Recent surveys indicate a shift in public sentiment. A notable 87% of respondents in a GNWT survey expressed support for eliminating the biannual clock changes. Yet, in a 2021 referendum, only 49.8% of Albertans favored moving permanently to daylight saving time, while 50.2% voted against it—an indication of the divided opinion on this issue.

Historically, Alberta adopted daylight saving time in 1971 after a referendum passed with 61.5% approval. Since then, discussions about its permanence have surfaced periodically, reflecting a broader trend among neighboring regions. The Yukon made the switch permanent in 2020, and British Columbia is set to follow suit in March 2026.

Smith’s push aligns with her government’s desire to simplify timekeeping for Albertans. “The time we are in right now is the time it will be,” she stated—emphasizing the need for clarity and consistency.

But Alberta isn’t alone in this conversation. The Northwest Territories government has voiced concerns about syncing with nearby provinces regarding time changes, which complicates the landscape further.

As public interest grows, official reactions are beginning to surface. Premier RJ Simpson of the Northwest Territories remarked, “The thing that needs to happen is Alberta needs to get on board.” This suggests a regional ripple effect could ensue if Alberta proceeds with its plan.

Despite these developments, details remain unconfirmed as the legislation still requires approval from the Alberta Legislature before any change can take effect. The outcome remains uncertain—will Albertans embrace this shift or resist it once again?

The implications of such a change are far-reaching. A permanent switch could affect everything from economic activities to daily routines across the province and beyond.

As we await further updates, one thing is clear: Alberta’s relationship with daylight saving time is evolving, and how it unfolds will be closely watched by neighboring jurisdictions.

The post Alberta Daylight Savings Time: A Permanent Shift? appeared first on News Canada.

But the reality is starkly different. Wallace claimed nearly $10 million in foreign income, despite her actual earnings being just $54,000 annually. The CRA processed a refund of $4,958,716.63 in May 2025, which had been flagged for manual review yet somehow slipped through the cracks.

Two months later, the error was identified. Authorities now suspect that no taxes were paid on the claimed income—an alarming oversight for an agency tasked with ensuring compliance. “Upon review by the senior program officer at refund examination headquarters, it was determined that one of the forms on file was invalid,” stated the CRA. The fallout? Wallace now owes an astonishing $7.9 million, including interest and penalties.

This incident raises serious concerns about the CRA’s internal processes. The agency’s claim that a form was invalid suggests systemic issues in verification and oversight. As noted by some experts, this situation highlights a breakdown in oversight—especially since the refund had reportedly been flagged for manual review before approval.

Legal and recovery proceedings are now underway. Authorities are tracking assets linked to this payout as they attempt to reclaim funds that should never have been disbursed in the first place. The case has garnered international attention, serving as a critical example of how even advanced tax systems can face unexpected failures.

The CRA is under pressure to strengthen its review processes for large refunds and introduce stricter validation checks moving forward. This incident serves as a wake-up call; monitoring similar cases more closely is essential if trust in the tax system is to be restored.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding how many similar cases may exist within the system. Nevertheless, this debacle underscores vulnerabilities inherent in a self-assessment tax system—a model designed for efficiency but fraught with potential pitfalls.

The post Canada Revenue Agency Erroneously Issued Another Bogus $5 Million Refund appeared first on News Canada.

In recent days, Eby convened an emergency caucus meeting where ten MLAs expressed their concerns about the government’s plan to suspend DRIPA. This meeting highlighted a growing divide, with five to six MLAs indicating they may not support the suspension. Joan Phillip, the MLA for Vancouver-Strathcona, has been vocal in her opposition, stating, “I don’t support a suspension. It suspends us in uncertainty. We need to have leadership that’s decisive, definitive, and gives us a clearer direction of where we’re going.”

In light of this dissent, the government has decided not to introduce the controversial bill this week as initially planned. The potential for making the DRIPA-suspension legislation a confidence vote looms large, which could force Eby to call an election if it fails to pass.

The B.C. Conservatives have also entered the fray, calling for a full repeal of DRIPA, further complicating the political landscape for Eby. Meanwhile, Green MLA Rob Botterell has stated that his party would vote against the confidence motion regarding DRIPA, indicating a broader coalition of opposition forming against the NDP’s current strategy.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip has criticized Eby’s leadership, asserting, “I think the problem is Premier Eby himself and I think the NDP has a colossal leadership problem.” This sentiment reflects a growing frustration not only among party members but also within Indigenous communities who feel their rights are at stake.

As the situation evolves, Eby has emphasized the importance of engaging with Indigenous leaders, stating, “It is absolutely important that we do our best to get this right, even now, we are engaging with chiefs to try to find a path forward in a way that they can support and I hope to be able to have some chiefs standing with us.” However, the path forward remains fraught with challenges.

With the NDP holding a precarious one-seat majority in the legislature, the stakes are high. The outcome of this caucus revolt could have lasting implications for Eby’s leadership and the future of Indigenous rights legislation in British Columbia. As dissent grows, the question remains: can Eby unify his party and navigate the complexities of DRIPA, or will this internal conflict lead to a significant political shift in the province?

The post Caucus Revolt: David Eby Faces Growing Dissent in British Columbia appeared first on News Canada.

The BCHL playoffs are set to ignite on April 3, 2026, as the Victoria Grizzlies take on the Cowichan Valley Capitals in a highly anticipated first-round series. The Capitals, boasting an impressive regular-season record of 38 wins, 13 losses, and 3 overtime losses, enter the playoffs as formidable contenders. In contrast, the Grizzlies finished the season with a record of 26 wins, 25 losses, and 3 overtime losses, making their playoff journey a challenging one.

Historically, the Grizzlies have shown they can compete with the Capitals, having won three out of their seven regular-season matchups this year. This statistic may provide a psychological edge as they prepare for the playoff battle. “We feel really comfortable that we can play with these guys and push them,” said Grizzlies forward David Michaud, emphasizing the team’s confidence despite their lower seeding.

Adding to the Grizzlies’ narrative is the recent milestone achieved by Maddux Martin, who celebrated his 200th career BCHL game on March 27, 2026. Such milestones can often galvanize a team, providing both motivation and a sense of unity as they embark on the playoff journey.

On the other side, the Capitals are entering the playoffs with momentum, having scored a remarkable total of 242 goals during the regular season, the second-most in the BCHL. This offensive prowess will be a critical factor in their playoff strategy. Michaud noted, “Smart physicality is going to be what gets us the reward,” indicating that the Grizzlies plan to counter the Capitals’ scoring ability with a strong, disciplined game.

Declan Waddick, who was named BCHL Player of the Month for March 2026, will be a key player to watch. He scored 15 points in March, tying for the league lead, and his performance will be crucial for the Grizzlies if they hope to advance. With 49 games played this season, Waddick’s experience and skill will be vital in navigating the high-pressure playoff atmosphere.

As the playoffs commence, both teams are aware that the slate is wiped clean. “As much success as Cowichan had this year, we’re both 0-0 starting Friday night. You have to earn it,” Michaud stated, highlighting the unpredictable nature of playoff hockey where anything can happen on any given night.

Last year, the Grizzlies eliminated the Capitals in six games during the second round, a fact that adds another layer of intrigue to this matchup. The stakes are high, and both teams will be eager to prove their worth in this first-round series.

As the puck drops, observers will be keenly watching how the Grizzlies’ strategy unfolds against the Capitals’ offensive strength. The outcome of this series could set the tone for the rest of the BCHL playoffs, making it a must-watch for hockey fans. Details remain unconfirmed as to how each team will adapt their game plans, but the excitement is palpable as the BCHL playoffs begin.

The post BCHL Playoffs: Victoria Grizzlies Face Off Against Cowichan Valley Capitals appeared first on News Canada.

The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) was introduced in British Columbia to create a framework for collaboration between the government and First Nations on critical issues affecting Indigenous communities. However, recent developments have shifted the landscape dramatically, raising questions about the future of this legislation and its implications for Indigenous rights.

Before the current proposal, there was a growing expectation among First Nations leaders that DRIPA would serve as a robust tool for asserting their rights and addressing historical grievances. The act had already seen the alignment of 20 different laws in British Columbia with its principles, signaling a commitment to Indigenous rights. However, this optimism has been challenged by Premier David Eby’s recent announcement.

Premier Eby proposed a temporary pause on certain sections of DRIPA for up to three years, citing concerns raised by First Nations leaders regarding draft amendments to the act. This decisive moment has led to immediate backlash, with leaders from various First Nations, including the Gitxaała First Nation and Cowichan Tribes, expressing complete opposition to the suspension plan during a meeting with Eby. The proposed amendments, described as ‘non-negotiable’ by Eby, aim to address legal liabilities created by recent court decisions but have left many feeling uncertain about their rights.

In a notable response, Heiltsuk Chief Marilyn Slett emphasized the need for collaboration, stating, “We think that the tools to be able to get through this are in the legislation, are within the action plan, and we need to be working together and doing that hard work together.” This sentiment reflects a desire for constructive dialogue rather than unilateral decisions that could undermine Indigenous rights.

The implications of Eby’s proposal are significant. While he has assured that sections 6 and 7 of DRIPA will not be paused, the suspension of other sections poses a confidence vote for his government. The uncertainty surrounding which specific sections will be affected remains a point of contention, with many First Nations leaders arguing that such a pause could jeopardize the progress made under DRIPA.

Experts have weighed in on the situation, with some expressing concern that the proposed amendments could limit the scope of DRIPA and its application to certain laws. Trevor Halford, a political figure, remarked, “What he’s done today has made this more uncertain than it’s ever been before,” highlighting the precarious nature of the current negotiations.

As the government plans to introduce amendments to DRIPA before the end of May 2026, the path forward remains fraught with challenges. The ongoing dialogue between the government and First Nations will be crucial in determining the future of Indigenous rights in British Columbia. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific sections of DRIPA that will be suspended and the exact implications of the proposed amendments on First Nations rights and legal obligations.

In summary, the recent proposal to pause sections of DRIPA marks a pivotal moment in the relationship between the British Columbia government and Indigenous communities. As both sides navigate this complex landscape, the outcome will significantly impact the rights and recognition of First Nations in the province.

The post Dripa: The Future of : A Controversial Pause in British Columbia appeared first on News Canada.

Highway 99 has reopened in both directions following a serious crash near Mount Garibaldi that occurred around 3:30 p.m. on March 30, 2026. The incident involved two vehicles and resulted in three individuals being taken to the hospital, with one person reported in serious condition and two in stable condition.

The highway was closed for nearly eight hours, specifically between Alice Lake Road and Daisy Lake Road, causing significant delays for drivers traveling between Squamish and Whistler. The closure lasted until 10:30 p.m. when debris was cleared and the highway was deemed safe for travel.

In addition to the incident on Highway 99, drivers should be aware that a lane on Highway 1 in Abbotsford will be closed for urgent drainage repairs. This lane closure is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. and continue until 3 p.m., further complicating travel in the region.

Authorities have warned motorists to expect significant delays as they navigate through the affected areas. The combination of the crash on Highway 99 and the maintenance work on Highway 1 highlights ongoing challenges for drivers in British Columbia, particularly during peak travel times.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the injuries sustained in the crash, and further updates from local authorities are anticipated as the situation develops.

The post Drive BC: Highway 99 Reopens After Serious Crash appeared first on News Canada.

The transition to electric and hybrid vehicles in Abbotsford has been increasing over the past three years. As of 2025, electric and hybrid vehicles accounted for 12.8% of the total vehicles in the city, with 4,928 electric vehicles and 6,722 hybrid vehicles on the roads. This marks a significant milestone, especially considering the total number of vehicles in Abbotsford reached approximately 90,000.

The growth in electric vehicle adoption is notable, with the number of local electric and hybrid vehicles more than doubling since 2022. This surge reflects a broader trend across British Columbia, where the share of electric and hybrid vehicles rose from 12.1% to 14.4% between 2024 and 2025.

Adrian Dix, a provincial official, stated, “We have more than 7,000 public charging stations throughout the province and are on track to meet our target of 10,000 by 2030.” This infrastructure development is crucial for supporting the growing number of electric vehicles and ensuring that drivers have access to convenient charging options.

In a recent achievement, Castlegar Hyundai sold 24 battery electric vehicles in 2025 and was recognized with the Green Star Awards for the highest sales of clean energy vehicles in the Interior Region. Keith Kalawsky, the dealership’s representative, expressed his excitement, saying, “We are surprised and thrilled to be recognized by Clean BC.”

Kalawsky emphasized the dealership’s commitment to electric vehicles, stating, “Our dealership has offered EVs since 2019, so our product advisors are very knowledgeable and love helping others learn more about these impressive vehicles.” This dedication to customer education is vital as more consumers consider making the switch to electric.

Blair Qualey, another key figure in the industry, noted, “We appreciate the provincial government’s recognition of these pressures and its commitment to a comprehensive review of ZEV mandates next spring.” This review could lead to further incentives and support for electric vehicle adoption in the region.

As Abbotsford continues to embrace electric vehicles, the local government and dealerships are optimistic about the future. The combination of increasing sales, expanding charging infrastructure, and supportive policies suggests a robust growth trajectory for electric cars in the area.

Observers expect that this momentum will not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also stimulate economic growth within the automotive sector. The ongoing commitment to clean energy vehicles aligns with broader provincial goals aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting a greener future.

With the electric vehicle market evolving rapidly, the next few years will be critical in determining how Abbotsford and British Columbia adapt to this shift in transportation.

The post Electric car: Abbotsford’s Surge: A 100% Growth in Three Years appeared first on News Canada.

Prior to March 24, 2026, residents of Vancouver Island were accustomed to the occasional power disruptions caused by seasonal storms. However, expectations were shattered when a fierce windstorm swept through the region, leading to unprecedented outages.

Initially, over 25,000 BC Hydro customers found themselves without power as the storm began to intensify. By 5 p.m., the situation escalated dramatically, with reports indicating that around 40,000 customers were affected across central and northern Vancouver Island.

The storm’s peak impact was felt most severely in northern Parksville and French Creek, where the largest outage left over 3,000 properties in darkness. Qualicum Beach also faced significant challenges, with 2,700 homes and businesses losing electricity.

As the storm raged on, the number of customers without power surged to more than 53,000 by 6 p.m. PT, illustrating the storm’s ferocity. Wind gusts reached alarming speeds of up to 100 km/h, contributing to the widespread devastation.

By 10 p.m. PT, the situation began to improve slightly, with the number of customers without power dropping to just under 40,000. This reduction, however, did little to alleviate the immediate concerns of those still affected.

Wind warnings for Vancouver Island were eventually lifted after the storm, signaling a return to calmer conditions. Yet, the damage was already done, leaving many residents grappling with the aftermath of the outages.

In the days leading up to the storm, BC Hydro had already scheduled a power outage for the North Quadra UPCC, which closed for maintenance on March 22, 2026. This prior disruption added another layer of complexity to the situation, as residents were already on edge.

Experts emphasize the need for improved infrastructure and emergency preparedness in the face of increasingly severe weather events. The storm on March 24 serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by communities reliant on consistent power supply.

As Vancouver Island recovers from this latest storm, the focus will shift to ensuring that such widespread outages can be mitigated in the future. The lessons learned from this event will be crucial in shaping the region’s response to future weather challenges.

The post Vancouver Island Power Outages: A Storm’s Devastating Impact appeared first on News Canada.

As a winter storm currently affects much of East Kootenay, British Columbia, the pressing question arises: are the communities in this region adequately prepared for potential flooding? The answer, bolstered by recent infrastructure upgrades, appears to be a cautious yes. However, the ongoing storm challenges the effectiveness of these measures.

Recent reports indicate that the storm has led to school closures across the metro area, with some institutions shutting down for the entire day. Government and city offices have also been forced to close, highlighting the immediate impact of severe weather on daily life. These disruptions serve as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by communities in the face of climate-related events.

In response to these challenges, significant investments have been made to enhance flood resilience in the East Kootenay region. Notably, the Mountview dike and Coal Creek bin wall upgrades in Fernie have been completed, aimed at strengthening the community’s defenses against flooding. As Nic Milligan, a local official, stated, “The recent completion of the upgrades to the Mountview dike and Coal Creek bin wall marks another important step in strengthening Fernie’s flood resilience.” Such projects are crucial as they directly address the risks posed by climate change.

Further bolstering flood defenses, the Toby Creek dike has been raised to a one-in-200-year safety measure in Invermere, while the Kootenay River dike upgrades in Canal Flats enhance protection from high-water events. The Kicking Horse River dike project in Golden also significantly increases flood protection, showcasing a comprehensive approach to safeguarding the region. As Randene Neill pointed out, “When a community is hit by a flood, the effects are felt not just locally, but across B.C.” This interconnectedness underscores the importance of regional resilience efforts.

In addition to these local initiatives, broader discussions are taking place at the governmental level. A memorandum of understanding was signed between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith regarding an export pipeline, which includes provisions for environmental impact assessments and methane equivalency agreements. This agreement is part of a larger strategy to manage climate impacts while fostering economic growth.

Alberta’s premier anticipates foreign investment in the new oil pipeline project, with expectations of a 15-30% stake from international companies. This project, known as the Pathways project, aims to capture emissions from 20 oilsands facilities and transport them over 400 kilometers to a terminal near Cold Lake, Alberta. Such initiatives reflect a dual focus on economic development and environmental responsibility, although the long-term implications for flood resilience remain to be fully understood.

As the winter storm continues to unfold, the effectiveness of the flood resilience measures in place will be tested. The community’s safety and well-being remain a top priority, as emphasized by Al Miller, who stated, “The safety and well-being of our community and citizens is our top priority.” While the investments made thus far are promising, the true measure of their success will depend on how well they hold up against the current weather challenges.

Looking ahead, the situation remains fluid. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the storm’s long-term impact on flood resilience efforts, but the ongoing developments will undoubtedly shape the future of community preparedness in East Kootenay. As the region grapples with the effects of climate change, the need for robust infrastructure and proactive measures has never been more critical.

The post News: Winter Storm Hits East Kootenay: Are Communities Prepared for Flooding? appeared first on News Canada.

What does the Two-Spirit Celebration and Awareness Day signify for Indigenous communities in Canada? This event, celebrated on the spring equinox, serves as a vital reminder of the strength and resilience of Two-Spirit and Indigenous LGBTQIA+ individuals. Jennifer Blatherwick, a prominent voice in the community, stated, “Today, on Two-Spirit Celebration and Awareness Day, we celebrate the Two-Spirit and Indigenous LGBTQIA+ people in our lives and in communities throughout B.C. and Canada.” This year’s theme, ‘Infinite Strength,’ encapsulates the essence of unity and support within these communities.

As the celebration unfolds, it is essential to recognize the broader context in which it occurs. The Two-Spirit identity is deeply rooted in Indigenous cultures, representing a blend of gender and sexual diversity that has existed long before colonial influences. The acknowledgment of this identity fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment among Indigenous peoples, particularly in British Columbia, where the event is prominently observed.

However, the celebration also coincides with pressing issues facing Indigenous communities, particularly in relation to public safety and law enforcement. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has been grappling with significant recruitment challenges, as highlighted in a recent auditor general’s report. The report indicates that the RCMP has failed to recruit enough new officers to meet operational needs, with a staggering shortfall of at least 3,400 additional front-line police officers needed by September 2025.

The recruitment crisis is underscored by alarming statistics: the average time to process an RCMP application is currently 330 days, far exceeding the RCMP’s own standard of 224 days. Moreover, only 6% of processed applications have resulted in an offer to be trained as a police officer. Karen Hogan, the auditor general, noted that “as a result of chronic shortages of front-line police officers, the RCMP faces a higher risk of police officer absences and burnout.” This situation raises concerns about the safety and security of Indigenous communities, which are often disproportionately affected by crime.

The RCMP has flagged recruitment as a top priority since 2018, yet the vacancy rates remain critically high, exceeding the 7% threshold in nine of the 11 provinces and territories served. In response to this ongoing challenge, the RCMP introduced a flexible posting plan in 2023 aimed at attracting more applicants. Despite these efforts, the underlying issues of recruitment and retention persist, leading to a complex interplay between community safety and the celebration of identity.

As Two-Spirit Celebration and Awareness Day unfolds, it serves as a poignant reminder of the need for solidarity and support within Indigenous communities. The theme of ‘Infinite Strength’ resonates not only in the context of celebrating Two-Spirit identities but also in advocating for improved public safety measures. The challenges faced by the RCMP highlight the importance of addressing systemic issues that affect the well-being of Indigenous peoples.

Looking ahead, the future remains uncertain. Will the RCMP’s recruitment strategies yield the necessary results to ensure the safety of Indigenous communities? As the celebration continues, the call for action and awareness becomes increasingly vital. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the effectiveness of the RCMP’s initiatives, but the need for a strong, supportive community remains clear.

The post News: Two-Spirit Celebration and Awareness Day: A Reflection on Identity and Community in the appeared first on News Canada.