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The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — And It's Paying 25% More

  Sunday, July 19, 2026 If you've relied on the quarterly GST/HST credit, that name is gone for good. Here's what replaced it, how much more it's worth, and whether you need to do anything to get it. For years, the GST/HST credit quietly landed in millions of Canadian bank accounts every three months — a modest, tax-free top-up meant to offset sales tax on everyday purchases. As of this month, that program no longer exists under its old name. It's now the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) , and the federal government has permanently increased the payment by 25%, locked in for five years. If you already qualified for the GST/HST credit, you don't need to apply for anything new. But you should know what changed, because the numbers — and the timeline — are more involved than a simple rename. What actually changed The CGEB was first announced by the federal government in January 2026 as part of a broader affordability push, and it became law with the passa...
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Santorini Shaken: State of Emergency Declared Amid Unprecedented Quake Swarm


Greek authorities have declared a state of emergency on Santorini following a relentless series of undersea earthquakes, the strongest of which—a 5.2 magnitude tremor—struck late Wednesday night. The emergency measure, effective until March 3, aims to streamline the response to the ongoing seismic crisis that has rattled the popular tourist island for nearly a week.

Over 10,000 residents and seasonal workers have already evacuated the island as hundreds of tremors have left local officials on high alert. Schools have been shut, and several cliff-top towns have been cordoned off due to the elevated risk of landslides. Emergency services—including the army, police, fire brigade, and coast guard—have been deployed across Santorini to assist with rescue and relief operations, while additional resources such as social workers and psychologists are en route to help those affected by the crisis.

Local seismologists warn that although the tremors have caused minimal structural damage so far, the seismic activity is unprecedented for the region. Experts caution that while the current swarm appears to be tectonic in nature and not directly related to volcanic activity, the possibility of a more powerful earthquake cannot be ruled out. This uncertainty has prompted officials to advise residents and tourists alike to steer clear of vulnerable coastal zones and indoor gatherings.

The situation remains fluid as the Greek government closely monitors developments. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is expected to visit Santorini shortly to assess the situation and demonstrate solidarity with the affected communities. As the iconic island—renowned for its picturesque vistas and vibrant tourism industry—lies unusually quiet, authorities urge calm and readiness as they navigate this natural emergency.

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