This roundup from The Canadian Press highlights significant stories occurring in Canada, covering various sectors from Indigenous affairs to weather conditions, economic statements, and entertainment news.
Gull-Masty to Address Assembly of First Nations
Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty is set to address a gathering of hundreds of chiefs in Ottawa today during a special meeting of the Assembly of First Nations. During her speech, she is anticipated to discuss proposed changes to the Indian Act, following significant amendments made by Senators to a bill that aims to expand eligibility for Indian status. Furthermore, the chiefs are expected to deliberate on pressing issues such as child welfare reform and the implications of major projects on First Nations communities. Prime Minister Mark Carney previously spoke at the assembly, pledging to engage with Coastal First Nations leaders after chiefs voted unanimously to urge the government to reaffirm the B.C. oil tanker ban and withdraw a controversial agreement with Alberta for a new oil pipeline.
Ministers Announce $235 Million in Aid for Ukraine
In a significant move, the Canadian government has announced a new commitment of $235 million for Ukraine, with National Defence Minister David McGuinty and Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand leading the announcement. McGuinty emphasized Canada’s collaboration with NATO allies to acquire critical military capabilities, with a total valuation of approximately USD $500 million, of which Canada’s contribution will amount to CAD $200 million. At a NATO foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels, Minister Anand further disclosed an additional $35 million in funding directed towards NATO’s Comprehensive Assistance Package for Ukraine.
Winter Storm Moves into Atlantic Canada
A winter storm system is currently affecting parts of Atlantic Canada, with a nor'easter bringing heavy snowfall, rain, and strong winds to the region on Wednesday. Environment Canada has issued several snowfall warnings, marked by a mix of orange and yellow alerts across Nova Scotia and Newfoundland since Tuesday. The warnings predict snowfall accumulation ranging from 20 to 30 centimeters, while regions under orange warnings, particularly in northern Cape Breton and parts of central Newfoundland, could receive between 30 to 50 centimeters by the evening. The agency has indicated that much of this precipitation will be heavy, wet snow, with possible rain mixed in along coastal areas.
Greater Toronto Home Sales Fall in November
The Toronto Regional Real Estate Board reported a significant decline in home sales for November, indicating a slowdown as potential homebuyers remain hesitant. The board noted that 5,010 homes were sold in November, reflecting a reduction of 15.8 percent compared to the same month in the previous year. On a seasonally adjusted basis, sales also experienced a slight drop of 0.6 percent from October. Additionally, the average selling price fell by 6.4 percent year-over-year to $1,039,458, with the composite benchmark price decreasing by 5.8 percent. TRREB President Elechia Barry-Sproule highlighted that while many Greater Toronto Area households are interested in capitalizing on lower borrowing costs and favorable pricing, persistent uncertainties regarding long-term employment continue to impede their decisions.
Hearing for Mike Smith's Sexual Assault Charge
Mike Smith, renowned for his role as Bubbles in the popular television series "Trailer Park Boys," is scheduled to appear in court this morning in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, regarding a sexual assault charge. Smith was charged on October 2 in connection with an alleged incident from December 2017 involving a female complainant. The 53-year-old actor, who hails from near New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, has been implicated in serious allegations, with Trailer Park Boys Incorporated acknowledging the situation and expressing that they take the claims seriously.
Bright Winter Forecasts Buoy Ski Resort Hopes
With a white landscape stretching from base to peak, optimism reigns at ski resorts like Banff Sunshine Village. Vice-President Kendra Scurfield remarked on the winter wonderland conditions, noting early signs of winter with young skiers making their way to the bus stop in the streets. Following an influx of early snowfall, the resort celebrated its earliest seasonal opening in over four decades on November 2. Other notable ski destinations, including Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Lake Louise in Alberta, and Mont Tremblant and Saint Sauveur in Quebec, have also commenced their winter seasons.
