Dilapidated 24 Sussex Drive: Inside the Prime Minister's Residence
Newly released photographs of 24 Sussex Drive, the official residence of Canada's prime minister, reveal severe deterioration including rodent infestation, mould, water infiltration, corroding plumbing, and asbestos. The building was already deemed 'old and out of date' in the 1940s, according to a National Post report published June 26, 2026.
Carney Launches Design Competition for Renovation
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on June 25 a competition for Canadian firms to submit rebuild and design proposals for the dilapidated mansion. The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada will review proposals and make a recommendation to cabinet by July 1, 2027. Carney, joined by architect Moshe Safdie, Rideau Hall Foundation board chair Robert Prichard, and Minister Joël Lightbound, said the public will be invited to contribute ideas and funding.
Ontario's Plan to Fix School Attendance Faces Criticism
Ontario has seen a steep decline in school attendance since the pandemic, when it was effectively made optional. Starting in the fall, attendance will be tied to grades in secondary schools. Critics argue this will lead to more students failing and dropping out. 'It's a complex issue with many contributing factors,' the report notes, while the province says the measure is needed to reverse chronic absenteeism.
Israel Expresses Concern Over 'Nakba' Exhibit; Carney Silent
Israel's ambassador wrote to Prime Minister Mark Carney expressing concern about a 'Nakba' exhibit at a federally supported institution, stating: 'At a moment when Canada is struggling to confront rising antisemitism, the government should be especially vigilant.' Columnist Terry Newman criticized Carney's lack of response, writing: 'The lack of response by the prime minister suggests he doesn't take the matter seriously.'
Toronto Man Gets Lenient Sentence for Fatal Robbery
A Toronto man convicted of ripping off a rival's gold chain over a $100 debt and slashing his face with a knife received a four-year sentence after a jury accepted his self-defence claim. The judge noted a longer sentence could 'easily be justified' but called it the 'most lenient sentence' possible. The attack left the victim dead.
