Saskatchewan Herald

Saskatchewan Updates $10-a-Day Child-Care Program

Hunter W. — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 16:52:23 +0000

The Saskatchewan government has introduced new changes to its $10-a-day child-care program, drawing both support and criticism from families, providers, and opposition leaders.

Education Minister Everett Hindley said the updates aim to protect long-term funding and stabilize the system. The changes will take effect on July 1 and follow a five-year extension deal with the federal government. Officials say the province wants to maintain current child-care spaces while expanding more carefully in the future.

One major change sets a standard 10-hour day for child care. Most providers already follow this schedule, according to the province. However, centres can now charge extra fees for care beyond 10 hours. For example, families in cities like Regina and Saskatoon may pay up to $223.60 more per month for infants who stay longer.

The province will also increase grants for lower-cost centres, targeting facilities with the lowest 20% of fees. Officials say this move will help create a more balanced and competitive system. Some funding will shift away from training programs toward day-to-day operating costs, giving providers more flexibility.

Industry groups have welcomed parts of the update. Ashley Elgert Barclay said increased funding for lower-cost centres moves the system closer to fairer funding. She also noted that extra fees for longer hours could help providers stay financially stable.

However, critics argue the changes will hurt families, especially those who work long shifts. Joan Pratchler said the 10-hour limit does not reflect real work schedules, particularly for healthcare and industrial workers who often work 12-hour shifts. Some providers warn that parents will now carry more of the cost burden.

The province also faces pressure to meet its child-care space targets. Under the original 2021 agreement, Saskatchewan aimed to create 28,000 new spaces by March 2026. Government data shows about 25,760 spaces were created by late 2025, with an extension now in place to reach the goal.

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Iran Foreign Minister Heads to Islamabad for Indirect Talks With US

Hunter W. — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 16:43:27 +0000

Iran has stepped up diplomatic efforts to restart talks with the United States as tensions remain high in the region. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is set to visit Islamabad to discuss new proposals aimed at reviving stalled negotiations. However, officials confirmed that he will not meet US representatives directly during this trip.

Instead, Pakistan will act as a mediator, passing Iran’s proposals to Washington. Earlier talks between Iran and the United States, also held in Islamabad, collapsed after both sides failed to agree on key conditions. Iran said it was not ready to commit, while a US delegation never left Washington.

At the same time, Donald Trump extended a temporary ceasefire to allow more time for diplomacy. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Iran still has an “open window” to reach a deal, but he urged Tehran to abandon any nuclear weapons ambitions.

Iran continues to push back. Its leaders insist their nuclear program serves civilian purposes only. They also demand the lifting of sanctions and recognition of their regional position before agreeing to a long-term deal.

Meanwhile, the situation on the ground remains tense. Fighting continues in parts of the Middle East, including clashes involving Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Although a separate ceasefire exists, both sides have continued limited attacks, raising doubts about long-term stability.

The strategic Strait of Hormuz remains a major concern. Before the conflict, around 130 ships passed daily through the route, which carries a large share of global oil supply. Recent data shows only five ships crossed in 24 hours, highlighting the scale of disruption.

This sharp drop has added pressure on global markets. Energy prices remain volatile as supply routes face restrictions and uncertainty.

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Saskatchewan Penitentiary Incident: 1 Inmate Killed & 2 Injured

Hunter W. — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:46:43 +0000

An inmate has died and two others suffered injuries after a violent incident inside the Saskatchewan Penitentiary, prompting an immediate lockdown and security response.

Correctional officials confirmed that the incident took place in a maximum-security unit, where staff quickly moved to contain the situation. Authorities placed the facility under lockdown and adjusted operations to control movement and ensure safety. Officials have not yet released the names of those involved.

The Correctional Service of Canada said staff responded as soon as the violence began. Emergency protocols require officers to secure the area, separate inmates, and provide medical assistance. Despite those efforts, one inmate died at the scene. Medical teams treated the two injured individuals, though officials have not disclosed the extent of their injuries.

Incidents inside maximum-security units often involve inmates classified as high risk, including those with a history of violence. These units operate under stricter controls, but conflicts can still occur. Authorities continue to investigate what triggered the confrontation and whether weapons played a role.

Prison officials have also begun an internal review. Standard procedure requires investigators to examine surveillance footage, interview staff and inmates, and assess whether security measures functioned as intended. Police may also conduct a separate investigation, depending on the findings.

The lockdown has disrupted daily routines inside the facility. Inmates remain confined to their cells while staff carry out searches and restore order. Visits and programs have been temporarily suspended.

The Saskatchewan Penitentiary, located in Prince Albert, serves as one of Canada’s main federal correctional institutions for high-risk offenders. Incidents like this highlight the ongoing challenges of managing security, safety, and inmate behavior in such environments.

Authorities have not provided a timeline for lifting the lockdown. Officials say they will release more details once the investigation progresses.

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Iran Seizes Ships in Strait of Hormuz as Tensions with US Escalate

Hunter W. — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:36:15 +0000

Iran has seized two ships in the Strait of Hormuz, raising tensions with the United States and increasing pressure on global energy markets.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps detained the vessels for what it called maritime violations and escorted them to Iranian waters. Shipping sources confirmed that one vessel reported gunfire and damage, though no injuries occurred. This marks the first seizure of ships since the current conflict began in late February.

The move came just one day after Donald Trump announced that the U.S. would delay further military strikes on Iran. Trump said he wanted time for possible peace talks, but Iranian officials did not confirm any agreement to extend a ceasefire. Iranian leaders also criticized the ongoing U.S. naval blockade, which restricts Iran’s trade routes and limits access to international markets.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global chokepoint. Before the conflict, it carried about 20% of the world’s oil supply. Around 130 ships passed through daily, but traffic has now dropped sharply due to military risks and blockades. Iran has effectively restricted access, allowing only limited movement.

This disruption has already affected markets. Brent crude oil prices rose above $100 per barrel, reflecting concerns over reduced supply. Governments and companies have started to manage reserves and adjust consumption as uncertainty grows.

Key disagreements between Iran and the U.S. remain unresolved. Washington demands limits on Iran’s nuclear program, while Iran calls for the removal of sanctions and recognition of its control over regional waters. Iran has also tied broader peace talks to a ceasefire involving regional groups such as Hezbollah.

Despite diplomatic efforts, both sides continue to show military strength. Iran recently displayed ballistic weapons in Tehran, while the U.S. has redirected multiple vessels as part of its blockade operations.

The situation remains unstable. The seizure of ships highlights how quickly tensions can rise in a region that plays a central role in global energy supply.

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Harvey Weinstein of Hollywood Faces Third Rape Trial in New York

Hunter W. — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:20:44 +0000

A new rape trial involving Harvey Weinstein has begun in New York, bringing renewed attention to Hollywood’s past culture of power and influence.

Prosecutors argue that Weinstein used his position as a leading film producer to exploit women seeking careers in the industry. The case focuses on allegations that he raped aspiring actress Jessica Mann in 2013 at a Manhattan hotel. Prosecutor Candace White told jurors that Mann resisted and repeatedly said no, describing the case as one about “power, control, and manipulation.” Weinstein has pleaded not guilty and denies all accusations of non-consensual sex.

This trial marks Weinstein’s third legal battle in New York. In 2020, a jury convicted him of rape and sexual assault, but the state’s highest court later overturned that conviction due to concerns about trial fairness. In 2025, another jury convicted him of sexually abusing former production assistant Miriam Haley, while failing to reach a verdict on the rape charge involving Mann.

Weinstein is also serving a 16-year prison sentence in California, where a court convicted him of rape in 2022. He is currently appealing that decision.

At the center of the case is Weinstein’s former role at Miramax, a major Hollywood studio he co-founded. Prosecutors say he used his industry status to gain access to aspiring actresses and exert pressure. Defense lawyers argue that all relationships were consensual and claim the accusations stem from personal grievances.

The case continues to reflect the impact of the #MeToo movement, which gained global attention after allegations against Weinstein first emerged. That movement pushed many victims in Hollywood and beyond to speak out against abuse by powerful figures.

The trial, now underway in Manhattan, is expected to last about a month. If convicted on the remaining rape charge, Weinstein could face up to 25 years in prison.

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Missing Calgary Senior Found Dead After Two-Week Search

Hunter W. — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:15:33 +0000

An 82-year-old woman from Calgary who went missing earlier this month has been found dead in Saskatchewan, bringing a two-week search to a tragic end.

Diane Cooper was reported missing after she left Calgary on April 6 at around 3:30 p.m. Authorities later confirmed that she was last seen in Hoosier, Saskatchewan, on April 7, traveling with her dog.

According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, officers located Cooper’s body on April 19 in a rural area near Kindersley, Saskatchewan. Police said they found her at approximately 7:40 p.m. in the rural municipality of Grandview. They also confirmed that foul play is not suspected.

Cooper’s dog, Halo, was found alive at the scene.

Multiple RCMP detachments from Alberta and Saskatchewan took part in the search, along with air services that supported efforts from above. The search lasted nearly two weeks and covered a wide area across provincial lines.

Family members had previously asked the public for help in locating Cooper. In a statement shared on social media, her granddaughter expressed the family’s grief and thanked those who helped search and shared information.

“Our grandma has unfortunately passed away,” the statement said. “We are absolutely brokenhearted.” The family also expressed relief that the dog survived and gratitude for the support they received during the search.

Police extended their condolences to Cooper’s family and friends. Authorities have not released further details about the cause of death.

Officials have not indicated any criminal investigation, and the case remains classified as a non-suspicious death.

The search has now concluded, and authorities have closed the missing person investigation.

And lastly, we at Saskatchewan Herald give our condolences to the family.

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Brazil, Mexico, and Spain Pledge More Humanitarian Aid to Cuba

Hunter W. — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:13:52 +0000

Three countries: Brazil, Mexico, and Spain – have promised to increase humanitarian aid to Cuba as concerns grow over the island’s worsening conditions.

Leaders from the three nations made this commitment during a recent meeting in Barcelona. The talks included Pedro Sánchez, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Claudia Sheinbaum. Together, they described the situation in Cuba as a “humanitarian crisis” and called for urgent support.

In a joint statement, the three governments said they will coordinate efforts to send more supplies, including food and basic goods. They also stressed the need for dialogue based on the United Nations Charter, highlighting that the Cuban people should have the freedom to shape their own future.

A major point in their statement focused on the long-standing U.S. blockade on Cuba, which they believe has worsened the country’s economic struggles. The leaders urged for peaceful solutions and cooperation instead of continued pressure.

Recent events have already shown signs of action. Aid shipments, including those carried by activists from the “Nuestra America Convoy,” have reached Havana. These efforts highlight growing international concern and a push for more direct assistance.

This move also reflects a broader political message. The meeting in Barcelona aimed to build unity against rising global tensions and strengthen cooperation among countries with similar views. By working together, Brazil, Mexico, and Spain hope to bring more stability and relief to Cuba.

For now, their pledge signals a clear shift toward stronger international involvement. Whether this effort will lead to lasting change remains uncertain, but it puts renewed attention on Cuba’s situation and the need for immediate humanitarian action.

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Xi Jinping Urges Strait of Hormuz to Stay Open As Tensions Rises

Hunter W. — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 14:55:24 +0000

On April 20, Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and called for the Strait of Hormuz to remain open to global shipping.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most important waterways in the world. A large share of global oil passes through it every day. Any disruption can quickly affect energy prices and global markets.

During the call, Xi stressed that keeping the waterway open serves the “common interests” of both regional countries and the international community. China depends heavily on oil imports, including crude from Iran, which makes stability in the region especially important.

Tensions have increased after a fragile U.S.–Iran ceasefire showed signs of breaking down. The United States recently seized an Iranian cargo ship, while Iran signaled it would not join new peace talks for now. These developments raised concerns that the situation could worsen.

China has taken a clear position. Xi called for an immediate ceasefire and urged all sides to solve the conflict through diplomacy, not force. Chinese officials also expressed concern about the U.S. interception of the Iranian vessel and asked all parties to respect the ceasefire agreement.

The situation in the Strait remains tense. Reports say Iran has limited access to the waterway for some ships, while the U.S. has increased pressure on Iranian vessels. This creates risks for global trade and energy supply.

Hormuz open. If the route closes or becomes unsafe, the impact could spread far beyond the Middle East.

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Carney Says Canada Must Fix ‘Weak’ U.S. Trade Dependence

Hunter W. — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 15:44:05 +0000

Prime Minister Mark Carney warned that Canada’s close economic ties with the United States have turned into “weaknesses” that the country must fix. He shared this message in a public video, where he spoke directly to Canadians about growing trade risks.

Carney pointed to rising tariffs under U.S. President Donald Trump as a major concern. He said the U.S. has increased tariffs to levels not seen since the Great Depression, putting pressure on key Canadian industries like auto, steel, and lumber. These sectors depend heavily on U.S. trade, which makes them vulnerable when policies change.

The prime minister stressed that Canada cannot rely too much on one partner. He said the country must diversify trade and build stronger ties with other markets. Carney also promised to give regular updates so Canadians can follow the government’s plan.

At the same time, tensions between the two countries have grown. U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick criticized Canada’s strategy and dismissed the idea that time could favor Canadian negotiators. He also questioned Canada’s decision to expand trade with China.

Canada recently reached a deal that allows 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles into its market at a lower tariff rate. In return, China agreed to reduce tariffs on Canadian goods like canola, seafood, and peas. Supporters say this move helps Canada expand globally. Critics argue it could create new risks.

Carney defended the approach, saying Canada must adapt to a changing world. He warned that ignoring these challenges would hurt the country’s economic security. Instead, he called for a clear and honest plan to protect jobs and industries.

This situation highlights a key issue: Canada built strong growth through its U.S. partnership, but that same reliance now creates uncertainty. Carney’s message signals a shift toward a more balanced and independent trade strategy.

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Canadian Astronaut French Words Help Ease Language Tensions

Hunter W. — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 15:35:40 +0000

Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen made headlines after he spoke French in space during the Artemis II mission, and many Canadians say that small moment carried a big meaning.

While traveling toward the Moon, Hansen greeted the world with “Bonjour tout le monde”, becoming the first person to speak French so far from Earth. The moment quickly spread online and drew praise across Canada, especially from French-speaking communities.

This came at a sensitive time. Just weeks earlier, Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau faced strong backlash after he spoke very little French in a public video tribute. Many people saw that as a lack of respect for Quebec’s French-speaking population. Even Prime Minister Mark Carney criticized the incident, calling it poor judgment.

Hansen’s decision to speak French created a sharp contrast. During a live exchange, Carney even spoke to Hansen in French, praising his effort and saying Canadians felt proud and inspired.

Experts say the reaction shows something important: in Canada, language is not just about communication, it represents identity, culture, and respect. Political scientist Stéphanie Chouinard explained that people do not expect perfect French. They value effort and sincerity.

After returning to Earth, Hansen said the journey reminded him that humans are “small and powerless — yet powerful together.” That message, combined with his choice to speak French, helped shift the national conversation.

At a time when tensions over language had grown, Hansen’s simple words from space showed that respect and effort still matter, even 125,000 miles away.

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