Sharing citizenship data a ‘no brainer,’ Ottawa told

TORONTO – Ontario’s privacy commissioner on Wednesday urged Ottawa to share its citizenship database with provinces, calling it a “no brainer” that will save taxpayers money and protect privacy.

The citizenship information could be used to help provinces implement enhanced drivers licences as an alternative to passports at Canada-U.S. border crossings, Ann Cavoukian said as she released her annual report.

But the federal government’s refusal to share information, thus far, means provinces will be forced to “reinvent the wheel,” she said.

Cyclists’ union ’strong voice’ for bike riders

It is the perfect storm for cyclists.

Climate change, obesity and traffic congestion are persuading more of us – the people and the politicians – to view cycling as a legitimate mode of transportation rather than just recreation.

Yesterday, those conditions converged with the launch of the Toronto Cyclists Union and a $5 million Metrolinx program designed to make biking and public transit more compatible.

Rick Conroy, of the new cycling union, said his volunteers want to provide “a strong, unified voice advocating for the rights of all ages and all types of cyclists.”

Chinese Haligonians raise $25k for quake victims

Members of two Chinese groups in Halifax have opened their wallets to support victims of the worst earthquake to strike China in more than 30 years.

“Usually, it’s an annual report of financial stuff, registration of membership fees and so on,” George Kwan, president of the Chinese Society of Nova Scotia, said of one group’s annual general meeting Sunday.

“This year it was more emotional. The people responded.”

Every year, the Chinese Benevolent Association of Nova Scotia organizes a tour of graveyards and visits ancestors on the first Sunday after Mother’s Day.

The tour usually ends in a lunch. This year, one was held at Dragon Buffet King in Bayers Lake. The lunch acts as the association’s annual general meeting.

No Storms for This Port

Can there really be someone on The Hills who doesn’t want drama in their lives?

Whitney Port insists she’s not looking for any of the personal troubles that so often seem to plague her pals on the MTV reality show.

“I’ve seen what it does,” Port tells Social Life magazine about living in front of the cameras. “It’s ruined a lot of relationships and friendships. That’s why I don’t expose people that I am close to that. My friends and family mean too much to me to get them involved.”