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Tragedy on Libya’s Coast as Migrant Bodies Wash Ashore

  FILE PHOTO: Migrants aboard an overcrowded boat are approached by the crew of the migrant search and rescue ship Sea-Watch 5, operated by the German NGO Sea-Watch, during a rescue operation in the Search and Rescue (SAR) zone in the central Mediterranean, off Libya. At least five migrants, including two women, were found washed ashore in the coastal town of Qasr al-Akhyar, east of Libya’s capital, Tripoli. Local police reported that the bodies were discovered along the Emhamid Al-Sharif shore, a location where residents first spotted them and alerted authorities.  According to police investigator Hassan Al-Ghawil, a child’s body had also briefly washed ashore but was pulled back into the sea by strong waves, prompting the coast guard to continue searching the area. All of the recovered individuals were described as dark‑skinned, underscoring the ongoing dangers faced by migrants attempting perilous Mediterranean crossings.  The incident highlights the persistent huma...

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Proposed Tax Change Could Impact Electricity and Gas Bills in Certain Provinces



Electricity Canada has raised concerns about a proposed tax change that could have significant implications for consumers. The alteration, outlined in the government’s bill to implement its fall mini-budget, aims to align Canada’s tax rules with those of other countries that operate across multiple jurisdictions.

The proposed adjustment to the Income Tax Act would bring Canada in line with the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. However, the impact on privately operated utilities—particularly electricity and natural gas companies—could be substantial.

Michael Powell, Vice President of Government Relations at Electricity Canada, warns that this change may force privately operated utilities to increase the rates charged to consumers. The issue arises from the reduction in tax exemptions for debt loads, which would result in higher income tax bills for these companies.

As private utilities often carry higher debt loads to maintain lower rates, the proposed tax change could lead to rate hikes for electricity and natural gas services. Consumers in affected provinces should closely monitor developments and prepare for potential adjustments to their utility bills.

While the goal is to harmonize tax rules internationally, the impact on everyday Canadians remains a critical consideration. As the bill progresses, citizens and policymakers alike will be watching closely to assess its effects on household budgets.


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