Mail will resume next week, Canada Post says ahead of rotating strike

The union for Canada Post employees has announced a shift from a nationwide strike to rotating strikes starting Saturday, which aims to resume the flow of mail and parcels. This change is significant as it indicates a willingness to negotiate while still advocating for workers' rights, ultimately benefiting both employees and customers who rely on postal services.

A recent survey reveals that 87% of small businesses in Canada are advocating for reforms in the operations of Canada Post, especially as the strike continues into its second week. This strong call for change highlights the frustrations of small business owners who rely on postal services for their operations, emphasizing the need for improvements to ensure efficiency and reliability in the postal system.

France has introduced a delightful croissant-scented stamp, celebrating one of its most beloved pastries. This innovative stamp not only honors French culture but also adds a unique sensory experience to sending mail. It's a fun way to engage people with the postal service and showcases France's creativity in combining tradition with modernity.

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers is set to meet with Joël Lightbound, the minister responsible for Canada Post, amid ongoing pressure to resolve the strike that has disrupted postal services. This meeting is crucial as it could lead to a resolution that benefits both the workers and the public, highlighting the importance of effective communication between unions and government officials.

US President Donald Trump has escalated tensions with China by threatening to impose a staggering 100% tariff on Chinese imports, effective November 1 or sooner. This move comes in response to China's new export controls on rare earth elements, which are crucial for various industries. Trump's comments also cast uncertainty on his planned meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping during his upcoming trip to South Korea. This situation is significant as it could further strain US-China relations and impact global markets.

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, who was reappointed just days after resigning, is now under pressure to present a budget bill for 2026 by Monday. This situation is critical as he must navigate a divided parliament, where both left and right opposition members are poised to challenge his new cabinet. The outcome of this budget proposal will significantly impact France's financial planning and governance, making it a key moment for Lecornu's leadership.

Recent heavy rains in Mexico have led to devastating floods, resulting in at least 23 fatalities and leaving many unaccounted for. The worst-hit regions include Veracruz, Queretaro, Hidalgo, and San Luis Potosi, where authorities are grappling with the aftermath of the storms. This situation is critical as it highlights the increasing impact of climate-related disasters in the region, prompting discussions on emergency preparedness and response.

In a concerning development, hackers known as Scattered Lapsus$ Hunters have leaked the personal records of five million Qantas customers after their ransom deadline passed. This breach not only exposes sensitive information but also raises significant concerns about data security across various sectors, as the hackers claimed to have data from nearly 40 companies. The implications of such a leak can be severe, affecting customer trust and prompting calls for stronger cybersecurity measures.

Malak A Tantesh, a young reporter, shares her harrowing experience of living in besieged Gaza following the Hamas attack in October 2023. Her story highlights the constant fear and uncertainty faced by civilians in the region, emphasizing the human cost of the ongoing conflict. This narrative is crucial as it sheds light on the personal struggles and resilience of those caught in the crossfire, reminding us of the urgent need for peace and understanding in a war-torn area.

The recent high court ruling against PPE Medpro, a company associated with Michelle Mone, has raised concerns for UK taxpayers regarding the recovery of £122 million spent on defective gowns. This judgment marks a significant development in a scandal that has unfolded over five years, involving high-profile figures and questionable government contracts. With no clear path to reclaim the funds, the implications for public trust and accountability in government spending are profound, highlighting the need for transparency in future procurement processes.