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Italy Advances Tougher Measures on Migrant Arrivals

ILE PHOTO: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni attends a bilateral meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance (not pictured), during his visit to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, February 6, 2026.  Italy’s government has approved a new migration bill that would grant authorities the power to impose temporary naval blockades during periods of intense pressure on the country’s borders. The proposal, backed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, is designed to curb irregular sea crossings by restricting access to Italian territorial waters. The draft law would allow officials to bar vessels from entering for up to 30 days, with the option to extend the measure to six months if national security or public order is deemed at risk. The plan also strengthens border surveillance, increases penalties for human smuggling, and expands the list of offenses that can lead to deportation. Supporters argue the move is necessary to manage migration flows more effectively, whi...
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Can You Write Off Home Renovations in Canada?


When it comes to home renovations in Canada, the tax landscape can be a bit narrow for existing homeowners. However, there are still some key considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Principal Residence Exemption: This is the big one. When you sell your primary home, the principal residence exemption allows you to avoid capital gains tax. But beware! As of January 1, 2023, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) tightened the rules. Housing units sold after less than a year of ownership are now excluded, with certain exceptions like death and disability. So, watch out for those anti-flipping rules!

  2. Profit Shielding: Unlike the United States, Canada doesn’t cap the amount of profit shielded from taxes. Existing homeowners rely on their homes as a store of value for retirement, and any significant shift in tax policy would be a political nightmare.

  3. First Home Savings Account (FHSA): If you’re a future buyer, the FHSA is your friend. It’s like a slam dunk for first-time homebuyers. Contributions are tax-free on the way in (similar to an RRSP) and tax-free on the way out (like a TFSA). You can contribute up to $8,000 annually, up to $40,000 over a lifetime. Just remember, unused contribution room doesn’t carry forward indefinitely.

  4. Renovation Benefits: Unfortunately, for current homeowners thinking about renovating, the federal tax benefit buffet is pretty sparse. But don’t lose hope—there are other avenues to explore, such as provincial home renovation tax credits and specific programs.

In summary, while the tax breaks for home renovations may not be as generous as we’d like, strategic planning and understanding the rules can still make a difference. Whether you’re sprucing up your kitchen or adding that dream deck, keep these factors in mind as you navigate the world of home improvements.

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