KyberNews

21/06/2024

After an extended hiatus,Kyber News has now returned, after battling legal troubles for dishing out authentic information and news stories.
Thank you for being patient with us and sticking by us throughout.
We will now continue running stories whenever our journalist get a hold of them.
Our thanks to Canada

28/01/2024

Historic $10 Billion Treaty Settlement Reached Between Canada, Ontario, and 21 First Nations
Ottawa, Canada – In a landmark decision, Canada and Ontario have come to an agreement on a $10 billion compensation package with 21 First Nations as part of the Robinson Huron Treaty settlement. This settlement, one of the largest in Canadian history, marks a significant step towards rectifying long-standing injustices and advancing reconciliation with Indigenous communities.

26/01/2024

Canada and Ontario Sign Historic Treaty Settlement

A landmark settlement has been reached involving the Robinson Huron Treaty, with Canada and Ontario agreeing to a $10 billion compensation package for 21 First Nations. This significant agreement marks a step forward in addressing historical grievances and fostering reconciliation with Indigenous communities.

25/01/2024

Financial Watchdog Warns Banks Over 'Forever Mortgages'

Canada's financial watchdog has issued a caution to banks about the risks associated with fixed-payment variable loans, often referred to as 'forever mortgages.' These types of loans can potentially lead borrowers into long-term financial commitments without significantly reducing their principal balance, raising concerns about long-term financial stability and consumer protection.

Canada's Military Preparedness for Emer

25/01/2024

Mexico Reports Decline in Asylum Claims to Canada

Following a surge in asylum claims by Mexican citizens in Canada, the Mexican government has reported a notable decline last month. This comes after both countries implemented unspecified "joint measures" aimed at managing migration flows more effectively, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between Canada and Mexico in addressing migration challenges.

25/01/2024

Federal Investment Boosts Innovative Research for Community Infrastructure

Ottawa, Canada – The Canadian government, through the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, has unveiled a nearly $6 million investment in twelve innovative projects under the Research and Knowledge Initiative. This funding is set to empower data-driven decision-making for infrastructure projects, enhancing the quality of life and sustainability of communities across Canada. The initiative highlights the government's commitment to leveraging research and innovation to address the needs of Canadians and build resilient communities.

24/01/2024

Tragic Plane Crash in Northwest Territories Claims Lives
Fort Smith, Northwest Territories – A devastating plane crash occurred near Fort Smith in the remote Northwest Territories, involving a small aircraft carrying Rio Tinto workers to the Diavik diamond mine. The accident has resulted in an unspecified number of fatalities, with emergency services and investigators rushing to the scene. The incident has shocked the local community and the mining industry, prompting calls for a thorough investigation to prevent future tragedies.

24/01/2024

Bank of Canada Holds Interest Rate Steady Amid Economic Challenges
Ottawa, Canada – In a highly anticipated move, the Bank of Canada has announced its decision to maintain the current target for the overnight rate at 5%, alongside a Bank Rate of 5¼% and a deposit rate of 5%. This decision reflects the central bank's response to the global economic slowdown and the gradual easing of inflationary pressures. With a commitment to quantitative tightening, the Bank of Canada aims to navigate the complex economic landscape, prioritizing stability and growth amidst evolving global dynamics.

23/01/2024

Tragic Helicopter Crash in Northern BC Leaves Three Dead, Four Critically Injured

Terrace, British Columbia – A devastating ski helicopter crash in northern British Columbia has claimed the lives of three individuals, with four others left in critical condition. The accident occurred near Terrace, involving a helicopter operated by Northern Escape Heli-Skiing. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and an investigation into the cause of the crash is currently underway. This tragedy has cast a shadow over the adventure sports community in the region.

23/01/2024

Bank of Canada to Announce Interest Rate Decision Amid Economic Uncertainty
Toronto, Canada

– The Bank of Canada is set to make its next interest rate announcement this Wednesday, marking the second anniversary of its aggressive measures to combat post-COVID inflation. With the economy at a critical juncture, analysts and homeowners alike are eagerly awaiting the decision, which could have significant implications for the country's financial stability and growth prospects. The central bank's policies in response to inflation have been closely watched by international markets.

23/01/2024

Canada Implements Cap on International Students to Ease Housing Crunch

Ottawa, Canada – In a significant policy shift, the Canadian government has announced a two-year cap on the intake of foreign students, a move aimed at alleviating the country's worsening housing shortage. This decision comes after years of explosive growth in the number of international students, which has contributed to the housing crisis. The federal government is set to reduce new visas for international students by more than one-third this year, to manage the surge in temporary residents that has placed additional pressure on Canada's already strained housing system.

22/01/2024

Air Canada passenger tries to open aircraft door on London-Toronto flight.

During a flight from London to Toronto, an Air Canada passenger attempted to open the aircraft doors, leading to an intervention by the crew. The incident, described by the airline as involving a "disruptive passenger," occurred midflight but was managed by the crew, allowing the flight to continue safely to its destination. Upon landing, police identified the passenger as an elderly man experiencing confusion and determined his actions were not intentional. No criminal charges were pressed. It was noted that opening aircraft doors midflight is technically impossible due to design features that secure the doors using air pressure differences.

21/01/2024

A tragic accident occurred in Toronto when a car plunged into Lake Ontario

A tragic accident occurred in Toronto when a car plunged into Lake Ontario, resulting in a fatality. This event has spotlighted the broader societal challenges of addiction and housing crises in Canadian cities, including Ottawa. These intertwined issues are raising safety concerns across the nation, as seen through the lens of a Global News report featuring an Ottawa police patrol. The incident underscores the urgent need for solutions to the addiction and housing problems affecting urban safety and public well-being in Canada​​.

21/01/2024

British Columbia's Ambitious Power Plan Faces Hurdles

British Columbia has ramped up its electricity grid investment by 50% to address the growing demand for renewable hydropower, crucial for the province's shift towards electric vehicles and building heating. However, the challenge of electrifying LNG facilities looms large, compounded by regulatory delays and the impacts of drought on power generation. The province's initiatives, including a significant expansion of a northern transmission line, underscore the daunting task of meeting electricity demands while advancing Canada's environmental goals.

20/01/2024

Search Continues for Missing Woman in Belleville

Authorities in Belleville, Ontario, are intensifying their search for a missing woman last seen on January 9, 2024. The Prince Edward County OPP and the Tyendinaga Police Service are seeking public assistance to locate the 38-year-old woman. She was last spotted on Tyendinaga First Nation near Shannonville. Investigators are particularly interested in any dashcam, doorbell, or surveillance footage from the area and are looking to speak with the driver or owner of a specific vehicle seen at a nearby business. The community's assistance is crucial in this ongoing search.

https://www.quintenews.com/2024/01/19/woman-still-missing/

20/01/2024

Canada's Deputy PM Engages Global Leaders at Davos.

In a significant move on the global stage, Canada's Deputy Prime Minister, Chrystia Freeland, spent January 19, 2024, engaging with business leaders and participants at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. This gathering, a hub for international economic discussion, saw Freeland participating in closed-door meetings, emphasizing Canada's role in global economic discussions. The details of these discussions remain undisclosed, highlighting the sensitive nature of the topics likely covered, ranging from trade to global economic trends. The Deputy Prime Minister's presence at such a high-profile event underscores Canada's commitment to playing an active role in shaping the global economic landscape.

Deputy Prime Minister’s itinerary for Friday, January 19, 2024https://deputypm.canada.ca/en/news/itineraries/2024/01/19/deputy-prime-ministers-itinerary-friday-january-19-2024

20/01/2024

Major Drug Trafficking Operation Uncovered by RCMP

A year-long drug trafficking investigation in Moncton, Dieppe, and Riverview, N.B., resulted in 19 people receiving charges.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have charged 19 individuals in a large-scale drug trafficking investigation, concluding in late 2022. The charges include trafficking in dangerous substances such as co***ne, fentanyl, and crystal methamphetamine. The accused individuals are set to appear in court on various dates throughout early 2024. This crackdown represents a significant effort by Canadian law enforcement to combat the illegal drug trade, underscoring the ongoing battle against drug-related crimes in Canada. The operation's success is a testament to the RCMP's dedication to ensuring public safety and combating the illicit drug market.

https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/news/2024/19-people-charged-connection-drug-trafficking-investigation?re

19/01/2024

Amazon worker dies after London, Ont.-area plant staff sent into bitter cold following fire alarm.

Evacuation and Tragic Outcome
An Amazon worker collapses and dies after a fire alarm forces evacuation into the cold at a London-area fulfillment center.

Details Surrounding the Incident
The employee collapses near his workstation after spending time in a break room; Amazon officials express grief and provide support.

Ministry Investigation and Limited Information
The Ministry of Labour is investigating, but details about the worker's identity remain undisclosed; Amazon emphasizes the incident is not work-related.

Context of the Fulfillment Center
Situated on the former Ford St. Thomas assembly plant site, the warehouse employs 1,000 people; uncertainty regarding additional medical attention for cold-related issues.

Amazon's Response and Employee Resources
Workers provided warm-weather kits during evacuation; Amazon encourages the use of counselling services and the Employee Assistance Program.

17/01/2024

Important tax changes Canadians should know about in 2024.

Federal Income-Based Taxes
The Canadian Taxpayers Federation reports that changes to Canada Pension Plan contributions and Employment Insurance premiums will result in higher federal income taxes for almost all Canadians in 2024. According to the Federation, individuals earning $30,000 will pay an additional $9, while those earning at least $80,000 will see an increase of $347.

Employment Insurance
The federal employment insurance rate and maximum annual insurable earnings have increased in 2024. Employees will now pay a maximum annual premium of $1,049.12, while employers will pay a maximum annual premium of $1,468.77. For Quebec residents, the EI rate has also risen, with employees paying a maximum annual premium of $834.24, and employers contributing a maximum of $1,167.94.

Carbon Tax
The federal carbon tax is set to increase from $65 to $80 per tonne on April 1, 2024. This will result in a rise in the price of gas to 17.6 cents per litre from 14.3 cents, costing a family approximately $12.32 each time they fill a 70-litre minivan. Canadians in provinces subject to the federal carbon tax will receive carbon pricing rebates from the federal government's Climate Action Incentive payment.

Alcohol Taxes
Starting April 1, 2024, the excise tax on beer, wine, and spirits will increase by 4.7%, costing taxpayers about $100 million over the next two years, according to the Canadian Taxpayers Federation.

Digital Services Tax
Consumers can expect to pay higher prices due to a new three percent digital services tax targeting tech giants like Amazon, Uber, and Facebook. The tax applies to businesses with annual worldwide revenues exceeding 750 million euros and annual Canadian digital services revenue over $20 million.

Higher Interest Rates for Late Taxes
The interest rate charged on late taxes, Canada Pension Plan contributions, and employment insurance premiums will rise from nine percent to 10 percent. This applies to any personal income tax balance left unpaid after April 30.

Home Office Expenses
The flat rate of $2 per day for home office expenses, applicable throughout 2020 to 2022, is no longer active for the 2023 taxation year. Employees must now use the detailed method and obtain a completed Form T2200 signed by their employer to claim home office expenses for 2023.

Wider Trust Reporting Rules
Tax specialist Caitlin Butler highlights the expansion of trust reporting rules, affecting individuals and businesses, especially those involved in bare trust arrangements. This change may lead to increased compliance costs, and failure to comply could result in penalties of $25 per day, up to $2,500.

17/01/2024

Former Liberal foreign minister says Canada no longer 'useful' in world affairs: 'We...lost our bearings'

Canada's Global Role Critiqued

Former Liberal deputy prime minister and foreign affairs minister, John Manley, expressed concern over Canada's current international standing. He highlighted that while the country excels in criticizing others, it falls short in taking meaningful action when it matters most on the global stage.

Canada's Waning Influence

In a podcast episode of The Global Exchange, Manley, along with former Quebec premier Jean Charest and ex-Conservative defence minister Peter MacKay, discussed Canada's diminished influence in today's complex world. They collectively acknowledged a decline in Canada's impact, echoing the sentiment that the country's voice is not as strong as before.

Reflections on Canada's Past Effectiveness

Manley reminisced about Canada's past effectiveness, particularly during his time as Prime Minister Jean Chrétien's right-hand man in the early 2000s. He emphasized that Canada was once a "useful" country, excelling when it found ways to be helpful and acting as a bridge in diplomatic relations, especially with countries the United States had severed ties with.

Canada's Middle Power Role

During the discussion, Manley highlighted Canada's historical role as a middle power, emphasizing its ability to engage with various nations and act as a diplomatic bridge. He recalled instances where Canada played a crucial role by entering diplomatic rooms that the U.S. couldn't access and then sharing insights with them.

Current Challenges and Calls for Utility

As Canada faces challenges in maintaining its historical effectiveness, Manley urged the country to rediscover its utility on the global stage. He noted that Canada needs to go beyond merely pointing out impolite behaviour and strive to be a genuinely influential and impactful player in international affairs

17/01/2024

Two people taken to hospital after stabbing in Eglinton West neighbourhood.

Stabbing Incident in Eglinton West: Two Seriously Injured

In the city's Eglinton West neighbourhood on Tuesday evening, two individuals were seriously injured in a stabbing incident. Toronto police responded to reports of a fight on Gabian Way, east of Eglinton Avenue West and Keele Street, around 8:30 p.m.

Police Response and Arrest of Suspect

Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered at least two individuals with injuries. Toronto paramedics transported the victims to a local hospital, describing their injuries as serious but not life-threatening. Simultaneously, the police arrested a male suspect on charges of assault. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unknown.

17/01/2024

The Housing Crisis Unveiled: Political Landscape

Canada grapples with a multifaceted housing crisis, spotlighted by CTV News. The issue has become highly politicized, with Housing Minister Sean Fraser advocating for ambition, while CPC Leader Pierre Poilievre accuses Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of prioritizing optics over solutions.

Immigration's Role in Housing Shortage

CTV's Colton Praill delves into the impact of rising immigration on Canada's housing shortage. Temporary immigration programs create pressure on housing, sparking debates about linking immigration numbers to home construction.

Trudeau's Affordable Housing Initiative

In response, Prime Minister Trudeau announces a substantial initiative. Almost half a billion dollars from Canada's housing accelerator fund will aid Toronto's affordable rent program, aiming to build 12,000 homes in three years. The federal government is fast-tracking projects to address the crisis urgently.

Criticisms and Alternative Perspectives

Despite these efforts, criticism arises. NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh highlights the struggle of refugees in Toronto and calls for increased funding for the homeless. Concerns about housing spending leading to inflation and debates on the necessity of homeownership for full-life participation surface.

Collaborative Solutions for the Future

To combat the crisis, federal and Atlantic provinces' housing ministers are considering increasing factory-built housing, focusing on the Atlantic region. Discussions involve pre-approved designs, regulations, and climate-specific solutions. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. estimates a need for 3.5 million more housing units by 2030 to address affordability issues.

16/01/2024

NDP calls for public consultations on plan that could station Canadian border guards on U.S. soil

Government's Border Plan and NDP's Concerns

The federal government is considering setting up preclearance posts at the Canadian-U.S. border.
NDP's Peter Julian calls for better public consultation and threatens a parliamentary committee study if questions from groups like the union and bar association are not addressed.

Details of the Preclearance Initiative

The plan involves Canadian border guards stationed on U.S. soil.
A two-year pilot project is set to start in June at the Covey Hill/Cannon Corners border crossing.

Concerns and Questions Raised

The Customs and Immigration Union and the Canadian Bar Association express concerns and have questions about the program's functioning.
The proposal requires refugee claimants to be referred to a different border post on Canadian soil.

Public Consultation Criticisms

The public consultation period, initially closing on Jan. 15, is extended to Jan. 30.
Critics, including Julian, argue that the timing of the consultation during the Christmas holidays is inadequate.

Stakeholder Reactions

Laura Dawson from the Future Borders Coalition expresses surprise but welcomes the proposed regulations.
The pilot project is seen as a positive step, and there are hopes for future expansion to include cargo preclearance and other land border crossings.

16/01/2024

The family of murdered billionaire Barry Sherman split by lawsuit over money.

The niece and nephew of murdered billionaire Barry Sherman, Matthew, and Rebecca Shechtman, are suing other family members, including Sherman's children, and trust administrators over a trust potentially worth over C$500 million. The Shechtman siblings claim the administrators breached their fiduciary duties by withholding information on the trust and are seeking new trustees. The trust, established in 2016, holds assets, mainly shares in the holding company Shermco, intended to capture the growth in value from Sherfam Inc. The trustees accused of breaching their duty include Barry and Honey Sherman's son, Jonathon Sherman, Alex Glasenberg, and Brad Krawczyk.

The Shechtman siblings allege a breakdown in family relations after the unsolved murders of Barry and Honey Sherman in 2017. The lawsuit claims personal animosity among the family branches has led to a refusal to disburse trust funds. They argue that the Sherman children have not distributed any funds to them since the murders. The Shechtmans further claim that the relationships among the trustees have become dysfunctional, with Jonathon Sherman no longer on speaking terms with the other two trustees, and Glasenberg and Krawczyk allegedly encouraging a separate lawsuit against the Shechtman siblings and their mother.

The attorneys representing the trustees disagree with the allegations, and tensions within the family have escalated since the murders, leading to strained relationships and accusations among family members and trustees.

16/01/2024

Canada's inflation rate rose 3.4 percent in December

Canada's annual inflation rate increased to 3.4% in December, up from 3.1% in November, according to Statistics Canada. This aligns with economists' expectations and is attributed to a sharper decline in gasoline prices in December compared to the previous month. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) without the influence of gasoline also rose, reaching 3.5% in December.

Key points include a 4.7% year-over-year increase in grocery prices, consistent with November's pace. December marked the end of the year, with the annual average inflation rate for 2023 at 3.9%, a decline from the 40-year high of 6.8% in 2022. Statistics Canada notes that price growth in 2023 slowed in six out of eight components of the CPI compared to the previous year.

The Bank of Canada faces a challenge as it aims to bring consumer price growth back to 2%. Concerns arise from the uptick in the central bank's preferred measures of core inflation and a 6% rise in shelter prices in December. The Bank of Canada's October projection anticipated inflation to hover around 3.5% until mid-2024 before easing to approximately 2.5% in the second half of 2024. The central bank will provide updated economic projections on January 24 alongside its next interest-rate decision.

16/01/2024

SIU Investigates Mississauga Collision Involving Stolen Vehicle and Transit Bus.
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is currently examining a collision in Mississauga between a transit bus and a stolen vehicle, leading to an 18-year-old man's hospitalization. Peel Regional Police reported the incident occurred around 4:30 a.m. at the intersection of Burnhamthorpe and Dixie roads, involving at least two vehicles—a heavily damaged four-door car and a MiWay transit bus. The SIU, an independent provincial agency, invoked its mandate after their preliminary investigation indicated that the driver of the stolen vehicle fled from a police cruiser attempting to stop it. The collision transpired when the fleeing vehicle collided with the transit bus. The male driver of the stolen vehicle sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local trauma center. The intersection remains closed as police continue their investigation, urging drivers to seek alternative routes. Authorities encourage anyone with information about the incident to contact the SIU.

15/01/2024

Former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, who recently turned 90, shared his perspective on politics and leadership in an exclusive interview with CTV’s Question Period host Vassy Kapelos. Chrétien emphasized that the decision to leave politics is personal and straightforward, stating that it's up to the individual to determine what is best for themselves, the party, and the country. He noted that the decision-making process is easy—once a decision is made, it is final.

Reflecting on his own tenure, Chrétien highlighted three significant decisions: achieving a balanced budget, implementing the Clarity Act after the 1995 Quebec referendum, and refusing to participate in the Iraq War, asserting Canada's independence. When asked about working with political opponents, Chrétien stressed that political rivals are not enemies but opponents, drawing an analogy to playing hockey—after the game, they can come together and have a beer.

Addressing the current political landscape, Chrétien suggested that discontent and frustration in politics are constants, with people always finding reasons to be unhappy. He pointed out that despite challenges, Canada boasts the lowest debt-to-GDP ratio in the G7. Chrétien cautioned against sensationalism in the media, noting that bad news tends to overshadow positive developments. The interview also touched on the evolving nature of politics, friendships across party lines, and the importance of realistic perspectives in public life.

Chrétien dismissed the idea of offering advice to the current Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, on his political future, stating that Trudeau would not seek his counsel. He emphasized the importance of making decisions based on personal conviction and acknowledged that others may attempt to influence those choices—a normal aspect of politics.

The interview, which covered a range of topics, concluded with Chrétien expressing satisfaction with always having done his best, even if it may not have been enough for everyone. The full interview can be watched on CTV’s Question Period.

15/01/2024

Ottawa may 'rein in' temporary resident numbers as housing concerns intensify, minister says

Immigration Minister Marc Miller has announced plans to control the influx of non-permanent residents, including international students, into Canada, citing concerns about housing affordability.

The relationship between immigration and housing is deemed complex, with the government acknowledging challenges post-COVID, increased interest rates, and supply issues. The Conservative opposition blames the Liberal government for the housing crisis, proposing a plan to cut spending and tie infrastructure funding to home construction.

Polls show a shift in public opinion on immigration's role in housing affordability. The Liberal government has implemented measures to address the crisis, including deals with municipalities for housing-friendly zoning. Miller suggests potential reforms to postgraduate work permits and controlling the volume of non-permanent residents.

Provinces share responsibilities, and the government is willing to intervene if needed. International students dispute being blamed for the crisis, while Miller defends the broader immigration approach for sustaining Canada's labour force. The government emphasizes its non-profit motive in addressing housing challenges.

News & media website

15/01/2024

Coroner's Inquest Begins for Saskatchewan Mass Stabbing Incident

In Saskatchewan, a coroner's inquest is underway to investigate the September 2022 mass stabbing incident involving Myles Sanderson, who killed 11 people and injured 17 others in the James Smith Cree Nation and Weldon village. Chief Wally Burns anticipates the process will reopen wounds, emphasizing the community's ongoing grief.

The inquest, criticized for its standardized approach, seeks to establish the events surrounding the deaths but does not assign blame. Community leaders express a preference for a broader federal inquiry to address systemic issues. Despite limitations, they view the inquest as a potential starting point, hoping for closure and insights.

Community demands include recognition of self-administered policing, reforms in correctional systems, and consideration of First Nations in release decisions. Concerns about Sanderson's release and communication gaps are central to the inquiry.

While the outcome remains uncertain, the community plans to draw on tradition for support. A second inquest on Sanderson's death is scheduled for February 2023.

15/01/2024

Transit Windsor strike temporarily delayed.

The planned strike by nearly 300 Transit Windsor workers, represented by the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 616, has been temporarily delayed. Originally set to begin at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, the union issued a 72-hour strike notice, citing concerns about wages, health and safety, scheduling, and federally legislated sick days. The union president, Dragan Markovic, stated that they are committed to negotiating a fair deal but criticized Transit Windsor management for what they perceive as an unfair offer.

The City of Windsor announced that all buses would operate as usual on Monday, and the union withdrew their strike notice. Negotiations between the city and the union are ongoing, with both sides maintaining opposing positions on some issues, particularly regarding sick days.

Concerns have been raised by transit riders about potential service disruptions, with some expressing support for the strike and others emphasizing the inconvenience it would cause, especially in cold weather. Local school boards, the University of Windsor, and St. Clair College are advising students to make alternate arrangements in case of a strike. St. Clair College plans to provide a $275 credit to students with valid bus passes to help offset potential financial burdens caused by the strike.

The ATU has scheduled a press conference on Tuesday to provide an update on the bargaining talks.