StatCan March Q1 GDP figures B.C. human smuggling soars

Statistics Canada to release GDP figures for March and Q1 today. U.S. reports 'unprecedented' human smuggling from B.C. Interest rate cut may boost shopping.

Today's roundup of news from The Canadian Press covers a wide range of topics that are sure to pique your interest and keep you informed on what's happening in the world around you.

First up, Statistics Canada is set to release its GDP figures for March and the first quarter as a whole. This data is crucial as it will provide insight into how the economy has been performing and may impact the upcoming interest rate decision by the Bank of Canada. Governor Tiff Macklem has hinted at the possibility of a rate cut, but the final decision will depend on the economic data at hand.

In other news, U.S. authorities have reported a significant increase in human smuggling from British Columbia into the United States. Organized criminals are using various methods such as freight trains, Uber, and even walking to transport people across the border. The number of encounters at the B.C.-Washington border has quadrupled since 2021, raising concerns about the spike in human smuggling activities.

A federal government poll conducted last year found that a majority of Canadians were worried that drug decriminalization could lead to an increase in overdoses. This comes as British Columbia recently scaled back its drug decriminalization pilot, sparking debates among Canadians about the potential impact on their communities.

Jury selection is set to begin today for two men charged with conspiracy to commit murder during the 2022 border protest at Coutts, Alta. The men were arrested after RCMP discovered a cache of guns, body armour, and ammunition in trailers, leading to charges of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and mischief.

On a more positive note, experts believe that a potential interest rate cut by the Bank of Canada could encourage consumer spending, providing a much-needed boost to Canadian retailers. With lower borrowing costs, consumers may feel more inclined to spend on apparel, footwear, and experiences, potentially revitalizing the retail sector.

Lastly, Loblaw is testing out smaller-format discount stores across the country to cater to shoppers looking to save on their grocery bills. These stores, including No Frills, are designed to offer grab-and-go options like fresh-baked pastries, catering to the needs of the local neighborhood. This strategy aims to reach more customers and provide a unique shopping experience for budget-conscious shoppers.