Saira Peesker

Saira Peesker is a reporter with CBC Hamilton, with particular interests in climate, labour and local politics. She has previously worked with the Hamilton Spectator and CTV News, and is a regular contributor to the Globe and Mail, covering business and personal finance.

Latest from Saira Peesker

West Lincoln council votes to remove U.S. flag from community hockey arena

After years of displaying the American flag at the arena inside the West Lincoln Community Centre, the local council has voted to take it down.

Ontario Votes 2025: Hamilton East-Stoney Creek

Hamilton East-Stoney Creek, a lower-city riding stretching east from Hamilton’s industrial sector to past Fifty Road, was an Ontario New Democratic Party (NDP) stronghold for years until the 2022 election, when it went to the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario.
Ontario Votes 2025

Tariffs, Greenbelt and food security: Farmers share what's important to them as Ontario election nears

In the midst of a provincial election campaign, several farmers said they are concerned about the success of Ontario agriculture compared to the juggernaut to the south of the border.
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2nd Hamilton venue cancels shows by controversial comics Danger Cats

A second Hamilton venue has now backed out of hosting Danger Cats, a controversial Alberta-based comedy troupe. EndZone Bar and Grill said Wednesday that it's cancelled the show Friday, after Levity Comedy Club decided not to proceed with two shows this week.

As comedy troupe known for racist jokes set for Hamilton, venues urged to consider how 'harmful ideas' spread

A comedy troupe known for racist jokes is scheduled for two shows at Hamilton's Levity comedy club next month, in the wake of the cancellation of performances at other Canadian venues following community backlash.

4 ridings to watch in the Hamilton-Niagara area this Ontario election

Two Independent MPPs are running against their former parties, one incumbent is stepping down to run federally, and a current mayor is running for MPP. Here are four ridings to watch in the Hamilton-Niagara area.

Hamilton council votes to restart ban on tents in parks starting in March

Hamilton councillors and the mayor voted overwhelmingly Wednesday to end the city’s encampment protocol, rules dictating where people in tents could stay and not be forced to move. The vote was on a motion by Ward 14's councillor that noted an Ontario court found clearing park encampments doesn't violate Charter rights.

As tiny homes arrive in Hamilton, councillors ask why city bought made-in-China units for $35K each

When City of Hamilton staff agreed to buy 40 tiny homes from a Brantford, Ont., company, they say they didn't know MicroShelters was a new corporation that would go through an American company to order the tiny homes from China.

Even with new shelter spots in Hamilton, barriers to leaving tents remain, say encampment residents

Encampment residents say lack of availability isn't the only thing keeping them out of the shelter system. Many say they face barriers to using shelters that include fear of theft and lack of knowledge about the new sites.

Want to stop scrolling? New app by and for McMaster students aims to curb device time

LockIn founders say their app helps increase focus and eliminate distractions, while rewarding users with discounts at real-life venues near the Hamilton university.