News Releases

Regional Chair statement on recent shooting in Oshawa involving DRPS

Whitby, Ontario – The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham:

“Every day, members of the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) put themselves in harm’s way to keep our communities safe. We are deeply grateful for their ongoing commitment and service.

While responding to an armed person call in Oshawa on Sunday (January 18), an officer was critically injured. We are grateful to hear that the...

Health Department celebrates National Non-Smoking Week January 18 to 24

Whitby, Ontario – January 18 to 24 is National Non-Smoking Week (NNSW) and Durham Region Health Department is reminding everyone that it's never too late to quit smoking. NNSW is a time to highlight the harms of nicotine addiction and to bring awareness of the support, encouragement and education available to those who are trying to quit smoking and vaping.

Smoking continues to be the leading cause of cancer and preventable death in Canada. In Ontario, tobacco use is responsible for more than 16...

Calling all Durham youth to become Water Warriors

Whitby, Ontario – The Regional Municipality of Durham is inviting young residents to take part in its annual Water Report Cover Drawing Challenge. Durham residents aged 18 and under are encouraged to become “Water Warriors” by creating artwork that shows how they help protect water in their everyday lives.

Participants are asked to draw or paint a picture showcasing actions that help conserve and protect water, such as saving water at home or school, protecting rivers, lakes and groundwater, and...

Building momentum for the year ahead

Whitby, Ontario – The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham:

“On behalf of Regional Council, I would like to wish everyone in Durham a new year filled with health and happiness. As we ring in 2026, I can’t help but reflect on all we accomplished last year. It was a year of growth, innovation and shared success.

Durham Region was named Top Intelligent Community by the Intelligent Communities...

Durham Region earns Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community designation

Whitby, Ontario – The Regional Municipality of Durham has been recognized as a Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) by the Share the Road Cycling Coalition, marking a significant milestone in the Region’s commitment to active transportation. This achievement is especially notable as Durham is the first regional municipality in Ontario to receive a BFC designation.

The designation reflects the Region’s growing leadership in promoting cycling and sustainable transportation through strong...