Top Stories To Know For Friday, September 29th…
Things you need to know for today:
1. Secondary school teachers vote in favor of arbitration: After three long weeks of voting, the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation have approved a proposal to put their unresolved issues with the government to an independent arbitrator. This should only come if the OSSTF cannot come to a conclusion by October 17. During negotiation, the deal ensures there will be no strike or lockouts. The bargaining period will continue until March 28, 2024. Out of the 60,000 members of the union, 78.4 per cent were in approval, and in a statement, Education Minister Steven Lecce stated he was pleased with the results. Elementary school teachers are still holding strike votes which will run until October 17.
2. City councilor under fire after online posts: Ward 4 Councilor Susan Stevenson is receiving backlash after a tweet she posted on X was flagged numerous times. Stevenson posted a picture of some of London’s homeless including their faces and many criticized her decision. London News Today’s, Craig Needles spoke with London Mayor Josh Morgan, where he expressed this is not behavior a city councilor should exhibit. A number of submissions to the city’s Integrity Commissioner have been sent in relation to the online post. In reply to the post, Reverend Kevin George from St. Aiden Anglican Church wrote a letter to the Mayor voicing his concerns about Stevensons post.
3. Kia and Hyundai issues risk of fire warnings: Over 600,000 cars are being recalled in Canada with another 1.6 million being recalled in the US. The recall is due to an anti-lock braking system that has the potential to start a fire. The recall involves 2010-2015 models -the Accent, Elantra, Santa Fe, Tucson, and Genesis. Hyundai says over 320,000 their cars have been impacted while Kia’s number is just over 270,000. A full list of models can be found here on the Canadian governments website. Dealers will replace the anti-lock braking system free of charge, but owners won’t be contacted until mid- November. In the meantime, owners of these vehicles are advised to park their cars outside.
4. Fall food drive: The London Food Bank has launched its 2023 Thanksgiving Food Drive. From the months of January to August, the food bank saw a 43% increase in usage compared to 2022. Over 13,000 households have been served with 4500 first time users. Donations can be made on the food bank’s website or in person at 926 Leathorne St.
5. Road Closure: Rideout from King to Queen St will be closed until 6am on Sunday for asphalt repairs.
