Thursday, July 9, 2026 Every July, a wave of federal benefit payments resets for the new benefit year — and 2026 brings one of the biggest shifts in years. Between a permanent 25% boost to the old GST/HST credit, a fresh Canada Child Benefit increase, and the largest quarterly OAS bump of the year, millions of Canadian households will see different numbers land in their accounts this month. Here's what actually changed, and what to check in your own CRA account. The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) . It's not a new program from scratch — it runs on the same CRA infrastructure and eligibility rules — but the payment amounts are 25% higher, and that increase is locked in for five years. The first CGEB payment went out on July 3, 2026. Under the new structure: A single individual with no children can receive up to roughly $679 per year (about $170 per quart...
Madeira Wildfires: A Battle Against Nature’s Fury
For the past eight days, wildfires have been spreading across the picturesque Portuguese island of Madeira, causing widespread destruction and threatening local communities. The situation remains critical as firefighters battle to contain the flames.
Key Points:
Island in Crisis: Madeira, known for its lush landscapes and vibrant tourism industry, is now grappling with a disaster. The fires have consumed large swaths of forested areas, leaving behind charred landscapes and smoke-filled skies.
Emergency Response: The European Union (EU) has stepped in to provide assistance. Firefighting teams from neighboring countries are joining local efforts to control the flames. Aerial firefighting resources, including water-dropping planes and helicopters, have been deployed.
Evacuations: Residents and tourists have been evacuated from affected areas. Emergency shelters are providing refuge for those displaced by the fires.
Environmental Impact: The fires have ecological consequences, endangering native flora and fauna. The island’s unique biodiversity is at risk.
Investigation: Authorities are investigating the cause of the fires. While extreme heat and dry conditions are contributing factors, deliberate arson has not been ruled out.
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