Skip to main content

Featured

Vancouver Budget Balances Books Without Tax Hike

Vancouver city council approved a 2026 budget, which includes a freeze on municipal property taxes. Vancouver City Council has approved a new budget that pledges no increase in property taxes, a move welcomed by many residents facing rising living costs. However, the financial plan comes with significant trade-offs: millions of dollars will be cut from arts programs, park services, and other community initiatives. City officials argue the budget reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility while easing pressure on households. Critics, however, warn that reductions in cultural and recreational funding could erode the city’s vibrancy and limit access to public spaces. The decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability with investment in community life. As Vancouver grows, the debate over how to fund essential services without raising taxes is likely to intensify.

article

Federal Immigration Department Announces Major Job Cuts


Two federal public service unions have revealed that the Immigration Department is set to cut over 3,300 jobs over the next three years. The Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) and the Canada Employment and Immigration Union issued a joint statement expressing concern over the lack of information regarding who will be affected by the cuts.

The unions emphasized that the department's staff are essential for processing citizenship and permanent residency applications, issuing passports, and conducting interviews. They urged the government to reduce outside contracting instead of downsizing staff.

The job cuts are part of the government's broader effort to refocus federal spending, which has been ongoing since 2023. The unions are calling for transparency and a reconsideration of the cuts, highlighting the potential impact on the department's ability to fulfill its duties.

Affected employees are expected to be notified in mid-February, with letters being sent out to those impacted. The unions continue to advocate for their members and push for alternative solutions to achieve budgetary goals.



Comments