Skip to main content

Featured

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...
Post a Comment
Read more

article

Labels

Aid Ship Departs Cyprus for Gaza Amid Famine Crisis

 


In a critical effort to address the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, a ship carrying almost 200 tonnes of food has set sail from Cyprus. This pilot project aims to establish a new sea route for delivering aid to Palestinians who are on the brink of famine. The charity ship Open Arms departed from the port of Larnaca, towing a barge loaded with essential supplies including flour, rice, and protein.

The journey to Gaza typically takes around 15 hours, but the heavy tow barge may extend the trip to possibly up to 2 days. Cyprus, located just over 200 miles (320 km) northwest of Gaza, serves as a crucial departure point for this vital mission.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with an estimated quarter of the population at risk of starvation. Despite ongoing efforts, aid agencies struggle to meet the daily needs of the people. The United Nations has previously accused Israel of obstructing aid to Gaza, exacerbating the crisis.

In addition to the aid ship from Cyprus, the U.S. military has also stepped in to provide humanitarian relief. Their vessel, the General Frank S. Besson, is en route to Gaza by sea. Furthermore, the U.S. military conducted airdrops, delivering over 27,600 meals and 25,900 bottles of water to northern Gaza.

However, the challenges persist. Crowds awaiting aid trucks at Kuwait Square in Gaza City faced Israeli gunfire, resulting in the loss of lives and injuries. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urgently appeals for a truce, the release of hostages, and the removal of obstacles hindering life-saving aid. The threat of an Israeli assault on Rafah looms, potentially plunging the people of Gaza into an even deeper crisis.

As the conflict continues, the toll on Gaza’s population remains devastating. Displacement, inadequate shelter, and scarcity of food and medical supplies persist. Amidst this turmoil, the aid ship’s departure from Cyprus represents a beacon of hope, striving to alleviate suffering and provide essential sustenance to those in need.


Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment