Editorials - Sept. 20, 2024

The digital age has ushered in a new, savvy generation of criminals and most of us are struggling to stay ahead of the scammers. In the old days, criminals would have to work hard to steal our hard-earned savings, but now, with a few keystrokes or an AI-assisted phone call, they can dupe even the most careful of us.

 

Most of us have relied on the bank’s ability to protect us from the worst of the thieves, but recently two Canadian women were scammed out of more than $80,000 in separate “bank investigator scams” and the banks involved have refused to reimburse them, saying they should have known better. Democracy Watch, a Canadian advocacy group for government and corporate accountability, is calling for the federal government to implement policies and laws that would force banks to do more to protect their customers. 

 

Banks have the resources to implement technology that would prevent these kinds of scams. Simple algorithms could detect unusual activity on accounts and trigger quick investigations and shut down the criminals. Since banks have spent the last two decades convincing us to do all of our banking online, they should ensure that it is a safe place for us to do business. – DS

During the last municipal election, in both of the sectors covered by The Citizen, residents saw some kooky ideas inch out of the woodwork, not from political hopefuls, but rather potential school board trustees. There was the debunked (to most) litter-box-in-schools hoax. We had the COVID-19-was-a-scam, vaccines-are-poison guy. All the hits. And these people wanted to step in and have a say over education.

 

It’s easy, as a reasonable-thinking voter, to dismiss such silliness as just that. Someone with one too many odd ideas decided to run for local office. And yet, a report from Whose Hands on our Education, covered extensively by The Guardian, might leave those left of extreme right concerned about the power and co-ordination behind some efforts. “Religious groups ‘spending billions to counter gender-equality education’” goes The Guardian headline and the article suggested a “co-ordinate and well-funded attack” on gender equality. “Tactics include removing sex education from schools, banning girls from learning, reinforcing patriarchal gender stereotypes in textbooks and rejecting gender-inclusive language in schools,” says The Guardian.

 

The report shows that at least $3.7 billion U.S. was channeled from a group of highly-financed anti-rights organizations and politicians to anti-gender equality organizations around the world between 2013 and 2017. The story then goes on to cite numerous international examples.

 

Real dollars and real planning are going into these ideas around the world and, if it looks haphazard or grassroots, perhaps that’s just the way those behind these initiatives want it to look. When information (or disinformation) is being pushed, perhaps it’s best to return to the old adage of asking who benefits and then asking yourself if you want to be a part of that group’s agenda. – SL 

In an era when the renaming of public spaces often reflects the shadow of past controversies or the weight of scandal, a recent decision to rename Meaford’s airport in honour of Major General Richard Rohmer stands out as a luminous example of commemoration done right. This thoughtful rebranding pays tribute to one of Canada’s most distinguished military figures in a manner that aligns with the dignity and respect he has earned throughout his remarkable life.

 

Previously known as Billy Bishop Airport, the Meaford facility has undergone a transformation that shifts the focus to a hero whose contributions are as monumental as they are deserving. Major General Rohmer served in the Royal Canadian Air Force, where he completed 135 missions and faced countless perils. As Canada’s most decorated veteran, Major General Rohmer’s wartime achievements are manifold - he played pivotal roles in D-Day and the Battle of Normandy.

 

The significance of renaming the Meaford airport goes beyond mere semantics; it is an acknowledgment of the ongoing relevance of our veterans’ contributions. Major General Rohmer’s continued engagement with public life, even at the age of 100, is an inspiring reminder of the enduring spirit of dedication and service. Despite the name change, Billy Bishop remains an iconic name in Canadian aviation history - the honouring of his legacy continues with a namesake airport in downtown Toronto. It’s also worth noting the practical benefits of this change. For hapless travelers, the clearer distinction between flights to Meaford and those bound for Toronto will reduce unintended mix-em-ups.

 

The renaming of Meaford’s airport to honour Major General Rohmer is commendable and aligns with the highest ideals of commemoration. It celebrates a hero who is very much alive and deserving of such recognition, while serving as a beacon of pride and inspiration. – SBS