WorldJul 29, 2026
More than 100 aftershocks follow powerful earthquake in Japan's Kyushu region; death toll rises to 13
Rescue crews in Japan's Kyushu region continued search operations Wednesday after a magnitude 6.8 earthquake triggered more than 100 aftershocks, leaving at least 13 people dead, according to Japanese authorities.
The hardest-hit areas include Kumamoto Prefecture, where emergency crews are searching through the rubble of a paper factory and a shopping mall despite high temperatures. Authorities said the damage worsened after an explosion occurred at the shopping mall about an hour after the initial earthquake.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said rescue efforts remain focused on reachin
CanadaJul 29, 2026
WestJet, flight attendants sign operational wind-down agreement as Aug. 2 strike deadline approaches
WestJet and the union representing approximately 4,400 flight attendants have signed an operational wind-down agreement outlining procedures to safely land aircraft and return cabin crew home in the event of a strike.
Flight attendants could begin strike action as early as Aug. 2 if the two sides fail to reach a new collective agreement. A work stoppage could disrupt travel plans for thousands of passengers during the August long weekend.
Under Canada's labour rules, the union must provide at least 72 hours' strike notice before any job action can begin. If notice is issued, some flight cancel
BCJul 29, 2026
Manslaughter charge laid after fatal assault outside Nanaimo nightclub
A 33-year-old man has been charged with manslaughter following a fatal assault outside a downtown Nanaimo nightclub, according to the Nanaimo RCMP.
Police said the incident occurred at approximately 1 a.m. on July 17 outside the Sweet Spot Lounge, where an altercation left a 27-year-old man with serious injuries. The victim was taken to hospital in critical condition and later died despite medical efforts.
The investigation was led by the Nanaimo RCMP Serious Crime Unit. Following the investigation, officers arrested a 33-year-old suspect, who has since been charged with manslaughter. The char
CanadaJul 29, 2026
About 10,000 federal public servants apply for early retirement program
About 10,000 federal public servants have applied for the federal government's early retirement program, introduced as part of its plan to reduce the size of the public service.
According to the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat, 10,006 applications had been received as of Tuesday, following last week's application deadline. The program was offered to eligible employees after the government began sending information packages to about 68,000 public servants in December.
Employees aged 50 and older with at least 10 years of federal employment and a minimum of two years of pensionable service
CanadaJul 29, 2026
Gordie Howe International Bridge sees 7,500 vehicle crossings in first 12 hours
Approximately 7,500 vehicles crossed the Gordie Howe International Bridge during the first 12 hours after the new Canada–U.S. border crossing opened to traffic, according to bridge officials.
The bridge officially opened on Monday. The first private vehicle to cross carried members of hockey legend Gordie Howe's family, while an Onfreight Logistics truck became the first commercial vehicle to use the new crossing.
Most of the traffic on opening day consisted of private and local vehicles. Officials said many commercial truck operators are still completing the required customs and border docu
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