8.7 C
Cañada
Thursday, March 12, 2026
Subscribe
Home Blog Page 103

23 Bullets Strike Regina Home, Girl Injured in Attack

James
-
0
23 Bullets Strike Regina Home, Girl Injured in Attack

An 11-year-old girl was injured after 23 bullets hit a Regina home in a targeted shooting. Two men face attempted murder charges.

23 Bullets Strike Regina Home, Girl Injured in Attack

Targeted Shooting in Eastview

A Regina family is reeling after 23 bullets tore through their Eastview home in the early hours of August 11, leaving their 11-year-old daughter injured. Police confirmed Wednesday that the attack was targeted.

Family’s Frightening Ordeal

The girl’s father, who asked not to be named for safety reasons, said one bullet entered his daughter’s bedroom, striking her in the side. Three bullets entered his own bedroom, narrowly missing him and his wife.
“My wife panicked. She started screaming, running around,” he recalled in an interview.

Child’s Recovery After Surgery

The girl was rushed first to a Regina hospital, then transferred to Saskatoon for surgery. Doctors inserted a chest tube to treat internal injuries. The father said his daughter is now back in school, though the family has since relocated out of fear.

Charges Laid Against Two Men

On Wednesday, Regina police announced that two men — 20-year-old Anthony Nahbexie and 18-year-old Devon Nahbexie — have been charged with attempted murder, reckless discharge of a firearm, and conspiracy to commit murder. Both appeared in Regina Provincial Court the same day.

Police Reassure the Community

Acting Police Chief Lorilee Davies told reporters the shooting was not random.
“It was a targeted location,” Davies said. “For people in the community, I would reassure them that it is a safe neighbourhood.” Police continue to investigate and are urging anyone with video or information to come forward.

Neighbours Express Fear

Muhammad Ishaq, a neighbour, said the shooting has unsettled the community. He has known the injured girl since childhood and remembers her playing with his daughter.
“Everybody feels unsafe. We didn’t expect this would happen here,” Ishaq said.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

Bright Lights Holiday Show Moves to Surrey in 2025

James
-
0
Bright Lights Holiday Show Moves to Surrey in 2025

Bright Lights moves from Stanley Park to Surrey’s Cloverdale Fairgrounds after train closure; returns to its roots as B.C. fundraising event.

Bright Lights Moves After 25 Years in Stanley Park

The beloved Bright Lights fundraising event is leaving Vancouver’s Stanley Park after more than 25 years and relocating to Surrey, B.C. Organizers announced the move following the discovery that the miniature train at Stanley Park would be inoperable for the remainder of 2025. The event will now be part of the Noel Holiday Light Festival at Cloverdale Fairgrounds, running from Nov. 28 to Dec. 28.

Event Shifts Due to Inoperable Train

At Stanley Park, Bright Lights featured a 15-minute ride on a vintage miniature train through forested paths adorned with holiday lights. Jeff Sauvé, executive director of the B.C. Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund, confirmed the train could not be repaired in time, making the event unfeasible in its traditional location. Todd Schierling, president of the Burn Fund, said the organization had to explore new venues across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley. “We assigned our team to do a reconnaissance search… and they found the Noel festival in Surrey,” he said.

Returning to Its Surrey Roots

The move also brings Bright Lights back to Surrey, where its origins date to the mid-1980s. Bob Wingfield and Marg Barrett created a popular Christmas light display at their Newton home to raise funds for burn survivors. In 1997, their light collection was donated to the Burn Fund and later became part of the Stanley Park event. Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke emphasized, “We’re keeping it. It’s home. It’s where it needs to be, it’s where the families and children are.”

Vancouver Park Board Response

The Vancouver Park Board stated that commissioners and staff were not notified about Bright Lights leaving the city. Meanwhile, the park will host the Harry Potter: Forbidden Forest Experience, a temporary immersive attraction, starting in November.

New Venue Offers Expanded Access

Cloverdale Fairgrounds can accommodate a larger number of visitors than Stanley Park. The festival setting is expected to provide more space and festival-style features while maintaining Bright Lights’ holiday charm. Organizers and local officials are confident the new location will continue the event’s legacy as one of the largest fundraisers for the B.C. Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

Bank of Canada Cuts Interest Rate to 2.5% Amid Slowdown

Henry
-
0
Bank of Canada Cuts Interest Rate to 2.5% Amid Slowdown

Bank of Canada Delivers First Rate Cut Since March

The Bank of Canada interest rate cut has arrived, with the central bank lowering its policy rate to 2.5% in a widely expected move. Governor Tiff Macklem said weaker growth and easing inflation risks made the cut necessary to stabilize the economy.

“Considerable uncertainty remains,” Macklem noted. “But with a weaker economy and less upside risk to inflation, a reduction balances the risks going forward.”

Why the Cut Happened Now

The decision follows several economic shifts since July. Inflation excluding gas slowed, job losses piled up, and the government removed retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. That change eased pressure on food and consumer prices, giving the bank more room to act.

Still, Macklem pointed out that U.S. tariffs and trade policy continue to cloud Canada’s outlook. “The Canadian economy is being affected by both U.S. tariffs and their unpredictability,” he said.

Banks Quickly Follow With Lower Prime Rates

Within hours of the announcement, TD Bank, BMO, CIBC, and RBC cut their prime rates by 25 basis points to 4.70%. While welcome news, experts noted the impact will be modest for businesses already cautious about investing.

“It’s not going to make anybody jump out of their seat,” said Jonathon Azzopardi, owner of Laval Tool. “A single rate cut won’t change everything.”

A Snapshot of the Economy

Canada’s GDP slipped in the second quarter as expected, while exports to the U.S. slowed after an initial inventory surge to counter tariffs. Businesses trimmed investments, and over 100,000 jobs were lost in the last two months.

The unemployment rate now stands at 7.1%, with weakness spreading beyond tariff-exposed industries. Though consumer spending stayed strong in the spring, Macklem warned that rising joblessness could soon weigh on households.

Inflation Pressures Start to Ease

Core inflation measures, which exclude volatile gas prices, have begun to cool. The overall inflation rate sits at 1.9%, close to the bank’s 2% target. Macklem said pressures are “more contained” than earlier this year, reducing the risk of runaway costs.

“We don’t want Canadians to worry about big increases in the cost of living,” he said, while stressing that weak growth tipped the balance toward easing.

Economists Welcome the Move

Most economists expected the Bank of Canada to cut rates, especially after August’s subdued inflation report. Eric Lascelles, chief economist at RBC Global Asset Management, called the move “appropriate,” adding that the economy has been “profoundly underperforming” under the weight of the U.S. trade war.

Looking ahead, Lascelles said another cut before year-end seems “reasonable” and predicted further easing in early 2026 if growth remains sluggish.

What Comes Next

The Bank of Canada will announce its next interest rate decision on October 29. Until then, Canadians can expect debate over whether more cuts will follow.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for the next news update.

Carney Government to Table First Federal Budget on Nov. 4

James
-
0
Carney Government to Table First Federal Budget on Nov. 4

Canada’s first federal budget under PM Carney will be tabled Nov. 4, aiming for savings amid a growing deficit and minority Parliament.

Liberals Set Early November for Budget Release

The Liberal government will present its first federal budget under Prime Minister Mark Carney on Nov. 4, Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne confirmed during Tuesday’s question period. The date is later than the October timeline previously indicated by Carney and other ministers.

Initially, Carney had suggested the budget would arrive in October, with House Leader Steven MacKinnon reiterating the timeline as recently as Monday, highlighting the Liberals’ commitment to a fall agenda. Federal budgets traditionally appear in the spring, but the House’s short session following April’s election prompted a delay.

Focus on Savings and Fiscal Restructuring

The Carney government has signaled plans to reduce operational spending while maintaining capital investments. Champagne has requested federal departments to identify “ambitious savings”, including a review of all current and planned federal contracts.

The Liberals plan to cut government operational spending by 7.5% for 2026–27, rising to 10% in 2027–28, and 15% in 2028–29. Champagne emphasized distinguishing operational budgets from capital investments, stating the government will spend less on operations to invest more in infrastructure and growth initiatives.

Deficit Challenges and Economic Context

Despite spending cuts, Carney acknowledged that the federal deficit will grow compared with last year. The deficit, last reported at $61.9 billion in December, reflects pressures including U.S. tariffs, federal support to affected industries, NATO spending commitments, and a federal income tax reduction.

Carney defended the fiscal strategy, asserting it will strengthen Canada’s economy long-term, even as immediate deficit concerns mount.

Political Dynamics in a Minority Parliament

Passing the budget will require support from at least one other party in Canada’s minority Parliament, as budgets are confidence measures that could trigger a government collapse if rejected.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the delay, calling Carney’s deficit larger than that of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. While Poilievre expressed skepticism, he left open the possibility of supporting the budget after reviewing the figures.

Looking Ahead to Budget Highlights

The Nov. 4 budget will likely emphasize operational savings, regulatory cuts, and strategic investments, reflecting the government’s goal of fiscal discipline alongside growth initiatives. Canadians can expect detailed projections on spending, revenue, and deficit management when Champagne tables the federal finances later this fall.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

Canada warns of salmonella outbreak tied to dog food

James
-
0
Canada warns of salmonella outbreak tied to dog food

PHAC reports 27 salmonella cases linked to dog food and treats across Canada. Six people hospitalized; no deaths confirmed.

Canada warns of salmonella outbreak tied to dog food

Public health alert issued nationwide

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has confirmed 27 cases of salmonella infection linked to handling dog food and treats. The illnesses span multiple provinces, with 13 cases in Alberta, 12 in British Columbia, one in Ontario and one in the Northwest Territories. Six people have required hospitalization, though no deaths have been reported.

Cases reported across age groups

According to PHAC, those affected became ill between mid-February and mid-August 2025, ranging in age from infants to 87 years old. Women represent about 59 per cent of the cases. Officials say many of the sick individuals reported handling kibble, dehydrated, or freeze-dried dog treats before experiencing symptoms.

No single source identified

Investigators have not yet traced the outbreak to a single supplier or brand. PHAC said its probe remains ongoing and updates will be shared as new information emerges. Infectious disease specialists caution that symptoms can range from mild stomach upset to severe gastrointestinal illness requiring hospital care.

How transmission occurs

Health experts emphasize that even healthy dogs can carry salmonella without showing symptoms. The bacteria can be passed to people through direct contact with a dog, its stool, contaminated food, or surfaces. “Dogs can shed the infection in their stool and humans can contaminate their hands … or even through licking,” said Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases specialist in Toronto.

Reducing the risk at home

To lower the risk of infection, PHAC advises Canadians to:

  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling dog food, treats, pets, or their waste.
  • Sanitize containers, bowls, utensils, and surfaces that come into contact with dog food.
  • Store pet food separately from human food and keep it away from children.
  • Follow package instructions for proper storage, refrigeration, or freezing of dog food and treats.

Broader risks from pet products

Raw pet foods, whether frozen, dehydrated, or freeze-dried, carry higher risks of bacterial contamination, experts warn. Past outbreaks of E. coli, listeria, and campylobacter have been linked to such products. The B.C. Centre for Disease Control notes that close pet-owner interactions—such as sharing beds or being licked—can also increase the chance of infection, especially for children, seniors, and immunocompromised individuals.

Ongoing investigation

PHAC says Canadians should remain vigilant until the investigation determines the source. While salmonella infections are often self-limiting, public health officials stress the importance of preventive measures to protect both families and their pets.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

Robert Redford, Hollywood legend, dies at 89

James
-
0
Robert Redford, Hollywood legend, dies at 89

Robert Redford, actor, director, and Sundance founder, dies at 89 at his Utah home, leaving a lasting legacy in cinema and activism.

Robert Redford, Hollywood legend, dies at 89

Death confirmed in Utah home

Robert Redford, the celebrated actor, director, and environmental activist, has died at the age of 89. His publicist, Cindi Berger, confirmed the news on Tuesday, saying Redford passed away peacefully at his home in Sundance, Utah, surrounded by family and loved ones.

A career that shaped modern cinema

Redford rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s with defining roles in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting, and All the President’s Men. He later transitioned to directing, earning an Academy Award for Ordinary People in 1980. Beyond the screen, he became a driving force for independent film by founding the Sundance Institute and Film Festival, helping launch the careers of countless filmmakers.

From athlete to artist to actor

Born in Santa Monica, California, in 1936, Redford initially pursued baseball on a college scholarship before shifting his focus to art. His travels in Europe shaped his early creative path, but upon returning to the U.S., he found his way to Broadway and television. By the late 1950s, he had become a full-time performer, and soon after, a Hollywood leading man.

A retreat to Utah

Despite international fame, Redford sought a private life away from Hollywood. In the 1970s, he settled in Utah, building a home in the mountains that became both his sanctuary and the birthplace of Sundance. For decades, he split his time between filmmaking and environmental advocacy, often citing Utah’s landscapes as central to his identity.

Legacy of activism

Redford was a vocal supporter of climate action and conservation, founding the Redford Center in 2005 with his son James to inspire environmental awareness through film. He used his platform to oppose the Keystone XL pipeline and to advocate for renewable energy, positioning himself as one of Hollywood’s most visible environmental champions.

Tributes from peers

The announcement of his passing sparked tributes across the film industry. Actress Meryl Streep, who starred with Redford in Out of Africa, called him “one of the lions.” Jane Fonda described him as a “beautiful person in every way,” while Morgan Freeman remembered their instant friendship on set. The Sundance Institute praised its founder as a visionary whose passion “redefined cinema in the U.S. and around the world.”

An enduring influence

Over a six-decade career, Robert Redford left an indelible mark on film, culture, and activism. His blend of charisma, talent, and purpose ensured his influence reached far beyond Hollywood. Canadians, too, will remember him as an artist who used the power of cinema not only to entertain but also to challenge and inspire.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

Terry Fox Run Returns to Confederation Bridge After 10 Years

James
-
0
Terry Fox Run Returns to Confederation Bridge After 10 Years

Thousands to join the Terry Fox Run on Confederation Bridge this Sunday, marking 45 years since the Marathon of Hope.

Terry Fox Run Returns to Confederation Bridge After 10 Years

Honouring Terry’s Legacy

The Terry Fox Run is returning to the Confederation Bridge this Sunday for the first time in a decade, bringing thousands of Canadians together to mark the 45th anniversary of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope. Fred Fox, Terry’s older brother, says the event is about fulfilling Terry’s wish: “When Terry realized that he wasn’t going to be able to finish…the Marathon of Hope, he asked all of us to continue what he started.”

Bridge to Hope

The Confederation Bridge will close to traffic from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. to accommodate participants. Those running the full 13-kilometre stretch will begin at 8 a.m., while walkers and shorter-distance participants will start at 8:15 a.m. Runners can depart from either Prince Edward Island or New Brunswick, with shuttle services in place to connect both ends.

A Decade in the Making

The last Terry Fox Run held on the Confederation Bridge was 10 years ago. A planned return in 2020 was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s amazing it’s happening again,” said Fred Fox. “I’m just looking forward so much to getting there myself.”

Carrying the Mission Forward

Like Terry’s 1980 Marathon of Hope, the run remains a fundraiser for cancer research. Terry began his cross-country journey in St. John’s, Newfoundland, before passing through P.E.I. on his way west. He was forced to stop near Thunder Bay, Ontario, when cancer returned. He died in 1981 at age 22.

Strong Community Support

This year’s fundraising goal is $645,000, with more than $590,000 already raised, according to the Terry Fox Foundation. Registration is capped at 10,000 participants, and more than 7,000 have already signed up ahead of the Sept. 18 deadline.

A Day of Inspiration

Fred Fox expects the day to be both emotional and uplifting. “To be able to connect the two provinces in a running event to continue Terry’s dream with potentially 10,000 people there, it’s going to be a pretty incredible, emotional, inspiring day,” he said.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

Saint John woman sentenced to life for 2024 murder

James
-
0
Saint John woman sentenced to life for 2024 murder

A Saint John woman, 46, gets life with no parole for 10 years after pleading guilty to second-degree murder in the death of Allan Lee.

Saint John Woman Sentenced to Life in Prison for 2024 Murder

Sentence Handed Down in Court

A Saint John woman has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for 10 years after admitting to killing Allan Lee, 52, last summer.
Jinelle Suzanne Thompson, 46, appeared remotely in Saint John Court of King’s Bench on Tuesday, where Justice Kathryn Gregory delivered the ruling.

Details of the Conviction

Thompson was initially charged with first-degree murder but pleaded guilty in May to second-degree murder. Lee’s body was discovered on August 1, 2024, in a wooded area near Lorneville, on the city’s western edge. A publication ban prevents disclosure of the circumstances of his death, as two other accused have yet to stand trial.

Victim Remembered

Lee, a father and chimney-business owner, left behind a partner and young daughter. Victim impact statements submitted to the court described “trauma and agony” for his family, with one daughter relapsing into addiction and his partner struggling while caring for their infant. His mother, Lorraine Jessome, told reporters she hopes to find “some peace” following the sentencing.

Judge’s Considerations

Justice Gregory noted Thompson’s life sentence reflects both denunciation of the crime and proportionality to her moral blameworthiness. She emphasized parole is not guaranteed and that Thompson “will never have total freedom again,” even if released in the future.

Background of the Offender

The court heard Thompson had worked for years at Irving Oil and the Saint John Regional Hospital. She struggled with prescription drug misuse, cocaine use, and mental health challenges, including manic depression and borderline personality disorder. Friends described her as once supportive and caring but said her life deteriorated after her mother’s death a month before the killing.

Community Impact and Ongoing Case

The sentencing leaves unanswered questions for Lee’s family, as details of the offence remain sealed. Meanwhile, co-accused Charles Pleasance, 58, and Stephen Chester Martin, 66, are scheduled for trial in August 2026, accused of helping Thompson evade justice.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

Mayor Mark Sutcliffe Vows to End Ottawa Youth Homelessness

James
-
0
Mayor Mark Sutcliffe Vows to End Ottawa Youth Homelessness

Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe pledges to end youth homelessness by 2030, with new city budget investments planned for 2026.

A Pledge from City Hall

Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe announced Tuesday that the city will aim to end youth homelessness by 2030. Speaking at a press conference, he committed to ensuring young people who enter shelters receive immediate help to secure safe and stable housing.

The Goal Behind the Promise

Sutcliffe argued that addressing youth homelessness is a necessary step toward eliminating homelessness more broadly. He pointed to research showing half of chronically homeless adults first experienced homelessness before the age of 16. Between 50 and 100 youth are currently homeless in Ottawa, according to city estimates.

Key Timeline for Change

The city’s 2026 budget, now in planning, will include new investments aimed at preventing and reducing youth homelessness. Sutcliffe said the five-year horizon is realistic and allows the city to establish systems that keep young people from becoming trapped in long-term homelessness.

Community Voices on the Plan

Local advocates and service providers welcomed the pledge. Kaite Burkholder Harris, executive director of the Alliance to End Homelessness, called it a “doable goal,” explaining that ending homelessness means it becomes rare, brief, and non-recurring. Ali Campbell of Shepherds of Good Hope highlighted that youth who face homelessness are more likely to experience it again later in life. Councillor Stéphanie Plante stressed the importance of prevention and urged that no one should remain in a shelter for more than two weeks.

Steps Underway to Find Solutions

Although details remain limited, Sutcliffe confirmed that no additional funding will be sought from other levels of government. He will also participate in a University of Ottawa “hackathon,” where students and community partners will design strategies to prevent youth homelessness. These efforts are expected to complement future city-funded programs.

The Road Ahead for Ottawa

The mayor emphasized that success will be measured by whether homelessness among young people is rare and short-lived. The coming budget will determine how much funding is directed to prevention, rapid rehousing, and youth-specific supports. If achieved, the initiative could serve as a model for addressing homelessness across Canada.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

Edmonton to downsize Chinatown shelters, expand citywide

James
-
0
Edmonton to downsize Chinatown shelters, expand citywide

Edmonton council backs plan to shrink two Chinatown shelters and build smaller facilities across the city, aiming for improved homeless services.

Edmonton to downsize Chinatown shelters, expand citywide

Council moves to reshape shelter strategy

Edmonton city council has approved a motion to reduce the size of two large homeless shelters in Chinatown while relocating beds to new facilities across the city. The decision, passed Tuesday with 11 councillors in favour and two opposed, is intended to align with best practice guidelines and ease pressure on the downtown core.

Details of the proposal

The motion, introduced by Coun. Anne Stevenson, directs the city to send a formal letter to Alberta’s Seniors, Community and Social Services Minister Jason Nixon. The letter seeks provincial collaboration on decreasing occupancy at the Bruce Reith Centre and Herb Jamieson Centre, both operated by Hope Mission. Combined, the two shelters currently house more than 700 people, far above the city’s recommended limit of 125 per facility.

Rationale behind the change

Stevenson argued that smaller, distributed shelters can provide more dignified care and serve specific demographics, such as women or Indigenous residents. She said the shift is not about reducing overall capacity but about redistributing spaces more evenly across Edmonton. “It’s better for the communities that they’re serving,” she noted, adding that the existing shelters were built without modern standards in mind.

Debate at council

Not all councillors agreed with the move. Tim Cartmell, who is running for mayor, questioned whether another letter would meaningfully advance shelter reform. “We know the shelters are too big. We know we need less spaces in Chinatown. Do we need yet another instruction for another letter?” he asked. Karen Principe also opposed the motion, while supporters argued that a written record helps ensure accountability between municipal and provincial governments.

Challenges in implementation

Hope Mission, which operates the two facilities, acknowledged the benefits of smaller shelters but warned of practical hurdles. Tim Pasma, the organization’s program director, said resources, funding, and zoning restrictions make it difficult to develop additional sites. Downsizing legacy shelters, he added, could complicate permits and strain nearby facilities. “It also puts our other sites downtown into non-compliance,” he said.

Impact on communities

Advocates note that large shelters often lack daytime programming, pushing people onto the streets and straining nearby businesses and residents in Chinatown. Stevenson said scaling down shelters and distributing services is part of addressing these pressures. Over the coming months, the city, province, and Hope Mission are expected to work together on a long-term strategy.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

Alberta Introduces Citizenship Markers on IDs Amid Concerns

James
-
0
Alberta Introduces Citizenship Markers on IDs Amid Concerns

Alberta will add Canadian citizenship markers to IDs next year, prompting debates on privacy, discrimination, and election security.

Alberta Leads Canada with Citizenship Markers on IDs

Alberta is set to become the first Canadian province to mandate Canadian citizenship markers on provincial driver’s licences and ID cards. The rollout, announced Monday by Premier Danielle Smith, is scheduled for late next year and aims to combine identity and citizenship verification into a single document.

Streamlining Services and Protecting Elections

The provincial government says the markers will simplify access to services requiring proof of both identity and citizenship. Smith emphasized that the change also seeks to enhance election security and reduce administrative inefficiencies. Alberta currently holds over 530,000 more health cards than residents, prompting plans to integrate health-care information into the new IDs.

Legal and Privacy Experts Voice Skepticism

Despite the government’s rationale, legal and immigration experts have raised concerns about potential unintended consequences. Tamir Israel, director of the Canadian Civil Liberties Association’s privacy, surveillance, and technology program, warned that mandatory citizenship markers could lead to discrimination in everyday situations such as traffic stops, restaurant checks, or rental applications.

“You really shouldn’t need to disclose the fact that you’re not a Canadian citizen whenever you provide ID,” Israel said. “The number of situations where proof of citizenship is unnecessary is vast, making this approach seem disproportionate.”

Government Responds to Discrimination Concerns

In response, Alberta Minister Dale Nally assured the public that the IDs would not explicitly label non-citizens as permanent residents, refugees, or international students, aiming to reduce the risk of discrimination. “This is a process that’s going to make it simpler for Albertans to apply for benefits,” Nally said Tuesday.

Implementation Timeline and Future Considerations

Premier Smith described the initiative as a “three-part solution” addressing service access, election integrity, and health-care administration. She added that the province will review other potential applications of the citizenship markers in the future as needed.

Looking Ahead

The rollout of citizenship-marked IDs marks a historic first in Canada and will likely spark ongoing debate around privacy, civil liberties, and administrative efficiency. Albertans can expect phased implementation beginning late next year, with more details on distribution and usage forthcoming.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

Surrey approves $22M in public works contracts

James
-
0
Surrey approves $22M in public works contracts

Surrey council approves nearly $22M for energy, road, park, and sports field upgrades, shaping city growth through 2027.

Surrey Council Greenlights $22M in Public Works Contracts

Major approval at city hall

Surrey city council approved nearly $22 million in public works contracts on Monday, committing to a wide range of infrastructure upgrades across the city. The collective spending limit was set at just over $23.5 million, underscoring the scale of investment into energy, transportation, parks, and recreation.

Energy system expansion underway

The city’s engineering department awarded Kerr Wood Leidal Associates a $738,597 contract for engineering design and construction services to expand Surrey’s district energy piping network. The $11-million project will add 1,700 metres of distribution piping to support new development downtown, with design work beginning this month and construction set to finish by late 2027.

Upgrades to energy centre

In a separate approval, All-Pro Services secured a $3.3-million contract to supply and install a new boiler at the West Village Energy Centre, with work taking place on Central Avenue. The upgrade will replace smaller units with higher-capacity boilers to meet heating demand for the winter of 2026–2027. The centre, built in 2018, already supplies energy to 41 buildings, with five more expected to connect by 2027.

Road improvements on 96 Avenue

Transportation upgrades also received the green light. Arsalan Construction Ltd. was awarded a $7.2-million contract to improve 96 Avenue between 116 Street and Scott Road. Aplin Martin Consultants Ltd. will provide engineering construction services under a $184,186 agreement. Combined, the contracts carry a spending ceiling of just over $8.1 million.

Renewal of Bear Creek Park waterpark

The city’s parks department approved a $927,695 contract with Van der Pauw Landscaping Ltd. to replace Bear Creek Park’s aging waterpark. Originally built in 1985 and last renovated in 2006, the facility has reached the end of its service life. Construction is expected to be completed this fall.

Cloverdale sports facilities upgraded

Cloverdale Athletic Park will see significant enhancements, with WhiteStar Property Services Ltd. handling $7.4 million in civil works to convert two grass fields into synthetic turf and add parking. Tarkett Sports Canada Inc. was also awarded a $1.6-million contract to supply and install the artificial turf. Together, the projects come with a spending cap of nearly $10 million.

Developer reimbursement for sanitary works

Council also approved a $523,228 reimbursement to Zenterra 180 Street Ltd. for upsizing sanitary sewer infrastructure tied to a 713-unit residential project in West Clayton. The larger trunk sewer will benefit future developments, including those near the planned Hillcrest-184 Street SkyTrain station.

A city investing in growth

Surrey’s general manager of engineering, Scott Neuman, noted in his report that the combined projects will bolster the city’s energy capacity, improve transportation routes, modernize public amenities, and prepare for population growth. Council’s approvals highlight Surrey’s ongoing efforts to build infrastructure that matches its rapid development.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

1...102103104...358Page 103 of 358

Maple News Wire

Maple News Wire is an independent Canada-based digital news platform committed to delivering accurate, timely, and impartial reporting across a wide spectrum of topics.

Latest

Tuition Scam Leaves Woman With $37K Fraud Charges

Blog 0
 A Canadian woman was hit with $37,000 in fraudulent...

Eby Announces Permanent Daylight Time in B.C. After Final Clock Change

Blog 0
B.C. to Adopt Permanent Daylight Time Historic Decision on Time...

Janice Charette Appointed Canada’s Chief Negotiator for CUSMA Trade Review

Blog 0
Canada Names Chief Negotiator for CUSMA Review The Canadian government...

Popular

Second Polygraph Round in Missing N.S. Kids Case

Canadian Cities 0
Canadians avoid U.S. trips, while American visitors rise. Overseas...

Freezing Rain Storm Set to Hit Montreal, Southern Quebec

Canadian Cities 0
Up to 30 mm of ice expected across Montreal...

Gunfire Hits U.S. Consulate in Toronto, Sparks Security Probe

Canadian Cities 0
Shots fired at the U.S. Consulate in Toronto prompt...

Sitemap

© 2025 Maple News Wire. All Rights Reserved. Canada’s independent voice for Updates and public interest stories.