The Jerry Agar Show Party for Two - Inflation - Transit
Jan 19, 2026
Karen Stintz, former Toronto city councillor and transit advocate, joins Amanda Lang, CTV News chief financial correspondent, to discuss pressing urban and economic issues. Stintz argues for platform doors on the Ontario Line to enhance safety and reduce track intrusions. Lang highlights inflation's rise to 2.4% and the impacts of skyrocketing grocery prices amid supply issues. They also delve into the implications of public sector growth and city regulations that affect local communities, offering listeners a deep dive into transit troubles and economic realities.
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Removing Encampments Is Not A Cure-All
- Clearing encampments near schools restores public space but doesn't solve root causes of homelessness.
- Stintz argues city services should have prevented encampments near playgrounds without council prodding.
Wages Outpaced Inflation Since 2019
- A base effect from last year's GST cut lifted the year-over-year inflation rate, but core inflation remains manageable.
- Amanda Lang notes wages have outpaced inflation since 2019, keeping the Bank of Canada on hold.
Food Inflation Outpaces The Overall Rate
- Food inflation ran much hotter at 6.2% in December, driven by climate and supply-chain pressures.
- Shelter pressures eased as rents fell, but both remain well above 2019 levels.