Ottawa Daily News: January 19, 2026

Last Updated: January 19, 2026 at 7:00 AM ET

Ottawa starts the week with a chill as federal public service workforce adjustments continue to dominate headlines, alongside a snowy commute that demands extra caution on the roads.

It’s Monday, January 19, 2026, and the capital is waking up to a brisk winter morning. While no massive storm is battering the city today, persistent light snow and biting winds are keeping winter firmly in charge. Beyond the weather, the biggest conversation in town remains the federal government’s ongoing workforce reduction plan, with more notices going out to departments across the region. Whether you’re navigating the O-Train, checking in on hospital wait times, or looking for tonight’s entertainment, here is everything happening in Ottawa today.

Key Highlights

TL;DR: Federal employees are facing a tense week as layoff notices continue under the government’s workforce adjustment plan. On the roads, light snow and wind chill near -18°C are making for a slippery drive. Meanwhile, hospital ERs remain busy with seasonal respiratory viruses, though flu numbers are trending down.

Quick Facts	Details
📅 Date	Monday, January 19, 2026
🌡️ Weather	High -6°C, Low -12°C, Wind Chill -18°C
🚗 Traffic	Slick sections; 417 construction at Island Park
🎉 Top Event	5-Star Monday Band at The Laff
🏒 Sports	Senators are away vs. Detroit/Columbus

Breaking News & Important Updates

As of 7:30 AM ET, January 19, 2026

Major Breaking Developments

Federal Public Service Workforce Adjustments Escalate The federal government’s workforce adjustment strategy is intensifying this week, with notices continuing to be distributed across several key departments. Following Budget 2025’s directive to reduce the public service by tens of thousands of positions by 2028-29, employees at Statistics Canada, Natural Resources Canada, and Crown-Indigenous Relations have begun receiving surplus notices. For those affected, understanding the nuances of Workforce Adjustment options and priority status is critical right now. Statistics Canada alone is expected to see a reduction of approximately 850 positions over the next two years. These cuts are part of a broader effort to streamline operations, but they have sparked significant anxiety and protest within Ottawa’s large public sector workforce.

Immediate Impact at Statistics Canada The workforce adjustments are already in motion at Statistics Canada. Reports indicate that approximately 100 employees have recently received surplus notices as part of the initial phase of the reduction strategy. This tangible step underscores the urgency and reality of the budget cuts, moving from policy announcements to direct action affecting local livelihoods.

City of Ottawa Budget Hits Home Residents are beginning to feel the impact of the 2026 municipal budget, which was approved late last year. The budget introduces a 3.75% property tax increase, which translates to roughly an additional $166 annually for the average home assessed at $415,000. Additionally, an 8% transit levy increase is now in effect, aimed at funding improvements to the O-Train and bus networks despite ongoing service criticisms.

Ontario Public Service Return-to-Office Friction Tensions remain high following the January 5 mandatory return to full-time office work for Ontario public service employees. Unions continue to protest the removal of hybrid work options, arguing it affects morale and productivity. This shift is also creating ripple effects in downtown Ottawa, increasing daily commuter traffic and demand for local services, but also adding strain to an already fragile relationship between the province and its workforce.

What To Do Now (Federal Employees)

If you are affected by workforce adjustments, verify your status immediately through the official government jobs portal or your department’s HR intranet. Connect with your union representative to understand your rights regarding redeployment and priority status for other open positions.

Public Safety

Quiet Night for Ottawa Police Ottawa Police Service reports a relatively quiet night with no major incidents, arrests, or ongoing investigations disrupting public safety in the capital as of early this morning. This calm is a welcome respite, though officers remain vigilant regarding winter driving infractions and routine patrols.

Winter Road Safety Advisory While there are no active weather warnings, Ottawa motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution. The combination of light snow accumulation (1-2 cm) and wind chills dropping to -18°C can create slick, icy patches on untreated surfaces. For detailed tips on navigating these conditions, check our Winter Commuting & Road Safety Guide. Drivers should clear all snow from vehicles before heading out and allow extra stopping distance, especially on bridges and overpasses where ice forms first.

National Incident Monitor On the national front, the Serious Incident Response Team is investigating a police-involved shooting that occurred yesterday evening in Neqotkuk First Nation, New Brunswick. While this event is distant from Ottawa, it underscores the ongoing national dialogue regarding police interactions, a topic frequently discussed in federal policy circles here in the capital.

Government & Policy Changes

New Tax Realities for 2026 Several tax changes effective from late 2025 are now influencing paycheques in the new year. The federal income tax rate for the lowest bracket has dropped to 14%, a move expected to save average earners approximately $190 annually. Meanwhile, the consumer carbon tax was eliminated last year—saving drivers about 17.6 cents per litre at the pump—but the industrial carbon tax has risen to $110 per tonne. This shift aims to push large polluters to reduce emissions but may indirectly increase costs for utilities and manufactured goods.

Upcoming Alcohol Tax Hike Looking ahead, residents should prepare for an increase in alcohol taxes. On April 1, 2026, the federal alcohol excise duty will rise by 2%. This adjustment is projected to add a $41 million burden province-wide, likely translating to higher prices at LCBO and local breweries later this spring.

Jobs & Employment

Tech Sector Cools Down Ottawa’s employment landscape is showing signs of a shift, particularly in the private sector. Recent national data indicates a softening in professional, scientific, and technical services—a key pillar of the local economy. While healthcare and social assistance sectors are adding roles, the tech industry is seeing a slowdown in hiring, reflecting a more cautious business environment amidst economic uncertainty.

Unemployment Rates and Resources The national unemployment rate sits near 6.8% as more Canadians re-enter the labour force. For Ottawa job seekers, navigating this market requires a targeted approach. While no major single-employer hiring blitz is announced for today, candidates are encouraged to utilize Invest Ottawa for private-sector opportunities and the federal government’s official jobs portal for public service competitions.

What To Do Now (Job Seekers)

Update your resume to highlight transferable skills, especially if you are transitioning from the public to private sector. Monitor the Federal Government Jobs site daily, as internal deployments and new competitions can open with short application windows.

Immigration & Newcomers

Immigration Levels Adjustment For newcomers and those awaiting permanent residency, 2026 brings new targets. Canada plans to admit 380,000 permanent residents this year, a slight decrease from the 395,000 target in 2025. However, there is good news for those already in the country: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently announced 110,000 additional economic-class spots effective earlier this month. This move prioritizes in-Canada workers for faster residency pathways, directly benefiting temporary foreign workers and international graduates in Ottawa.

Ontario Removes “Canadian Experience” Barrier A significant provincial policy change is now active as of January 1, 2026. Ontario has banned employers from requiring “Canadian work experience” in job postings and application forms. This groundbreaking shift is designed to help qualified immigrants integrate faster into the labour market, addressing skill shortages in sectors like healthcare and engineering without the catch-22 of needing local experience to get a first job.

Language Training for Newcomers For those looking to improve their English or French skills, the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program offers free classes funded by IRCC. Eligible permanent residents and convention refugees can access these courses at various locations, including the YMCA-YWCA of the National Capital Region, Ottawa Public Library branches, and Algonquin College. Registration is available through the IRCC portal, and assessments are often the first step to placement.

Health & Wellness

Hospital Status Update Ottawa’s healthcare system continues to operate under high demand. Emergency rooms at The Ottawa Hospital and CHEO are reporting moderate to high volumes as of this morning. Residents with non-urgent conditions are advised to consider alternatives such as walk-in clinics or virtual care to avoid long wait times.

Respiratory Virus Trends The peak of the flu season appears to be breaking, but the virus is still circulating. Provincial data shows flu activity at a moderate 13.9% positivity rate, trending downward from previous weeks. COVID-19 activity remains low at 5.8% positivity. Parents should note that while flu numbers are dropping, RSV rates are slightly increasing. For those still needing vaccinations, especially for children under five, the Virtual Immunization Hub remains available at 613-580-6744.

What To Do Now (Health)

If you require non-emergency care, check Ottawa Public Health’s dashboard for clinic wait times before leaving home. Wash your hands frequently and wear a mask in crowded indoor spaces to protect against the lingering flu and rising RSV cases.

Scams & Fraud Alerts ⚠️

Active Threats in Ottawa Ottawa Police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre are warning residents about a persistent wave of sophisticated scams targeting the capital region. Phone scams involving aggressive “CRA agents” threatening arrest for unpaid taxes remain a top threat, often demanding payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency. Similarly, “grandparent scams”—where a fraudster poses as a distressed relative needing urgent bail money—continue to victimize seniors.

Marketplace and Phishing Risks Online, marketplace fraud is evolving. Sellers on platforms like Facebook Marketplace are reporting “reverse e-transfer” scams where buyers send links that supposedly deposit funds but actually grant scammers access to bank accounts. Additionally, phishing emails promising “unclaimed tax refunds” are circulating, designed to steal social insurance numbers and banking credentials.

Romance and Investment Scams With Valentine’s Day approaching next month, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre is flagging an uptick in romance scams. Fraudsters build online relationships over weeks or months before requesting money for “emergencies” or travel. Similarly, cryptocurrency investment schemes are proliferating on social media, often endorsed by fake celebrity profiles or compromised accounts. Residents are reminded that if an investment opportunity guarantees high returns with zero risk, it is almost certainly a scam.

What To Do Now (Fraud Prevention)

Never click on links in unsolicited texts or emails claiming to be from the CRA or a bank. If you receive a threatening call, hang up immediately and verify the status of your account through official channels. When selling online, insist on cash or standard e-transfers and never log into your bank account through a link provided by a buyer.

Transit & Getting Around

OC Transpo Service Updates Monday commuters should be aware of a few detours currently in effect. Route 153 is diverting near McEwen Avenue and Ambleside Drive; riders are advised to use alternate stops at Montréal/de l’Église (0926) or Montfort/Ste Anne (8745). Additionally, Route 35 is detoured near Avalon and Centrum. On the O-Train, Line 1 is running on schedule this morning, with no reported delays to start the week.

Fare Changes & Future Service As a reminder to occasional riders, the new 2026 fares are in effect, with adult single-ride cash fares now at $4.10. Regular commuters can look forward to promised service improvements later this year, including increased off-peak frequency on Line 1 and an extended 105-minute transfer window on weekday afternoons.

Road Construction & Traffic Drivers on Highway 417 eastbound will encounter delays between Island Park Drive and Kent Street, where the highway is reduced to three lanes due to ongoing construction. While major closures are not scheduled for this morning, the lane reduction combined with snowy conditions is likely to slow traffic significantly during peak hours.

What To Do Now (Commuters)

If you rely on Route 153 or 35, check the OC Transpo Live Updates page before heading out to confirm your stop location. For drivers, plan for an extra 15-20 minutes on the Queensway eastbound through the Island Park construction zone.

Live Music Tonight: Where to Catch a Show

As of 12:00 PM ET, January 19, 2026

Live music at The Laff Image: The historic Château Lafayette comes alive with Monday night tunes.

The Laff (Château Lafayette)

Time: 8:00 PM
Artist: 5-Star Monday Band
Price: Free / Cover may apply
Details: Kick off your week with live music at Ottawa’s oldest tavern. The 5-Star Monday Band is a local staple, bringing high-energy covers and blues to the ByWard Market. It’s the perfect antidote to the Monday blues.

Upcoming Highlights

Dominion Tavern: Known for its gritty charm, “The Dom” hosts Norilsk on January 22. Expect loud, heavy metal in a venue that has seen it all.
City At Night: For electronic music fans, So Durand takes over the decks on January 23. This Bank Street venue is the go-to for intimate club vibes.
Canadian Tire Centre: Jazz vocalist Kellylee Evans is set to perform on January 25. Note that this performance might be in a smaller configuration or lounge area, offering a rare intimate experience in the massive arena.

Theatre & Shows Coming This Month

January 2026 Theatre Calendar

While the major stages at the National Arts Centre (NAC) and Great Canadian Theatre Company (GCTC) are quiet for tonight, the cultural calendar is filling up for the season.

Upcoming Performances

National Arts Centre: Look ahead to March 20 for jazz artist William Prince at Southam Hall.
Absolute Comedy: Comedy fans can plan ahead for Eric Johnston, scheduled to bring laughs in April.
Local Venues: Keep an eye on Ottawa Tourism for last-minute pop-up shows and community theatre announcements as the winter season progresses.

Looking Further Ahead As January wraps up, Ottawa’s entertainment calendar heats up. On January 31, Pink Floyd fans can catch the Comfortably Numb tribute show at the Algonquin Commons Theatre, promising a spectacular laser and light show. Looking into March, ticket holders are eagerly awaiting the William Prince concert at the NAC, a highlight for jazz and folk enthusiasts.

Sports This Weekend

As of 12:00 PM ET, January 19, 2026

Canadian Tire Centre for Senators game Image: The Ottawa Senators are on the road, preparing for their next home clash.

Ottawa Senators (NHL) The Senators are currently on a road trip, having played in Detroit yesterday. They are now preparing to face the Columbus Blue Jackets tomorrow, January 20. Fans can look forward to their return to the Canadian Tire Centre on Thursday, January 22, when they host the Carolina Hurricanes. Tickets for the home game start around $25.

Local Hockey & University Sports

Ottawa 67’s: No home game scheduled for tonight. Check the OHL schedule for upcoming matchups.
University Sports: With the winter term in full swing, both the Carleton Ravens and uOttawa Gee-Gees are active. While no marquee games are set for this Monday evening, basketball and hockey schedules resume later in the week at the Ravens’ Nest and Montpetit Hall.

Museums & Attractions: What’s Open Today

As of 9:00 AM ET, January 19, 2026

Image: Explore innovation at the Canada Science and Technology Museum.

Most of Ottawa’s national museums are open today, offering a warm escape from the cold, but there is one notable closure.

Open Today

Canada Science and Technology Museum: Open 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. A great spot for families to explore interactive exhibits.
Canada Aviation and Space Museum: Open 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Canadian War Museum: Open 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM.
National Gallery of Canada: Open 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Diefenbunker: Open 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. A unique Cold War history experience.

Closed Today

Canadian Museum of Nature: Closed for annual maintenance and cleaning. Regular hours resume later in the week.

Skating & Winter Recreation

As of 10:00 AM ET, January 19, 2026

Skating on the Rink of Dreams Image: Skaters enjoy the ice at Ottawa City Hall’s Rink of Dreams.

Rideau Canal Skateway With temperatures hovering around -6°C, conditions are improving for the world’s largest skating rink. However, the status can change daily based on overnight lows. Skaters should check the NCC’s website for the green flag before heading down.

Refrigerated Rinks (Open)

Rink of Dreams (City Hall): Open 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
Lansdowne Park Skating Court: Open 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
Ben Franklin Place: Open daily.

Ski Conditions Local hills are reporting solid conditions thanks to recent snow accumulation.

Camp Fortune: 50-80 cm base, open 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
Calabogie Peaks: 60-90 cm base, full terrain open.
Mont Cascades: 40-70 cm base.

Dining & Nightlife

As of 4:00 PM ET, January 19, 2026

Dining in ByWard Market Image: Warm lights and good food await in the ByWard Market.

Monday nights offer some excellent dining values for those looking to start the week with a treat.

Happy Hour Highlights

Bier Markt: Specials run from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM and again from 9:00 PM to close.
ByWard Market: Check out Copper Spirits & Sights or JOEY Rideau for early evening drink and appetizer deals.
The Shore Club: Known for its seafood, this spot is perfect for a more upscale Monday evening meal.

ByWard Market Dining Gems Beyond the happy hour spots, the ByWard Market remains a culinary hub. Sidedoor Contemporary Kitchen & Bar continues to draw crowds for its famous tacos and Asian-fusion dishes, while Social Ottawa offers a chic atmosphere for those seeking modern Canadian cuisine. For a casual yet refined experience, Grey’s Social Eatery is another excellent option mentioned in recent local guides.

Nightlife For a relaxed vibe, The Clarendon offers a cozy atmosphere for drinks. Those seeking entertainment can look forward to upcoming DJ nights at The Brass Monkey later in the month.

Library Programs & Free Events

Monday, January 19, 2026

Reading at the Ottawa Public Library Image: Cozy up with a good book or community activity at your local branch.

The Ottawa Public Library (OPL) has a busy schedule today, perfect for families and residents looking for connection.

Morning Activities (10:30 AM)

Ruth E. Dickinson Branch: Toddler Storytime (ages 19-35 months) and Family Storytime.
St-Laurent Branch: Toddler Storytime.
Greenboro Branch: Family Storytime for all ages.

Afternoon Drop-Ins (1:30 PM)

Carlingwood Branch: Crafting Circle – bring your knitting, crochet, or other handwork projects.
Cumberland Branch: Drop-in board games, cards, and chess.
Orléans Branch: Soft Pop Singing circle – open to all skill levels.

Weather Outlook

As of 6:00 AM ET, January 19, 2026

Winter weather in Ottawa Image: Snow flurries and grey skies set the tone for today’s weather.

Current Conditions: Light snow and -8°C (feels like -15°C).

Forecast Today will be cloudy with periods of light snow, totaling about 2 cm of accumulation. The high will reach -6°C, but blustery southwest winds gusting to 40 km/h will keep the wind chill near -18°C. Tonight, the temperature drops to -12°C with lingering flurries. Looking ahead to Tuesday, expect the sun to return, but temperatures will dip further, making for a brighter but colder day.

What To Do Now (Weather)

Dress in warm layers and ensure your winter accessories (toque, mitts, scarf) are ready for the biting wind chill. If you are driving this evening, clear your car completely of snow and watch for drifting on open roads like the 417 and rural highways.

Weekend Events at a Glance

Looking Ahead: January 23–25, 2026

While it is only Monday, it’s never too early to plan your weekend. Here is a sneak peek at what’s coming up in Ottawa.

Friday, January 23:

Music: So Durand at City At Night, [Time TBA].
Sports: Carleton Ravens Basketball vs. [Opponent TBA] at Ravens’ Nest.

Saturday, January 24:

Hockey: Ottawa Senators vs. Carolina Hurricanes at Canadian Tire Centre, 7:00 PM.
Outdoors: Night skiing at Camp Fortune, open until 10:00 PM.

Sunday, January 25:

Concert: Kellylee Evans at Canadian Tire Centre (check venue for specific stage/hall), [Time TBA].
Family: Winter activities at local museums.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are there federal layoffs happening today in Ottawa? Yes, notices are being distributed as part of the government’s workforce adjustment plan. Departments like Statistics Canada and Natural Resources Canada are among those affected this week.

Q: Is the Rideau Canal Skateway open today? It is likely closed or has limited access due to recent fluctuating temperatures. Always check the NCC website for the daily flag status before going.

Q: What is the driving condition in Ottawa right now? Roads are slick with light snow and ice patches. Construction on the 417 eastbound at Island Park is also causing delays.

Q: Are schools closed today? No school bus cancellations or closures have been reported for the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board or Ottawa Catholic School Board for January 19.

Q: Where can I get a flu shot in Ottawa? You can book appointments through Ottawa Public Health or visit local pharmacies. The Virtual Immunization Hub (613-580-6744) is available for high-risk groups and children under five.

Q: Is the O-Train running normally? Yes, Line 1 is operating on schedule. Remember that 2026 fares are now in effect ($4.10 for an adult single ride).

Q: What museums are open on Mondays in Ottawa? Most national museums are open, including Science & Tech, War, Aviation, and the National Gallery. The Museum of Nature is currently closed for annual maintenance.

Final Summary

As Ottawa navigates a chilly start to the week, the atmosphere is defined by both winter weather and significant public service shifts. The ongoing federal workforce adjustments are a source of concern for many, while the city’s budget impact is starting to be felt in daily life through transit levies and upcoming tax hikes. Despite these challenges, the community pulse remains strong—from the live music at The Laff to families enjoying the museums. Commuters should remain cautious on the slick roads this evening, and everyone should bundle up against the biting wind chill. Stay safe, Ottawa, and check back tomorrow for the latest updates.

Sources & References

The following sources were used to verify the information in this article:

This daily news roundup covers events and news for Ottawa residents. For the latest updates, check venue websites and social media.

Ottawa Daily News: January 19, 2026 - Federal Job Cuts & Winter Weather