Canadian Market (August 01, 2009)

ONTARIO AUTO RATES UP 5.86% IN 2009 Q2 THE FINANCIAL SERVICES

Commission of Ontario (FSCO) approved an average rate increase of 5.86% for auto insurance, when weighted by market share, in 2009 Q2.

Belair Insurance Company Inc. received approval for a decrease of 0.47%. It was the only insurer to decrease its rates in the quarter.

CAA Insurance Company (Ontario) received approval for the largest rate increase at 12.10%.

MANITOBA BEEFS UP FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT

Manitoba will upgrade its forest-fighting fleet with a Cdn$1.4-million investment in advanced avionics.

The seven water bombers will be enhanced with vision systems for pilots to help battle fires when visibility is low, said Stan Struthers, Manitoba’s conservation minister.

“This is key. It will increase our efficiency and make sure our crews are safe,” he said.

As of June 25, Manitoba Conservation’s Fire Program has recorded 115 fires in 2009, despite wet and cool conditions earlier this year. Human beings caused 63 of these fires, a Manitoba government release says.

Manitoba Conservation now has a total of 294 firefighters and six contract helicopters, in addition to the seven water bombers, to battle forest fires.