5% are “extremely worried” or “worried a lot” about Covid19, which is only a marginal change from our last wave, but 29% say their level of concern has increased recently, which is up 10 points. The degree of worry hasn’t intensified, but awareness of growing risk is up.
INFECTION RATES, AND SYMPTOM REPORTS UNCHANGED
A total of 44% say they are sure they had or probably had Covid, up 4 points. 70% of those who believe they were infected say that their symptoms were “uncomfortable but not bad” or had hardly any symptoms. Older people and those with more doses of vaccine reported less severe symptoms.
LARGE MAJORITY EXPECT MILD OR DISAPPEARING COVID THIS FALL
Just 11% anticipate that there will be a lot of severe illness and hospitalizations from Covid this fall, unchanged over the month. The majority expects a lot of cases, but mild symptoms (66%) or that “fewer and fewer will get Covid and eventually it will disappear” (23%).
MOST WANT GOVERNMENT TO BE VIGILANT BUT RESTRAINED
Most (52%) want government is to be prepared to introduce measures if things worsen, “but not to push too hard”. About a quarter (28%) say under no circumstances should government put in mask, vaccine or other rules. One in five (20%) say government should take all possible measures to reduce the spread of the disease. These numbers are relatively stable.
RISING NUMBERS GETTING BOOSTED, BUT HESITANCY STILL ELEVATED.
While 90% of the adults surveyed have had some vaccination against Covid, but not all of those are willing to take a booster this fall. We have seen a significant uptick in the number who report that they either already have or will take a booster this fall (totalling 52%) and 16% say they will not take one. The total persuadable but hesitant group is now 32%.
Two out of three (69%) think it is certain or probably that the high vaccination rate for Covid in Canada helped save lives compared to what would have happened if fewer people had been vaccinated. Another 18% say this may be the case, while 13% are doubtful or reject the value of the vaccinations.
MASK MANDATES: MOST WOULD FOLLOW, BUT NOT ALL HAPPILY
If their provincial government mandated wearing masks in public places, 59% would support and follow that guidance, while 28% say they would follow the guidance but be unhappy about that decision by government. 13% say they would dislike the decision and ignore it.
UPSHOT
Anxiety levels of Covid are up slightly, but people remain broadly of the view that the severity will be moderate and hospitalizations relatively few. While more people are taking the recommended fall boosters, a significant proportion of those who have been vaccinated in the past is holding off getting another shot. People are not wanting governments to abandon vigilance but they do want public policy that errs on the side of restraint when it comes to additional actions, unless and until they become more aware and worried about what is happening with the virus.
METHODOLOGY
The survey was conducted with 1,500 Canadian adults from October 22 to 26, 2022. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.
The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.1%, 19 times out of 20.
The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.
We are the only research and strategy firm that helps organizations respond to the disruptive risks and opportunities in a world where demographics and technology are changing more quickly than ever.
We are an innovative, fast-growing public opinion and marketing research consultancy. We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.
We were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in 2019.
If an election were held today, 34% would vote for the Conservative Party, 31% for the Liberal Party, 18% for the NDP and 6% for the BQ.
The Conservatives are ahead in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. The Conservatives also have a small 3-point advantage in Ontario. In Quebec, the Liberals lead the BQ by 6 points while the Liberals are well ahead in Atlantic Canada.
The Conservatives have been numerically ahead of the Liberals since June in our tracking.
SATISFACTION WITH FEDERAL GOVERNMENT LARGELY UNCHANGED
Today, 35% approve, and 47% disapprove of the performance of the federal government, a two point drop in both measures since mid-September.
THE RISING COST OF LIVING IS THE TOP ISSUE
When asked to select the three most important issues facing Canada today, 3 in 4 selected the rising cost of living, followed by healthcare (47%), the economy (45%), housing affordability (36%), and climate change and the environment (19%).
When asked which party would do the best on the issues they selected, the Conservatives lead on the economy, lack of freedom in Canada, crime and public safety. The Liberals are slightly ahead of the Greens on climate change and the environment and ahead on the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The NDP leads on housing affordability, inequality, and poverty.
On the top issue of the rising cost of living, the Conservatives have a substantial advantage over the other parties. 32% picked the Conservatives followed by the NDP at 16% and the Liberals at 15%.
The three main parties are within a few points of each other on healthcare while the NDP and Liberals are basically tied on indigenous reconciliation.
DESIRE FOR CHANGE SIMILAR TO THE END OF THE 2021 ELECTION
Today, 50% of Canadians definitely want to see a change in government while another 12% would like to see change but say it’s not that important to them. In contrast, 37% would like to see the Liberals re-elected but only 14% say they definitely want the Liberals re-elected.
Compared to the end of the 2021 federal election campaign, the intense desire for change is unchanged while those wanting to definitely see the Liberals re-elected is down 5-points.
FEELINGS ABOUT THE PM ARE STABLE
Public feelings about Prime Minister Trudeau have stabilized after a rise in negative feelings in the summer. The Prime Minister’s negatives stand at 49% – down from a peak of 51% – and up only a single point from last month.
JAGMEET SINGH’S APPROVAL RATING DOWN SLIGHTLY
For the last couple of years, Jagmeet Singh has been the most popular of the federal leaders, at one time his net rating was +21 (46% positive/25% negative). Since then, his positives have slid, and his negatives have risen. This latest result shows no further shift in line with the average since mid-summer.
PIERRE POILIEVRE: MANY STILL DON’T HAVE AN OPINION
Over the past month, impressions of Pierre Poilievre have not changed much. His negatives are up a single point to 35% while his positives are steady at 29%.
TRUDEAU vs. POILIEVRE
One of the things we are starting to track again is the preference for either Mr. Trudeau or Mr. Poilievre as Prime Minister. Today, 53% of Canadians would prefer Mr. Trudeau as Prime Minister while 47% would prefer Mr. Poilievre.
Regionally, Mr. Trudeau is the preferred choice of half or more in Ontario (52%), Quebec (66%), and Atlantic Canada (63%). Mr. Poilievre is the preferred choice by half or more in BC (52%), Alberta (57%), and Saskatchewan and Manitoba (61%).
Among current NDP supporters, Trudeau is preferred by a 4 to 1 margin (72% to 28%). Among BQ supporters, Trudeau is preferred 58% to 42% over Poilievre.
UPSHOT
According to Bruce Anderson:“These numbers illustrate that the Liberals are vulnerable and also that support for the Conservatives is somewhat tentative. Neither party sees unqualified good or bad news in this public opinion environment. For the Liberals, trailing badly on economic issues is a major risk but one that hasn’t yet translated into a clear voting preference for the Conservatives.
Liberals will also note that public opinion about NDP Leader Singh is quite a bit weaker than it has been in recent years, and NDP voter preference for Trudeau over Poilievre is wide. But the numbers of voters restless for change is at a level that is hazardous for the Liberals, and Mr. Trudeau’s personal numbers are among the lowest he has seen. Conservatives see opportunity but voters aren’t flocking to them, Liberals see risk but not insurmountable challenges.”
According to David Coletto: “The political opinion environment has been fairly steady since the early summer. The Conservatives hold a slight national lead over the Liberals. Views of the Prime Minister and his government have stabilized while impressions of Mr. Poilievre and Mr. Singh have held steady.
As Minister Freeland gets set to release the Fall financial update, the Liberals should be worried about their standing on two key issues: the cost of living and the economy. For Canadians who care about those issues, the Liberals trail the Conservatives quite badly on which party people think will do the best job.”
METHODOLOGY
The survey was conducted with 1,500 Canadian adults from October 22 to 26, 2022. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.
The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.1%, 19 times out of 20.
The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.
We are the only research and strategy firm that helps organizations respond to the disruptive risks and opportunities in a world where demographics and technology are changing more quickly than ever.
We are an innovative, fast-growing public opinion and marketing research consultancy. We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.
We were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in 2019.
Over the last several months we’ve been measuring how Canadians are reacting to the higher rate of inflation and rising interest rates today. Here’s what we found in our latest tracking.
CURRENT PERSONAL ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
Today, 11% say the economic conditions for them personally are relatively good, while 52% things “could be better but are not really difficult.” Just over a third (37%) say things are really difficult for them. The proportion who says things are really difficult for them is unchanged over the last four months.
PERSONAL IMPACT OF INFLATION
Almost half (43%) say inflation has caused them to consider difficult choices to make ends meet, compared to 44% at the beginning of October and 46% in July. A bare majority – 53% – says “I notice it, but it hasn’t really been a challenge to live my life as I normally do.”
FOOD, ENERGY, & HOUSING COSTS
The biggest impact of rising inflation and interest rates is felt in the cost of food, with half of those interviewed saying things are a lot more difficult. A third say the same thing about housing and energy costs.
IS CANADA WORSE OFF WHEN IT COMES TO INFLATION?
When asked how Canada is faring compared to our major competitor countries, one in four (27%) think inflation is worse here, while 57% say things are about the same, and 16% say things are worse in other places. Marginal change in these views.
IMPACT OF FEDERAL POLICIES ON INFLATION
A majority of those polled (56%)) believe decisions made by the federal government in the last couple of years have made inflation worse than it would otherwise be, while 37% and 7% think Ottawa’s moves have lessened inflation.
WILL HIGH INFLATION ENDURE?
Over half (57%) believe “inflation is getting worse, and the future seems bad” while 33% think “inflation is high but is not getting worse” and 10% think “inflation is starting to ease, and things are starting to look better”.
UPSHOT
“Inflation is making life difficult for millions and is the number one political issue in the country. The biggest impacts are felt in food, but millions are also finding it difficult to cope with their energy and housing costs. At this point, most people see Canada as suffering the consequences of a global problem, but also tend to believe that federal policies have caused more harm than relief. This is likely because of concerns about the size of public expenditures in recent years, and whether those have helped fuel the inflation that is being experienced today. Pessimism is a bit stronger than optimism right now, in terms of how things will work out, and the political consequences surrounding this issue are very significant.”
METHODOLOGY
The survey was conducted with 1,500 adult Canadians, between October 22 to 26, 2022. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.
The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.6%, 19 times out of 20.
The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.
ABOUT ABACUS DATA
We are the only research and strategy firm that helps organizations respond to the disruptive risks and opportunities in a world where demographics and technology are changing more quickly than ever.
We are an innovative, fast-growing public opinion and marketing research consultancy. We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.
We were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in 2019.
Almost 6.5 million Canadian workers suffer mental health distress from work
Inflexible, unsupportive workplaces, unrewarding work and jobs that don’t pay the bills are leading factors in causing mental health distress for one in three working Canadians, who also say the problem is getting worse. Overall, almost half of Canadian workers say their mental health is less than good.
Last month, the Douglas Caldwell Layton Foundation commissioned Abacus Data to conduct a national survey of 2,000 working Canadians to explore the impact that working conditions and personal finances have on mental health. The survey explored how Canadians feel about their own mental health, what workplace factors most impact self-assessed mental health, and the role unions play in mitigating negative workplace experiences.
This is the first release from the large dataset and reports the extent to which Canadian workers are experiencing negative mental health and how work contributes to mental health distress. It finds:
Work is a regular source of mental health distress for 1 in 3 workers, about 6.5 million working Canadians. This includes burnout, anxiety, nervousness, depression, and anger with co-workers or customers/patients/students.
Twice as many say things are getting worse than say believe they are getting better. 4 in 10 workers say negative emotions caused by their workplace are increasing.
Almost half of working Canadians are facing mental health challenges. Approximately 9.4 million working Canadians describe their mental health as less than good (47% of working Canadians).
WHAT WORKPLACE FACTORS IMPACT REPORTED MENTAL HEALTH?
We asked a wide range of questions about possible causes of mental health distress at work, checking factors ranging from physical workplace conditions, work relations, and the demands of work. A multivariate regression analysis found that all else being equal, the leading predictors of poorer mental health from work include:
Inflexible and unsupportive workplaces.
Work that doesn’t provide much meaning or fulfilment.
Jobs that leave workers no further ahead financially and anxious.
Office workers were significantly more likely to report poorer mental health than front-line workers who work directly with students, patients, customers or clients, or on-site workers in jobs such as construction or manufacturing, all else being equal.[1]
WORK AND MENTAL HEALTH
Workers were asked how often their work has left them feeling several different emotions. Almost all working Canadians have experienced some negative emotions caused by work but some are more frequent than others.
For example:
42% of workers say work regularly or occasionally makes them feel burned out or consistently tired.
38% say their work leaves feeling nervous, anxious, or on edge occasionally or regularly.
35% say they can’t stop or control worrying because of their work occasionally or regularly
32% say work leaves them feeling down, depressed, or hopeless.
29% say they occasionally or regularly are angry with the people they work with, including customers, clients, patients, or students.
When we aggregate this data, we find that work regularly has a negative emotional impact on 1 in 3 or approximately 6.5 million Canadians workers.
And there is a direct relationship between working causing negative emotions and one’s reported mental health. For example:
83% of those who say their mental health is very poor report regularly experience at least one negative emotion because of work.
69% of those who say their mental health is poor report regularly experience at least one negative emotion because of work.
33% of those who say their mental health is okay report regularly experience at least one negative emotion because of work.
And despite the widespread incidence of poor mental health, 43% of workers say negative feelings related to work have increased over the past year.
ALMOST HALF OF WORKING CANADIANS SAY THEIR MENTAL HEALTH ISN’T GOOD. 2.8 MILLION SAY THEIR MENTAL HEALTH IS POOR.
Approximately 9.4 million working Canadians describe their mental health as less than good. 33% say it is okay while 15% say it is poor or very poor.
Younger workers, female workers, and those who are currently unemployed or stay at home (not working) report worse negative mental health than others.
1 IN 5 WORKING CANADIANS SAY THEY HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH A MENTAL HEALTH CONDITION
22% of working Canadians say they have been diagnosed with a mental health condition.
Those under 45 years of age are more than twice as likely to say they have been diagnosed with a mental health condition than older workers. The incidence of mental health diagnoses is similar among men and women, and across different employment situations.
Of note, those working in an institution like a hospital or school or those working in a customer-facing workplace (like retail) are more likely to report being diagnosed with a mental health condition than others.
UPSHOT
Millions of Canadian workers describe their mental health as poor or very poor. Millions more are simply “okay”. This survey shows how widespread the mental health crisis has expanded throughout the Canadian labour force.
Worse, the results suggest things are only getting worse, before they get better as millions of workers say that work has caused them to feel burned out, down, depressed, anxious, and disengaged.
When we look at how work might be contributing to poorer mental health, the leading factors are inflexible work, unsupportive workplaces, and financial insecurity.
METHODOLOGY
Our survey was conducted online with 2,000 working Canadians aged 18 and over from September 6 to 13, 2022. A random sample of panellists was invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.
The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.2%, 19 times out of 20. The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s working-age population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.
Research Objective: To understand how a person’s work, their working conditions, and financial situation might predict their reported mental health.
Method: We conduct a multivariate analysis using binomial regression. Variables were created based on the responses to several questions in the survey.
How to analyze: The results of the model allow us to isolate the effect of a variable on self-reported mental health, all else being equal.
What predicts negative mental health?
Union members are less likely to report negative mental health, than those not in a unionized workplace, all else being equal.
Financial insecurity is a major predictor of poor mental health. Those who feel they are falling behind financially are much more likely to report negative mental health than those who don’t feel financially insecure, all else being equal.
Perceived job security predicts poor mental health. Those who feel their job is insecure or they would be unable to find another job if they lost their current one are more likely to report negative mental health, all else being equal.
Workplace flexibility is a strong predictor of poor mental health. Those who work in inflexible work environments are more likely to report negative mental health, all else being equal. Being unable to work from home also contributes to poor mental health.
Those who get little meaning from their work are more likely to report negative mental health, all else being equal.
Those who feel their workplace, managers, and colleagues are not supportive are more likely to report negative mental health.
Office-based workers are more likely to report having negative mental health than those working in frontline, factory, on-site, or vehicle delivery jobs, all else being equal.
Demographic variables such as gender and age predict self-reported mental health. Women and younger workers are more likely to report negative mental health than men and older workers, all else being equal.
[1] Multivariate regression analysis allows us to control for a series of variables to understand the independent impact variables might have on reported mental health. This means that we may not find a direct relationship between two variables, but when they are all included in a model, a variable is found to predict the outcome. An example of this is workplace type.
When we compare, for example, where someone works and the incidence of reporting negative mental health, we don’t have a relationship. However, when we control for demographics, financial insecurity, and workplace conditions, we do find that working in an office increases the likelihood that someone will report negative mental health, all else being equal.
ABOUT ABACUS DATA
We are the only research and strategy firm that helps organizations respond to the disruptive risks and opportunities in a world where demographics and technology are changing more quickly than ever.
We are an innovative, fast-growing public opinion and marketing research consultancy. We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.
We were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in 2019.
Leaves are changing, temperatures are dropping, and the spooky season is officially upon us. While some of us start to pull the long-lost sweaters out from the back of our closets, others are planning the perfect costume for Halloween night. With mask mandates no longer in effect, and Halloween night just around the corner, I was wondering how Canadians were feeling about venturing out and celebrating All Hallows’ Eve this Monday night.
Our survey finds 28% of Canadian parents saying that their child(ren) will be trick-or-treating this Halloween. This number is lowest in SK/MB (8%) and QC (8%), and highest in ON (51%). Furthermore, 43% of adults in Canada will be opening their doors to hand out candy to trick-or-treaters this Halloween. Again, this number is lowest in SK/MB (8%) and highest in ON (43%).
The most common reasons for not handing out candy on Halloween night are living in a controlled entry building (29%) and having a lack of children in the area (20%). These were followed by being busy on Halloween night (11%), not celebrating the holiday (11%), and concerns over the cost of purchasing the candy (11%). Another 8% of Canadians will not be handing out candy due to the risks associated with Covid-19.
Wondering what to give out this Halloween so everyone leaves your front porch happy? Well, we asked Canadians what the best and worst Halloween candy is and assigned each candy a net promoter score (%Best – %Worst) to see how they compare. Skittles received the best score at +8. This was followed by Swedish Berries (+4), Starburst (+4), and Fuzzy Peaches (+3). The candies that received the lowest scores (and ones you should definitely hold off on handing out) include licorice (-4) and Candy Corn (-22).
With that said, many of us would much prefer chocolate to candy, so we asked the same question with different chocolate bar options instead and found that Canadians overwhelmingly prefer KitKats to any other chocolate on Halloween night. When looking at their net promoter scores, it is evident that KitKats (+26), Reese’s (+5), and Aeros (+3) are the best options to avoid unhappy trick-or-treaters this Monday night. With that said, Snickers (-7) and Twix (-17) should probably be avoided.
So now that we know what we are handing out, what can we expect to show up at our door? Well, Halloween costumes change so drastically from year to year that I wanted to go back to some of the classic Halloween costumes and see which Canadians felt were best to dress in for the occasion. As it turns out, Canadians believe dressing as a witch to be the best classic Halloween costume (31%). This was followed by a vampire (23%), a ghost (20%), and Frankenstein (12%).
Thinking back on these classic Halloween costumes led me to remember some of the memorable things I had received throughout my years of trick-or-treating. This led me to wonder what other memorable things Canadians have been given on Halloween night. When asked what the best thing they have ever received on Halloween night was, 45% of Canadians said a full-sized chocolate bar. Interestingly, this was followed by 17% who said the best thing they have received was money and 13% who said a can of pop. On the flip side, apples (46%) top the list of worst things received on Halloween night followed by a toothbrush (10%) and stale/expired candy (9%).
METHODOLOGY
The survey was conducted with 1,500 Canadian adults from October 14 to 19, 2022. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.
The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.53% 19 times out of 20.
The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.
ABOUT ABACUS DATA
We are the only research and strategy firm that helps organizations respond to the disruptive risks and opportunities in a world where demographics and technology are changing more quickly than ever.
We are an innovative, fast-growing public opinion and marketing research consultancy. We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.
We were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in 2019.
Google Canada commissioned Abacus Data to design and execute a national public opinion survey exploring perceptions and views about Bill C-18, the Online News Act and to gauge public reaction to Google’s concerns about the Bill.
The survey was conducted with 2,207 Canadian adults from August 19 to 26, 2022.
In designing this study, we were guided by three core questions:
1. To what extent has the Canadian public been following news or information about Bill C-18 and are familiar with it?
2. If awareness of Bill C-18 is limited, what values and outcomes are important to Canadians when it comes to regulating the internet and online news?
3. How do Canadians react to the specific concerns Google has raised about Bill C-18 and would they want Parliament to amend the legislation in response?
A SUMMARY OF WHAT WE LEARNED
1. The public is not following news or information about Bill C-18 closely and their perceptions about the state of the news and journalism sector in Canada are quite different from those who advocate for Bill C-18. But a lack of attention is not the same as indifference.
2. Canadians want balance when it comes to the impacts of Bill C-18. They want to see local news protected but they also don’t want search engines they rely on to work or perform differently than they do now.
For example, large majorities believe it is important that the legislation ensures eligible news outlets follow journalistic standards and ethics, that local news is protected and given the resources to continue to operate but they also want search engines like Google Search to continue to work and perform the way they do now. Most also don’t want to see misinformation treated as news.
3. When exposed to Google’s concerns about Bill C-18 later in the survey, a clear majority share those concerns and want Parliament to amend the bill to address them.
DETAILED RESULTS
Familiarity with Bill C-18, the Online News Act
When it comes to Bill C-18 specifically, 2 in 3 Canadians say they have heard about the bill but only 33% say they are either very or somewhat familiar with it. In fact, only 8% of Canadians report being very familiar with Bill C-18.
Familiarity with Bill C-18 is somewhat higher among younger Canadians (those under 45) and among men, but we find little variation in familiarity across different regions of the country.
What Matters to Canadians
Canadians were asked how important several outcomes are to them personally when it comes to Bill C-18, the Online News Act. Most Canadians felt all the outcomes shared were at least pretty important but more Canadians felt it is important that Bill C-18:
– Ensures eligible news outlets follow journalistic standards and ethics (75%).
– Local news is protected and given the resources to continue to operate (75%).
– Search engines like Google Search continue to work and perform the way they do now (73%).
– Not treat misinformation as news (70%).
The desire for a balanced approach that both supports local news, protects the integrity of Google Search, and does not amplify misinformation is shared by a wide majority of Canadians across the political spectrum.
Google, News, and Canadian Opinion
As context, it’s important to note that according to our survey, 72% of Canadian adults report using Google Search at least once a day with 44% saying they use Google Search “multiple times a day” in the survey. Google is also an important source to find and access news. 64% say they use Google to find and access news at least a few times a week with 41% using it daily.
At the same time, less than 1 in 4 Canadians believe that the Canadian news industry is financially weak and unsustainable. In fact, a majority (55%) describe it as either “financially strong and sustainable” or “financially ok and mostly sustainable”.
Canadians were also asked their views on several aspects of Bill C-18, especially around compensating news organizations for content that appears on social media platforms or in search results. Here’s what we found:
Only 21% of Canadians believe that a social media platform should be required to pay the news organization a fee when someone shares an article on a Canadian news website on their social media account.
Only 30% of Canadians believe that Google should have to pay a fee to news organizations if someone clicked on a link to a news website that showed up in a search result.
And 79% of Canadians said they would definitely not (58%) or probably not (21%) pay a small fee to access a news article that appeared in a Google search result.
These results underscore the disconnect between the intent of Bill C-18 and the preferences of Canadians. Most people would not pay for access to the content and few think platforms should have to pay either.
Reactions to Google’s Concerns about Bill C-18
In the final section of the survey, Canadians were shown concerns raised by Google about Bill C-18 and asked to what extent those concerns worry them about C-18.
For example:
– 70% are worried when they find out that “the bill gives the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) unprecedented, sweeping new powers to regulate every aspect of the Canadian news industry even though these decisions are far outside of its expertise as a broadcast regulator.”
– 69% are worried when they find out “the proposed law uses an extremely broad definition for “eligible news businesses” and doesn’t require eligible news organizations to follow basic journalistic standards.”
– 69% are worried when they find out Online News Act would require companies like Google to pay news businesses simply so that they can help you find what you’re looking for. This is what’s known as a “link tax” and it fundamentally breaks the way search (and the internet) have always worked. Requiring payment for links risks limiting Canadians’ access to the information they depend on.
– 65% are worried when they find out “a section of the bill prohibits companies like Google from using ranking, or showing you the content most relevant to your search, first. It also could allow blogs, foreign state-owned media, or any other “eligible news business” to inflate their ranking in your search results, preventing Google from presenting you with the most reliable and useful content, making Search (and the internet) less useful and less safe.”
– 65% are worried when they find out “the Online News Act would effectively subsidize any outlet that “explains current issues or events of public interest”. This means that any opinion or commentary blog with two or more people could be eligible to receive funds.”
– 60% are worried when they find out “Foreign, state-owned outlets could be eligible, even if they are known sources of misinformation and propaganda, under the Act.”
More striking, is that these concerns are shared by people from across the political spectrum and among those who said earlier in the survey that they are familiar with the legislation.
Should Parliament Amend C-18?
After being informed of Google’s concerns with Bill C-18, Canadians were asked whether the federal government and Parliament should work to amend the legislation to address these concerns or whether Google’s concerns are not that serious, and the legislation should pass as is.
59% felt the bill should be amended while only 15% felt it should be passed as it is. Another 27% were unsure.
A majority of Liberal (62%), Conservative (63%), NDP (63%) and BQ (54%) supporters felt the bill should be amended. In contrast, 21% of Liberal supporters, 15% of Conservatives, 11% of NDP supporters, and 18% of BQ supporters felt the law should pass as it is.
Moreover, when Canadians are asked who they tend to believe more when it comes to the impacts of Bill C-18 on the user experience using Google Search and other Google products, 36% say they trust Google more, 24% say they trust the federal government more, while 40% say they are unsure who to trust more.
Even among Liberal supporters, 34% said they trust Google more while 33% sided with the federal government.
IMPLICATIONS AND CONCLUSION
An objective of this study was to understand what would happen if more Canadians became aware and familiar with Bill C-18, the Online News Act and became aware of Google’s concerns with the Bill.
The results clearly indicate that while few Canadians are paying close attention to what is happening with the Online News Act, the issues with Bill C-18 raised by Google resonate with Canadians and cause them to want legislators to amend the bill to address concerns they have with it – including Liberal supporters and those most familiar with the legislation.
Most Canadians use Google Search daily. It is an essential part of their life. They depend on Google to solve their problems, find information, and access news. But there is little appetite to pay to access that content – whether personally or by the platforms.
If Bill C-18 fundamentally changes the user experience, if it helps to spread misinformation or supports organizations that don’t follow core journalistic standards, Canadians will be dissatisfied and support for the legislation will quickly fall.
Canadians want policymakers and technology companies to work together to ensure that local news is strong but not at the expense of the user experience.
METHODOLOGY
The survey was conducted with 2,207 Canadian adults from August 19 to 26, 2022. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.
The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.1% 19 times out of 20.
The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.
This survey was paid for by Google Canada.
ABOUT ABACUS DATA
We are the only research and strategy firm that helps organizations respond to the disruptive risks and opportunities in a world where demographics and technology are changing more quickly than ever.
We are an innovative, fast-growing public opinion and marketing research consultancy. We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.
We were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in 2019.
Just 14% are “extremely worried” or “worried a lot” about Covid19. Just 19% say their level of concern has increased in recent days. Both numbers are among the lowest we’ve recorded.
INFECTION RATES, AND SYMPTOM REPORTS UNCHANGED
A total of 40% say they are sure they had Covid (29%) or probably (11%) had Covid. The proportion of Canadians who believe they were infected did not rise through August and September. Two out of three who believe they were infected say that their symptoms were “uncomfortable but not bad” or had hardly any symptoms, which is also not changing.
LARGE MAJORITY EXPECT MILD OR DISAPPEARING COVID THIS FALL
Just 11% anticipate that there will be a lot of severe illness and hospitalizations from Covid this fall. The majority expect a lot of cases, but mild symptoms (60%) or that “fewer and fewer will get Covid and eventually it will disappear” (29%). This is the highest number we have seen for the “disappear’ expectation, up three points from last month.
MOST PREFER GOVERNMENT TO BE VIGILANT BUT RESTRAINED
Most (53%) want government is to be prepared to introduce measures if things worsen, “but not to push too hard”. About a quarter (28%) say under no circumstances should government put in mask, vaccine or other rules. One in five (20%) say government should take all possible measures to reduce the spread of the disease. These numbers are relatively stable.
TAKE A BOOSTER THIS FALL? MOST AREN’T SURE.
While 88% of the adults surveyed have had some vaccination against Covid, only 39% are certain that they will take a booster dose if that was recommended this fall and another 17% say they probably will. Combined certain and likely are down 4 points from last month.
Outright refusal stands at 17% considerably higher than the refusal rate for earlier doses. Older people and those on the left are far more likely to be ready to take a booster, compared to other people. Those who had Covid are less likely to be ready to get the next dose, compared to those who haven’t been sick with the virus.
UPSHOT
While some experts foresee a renewed health impact of the virus, public opinion is not really budging at the moment – most people seem to feel that infections might rise, but the gravity of the situation will not. This is continuing to depress the proportion of the population that is ready to take a booster, especially among younger people. Those who didn’t get Covid may attribute their good fortune to the vaccines, while those who got Covid and were vaccinated may feel that the amount of protection is limited and if their symptoms were mild, another booster may not be necessary.
METHODOLOGY
The survey was conducted with 1,500 Canadian adults from September 26th to October 3, 2022. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.
The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.2%, 19 times out of 20. This survey was paid for by Abacus Data Inc.
The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.
ABOUT ABACUS DATA
We are the only research and strategy firm that helps organizations respond to the disruptive risks and opportunities in a world where demographics and technology are changing more quickly than ever.
We are an innovative, fast-growing public opinion and marketing research consultancy. We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.
We were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in 2019.
In July, and then again last week, we measured public sentiment about the economy and inflation. Here’s what we found.
CURRENT PERSONAL ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
Today, 9% say the economic conditions for them personally are relatively good, while 53% say things “could be better but are not really difficult.” Just over a third (38%) say things are really difficult for them at the moment.
The number of people who say things are “really difficult“ is exactly the same as in July. There has been a five-point increase in the number who said things for them “could be better but were not really difficult” and a corresponding drop in the number who feel things are relatively good.
PERSONAL IMPACT OF INFLATION
When asked about the impact inflation is having on them, 44% say it has caused them to consider making difficult choices to make ends meet. That number was 46% in July.
A bare majority – 51% – say “I notice it, but it hasn’t really been a challenge to live my life as I normally do.” That was at 48% in July. One in 20 (5%) say “I don’t really notice it”. That number was 6% in July. Women and those with household incomes under $50,000 show substantially higher negative impacts of inflation.
IS CANADA WORSE WHEN IT COMES TO INFLATION?
When asked how Canada is faring compared to our major competitor countries, one in four (25%) think inflation is worse here (30% in July), while 59% say things are about the same, and 16% say things are worse in other places.
IMPACT OF FEDERAL POLICIES ON INFLATION
Half of those polled (52%) believe decisions made by the federal government in the last couple of years have made inflation worse than it would otherwise be, while 41% say those decisions had not really affected inflation and 7% think Ottawa’s moves have lessened inflation. This represents a five-point drop from July in the number who think Ottawa has made things worse.
WILL HIGH INFLATION ENDURE?
Just over half (53%) believe “it will take some time to work itself out but eventually inflation will come down to more normal levels” while 48% think “it is a really serious problem that will continue to worsen with no end in sight”. In July, the split was virtually identical, at 51%-48%.
UPSHOT
According to Bruce Anderson: “Interest rates have been rising, and inflation has been stubbornly high in the 7% range. Inflation is making life difficult for millions of Canadians and is the most prominent public concern today. At the same time, continued high inflation has not increased the number of people who indicate they are severely affected, and neither have additional rises in interest rates, at least to this point. This may be interpreted as an indication that consumer demand will remain a driving force of inflation in the near term, even though many are already having trouble making ends meet. If there is one piece of data that is encouraging for governments in Canada it lies in the fact that most people think inflation is at least as bad in our competitor countries.”
METHODOLOGY
The survey was conducted with 1,500 adult Canadians, between September 28 and October 1. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.
The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.6%, 19 times out of 20.
The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.
ABOUT ABACUS DATA
We are the only research and strategy firm that helps organizations respond to the disruptive risks and opportunities in a world where demographics and technology are changing more quickly than ever.
We are an innovative, fast-growing public opinion and marketing research consultancy. We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.
We were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in 2019.
Just last week our work was cited in an article about ‘The Great Resignation’ in Canada. Numbers from a recent labour market survey suggest this wasn’t a significant phenomenon in Canada.
Instead, StatsCan data shows a Great Resignation is the bigger of our worries. (All the more reason to understand the younger folks who will be sticking around for some time and filling the gaps. But more on that later).
Beyond these big markers, we wanted to understand if there were any other shifts in the labour market. Even though people weren’t quitting, were they shifting around? And how many of us have been taking on additional work or education on the side? A few notable findings are below.
#1 One in five working Canadians transitioned roles during the pandemic.
Canadians may not have resigned en masse like our neighbours to the South, but while the pandemic was raging on, many working Canadians saw a transition in their job. Whether it be switching departments, a redefined title, or a promotion, 17% of employed Canadians say they’ve had at least one kind of transition to their role since March 2022. Among those 18-29, this number jumps to 31%.
#2 One in ten working Canadians upskilled or retrained during the pandemic.
10% of employed Canadians enrolled in formal/informal education/training while in the pandemic, either for their current industry or with the intention to transition. So, while Canadians were not engaged in a large-scale resignation, many had intentions to make some sort of shift.
This number is driven largely by younger employees, but interestingly not the youngest. Those 30-44 were most likely to have enrolled in some sort of education and training during the pandemic.
Another interesting trend: those in a private sector union are twice as likely as those in a public sector union (or no union at all) to have upskilled/retrained (18% vs. 7%).
#3 One in ten Canadians under 45 started a business during the pandemic.
According to StatsCan, self-employment has remained relatively stable throughout the pandemic. However, that doesn’t mean that we aren’t trying our hand at being CEO. Just under one in ten young Canadians (those under 45) had a go at starting a business during the pandemic.
THE UPSHOT According to Oksana Kishchuk:
Canada had its own fair share of labour market changes since the pandemic and while there was no Great Resignation our careers and ambitions haven’t been on pause for the last two years. But if there was no great resignation, what are some of the post-pandemic takeaways? The big takeaway is about young employees and their careers.
For those still deep in their working years, the pandemic was a time to move up, and refine skills, especially young people who are climbing the ladder. During the last two years young employees put their all into their job and career (likely also why we see higher instances of burnout).
Whether it be a role transition, enrolling in education to refine their skills, or taking a shot at starting a new business, young people used their time during the pandemic to advance their career. As more and more older employees turn to retirement these ambitious generations can help fill those gaps, but will require an acute understanding of the needs and desires of these younger generations.
For more insights on tourism and COVID-19, please reach out to Oksana, Director of Strategy & Insights at: oksana@stagesite.abacusdata.ca
Methodology
This survey was conducted with 1,500 Canadian adults from August 16th to 19th. The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.5%, 19 times out of 20.
The survey was conducted using a random sample of panelists invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.
The data was weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. This poll was conducted and paid for by Abacus Data.
Abacus Data follows the CRIC Public Opinion Research Standards and Disclosure Requirements that can be found here: https://canadianresearchinsightscouncil.ca/standards/
ABOUT ABACUS DATA
We are the only research and strategy firm that helps organizations respond to the disruptive risks and opportunities in a world where demographics and technology are changing more quickly than ever.
We are an innovative, fast-growing public opinion and marketing research consultancy. We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.
We were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in 2019.
Just 13% are “extremely worried” or “worried a lot” about Covid19. This is the lowest level we have seen since the beginning of the pandemic. Just 16% say their level of concern has increased in recent days, also the lowest number we’ve recorded.
INFECTION RATES LARGELY UNCHANGED THROUGH SUMMER
A total of 29% say they are sure they had Covid and another 10% believe they probably did. At the beginning of July those numbers were 25% and 11%, meaning only a 3 point climb through the summer.
MOST WHO HAD COVID CONTINUE TO REPORT LIMITED SYMPTOMS
Two out of three who believe they were infected say that their symptoms were uncomfortable but not bad or had hardly any symptoms.
FEW EXPECT A SEVERE FALL WAVE
Just 10% anticipate that there will be a lot of severe illness and hospitalizations from Covid this fall. Anxiety levels are also lower on this indicator compared to earlier this summer.
MOST PREFER GOVERNMENT TO BE VIGILANT, RESTRAINED
Most want government is to be prepared to introduce measures if things worsen, “but don’t push too hard”. A quarter (27%) say that under no circumstances should government put in mask, vaccine or other rules. Only 19% say government should take all possible measures to reduce the spread of the disease.
MANY MIGHT PASS ON A BOOSTER THIS FALL
While 88% of the adults surveyed have had some vaccination against Covid, only 40% are certain that they will take a booster dose if that was recommended this fall. Outright refusal stands at 17% considerably higher than the refusal rate for earlier doses. Refusal and hesitancy levels are higher among younger people, especially women, and those on the right of the spectrum. Interestingly, those who believe they had Covid are not more likely than those who think they haven’t had it, to be ready to get the next dose.
UPSHOT
“While some of the political debate about Covid and vaccinations is highly polarized, Canadian public opinion is not really as polarized as it might seem. Most people sense that the risks are down and want governments to be vigilant but generally move in the direction of a normalization of life. There is a small minority of people, unvaxxed and farthest right on the spectrum, who are highly energized against vaccination and presumably other measures as well, but the split in opinion is more like 90%-!0% than 50-50, just to put this in context.
The public may or may not be right in assessing a lower level of risk and less need for measures but this tendency in opinion has less to do with outrage towards government and doubts about vaccine efficacy or safety and more to do with feeling that the amount of risk is known and acceptable as things now stand.”
METHODOLOGY
The survey was conducted with 1,900 Canadian adults from September 11 to 14, 2022. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.
The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.2% 19 times out of 20.
The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.
This survey was paid for by Abacus Data Inc.
ABOUT ABACUS DATA
We are the only research and strategy firm that helps organizations respond to disruptive risks and opportunities in a world where demographics and technology are changing more quickly than ever.
We are an innovative, fast-growing public opinion and marketing research consultancy. We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.
We were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in 2019.
