16.1 C
Cañada
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Subscribe
Home Blog Page 252

Webequie Wildfire Evacuees Begin Journey Home from Barrie

James
-
0
Webequie Wildfire Evacuees Begin Journey Home from Barrie

After two weeks in Barrie due to wildfire danger, over 400 Webequie First Nation evacuees are heading home as conditions improve in northwestern Ontario.

Flights Begin as Webequie Evacuees Repatriated

Hundreds of evacuees from Webequie First Nation in northwestern Ontario are flying home this week after being displaced by a major wildfire. The community declared a state of emergency on May 29 due to Nipigon 5, a fast-spreading wildfire that forced the evacuation of over 400 vulnerable residents.

Community Relocated to Southern Ontario

The evacuees were relocated to Barrie, Ontario — nearly 1,400 km south of Webequie — where they stayed in hotels for two weeks. Barrie is located just over an hour north of Toronto. The community, largely Ojibway, faced significant disruption but received support services throughout their stay.

Improved Conditions Prompt Return

Webequie Chief Cornelius Wabasse confirmed Monday that 200 community members were flown back, with another 200 expected to return by Tuesday. Fire activity has since decreased, and air quality around the community has improved significantly.

“The fire has moved away from the community and crews are actively managing the situation,” said Chief Wabasse.

Return Timed for Cultural Celebration

The timing of the return means evacuees are likely to be home for National Indigenous Peoples Day on Saturday. Festivities in Webequie are set to include drumming, singing, a community cookout, and cultural events. “People are very happy to go back to their community,” Wabasse shared.

Other First Nations Still Displaced

While Webequie’s situation is stabilizing, other northern Ontario communities remain under threat. Red Lake 12 — the region’s largest wildfire at 177,000 hectares — has forced over 2,000 Sandy Lake First Nation members to evacuate. They’re now residing in various southern Ontario communities with Canadian Armed Forces assistance.

Keewaywin and North Spirit Lake First Nations have also initiated evacuations. Meanwhile, nearly 800 Deer Lake First Nation members have been living in Toronto for more than two weeks.

Managing Crisis With Community Cohesion

Deer Lake’s Chief Leonard Mamakeesic emphasized the importance of keeping evacuees together. “I pretty much moved my whole community here, all the resources and all the departments,” he stated. Medical support, food services, and donations have been coordinated by ISN Maskwa with assistance from Indigenous Services Canada.

Deer Lake’s leadership is scheduled to meet with Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources on Wednesday to determine next steps for their community.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Vancouver Renames Street to Honour Musqueam Heritage

James
-
0
Vancouver Renames Street to Honour Musqueam Heritage

Vancouver renames Trutch Street to šxʷməθkʷəy̓əmasəm, the city’s first legally named street in a First Nations language, as part of reconciliation efforts.

Street Renamed to Reflect Indigenous Identity

On Tuesday morning, Vancouver City Council voted unanimously to rename Trutch Street—an 18-block residential street in Kitsilano—to šxʷməθkʷəy̓əmasəm Street, which translates to Musqueamview Street in English. The change marks a historic first: Vancouver’s first legal street name in hən̓q̓əmin̓əm, the traditional language of the Musqueam people.

Why the Change Was Made

The street was originally named after Joseph Trutch, British Columbia’s first lieutenant governor, whose legacy includes deeply racist and damaging policies toward Indigenous communities. Trutch significantly reduced the size of First Nations reserves—by up to 91% in some cases—and referred to Indigenous peoples as “savages” in correspondence with Prime Minister John A. Macdonald.

Chief Wayne Sparrow of the Musqueam Indian Band called the renaming a necessary step toward educating the public on these historical injustices. “We have to teach them of the wrongdoing and the reasons why,” he said.

Community Response Mixed but Respectful

While the council’s decision passed without opposition, some Trutch Street residents expressed concerns, particularly around the usability of the new name in daily life.

“There’s no way for us to input this on our cell phones or call services,” one resident said during public remarks. In response, the city confirmed that English translations—Musqueamview Street—will appear alongside the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm name on all signage. Residents will be allowed to use either version for addressing and navigation purposes.

Reconciliation in Action

The name šxʷməθkʷəy̓əmasəm was formally gifted to the city by the Musqueam Nation as part of Vancouver’s broader reconciliation initiatives. The move has been praised by city leaders, including Green Party Councillor Pete Fry, who called it “a great renaming of a very controversial figure that caused a great deal of harm.”

The Musqueam reserve today covers only 2.75 square kilometres, despite traditional territory extending across nearly 1,500 square kilometres. The renaming acknowledges the long-standing contributions and presence of Indigenous peoples in the region.

What Comes Next

A ceremony to celebrate the renaming will take place on Friday, followed by the installation of new bilingual street signs. The City of Vancouver has worked with Canada Post, first responders, and other key services to ensure a smooth transition.

Chief Sparrow emphasized this is just one step on a longer road: “Slowly. Baby steps. But we’ll get there at the end of the day.”

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Surrey Hosts Nationals at One of Last 5-Pin Bowling Lanes

James
-
0
Surrey Hosts Nationals at One of Last 5-Pin Bowling Lanes

Surrey’s Scottsdale Lanes hosts 5-pin nationals June 23–28, spotlighting a fading Canadian pastime and its passionate players from across the country.

National Spotlight on Scottsdale Lanes This June

Surrey is set to host a major national event that celebrates one of Canada’s most iconic homegrown sports—5-pin bowling. From June 23 to 28, the 2025 Masters National Championships will roll into Scottsdale Lanes, one of the last few remaining centres in the city that still offers 5-pin bowling, a sport uniquely Canadian in origin and culture.

A Gathering of Canada’s Top Bowlers

The championships will bring together over 200 elite-level 5-pin bowlers from across eight provinces, including singles competitors and teams from both tournament and teaching divisions. Players like Ken Tyers, Jordon Schuss, and Kelly Gorsek—longtime Surrey residents and seasoned bowlers—will represent British Columbia as they compete for national bragging rights.

A Dwindling Legacy in Local Communities

The event takes place across four Metro Vancouver venues—Scottsdale Lanes (Surrey), Galaxy Lanes (Abbotsford), Poco Bowl (Port Coquitlam), and Grandview Lanes (Vancouver). The selection of venues is a nod to the increasing scarcity of traditional 5-pin lanes due to rising land values and redevelopment pressures. Scottsdale Lanes, which recently converted a third of its lanes to 10-pin, remains one of the few facilities in the region preserving the 5-pin tradition.

A Deeply Personal and Cultural Game

For competitors like Schuss, who began bowling at age three, 5-pin is more than a game—it’s a lifelong passion. Despite the sport’s relatively low public profile, bowlers often describe it as a tight-knit community. “I never thought I’d love it until I got good at it,” said Schuss, a longshoreman who once won nationals and now trains at Scottsdale.

The sport fosters connections across the country, noted Jo-Anne Borgford, co-chair of the national tournament. “This is a Canada-only sport… and because of it, I have friends across the country,” she said.

Youth Participation and Urban Challenges

Despite its rich heritage, 5-pin bowling faces declining youth engagement and rising operational costs. “Kids don’t seem into such sports anymore,” Borgford lamented. Meanwhile, the infrastructure demands and property taxes make operating bowling centres financially unviable in many urban areas.

Kevin Jewell, tournament media representative, emphasized the urgency of youth participation. “We have to promote the game to younger players… a new generation has to come up,” said Jewell, who still bowls competitively in his 60s.

Competitive Yet Inclusive

The Masters Nationals includes a range of skill levels, with systems like “pins over average” allowing players to compete based on consistency rather than just high scores. Ken Tyers, who plays in the seniors division, appreciates this approach. “It keeps guys like me in the game… because I’d have no chance beating someone like Jordan otherwise,” he shared.

Looking Ahead: Preserving a Canadian Tradition

As the Masters National Championships prepare to strike excitement across the region, they also shine a light on the cultural and recreational significance of 5-pin bowling. For venues like Scottsdale and bowlers across the country, the tournament is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of a sport worth preserving.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Windsor-Essex Board Passes Budget with $1M Deficit, Cuts

Chuck
-
0
Windsor-Essex Board Passes Budget with $1M Deficit, Cuts

Windsor-Essex school board approves 2025-26 budget with $1M deficit and 145 staff cuts, blaming provincial underfunding for service reductions.

Board Approves Deficit Budget with Major Cuts

The Greater Essex County District School Board has passed its 2025–2026 budget with a nearly $1 million shortfall, despite widespread concerns over the impact of 145.5 staff position cuts and the elimination of several key educational programs. The vote took place Tuesday night in Windsor, Ontario.

Pressure from Province Drives Decision

The budget was passed by a 7–2 trustee vote, with members expressing frustration at being legally required to pass a financially balanced plan by 2026–27. The board had previously received special approval from the Ministry of Education to run a $6.4 million deficit for 2024–25, under the condition that it implement a multi-year recovery strategy.

Trustees warned that failure to approve the budget could trigger provincial supervision of board operations. “This stinks less than supervision,” said Trustee Julia Burgess, who voted in favour while criticizing the province for “downloading” political responsibility onto local school boards.

Programs and Services on the Chopping Block

The approved budget includes major reductions in educational support, such as the elimination of two full-time social workers and five professionals including psychologists and speech-language pathologists.

Program cuts include:

  • Termination of French Immersion at Marlborough and Forest Glade Public Schools
  • Elimination of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program
  • Cancellation of the IB program at Leamington District Secondary School
  • Phased removal of the IB program at Riverside Secondary School

Additionally, 20.5 central office roles will be removed to meet financial targets.

Trustees Blame Shortfalls on Provincial Funding Gaps

Trustees who opposed the budget said the board’s deficit is a result of insufficient provincial funding, not internal mismanagement. “What we have is a Ministry of Education funding problem,” said Trustee Kim McKinley, who voted against the motion. “This budget impacts students in numerous ways.”

Board data shows:

  • A $8.5 million shortfall in special education funding
  • A $7 million shortfall for supply and occasional teachers
  • Inadequate provincial transfers for regulated services like student transportation

Board staff noted that revenues from international student tuition, school rentals, and interest income were used to offset shortfalls, but could not fully cover the gaps.

Declining Enrolment Adds to Fiscal Pressure

Enrolment across the district is expected to decline by 950 students in 2025–26, further straining the board’s budget, which is funded on a per-student basis. Contributing factors include:

  • Lower kindergarten enrolment
  • Families choosing homeschooling or private schools
  • Some students returning to home countries post-pandemic

Trustee Linda Qin, who also opposed the budget, urged the board to engage families and address the reasons behind declining enrolment.

Renewed Appeal to the Province

Following the vote, the board agreed to send another letter to the Ministry of Education, again requesting urgent financial support. Last year, the board had written to then-Education Minister Todd Smith, seeking increased funding for special education and frontline staff.

A spokesperson for the ministry stated in response that provincial funding has increased by 20% since 2018, despite stable enrolment, and emphasized ongoing investments in education and student success.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Saskatchewan Rail Funds Rise, But Critics Say It’s Not Enough

Chuck
-
0
Saskatchewan Rail Funds Rise, But Critics Say It’s Not Enough

Saskatchewan boosts short-line rail funding to $1M, but experts and the NDP say more investment is needed to strengthen trade and supply chains.

Province Increases Rail Funding in Latest Budget

The Saskatchewan government announced a funding increase for its short-line railways in the 2025–2026 provincial budget, raising total provincial support to $1 million. This represents an 88% increase—up from $530,000 in the previous year. The announcement was reiterated Tuesday at a press conference led by Highways Minister David Marit.

Thirteen provincially regulated short-line railways operate more than 2,100 kilometres of track in Saskatchewan. The funding comes through the Short Line Railway Improvement Program (SRIP), a 50-50 cost-sharing initiative between the province and private rail operators, totalling $2 million in available project funding this year.

Essential to Export and Local Supply Chain

Short-line railways serve as a bridge between rural areas and Class 1 carriers like Canadian National Railway. They transport bulk goods, especially agricultural products, from Saskatchewan producers to global markets.

“We are the first and last mile of the operation,” said Glenn Pohl, senior railway specialist at Xpert Railway Consulting. “Our infrastructure enables producers to load and unload goods close to where they work.”

Minister Marit emphasized that short-line rail supports Saskatchewan’s export-based economy while easing pressure on provincial highways. “Short-line railways are an integral link that help move our commodities to markets around the world,” he said.

Critics Argue Funding Is Still Inadequate

While the funding increase was welcomed, critics say it doesn’t go far enough. Saskatchewan NDP Leader Carla Beck urged greater provincial and federal coordination to expand short-line capacity.

“With mounting trade pressures from the U.S., Canada must prioritize domestic infrastructure,” Beck said Thursday. “We need to get our world-class products to market more efficiently and reliably.”

Pohl echoed those concerns, calling the $1 million insufficient when divided among 13 railway companies. “We face real challenges—maintenance costs, infrastructure expansion, and taxation. More investment is essential for growth,” he said.

Mixed Reactions from Industry Leaders

Andrew Glastetter, president of the Western Canadian Short-line Railway Association and general manager of Great Western Railway, expressed satisfaction with the funding, while also highlighting the need for external partnerships.

“I don’t think we want to be seen as lined up with our hands out,” Glastetter said. “But we are keen to grow and contribute further to the supply chain. We’re actively seeking support beyond Saskatchewan to expand.”

Despite the shortfall, both Glastetter and Pohl said Saskatchewan’s short-line railways remain committed to developing new opportunities and improving Canada’s trade infrastructure.

2025–26 Provincial Funding Allocation

The province’s $1 million in funding has been allocated as follows:

  • Great Western Railway – $250,073
  • Big Sky Rail – $167,541
  • Great Sandhills Railway – $82,945
  • Carlton Trail Railway – $71,391
  • Last Mountain Railway – $56,122
  • Stewart Southern Railway – $54,471
  • Red Coat Road and Rail – $47,456
  • Long Creek Railroad – $45,000
  • Northern Lights Rail – $45,000
  • Southern Rails Cooperative – $45,000
  • Thunder Rail – $45,000
  • Torch River Rail – $45,000
  • Wheatland Rail – $45,000

Calls for Broader Support Grow

As industry experts and provincial leaders assess the impact of this year’s funding, one message remains clear: Saskatchewan’s short-line railways play a crucial role in maintaining and expanding Canada’s export and trade potential. But for long-term resilience, critics say broader, sustained investment is required—from both provincial and federal levels.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Panthers Crush Oilers to Repeat as Stanley Cup Champs

Nicole
-
0
Panthers Crush Oilers to Repeat as Stanley Cup Champs

Florida Panthers win second consecutive Stanley Cup, defeating Edmonton Oilers 5-1 in Game 6. Canada’s title drought extends to 31 years.

Florida Panthers Repeat as Champions After Game 6 Win

Florida Secures Historic Back-to-Back Title
On Tuesday, June 17, the Florida Panthers captured their second consecutive Stanley Cup by defeating the Edmonton Oilers 5-1 in Game 6 of the final series. The victory marks Florida as the NHL’s first back-to-back champions since the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2020–21.

Reinhart’s Rare Four-Goal Performance Lifts Florida

A Record Night for Panthers Forward
Sam Reinhart led the scoring with a stunning four-goal performance, becoming the sixth player in NHL history—and the first since Maurice Richard in 1957—to score four times in a Stanley Cup Final game. His hat trick sparked an unforgettable celebration on home ice, complete with flying hats and Florida’s signature plastic rats.

Canadian Team Falls Short Once Again

Oilers Denied as Canada’s Cup Drought Hits 31 Years
The loss extends Canada’s Stanley Cup drought to 31 consecutive seasons. No Canadian team has lifted the Cup since the Montreal Canadiens in 1993. Despite strong efforts by Edmonton’s star forwards Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Oilers were unable to solve Florida’s relentless forecheck and airtight defense.

Game Location and Atmosphere

Victory at Home in Sunrise, Florida
The deciding Game 6 was played at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida. The Panthers dominated both on the scoreboard and in energy, as fans roared in anticipation throughout the third period. The final buzzer was met with elation as players and fans celebrated another chapter in Florida’s hockey history.

Tactical Mastery from Maurice and Veteran Additions

Coaching, Trades, and Health Made the Difference
Head coach Paul Maurice, now a two-time champion, guided the Panthers through a clinical postseason, dispatching Tampa Bay, Toronto, Carolina, and Edmonton. Crucial trade deadline additions—Brad Marchand and Seth Jones—bolstered the lineup, while a healthier core roster allowed Florida to maintain pace throughout the playoffs.

How Edmonton Fell Behind

Goaltending Struggles and Defensive Errors Cost Oilers
Edmonton goaltender Stuart Skinner started Game 6 but struggled behind repeated defensive breakdowns. Reinhart’s second goal came off a turnover caused by Skinner himself. The Oilers rotated goalies during the series, a sign of instability that Florida exploited with relentless pressure and deep offensive contributions.

Dynasty Talk Begins in Florida

Panthers Poised for Continued Dominance
Florida has now appeared in three straight Stanley Cup Finals, winning two. With cornerstone players like Aleksander Barkov, Matthew Tkachuk, Sam Reinhart, and Sam Bennett—all under long-term deals—the Panthers are emerging as the NHL’s next dynasty.

Canadian Hockey Awaits Its Next Champion

National Frustration Builds as U.S. Teams Continue Reign
Tuesday’s loss deepens concerns among Canadian fans and hockey analysts, as American teams—especially from the Sun Belt—continue to dominate the league. Of the last six Stanley Cup champions, five are based in the southern U.S., underlining a shift in NHL power centers.

Closing Note to Canadian Readers:

While the dream of bringing the Stanley Cup back to Canadian soil remains alive, it will have to wait at least one more year. The Oilers’ run showcased immense talent, but Florida’s execution proved too much. For now, the Cup stays in South Florida—Canada’s 31-year wait continues.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

B.C. Tycoon Bids $6M for 3 Hudson’s Bay Leases

Avery
-
0
B.C. Tycoon Bids $6M for 3 Hudson’s Bay Leases

B.C. mall mogul Ruby Liu offers $6M for 3 Hudson’s Bay leases, aiming to revive retail with new stores and a bold vision for shopping centres in Canada.

Billionaire Developer Targets Hudson’s Bay Stores in B.C.

Real estate mogul Weihong (Ruby) Liu has offered $6 million to acquire three Hudson’s Bay leases in B.C. malls she already owns, according to court filings. The offer, part of Liu’s larger plan to revamp the department store model in Canada, marks the first concrete step in her retail expansion strategy.

Three Mall Locations Anchoring Vision

The leases up for court approval cover Hudson’s Bay locations at Tsawwassen Mills, Mayfair Shopping Centre in Victoria, and Woodgrove Centre in Nanaimo. Each lease is valued at $2 million and falls under Liu’s commercial real estate firm, Central Walk, which owns the malls. The deal, revealed in court documents, is separate from a broader bid Liu has placed for up to 25 more Hudson’s Bay-related leases across Canada.

Court Approval and Broader Acquisition Strategy

The lease transfer is contingent on judicial approval, part of a larger restructuring process by Hudson’s Bay Company, which sought creditor protection in March. Liu has also submitted a $9.4 million deposit for up to 28 leases, indicating a near $100 million total investment. The exact locations beyond the three in B.C. remain undisclosed.

Major Overhaul Plans for New Retail Brand

In an exclusive interview, Liu described the $6 million deal as just the beginning of a transformation. She plans to invest an additional $30 million to renovate the stores and launch a new brand under her name. Her vision includes turning department stores into lifestyle hubs featuring fashion, tech, wellness services, and even playgrounds for kids and amenities for seniors.

Retaining Talent and Modernizing Spaces

Liu has already rehired former Hudson’s Bay staff to support the redesign and relaunch effort. She acknowledged the outdated infrastructure in the properties, some of which haven’t been updated since the 1990s, and pledged to modernize them to meet current consumer demands.

Competitive Bidding and Uncertain Future for Other Leases

Hudson’s Bay received 12 bids for 39 of its 96 available leases, according to court filings. While Liu emerged as the preferred buyer for nearly a third of them, landlords of the respective properties still hold the power to accept or reject the transitions. Meanwhile, the Bay has hinted at deals with two other firms, though their identities remain under wraps.

A New Chapter in Canadian Retail?

Liu’s bold entry into the Canadian retail scene signals a potential rebirth for many aging department store spaces. While challenges remain, including landlord approvals and retail market shifts, her vision could reshape how Canadians experience mall shopping—merging commerce, community, and innovation under one roof.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Tense G7 Summit Ends with Trade Talks, Conflict Shadows

James
-
0
Tense G7 Summit Ends with Trade Talks, Conflict Shadows

The G7 summit in Canada saw Trump exit early, Iran-Israel war overshadow talks, and leaders focus on trade, AI, and resilience amid global crises.

High-Stakes Summit Unfolds in Alberta

The G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, hosted for the first time by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, began with a forward-looking agenda on trade, technology, and security. But global tensions quickly derailed the script. The sudden escalation of conflict between Israel and Iran, coupled with U.S. President Donald Trump’s abrupt departure, shifted attention away from policy to crisis management.

Carney remained optimistic, declaring the summit a turning point: “We can begin a new era of co-operation that promotes long-term resilience over short-term efficiency.”

Trump’s Exit Changes the Atmosphere

President Trump unexpectedly left the summit early, citing the deteriorating situation in the Middle East. His departure left key bilateral meetings—especially with Ukraine, Australia, and Mexico—unfinished, though he reportedly followed up by phone with some leaders.

French President Emmanuel Macron deflected concerns that the summit had turned into a “G6,” calling such suggestions disrespectful. Analysts noted a visible change in tone after Trump’s departure, with remaining leaders appearing more relaxed and cohesive.

Middle East Conflict Dominates Talks

Even before Trump’s exit, discussions were already dominated by the Israel-Iran war and broader regional instability. The G7 issued a joint statement urging de-escalation in the Middle East and calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, although it stopped short of demanding an immediate halt to hostilities between Israel and Iran.

President Macron and Trump clashed publicly over ceasefire narratives, reflecting divergent diplomatic strategies. Yet, despite the friction, the leaders maintained a unified front in their communique.

Ukraine Aid and Indian Diplomacy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky secured new aid commitments from Canada, though a collective G7 statement of support was reportedly scrapped due to U.S. objections. Instead, Ukraine was addressed in the summit’s chairman’s summary, highlighting a commitment to peace and pressure on Russia through sanctions.

Carney also faced domestic scrutiny over Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s attendance. Following last year’s diplomatic fallout over the murder of a Sikh separatist in Canada, the two countries agreed to restore diplomatic ties. Carney emphasized transnational security and the rules-based order in his discussions with Modi.

Carney’s Vision: Trade, Tech, and Resilience

Despite the geopolitical turbulence, Carney pushed through with his core agenda. Agreements emerged on artificial intelligence, critical minerals, quantum computing, and wildfire response.

A key focus was trade. Carney and Trump engaged in constructive talks on resolving ongoing tariff disputes, with both sides agreeing to pursue a deal within 30 days. Carney aims to diversify Canada’s economy away from over-reliance on the U.S., courting European and Asian leaders for broader trade partnerships.

Trump’s Trade Goals and Global Deadlines

Trump arrived at the summit keen to lock down trade deals ahead of his self-imposed July 9 “Liberation Day” tariff deadline. While no breakthroughs were made, he and British PM Keir Starmer advanced parts of a U.S.-UK tariff agreement.

Meanwhile, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Trump agreed to continue trade negotiations, despite remaining disagreements. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the EU-U.S. talks “complex,” yet progressing, with a deal in sight by July.

A Tense but Productive Gathering

Despite early exits, military escalations, and diplomatic frictions, the G7 summit closed with concrete steps on multiple fronts. Carney’s debut as host drew praise for a focused, pragmatic approach. Whether this summit sets a new tone for future cooperation remains to be seen—but it was, without doubt, a G7 to remember.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire. 

18-Year-Old Drowns in Rideau River Near Manotick Park

James
-
0
18-Year-Old Drowns in Rideau River Near Manotick Park

An 18-year-old drowned in the Rideau River Monday night near Manotick. Ottawa residents and firefighters joined rescue efforts, but the teen later died in hospital.

Emergency Unfolds Near Manotick Park

A tragic drowning incident occurred Monday night near Walter Upton-Collins Park in the Manotick area of south Ottawa. Ottawa Fire Services were called to the scene around 9:20 p.m. following a report that a teenager went missing while swimming in the Rideau River.

Teen Reported Missing After Evening Swim

According to Ottawa Fire Services (OFS), three teenagers had gone swimming in the river, but only two returned to shore. The alarm was raised immediately, prompting a swift response from emergency crews. A search and rescue boat was launched around 9:45 p.m. as efforts intensified to locate the missing youth.

Community Members Join Search Efforts

Residents near the riverbank witnessed the unfolding emergency. “There were a lot of flashlights being pointed into the water,” said Michel Strittmatter, a nearby resident. Another local, Sanjeev Sharma, said two boys in swimsuits knocked on his door pleading for help. “I kept going down to the bottom trying to see—it was very dark,” he recalled.

Rescue Turns to Tragedy

OFS confirmed that the teenager was eventually located and brought ashore. He was immediately handed over to Ottawa paramedics. Emergency responders noted the teen was in cardiac arrest upon retrieval and transported him to hospital. Despite efforts to save him, Ottawa Police confirmed on Tuesday that the 18-year-old male succumbed to his injuries.

Police Acknowledge Local Support

Ottawa Police did not release the identity of the victim but confirmed he was swimming with two other teens. Authorities expressed gratitude to community members who assisted in the rescue efforts, noting the quick action of residents like Sharma and Strittmatter.

Safety Concerns Renewed in Wake of Incident

The incident has reignited safety concerns around local water bodies. Both residents mentioned that the tragedy reminded them of a 2023 incident in which two teenagers lost their lives after falling through ice in the same vicinity. As summer temperatures rise, officials are urging caution for anyone engaging in open-water activities.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Canadian PM Carney welcomes India’s PM Modi at G7 venue

MapleNewsWire
-
0
Canadian PM Carney welcomes India’s PM Modi at G7 venue

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched down in Alberta on Monday for the 2025 G7 Summit, where he was officially welcomed by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the summit venue. The meeting of world leaders is taking place against a backdrop of escalating global crises — including conflict in the Middle East, Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, and a renewed global trade war spurred by U.S. President Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff measures.

PM Modi’s visit underscores India’s increasingly pivotal role in global diplomacy. His participation as a special invitee at the G7 reflects India’s growing stature on the world stage and its importance in addressing pressing global challenges such as climate change, digital governance, economic recovery, and geopolitical stability.

Modi’s arrival in Canada comes after a productive stop in Cyprus, where he met with President Nikos Christodoulides. The two leaders held comprehensive talks focused on strengthening bilateral ties in trade, investment, energy cooperation, and maritime security in the Indo-Mediterranean region. The discussions also touched on digital transformation, renewable energy initiatives, and cooperation in education and innovation.

At the G7 venue in Alberta, PM Carney welcomed Modi with a ceremonial handshake and a brief bilateral discussion before the summit proceedings began. Canadian officials emphasized the importance of India’s voice at the summit, particularly on issues such as sustainable development, global health, and the regulation of emerging technologies like AI.

The 2025 G7 Summit includes leaders from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, and Japan, along with key partner nations such as India, Brazil, South Africa, and Australia. The summit’s agenda features a strong focus on global economic resilience, equitable vaccine access, climate financing, and countering authoritarian influence in international institutions.

India is expected to push for reforms in global institutions like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, advocate for a fair digital economy, and highlight the concerns of the Global South — especially in areas of food security, clean energy access, and inclusive economic growth.

With rising tensions in the Middle East and supply chain disruptions continuing to affect global markets, leaders at the G7 are under pressure to present a united front. PM Modi’s participation is seen as a vital bridge between developed and emerging economies, and a reflection of India’s strategic importance in shaping a multipolar world order.

Oakville Restaurant Owner, Head Chef Charged in Human Trafficking Investigation Involving Mexican Workers

MapleNewsWire
-
0
Oakville Restaurant Owner, Head Chef Charged in Human Trafficking Investigation Involving Mexican Workers

A troubling human trafficking investigation has led to charges against two men connected to a popular Oakville sushi restaurant, with Halton police uncovering the alleged exploitation of vulnerable workers brought from Mexico.

According to investigators, the case centers around August 8, a franchise restaurant in Oakville, where three Mexican men were reportedly subjected to inhumane working and living conditions. The victims were said to be controlled through coercion and fear, leaving them “powerless and dependent,” police stated in a release.

Halton police began their investigation in March following a tip and later executed search warrants at the restaurant and two Oakville residences. What they found was deeply disturbing: cramped, unsanitary living quarters and conditions that suggested serious exploitation — including alleged violations of the victims’ sexual integrity.

A 46-year-old man, identified as the owner of the Oakville August 8 location, is now facing multiple charges, including human trafficking, possession of crime-related property over $5,000, and the unauthorized employment of foreign nationals.

The restaurant’s 27-year-old head chef has also been charged with human trafficking and faces three counts of sexual assault.

Both men were arrested last week and remain in custody as they await a bail hearing at the Milton courthouse.

“This kind of labour trafficking can be extremely traumatic,” said Const. Jeff Dillon, a spokesperson for Halton police. While specific details about the victims’ current situation have not been released, Dillon confirmed that community support services have stepped in to assist them.

The Halton Regional Police Homicide Unit has now taken over the investigation. Authorities believe more victims may be out there and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

PM Mark Carney Condemns Russian Strikes, Pledges Increased Military Support to Ukraine at G7 Summit

MapleNewsWire
-
0
PM Mark Carney Condemns Russian Strikes, Pledges Increased Military Support to Ukraine at G7 Summit

Prime Minister Mark Carney, standing alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the G7 summit in Alberta on Tuesday, strongly condemned the latest wave of Russian missile strikes on Kyiv, calling them “abhorrent acts of aggression.”

In a joint statement, Carney reaffirmed Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine, stating that the country stands in “total solidarity” with the Ukrainian people in their ongoing fight for sovereignty and democracy.

“In the face of brutal and unjustified attacks, Canada will not waver,” Carney declared. “We are increasing our military assistance to Ukraine because defending freedom and human dignity is not optional — it is our responsibility.”

The Prime Minister announced an expanded military aid package that includes additional drone systems, ammunition supplies, and advanced surveillance equipment, part of Canada’s ongoing commitment to Ukraine’s defense.

President Zelenskyy expressed deep gratitude for Canada’s continued leadership and solidarity, highlighting the importance of united democratic support in the face of Russian aggression.

The announcement comes amid growing international pressure on Russia and increased coordination among G7 nations to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities and accelerate post-war reconstruction efforts.

1...251252253...354Page 252 of 354

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

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

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

Victoria Selected to Pilot Hockey Canada Development Hub

Blog 0
Victoria to Host Hockey Canada’s First Development Hub Pilot Victoria...

Air Canada Ordered to Pay Passenger Nearly $15,000 After Delay

Blog 0
Canadian Court Rules Against Air Canada in Delay Dispute A...

Popular

B.C. Premier Alarmed by AI Warnings Before Tumbler Ridge Shooting

Canadian Cities 0
Premier Eby calls AI warnings before Tumbler Ridge shooting...

Tragic Avalanche Claims Skier Near Revelstoke

Canadian Cities 0
A guided backcountry skiing trip near Revelstoke ends in...

Ottawa Invests $40M in B.C. Universities for Defence Innovation

Canadian Cities 0
Canada pledges $40M to UBC and SFU for defence...

Sitemap

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