Canada is looking to Europe as it seeks new ways to strengthen its economy and security.

Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada wants to deepen its ties with the European Union. However, he stopped short of saying Canada could seek EU membership.

The idea of Canada joining the EU has gained attention as trade tensions with the United States grow. Still, experts say full membership remains highly unlikely.

Instead, Canada and Europe could build a closer partnership in key areas such as trade, defence, energy and critical minerals.

Carney signals closer ties with Europe

Carney faced questions about Canada’s future relationship with the EU on Thursday in Banff, Alta.

He did not rule out deeper links. However, he also did not suggest that Canada plans to join the bloc.

Instead, he said Ottawa will spend the coming months looking at ways to expand the partnership.

Carney is also set to speak to the European Parliament in Strasbourg next week. His visit could offer more clues about Canada’s plans.

The push comes as Canada and Europe face a changing global trade and security landscape.

The United States remains a vital partner for both sides. Yet U.S. trade policies under President Donald Trump have created fresh pressure.

Tariffs and protectionist policies have also pushed Canada to look for more options.

Trade could be just the start

Canada and the EU already have strong economic links. However, both sides have signalled that more can be done.

In June 2025, Canada and the EU outlined a plan for closer cooperation.

The plan focused on several key areas.

These included trade, economic security and supply chains. It also called for closer work on regulations and digital technology.

Climate action and education were also part of the plan.

Defence was another major focus.

That area could become even more important as Canada prepares to increase military spending.

Defence could bring Canada and Europe closer

Christian Leuprecht, a professor at the Royal Military College in Montreal, sees Europe as a natural partner for Canada.

He says Ottawa could buy more military equipment from European countries.

That could help Canada strengthen its defence ties while also reducing some reliance on U.S. suppliers.

At the same time, Europe has resources that Canada needs.

Canada could supply Europe with energy and critical minerals. That could create a stronger two-way relationship.

Leuprecht described the opportunity as a possible “grand bargain.”

Canada could invest more in European security. In return, European partners could help Canada with trade, investment and major projects.

That could matter because Canada often needs outside capital to fund large infrastructure projects.

Europe wants a partnership with more depth

The EU also appears ready to explore a new model with Canada.

Geneviève Tuts, the EU’s ambassador to Canada, recently said the relationship could become something unique.

She suggested that Canada and the EU want to go beyond existing models used with countries such as Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

The goal, she said, is deeper integration.

That could mean closer cooperation across several sectors instead of simply expanding trade.

Experts warn against expecting a major shift

Still, not everyone expects Canada’s economic relationship with Europe to change dramatically.

Aurel Braun, a University of Toronto professor of international relations, says Canada’s geography will continue to shape its trade.

The United States is Canada’s closest major market. It is also deeply linked to the Canadian economy.

Therefore, even stronger ties with Europe are unlikely to replace the U.S.

Braun argues that Canada could win some new trade opportunities with European countries. However, he does not expect those changes to transform the overall structure of Canadian trade.

Canada faces a balancing act

For Ottawa, the challenge is clear.

Canada wants stronger links with Europe. At the same time, it cannot easily walk away from its largest trading partner.

That means diversification may be the more realistic goal.

Rather than replacing the United States, Canada could build stronger links with Europe and other markets.

Such a strategy could give Ottawa more options during future trade disputes.

For now, Carney appears focused on making that relationship deeper.

His speech in Strasbourg next week could show just how far Canada is ready to go.

The post Canada and EU Explore a New Partnership first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Canada’s trade fight with the United States is entering a tougher phase. And B.C. Premier David Eby wants Ottawa to consider more than tariffs.

As Canadian counter-tariffs take effect, Eby is calling for a broader response to U.S. trade measures. He argues that Canada needs to use its economic strength instead of simply matching American duties.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mark Carney has warned Canadians that the shift away from the U.S. will not be easy. Still, Ottawa says standing still would carry an even greater cost.

B.C. backs Canada’s counter-tariffs

Eby supports the federal government’s decision to retaliate against American goods.

However, he says tariffs should not be the only tool on the table. Instead, Canada could look at trade, energy and defence decisions that affect the U.S. economy.

That could mean rethinking some Canadian purchases from American suppliers. It could also mean examining exports that matter to U.S. industries.

Earlier, Eby urged Ottawa to look at options involving Canadian coal exports and defence procurement. His message is clear: Canada has leverage, and it should be prepared to use it.

Trade tensions put B.C. businesses on edge

For B.C. companies, the dispute is already creating uncertainty.

The province has strong trade ties with the United States. Therefore, new duties can raise costs, squeeze exporters and put pressure on jobs.

At the same time, businesses are being encouraged to find customers at home and in other global markets. B.C. has also pushed for faster economic diversification to reduce its dependence on the American market.

That shift will not happen overnight.

For many companies, the U.S. remains a major customer. As a result, replacing that market could take years rather than months.

Ottawa faces pressure to respond

The federal government now faces a difficult balancing act.

On one hand, Canada wants to defend its economy and push back against U.S. tariffs. On the other, stronger retaliation could raise costs for Canadian businesses and consumers.

Still, Canada has already announced counter-tariffs covering billions of dollars in U.S. goods. The measures came after Washington imposed new tariffs on Canadian products.

Eby believes Canada should keep looking for ways to increase pressure without hurting Canadians more than necessary.

B.C. urges Canadians to buy Canadian

Meanwhile, the province is also promoting a simpler response: buy Canadian.

B.C. has already taken steps to favour Canadian products in government purchasing. It has also restricted some U.S. products in provincial liquor stores as part of its response to the trade dispute.

The strategy has two goals.

First, it aims to support local businesses. Second, it seeks to reduce the flow of Canadian dollars into the U.S. economy.

However, the province knows that consumers and businesses cannot switch suppliers overnight.

A bigger economic fight is taking shape

The latest dispute goes beyond tariffs.

Canada and the U.S. have built one of the world’s largest trading relationships. Billions of dollars in goods and services cross the border each day. Therefore, prolonged tension could affect workers and businesses on both sides.

For Eby, the answer is not to retreat.

Instead, he wants Canada to strengthen its domestic economy, build new trade relationships and use its own economic advantages.

Now, as counter-tariffs take effect, the next question is how far Ottawa is willing to go.

And for B.C., the stakes are high: protect jobs, support local businesses and find new markets while keeping the province’s economy moving.

The post David Eby Pushes Canada to Hit Back at U.S. Tariffs first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Trade tensions rise again

The Canada-U.S. trade fight has taken a sharp turn.

U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened new 50% tariffs on Canadian cars, trucks, auto parts and steel. The new duties are set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada will not rush back to the table.

Instead, Carney wants the U.S. to change its approach first.

Carney calls for the “right attitude”

Carney said Canada can return to talks when the U.S. comes with a fair and co-operative approach.

In other words, Canada wants a deal. However, it does not want a deal at any cost.

Carney has also rejected U.S. demands that he says could hurt Canadian industries and limit Canada’s ability to make trade deals with other countries.

So, for now, the talks remain on hold.

Trump turns up the pressure

Trump’s latest tariff threat adds fresh pressure on Ottawa.

The U.S. has already placed 50% tariffs on about $20 billion worth of Canadian goods. Those goods include products such as dairy, alcohol, furniture and sporting goods.

Now, the auto sector sits in the spotlight.

That matters because Canada and the U.S. have deeply linked auto supply chains. Parts can cross the border many times before a vehicle reaches a buyer.

As a result, higher tariffs could raise costs on both sides.

Canada prepares a response

Canada is also preparing new tariffs on U.S. goods.

Officials have said a response could come Tuesday. At the same time, Carney has signalled that Ottawa may favour targeted action instead of simply matching every U.S. tariff.

That approach could give Canada more room to protect key industries.

It could also limit the impact on Canadian consumers and businesses.

A major trade relationship is under strain

The dispute goes far beyond one group of products.

Canada and the U.S. have one of the world’s largest trading relationships. Therefore, a long trade fight could hit workers, companies and shoppers in both countries.

Carney has also pushed Canada to reduce its reliance on the U.S. market. That could mean stronger trade ties with other countries over time.

For Canada, the message is now clear: Ottawa wants trade with its largest partner, but it also wants more options.

What happens next?

For now, both sides are digging in.

Trump is using tariffs to push for changes. Meanwhile, Carney is calling for a fairer path back to talks.

So, the next move could matter a lot.

If Washington changes its approach, talks could restart. If not, Canada may move ahead with targeted tariffs and a wider plan to build new trade links.

Either way, the Canada-U.S. trade fight is entering a new and more serious phase.

The post Trump Tariffs Raise Trade Tensions as Carney Pushes Back first appeared on Maple News Wire.

New U.S. tariffs could test CUSMA

Canada has had a key layer of protection during the U.S. trade fight.

That protection could soon weaken.

U.S. President Donald Trump plans to impose new 50 per cent tariffs on a wide range of Canadian goods. If they take effect, industry groups say the move could put a serious crack in the protection that CUSMA has provided.

Jasmin Guenette, vice-president of national affairs at the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), says the change could create even more uncertainty for Canadian firms.

“If those new tariffs are implemented, there will be a crack in the CUSMA shield,” Guenette said.

The concern is simple. Businesses have relied on CUSMA rules to keep many goods moving across the border without extra duties. However, the new tariffs could reach products that once had more protection.

Billions in Canadian exports at risk

The impact could be large.

The CFIB says about two in five Canadian exporters have products that could face the new tariffs. Of those businesses, 77 per cent expect to lose revenue if the tariffs start.

Meanwhile, 35 per cent say they could lose at least half of their revenue.

Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters president Dennis Darby estimates that the tariffs could cover almost $28 billion in annual Canadian exports to the U.S.

That figure represents more than five per cent of Canada’s goods exports to the American market.

Darby warns that a 50 per cent tariff could make many Canadian products too costly for U.S. buyers. As a result, some Canadian manufacturers could lose access to their biggest export market.

More sectors could feel the pain

The new tariffs would also come on top of existing U.S. duties.

Canadian steel and aluminum already face 50 per cent tariffs. Lumber, motor vehicles and other sectors also face trade barriers.

The Bank of Canada has warned that these measures are already hurting exports. By February, Canadian lumber exports had fallen to about 20 per cent below their 2024 average.

The forestry industry now fears another major blow.

Derek Nighbor, president of the Forest Producers Association, called the proposed tariff another significant hit for Canadian workers and businesses.

He said Canada and the U.S. need to lower trade barriers and protect North American supply chains. He also called for a lasting solution to the softwood lumber dispute.

Tariffs could reach everyday products

The new measures could reach far beyond metals and lumber.

Darby says U.S. tariffs could hit Canadian-made:

• Beverages
• Plastics
• Electrical equipment
• Furniture
• Paper and packaging
• Building materials
• Clothing
• Sporting goods

That broader reach has industry leaders worried.

In 2025, just seven Canadian product groups made up 56 per cent of all duties paid by U.S. importers on Canadian goods, according to Export Development Canada.

Those groups included vehicles, aluminum products, aircraft parts, steel products and motor vehicle parts.

The proposed tariffs could spread the pressure across a much wider group of Canadian exporters.

Some industries face greater risks

Canada’s economy may not take the same hit in every sector.

A recent Royal Bank of Canada report says the overall economy could hold up if the tariffs take effect. However, some industries could face a much sharper slowdown.

Plastics, electrical machinery, furniture and home appliance makers could be especially exposed.

One reason is the small share of U.S. imports that comes from Canada in these areas. If Canada supplies only a small part of the U.S. market, American buyers may find it easier to switch to other suppliers.

The situation differs for products such as aluminum.

Canada supplies a large share of U.S. aluminum imports. Therefore, American buyers may have fewer quick alternatives.

Businesses are already changing plans

The tariff threat is affecting Canadian companies even before a new round of duties begins.

Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters says nearly three-quarters of manufacturers have reported negative effects from metal tariffs.

One-third have also delayed or cancelled investments in Canada.

Companies are reviewing contracts, shipments and suppliers. They are also rethinking hiring and major spending.

The reason is clear: businesses do not know what trade rules will look like next.

Small firms have less room to adapt

Small businesses may face an even tougher choice.

Many have fewer financial resources than large companies. They may also have fewer options when it comes to changing suppliers or finding new markets.

Guenette says some small firms are already absorbing U.S. tariff costs to keep their American customers.

That strategy can protect sales in the short term. However, it can also squeeze profit margins.

For Canadian exporters, the bigger question now is what comes next.

If the new 50 per cent tariffs take effect, the CUSMA shield could become less reliable. And if that happens, businesses may have to rethink prices, supply chains and investment plans once again.

For now, Canadian industry is urging Ottawa to find a path that keeps cross-border trade open and protects North American supply chains.

The post Trump Tariffs Could Crack Canada’s CUSMA Shield first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Most Canadians oppose giving in to U.S. demands

With a new round of U.S. tariffs looming, Canadians remain split on how Ottawa should respond.

Still, one option has little support.

Just 18% of Canadians say the country should offer concessions to the United States if that would remove the proposed tariffs. That could include ending provincial bans on American alcohol or easing limits on U.S. dairy imports.

The findings come from a new Abacus Data poll of 1,499 Canadians, conducted from Aug. 7 to 12.

Meanwhile, 36% favour counter-tariffs. Another 30% want Canada to keep negotiating without imposing new counter-tariffs.

Canadians expect a tough trade fight

The poll also shows that many Canadians are bracing for higher tariffs.

About 38% say the new U.S. tariffs are likely to hit Canada. At the same time, 40% believe there is a 50/50 chance they will take effect.

Only 10% think U.S. President Donald Trump is likely to change course before the deadline.

Another 12% say they are unsure what will happen.

So, while the outcome remains uncertain, Canadians appear to be preparing for a prolonged trade dispute.

Most expect economic damage

The concern goes beyond trade policy.

In fact, 70% of those surveyed say new U.S. tariffs would have a somewhat or very negative effect on the economy in their local area.

Moreover, 74% say the Canada-U.S. trade war has already affected their household finances.

That suggests the dispute is no longer viewed as a distant policy battle. Instead, many Canadians say they can already feel its effects at home.

Ottawa and Washington race toward a deal

Canadian Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc and chief trade negotiator Janice Charette have been working with U.S. officials in Washington.

The talks continued through the weekend. LeBlanc also joined a virtual meeting with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Sunday.

Ottawa says it wants a broad agreement that supports businesses, workers, farmers and families on both sides of the border.

However, the two countries still face major differences.

Officials told Global News that the sides were not close to signing a deal. They also said a significant gap remained between Ottawa and Washington.

Softwood lumber remains a major hurdle

One of the biggest sticking points is Canadian softwood lumber.

U.S. tariffs on the industry are already close to 45%. According to sources familiar with the talks, Washington has shown little interest in reducing them.

That issue has drawn strong criticism from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre.

Poilievre said Sunday that any trade agreement should remove U.S. tariffs on Canadian lumber.

He also argued that Canada should not make further concessions unless it receives something meaningful in return.

The deadline is fast approaching

The pressure on both sides is now rising.

Trump has threatened new 50% tariffs on a broad range of Canadian goods. The U.S. has pointed to several Canadian measures as reasons for the proposed tariffs.

Those include provincial and territorial boycotts of American alcohol, Canadian tariffs on U.S. vehicles and auto parts, and limits on American dairy imports under Canada’s supply management system.

As talks continue, Ottawa faces a difficult choice: keep negotiating, respond with counter-tariffs or consider concessions.

For now, the poll suggests one thing is clear. Most Canadians are not eager to give ground to Washington simply to make the tariffs disappear.

The post Canadians Reject U.S. Trade Concessions as Tariff Deadline Nears first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Spain deploys troops to Ceuta after thousands cross from Morocco. At least nine people died as officials race to restore border security.

Spain Moves Fast as Ceuta Border Crisis Escalates

Spain is sending military personnel to the North African territory of Ceuta after thousands of migrants crossed the border from Morocco in a dramatic surge that left at least nine people dead.

The sudden influx overwhelmed local authorities and sparked urgent calls for help from Madrid. Now, the national government is stepping in to restore order and strengthen border security.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez will travel to Ceuta alongside Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska on Friday to assess the situation firsthand.

Thousands Crossed the Border in Just Hours

The crisis reached a breaking point on Thursday when huge crowds crossed into Ceuta through the Tarajal border area.

Officials say the number of arrivals climbed so quickly that security forces struggled to keep pace.

Rachid Sbihi, who leads an association representing Spain’s Civil Guard officers in Ceuta, described the situation as unprecedented.

According to him, thousands of migrants entered the territory as border controls became overwhelmed.

Tragic Loss of Life During the Crossing

The humanitarian toll has been severe.

Spanish authorities confirmed that at least nine people died during the chaotic crossing. Officials have not released details about the circumstances surrounding the deaths. However, witnesses reported seeing bodies floating in nearby waters.

Local authorities also noted that dozens of migrants have already lost their lives this year while attempting to reach Ceuta.

Families and Young People Among the Arrivals

Video footage from the border showed large groups moving through the area on foot after passing the beach breakwaters.

Most appeared to be young men. Even so, families with women and young children were also among those making the journey.

Some migrants celebrated their arrival by shouting, “Viva España!” as they entered Spanish territory.

Authorities have not yet confirmed what triggered such a large movement of people within such a short period.

Spain and Morocco Work Together

Spain says Moroccan authorities are cooperating to manage the crisis.

According to Spain’s Interior Ministry, Moroccan police have stopped many people from attempting the crossing. Both governments also agreed to work together to return those who entered Ceuta illegally as quickly as possible.

Meanwhile, Morocco has not publicly explained why so many people attempted to cross the border.

Local Leaders Push for Stronger Security

Juan Jesús Vivas, the president of Ceuta’s regional government, urged Madrid to take immediate action.

He asked the national government to declare an emergency based on national security concerns. He also requested additional police officers and military support to secure the border and protect residents.

Earlier this week, Vivas warned that migrant reception centres had already reached capacity. Hundreds of people were sleeping outdoors before the latest wave of arrivals pushed the system even further.

Legal Changes May Have Added Pressure

Officials have linked part of the recent increase to a ruling by Spain’s Supreme Court earlier this month.

The court decided that migrants who arrive by sea cannot automatically be returned without legal procedures. By contrast, migrants who enter by land still face immediate returns under certain conditions.

However, some migrant rights advocates in Morocco question whether that decision influenced the latest crossings. They argue that many migrants would not have known about the legal ruling.

Italy Voices Concern

The crisis has also drawn attention across Europe.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni warned that Italy could reconsider its participation in the Schengen open-border agreement with Spain if migration pressures continue to grow.

Her comments highlight wider concerns across Europe about managing migration and protecting external borders.

Ceuta’s Long History With Migration

Ceuta sits on the northern coast of Africa but remains Spanish territory. Because of its location, it has become one of the main entry points into Europe for migrants seeking safety or better economic opportunities.

Many people attempt the dangerous journey by swimming several kilometres from nearby Moroccan towns. Others try to climb the border fence.

The latest events also bring back memories of the 2021 border crisis, when more than 8,000 migrants entered Ceuta over two days during a diplomatic dispute between Spain and Morocco.

What Happens Next?

Spanish security forces are preparing for more arrivals while government leaders work to stabilize the border.

Officials have not yet released a final count of how many migrants entered Ceuta during the latest surge. Spain’s next official migration report is expected on August 3.

For now, the focus remains on restoring order, supporting emergency services, and preventing further loss of life as both Spain and Morocco respond to one of the region’s most serious border emergencies in recent years.

The post Spain Sends Military to Ceuta After Deadly Border Surge first appeared on Maple News Wire.

The US and Iran exchange fresh missile strikes as the five-month conflict intensifies, raising fears of a wider Middle East war and economic fallout.

The conflict between the United States and Iran has entered another dangerous phase. Fresh missile attacks from both sides have ended a brief period of calm, while hopes for a quick diplomatic breakthrough continue to fade.

At the same time, the latest wave of strikes has spread concern across the Middle East. Several neighbouring countries have also faced growing security threats, adding to fears that the conflict could widen even further.

Missile Attacks Spread Across the Region

Iran launched another round of missiles on Thursday, prompting Jordan to intercept several projectiles for the second straight day. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in Jordan.

Meanwhile, Kuwait confirmed that one missile strike hit a building linked to a Chinese company in the country’s north. The attack killed one worker and caused major damage. Since both Jordan and Kuwait host American military forces, the incidents have raised fresh concerns about regional security.

In response, the United States carried out a large-scale military operation targeting dozens of Iranian sites. According to US Central Command, the strikes focused on military headquarters, missile facilities, drone bases, and coastal defence positions operated by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.

Iranian state media later reported that a strike on Qeshm Island killed three people and injured two others. The island sits near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping routes for oil and natural gas.

Recent Calm Ends as Fighting Intensifies

Only days ago, many observers believed diplomacy might gain traction after a temporary slowdown in fighting.

However, those hopes quickly disappeared.

Missile and drone attacks have returned across several parts of the Middle East, creating fresh uncertainty for governments and civilians alike.

Pakistan, which has helped mediate discussions, acknowledged that negotiations continue. Officials said talks remain focused on restoring stability, especially around the Strait of Hormuz.

New Attacks Raise Alarm Beyond Iran and the US

The conflict has now reached additional countries.

Drone attacks sparked fires aboard two natural gas vessels at Egypt’s Port of Damietta. Although no one suffered injuries, investigators confirmed that a drone caused the fires. Authorities continue to examine evidence to determine who launched the attack.

Egypt has largely avoided direct military action throughout the conflict. Therefore, the latest incident has increased worries that the fighting could spread into new territory.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi stopped short of denying any involvement. Instead, he stressed that Egypt remains an important regional partner and called for vigilance against actions that could increase tensions.

Energy Supplies Face Growing Pressure

The conflict continues to disrupt global energy markets.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical route for roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas shipments. Yet shipping traffic through the waterway has dropped sharply as military activity has intensified.

Shipping analysts reported that vessel movements fell dramatically over the past two weeks, highlighting the growing risks for global trade.

At the same time, Saudi Arabia has accused Iran-backed militias in Iraq of targeting its energy infrastructure with drones. The Houthis have also threatened shipping routes near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, creating additional pressure on regional supply chains.

As a result, Saudi exporters have relied more heavily on longer and more expensive transport routes through Egypt before oil reaches international markets.

Economic Impact Continues to Grow

The prolonged conflict has placed increasing pressure on the global economy.

Fuel prices have climbed as energy supplies face disruption. Businesses and consumers around the world continue to feel the effects through higher transportation and operating costs.

Meanwhile, questions have also emerged inside the United States about the long-term military campaign. Concerns continue to grow over defence resources, while recent polling suggests public support for President Donald Trump’s handling of the conflict has weakened slightly.

Saudi Arabia Pushes for De-escalation

Behind the scenes, diplomatic efforts remain active.

Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman recently met with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance to discuss the conflict.

Sources familiar with the discussions said Saudi Arabia joined recent military operations against Iran-backed militias to demonstrate that attacks on its oil facilities would not be tolerated.

Even so, Saudi leaders continue to urge both Washington and Tehran to reduce tensions and return to negotiations before the conflict expands further.

Outlook Remains Uncertain

After five months of fighting, neither side appears ready to step back.

Instead, both countries continue to exchange military strikes while regional powers work to prevent a broader war. As diplomacy struggles to gain momentum, uncertainty continues to grow across the Middle East, leaving global markets and international leaders closely watching every new development.

The post US-Iran Missile Strikes Escalate as Middle East Tensions Deepen first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Carney claims immigration levels are now under control

Prime Minister Mark Carney says his government has “taken back control” of Canada’s immigration system after months of concerns about rising numbers of newcomers.

Speaking at a press conference in Red Deer, Alta., Carney said immigration had reached levels that were “far too high” when his government came into office. According to the prime minister, Canada had lost control of temporary worker and international student numbers.

However, he said recent steps have helped bring those figures down and have created room for a new discussion about the future of immigration policy.

Temporary workers and students see major declines

Carney highlighted sharp drops across several immigration categories. He said asylum seeker arrivals have fallen by one-third, while temporary foreign workers have been reduced by half.

Meanwhile, the number of foreign students entering Canada has dropped by two-thirds, according to the prime minister.

“These changes show that the government is now tracking immigration numbers more closely,” Carney said, adding that Canada is better positioned to manage future growth.

Housing pressures remain a key concern

Despite the recent reductions, Carney acknowledged that immigration continues to place pressure on housing across the country.

He said there is a strong case for keeping a more cautious approach for the next few years. As a result, the federal government may continue limiting growth in immigration levels while communities adjust.

The prime minister added that Canada is now “on top of the numbers,” allowing Ottawa and provincial leaders to focus on the next steps.

Alberta referendum puts immigration debate in spotlight

Carney’s comments came as Alberta prepares for a referendum asking residents how the province should approach immigration.

The vote has brought renewed attention to questions about immigration targets, housing availability and the role provinces should play in decision-making.

Still, Carney said the federal government now has an opportunity to work with premiers across Canada to find a balanced path forward.

Government signals cautious approach ahead

While the government says recent measures have improved control over immigration flows, Carney suggested that a period of restraint may continue.

For now, Ottawa appears focused on maintaining lower temporary immigration levels while addressing housing challenges and supporting long-term planning.

The prime minister’s message is clear: Canada is no longer reacting to immigration pressures but is trying to manage them with a more controlled approach.

The post Carney Says Canada Has Regained Immigration Control first appeared on Maple News Wire.

BC Hydro Unveils First Large Battery Storage Project

BC Hydro is taking a major step toward a stronger and more flexible electricity system. The Crown utility has announced plans to build its first utility-scale battery energy storage facility on Vancouver Island.

The project will be located in North Cowichan and marks a first for British Columbia. It aims to improve how electricity is stored and delivered, especially when demand changes throughout the day.

Battery Storage Will Help Meet Peak Demand

The proposed facility will provide at least 100 megawatts of battery storage capacity. During times when electricity demand is low, the system will store extra power instead of letting it go unused. Then, when demand rises, that stored energy can quickly flow back into the grid.

As a result, homes, businesses, and communities across Vancouver Island will benefit from a more reliable and flexible power supply. At the same time, the project will help BC Hydro make better use of clean electricity already being produced.

Procurement Process Begins This Month

BC Hydro will begin the search for qualified companies on July 30 by issuing a Request for Supplier Qualifications.

Next, the utility will review submissions and create a shortlist of qualified applicants. Later this year, those selected companies will receive an invitation to submit detailed proposals for the project.

This staged approach will help BC Hydro identify experienced partners capable of delivering the large-scale energy storage facility.

Facility Expected to Be Ready by 2030

Construction and planning will continue over the coming years, with the battery storage facility expected to begin operating by 2030.

Once complete, BC Hydro will own and operate the site, ensuring the project becomes part of the province’s long-term electricity network.

Province Says Project Supports Future Growth

Energy and Climate Solutions Minister Adrian Dix said the battery storage facility will play an important role in strengthening British Columbia’s electricity system.

He noted that the project will improve power reliability across Vancouver Island while supporting future population growth and increasing electricity demand. In addition, the new facility forms part of BC Hydro’s broader strategy to expand clean energy infrastructure and prepare the province for the years ahead.

As British Columbia continues to electrify transportation, businesses, and communities, projects like this will help ensure the power grid remains dependable, efficient, and ready for future needs.

The post BC Hydro Battery Project to Power Vancouver Island first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Meta introduces new AI safety alerts for Canadian families

Meta is adding new safety tools designed to help parents respond when teens may be discussing suicide or self-harm with its AI chatbot.

The company has launched features in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia that can alert parents through Instagram supervision tools when a teen’s conversations with Meta AI show possible signs of danger.

The move is part of Meta’s wider effort to improve online safety for young users. However, experts say the tools could help, but they will not solve every challenge linked to children and artificial intelligence.

Parents can receive warnings about possible risks

Under the new system, Meta AI conversations that include possible signs of self-harm will first be reviewed by artificial intelligence. If concerns remain, a human review process will follow before alerts are sent to parents.

Meta said it will choose caution when a teen’s intentions are unclear.

The company explained that some alerts may be sent even when there is no immediate danger. However, Meta said it believes early warnings are an important step while it continues improving the system.

In addition, Meta is developing a process that could connect emergency services with people who appear to be at serious risk of harming themselves.

Experts welcome action but warn about limits

Although child safety experts support stronger protections, they say the new tools have weaknesses.

Kaitlynn Mendes, a sociology professor at Western University, said the protections may not reach enough young people because they depend on parents using Instagram supervision features.

She also questioned why the safeguards are not automatically turned on for all accounts.

Meanwhile, Shauna Pomerantz, a professor of child and youth studies at Brock University, said young people often find ways around online restrictions.

She explained that teens may change their language or avoid certain words to prevent systems from detecting concerning conversations.

Therefore, experts say parents should not rely only on technology. Instead, they should continue having open conversations with young people about their online experiences.

Meta continues expanding child protection efforts

The latest update follows several other safety changes introduced by Meta in recent years.

For example, Meta AI has been designed to avoid sexual or romantic conversations with teens. It also blocks requests for content such as alcohol-related recipes.

Additionally, Facebook and Instagram already have systems that identify posts showing a possible suicide risk and can send information to emergency services. Meta said the programme led to thousands of referrals and wellness checks last year.

The company says these steps are meant to provide extra support when warning signs appear.

AI companies face growing pressure to protect children

Meta’s announcement came shortly before OpenAI shared plans to strengthen protections for younger chatbot users.

OpenAI said it plans to identify users under 18 and reduce their access to content involving graphic violence, self-harm, risky online challenges, harmful body-image messages and unsafe role-play.

However, some experts believe reducing access may not go far enough. They argue that companies should focus on preventing harmful content from appearing rather than only limiting exposure.

Safety tools are one part of a bigger solution

As AI chatbots become more common among young people, experts say technology companies, parents and lawmakers will need to work together.

The new Meta features offer another layer of support, but they are not a replacement for guidance, trust and regular conversations between families.

If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, support is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988, Canada’s national suicide prevention helpline.

The post Meta AI Suicide Alerts Help Parents Protect Teens first appeared on Maple News Wire.