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Five First Nations Sign $1-Billion Equity Deal for LNG Project

by cms@editor July 17, 2026

written by cms@editor

Five First Nations have agreed to pay up to $1-billion for a majority equity stake in a massive storage tank that would be constructed if LNG Canada forges ahead with expansion plans at its export terminal in British Columbia. The deal represents a significant step toward Indigenous economic participation in major resource projects and reflects a growing trend of First Nations taking ownership stakes in developments on their traditional territories. The agreement, which is valued at approximately $1-billion, would give the five First Nations a majority equity position in the storage tank, providing them with a direct financial interest in the project’s success.

The LNG Canada project has been a focal point of economic development in British Columbia, with the potential to create jobs and generate significant revenue for the province and the country. The participation of First Nations as equity partners is seen as a positive development that aligns with the principles of reconciliation and economic self-determination. The deal was negotiated over an extended period, with the parties working to address concerns about environmental impacts, consultation processes, and the sharing of benefits. The agreement demonstrates that meaningful Indigenous participation in major projects is achievable when all parties are committed to collaboration.

The five First Nations involved in the deal have been engaged in discussions with LNG Canada and the provincial and federal governments for some time, seeking to ensure that their rights and interests are respected. The equity stake in the storage tank is a tangible outcome of those discussions, providing the First Nations with a voice in the project’s governance and a share of the economic benefits. The deal also includes provisions for environmental monitoring and the protection of culturally significant sites, addressing concerns that have been raised by Indigenous communities regarding resource development.

Economics

Canada’s Drug Agency Reverses Course on Alzheimer’s Drug Coverage

by cms@editor July 17, 2026

written by cms@editor

Canada’s Drug Agency has reversed its original position and is now recommending that public drug plans cover a disease-modifying medication for Alzheimer’s disease, albeit with conditions. The reversal represents a significant development for patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s, a condition that has a profound impact on the lives of Canadians. The agency’s original position had been a source of disappointment for advocacy groups who argued that access to the medication could make a meaningful difference for those living with the disease. The new recommendation, while conditional, offers hope to patients who have been seeking access to treatment options.

The medication in question is designed to modify the underlying disease process rather than merely addressing symptoms, representing a shift in the approach to Alzheimer’s treatment. The decision by Canada’s Drug Agency to recommend coverage reflects an evolving understanding of the medication’s benefits and risks, based on new evidence that has emerged since the original assessment. The conditions attached to the recommendation are intended to ensure that the medication is used appropriately and that patients most likely to benefit are prioritized. These conditions may include requirements for regular monitoring and specific criteria for patient eligibility.

The reversal has been welcomed by Alzheimer’s advocacy organizations, which have long called for increased access to treatment options for patients. The Canadian healthcare system has faced challenges in balancing the need for innovation with the imperative to manage costs effectively, and the agency’s decision reflects an effort to strike that balance. Public drug plans across the country will now need to consider the recommendation and determine whether to include the medication on their formularies. The process of implementation will involve consultations with healthcare providers, patients, and other stakeholders to ensure that the coverage is delivered in a way that meets the needs of those affected by Alzheimer’s.

Economics

Bank of Canada Holds Key Interest Rate Steady Amid Economic Uncertainty

by cms@editor July 17, 2026

written by cms@editor

The Bank of Canada has decided to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 2.25 per cent, citing signs of economic improvement while acknowledging ongoing risks posed by trade uncertainty and geopolitical tensions. The decision, announced on Wednesday, was widely expected by economists, with all 36 surveyed by Reuters anticipating no change in the policy rate. The central bank’s latest Monetary Policy Report indicates that the Canadian economy is showing signs of a rebound after a period of flatlined growth, but the path forward remains clouded by external factors. The bank’s cautious approach reflects its assessment that while inflation is easing, the risks of renewed price pressures cannot be ignored.

The Canadian economy has faced significant headwinds over the past year, including the impact of tariffs imposed by the United States that have squeezed key sectors such as automotive manufacturing. The country entered a technical recession earlier this year after reporting two consecutive quarters of economic contraction. However, the Bank of Canada’s report points to a rebound in the second quarter between April and June, driven by a pickup in exports and residential investment. As a result, the central bank estimates that the economy will grow just above one per cent in the first half of 2026, a modest but encouraging sign after a difficult period.

Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem highlighted the resilience of Canadian consumers and the adaptability of businesses in the face of ongoing uncertainty. “Canada’s economy is showing signs of improvement,” the bank stated, while acknowledging that “uncertainty driven by U.S. tariffs and the war in the Middle East could knock potential growth off course”. Macklem noted that businesses are reconfiguring their supply chains and finding new ways to work with clients, while the strong American economy and low Canadian dollar are contributing to increased orders for Canadian exports. These factors have helped offset some of the negative effects of trade restrictions.

Sport

New Women’s Professional Soccer Team Launches in Winnipeg

by cms@editor July 17, 2026

written by cms@editor

A new professional soccer team is set to launch in Winnipeg, bringing women’s soccer back to the city just a year after the previous team folded. The announcement has generated excitement among soccer fans in Manitoba, who have been eager to support a professional women’s team in their community. The new franchise will compete in a league that has been growing in popularity across Canada, with increasing attendance and media coverage highlighting the quality of play. The team’s ownership group has expressed confidence in the viability of women’s soccer in Winnipeg, citing strong community support and the success of other Canadian women’s teams as encouraging signs.

The launch of the new team comes at a time when women’s soccer is experiencing a surge in popularity throughout Canada. The success of the national women’s team has inspired a new generation of players and fans, creating a fertile environment for professional leagues to thrive. Winnipeg has a rich soccer history, with a passionate fan base that has supported the sport at various levels over the years. The return of professional women’s soccer to the city is expected to build on that tradition and provide opportunities for young female players to aspire to careers in the sport.

The team’s ownership has indicated that they are committed to building a competitive roster that will attract top talent from across Canada and beyond. The coaching staff will be tasked with developing a style of play that is both entertaining and effective, with the goal of creating a team that the community can be proud of. The franchise will also focus on community engagement, working with local schools and soccer clubs to promote the sport and encourage participation among young girls. This grassroots approach is seen as essential to the long-term success of the team and the growth of women’s soccer in the region.

Sport

Canada’s Men’s Basketball Team Remains Undefeated in World Cup Qualifiers

by cms@editor July 17, 2026

written by cms@editor

Canada’s men’s basketball team continued its impressive run in World Cup qualifying with a dominant victory over Jamaica, improving their record to 6-0 in the qualification phase. The 116-78 win, played before a crowd of 11,000 at the TD Coliseum in Hamilton, Ontario, showcased the depth and talent of the Canadian roster. The team, which is the reigning World Cup bronze medallist and ranked fifth in the world, demonstrated why they are considered one of the top teams in international basketball. The victory sets the stage for Round 2 of qualifying, which will begin next month in Quebec City, with records and point differential carrying over.

The performance of Dillon Brooks was a highlight of the game, as the Rexdale, Ontario, native displayed the intensity and tenacity that have made him a key contributor to Canada’s success. Brooks finished with 20 points, leading all scorers, and added three steals in a game that saw Canada’s defence force numerous turnovers. His energy on the court was infectious, with Brooks playing with the same fire whether the game was close or well in hand. “I’m always ready to play regardless of who’s on the floor. It could be anybody. It could be my boys, it can be Team Jamaica, it can be Oklahoma City. It doesn’t matter who it is,” Brooks said. His commitment to the national team program has been a cornerstone of Canada’s recent success.

The game also provided a homecoming for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the two-time NBA MVP who grew up in Hamilton. The crowd greeted him with “MVP” chants before the game, and he delivered a performance worthy of the acclaim, finishing with 16 points and four steals. Gilgeous-Alexander and Brooks served as co-captains in the absence of Kelly Olynyk, a role that showcased the leadership dynamic between the two players. Brooks described their complementary styles: “I’m the fiery, passionate, maybe more outspoken leader, and [Gilgeous-Alexander is] cool, calm and collected, so we can relate to different players on the team and give our input”.

Sport

Newfoundland Girls Make History with World Ball Hockey Championship Victory

by cms@editor July 17, 2026

written by cms@editor

Seven young athletes from Newfoundland and Labrador are celebrating an extraordinary achievement after helping lead Canada to victory at the 2026 U16 Women’s World Ball Hockey Championships in Sheffield, England. Aleah Philpott, Avery Strong, Anna Seymour, Adrienne Shannahan, Aubree Bartlett, Jorja Smith and Paityn Williams were all part of the Canadian team that defeated Slovakia 2-1 on July 5 to capture the gold medal. For these teenagers, the triumph represents a once-in-a-lifetime experience that has already become a defining moment in their young athletic careers. The victory was particularly significant as this year marked the first time the International Street and Ball Hockey Federation hosted a U16 World Championship, providing an opportunity for younger players to represent their country on the international stage.

The path to the world championship was not without its challenges. Canada had lost to Slovakia earlier in the tournament, but the team demonstrated remarkable resilience by pulling out a victory when it mattered most. The gold-medal game was a tense affair, with both teams battling for control throughout the contest. Avery Strong, a 16-year-old from Conception Bay South, described the final moments of the game as an overwhelming emotional experience. “Me and Paityn were just in the corner, and we were just counting down the seconds. And when we threw our sticks up, it was just such an amazing feeling,” Strong recalled. The celebration that followed was a testament to the bond the players had formed during their journey together.

Many of the players on the Canadian roster have backgrounds in ice hockey and only recently began playing ball hockey. Anna Seymour, a 16-year-old from St. John’s, noted that the transition from ice to ball hockey was a natural one, given the similarities between the two sports. “We only just started playing last year, but obviously we’ve played ice hockey for a very long time. And it was just super cool to be able to experience that with our friends,” Seymour said. The fact that this group of players, many of whom grew up together in Newfoundland and Labrador, could achieve success at the world level speaks to the strength of the province’s hockey development programs.

Sport

Canadian Women’s Sitting Volleyball Team Falls Short of Paralympic Qualification

by cms@editor July 17, 2026

written by cms@editor

Canada’s women’s sitting volleyball team experienced a disappointing outcome at the World Sitting Volleyball Championships in Hangzhou, China, missing out on an opportunity to secure their berth for the 2028 Paralympics. The team lost the bronze-medal match on Friday, ending their hopes of qualifying directly for the upcoming Paralympic Games. The defeat came at a critical juncture for the program, which had been building toward this moment with the goal of representing Canada on the sport’s biggest stage. The United States, which defeated Canada in the semifinals, went on to win the gold medal over Brazil in the championship match. The result leaves the Canadian team with additional work ahead if they are to secure a spot in the Paralympics through alternative qualification pathways.

The tournament in Hangzhou featured strong competition from around the world, with the top teams demonstrating the high level of play that has come to define the sport at the international level. Canada’s performance throughout the event showed moments of promise, but the team was unable to sustain the momentum needed to reach the podium. The bronze-medal match was a closely contested affair, with both teams battling fiercely for every point. Ultimately, Canada came up short, a result that will serve as motivation for the players and coaching staff as they look ahead to future competitions.

The sitting volleyball program has been a source of pride for Canadian Paralympic sport, with athletes demonstrating remarkable resilience and skill. The team’s journey to the world championships involved months of preparation, including intensive training camps and international competitions designed to sharpen their game. The players have shown dedication to their sport and to representing their country, often balancing their athletic commitments with other responsibilities in their personal and professional lives. The disappointment of falling short of Paralympic qualification will undoubtedly be felt deeply by the team, but it also provides a clear objective for the coming months.

Sport

Canadian Youth Baseball Talent on Display at Inaugural Morneau Cup

by cms@editor July 17, 2026

written by cms@editor

The town of Okotoks, Alberta, is hosting a significant moment for Canadian baseball this week as more than 350 of the country’s best under-19 players gather for the inaugural Morneau Cup national championship. The tournament, which runs through Sunday at Seaman Stadium and the adjacent Tourmaline Field, represents a first-of-its-kind event for Baseball Canada, bringing together 16 teams that advanced through regional qualifiers held across the country in May. Named after Canadian former Major League Baseball star Justin Morneau, the championship aims to crown a national champion annually and celebrate the depth of talent emerging from coast to coast. For the young athletes competing, the tournament offers more than just a chance at a title; it provides a platform to showcase their skills in front of professional and collegiate scouts who are expected to be in attendance throughout the week.

Greg Hamilton, coach and director of national teams with Baseball Canada, emphasized that the tournament is designed to create a uniquely Canadian experience for the next generation of players. “We’ve got a great environment in Canada to showcase the best players in Canada, the best programs in Canada,” Hamilton said, adding that the competitive pressure of the event will reveal which players can rise to the occasion. The championship features a diverse representation from across the country, with five teams from Ontario, four each from Alberta and British Columbia, and one each from Atlantic Canada, Quebec and Saskatchewan. This broad participation underscores the growing reach and popularity of baseball in regions beyond the traditional hotbeds of the sport.

The Okotoks Dawgs organization is playing a central role in hosting the tournament, with the under-18 Dawgs Black team also competing in the championship. Tyler Hollick, president of baseball operations with the Okotoks Dawgs, described the event as an opportunity for fans to witness “the next generation of Canadian stars” in action. Hollick noted that professional organizations are increasingly recognizing the quality of Canadian players, pointing to Dawgs alumni who have been drafted to MLB teams as evidence of the talent pipeline. The tournament is expected to provide a significant tourism boost to the town of about 33,000 residents, drawing visitors from across the country.