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EU Clamps Down on Russian Travel with Stricter Visa Rules

                                      EU tightens rules for multiple-entry Schengen visas for Russian passport holders The European Union has introduced tougher visa restrictions for Russian nationals, ending the practice of granting multiple-entry permits. Under the new rules, Russians will need to apply for a fresh visa each time they wish to enter the bloc. Officials say the change is aimed at tightening security and preventing misuse of travel privileges. The move comes amid heightened concerns over migration, sabotage, and other risks linked to Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Exceptions will remain in place for certain groups, including dissidents, independent journalists, human rights defenders, and family members of EU citizens. Transport workers may also qualify for short-term multi-entry visas to keep essential services running. EU leaders emphasized that tr...
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Boxing Day Sales See Smaller Crowds Despite GST Break

 

Retailers across the country experienced smaller crowds and cautious spending on Boxing Day this year, despite the federal government's GST holiday. While the tax break, which makes a variety of items GST-free for two months, did attract some shoppers, many consumers remained hesitant due to ongoing cost of living concerns.

Shoppers at Fairview Mall in Toronto, like Nakul Singal, took advantage of the deals but expressed that the tax break alone wasn't enough to offset the high costs of living**. Singal mentioned, "It's good to shop around during this time, but we're still struggling with expenses, especially housing.

Retail Council of Canada's Matt Poirier noted that businesses faced challenges implementing the tax break on short notice, and some older payment systems struggled to adapt.  An RBC Economics report also indicated that retail spending slowed in November, with holiday spending slightly below 2023 levels over the Black Friday weekend.

Despite these challenges, some retailers, like GameStop in north Toronto, saw an influx of customers eager to benefit from the tax holiday. Assistant store manager Joey Comia-Orellano said, "We've been getting shoppers before Boxing Day, and we expect it to get busier as consumers look to save with Boxing Day deals combined with the tax break."

Overall, while the GST break provided some relief, it wasn't enough to fully counteract the economic pressures faced by many Canadians.




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