brain injuries, concussions /newsroom/node/25951 <p> June is National Brain Injury Awareness Month. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of death and disability in children and adults from ages 1 to 44. Brain injuries are most often caused by motor vehicle crashes, sports injuries, or simple falls on the playground, at work or in the home.</p> <p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbuLj2GAzMM&amp;index=4&amp;list=PLfMfJihLOASV_uwl5sumoc3XOJiPlGo-V"><img src="/newsroom/files/newsroom/longer_video_-_resized.jpg" style="height:515px; width:715px" /></a></p> Fri, 10 Jun 2016 14:40:29 +0000 SM Expert: Uber (May 13, 2016) /newsroom/node/25826 <p>"Transport Minister Jacques Daoust stood firm on his promise to regulate the ride-sharing service Uber and tabled Bill 100 on Thursday, which would effectively force Uber drivers to buy or rent taxi permits." (<a href="http://montrealgazette.com/news/quebec/quebec-tables-legislation-forcing-uber-drivers-to-buy-or-rent-taxi-permits"><em>The Montreal Gazette</em></a>)</p> Fri, 13 May 2016 15:30:58 +0000 SM Expert: Health Care Accessory Fees (Quebec) /newsroom/node/25789 <p>The Quebec government has the intention to prohibit all accessory fees in health care. <span>(</span><a href="http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/sante/201605/02/01-4977108-quebec-veut-bannir-les-frais-accessoires.php"><em>La Presse</em></a><span>)</span></p> Mon, 02 May 2016 15:21:03 +0000 SM Expert: Prince (1958-2016) /newsroom/node/25764 <p>"Prince, the superstar American singer-songwriter known for his incredible musicianship, diverse appeal across multiple genres and cavalcade of award-winning hits, has died at age 57." (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/prince-paisley-park-death-1.3546878">CBC</a>)</p> Fri, 22 Apr 2016 19:36:10 +0000 SM Expert: Impeachment of Brazilian President /newsroom/node/25735 <p>Brazilian legislators voted on Sunday night to approve impeachment of Dilma Rousseff, the nation’s first female president. (<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/04/18/world/americas/brazil-dilma-rousseff-impeachment-vote.html">The New York Times</a>)</p> Mon, 18 Apr 2016 15:01:07 +0000 SM Expert: Earthquakes in Ecuador and Japan /newsroom/node/25734 <p>Earthquakes struck Japan and Ecuador just hours apart on Saturday April 16, 2016. Were the two earthquakes related?</p> Mon, 18 Apr 2016 14:24:21 +0000 SM Canada: Children at back of the pack among rich nations /newsroom/node/25731 <p>A <a href="http://www.unicef.ca/en/unicef-report-card-13-fairness-for-children">new report released today</a> by UNICEF highlights the inequalities in child well-being in the world’s most affluent nations, including Canada. While progress in reducing child well-being gaps has been modest overall, Canada’s children are at the back of the pack, ranking in the bottom third when measured against other rich nations. (<a href="http://www.unicef.ca/en/unicef-report-card-13-fairness-for-children">UNICEF</a>)</p> Mon, 18 Apr 2016 13:54:52 +0000 SM Expert: Pope Francis on Divorce /newsroom/node/25710 <p>"In a <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/04/08/world/europe/pope-francis-statement-on-family.html">broad proclamation on family life</a>, Pope Francis on Friday called for the Roman Catholic Church to be more welcoming and less judgmental, and he seemingly signaled a pastoral path for divorced and remarried Catholics to receive holy communion.'" (<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/04/09/world/europe/pope-francis-amoris-laetitia.html">The New York Times</a>)</p> Tue, 12 Apr 2016 19:26:20 +0000 SM Expert: Opioid epidemic /newsroom/node/25702 <p>​<span>Prescriptions for dangerous alternatives to OxyContin are soaring, showing that a crackdown on the popular painkiller has failed to curb Canada’s opioid crisis.</span></p> Tue, 12 Apr 2016 14:34:19 +0000 SM World Health Day and Diabetes (April 7, 2016) /newsroom/node/25678 <p>About 422 million people worldwide have diabetes, a number likely to more than double in the next 20 years, according to research published today by the World Health Organization. <span><a href="http://www.who.int/campaigns/world-health-day/2016/en/">April 7, 2016 is World Health Day </a>and the focus this year is on diabetes.</span></p> Wed, 06 Apr 2016 19:46:03 +0000 SM Expert: IGA cuts food prices /newsroom/node/25659 <p>Grocer IGA is cutting its fresh food prices in Quebec. (<a href="http://www.journaldequebec.com/2016/04/05/enfin-du-repit-pour-les-consommateurs"><em>Le Journal de Québec</em></a>)</p> <h3><a href="/fmt/fr/proginfo/personnel/pascal-theriault">Pascal Thériault</a>, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, SM</h3> <p>Faculty lecturer in economy, he's also the director of Community Relations for the Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.</p> Tue, 05 Apr 2016 19:00:53 +0000 SM Expert: Panama Papers /newsroom/node/25644 <div> <p>"The hidden identities of 350 Canadians with offshore tax haven investments have been <a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/panama-papers-tax-evasion">revealed in the private database of one of the world’s leading shell company registration firms</a>, according to a Toronto Star analysis of a massive leak obtained by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists and the German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung. (<a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/world/2016/04/04/how-offshore-tax-havens-are-costing-canada-billions-of-dollars-a-year.html">The Toronto Star</a>)</p></div> Mon, 04 Apr 2016 12:44:04 +0000 SM Expert: Jian Ghomeshi's Verdict /newsroom/node/25568 <p><span>"Jian Ghomeshi has been acquitted on four counts of sexual assault and one count of choking by an Ontario Court judge who says the "deceptive and manipulative" evidence of the complainants raised a reasonable doubt in the guilt of the former CBC Radio host." (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/jian-ghomeshi-sexual-assault-trial-ruling-1.3505446">CBC</a>)</span></p> Thu, 24 Mar 2016 21:13:17 +0000 SM Experts: World TB Day 2016 (March 24) /newsroom/node/25540 <p><a href="http://www.stoptb.org/events/world_tb_day/">World TB Day</a> is held each year on March 24th and aims to build public awareness for tuberculosis. A disease which despite being curable, remains a destructive epidemic in much of the world.</p> Tue, 22 Mar 2016 14:17:18 +0000 SM Experts: Terrorist Attacks in Brussels (March 22, 2016) /newsroom/node/25539 <p>"Explosions rocked the main airport and a subway in Brussels on Tuesday, killing at least 26 people." (<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/23/world/europe/brussels-airport-explosions.html?hp&amp;action=click&amp;pgtype=Homepage&amp;clickSource=story-heading&amp;module=span-ab-top-region&amp;region=top-news&amp;WT.nav=top-news">The New York Times</a>)</p> Tue, 22 Mar 2016 13:50:23 +0000 SM Expert: Obama in Cuba /newsroom/node/25531 <p>"President Barack Obama is in Cuba for a historic three-day visit to the island and talks with its communist leader." (<a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-35856126">BBC</a>)</p> Mon, 21 Mar 2016 15:46:20 +0000 SM Experts: Federal Budget (March 22) /newsroom/node/25529 <p>"The Liberal government is now forecasting larger than expected deficits for the next two years even before adding billions in promised spending in its first budget, which will be tabled on March 22." (<a href="http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/mixed-reaction-to-pm-s-plan-to-keep-old-age-security-cutoff-at-65-1.2821123">CTV News</a>)</p> Fri, 18 Mar 2016 19:15:42 +0000 SM Experts: Google AI against Go Champion /newsroom/node/25464 <p><img src="/newsroom/files/newsroom/go_720x220.jpg" /></p> Wed, 09 Mar 2016 14:47:07 +0000 SM Expert: Federal Government Gay-Pardon /newsroom/node/25413 <p>“Even more significant than Mr. Klippert’s posthumous pardon may be the government’s promise to review all the cases of men who were convicted of gross indecency (homosexual acts short of intercourse) or buggery before 1969.” (<em><a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/liberals-gay-pardon-decision-applauded-but-obstacles-still-exist/article28944769/">The Globe and Mail</a></em>)</p> Mon, 29 Feb 2016 19:02:30 +0000 SM Experts: National Climate Strategy /newsroom/node/25404 <p>“With the wind at his back from Paris and a fresh mandate from Canadians, Mr. Trudeau meets provincial and territorial leaders in Vancouver this week to pursue a national climate strategy.” (<a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/trudeau-intent-on-seizing-moment-to-forge-national-climate-strategy/article28944860/">The Globe and Mail</a>)</p> Mon, 29 Feb 2016 14:26:04 +0000 SM Expert: UK European Union referendum (Brexit) /newsroom/node/25333 <p>"June 23 has finally been set for the momentous 'in or out' British vote on whether to abandon the 28-nation European Union." (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/britain-european-union-referendum-1.3456750">CBC</a>)</p> Mon, 22 Feb 2016 15:45:55 +0000 SM Expert: Apple vows to resist FBI demand to crack iPhone /newsroom/node/25314 <p>"Tech giant Apple and the FBI appeared headed for a deepening confrontation Wednesday after the company’s chief pledged to fight federal demands to help mine data from an iPhone used by one of the shooters in December’s terrorist attacks in San Bernardino." (<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/us-wants-apple-to-help-unlock-iphone-used-by-san-bernardino-shooter/2016/02/16/69b903ee-d4d9-11e5-9823-02b905009f99_story.html"><em>The Washington Post</em></a>)</p> Wed, 17 Feb 2016 18:47:30 +0000 SM Syria crisis: Air strikes on hospitals /newsroom/node/25305 <p>"<span>Rescuers wearing hard hats searched through rubble for survivors in northern Syria Monday after airstrikes hit two hospitals and a school building. </span><span>The attacks killed at least 22 people, according to reports. Eight others are missing and presumed dead.</span><span>" (Source: <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/02/15/middleeast/syria-hospitals-strike/">CNN</a></span><span>)</span></p> Tue, 16 Feb 2016 13:10:52 +0000 SM Child homelessness /newsroom/node/25301 <p>“On any given night, there are about 35,000 homeless people across Canada, and the number of families and children among them is growing at an alarming rate, a new report reveals.</p> Mon, 15 Feb 2016 19:06:03 +0000 SM Taxi drivers protest against Uber /newsroom/node/25268 <p>"Taxi and limousine drivers in Montreal are planning to block access to certain sites across the city Wednesday in protest against Uber." (<a href="http://montrealgazette.com/news/local-news/montreal-taxi-drivers-plan-uber-protest-by-blockading-sites-across-city">Montreal Gazette</a>)</p> Wed, 10 Feb 2016 15:28:06 +0000 SM Gravitational Waves /newsroom/node/25265 <p>"<span>The first direct detection of gravitational waves is now widely expected to be announced on 11 February by the Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO). Using LIGO's twin giant detectors — one in Livingston, Louisiana, and the other in Hanford, Washington — researchers are said to have measured ripples in space-time produced by a collision between two black holes.</span><span>" (<a href="http://www.nature.com/news/gravitational-waves-6-cosmic-questions-they-can-tackle-1.19337"><i>Nature News</i></a></span><span>)</span></p> Wed, 10 Feb 2016 13:41:26 +0000 SM Pope Francis and Russian Orthodox leader to meet /newsroom/node/25246 <p>« Pope Francis and the leader of the Russian Orthodox Church will meet in Cuba next week in a historic step to heal the 1,000-year-old schism that divided Christianity between East and West, both churches announced Friday. The Feb. 12 meeting between Francis and Patriarch Kirill will be the first ever between the leaders of the Catholic Church and the Russian Orthodox Churches, which is the largest in Orthodoxy. » (<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/pope-francis-russian-orthodox-meet-1.3435082">CBC</a>)</p> Fri, 05 Feb 2016 21:07:16 +0000 SM Julian Assange (Feb. 4, 2016) /newsroom/node/25237 <p>"<span>A UN panel will conclude Wikileaks founder Julian Assange is being "arbitrarily detained" in the UK, the Swedish foreign ministry has said.</span><span>" (<a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-35490910">BBC News</a></span><span>)</span></p> Thu, 04 Feb 2016 22:34:57 +0000 SM Guaranteed minimum income /newsroom/node/25210 <p>Phillipe Couillard mandated François Blais, the minister of Employment and Social Solidarity, to set up guaranteed minimum income in Quebec. <span>(Source: </span><em><a href="http://www.journaldequebec.com/2016/01/28/couillard-remanie-son-cabinet-apres-lausterite-des-eaux-plus-tranquilles">Le Journal de Québec</a></em><span>)</span></p> Tue, 02 Feb 2016 14:36:52 +0000 SM 2016 US Presidential Race /newsroom/node/25196 <p>"<span>On Monday, Iowa will kick off the 2016 race for the White House, a contest in which two fiery, fringe candidates from the left and right have hijacked the national imagination and undercut the political establishment.</span><span>" (Source: </span><a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/frustrated-with-status-quo-iowa-voters-turn-to-fringe-candidates/article28475706/">The Globe and Mail</a><span>)</span></p> Mon, 01 Feb 2016 13:51:59 +0000 SM Japan adopts negative interest rate /newsroom/node/25195 <p>"In a surprise move, the Bank of Japan has introduced a negative interest rate. <span>The benchmark rate of -0.1% means that commercial banks will be charged by the central bank for some deposits." (Source: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/business-35436187">BBC</a>)</span></p> Fri, 29 Jan 2016 21:11:29 +0000 SM Zika Virus /newsroom/node/25164 <p>"A new virus invading parts of Central and South America and now the Caribbean is causing concern among people living in and travelling to infected countries. Transmitted by the aggressive Aedes mosquito, the Zika virus has spread to at least 23 countries and will likely infect tens of millions of people in a few short years." (<a href="http://montreal.ctvnews.ca/zika-virus-and-birth-defects-pregnant-women-warned-against-travelling-south-1.2753473">CTV News</a>)</p> Wed, 27 Jan 2016 14:07:06 +0000 SM Canada discriminates against children on reserves /newsroom/node/25161 <p>"The federal government discriminates against First Nation children on reserves by failing to provide the same level of child welfare services that exist elsewhere, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal has ruled." (Source: <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/aboriginal/canada-discriminates-against-children-on-reserves-tribunal-rules-1.3419480">CBC</a>)</p> Tue, 26 Jan 2016 15:51:06 +0000 SM TransCanada Corp.’s Energy East pipeline /newsroom/node/25162 <p>"Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the new federal government wants to oversee a full and fair national debate over controversial energy issues such as pipelines and will act as a “responsible mediator.”" (Source: <em><a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/industry-news/energy-and-resources/trudeau-says-ottawa-will-be-responsible-mediator-in-energy-debate/article28392435/">The Globe and Mail</a></em>)</p> Tue, 26 Jan 2016 15:56:24 +0000 SM SM Tradition: Ice Building project on campus /newsroom/node/25156 <p><img src="/newsroom/files/newsroom/fullsizerender_700x385.jpg" /></p> <p>Professor Pieter Sijpkes’ students in the “Philosophy of Structures” course are building a catenary dome made out of snow and ice on the SM campus.</p> <p>He has been doing <a href="http://www.arch.mcgill.ca/prof/sijpkes/Philo-2014/Poster-Ice-dome-2016.docx">ice construction experiments</a> on the SM Campus since he was a student in Architecture in 1972.</p> Mon, 25 Jan 2016 20:21:51 +0000 SM Loto-Québec taking bets on U.S. presidential race /newsroom/node/25155 <p>"Loto-Québec is now taking bets on the U.S. presidential race." (Source: <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/us-election-loto-quebec-betting-wager-republican-democrat-1.3418300">CBC</a>)</p> Mon, 25 Jan 2016 19:34:39 +0000 SM Corus buys Shaw Media /newsroom/node/25082 <p>"Toronto-based Corus Entertainment is buying Shaw Media from Shaw Communications in a $2.65-billion deal. The move shuffles ownership of 19 specialty TV channels including Global, Food Network Canada, HGTV Canada, HISTORY, Slice, National Geographic Channel and Showcase between two companies that are controlled by the Shaw family. Corus also owns a network of radio stations and the Nelvana animation studio." (Source: <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/corus-entertainment-shaw-media-1.3401473">CBC</a>)</p> Thu, 14 Jan 2016 15:25:18 +0000 SM Canadian dollar's decline /newsroom/node/25080 <p>The Canadian dollar has dropped below the 70-cent US level for the first time since May 2003 yesterday. It's still worth below 70-cent today. (Source: <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/markets-loonie-oil-1.3399971">CBC</a> and <a href="https://www.google.ca/finance?chdnp=1&amp;chdd=1&amp;chds=1&amp;chdv=1&amp;chvs=Linear&amp;chdeh=0&amp;chfdeh=0&amp;chdet=1452712998558&amp;chddm=27620&amp;q=CURRENCY:CADUSD&amp;ntsp=0&amp;ei=JaSWVpH0Hcf-jAHw-LxI">Google Finance</a>)</p> Wed, 13 Jan 2016 19:35:01 +0000 SM Trans-generations (CIHR Café scientifique) /newsroom/node/25072 <p>The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Institute for Gender, Sexuality, and Feminist Studies (IGSF) presents a Café scientifique titled "<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/438021769726290/">Trans-generations: Trans History, Health, and Politics in Montreal and Beyond</a>" <strong>Wednesday January 13th</strong> that will explore questions of trans politics, health, and history.</p> Mon, 11 Jan 2016 18:59:28 +0000 SM David Bowie (1947–2016) /newsroom/node/25068 <p>"Singer David Bowie, one of the most influential musicians of his era, has died of cancer at the age of 69." (Source: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-35278872">BBC</a>)</p> <h3><a href="http://willstraw.com/">Will Straw</a>, Department of Art History and Communication Studies, SM</h3> <blockquote> <p>“For too much of its history, rock music has been about masculinity. Bowie kept it about masculinity (his contributions with women seem to be few), but he upset dominant ideas about masculinity more than anyone else in rock.”<br /> —Will Straw</p></blockquote> Mon, 11 Jan 2016 16:27:25 +0000 SM Supreme Court on assisted suicide: 6-month extension? /newsroom/node/25066 <p>In December 2015, the federal government has asked the Supreme Court for a six-month extension to draft new laws on doctor-assisted dying. The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on this request starting January 11, 2016.</p> Fri, 08 Jan 2016 16:14:48 +0000 SM North Korea Nuclear Test /newsroom/node/25061 <p>"Hours after North Korea trumpeted the apparent "perfect success" of its first hydrogen bomb test, the United Nations Security Council fired back with a promise of new sanctions." (Site: <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/north-korea-quake-nuclear-1.3391121">CBC</a>)</p> Wed, 06 Jan 2016 19:54:24 +0000 SM Weather: El nino /newsroom/node/25048 <p>As 2016 approaches, the ongoing El Nino shows no sign of relaxing its grip on the global climate. (Source: <a href="http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/12/el-nino-strengthens-grip-globe-151220093557172.html">Al Jazeera</a>)</p> <h3><a href="/meteo/facultystaff/gyakum">John Gyakum</a>, Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences</h3> <blockquote> <p>"The current El Nino, the strongest since 1997-98, is associated with recent unusually warm conditions in Ontario and Quebec."—John Gyakum</p> </blockquote> <p>Professor or large scale and dynamic meteorology.</p> Mon, 21 Dec 2015 15:35:16 +0000 SM Holidays: Story Tips for Journalists (2015) /newsroom/node/24956 <p><img src="/newsroom/files/newsroom/noel_boule.jpg" /></p> <p>Here are some story ideas for the upcoming Holiday season:</p> Mon, 30 Nov 2015 19:40:59 +0000 SM US Interest Rates /newsroom/node/25042 <p>The U.S. central bank began raising interest rates Dec. 16 from record lows, as it hiked its benchmark rate by a quarter of a percentage point. (Source: <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/fed-janet-yellen-interest-rate-1.3367740">CBC</a>)</p> <hr /> <h3><a href="http://people.mcgill.ca/christopher.ragan/">Chris Ragan</a>, Department of Economics</h3> <blockquote> <p>“Increases in the policy interest rate in the United States will reflect the data showing that the U.S.</p> <p>Economy is really strengthening, after years of a sluggish recovery.</p></blockquote> Wed, 16 Dec 2015 17:44:02 +0000 SM Montreal blue collar workers suspended /newsroom/node/25029 <p>"Nearly 2,400 Montreal blue collar workers including union leadership will face sanctions for leaving work to attend a union meeting last week after they were ordered to remain on the job. " (Source: <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/blue-collar-workers-president-suspended-montreal-1.3363631">CBC</a>)</p> Mon, 14 Dec 2015 16:21:03 +0000 SM SM's exclusive Holiday Fair Trade Crownie /newsroom/node/25026 <p>Just in time for the holidays, and egged on by colleagues on the other side of the mountain at <a href="https://twitter.com/uMontreal_news/status/674708576292765696">Université de Montréal</a>, SM’s Executive chef Oliver De Volpi shares the recipe for our exclusive <strong>Holiday Fair Trade Crownie</strong>.  “50% cookie - 50% brownie - 100% delicious.</p> <p><em>Available in 2016 in our dining halls.</em><br />  </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <h3>SM's exclusive Fair Trade Crownies</h3> <p><strong>Brownie recipe:</strong></p> Mon, 14 Dec 2015 15:44:11 +0000 SM Outremont: zoning on new places of worship /newsroom/node/25021 <p>"The borough of Outremont has overwhelmingly adopted a controversial bylaw banning new places of worship on Bernard and Laurier avenues." (Source: <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/outremont-sysnagogue-ban-bylaw-1.3354636">CBC</a>)</p> Tue, 08 Dec 2015 20:09:40 +0000 SM Missing and murdered indigenous women /newsroom/node/25015 <p>The federal government could announce some of the details of a much-anticipated national public inquiry into missing and murdered indigenous women. (Source: <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/missing-murdered-women-inquiry-1.3354369">CBC</a>)</p> Tue, 08 Dec 2015 14:55:11 +0000 SM Journées annuelles en santé publique (Dec. 2015) /newsroom/node/25012 <p>Annual gathering of experts and employees working in the public health sector, the Journées annuelles de santé publique will be held December 8-9 in Montreal. (<a href="http://jasp.inspq.qc.ca/informations.aspx">Source</a>)</p> Mon, 07 Dec 2015 20:30:40 +0000 SM Featured research stories of 2015 /newsroom/node/24999 <h3><a href="/newsroom/channels/news/could-maple-syrup-help-cut-use-antibiotics-246929">Could maple syrup help cut use of antibiotics?</a></h3> <p>Syrup extract found to make antibiotics more effective against bacteria. A concentrated extract of maple syrup makes disease-causing bacteria more susceptible to antibiotics, according to laboratory experiments by researchers at SM.</p> <p> </p> Fri, 04 Dec 2015 16:18:21 +0000 SM Paris Climate Change Conference (Nov.-Dec. 2015) /newsroom/node/24579 <p><img src="/newsroom/files/newsroom/banner_paris_700x220.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p>The 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP 21, will be held in Paris from November 30 to December 11. Thu, 29 Oct 2015 14:38:50 +0000 SM Montreal budget 2016 /newsroom/node/24891 <p>"The City of Montreal's 2016 budget includes another increase in residential property taxes, a smaller increase in non-residential property taxes and an increase in overall expenditures of 2.4 per cent." (Source: <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/montreal-budget-property-tax-spending-2015-1.3335958">CBC</a>)</p> Wed, 25 Nov 2015 21:17:56 +0000 SM World AIDS Day 2015: SM/MUHC experts /newsroom/node/24889 <p>December 1 is World AIDS Day, reminding us that the fight against the AIDS pandemic is far from over. More than 36 million people have died since it emerged in the early 1980s. Today, 35.3 million people around the world are living with the virus. 73,000 Canadians are currently HIV positive up from 49,000 in 2001, according to statistics from the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CanFAR).</p> Wed, 25 Nov 2015 20:56:43 +0000 SM Canada's Syrian refugee plan (Nov. 23, 2015) /newsroom/node/24858 <p>"The federal government's much-anticipated Syrian refugee plan will limit those accepted into Canada to women, children and families only, CBC News has learned." (Source: <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/canada-refugee-plan-women-children-families-1.3330185">CBC</a>)</p> Mon, 23 Nov 2015 16:28:12 +0000 SM Quebec: Palliative and End-of-life Care Plan /newsroom/node/24780 <p>The Quebec Minister of Health and Social Services, Gaétan Barrette, released the <em>Plan de développement 2015-2020 en soins palliatifs et de fin de vie - Pour une meilleure qualité de vie</em>. (Source: <a href="http://www.fil-information.gouv.qc.ca/Pages/Article.aspx?aiguillage=ajd&amp;type=1&amp;idArticle=2311164082">Gouvernement du Québec</a>)</p> Tue, 17 Nov 2015 21:00:21 +0000 SM 50th anniversary of "Pain Mechanisms: A New Theory" /newsroom/node/24778 <p>November 19 marks the 50<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the ground-breaking paper, “<a href="http://www.sciencemag.org/content/150/3699/971.full.pdf">Pain Mechanisms: A New Theory</a>” co-authored by SM’s Ronald Melzack, and the late Patrick Wall, which introduced <a href="http://thebrain.mcgill.ca/flash/d/d_03/d_03_cl/d_03_cl_dou/d_03_cl_dou.html#2">gate-control theory</a>.</p> Tue, 17 Nov 2015 18:58:38 +0000 SM Paris attacks (November 13, 2015) /newsroom/node/24730 <p><span>Many people were reported dead Friday night following several separate attacks in and around Paris.</span></p> <p><strong><a href="/law/about/profs/megret-frederic">Frédéric Mégret</a>, Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair in the Law of Human Rights and Legal Pluralism, SM</strong><br /> He can comment on the legal ramifications such as the national emergency and border implications. (English, French)<br /> <span class="spamspan"><span class="u">frederic.megret</span> [at] <span class="d">mcgill.ca</span></span>, cellphone available</p> Fri, 13 Nov 2015 23:48:20 +0000 SM Middle-aged white Americans health crisis /newsroom/node/24598 <p> Wed, 04 Nov 2015 18:48:03 +0000 SM Hurricane Patricia, strongest ever recorded /newsroom/node/24567 <p> Fri, 23 Oct 2015 17:33:12 +0000 SM Is 'Back to the Future' scientifically possible? /newsroom/node/24558 <p>It’s 'Back to the Future' day: “In <em>Back to the Future Part II</em>, Marty McFly travels to October 21, 2015, to save his children, yet to be born in <em>Back to the Future</em>'s 1985.” (Source: <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/20/entertainment/back-to-the-future-day-feat/">CNN</a>)</p> <p>Journalists looking for comments can talk to Alex Maloney, professor of physics at SM:</p> <blockquote> <p>“Back to the Future was a great movie which brings up many interesting scientific issues.  Although Einstein's theory of general relativity seems to allow time travel under very special circumstances, it appears that the effects of quantum mechanics make time travel impossible.”<br /> - Alex Maloney</p> </blockquote> <p><strong><a href="http://www.physics.mcgill.ca/~maloney/">Alex Maloney</a></strong>, Associate Professor of Physics &amp; William Dawson Scholar, Department of Physics, SM<br /> <strong>Expertise</strong>: Black holes, string theory, particle physics, cosmology and the emergence of space-time in quantum gravity.<br /> <strong>Contact</strong>: <span class="spamspan"><span class="u">Maloney</span> [at] <span class="d">physics.mcgill.ca</span></span></p> <p> Wed, 21 Oct 2015 19:50:58 +0000 SM How did the Canadiens win 7 in a row? /newsroom/node/24557 <p> Wed, 21 Oct 2015 19:32:02 +0000 SM Salmonella outbreak in Canada (Oct. 16, 2015) /newsroom/node/24540 <p> Fri, 16 Oct 2015 17:05:56 +0000 SM Opinion: Canada's Leadership in the Refugee Crisis /newsroom/node/24526 <p><span>By Myriam Denov and Fran</span><span>ç</span><span>ois Cr</span><span>é</span><span>peau </span></p> <p> Thu, 08 Oct 2015 15:23:09 +0000 SM Federal election 2015 /newsroom/node/24373 <p>Need experts who can offer insight on the 2015 Federal Election? Contact one of the following professors:</p> Thu, 30 Jul 2015 18:34:11 +0000 SM How to cut corporate tax avoidance /newsroom/node/24517 <p> Mon, 05 Oct 2015 15:29:05 +0000 SM Teachers' strike on Sept. 30 /newsroom/node/24500 <p>“Teachers in many French public schools are planning a one-day strike on Wednesday, Sept. 30, to voice their displeasure over contract talks with the Quebec government.” (Source: <a href="http://montrealgazette.com/news/quebec/quebec-teachers-announce-strike-day">The Montreal Gazette</a>)</p> Tue, 29 Sep 2015 17:35:22 +0000 SM Water on Mars: NASA announcement /newsroom/node/24495 <p> Mon, 28 Sep 2015 15:22:40 +0000 SM Sex-ed pilot project in Quebec /newsroom/node/24446 <p> Mon, 31 Aug 2015 15:15:50 +0000 SM Greece: early elections (August 20) /newsroom/node/24424 <p> Thu, 20 Aug 2015 21:37:36 +0000 SM Protests in Brazil /newsroom/node/24413 <p> Mon, 17 Aug 2015 16:08:28 +0000 SM Back to school: health experts /newsroom/node/24411 <p> Fri, 14 Aug 2015 20:29:18 +0000 SM China’s currency devaluation /newsroom/node/24409 <p> Thu, 13 Aug 2015 17:45:50 +0000 SM Montréal Pride (August 10-16) /newsroom/node/24357 <p> Mon, 27 Jul 2015 19:27:09 +0000 SM Cars: Understanding magnesium corrosion /newsroom/node/24389 <p> Wed, 05 Aug 2015 17:40:57 +0000 SM Air travel: passengers clash over gender segregation (July 30) /newsroom/node/24371 <p>“An uncomfortable moment between passengers aboard a New Jersey-to-Toronto flight has renewed the debate over reasonable accommodation and the balance between competing rights.” (Source: <a href="http://news.nationalpost.com/news/canada/passengers-on-porter-flight-clash-when-ultra-orthodox-jew-refuses-to-sit-next-to-woman">National Post</a>)</p> <p>Here’s our SM expert available to comment on this issue:</p> Thu, 30 Jul 2015 14:05:45 +0000 SM World Hepatitis Day (July 28) /newsroom/node/24360 <p> Mon, 27 Jul 2015 19:40:10 +0000 SM China stocks plunging /newsroom/node/24299 <p> Wed, 08 Jul 2015 16:39:21 +0000 SM Kepler's New Discoveries (July 23) /newsroom/node/24352 <p> Thu, 23 Jul 2015 13:10:10 +0000 SM BAPE report on uranium mining /newsroom/node/24347 <p> Wed, 22 Jul 2015 18:01:02 +0000 SM HPV vaccine program for ‘at-risk’ boys in B.C. /newsroom/node/24333 <p> Fri, 17 Jul 2015 20:59:54 +0000 SM Discovery of the pentaquark /newsroom/node/24331 <p> Fri, 17 Jul 2015 20:52:48 +0000 SM Iran Nuclear Deal (July 14) /newsroom/node/24324 <p> Tue, 14 Jul 2015 19:04:23 +0000 SM Greek Financial Crisis: deal reached (July 13) /newsroom/node/24290 <p> Fri, 03 Jul 2015 21:05:48 +0000 SM Two years after Lac Megantic’s tragedy (July 5-6) /newsroom/node/24288 <p> Fri, 03 Jul 2015 20:59:16 +0000 SM New Horizons probe: Pluto flyby (July 14) /newsroom/node/24286 <p> Fri, 03 Jul 2015 20:54:41 +0000 SM Québec axes small slaughterhouses /newsroom/node/24279 <p> Mon, 29 Jun 2015 18:40:09 +0000 SM Streaming : Taylor Swift vs. Apple /newsroom/node/24272 <p> Mon, 22 Jun 2015 18:36:37 +0000 SM Quebec Charter: 40th anniversary (June 27) /newsroom/node/24268 <p> Mon, 22 Jun 2015 14:09:31 +0000 SM Pope Francis calls for action on climate change /newsroom/node/24264 <p> Thu, 18 Jun 2015 18:22:45 +0000 SM Thousands flee volcano eruption in Indonesia /newsroom/node/24248 <p> Tue, 16 Jun 2015 13:45:14 +0000 SM Jeb Bush announce he is running for president /newsroom/node/24246 <p> Mon, 15 Jun 2015 19:10:49 +0000 SM World congress on suicide prevention in Montreal /newsroom/node/24239 <p> Fri, 12 Jun 2015 18:42:45 +0000 SM World Refugee Day 2015 (June 20) /newsroom/node/24237 <p> Fri, 12 Jun 2015 18:28:47 +0000 SM National Aboriginal Day 2015 (June 21) /newsroom/node/24234 <p> Fri, 12 Jun 2015 18:14:28 +0000 SM Korean MERS outbreak should be wake-up call for world /newsroom/node/24231 <p> Fri, 12 Jun 2015 18:01:29 +0000 SM Supreme Court ruling about Medical Marijuana /newsroom/node/24227 <p> Thu, 11 Jun 2015 19:03:49 +0000 SM 2015 World Blood Donor Day - June 14 /newsroom/node/24121 <p> Mon, 08 Jun 2015 17:53:23 +0000 SM FIFA corruption: 2026 World Bidding Process postponed /newsroom/node/24223 <p> Wed, 10 Jun 2015 18:48:11 +0000 SM Experts recommend changes to Quebec family laws /newsroom/node/24224 <p>The group released a 600-page report with 82 recommendations that call for sweeping reforms to the current set of laws for unmarried couples. Among them is a mandatory parental regime which would set out obligations towards children born during a common-law union as well as between parents following a split -- to a certain point. Wed, 10 Jun 2015 18:48:16 +0000 SM Global rise of diabetes and obesity /newsroom/node/24221 <p> Wed, 10 Jun 2015 16:16:38 +0000 SM Child Labour Day – June 12 /newsroom/node/24123 <p> Mon, 08 Jun 2015 17:58:00 +0000 SM Aboriginal Affairs underspending /newsroom/node/24122 <p> Mon, 08 Jun 2015 17:56:03 +0000 SM Maple syrup - 4th best season on record /newsroom/node/24120 <p><strong>Event</strong>: This year’s yield was expected to be very low, but has turned out to be the fourth-best ever. Mon, 08 Jun 2015 17:49:39 +0000 SM Bruce Jenner and Transgender issues /newsroom/node/22503 <p> Wed, 29 Apr 2015 14:49:31 +0000 SM Fifa corruption: The end of Sepp Blatter's tenure /newsroom/node/24115 <p>Allegations of bribes and corruption have engulfed Fifa since the World Cup was awarded to Russia and Qatar. Just hours after Sepp Blatter announced he was standing down as Fifa president, a report in the US media claimed he was the subject of a corruption inquiry by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Wed, 03 Jun 2015 20:24:22 +0000 SM World Ocean Day June 8 (organised by the UN) /newsroom/node/24103 <h2> Mon, 01 Jun 2015 19:13:10 +0000 SM Gay Prides in Toronto June 19-28 and the US (June) /newsroom/node/24102 <p><strong>Event: </strong>Pride Toronto is the not-for-profit organization that hosts an annual festival in downtown Toronto, which takes place each year during the last week of June.</p> <p>Pride Week celebrates our diverse sexual and gender identities, histories, cultures, creativities, families, friends and lives. It includes a three-day street festival with over eight stages of live entertainment, an extensive street fair (including community booths, vendors, food stalls), a special Family Pride program, a politically charged Dyke March, a Trans March and the famous Pride Parade.</p> Mon, 01 Jun 2015 19:07:25 +0000 SM National health and fitness day - June 6 /newsroom/node/24101 <h2> Mon, 01 Jun 2015 18:59:46 +0000 SM Grand Prix de Montreal June 5-6-7 /newsroom/node/24100 <p><strong> Mon, 01 Jun 2015 18:48:38 +0000 SM Truth and reconciliation report out on June 2 /newsroom/node/24099 <p> Mon, 01 Jun 2015 18:46:38 +0000 SM Bilingualism and the Brain: From birth to aging /newsroom/node/24091 <p> Tue, 26 May 2015 14:32:28 +0000 SM World No-Tobacco Day (May 31) /newsroom/node/24090 <p> Tue, 26 May 2015 14:27:54 +0000 SM International Day of UN Peacekeepers (May 29) /newsroom/node/24089 <p> Tue, 26 May 2015 14:26:13 +0000 SM How austerity measures impact health /newsroom/node/24088 <p> Tue, 26 May 2015 14:22:42 +0000 SM Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month /newsroom/node/22536 Mon, 11 May 2015 18:08:34 +0000 SM Alcohol consumption - OECD /newsroom/node/22533 Mon, 11 May 2015 15:42:12 +0000 SM United Kingdom General Election /newsroom/node/22422 Wed, 15 Apr 2015 13:55:46 +0000 SM Alberta Election 2015 /newsroom/node/22522 Tue, 05 May 2015 16:09:54 +0000 SM Montreal retail sales /newsroom/node/22509 Thu, 30 Apr 2015 16:19:53 +0000 SM Gender Bias Issue /newsroom/node/22508 Thu, 30 Apr 2015 16:04:45 +0000 SM French gay Vatican ambassador /newsroom/node/22507 Wed, 29 Apr 2015 18:19:50 +0000 SM Humanitarian Aid Expert /newsroom/node/22494 Tue, 28 Apr 2015 14:36:24 +0000 SM Refugees & Asylum Seekers /newsroom/node/22485 Mon, 27 Apr 2015 13:52:13 +0000 SM Earthquake Experts /newsroom/node/22484 Mon, 27 Apr 2015 13:44:00 +0000 SM Hockey Equipment Experts /newsroom/node/22481 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 14:00:58 +0000 SM Budget /newsroom/node/22320 Wed, 25 Mar 2015 14:38:25 +0000 SM Arctic Council Ministerial meeting in Iqaluit /newsroom/node/22452 Mon, 20 Apr 2015 18:18:37 +0000 SM Hundreds of migrants die in a shipwreck in Europe /newsroom/node/22450 Mon, 20 Apr 2015 16:29:43 +0000 SM April 22: Earth Day /newsroom/node/22443 Thu, 16 Apr 2015 20:02:10 +0000 SM Head and Neck Cancer conference /newsroom/node/22441 Thu, 16 Apr 2015 19:17:14 +0000 SM Supreme Court of Canada Ruling on Mandatory Sentencing /newsroom/node/22411 Tue, 14 Apr 2015 13:46:12 +0000 SM Avian flu /newsroom/node/13084 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 20:31:31 +0000 SM World Voice Day - April 16 /newsroom/node/22396 Mon, 13 Apr 2015 14:55:33 +0000 SM Prime Minister of India visiting Canada /newsroom/node/22395 Mon, 13 Apr 2015 14:12:01 +0000 SM Hillary Clinton running for 2016 President /newsroom/node/22394 Mon, 13 Apr 2015 13:57:59 +0000 SM CERN Large Hadron Collider reactivated /newsroom/node/22371 Thu, 02 Apr 2015 18:11:24 +0000 SM Germanwings - companies & employee mental health /newsroom/node/22370 Thu, 02 Apr 2015 17:57:33 +0000 SM Easter - experts /newsroom/node/22347 Mon, 30 Mar 2015 14:02:29 +0000 SM World Autism Awareness Day is April 2 /newsroom/node/22346 Mon, 30 Mar 2015 13:58:04 +0000 SM April is Daffodil Month - Cancer Awareness /newsroom/node/22342 Fri, 27 Mar 2015 13:55:05 +0000 SM First mission to International Space Station /newsroom/node/22319 Wed, 25 Mar 2015 14:26:44 +0000 SM Heinz buying Kraft /newsroom/node/22318 Wed, 25 Mar 2015 14:12:45 +0000 SM Lufthansa/Germanwings plane crash /newsroom/node/22316 Tue, 24 Mar 2015 14:17:50 +0000 SM Singapore mourns founding father Lee Kuan Yew /newsroom/node/22313 Mon, 23 Mar 2015 15:08:58 +0000 SM Tax Season /newsroom/node/22045 Fri, 06 Feb 2015 18:43:26 +0000 SM World Tuberculosis Day, March 24 /newsroom/node/22311 Fri, 20 Mar 2015 19:37:11 +0000 SM Quebec Provincial Budget /newsroom/node/22310 Fri, 20 Mar 2015 19:32:16 +0000 SM Disabilities Awareness Week /newsroom/node/22309 Fri, 20 Mar 2015 19:26:55 +0000 SM 1995 Srebrenica massacre : suspects arrested /newsroom/node/22285 Wed, 18 Mar 2015 20:45:31 +0000 SM Judgement on Loyola HS et al. v. Attorney General of Qc /newsroom/node/22284 Wed, 18 Mar 2015 19:44:49 +0000 SM SM experts: International Women’s Day /newsroom/node/19760 Tue, 25 Feb 2014 16:19:54 +0000 SM March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month /newsroom/node/19765 Thu, 27 Feb 2014 14:49:18 +0000 SM Jewish emigration from Europe /newsroom/node/22135 Fri, 20 Feb 2015 19:46:13 +0000 SM Greek debt crisis /newsroom/node/22132 Fri, 20 Feb 2015 15:11:15 +0000 SM Strip search allowed in high schools /newsroom/node/22105 Wed, 18 Feb 2015 15:15:30 +0000 SM Valentine's Day /newsroom/node/22044 Fri, 06 Feb 2015 16:52:12 +0000 SM Bombardier names Alain Bellemare new CEO /newsroom/node/22077 Thu, 12 Feb 2015 14:55:27 +0000 SM Walmart Canada announces expansion plans /newsroom/node/22075 Wed, 11 Feb 2015 19:30:15 +0000 SM Swiss Leaks /newsroom/node/22066 Mon, 09 Feb 2015 19:27:35 +0000 SM The Cities We Need /newsroom/node/22064 Mon, 09 Feb 2015 18:50:43 +0000 SM Supreme Court on assisted suicide /newsroom/node/22040 Thu, 05 Feb 2015 18:23:22 +0000 SM Another fat tax fail /newsroom/node/22031 Wed, 04 Feb 2015 17:37:35 +0000 SM Controversy around Argentina's president /newsroom/node/22030 Wed, 04 Feb 2015 17:08:29 +0000 SM Creating babies from the DNA of three people /newsroom/node/22024 Tue, 03 Feb 2015 18:37:52 +0000 SM February is Heart Awareness Month /newsroom/node/21979 Thu, 29 Jan 2015 16:46:01 +0000 SM Suicide prevention week is Feb. 1-7 /newsroom/node/21974 Wed, 28 Jan 2015 16:28:04 +0000 SM World Cancer Day is February 4 /newsroom/node/21973 Tue, 27 Jan 2015 19:13:37 +0000 SM Extreme weather on the East Coast /newsroom/node/21972 Tue, 27 Jan 2015 15:19:12 +0000 SM Black History Month /newsroom/node/21968 Mon, 26 Jan 2015 19:36:42 +0000 SM International Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27) /newsroom/node/21966 Mon, 26 Jan 2015 19:32:11 +0000 SM Greek legislative elections - January 25 /newsroom/node/21963 Fri, 23 Jan 2015 19:54:55 +0000 SM Eating Disorders Awareness Week is Feb. 1-7 /newsroom/node/21962 Fri, 23 Jan 2015 19:03:54 +0000 SM ECB reveals European economic stimulus plan /newsroom/node/21947 Thu, 22 Jan 2015 14:25:54 +0000 SM Yemen - Rebels storm palace /newsroom/node/21939 Wed, 21 Jan 2015 15:23:49 +0000 SM 2015 World Economic Forum in Davos /newsroom/node/21930 Mon, 19 Jan 2015 19:21:32 +0000 SM Longueuil water contaminated /newsroom/node/21893 Thu, 15 Jan 2015 18:27:48 +0000 SM Target to leave Canada /newsroom/node/21890 Thu, 15 Jan 2015 15:10:40 +0000 SM Haiti: Five years after devastating earthquake /newsroom/node/21830 Fri, 09 Jan 2015 15:34:39 +0000 SM 10,000 more Syrian refugees over 3 years /newsroom/node/21819 Wed, 07 Jan 2015 18:46:29 +0000 SM Freezing Rain and Extreme Weather /newsroom/node/21784 Mon, 05 Jan 2015 19:29:25 +0000 SM Alzheimer Awareness Month /newsroom/node/21783 Mon, 05 Jan 2015 19:10:53 +0000 SM Why the West should help Putin save the ruble /newsroom/node/21754 Wed, 17 Dec 2014 15:03:15 +0000 SM NHL Mumps Outbreak /newsroom/node/21746 Mon, 15 Dec 2014 19:51:35 +0000 SM $31B in food wasted every year in Canada /newsroom/node/21739 Thu, 11 Dec 2014 17:14:31 +0000 SM Story ideas for the Holidays /newsroom/node/21679 Tue, 02 Dec 2014 19:58:07 +0000 SM Top events in 2014 /newsroom/node/21701 Fri, 05 Dec 2014 16:40:40 +0000 SM Assembly of First Nations election /newsroom/node/21733 Wed, 10 Dec 2014 15:10:39 +0000 SM Human Rights Day, December 10 /newsroom/node/21725 Tue, 09 Dec 2014 14:19:21 +0000 SM Canadian Embassy in Cairo closes /newsroom/node/21710 Mon, 08 Dec 2014 15:23:58 +0000 SM UN Climate Change Conference - COP 20 - Experts /newsroom/node/21685 Wed, 03 Dec 2014 15:49:59 +0000 SM World AIDS Day, December 1: SM/MUHC experts /newsroom/node/21649 Thu, 27 Nov 2014 19:05:23 +0000 SM Experts: Report from the Auditor General of Canada /newsroom/node/21598 Mon, 24 Nov 2014 13:55:47 +0000 SM SM experts: extreme weather /newsroom/node/21593 <p><b> Fri, 21 Nov 2014 14:56:33 +0000 SM SM experts: Black Friday /newsroom/node/21539 Mon, 17 Nov 2014 18:29:20 +0000 SM SM experts: Bill C-36 /newsroom/node/21449 Mon, 10 Nov 2014 17:38:59 +0000 SM SM experts: European Union's economy /newsroom/node/21437 Tue, 04 Nov 2014 19:45:32 +0000 SM SM expert: Osteoporosis Awareness Month /newsroom/node/21427 Mon, 03 Nov 2014 17:36:38 +0000 SM SM Experts: National Pain Awareness Week /newsroom/node/21408 Fri, 31 Oct 2014 18:16:27 +0000 SM SM expert: ISIS and sexual slavery /newsroom/node/21403 Thu, 30 Oct 2014 18:40:00 +0000 SM SM et le Nord /newsroom/node/21358 Mon, 27 Oct 2014 18:40:09 +0000 SM World Stroke Day 2014 /newsroom/node/21344 Fri, 24 Oct 2014 16:01:45 +0000 SM SM experts: Supreme Court and assisted suicide /newsroom/node/21247 Tue, 14 Oct 2014 18:46:56 +0000 SM Plans for Quebec’s St. Lawrence oil resources /newsroom/node/21245 Tue, 14 Oct 2014 17:20:20 +0000 SM Nobel Peace Prize winners /newsroom/node/21242 Fri, 10 Oct 2014 11:49:15 +0000 SM Nominees for the Nobel Peace Prize - Experts /newsroom/node/21234 Thu, 09 Oct 2014 17:03:53 +0000 SM Supreme Court judgement on Zahra Kazemi's case /newsroom/node/21227 Wed, 08 Oct 2014 16:32:05 +0000 SM Brazil Presidential Elections /newsroom/node/21206 Sun, 05 Oct 2014 12:55:43 +0000 SM SM expert: OECD report on social inequalities /newsroom/node/21203 Fri, 03 Oct 2014 17:38:49 +0000 SM SM experts: Mental Illness Awareness Week /newsroom/node/21188 Tue, 30 Sep 2014 18:35:55 +0000 SM SM experts: Brazil's presidential election /newsroom/node/21178 Mon, 29 Sep 2014 19:14:19 +0000 SM SM expert: Japan volcano eruption /newsroom/node/21176 Mon, 29 Sep 2014 18:07:57 +0000 SM SM experts: Alaska hit by earthquake /newsroom/node/21159 Fri, 26 Sep 2014 13:25:04 +0000 SM SM expert: Global jobs crisis /newsroom/node/21119 Wed, 10 Sep 2014 16:02:12 +0000 SM SM expert: Record high for greenhouse gases /newsroom/node/21110 Tue, 09 Sep 2014 15:30:30 +0000 SM SM expert: The last Tibetan spiritual leader /newsroom/node/21107 Mon, 08 Sep 2014 16:00:49 +0000 SM SM expert: World suicide prevention day /newsroom/node/21103 Fri, 05 Sep 2014 17:46:41 +0000 SM SM experts: International Literacy Day /newsroom/node/21102 Fri, 05 Sep 2014 14:40:40 +0000 SM SM expert: Pakistan protests /newsroom/node/21075 Tue, 02 Sep 2014 15:26:42 +0000 SM SM expert: Incidence of child/teenager sexual abuse /newsroom/node/21071 Fri, 29 Aug 2014 16:02:13 +0000 SM SM experts: Scottish independence referendum /newsroom/node/21055 Wed, 27 Aug 2014 14:07:16 +0000 SM SM expert: Burger King buying Tim Hortons /newsroom/node/21051 Tue, 26 Aug 2014 14:27:03 +0000 SM SM experts: Ice bucket challenge and ALS research /newsroom/node/21040 Wed, 20 Aug 2014 14:59:52 +0000 SM SM expert: Mental health and the Canadian forces /newsroom/node/21027 Tue, 12 Aug 2014 15:48:17 +0000 SM SM expert: Montreal Pride /newsroom/node/21022 Mon, 11 Aug 2014 18:12:42 +0000 SM SM expert: Christians in Islamic states /newsroom/node/21015 Thu, 07 Aug 2014 17:16:57 +0000 SM SM expert: Bouchard's defeat /newsroom/node/21012 Wed, 06 Aug 2014 16:15:02 +0000 SM SM expert: China earthquake /newsroom/node/20999 Mon, 04 Aug 2014 14:18:56 +0000 SM SM expert: Variable speed limits in QC /newsroom/node/20994 Tue, 29 Jul 2014 14:51:56 +0000 SM Cystic fibrosis: questions on the new drug Vertex /newsroom/node/20986 Wed, 23 Jul 2014 19:23:33 +0000 SM SM expert: Fruits recall /newsroom/node/20979 Tue, 22 Jul 2014 14:52:45 +0000 SM SM expert: Regulations surrounding e-cigarettes /newsroom/node/20974 Mon, 21 Jul 2014 16:29:46 +0000 SM SM expert: Gaza conflict /newsroom/node/20972 Mon, 21 Jul 2014 14:14:34 +0000 SM SM expert: Typhoon Neoguri /newsroom/node/20956 Wed, 09 Jul 2014 14:50:54 +0000 SM SM expert: Prostitution bill /newsroom/node/20949 Mon, 07 Jul 2014 14:48:52 +0000 SM SM experts: UN World Refugee Day - June 20 /newsroom/node/20888 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 18:38:20 +0000 SM SM expert: Michael Schumacher out of a coma /newsroom/node/20878 Mon, 16 Jun 2014 16:04:12 +0000 SM SM experts: 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil /newsroom/node/20815 Fri, 30 May 2014 14:46:43 +0000 SM SM expert: Skin cancer on the rise in Canada /newsroom/node/20807 Wed, 28 May 2014 17:35:34 +0000 SM SM expert: New bill on prostitution expected /newsroom/node/20659 Mon, 28 Apr 2014 17:14:41 +0000 SM SM expert: Liberal government budget - June 4 /newsroom/node/20820 Mon, 02 Jun 2014 14:21:48 +0000 SM Experts: New regulations for Legionnaires' disease /newsroom/node/20801 Tue, 27 May 2014 17:05:00 +0000 SM SM experts: Social tension ahead of the World Cup /newsroom/node/20775 Wed, 21 May 2014 14:48:20 +0000 SM Expert: Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Summit /newsroom/node/20795 Mon, 26 May 2014 18:52:31 +0000 SM SM expert: Meteor shower expected tonight /newsroom/node/20788 Fri, 23 May 2014 15:08:22 +0000 SM SM expert: 2 million pounds of ground beef recalled /newsroom/node/20776 Wed, 21 May 2014 16:13:41 +0000 SM SM expert: Thailand’s army declares martial law /newsroom/node/20770 Tue, 20 May 2014 15:01:31 +0000 SM SM expert: Ice sheet collapse in West Antarctica /newsroom/node/20740 Tue, 13 May 2014 18:15:58 +0000 SM Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS): SM expert /newsroom/node/20738 Tue, 13 May 2014 14:35:31 +0000 SM SM experts: Cyclists' safety in Montreal /newsroom/node/20710 Thu, 08 May 2014 14:36:08 +0000 SM SM experts: Mother’s Day, May 11 /newsroom/node/20703 Wed, 07 May 2014 17:39:08 +0000 SM SM expert: Japan Earthquake /newsroom/node/20696 Mon, 05 May 2014 16:08:25 +0000 SM Expert: (La Presse) Le risque sexuel du sida minimisé /newsroom/node/20694 Sat, 03 May 2014 11:37:49 +0000 SM Foot Health Awareness Month: May /newsroom/node/20690 Fri, 02 May 2014 15:23:06 +0000 SM May is National Physiotherapy Month /newsroom/node/20688 Fri, 02 May 2014 15:10:37 +0000 SM SM expert: EU military contracts with China /newsroom/node/20687 Fri, 02 May 2014 14:41:05 +0000 SM SM expert : WHO's report on Antibiotic resistance /newsroom/node/20674 Wed, 30 Apr 2014 15:54:01 +0000 SM SM expert: A special status for Montreal /newsroom/node/20665 Tue, 29 Apr 2014 14:25:34 +0000 SM SM expert: Tornadoes /newsroom/node/20660 Mon, 28 Apr 2014 18:41:44 +0000 SM SM experts: April 22, Earth Day /newsroom/node/20624 Thu, 17 Apr 2014 14:00:54 +0000 SM SM experts: Autism Awareness Month /newsroom/node/19910 Thu, 27 Mar 2014 16:15:31 +0000 SM SM experts: Provincial elections /newsroom/node/19824 Fri, 07 Mar 2014 17:28:52 +0000 SM SM experts: Sochi 2014 /newsroom/node/19650 Mon, 27 Jan 2014 17:42:50 +0000 SM Sochi Olympics experts list /newsroom/node/19639 Thu, 23 Jan 2014 19:32:21 +0000 SM SM Experts: 2012 U.S. Presidential Race /newsroom/node/11919 Mon, 01 Oct 2012 17:49:46 +0000 SM SM Expert Alert: Canadian Census /newsroom/node/11853 Mon, 17 Sep 2012 15:07:49 +0000 SM SM Expert Alert: Super Tuesday, March 6, 2012 U.S. Presidential elections /newsroom/node/15739 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:08:53 +0000 SM Media advisory: Biodiversity symposium examines biodiversity change /newsroom/node/15737 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:08:41 +0000 SM Media advisory - Gut reactions: immunity, microbes and diet /newsroom/node/15735 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:08:29 +0000 SM Media advisory: Pancreatic Cancer: Progress, Challenges and Paradigm Shifts /newsroom/node/15733 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:08:18 +0000 SM Media advisory: SM hosts international conference on indigenous rights /newsroom/node/15732 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:08:12 +0000 SM Media advisory: Expanding the scope of nursing /newsroom/node/15730 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:07:58 +0000 SM MEDIA ADVISORY: Putting alternative medicine under the microscope /newsroom/node/15728 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:07:49 +0000 SM Media advisory: New research chair in urology announcement /newsroom/node/15726 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:07:38 +0000 SM Media advisory: Prize-winning authors pick up Mordecai Richler’s torch /newsroom/node/15724 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:07:27 +0000 SM Experts alert: 10th Anniversary of 9/11 /newsroom/node/15722 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:07:16 +0000 SM SM Experts: U.S., European Government Debt /newsroom/node/15720 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:06:59 +0000 SM Expert Alert: Quebec measles outbreak worsens /newsroom/node/15617 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 20:01:51 +0000 SM SM Expert Alert: Canadian Federal Budget 2011 /newsroom/node/15718 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:06:47 +0000 SM Counting on bigger mining returns /newsroom/node/14898 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 23:15:27 +0000 SM Media advisory: New website aims to help reduce, prevent cyber-bullying /newsroom/node/15716 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:06:35 +0000 SM Media Advisory: New prize at SM 
to promote active and healthy lifestyle /newsroom/node/15714 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:06:24 +0000 SM Media advisory: Cancer Survivorship: With, Through and Beyond /newsroom/node/15712 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:06:12 +0000 SM SM experts on the death of Osama bin Laden /newsroom/node/15711 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:06:02 +0000 SM Media advisory: Leading scientist and SM alumnus helps launch Chair in Food Safety /newsroom/node/15709 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:05:51 +0000 SM Media Advisory: Carlos Fuentes to speak at SM /newsroom/node/15707 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:05:40 +0000 SM Media Advisory: Where Do Human Rights Come From? /newsroom/node/15705 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:05:30 +0000 SM EXPERT ALERT: World Tuberculosis Day 2011 /newsroom/node/15703 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:05:16 +0000 SM MEDIA ADVISORY: Baseball and race in Canada - The case of Jackie Robinson /newsroom/node/15702 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:05:10 +0000 SM North Africa and Middle East /newsroom/node/15700 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:04:58 +0000 SM Rising food prices /newsroom/node/15701 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 21:05:02 +0000 SM