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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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Tragedy Sparks Reform: B.C. Premier Eby Announces Mental Health Act Overhaul

In the wake of the devastating Lapu-Lapu Day festival attack in Vancouver, which claimed 11 lives and left many injured, Premier David Eby has pledged to review and reform British Columbia's Mental Health Act. The suspect, who was under mental health care supervision, has raised concerns about the adequacy of current legislation in preventing such tragedies.

Eby emphasized the need for a comprehensive review to address gaps in the system and ensure public safety. Health Minister Josie Osborne will lead the initiative, supported by experts in psychiatry and concurrent disorders. While the timeline for the review remains unclear, the urgency of the matter has been underscored by calls for action from community leaders and officials.

This tragic incident has ignited a broader conversation about mental health care and public safety in the province, with many advocating for reforms that balance individual rights with community protection. The review aims to provide solutions that prevent future incidents while supporting those in need of mental health care.

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