5 Things to Know Today Your morning briefing on what's moving Canadian wallets and markets — Thursday, June 5, 2026. 1 / Benefits Your Grocery Benefit Cheque Lands Today Today is the day millions of Canadians have been watching their bank accounts for. The federal government is issuing a one-time Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) top-up to more than 12 million eligible Canadians starting June 5, 2026. The payment equals roughly 50% of your annual GST/HST credit entitlement — so if you normally receive that credit, expect to see a notably larger-than-usual deposit. The numbers: a family of four could receive up to $1,890 in 2026 (including the top-up), while a single person could receive up to $950 . Your bank statement may still label the deposit as "GST/HST Credit" or "GST/HST RC150" — that's normal. The full rebrand to CGEB takes effect July 3, 2026, when the regular quarterly payments resume at a permanent 25% increase for the next five...
Brian Mulroney, Canada’s 18th prime minister, passed away at the age of 84. His tenure from 1984 to 1993 left an indelible mark on Canadian history, characterized by both triumphs and challenges.
Mulroney built a strong rapport with US leaders during his time in office, improving what had been a sometimes fractious relationship between neighbors. His efforts laid the groundwork for significant treaties, including:
North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA): As the architect of NAFTA, Mulroney tore down barriers to trade across North America. While the trade pact became a pillar of Canada’s economy, it also sparked debates about sovereignty.
Environmental Initiatives: Mulroney spearheaded environmental treaties, such as the 1991 accord on acid rain signed with US President George H.W. Bush. These agreements were crucial first steps toward international climate change cooperation.
However, Mulroney’s international achievements contrasted with a more turbulent record in domestic affairs:
National Sales Tax: His government introduced a widely disliked national sales tax, which faced public backlash.
Constitutional Reforms: Mulroney embarked on an ill-fated attempt to renew Canada’s constitution. The failure of constitutional negotiations revived the question of Quebec separatism, leading to a 1995 referendum where voters narrowly rejected independence.
Economic Struggles: A deep recession in the early 1990s proved fatal for Mulroney’s Progressive Conservatives. He left office in June 1993, and the party suffered a significant defeat in the subsequent election.
Brian Mulroney, the son of an electrician, was born in the small Quebec town of Baie-Comeau. His bilingual upbringing and legal background shaped his political journey. Despite the controversies, his ability to work closely with the US administration remains a testament to his leadership.
As Canada mourns the loss of a statesman, we remember Brian Mulroney as a champion of free trade, a bridge-builder, and a leader who left an indelible mark on the nation’s history.
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