Ottawa Daily News: January 14, 2026
Last Updated: January 14, 2026 at 8:30 AM ET
Prime Minister Mark Carney has embarked on a historic nine-day trip to China, the first such visit by a Canadian PM in nearly a decade, while Ottawa braces for deepening federal public service cuts that could eliminate 40,000 positions by 2029. Meanwhile, actor Kiefer Sutherland faces assault charges after an alleged altercation with a ride-hail driver in the capital.
Ottawa residents are waking up to a mix of significant political developments and shifting weather conditions this Wednesday. The city will see temperatures reach 3°C before dropping sharply overnight with 2-4 cm of snow accumulation expected. City Council convenes a special in-camera meeting this morning regarding the Capital Region Resource Recovery Centre, while OC Transpo continues grappling with fleet reliability challenges that have left nearly 30% of buses off-road for maintenance. On the brighter side, the Rideau Canal Skateway remains fully operational for its 56th season, and cultural offerings include the National Arts Centre Orchestra and intimate magic shows at the Manor Lounge.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: PM Carney is in China for trade talks, federal departments are issuing major layoff notices affecting tens of thousands, and actor Kiefer Sutherland was arrested in Ottawa for allegedly assaulting a driver. Weather turns colder tonight with snow accumulation, and the Rideau Canal Skateway is fully open at 7.8 km.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Wednesday, January 14, 2026 |
| 🌡️ Weather | High 3°C, low -13°C, 60% chance of drizzle/flurries, 2-4 cm snow overnight |
| 🚗 Traffic | Normal conditions, parking ban for snow removal in effect |
| 🎉 Top Event | NAC Orchestra: Mozart, Márquez & Pablo Sáinz-Villegas at 8:00 PM |
| 🏒 Sports | Senators at Rangers (away), 7:30 PM EST |
Breaking News & Important Updates
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 14, 2026
Parliament Hill and downtown Ottawa where major political developments are unfolding
Major Breaking Developments
PM Carney Embarks on Historic China Visit
Prime Minister Mark Carney departed for a nine-day trip to China on January 13, marking the first such visit by a Canadian prime minister in nearly a decade. Carney is scheduled to meet with President Xi Jinping and other senior Chinese officials to discuss trade, energy, agriculture, and security matters. The visit comes amid heightened tensions with the United States and represents a significant diplomatic pivot as Canada seeks to diversify its trading relationships.
Federal Capital Gains Tax Changes Now in Effect
The federal government’s deferred capital gains inclusion rate increases took effect January 1, 2026. A new $250,000 annual threshold for Canadian individuals maintains the current one-half inclusion rate on modest capital gains, providing tax relief for those with eligible gains below $2.25 million. The Canadian Entrepreneurs’ Incentive has also been introduced, reducing the inclusion rate to one-third on a lifetime maximum of $2 million in eligible capital gains.
110,000 New Economic Immigration Positions Released
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada released 110,000 additional economic-class immigration spots as of January 6, 2026—a one-off allocation outside the regular Immigration Levels Plan. This initiative targets acute labour shortages in engineering, technology, and skilled trades sectors. Most positions will be allocated to workers already in Canada on employer-specific or postgraduate work permits, with lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-offs expected in coming weeks.
Actor Kiefer Sutherland Arrested in Ottawa
Actor Kiefer Sutherland was arrested for allegedly assaulting a ride-hail driver in Ottawa and has been released on $50,000 bond. A court date is set for February 2. The incident occurred recently, though exact timing remains unspecified. The case is being handled by Ottawa Police Service.
Public Safety
Iran Embassy Trespassing Incident
Ottawa Police arrested one person on trespassing charges after an anti-regime protester jumped the fence at Iran’s shuttered embassy around 5:50 AM on January 13. The individual defaced the building by removing the national emblem and placing a flagpole. A circulating social media video is under investigation for additional offences.
Copper Thefts Cause Gatineau Outages
A surge in copper thefts caused phone and internet outages affecting thousands in Gatineau’s Plateau area near Ottawa over the January 11-12 weekend. Approximately 350 metres of cable was stolen—the fourth incident in that area in a month. Repairs are underway with added security measures being implemented.
Planned Power Interruption Today
Hydro Ottawa has scheduled a planned power interruption on Falaise Road and Ortona Avenue in the River Ward from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM on January 14 for maintenance work. Residents in the affected area should prepare accordingly.
City Council Special Meeting
A special meeting of the City of Ottawa Council is scheduled for 10:00 AM today at City Hall. This in-camera briefing concerns an update on the acquisition of the Capital Region Resource Recovery Centre. No additional public materials have been released.
What To Do Now
The Sutherland case is a reminder to document any ride-hail incidents via the app immediately. With copper theft disrupting Gatineau telecom, consider having a backup communication plan if you’re in border areas. River Ward residents on Falaise and Ortona should charge devices before 10 AM ahead of the scheduled outage.
Government & Policy Changes
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 14, 2026
Ottawa City Hall where policy decisions affect residents daily
Federal Tax Changes for 2026
The lowest federal income tax rate has been permanently cut from 15% to 14% starting with the 2026 tax year, applying to roughly the first $58,500 of income. Federal income tax brackets and the basic personal amount have been adjusted upward for inflation, which slightly reduces tax owing for most taxpayers.
Ontario Pay Transparency Rules Now in Effect
New pay transparency rules under the Employment Standards Act took effect January 1: employers with 25 or more employees must include an expected salary or pay range in public job postings. This change affects Ottawa job seekers and employers across all sectors.
City of Ottawa 2026 Budget Impacts
Ottawa residents face a 3.75% property tax increase for 2026, adding roughly $166 to the average urban residential property tax bill for a home valued around $415,000. Transit fares also rose, with adult monthly passes now at $138.50. Various user fees increased, including water, sewer, stormwater, and garbage collection services.
Rent Reduction for Eligible Tenants
Because property taxes on some older multi-residential buildings were reduced by more than 2.49%, eligible tenants have a legal right to a rent reduction of about 0.89% in 2026—roughly $16 per month ($192 annually) for tenants paying $2,000 monthly.
Jobs & Employment
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 14, 2026
Ottawa job seekers face a changing employment landscape in the federal capital
Federal Workforce Reductions Accelerate
Federal departments began notifying public servants of potential job cuts in January, targeting 40,000 positions by 2028-29 under Budget 2025. The Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada (PIPSC) warns of serious consequences for service quality. Statistics Canada plans to eliminate 850 roles over two years, affecting about 940 PIPSC members.
Other departments issuing notices include Natural Resources Canada (400 positions), Public Service Commission (157), and Crown-Indigenous Relations (94).
Healthcare Layoffs Continue
Perley Health announced 38 layoffs, including 18 registered nurses and 14 personal support workers, sparking union rallies over provincial funding shortfalls. The Royal Ottawa Place plans 15 cuts in long-term care plus 5 elsewhere. Province-wide, 7,200 nursing and 1,800 support roles remain at risk by 2027-28.
Tech Sector Hiring Remains Active
Tech jobs remain plentiful in Ottawa, with openings in software engineering, data analysis, cybersecurity, and sales at firms like Broccolini, Canonical, and Fullscript. Uline Canada is hosting a hiring event on Friday, January 23 from 8:45 AM to 11:00 AM for bilingual sales roles paying $102,000 to $165,000 annually.
Job Fairs This Week
Several events run January 14-20: OPP Uniform Recruitment Info Session (police constable), VON Online Job Fair (virtual), and Ottawa Service SW Officer Recruitment on January 15.
Immigration & Newcomers
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 14, 2026
Newcomers to Ottawa have access to extensive settlement services across the city
Express Entry Updates
Recent Express Entry draws in early January issued 8,000 Canadian Experience Class (CEC) invitations at CRS 511 on January 7 and 574 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) invitations at CRS 711 on January 5. No draw has occurred yet on January 14. Lower CRS cut-offs are expected through the first half of 2026 following the 110,000 additional spots release.
Start-Up Visa Program Changes
As of January 1, 2026, IRCC closed new Start-Up Visa applications, with exceptions for prior commitments. Master’s and PhD students at public institutions are now exempt from Provincial Attestation Letters.
Settlement Services in Ottawa
Free settlement support is available through Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO) for needs assessment, orientation on housing, education, and health, and referrals in 50+ languages. Centre for Immigrants Ottawa provides counselling, document guidance, and citizenship prep workshops. For more details, see our Ottawa newcomer settlement guide.
Language Training
LINC (free government-funded ESL for permanent residents) runs at Ottawa-Carleton Catholic School Board sites like St. Joseph’s (CLB Literacy-6, full/part-time, childcare available) and St. Nicholas (CLB 1-5+). Contact for assessment and registration.
Health & Wellness
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 14, 2026
Ottawa hospitals continue managing high patient volumes during flu season
Hospital Wait Times Elevated
Hospital wait times in Ottawa remain elevated due to high patient volumes and flu season pressures. The Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus averages 3.5 hours for first assessment, while Queensway-Carleton Hospital recently reported 12+ hour waits during peak volume. Real-time emergency room wait times are available on ER Watch.
Respiratory Illness Update
Flu cases are driving increased hospitalizations, with Ottawa Public Health noting some improvement but persistent high levels as of January 8. Free COVID-19, flu, and eligible RSV vaccines are available at pharmacies and providers. A vaccination clinic runs January 15 in Renfrew from 12:20-1:20 PM at Renfrew Service Hub.
Appletree Medical Centre Reopens Today
Appletree Medical Centre at 356A Woodroffe Avenue is reopening Wednesday, January 14, after a holiday closure (closed January 8-13). Registration begins at 7:30 AM. Dr. Salcedo (Internist, speaks English and Spanish) and Dr. Harsha Dehejia (specializing in asthma, COPD, chronic cough) are available.
Mental Health Resources
The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre offers crisis support: Crisis line (613) 722-6914, Distress line (613) 238-3311, Text (343) 306-5550 (10 AM-11 PM), Online chat at dcottawa.on.ca. A new urgent care clinic opens April 2026 at Carling Avenue for same/next-day psychiatric assessments.
Scams & Fraud Alerts
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 14, 2026
Ottawa residents should remain vigilant against ongoing phone and online scams
No specific new fraud alerts for Ottawa residents emerged on January 14, 2026, but ongoing scams continue targeting the area. Ottawa Police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) emphasize vigilance.
CRA Phone Scams
Callers spoof official numbers, claiming owed taxes or refunds, and demand immediate payment via gift cards or wire transfers. Hang up and verify directly with CRA at 1-800-959-8281. The CRA never demands payment by gift card.
Grandparent Scams
Fraudsters target seniors by posing as a distressed relative in trouble, often with a fake lawyer follow-up requesting cash or gold. Use a family code word to verify and alert relatives immediately if you receive such a call. Read more about grandparent scams targeting Ottawa seniors.
Bank Investigator Scams
Active in Ottawa through late 2025, these scams involve calls about “compromised accounts” leading victims to hand over cards to couriers. Contact your bank directly using the number on your card—never a number provided by the caller.
Online Marketplace Fraud
Scammers on Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace send fake e-transfer confirmations linking to phony bank sites that harvest login details. Insist on in-person cash payments or bank-verified transfers for high-value items.
Romance Scams
These scams build fake relationships online before requesting funds for emergencies or crypto investments. CAFC reports over $50 million lost yearly in Canada. Reverse-image search profiles and never send money to someone you haven’t met.
Report all suspicions to CAFC at 1-888-495-8501 or Ottawa Police, freeze accounts if targeted, and monitor your credit.
Transit & Getting Around
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 14, 2026
OC Transpo continues managing fleet challenges as winter conditions persist
OC Transpo reports ongoing detours and service adjustments with no major widespread disruptions beyond winter conditions. O-Train Line 1 operates normally, though Walkley Station northbound elevator #31 is out for maintenance—use buses to Heron for cross-platform access.
Service Changes Effective January 5
Route 26 has added morning trips from Blair Station at 9:45 AM, 10:45 AM, 11:45 AM, and 12:50 PM. Route 45 evening frequency increased to every 15 minutes for hospital staff connections. Route 105 added extensions from Limebank at 5 AM and 5:28 AM.
Current Detours
Route 35 is skipping Centrum to Tenth Line (missed stops including 8893). Route 90 detours on Riverside Drive due to Canada Post Road sewer work (missed stops 6901, 6900). Route 12 bypasses Jasmine Crescent, and Route 162 avoids Canadian Tire Centre Park & Ride. Route 40 near Albion detoured via Rosebella and Bank until May 2026.
Para Transpo Updates
New minibuses (up to 76 seven-metre models with 10 seats and wheelchair spots) are rolling out. From January 1, 2026, seniors 65+ get four free trips monthly via PRESTO/ParaPay. Adult monthly fare is $135. For a complete guide to senior transit discounts and benefits available to Ottawa residents over 65, including free Wednesday rides on all OC Transpo routes, see our comprehensive resource.
Gas Prices and Parking
Ottawa gas averages $1.273/L as of January 12. No new parking rate changes; 2026 fares rose 2.5% on January 1 with adult single at $4.10.
What To Do Now (Transit)
If you rely on Route 35, 90, or 12, check OC Transpo alerts for alternate stops before heading out. Walkley Station elevator users should transfer at Heron. With snow expected tonight, allow extra time for morning commutes Thursday.
Live Music & Entertainment Tonight
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 14, 2026
Ottawa’s music scene offers intimate performances across the city tonight
NAC Orchestra: Mozart, Márquez & Pablo Sáinz-Villegas
The National Arts Centre Orchestra performs at 8:00 PM in Southam Hall, featuring compositions by Mozart and Márquez with guest violinist Pablo Sáinz-Villegas. Contact (613) 947-7000 for tickets.
Magic at the Manor
Magician Michael Bourada presents an intimate, interactive 90-minute magic show at Manor Lounge, 292 Elgin Street, this evening. The performance combines mentalism, deception, and unexplainable feats while guests dine.
ByWard Market Live Music
Heart & Crown ByWard hosts live music by TJ Morrison on the Heart Stage from 9 PM to 1 AM, followed by Rockstar Karaoke on McGintey’s Stage from 10 PM to 2 AM. Irene’s Pub in The Glebe offers a Jazz Jam with The Beeched Wailers, and Château Lafayette features The John Carroll Show from 8 PM to midnight.
TARG Monthly Pinball Tournament
House of TARG hosts its Monthly Pinball Tournament from 8:00-11:00 PM. Entry is free with a $1 tournament fee, all ages welcome.
Wednesday Comedy Showcase
Absolute Comedy at 412 Preston Street presents headliner Craig Fay with MC Foad HP at 8:30 PM. Tickets are $15.
Theatre & Shows This Month
January 2026 Theatre Calendar
The National Arts Centre offers world-class theatrical performances
Copperbelt - NAC English Theatre World Premiere
Running January 13-24 at the National Arts Centre Studio, this world premiere Canadian drama follows Eden, a junior operations manager at an international mining firm, who returns from Toronto to Zambia following her father’s illness. The sharp exploration of familial expectations and economic reconciliation themes makes for compelling theatre.
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - In Concert
Friday, January 17 at TD Place Arena brings the FILMharmonique Orchestra with 250+ musicians performing Howard Shore’s score live while the film screens. An epic cinematic experience not to be missed.
FemmeVox 10
GCTC Mainstage hosts this music event Sunday, January 18 at 7:30 PM. Tickets available through GCTC.
James Joyce Association of Ottawa
Saturday, January 17 at St. Brigid’s Centre for the Arts features an afternoon of tea, live music, and readings from “The Dead.” Period Edwardian costume encouraged.
Sports This Week
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 14, 2026
Ottawa sports fans have options from NHL to OHL to university athletics
Ottawa Senators Tonight (Away)
The Senators face the New York Rangers at 7:30 PM EST at Madison Square Garden. Tickets start around $93 via Ticketmaster. The next home game is vs. Montreal Canadiens on Friday, January 17 at 7:00 PM at Canadian Tire Centre—tickets from $104.
Ottawa 67’s OHL Weekend
The Ottawa 67’s take on Gatineau Olympiques Friday, January 16 at 7:00 PM at TD Place in the Battle of the Ottawa River rivalry. They travel to Gatineau Saturday at 4:00 PM and return home Sunday, January 18 at 3:00 PM against the Peterborough Petes. Tickets range $15-40.
University Sports
Carleton Ravens men’s basketball hosts Toronto Varsity Blues on January 16 at 8:00 PM and TMU Bold on January 17 at 8:00 PM at Ravens’ Nest. Check goravens.ca for tickets and updates.
Skiing Conditions
Camp Fortune has 13 runs open with machine-groomed snow on Valley side. Calabogie forecasts highs of 2°C with lows of -15°C—suitable conditions for skiing. Mont Cascades expects variable snow with possible light accumulation.
Museums & Attractions: What’s Open Today
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 14, 2026
Ottawa’s world-class museums offer something for every interest
Canada Strong Pass Discounts End Tomorrow
Most national museums offer special pricing via the Canada Strong Pass program through January 15, 2026, providing discounts for youth and young adults. Last chance to take advantage. For free museum hours in Ottawa, check our comprehensive guide.
National Gallery of Canada
Open 9:30 AM-5:00 PM at 380 Sussex Drive. Adult $22 CAD, youth (0-17) free. The “Winter Count: Embracing the Cold” exhibition explores winter themes through contemporary visual arts. Free admission until 6 PM today; free Thursday Nights 5-8 PM with BMO sponsorship.
Canada Science and Technology Museum
Open 9:00 AM-5:00 PM at 1867 St. Laurent Boulevard. Adult $19 CAD, youth (3-17) free under Canada Strong Pass. Features interactive illuminated displays and the Luminorama experience. Free 4-5 PM daily.
Canadian Museum of Nature
Open 9:30 AM-5:00 PM (Thursday until 8 PM) at 240 McLeod Street. General admission around $17-20 CAD adult, $11-14 child. Showcases dinosaurs, minerals, Arctic ecosystems, and live bugs.
Canadian War Museum
Open 9:30 AM-5:00 PM at 1 Vimy Place. Adult $22 CAD, youth free. Comprehensive exhibitions from pre-contact warfare to Cold War era, including Hitler’s armoured Mercedes-Benz and WWI memorabilia.
Canadian Museum of History (Gatineau)
Open 9:00 AM-5:00 PM (Thursday until 7 PM) at 100 Laurier Street, Gatineau. World’s largest indoor totem pole collection in Grand Hall; First Peoples Hall; Canadian History Hall.
Bytown Museum
Open 11:00 AM-4:00 PM at 1 Laurier Street near ByWard Market. Admission $11.00. Artifacts and exhibitions tracing Ottawa’s origin as Bytown. Learn more about the Bytown Museum’s fascinating collection.
Diefenbunker
Open 11:00 AM-4:00 PM (January/February hours). Adult around $14 CAD. Cold War-era underground bunker with historical artifacts.
Skating & Winter Recreation
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 14, 2026
The Rideau Canal Skateway is fully open for its 56th season
Rideau Canal Skateway Fully Open
The Rideau Canal Skateway is fully operational at 7.8 km for its 56th season, having opened December 31. The world’s largest skating rink is open 24/7, weather permitting, from downtown Ottawa to Hartwells Locks.
Current ice conditions as of January 14: Rideau to Bank section rated “very good” (swept and flooded); Bank to Bronson rated “poor”; Bronson to Library rated “fair.”
Equipment rentals available 10:00 AM-10:00 PM daily at $12-15/hour (no rentals after 8 PM). Amenities include BeaverTails pastry stands, Dunrobin Distilleries (19+), and universally accessible ramps and facilities.
Outdoor Rinks
Local outdoor rinks operate on similar schedules aligned with canal conditions. Check the City of Ottawa website for specific neighbourhood rink status, or see our complete Ottawa outdoor skating rinks guide.
Dining & Nightlife
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 14, 2026
ByWard Market offers diverse dining and nightlife options
Live Music Tonight
Heart & Crown ByWard at 67 Clarence Street leads tonight’s offerings with dual-stage music and karaoke, open 11 AM-2 AM in the Irish Village atmosphere. Irene’s Pub hosts Jazz Jam, and Speakeasy Tapas Lounge in ByWard may have additional listings.
Happy Hour Specials
Chelsea Pub (near Ottawa) runs happy hour Monday-Friday 3-5 PM with deals like Gin & Twist for $6. Various ByWard spots like Umbrella Bar and Apothecary Lounge offer daily or weekday evening specials.
Recent Opening: Dinette Atomique
This retro neighbourhood spot recently opened featuring weekly family-style themed specials and all-day service—a fresh addition to Ottawa’s dining scene.
Coming Soon: Capital City Bites
Mark your calendar for January 30 when Capital City Bites, Ottawa’s first-ever restaurant week, launches with prix-fixe menus at over 50 restaurants citywide. This week-long culinary celebration runs January 31 to February 6, coinciding with Winterlude.
Library Programs & Free Events
January 14-18, 2026
Ottawa Public Library branches offer free programs throughout the week
Ottawa Public Library branches host free drop-in events like conversation circles, board games, knitting groups, and homework help throughout January.
Today’s Community Events
A free Kizomba dance lesson runs at 6:30 PM at Arts Court, 2 Daly Avenue—no partner needed, all welcome. OARC Monthly Meeting (community networking) starts at 6:30 PM at Scouts Canada National Office, 1345 Baseline Road with free parking.
Lung Cancer Canada Support Group
The CIRCLE Support Group meets in-person today from 1:00-2:00 PM EST. Contact lungcancercanada.ca for location details.
Weekend Highlight: BON Market
The National Arts Centre at 1 Elgin Street hosts the BON Market on Saturday, January 16—a women-led pop-up featuring African and Caribbean vendors. Free admission.
Volunteer Opportunities
Olde Forge Community Resource Centre (2730 Carling Avenue) seeks volunteers for reception, friendly calls, and event support. Ottawa Food Bank and Kanata Food Cupboard accept sign-ups for flexible shifts around January 14-18.
Weather Outlook
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 14, 2026
Winter conditions continue with snow expected overnight
Today brings a high of 3°C early before temperatures drop through the afternoon. Environment Canada forecasts a 60% chance of drizzle, rain showers, or flurries throughout the day.
Tonight’s Conditions
Expect 2-4 cm of snow accumulation overnight as temperatures plunge to -13°C. Northwest winds at 20 km/h gusting to 40 km/h will produce wind chill values reaching -23°C by morning. Sunrise is at 7:40 AM and sunset at 4:43 PM.
Extended Forecast
Thursday, January 15 brings a high of -13°C with periods of snow, dropping to -20°C overnight. Friday sees highs of -5°C with continued snow chances. The weekend remains cold with Saturday at -3°C and 60% chance of flurries, Sunday at -8°C with 40% flurry chance.
Road Conditions
Roads may turn slick from melting daytime precipitation refreezing overnight, compounded by fresh snow accumulation and winds. A parking ban for snow removal is in effect today. Winter tires are mandatory in Ontario.
What To Do Now (Weather)
With 2-4 cm of snow falling overnight and wind chill dropping to -23°C, plan to scrape your car early Thursday morning. Roads will be slick from freeze-thaw cycles, so allow extra commute time. If you’re skating the Canal today, the Rideau-to-Bank section has the best conditions.
Weekend Events at a Glance
Thursday, January 15:
- National Gallery GLOW PARTY @ Scotiabank Great Hall, 5:00-8:00 PM (FREE, advance registration recommended)
- Vaccination Clinic @ Renfrew Service Hub, 12:20-1:20 PM (FREE)
Friday, January 16:
- Ottawa 67’s vs. Gatineau Olympiques @ TD Place, 7:00 PM ($15-40)
- Ottawa Frost Mayhem 2026 Kickoff @ Solena Nightclub, evening (18+)
- Joke Signals Comedy @ Laugh Lounge, 8:30 PM
- Carleton Ravens Basketball @ Ravens’ Nest, 8:00 PM
Saturday, January 17:
- BON Market @ National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St (FREE)
- Ottawa Senators vs. Canadiens @ Canadian Tire Centre, 7:00 PM (from $104)
- The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers in Concert @ TD Place Arena
- James Joyce Tea & Readings @ St. Brigid’s Centre, afternoon
- Ottawa 67’s @ Gatineau, 4:00 PM
- Leather Work Workshop @ Cumberland Heritage Village Museum ($116.34)
- Carleton Ravens Basketball @ Ravens’ Nest, 8:00 PM
Sunday, January 18:
- Ottawa 67’s vs. Peterborough Petes @ TD Place, 3:00 PM ($15-40)
- FemmeVox 10 @ GCTC Mainstage, 7:30 PM
- Pros n Joes Comedy @ Laugh Lounge, 8:00 PM
All Weekend:
- Rideau Canal Skateway open 24/7 (weather permitting)
- Copperbelt @ NAC Studio (running through January 24)
- Winter Count exhibition @ National Gallery of Canada
- Skiing at Camp Fortune, Calabogie, Mont Cascades
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is PM Mark Carney visiting China right now?
Yes, Prime Minister Mark Carney departed for a nine-day trip to China on January 13, 2026. This is the first such visit by a Canadian PM in nearly a decade, with meetings planned with President Xi Jinping to discuss trade, energy, agriculture, and security matters amid heightened U.S. tensions.
Q: How many federal public service jobs are being cut?
Federal departments are targeting 40,000 position reductions by 2028-29 under Budget 2025. Statistics Canada alone plans to eliminate 850 roles over two years. Other departments including Natural Resources Canada (400 positions), Public Service Commission (157), and Crown-Indigenous Relations (94) have also issued notices.
Q: What happened with Kiefer Sutherland in Ottawa?
Actor Kiefer Sutherland was arrested for allegedly assaulting a ride-hail driver in Ottawa. He has been released on $50,000 bond with a court date set for February 2, 2026. The incident is being investigated by Ottawa Police Service.
Q: Is the Rideau Canal Skateway open today?
Yes, the Rideau Canal Skateway is fully operational at 7.8 km for its 56th season. As of January 14, the Rideau to Bank section is rated “very good” (swept and flooded), Bank to Bronson is “poor,” and Bronson to Library is “fair.” The Skateway is open 24/7 weather permitting.
Q: What’s the Ottawa weather forecast for tonight?
According to Environment Canada, expect 2-4 cm of snow overnight with temperatures dropping to -13°C. Northwest winds gusting to 40 km/h will produce wind chill values reaching -23°C by morning. Roads may be slick from freeze-thaw cycles.
Q: Are there any power outages in Ottawa today?
Hydro Ottawa has scheduled a planned power interruption on Falaise Road and Ortona Avenue in the River Ward from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM on January 14 for maintenance. No other major outages have been reported.
Q: What new tax changes affect Ottawa residents in 2026?
The lowest federal income tax rate dropped from 15% to 14% on the first ~$58,500 of income. Ottawa property taxes increased 3.75%, adding about $166 to the average residential bill. Transit fares rose, with adult monthly passes now at $138.50. Some renters in older buildings may qualify for a 0.89% rent reduction.
Q: Where can I get vaccinated in Ottawa this week?
Free COVID-19, flu, and eligible RSV vaccines are available at pharmacies and healthcare providers. A vaccination clinic runs January 15 in Renfrew from 12:20-1:20 PM at Renfrew Service Hub. Ottawa Public Health’s Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs also offer drop-in services.
Q: What’s happening at the National Arts Centre this week?
The NAC Orchestra performs Mozart, Márquez & Pablo Sáinz-Villegas tonight at 8:00 PM in Southam Hall. “Copperbelt,” a world premiere Canadian drama, runs January 13-24 at the NAC Studio. On January 20, a tribute concert for retiring conductor Alexander Shelley features Beethoven’s “Eroica.”
Q: Is the National Gallery of Canada free today?
Yes, the National Gallery offers free admission until 6:00 PM on Wednesday. Regular free Thursday Nights run 5-8 PM with BMO sponsorship. The “Winter Count: Embracing the Cold” exhibition is currently on display.
Q: What OC Transpo routes are detoured right now?
Route 35 is skipping Centrum to Tenth Line; Route 90 detours on Riverside Drive due to sewer work; Route 12 bypasses Jasmine Crescent; Route 162 avoids Canadian Tire Centre Park & Ride; Route 40 near Albion is detoured via Rosebella and Bank until May 2026. Walkley Station’s northbound elevator #31 is out for maintenance.
Q: When is the next Ottawa Senators home game?
The Senators play at home vs. Montreal Canadiens on Friday, January 17 at 7:00 PM at Canadian Tire Centre. Tickets start from $104. Tonight they’re away at New York Rangers at 7:30 PM EST.
Q: What immigration changes took effect in January 2026?
IRCC released 110,000 additional economic-class immigration spots on January 6. The Start-Up Visa program closed to new applications as of January 1. Master’s and PhD students at public institutions are now exempt from Provincial Attestation Letters. Lower Express Entry CRS cut-offs are expected through 2026.
Q: Are there any scam warnings for Ottawa right now?
Ongoing scams targeting Ottawa include CRA phone scams demanding gift card payments, grandparent scams targeting seniors, bank investigator scams requesting card handovers, and fake e-transfer confirmations on online marketplaces. Report suspicious activity to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
Q: What free events are happening in Ottawa this week?
Tonight features a free Kizomba dance lesson at Arts Court (6:30 PM). Thursday’s GLOW PARTY at the National Gallery is free with advance registration. Saturday’s BON Market at NAC features African and Caribbean vendors with free admission. The Rideau Canal Skateway is free 24/7.
Final Summary
Ottawa heads into mid-January 2026 with significant political and economic developments shaping the landscape. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s historic visit to China signals a potential shift in Canada’s trade relationships amid U.S. tensions, while federal workforce reductions continue to impact public servants across the capital. The arrest of actor Kiefer Sutherland adds an unexpected tabloid element to the day’s news.
For residents, the practical concerns remain weather and transit. Tonight’s 2-4 cm of snow and wind chills reaching -23°C mean Thursday morning commutes will require extra time and patience. OC Transpo continues managing fleet challenges with multiple route detours in effect.
On the brighter side, Ottawa’s cultural calendar remains vibrant. The Rideau Canal Skateway is fully operational at 7.8 km, the NAC Orchestra performs tonight, and this weekend brings the 67’s rivalry matchup with Gatineau, the popular BON Market, and “The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers” in concert with a 250-piece orchestra.
The Canada Strong Pass museum discounts end tomorrow (January 15), so take advantage while you can. And for job seekers, the Uline hiring event on January 23 offers bilingual sales positions paying up to $165,000 annually.
Stay warm, stay informed, and check back for tomorrow’s Ottawa Daily News.
Sources & References
Sources cited inline throughout the article:
- Environment Canada
- Ottawa Police Service
- OC Transpo
- City of Ottawa
- Ottawa Public Health
- National Arts Centre
- National Gallery of Canada
- NCC Rideau Canal Skateway
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
- Canada Revenue Agency
- Hydro Ottawa
- Ottawa Public Library
- Canadian Tire Centre
- Ottawa 67’s
- House of TARG
- Camp Fortune
This daily news roundup covers events and news for Ottawa residents. For the latest updates, check venue websites and social media. Information accurate as of publication time.
