Hot Minute Calgary Daily Brief: 30, 10, 2025
Let get into it!
Calgary, It's Time to Stand Up: The AFL's Call for Action
The Alberta Federation of Labour (AFL) is calling on Calgarians to take a stand against legislative changes they argue threaten fundamental rights. At the heart of the matter is the UCP government's Bill 2, known as the "Back to School Act," which controversially employed the notwithstanding clause to dictate public and private sector negotiations. This move has ignited strong reactions from unions and many across Calgary.
This legislation mandates that striking teachers return to work by October 29, bringing an end to a three-week strike that has impacted 740,000 students across Alberta. The government claims the bill balances affordability, offering a 12% wage increase over four years and committing to add 3,000 teachers and 1,500 educational assistants. However, the Alberta Teachers' Association argues these efforts are insufficient, especially in light of Calgary's persistently increasing class sizes. For Calgary families, this dispute directly impacts their children's education and the quality of learning environments in our growing city.
The AFL is exploring significant actions, including potentially defunding private schools and even considering a general strike, despite the threat of substantial fines. This movement is backed by strong local support, exemplified by 78% of UFCW Local 401 members voting in favour of strike action. Such widespread backing highlights Calgary's deep-seated civic activism and could reshape future labor relations within the province.
Calgary's Housing Market: Steady Growth and Surprising Stability
Calgary's real estate market is currently experiencing a notable period of calm amidst its typically dynamic nature. As of late October 2025, there are 6,869 active listings. While recent days saw zero movement in daily sales, this could signal a potential resurgence, creating an interesting landscape for both current homeowners and prospective buyers.
Prices continue to show resilience, with a year-to-date average sales price of $630,379. Although the benchmark price has seen a slight dip compared to last year, forecasts remain optimistic, anticipating sales to be 20% above long-term trends. Calgarians can expect more balanced market conditions with the ongoing influx of new home constructions and rentals, alongside a significant 36.5% increase in inventory. This transition offers enhanced buyer empowerment, providing more choices and negotiation leverage. While higher-priced homes may face increased competition, lower-priced homes are likely to remain strong due to consistent demand and limited availability.
Charges Upgraded: Northwest Calgary Altercation Turns Fatal
A somber update from Northwest Calgary reveals that charges against 79-year-old Chiu Man YUEN have been elevated to manslaughter in connection with the death of 76-year-old Kwok Leung LAU. This tragic incident underscores vital concerns regarding the safety of Calgary's elderly residents.
Despite Calgary's general reputation as a safe city, events like these serve as a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance. Police are actively seeking a witness to the incident, emphasizing the crucial role of community cooperation in ensuring justice. Residents are encouraged to report any relevant information to law enforcement.
Boosting Resilience: New Training for Calgary's ER Heroes
Calgary's dedicated emergency room workers are set to benefit from a newly introduced trauma and resilience training program, uniquely developed with local context by University of Calgary researchers. This initiative aims to bolster the mental health and efficiency of ER staff, especially crucial given the city's rapid population growth, which saw an increase of 95,784 people in 2023.
With ER wait times in Calgary often reaching concerning lengths, this program is pivotal. Conducted over six years within a Calgary hospital, the training equips healthcare workers with essential resilience strategies. This development promises not only improved emergency care for local residents but also has the potential to establish a new benchmark for healthcare practices nationally. For Calgarians seeking emergency care, this initiative could translate to more effective and compassionate service when it matters most.
That's it for today. Don't forget, you can get more stories, perspectives, and info over at www.hotminutecalgary.com. And if you've got something to say - we might want to hear it, and we might want to share it... Don't be shy — connect with us at hello@hotminutecalgary.com.
