The Asian Star November 28 2020 by The Asian Star Newspaper

www.theasianstar.com Vol 19 - Issue 43

Saturday, November 28, 2020

Tel:604-591-5423

Fraser Health COVID-19 infections among highest per capita in Canada, double average

Opposition slams Trudeau government over COVID-19 vaccine delays As concern and criticism grows over the Trudeau government’s vaccination strategy, the prime minister continues to take heat from the opposition over the country’s vaccine timeline. Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner is slamming Justin Trudeau after he revealed that other countries, including the U.S., Germany, and the U.K., will start inoculating their people weeks before Canadians get their shots. “Did you even bother to negotiate the right for Canada to manufacture these vaccines at home? And when are Canadians going to get these vaccines,” an impassioned Rempel Garner said during question period in the House of Commons Wednesday.

The number of daily COVID-19 infections in B.C.’s most populous health authority far outstrip the national average, and per capita cases are in line with Canada’s hardest-hit provinces, according to an analysis by CTV News Vancouver. The Fraser Health region is seeing the same per capita infection numbers as Alberta and Nunavut, and isn’t far behind Manitoba, where the coronavirus is spreading so quickly there are now “code red” restrictions in Winnipeg and a test positivity rate of 14 per cent. The rolling seven-day average for the Fraser Health authority is 514 per day, which works out to 35 cases for every 100,000 people who live there.

South Asian family in Ontaroi stole $11 million of COVID-19 relief money application for applying and Four family members approving the benefit. “The who worked for the Ontario government in accuses them and others of illegally issuing and information technology defrauded the province banking cheques under the Support for Families Madan family exploited their positions of of at least $11 million destined as COVID-19 Program that aimed to defray the cost of children employment with Ontario and unique access relief money, a statement of claim alleges. The learning at home. Named as a defendant in the to the (program) and payment processing unproven civil claim on behalf of the province, Superior Court claim is Sanjay Madan, who had system,” the government says. “The plaintiff was which also seeks $2 million in punitive damages, a senior IT role and helped develop the computer uniquely vulnerable to Sanjay, particularly with

Hiring process for Surrey municipal police chief raises concerns Community leaders are raising concerns and seeking answers on the hiring of a chief to lead the new municipal police department in Surrey. Norm Lipinski, an officer with decades of experience in municipal policing in Edmonton, Alta., and Delta, B.C., was announced last week. Coun. Brenda Locke criticized the police board for only taking two weeks to decide in a process she said has been “secretive” and “non-transparent.” “From the get-go, there has been political interference,” Locke said. Mayor McCallum, who also chairs the police board, was elected in 2018 on platform that included getting rid of the RCMP in Surrey and moving to a municipal service.

Surrey councillor gets death threat Surrey RCMP is investigating a death threat sent by direct message on social media to city councillor Jack Hundial Monday. Hundial, a former Surrey Mountie, said he got the message about 6:30 a.m. The messenger had a social media profile containing their name and threatened to shoot both Hundial and Prime

Continued on page 10

Minister Justin Trudeau. Hundial did not want to specify details of the message or identify the social media platform the person used because of the police investigation. But he said the message was disturbing enough that he contacted police after doing his Continued on page 10

CRA warns 213,000 Canadians that they might have to pay back CERB overpayments The Canada Revenue Agency says it’s warning about 213,000 Canadians who may have been paid twice through the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) program that they

could be called upon to repay the money. But repayment isn’t required right away, says the agency. The CRA has suspended collection of debts for the duration of the pandemic emergency.

Saturday, November 28, 2020

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Saturday, November 28, 2020

OPINION

Alexandre Massaux, Research associate Frontier Centre for Public Policy

The COVID-19 crisis has dominated most recent media coverage but environmental concerns remain. Friday for Future, the movement launched by Greta Thunberg, has come back to protest the federal government’s inaction on earlier green promises such as curbing greenhouse gas emissions. More and more, we’re seeing green activists fighting against industry and energy consumption.

Saturday, November 28, 2020 Nuclear industry could boost Canada But a largely ignored solution can help the fight against pollution and ensure Canada’s electricity needs: nuclear power. Canada’s uranium resources are the fourth largest in the world, after those of Australia, Kazakhstan and Russia. As of Jan. 1, 2017, Canada held 514,000 tonnes or eight per cent of the world’s total uranium known resources, recoverable at a uranium price of US$130 per kilogram.

And Canada is the world’s second-largest producer of uranium, after Australia, with 13 per cent of global production in 2018. It’s also the fourth largest exporter of uranium in the world. Most of the Canadian uranium comes from the Athabasca Basin on the Alberta-Saskatchewan border. Recent explorations on the Alberta side have revealed vast amounts of uranium that can be exploited. In 2016, Cameco Corp. discovered large resources in Fox Lake. These Canadian and Alberta holdings can be a real game-changer for the energy economy. The Chernobyl and Fukushima disasters have reinforced the fear of nuclear power. But the data show another reality: nuclear power is one of the safest energy sources. Atomic energy would have caused just 4,900 deaths in the world between 1971 and 2009. And its use would have avoided the deaths of 1.84 million people over the same period, according to a study published in the journal of Environmental Science & Technology. In addition, nuclear power doesn’t release CO2 and so creates no atmospheric pollution. Yet a considerable number of political decisionmakers continue to oppose nuclear power in the hope of developing renewable energies. Never mind that renewable power isn’t productive enough. Its failure has meant that countries like Germany have had to relaunch coal or hydrocarbon power plants that are dangerous to ecology and public health (as shown by the Norilsk disaster in Russia in June 2020). In 2018, Alberta’s total energy usage was the largest in Canada – and the highest on a per capita basis. Nuclear power could help meet the rising demand for electricity in the province and meet neutral carbon objectives. Canada has a strong background in nuclear reactor technology with the CANDU or Canada deuterium uranium. These reactors are a real asset to Canada. They’ve been exported to countries like Argentina, China, India, Pakistan, Romania and South Korea. Thirty CANDU reactors are in operation around the world. And India has built 16 reactors based on this design. Sixty per cent of the energy produced in Ontario comes from nuclear power. This helps Ontario keep its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions relatively low. In 2017, Ontario’s electricity sector emitted 2.0 megatonnes of CO2 emissions or three per cent of total Canadian GHG emissions attributable to power generation.

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Saturday, November 28, 2020 Tractor-trailer and $840,000 cash seized by police allegedly tied to drugs The province is seeking to have forfeited more than $840,000 in cash and a tractortrailer allegedly linked to drug trafficking. In a notice of claim filed in B.C. Supreme Court on Nov. 19, the B.C. Civil Forfeiture Office seeks to have a 2003 Kenworth T800 tractor truck and the cash forfeited as proceeds of crime. You can find discounts around the $10,000 mark on these 3 popular rides Named in the forfeiture suit are Surrey resident Ranjit Singh Dhanda and MB Distributors Ltd., accused of possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, possession of the proceeds of crime and failure to declare taxable income. Neither Dhanda nor the company has responded in court to the allegations. Dhanda was arrested by RCMP this summer for drug possession and possession of property obtained by crime. His arrest followed an investigation after a traffic stop, but Dhanda has not been charged criminally in relation to the incident, according to a search of online B.C. court records. Civil forfeiture actions can be launched without criminal charges being laid. The threshold for proving a civil forfeiture claim is lower than for a criminal conviction, a balance of probabilities instead of beyond a reasonable doubt. According to the forfeiture suit, on July 26 of this year, the RCMP stopped Dhanda for speeding while he was driving the tractor. The tractor was pulling a trailer with an Alberta licence. “Mr. Dhanda was evasive when questioned by RCMP and was unable to provide a bill of lading or key for the trailer he was transporting,” according to the court filing. Further investigation by police turned up a padlocked hard-shell suitcase in the sleeper of the tractor truck.

CERB recipients should be prepared to pay income tax on payments experts say The Canada Emergency Response Benefit was a financial lifeline for many when COVID-19 forced businesses to shutter and brought the economy to a screeching halt in the spring. And while the $500-a-week cheques helped millions of Canadians to continue paying their bills and buying groceries, many likely didn’t give much thought to how the benefit would affect their taxes. But as 2020 comes to a close, tax experts say now is the time to check and see if you might owe any income tax on the emergency benefit money you received this year or face an unpleasant surprise come tax time. John Waters, director of tax consulting services at BMO Private Wealth, says it is important for people to understand that the CERB payments will have to be included in your taxable income.

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Workers and employers of B.C. are doing their part. Make sure you update and follow your COVID-19 safety plan as conditions change. Help keep workers safe and keep businesses open. Find resources at worksafebc.com #LetsDoOurPartBC

Saturday, November 28, 2020

New faces join BC’s new cabinet, while stalwarts stay on in key roles Premier John Horgan revealed new slate of cabinet ministers who will lead B.C. through the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the economic fallout. The cabinet includes some new faces at the helm of major portfolios like finance and education, while some NDP party stalwarts will remain in charge of ministries like health. “The pandemic has turned the lives of British Columbians upside down,” Horgan said in a news release after Thursday’s swearing-in ceremony. “We have come a long way together, but we have much further to go. This skilled, diverse team is ready to continue our fight against COVID-19 and build an economic recovery that includes everyone.” The NDP are returning to power this fall with an unprecedented majority for the party, holding 57 of 87 seats in the legislature. The new executive council is gender-balanced, with an equal number of men and women in cabinet positions, and includes 20 ministers and

four ministers of state. Full cabinet for the new NDP government Premier: John Horgan Attorney General (and Minister Responsible For Housing): David Eby - Parliamentary Secretary - Anti-Racism Initiatives: Rachna Singh Advanced Education and Skills Training: Anne KangParliamentary Secretary - Skills Training: Andrew Mercier- Agriculture, Food and Fisheries: Lana Popham- Parliamentary Secretary - Fisheries and Aquaculture: Fin Donnelly - Citizens’ Services: Lisa Beare Children and Family Development: Mitzi Dean - Minister of State for Child Care: Katrina Chen - Education: Jennifer Whiteside - Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation (and Minister Responsible for The Consular Corps of British Columbia): Bruce Ralston Continued on page 15

Saturday, November 28, 2020 South Asian family stole $11 million of COVID-19

From page 1

with respect to the integrity of the… application.” Also named is Madan’s wife Shalini Madan, a senior level IT manager with the ministry responsible for electronically processing program payments. According to the lawsuit, Sanjay Madan and his family opened more than 400 accounts at the Bank of Montreal between April and May. They then deposited around 10,000 cheques made out to fictitious applicants with thousands of non-existent children under the support program. The Madan family exploited their positions of employment with Ontario. Most deposits were made over a four-week period starting on May 25, coinciding with a rule change that allowed more than five payments to be made to an applicant. The government alleges Sanjay Madan either sparked the rule change or knew about it and took advantage.

Vancouver cracks down on speculators by tripling vacant home tax Vancouver is cracking down on real estate speculators, and encouraging them to put empty homes up for rent, by tripling its original tax rate on vacant properties. The Empty Home Tax (EHT) applies to homes that aren’t a principal residence, or rented for at least 6 months of year, and launched in 2017 at 1 per cent of the assessed value of a property. An increase to 1.25 per cent was announced in 2019. The new rate will be 3 per cent and goes into effect for the 2021 tax year. Vancouver Mayor Kennedy Stewart says he’s pleased council backed his plan “to stand up for renters” “This groundbreaking tool has helped move thousands of homes back onto the rental market to help house our neighbours, but there are still too many homes that remain empty,” he said in a release.

Councillor gets death threat From page 1

his own assessment of the situation and discussing the threat with his partner. “She is concerned as well. … You really start worrying about your family, thinking about your family,” Hundial said. He then took screenshots from the person’s profile and called the Surrey RCMP detachment. Surrey RCMP Cpl. Joanne Sidhu confirmed officers “are investigating a complaint of a threat and are taking steps to ensure Coun. Hundial’s safety.” Hundial said the message contained “a single threat. And it was direct. It came through messenger online and had a bunch of slurs attached to it.” One of the names he was called was “pig … you know, referencing my previous career,” he said.

Saturday, November 28, 2020 BC formally extends provincial state of emergency British Columbia formally extend the provincial state of emergency, allowing health and emergency management officials to continue to use extraordinary powers under the Emergency Program Act to support the Province’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The state of emergency is extended through the end of the day till December 8, to allow staff to continue to take the necessary actions to keep British Columbians safe and manage immediate concerns and coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreaks. A provincial declaration of state of emergency allows the Province to implement provincial emergency measures and allows access to assets that may be necessary to prevent, respond to or alleviate the effects of an emergency. This is a temporary measure authorized by the Emergency Program Act. B.C. is already in the longest state of emergency in provincial history. Now, it has officially been in place for over 8 months.

The extension of the provincial state of emergency is based on recommendations from B.C.‘s health and emergency management officials. The original declaration was made on March 18, 2020, the day after Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer, declared a public health emergency. On July 10, the COVID-19 Related Measures Act came into force, enabling provisions created for citizens and businesses in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to continue as needed should the provincial state of emergency end. Violating BC mask order can result in 230 fine Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, is aligning the Province’s measures under the Emergency Program Act (EPA) with the provincial health officer’s (PHO) guidance that masks must be worn in indoor public places.

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LOCAL

Saturday, November 28, 2020 Five people die in Abbotsford care home in one day from COVID-19 An Abbotsford care home has recorded five residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; deaths in only one day as they struggle with a COVID-19 outbreak. Tabor Home in Abbotsford now has 122 residents and staff who have tested positive for the virus with 30 who have tested negative. In total, 16 residents have died from COVID-19. Executive director Dan Levitt said staff and residents are heartbroken at the recent outbreak and deaths. He added that last year they lost five residents in the whole month of November, compared to the five in just one day during this pandemic. The care home said they are taking

many preventative measures to help stop the spread of the virus including twice-daily screening of tenants, enhanced daily cleaning practices, maintaining two metres distance in dining rooms, staggered meal times and cancellation of group activities and client gatherings. There are also restrictions on visitors and more screening measures for essential visitors. Staff are also being grouped together to avoid working with different people each shift and are being screened for signs of the virus twice a day, the care home confirmed.

Nelson woman suffers heart attack after being spat upon by man refusing to wear mask A hotel worker in Nelson, B.C., suffered a heart attack shortly after a confrontation with a patron who refused to wear a mask and wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coffee shop. Rob Little, manager of The Adventure Hotel, says it happened last Friday when their accountant was called to help deal with a man who was shouting and ignoring new provincial rules to wear a mask to slow the spread of COVID-19. Police were called and Little says about 90

minutes later, the accountant, whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in her 50s, collapsed from a heart attack that required her immediate transfer to hospital in Kelowna. Nelson police say the man was taken into custody and is banned from the coffee shop pending a court appearance on an assault charge, while officers try to determine if thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a connection between the spitting incident and the womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart attack. Little says his co-worker is conscious and able to speak with family but remains

TD, BMO, CIBC push back office return dates amid latest spike in COVID-19 cases Three of Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest banks are planning to keep most of their employees working remotely until the spring, pushing back plans to get back to offices amid a spike in cases of the novel coronavirus. On Wednesday, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce CM-T -0.22%decreaseand

Bank of Montreal BMO-T +0.12%increase each told employees that most people currently working remotely should expect to do so until at least April. CIBC made the decision in light of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;latest health authority guidance,â&#x20AC;? said Sandy Sharman, CIBCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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elus announced an exciting initiative this week called TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good. This $100 million initiative will fund ‘the biggest, boldest, bravest ideas in new responsible and sustainable start-up businesses’. Darren Entwistle, President and CEO, TELUS, announced this initiative stating, “this announcement builds on TELUS’s legacy of leveraging our globally leading technology coupled with our social human ingenuity to enable better outcomes in communities where we live, work and serve worldwide. As the global leader Darren Entwistle, in social capitalism,President and CEO of TELUS, we are using our core announces $100 million business to amplify TELUS Pollinator Fund for a greater social Good at virtual event on November 24, 2020. purpose that benefits all our stakeholders, from shareholders and customers, to our most vulnerable citizens. The TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good will invest in new responsible and sustainable businesses to answer the biggest challenges facing our communities today. As one of the largest corporate impact funds globally, our TELUS Pollinator portfolio will improve health, environmental and food sustainability outcomes by investing in our next generation of innovators, leveraging

B.C. parents and educators have mixed views about the idea of extending the winter break as a way of tamping down COVID-19 case numbers in the province.

Saturday, November 28, 2020 believe that responsible business means purpose and profit go hand-in-hand. The investments made by the TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good aren’t restricted to Canadiantransformative digital technologies, to advance plan, meaning better lives for families.” Before based companies driving social innovation; TELUS’ promise of a friendly future for all.” the investment Windmill Microlending was able it’s open to entrepreneurs worldwide looking One of the areas where this initiative will add to help provide 1000 new microloans per year, to scale and grow their impact in Canada,” huge impact is helping educated professional now with investment from TELUS Pollinator said Blair Miller, Managing Partner and Vice newcomers to have their credentials recognized. Fund for Good, they can help provide 4000 new President, Social Impact Ventures, Newcomers and refugees with TELUS. “We look forward to skills and education, like doctors, working with our partners and engineers, and nurses know all advisors to identify and support about working in survival jobs purpose-driven companies due to their credentials not being doing good around the world.” recognized here in Canada. Lane Merrifield from CBC’s Windmill Microlending, one of The Dragon’s Den added the beneficiaries of this Fund, this in support of TELUS is the largest microlending Pollinator Fund for Good, “as an program, offering microloans and entrepreneur and proud board individualized learning plans to help member of TELUS Friendly skilled immigrants and refugees Future Foundation, I know firstcontinue their careers in Canada. hand the value and success the Thrilled to be one of the first three Pollinator Fund will bring to investments of TELUS Pollinator early stage tech companies and TELUS Garden in Vancouver, BC, one of the Canadian headquarters for the $100 million Fund for Good, Claudia Hepburn, entrepreneurs, not only through TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good. CEO of Windmill Microlending, access to capital but also through shares, “Getting re-certified takes money, which mentorship and connection and is challenging when you are trying to start a new microloans per year to immigrants and refugees. TELUS’s deep-rooted company values.” Other two companies receiving TELUS life here with no credit history. Too many of our “The Pollinator Fund for Good represents immigrants get trapped financially, get trapped Pollinator Fund for Good are, Rhiza Capital, a the progression of TELUS’ social capitalism in survival jobs they are not meant to do. Sunshine Coast-based impact investment fund thesis, as we invest in entrepreneurs and Windmill provides support and affordable loans that invests in B.C.-based companies that drive prescient business models that share our up to $15,000.00 to help immigrants and refugees both social and economic impact within the belief that to do well as an organisation, we to pay for the courses and exams they need to regions that they serve. And, Tidal Vision, a US must do good in the communities where restart their careers in Canada. Our alumni based company that has developed a proprietary we live, work, and serve,” said Darren are now professionals that Canadians have process for upcycling crustacean shells to develop Entwistle, President and CEO, TELUS. come to count on, doctors, nurses, engineers, a non-toxic, zero waste biopolymer that has To learn more about the TELUS Pollinator and accountants, on average, clients’ incomes applications across many industries, including Fund for Good, please visit: increase 3.5x upon completion of the learning textiles, agriculture, and wastewater treatment. telus.com/pollinatorfund “As a global leader in social capitalism, we

TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good - A $100 Million Fund to Support Innovators

No plans to extend BC schools’ winter break due to COVID-19 The discussion comes as Alberta students in Grades 7 to 12 prepare to begin at-home learning next week. Students up to Grade

6 will attend classes until Dec. 18, and then students in all grades learn at home from the end of the winter break until Jan. 11. B.C.’s provincial health officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, was asked last week whether she had given

any thought to starting the winter break earlier. She said transmission rates are lower in schools than in other parts of the community and it is important for families and children to have in-person learning, but health officials are looking at all of their options and the data.

Vancouver agrees to decriminalize all drugs Vancouver is the first Canadian city to vote to decriminalize drugs, but still needs federal approval. Here’s what happens next. Vancouver city council unimously voted on Wednesday to proceed with a plan to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of all illicit drugs—from heroin to meth—as a way to help curb the province’s worsening overdose crisis that has been exacerbated by the pandemic and an increasingly toxic street supply. Pending approval from the federal government, the city would become the first in Canada to decriminalize illicit substances, and comes shortly after Oregon became the first U.S. state to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of all drugs. “Vancouver has once again decided to lead the way on drug policy in order to save lives.” Vancouver Mayor Kennedy Stewart,

who brought forward the decriminalization motion, said in a statement after the vote. At least 1,536 people in Vancouver, and more than 5,000 people in British Columbia, have died of an overdose since the province declared a public health emergency over the crisis in 2016. The number of fatal overdoses in B.C., and across the country, has continued to soar throughout

2020, putting this year on track to be one of the worst years on record for overdoses. There are still a number of steps Vancouver will need to take in order to bring about decriminalization. Next, the mayor will submit a formal request to the federal ministers of health and justice for a special exemption to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to make the decriminalization plan official. It can take months for such exemptions to be approved.

LOCAL / NATIONAL

Saturday, November 28, 2020 From page 9

New faces join BC’s new cabinet, while stalwarts stay on in key roles

Environment and Climate Change Strategy (and Minister Responsible for Translink): George Heyman -- Parliamentary Secretary - Environment: Kelly Greene Finance: Selina Robinson - Parliamentary Secretary - Gender Equity: Grace Lore - Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development: Katrine Conroy - - Minister of State for Lands, Natural Resource Operations: Nathan CullenParliamentary Secretary - Rural Development: Roly RussellHealth (and Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs): Adrian Dix Parliamentary Secretary - Seniors Services & Long Term Care: Mable ElmoreIndigenous Relations and Reconciliation: Murray RankinJobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation: Ravi Kahlon - Minister of State for Trade: George Chow - Parliamentary Secretary Technology & Innovation: Brenda Bailey

Labour: Harry Bains Parliamentary Secretary, New Economy: Adam Walker Mental Health and Addictions: Sheila Malcolmson Municipal Affairs: Josie Osborne - Public Safety and Solicitor General: Mike Farnworth Parliamentary Secretary - Emergency Preparedness: Jennifer Rice Social Development and Poverty Reduction: Nicholas Simons Parliamentary Secretary - Community Development & Non-Profits: Niki Sharma Parliamentary Secretary - Accessibility: Dan Coulter - Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport: Melanie Mark - Parliamentary Secretary - Arts and Film: Bob D’Eith - Transportation and Infrastructure: Rob Fleming Minister of State for Infrastructure: Bowinn Ma

Overdose deaths reach 1,386 in BC The number of overdose deaths in B.C. reached 1,386 between January and October of this year, according to new statistics released Wednesday by the BC Coroners Service. Vancouver, Surrey and Victoria continue to be hardest hit by the overdose crisis, with the three cities alone accounting for 611 of the deaths recorded provincewide over the 10-month time period. The statistics show the number of deaths continue to surpass the 100-mark this year, which first occurred in March with 115 recorded province-wide and climbing to a high of 185 in June, before decreasing to 162 in October. Up until March, B.C. had seen 11 consecutive months of overdose deaths below 100, with a low of 60 in September 2019. In fact, only one month for all of last year — March — saw more than 100 deaths, with 116 recorded.

The new statistics equate to more than five people per day dying of an overdose in the province, with extreme concentrations of fentanyl still present in the drug supply, according to the coroners’ service data. Dr. Patricia Daly, the chief medical health officer for Vancouver Coastal Health, has said many times this year that she feared more drug users were using alone because of public health orders and measures related to the pandemic that may have been misinterpreted by hotel owners and housing providers. Visitors to overdose prevention sites also declined from an average of 6,000 per day to as low as 2,000 early on in the pandemic, Daly told Vancouver city council in April. The decline began occurring in mid-March when provincewide orders related to physical distancing began.

Man convicted of trying to join ISIS granted overnight privileges to visit ski resort with girlfriend An Ottawa man (pictured) convicted of trying to join ISIS has been granted overnight privileges after telling the Parole Board of Canada he wanted to visit a ski resort with his girlfriend. Carlos Larmond had been required to spend nights at a halfway house following his release from prison last year, but the Parole Board agreed to lift the requirement. In its decision, the Parole Board said Larmond had “developed a new relationship,” and was engaged to be married following several visits with the woman. “You have indicated a desire to spend more time with her on her next visit, and also to perhaps do some skiing in the mountains this winter,” according to a copy of the decision obtained by Global News. “That would mean you would have to travel by bus, and therefore, spend overnight at the ski resort.” The Board approved the change to his release conditions. The decision did not explain why it was not possible for him to ski during the day and still return to his half-way house at night. “An offender must apply, fulfill all conditions, and we must have a plan in place to supervise them while on a pass. Public safety remains paramount in any decisions,” the statement said. The ski resort in question was not named in the document but the a public version of the decision was released on Tuesday by the Parole Board office in Edmonton.

Larmond is reportedly living in Calgary. Ski hills in nearby Banff have opened for the season, with COVID-19 safety measures in place. “At a time when businesses are being shuttered by COVID and Trudeau is urging provinces not to reopen, terrorists are being let out of jail to go to ski resorts,” said Conservative leader Erin O’Toole. The office of Public Safety Minister Bill Blair said it could not comment on specific cases but that “Canadians can be assured that our agencies work tirelessly to keep them safe.” “The Parole Board is independent, and their decisions are not subject to political direction. They are made independently by the Board according to specific, longstanding criteria set out in the Corrections and Conditional Release Act.” Less than a year ago, the Parole Board ordered Larmond to live at a half-way house on the grounds that he posed an “undue risk to society.” At the time, he was refused overnight leave privileges because of his “need for constant close monitoring.” Click to play video ‘Trudeau says government will always defend Canadians’ freedoms’ 2:31 Trudeau says government will always defend Canadians’ freedoms Trudeau says government will always defend Canadians’ freedoms – Nov 3, 2020 The potential dangers posed by terrorism offenders have become a concern internationally following attacks by suspects who had been released from prison although they were still radicalized.

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14103 110 AVE., N.SURREY

11360 RIVER ROAD, N.SURREY W NE ING T LIS

Truly delightful huge basement entry app. 7200 sqft. home sits on rectangular 9965 sqft. lot. House features 11 bedrooms & 10 washrooms build by good reputation builders. Main floor has 5 bedrooms & 4 bath with huge family room,living room,kitchen,& spice kitchen.Ground level basement has 27'x15' media room with bar & washroom for upstairs use.House has 3 spacious ground level basement suites (3 bed.+3 bed & bachelor suite).Total rent of the suites is $3500/month.Very nice tenants.Easy access to Pattulo bridge, Port Mann bridge & shopping center.Motivated sellers.Easy to show.

View! View! Truly delightful 3 storey 4200 SF home sits on over 6200 SF lot in Royal Heights.House has spacious 8 bedrooms & 7 bath,lots of Parking,1 year old hot water tank & brand new washer & dryer.House has 3 basement suites (2 bed+1 bed+ 1 bed.)for mortgage help.Stunning view of New Westminister downtown,Fraser River,mountains & much more.Easy access to Alex Fraser & Pottullo Bridges.Priced to sell.A must see.Call now.

$1,779,000

$1,175,000

26964 28 AVE., LANGLEY

#125 32850 GEORGE FERGUSON WAY, ABBOTSFORD

Truly delightful fully renovated 6 bedroom basement entry home sits on rectangular 7920 sf flat lot in most demanding area Aldergrove Langley.Main floor features 3 bed ,2 bath with new kitchen /island ,new flooring,new tiles , new woodwork,new fixtures,splash back,granite counters,new tiles,new cabinet, new windows,new zebra drapes,4 new washrooms & much more .Newly built 3 bedroom unauthorized basement suite with rear separate entry.Excellent renovated covered 333 sf Patio & deck.Landscape front & fully fenced back yard.Storage shed.Walking distance to both schools,shopping,community center with pools,water Park,ice arena,playing fields& to all major routes.A must see to appreciate.

Hot deal! First Time Buyers or Investors, great investment property with reliable tenants, centrally located in a great neighbourhood. 2 bedroom and 1 bath spacious ground level apartment. Well maintained complex, with many updates on the complex over the last couple of years including, roof, windows, balconies, boilers, security cameras, fob access systems and landscaping. There is shared laundry on every floor. Wheelchair access, elevators secure underground parking. Close to Bus stop, walking distance to shopping, restaurants, banks and much more.

$920,000

$210,000

5843 180 STREET, CLOVERDALE 6559 CLAYTONHILL PLACE, CLOVERDALE

$912,500

Solid family home on almost 10,000 square foot rectangular lot in Cloverdale with loads of potential. Large open lot offers plenty of space for a pool, playground & trampoline; or use the extra space to build your dream home. Great central location close to shopping, transit & schools. Same owners since 1987. Three bedrooms up, one down in partially finished basement (just needs a closet). Walkout basement with its own entrance offers potential for two bedroom suite. Large covered patio off the living area overlooks the private, sunny backyard. Transform it into a modern, functional family home

$1,695,238

Welcome to CLOVERDALE'S NEW MASTERPIECE with beautiful VIEWS which is built in the prestigious and quiet Claytonhill neighbourhood. With almost 6000 sq. ft. of spacious living, this family home features 9 BEDROOMS & 9 BATHROOMS and is situated on a 6875 sq. ft. lot. Open concept main floor with decks offering views of BC's mountains, A/C, HRV, security system & more! Beautiful tile floors and engineered wood is carefully placed throughout the home. 9ft ceilings showcased throughout the home with an exquisite chef's kitchen, wok kitchen and bedroom that can be used for all your different needs. This AMAZING home has left no expenses spared with EVERY bedroom on main and upper floor offering a WALK-IN CLOSET and EN-SUITE. 2 BASEMENTS each having 2 beds (2+2),

Saturday, November 28, 2020

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Driving without a licence: What happens if I forget to renew my driver’s licence and I am involved in a car accident? Stephen Ferguson, Lawyer Simpson, Thomas &

There can be significant consequences for those caught driving without a licence in BC, including violation tickets, vehicle impoundment, and Driver Penalty Points. The consequences of driving without a licence are even more severe if you are involved in a car accident, particularly a major accident that causes serious personal injury such as a traumatic brain injury, paraplegia or quadriplegia, or death Let’s examine some of the implications of driving without a licence in BC and how unlicensed driving factors into an ICBC claim for personal injury compensation. Driving without a licence is a breach of your ICBC insurance policy A condition of all ICBC insurance policies is that the driver of the insured vehicle must be “authorized and qualified by law” to operate a vehicle. Whether you are driving without a licence because you accidentally missed the renewal date, did not have your driver’s licence properly reinstated after a suspension or prohibition, or did not have a driver’s licence in the first place (for example, by deliberate choice or because you are underage), you are in breach of the “authorized and qualified by law” condition. The implication of this breach is that ICBC can deny your entitlement to insurance coverage in the event of a car accident that causes property damage or personal injury. Implications of driving without a licence in the event of a car accident In BC, if you are driving without a licence or if you allow someone who is unlicensed to

drive your vehicle, you can be held personally responsible for property damage and personal injury caused to other people in the event of an accident. If you were at fault for the accident, ICBC will attempt to deny you coverage, leaving you exposed to personal liability for damages. Compensation for the most serious accidents that cause permanent impairment, catastrophic injury or death can be valued in the multimillion dollar range. What happens if I am injured while driving without a licence? If you are injured while driving without a licence and you caused the accident, ICBC may attempt to deny your entitlement to Part 7 benefits (also known as no-fault benefits). However, you can still bring an ICBC claim against the driver and/or vehicle that caused the accident, regardless of your own policy breach or even complete lack of insurance. ICBC may attempt to deny your personal injury claim by arguing that you were wholly or partially at fault for the accident. These types of claims can be complicated, and the best course of action is to retain a lawyer early in your claim to protect your rights. Get advice from a Vancouver ICBC claim lawyer If you have been injured while driving without a licence or have been injured in an accident caused by an unlicenced driver, contact Simpson, Thomas & Associates for help. Our experienced lawyers will protect your legal rights and advise you with respect to your ICBC claim. You or a loved one can contact us at (604) 689-8888 to schedule your free consultation. Virtual as well as in person Vancouver, Surrey / Delta, Burnaby and Abbotsford office appointments are available, (following safety protocols).

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Saturday, November 28, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic in Canada is serious. Continue to practise all public health measures:

Follow local guidelines for gatherings Maintain physical distancing

Wash your hands Wear a mask Stay home if you have symptoms, even mild ones

Download the COVID Alert app

Protect yourself and others. Learn more at Canada.ca/coronavirus or 1-833-784-4397.

INDIA

Saturday, November 28, 2020

Modi, Naidu grieve Maradona’s death Paying tributes to football superstar Diego Maradona, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday that he gave some of the best sporting moments on the football field and his untimely demise has saddened everyone. The Argentine soccer great, who led his country to the 1986 World Cup title, died on Wednesday. He was 60. Modi tweeted: “Diego Maradona was a maestro of football, who enjoyed global popularity. Throughout

Serum Institute to focus on supplying COVID-19 vaccine to India first The Serum Institute of India, the world’s largest manufacturer of vaccines by volume, will first focus on supplying AstraZeneca Plc’s COVID-19 vaccine to Indians before distributing it to other countries, Serum’s Chief Executive Adar Poonawalla said on Monday. “It’s very important we take care of our country first, then go on to COVAX after that and then other bilateral deals with countries. So I’ve kept it in that priority,” said Poonawalla, referencing the global COVAX facility, which has been set up to provide COVID-19 vaccines to poorer countries. The company remains in discussion with the Indian government about inking a purchase agreement for the vaccine, Poonawalla said in an interview with CNBC-TV 18, adding that Serum should have quantities of it ready to sell into India’s private market in the first quarter of 2021. Poonawalla’s comments came

his career, he gave us some of the best sporting moments on the football field. His untimely demise has saddened us all. May his soul rest in peace.” Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu also condoled the death of the football legend, saying he was a rare sportsperson who enthralled millions with his magical game. “His sudden demise is a huge loss to the world of football. My thoughts are with his family and fans in this hour of grief. May his soul rest in peace,” the Vice President Secretariat tweeted quoting Naidu.

National coronavirus cases remain below 50,000 for 19th consecutive day India’s COVID-19 caseload increased to 92.66 lakh with 44,489 new infections being reported in a day while the recoveries surged to 86.79 lakh, the Union Health Ministry said on Thursday. The country’s infection tally mounted to 92,66,705 while the death toll climbed to 1,35,223 with 524 new fatalities, the Ministry data updated at 8 am showed. The COVID-19 active caseload has risen to 4,52,344, an increase of 7,598 cases from Wednesday, even though it remained below five lakh for the 16th consecutive day. The active cases comprise 4.88 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. The total number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to

India seeks to implicate Pakistan in dossier to UN Security Council India on Monday handed a dossier to the five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council about a major attack that it said militants from Pakistan had attempted in the Indian part of Kashmir last week, government officials said. The four militants, belonging to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad, infiltrated into Indian Kashmir through a tunnel in the Samba area, the government said. The heavily armed men carried radio sets, a mobile phone, medicines and foods all made in Pakistan, it said. They were moving in a truck and when that was stopped for a routine inspection at a checkpoint in Nagrota, they opened fire, the government said. Security forces killed all four of them. Pakistan has rejected allegations of any involvement in the alleged attack and said these were aimed at diverting attention from India’s repression of the people of Kashmir. Stepping up the diplomatic offensive against

the arch rival, Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla met the envoys of the United States, Britain, France, Russia and Pakistan’s ally, China, to convey the country’s grave concern about the risks of a major militant attack traced back to Pakistan, a government source said. “The heads of missions were provided with a detailed information docket giving the details of the incident as it transpired as well as list of items and munitions that were recovered from terrorists clearly indicating their Pakistani origins,” the source briefed on the meeting said. India says Pakistan gives material support to the militants fighting its rule in Muslim majority Kashmir, a charge that Islamabad denies. Last week’s incident was part of Pakistan’s ongoing terror campaign in Kashmir, Shringla told the envoys. Nuclear-armed India and Pakistan have twice gone to war over Kashmir.

86,79,138, pushing the national recovery rate to 93.66 per cent while the COVID-19 case fatality rate stands at 1.46 per cent. This is the 19th consecutive day when the number of daily cases reported has remained below 50,000. India’s COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23 and 40 lakh on September 5. It went past 50 lakh on September 16, 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, 80 lakh on October 29 and surpassed 90 lakh on November 20. According to ICMR, over 13.59 crore samples have been tested for COVID-19

India only G20 country on track to meet Global warming targets According to a new report, India is the only G20 country that’s “2°C compatible” in its targets to reduce emissions and help reduce the rapid global warming of our climate. The G20 is made up of the 20 largest economies in the world. Countries under the Paris Agreement are signed to a “safe” 1.5 °C target for warming. Some countries have made pledges or some progress in reducing emissions through renewables, closing coal plants, and other actions. But there is still much to be done. Because of climate policies, energy-relations emissions declined in the G20 countries for the first time in 2019 and the share of renewable energy increased in 19 countries. While building emissions reduced, transport and industry emissions increased in the bloc in 2019. “The G20 represents some of the highest emitting countries in the world.

Israelis pay respects to victims of 26/11 Mumbai attacks, demand justice for them Israelis are holding ceremonies to pay respects to the victims of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, demanding that the perpetrators of the carnage be brought to justice, and condemning “Pakistan-sponsored terrorism”. Israelis, and Indian students and caregivers paid respects to the victims in Jerusalem, Rehovot and Tel Aviv on Wednesday and ceremonies are planned in Beersheva and Eilat on Thursday. A virtual ceremony on Zoom is also planned for Thursday at 8 PM Israel time (11:30 PM IST). Hundreds have registered to take part in the event. “Israel opposes every country that provides financial and logistical support to terrorists. Peaceful countries should come together to boycott diplomatically and financially those countries that support terrorism. This will help deter acts of terror,” Isaac Solomon from the southern Israeli coastal city of Eilat told PTI.

“It is a matter of pride for us Israelis to have a peaceful country like India as our friend. We pray that our friendship continues to grow strong,” the octogenarian said. Ten terrorists of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) carried out 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks lasting four days across Mumbai. At least 166 people, including six Jews at the Chabad House and nine terrorists, were killed and over 300 others were injured in the attacks which began on November 26, 2008. Israelis in Eilat have requested that a memorial square be built for the victims of the Mumbai attacks. “We have spoken to the Mayor of Eilat, Meir Itzhak Ha Levi, to set up a Memorial for the victims of Mumbai attacks. The Mayor said that he is on the committee which decides about street and square issues. He will be very happy to help,” representatives of the Sitar Organisation for Immigrant Jews in Eilat siad.

Indian Navy leases two Sea Guardian drones from US to enhance surveillance The Indian Navy has taken on lease two Sea Guardian drones from an American defence major to enhance surveillance over the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) but the unmanned aerial vehicles can be deployed in the Ladakh region if the need arises, people

familiar with the development said. The two non-weaponised MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones have been leased for one year with an option of extending the period by another year, they said. The lease of the two drones came in the midst of India’s plans ..

FIJI

Saturday, November 28, 2020

Punjab Punjab farmers face water cannons, push through Haryana barricades Farmers from Punjab faced water cannons and broke police barriers at the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s border with Haryana as they pushed towards the national capital on Thursday on their â&#x20AC;&#x153;Delhi Chaloâ&#x20AC;? march against the Centreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s farm laws. By late evening, a large group of them had reached the road toll plaza at Panipat, about 100 km from Delhi. Bhartiya Kisan Union

(Haryana) leader Gurnam Singh said the protesters planned to spend the night there and will resume the march the next morning. There were traffic snarls during the day at Delhiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s border with police checking vehicles coming in from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Metro services between Delhi and NCR areas were restricted.

Punjab clamps night curfew from Dec 1 Amid the grim Covid situation in DelhiNCR and apprehensions of a second wave in Punjab, Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh today ordered a series of fresh restrictions in the state, including re-imposition of night curfew in all towns and cities as well as doubling of fine for not wearing masks or following social distancing norms, with effect from December 1. The curbs, which will shall be reviewed on December 15, also restrict opening timings of all hotels, restaurants and marriage palaces till 9.30 pm. Night curfew will remain in force from 10 pm to 5 am, announced the Chief Minister, warning people against letting

their guard down under any circumstances. Giving details of the new restrictions after a high-level state Covid review meeting, an official spokesperson said fine for not following Covid-appropriate behaviour shall be hiked from the present Rs 500 to Rs 1,000. Given the inflow of patients from Delhi for treatment in Punjab, it has also been decided to review and optimise the bed availability in the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s private hospitals. The Chief Minister has asked Chief Secretary Vini Mahajan to work with the departments concerned to encourage more private hospitals to come on board and earmark beds for Covid care.

Faulty blood transfusion creats disturbance at Bathinda hospital High drama was witnessed at Civil Hospital here when members of Bathinda Thalassemia Welfare Society accompanied by parents of children who were transfused HIVpositive blood entered into a verbal duel with senior officials and doctors of the hospital. Later, police officials had to intervene in the matter who detained some members of the society. They said after recording statements

of the hospital staff, cases would be registered. Notably, three protests took place at the Civil Hospital today. The parents of affected children along with society members held a protest against the Health Department and state government demanding strict punishment for the culprits behind the HIV-positive blood transfusion to four children and a woman at the blood bank of the Civil Hospital.

Pakistan COVID-19 tally rose to 386,198 after 3,306 new cases detected Pakistanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s COVID-19 tally rose to 386,198 on Thursday after 3,306 new cases were detected in the past 24 hours across the country. The province-wise break up of the total number of cases as of 9:00 am, November 26,

is as follows: Total confirmed cases, Province wise 386,198 t $BQJUBM 5FSSJUPSZ t 1VOKBC t ,IZCFS 1BLIUVOLIXB t 4JOEI t #BMPDIJTUBO t (# (JMHJU #BMUJTUBO t "+,

After Modi accused of Pakistan harbouring terrorists, China comes forward in Pak defence Pakistanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;all-weather friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; China jumped in to defend the country after Modi tweeted in November about four terrorists belonging to Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) that were killed by Indian forces. Apparently, to whitewash Pakistanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s image, China praised it for making a positive contribution to the international counter-terrorism cause. Taking a veiled dig

at India, China said that attempts to target the CPEC project between China and Pakistan would not succeed. Chinese spokesperson Lijian Zhao took to Twitter to pour praises on Pakistan saying, â&#x20AC;&#x153;China appreciates the positive contribution by Pakistan to the international counter-terrorism cause.

Sindh High Court granted custody of 13-year-old Christian girl to 44-year-old man, exonerates abductor, says â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;no rapeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; took place Sindh High Court which had earlier, in a shocking decision, granted custody of 13-yearold Christian girl named Arzoo, who was kidnapped, raped and converted to Islam, to her 44-year-old abductor Ali Azhar, has now again ruled in favour of her perpetrator. Ruling

out the rape angle from the case, the Pakistan HC dismissed the case and granted relief to the culprit. Arzoo has been sent to a women shelter home where the court said she could live until she turns 18. Activist Rahat Austin took to Twitter to share the court ruling.

While PM Khan continues his rants against Emmanuel Macron, Pakistan govt expects debt relief of around $300 million from France Just days after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan railed against French President Emmanuel Macron for his remarks against Islamist extremism and hundreds and thousands of Pakistanis marched on the streets calling for nuking France, Islamabad is expecting debt relief from France worth hundreds of millions of dollars from France.

According to a report by The Express Tribune, Pakistan had qualified for the G-20 relief initiative announced in April this year for May-December 2020 period to fight the financial impact of the pandemic, along with 76 poor African nations. The relief was subject to the condition that each country would make a formal request.

Over 230,000 meals distributed under Sai Annapoorna initiative The Sai Prema Foundation has distributed more than 230,000 meal packs to the needy families in Fiji under their Sai Annapoorna initiative so far this year. The meal pack includes flour, rice, oil and other basic essentials. Foundation Secretary Remal Tappoo says they are continuing to work with other organisations such as the Frank Hilton Organization in identifying families who have been badly affected due to COVID-19 and need urgent assistance.

Tappoo says in previous years, they were distributing around 30,000 meals a year but that has increased drastically this year due to COVID-19 and providing meals is the least they can do for the affected families. He says at the moment they have been assisting people in Viti Levu and Vanua Levu but there are plans to venture out in the outer islands as well. Tappoo adds they want to keep growing this initiative and the aim is that no child or family should ever go hungry.

Police seek information in the murder case of a taxi driver Police are requesting for information regarding the murder of a 47-year-old taxi driver in Nausori on Monday. Police are asking people to call 9905521 if they may have seen the manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taxi in the Toga area or along the Suva to Nausori corridor

anytime between 4pm on the 22nd of November to 6am Monday 23rd November. The man was from Narere and his taxi was found abandoned near Jittu Estate. There were visible marks on his body.

FNPF members can access their General Account to pay their home loanHome loan repayment option under review - Koroi The CEO of the Fiji National Provident Fund, Jaoji Koroi says under their existing housing withdrawal policy, members can access their General Account to reduce or pay off their home loan, provided their funds will reduce the debt by at least 15%. He says this has been accessed by many members over the years. Koroi confirms the Fund is in the process

of reviewing the home loan repayment option, in light of the economic hardships that many members are facing due to COVID-19. Koroi says they will make necessary announcements once a decision is finalised. He adds in the last few months, housing withdrawals have tripled compared to last year and this is a good indication that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s responding effectively to membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs.

Saturday, November 28, 2020

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#Limited time lease offer is from Honda Canada Finance Inc. (HCFI), on approved credit. Lease example: New 2020 Insight Hybrid Touring (ZE4F7LKN)/2020 Accord Hybrid CVT (CV3F7LEX)/New 2020 Clarity Plugin Hybrid Touring (ZC5F3LG) for a 24-month period/24-month period/24-month period, for a total of 104/104/104 weekly payments of $157/$169/$261, leased at 0.99%/2.99%/2.99% APR. 20,000-kilometre annual allowance (12 cents/km excess charge). Total lease obligation is $16,346/$17,598/27,105. Lease payments include freight and PDI of $1,670/$1,670/$1,670 and applicable fees, but do not include lien registration fee (up to $85 in certain regions) and lien registering agent fee (up to $6), which are due at time of delivery. No down-payment required. Taxes, insurance, license, and registration fees (all of which may vary by region) are extra. Offer ends December 31, 2020 and is subject to change or cancellation without notice. +$6,500 credit based on Clarity Plug-in Hybrid Touring federal zero-emissions rebate of $5,000 and BCCEV provincial rebate of $1,500. Your amount may be lower if you have selected a shorter-term lease. Dealer may sell/lease for less. Limited quantity of 2020 models available, dealer trade may be necessary. Offer available only at participating Honda dealers in BC/Yukon. Models may not be equipped as shown and are for illustration purposes only. Visit Honda.ca or your Honda dealer for details. Visit Hondacanada.ca to learn more about Made-in-Canada.

Saturday, November 28, 2020