Highlights

  • The Canadian Turkey Marketing Agency has updated turkey production quotas for provinces, with approval from the National Farm Products Council.
  • Control of the Canadian Coast Guard has been transferred to the Department of National Defence.
  • The Domestic Substances List has been amended to include new substances, following assessments by the Minister of the Environment and the Minister of Health.
  • Fire Prevention Week is designated with a focus on lithium-ion battery safety, encouraging fire prevention activities.
  • Saint Mary’s First Nation has transitioned to the First Nations Elections Act for governance, with an upcoming election scheduled.
  • Cheam First Nation has adopted its own election code, moving away from the Indian Act, to enhance governance autonomy.
  • These changes support Indigenous self-determination and traditional governance practices.

Canadian Turkey Quota Regulations Amended for 2025-2026

The Canadian Turkey Marketing Agency, established under the Farm Products Agencies Act, has amended the Canadian Turkey Marketing Quota Regulations, 1990. The Agency, having considered market changes and other relevant factors, has revised the market allotment limitations for turkey producers for the control period from April 27, 2025, to April 25, 2026. The amendments specify the pounds of turkey allocated to each province, with Ontario receiving the largest share and New Brunswick the smallest. These changes have been approved by the National Farm Products Council, ensuring they align with the marketing plan the Agency is authorized to implement. [Source]

Canadian Coast Guard Transferred to Department of National Defence

The control and supervision of the Canadian Coast Guard and the Canadian Coast Guard Support Services Group have been transferred from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to the Department of National Defence. This decision was made by the Governor General in Council, based on the Prime Minister’s recommendation, under the authority of the Public Service Rearrangement and Transfer of Duties Act. [Source]

Amendment to Domestic Substances List by Environment Minister

The Minister of the Environment, after receiving necessary information and test results under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, has amended the Domestic Substances List. The amendment involves adding specific substances to the list, as the Minister of the Environment and the Minister of Health are satisfied that these substances have been manufactured or imported into Canada in quantities exceeding the prescribed limits. The assessment period for these substances has concluded, and no conditions are in effect under the Act. The amendment includes the addition of several substances to Parts 1 and 3 of the Domestic Substances List, and the order comes into force upon registration. [Source]

New Substances Added to Canada’s Domestic Substances List Under Environmental Protection Act

The Minister of the Environment, with the Minister of Health, has assessed information on seven substances, including five chemicals and polymers and two living organisms, and determined they meet the criteria for addition to the Domestic Substances List under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. These substances have been manufactured or imported into Canada, and no conditions are in effect regarding their import or manufacture. The addition of these substances to the list means they are no longer subject to the New Substances Notification Regulations. The Domestic Substances List is regularly updated to include substances that meet specific criteria, ensuring they are assessed for potential environmental and health risks. The orders to add these substances are administrative, imposing no new regulatory requirements or costs on businesses. There was no public consultation period required for these additions, and no impact on modern treaty rights or obligations was identified. The orders are now in force, and compliance is enforced under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act. [Source]

Fire Prevention Week 2025 Focus on Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

Many citizens, along with volunteer, professional, and industrial fire safety personnel, are working together as “Partners in Fire Prevention” to reduce loss of life, property destruction, and environmental damage. A specific period each year is designated to disseminate information on fire causes and preventive measures. The theme for 2025 is “CHARGE INTO FIRE SAFETY: LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES IN YOUR HOME.” The week starting Sunday, October 5, and ending Saturday, October 11, is designated as “Fire Prevention Week,” with October 11 recognized as “Fire Service Recognition Day” to honor the services of Canadian fire services. During this week, all citizens and authorities are encouraged to intensify fire prevention activities. [Source]

Saint Mary’s First Nation Joins First Nations Elections Act with 2026 Election Date

The council of Saint Mary’s requested the addition of their First Nation to the schedule of the First Nations Elections Act. The Minister of Indigenous Services, Mandy Gull-Masty, approved this request. Consequently, Saint Mary’s has been added to the schedule, and the first election for their council is set for October 7, 2026. The order takes effect upon registration. [Source]

Cheam First Nation Adopts Custom Election Code for Greater Autonomy

The Cheam First Nation in British Columbia has opted to select its Chief and Council through its own community election process, moving away from the Indian Act’s election provisions. This decision follows a community ratification vote where a majority supported adopting the Cheam First Nation election code. The Minister of Indigenous Services has approved this change, allowing the First Nation to conduct future elections under its custom code, enhancing governance autonomy and addressing community needs. The transition involves no costs to the government, as Cheam First Nation will manage its electoral process independently. This shift aligns with broader efforts to support Indigenous self-determination and traditional governance structures, promoting diverse voices in leadership roles. The Department of Indigenous Services will not be involved in the election process or disputes, which will be handled according to the community’s election code. [Source]

Saint Marys First Nation Transitions to First Nations Elections Act for Enhanced Governance

The council of the Saint Mary’s First Nation in New Brunswick has decided to transition from holding elections under the Indian Act to the First Nations Elections Act. This change was requested by the council and approved by the Minister of Indigenous Services. The transition involves removing Saint Mary’s from the Indian Bands Council Elections Order and adding it to the schedule of the First Nations Elections Act. This shift aims to enhance governance autonomy and better meet community needs. The first election under the new system is scheduled for October 7, 2026. The change is expected to result in cost savings by extending the election cycle from two to four years, allowing for longer-term planning and potential cost reductions. The initiative supports greater self-determination and aligns with traditional governance practices that include diverse community voices. The First Nations Elections Act provides mechanisms for contesting elections and enforcing penalties for election-related offenses. [Source]

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