OTTAWA – CBC News’ The National broadcast featured updates on the Artemis II mission and a developing dispute in Nova Scotia regarding cannabis sales and treaty rights.

Artemis II Crew Nears Earth Return

The Artemis II astronauts are preparing for their return to Earth after their lunar flyby, with splashdown scheduled for just after 8:00 p.m. Eastern time on Friday, according to the broadcast. The crew conducted a live connection with the Canadian Space Agency and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who expressed his inspiration from their journey. Astronaut Jeremy Hansen stated he has been focused on re-entry procedures since April 3, 2023. The crew is also working to resolve a malfunction with the spacecraft’s toilet. NASA’s primary focus is now on ensuring the crew’s safe return and the recovery of data collected during the mission.

Nova Scotia Cannabis Dispute Intensifies

Tensions are rising in Nova Scotia over the sale of unregulated cannabis, particularly concerning Indigenous treaty rights. Protests have occurred, including a highway blockade, and police vehicles were damaged during a raid on a cannabis shop on the Bodladek First Nation in Cape Breton. The Mi'kmaq community asserts their right to sell cannabis based on treaty rights, while the Nova Scotia government passed legislation Tuesday night to impose stricter penalties on illegal dispensaries. The government cites a Health Canada survey indicating higher youth marijuana use in Nova Scotia compared to the national average. A representative from the Bodladek ban council stated they do not condone the actions taken against police vehicles, emphasizing a desire for peaceful protest and recognition of treaty rights. The legal precedent for cannabis as a treaty right remains contested, with the government relying on a previous court decision regarding treaty interpretation.