The City of Timmins is advancing its Highway 101 reconstruction project with new provincial funding, though financial challenges persist. The project, initially estimated at $95.5 million, now requires $120 million to address deteriorated infrastructure. The Ministry of Transportation of Ontario has allocated $3 million through the Connecting Links program, but the funding cap limits progress. Mayor Steve Black is seeking additional funds from other government programs, including the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund and a recent federal-provincial bilateral agreement, to expedite the project.

Newfoundland and Labrador is focusing on offshore oil exploration to improve its financial situation, aiming to double production by 2030. The federal government has approved the Bay du Nord project with conditions for net-zero emissions by 2050, despite concerns about the environmental impact and alignment with climate goals. The province's economic strategy relies heavily on oil, with potential risks if global climate objectives are met. The article highlights the tension between economic benefits and environmental responsibilities, with various stakeholders involved in the discussion.

The Canadian government's involvement in First Nations' financial affairs, through the Default Prevention and Management Policy (DPMP), has often worsened conditions in these communities. An investigation by National Observer reveals that the policy, which allows the government to control or co-manage First Nations' finances, has led to deteriorating housing and water quality in many cases. Despite plans to phase out the policy, First Nations leaders argue that reparations are necessary. The investigation underscores the systemic issues and calls for a more tailored approach to governance and financial management for the diverse First Nations communities.

The Pope's recent visit to Canada and formal apology to Indigenous Peoples for the Catholic Church's role in the residential school system marks a significant moment in the path to reconciliation. The apology, which came after years of pressure and a direct request from an Indigenous delegation to the Vatican, addresses the cultural destruction and forced assimilation experienced by over 150,000 Indigenous children. While the apology fulfills one of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action, reactions among Indigenous communities vary, with some welcoming the gesture and others feeling it falls short, particularly in acknowledging sexual abuse and the Church's institutional responsibility. The visit is seen as a first step, with further actions such as repatriating artifacts, releasing records, and rescinding the Doctrine of Discovery being called for by Indigenous Peoples. The Pope's visit is part of a larger journey towards healing, with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission outlining steps for the Church to take, emphasizing that the responsibility for reconciliation extends beyond Indigenous communities to all Canadians.

The United Nations climate summit COP26 is nearing its conclusion, but negotiations are expected to extend into the weekend due to unresolved issues in the final cover decision. Key topics include the role of cities and regions in addressing the climate crisis and the contentious issue of loss and damage, with developing countries demanding compensation from richer nations for climate-induced harm. The draft text's language on fossil fuels has been softened, now calling for the phaseout of 'unabated coal power' and 'inefficient subsidies for fossil fuels,' reflecting ongoing debates and compromises.

Young climate activists, led by Greta Thunberg, protested in Glasgow against the perceived inaction of global leaders at COP26. The demonstration highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on Indigenous communities and criticized the UN event as a 'Global North greenwash festival.' The protest included diverse voices from Indigenous activists, labor groups, socialists, and medical students, all calling for urgent and radical action to address the climate crisis.

Canada's National Observer will provide on-the-ground coverage of the COP26 climate conference in Glasgow, focusing on Canada's role in negotiations, climate finance, biodiversity, Indigenous rights, oceans, civil society, plastics, food systems, and the youth movement. The team acknowledges the carbon footprint of travel to the conference but emphasizes the importance of reporting on climate change and its implications for Canadians. The coverage will include insights from various reporters and multimedia content.

Seth Klein, a columnist for Canada's National Observer, discusses the obstruction of climate action by fossil fuel companies and suggests that the government should take a firmer stance against these delays.

Changing consumer tastes and rising demand present a valuable opportunity for Canadian growers in the okra market, though supply infrastructure challenges remain. Okra, a versatile crop used in various cuisines, has seen increased demand due to shifting immigration patterns. Experts like Evan Elford from OMAFRA highlight the time needed for domestic production to replace imports. Currently, most okra in Canada is imported, but domestic production is expected to rise significantly by 2030. Growers face challenges such as labor-intensive harvesting and market access, but opportunities exist, especially near urban centers. Despite hurdles, demand for okra is expected to continue growing.

Justice Graeme Mitchell unexpectedly attended the closing ceremony for Tristen Durocher's suicide prevention advocacy at Wascana Park in Regina on September 13, where he was presented with a Métis sash.