Thursday, July 9, 2026 Every July, a wave of federal benefit payments resets for the new benefit year — and 2026 brings one of the biggest shifts in years. Between a permanent 25% boost to the old GST/HST credit, a fresh Canada Child Benefit increase, and the largest quarterly OAS bump of the year, millions of Canadian households will see different numbers land in their accounts this month. Here's what actually changed, and what to check in your own CRA account. The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) . It's not a new program from scratch — it runs on the same CRA infrastructure and eligibility rules — but the payment amounts are 25% higher, and that increase is locked in for five years. The first CGEB payment went out on July 3, 2026. Under the new structure: A single individual with no children can receive up to roughly $679 per year (about $170 per quart...
Drones Patrol Greek Beaches to Tackle Sunbed Overcrowding
Greek beaches, once synonymous with sunbed-covered shores, are now witnessing a crackdown enforced by drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles are on a mission to restore order and combat overcrowding caused by unauthorized sunbeds and umbrellas.
Overcrowding and Unauthorized Businesses
In recent years, Greek public beaches have fallen victim to fly-by-night businesses that set up sunbeds and umbrellas without proper permits. These establishments charge beachgoers for services while encroaching on public spaces. Locals have grown increasingly frustrated, leading to citizen-led movements like “The Beach Towel Movement” and “Free Beaches for All.”
The Drone Solution: Enforcing New Legislation
To address this issue, the Greek government introduced legislation in March. Drones now patrol popular beaches, including those on the Athens Riviera, Mykonos, Santorini, and Corfu. Their mission? Detecting illegally placed sunbeds and umbrellas. Citizens also assist by using the MyCoast digital app to report violations.
Legal Requirements and Fines
The new law mandates that Greek beaches must be 70% sunbed-free (or 85% in protected areas). Violators face hefty fines. For instance, a business operating without a license on Thymari beach received a €220,000 penalty—an hour’s drive south of Athens.
Balancing Tourism and Environment
Greek Minister of National Economy and Finance Kostis Hatzidakis emphasizes the need to protect both the environment and citizens’ right to free beach access. By enforcing rules, Greece aims to preserve its pristine coastlines while supporting responsible entrepreneurship.
In summary, drones are now the guardians of Greek beaches, ensuring that sunbeds don’t crowd out the natural beauty that draws tourists from around the world.
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