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Pricing Changes Could Push Alcohol Costs Higher Across Ontario

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Some Alcohol Prices in Ontario Could Rise in the New Year

Ontario — Some alcohol prices in Ontario may increase in 2026 as changes to the province’s alcohol system take effect.
Industry groups warn that pricing shifts could affect consumers across the province.

Ontario recently expanded alcohol sales to more locations.
Beer, wine, and ready-to-drink beverages are now available in convenience and grocery stores.

The move aims to modernize alcohol sales and improve access.
However, it has also changed how retailers purchase alcohol.

Temporary Wholesale Discount Set to End

To support businesses during the transition, the province increased the wholesale discount on alcohol.
Bars, restaurants, and convenience stores received a 15 percent discount from the LCBO.

This temporary discount expires on December 31, 2025.
After that, the discount will drop back to 10 percent.

Industry leaders say this change could raise operating costs.
Many businesses may pass those costs on to customers.

Restaurants and small retailers already face tight margins.
As a result, price increases may become unavoidable.

New Pricing Model Planned for 2026

Ontario also plans to introduce a new wholesale pricing structure.
The model would apply taxes and markups earlier in the supply chain.

Retail groups raised concerns about higher shelf prices.
They asked the government to slow the rollout.

The province delayed implementation until April 2026.
Officials say the pause allows more consultation with industry stakeholders.

Some experts hope revisions will reduce consumer impact.
Others remain cautious about long-term price effects.

Recycling System Changes May Add Pressure

Changes to Ontario’s alcohol container recycling system could also affect prices.
Grocery stores were expected to accept empty alcohol containers.

Instead, the province kept recycling responsibilities with The Beer Store.
Grocers may now face additional handling and logistics costs.

Retailers could pass those expenses to shoppers.
This may further increase prices for beer, wine, and coolers.

What Consumers Should Expect

Not all alcohol prices will rise.
Some products may remain stable or vary by retailer.

Still, industry groups warn of gradual increases in 2026.
Consumers may notice higher prices at bars, restaurants, and convenience stores.

Ontario residents are encouraged to stay informed.
Pricing changes will continue as the new system evolves.

 

Convicted Terrorist Said Namouh Denied Parole for Lack of De-radicalization

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Parole Board Denies Release to Convicted Terrorist Citing No De-radicalization

Canada — The Parole Board of Canada has denied parole to a man convicted of terrorism offences.
Said Namouh, now in his early fifties, will remain behind bars after the board raised serious safety concerns.

Namouh received a life sentence in 2010 for supporting an Al-Qaeda-linked extremist media network.
Authorities convicted him under Canada’s Anti-Terrorism Act for promoting violent ideology and planning attacks.

The board reviewed his parole request earlier this month.
After assessment, members ruled that releasing him would pose an unacceptable public risk.

Board Cites No Signs of De-radicalization

In its ruling, the board stated that “no signs of de-radicalization have been observed.”
Members said Namouh failed to show meaningful change in beliefs or behaviour.

Although Namouh claimed he no longer supports extremist violence, officials found no supporting evidence.
The board also noted limited participation in rehabilitation and risk-assessment programs.

Correctional staff reported rule violations during his incarceration.
These included unauthorized materials and non-compliance with institutional requirements.

As a result, the board concluded he remains a significant threat to public safety.

Background of the Conviction

Namouh arrived in Canada in the early 2000s and settled in Quebec.
Authorities later linked him to the Global Islamic Media Front, an extremist propaganda group.

Investigators said he helped distribute violent content and supported terrorist operations.
Police arrested him in 2007 following a national security investigation.

His 2010 conviction marked one of Canada’s early terrorism prosecutions.

Deportation Expected After Release

Namouh faces deportation upon eventual release because he is not a Canadian citizen.
The Canada Border Services Agency holds a removal order against him.

However, deportation may not occur immediately after release.
Legal reviews could delay removal if he claims risk in his home country.

Until then, authorities say public safety remains their priority.

Public Safety Remains Central Concern

The Parole Board emphasized protection of the public in its decision.
Officials said parole requires clear proof of rehabilitation.

In this case, the board found none.
Namouh may apply again in the future, but conditions remain strict.

The ruling highlights Canada’s firm stance on terrorism-related offences.
It also reinforces the importance of genuine de-radicalization before any release.

 

Canada to End Remote Border Crossing Program in 2026, Switches to Telephone Reporting


Canada
— The Canada Border Services Agency has confirmed it will end the Remote Area Border Crossing Program in 2026.
The program currently allows pre-approved travellers to enter Canada through remote border areas without visiting staffed checkpoints.

Starting in September 2026, travellers entering Canada from remote locations must report their entry differently.
They will either visit an official port of entry or use a new telephone reporting system after arrival.

Why Canada Is Ending the Program

The Remote Area Border Crossing Program served regions without regular customs stations.
These areas include the Northwest Angle, Lake of the Woods, Lake Superior shore, and Cockburn Island.

The federal government reviewed the program to improve border security and reporting consistency.
Officials say the telephone system offers clearer oversight while keeping access available in remote regions.

The change also aligns reporting rules across the country.
Authorities say it creates a more modern and reliable process.

How Telephone Reporting Will Work

Under the new system, travellers must contact border officials by phone.
They must report their entry details before fully entering Canada.

Designated reporting locations will support this process.
These sites will allow travellers to connect directly with border officers.

Each entry will require a new report.
Officials say this method improves tracking and accountability.

What Happens to Current Permits

Existing Remote Area Border Crossing permits will remain valid until September 13, 2026.
The government automatically extended active permits to avoid disruption.

Canada stopped issuing new permits in 2024.
This pause allowed time to prepare the transition.

Travellers should plan ahead.
The program will not return after the deadline.

Impact on Remote Communities

The border agency will consult Indigenous communities and local governments.
Officials want to ensure the new system meets regional needs.

Law enforcement agencies will also take part in planning.
The goal is smooth implementation without reducing access.

Authorities say border safety will remain a priority.
They expect minimal disruption during the transition period.

What Travellers Should Do Next

People using remote crossings should learn the new requirements early.
Fishing, camping, and property visits will require phone reporting.

Travellers must confirm reporting procedures before crossing.
Failure to report could lead to penalties.

Officials say the change strengthens border integrity.
They believe it also improves clarity for travellers in remote regions.

 

H3N2 Influenza Drives Rising Hospitalizations Across Canada

Flu Cases Surge Across Canada as Hospitalizations Expected to Rise

Canada — Health officials warn that influenza activity is rising sharply, and hospitalizations are expected to surge in the coming weeks.
New data shows flu cases across the country continue to climb as the winter season deepens.

Nationwide flu tests have returned positive at increasing rates. About 28 per cent of tests now show influenza, up from last week’s figures.

Public health experts urge Canadians to get vaccinated as soon as possible. They say flu vaccines remain a key tool to reduce severe illness and hospital visits.

Rising Flu Cases and Hospital Pressure

Public health reporting shows thousands of confirmed influenza cases in recent weeks.
In Ontario alone, around 5,400 flu cases were reported for the week ending December 13.

Hospitalizations related to flu have nearly doubled in just one week.
Ontario reported just under 1,000 flu‑linked hospital stays, more than 400 more than the previous period.

Three children in the Ottawa area have died from complications related to influenza.
Health officials stress that young children and older adults face higher risk.

Emergency departments, especially pediatric units, are seeing heavier patient volumes.
One hospital reported a 50 per cent increase in emergency visits for respiratory illness.

H3N2 Strain Driving Severe Season

Health Canada notes that the H3N2 strain is dominant this season.
This strain often leads to more hospitalizations compared with other flu types.

Children and seniors are being hit particularly hard.
Most new infections occur in people under age 19, with children under five especially vulnerable.

Experts say this year’s H3N2 virus spreads rapidly, contributing to rising case and hospitalization numbers.
They emphasize that flu symptoms can range from mild to severe, and complications can be life‑threatening.

Advice for Canadians

Public health officials recommend everyone six months and older get a flu shot.
Vaccination can reduce severe illness and hospital stays even if it does not prevent all infections.

Other recommended protections include frequent hand washing and staying home when sick.
People with symptoms should avoid close contact with others to limit spread.

Experts urge people to follow guidance from local health authorities.
Staying informed can help residents take timely precautions throughout the peak flu season.

 

Failed Bombs and Mass Shooting at Bondi Beach Push Australia to Tighten Gun Laws

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Bondi Beach Attack Sparks Calls for Tougher Gun Laws in Australia

Australia — A deadly mass shooting at a Jewish Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach on December 14, 2025, has shocked the nation.
Fifteen people were killed, and dozens were injured, prompting urgent calls for stricter gun laws and anti-antisemitism measures.

Failed Bombs and Planning

Court documents reveal the attackers also tried to throw homemade pipe and tennis ball bombs at the crowd, but they failed to detonate.
Police said the alleged gunmen had planned the attack for several months, scouting Bondi Beach two days earlier.

Photographs in the police report show father and son training with firearms in a remote rural area of New South Wales, which includes Sydney.

The Alleged Gunmen

The alleged attackers are Sajid Akram, 50, who was killed by police, and his son Naveed Akram, 24.
Sajid reportedly owned six firearms, while Naveed faces 59 charges, including murder and terrorism.

Authorities described the attack as meticulously planned.
The revelation of reconnaissance visits and firearm training has fueled public concern over gun access and security gaps.

Calls for Stricter Gun Laws

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and state leaders have said the attack underscores the need for tougher firearm regulations.
Officials are considering stricter licensing, national gun buyback programs, and tighter limits on firearm ownership.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns pledged to recall the state parliament to fast-track reforms.
Proposed measures include enhanced background checks and requirements that gun owners be Australian citizens.

Community Reaction

Thousands gathered at Bondi Beach to mourn victims and condemn antisemitism.
Citizens expressed outrage and called for immediate measures to prevent similar attacks.

The tragedy has sparked debate between advocates for stricter gun control and those concerned about overreach.
Experts emphasize that law enforcement, community education, and surveillance must complement legal reforms.

Looking Ahead

Australia is expected to introduce some of its toughest gun control laws in decades.
Officials aim to balance public safety, reduce antisemitic threats, and limit access to dangerous weapons.

 

Canada Spent $78M on Deportations as Removals Hit Decade High

Canada Spends Millions on Deportations as Removals Reach Highest Levels in Years

Canada — The federal government spent tens of millions of dollars on deportations in 2024 as removal numbers rose sharply.
Ottawa spent about $78 million to deport roughly 18,000 people, the highest total in over a decade, surpassing levels last seen under former prime minister Stephen Harper.

The costs include flights, border services operations, and enforcement activities.
Officials and advocates say the rising expenditure and deportation pace reflect growing pressure on Canada’s immigration system.

Record Deportation Numbers

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) detained and removed large numbers of foreign nationals in 2024.
By late 2024, data showed deportations reached levels not seen in nearly a decade.

In 2024, about 18,000 people were removed from Canada, a figure comparable to the peak under the Harper government.
This spike follows increased enforcement and faster removal processing, especially for failed refugee claimants.

Advocates note that most removals involve individuals whose refugee applications were denied.
Around 7,300 deportations in 2024 were linked to rejected asylum claims.

Who Is Being Removed

Many deportees include people whose claims for refugee protection were unsuccessful.
About four in five removals in recent reporting were for this reason.

Others face removal for non‑compliance with immigration rules, such as overstaying a visa or working without authorization.
Criminal convictions also account for a smaller share of removals.

Immigration advocates argue that some people face deportation before they finish appeal processes.
Critics say this raises concerns about fairness and the risk of returning individuals to unsafe situations.

Government Rationale and Costs

Officials say deportations uphold the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.
Under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, the CBSA must remove those without legal status.

Supporters of enforcement say removals deter illegal stays and protect jobs and public services.
However, migrant groups contend that high costs divert funds from integration and support programs.

The growing deportation budget reflects a broader shift toward enforcement in recent years.
As Ottawa adjusts immigration targets and strengthens border policies, deportation spending may remain high.

 

White Christmas Unlikely for Much of Canada This Year

White Christmas Unlikely in Many Parts of Canada, Forecast Shows

Many Canadians dreaming of a snowy Christmas may feel disappointed this year.
Weather experts say a traditional white Christmas looks unlikely across several regions.

A white Christmas requires at least two centimetres of snow on the ground by December 25.
Current forecasts suggest warmer air will reduce snowfall in many populated areas.

Mild Temperatures Affect Holiday Weather

Meteorologists report above-seasonal temperatures in parts of southern Canada.
Warm air is moving northward as Christmas approaches.

This shift increases the chance of rain instead of snow.
Existing snow may melt before Christmas Day in some regions.

Weather experts say December has shown frequent temperature swings.
These changes make snowfall predictions more uncertain.

Cities With Low Snow Chances

Southern Ontario faces lower odds for snow on Christmas Day.
Cities like Toronto, Hamilton, Windsor, and Kingston may not see enough accumulation.

Coastal British Columbia also shows weak snow potential.
Vancouver and Victoria typically receive rain during mild winters.

Atlantic Canada may experience mixed precipitation.
Rain and slush could replace snowfall in parts of the Maritimes.

Regions Where Snow Remains Likely

Northern and Prairie regions still have better snow prospects.
Winnipeg, Regina, and Saskatoon already hold snow on the ground.

Cold temperatures may help preserve snow cover until Christmas.
These areas often experience stable winter conditions.

Northern Ontario also shows higher snow chances.
Cities like Thunder Bay and Timmins usually maintain winter snowfall.

Parts of Quebec and eastern Ontario may see late snowfall.
Light snow systems could arrive before the holiday.

Forecasts May Still Change

Meteorologists say weather patterns can shift quickly.
A late storm could still surprise some areas.

Experts advise Canadians to monitor daily updates.
Even snowfall may not meet official white Christmas standards.

 

Canada Moves to Block Carousel Schemes With New Tax Rules

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Canada’s Federal Budget Targets Tax Fraud Linked to Carousel Schemes

Canada — The federal government is strengthening its fight against tax fraud through new measures announced in Budget 2025.
A major focus involves cracking down on sophisticated GST and HST fraud known as carousel schemes.

Officials say these schemes cost the government millions in lost revenue each year.
They also undermine trust in Canada’s tax system and harm honest businesses.

The budget introduces new tools designed to close loopholes that criminals often exploit.
The goal is to stop fraudulent refunds before they leave government accounts.

How Carousel Schemes Work

Carousel schemes involve a network of companies trading goods or services.
Some businesses in the chain appear legitimate but exist only on paper.

One company collects GST or HST from buyers.
However, that company never sends the tax to the Canada Revenue Agency.

Meanwhile, another company in the chain claims tax credits for amounts never paid.
This allows fraudsters to profit while leaving the government with losses.

Authorities say these schemes often operate across borders.
They can also involve digital services and telecommunications.

Reverse Charge Mechanism Introduced

Budget 2025 proposes a reverse charge mechanism to stop this fraud.
Under this system, buyers become responsible for reporting and remitting the tax.

This change removes the incentive for missing traders to disappear.
Fraudsters can no longer collect tax and vanish without paying it.

The proposal applies to certain high-risk transactions.
Telecommunication services feature prominently in the initial rollout.

Eligible buyers will calculate the GST or HST themselves.
They will report it directly on their tax return.

If allowed, buyers can still claim an input tax credit.
This preserves fairness for legitimate businesses.

Consultation and Implementation Timeline

The government plans to consult with industry before finalizing the rules.
Officials want feedback from businesses and tax professionals.

The consultation period runs into early 2026.
Final regulations will follow after industry input.

The government says it will monitor the system closely.
Further expansions may target other sectors vulnerable to fraud.

Broader Push for Tax Fairness

The anti-fraud measures form part of a wider budget strategy.
Ottawa aims to protect public revenue and promote fair competition.

Officials say tax evasion shifts costs onto ordinary Canadians.
Strong enforcement helps fund health care and public services.

The government also plans increased cooperation with international partners.
Information sharing will help track complex fraud networks.

Why It Matters to Canadians

Stopping carousel schemes protects taxpayer money.
It also ensures honest businesses do not face unfair competition.

Experts say prevention works better than recovery.
Once funds disappear, recovery becomes difficult.

By closing loopholes, Canada aims to modernize tax enforcement.
The budget signals a tougher stance on financial crime.

 

Retailers Alert Shoppers to Surge in Realistic Counterfeit Cash

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Retail Council Warns Canadians About Highly Convincing Fake Bills

Canada — The Retail Council of Canada is warning consumers and businesses about a surge in highly convincing counterfeit bills.
The alert comes during the busy holiday shopping season, when cash use increases across the country.

Retail groups report a sharp rise in fake bills appearing in stores.
In some cases, retailers have seen more counterfeit notes in one month than all of last year.

The counterfeit bills reportedly include $20, $50, and $100 denominations.
Officials say the bills look so real that many people cannot spot them easily.

Why the Fake Bills Are Hard to Detect

According to retail experts, counterfeiters have improved their techniques.
The fake notes closely resemble genuine Canadian currency.

Many of the bills include convincing holograms and detailed printing.
Some cashiers only discover the fakes after the money reaches counting machines.

Retail Council officials say even experienced staff can struggle.
The quality of the counterfeit bills makes quick detection difficult.

Holiday Shopping Creates Opportunity for Fraud

The holiday season creates ideal conditions for counterfeit circulation.
Busy stores and long checkout lines reduce time for careful inspection.

Retailers often hire seasonal workers who may lack cash-handling experience.
This increases the risk of fake bills passing through unnoticed.

Experts say criminals exploit high traffic and rushed transactions.
They believe organized groups may be responsible for the surge.

Advice for Shoppers and Retailers

Retailers are urging staff to check key security features on every bill.
Raised ink, clear windows, and textured details help identify real currency.

Consumers should also remain cautious when receiving cash.
Using debit or contactless payments can reduce risk.

Anyone who suspects fake money should report it to a bank or police.
Passing counterfeit bills is a serious criminal offence in Canada.

Authorities Call for Stronger Action

Industry leaders want stronger enforcement and public awareness.
They say better training and police support could limit future losses.

The Retail Council encourages information sharing between businesses.
Early reporting helps prevent further spread of counterfeit cash.

Front-Yard ‘Letters to Santa’ Mailbox Draws Hundreds in Ontario

Homeowner Creates Front-Yard ‘Letters to Santa’ Mailbox That Draws Hundreds of Notes

Canada — A homeowner in Ontario has created a festive tradition by placing a special “Letters to Santa” mailbox in her front yard.
The idea has captured the community’s heart and drawn hundreds of holiday notes from children this season.

Melanie Provis placed the bright mailbox on her lawn early in December.
She wanted to give local children a fun way to send their Christmas wishes to Santa.

Since then, the mailbox has filled with about 200 letters addressed to Santa.
Provis and her family have responded to many of those letters with handwritten replies.

Spreading Holiday Cheer

Provis says seeing children’s enthusiasm inspired her to take part in the tradition.
Kids from across the neighbourhood eagerly drop off their lists and seasonal greetings.

Parents and neighbours have praised the mailbox initiative.
Many say it brings joy and excitement during the busy holiday season.

Some letters include drawings, questions for Santa, and lists of gift wishes.
Provis reads each letter carefully before preparing a personalized response.

She says writing back has become a joyful family activity.
The responses often include warm holiday wishes and messages of encouragement.

A Community Tradition Takes Root

The idea has sparked curiosity among neighbours and passersby.
Many have stopped to ask about the mailbox and share their own holiday stories.

Provis hopes the tradition will continue for years.
She says it helps keep alive the magic and wonder of the season for children.

The front-yard mailbox has also drawn attention online and in local social groups.
People have shared photos and stories of children happily posting their letters.

Some neighbours say the mailbox has strengthened community bonds.
Families now plan walks past the house just to see if Santa has “sent” any replies.

Keeping Holiday Magic Alive

Provis says the best part is seeing children’s smiles.
She believes small traditions like this help create lasting memories.

Her mailbox has become a symbol of kindness and holiday spirit.
And for many families, it adds a special touch to the festive season.

 

Christmas Travel Delays Spread Across Canada During Holiday Rush

Christmas Travel Delays Hit Canada as Holiday Rush Peaks

Canada — Christmas travel is becoming challenging across Canada as the holiday rush intensifies.
Airports, highways, and border crossings are experiencing heavy congestion nationwide.

Major airports including Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa are handling extremely high passenger volumes.
Most flights are operating near full capacity as families travel between December 21 and December 23.

Airports and Highways Under Pressure

Airport officials report longer security lines and crowded terminals.
Screening checkpoints are taking more time due to increased passenger flow.

Holiday demand has pushed airlines to maximum schedules.
Even minor delays are causing ripple effects across flight networks.

Meanwhile, highways across several provinces are seeing heavy traffic.
Drivers are facing slower travel times on major intercity routes.

Authorities urge motorists to expect congestion during peak hours.
Travel delays are likely to continue through Christmas Eve.

Winter Weather Complicates Travel Plans

Winter conditions are adding pressure to holiday travel.
Snow, freezing rain, and gusty winds are affecting multiple regions.

Some areas are experiencing icy roads and reduced visibility.
These conditions are slowing traffic and increasing accident risks.

Air travel is also vulnerable to winter disruptions.
Weather delays in one city can affect flights nationwide.

Officials warn travellers to prepare for schedule changes.
Checking forecasts before departure remains essential.

What Travellers Should Do Now

Travel officials recommend arriving early at airports.
Passengers should closely monitor flight updates and notifications.

Drivers should allow extra travel time and drive cautiously.
Winter tires and emergency supplies remain strongly advised.

Travellers should stay flexible with plans when possible.
Backup arrangements can reduce stress during unexpected delays.

Planning ahead can help ensure safer and smoother travel.
Patience remains key during Canada’s busiest travel period.

 

Snow Forecast: Which Parts of Canada Could See a White Christmas


Canada
— As Christmas approaches, many Canadians are watching the weather for snow and a “white Christmas.”
A white Christmas means at least 2 centimetres of snow must be on the ground on December 25.

Early forecasts indicate a major winter weather system could influence snow chances nationwide.
This storm may determine whether snow remains on the ground on Christmas morning.

Snow Coverage Expected in Many Regions

Several parts of Canada have already seen snow this December.
Cold Arctic air has brought snow and below‑normal temperatures to large areas.

Western and central Canada, including the Prairies and much of interior British Columbia, already have substantial snow cover.
That increases the likelihood of snow still being present on Christmas morning.

Northern and interior regions like Yellowknife and Whitehorse typically see consistent snow by late December.
These areas almost always have a white Christmas due to their cold climates and early snowpack.

Varied Chances Across the Country

Not all regions have the same odds.
Southern coastal cities like Vancouver and Victoria have low chances due to milder winter conditions.

In contrast, cities like Winnipeg, Iqaluit, and Timmins often see snow cover by December 25.
Historical data shows these places have high probabilities of white Christmas mornings.

Southern Ontario and parts of Quebec could go either way.
Recent warm spells may reduce snow cover in some southern areas.

Storm Could Tip the Scales

Meteorologists say the next big winter storm may be key to Christmas snow.
If it brings additional snow and cold air, many regions may hold onto snow into the holiday week.

Without fresh snow or sustained cold, some southern areas may see slushy or green conditions instead.
That could leave parts of southern Canada without a traditional white Christmas.

Looking Ahead

Weather patterns can still change in the days before Christmas.
Experts recommend watching forecasts closely as the holiday approaches.

A white Christmas remains possible for much of Canada, especially in the north and interior.
However, chances vary widely depending on local conditions and new weather systems.