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Budget 2026 Brings a Second Grocery Top-Up: Who Gets It and How Much

  Canadian Money Brief  |  Budget 2026  |  November 6, 2026 Another grocery cheque is on the way. In Thursday's federal budget, Ottawa proposed a second one-time top-up to the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB), a payment worth half the benefit's annual value, expected to land in early 2027. $339 budget estimate, qualifying single person $679 budget estimate, couple with two children Early 2027 expected timing, exact date not announced $4.1B cost of the expanded program What Ottawa actually announced Budget 2026, a 511-page document titled "Masters of our Destiny," is mostly about investment and productivity. But tucked into its affordability measures is a repeat of something Canadians have already seen this year. The government proposes a one-time payment equal to half of the CGEB's annual value, and the Canadian Press reports it is expected in early 2027. A similar payment went out in June. That June payment was a one-time top-up equal to 50% of t...
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EU-Israel Relations Strain as Spain and Ireland Recognize Palestinian State

 

Relations between the European Union (EU) and Israel have taken a sharp downturn following the formal recognition of a Palestinian state by EU members Spain and Ireland. The situation escalated on the eve of this diplomatic recognition, with Madrid suggesting that sanctions should be considered against Israel due to its continued attacks in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

Spain’s Decision and Israeli Response Spain’s Foreign Minister, Jose Manuel Albares Bueno, announced the recognition of a Palestinian state, a move that has drawn strong reactions from Israel. In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Katz informed Spain that its consulate in Jerusalem would no longer be allowed to assist Palestinians. The tension between the two nations reflects the broader complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

EU’s Stance and the International Criminal Court Adding to the strain, the EU’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell (a Spaniard), expressed support for the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICC’s prosecutor is seeking an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other leaders, including those from Hamas. Borrell’s endorsement of the ICC’s actions further fueled the heated exchange between the EU and Israel.

The Weight of Antisemitism Accusations Borrell’s statement also touched on the sensitive issue of antisemitism. He acknowledged that the term “antisemitic” carries significant weight and emphasized the importance of using it judiciously. His remarks underscore the delicate balance between addressing legitimate concerns and avoiding inflammatory language.

Spain’s Move: Rewarding Terror or Diplomatic Gesture? Israeli Foreign Minister Katz accused Spain of “rewarding terror” by recognizing a Palestinian state. He invoked historical references, stating that “the days of the Inquisition are over.” The recognition decision has implications not only for bilateral relations but also for the broader dynamics in the Middle East.

As the situation unfolds, the EU-Israel relationship remains strained, and the impact of these diplomatic moves reverberates across the international stage. The recognition of a Palestinian state by Spain and Ireland has set the tone for further discussions and potential actions in response to the ongoing conflict in the region.

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