This announcement comes as Alberta considers changes to its timekeeping practices.

As of early Tuesday, Premier Danielle Smith stated, “The time we are in right now is the time it will be.”

However, details remain unconfirmed, as the legislation still needs to be voted on in the Alberta Legislature.

In 2021, a province-wide referendum showed that 49.8% of Albertans favored making this switch permanent, while 50.2% voted against it.

Historically, Alberta adopted daylight saving time in 1971 after a referendum passed with 61.5% in favor.

Notably, British Columbia plans to make a similar switch permanent by March 2026.

The Yukon already moved to permanent daylight saving time in 2020.

In neighboring Northwest Territories, officials have expressed concerns about being out of sync with Alberta and other nearby provinces regarding time changes.

The public’s response has been mixed. A survey indicated that 87% of respondents were in favor of scrapping twice-a-year time changes.

Premier RJ Simpson remarked, “The thing that needs to happen is Alberta needs to get on board.”

It appears that Alberta’s United Conservative Party government is expected to permanently make this switch soon—if the legislature approves it.

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Video surveillance captured Cooper’s grey Toyota C-HR XLE, with Alberta licence plate LVA 978, in the Hoosier area at approximately 10:51 p.m. on April 6. She was traveling with her family’s Dalmatian, Halo, raising concerns for her safety. Cooper is described as five feet three inches tall, weighing around 100 pounds, with a slim build, white hair, blue eyes, and wearing eyeglasses.

According to her granddaughter, Zoe Cooper, Diane has mild dementia but is mostly herself. “We miss her so much. We just want her back,” Zoe stated, expressing the family’s desperation as they await news. The last confirmed ping from her phone was just outside Veteran, Alberta, where she was seen traveling east on Highway 12.

The search for Diane Cooper has expanded, with RCMP detachments across Alberta and Saskatchewan involved in the efforts. Police have received tips from individuals in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia, but none have been confirmed. Cpl. Teri-Ann Bakker of the RCMP noted, “The most credible information we have right now suggests that Diane Cooper was actually in Saskatchewan.” Details remain unconfirmed regarding her intended destination.

Authorities are urging anyone in rural Alberta or Saskatchewan to keep a lookout for Cooper. Cpl. Bakker added, “There’s no signs that she had packed anything or was going on a long trip,” indicating that her disappearance is out of character. The family remains hopeful for her safe return as the search continues.

As the investigation unfolds, the community is rallying to support the Cooper family during this difficult time. The RCMP has provided a contact number for anyone with information: 403-577-3001. The urgency of the situation is palpable as the family and authorities work together to locate Diane Cooper.

The circumstances surrounding her disappearance raise numerous questions, particularly regarding her travel to Saskatchewan. The reason for her journey remains unclear, and the family is left grappling with uncertainty as they await updates from the RCMP.

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In a significant development regarding Canada’s gun buyback program, Alberta has reported over 7,000 banned weapons declared by residents, despite the provincial government’s resistance to the federal initiative. As of March 31, Public Safety Canada confirmed that more than 67,000 banned firearms have been declared nationwide by 37,869 firearm owners, indicating a mixed response to the program.

Ottawa’s gun buyback program, which aims to remove approximately 2,500 types of firearms deemed unsuitable for civilian use, has faced pushback from provincial governments. Alberta’s government has explicitly directed its entities to decline participation in the federal program, with officials stating, “Alberta’s government stands by its decision not to participate in the federal firearm confiscation program,” according to Mickey Amery.

Saskatchewan, on the other hand, has recorded the lowest per capita participation in the buyback program, with only 793 guns declared as of March 19. The federal government initially anticipated that 136,000 assault-style firearms would be declared, but only 47,000 have been reported so far. This discrepancy raises questions about the program’s effectiveness and public reception.

Gun owners across Canada are required to dispose of or deactivate prohibited firearms by October 30, regardless of whether they participate in the compensation program. Failure to comply could result in criminal sanctions and the loss of firearm possession licenses, adding urgency to the situation. Gary Anandasangaree, a federal official, expressed concern, stating, “It means that the citizens who are law-abiding and who have enrolled in the program, regrettably, will not be eligible for compensation.”

The context of this program stems from a broader federal initiative that has outlawed about 2,500 types of firearms since May 2020, with the government arguing that these weapons are designed for warfare rather than hunting or sport shooting. However, critics argue that the bans are politically motivated. Tracey Wilson from the Canadian Coalition for Firearm Rights remarked, “The government never actually had the intention of collecting firearms from people. The bans were largely political, and the minister admitted as much.”

As the deadline approaches, uncertainties loom over how Albertans who participated in the buyback program will be compensated. Kendrick Walker noted, “There is a little bit of a grey area there. We’re still waiting to see precisely what that means in terms of compensation.” Details remain unconfirmed.

The ongoing debate surrounding the gun buyback program underscores the complexities of firearm regulation in Canada, with provincial governments asserting their autonomy against federal mandates. As public safety remains a priority, the effectiveness and acceptance of such programs continue to be scrutinized by both supporters and opponents alike.

Сообщение Gun Buyback Program Faces Resistance in Alberta and Saskatchewan появились сначала на justrealnews.

Taber, Alberta, has made headlines as the winner of Kraft Hockeyville 2026, a significant accolade that comes with a $250,000 funding boost for upgrades to the Taber Community Centre. This victory not only revitalizes the local hockey scene but also restores a beloved community hub that suffered critical damage from a propane explosion on December 17, 2025.

The explosion, caused by a leaking Zamboni, left the community center in dire need of repairs, with costs expected to reach approximately $11 million to rebuild the two rinks. The funding from Kraft Hockeyville will support these essential repairs, ensuring that the Taber Community Centre, a cornerstone of local life for over 50 years, can continue to serve its community.

In addition to the funding, Taber has the opportunity to host an NHL preseason game in the fall of 2027, a prospect that has local residents buzzing with excitement. Meghan Brennan, a community advocate, expressed the sentiment felt by many: “It means we can bring our kids home back to the rink.” The tenacity of Taberites, as noted by Brennan, has been a driving force behind this achievement.

Taber is particularly notable as the first Kraft Hockeyville winner from Alberta since Sylvan Lake in 2014. This recognition is part of a broader initiative that has awarded $6.3 million to 118 communities across Canada, with 20 voted winners of the grand prize. The program aims to enhance local hockey facilities and promote community engagement through the sport.

Simon Laroche, a representative of Kraft Hockeyville, congratulated Taber on this significant achievement, stating, “Congratulations to Taber, Alberta on being named the winner of Kraft Hockeyville 2026, and to all of this year’s first-ever Provincial & Territorial Winners.” He emphasized that hockey transcends the game itself, highlighting its role in fostering community spirit and support.

The runner-up, Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, will also benefit from the program, receiving $100,000 for upgrades to their arena. This reflects the competitive spirit and dedication of communities across Canada to enhance their local hockey facilities.

As Taber prepares for the upcoming renovations and the potential NHL game, the community is filled with anticipation and hope. The funding will not only repair the damage caused by the explosion but also ensure that future generations can enjoy the sport of hockey in a safe and welcoming environment. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timeline for the renovations and the NHL game, but the excitement is palpable.

With this win, Taber solidifies its status as a vibrant community, often referred to as the ‘Corn Capital of Canada,’ and looks forward to a bright future in local hockey.

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Effective April 1, 2026, Canada will introduce new regulations aimed at addressing youth unemployment and ensuring that domestic workers are prioritized for job opportunities. The changes will require employers applying for low-wage LMIA positions to conduct a minimum of eight consecutive weeks of advertising, specifically targeting youth in their recruitment efforts.

These measures come in response to concerns that the current system disproportionately favors temporary foreign workers over local candidates. The immigration minister’s remarks underscore the urgency of these reforms, as many entry-level jobs have shifted away from Canadian youth towards foreign workers.

Employers will also be required to maintain records of their recruitment efforts for at least six years, ensuring transparency and accountability in the hiring process. Additionally, the wage threshold for low-wage LMIA applications will vary by province, with Alberta’s set at $36.00 CAD.

Rural employers will benefit from a more lenient cap on the proportion of temporary foreign workers they can employ, allowing up to 15 percent in low-wage positions, compared to the standard 10 percent cap for urban employers. This adjustment aims to support rural economies that rely heavily on foreign labor.

Service Canada officers will play a crucial role in reviewing submitted documentation to verify that recruitment efforts targeting youth are genuine and substantial. Employers found to have submitted false information risk facing severe penalties, including revocation of positive LMIAs and potential bans from the program for up to two years.

As the deadline approaches, experts are urging employers to double-check the wage thresholds before filing applications, as federal program pages may be updated. “Employers should always verify the threshold again before filing because federal program pages can be updated,” cautioned a source familiar with the LMIA process.

What observers say

Jatin Shory, an immigration consultant, expressed concerns about the current state of the industry, noting that about 55 percent of immigration consultants have less than five years of experience, creating a significant knowledge gap. “The right type of checks and balances, they exist, I guess, in spirit, but they are not really being effectively executed upon,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for better oversight in the LMIA process.

As Canada moves forward with these changes, the focus remains on balancing the needs of the labor market while ensuring that Canadian youth have access to job opportunities. The upcoming reforms reflect a broader commitment to reshaping the landscape of employment in Canada, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Сообщение Labour Market Impact Assessment Changes in Canada появились сначала на justrealnews.

A 4.5 magnitude earthquake struck central Alberta just before 5:30 p.m. on April 1, 2026. The quake was recorded approximately 18 kilometres northeast of Morinville, with tremors felt as far south as Bowden.

Residents in Gibbons, Legal, Bon Accord, and Edmonton reported feeling the earthquake, indicating its reach across a significant area. Other locations, including Whitecourt, Lesser Slave Lake, and Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area, also experienced the tremor.

Despite the quake’s magnitude, there have been no reports of damage or injuries, which is a relief for local communities. The earthquake’s occurrence highlights the geological activity in the region, which has seen increased seismic events in recent years.

Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, but as of now, no further developments have been reported. The lack of damage suggests that while the earthquake was felt widely, it did not pose a significant threat to infrastructure or safety.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any aftershocks or further seismic activity in the area. Residents are advised to stay informed and prepared, as the potential for future earthquakes remains a concern in Alberta.

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Alberta separatists have reportedly surpassed the required number of signatures for a referendum on independence, with over 177,732 signatures collected, representing 10% of the total votes cast in the last provincial election.

The petition, initiated by Stay Free Alberta, proposes a referendum asking, “Do you agree that the Province of Alberta should cease to be part of Canada to become an independent state?” The signature collection period began on January 3 and will conclude on May 2.

Once the collection period ends, Elections Alberta will verify the signatures. If successful, the independence question may be included in a planned referendum on several issues set for October 19.

This movement for independence is part of a broader trend in Alberta, reflecting growing sentiments among some residents for greater autonomy from the federal government.

In addition to the independence petition, the Alberta government is also advancing the Alberta Whisky Act, which aims to define and protect the labeling of whisky produced in the province. If passed, this legislation would give Alberta-distilled whisky a distinct identity.

The Alberta Whisky Act, identified as Bill 24, is seen as crucial for local distillers, with proponents stating, “The world wants more of everything Alberta has to offer.” This legislation would ensure Alberta distillers have the recognition they need to flourish on the world stage.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding whether the independence question will be added to the October referendum if the petition is validated. As the situation develops, observers are closely monitoring the implications for Alberta’s political landscape.

Сообщение Alberta Separatists Claim Success in Independence Petition появились сначала на justrealnews.

Leaders behind an Alberta separatist petition have confirmed they have surpassed 177,732 signatures, meeting the threshold to trigger a provincial referendum or legislative vote on independence. This figure represents 10 percent of the total votes cast in the last provincial election.

The petition, initiated by the group Stay Free Alberta, proposes a referendum asking Albertans if they agree that Alberta should cease to be part of Canada to become an independent state. The group began collecting signatures on January 3, 2024, and has until May 2, 2024 to finalize their count.

Once submitted, Elections Alberta will verify the signatures. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has stated, “I have said that any citizen initiative that gets the requisite number of signatures will be put on the ballot.” This commitment has fueled the separatist movement’s momentum.

The province is also planning to hold a referendum on several questions on October 19, 2024, which raises questions about whether the independence question will be included on that ballot.

Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi criticized the government, stating, “The half a million Albertans who signed the ‘Forever Canadian’ petition are still waiting for their day in the legislature.” He labeled the current situation as “not democracy” but rather a premier “grasping for power.”

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact wording of the referendum question, which may change before it is presented to voters. The political landscape in Alberta continues to shift as both sides prepare for a potentially contentious debate over the province’s future.

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A snowfall warning has been issued for Red Deer and Central Alberta, with forecasts predicting 15 to 20 centimetres of snow on March 12. This weather event is expected to create challenging travel conditions across the region.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has indicated that travel will likely be challenging, stating, “Roads and walkways will likely be difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow.” The snowfall is anticipated to taper off by the evening, but the impact on road safety will be felt throughout the day.

In addition to the snowfall, strong west winds gusting up to 100 km/h are expected in southern Alberta. This combination of snow and wind may lead to blowing snow from the east, further reducing visibility for drivers.

Local authorities are already reporting incidents related to the winter weather. The Blackfalds RCMP noted several collisions in the Red Deer area attributed to icy roads, while the Sylvan Lake RCMP observed an increase in accidents caused by poor road conditions. They have urged motorists to exercise caution, emphasizing that “winter weather is creating icy roads and limiting visibility.”

Drivers are reminded to slow down and adjust their driving due to these hazardous conditions. The Sylvan Lake RCMP stated, “Winter weather conditions pose challenges and safety risks for all motorists and pedestrians on our roadways.”

As March progresses, the weather is a reminder of the transitional nature of the season, often described as coming in like a lion and going out like a lamb. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and road conditions as the situation develops.

With the potential for continued adverse weather, details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the impact on travel and safety in the area.

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Recall petitions against Alberta Premier Danielle Smith have been a notable aspect of the political landscape in the province. These efforts indicate a significant level of dissatisfaction among some constituents regarding her leadership. However, recent attempts to unseat her have proven unsuccessful, highlighting the challenges faced by those advocating for her removal.

Recent Developments

On March 11, 2026, it was reported that another citizen-led recall petition aimed at unseating Premier Smith has failed. The campaign, which was part of the ‘Alberta Forever Canadian’ initiative, gathered approximately 2,300 signatures, falling well short of the 12,000 signatures required to trigger the next step in Alberta’s legislated recall process. This marks yet another setback for those seeking to challenge Smith’s position.

Context of Recall Petitions

In addition to the failed petition against Smith, two other recall efforts targeting members of her United Conservative caucus also fell short this week. Out of roughly two dozen recall petitions launched against members of Smith’s caucus since late last year, 20 have failed. This trend suggests a persistent struggle for those opposing her administration, as the political climate remains challenging for recall initiatives.

Government Response

As the recall efforts falter, the Smith government is preparing to announce the closure date for the drug site at Calgary’s Sheldon Chumir Health Centre, which has been operational for nearly nine years. Rick Wilson, the Alberta Mental Health and Addiction Minister, has indicated that this decision is forthcoming, further shaping the context in which these recall efforts are taking place.

Statements from Officials

Rick Wilson commented on the situation, stating, “It was a failed experiment,” in reference to the drug site, reflecting the government’s stance on the initiative. He also noted, “This justifies what I want to do. This gives me the evidence to move forward,” suggesting that the government’s decisions are influenced by the outcomes of these recall efforts and public sentiment.

Public Sentiment and Future Implications

Observers have pointed out that the ongoing failure of recall petitions may indicate a lack of widespread support for the movement against Smith. An unnamed source advised, “Don’t go on holidays,” implying that the political atmosphere remains charged and that further actions may be anticipated. Wilson emphasized the need for residents to feel safe where they live and work, indicating that public safety and health issues will continue to be central to the government’s agenda.

Looking Ahead

As the Smith government prepares to make significant announcements regarding healthcare initiatives, the future of recall efforts remains uncertain. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the potential for new initiatives or changes in strategy from those opposing her administration. The political landscape in Alberta continues to evolve, with implications for both Smith’s leadership and the broader political climate in the province.

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