Manitoba Labour Groups Push for Higher Wages as Job Market Faces Pressure
Manitoba’s largest labour organization says the province’s latest minimum‑wage bump still isn’t enough to keep workers afloat. The Manitoba Federation of Labour argues that even with the increase to $16.40 an hour, tens of thousands of Manitobans remain unable to meet rising living costs.
MFL president Kevin Rebeck says the province needs to move toward a $20‑an‑hour living wage to reflect today’s economic realities.
Musicians Join the MFL
Manitoba’s professional musicians have voted to join the Manitoba Federation of Labour, giving the arts sector a stronger voice in provincial labour issues. The addition brings the MFL’s representation to 130,000 workers across more than 30 unions, broadening the sectors involved.
National Job Numbers Coming Friday
Canadians will get a clearer picture of the national job market later this week. Statistics Canada is set to release its March labour force survey on Friday, following February’s report that showed 84,000 jobs lost and unemployment rising to 6.7 per cent. The labour market continues to struggle under nearly a year of U.S. tariff pressures.
Rising Tensions in the Middle East
Israel says it has killed a senior commander in Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Quds Force, after reports that the Guard’s intelligence chief also died in overnight strikes — including one that hit the South Pars petrochemical site.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump is warning of potential attacks on key infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz isn’t reopened today. Both Iran and the U.S. are reviewing a late‑night draft ceasefire proposal as tensions escalate.
Artemis II Crew Approaches the Moon’s Far Side
NASA’s Artemis II crew will swing within 6,500 kilometres of the moon’s far side today. Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen and his crewmates are set to spend several hours photographing craters and ancient lava flows — features even Apollo astronauts struggled to capture.
Substance‑Related Deaths Fall, But Crisis Persists
The Province of Manitoba says substance‑related deaths dropped from more than 560 in 2022 to roughly 350 last year — the first major decline in years. Officials caution the crisis remains severe, and Brandon’s front‑line agencies report steady demand for detox, housing, and harm‑reduction supports.
Grocery & Essentials Benefit Top‑Up Coming in June
Westman residents who received the federal Canada Groceries & Essentials Benefit this past weekend can expect a top‑up in June. Ottawa says the additional payment is meant to help families manage rising grocery bills and everyday costs.
Weather: Snow Possible Mid‑Week
A developing system could bring 5 to 10 centimetres of snow to Brandon and Souris by Wednesday, depending on the storm track. Heavier snowfall currently appears more likely to the north, but blowing snow remains possible locally as the forecast evolves.
