Confident Canada plot the ‘bursting’ of England in World Cup final upset

Canada is experiencing a significant wave of retirements as the baby boomer generation reaches retirement age, with the peak expected by the end of this decade. This trend is crucial as it highlights the demographic shifts in the workforce and the potential economic implications, especially with the country's declining fertility rate.

Canada's fiscal watchdog has warned that the country's budget deficit is set to widen, exceeding 2% of the economy in the near term. This projection comes amid weak economic growth and new spending measures proposed by Prime Minister Mark Carney aimed at restructuring the economy. The implications of these deficits could affect public services and economic stability, making it a critical issue for Canadians.

A recent survey conducted by England's higher education regulator reveals a troubling statistic: one in three female students report experiencing sexual harassment during their university years. This alarming finding, described as a 'national scandal,' highlights the pervasive issue of safety on campuses. Additionally, nearly 20% of women reported facing sexual assault or violence, often from peers. These results underscore the urgent need for universities to implement stronger measures to protect students and foster a safer educational environment.

The Ontario RCMP has successfully dismantled a sophisticated dark-web drug network known as 'RoadRunna,' which was shipping approximately 400 packages weekly across Canada. This operation is significant as it disrupts a major source of illegal drugs, enhancing public safety and demonstrating law enforcement's commitment to tackling cybercrime.

The crown court backlog in England and Wales has reached a staggering new high of nearly 80,000 cases, marking a 10% increase. This surge in open cases is causing trial wait times to balloon to as long as four years. This situation is concerning as it highlights significant delays in the justice system, affecting countless individuals awaiting their day in court. The implications of such a backlog are profound, potentially undermining public confidence in legal processes and prompting calls for urgent reforms.

Starbucks has announced plans to lay off 900 workers and close several stores across Canada and the United States. This decision raises concerns about the company's future and the impact on employees and local communities. While the exact number of store closures remains unclear, this move reflects broader challenges in the retail sector, making it a significant development for both the company and its workforce.

Labour is under fire as a high court judge has permitted a legal challenge against the recent legislation allowing chickens to be carried by their legs, a practice previously banned under EU law. This decision raises serious concerns about animal welfare and the government's commitment to protecting animals. The scrutiny comes at a time when Labour is already facing criticism for not fulfilling its animal welfare pledges, making this issue particularly significant for voters who prioritize humane treatment of animals.

United Utilities has come under fire for underspending over £52 million on essential work in Windermere, England, aimed at connecting private septic tanks to the mains and reducing pollution. This shortfall raises concerns about the company's commitment to environmental protection and public health, especially in a region known for its natural beauty. The failure to invest adequately in infrastructure could have long-term implications for the local ecosystem and community well-being.

In Canada, the decision to cull over 400 ostriches due to bird flu fears has sparked significant backlash, particularly from animal rights activists and supporters of Donald Trump. The situation has escalated to the point where local businesses are facing intimidation and harassment, highlighting the tensions between animal welfare concerns and agricultural practices. This incident not only raises questions about animal rights but also reflects broader societal divisions, making it a critical issue for both the community and the country.

Wayne Rooney, the former England and Manchester United striker, credits his wife Coleen with saving his life amid his struggles with alcohol. He revealed that during his playing career, he often drank for two days straight and felt he was 'struggling massively.' Rooney believes that without Coleen's support, he might not have survived his battles with addiction. This story highlights the importance of support systems in overcoming personal challenges and the impact of loved ones in the journey to recovery.

This week, a prominent vaccine center in Saskatoon marks its 50th anniversary, a significant milestone in the fight against diseases. However, the celebration is overshadowed by concerns regarding recent U.S. policy changes and funding cuts that could jeopardize global health efforts. As researchers reflect on the lab's achievements, they also emphasize the urgent need for continued support to ensure that progress in vaccine development and disease prevention is not hindered.

Gas prices in Canada are experiencing a significant drop, thanks to seasonal changes and the removal of the consumer carbon price, which is leading to even greater savings for consumers. This is great news for drivers, as it means more money in their pockets during a time when fuel costs can be a burden. With prices heading towards some of the lowest levels of the year, many are hopeful that this trend could continue, making travel and commuting more affordable.

In a significant diplomatic move, President Trump has urged Turkey to halt its purchases of Russian oil, hinting at a potential lifting of sanctions. This comes as Turkish President Erdogan seeks a deal on F-35 jets, which could strengthen US-Turkey relations. The implications of this dialogue are crucial, as it may pave the way for improved cooperation between the two nations and address ongoing tensions in the region.

Russia has issued a stark warning about the potential dangers of an AI arms race, emphasizing that without proper safeguards, this technological rivalry could pose a serious threat to humanity's existence. Deputy UN envoy Dmitry Polyansky highlighted the urgent need for international cooperation to prevent such a scenario, making it clear that the stakes are incredibly high. This issue matters because as AI technology rapidly advances, the risk of misuse increases, and global stability could be at risk if nations do not work together to establish regulations.

President Trump has once again pointed fingers at the radical left for the rise in political violence, following a shooting incident at an immigration facility that left three detainees injured. This statement comes amidst growing tensions and a letter from dozens of House Democrats urging the recognition of Palestinian statehood. The situation highlights the increasing polarization in U.S. politics and raises concerns about the safety of individuals in politically charged environments.

The Open Society Foundations, backed by George Soros, has publicly condemned the Trump administration for what it describes as politically motivated attacks on civil society. This response comes after reports that the Justice Department is pushing for investigations into the organization, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the administration and its critics. This situation is significant as it raises concerns about the implications for free speech and the role of philanthropic organizations in political discourse.

The UN has clarified that the recent technical issues faced by former President Trump, including a malfunctioning escalator and a faulty teleprompter, were actually due to his team's management. This revelation is significant as it shifts the blame away from external factors and highlights the importance of proper event coordination. Trump's acknowledgment of the situation on Truth Social adds another layer to the ongoing discussions about his public appearances.

Tonight's Europa League matches feature Aston Villa facing Bologna and Rangers taking on Genk, with kick-offs at 8pm BST. Villa's coach, Unai Emery, shared that goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is injured, but he sees this as a chance for Donyell Malen to shine. The team's strong home performance adds to the excitement of the match. These games are crucial for the clubs as they aim to secure their positions in the tournament, making it a significant night for fans and players alike.