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Businesses Targeted Amid B.C. Ostrich Cull Backlash

James
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Businesses Targeted Amid B.C. Ostrich Cull Backlash

RCMP probe threats against B.C. businesses linked to ostrich cull as tensions escalate over CFIA’s plan to slaughter 400 birds near Edgewood.

Businesses Targeted Amid B.C. Ostrich Cull Backlash

Rising Tensions in Edgewood

A government-ordered cull of roughly 400 ostriches near Edgewood, B.C., has ignited fierce opposition, drawing protests and sparking harassment of local businesses. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) ordered the cull after detecting avian influenza in the flock late last year.

Businesses Pulled Into the Dispute

Hotels, gas stations, and waste management firms across British Columbia say they have been bombarded with calls, emails, and negative reviews from farm supporters who believe they are assisting the CFIA operation. Nucor Environmental Solutions, a Surrey-based company, reported receiving death threats against employees and their families despite denying involvement in the cull. Clearway Trucks, another targeted firm, said it had “no prior knowledge” its vehicles were used and demanded their return.

Farm Supporters Mobilize Online

Universal Ostrich spokesperson Katie Pasitney has urged supporters on social media to pressure companies suspected of aiding the cull. Posts included contact details of local businesses, leading to coordinated call-in campaigns. However, Pasitney later appealed for restraint after reports surfaced that children of company employees were being threatened. “Threatening anybody is not OK,” she said in a recent video.

RCMP Investigating Threats

Mounties confirmed receiving multiple reports of harassment and escalating threats of violence. A business in the Lower Mainland reported shooting threats and surveillance intimidation. RCMP warned that those inciting or carrying out threats could face criminal charges. “We will take steps to ensure that anyone who unlawfully interferes with or threatens the safety of any person or property may be held accountable,” police said in a Tuesday statement.

CFIA Defends Cull Decision

The CFIA has defended its decision, citing the detection of avian flu as grounds for the mass cull. The agency, supported by police escorts, began preparations on Monday. The B.C. SPCA clarified that it has no authority to intervene in federally mandated disease-control operations.

Community Impact

Edgewood residents say the dispute has disrupted the quiet rural community for months. “There’s been confrontations with locals,” said resident Randy Donselaar, describing heated exchanges between protesters and townspeople. Farm supporters have framed the cull as government overreach, a narrative that has attracted international attention, including commentary from U.S. political figures.

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Nova Scotia Cuts Red Tape With New Business Law

Henry
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Nova Scotia Cuts Red Tape With New Business Law

A New Push to Support Business Growth

Nova Scotia has introduced the Making Business Easier Act, a law designed to streamline approvals, reduce red tape, and modernize government processes for businesses. The Houston government says the legislation will speed up projects, improve efficiency, and strengthen the province’s competitiveness across several sectors.

“Nova Scotia is open for business,” said Service Efficiency Minister Tim Halman, calling the Act a major step toward making the province a national leader in cutting red tape.

Focus on Natural Resources and Rural Jobs

The legislation places special attention on the natural resources sector, including mining and the development of critical minerals. According to Halman, faster approvals will help projects move forward sooner, boosting exports, supply chains, and employment—especially in rural communities.

He emphasized that economic growth does not come at the cost of environmental responsibility. “It doesn’t have to be one or the other, we can and must do both,” Halman said.

Streamlining Permits and Modernizing Processes

The new law updates nearly 150 permits and eliminates eight considered low-risk, such as roadside memorial approvals and foraging licenses for berries or mushrooms. For the first time, all 300 licensing and permit policies were reviewed with the goal of simplifying rules while maintaining protections.

Halman pointed to the lifting of the uranium mining ban and the recent approval of a major gold mining project as examples of progress, but said more work remains.

Support From Business Groups

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) welcomed the move, noting that red tape costs Canadian businesses nearly $18 billion each year. The provincial government estimates the new law will save Nova Scotia businesses around $800,000 annually.

“It’s a great first step,” said Duncan Robertson, CFIB’s director of legislative affairs in Nova Scotia. He added that while improved service standards are promising, the real test will be ensuring accountability if the government fails to meet its targets.

“That’s the big question out of this legislation,” Robertson said. “Hopefully it’s not just a rap on the knuckles but real incentives to ensure timelines are respected.”

The government says the Act is about more than cutting red tape—it’s about modernizing how the province operates and unlocking its full economic potential. Businesses and industry leaders will be watching closely to see how these changes translate into real-world growth.

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Canadians to Receive CPP, OAS, and Veteran Payments This Week

Henry
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Canadians to Receive CPP, OAS, and Veteran Payments This Week

Federal Support Arrives at a Crucial Time

Canadians feeling the strain of rising living costs will see some relief this week as the government issues key pension payments. Through the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and the Veteran Disability Pension, thousands of households will receive much-needed financial support.

With housing costs up 2.6% and grocery prices up 3.5% since last year, according to Statistics Canada, these payments could not be arriving at a better time. Here’s what to know about each program.

Canada Pension Plan (CPP) — September 25

The CPP is a taxable monthly benefit that replaces part of your income after retirement. To qualify, you need at least one valid CPP contribution and must be 60 or older.

Even if you continue working past 60, your CPP can increase if you keep contributing. The payment amount depends on when you retire, how much you earned during your career, and how long you contributed.

  • Average new monthly payment: $899.67

  • Maximum monthly payment: $1,433

  • Next payment date: October 29

Old Age Security (OAS) — September 25

Unlike CPP, the OAS pension does not require work history. Any Canadian aged 65 or older can qualify, provided their annual net income falls under the threshold.

  • Ages 65 to 74: up to $734.95 per month (if income under $148,541)

  • Ages 75 and older: up to $808.45 per month (if income under $154,196)

  • Next payment date: October 29

This universal program ensures that all seniors receive some financial stability, regardless of past employment.

Veteran Disability Pension — September 26

Eligible veterans and RCMP members may qualify for the Veteran Disability Pension, a tax-free benefit that supports well-being after service.

Who can apply?

  • Current or former members of the Canadian Armed Forces

  • Current or former RCMP officers

  • WWII or Korean War veterans, including Merchant Navy and eligible civilians

Applicants must have a diagnosed condition tied to their service. Payments can be taken as a lifetime monthly benefit or as a lump sum for pain and suffering.

  • Monthly range: $69.60 to $1,391.98

  • Next payment date: October 30

What Canadians Should Do Next

If you qualify for any of these programs, check your eligibility and ensure your information with Service Canada is current. With costs still climbing, every bit of support helps.

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Iren Stock Surges 17% After Analyst Upgrades

Henry
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0
Iren Stock Surges 17% After Analyst Upgrades

A Big Boost for Iren Stock

Iren stock jumped more than 17% on Wednesday, outperforming the broader market and leaving the S&P 500 in the red. The surge came after three Wall Street analysts delivered upbeat notes on the company, fueling strong investor optimism. While the index slipped 0.3%, Iren easily broke through the midweek slump.

Why Analysts Are Bullish

The excitement around Iren started when Arete Research initiated coverage on the Bitcoin mining sector. The firm placed Iren, Riot Platforms, and Cipher Mining on its “buy” list. Iren received a price target of $78 per share, with analysts praising its strategic pivot into the data center business.

Arete highlighted that Iren is self-funding new data center construction while also upgrading its Bitcoin mining hardware. Both moves signal smart positioning for long-term growth and stronger fundamentals.

Price Target Hikes Add Momentum

The bullish sentiment didn’t stop there. Two other analysts dramatically raised their targets:

  • Darren Aftahi of Roth/MKM maintained a buy rating and boosted his target from $35 to $82 per share.

  • Gautam Chhugani of Bernstein SocGen was even more aggressive, lifting his target from $20 to $75 per share while keeping a buy call.

Together, these moves reinforced investor confidence that Iren’s strategy could deliver major returns.

What’s Next for Investors?

Iren’s sharp rise underscores growing belief in its ability to expand beyond mining into high-demand data center services. Still, investors should weigh both the opportunities and risks before chasing the rally.

For now, analysts appear convinced that Iren’s pivot and upgrades put it in a strong position for future growth.

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Huntington’s Disease Breakthrough: First Successful Treatment

Henry
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0
Huntington’s Disease Breakthrough: First Successful Treatment

A Historic Medical Breakthrough

For the first time, doctors have successfully treated Huntington’s disease, a cruel genetic condition that destroys brain cells and devastates families. Often described as a mix of dementia, Parkinson’s, and motor neurone disease, Huntington’s has long been untreatable—until now. Researchers say the new therapy slowed the disease by an astonishing 75%, transforming the outlook for patients worldwide.

What the Treatment Achieved

Normally, Huntington’s symptoms worsen so quickly that patients lose years of independence within a decade. However, with this new treatment, a year’s expected decline could now take four years. “This could give patients decades of good-quality life,” explained Prof. Sarah Tabrizi, director of the University College London Huntington’s Disease Centre. She described the results as “spectacular,” admitting the team became emotional when reviewing the data.

How the Therapy Works

The groundbreaking treatment involves a gene therapy delivered during 12 to 18 hours of highly delicate brain surgery. By directly targeting the root cause of Huntington’s, doctors aim to slow or even prevent the damage that typically starts in a patient’s 30s or 40s. Since Huntington’s is usually fatal within 20 years of onset, earlier intervention may one day stop symptoms from appearing at all.

Real-Life Impact on Patients

Though identities remain confidential, results from participants are already changing lives. One patient who had been forced into medical retirement has since returned to work. Others, who were expected to be in wheelchairs, are still walking. These improvements have stunned researchers and brought renewed hope to families long devastated by the disease.

While treatment costs will likely be very high, doctors see this as a turning point. For the first time, patients and their families can imagine a future with real options rather than inevitable decline. The discovery not only reshapes Huntington’s care but also signals what may be possible for other devastating neurological diseases.

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Artemis II and Jeremy Hansen Ready for Moon Mission

Henry
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0
Artemis II and Jeremy Hansen Ready for Moon Mission

Canada’s Big Leap into Space

The Artemis II mission is set to make history, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen will play a leading role. Slated for early 2026, this groundbreaking mission will mark humanity’s return to the moon for the first time since Apollo 17 in 1972. For Hansen, it will also be his first time in space, making him the first non-American to travel beyond low Earth orbit.

Why Artemis II Matters

The mission represents much more than a trip around the moon. It highlights international cooperation, scientific exploration, and the drive to expand human presence in space. Hansen says Canadians should feel proud to be part of this effort, noting that the journey is about striving for excellence on a global stage.

Meet the Crew

Hansen joins three experienced NASA astronauts: Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch. Together, they have spent more than two years preparing for this monumental journey. Wiseman, the mission commander, revealed the spacecraft’s name—Integrity—symbolizing the trust and unity needed for such a demanding mission.

Training and Timeline

While NASA has suggested the launch could take place as early as February 2026, the agency has emphasized safety over speed. Wiseman made it clear that the team will only lift off when fully prepared. NASA has also said the mission will happen no later than April 2026, giving the crew the flexibility needed to ensure every system works flawlessly.

Looking Beyond the Horizon

As the Artemis II team prepares to orbit the far side of the moon, they stand at the frontier of human exploration. The mission will serve as a stepping stone toward even more ambitious goals, including a potential lunar landing and, eventually, missions to Mars. For Hansen, this represents a proud moment not just for Canada but for humanity as a whole.

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Air Canada Strike Costs Carrier $375M

Henry
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0
Air Canada Strike Costs Carrier $375M

Strike Fallout Hits Air Canada Hard

Air Canada is feeling the sting of the flight attendant strike as the airline lowers its full-year guidance. The Montreal-based carrier says the labour disruption cost roughly $375 million, forcing it to adjust expectations for 2025 earnings. The strike not only disrupted thousands of flights but also pushed the airline to recalibrate its long-term strategy.

Lowered Earnings Outlook

The company now expects adjusted EBITDA between $2.9 billion and $3.1 billion for the year. That marks a sharp drop from the previously suspended guidance of $3.2 billion to $3.6 billion. The revision highlights how much the labour unrest reshaped Air Canada’s financial outlook in just a few months.

Third Quarter Takes a Hit

For the third quarter, Air Canada projects operating income between $250 million and $300 million. This dip reflects the cancellation of more than 3,200 flights. Capacity is also expected to fall by about two percent compared to the same period last year, adding further strain to operations.

Breaking Down the $375M Impact

The airline identified three main factors driving the financial blow:

  • Roughly $430 million lost in refunds, compensation, and weaker bookings.

  • Around $90 million in added costs linked to reimbursements and labour expenses.

  • A $145 million cushion from lower fuel prices, which offset some losses.

While fuel savings softened the damage, the numbers underline just how disruptive the strike proved to be.

The Strike and Aftermath

The strike lasted three days, ending on August 19, but operations took longer to return to normal. Earlier this month, flight attendants overwhelmingly rejected Air Canada’s proposed wage deal. The agreement would have boosted pay and created a new structure for time spent working while aircraft remain on the ground. Since workers turned it down, the wage dispute is now headed to mediation, as both sides had agreed.

What Comes Next

As the airline navigates a more uncertain financial path, industry watchers will keep a close eye on negotiations with employees and the recovery of passenger confidence. Air Canada’s revised outlook demonstrates how labour relations and operational stability remain key to its long-term success.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for ongoing updates on Air Canada and the future of Canadian aviation.

Montreal West Nile Virus Cases Surge in September

Henry
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0
Montreal West Nile Virus Cases Surge in September

Sudden Spike in Montreal West Nile Virus Cases

Montreal is seeing a sharp rise in West Nile virus cases, sparking growing concern for local health officials and residents alike. According to Montreal public health, 25 infections have been confirmed this year, with 23 cases recorded in September alone. This sudden surge has already led to neurological damage in nearly a dozen patients, most of whom are older adults.

Infections Exceed Historical Averages

The current case count far surpasses the city’s usual September average of just under nine. While the record peak for a single September remains 33 cases in 2018, this year’s tally is already one of the highest in recent memory. Public health investigators believe most patients contracted the virus while on the island of Montreal, though inquiries continue for several new cases.

Older Adults Facing Greater Risks

Of the 25 reported infections, 21 involve people over age 50. At least 10 patients have suffered neurological complications, including severe damage. Health experts warn that people with chronic conditions like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease face even higher risks of serious illness.

How the Virus Spreads

West Nile virus is transmitted primarily by mosquito bites. The incubation period ranges from two to 15 days, with most infections reported between July and October. Montreal officials noted that cases typically peak in late summer, particularly in August and September. Because no vaccine exists, personal protection against mosquitoes remains the most reliable defense.

Health Guidance for the Community

Public health is urging Montrealers to reduce exposure by wearing long clothing outdoors, using insect repellent, and limiting time outside during dusk and dawn. Medical professionals have been asked to test for West Nile virus when patients present with fever and symptoms like severe fatigue, muscle pain, or rashes. Neurological signs such as encephalitis, meningitis, or Parkinson-like conditions also warrant testing.

Doctors must report confirmed cases to local health authorities to track infections more effectively and guide prevention efforts.

Moving Forward

Montreal’s public health officials continue to monitor the outbreak closely while emphasizing that vigilance and protective measures can greatly reduce risks. With mosquito season still active, the community is encouraged to remain cautious.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for the latest updates on West Nile virus in Montreal.

UN Escalator Halts as Donald Trump and Melania Step On

Sarah
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0
UN Escalator Halts as Donald Trump and Melania Step On

A curious moment at the United Nations in New York has stirred speculation after an escalator abruptly halted just as Donald Trump and his wife Melania stepped onto it.

The incident occurred during the former U.S. president’s visit to the UN headquarters, where he was attending meetings alongside other world leaders. Video footage shows the escalator in motion until the couple placed their feet on it, at which point it suddenly stopped.

Security and staff quickly intervened to escort the pair without incident, but the awkward scene has since gone viral. Social media is split between those calling it an embarrassing technical malfunction and others questioning whether it was a deliberate slight.

Trump, who is once again dominating headlines amid his re-election bid and recent policy pronouncements, did not publicly react to the incident. The UN has not commented on whether the stoppage was caused by a mechanical fault or human intervention.

While the explanation may be mundane, the timing of the halt has fueled memes, speculation, and a flurry of online debate.

Ottawa Council to Vote on Motion to Cancel Return-to-Office Mandate

Sarah
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0
Ottawa Council to Vote on Motion to Cancel Return-to-Office Mandate

Ottawa city council will decide today whether to roll back the municipality’s controversial return-to-office mandate for its workforce.

The motion before councillors calls for rescinding the directive that required municipal employees to return to in-person work on a set schedule. If passed, the decision would allow staff more flexibility in choosing remote or hybrid arrangements, similar to what many federal public servants have been seeking.

The return-to-office order, introduced earlier this year, has drawn criticism from some councillors, city staff, and union leaders, who argue that rigid attendance rules ignore both productivity levels and employee well-being. Advocates for rescinding the mandate say hybrid work has proven effective and that rescinding the policy could also help the city remain competitive in retaining talent.

Supporters of the existing policy argue that city services benefit from stronger in-person collaboration and that a return to offices is vital for downtown businesses struggling to recover after the pandemic.

Today’s vote will determine whether the city moves toward a more flexible approach or maintains its mandate for in-person work.

TTC Launches Pilot to Place Crisis Workers on Subway Platforms

Sarah
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0
TTC Launches Pilot to Place Crisis Workers on Subway Platforms

Toronto’s transit system is about to see a new kind of safety presence. Crisis intervention workers will soon be stationed on subway platforms across the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) network as part of a pilot program designed to enhance passenger safety and provide immediate support to people in distress.

The initiative, announced Monday, will roll out on a trial basis and deploy trained crisis responders alongside existing TTC security and transit staff. The workers will focus on de-escalating tense situations, helping individuals experiencing mental health or addiction challenges, and connecting them with community services.

TTC officials said the program aims to address growing safety concerns on the subway system while reducing reliance on police intervention for non-criminal incidents. “This is about meeting people where they are and providing compassionate, professional assistance,” said a TTC spokesperson.

The pilot is part of a broader effort by the City of Toronto and TTC to modernize safety measures on public transit. Riders have raised concerns in recent years over a series of high-profile assaults and mental health-related emergencies in stations.

Transit users can expect to see crisis staff working during peak hours on selected platforms, particularly at busy interchanges. Officials say the pilot will be evaluated after several months, with feedback from riders and staff helping determine whether it becomes a permanent program.

By integrating crisis workers into the TTC’s frontline safety response, the commission hopes to create a more supportive environment for both vulnerable individuals and everyday commuters.

Canada May Have Dodged a Recession, GDP Data to Confirm Soon

Sarah
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0
Canada May Have Dodged a Recession, GDP Data to Confirm Soon

Canada’s economy, battered by a prolonged trade conflict with the United States, may have narrowly sidestepped a recession, according to early indicators ahead of this week’s GDP release.

The country’s economy contracted by 1.6 per cent in the second quarter, sparking fears of a prolonged downturn. Traditionally, a recession is declared after two consecutive quarters of negative growth. With July and August data set for release, economists expect a small rebound that could keep Canada just above the recession threshold.

“We’re currently projecting third quarter real GDP growth to be in the range of 0.0% to 0.5% annualized,” said Randall Bartlett, deputy chief economist at Desjardins. Even modest growth, he said, suggests resilience in the face of U.S. tariffs and global uncertainty.

Manufacturing, wholesale trade, and vehicle production all picked up during the summer, while the housing market also showed signs of recovery. Avery Shenfeld, chief economist at CIBC, credited tariff exemptions for the fragile rebound: “The fact that we didn’t get hit with a 25 per cent tariff on everything was a welcome relief.”

Still, Shenfeld warned Canada has only dodged a recession “so far.” A renewed decline later this year could still push the economy into one.

The Bank of Canada recently cut interest rates and the federal government is preparing new spending measures in its upcoming budget — steps aimed at stimulating growth. Analysts stress these are not signs of strength but recognition of the ongoing risks.

The unemployment rate remains elevated at 7.1 per cent, up from around 5 per cent in 2022. Regions heavily tied to trade, like Windsor, Ont., are feeling the worst impacts, with local jobless rates reaching 11 per cent.

Nathan Janzen, assistant chief economist at RBC, said while employment and confidence remain weak, conditions may have stabilized. “Things stop getting worse first, and then it takes some time before they start to actually improve,” he noted.

Most forecasts suggest a fragile but positive outlook into 2026, with incremental gains in exports and employment expected. But for now, economists say it is too early to declare a full recovery.

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