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Eid Prayers Bring a Moment of Unity in Gaza’s Saraya Yard

  As dawn broke over Gaza City, thousands of Palestinians gathered in the historic Saraya yard to mark the beginning of Eid al‑Fitr, a holiday that symbolizes renewal, gratitude, and communal strength. Despite the immense hardships faced in recent months, worshippers arrived early, filling the open square with rows of prayer mats and the soft murmur of supplication. Families stood shoulder to shoulder, children clutching balloons and wearing new clothes—small but meaningful traditions that persist even in the most difficult times. The atmosphere blended solemn reflection with a quiet resilience, as community leaders offered messages of hope and unity. For many, this year’s Eid carries a deeper emotional weight. The prayers in Saraya yard served not only as a religious observance but also as a collective expression of endurance, identity, and the longing for peace. In a place where daily life has been shaped by uncertainty, the gathering became a rare moment of togetherness and s...
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Mixed Reactions as Federal Government’s GST Holiday Takes Effect

 

The federal government’s two-month GST holiday, which began on Saturday, has elicited mixed reactions from both businesses and shoppers across Canada. The temporary tax break, aimed at easing affordability concerns during the holiday season, waives the five percent goods and services tax on a range of items including restaurant meals, children’s clothing, and toys.

Businesses Struggle with Compliance

Many businesses have found the implementation of the GST holiday to be an administrative burden. Patrick Neault, general manager of Raffin Bookstore in Montreal, mentioned that his staff had to work extra hours to ensure compliance with the new regulations. “It’s not that much of a deal. It’s like a few percent discount on a transaction,” Neault said, expressing doubt about whether the benefits outweigh the extra work.

Shoppers Show Limited Enthusiasm

Shoppers have also shown lukewarm enthusiasm for the tax break. While some, like Katrina Rose from Halifax, took advantage of the savings on holiday purchases, others, like Jennifer Matthew, felt the savings were too minimal to make a significant impact. “I don’t think it’s going to put a big dent in my wallet by any means,” Matthew said.

Conclusion

As the GST holiday continues until February 15, 2025, businesses and shoppers alike are cautiously optimistic about its potential benefits. While some appreciate the temporary relief, others remain skeptical about its long-term impact.




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