Global National: Oct. 17, 2026 | Protests across France, Europe turn violent

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Chaos has erupted across France and parts of Europe as protesters have taken to the streets, causing some of the most destructive demonstrations seen in years. What started as students voicing their frustration over the poor state of schools and education in France has grown into nationwide protests in support of the students and against the rising cost of living. Candice Cole has our top story.

Saturday is the last day for advance polls in Alberta, ahead of Monday's vote on a pivotal referendum on separation. Elections Alberta reported more than 703,000 people have now cast their ballots in advance voting. Combined with special ballots, that's more than 1.2 million Albertans who have already voted. Jeff Semple has more.

Protesters marched through downtown Halifax, raising concerns about a planned AI data centre near Point Tupper, N.S. Organizers questioned its environmental impact and promised jobs, while residents raise concerns about its use of the town’s drinking water source. David Murdock reports on the opposition and Premier Tim Houston’s push for more secure data infrastructure.

Ottawa's multi-billion-dollar Indigenous procurement program — which an ombud called the worst systemic failure he has seen — is back under the microscope. The program was designed to give First Nations, Inuit and Métis-owned companies five per cent of Ottawa's procurement contracts — a move meant to boost Indigenous economies. But instead, many non-Indigenous companies got these contracts. Melissa Ridgen reports.

A push is underway to get more women behind the controls of Canada's aircraft. The 'Girls Take Flight' event in Toronto at Billy Bishop Airport showed the next generation the endless possibilities of pursuing a career in aviation and aerospace. As Lexy Benedict reports, some even have the chance to experience life in the sky.

Chapters:

0:00 Global headlines
0:55 Unrest in France
3:31 Montreal solidarity protest
5:42 Albanian protests
6:19 International conflicts
7:26 Alberta referendum update
10:49 Stellantis labour dispute
11:19 Indigenous business inquiry
13:41 Disasters and health news
15:35 Mountain disaster science
18:27 Encouraging female pilots