News without the noise · Toronto Edition
Wednesday, September 23, 2026 · 177 stories
During a recent mayoral debate in Toronto, candidates Josh Bradford and Olivia Chow engaged in a discussion regarding property tax increases. The debate highlighted differing perspectives on how to manage the city's finances and the implications for residents.
NDP Leader Avi Lewis criticized the federal government for allegedly violating its own labour laws by using replacement workers during a strike by security officers at the Bank of Canada, which has lasted nearly 100 days. The strike began in June after negotiations for a new collective agreement failed. The Canada Industrial Relations Board has ruled that the Bank contravened the Canada Labour Code by employing contractors during the strike, although the Bank claims it has complied with the board's orders since July.
A Belleville police officer, Const. Jeff Smith, was critically injured during a shooting outside the Sons of Jacob synagogue on Yom Kippur. The incident involved a suspect who fired a shotgun at Smith, prompting a return of gunfire from the officer and a colleague. The suspect later died in the hospital, while Smith has stabilized after being treated in intensive care. His wife expressed gratitude for the medical personnel and community support during this challenging time.
A shooting incident occurred outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, where a 29-year-old man, Sean Ward, is alleged to have fired multiple shots. The incident has drawn significant media attention, particularly in Israel, following the end of Yom Kippur. Local authorities, including the Ontario Special Investigations Unit, are involved in the investigation.
Canada has ratified the High Seas Treaty and committed $82 million to enhance ocean protection. The funding will be directed towards monitoring the Arctic Ocean, conducting underwater research, and expanding efforts to assess the impacts of climate change.
Families of suicide victims confronted Kenneth Law, an Ontario poison seller, expressing their grief and anger over the loss of their loved ones. One parent shared the emotional toll, stating they cannot stop thinking about their deceased child.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the United Nations General Assembly, urging world leaders to maintain economic pressure on Russia to end the ongoing conflict. He highlighted the significant losses Russia has faced, with 248,000 soldiers reported dead over the past eight months, and emphasized the need to limit trade with Russia to impede its war efforts. Zelenskyy also warned of an expected increase in Russian bombing campaigns as winter approaches, while calling for international support to ensure a harsh response to Russia's actions.
US President Donald Trump has proposed an 'energy ceasefire' between Russia and Ukraine, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has indicated Kyiv is open to, contingent on Moscow halting its attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Despite ongoing strikes on energy facilities by both sides, the feasibility of such a truce remains uncertain, with concerns that it could inadvertently support Russia's war economy while failing to address the underlying conflict. Analysts suggest that any agreement would require clear definitions and independent verification to be effective, given the history of failed ceasefires in the region.
The United States and Iran engaged in their first shuttle talks in months, mediated during the UN General Assembly in New York. U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner communicated with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, raising hopes for progress in resolving ongoing conflicts, although no changes in positions were reported. The discussions come amid a backdrop of rising tensions and a significant war in West Asia, which has impacted global energy supplies and oil prices.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the UN General Assembly, alleging that Russian President Vladimir Putin has recruited fighters from 47 countries, including North Korea, Ghana, and India, to support the war against Ukraine. Zelensky also warned that Ukrainian forces may target Russian heating and energy facilities during the winter if attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure persist.
England winger Bukayo Saka says the team are still carrying the "scar" of their heartbreaking World Cup semi-final exit to Argentina.
The Toronto Maple Leafs will face the Ottawa Senators in NHL pre-season action on Wednesday, with live coverage starting at 7 p.m. on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.