Throne Speech:

The Liberals are pledging to create more than one million jobs and expand or introduce benefit programs and supports for almost every sector of society.

Wednesday’s throne speech acknowledges not much can be done to combat climate change, economic inequality and systemic racism unless the pandemic is brought under control.

The Liberals are promising targeted support to businesses forced to close under local health orders, extending a wage subsidy benefit to next summer, and more money for some of Canada’s hardest hit sectors.

COVID-19 Ottawa:

Ottawa Public Health is reporting 63 new COVID-19 cases, and another death related to the virus Wednesday.

3837 cases have been confirmed in the Capital during the pandemic, with 280 deaths, and 3012 patients recovered. There are 545 active cases here.

Meanwhile,

Outbreaks have been declared at two local schools. According to the province, at least two cases have been confirmed at Franco Ouest Catholic High School, and Gabrielle Roy Public School. Staff continue to deal with outbreaks at Montfort Catholic Elementary, and Monsignor Paul Baxter Schools.

COVID-19 Ontario:

Across Ontario there are 335 new cases, along with three new deaths related to the virus.

Throughout the pandemic, the province has recorded 48,087 cases, which includes 2,835 deaths and 41,600 cases classified as resolved.

COVID Testing Coming to Pharmacies:

COVID-19 testing is coming soon to a pharmacy near you.

The Province has announced that thirteen pharmacies in the Capital will be offering testing starting this Friday, with more to come later on.  Locations include pharmacies in Orleans, Nepean, and Kanata. Click here for a full list of locations.

Indigenous Groups Fighting Ontario’s Rescinded Environmental Laws:

Several Indigenous groups are taking the Ontario government to court over recently rescinded environmental protections, arguing the province’s move violates their constitutional rights.

The claim comes in a notice of application filed this week by nine northern Ontario First Nations and associations.

The application states that Premier Doug Ford’s government reversed decades of environmental progress and protections for Indigenous communities when it made changes to the Environmental Assessment Act.

Demonstrators Show Support For Mi’kmaq Fishermen:

Demonstrators are showing their support for Mi’kmaq Lobster Fishers in Nova Scotia.

Supporters are gathering downtown for a show of solidarity. Those taking part are singing, drumming, and drawing messages of support with sidewalk chalk for the Mi’kmaq, who have been harassed by non-Indigenous fishermen in recent weeks.

This despite the fact that Federal and Provincial leaders have affirmed their right to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood, at any time.