Beyond Local

The agency said Omicron appears to be the first dominant variant to show a decline in severity but warned that, due to its higher transmissibility, "the absolute number of hospitalizations and impact on the health-care system is likely to be significant, despite possible reduced severity."

EI premiums are going up as well once a two-year federal freeze on increases thaws next year. The premiums need to go up to refill the EI fund after it was drained by pandemic-induced demand. The government's fall economic statement projected that the EI account would come back to balance by 2028.

A record-setting 2,775 new cases were reported Wednesday, bringing Alberta's active total to almost 17,400 from 8,359 last Thursday.

Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol has life or death consequences and robs families and friends from holiday moments with loved ones, Alberta RCMP posted online.

Gov.-Gen. Mary Simon will host next year's investiture ceremonies for the nominees at Rideau Hall, her official residence in Ottawa, bestowing recipients with the insignia of the order: a white enamel snowflake of six points with a stylized maple leaf at its centre.

After two days of games, players testing positive for COVID-19 had put defending champion United States, Russia, and Czechia into mandatory quarantines.

"We are pleased to have completed this important step, nine years ahead of the government target," said TransAlta president and chief executive John Kousinioris. "Our coal transition is among the most meaningful carbon emissions reduction achievements in Canadian history."

Yesterday, Quebec Health Minister Christian Dube announced some health workers who have tested positive for COVID-19 will be allowed to stay on the job. He said the move is necessary to keep the health-care system operational, and the decision would be made on a case-by-case basis under certain conditions. 

"Albertans are natural optimists. They just need a reason for their optimism. Well, there are lots of reasons right now including the fact that we are leading Canada by far in economic growth," the premier told the Calgary Chamber of Commerce this month.

Detailed COVID-19 numbers for the province will be available Dec. 29.