A tense and tragic incident unfolded at Milton Keynes railway station, culminating in the fatal shooting of a man by armed police officers. The event has ignited a wave of shock and concern within the community, prompting a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the use of lethal force.
The sequence of events began when Thames Valley Police and British Transport Police received reports of a man allegedly carrying a firearm within the station's premises. The reports triggered an immediate and robust response, with armed officers swiftly dispatched to the scene. The presence of a potential firearm in a public space, particularly a busy transport hub, necessitated a rapid and decisive intervention to ensure public safety.
Upon encountering the man, officers from Thames Valley Police engaged him. The precise nature of this engagement remains a key focus of the ongoing investigation. However, it is confirmed that armed officers "challenged" the man, and subsequently, shots were fired. Despite immediate attempts by officers to administer life-saving measures, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
The incident has understandably caused significant disruption and distress. The railway station, a vital artery of transportation, became a focal point of intense police activity, with cordons established and forensic examinations underway. The presence of armed officers and the gravity of the situation created a palpable sense of unease among commuters and bystanders.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Thames Valley Police issued a statement confirming the incident and emphasizing that there is not believed to be any further risk to the public. This assurance is crucial in alleviating concerns and preventing further panic within the community. However, the statement also acknowledged the seriousness of the event and the need for a comprehensive investigation.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), the independent body responsible for overseeing police conduct, has been notified and has initiated an independent investigation into the shooting. This investigation will scrutinize every aspect of the incident, including the initial reports, the officers' response, the use of force, and the attempts to provide medical assistance.
Key aspects of the investigation will involve:
 * Examination of the initial reports: Determining the precise information received by the police regarding the alleged firearm.
 * Assessment of the officers' actions: Evaluating the officers' decision-making process, their adherence to protocols, and the proportionality of the force used.
 * Forensic analysis: Examining the scene, any potential weapons, and other relevant evidence.
 * Witness testimonies: Gathering accounts from witnesses present at the station during the incident.
 * Review of any available CCTV footage: Analysing any visual recordings of the events.
The results of the IOPC investigation will be crucial in providing transparency and accountability. The findings will shed light on whether the officers' actions were justified and whether any lessons can be learned to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The event has also sparked a wider debate about the use of armed police and the circumstances under which lethal force is deemed necessary. The public's trust in law enforcement hinges on the assurance that such force is used only as a last resort and with the utmost restraint.
The community now awaits the outcome of the independent investigation, seeking answers and reassurance that the events that unfolded at Milton Keynes railway station will be thoroughly examined.
Source@BBC

The stark, dramatic landscapes of Iceland have once again become a stage for nature's raw power, as a volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula prompted the urgent evacuation of tourists and residents. This latest display of geothermal activity, unfolding near the town of Grindavik, has underscored the volatile nature of this region, where the earth's fiery core meets the icy surface.
The eruption, characterized by fissures spewing lava and plumes of smoke, commenced after a period of heightened seismic activity. This prelude of tremors served as a stark warning, leading authorities to initiate evacuations, including the closure of the renowned Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, a popular destination for visitors from around the globe. The town of Grindavik, which has experienced previous evacuations due to recurring volcanic events, found itself once more under the shadow of flowing lava.
The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) has been at the forefront of monitoring the situation, providing critical updates on the eruption's progression. Their reports detailed the expanding fissure, the paths of lava flow, and the extent of the volcanic activity. The information they have provided has helped to inform the emergency response, and to help keep the public informed. The location of Iceland, positioned atop a volcanic hotspot in the North Atlantic, renders it particularly susceptible to such geological events. The Reykjanes peninsula, in particular, has seen a resurgence of volcanic activity in recent years, marking a period of heightened geological instability.
The recent eruptions have caused concerns about the protective barriers that have been constructed around the town of Grindavik. There has been reports of lava breaching those barriers. The concern now is how much damage will be caused to the town, and its infrastructure. The flow of lava has also caused damage to local pipelines.
While the immediate focus remains on ensuring the safety of those in the affected areas, the eruption also raises broader questions about the long-term implications for the region. Scientists continue to monitor the volcano, and measure the amount of magma that is under the surface. This information will help them to determine the likely hood of future eruptions. The potential for prolonged volcanic activity, and the associated risks, will necessitate ongoing vigilance and adaptation.
The resilience of the Icelandic people, who have learned to coexist with these powerful natural forces, is evident in their preparedness and response. The Civil Protection Agency has been working diligently to coordinate evacuations and provide support to those affected. The population of Iceland has lived with volcanic activity for centuries, and have developed systems to deal with it.
It is important to note that while the volcanic eruption is a dramatic and potentially disruptive event, air traffic has so far been able to continue. The eruption has not caused the large ash clouds that have in the past, caused major disruptions to air travel. This is a very important factor, as the disruption of air travel, can have a large effect on the global economy.
The ongoing volcanic activity serves as a powerful reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of our planet. The events unfolding in Iceland are a testament to the forces that shape our world, and the importance of understanding and respecting those forces.
Source@BBC

Canadian financial institutions will be prohibited from charging more than $10 in non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees, following a government cap on these charges.

NSF fees are incurred when there are insufficient funds in a customer's account to cover a pre-authorized payment or check. According to government estimates, NSF fees at Canadian banks typically range from $45 to $48. The new regulation will take effect on March 12, 2026, as stated in a government brief.

These amendments to Canada's Financial Consumer Protection Framework Regulations will also prevent financial institutions from charging an NSF fee more than once within two business days for the same personal account, or if the overdraft amount is less than $10. The reduced NSF fees will only apply to personal accounts, excluding business accounts. The government anticipates that these changes will result in a reduction of $4.1 billion in NSF fees over the next decade. Initially, a draft proposal in November 2024 suggested requiring banks to notify customers at least three hours in advance of an impending NSF fee. However, this requirement was removed based on feedback from financial institutions, who indicated that implementing such a system would be expensive and take 12 to 18 months. The Department of Finance reported that there were approximately $15.8 million in NSF transactions in 2023. It also noted that around 34 percent of Canadians are expected to incur NSF fees each year, predominantly affecting those with low incomes or difficulties in managing their "financial commitments." The Canadian Bankers Association (CBA) argued that NSF fees promote responsible banking practices. They advised customers to avoid these fees by regularly monitoring their account balances, setting balance alerts, and utilizing overdraft protection services. The CBA assured that banks would adhere to the new regulations by the effective date. The Finance Department highlighted that NSF fees disproportionately affected low-income Canadians and contributed to cycles of debt. A recent Equifax report indicated that the number of Canadians struggling with debt and missed payments increased from 2023 to 2024. "Younger and lower-income Canadians are facing missed payments on credit cards, auto loans, and lines of credit, indicating financial distress within these demographics," the report stated on February 25. According to Equifax data, Canadians aged 26 to 35 have the highest debt delinquency rate at 2.24 percent, while those aged 18 to 25 have a delinquency rate of 1.92 percent. For the overall population, the delinquency rate stands at 1.53 percent.

An Ipsos report found that 43 percent of Canadians feel they need assistance to manage their debt. Additionally, 36 percent reported being unsure of how to get out of debt or whom to approach for help, marking a 6 percent increase since 2019. This article also includes contributions from The Canadian Press.

Exciting Announcement from the Calgary Racing Pigeon Club!

We recently conducted a successful joint release of racing pigeons, representing a significant advancement as we prepare for the upcoming racing season commencing in May. This event provided a wonderful opportunity for our members to unite, ensuring that our pigeons are thoroughly prepared and ready for competition.

We eagerly anticipate a thrilling season ahead, characterized by intense competition and numerous chances for our birds to demonstrate their speed and endurance. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated and contributed to the success of this release.

Please stay tuned for further updates, and remember to mark your calendars for the forthcoming races. Let us strive to make this season truly memorable!

#CalgaryRacingPigeonClub #RacingSeason #PigeonRacing #JoinUsInMay #PigeonRelease

Sincerely, 
Calgary Racing Pigeon Club Established 1904

Last week, I published an article discussing the efforts of painters in Calgary to form a union. These workers are part of ProCoat Coatings Ltd., which offers coating services both in-shop and in the field across Calgary and Southern Alberta. They are seeking to affiliate with Local 177 of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades.

However, the recent applications report from the Alberta Labour Relations Board indicates that the company may be attempting to undermine these unionization efforts (a copy of the report is attached at the end of this article). The report outlines allegations made by the union asserting that the owner of the company has threatened to "shut down the business if it becomes unionized" and to terminate "all employees if they choose to exercise their rights under the code and opt to be represented by a union." In Alberta, workers need to demonstrate that 40% of their workplace supports unionization to proceed with forming a union. Since only 9 workers would be included in this bargaining unit, it suggests that at least 4 individuals have shown support for the union initiative. This also implies that they need just one additional employee to vote in favor of unionizing, assuming the ALRB grants approval for a certification vote. It's clear why the employer appears to be engaging in anti-union tactics.

On the 19th, the union submitted an application to formally address their allegations. Local 177 contends that the actions taken by the company breach multiple sections of the provincial Labour Relations Code:
- 148.1.a.i & 148.1.a.ii: No employer or employers' organization, nor any individual acting on their behalf, may interfere with the formation or administration of a trade union or the representation of employees by a trade union.

- 149.1.a.i:
No employer or employers' organization, nor any individual acting on their behalf, shall refuse to hire or retain any individual or discriminate against anyone regarding employment due to their membership or application for membership in a trade union.
- 149.1.c:
Employers and their representatives are prohibited from employing intimidation, threats of dismissal, or any other means to compel employees to refrain from becoming or cease being members, officers, or representatives of a trade union.
- 149.1.g.iii:
No employer or their representatives should discriminate against any individual concerning their employment or membership in a trade union, or intimidate, threaten dismissal, or otherwise coerce someone due to their application or complaint under this Act.
Alberta worker

Calgary Conservative MP Stephanie Kusie has leveled allegations of corruption against federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault concerning the controversial "green slush fund." She claims that Guilbeault allocated $254 million to a company in which he has ownership stakes a day ago.

Could this mark the downfall of Guilbeault?

Source: Western Standard

**For Immediate Release: March 28, 2025, 3:00 PM** **MRU #: MP25R012** The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is asking for the public's help in locating a man who was reported missing in central Edmonton earlier this week.

On Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at around 2 p.m., the police, along with Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS), responded to a report of a lone dog spotted on the ice of the North Saskatchewan River near Government House Park. Witnesses indicated that a male was seen walking along the riverbank with the dog prior to the animal being discovered alone. Upon investigation, police found an abandoned vehicle in a nearby parking lot, believed to belong to the missing man. Authorities suspect that while attempting to secure his dog, the man may have fallen through the ice of the North Saskatchewan River and are appealing to the public for any information that might aid in their search. Seyem Gaim, 31, is described as 5'8", weighing around 150 lbs, with a medium build. He has a bald head, a longer beard, and was last seen wearing jeans, a grey and white jacket, a backwards grey ballcap with a black rim, and dark shoes, as shown in the accompanying photo. Traditional methods of locating him have not been successful, prompting the EPS Missing Persons Unit to take charge of the case and release his image in hopes of finding him. Image of Seyem Gaim, Age 31: "While we continue to actively search for Mr. Gaim, we remain hopeful that someone in the community may have seen him around Government House Park on Wednesday," says Constable Cassandra Grant from EPS' West Division.

"We urge anyone with information regarding Mr. Gaim's whereabouts in these areas to contact us immediately." "With the return of winter conditions, navigating the city can be particularly hazardous. We remind all Edmontonians to stay alert, whether on the roads or near our waterways, as we await the arrival of warmer weather.
Edmonton police service

WANTED: Jocelynne MCKAY 
March 26 of March

Unlawfully at Large 

Jocelynne MCKAY, aged thirty-six, is a female standing 5'7″ tall and weighing approximately 180 lbs. She has brown curly hair and brown eyes, with distinct markings that include three stars on the left side of her neck. 

If you possess any information regarding MCKAY's location, please submit a tip using the form below (you may opt to remain anonymous). Alternatively, you can reach out to the Regina Police Service at 306-777-6500 or provide your tip to Regina Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at reginacrimestoppers.ca. Crime Stoppers offers a reward of up to $2,000 for information related to this or any other serious crime in Regina. All calls are confidential, and callers are not required to disclose their identities.
Regina police service