Federal IT overhaul could cost up to $6.6B

The federal government says upgrading the systems used to deliver key benefit programs could cost up to $6.6 billion, more than three times the original budget.

The plan will shift Old Age Security, the Canada Pension Plan and Employment Insurance to a cloud-based platform. Employment and Social Development Canada has overseen the project since it began in 2017 with $1.75 billion in funding.

Department documents show projected costs increased due to rising cybersecurity threats, a clearer understanding of the project’s complexity and an expanded scope. As of December 2025, $1.8 billion had been spent. The expected completion date has also changed, with the project now anticipated to finish between 2030 and 2031 rather than 2030.

Toronto rideshare driver charged in alleged sexual assault

A rideshare driver has been charged after police say he allegedly sexually assaulted a passenger in downtown Toronto.

Investigators say a 21-year-old man requested a ride on Feb. 24. During the trip, the driver allegedly made a sexual comment, stopped the vehicle near Bloor Street West and Queen’s Park, moved into the back seat and assaulted the passenger. Police say the suspect then drove away, leaving the victim behind.

On March 18, 33-year-old Harsimranjot Dhillon of Caledon was arrested and charged with sexual assault. He is scheduled to appear in court on May 5. Police say there may be additional alleged victims and are asking anyone with information to contact them.

New Statistics Canada data highlights impact of screen time limits on children

New findings from Statistics Canada suggest children who stay within recommended screen time limits report better health and well-being outcomes. The Canadian Paediatric Society advises limiting recreational screen use to two hours per day for children aged five to 17.

Data from the Canadian Health Survey on Children and Youth followed the same group of children in 2019 and again in 2023 to measure changes over time.Among those tracked, 44 per cent met the screen time recommendations in both years, while 12 per cent exceeded them in both periods.

Children who followed the guidelines were more likely to report excellent or very good physical and mental health, fewer headaches and sleep issues, and lower rates of certain behavioural and learning difficulties. The survey also found that children who exceeded the two-hour limit were more likely to use electronic devices in their bedrooms before bed, though they were slightly more likely to discuss online privacy and safety with a parent or guardian.