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Provinces Accelerate Push to Dismantle Trade Barriers

Canadian provinces launch new deals and legislation to reduce internal trade barriers amid rising U.S. tariffs and economic uncertainty.

Provinces Unite to Break Down Internal Trade Walls

Amid escalating tariff tensions with the United States, Canadian provinces and territories are moving swiftly to eliminate long-standing internal trade barriers. In recent months, a wave of agreements and legislation has emerged, aiming to boost interprovincial commerce and labor mobility.

Recent Agreements Across Provinces

Several provinces have entered into new trade pacts. On June 6, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew announced a memorandum with British Columbia to reduce trade restrictions. This followed a similar agreement signed with Ontario on May 14, which also includes provisions for cross-border alcohol sales.

In Atlantic Canada, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador pledged on April 24 to explore mutual trade and labor reforms. Additionally, New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt proposed an Atlantic-wide free trade zone on March 21, inspired by Nova Scotia’s barrier-removal legislation.

Industry-Specific Collaborations

Specific sectors are also benefiting from targeted deals. Notably, B.C. and Alberta finalized an agreement in 2024 to allow direct wine sales across their borders. The policy came into effect this January, opening new distribution channels for B.C. wineries in Alberta.

Legislative Measures in the Works

Provinces are also advancing legislation to formalize these reforms. Ontario introduced a sweeping bill in April to eliminate all existing interprovincial trade exceptions, including those affecting employment and alcohol sales.

Manitoba passed a bill in June to streamline trade in goods and services with similarly aligned jurisdictions. Prince Edward Island, in April, introduced legislation to speed up labor recognition and product standard alignment with other provinces.

Quebec and Northern Progress

Quebec, often cautious on trade liberalization, announced in May it would remove five key exemptions from the Canadian Free Trade Agreement, including regulations affecting real estate and explosive sales. The province also plans to harmonize consumer goods standards.

Yukon, on June 24, confirmed the removal of five CFTA exemptions, targeting low-impact areas such as real estate licensing and forestry—selected for ease of implementation with minimal local disruption.

Why This Push Matters

These initiatives reflect a strategic shift to strengthen Canada’s internal market as a buffer against volatile international trade relations—particularly with the U.S. The reforms are expected to enhance economic efficiency, labor mobility, and consumer access across provinces.

As provinces race to meet both political and economic demands, more intergovernmental negotiations and harmonization efforts are expected in the coming months. A unified internal market may soon become one of Canada’s strongest tools in weathering global trade pressures.

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

Canada Drops Digital Tax to Resume U.S. Trade Talks

Canada rescinds digital services tax targeting U.S. tech giants to restart stalled trade talks with the Trump administration and avoid further economic fallout.

Canada Repeals Digital Tax to Reopen U.S. Negotiations

In a late Sunday announcement, the federal government confirmed it will withdraw its controversial Digital Services Tax (DST), a move aimed at reviving trade negotiations with the United States. The decision comes just days after U.S. President Donald Trump abruptly suspended all discussions with Canada in response to the tax, which was due to take effect June 30.

Tax Targeted U.S. Tech Giants

The DST, introduced under Prime Minister Mark Carney’s leadership, would have levied a 3% tax on Canadian revenue generated by major digital platforms earning over $1.1 billion globally. Companies like Amazon, Alphabet (Google’s parent company), Meta, Uber, and Airbnb were expected to pay retroactive fees dating back to 2022—amounting to over US$2 billion in total.

Trade Talks Back on the Table

The Carney government stated that talks with the Trump administration will now resume, with both parties aiming to finalize an economic and security agreement by July 21, 2025. The resumption follows a commitment made at the G7 summit in Kananaskis earlier this month, where both leaders agreed to a 30-day window for negotiations.

Trump Calls DST ‘Egregious’ in Fox News Interview

While speaking to Fox News in a pre-recorded interview aired Sunday, President Trump condemned Canada’s DST as “egregious” and reiterated his displeasure with Canada’s supply management system for eggs, dairy, and poultry. However, he indicated that the tax—not the broader trade structure—was the main trigger for halting talks last week.

Economic Implications and Industry Reactions

The Parliamentary Budget Officer had estimated annual DST revenues of $1.2 billion, with federal projections suggesting $2.3 billion in the 2024–25 fiscal year alone. Despite potential fiscal gains, Canadian business groups warned that implementing the tax unilaterally could strain Canada-U.S. economic relations. The Business Council of Canada had repeatedly urged Ottawa to avoid disrupting cross-border commerce.

Global Context: DST Adoption Elsewhere

Canada’s DST was not unique. A 2024 Tax Foundation report noted that at least 18 other countries—including France, India, and the U.K.—have implemented or proposed similar digital levies. However, the U.S. has consistently opposed such taxes, arguing they unfairly target American firms.

Next Steps Toward a Bilateral Agreement

With the DST rescinded, attention now turns to what concessions each side may bring to the table before the July 21 deadline. Analysts say the move opens the door for Canada to negotiate relief from tariffs imposed earlier this year by the Trump administration, offering a potential reset in strained bilateral relations.

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

B.C. Skin Cancer Survivor Launches UV-Protective Clothing Line

After surviving melanoma, Jake MacDonald of Penticton, B.C. now designs stylish UPF 50+ clothing to help others stay safe from harmful UV rays.

Survivor-Turned-Founder Aims to Protect Others from UV Exposure

Jake MacDonald of Penticton, B.C., was only 24 when a suspicious mole led to a melanoma diagnosis. Now cancer-free, he’s transforming his personal health scare into a public mission: protecting others from ultraviolet (UV) radiation through functional, stylish clothing.

A Diagnosis That Changed Everything

MacDonald’s journey began in 2018, when his grandmother urged him to have a mole on his leg examined. The mole’s irregular shape and size raised concern—and a doctor confirmed it was melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. According to Melanoma Canada, rates of this disease have tripled over the past 30 years, largely due to excessive UV exposure from sunlight and tanning beds.

Turning Prevention into a Passion Project

After recovering and reassessing his life, MacDonald left a stable banking job and launched a sun-safe clothing brand called Enjoy the Vu. The brand offers long-sleeve golf polos rated UPF 50+—the highest level of UV protection in apparel. His goal: blend safety with style in a market that often neglects aesthetics.

UPF Fabric Offers Maximum Protection

Unlike a basic white T-shirt, which has a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) of about 5, MacDonald’s polos block 98% of UV rays. Dr. Jason Rivers, a clinical professor of dermatology at the University of British Columbia, confirms that UPF fabrics are effective, durable, and an essential part of sun safety, especially when combined with sunscreen, hats, and protective eyewear.

Designs for the Outdoors and Beyond

Currently available in three bold designs, the polos are made in China and lab-tested for UPF efficacy. MacDonald plans to expand the product line to include hats, women’s apparel, and kids’ styles once he better understands consumer demand. Beyond product development, he uses social media and community outreach to spread awareness about UV risks.

Education Through Advocacy

Beyond fashion, MacDonald has embraced the role of public advocate. He partners with campaigns like Merck’s Practice Skintimacy, using his platform to share his melanoma experience and encourage early detection. “It started out just me making clothes for myself,” he said. “But it’s really evolved into just being a voice for skin cancer.”

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

Alberta Premier to Challenge Trans Health Law Ruling

Premier Danielle Smith vows to fight a court injunction blocking Alberta’s ban on gender-affirming care for youth, citing constitutional grounds.

Premier Plans Court Battle Over Blocked Youth Care Law

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has announced her government’s intention to appeal a temporary court injunction halting the implementation of Bill 26, a controversial law banning gender-affirming health care for minors. The announcement came just one day after the Alberta Court of King’s Bench ruled that the legislation could cause “irreparable harm” to transgender youth.

Court Temporarily Halts Implementation of Bill 26

On Friday, Justice Allison Kuntz issued a written judgment that temporarily blocks Alberta’s Bill 26, citing concerns that it would cause immediate and lasting harm to youth seeking gender-affirming medical care. The injunction prevents doctors from being penalized for offering such treatments while legal challenges to the law proceed through the courts.

Smith Calls Injunction Harmful, Vows to Appeal

Speaking on her weekend radio show Your Province, Your Premier, Smith pushed back against the court’s reasoning, arguing that allowing gender-affirming care to continue would itself cause harm. “We want to battle this out, and the way you do that is you go to the higher levels of court,” she said. Smith also noted the option of invoking the Canadian Charter’s notwithstanding clause, though she framed it as a last resort.

Legal Experts Say Fight Could Take Years

Constitutional law professor Eric Adams from the University of Alberta noted that the injunction is not a final judgment on the law’s constitutionality, but it is significant. “This judge said that, on balance, she’s electing to hold that law off until the court weighs in,” Adams said. He emphasized that final resolution could still be years away, and that using the notwithstanding clause would require new legislation—something that can’t happen until the legislature resumes in October.

Advocates Say Injunction Offers Much-Needed Relief

Bennett Jensen, legal director of 2SLGBTQ+ rights group Egale Canada and co-counsel in the case, called the injunction a “tremendous relief.” He stressed that evidence presented in court showed the law would cause serious harm to youth, contradicting the province’s stated goal of protecting children. Jensen urged the government to reconsider its position in light of the ruling.

Next Steps Unclear as Political Stakes Rise

The Premier’s strong response signals that the province will continue defending Bill 26 in higher courts. However, any move to invoke the notwithstanding clause could ignite further public and legal controversy. With Alberta’s legislature not in session until the fall, the future of the bill—and transgender health care access for youth—remains uncertain.

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

Staffing Shortages Cause Flight Delays at Vancouver Airport

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Vancouver airport faces weekend flight delays due to Nav Canada staffing issues. Passengers urged to check with airlines before arriving.

Flight Delays Disrupt Weekend Travel at YVR

VANCOUVER — June 30, 2025 — Travellers at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) continued facing significant flight delays this weekend, with operational challenges at Nav Canada, the national air traffic control provider, identified as the primary cause.

Cause of Delays Traced to Nav Canada Staffing

Nav Canada confirmed on Sunday that ongoing staffing shortages are contributing to widespread air traffic flow restrictions at YVR and other Canadian airports. A spokesperson for the organization said delays can result from various factors, including weather, infrastructure maintenance, and surges in demand — but current personnel shortages are particularly acute.

Extent of Disruptions at Vancouver Airport

On Saturday alone, YVR experienced 186 delayed flights, with 28 additional delays reported by early Sunday afternoon, according to airport spokesperson Reilly Whittaker. An active advisory remains posted on yvr.ca, warning passengers about ongoing disruptions. U.S. and Canadian customs extended operating hours until 2 a.m. Sunday to assist in managing backlogs, and several airport concessions also stayed open late to accommodate delayed travellers.

Measures to Support Travellers and Minimize Impact

YVR has deployed additional staff across terminals to assist passengers with rebooking and general information. Travellers are being advised to monitor flight statuses closely and to contact their airlines directly for rebooking options and connecting flight arrangements. “Safety remains our top priority as we work to reduce delays,” Nav Canada said in an official statement.

Nav Canada’s Efforts Toward Long-Term Staffing Solutions

Nav Canada has hired over 450 new personnel since September 2023, including 230 air traffic controllers, and currently has over 500 individuals in training nationwide. However, the path to becoming a fully certified air traffic controller is lengthy — typically 24 to 36 months — involving classroom instruction, simulation, and hands-on experience.

Outlook for Canada’s Aviation Sector

Despite the current constraints, Nav Canada emphasized that staffing improvements are progressing across the country. “We are seeing encouraging signs in many regions, and we are committed to expanding our capacity without compromising safety,” the organization said.

For now, travellers are urged to plan ahead, expect potential delays, and arrive at the airport with patience as efforts continue to stabilize the system.

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

Surrey to Host Canada Day’s Largest Festival Tuesday

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Surrey’s Canada Day returns July 1 with top artists, rides, food, beer garden, and fireworks in Cloverdale. Free event runs 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Canada Day Festival Returns to Cloverdale July 1

Surrey’s flagship Canada Day celebration is set for Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at the Bill Reid Millennium Amphitheatre in Cloverdale. The all-day, free-admission festival will run from 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., ending with a large-scale fireworks display. It is billed as Western Canada’s largest Canada Day party, attracting tens of thousands of attendees annually.

National Artists Headline the Entertainment Lineup

The main stage will feature The Reklaws, the Ontario-based sibling country duo known for chart-topping hits. Joining them are Canadian singer-songwriter Goldie Boutilier, Indigenous rocker Garret T. Willie, and many other national talents. Live entertainment will run across four dedicated stages, covering music, dance, and cultural performances throughout the day.

Attractions Include Rides, DJs, Food, and Beer Garden

Festivalgoers can expect a wide range of attractions beyond music. The site will include amusement rides, food trucks, interactive dance battles, and DJ sets. A site-wide licensed beer garden will allow visitors to enjoy alcoholic beverages throughout the grounds, offering a festival-style experience for adults.

Community Focus and Family-Friendly Activities

The event is designed to be inclusive and family-oriented, offering kids’ play zones, community booths, local vendors, and multicultural showcases. Organizers encourage attendees to come dressed in red and white and bring Canadian flags to celebrate the nation’s 158th birthday in true patriotic spirit.

Location, Transport, and Visitor Information

The venue is located at 176 Street and 64 Avenue, near Highway 15 in Cloverdale. The City of Surrey recommends public transit, bike access, or carpooling to ease traffic congestion. Free bike parking will be available, and a detailed festival schedule can be found at SurreyCanadaDay.ca.

Digital Access and Additional Resources

To help visitors prepare, the city has released a Surrey Canada Day 2025 Spotify playlist, featuring performing artists. A full event guide titled “10 Must-Dos” is also available on the official website, along with a promotional video previewing the day’s highlights.

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

Yukon Man Charged in Fatal Shooting Near Skky Hotel

A 45-year-old man was fatally shot near Skky Hotel in Whitehorse. Yukon RCMP have charged George Ned Sydney, 38, with first-degree murder.

Shooting Reported Near Skky Hotel in Whitehorse

Late Friday night, a shooting incident unfolded near the Skky Hotel in Whitehorse, Yukon, prompting a rapid response from local RCMP. At 11:39 p.m., officers were dispatched following a report of an injured male in the vicinity. Upon arrival, they discovered a 45-year-old man suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite efforts from emergency medical personnel, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Victim Confirmed Dead at the Scene

Authorities have not released the identity of the victim, pending notification of next of kin. The man was found critically wounded when police arrived, and though life-saving measures were attempted, he succumbed to his injuries on-site. RCMP confirmed the fatality in a press release issued Sunday afternoon.

Arrest Made Shortly After Incident

Yukon RCMP arrested 38-year-old George Ned Sydney in connection with the shooting. He has been formally charged with first-degree murder. According to the statement, Sydney was apprehended not long after the incident occurred. His arrest followed swift investigative efforts in the immediate aftermath of the shooting.

Appeal for Public Assistance and Video Evidence

In a Facebook post published at approximately 3:00 a.m. on Saturday, police announced a significant presence near the hotel and requested dash cam footage from the public. Investigators are particularly interested in recordings captured between 11:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. in the areas surrounding the Skky Hotel, the Alaska Highway corridor, and the Hillcrest subdivision.

Public Safety Not at Risk, Say Police

Yukon RCMP reassured residents that there was no ongoing threat to public safety following the incident. By 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, law enforcement had cleared the scene, concluding their on-site operations. The quick resolution helped minimize community disruption and concern.

Court Appearance Expected This Week

George Ned Sydney remains in custody and is expected to appear in court later this week. As the legal process unfolds, RCMP continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the homicide. Authorities have urged anyone with additional information to come forward to assist with the case.

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

Fire Bans Expand Across N.L. as Forest Risk Hits Extreme

Newfoundland and Labrador enforces fire bans in multiple towns as forest fire danger reaches extreme levels ahead of Canada Day.

Fire Risk Reaches Critical Levels in Newfoundland and Labrador

Multiple regions across Newfoundland and Labrador are under strict fire bans after the province’s latest fire hazard map showed dangerously dry conditions. The update, posted Sunday at 2:10 p.m., reveals three areas—Burgeo, Baie Verte, and Hopedale—now face extreme wildfire risk, prompting immediate action by local governments and emergency services.

Towns Issue Bans Ahead of Canada Day Festivities

Just days before Canada Day celebrations, towns including Labrador City and Wabush announced bans via official social media channels. These restrictions apply to open burning, backyard fire pits, fireworks, wood or coal-burning BBQs, cooking stoves, and smokers using solid fuel sources.

Labrador City’s public notice emphasized:

“This ban includes open burning, fireworks, backyard fire pits, wood/coal burning BBQs, cooking stoves and backyard smokers that use fuels such as wood and briquettes.”

Local Fire Departments Respond to Dangerous Conditions

In central Newfoundland, the Baie Verte Fire-Rescue, along with Springdale and South Brook Volunteer Fire Departments, have declared fire bans, citing the extreme fire hazard rating and severely dry forest conditions.

On the Avalon Peninsula, the Torbay Volunteer Fire Department and Pouch Cove Fire Department responded to a “very high” risk rating by issuing bans and advising residents to avoid all open flame activities.

“Our area has moved to the Very High fire index, which means no open fires allowed,” the Torbay department posted. “Everything is very dry at this time.”

Why the Risk is Escalating

According to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, an “extreme” fire rating means new fires can ignite easily, spread rapidly, and be difficult to control. A “very high” rating also indicates serious danger, driven by dry vegetation, warm temperatures, and wind—conditions typical in early summer but intensified this year by lower rainfall.

As a result, public safety authorities have banned many outdoor and recreational activities involving fire.

How the Public is Affected and Expected to Respond

Residents across the affected regions are required to comply with all fire bans. Local governments stress that non-compliance may result in penalties, and urge citizens to report signs of smoke or fire immediately.

The provincial wildfire risk map is updated regularly and can be accessed at gov.nl.ca. Fire departments recommend monitoring local social media pages for town-specific updates as the situation evolves.

Precautions Urged Ahead of Holiday Weekend

With Canada Day approaching, officials are asking the public to refrain from using fireworks or lighting campfires, even in areas not yet under formal bans. They warn that conditions can change rapidly, and prevention is crucial.

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

Halifax Farm Urges Firework Warnings to Protect Horses

Hatfield Farm in Hammonds Plains asks locals to warn before using fireworks, citing safety risks to panicked horses ahead of Canada Day.

Farm Issues Firework Plea Ahead of Holiday Weekend

A popular recreational farm near Halifax is asking neighbours to avoid setting off fireworks near their property, especially in the days leading up to Canada Day. Hatfield Farm, located in Hammonds Plains, Nova Scotia, says the noise from recent fireworks has frightened horses, prompting safety concerns for both animals and staff.

Horses Spooked by Fireworks in Recent Incidents

According to owner Brian Hatfield, fireworks in recent evenings have triggered panic among the farm’s horses, causing them to stampede in the dark. He described the chaos as dangerous, noting that frightened animals are difficult to control and can injure themselves or break free from enclosures.

Urging Communication to Prevent Accidents

Hatfield isn’t asking for a full ban but is urging residents near the farm to alert them in advance if they plan to set off fireworks. This would give the farm time to secure the horses indoors, reducing the risk of injury or escape. “A simple heads-up would let us take precautions,” he said in an interview.

Public Firework Use Raises Wider Safety Debate

The incident has reignited a broader discussion about the risks of unregulated firework use. Advocacy group #FireworksHurt, formed in 2022 after a horse in Canning, N.S. broke its leg during a similar incident and had to be euthanized, supports tighter restrictions on public fireworks. “We’re not against celebration—just the chaos it can cause when done carelessly,” said Hugh Chisholm, a member of the group’s steering committee.

Equestrian Federation Backs Restriction Efforts

The Nova Scotia Equestrian Federation also backs calls to limit unsanctioned fireworks, citing animal safety and public risk. Advocates point to Prince Edward Island, where personal firework use is banned, as a legislative model. They argue that designated, organized displays on national holidays should be the only permitted use.

Balancing Celebration with Community Safety

With Canada Day festivities approaching, Hatfield and others are reminding Canadians that short-term enjoyment can lead to long-term harm. From environmental hazards to serious threats to animals and people, the impact of fireworks stretches far beyond a few minutes of spectacle. “Celebrating shouldn’t come at the cost of someone’s safety—or an animal’s life,” Hatfield said.

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

Glucose Grind Raises $9K for P.E.I. Seniors with Diabetes

Glucose Grind endurance run raises over $9,000 to support Prince Edward Island seniors struggling with diabetes-related costs.

Fundraiser Supports Seniors Living with Diabetes

A new endurance charity event on Prince Edward Island—the Glucose Grind—raised over $9,000 this past weekend to support seniors living with diabetes. The event, held Saturday, attracted dozens of participants aiming to raise awareness and funds for Islanders who face the financial burdens of managing the chronic condition.

Route Stretches from Kensington to Charlottetown

The inaugural Glucose Grind spanned 65 kilometres, beginning in Kensington and ending in downtown Charlottetown. Participants had the flexibility to complete the route solo or in teams, whether by running, biking, or walking. The event took runners and walkers through rural stretches and urban centres, highlighting both the beauty and the solidarity of the Island’s communities.

Personal Motivation Behind the Mission

Organizer Geoff Kowalski, a long-distance runner and Type 1 diabetic, launched the event in collaboration with the Community Foundation of Prince Edward Island. Having firsthand experience with the high costs of diabetes management, Kowalski was motivated to act. “Many Island seniors are struggling—not just with insulin or glucose monitors—but with the basics like food security,” he said. He completed the entire route in just under 7.5 hours.

Rising Costs of Diabetes Management

Kowalski emphasized the financial weight of living with diabetes. A continuous glucose monitor alone can cost around $300 a month, not including insulin, needles, or dietary needs. “If you’re low income or retired, these expenses pile up fast,” he noted. The idea for the Glucose Grind stemmed from stories shared by his wife, a diabetic nurse educator, who often sees seniors sacrificing nutrition for affordability.

Shared Experience Among Islanders

Among the participants was Mike Hogan, an Island resident diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes last year. He echoed Kowalski’s concerns about the cost of healthy eating. “Processed foods are cheaper, but diabetics don’t have the luxury of eating whatever is affordable,” he said. Hogan, also a runner, has entered the 2025 Bath Half Marathon in the UK to support further diabetes research. He’s training for the Boston Marathon, requiring a qualifying time of 3:10:00.

Community Impact and Future Plans

The funds raised will go toward assisting low-income seniors on the Island in covering expenses for essential diabetes care. Kowalski and the Community Foundation hope to make the Glucose Grind an annual event, expanding its reach and support each year. “This is just the beginning,” Kowalski said. “The Island community came together this weekend—and we’ve proven that small steps lead to lasting impact.”

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