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Europe Scorched by Record Heatwave: France and Italy Take Emergency Measures

As a blistering heatwave tightens its grip on Europe, countries are scrambling to protect citizens from soaring temperatures and mounting health risks. France has shuttered over 1,350 schools  and closed the top floor of the Eiffel Tower as temperatures surged past 40°C (104°F)  in several regions. Sixteen French departments are now under the highest heat alert, with authorities urging people to stay hydrated and indoors during peak hours. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work , particularly in agriculture and construction, during the hottest parts of the day. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice are under red alerts, with hospitals reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses. The Mediterranean Sea has also hit record highs, with waters in Spain’s Balearic Sea reaching 30°C , up to 6 degrees above average. Scientists warn that Europe—already warming at twice the global average —is facing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. New ...
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Capital Gains Tax Changes Not Included in Freeland’s Motion to Introduce Budget Bill

 

Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland has put forward proposed changes to capital gains tax rates in a stand-alone bill. However, the most controversial measure from her recent federal budget is conspicuously absent from the motion she tabled today to introduce the federal budget in the House of Commons. Let’s delve into the details:

  1. What’s at Stake?

    • The proposed changes aim to tax two-thirds of capital gains, or profits made on the sale of assets, rather than the current 50% tax rate.
    • The increase in what is called the “inclusion rate” would apply to capital gains above $250,000 for individuals and all capital gains realized by corporations.
    • These changes are expected to generate more than $19 billion in tax revenues over five years, which will help fund new spending initiatives like housing and national defense.

  2. Controversy and Pushback:

    • Businesses, entrepreneurs, and doctors have expressed concerns about these changes.
    • Doctors, in particular, worry about the impact on their retirement savings.
    • The government, on the other hand, argues that these changes are about ensuring “fairness” in the tax system.

  3. What’s Included in the Budget Motion?

    • Freeland’s motion includes several other measures announced in the budget, such as the national school food program, updates to programs for first-time home buyers, and tax changes for short-term rental owners.
    • However, the capital gains tax changes are notably absent from this motion.

In summary, while the capital gains tax changes remain a contentious issue, they will be addressed separately in a stand-alone bill. As the debate continues, the government aims to strike a balance between revenue generation and fairness in the tax syste.

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