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5 Things to Know Today (Oct. 1): Minimum Wage Hike, Cooler U.S. Inflation, Oil Below $100

  Thursday October 1, 2026 A new quarter, a higher minimum wage in Ontario and a softer inflation read south of the border. Here are the five things that matter to your wallet today. 1 Ontario's minimum wage rises to $17.95 today Ontario's general minimum wage climbs 35 cents, from $17.60 to $17.95 an hour, as of October 1 — a roughly 2% bump tied to Ontario's CPI. The student rate goes to $16.90 (from $16.60) and the homeworker rate to $19.70. A full-time worker at 40 hours a week earns about $718 a week before deductions. Federally regulated workers already have an $18.15 floor, which has applied since April 1. What it means for you: If you pay anyone by the hour — a cleaner, a part-time helper, a seasonal worker — hours worked from today forward must be paid at no less than $17.95, even if the pay period started in September. Workers should check their next paycheque. 2 Cooler U.S. inflation eases the pressure on rate hikes The Fed's preferred inflation gauge came i...

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Canada Post Strike Enters Fourth Week Amid Rising Tensions


As the Canada Post strike approaches its four-week mark, tensions between the Crown corporation and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) continue to escalate. The ongoing strike, which began on November 15, 2024, has left millions of deliveries at a standstill, impacting businesses and consumers alike.

The union and management have been trading accusations of bad-faith bargaining. The CUPW criticized Canada Post's latest offers, stating that they do not address key issues such as wage increases, job security, and working conditions. In response, Canada Post claimed that the union's proposals have widened the gap between the two parties, introducing new demands that complicate negotiations.

With federal mediation on hold and no end in sight, the business community has called for government intervention. However, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has so far resisted stepping in, urging both sides to reach an agreement.

As the strike drags on, small businesses, especially retailers relying on parcel deliveries during the holiday season, are feeling the brunt of the disruption. The CUPW has also filed an unfair labour practice complaint over layoffs of striking workers, adding another layer of contention.

The future of negotiations remains uncertain, with both parties standing firm on their positions. The impact on the economy and public services continues to grow, leaving many to wonder when a resolution will be reached.




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