Ottawa Daily News: January 12, 2026
Last Updated: January 12, 2026 at 8:30 AM ET
Healthcare workers take to the streets today as layoffs hit Ottawa’s long-term care sector hard, with dozens of nurses and personal support workers losing their jobs at Perley Health and Royal Ottawa Place. Meanwhile, federal departments continue slashing positions, the O-Train east extension faces new delays, and a fresh snowfall blankets the capital.
Ottawa residents start the second week of January facing significant changes across healthcare, employment, and transit. CUPE 942 is rallying outside Royal Ottawa Health Group at 11 a.m. to protest cuts that union officials say threaten care quality for vulnerable seniors. The federal government’s workforce restructuring continues with hundreds more layoff notices hitting Natural Resources Canada and other departments. For commuters, OC Transpo’s Line 1 east extension to Orléans remains stalled after inspectors found deficiencies at two new stations. On a lighter note, the NAC Orchestra performs tonight, trivia nights beckon at local pubs, and the Lansdowne Farmers Market wraps up its Sunday winter hours with fresh local goods.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Healthcare layoffs prompt a CUPE rally at Royal Ottawa at 11 a.m. today. Federal job cuts continue across multiple departments. The O-Train east extension is delayed due to station deficiencies. Light snow expected this afternoon with wind chills near -18°C this morning.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Sunday, January 12, 2026 |
| 🌡️ Weather | Cloudy, high -3°C, 70% chance of flurries, wind chill -18°C morning |
| 🚗 Traffic | Snow clearing in progress, roads may be slippery |
| 🎉 Top Event | CUPE 942 healthcare rally at Royal Ottawa, 11 a.m. |
| 🏒 Sports | Senators host Canucks tomorrow (Jan 13) |
Breaking News & Important Updates
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 12, 2026
Healthcare workers rally against layoffs at Ottawa long-term care facilities
Major Breaking Developments
Healthcare Layoffs Hit Ottawa Hard
Ottawa’s long-term care sector faces a wave of job cuts affecting frontline workers who provide daily care to vulnerable seniors. Perley Health, home to the Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre, is eliminating 38 to 52 positions, including 18 registered practical nurses, 14 personal support workers, and additional housekeeping and kitchen staff. CUPE officials note this represents roughly 6% of the facility’s workforce.
At Royal Ottawa Place long-term care and the adjoining Royal Ottawa Hospital, 20 unionized workers are being laid off—15 at the LTC facility and 5 at the hospital. The cuts primarily affect nurses and PSWs, with union representatives citing provincial funding pressures as the driving force.
CUPE 942 Rally Today at 11 a.m.
Union members are gathering outside Royal Ottawa Health Group at 1145 Carling Avenue starting at 11 a.m. to protest these cuts. CUPE 942 says the layoffs threaten quality of care and dignity for residents who depend on adequate staffing levels.
Federal Workforce Restructuring Continues
Multiple federal departments based in the National Capital Region are issuing layoff notices this month as part of the government’s plan to reduce approximately 40,000 positions by 2028-29. Departments affected include Natural Resources Canada (approximately 700 positions), Public Service Commission (157 workers), Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs (94 employees), Department of Finance (74 workers), and Privy Council Office (19 employees).
Affected workers have access to priority status for internal competitions, but the cuts signal reduced external hiring opportunities in the short term as departments absorb surplus employees.
Seniors Payment Coming Tomorrow
The Canada Revenue Agency is issuing a one-time $300 payment to eligible Canadian seniors on January 13, 2026. The payment targets those receiving Old Age Security or related benefits, providing a modest boost to household budgets during the winter months.
Public Safety
Serious Crash on Prince of Wales Drive
Firefighters responded to a head-on collision on Prince of Wales Drive on Saturday morning (January 11), requiring extrication of both drivers. The roadway was temporarily closed during rescue operations. Three people were injured, one critically. No further updates on conditions have been released by authorities.
Power Outages After High Winds
Parts of Ottawa experienced power outages over the weekend due to high winds, with Hydro Ottawa crews actively responding. Restoration timelines varied as crews assessed damage across affected neighbourhoods. Residents are encouraged to check Hydro Ottawa’s outage map for the latest status.
Snow Clearing in Progress
City crews have been working to clear streets after approximately 10 cm of snow fell Saturday night into Sunday morning. Residential streets may still be slippery, and the city asks residents to move parked cars when possible to allow plows access.
What To Do Now
Bundle up if heading to the CUPE rally—wind chills hit -18°C this morning. Check Hydro Ottawa’s outage map if you lost power overnight. Allow extra travel time as crews continue clearing residential streets from yesterday’s 10 cm snowfall.
Government & Policy Changes
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 12, 2026
Federal policy changes affecting Ottawa residents in 2026
Several federal and Ontario-wide rule changes that took effect January 1, 2026, are now shaping daily life for Ottawa residents. No new Ottawa-specific bylaws or tax changes came into force on January 12 specifically, but the cumulative effect of new-year policy shifts continues to ripple through the community.
Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Changes
New regulations require Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on construction projects lasting three or more months with 20 or more workers. Public sector procurement requirements also took effect, and inspectors now have authority to issue administrative monetary penalties for workplace safety violations.
Impaired Driving Consequences Stiffened
Ontario has implemented stricter impaired-driving consequences under the Highway Traffic Act, including longer roadside licence suspensions for first and repeat alcohol or drug violations. Lifetime licence bans are now possible when impaired driving causes death. For a complete breakdown of the new penalties, fines, and what drivers need to know, see our Ontario impaired driving laws guide.
Labour Mobility Framework Speeds Hiring
Ontario’s “As of Right” labour-mobility framework allows many regulated professionals certified elsewhere in Canada—architects, engineers, electricians, and some health professionals—to begin working in Ontario within 10 business days while obtaining full provincial licensure. This can help Ottawa employers fill skilled positions more quickly.
Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements Expanded
From 2026, Ontario’s fire code requires a working carbon monoxide alarm on every floor of homes with gas-burning appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, or stoves. This expands previous requirements that focused mainly on areas near sleeping rooms.
Jobs & Employment
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 12, 2026
Job opportunities and employment news in the National Capital Region
Ottawa’s job market shows mixed signals this week: notable healthcare layoffs and planned federal cuts sit alongside ongoing recruitment events and policy changes affecting hiring practices.
Temporary Foreign Worker Restrictions
Ottawa-Gatineau is listed with a 6.8% unemployment rate for Labour Market Impact Assessment purposes and remains on the list of census metropolitan areas where certain low-wage LMIA applications are restricted through at least April 9, 2026. This constrains some low-wage temporary foreign worker hiring even as employers recruit locally.
New Ontario Job-Posting Rules
As of January 1, 2026, Ontario employers cannot demand “Canadian work experience” in publicly advertised job postings. They must also inform candidates of hiring decisions within 45 days of the last interview, bringing more transparency to the hiring process.
Upcoming Job Fairs and Events
Several employment events are scheduled for this week in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario:
- January 14 – OPP Uniform Recruitment Process Information Session for Police Constable
- January 15 – Ottawa Police Service officer recruitment and information event
- January 16 – “Banking on Your Future: Careers with RBC” youth-focused career event
- January 19 – CERC in-person Ottawa Police Service information session
CERC Ottawa also offers interview and job-search workshops later in the month, requiring advance online registration.
Immigration & Newcomers
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 12, 2026
Immigration updates and resources for Ottawa newcomers
Recent IRCC changes effective January 2026 bring significant news for economic-class immigrants and international students planning their future in Canada.
110,000 Additional Economic-Class Spots Released
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada expanded economic immigration on January 6, allocating 110,000 additional spots outside regular quotas to address labour shortages in engineering, technology, and skilled trades. Most allocations will go to workers already in Canada on employer-specific or postgraduate work permits.
Express Entry Update
IRCC conducted its first Provincial Nominee Program draw of 2026 on January 5, issuing 574 invitations to apply with a Comprehensive Ranking System cutoff of 711. This requires profiles created before October 6, 2025. The high cutoff signals a saturated pool of experienced candidates competing for limited spots.
Study Permit Changes
Master’s and PhD applicants are now exempt from Provincial Attestation Letters (PAL/TAL) requirements. A pause on new Start-Up Visa applications is in effect pending a targeted entrepreneur pilot program.
Local Settlement Services
Ottawa offers free services through the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre for immigration guidance, housing, employment, and education referrals in multiple languages. Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO) provides orientation, counselling, advocacy, citizenship classes, and youth programs. Free LINC classes are available through Ottawa Catholic and District School Boards. For budgeting advice, see our cost of living guide.
Health & Wellness
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 12, 2026
Health updates and wellness resources in Ottawa
Ottawa health updates as of early January 2026 show elevated flu activity straining hospitals, though conditions are improving from holiday peaks.
Flu Situation Improving But Still Elevated
Canada’s flu situation shows improvement but remains elevated. Positive test rates reached a three-year high of 33.3% during Christmas week, declining to 27% by early January. Ottawa has reported three child deaths (ages 5-9) from influenza A complications since the season began—health officials strongly urge vaccination for anyone over six months old.
Flu levels in Ottawa wastewater remain about four times higher than last year’s levels, though down from recent peaks. RSV is rising while COVID remains moderate and stable. Hospitals report 17% of emergency cases are respiratory-related.
Hospital Wait Times
Real-time emergency room wait times across Ontario hospitals, including Ottawa’s facilities, update every 15 minutes via ER Watch. Ottawa hospitals like The Ottawa Hospital and CHEO historically exceed provincial averages, with waits for physician assessment often exceeding 2-3 hours.
Vaccination Clinic
The Renfrew County and District Health Unit operates an immunization clinic in Pembroke on January 12 from 10:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. (by appointment only; call 613-735-9774). Free flu and COVID-19 shots are available at Ottawa pharmacies and OPH hubs for ages 6 months and older.
Walk-In Clinic Open Today
Appletree Medical Centre at 2150 Robertson Road shows short waits (5-10 minutes) and welcomes Sunday visits with registration from 8:30 a.m.
What To Do Now (Health)
Get vaccinated now if you haven’t already—three Ottawa children have died from flu complications this season. If you develop respiratory symptoms, consider a walk-in clinic like Appletree Robertson Road rather than overwhelming emergency rooms already seeing 2-3 hour waits.
Scams & Fraud Alerts
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 12, 2026
Protect yourself from common scams targeting Ottawa residents
Ottawa residents face ongoing risks from common scams, with no specific new alerts issued precisely for January 12, 2026. However, recent Ottawa Police incidents highlight grandparent and bank investigator scams from late 2025, while the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre warns of impersonation and tech support frauds persisting into 2026.
CRA Impersonation Scams
Aggressive callers spoof official CRA numbers and threaten arrest unless victims pay via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. Red flags include demands for unusual payment methods and refusal to provide verifiable callback details. The CRA never demands immediate payment by gift card or threatens arrest over the phone.
Tech Support Scams
These start with pop-ups or calls claiming your device has a virus, leading to remote access requests and fake software sales. If you receive such a call or pop-up, hang up immediately and run a legitimate antivirus scan.
Grandparent Scams
Fraudsters pose as lawyers or police claiming a grandchild needs urgent bail money, pressuring secrecy. Always verify by calling the supposed grandchild directly using a number you already have—not one provided by the caller.
Online Marketplace Fraud
Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace scams feature non-delivery after e-transfers or robberies during in-person meetings. Insist on safe exchange zones at Ottawa Police stations and inspect items in person before paying. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
Watch for door-to-door construction scams that increase during winter months when homeowners may be eager to address storm damage.
Contact your bank immediately to attempt reversing transactions. Report to Ottawa Police (613-236-1222) or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or by phone (1-888-495-8501). Change passwords and preserve evidence like call logs and screenshots. Never pay scammers additional money.
Transit & Getting Around
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 12, 2026
OC Transpo service updates and transit news
OC Transpo faces ongoing service challenges with recent detours and winter adjustments. For a complete guide to navigating the system, see our OC Transpo guide. The O-Train Line 1 east extension remains delayed after inspectors identified deficiencies at Place d’Orléans and Jeanne d’Arc stations requiring additional remedial work.
O-Train Line 1 East Extension Delayed
OC Transpo identified deficiencies during documentation review and on-site assessments at the two new stations. Additional remedial work is required before the extension opens to the public. No new opening date has been announced.
Current Detours and Service Adjustments
Several routes have adjusted stops and alternate routing effective this week:
- Route 12 – Detours near Ogilvie/Jasmine; alternate stops at Ogilvie/LB Pearson HS
- Routes 41/48 – Detour in Walkley/St-Laurent area; alternates at Elmvale/Walkley Halifax
- Route 90 – Canada Post Road detour between Brookfield and Heron
Walkley Station’s northbound elevator is out for maintenance—use buses to Heron for southbound access. Queensway Station elevators are operational.
Para Transpo Updates
Seniors 65+ now receive four free monthly trips (Presto refund applied the following month) as of January 1, 2026. Rural cash fares increased 2.5% to $11.00.
Gas Prices
Gas prices remain stable at approximately $1.23 per litre as of January 11, 2026.
What To Do Now (Transit)
Check OC Transpo alerts before travelling, especially if using routes 12, 41, 48, or 90. Build extra time for snow-related delays on residential streets. Those heading to Orléans should note the Line 1 extension is still not open.
Live Music & Entertainment Tonight
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 12, 2026
Live music and entertainment options in Ottawa tonight
Few specific entertainment events are listed for today, with more activity noted later in the week. Here’s what’s happening tonight and in the coming days.
CG5: Too Many Songs Canada Tour
- Venue: Bronson Centre Musical Theatre, 211 Bronson Avenue
- Time: Doors at 6:00 p.m. (All Ages/Licensed)
- Tickets: $45 advance via Ticketmaster.ca
NAC Orchestra – Mozart, Marquez and Pablo Sainz-Villegas
- Venue: NAC Southam Hall
- Time: Evening performance
- Tickets: From $89 via NAC box office
Clue (Murder Mystery Comedy)
- Venue: NAC Southam Hall
- Time: Today only (check NAC for exact time)
- Description: Stage adaptation of the classic board game and film
Heart & Crown ByWard Market – Jasen Colson
- Venue: 67 Clarence Street, Heart Stage
- Time: 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
- Cost: No cover (part of daily live music lineup)
Speakeasy Tapas Lounge
- Venue: 55 York Street, ByWard Market
- Time: Evening performances nightly
- Description: Live music alongside tapas and cocktails in a candlelit setting
Theatre & Shows This Month
January 2026 Theatre Calendar
Upcoming theatre and shows in Ottawa
The NAC hosts orchestral and theatrical performances throughout January. Here’s what’s coming up.
At the National Arts Centre:
- Clue – Today only, Southam Hall
- NAC Orchestra – Various performances through January
- Capital Sessions – Free dance workshops (family-friendly, ongoing)
Coming Later This Month:
- SKA NIGHT – January 16 at House of TARG, 8:00 p.m.
- FemmeVox Concert – January 18 at GCTC
Movie Screening: “Challengers”
- Venue: St-Laurent Library
- Time: 6:00 p.m.
- Series: Runs until May 11, 2026
Check venue websites for ticket availability and exact showtimes as listings evolve.
Sports This Weekend
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 12, 2026
Ottawa sports action and upcoming games
No major professional Ottawa Senators or Ottawa 67’s games are scheduled for today. The CFL Ottawa Redblacks are out of season until June. Here’s what’s coming up.
Ottawa Senators – Next Home Game
- Opponent: Vancouver Canucks
- Date: Monday, January 13, 2026
- Time: Approximately 7:00 p.m.
- Venue: Canadian Tire Centre, Kanata
- Tickets: From $16 on secondary markets
Ottawa 67’s – Next Home Game
- Opponent: Gatineau Olympiques
- Date: Friday, January 16, 2026
- Time: 7:00 p.m.
- Venue: TD Place Arena
Ottawa Redblacks The CFL regular season begins June 6, 2026, with Ottawa hosting the Edmonton Elks at TD Place Stadium.
University Sports
No specific games confirmed for Carleton Ravens or Ottawa Gee-Gees on January 12. Check uOttawa or Carleton athletics sites for weekend updates.
Museums & Attractions: What’s Open Today
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 12, 2026
Museums and attractions open in Ottawa today
Several Ottawa museums and attractions are open today, a regular winter Sunday. Many participate in the Canada Strong Pass program (valid until January 15, 2026), offering free admission for youth under 18 and half-price for ages 18-24. For a complete list of free museum hours, check our guide.
Canada Science and Technology Museum
- Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (free entry 4-5 p.m. daily)
- Address: 1867 St. Laurent Boulevard
- Admission: Adult $19, youth 3-17 $12.25, family $49; Canada Strong Pass discounts apply
- Highlights: Crazy Kitchen, steam locomotives, innovation exhibits
Canadian Museum of Nature
- Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Thursdays until 8 p.m., free after 5 p.m.)
- Highlights: Dinosaurs, mammals, blue whale skeleton, Qikiqtait Inuit exhibit (until 2027)
National Gallery of Canada
- Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Thursdays until 8 p.m.)
- Admission: Free for children 11 and under, Indigenous peoples, and Thursday evenings after 5 p.m.
- Note: Closed January 19-23 for annual maintenance
Canadian War Museum
- Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Admission: Free Thursdays 4-8 p.m.; general adult around $28
Canada Aviation and Space Museum
- Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed Wednesdays)
- Admission: Adult $16.75, youth 3-17 $11.50, family $42.25
Bytown Museum
- Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Admission: $11 suggested donation
For history buffs, the Diefenbunker Cold War Museum offers a unique underground experience.
Skating & Winter Recreation
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 12, 2026
Skating and winter recreation options in Ottawa
Rideau Canal Skateway – Temporarily Closed
The National Capital Commission has temporarily closed the Rideau Canal Skateway due to unseasonably warm temperatures and rain earlier this week. The facility will reopen when ice conditions permit. Check the NCC Skateway status page for updates.
Local Outdoor Rinks
City of Ottawa outdoor rinks follow municipal schedules. Confirm hours via ottawa.ca for January 12 availability.
Skiing Conditions
- Camp Fortune: 10 cm recent snow, machine-groomed, 15 runs open
- Mont Cascades: 18-inch base depth, machine-groomed with hard pack
- Calabogie Peaks: Opening soon for season; 780 ft vertical drop, 24 trails
For tobogganing alternatives while the Skateway is closed, check our guide to toboggan hills in Ottawa.
Dining & Nightlife
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 12, 2026
Dining and nightlife in Ottawa
Several Ottawa bars and restaurants in the ByWard Market area feature live music and dining specials today.
Happy Hour Specials
- Cocotte Bistro: Apéro Hour (Sun-Thu 3-6 p.m.) with $8 wine/beer and $11 cocktails
- The Shore Club: Low Tide Hour (daily 3-5 p.m.) featuring half-price oysters
- Q Bar: Weekdays 4-7 p.m., $6 pints
- The Clarendon: Tue-Sun 4-6 p.m., $10 cocktails
ByWard Market Dining
The Heart & Crown hosts live music from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Speakeasy Tapas Lounge offers candlelit tapas with evening performances. Buvette Daphnée serves French small plates and wine, while ALORA features Italian dishes. For more dining ideas, explore our guide to hidden gem restaurants.
New Restaurant Coming to Chinatown
A new Chinese restaurant is opening at 700 Somerset Street West (formerly Yangtze Restaurant) in early 2026, marking the return of this prominent community gathering space.
Library Programs & Free Events
January 12, 2026
Free library programs and community events
Ottawa Public Library branches offer several free drop-in programs today, no registration needed unless noted.
Today’s Library Programs
- St-Laurent Branch: Family Storytime, 10:30 a.m. (stories, rhymes, songs for all ages)
- Nepean Centrepointe Branch: Family Storytime, 10:30 a.m.; Employment Services drop-in, 10:00 a.m.
- North Gower Branch: Family Storytime 10:30-11:00 a.m. + Stay & Play 11:00-11:30 a.m.
- Osgoode Branch: Coffee, Conversation & Cards, 12:00 p.m. (drop-in, all welcome)
- Main Branch: French Conversation Group, 12:30 p.m. (drop-in)
Community Support
- Tungasuvvingat Inuit: Drop-in for Inuit families, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
- AAMAC Support Group: Online support for aplastic anemia patients/caregivers, 3:00 p.m. ET (register via info@aamac.ca)
Volunteer Opportunities
Ottawa Food Bank and Kanata Food Cupboard accept volunteer signups online. Ottawa Mission has kitchen and housekeeping roles. Requirements often include police checks. For more free things to do in Ottawa, check our comprehensive guide.
Weather Outlook
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 12, 2026
Ottawa weather forecast for today and the week ahead
Cloudy conditions with a 70% chance of afternoon flurries define today’s forecast. Wind chill makes it feel significantly colder this morning. No active weather warnings are in effect for the Ottawa area.
Today’s Forecast (January 12)
- High: -3°C
- Low: -5°C overnight
- Conditions: Cloudy with 70% chance of flurries
- Wind Chill: -18°C in the morning, rising to -9°C in the afternoon
- Wind: Southwest 20 km/h gusting to 40 km/h
Yesterday’s Conditions (January 11)
Approximately 10 cm of snow fell Saturday night into Sunday morning. Temperatures dropped to -3°C by afternoon with wind gusts to 50 km/h creating wind chills near -11°C.
Week Ahead
Monday remains chilly and cloudy with flurry risks persisting into early next week. Mixed precipitation chances rise Tuesday with periods of snow or rain possible.
What To Do Now (Weather)
Dress warmly for wind chills hitting -18°C this morning—cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite. Roads remain slippery from yesterday’s 10 cm snowfall; allow extra travel time. The Rideau Canal Skateway is closed; check NCC for reopening updates before heading downtown.
Weekend Events at a Glance
Sunday, January 12:
- CUPE 942 Healthcare Rally @ Royal Ottawa, 11:00 a.m. (FREE)
- Lansdowne Farmers Market @ Aberdeen Pavilion, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (FREE entry)
- CG5 Concert @ Bronson Centre, 6:00 p.m. ($45)
- NAC Orchestra @ Southam Hall, evening (from $89)
- Silent Book Club @ Beyond the Pale, 4:00 p.m. (FREE) – Discover more book clubs and reading groups across Ottawa
- Movie: “Challengers” @ St-Laurent Library, 6:00 p.m. (FREE)
- Family Storytime @ multiple OPL branches, 10:30 a.m. (FREE)
Monday, January 13:
- Ottawa Senators vs Vancouver Canucks @ Canadian Tire Centre, 7:00 p.m. (from $16)
- CRA $300 Senior Payment issued
Coming This Week:
- Tuesday Night Trivia @ Hunt Club Pub, 7:30 p.m. (January 14) – See our complete guide to trivia nights in Ottawa for weekly events across the city
- OPP Recruitment Info Session (January 14)
- Ottawa Police Recruitment Event (January 15)
- RBC Youth Career Event (January 16)
- SKA NIGHT @ House of TARG, 8:00 p.m. (January 16)
- Ottawa 67’s vs Gatineau @ TD Place, 7:00 p.m. (January 16)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What time is the CUPE healthcare rally today?
The CUPE 942 rally begins at 11:00 a.m. outside Royal Ottawa Health Group at 1145 Carling Avenue. Union members are protesting healthcare layoffs at Perley Health and Royal Ottawa Place that affect dozens of nurses and personal support workers.
Q: Is the Rideau Canal Skateway open for skating?
No, the National Capital Commission has temporarily closed the Rideau Canal Skateway due to unseasonably warm temperatures and rain earlier this week. Check the NCC Skateway status page at ncc-ccn.gc.ca for reopening updates when ice conditions permit.
Q: When is the next Ottawa Senators home game?
The Senators host the Vancouver Canucks on Monday, January 13, 2026, at approximately 7:00 p.m. at Canadian Tire Centre in Kanata. Tickets start from $16 on secondary markets.
Q: Are there any weather warnings for Ottawa today?
No active weather warnings are in effect. Today will be cloudy with a 70% chance of afternoon flurries, a high of -3°C, and wind chills reaching -18°C this morning. Roads may be slippery from yesterday’s 10 cm snowfall.
Q: Where can I get a flu shot in Ottawa?
Free flu and COVID-19 vaccinations are available at Ottawa pharmacies and Ottawa Public Health hubs for anyone 6 months and older. The Renfrew County Health Unit has a clinic in Pembroke today from 10:15 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (by appointment; call 613-735-9774).
Q: What are the current hospital wait times in Ottawa?
Emergency room wait times at Ottawa hospitals, including The Ottawa Hospital and CHEO, often exceed 2-3 hours for physician assessment. Check ER Watch at erwatch.ca for real-time updates every 15 minutes.
Q: Are museums open today in Ottawa?
Yes, most major museums are open today including Canada Science and Technology Museum (9 a.m.-5 p.m., free 4-5 p.m.), Canadian Museum of Nature (9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.), National Gallery of Canada (9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.), and Canadian War Museum (9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.).
Q: When do seniors receive the $300 CRA payment?
The Canada Revenue Agency is issuing the one-time $300 payment to eligible seniors on January 13, 2026. The payment targets those receiving Old Age Security or related benefits.
Q: What are the current gas prices in Ottawa?
Gas prices remain stable at approximately $1.23 per litre as of January 11, 2026.
Q: Is the O-Train east extension to Orléans open yet?
No, the O-Train Line 1 east extension remains delayed. OC Transpo identified deficiencies at Place d’Orléans and Jeanne d’Arc stations requiring additional remedial work. No new opening date has been announced.
Q: How many federal jobs are being cut in Ottawa?
Multiple federal departments are issuing layoff notices in January 2026, including Natural Resources Canada (approximately 700 positions), Public Service Commission (157 workers), Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs (94 employees), Department of Finance (74 workers), and Privy Council Office (19 employees) as part of a plan to reduce 40,000 positions by 2028-29.
Q: What are the new Ontario carbon monoxide alarm requirements?
As of 2026, Ontario’s fire code requires a working carbon monoxide alarm on every floor of homes with gas-burning appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, or stoves—not just near sleeping rooms as previously required.
Q: Is there a farmers market open today in Ottawa?
Yes, the Lansdowne Farmers Market runs today from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Aberdeen Pavilion (1000 Exhibition Way). Entry is free, and 85+ local vendors within 100 km of Ottawa sell seasonal produce, dairy, meat, baked goods, and crafts.
Q: What live music is happening in Ottawa tonight?
CG5 performs at Bronson Centre at 6:00 p.m. ($45), the NAC Orchestra presents Mozart and Marquez at Southam Hall (from $89), and Heart & Crown in the ByWard Market hosts Jasen Colson from 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. (no cover).
Q: How can I report a scam in Ottawa?
Report scams to Ottawa Police (613-236-1222) or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or by phone (1-888-495-8501). Contact your bank immediately to attempt reversing transactions, and preserve evidence like call logs and screenshots.
Final Summary
January 12, 2026, brings significant news for Ottawa residents across healthcare, employment, and transit. The CUPE 942 rally at Royal Ottawa at 11 a.m. puts a spotlight on healthcare layoffs affecting dozens of nurses and personal support workers at Perley Health and Royal Ottawa Place—cuts that union officials say threaten care quality for vulnerable seniors.
Federal workforce restructuring continues to reshape the National Capital Region, with hundreds more layoff notices hitting departments including Natural Resources Canada and the Public Service Commission. The O-Train Line 1 east extension to Orléans remains stalled after inspectors found deficiencies at Place d’Orléans and Jeanne d’Arc stations.
On a brighter note, seniors receiving Old Age Security can expect a $300 payment from CRA tomorrow. Entertainment options include the CG5 concert at Bronson Centre, the NAC Orchestra, and the Lansdowne Farmers Market. Bundle up for wind chills hitting -18°C this morning, and allow extra travel time as crews continue clearing roads from yesterday’s snowfall.
Watch for updates on the Rideau Canal Skateway reopening, the O-Train extension timeline, and continued healthcare labour news in the days ahead.
Sources & References
Sources cited inline throughout this article:
- Environment Canada Weather – Ottawa forecast and conditions
- Ottawa Police Service – Emergency 911, non-emergency 613-236-1222
- OC Transpo – Transit alerts and schedules
- City of Ottawa – Municipal services and snow clearing
- Hydro Ottawa – Power outage updates
- NCC Skateway – Canal skating status
- Ottawa Public Health – Vaccination clinics and health advisories
- ER Watch – Real-time hospital wait times
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre – Scam reporting
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada – Express Entry and immigration updates
- NAC Box Office – National Arts Centre tickets
- Lansdowne Farmers Market – Market hours and vendors
This daily news roundup covers events and news for Ottawa residents. Information is current as of publication time. For the latest updates, check venue websites and official social media channels.
