The Canadian government has announced $430 million in funding over the next five years to train the next generation of skilled trades workers, with a focus on supporting unions that provide apprenticeship training. Labour Secretary of State John Zerucelli said Thursday that the government has opened the application process for the new funding. A significant portion will be delivered through an expanded Union Training and Innovation Program. According to the government, unions and training providers can apply for funding to expand their training facilities and other infrastructure. Expressions

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has voted in favour of staying in Canada in the province’s ongoing separation referendum, while urging the public to support the remaining nine questions, including those related to immigration. In a video posted on social media, Smith said that although many Albertans are frustrated with the federal government, these issues can be addressed while remaining part of Canada. The ballot contains 10 questions. The first asks whether Alberta should remain in Canada or move towards a referendum on separation. The other nine questions focus on immigration, constitutio

Canadian Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson will visit China later this month, her office confirmed Thursday, as a deadline approaches for Chinese tariffs affecting Canada’s lobster and crab industries. China imposed an additional 25 per cent tariff on Canadian seafood in 2025 in retaliation for Canada’s tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, steel and aluminum. However, during Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to China in January this year, the two countries reached an agreement under which Beijing temporarily suspended the additional tariffs until December 31, 2026. With the deadline a

A record 174,532 voters cast their ballots on the first day of advance voting in Alberta’s referendum, signalling strong voter interest in the province-wide vote. According to Elections Alberta, Tuesday’s turnout was significantly higher than the average of 151,000 daily voters recorded during previous general elections. Long queues forced around 20 polling stations across the province to remain open several hours beyond their scheduled closing times, with some staying open until 11 p.m. The 10-question referendum, initiated by Premier Danielle Smith’s government, covers major issues inc

Punjab observed a complete shutdown today in protest against the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Jhota. Government and private schools remained closed across the state, while public and private bus services were also suspended. Police set up barricades at several locations to stop people from travelling towards Mansa. Leaders of various organisations were detained as protests and demonstrations against the government took place in different cities. Several toll plazas across Punjab were also made toll-free, including the Ladowal Toll Plaza, where members of the Waris Punjab De organisat