Six stories in the news today, Sept. 14

Six stories in the news today from The Canadian Press

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IMMIGRATION PROCESS WORKING FINE: MULRONEY

Former prime minister Brian Mulroney has waded into the debate over screening newcomers for “anti-Canadian values,” saying he sees no need to toughen the immigration process as one Conservative leadership contender is suggesting. Ontario MP Kellie Leitch has floated the idea of testing potential immigrants for “Canadian values.” Mulroney said that’s unnecessary.

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ONTARIO POLICE OVERSIGHT FORUMS BEGIN TODAY

A far-reaching review of civilian oversight of police in Ontario kicks off a series of public consultations today as critics of the status quo call for sweeping reforms. Led by Justice Michael Tulloch, the review has a broad mandate to recommend ways to enhance oversight accountability and transparency, long an emotional bone of contention.

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CLOSING ARGUMENTS TODAY IN MURDER TRIAL FOR CALGARY PARENTS

Closing arguments will take place today at the trial of Emil and Rodica Radita, who are charged with first-degree murder in the 2013 death of their 15-year-old son, Alexandru. The teen died of starvation and untreated diabetes. He weighed less than 37 pounds at the time of his death, court has heard.

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RCMP GETTING NALOXONE TO DEAL WITH FENTANYL

RCMP officers will soon be carrying naloxone nasal spray to protect themselves against accidental contact with opioids such as the potentially deadly fentanyl. Commissioner Bob Paulson says he cannot overstate the danger of the powerful synthetic drug that has already killed thousands. “It’s spreading across the country, leaving a trail of misery and death,” he said Tuesday.

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DRYWALL COSTS SHOOT THROUGH THE ROOF IN WEST

Drywall prices across Western Canada have shot through the roof after the federal government imposed preliminary anti-dumping tariffs of up to 276 per cent on gypsum board products imported from the United States. Builders and suppliers fear the ruling could disrupt the supply of the boarding used in walls and ceilings and threaten the completion of residential, commercial and public projects. The tariffs also risk bankrupting contractors who operate under fixed-priced contracts.

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STARBUCKS ADDING CALORIE COUNTS TO MENU BOARDS

Do you know how many calories are in that venti Caramel Frappuccino? You may not now, but soon those numbers will be staring you in the face when you place an order at Starbucks. The world’s largest coffee chain is adding calorie counts to its menu boards for all beverages and food items sold in Canada. The changes will come into effect for drinks on Sept. 29 and food items on Nov. 2.

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ALSO IN THE NEWS TODAY:

— The federal Conservative caucus meeting continues in Halifax.

— The New Democratic Party continues a caucus retreat in Montreal.

— Statistics Canada will release Canada’s international investment position for the second quarter.

— Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan will meet with indigenous leaders and groups in Winnipeg to discuss Canada’s defence policy review.