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  • Brampton Resident Arrested in Toronto Casino Collusion Scandal: OPP Investigates

    Brampton Resident Arrested in Toronto Casino Collusion Scandal: OPP Investigates

    In a recent development at the Great Canadian Casino Resort in Toronto, law enforcement has taken action against alleged illegal activities, implicating a Brampton resident along with four individuals from Etobicoke. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) initiated an investigation on March 18, focusing on suspicions of collusion involving a table games dealer and patrons.

    The 21-year-old resident from Brampton faces serious charges, including criminal breach of trust, cheating at play, theft under $5,000, and fraud over $5,000. These charges highlight the severity of the alleged scheme and the legal ramifications for those involved.

    The OPP’s swift response underscores their commitment to upholding integrity within the gaming industry and ensuring fair play for all participants. This incident serves as a reminder of the vigilance required to combat illicit activities that can undermine the trust and integrity of establishments like casinos.

    As the legal proceedings unfold, the public awaits further updates on this case, emphasizing the importance of maintaining transparency and accountability in such matters.

  • Four Conservative Premiers Urge House of Commons Committee to Reject Carbon Price Increase

    Four Conservative Premiers Urge House of Commons Committee to Reject Carbon Price Increase

    In a significant development, four conservative premiers are set to make their case before a House of Commons committee, urging Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to abandon the planned hike in the federal carbon tax, slated to come into effect next Monday.

    Premiers Seek to Testify

    Premiers Scott Moe, Danielle Smith, Blaine Higgs, and Tim Houston have all penned letters to Peter Fonseca, the chair of the House of Commons finance committee, expressing their desire to testify about the potential repercussions of a carbon tax increase on their respective provinces. Despite no scheduled meetings in the upcoming weeks, Fonseca, a Liberal MP from London, On., had not planned to convene a session.

    However, Conservative MP Kelly McCauley, chair of the House of Commons government operations and estimates committee, has extended an invitation to the four premiers to present their testimony starting Wednesday.

    Committee’s Deliberation

    The House of Commons is currently not in session, but several committees, including McCauley’s, are actively engaged in discussions in the nation’s capital. McCauley’s committee is currently scrutinizing the 2024-2025 main estimates, which outline the government’s spending plans for the next fiscal year. Given that the federal carbon pricing system involves rebates to consumers in provinces where the tax is levied, the issue is directly relevant to the ongoing study by the operations and estimates committee.

    Premiers’ Testimony

    All four premiers are expected to testify via videoconference. Saskatchewan’s Premier Moe will kick off the testimony on Wednesday at 11 a.m. ET, followed by Alberta’s Premier Smith, New Brunswick’s Premier Higgs, and Nova Scotia’s Premier Houston on Thursday at the operations-and-estimates committee.

    Background and Opposition

    Saskatchewan, Alberta, and New Brunswick have long opposed the federal carbon pricing policy, even participating in a constitutional challenge against it that reached the Supreme Court of Canada. The court upheld the federal government’s authority to implement a minimum price on carbon pollution.

    The planned increase from $65 per tonne to $80 per tonne is scheduled to take effect on Monday, with annual increases slated until 2030, reaching $170 per tonne.

    Political Debate and Justifications

    The carbon pricing issue has become a contentious political topic, particularly amid concerns about the cost of living. While Liberal MPs argue that Canadians receive more in rebates than they pay, a Parliamentary budget officer analysis suggests a net loss when broader economic factors are considered.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Environment Minister Guilbeault have stood firm on the carbon price, rejecting calls for further exemptions. Despite opposition, including unsuccessful motions for a pause led by Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, the government remains committed to the carbon pricing strategy as a significant part of Canada’s emission reduction targets for 2030.

  • Elon Musk’s X to Cover Legal Bills for Doctor Criticized Over COVID-19 Tweets

    Elon Musk’s X to Cover Legal Bills for Doctor Criticized Over COVID-19 Tweets

    Elon Musk’s company X has announced its support for a Canadian doctor facing legal challenges due to her COVID-19-related tweets. Dr. Kulvinder Kaur Gill, a pediatrics specialist based in Brampton, Ont., was previously cautioned by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario for her social media posts, one of which questioned the necessity of COVID-19 vaccination.

    Defending Freedom of Speech

    In a recent post on the X News account, the company expressed pride in defending Dr. Gill against what it perceives as “government-supported efforts to cancel her speech.” The College’s cautions from 2021 prompted Gill to seek financial assistance through a crowdfunding campaign aimed at covering her legal expenses, including costs related to a lawsuit she initiated against what she described as a “malicious online smear campaign.”

    Musk’s Commitment to Support

    Dr. Gill reached out to Elon Musk via social media, seeking assistance with her mounting legal bills. Musk responded by pledging to cover the remaining amount of her crowdfunding campaign and aid in her appeal against the College’s cautions. This gesture aligns with Musk’s previous announcement last August, wherein he vowed to finance the legal fees of individuals who faced unfair treatment due to their online activities.

    Legal Battles and Financial Strain

    Public records reveal that Dr. Gill filed a lawsuit against multiple defendants, which was later dismissed with costs awarded to the defendants totaling over $1.1 million. Despite appealing the dismissal and seeking leave to appeal related costs, Gill faced setbacks as her appeals were also rejected.

    Transformations in X

    Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter, now known as X, brought about significant changes to the platform. This includes dismantling the verification system and downsizing the workforce, including engineers and moderators. While these changes have stirred controversy, Musk remains committed to addressing concerns around misinformation and promoting free expression.

    Looking Ahead

    The support extended by Elon Musk’s X to Dr. Kulvinder Kaur Gill reflects ongoing debates regarding freedom of speech, the responsibilities of social media platforms, and the challenges faced by individuals navigating legal battles in the digital age. As discussions on these topics continue, the impact of such support on individuals like Dr. Gill underscores the evolving dynamics of online platforms and the broader implications for speech and accountability.

  • ProLift Rigging Expands into Canada with First Branch Opening in Brampton

    ProLift Rigging Expands into Canada with First Branch Opening in Brampton

    ProLift Rigging, a renowned U.S.-based industrial company, has inaugurated its inaugural Canadian branch in Brampton, signaling a commitment to local job creation and economic growth.

    Grand Opening and Expansion Plans

    The company celebrated the opening of its Canadian branch at 96 Inspire Blvd., Brampton, with an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 20. This move marks ProLift Rigging’s strategic entry into the Canadian market, with plans to create dozens of local jobs by the end of the year.

    Facility Details and Job Creation

    The newly opened branch boasts a 160,000-square-foot warehouse and currently employs 14 full-time workers. ProLift Rigging has outlined a goal of adding a total of 35 employees by the year’s end, signaling a strong commitment to contributing to the local job market.

    Future Expansion and Economic Impact

    ProLift Rigging envisions further growth in the coming years, with plans to establish additional branches in Ontario and expand into provinces further west. This expansion is expected to have a positive ripple effect on the economy, driving increased demand in the supply chain and fostering continued community growth.

    Company Background and Growth

    Founded in 2019 as a small rigging outfit in Virginia, ProLift Rigging has evolved into an international full-service rigging and transport organization. The Brampton branch marks the company’s 12th location, showcasing its rapid expansion and success in the industry.

    Statement from Branch Manager

    Matt Rix, the branch manager of ProLift Rigging Company Canada, expressed his excitement about the company’s expansion into Brampton, highlighting the potential for over 60 job opportunities and strong partnerships within the local talent pool and industrial sector.

    The establishment of ProLift Rigging’s Canadian branch underscores the company’s commitment to growth and collaboration, positioning Brampton as a key hub for its Canadian operations.

  • Brampton Man Sentenced to Three Years in Charitable Tax Fraud Case Involving $34 Million

    Brampton Man Sentenced to Three Years in Charitable Tax Fraud Case Involving $34 Million

    An Ontario man, Festus Bayden from Brampton, has been sentenced to three years in prison for his involvement in a fraud case related to more than $34 million in false charitable donations.

    Bayden, a partner in a tax preparation business known as E & F Tax Associates or Bankay Financial Services Inc. in Toronto and later in Brampton, claimed over $34 million in false charitable donations on individual income tax returns for the 2004 to 2006 tax years, which he prepared for over 30 clients.

    The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) revealed that Bayden advised his clients that they could receive a larger refund or reduced taxes if they made a charitable donation for an amount significantly lower than what was claimed on their income tax returns.

    Despite fleeing the country before facing prosecution, Bayden returned to Canada in June 2023. He pleaded guilty to one count of fraud over $5,000 under the Criminal Code and was sentenced to prison on Feb. 27.

    Bayden’s scheme involved charging his clients approximately 10% of the face value of the false charitable donation amounts.

    The CRA emphasized the seriousness of such fraudulent activities, stating that these promoters deceive clients to avoid or evade taxes, benefiting financially from the fees they charge. The agency is committed to holding both promoters who facilitate tax evasion and clients who use such services accountable for their actions to maintain the fairness of the tax system.

  • Students in Peel Region Ready for March Break

    Students in Peel Region Ready for March Break

    As classes conclude today, students in Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon are gearing up for their much-awaited March break. Peel school boards have announced a shutdown for the week, giving students and teachers a well-deserved break.

    Weather Alert: Wet Start to March Break

    However, the start of the break might be dampened by a weather system moving through southern Ontario. Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for March 8 and 9, covering areas including Mississauga, Brampton, and Peel. This system, originating from Texas, is expected to bring rain but is anticipated to clear out after the weekend.

    Weather Forecast

    Today’s weather is forecasted to be fair, with a high of 9°C. Rainy conditions are not expected until later in the evening. Here are the specific weather forecasts for Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon provided by Environment Canada.

    Spring Forecast 2024

    Looking ahead, The Weather Network has released its spring forecast for Ontario, offering insights into the upcoming season’s weather patterns.

  • City of Brampton Closes Outdoor Winter Activities Due to Warm Weather

    City of Brampton Closes Outdoor Winter Activities Due to Warm Weather

    The City of Brampton has made the decision to close its outdoor skating rinks and Mount Chinguacousy’s skiing and tubing runs earlier than expected, citing unseasonably warm temperatures. Despite a cold front approaching, these popular winter activities will be unavailable as the city prepares for the upcoming March break.

    As of Monday, March 4th, all outdoor skating rinks have been shut down due to the unfavorable weather conditions. Mount Chinguacousy’s skiing and snow tubing runs have also been impacted by the warmer temperatures, leading to their closure for the season.

    Although outdoor activities are limited, residents still have the opportunity to participate in indoor skating, shinny, and registered skating lessons at the city’s indoor rinks.

    Furthermore, the mild weather has revealed another issue for the city – litter. With melting snow and mild conditions, litter across Brampton has become more evident, prompting the city to proactively initiate litter collection activities ahead of schedule.

  • LIVE NOW: Top Stories in Peel Region – March 5

    LIVE NOW: Top Stories in Peel Region – March 5

    Good morning!

    It’s Tuesday, March 5, and our top stories in Peel Region include:

    • A retrospective on Mississauga’s inaugural election fifty years ago.
    • A significant lottery win for a Brampton resident.
    • A potential disaster averted through a traffic stop in Caledon, as reported by the OPP.

    Weather Update

    Our current winter heat wave is expected to dissipate today, although temperatures will remain above normal. Here’s the detailed forecast for Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon from Environment Canada. Additionally, The Weather Network has released its spring forecast for Ontario in 2024.

    Traffic Advisory

    Major closures are scheduled in Mississauga on the QEW and Highway 403, as well as on Highway 401, from March 4 to 8. These closures may cause traffic disruptions, so drivers are advised to plan alternate routes. For real-time updates on highway crashes and closures, refer to Ontario 511. Plus, find information on Brampton Transit, Mississauga Transit, and Metrolinx GO services to ensure timely arrivals.

    School Updates

    Stay informed about school bus delays and cancellations in Peel Region with live updates.

    Fuel Prices

    For the latest gas prices in Brampton, Caledon, and Mississauga, consult GasBuddy.com.

    More Stories

    • Mississauga is missing out on millions in funding due to a shortfall in meeting provincial housing targets.
    • A Brampton teenager faces charges of attempted murder.
    • Expect delays as construction closes lanes on a major road in Caledon.
  • A Peel police officer sustained severe injuries following a collision with a vehicle in Brampton.

    A Peel police officer sustained severe injuries following a collision with a vehicle in Brampton.

    A Peel Regional Police officer sustained critical injuries after being struck by a vehicle in Brampton on Tuesday evening.

    The incident, involving the officer, took place around 8:15 p.m. on Chinguacousy Road, situated between Bovaird Drive and Williams Parkway.

    According to paramedics who responded to the scene, they transported the injured officer to a trauma center in critical condition, although the injuries were deemed non-life-threatening.

    In an update provided by Acting Insp. Brad Stafford to reporters, it was stated that the officer’s condition has since stabilized, whereas the driver of the vehicle escaped unharmed.

    Stafford explained that the officer was investigating a previous collision that occurred at approximately 6:05 p.m. earlier that evening when they were struck by a passing vehicle two hours later.

    Although the vehicle initially left the scene after the collision, it returned shortly afterward.

    As investigations continue, roads in the area remain closed, and motorists are advised to seek alternative routes.

  • A Brampton police officer sustains serious injuries after being struck by a vehicle.

    A Brampton police officer sustains serious injuries after being struck by a vehicle.

    A Peel Regional Police officer sustained serious injuries after being struck by a vehicle in Brampton on Tuesday night.

    The incident occurred on Chinguacousy Road, between Bovaird Drive and Williams Parkway, around 8:15 p.m., as confirmed by police in a tweet.

    Peel Region Paramedic Services conveyed the officer to a Toronto trauma center with serious yet non-life-threatening injuries.

    The circumstances leading to the officer being struck remain unclear. Peel police informed CP24 that the officer was present at the scene of a collision when the incident transpired.

    The driver involved stayed at the scene. However, it remains uncertain whether any charges will be filed in relation to the event.

    A comprehensive investigation is currently in progress, as stated by the authorities.

    Road closures are in effect in the vicinity, and motorists are advised to seek alternate routes.