Jul 21, 2023
David Akin's Roundup
Clippings of #cdnpoli, #media, and #tech content aimed at those with an interest in Canadian politics and policy. And sometimes Canadian postage stamps.
Canada
Bernardo transfer review: Decision was "sound", Corrections Canada says
Notorious serial killer and rapist Paul Bernardo will stay in a medium-security prison, as Correctional Service Canada (CSC) commissioner Anne Kelly says the decision to transfer him from maximum-security facility was "sound." David Akin explains how the CSC is defending the move and the bitter opposition by the families of Bernardo's victims. [Global National]
The families of two of serial killer Paul Bernardo are calling for changes to confinement standards in the wake of Bernardo's prisoner transfer being called "sound." [Global]
Asha Letourneau from Niagara Falls found herself in an unexpected dispute with the leader of the federal Conservative Party, Pierre Poilievre. [CHCH]
Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault says the federal government is doing everything it can to prevent further tragedy after four recent wildfire-related deaths. [Global]
Transport minister says the Canadian economy can no longer withstand more disruptions to supply chains after the union representing B.C. port workers calls off strike notice. [Global

The Breakfast Club of Canada is pushing for follow through on a Liberal promise to invest $1-billion over five years towards a national school nutritious meal program. [Hill Times]

Philippe Lagassé: Are we left-wing shills plotting to keep the Conservatives out of power? I can’t speak for my colleagues, but I find that charge both amusing and disconcerting. It’s amusing because, in the Harper years, I was accused of being a Conservative hack for defending the government on various issues. [In Defence of Westminster]
From the provinces
Members from several First Nations rally against northern Ontario mining plans
Members of several First Nations rallied outside the Ontario legislature to raise concerns about mining exploration they say is happening on their lands against their will. [Global]
The crop report for the period of July 11 to 17 said hay producers aren't expecting a second cut and livestock owners are concerned about feeding herds through the winter. [Global]
The New Brunswick RCMP has faced criticism from some rural communities over response times and lack of visibility. [Global]
Click to donate $3 a month to support this newsletter!
Elsewhere
Extreme Heat Is Deadlier Than Hurricanes, Floods and Tornadoes Combined
When dangerous heat waves hit cities, better risk communication could save lives. [Scientific American]
The last three years show significant progress in expanding trade, investment, and jobs, as well as ensuring USMCA delivers outcomes that are good for workers and broader group of society across North America. At the same time, there are real challenges that must be addressed if North America is to maximize the opportunities that USMCA presents. [Brookings Institute]
Media
Meta runs ads to prepare Canada for blocking content, but news groups block them in protest
Quebecor, Corus Entertainment and Cogeco are among companies refusing to run ads from Meta. [Globe and Mail]

Casey Newton: As OpenAI and Google explore news partnerships, risks are everywhere. [Platformer]

Click and donate $5 a month to support this newsletter!
Tech
Tesla reveals Cybertruck size specs as it builds release candidates
Tesla’s Cybertruck can fit in a 20-foot home garage. [The Verge]
For Palantir's loyal fans, PLTR is more than just a stock symbol--it's an invitation to make memes. Canada's Defence Department is a customer of Palantir.. [Fast Company]
Model licensing & surveillance will likely be counterproductive by concentrating power in unsustainable ways. [Fast.AI]
Issued this day ...
Issued this day in 2003: Sc 1992: Lutheran World Federation Tenth Assembly. Design: Pierre Fontaine. 
The Assembly of Lutheran World Federation gathers every six years and, in 2003, it gathered in Winnipeg from July 21 to July 31. The 13th such gathering will take placed in Kracow, Poland this September.