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Ottawa’s 2026 Budget Raises Taxes and Transit Fares

Chuck
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Ottawa’s 2026 Budget Raises Taxes and Transit Fares

The City of Ottawa’s 2026 budget boosts taxes and transit fares to strengthen infrastructure, policing, and affordable housing projects.

Revenue Plan Aims for Stability

In the heart of the capital, the City of Ottawa, ON unveiled its draft 2026 municipal budget this Wednesday, setting a 3.75 per cent overall tax increase for property owners. Mayor Mark Sutcliffe described the plan as “fiscally responsible”, crafted to protect affordability while continuing crucial investments in city services.

Transit Levies See Dual Increase

To address persistent revenue shortfalls at OC Transpo, the budget imposes a 2.5 per cent transit fare hike and an 8 per cent property tax levy dedicated to transit funding. These increases together exceed the standard 2.9 per cent property-tax rise feeding general services, and contribute to the overall 3.75 per cent average tax bump—translating to roughly $166 more per average household, or under $14 monthly.

Public Safety Gets a Boost

Public safety is a clear priority, with the mayor unveiling a five per cent increase in the police levy—the largest service-specific boost in the plan. The overall police budget will climb by $26.1 million to $414.9 million, enabling the hiring of 25 additional officers, according to city estimates.

Infrastructure and Housing in Focus

Beside policing and transit, the draft budget allocates funds to priority areas including affordable housing (about $23 million toward 350 homes), youth homelessness ($400,000), paramedics, $135 million for road resurfacing and $25.4 million for sidewalk rehabilitation. These investments signal the city’s dual intent to maintain infrastructure and support vulnerable populations ahead of the 2026 municipal election.

Timeline and Next Steps

Following the unveiling, the budget plan will proceed to city committees for public consultations and review. A final vote at city council is planned next month. Spearheading the timeline, Mayor Sutcliffe emphasized the need for transparency and citizen engagement, inviting residents to weigh in on the proposed allocations.

Context and Why It Matters

Facing federal job-cut anxiety and post-pandemic ridership challenges, Ottawa’s leadership describes this budget as a measured approach to prevent “Toronto-style” tax surges and to ensure long-term fiscal health. The move reflects a broader trend in Canadian municipalities balancing tax pressures with infrastructure and service demands.

Implications for Residents and Business Owners

For property-owners and business entities alike, the tax and fare increases mark a key shift: greater investment in city core services comes at a higher cost. Transit-reliant commuters will feel the fare adjustment, while property-owners will absorb the tax rise. Business owners investing in the city may also need to factor in higher operating costs. The public engagement window now open presents an opportunity for stakeholders to voice concerns or support before the final vote.

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U.S. Faces $5.7B Tourism Loss as Canadians Pull Back

Alex
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U.S. Faces $5.7B Tourism Loss as Canadians Pull Back

Declining Canadian travel has triggered a $5.7B U.S. tourism loss, threatening jobs and revenues across America’s top visitor destinations.

Canadian Visits Drop, U.S. Tourism Takes the Hit

The United States is facing a major tourism setback as Canadian travellers continue to avoid visiting south of the border. A new report from the U.S. Travel Association projects a 3.2 per cent decline in international tourism spending in 2025, translating into a $5.7 billion US loss compared with 2024.

The association attributes much of the downturn to a sharp fall in Canadian visitors—a trend that began when President Donald Trump returned to office in January and reignited trade tensions with Canada.

Sharp Decline by Air and Land

Recent data show a steep decline in cross-border travel. In October, the number of Canadian return trips to the United States fell 24 per cent by air and 30 per cent by land compared with the same month last year. The decrease marks ten consecutive months of decline, erasing much of the rebound seen after the pandemic.

Canadians have historically represented the largest group of foreign visitors to the United States—28 per cent of 72.4 million tourists in 2024—but this share has dropped dramatically in 2025.

Economic Fallout Across Key States

Experts warn that the contraction is already affecting employment and tax revenue in tourism-dependent regions.
“The tourism sector is labour-intensive and a major employer,” said Usha Haley, professor of management at Wichita State University. “Lower hotel occupancy reduces labour demand, cuts tax collection, and pressures municipal finances.”

Border states such as New York, Florida, and Washington report weaker hospitality revenues. The United States, once boasting a travel trade surplus, now faces a projected $70 billion US deficit as more Americans travel abroad than international visitors arrive.

Political Tensions and Traveller Sentiment

Many Canadians cite political reasons for staying away. An Angus Reid Institute poll of 1,607 respondents found 70 per cent are uncomfortable visiting the U.S. this winter, citing the trade dispute, border restrictions, and the current political climate.

Since April, new registration rules have also discouraged long-stay visitors, requiring Canadians spending more than 29 days in the U.S. to register, provide fingerprints, and pay a $30 US fee.

Canadians Seek Alternatives

Canadian “snowbirds” who once flocked to Florida are now choosing destinations such as Costa Rica, Turks and Caicos, China, and Taiwan.
Toronto resident Rena Hans, a long-time Florida property owner, said she will not return while the Trump administration remains in power.
“I can’t vote in the U.S., but I can vote with my dollars,” she said.

Border Communities Respond

Tourism agencies near the Canadian border are attempting to rebuild interest. Discover Kalispell, in northwest Montana, has introduced a Canadian Welcome Pass offering up to 26 per cent discounts at hotels and restaurants through January 15, 2026.
“We’ve missed our Canadian guests,” said Diane Mettler, the organization’s executive director. “This is our way of showing they’re still welcome.”

Outlook: Recovery May Take Time

Analysts expect a modest recovery in 2026, coinciding with the FIFA World Cup and the U.S. 250th anniversary celebrations. However, experts caution that rebuilding confidence among Canadian travellers will take longer if political and border tensions persist.

“As long as policies make visitors feel unwelcome, restoring trust will take far more effort than losing it did,” Haley noted.

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Canada Sanctions Russian Drone, Cyber Networks

Chuck
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Canada Sanctions Russian Drone, Cyber Networks

Canada announces fresh sanctions targeting Russia’s drone and cyber operations as G7 diplomats meet in Niagara to coordinate global action.

Ottawa Tightens Pressure on Moscow

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand announced a new round of sanctions targeting Russia’s drone and cyber networks on Monday as she welcomed G7 foreign ministers to the Niagara region. The move underscores Canada’s continued commitment to countering Russian aggression as global allies coordinate strategy ahead of a harsh Ukrainian winter.

Targeting Russia’s Shadow Operations

The measures specifically focus on individuals and entities enabling drone strikes and cyberattacks on Ukraine, as well as ships operating in Russia’s sanctions-evading “shadow fleet.” These networks have been instrumental in sustaining attacks on critical Ukrainian infrastructure, particularly power facilities, which have triggered widespread blackouts.

G7 Ministers Convene in Niagara

The two-day summit brings together G7 foreign ministers and representatives from Australia, Brazil, India, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and South Korea, invited by Anand to broaden dialogue. The gathering includes a virtual address by Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, who briefed the group on the latest Russian offensives and humanitarian challenges.

Energy, Security, and Economic Resilience on the Table

Beyond Ukraine, the ministers are discussing energy security, critical minerals, and global economic stability, amid shifting trade policies and U.S. President Donald Trump’s protectionist agenda. Canadian officials emphasize the importance of diversifying supply chains and reinforcing shared democratic values through collective action.

A Unified Front Amid Global Uncertainty

The sanctions mark another step in Canada’s long-standing alignment with its G7 partners against Moscow’s aggression. As winter looms and diplomatic momentum slows, Ottawa’s latest measures reaffirm its stance: standing with Ukraine remains not only a moral duty but a strategic necessity for global stability.

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Pierre Poilievre Faces Conservative Party Leadership Crisis

Sarah
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Pierre Poilievre Faces Conservative Party Leadership Crisis

Pierre Poilievre’s Trump-style politics spark turmoil inside Canada’s Conservative Party as moderates question his leadership and party direction.

Conservative unrest grows amid leadership tensions

The Conservative Party of Canada is confronting new internal divisions as leader Pierre Poilievre faces mounting criticism over his increasingly aggressive and polarizing political tone.
Party insiders say his confrontational approach—echoing strategies often associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump—has deepened ideological fractures among caucus members and supporters alike.

Defections expose growing rifts

The internal unease became public after a sitting Conservative MP defected to the Liberals, citing discomfort with the direction and rhetoric under Poilievre’s leadership.
Several longtime party strategists have also expressed frustration that the Conservative message is drifting away from economic pragmatism and toward culture-war politics, which they fear could alienate moderate voters in key urban ridings.

Leadership review on the horizon

A leadership review scheduled for January 2026 adds further pressure.
Poilievre—who recently returned to Parliament following a by-election—faces the challenge of uniting a divided caucus while defending his vision for the party’s future.
Political observers warn that any further defections or open dissent could trigger a formal leadership challenge ahead of the next federal election cycle.

Regional divide within party ranks

Support for Poilievre remains strong in Western Canada and rural regions, where his populist tone resonates with voters frustrated by federal policies on energy and regulation.
In contrast, Ontario and Atlantic members are increasingly uneasy, arguing the leader’s messaging risks alienating centrist voters who are essential for forming government.

Why it matters for Canadian politics

The turmoil comes at a sensitive moment for the national opposition.
Poilievre’s hard-edged tactics have energized parts of the Conservative base but raised questions about whether the party can broaden its appeal enough to challenge the Liberals in the next election.
Analysts note that a divided opposition could inadvertently strengthen the governing party’s position by undermining voter confidence in Conservative unity.

What’s next for the Conservatives

With internal debate intensifying and public scrutiny growing, Poilievre’s next moves will determine whether his leadership consolidates or collapses under pressure.
For now, the Conservatives remain Canada’s main opposition force—but their path forward depends on whether they can balance populist energy with the pragmatism needed to win nationally.

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Snowfall Marks Solemn Remembrance Day in Toronto

Willy
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Snowfall Marks Solemn Remembrance Day in Toronto

Torontonians gathered at Prospect Cemetery at sunrise to honour veterans and the fallen on Remembrance Day, marking 80 years since World War II’s end.

Snowfall Sets the Scene

A light snowfall greeted early morning attendees at Prospect Cemetery in Toronto on Tuesday, where residents, veterans, and military personnel gathered to commemorate Remembrance Day. The ceremony, held in the cemetery’s Field of Honour, marked the beginning of several memorial events scheduled across the city throughout the day.

Sunrise Tradition Continues

The Prospect Cemetery service has long been held at dawn, recognizing the hour in which the armistice ending the First World War was signed. John Monahan, CEO of the Mount Pleasant Group, explained that the tradition aims to reflect the stillness of that historic moment. As bagpipes sounded and snow fell, the crowd stood in quiet reflection around headstones dedicated more than a century ago to soldiers who served in the First World War.

Honouring Veterans and Shared Sacrifice

Veterans placed wreaths at a central monument while four silent sentries stood in solemn guard. Many attendees observed moments of near-silence, broken only by footsteps through snow and occasional emotion. Monahan noted that the ceremony also acknowledges the city’s diverse service members across generations, saying the gathering reflects “gratitude for the thousands who fought side by side, regardless of background, to defend peace.”

City Leaders Join the Commemoration

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow attended the ceremony along with local and provincial officials. Speaking afterward, she emphasized the importance of recognizing past sacrifices, particularly in difficult weather that echoed conditions faced by soldiers during historic conflicts. The mayor is scheduled to speak again later in the day at Old City Hall, where the Toronto Cenotaph marks its 100th anniversary this year.

Provincial Tribute and Reflections

Ontario Premier Doug Ford issued a statement encouraging residents across the province to reflect on the service and sacrifices of Canadian Armed Forces members and their families. He urged the public to consider the meaning behind poppies and wreaths as symbols of individual courage and collective remembrance.

Looking Ahead

Ceremonies across Toronto will continue throughout the day, including at City Hall, Fort York, and several community memorials. This year also marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War, adding historical resonance to an already solemn day of remembrance.

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Heavy Snowfall Triggers Outages and Closures Across Quebec

Claire Bennett
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Heavy Snowfall Triggers Outages and Closures Across Quebec

A powerful early-season snowfall has left over 375,000 Quebec households without power and forced multiple school closures across the province.

Widespread Disruptions Across the Province

A major early-season snowfall caused significant disruption across Quebec on Tuesday morning, leaving more than 375,600 Hydro-Québec customers without electricity. Heavy, wet snow accumulated overnight in several regions, prompting widespread power outages and impacting daily routines for residents.

Snowfall Totals and Affected Areas

Environment Canada reported up to 35 centimetres of snow in some parts of the province, with around 20 centimetres falling in Montreal. The heaviest snowfall was observed in the Quebec City area and Côte-Nord, where conditions deteriorated rapidly as the storm progressed.

Impact on the Electrical Grid

Hydro-Québec said the combination of wet snow and lingering autumn foliage caused branches to snap and fall onto power lines. Repair crews have been dispatched across the province to remove debris and restore service, with the utility warning that restoration efforts may be prolonged in hard-hit rural regions.

School Closures and Public Response

Multiple school boards announced closures or remote learning arrangements for Tuesday. Boards affected include the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board, Riverside School Board, and Centre de services scolaire de Laval. Parents and students were advised to monitor school communications for further updates as conditions evolve.

Weather System Complexity

Meteorologist Maxime Desharnais of Environment Canada highlighted the challenging nature of forecasting this storm. Because temperatures hovered near 0°C, snow accumulation varied significantly between neighbourhoods. Some of the precipitation melted upon contact, making total snowfall amounts difficult to predict until the storm was underway.

What Comes Next

Montreal and surrounding regions are expected to see flurries through Tuesday afternoon, with additional light snowfall possible Wednesday morning before conditions shift to rain. Desharnais noted that November often brings unpredictable swings in weather patterns, emphasizing that early winter storms are not unusual but can still catch residents by surprise.

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Half of Albertans Oppose Notwithstanding Clause Use: Poll

Sarah
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Half of Albertans Oppose Notwithstanding Clause Use: Poll

A Leger poll shows half of Albertans oppose the province’s use of the notwithstanding clause to end the teachers’ strike and impose a contract.

Public Divided Over Government’s Approach

A new Leger poll suggests that half of Alberta adults disagree with the province’s decision to invoke the notwithstanding clause to impose a contract on public school teachers and end their provincewide strike. The poll of 1,002 Alberta residents was conducted online between Oct. 31 and Nov. 2, days after the Alberta government passed the Back to School Act to force an end to the labour dispute.

How the Dispute Escalated

The province invoked the notwithstanding clause after members of the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) went on strike on Oct. 6 over stalled contract negotiations. On Oct. 27, the government introduced and passed legislation within a single sitting day to order 51,000 public, Catholic, and francophone teachers back to work. By invoking the clause, the government shielded its legislation from Charter-related legal challenges. The ATA launched a legal challenge soon after the act was passed.

What the Poll Reveals About Public Opinion

The survey found 50 per cent of respondents said the use of the notwithstanding clause was inappropriate, while 33 per cent found it appropriate. Another 10 per cent were neutral, and seven per cent were unsure. When asked about the back-to-work legislation itself, 47 per cent opposed the move while 39 per cent supported it. Support was higher among respondents with school-aged children. The poll also found that 42 per cent believed the teachers’ association handled the dispute better, compared to 25 per cent who said the provincial government did.

Impact on Government Perception

About half of respondents reported that the government’s handling of the dispute negatively affected their perception of the United Conservative government, while 16 per cent said it improved their view. Political observers say the government likely anticipated a polarized response, framing its decision as necessary to return students to classrooms amid prolonged disruption.

Education Priorities Identified by the Public

When asked what should be prioritized to improve education in Alberta, 47 per cent of respondents selected reducing class sizes as their top concern—more than triple the preference for any other option. The government has since announced plans to restore classroom size and complexity data collection, establish a cabinet committee to address learning conditions, and fund 3,000 additional teaching positions and 1,500 educational assistants by 2028.

Labour Action May Continue

The poll also indicates 51 per cent of respondents would support a general strike in response to the government invoking the notwithstanding clause, while 31 per cent said they would oppose such action. Labour leaders say unions are currently discussing possible coordinated responses, though a general strike would be illegal under Alberta labour law. The Leger report suggests that broader labour unrest may continue, with six in 10 respondents expecting more protests or strikes in the months ahead.

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Canada Reconsiders the Meaning of Its Unknown Soldier

Nicole
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Canada Reconsiders the Meaning of Its Unknown Soldier

As DNA technology advances, Canada confronts how science may reshape the symbolism and future of its Unknown Soldier.

Canada’s Tomb of Memory and Meaning

At the base of the National War Memorial in Ottawa rests Canada’s Unknown Soldier, interred in 2000 after his remains were recovered from a First World War battlefield in France. He stands as a symbol for all service members lost without name or trace — a reminder of sacrifice made in silence and anonymity. The Unknown Soldier represents not just one life ended a century ago, but thousands of others erased in the chaos of war.

Changing Technology, Changing Expectations

Today, advances in DNA analysis have reshaped the way nations account for their war dead. With genetic identification now standard in modern conflicts, military experts say future soldiers are unlikely to remain nameless. Families increasingly expect certainty, closure, and the return of remains — a shift that diverges from the era when vast losses made anonymity tragically common.

Identifying the Missing of Past Wars

Since 2007, Canada’s Department of National Defence has operated the Casualty Identification Program, which works to identify unknown soldiers from conflicts prior to 1970. The effort relies on DNA comparison, archaeological research, and historical records. The program’s teams often walk among rows of headstones, searching for clues to restore identity. “Each of these stones represents a person,” said historian Renée Davis, reflecting on the emotional weight of the work and the quiet duty it entails.

Global Efforts to Reclaim the Fallen

Canada and the United States are among the most active Western nations in restoring names to unidentified remains. Other countries, including the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, have programs of varying scale and restrictions. Germany’s efforts, for example, are largely handled by the Volksbund, a civilian war graves commission, which estimates more than two million German soldiers remain missing.

The Symbol That Defies Identification

Despite scientific capability, Canada pledged never to test the Unknown Soldier’s DNA when his remains were repatriated. The choice was deliberate: to preserve his role as a universal representation of sacrifice. For forensic anthropologist Dr. Sarah Lockyer, part of Canada’s identification team, this tension is real. Her professional mission is to give the dead back their names — and yet the Unknown Soldier’s power lies in the absence of his.

Future Wars, Future Symbols

Recent global tensions, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, have renewed discussions about the possibility of large-scale conflict. Yet even if future casualties occur, experts argue that the era of unknown soldiers is likely behind us. Modern identification techniques mean families expect — and receive — certainty.

A Legacy That Endures

In 2024, Newfoundland welcomed home its own Unknown Soldier, representative of the hundreds of Newfoundlanders lost in the First World War. For many, the symbolism remains deeply personal. “It could have been any of us,” said retired military padre Phil Ralph. While he supports maintaining the anonymity of national tombs, he acknowledges the emotional conflict: a parent’s heart seeks answers, even when a nation seeks a symbol.

The Unknown Soldier endures not just as a relic of past wars, but as a testament to the human cost of conflict — and a reminder of the names we remember, and the ones we never can.

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Vancouver Plans Fee Hikes to Support Zero Tax Increase

Alex
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Vancouver Plans Fee Hikes to Support Zero Tax Increase

Vancouver plans to freeze property taxes in 2026, but water, sewer, parking, and permit fees are expected to rise to balance the city budget.

Vancouver Fees to Rise as City Targets 0% Tax Increase

Budget Plan Under Review

Vancouver City Council will vote Wednesday on Mayor Ken Sim’s proposal to keep property taxes flat in 2026 after three years of cumulative increases of roughly 20 per cent. Staff reports show the city would need to hold its operating budget at $2.4 billion, requiring $120 million in combined cost reductions, fee increases, and new revenue sources to achieve a zero per cent property tax change.

Services Affected by Higher Costs

To make the plan work, several city service fees are projected to increase in 2026. These include parking rates, development permit fees, sewer fees, and water-related charges. The city’s finance staff say raising service-based fees spreads costs to users rather than homeowners overall, but the changes could result in higher living expenses for many residents.

Water Meter and Rate Increases

The city’s manager of engineering services has recommended increasing the cost of installing residential and commercial water meters by between two and 33 per cent, depending on building type and system requirements. In addition, metered water rates are expected to rise by four per cent next year, forming part of a gradual 20 per cent increase over five years. Flat-rate water bills, still paid by about 68,000 of Vancouver’s 100,000 water connections, are projected to rise between 10 and 16 per cent as the city continues shifting toward full metering.

Reason for Water Cost Adjustments

Vancouver purchases its water from Metro Vancouver, and the regional supplier is charging more for 2026. City staff report Vancouver’s water purchase cost will total $109 million in 2026, up $1.9 million from the previous year. Officials say higher fees are required to match rising supply charges and ongoing infrastructure demands, while metering is intended to improve conservation and align billing with consumption.

Decision Timeline and Public Impact

Council will first vote on the zero per cent property tax strategy before reviewing the detailed fee schedules later in the budget process. The proposal has drawn mixed response: some residents welcome relief from further property tax increases, while others say increasing fees for essentials like water and sewer service may still leave households paying more overall. Public consultation and further budget discussions are expected through 2025.

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Historic Snowstorm Slams Waterloo Region, Roads Disrupted

James
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Historic Snowstorm Slams Waterloo Region, Roads Disrupted

A historic snowstorm hit Waterloo region this weekend, breaking records and prompting safety warnings after widespread traffic disruptions.

Record-Breaking Weekend Snowfall

A rare early November storm swept across the Waterloo region on Sunday, leaving communities from Windsor to Ottawa under a thick blanket of snow. The unexpected surge of winter weather arrived after Environment Canada issued a special weather statement late Friday. Meteorologists tracked a low-pressure system moving through southwestern Ontario, bringing snowfall levels not recorded in nearly a century.

Historic Weather Records Surpassed

Environment Canada meteorologist Rob Kuhn reported that Kitchener saw roughly 14 centimetres of snow on Sunday, surpassing previous November 9 records of 10.2 centimetres set in 1921 and again in 1933. Measurements from the Eric D. Soulis Weather Station at the University of Waterloo showed snow accumulation building steadily throughout the day, rising from six centimetres at 10 a.m. to 13 centimetres by late evening.

Road Conditions and Emergency Response

The sudden burst of winter weather challenged drivers across the region, leading to hazardous road conditions and an increase in collisions. GTA tow truck operator James Michael said the storm kept crews responding continuously to stranded vehicles and roadside incidents. Ontario Provincial Police reported about 220 collisions across major highways in the Greater Toronto Area within 24 hours, along with another 120 vehicles left in ditches or stuck without available response.

Local Reports of Collisions

Waterloo Regional Police Service confirmed 45 motor vehicle collision calls in the same period as residents navigated slippery roads and reduced visibility. Police agencies emphasized caution, urging drivers to slow down, maintain distance from other vehicles, and ensure winter tires are installed early in the season.

Safety Guidance Moving Forward

Officials are reminding residents to treat this early snowfall as a preview of the winter ahead. Drivers are encouraged to clear snow from windows and mirrors before heading out and allow extra time for travel. With more seasonal weather expected in the coming weeks, regional authorities stress preparedness as the key to preventing further incidents.

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Ottawa Airport Train Service Halted Amid Snowfall Issue

Chuck
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Ottawa Airport Train Service Halted Amid Snowfall Issue

Train service on Ottawa’s Line 4 to the airport is suspended after a stopped train during snowfall. Route 105 buses continue to connect travelers.

Service Disruption Reported

A temporary suspension of train service on Line 4 to Ottawa International Airport began Sunday evening after a train came to an unexpected stop along the four-kilometre rail spur. OC Transpo confirmed the disruption but did not release details about what caused the train to halt.

Impact on Travellers and Commuters

The outage affects travellers heading to or from Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport, particularly those relying on rail connections from South Keys. To maintain access, Route 105 buses are currently operating between the airport and South Keys stations, enabling passengers to complete their trips despite the rail interruption.

Weather Conditions at the Time

The stoppage occurred during the region’s first significant snowfall of the season. Environment Canada recorded 11.7 centimetres of snow at the airport on Sunday. While OC Transpo has not directly linked the weather to the service problem, the conditions created slower travel and higher congestion throughout the city.

Background on the Line

The Line 4 extension, which officially opened in January after years of anticipation, provides a direct rail link between the airport and Ottawa’s broader transit network. The service is intended to offer reliable year-round access for both residents and visitors.

Next Steps and Ongoing Updates

OC Transpo has not announced when train service on Line 4 will resume. Technicians are assessing the stopped train and rail line to identify the issue and determine repairs. The transit agency says updates will be shared on its website and social media channels as more information becomes available.

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B.C. Extortion Wave Traced to Transnational Crime Networks

Claire Bennett
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0
B.C. Extortion Wave Traced to Transnational Crime Networks

BC extortion cases surge as police link shootings and threats to transnational crime, prompting new task forces and community calls for protection.

Rising Threat Across B.C. Communities

Police in Surrey, Abbotsford and Delta have reported more than 100 extortion incidents in 2025, marking one of the most significant crime waves in recent years. The targets are primarily business owners who receive anonymous demands for money, often followed by shootings or arson if they refuse. Authorities say the pattern is now widespread across British Columbia and connected provinces.

How the Scheme Typically Unfolds

Victims often report receiving a phone call, text message or letter instructing them to pay large sums to avoid harm. If the demand is ignored, shots are frequently fired at homes or storefronts, leaving shattered glass and rising fear within local business communities. Police say the tactic is designed to intimidate victims into silence and compliance.

Early Incidents in Alberta

The trend first drew national attention in October 2023 in Edmonton, where police documented extortion, arson and drive-by shootings targeting home builders. Investigators at the time noted many victims were from South Asian business networks. Edmonton Police later reported evidence that some suspects coordinated through WhatsApp, demanding hundreds of thousands of dollars.

First Reports in British Columbia

By November 2023, similar incidents emerged in Surrey. Gunfire struck the Payal Business Centre, prompting RCMP to issue public warnings urging business owners to come forward. The same month, the fatal shooting of Edmonton resident Harry Uppal revealed links to the Brothers Keepers, a B.C.-based organized crime group.

Spread to Ontario and National Coordination

In December 2023, police in the Greater Toronto Area reported extortion attempts involving threats, vandalism and firearms offences. Peel Regional Police formed an Extortion Investigative Task Force, signaling the issue had moved beyond localized incidents to a broader criminal network operating across provinces.

Community Calls for Action

January 2024 brought the first major public response in Surrey, where hundreds gathered at a local temple to call for greater police presence and support for victims. Officials urged targeted individuals not to pay extortionists and to work directly with law enforcement. However, reports of continued threats persisted across multiple sectors.

Industry Groups Sound the Alarm

By mid-2024, the trucking industry raised concerns after several company owners reported repeated threats and property damage. Some business owners described gasoline attacks, vandalism and repeated phone demands for payment within strict deadlines. Police continued to warn that paying extortionists emboldens further attempts.

High-Profile Attacks Draw International Attention

In September 2024, gunfire and arson targeted the Victoria-area home of Punjabi singer AP Dhillon. Media later reported an online claim of responsibility linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, a criminal network based in India. Federal police have since stated that several key extortion operations in Canada show links to Indian-based organized groups.

Federal Allegations of State-Linked Activity

In October 2024, RCMP leadership alleged the “highest levels” of the Indian government had connections to violent intimidation operations on Canadian soil, including extortion. Attempts to share evidence with Indian law enforcement have reportedly stalled, further complicating international cooperation.

Escalation into 2025

From June to August 2025, shootings increased across Surrey, with multiple cafés, trucking businesses and private residences struck by gunfire. Some locations, including Kap’s Café, were targeted repeatedly. Property damage and fear of injury escalated across business districts.

Provincial Response and Task Force Creation

On September 25, 2025, the Province of British Columbia formed a joint provincial task force led by the RCMP, involving municipal police and federal border agencies. Shortly after, the federal government designated the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist organization, granting additional enforcement tools including asset seizure and terrorism-related charges.

Recent Arrests and Ongoing Investigations

Police announced multiple arrests in October 2025 related to shootings and arson cases, though several suspects were released pending further investigation. On Oct. 7, a Surrey woman became the first confirmed injury in an extortion-related shooting, intensifying public concern. By early November, the Canada Border Services Agency reported reviewing 78 foreign nationals and removing three from the country.

Continuing Challenges Ahead

Officials say dismantling the networks behind the extortion wave remains complex due to cross-border coordination, encrypted communication and influence from criminal groups abroad. Community leaders and police continue to urge victims to report threats immediately, emphasizing that silence enables further violence.

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