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Ensemble, a Moncton harm-reduction organization, has detected xylazine in 10% of tested drugs since January. Xylazine, an animal tranquilizer, can lead to fatal outcomes when mixed with opioids. Unlike opioids, naloxone cannot reverse its effects, and there is no pharmaceutical antidote. Ensemble warns of the severe risk of necrotic wounds, especially among their vulnerable population. Since 2019, Health Canada has noted an increase in xylazine detections in drug samples. In New Brunswick, the drug was first identified in 2016, with one recorded death linked to it. The province’s Public Health department advises precautions for street drug users, including using overdose prevention sites and starting with small amounts.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) intends to audit Saskatchewan for failing to remit federal carbon levies on home heating. Premier Scott Moe insists that no levies are owed, but the CRA will examine the province’s records to determine the amount due. The Saskatchewan government’s decision to withhold carbon payments emerged after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau exempted home heating oil users from the levy. Moe argues that this exemption creates an unfair advantage for other heating sources and calls for a broader exemption policy. The CRA may face challenges in collecting the levies, as Ottawa may require legislative amendments. The federal budget indicates plans to amend the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Act, enabling federal officials to share information on non-paying provinces for potential enforcement actions.

Despite a relatively low-scoring affair, the Edmonton Oilers secured a crucial 1-0 victory over the Los Angeles Kings in Game 4 of their playoff series, moving one step closer to advancing to the second round. The Oilers’ ability to grind out a win despite being outshot demonstrates their resilience and the depth of their team beyond their dynamic offensive capabilities.

Edmonton’s Rice Howard Way is poised to undergo a transformation, becoming an alcohol-licensed, pedestrian-friendly area every Saturday from June 1st. The city’s community and public services committee have proposed an amendment to the Entertainment District bylaw, allowing for alcohol consumption from licensed establishments within the district’s boundaries. The proposed district encompasses Rice Howard Way from 100th Street to 101st Street, including city-owned spaces. The entertainment district will be activated on Saturdays only, commencing on June 1st and continuing until the end of August. Rice Howard Way will be closed to vehicles from 7 a.m. on Saturdays until 10 a.m. on Sundays, while 100A Avenue and 100A Street will remain open for traffic.

In response to the escalating incidence of fuel thefts, police services throughout New Brunswick have ceased investigations unless public safety is compromised. The New Brunswick Association of Chiefs of Police communicated this change to regional petroleum retailers, citing the need for more efficient approaches to combat the issue. Association President, Chief Gary Forward, advocates for provincial legislation mandating prepayment for fuel purchases, similar to measures implemented in Alberta and British Columbia. Such regulations, Forward claims, have effectively curtailed fuel thefts in these provinces. The association’s efforts to persuade the provincial government to introduce such legislation have continued for the past year, motivated by a tragic incident in British Columbia where a gas station employee lost their life while attempting to prevent a gas-and-dash theft. The shift in police approach and the push for prepayment legislation underscore the need for effective measures to address the ongoing problem of fuel thefts in New Brunswick.

A 20-year-old man, William Jones, has been arrested and charged with impaired driving causing death, operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration exceeding the legal limit, and failing to stop after a fatal collision. The incident occurred on Saturday in Kindersley, Saskatchewan, where a 21-year-old cyclist was struck by a vehicle and later pronounced dead. Jones was located at a residence approximately one hour after the collision. He will appear in court on May 21st.

The Edmonton Oilers’ playoff run is not only exciting for hockey fans, but it also brings a significant boost to businesses in the city, particularly in the downtown area. With fans gathering to cheer on the home team, restaurants, bars, and other establishments are experiencing a surge in sales and customers.

A recent study from the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) reveals that in 2020, while the Canadian government collected $13 billion in revenue from alcohol sales, it incurred $19 billion in social costs due to alcohol consumption. This deficit of $6 billion highlights the substantial burden that alcohol-related issues pose on Canadian society.

For the first time since 2016, Regina residents can now take a direct flight to Minneapolis. The inaugural flight took off on Sunday morning, carrying passengers eager for the opportunity to avoid connecting through Canadian hubs. Passengers like Dean Person, who often travels for business, appreciate the cost savings of flying through an American hub. For Travis Ferstl, the direct flight to Minneapolis eliminates lengthy layovers, allowing him to reach his destination quicker. YQR Airport officials emphasize the importance of supporting the flights to ensure their continued availability and attract additional American airlines to Regina. The airport’s director of revenue development and public relations, Justin Reeves, highlighted the need for passenger usage to demonstrate the viability of the service.

Retail and pharmacy chain London Drugs has announced that all of its stores across western Canada are closed until further notice due to an operational issue. The company’s social media posts and statements to the media did not provide any specific details about the nature of the issue. Pharmacists are available to assist with urgent pharmacy needs, but customers are advised to call their local store directly to make arrangements.