In a series of letters to the editor published on June 12, 2026, readers express strong opinions on current issues ranging from airline policies to technology accessibility.
Boarding Denied
Dave Martin Pickering criticizes Air Canada and the Liberal Party for prioritizing language policies over pilot certification. He questions the airline's focus on French language requirements when basic safety credentials may be overlooked. Pickering states he would never fly Air Canada again, emphasizing the trust passengers place in airlines to ensure pilot qualifications are met.
The editorial team responds, noting that passengers do rely on airlines for safety and that any lapse in certification is a serious failure.
Tech Crunch
Tim Devlin, an 88-year-old senior from Toronto, shares his frustration with modern payment systems that require cellphone use. He successfully booked a cruise on the Queen Mary but encountered obstacles when trying to purchase drink packages and Wi-Fi. The system insisted on sending a text message for verification, but Devlin does not use a cellphone due to neuropathy in his fingers. He has email and a landline, but no alternative was offered.
Devlin also recounts an online purchase attempt that required photographing a QR code, which was impossible on his desktop computer. He argues that businesses are discriminating against those who do not use smartphones, calling it a form of exclusion. He humorously suggests that soon squirrels will demand text or QR codes before accepting popcorn.
The editorial team acknowledges that Devlin is in the minority, as most people have mobile phones, but agrees that there should be an analog option for purchases in such circumstances.
