The Big Story Big Headlines: Canadian inflation data comes in cooler than expected and Canada strikes more gold in Italy
Feb 17, 2026
Quick coverage of cooler-than-expected Canadian inflation and what drove the slowdown. Reports on a school closure and community response after a shooting in Tumbler Ridge. Updates on more Canadian gold medals and Olympic highlights in Milano-Cortina. Reflections on the deaths of Jesse Jackson and Robert Duvall. Notes on cultural celebrations happening today.
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Inflation Eases But Caution Remains
- Canada's annual inflation rate eased to 2.3% in January driven by lower gas and cooler shelter inflation.
- Economists like Taylor Schleich warn it's too early to declare victory and the Bank of Canada will scrutinize the data.
Energy Cuts Offset Rising Restaurant Prices
- Gas prices fell 16.5% year-over-year partly because the consumer carbon price ended last April.
- Restaurant food costs rose about 12%, influenced by last year's GST holiday baseline effects.
Tumbler Ridge School Trauma And Response
- Tumbler Ridge Secondary remains closed after a week following a deadly mass shooting and 14 portables are arriving to ease safety concerns.
- A student locked in a bathroom stall for two hours described fear until police escorted her out, highlighting trauma in the community.