News from Canada
Canadians were involved in a bus accident in the Dominican Republic, according to the embassy. The incident occurred on Sunday night, as reported by the Embassy of Canada to the Dominican Republic. They stated on social media that consular support is being offered, but did not disclose the number of Canadians on board or their current condition. Local news outlets indicate that two individuals lost their lives and at least 19 others sustained injuries in the crash, which took place near Cumayasa, roughly an hour’s drive from the well-known resort area of Punta Cana. Reports also mention that authorities have confirmed both deceased individuals were foreign nationals, but their nationalities have not been verified. The Canadian Press has contacted Global Affairs Canada for further details but has not yet received a reply. The embassy advises any Canadians in need of help to reach out to the emergency watch and response centre. A postmortem examination confirmed death from an opioid overdose.
Bus Accident in Dominican Republic
The Public Service Alliance of Canada has lodged a policy grievance and is urging the federal government to pause its proposed early retirement initiative for public servants. The union contends that the introduction of this program has been mishandled and is calling for its suspension, claiming it circumvents obligations outlined in workers’ collective agreements. They assert that the program’s rollout was hasty and that unions should be consulted before any further actions are taken by the government. Nearly 68,000 public servants who might qualify have received letters detailing the planned early retirement program. According to the government’s website, the program is not yet operational, and its implementation will occur once budget legislation is enacted. Sharon DeSousa, the national president of the Public Service Alliance of Canada, emphasizes that while the union does not oppose early retirement options, such initiatives must be “negotiated, lawful and safeguard workers’ rights.” A manslaughter charge has been laid against an Ottawa resident.
Are you looking forward to witnessing the ‘blood’ moon eclipse? Your location in Canada may influence your view. The blood moon is set to appear tonight, as seen in a photo by The Canadian Press, showcasing an eclipse of the moon that took place on Sunday, Jan. 20, 2019, over Cochrane, Alta. According to astronomy experts, moongazers across Canada will have the opportunity to experience a full lunar eclipse early Tuesday, but not everyone will have the best vantage point for the celestial event that is anticipated to turn the moon a reddish hue. The “blood moon” eclipse will be most visible the further west you are. A lunar eclipse happens when Earth is positioned between the moon and the sun, causing the moon to traverse through Earth’s shadow. The Canadian Space Agency notes that this phenomenon only occurs during a full moon, with totality happening when Earth entirely obstructs sunlight from reaching the moon. The agency mentions that those in the Maritimes will be in a “race against the sunrise” to witness the eclipse on Tuesday morning, while Quebec and Ontario should catch the start of totality, and individuals in the Mountain and Pacific time zones have the best opportunity to see it fully. Totality is projected to commence at 7:04 a.m. Atlantic time, 6:04 a.m. Eastern time, 4:04 a.m. Mountain Time, and 3:04 a.m. Pacific time. “The eclipse will be best observed the further west you are,” stated Paul Delaney, a professor emeritus of physics and astronomy at York University. He pointed out that totality will begin in Toronto during morning twilight, with the moon positioned just eight degrees above the western horizon. While this could result in “some interesting” photographs, those in urban areas may find it challenging to view the eclipse, Delaney noted in an email to The Canadian Press. Totality will conclude by 6:52 a.m. in Toronto, where “the moon will have already set,” he added. “Vancouver gets it all!” Delaney encouraged blood moon watchers to dress appropriately for the weather and to plan to be outside for at least 30 minutes to fully enjoy the experience. Unlike solar eclipses, there is no risk in observing the lunar eclipse with the naked eye, and no special gear is required. “Watching the bright full moon being enveloped by Earth’s shadow and then transforming to an orange-red hue is truly remarkable,” Delaney remarked. The next total lunar eclipse won’t occur until late 2028, he noted. Load limits will be enforced from March 1st to May 31st.
“Our firearms are not for sale!” Demonstrators rally against Ottawa’s gun buyback initiative. Protest against gun buyback Photo: The Canadian Press Thousands of protesters gathered in front of the legislature in Quebec City on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, to oppose government actions on gun control and the buyback of prohibited weapons. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot Many demonstrators in Quebec City are urging the provincial government to withdraw from a federal gun buyback initiative. Chanting, “Our firearms are not for sale!” they accuse Ottawa of unjustly targeting responsible gun owners. Sophie Béland, leader of the Quebec chapter of the Canadian Coalition for Firearm Rights, states that the province is the only one to consent to the buyback. Stéphane Bacon, who came with his wife from Montreal to protest at the national assembly, argues that mental health issues, not firearms, are the real concern. Owners of banned firearms have until the end of March to express interest in a federal program that offers compensation for surrendering or permanently deactivating their weapons. Since May 2020, Ottawa has prohibited around 2,500 types of firearms, including the AR-15, asserting they are meant solely for combat. A manslaughter charge has been laid against an Ottawa resident.
Canadians Involved in Crash
Saskatchewan Premier Moe has declared that the uranium agreement with India signifies a ‘remarkable day.’ The deal was celebrated with a photo opportunity featuring Prime Minister Mark Carney and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, Cameco president Tim Gitzel, and High Commissioner of India to Canada Shri Patnaik during a presentation of agreements in New Delhi on Monday, March 2, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld. Premier Moe expressed his approval of India’s decision to finalize a uranium deal with Canada. While in New Delhi, he witnessed Prime Minister Mark Carney sign the $2.6-billion agreement, which entails Saskatoon-based Cameco supplying nearly 22 million pounds of uranium to India over the next nine years. Moe emphasized that this announcement brings significant potential for a prosperous future together. As the only uranium producer in Canada, Saskatchewan’s mines primarily export this resource for energy generation. The province reported that the uranium sector contributed over $2.5 billion to its gross domestic product in 2024. “Today marks a significant milestone for this enduring partnership and offers great promise for a bright future together,” Moe stated in a news release on Monday. Cameco CEO Tim Gitzel noted that the agreement will support the energy demands of India’s expanding population and industries. “We appreciate the ongoing support from the Saskatchewan and Canadian governments in promoting international trade opportunities that enable us to satisfy global customer needs and bring benefits back home,” he added. Load limits will be enforced from March 1st to May 31st.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced that construction on roads leading to the Ring of Fire region is set to commence this year, with completion expected by 2031, significantly ahead of the initial timeline. This announcement was made during a significant mining convention in Toronto, where Ford also formalized economic partnership agreements with the Marten Falls First Nation and Webequie First Nation. These agreements are designed to ensure that the First Nations in the Ring of Fire area become full economic partners and gain access to job opportunities linked to the development. Construction is anticipated to begin this year on the Webequie Supply Road and the Marten Falls Community Access Road, while work on the Northern Link Road is projected to start in 2028, with an opening planned for three years later. Currently, the Ring of Fire region can only be reached by air or winter roads, but Ford emphasized that all-season roads will provide access to what are thought to be substantial deposits of essential minerals, creating more opportunities for local communities and their youth. The date of the incident was Friday, Oct. 28, 2022.
Prosecutors are looking to dismiss the sexual assault charge against billionaire Frank Stronach as his trial in Toronto proceeds. Crown attorney Jelena Vlacic requested this morning that the charge be withdrawn, stating that there is no longer a reasonable chance of securing a conviction for the alleged incident from 1986. Stronach’s defense attorney argues that the judge should instead declare a not guilty verdict on that charge. Ontario Superior Court Justice Anne Molloy indicated that the matter will be addressed after the Crown completes its presentation of evidence. Last week, the Crown also dropped a charge of forcible confinement involving the same complainant. Stronach, now 93, has maintained his innocence regarding multiple charges stemming from incidents over several decades. Additionally, a manslaughter charge has been laid against an Ottawa resident.
Casualties and Injuries Reported
In New Delhi, Prime Minister Mark Carney met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to promote a strategic energy partnership on Monday, March 2, 2026. During a presentation of agreements, Carney observed as Modi delivered a statement regarding their collaboration. The discussions resulted in several agreements, including a significant $2.6 billion deal where Cameco, based in Saskatoon, will provide nearly 22 million pounds of uranium to India for nuclear energy. Additionally, two memorandums of understanding were established to address critical minerals and energy sources. A government announcement indicated that the visit also facilitated 10 commercial agreements exceeding $5.5 billion. The meetings between Carney and Modi, which included a bilateral session with respective delegations followed by a private discussion lasting 35 minutes, extended beyond their schedule, leading to the cancellation of a planned lunch with additional staff and delaying a joint announcement. Subsequently, a news conference where Carney was to address the media was called off just before it was set to commence, with Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand and International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu stepping in for him. Carney’s administration faces scrutiny regarding its stance on India’s involvement in foreign interference, particularly following a report from The Globe and Mail about Indian consular staff’s alleged connection to the murder of Canadian Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023. Anand stated it would be “irresponsible” to comment on an ongoing RCMP investigation, but she did discuss broader concerns regarding Indian foreign interference during her meetings with Modi’s officials. “Canada and India have agreed to prioritize the safety and security of Canadians, necessitating diplomatic engagement to foster progress,” Anand remarked. She emphasized that diplomacy involves confronting challenging discussions rather than withdrawing from them. A news release indicated that Carney had raised concerns about foreign interference, highlighting Canada’s commitment to combat transnational repression. Anand referenced this release in response to inquiries about the Nijjar investigation and pointed to actions taken by the Canadian government, including designating the Bishnoi Gang as a terrorist entity and expelling Indian diplomats in 2024. Before the trip, a senior government official expressed confidence that Indian foreign interference had ceased, asserting that if Canada believed otherwise, Carney would not have made the visit. Anand reiterated Canada’s focus on safeguarding its citizens and national security, stating, “The senior official’s words do not reflect my personal views, but I align with his comments regarding our protective measures.” Earlier in the trip, Carney announced efforts to finalize a comprehensive trade agreement by year-end and unveiled a new Canada-India strategy on talent and innovation, which encompasses 13 partnerships between Canadian and Indian universities. Carney’s visit marked the first by a Canadian prime minister since diplomatic relations soured two years prior when former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian agents of involvement in Nijjar’s murder. Following the allegations, the RCMP indicated evidence of a broader campaign of intimidation and violence. Carney aims to mend Canada’s ties with India, having invited Modi to the G7 summit hosted in Canada last year. Modi credited Carney for the improved relations, stating, “I attribute the growing momentum in our cooperation to my friend, Prime Minister Carney.” Load limits will be enforced from March 1st to May 31st.
A recent study reveals a significant increase in young men reaching out to Ontario’s gambling helpline. The Gambling hotline has experienced a surge in calls, as reported by The Canadian Press. An Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario Investigation and Enforcement Bureau sign was displayed in Gananoque, Ont., on Friday, July 30, 2021. According to the study, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal on Monday, the number of young men contacting Ontario’s mental health helpline for gambling-related issues has surged by over 300 percent since the province permitted private online gambling. The researchers emphasize the urgent need for enhanced harm-reduction strategies and improved access to treatment. The study examined the frequency of contacts to ConnexOntario, the province’s free 24-hour mental health and addictions helpline, regarding gambling-related issues from January 2012 to September 2025. An uptick was noted following January 2015, when the government introduced the gambling platform PlayOLG, and again after the expansion of private online gambling in April 2022. Over the 13-year span analyzed, ConnexOntario received more than 745,700 contacts, with approximately 37,000 related to gambling. The research indicated that for males aged 15 to 24, the average monthly rate of gambling-related outreach per million individuals increased by 317 percent from the period before Ontario’s PlayOLG launch to the time after the privatization of online gambling. For men aged 25 to 44, the rate rose by about 108 percent during the same timeframe. Prior to these policy changes, the rates remained stable. While increased awareness of the hotline may play a role, Dr. Daniel Myran, a research chair at North York General Hospital and co-author of the study, suggests that the spike may not solely reflect individuals seeking help for existing issues. “There is substantial evidence that many individuals with gambling disorders do not seek assistance, and when they do, it is often through helplines like ConnexOntario,” Myran stated. “The rise in helpline contacts could indicate a much larger increase in individuals engaging in harmful gambling behaviors.” Myran pointed out that since the privatization of betting in the province, there has been a notable rise in gambling marketing. “We must carefully consider the audience these advertisements are targeting and the messages they convey. We should implement restrictions on them, as they are currently being displayed in places frequented by youth,” he remarked. “The increase in contacts from young men suggests they are the primary audience for these ads and are likely to engage in sports betting.” The study also found that from the onset of online gambling privatization in April 2022 to August of the previous year, the number of active player accounts per 100,000 individuals aged 15 or older surged from approximately 2,160 to over 7,300—a 239 percent rise. Myran expressed concerns regarding micro-betting and other gambling forms linked to a higher risk of addiction. “For instance, if you bet on the Super Bowl’s outcome, that’s a single wager. However, you can now bet on events occurring during the game itself,” he explained. “This can lead to loss chasing, where individuals attempt to recover lost money by wagering more, potentially accelerating the development of gambling disorders.” Ultimately, the findings of the study highlight the necessity of treating gambling disorders as a public health concern, with readily available treatment options, Myran concluded. “Gambling can have severe repercussions for individuals, with those suffering from gambling disorders at a heightened risk for mental health issues, including self-harm and suicide,” he noted. “It can also have far-reaching effects on families and communities.” Additionally, police were called to a home on Neville Road, underscoring the broader implications of gambling-related issues. “We have not fully considered how recent changes may have significant health ramifications for society,” he added.
Anand has refrained from commenting on whether Canada considers U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran to be a breach of international law. During a media scrum in New Delhi, where she was standing in for Prime Minister Mark Carney, who unexpectedly canceled his meeting with the press, the Canadian Finance Minister faced numerous inquiries regarding the ongoing conflict. The U.S. and Israel initiated a significant assault on Iran on Saturday, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iranian authorities reported that over 150 individuals, including children, lost their lives due to a missile strike that targeted a school in southern Iran. UNESCO, the UN education agency, condemned the attack on the school as a “serious violation of humanitarian law.” Anand clarified that Canada was not involved in any military operations and had no prior knowledge of the strikes. She reiterated Prime Minister Mark Carney’s statement that Canada would not engage in military actions. The minister expressed a desire for a diplomatic resolution when feasible. “We advocate for a diplomatic approach. This is why I have spent the last two days in discussions with my counterparts across the Middle East and Gulf states, including Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and all my G7 colleagues, emphasizing that Canada is committed to a peaceful and diplomatic resolution, and we hope that parties can come to the negotiating table as soon as possible,” Anand stated. “The discussions I’ve had have produced varied responses. Some nations feel that a diplomatic resolution is unattainable at this moment, while others are eager to expedite diplomacy as the next step in this tragic situation.” Carney and Anand released a joint statement on Saturday affirming Canada’s support for U.S. efforts to “prevent” Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to stop the Iranian regime from “endangering international peace and security.” Since 2012, Canada and Iran have not maintained formal diplomatic relations, and Canada has designated the Iranian government as a state sponsor of terrorism. Anand emphasized that Canada will persist in its support for the Iranian populace, noting that the government has imposed around 500 sanctions related to the Iranian regime. Load limits will be enforced from March 1st to May 31st.
Abel Mwansa Jr., who was shot last month in Tumbler Ridge, is set to be laid to rest in Zambia on Monday. A casket carrying the remains of the 12-year-old, a victim of the Tumbler Ridge mass shooting, is depicted in an undated handout photo during his repatriation to Zambia. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (Mandatory Credit) Click here to view gallery Photo: The Canadian Press. The father of Abel Mwansa Jr. expressed his “eternal gratitude” to the governments of Zambia, Canada, and local MP Bob Zimmer, among others, for their assistance in bringing his son’s body home after the tragic shooting in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. last month. Abel was one of eight individuals shot on February 10, and his father shared on social media that his son is “back home for a dignified funeral” scheduled for Monday in Kitwe, Zambia. According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Zambia, the body arrived by plane on Saturday, welcomed by a delegation that included Zambia’s foreign affairs minister Mulambo Haimbe and Canada’s chargé d’affaires Corry Van Gaal. Van Gaal conveyed his profound sorrow over the incident and offered heartfelt condolences to the family, wishing them strength and solace as they prepare to say goodbye to their loved one. The Mwansa family relocated from Zambia to Tumbler Ridge in 2023 for better job prospects. Abel’s father mentioned in a social media update on Friday that he often feels as though his son is still at school, at church, or at the community center, and he finds himself crying daily, even “weeping uncontrollably” in his dreams. Christopher Bwalya, a close family friend, described the boy as “respectful” and “responsible,” noting that his passing has left “everyone in tears.” On February 10, Jesse Van Rootselaar tragically took the lives of two family members—his mother and half-brother—before going to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where he killed five students and an educational assistant before taking his own life. Police were called to a home on Neville Road.
