Maple News Wire: Latest News on Elections, Celebrities, Politics, Finance, Travel, and Food in Canadian Cities

Hundreds Ordered Out as B.C. Wildfires Spread Fast

September 6, 2025

Hundreds ordered to evacuate as wildfires near Anahim Lake, B.C. spread rapidly. Residents urged to travel east to Williams Lake for safety.

Evacuation Orders Issued

Residents in the central B.C. community of Anahim Lake were ordered to evacuate early Friday morning as wildfires advanced dangerously close to homes. The Cariboo Regional District and the Ulkatcho First Nation issued the order at 6 a.m. PT, urging people to leave without delay.

Areas Impacted

About 570 residents from Anahim Lake, Nimpo Lake, Dusty Lake, and Charlotte Lake were instructed to evacuate due to the Dusty Lake wildfire, which has already grown to over 53 square kilometres. Another nearby blaze, the Beef Trail Creek wildfire, has burned more than 100 square kilometres and remains active.

Where Residents Are Headed

Evacuees are being directed east along Highway 20 to Williams Lake, more than 200 kilometres away. Emergency services are available at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex, with additional support, including hotel accommodations, being arranged in Prince George and Kamloops if necessary.

Why the Orders Were Enforced

Officials say the fast-moving fires are difficult to contain under hot and dry conditions. “We are expecting a big burning day today,” said Mikhail Elsay, fire information officer with the B.C. Wildfire Service. He emphasized that evacuation decisions are made carefully and only when public safety is at risk.

How Authorities Are Responding

Emergency crews, RCMP, and local support teams are coordinating to expedite the evacuation. DriveBC has issued a travel advisory for Highway 20, warning of reduced visibility and rapidly changing conditions due to heavy smoke.

Some Residents Stay Behind

Not everyone has left the community. Ralph and Grace Terpstra, owners of the Anahim Lake Resort, said they feel confident in staying, citing water pumps, generators, and nearby lakes as backup safety measures. Their property is also hosting night-shift firefighters resting between shifts. Still, authorities caution that those who stay do so at their own risk.

Looking Ahead

The B.C. Wildfire Service has warned that both the Dusty Lake and Beef Trail Creek fires could grow significantly over the weekend. With roughly 1,500 residents in Anahim Lake and surrounding communities, officials stress the importance of following evacuation orders.

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Ottawa Military Officer Guilty of Sexual Offences

James

September 6, 2025

Ottawa Military Officer Guilty of Sexual Offences

Ottawa military officer Major Robert Baker found guilty of sexual interference and exploitation of a minor. Defence Department yet to respond.

Court Ruling in Ottawa

An Ontario court has found Major Robert Baker, deputy commanding officer of the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa, guilty of sexual offences against a minor. The judgment was delivered Friday, marking a significant development in the case that began with charges laid last year.

Charges and Timeline

Baker was charged in 2023 by Ontario Provincial Police with sexual assault, sexual interference, and sexual exploitation. The charges related to repeated incidents involving the same victim between 2019 and 2023.

Testimony and Evidence

During trial proceedings, the defence disputed all allegations and argued that the victim’s testimony lacked consistency. The Crown, however, maintained that the testimony was compelling and credible. The presiding judge accepted the victim’s account without reservation, convicting Baker of sexual interference and sexual exploitation.

Role in the Military

At the time of the charges, Baker served as part-time deputy commanding officer of the Cameron Highlanders, a historic Canadian Armed Forces regiment tasked with training light infantry soldiers for domestic and international deployments.

Defence Department Response

The Department of National Defence has previously said it could impose administrative or disciplinary measures depending on the trial’s outcome, including the possibility of Baker’s release from service. Following Friday’s ruling, the department has not issued an updated statement on his status.

What Comes Next

While Baker awaits sentencing, no date has yet been set. The case continues to raise serious questions about accountability and oversight within Canada’s military institutions.

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Smart Retirement Planning for Single Seniors

Finance

Henry

September 5, 2025

Smart Retirement Planning for Single Seniors

Retiring Alone Comes With Unique Challenges

Retirement planning for single seniors looks different than it does for couples. Without a second income or partner to share expenses, everything from rent and groceries to utilities can feel heavier. On top of that, health and caregiving needs become even more pressing when there’s no spouse to help.

Although the financial reality of retiring solo may seem overwhelming, there are smart strategies that can make life more manageable. By using tax credits, maximizing benefits, and making thoughtful lifestyle choices, single seniors can retire with both independence and peace of mind.

The Hidden Costs of Retiring Single

Planning retirement as a single person means facing challenges couples might not experience. Even when family and friends offer support, it’s not the same as relying on a partner under your own roof.

One Income, Higher Costs

A Statistics Canada report showed that in 2022, the median income for single Canadians over 65 was $30,820, compared to $74,200 for couples. That gap highlights why stretching income becomes essential. Rent, property taxes, utilities, groceries, and car or home maintenance can all add up quickly.

No Built-In Caregiver

Couples often depend on one another when illness, surgery, or mobility issues arise. For single retirees, however, care often comes at a price—whether through professional caregivers, in-home services, or long-term care facilities.

Longevity Risk

Statistics Canada also reveals women live, on average, 4.4 years longer than men. That means single women face an even greater risk of outliving their savings.

Smart Financial Moves for Single Retirees

Despite these challenges, thoughtful strategies can help single retirees build security and independence.

1. Use Tax Credits and Deductions

Take advantage of programs like the Age Amount Tax Credit and the Pension Income Credit. These can put money back in your pocket. Credits for medical costs, home care, or mobility-related renovations also reduce expenses. Lower-income retirees may qualify for GST/HST credits and additional provincial benefits.

2. Maximize Government Benefits

Old Age Security (OAS), the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) can form a strong income foundation. Consider delaying OAS or CPP for higher monthly payments, and always check if GIS could provide extra support.

3. Rethink Living Arrangements

Downsizing from a large home to a condo or rental can ease maintenance burdens and free up funds. Renting out a room or sharing space with a roommate also reduces housing costs.

4. Build a Retirement Budget

A clear retirement budget is key. Track housing, healthcare, insurance, groceries, and inflation. Meeting with a financial advisor before retirement ensures realistic planning and reduces the risk of overspending.

5. Explore Part-Time Work

Many retirees eventually miss the sense of purpose and routine that work provides. A flexible part-time job or small business offers both social engagement and extra income to cover bills or even fund recreation.

Final Thoughts

Yes, retiring single has its challenges, but it doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. With the right planning, single seniors can stay financially stable and maintain independence. Using tax credits, maximizing government benefits, creating a strong budget, and making smart lifestyle choices can turn retirement into a fulfilling chapter.

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Hundreds of Public Health Canada Jobs at Risk

Canadian Cities

Henry

September 5, 2025

Hundreds of Public Health Canada Jobs at Risk

Major Job Cuts Announced

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) will cut about 320 jobs as part of its post-pandemic restructuring plan. The agency confirmed that these reductions are tied to program reviews designed to align spending with the approved 2026–27 federal budget.

Officials explained that PHAC must “recalibrate” operations after the pandemic, focusing resources on funded priorities. This means reallocating staff, streamlining programs, and, in some cases, ending initiatives entirely.

Why the Cuts Are Happening

PHAC says the decision stems from new salary allocations and the need to adjust resources responsibly. Workforce Adjustment measures will be rolled out to match approved funding levels.

The agency emphasized its commitment to sustainability, scientific integrity, and public health outcomes while noting that no decision has been taken lightly.

Impact on Public Health

The Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada (PIPSC) warned that these cuts could leave the country unprepared for future health emergencies.

“Eliminating public health positions while Canada’s healthcare system is already stretched leaves the nation dangerously exposed,” said PIPSC President Sean O’Reilly. He added that cuts will strip away programs vital to millions, including Lyme disease research, vaccination programs, suicide hotlines, and chronic disease prevention efforts.

Shrinking Workforce Over Time

PHAC’s workforce has already seen significant reductions. According to Treasury Board data, the agency employed 4,251 people in March 2024, compared with just 3,372 in March 2025. By contrast, before the pandemic in March 2020, staffing stood at 2,340.

Despite these cuts, PHAC insists its mandate remains clear: to protect Canadians against health threats, prevent diseases, and promote national well-being.

Government’s Broader Push

Finance Minister Francois Philippe Champagne confirmed the cuts align with Ottawa’s broader plan to reduce spending. Speaking in Toronto, he said the federal government is seeking a leaner, more efficient public service.

Champagne insisted services to Canadians would not be affected, but unions and experts remain skeptical.

Canada’s public health system faces a critical moment. As officials pursue cost-cutting, questions remain about preparedness for the next health crisis.

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AMC Welcomes Sport Reform Report, Urges Swift Action

Sports

Willy

September 5, 2025

AMC Welcomes Sport Reform Report, Urges Swift Action

Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs supports sport commission’s report calling for safer, more inclusive opportunities for First Nations athletes in Canada.

Report Sparks National Conversation

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) has responded to the release of the Future of Sport in Canada Commission’s Preliminary Report, issued September 4, 2025. The report calls for systemic reforms to address maltreatment, improve equity, and expand access across Canadian sport.

Manitoba Chiefs Highlight Key Concerns

AMC Grand Chief Kyra Wilson stressed the report’s importance for First Nations athletes, who have historically faced barriers to participation. She emphasized that sport must become a safe and inclusive environment where Indigenous youth can thrive without fear of discrimination or abuse.

Local Leaders Echo Support

Chief EJ Fontaine of Sagkeeng Anicinabe Nation underscored the urgency of the recommendations, noting that First Nations athletes have long experienced racism and exclusion in Canadian sport. He called on governments and organizations to prioritize equity, safety, and accessibility, describing sport as a tool for both healing and empowerment.

Why This Matters for First Nations

The report’s findings recognize the unique challenges faced by Indigenous athletes and their Nations. Recommendations include stronger safe sport policies, equitable funding models, and meaningful collaboration with First Nations in shaping programs and governance. AMC sees these measures as critical to ensuring that Indigenous voices are central in reforming the sport system.

Next Steps for Governments and Sport Bodies

AMC is urging both the Government of Canada and the Province of Manitoba to act quickly on the commission’s recommendations. Immediate priorities include improving protections for athletes, increasing access to sports programming, and embedding equity into policy frameworks.

A Broader Vision for Sport in Canada

Founded in 1988, AMC represents all 63 First Nations in Manitoba, advocating for over 172,000 First Nations citizens — about 12 percent of the province’s population. The organization says this report presents an opportunity to reshape Canadian sport into a system that reflects dignity, fairness, and cultural respect for all participants.

Canadian Forces Member Missing in Latvia

News

Henry

September 5, 2025

Canadian Forces Member Missing in Latvia

Canadian Soldier Reported Missing

A Canadian Armed Forces member deployed to Latvia has been reported missing, sparking an international search effort led by Latvian authorities with NATO support. The Department of National Defence confirmed on Tuesday that Warrant Officer George Hohl, a vehicle technician based in Edmonton, was last seen in Ādaži, Latvia.

Ongoing Search and Investigation

Lt.-Gen. Steve Boivin, commander of Canadian Joint Operations Command, said Latvian police forces are leading the investigation, while Canadian Forces Military Police and the NATO Multinational Brigade continue to assist. Authorities confirmed that search operations are using every available resource to locate the missing soldier.

Support for Family

Boivin stated that Hohl’s next of kin have been informed and are receiving support from the military. “We remain committed to bringing clarity to this situation while supporting the family,” Boivin emphasized.

Canada’s Role in Latvia

Hohl’s deployment forms part of Canada’s contribution to the NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia, where Canadian troops work alongside international allies to strengthen regional security. His absence has added urgency to the ongoing search, underlining the close cooperation between Canadian and Latvian authorities.

The search continues as investigators work tirelessly to find answers. Updates will follow as more details emerge.

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French Women Boxers Ruled Out Over Sex Test Dispute

Sports

Willy

September 5, 2025

French Women Boxers Ruled Out Over Sex Test Dispute

Five French women boxers barred from world championships after missing deadline for new mandatory sex tests introduced post-Paris Olympics.

Tournament Starts Without French Contenders

The world championships in Liverpool, England, opened Thursday without five French women boxers after complications surrounding new mandatory sex testing prevented them from competing. The ruling has sparked anger within France’s boxing federation and reignited debate over athlete privacy.

Details of the New Policy

World Boxing announced on May 30 that female athletes must undergo genetic testing — including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or equivalent screenings — to confirm sex at birth. The regulation followed the controversy at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where Algerian boxer Imane Khelif and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting faced widespread scrutiny over eligibility despite winning gold medals.

Reaction From France

The French federation expressed “astonishment and indignation” at the exclusion, citing that national law prohibits such testing in sports due to privacy protections. Officials said they were assured results would arrive within 24 hours but were not delivered in time to register their boxers.

Athletes Affected

The five sidelined competitors are Romane Moulai, Wassila Lkhadiri, Melissa Bounoua, Sthelyne Grosy, and Maelys Richol. Richol shared a message from former federation leadership candidate Estelle Mossely on Instagram, calling for resignations over the mishandling of the process.

Governing Body’s Position

World Boxing stated that responsibility for completing testing lies with national federations, which it argued are best positioned to oversee athletes. “It is very disappointing for the boxers that some national federations have not been able to complete this process in time,” the organization said in a statement.

Wider Implications and Ongoing Appeal

Khelif, at the centre of last year’s Olympic debate, is also absent from Liverpool after the Court of Arbitration for Sport rejected her request for an urgent ruling against the testing mandate. The dispute underscores growing tensions between governing bodies enforcing eligibility rules and federations challenging them on ethical and legal grounds.

RFK Jr. Faces Heated Senate Clash Over Vaccines

Global

Henry

September 5, 2025

RFK Jr. Faces Heated Senate Clash Over Vaccines

A Combative Senate Showdown

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced sharp questioning from both Republicans and Democrats during a raucous three-hour Senate hearing on Thursday. The debate centered on vaccines and COVID policy, with lawmakers pressing him on controversial decisions, including the firing of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Susan Monarez.

Kennedy, known for his skepticism of vaccine policy, defended his choices but also sparked frustration on both sides of the aisle.

Vaccine Policy Under Fire

Republican Senator Bill Cassidy, a physician, praised former President Donald Trump’s efforts to speed COVID vaccine development in 2020. He then challenged Kennedy on his shifting stance. Cassidy asked if Kennedy agreed vaccines saved lives, pointing to Trump’s initiative as Nobel Prize–worthy.

Kennedy initially avoided a clear endorsement but later admitted vaccines did prevent deaths, though he refused to quantify how many.

Democrats, including Senator Maria Cantwell, presented data showing vaccines reduced diseases like measles by more than 99 percent. “The history on vaccines is very clear,” Cantwell said, highlighting their proven success.

CDC Leadership Shake-Up

A major flashpoint was Kennedy’s dismissal of CDC Director Susan Monarez, just one month after appointing her. Kennedy accused Monarez of lying, while Monarez argued her firing was politically motivated. She claimed she was pressured to pre-approve vaccine policies she believed contradicted scientific evidence.

Her removal triggered resignations from four senior CDC officials, intensifying criticism that Kennedy has undermined vaccine standards by replacing experts with vaccine skeptics.

Republican Senator John Barrasso voiced concern: “Since your confirmation, I’ve grown deeply concerned. The public is watching outbreaks while agency leadership crumbles.”

Heated Exchanges With Democrats

Kennedy’s reluctance to acknowledge that one million Americans died from COVID drew anger from Democratic Senator Mark Warner. “How can a health secretary of eight months be that ignorant?” Warner pressed after Kennedy downplayed official numbers.

Kennedy countered by accusing the CDC of misleading Americans about mask guidance, boosters, and transmission. He insisted structural reform was necessary: “I need to fire some of those people and make sure this doesn’t happen again.”

Calls for Resignation Grow

Criticism of Kennedy has mounted. Senator Ron Wyden demanded his resignation, echoing calls from over 1,000 current and former health workers. Lawmakers also condemned his decision to cut $500 million in funding for mRNA research, a move seen as undermining future vaccine innovation.

Even Cassidy, who supported Kennedy’s confirmation after assurances he wouldn’t interfere in vaccine policy, now questions whether oversight of his actions is urgently needed.

The Bigger Picture

This fiery hearing revealed the deep divisions over vaccines, public health policy, and trust in institutions. While Kennedy maintains he is reforming a broken system, both parties expressed doubts about his leadership.

Whether he can hold onto his position—or whether the mounting pressure will force his resignation—remains to be seen.

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Tyson Beukeboom Set to Break Canada Rugby Caps Record

Sports

Willy

September 5, 2025

Tyson Beukeboom Set to Break Canada Rugby Caps Record

Canadian lock Tyson Beukeboom will earn her 81st cap at the Rugby World Cup, surpassing Aaron Carpenter as Canada’s most-capped rugby player.

A Historic Milestone

Canadian lock Tyson Beukeboom will make history on Saturday at the Rugby World Cup in England, becoming Canada’s most-capped rugby player with her 81st international appearance. The 34-year-old surpasses former captain Aaron Carpenter, who retired in 2018 with 80 caps.

Setting and Significance

The milestone will come against Scotland at Sandy Park in Exeter, a pivotal Pool B matchup between two undefeated teams. With both Canada and Scotland already advancing to the knockout round, the game will determine top spot in the group — and could help Canada avoid a quarterfinal clash with top-ranked England.

A Career of Dedication

Beukeboom, from Uxbridge, Ontario, earned her first cap off the bench in 2013 against England. Since then, she has built a reputation as a fierce second-row forward, contributing 16 international tries and bringing a blend of physicality and leadership that has defined her career. This tournament marks her fourth World Cup appearance.

Leadership on Display

Canada coach Kevin Rouet praised Beukeboom for her grit and game sense. “She is violent on defence but smart on offence. Her leadership is direct and uncompromising,” he said. That leadership was evident in Canada’s 42–0 win over Wales last week, when Beukeboom rallied teammates after a shaky opening stretch, sparking a dominant performance.

Family Ties in Sport

Athletic excellence runs deep in Beukeboom’s family. Her father, Jeff Beukeboom, won four Stanley Cups in the NHL, while cousins Brett and Matt represented Canada in rugby. Other relatives have competed in professional hockey and national water polo, cementing the family’s multi-sport legacy.

What Lies Ahead

With Canada riding a 2–0 record and looking strong in pool play, Beukeboom’s record-breaking appearance adds momentum to the campaign. A win against Scotland would secure Canada the top seed in Pool B, improving their path toward a potential semifinal berth. For Beukeboom, the milestone is both personal and symbolic. “It’s an honour to wear the jersey once, let alone 81 times,” she said.

Blood Moon 2025: Why the Moon Turns Red Tonight

Featured

Henry

September 5, 2025

Blood Moon 2025: Why the Moon Turns Red Tonight

A Rare Lunar Spectacle This September

The Blood Moon 2025 is here, and with it comes a breathtaking lunar eclipse that skywatchers won’t soon forget. On Sept. 7, the full moon will transform into a striking shade of red, creating one of the year’s most anticipated celestial events. This moment of totality offers not just science but also awe, as millions of people across the globe turn their eyes skyward.

Why Does the Moon Turn Red?

The moon doesn’t produce its own light. Instead, it reflects sunlight. During a total lunar eclipse, Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow across the lunar surface. While most sunlight is blocked, some rays sneak through Earth’s atmosphere. Those rays scatter and bend, filtering out blue light and leaving behind deep reds and oranges. The result is the glowing “blood moon.”

Other factors like dust, haze, or smoke in the sky can intensify the red effect. Sometimes, the term “blood moon” also describes certain full moons of autumn, when their color mirrors the seasonal foliage.

When and Where to Watch the Blood Moon

Mark your calendar for Sept. 7, 2025. The eclipse begins at 11:28 a.m. Eastern and lasts until 4:55 p.m. Eastern. Totality—the stage when the moon is fully immersed in Earth’s shadow—stretches for an impressive 82 minutes between 1:30 and 2:52 p.m. Eastern.

Viewers in Australia, India, Cairo, and South Africa will enjoy a clear view of totality. In fact, about 77% of the world’s population will see the full event, and 88% will glimpse at least part of it. Unfortunately, North America will miss this eclipse, but skywatchers there can look forward to March 2–3, 2026, when the next total lunar eclipse becomes visible.

The Science Behind a Lunar Eclipse

A total lunar eclipse happens when the sun, Earth, and moon align in a perfect straight line. Unlike solar eclipses, which require protective glasses, lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch with the naked eye. And while solar totality lasts only minutes, lunar totality can stretch up to nearly two hours, giving watchers more time to enjoy the view.

September’s Full Moon: The Corn Moon

This September’s full moon is also called the “Corn Moon.” The name comes from late summer and early fall, when corn harvesting takes place across the Northern Hemisphere. The moon reaches peak illumination on Sept. 7 at 2:09 p.m. Eastern, though it will appear full on both Sept. 6 and Sept. 7 evenings.

Key Moon Phases for September 2025

🌕 Full Moon: Sept. 7
🌗 Last Quarter: Sept. 14
🌑 New Moon: Sept. 21
🌓 First Quarter: Sept. 29

Fall and the Next Full Moon

The autumnal equinox arrives on Sept. 22, 2025, at 2:19 p.m. Eastern, officially marking the first day of fall. After that, the October full moon—often called the “Hunter’s Moon”—will light up the skies on Oct. 6.

Final Thoughts

The Blood Moon 2025 is more than a celestial event; it’s a reminder of the beauty and mystery of the cosmos. Whether you’re in India, Australia, or South Africa, don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness the moon bathed in fiery red.

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Grand Slam Track Faces Fallout After Funding Collapse

Sports

Willy

September 5, 2025

Grand Slam Track Faces Fallout After Funding Collapse

Grand Slam Track’s failed funding left athletes unpaid and futures uncertain, raising questions about transparency in sports startups.

A Promising Start Cut Short

Grand Slam Track (GST), the upstart athletics league launched by Olympic legend Michael Johnson, cancelled its season finale earlier this year after struggling to meet financial commitments. Despite boasting of $30 million in backing, reports now reveal the league never had the funding it promised.

Financial Claims Under Scrutiny

According to an investigative report from The Athletic, GST’s $30 million figure included a $19 million pledge from investment firm Eldridge. The money was never secured, relying only on a preliminary term sheet tied to the league’s debut event in Kingston, Jamaica, in April. Weak attendance led Eldridge to withdraw, leaving GST without the majority of its projected budget.

Impact on Athletes and Partners

The collapse left dozens of athletes, vendors, and even host cities waiting for payments. Runners who competed for advertised six-figure prize money have yet to be compensated, raising concerns about trust and transparency in professional track and field. Without guaranteed funds, athletes were left in financial limbo.

Why the League Pressed Ahead

Observers question why GST continued staging high-profile events despite losing most of its financing. Some speculate organizers believed new investors would step in. Others argue the leadership was overly optimistic about the product’s appeal. Whatever the intent, the outcome has damaged the league’s credibility.

Lessons From Other Sports Models

Industry analysts note that other sports, including professional boxing, require promoters to deposit fighter purses in escrow weeks before competition, ensuring athletes are paid regardless of revenue. Similar safeguards in track could have prevented the unpaid bills now plaguing GST’s debut season.

What Comes Next

Johnson has stated the league intends to return, but any relaunch would require settling debts and rebuilding trust with athletes. New investors would also need assurance that GST can deliver on its promises. For competitors, the bigger question is whether risking training schedules and career momentum is worth another gamble.

BC Ferries Delays as Crew Assists Marine Rescue

News

Henry

September 5, 2025

BC Ferries Delays as Crew Assists Marine Rescue

Rescue Effort Causes Sailing Delays

The BC Ferries crew played a critical role in a marine rescue Thursday evening, causing delays for travelers on the Spirit of British Columbia. The vessel had left Swartz Bay at 5 p.m. when crew members were called into action. Passengers were informed that a rescue boat had been launched after reports of a person overboard.

Company officials later confirmed that the individual was located. However, details about the person’s condition remained uncertain at the time of the announcement.

Coast Guard and Civilian Vessel Join Efforts

The Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centre in Victoria reported that a Canadian Coast Guard hovercraft also rushed to assist in the operation. Interestingly, the individual was ultimately pulled from the water by a civilian vessel, underscoring the teamwork between official responders and the public during emergencies.

BC Ferries had initially shared on social media that its crew was “assisting” in a marine rescue, without clarifying whether the individual involved was a passenger. That detail remains under review.

A Second Ferry Emergency in Two Days

This incident came just one day after another emergency involving a different ferry. On Wednesday, a passenger accidentally went overboard from the Spirit of Vancouver Island. That person was quickly recovered and transported to shore, where paramedics provided immediate care.

The back-to-back emergencies highlight the unpredictable nature of ferry travel and the quick response required from both crew members and first responders.

Impact on Scheduled Sailings

Because of Thursday’s rescue, BC Ferries announced that later trips on the Spirit of British Columbia would face delays. The 7 p.m. sailing from Tsawwassen and the 9 p.m. departure from Swartz Bay were both expected to run behind schedule.

Passengers were urged to remain patient and monitor updates, as safety operations always take priority over travel timelines.

Safety Above All Else

Ferry officials emphasized that while delays can be frustrating, protecting lives remains the first responsibility. Quick coordination between crew, the Coast Guard, and nearby vessels demonstrated how fast action can prevent tragedy.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for more updates on travel, safety, and breaking news across British Columbia.

DowntownMagazine PRO

Evacuation Orders Issued

Areas Impacted

Where Residents Are Headed

Why the Orders Were Enforced

How Authorities Are Responding

Some Residents Stay Behind

Looking Ahead

Court Ruling in Ottawa

Charges and Timeline

Testimony and Evidence

Role in the Military

Defence Department Response

What Comes Next

Retiring Alone Comes With Unique Challenges

The Hidden Costs of Retiring Single

One Income, Higher Costs

No Built-In Caregiver

Longevity Risk

Smart Financial Moves for Single Retirees

1. Use Tax Credits and Deductions

2. Maximize Government Benefits

3. Rethink Living Arrangements

4. Build a Retirement Budget

5. Explore Part-Time Work

Final Thoughts

Major Job Cuts Announced

Why the Cuts Are Happening

Impact on Public Health

Shrinking Workforce Over Time

Government’s Broader Push

Report Sparks National Conversation

Manitoba Chiefs Highlight Key Concerns

Local Leaders Echo Support

Why This Matters for First Nations

Next Steps for Governments and Sport Bodies

A Broader Vision for Sport in Canada

Canadian Soldier Reported Missing

Ongoing Search and Investigation

Support for Family

Canada’s Role in Latvia

Tournament Starts Without French Contenders

Details of the New Policy

Reaction From France

Athletes Affected

Governing Body’s Position

Wider Implications and Ongoing Appeal

A Combative Senate Showdown

Vaccine Policy Under Fire

CDC Leadership Shake-Up

Heated Exchanges With Democrats

Calls for Resignation Grow

The Bigger Picture

A Historic Milestone

Setting and Significance

A Career of Dedication

Leadership on Display

Family Ties in Sport