Canadians Set to Receive More Federal Money in 2026

As 2026 approaches, millions of Canadians can expect higher federal benefit payments and tax changes that will boost take‑home money. The increases come from Ottawa’s long‑standing practice of indexing key benefits and credits to inflation, ensuring payments keep pace with rising costs. This year’s indexation is based on inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index.

Officials have confirmed that a 2 per cent inflation adjustment will apply to many programs, meaning several benefits and tax credits will increase starting next year. These boosts will affect families, workers, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Boosts to Child and Disability Benefits

The GST/HST credit, which helps lower‑income Canadians offset federal sales tax costs, will go up in 2026–27. Single adults will see higher quarterly payments, and couples and families will also benefit, including extra amounts for children.

The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) will rise as well. Starting in July 2026, the maximum annual CCB will increase significantly for children under age six and for children aged six to 17. These changes will result in larger monthly payments for eligible families.

Similarly, the Child Disability Benefit, which supports families raising children with severe and prolonged disabilities, will also be higher for the 2026‑27 benefit year.

Other Benefits Getting More Money

Low‑income workers will see a modest increase in the Canada Workers Benefit, a refundable tax credit that helps supplement earnings. The maximum amounts for both individuals and families will rise in 2026.

The Canada Disability Benefit, introduced in mid‑2025, will also be adjusted upward with the new benefit year. These changes will be reflected in monthly payments starting in July 2026.

Pension Income Adjustments

Retirement benefits such as the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) will be indexed in January 2026. CPP payments rise each year to keep up with inflation, ensuring retirees maintain purchasing power.

The Old Age Security (OAS) pension also adjusts regularly throughout the year as needed to reflect cost‑of‑living changes.

What This Means for Canadians

These automatic increases are designed to protect household budgets as prices change. By indexing benefits, Ottawa helps Canadians manage rising costs while keeping social support programs relevant and effective.

Canada’s Grocery Industry Code of Conduct Takes Effect January 2026

Canada’s grocery sector will see major regulatory changes starting January 1, 2026.
The Grocery Industry Code of Conduct will become fully enforceable nationwide.
The rules aim to improve fairness between large retailers and food suppliers.

The federal government developed the code after years of industry concerns.
Suppliers complained about sudden fees, delayed payments, and contract changes.
Officials say the new framework brings balance to the food supply chain.

Why the Code Was Introduced

Canada’s grocery market is dominated by a few powerful chains.
Smaller suppliers often lacked leverage during contract negotiations.
Unclear terms caused disputes and financial pressure on producers.

The government says these practices hurt competition and food affordability.
The code responds to rising grocery prices and supply chain instability.
It also aims to protect farmers and food manufacturers.

Key Rules Under the New Code

Retailers must provide clear, written contracts to suppliers.
They must give advance notice before changing pricing or terms.
The code bans retroactive fees without supplier consent.

Grocers must also pay suppliers within agreed timelines.
Sudden order cancellations will face stricter limitations.
These rules apply to major national grocery chains.

Dispute Resolution and Enforcement

The code introduces a formal dispute resolution process.
Suppliers can raise concerns without fear of retaliation.
An independent body will oversee complaints and compliance.

This mechanism reduces reliance on costly legal action.
Industry groups say it gives suppliers greater confidence.
They believe it will improve long-term business relationships.

Industry and Government Response

Supplier organizations strongly welcomed the changes.
They say the rules create stability and predictability.
Many believe fairer practices will strengthen local food production.

The federal government says the code supports food security.
Officials stress that retailers also benefit from clearer expectations.
They describe the framework as balanced and collaborative.

What This Means for Consumers

Experts say fair supplier practices may stabilize food prices.
They expect fewer supply disruptions over time.
Consumers could benefit from consistent product availability.

The government will monitor the code’s impact after implementation.
Adjustments may follow based on industry feedback.
Officials say enforcement will remain a priority.

Montreal Police Solve 2008 Cold-Case Murder After 17 Years

Montreal police have solved a cold-case murder from December 2008 that remained unsolved for nearly 17 years. The victim, 26-year-old Catherine Daviau, was found dead inside her apartment in the Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie borough.

Firefighters discovered her body after responding to reports of smoke in the building. Investigators later confirmed that someone killed her before setting a fire to hide evidence.

The case shocked the community and quickly went cold despite early investigative efforts.

Early Evidence but No Suspect

Police determined that Daviau had been sexually assaulted and killed inside her home. Investigators collected DNA evidence from the crime scene.

At the time, forensic technology could not identify a suspect. Leads eventually ran out, leaving the case unsolved for years.

The file remained open but inactive.

New Cold-Case Unit Sparks Breakthrough

In 2025, Montreal police formed a specialized cold-case unit to re-examine unsolved murders. Investigators reviewed old evidence using modern forensic tools.

They applied genetic genealogy, a technique that compares crime-scene DNA with public genealogy databases. This approach identified distant relatives connected to the suspect.

Police traced the evidence to Jacques Bolduc, a convicted criminal who died in prison in 2021.

Suspect Identified Posthumously

Investigators say Bolduc contacted Daviau after she posted her car for sale online. Evidence suggests this contact led him to her apartment.

Because the suspect is deceased, police cannot lay charges. Authorities say the evidence clearly identifies him as responsible.

They believe the findings bring long-awaited closure to the victim’s family.

Impact of Modern Forensic Science

Police say advances in DNA technology are transforming cold-case investigations. Genetic genealogy has helped solve several long-unsolved crimes across Canada.

Officials stress that even decades-old cases can still be resolved.

Montreal police say they will continue reviewing unsolved homicides using modern forensic methods.

Millions in Canada Face Visa Expiry as Enforcement Backlog Raises Concerns

Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner has warned that up to five million people in Canada could have expired or expiring visas by the end of this year. She raised the issue in Parliament while questioning the government’s ability to manage temporary resident overstays.

Rempel Garner said that at the current removal rate of about 22,000 people per year, it could take more than 200 years to address the backlog. She described the situation as a growing administrative challenge.

Rising Temporary Resident Numbers

Canada has seen a sharp increase in temporary residents in recent years. This group includes international students, temporary foreign workers, and visitors.

Government data shows temporary residents now form a significant share of Canada’s population. Many permits issued during the post-pandemic period are now approaching expiry.

Officials do not publicly track exact exit numbers. This creates uncertainty around how many permit holders remain after expiry.

Questions Raised in Parliament

During a parliamentary exchange, Rempel Garner asked the Immigration Minister how the government plans to manage expiring visas. She said the response did not provide a clear plan.

Opposition members argue that immigration targets increased without matching enforcement capacity. They say planning gaps now affect system credibility.

The issue has sparked renewed debate on immigration oversight and transparency.

Government Position and Enforcement Limits

Federal officials have previously stated that many temporary residents leave Canada voluntarily. Enforcement agencies prioritize cases involving security or public safety risks.

Legal processes, appeals, and diplomatic considerations can slow removals. These factors limit how quickly enforcement agencies act.

Growing Policy Focus

Immigration experts say the issue highlights the need for better data tracking. Clear exit records could help guide future policy decisions.

As immigration remains a central political issue, pressure is increasing for detailed planning. Parliament is expected to revisit temporary resident policies in upcoming sessions.

Toronto Appoints First Traffic Czar to Combat Gridlock

Toronto has appointed its first-ever traffic “czar” to address the city’s growing congestion problem. The new role, officially called Chief Congestion Officer, aims to improve traffic flow and coordinate city-wide congestion efforts.

City officials say gridlock now affects daily commuters, public transit reliability, and local businesses. Rising construction activity, population growth, and increased vehicle use have worsened delays across major routes.

The newly appointed official, Andrew Posluns, will assume the role in early 2026. His mandate includes managing traffic disruptions, coordinating road work schedules, and improving communication between city departments.

Toronto estimates congestion costs the local economy billions of dollars each year. Officials believe stronger coordination could reduce delays and improve daily travel experiences.

Focus on Coordination and Planning

Mayor Olivia Chow said the role will bring accountability and alignment across city agencies. Traffic management has often suffered due to overlapping responsibilities and uncoordinated construction projects.

The congestion officer will work closely with transportation services, transit authorities, and enforcement teams. The goal is to ensure smoother traffic movement during peak hours and major construction periods.

City leaders hope this centralized approach will reduce confusion and prevent bottlenecks before they escalate.

Existing Measures and Challenges

Toronto has already expanded its traffic agent program to manage busy intersections. The city has also adjusted signal timing and introduced transit priority measures.

Despite these efforts, congestion continues to grow as more workers return to offices. Road construction and infrastructure upgrades remain a major source of delays.

Officials acknowledge that no single solution will fix gridlock. Instead, they see the new role as part of a broader strategy.

Looking Ahead

The creation of a traffic czar signals a stronger focus on mobility and urban planning. City officials plan to track progress and refine strategies over time.

Toronto residents and commuters will be watching closely to see if the new approach delivers measurable improvements.

Community on Alert After Deadly Shooting at Big Island Lake Cree Nation

A fatal shooting on Big Island Lake Cree Nation in northern Saskatchewan has prompted a dangerous person alert from the RCMP. Police say one person died and three others were injured during the early-morning incident.

Officers received reports around 6 a.m. and rushed to the remote community, located about 392 kilometres northwest of Saskatoon. Upon arrival, police secured the scene and provided emergency assistance to the victims.

Search Underway for Armed Suspects

RCMP confirmed they are actively searching for two suspects believed to be involved in the shooting.
Authorities say the suspects are armed and considered dangerous.Police reported the suspects were last seen traveling on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) in the area.
Officers warned the public not to approach them under any circumstances.

Residents were urged to report any sightings directly to police.

Dangerous Person Alert Issued

Following the incident, RCMP issued a Dangerous Person Alert for Big Island Lake Cree Nation and surrounding communities.
The alert instructed residents to shelter in place, lock doors, and remain indoors.

Police also advised people to avoid travel in the area until the alert is lifted.
Several nearby health facilities were placed under precautionary lockdowns to ensure safety.

Authorities emphasized that the alert is a preventive measure during the ongoing search.

Investigation Continues

RCMP have not confirmed whether the shooting was targeted or random.
Investigators continue to collect evidence and speak with witnesses.

Police asked the public to avoid sharing police movements online.
Officials said this could interfere with operations and compromise safety.

Law enforcement agencies remain focused on public safety and locating the suspects.
Further updates will be released as verified information becomes available.

Canada Cuts Temporary Resident Targets in 2026–2028 Immigration Plan

Canada’s federal government has announced a significant reduction in the number of temporary residents it plans to admit over the next three years. The move forms part of the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan released alongside the 2025 federal budget. The government says the change aims to bring immigration to more “sustainable levels.”

Under the new plan, Canada will admit 385,000 temporary residents in 2026, a drop of about 43 per cent compared to 2025 levels. The target will decline further to 370,000 in both 2027 and 2028. These temporary residents include workers and international students entering the country under various permit programs.

In contrast, Canada’s temporary resident intake was much higher in 2025, with more than 673,000 temporary residents welcomed. The sharp reduction reflects concerns that rapid growth placed pressure on housing, healthcare, education, and other public services.

Reason for the Shift

The government says these new targets are part of a plan to keep temporary residents at less than five per cent of the total population by the end of 2027. Officials argue the previous pace put strain on infrastructure and community services. They also aim to transition qualifying temporary workers to permanent residency through targeted initiatives.

Finance Minister François‑Philippe Champagne and Prime Minister Mark Carney have both stated that Canada must balance growth with its ability to support newcomers. They said citizens expect a well‑managed immigration system that matches capacity with economic and social needs.

Impact on Workers and Students

The reduction affects both temporary foreign workers and international students. For 2026, new work permits are projected at about 230,000, while study permits are expected to total around 155,000. These figures are significantly lower than recent years.

Supporters of the new plan say it allows Canada to better integrate newcomers and focus on quality of settlement. Critics argue that steeper cuts could challenge sectors that depend on temporary workers, such as healthcare, hospitality, and agriculture.

Looking Ahead

Canada will continue to admit temporary residents but at reduced levels in 2026–2028. Policymakers will assess how these changes affect the economy, labour market needs, and demographic trends across the country.

Kerala Priest Arrested in Canada Over Sexual Assault Charges

A Catholic priest from Kerala has been arrested in Canada on charges of sexual assault and sexual interference. Peel Regional Police charged him on December 18, 2025 after an investigation into alleged misconduct. Sexual interference under Canadian law refers to crimes involving children under 16 years. The charges have shocked both the local community in Canada and church followers in Kerala.

The priest has been identified as Father James Cherickal, a member of the Syro‑Malabar Church. He is in his 60s and originally hails from Kerala’s diocese of Thamarassery. Cherickal served in Canada for nearly three decades, working in several parishes under the Archdiocese of Toronto, most recently as pastor at St. Jerome’s Catholic Church in Brampton.

Removed From Ministry and Mass Cancellations

Following the arrest, the Archdiocese of Toronto removed Father Cherickal from pastoral duties. Church officials stated they treat all accusations seriously and follow established protocols. They also emphasized that Cherickal is presumed innocent until proven guilty and is entitled to due process in Canada’s legal system.

The arrest prompted St. Jerome’s Catholic Church to cancel Holy Mass from December 25 to January 3, disrupting services during a key holiday period. Parishioners expressed shock and concern over the allegations and the sudden change.

Long Service and Broader Church Context

Father Cherickal began serving under the Archdiocese of Toronto in 1997, moving to St. Jerome’s Church last year. He also worked with the Syro‑Malabar mission for Catholic migrants from Kerala living in Canada. Many priests from Kerala serve in foreign parishes to support growing communities abroad.

The Syro‑Malabar Church is the most prominent Catholic segment in Kerala and one of the 23 Oriental Catholic Churches under the Roman Catholic Church. Cherickal’s long tenure in Canada made him a familiar figure to many members of the local community.

Legal Proceedings Ahead

Police have not released further details to protect the ongoing investigation. Father Cherickal now faces the Canadian legal process, where the case will proceed through the courts. Cases involving clergy and serious allegations often draw wider attention and scrutiny, both within church institutions and the public.