Here is a roundup of important stories from The Canadian Press to keep you informed...

Federal Pause on Gasoline and Diesel Tax Takes Effect Today Amid Surge in Global Energy Prices

Starting today, the Canadian government's temporary suspension of certain fuel taxes will result in savings of approximately 10 cents per litre on regular gasoline and four cents per litre on diesel. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced this measure last week, stating that it is a prudent strategy to mitigate rising prices at the pump, costing the government around $2.4 billion. However, the Opposition Conservative Party argues that this initiative is insufficient to address escalating energy costs and insists on extending the tax pause until the end of the year, calling also for the elimination of clean-fuel standards and the industrial carbon tax. The decision comes in the wake of U.S. President Donald Trump's military actions against Iran and Israel, which have dramatically increased global energy prices.

Canada Post Workers Initiate Voting on a Five-Year Contract Amid Labor Strife

Today marks the beginning of voting for Canada Post workers on a prospective five-year contract agreement, following years of labor disputes. Around 55,000 employees from the Canadian Union of Postal Workers can cast their votes until May 30 on whether to ratify the proposed agreement with the Crown corporation. Canada Post and the union have clashed over wage increases and structural changes for over two years, resulting in multiple strikes. Although 60 percent of the union board has endorsed the contract for ensuring job security, the union president is urging members to reject it, arguing it compromises rights and compensation.

Governor General Mary Simon Engages in Dialogue on Indigenous Rights at the United Nations

Governor General Mary Simon and other Indigenous leaders are attending a United Nations forum today to emphasize the importance of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The discussion comes at a critical time, as the declaration's application in Canada has faced recent criticism and attempts by certain governments to diminish its impact in light of court rulings. Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, the Assembly of First Nations National Chief, stated that the declaration recognizes First Nations rights as fundamental human rights, asserting that no government can "extinguish, amend or suspend" these rights without losing its standing in the international community.

Canada and Mercosur Aim to Finalize Free Trade Agreement by Year-End

After eight years of negotiations, Canada is reportedly on track to sign a free trade deal with the Mercosur bloc of South American countries by the end of this year. Paula Barboza of Brazil's Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted a newfound "political push" to expedite the negotiations, which involve Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Earlier this year, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva confirmed that Prime Minister Mark Carney accepted an invitation to visit Brazil in April, although Barboza noted she lacks confirmation on the exact timing of the visit.

Rising Water Levels on Ottawa River Raise Flood Concerns

As spring flooding fears escalate, emergency officials in Gatineau, Quebec, are warning that water levels on the Ottawa River are expected to rise by about 30 centimeters today, placing numerous homes and streets at risk. Currently, 164 homes face potential flooding, and 41 streets have been closed as local crews respond to the threat. Several communities in Quebec and Ontario are closely monitoring the situation, and in certain areas like West Nipissing, Central Manitoulin, and Minden Hills, officials have declared states of emergency, urging residents to prepare for possible evacuations.

This report summarizes key developments as of April 20, 2026.