National News

VICTORIA — British Columbia has recorded its lowest monthly number of illicit drug overdose deaths in more than four years, part of what the BC Coroners Service says is a "significant decline" in fatalities this year.

OTTAWA — Ottawa's plan to send prohibited firearms to Ukraine to fight the Russian incursion has some experts scratching their heads, while staunch Ukraine supporters worry it could unintentionally pit aggrieved gun owners against the war effort.

MONTREAL — Just for Laughs founder Gilbert Rozon's civil trial for sexual assault opened Monday at the Montreal courthouse with his lawyer portraying him as the scapegoat in a hunt to find Quebec's Harvey Weinstein.

MONTREAL — Authorities in New York state say the search for a 22-year-old Quebec hiker who went missing in the Adirondacks more than a week ago is now likely a recovery mission.

As the Canada Post strike involving more than 55,000 workers neared the end of its 25th day, the postal service warned that a speedy resolution is unlikely.

B.C. saw more than 4,000 wildfires in two years.

OTTAWA — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said dealing with incoming president Donald Trump and his thundering on trade will be "a little more challenging" than the last time he was in the White House.

HALIFAX — Community leaders in Northern Canada say the postal strike is choking off the supply of some necessities and could mean children in more remote regions don't receive gifts this year during the holiday season.

There were jeers from the Conservative benches as NDP MPs cast their votes against the motion on Monday afternoon.

OTTAWA — The Métis National Council says it has elected a new president after months of turmoil that saw the once-united organization splinter and have its legitimacy questioned.