HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Federal Tax Changes
The arrival of 2016 sees the Trudeau government's middle-class tax cut taking effect.
The income tax rate is being trimmed by 1.5 percentage points for those with annual incomes of between $45,000 and $90,000 a year.
That will produce savings of up to $650 a year.
On the other side of the coin, the income tax rate increases by four percentage points for those earning more than $200,000 a year.
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Markets Heading Into 2016
Many Canadian investors hope 2016 will be better than last year, which saw the financial markets plagued by turmoil.
Price drops in key commodities get much of the blame for the S&P TSX losing just over 11% of its value in 2015.
Oil closed yesterday at just over $37 US a barrel -- down 30% from this day a year ago.
And, the oil-sensitive dollar closed yesterday at 72.25 cents US -- a drop of 14-cents from this day last year.
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Beef Exports South Korea
South Korea has reopened its borders to Canadian beef.
The country imposed the ban in February after a beef cow was discovered near Edmonton with BSE.
Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay and Trade Minister Chrystia Freeland announced the reopening yesterday.
Last year South Korea was the sixth biggest export market for Canadian beef.
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Legion Purchase
A Royal Canadian Legion in the province has a new owner -- who wishes to remain anonymous.
Steinbach Legion president Bill Richards says the purchase deal allows the Legion to continue to operate, and will ensure the long-term viability of its programs and its membership.
Richards says the deal is mutually advantageous for both parties.
The Legion will lease space in the current facility.
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Saskatchewan's Essential Services
Amendments to Saskatchewan's essential service legislation take effect today.
The changes were made after the Supreme Court struck down a section of the law that prevented some public-sector employees from striking.
The new law removes the definition of essential service and allows the parties involved to determine what duties must be maintained.
It also includes amendments to ensure that there is sufficient time for labour disputes to be settled.
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Winnipeg's Airport Food
People heading south to travel through Winnipeg's airport will notice some differences in the coming future, the airport is going to be a little less Winnipeg.
Popular city eateries Salisbury House and Gondola Pizza will no longer operate at James Armstrong Richardson International Airport.
Franchises Freshii and True Burger will replace them.
Winnipeg Airports Authority spokesman David Drieger says the decision was made after surveys and consultation with customers who wanted "healthier options" in place of fast food.
