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MIL-OSI New Zealand: Smarter healthy school lunches programme serves up $130m in savings

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Education Minister David Seymour has today announced that the government has worked with businesses to transform the school lunch programme, delivering for children and saving for taxpayers.

“We have embraced commercial expertise, used government buying power, and generated supply chain efficiencies to realise over $130m of annual cost savings, even more than anticipated in Budget 2024,” says Mr Seymour.

“Every student receiving a school lunch today will continue to do so from day one of Term 1 next year.

“By leveraging private sector expertise from companies like Compass Group, Gilmours, and over 17 food manufacturers and suppliers, we are setting a precedent for the government working with businesses to achieve better results.

“The programme will deliver nutritious hot and cold meals, such as butter chicken curry, chicken katsu, lasagne, chicken pasta salad and wraps. These meals will cost $3 each. All students in year 0 to 8 will receive the same sized meals (240 grams) and older students will receive larger lunches (at least 300g) – which will include additional items such as fruit, yoghurt or muesli bars.”

“Under the Labour-led government, lunches cost up to $8.68 per student.

“If the previous government had set up the programme this way, over $800 million of taxpayer’s funds would have been saved over the past five years. Some suppliers in the existing programme will be affected and I appreciate this will be tough. However, the emphasis of the programme is to ensure students get good meals at an affordable cost to the taxpayer.

“Schools who receive their lunches on the external model will continue to receive a variety of hot and cold meals, delivered daily. Schools using the internal and iwi/hapū model will have access to a range of government negotiated wholesale ingredients and can continue to prepare meals internally. These schools will receive a slight increase ($4 per meal) in per student funding to continue to employ people to prepare the meals.

“Instead of applying a different model for students year 7 and over, we have successfully negotiated a like for like solution for all student age groups in the programme. Composite schools (years 0-13) and full primary (years 0-8) will use this model from 2025 and contributing primary schools (year 0 – 6) from 2026.

“The government will also provide food for up to 10,000 two-to-five-year-olds who attend low-equity, community-based early learning services. This will be funded by some of the cost savings found in the lunch programme. I intend to make an announcement on this very shortly.

“I expect the programme will continue to evolve over time. But first and foremost, the collective, the Expert Advisory Group, the Ministry of Education and I are focused on a smooth transition for schools on day one of term 1 2025.

“I have met with our commercial partners, and they are committed to making this work for the children and the schools. I would like to thank the members of the Expert Advisory Group, the Ministry of Education, affected schools and suppliers for working together so hard, and effectively, to provide a fantastic solution for the kids.”

Note to editors:

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health National Adaptation Plan 2024 – 2027

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health

Our climate is changing. These changes are affecting what we value most in our lives, including our health and wellbeing.

This first Health National Adaptation Plan (HNAP) is an important step towards placing health considerations at the forefront of the climate response of Aotearoa New Zealand. It sets the strategic direction and provides national-level priority actions for health-focused adaptation to climate change.

The vision for the HNAP is ‘to protect the health and wellbeing of people and communities from the effects of climate change to achieve pae ora – healthy futures for all New Zealanders’. The aim of this deliberately broad scope is to ensure the health system can provide climate-resilient health services, while also addressing the broader direct and indirect effects of climate change on the health of communities, including those effects that sectors outside the health system contribute to.

The Ministry of Health – Manatū Hauora has developed the HNAP as an action arising from New Zealand’s first National Adaptation Plan. The HNAP also reflects the health system’s own mandate to respond to climate change, most recently reiterated in the Government Policy Statement (GPS) on Health 2024 – 2027.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ROK-UK Joint Statement on DPRK-Russia Cooperation
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Joint statement between the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom David Lammy and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea Cho Tae-yul.
We condemn in the strongest terms the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK)’s continued unlawful arms transfers and the reported deployment of its troops to the Russian Federation to support Russia’s unlawful war of aggression in Ukraine. Such cooperation between Russia and the DPRK is not only in violation of multiple UNSC resolutions, but also prolongs the suffering of the Ukrainian people and threatens global security, including those in the ROK and the UK, and demonstrates the desperation of the DPRK and Russia. We are committed to providing the support Ukraine requires to secure a just and lasting peace.

We are closely monitoring what Russia provides to the DPRK in return for its provision of arms and military personnel, including Russia’s possible provision of materials and technology to the DPRK in support of Pyongyang’s military objectives. We are also deeply concerned about the possibility for any transfer of nuclear or ballistic missile-related technology to the DPRK, which would jeopardize the international non-proliferation efforts and threaten peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and across the globe. We take note that the security of the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic are more closely intertwined than ever, and commit ourselves to closely monitoring the situation and actively pursuing necessary measures together with the international community to deter further unlawful, reckless and destabilising behaviour.

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Published 22 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Sinema Introduces Bill Transferring Ownership of Forest System Land to Tonto Apache Tribe

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Kyrsten Sinema (Arizona)
The Senator’s bill would transfer 3,060 acres of culturally significant land to the Tonto Apache Tribe
WASHINGTON – Arizona Senators Kyrsten Sinema and Mark Kelly introduced legislation to transfer 3,060 acres of U.S. Forest Service land to the Tonto Apache Tribe, located near Payson, Ariz., to be held in trust as part of their existing reservation.
“My legislation transferring culturally significant land to the Tonto Apache Tribe represents our continued work honoring and respecting Tribal sovereignty and protecting culturally significant land,” said Sinema.
“Transferring this land to the Tonto Apache Tribe is about respecting their history and ensuring their community has the resources to grow and thrive,” said Kelly. “This bill will give them more control over land that holds deep cultural significance, strengthening their community and their connection to their heritage.”
Sinema’s legislation supports the Tonto Apache Tribe’s proposal to expand their reservation. This land is culturally significant to the tribe and will enable them to build additional housing for community members to reside on the reservation.
Throughout her time in Congress, Sinema has worked to expand the growth and prosperity of Arizona tribal communities. While in the U.S. House, Sinema championed a La Paz County Land Transfer of 5,900 acres. In 2019, Sinema helped pass that land transfer into law. Sinema’s direct negotiations ensured passage of the Blackwater Trading Post Land Transfer Act and the Old Pascua Community Land Acquisition Act – two pieces of legislation increasing land rights for the Gila River Indian Community and the Pascua Yaqui Tribe – increasing economic opportunities for both tribal communities.
Sinema also secured bipartisan passage of critical land and water rights bills for tribes across Arizona, including in part the Hualapai Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act and the White Mountain Apache Tribe Water Rights Quantification Act – legislation helping secure tribal communities’ and Arizona’s water future.
Supporters of the Tonto Apache Land Transfer Act are the Tonto National Forest, the Department of Agriculture, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Gila County, and the City of Payson.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Upgrades continue on Great Eastern Highway
Source: Australian Ministers 1

Safety upgrades to the Great Eastern Highway are continuing with a $23 million contract awarded for works in the Wheatbelt Region.

The upgrades form part of the Australian and Western Australian Government’s $250 million Great Eastern Highway Upgrades, delivering improvements to various sections of the highway through the Wheatbelt and Goldfields-Esperance Regions.

Fulton Hogan received the contract to deliver three sections of road reconstructions, widenings and sealings including:
- 4.4km between Carrabin and Bodallin
- 4.6km between Nulla Nulla South Road and approximately 700m west of Liddell Road (west of Moorine Rock)
- 2.4km between Liddell Road and Granich Road (west of Moorine Rock)
The project also includes upgrades to the intersections of Great Eastern Highway with Smyth Road, Nulla Nulla North Road, Bin Road and Granich Road and the installation of new safety barriers, kerbs, signs and audible edge and wide centre line road markings.

The upgrades follow the completion of major works on the highway including:
- Widening and sealing between Stephen Road and Noongar South Road
- Realignment through the Bodallin townsite
- Intersection upgrades at Penton Road, Ivey Road, Blyth Road, Bodallin South Road and Bodallin North Road
- Construction of an eastbound passing lane between Bodallin and Moorine Rock
- Construction of a westbound rest area between Bodallin and Moorine Rock
The works funded under the $23 million contract are expected to be completed in late 2025 with the staged upgrade program continuing along the highway until 2028.

Quotes attributed to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“Investment in the Great Eastern Highway is essential to keep communities in the Wheatbelt and Goldfields thriving.

“Our Government understands the critical importance of road transport for our freight industry and its many workers.

“From the Bass Highway in Tasmania, to the Bruce Highway in Queensland, and the Great Eastern Highway in Western Australia – we’re prioritising upgrades that keep Australians safer and the economy moving.”

Quotes attributed to WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

“This $250 million joint project between the State and Australian Governments is helping to improve road safety along this critical road.

“The Great Eastern Highway is an important transport link to the eastern states, as well as for local communities in the Wheatbelt, which makes this program of work absolutely critical.

“The works are also providing a critical source of employment in these local communities, helping drive economic growth in Wheatbelt towns.

“Our Government will continue to invest in initiatives that improve the safety of our road network, make them more efficient and cut down travel times for road users.”

Quotes attributed to Senator for Western Australia Glenn Sterle:

“The Great Eastern Highway upgrades continue to deliver the improvements that will keep locals, tourists and truckies safe on our roads.

“This $23 million is part of a much larger investment across numerous programs that prove to Australian drivers that we’re invested in their safety.

“Whether it’s rest stops, guardrails, or wider bridges, we’re working with state and local governments across the country to make each drive as safe as possible.”

Quotes attributed to WA State Member for Kalgoorlie Ali Kent:

“Kalgoorlie locals and businesses use the Great Eastern Highway every day to commute to and from Perth, so it’s fantastic to see this significant investment to make the journey safer.

“These upgrades will make the trip to and from Perth easier, faster and safer for Kalgoorlie residents long into the future.”

MIL OSI News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: 227-2024: Onshore Biosecurity Measures – Treatment Lodgement and Assessment

Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

22 October 2024

Who does this notice affect?

All Biosecurity Industry Participants currently lodging biosecurity onshore measures results for the assessment of treatment results

What has changed?

This advice outlines the format for submitting TREATMENT records via email. When providing documents for Treatment assessment ensure that the request type and communication mentioned below are indicated in the email’s subject line.

Email subject…

MIL OSI News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Ukrainian president, US defense secretary meet on defense issues

Source: China State Council Information Office

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and visiting U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin discussed defense issues during their meeting on Monday, according to the presidential press service.

The talks touched upon Ukraine’s request to use long-range weapons to attack military targets inside Russia.

Zelensky and Austin also addressed increasing the production of attack drones, cruise missiles, artillery shells and air defense equipment.

Austin announced a new U.S. military assistance package for Ukraine worth 400 million U.S. dollars, which includes ammunition, military equipment and weapons.

Since February 2022, the United States has provided 64.1 billion dollars in military aid to Ukraine, according to the fact sheet release by the U.S. Department of State in October this year.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Putin, Serbia’s Vucic affirm strong ties in first call in 2 yrs

Source: China State Council Information Office

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic revealed on Sunday that he had a friendly and personal conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking their first phone call in over two and a half years.

In a statement shared on social media, Vucic reiterated Serbia’s stance on maintaining independence in its foreign policy, including its decision not to impose sanctions on Russia. “Some will criticize me for this, but Serbia is a sovereign and independent country that makes its own decisions,” Vucic said.

Describing the ten-minute call as cordial, Vucic said they spoke as “long-time acquaintances and friends,” with Putin adding a personal touch that he appreciated. According to Vucic, Putin reiterated his stance, saying twice during the conversation: “What is good for Serbia is good for Russia, and what is good for the Serbian people is good for the Russian people.”

Vucic acknowledged Serbia’s difficult geopolitical position, citing international pressure to align with broader European sanctions. However, he emphasized that Serbia has maintained its independence in decision-making.

The phone call coincided with the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Belgrade’s liberation in World War II. The central event, held on Sunday, included the national anthems of Serbia and Russia and was attended by Pyotr Tolstoy, deputy chairman of the State Duma of the Russian Federation.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Israel claims major blow to Hezbollah’s rocket capabilities, financial network

Source: China State Council Information Office

Israel’s military said on Monday that it had destroyed about 70 percent of Hezbollah’s rocket capabilities, dismantled parts of its financial network, and killed a senior Hezbollah official in Syria who oversaw the group’s money transfers.

In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that it had killed seven Hezbollah brigade commanders, 21 battalion commanders, and 24 company commanders.

The IDF added that since the beginning of its ground offensive in Lebanon in early October, it had struck more than 3,200 sites in the country, including hundreds of weapons storage facilities, rocket launchers, anti-tank positions, and command and control centers.

Roughly 300 of those targets were hit in the last 24 hours alone, according to the military.

Citing senior security officials, Israel’s Channel 13 TV news reported that Hezbollah retains about 30 percent of its rocket capabilities, a significant reduction from the beginning of the conflict in October.

Later in a press briefing, IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari said Israeli warplanes had bombed around 20 Hezbollah sites linked with financial network overnight from Sunday to Monday, with most of the strikes focused on Beirut. The strikes, Hagari said, are expected to resume tonight.

Among the targets was an underground warehouse belonging to the Al-Qard Al-Hasan Association, a Hezbollah-affiliated financial organization operating primarily in Lebanon with headquarters in Beirut’s southern suburb, where Hezbollah’s headquarters are located.

According to Hagari, Hezbollah had stockpiled cash and gold worth “tens of millions of dollars, intended for living expenses and post-war reconstruction” in this underground warehouse.

Hagari also said that under Al-Sahel Hospital, in Beirut’s southern suburb, Hezbollah had built an underground bunker storing “at least half a billion dollars in cash and gold.”

The bunker, described as a central financial hub, was not struck, but Hagari warned that Israeli aircraft were monitoring the site closely. “We will continue to track it,” he added.

According to the spokesman, Hezbollah has established a financial network involving Yemen, Lebanon, Türkiye, and Syria. The network was managed by Mohammad Jaafar Qasir and Sheikh Salah, the head of Unit 4400, which is responsible for financial transfers and the financial management of Hezbollah.

Qasir was killed by Israel in Beirut in early October, and according to Hagari, his successor was also killed in an Israeli airstrike in Syria on Monday.

The crackdown on Hezbollah’s financial network, Hagari added, aims to “deal a blow to its primary financial centers, making it difficult for the group to restore its capabilities.”

Also on Monday, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant signed an order designating the Al-Qard Al-Hasan Association as a terrorist organization. The decision, Gallant said in a statement, was due to “the financing of terrorism through the purchase of weapons, payment of salaries to terrorists, and the storage of Hezbollah funds within the association’s facilities.”

The confrontation between the Israeli army and Hezbollah, since its onset on Oct. 8, 2023, has killed more than 2,300 people, injured over 11,000 others, and displaced about 1.2 million residents in Lebanon, according to Lebanese authorities.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: Yanette: My sister was forcibly disappeared by the Colombian military

Source: Amnesty International –

Yanette Bautista was just 27 when her sister Nydia was forcibly disappeared in 1987. Three years later, Yanette found Nydia’s remains – she had been murdered by state authorities and her whereabouts concealed to her family. It was the first time she learnt about enforced disappearances, an issue that is rife in Colombia – even today – with an estimated 200,000 people disappeared between 1985 and 2016 according to the 2022 Final Report of Colombia’s Truth Commission.

Since her sister’s enforced disappearance, Yanette, now 66, has dedicated her life to supporting Colombian women to search for their loved ones without fear. She has set up her own organization, as well as spearheaded a new bill that became a law in 2024, calling for better protection for women searchers. In honour of the bill, Colombia has recently introduced International Women’s Searchers Day, which takes place on 23 October.

Here she tells her incredible story, spanning three decades…

I found my sister three years after she was taken away and disappeared. I knew it was her. She was wearing the same clothes she had on the day she disappeared. It had been a day of celebration, the day our children received their first communion. When we found Nydia, she was still wearing the same dress and a jacket I had lent her. The only thing missing was her underwear. There was no reason for her underwear to be missing. I had to beg the authorities to hand her body over. I even threatened to go on hunger strike. When they eventually agreed to give me Nydia’s body, they handed it over in a trash bag.

My sister was forcibly disappeared when I was 27. At the time, I didn’t know enforced disappearances existed. She was studying economics at university. We knew she was part of an opposition guerrilla group, M-19, that signed a peace agreement and became a legal political party a couple of years later. We thought that the worst that could happen was for her to be sent to jail by a judge for her political activities. It felt shocking to learn that we lived in a country where there was a huge lack of human rights. If you supported the opposition, you paid for it. It was a situation of desperation and confusion.

My father and I started searching together – we went to hospitals, to military brigades, to the police intelligence, the secret police and the jails to see what could have happened. It was dangerous from the beginning as I started to be threatened many times just for asking for her. Eventually I was forcibly displaced. I left my home, sent my children to live elsewhere and I moved to another location. I soon started receiving anonymous calls. On one occasion, someone said: ‘Don’t look for her, she’s fine.’ It wasn’t a comforting call, and I knew I had to continue searching.

Yanette Bautista is the founder of Nydia Erika Bautista Foundation, created to fight against impunity in enforced disappearance in Colombia.

I sought help from the Colombian NGO Committee for Solidarity with Political Prisoners (CSPP) and we were provided with legal assistance, while the Association of Family Members of Disappeared Detainees (ASFADDES) shared advice. While I searched for my sister, I started working with other families and we eventually got in touch with Colombia’s Inspector for Human Rights – he was determined to help. He somehow found a witness who claimed to know where Nydia was. By that point I didn’t have hope we would find her alive. I’d come to realize that those searching for their loved ones, were searching for people who had been murdered.

A case was opened, and the well-known lawyer Eduardo Umaña took it on. I was told the witness was part of the Colombian military. He wanted to confess and said Nydia had been murdered and was buried in a rural town near Bogota. Together, with the inspector, forensic experts and our lawyer, we exhumed the body. I immediately knew it was her, even though she had been buried under NN (No Name).

Life changed dramatically

After Nydia disappeared, my life changed. I used to be an executive secretary for an important CEO, but it felt artificial after I started searching. I found it impossible to continue in this bubble, while people were being forcibly disappeared. That’s why I took off my heels and put on my shoes so I could start searching.

After my sister disappeared, life changed. So I took off my heels and put on my shoes so I could start searching for her.

Yanette Baustista

Even though we found Nydia’s body, we have never got the justice we deserve. The inspector for human rights sanctioned in 1995 one general and four military officials – a first in our country. However, two months later, he had to flee because he started receiving threats. During that time, I was calling for a change in law, speaking out about the military – and I was eight months pregnant. I was under constant surveillance. Eventually the four sanctioned men were set free even though it was clear it was the military committing these crimes.

By this time, it was too dangerous for me to stay in Colombia. Following a trip to Germany I just couldn’t come home. In 1997, I was forced into exile for seven years. During this time, I worked for Amnesty International, writing and researching about violence against women. I also became President of Federation of Family Members of Disappeared Persons (FEDEFAM), working with victims of forced disappeared in different countries.

Returning home

When I eventually returned to Colombia in 2007, I started my own organization. I’d met people from the Philippines, Albania, Kosovo, Turkey. We had so much collective knowledge. I wanted to empower families to search for their loved ones, so we started our organisation in my living room, with a small group of families.

Our collective, Nydia Erika Bautista Foundation, is designed for women to help one another. There’s no hierarchy. It is an exchange of knowledge. We provide legal support, document stories and advocate. We have a leadership school to empower the women searching in different parts of the country. We work in eight regions of Colombia and we are supporting 519 cases.

Our collective is mostly women – our research has revealed 95% of those searching for their loved ones are women – they’re mothers, sisters and wives. In a patriarchal society, it’s a task handed to the caregivers. But to me, we’re more than caregivers. When women start searching, we become human rights defenders – searching fearlessly, we challenge the rules of silence and oppression imposed by those who disappeared our loved ones, and we end up defending the rights of everyone.

Yanette leads a workshop with women searchers in Bogotá, Colombia.

The women who search are incredibly brave, even though there is no support from the authorities and no political will to investigate these crimes. In fact, enforced disappearance isn’t seen as a crime – it’s normalized; sometimes it’s even justified by the Colombian authorities.

Moving forward

As a collective, we want to turn our pain into rights. That’s why we wrote a law in a bid to empower women searching for the forcibly disappeared and to promote the rights of these women. It was signed into law in 2024.

However, our next task is to ensure it is implemented and becomes a reality. We have so many allies supporting us, including Amnesty International, and it is spurring us on every day.

While I have hope going forward, advocating for this law brings fear. As I continue to call for change, enforced disappearances are continuing, women searchers are suffering violence, and our funds are decreasing – making our work even tougher.

However, in my darker moments, I remember Nydia. Nydia dreamt of an army of women, who were armed with voices, not guns. I am determined to pursue her dream, so women can search without fear of suffering violence or of not having food at their family’s table, so women can search with freedom and dignity.

This piece is part of Amnesty International’s new campaign #SearchingWithoutFear, supporting women across the Americas searching for their loved ones.

MIL OSI NGO –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Search underway for missing swimmer near Whangārei

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Police, Coastguard and Surf Life Saving New Zealand have commenced a water and shoreline search for a missing man in Onerahi, Northland.

The 83-year-old man has not been seen since Saturday and was reported missing yesterday evening.

The man typically goes for a daily swim in the Whangārei Harbour and wears a wet suit and pink swim cap.

Police, Search and Rescue (SAR) squads from Waipu Cove Surf Life Saving Club, Whangārei Heads Volunteer Surf Life Saving Patrol, along with volunteers from Northland Coastguard Air Patrol and Coastguard Whangarei are involved in the search.

If you have seen anything, or have any information that could help our search, please update us online now or call 105.

Please use the reference number 241021/1742.

ENDS

Tony Wright/NZ Police

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Slovak Republic
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
- Reviewed: 18 November 2022, 08:21 NZDT
- Still current at: 22 October 2024
Related news features

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

We advise New Zealanders to exercise increased caution in the Slovak Republic (level 2 of 4).

Slovak Republic

Widespread military action is underway in neighbouring Ukraine. You should not attempt to cross into Ukraine from the Slovak Republic. If you have arrived in the Slovak Republic from Ukraine and are in need of consular assistance, contact the New Zealand Embassy in Austria which is accredited to Hungary at nzviennaconsular@aon.at or on +43 1 505 3021, or phone the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24/7 Consular emergency line on +64 99 20 20 20 (outside of New Zealand).

Terrorism
Terrorist groups, individuals returning to Europe from areas of conflict, and individuals adhering to various forms of extremist ideologies, continue to make threats to conduct attacks across Europe. Groups adhering to various ideologies have conducted attacks in the past.

New Zealanders in the Slovak Republic are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. We recommend following any instructions issued by the local authorities and exercising vigilance in public places.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching, passport theft and pickpocketingoccurs and is more common in tourist areas, in larger cities and in and around transport hubs, particularly in Bratislava. Thieves often work together, sometimes involving children, and may distract victims and rob them while their attention is diverted. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.

Car thefts and break-ins also occur. Do not leave belongings in view in your car, make sure it is locked and be wary of others offering help. Criminals sometimes puncture tyres when they are stopped and proceed to follow the vehicle to offer ‘help’ and then rob the target while they are distracted.

Some clubs and restaurants overcharge. Always ask to see the menu and price list before ordering drinks or food, and check your bill carefully before paying. Avoid disputes about overcharging, as they can lead to violence.

There have been incidents of drink spiking followed by robbery and assault reported in the Slovak Republic. Extra care should be taken to ensure your food and drink is never left unattended. We recommend against accepting drinks from strangers or recent acquaintances.

Civil unrest
Protests and demonstrations occur on occasion in the Slovak Republic and may disrupt local public services and transport. New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Follow any advice from local authorities.

General travel advice
You should carry a photocopy of your passport or another form of identification at all times.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment.

Same-sex relationships are legal but public displays of affection may be frowned upon or attract unwanted attention.

New Zealanders travelling or living in the Slovak Republic should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place.

New Zealanders in the Slovak Republic are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

The New Zealand Embassy Vienna, Austria is accredited to Slovak Republic

Street Address The ICON Vienna, Tower 24, Level 15, Suite 15.02, Wiedner Gürtel 13, 1100 Vienna, Austria Telephone +43 1 505 3021 Email nzconsular-vienna@mfat.net Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/austria Hours Mon-Fri 0900-1200 and from 1400-1600 Note Notarial Services (by appointment only): 0900-1200 Monday & Friday; 1230-1400 Wednesday

New Zealand Honorary Consulate Bratislava, Slovak Republic

Street Address Dvořákovo nábrežie 10, 811 02 Bratislava, Slovak Republic Telephone + 421 2 5941 8211 Email nzconsulate-slovakia@nzconsulate.sk

See our regional advice for Europe

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MIL OSI New Zealand News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reserve Bank Speech – Liquidity management: Principles for liquidity provision and the end of an abundant era: A speech by Assistant Governor Karen Silk

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua

22 October 2024 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua is resourced and ready to provide liquidity if key New Zealand dollar financial markets become dysfunctional.

In a speech delivered at the CBA Global Markets Conference in Sydney today, Karen Silk, General Manager of Economics, Financial Markets and Banking, outlined the Reserve Bank’s approach to addressing financial market dysfunction and provided an update on the future of our liquidity management framework.

Karen Silk explained the principles the Reserve Bank has formalised to ensure tools deployed to support market functioning are effective but remain targeted and temporary. These principles support a toolkit that allows room for markets to self-correct, mitigates moral hazard, and protects the Reserve Bank’s balance sheet from undue risks.

Karen Silk also provided an update on how the Reserve Bank could provide liquidity to the cash system as Additional Monetary Policy tools roll off the balance sheet, a process which is draining settlement cash from the cash system.

The Reserve Bank has decided to adopt a hybrid approach to ensuring there is ample liquidity in the cash system. This means supply-driven operations like transacting in foreign exchange (FX) swaps will be supplemented with a demand-driven facility or operation that allows counterparties to borrow settlement cash on-demand in exchange for eligible collateral such as New Zealand government securities.

Karen Silk highlighted that moving down to an ample level of liquidity will “place greater onus on market participants to understand, forecast and manage their individual cash liquidity needs”.

Finally, the speech notes the Reserve Bank will continue to be as transparent as possible, including ongoing engagement with our stakeholders, in implementing any changes to our liquidity management toolkit.

Disclaimer
This speech is not a Monetary Policy Committee communication and contains no guidance on the future path of monetary policy. You can find the latest views of the MPC in our recently published Monetary Policy Review. (ref. https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=8723c49d81&e=f3c68946f8 )

More information

Watch the speech live on Teams https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=0677063df0&e=f3c68946f8

Download the speech (PDF, 660KB) https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=dc63d69d06&e=f3c68946f8

Previous related speeches

Building a balance sheet to support financial stability https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=a376fd4c86&e=f3c68946f8

Liquidity: one word, three meanings https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=7ce88422e9&e=f3c68946f8

New Zealand’s Monetary Policy Implementation Framework https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=4f813a489f&e=f3c68946f8

A Strategic View of Te Pūtea Matua’s Balance Sheet https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=5d3b32cfd0&e=f3c68946f8

COVID-19 and the Reserve Bank’s Balance Sheet https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=1f0a4d3904&e=f3c68946f8

Data

RBNZ standing facilities (D12) https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=8fe9254f5b&e=f3c68946f8
RBNZ open market operations (D3) https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=747c59236d&e=f3c68946f8
RBNZ influences on settlement cash (D10) https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=88e176993f&e=f3c68946f8

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Recruitment activity and recruitment difficulty increase in regional Australia this month.

Source: Australia Jobs and Skills

Recruitment activity and recruitment difficulty increase in regional Australia this month.
Timothy
Mon, 2024-10-21 11:08

News and updates

October 22, 2024

A larger proportion of employers recruited and also experienced recruitment difficulty this month compared to the previous month.

MIL OSI News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: APEC Finance Ministers Issue Joint Statement Lima, Peru | 21 October 2024 Issued by the APEC Finance Ministers’ Process
Source: APEC – Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation

Finance Ministers from the 21 APEC member economies released a joint statement at the conclusion of their meeting in Lima on Monday under the theme, “Sustainable + Digital + Resilient = APEC.”

The statement reflects the outcomes of the 2024 APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting chaired by José Arista Arbildo, Peru’s Minister of Economy and Finance. It describes joint actions to be taken forward by APEC member economies in the following priority areas:
- Global and Regional Economy
- Sustainable Finance
- Domestic Carbon Pricing and Non-pricing Measures
- Sustainable Energy Transitions
- Sustainable Infrastructure Financing
- Open Finance to Enhance Competition and Foster Innovation
- Digital Financial Inclusion
- Hydrometeorological Risk Financing
- Modernization of the Finance Ministers’ Process
View the 2024 APEC Joint Finance Ministerial Statement

and accompanying Chair’s Statement

Finance Ministers also launched the Sustainable Finance Initiative for the coordination and promotion of voluntary information sharing and capacity building on sustainable finance issues. They further welcomed the adoption of the guidance document for developing a new roadmap and endorsed a strategy to modernize the Finance Ministers’ Process.

Read the accompanying annexes to the joint statement:

Annex A. Sustainable Finance Initiative

Annex B. Guidance Document for Developing a New Finance Ministers’ Process Roadmap

Annex C. Second Strategy for Modernization of the Finance Ministers’ Process

For further details, please contact:

APEC Media at [email protected]
MIL OSI Global Banks –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government provides clarity to farmers and councils on freshwater plans

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government will move to add an amendment to the Resource Management Act Amendment Bill, currently before Parliament, which will restrict councils’ ability to notify freshwater plans before the gazettal of the replacement National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management, RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Environment Minister Penny Simmonds say.

“The Government is taking this step to provide farmers the clarity they need around freshwater management, and to minimise inefficiencies and duplication for councils, and prevent unnecessary costs for ratepayers,” Mr McClay says.

“Labour’s National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 (the NPS-FM) is extremely complex and expensive for farmers and councils to implement – and despite that it won’t deliver the outcomes for freshwater that New Zealanders would expect,” Mr Bishop says.

“That’s why late last year the Government legislated so that councils would have an additional three years to notify their freshwater plans and why this Government is committed to reviewing and replacing the NPS-FM.”

“Regional councils must be equipped to manage freshwater resources in a way that is efficient, effective, and aligned with the Government’s future-focused goals. This amendment ensures the primary sector has clarity over regulations and that councils don’t waste time and resources developing plans that will soon be superseded by the new NPS-FM,” Mr McClay says.

“This is about protecting the interests of the primary sector, resource users, and ratepayers. Ratepayers and farmers need certainty, and they don’t deserve to have their money wasted.

“By delaying plan notifications, we are providing certainty to farmers, that their planning efforts will be in sync with national direction.”

“Councils will still have an avenue to progress their freshwater plans in some circumstances – for example, where doing so would more quickly enable key housing or infrastructure projects to go ahead – by applying for approval from the Minister for the Environment,” Ms Simmonds says.

“We look forward to working alongside councils as we develop the replacement NPS-FM. We will have more to say about it early next year.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: NPS-FM changes will provide certainty for farmers and save ratepayers money

Source: ACT Party

ACT Agriculture spokesperson Mark Cameron is welcoming the Government’s proposed amendment to the Resource Management Act that would restrict councils’ ability to notify freshwater plans prior to the replacement of the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPS-FM).

“Farmers have been under real pressure from Labour’s NPS-FM and ACT has consistently argued for its full repeal,” says Mr Cameron.

“I have heard the concerns from farmers about the proposed changes to the Otago Regional Council’s freshwater rules, which are being drafted in accordance with the previous Labour Government’s policies.

“Labour’s NPS-FM is already set to be repealed. Yet some councils continue to trudge ahead with new freshwater plans, wasting ratepayer money and resources on something that will soon be redundant and have to be reworked anyway.

“The proposed amendment will stop ratepayer money being wasted and restore certainty for farmers and other resource users.

“Labour’s policy centralised control in Wellington, allowing bureaucrats to impose strict rules that don’t respect the practical realities of farming. The amorphous concept of ‘Te Mana o te Wai’, the mana of the water, was elevated above all else leading to even more restrictive red tape being imposed on farmers by regional councils.

“Concepts relating to spirituality or the meta-physical have no place in laws or regulations. Rules should be clear, reasonable and workable, but with Te Mana o te Wai having no clear meaning or environmental limits, farmers and councils were left clueless about what was required. A clear, science-based approach is needed.

“During Labour’s six years in Government, farmers faced a tsunami of red tape and costs adding unnecessary pressure on top of the day-to-day challenges of farming.

“Today’s announcement will relieve what was a significant headache for many farmers, delivering on this Government’s mandate to slash unnecessary red tape.

“ACT will continue to fight for farmers and rural New Zealand. Labour’s war on farmers is over and we’re restoring confidence so rural communities can get on with doing what they do best.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release: Fatal crash, SH1 Waiouru

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Police can now release the names of the two people who died following a crash on State Highway 1, Waiouru on Tuesday 15 October.

They were 60-year-old Kahu Alexandra Martin from Taupo, and 6-year-old Katarina Kaihau from Lower Hutt.

Our thoughts are with their family at this incredibly tragic time.

Our investigations to determine the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove and HHS Secretary Becerra Host Drug Pricing Town Hall with Seniors in Culver City

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

LOS ANGELES, CA — On Friday, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) and U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra hosted a town hall at the Culver City Senior Center focused on the Biden Administration’s work to lower prescription drug costs—a critical issue for seniors in our community. Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove and Secretary Becerra were also joined by local Culver City officials, including Mayor Yasmine-Imani McMorrin and Councilmembers Freddy Puza and Albert Vera.

Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove and Secretary Becerra conduct a town hall on drug pricing at the Culver City Senior Center.

At the town hall, Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove and Secretary Becerra participated in a question-and-answer session with seniors, providing a platform for seniors to engage directly with federal officials and gain insights into the Administration’s efforts to make prescription medications more affordable.

“All too often, exorbitant prescription drug prices force seniors to decide between their health and paying for rent or groceries—this is unacceptable,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “In Congress, I’ve been proud to champion efforts to lower medication costs and ensure that our seniors reap all of the benefits provided to them through the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act. I want to thank Secretary Becerra and the Administration for their continued work to make healthcare more affordable for all Americans and for engaging with seniors in my community to ensure their voices are heard at the highest level of government.”

“It was great to have a chance to talk to Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove’s constituents and the seniors here in Culver City about some of the great accomplishments that the Biden Harris administration has been able to implement, including reducing the price of prescription medication, $35 insulin, and having out-of-pocket costs capped at $2,000,” said Secretary Xavier Becerra at the event. “Now we need to make sure people are aware of this new law and the benefits available for so many millions of Americans. Additionally, now through December 7, seniors eligible for Medicare have the chance to enroll or change their plans to make sure they’re getting the plan that works best for them.”

Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), prescription drug prices have dropped for Medicare enrollees. This legislation capped insulin costs at $35 per month for those enrolled in Medicare, made recommended vaccines free for Medicare recipients, and enabled Medicare to negotiate drug prices, among other historic actions to lower drug costs.

Medicare enrollees will continue to see their prescription drug costs decrease as more IRA provisions—including a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs—continue to go into effect. HHS projects that when this cap is enforced starting next year, nearly 19 million seniors and other Part D beneficiaries will save $400 per year on prescription drugs, and the 1.9 million Medicare enrollees with the highest drug costs will save an average of $2,500 per year. HHS estimates nearly 2 million Medicare Part D enrollees in California will save over $310 million in prescription drug costs in 2024 thanks to Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act.

# # #

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to California Businesses and Residents Affected by the Airport Fire

Source: United States Small Business Administration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to California businesses and residents affected by the Airport Fire that occurred Sept. 9-Oct. 6, announced Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman of the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA acted under its own authority to declare a disaster in response to a request SBA received from Gov. Gavin Newsom’s authorized representative, Director Nancy Ward of the California Office of Emergency Services, on Oct. 15.

The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available in Imperial, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego counties in California; and neighboring La Paz County in Arizona.

“As communities across the Southeast continue to recover and rebuild after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the SBA remains focused on its mission to provide support to small businesses to help stabilize local economies, even in the face of diminished disaster funding,” said Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman. “If your business has sustained physical damage, or you’ve lost inventory, equipment or revenues, the SBA will help you navigate the resources available and work with you at our recovery centers or with our customer service specialists in person and online so you can fully submit your disaster loan application and be ready to receive financial relief as soon as funds are replenished.”

“When disasters strike, our Disaster Loan Outreach Centers are key to helping business owners and residents get back on their feet,” said Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. “At these centers, people can connect directly with our specialists to apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to rebuild and move forward in their recovery journey.”

“Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to businesses of all sizes, most private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters whose property was damaged or destroyed by this disaster,” Sánchez continued. “Beginning Wednesday, Oct. 23, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the following Disaster Loan Outreach Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their application,” Sánchez added. The center will be open on the days and times indicated below. No appointment is necessary.

RIVERSIDE COUNTY
Disaster Loan Outreach Center
Lake Community Center – Dance Room
310 W. Graham Ave.
Lake Elsinore, CA 92530

Opens 12 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Closed on Monday, Nov. 11, for Veterans Day
Closes 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13

Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.

For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

“SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” Sánchez said. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”

Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.813 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

On October 15, 2024, it was announced that funds for the Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, we remain committed to supporting disaster survivors. Applications will continue to be accepted and processed to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their loan applications promptly for review in anticipation of future funding.

Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

The deadline to apply for property damage is Dec. 17, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is July 18, 2025.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.sba.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Industry Supported Battery Passivation Techniques – Request for Information

Source: NASA

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Ames Research Center (ARC) on behalf of the Space Technology Mission Directorate’s (STMD) Small Spacecraft Technology (SST) Program and is hereby soliciting information from potential sources for inputs on industry, academia, or government adopted battery passivation techniques. As part of a continual process improvement effort and potential requirement revisions, the NASA Small Spacecraft community, Office of Safety and Mission Assurance, and Orbital Debris Program Office are seeking inputs from industry on battery passivation techniques that are used by industry to satisfy the Orbital Debris Mitigation Standard Practices (ODMSP) requirements 2-2. Limiting the risk to other space systems from accidental explosions and associated orbital debris after completion of mission operations: All on-board sources of stored energy of a spacecraft or upper stage should be depleted or safed when they are no longer required for mission operations or post mission disposal. Depletion should occur as soon as such an operation does not pose an unacceptable risk to the payload. Propellant depletion burns and compressed gas releases should be designed to minimize the probability of subsequent accidental collision and to minimize the impact of a subsequent accidental explosion.
Background
NASA has well-established procedures for passivating power sources on large, highly redundant spacecraft to mitigate debris generation at end-of-life. However, the rise of capable small spacecraft utilizing single-string and Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) components presents challenges. Directly applying passivation strategies designed for redundant systems to these less complex spacecraft can introduce risks and may not be cost-effective for these missions.
Recognizing that the commercial sector has emerged as a leader in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) small satellite operations, NASA seeks to engage with industry, academia, and government spacecraft operators to gain insights into current battery passivation techniques. Understanding industry-adopted practices, their underlying rationale, and performance data will inform NASA’s ongoing efforts to develop safe and sustainable end-of-life procedures for future missions.
NASA invites government, academic, or industry stakeholders, including small satellite operators, manufacturers, and component suppliers, to share information on battery passivation strategies employed in their spacecraft.
Click here for more information.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Prime Minister on the results of the provincial election in New Brunswick

Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the results of the provincial election in New Brunswick:

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate Susan Holt and the Liberal Party of New Brunswick on their election.

“I look forward to working with Premier-designate Holt to deliver on the priorities of Canadians. Our shared work will include improving access to health care, making life more affordable, building more homes, investing in infrastructure, and cutting emissions.

“New Brunswick is the only officially bilingual province in the country, and the Government of Canada is committed to promoting the French language and supporting the vitality of Acadian communities.

“Together, we will build a more prosperous province and a better future for people in New Brunswick, the Atlantic, and across Canada.

“I thank outgoing Premier Higgs for his service to New Brunswick and to Canada over the last six years. I wish him the best in his future endeavours.”

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: 22 October 2024 Bookworm Janette opened a library for her neighbours When Janette moved into her new Kāinga Ora home, she set up a library for all her neighbours.

Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

At Janette’s new apartment complex, there are nooks in the entrance space where neighbours can gather, with lounge chairs and built-in window seats.

Janette noticed open storage spaces beneath the window seats and immediately visualised them filled with books. She thought how nice it would be for neighbours to lounge in the light-filled spaces reading or for them to borrow books to read back in their apartments.

A month on, Janette’s vision has become a reality thanks to her enterprise and with support from the local library.

“I’m an avid reader and I saw the opportunity for us to have a little library,” says Janette.

“I popped into the public library and asked if they had any old books for sale. They gave me 20 used books, but they refused to take any money for them.”

Library staff said the books were a welcome gift to their new neighbours and soon followed up with a further 10 books.

Janette is modest about her effort, saying it’s all part of being in a community.

“One of my neighbours helped me get my washing machine plumbed in, and another showed me how to work the heat pump. Organising a little library is a way that I can contribute.”

The complex is designed for ease of community building, with all customers having access to resident lounges, where they meet weekly to chat and often bring food to share.

“I’m very happy here,” says Janette. “The location is fantastic with easy access to shops and amenities, my apartment is secure, quiet and sunny, and my neighbours are great.”

Page updated: 22 October 2024

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Development – Fast-track panel approves consent for Peachgrove development in Hamilton – EPA

Source: Environmental Protection Authority

An independent panel has approved resource consent, subject to conditions, to construct a mixed-use development on Peachgrove Road and Emmadale Lane, Hamilton East.

Hamilton Campground Limited applied for resource consent under the COVID-19 Recovery (Fast-track Consenting) Act 2020. The project involves subdividing land for a residential housing development, hotel, gym and dairy.

The resource consent conditions are in the decision report on the page linked below.

The decision comes 167 working days after the application was lodged with the Environmental Protection Authority.

The Environmental Protection Authority is not involved in the decision-making. We provide procedural advice and administrative support to the panel convenor, Judge Laurie Newhook, and the expert consenting panel he appoints.

Read the Peachgrove Mixed-Use Precinct decision report https://www.epa.govt.nz/fast-track-consenting/referred-projects/peachgrove/the-decision/

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fire Safety – Cantabrians urged – do not light outdoor fires

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is asking people in Canterbury not to light outdoor fires over the next few days.

District Commander Dave Stackhouse says higher temperatures (26 – 30 degrees centigrade) and gusty north westerly winds are forecast for Canterbury and people need to be alert to the fire danger.

“I urge people to hold off lighting outdoor fires for the next few days while the weather is warm and windy,” he says.

“While Canterbury, north of the Rakaia River, remains in an open fire season due to overall fire danger conditions which dictate fire seasons, vegetation fires will still occur if people don’t heed the advice.

“Recently we declared a total fire ban in Canterbury under section 52 of the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017 which stayed in place for a week.

“During this time Fire and Emergency crews responded to 23 vegetation fires. Of these incidents 78 per cent were caused by outside fires or burn offs or previous fires reigniting,” Dave Stackhouse says.

“We need people not to light outdoor fires. If you’ve already completed a burn, it is important to continue to check it as the chance of reignition is high,” he says.

“Burying embers under dirt is the right thing to do but may not extinguish the fire. If winds pick up, this can disturb the soil, pick the embers up, and carry them in the wind to into dry vegetation.

“Remember to always Check It’s Alright for information about open air fires.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Artworks by Taiwan, Fujian artists on display in Taipei

Source: China State Council Information Office 3

A total of 81 paintings and works of calligraphy by 47 artists from east China’s Fujian Province and Taiwan are on display in Taipei.

Held at the Taipei-based China University of Science and Technology from Monday to Nov. 15, the exhibition features a diverse range of Chinese artistic expressions, including traditional ink painting, color painting, calligraphy, seal carving and artistic stone collection, showcasing the rich and varied heritage of Chinese art.

The event provides a valuable platform for artists from Taiwan and Fujian to showcase their works, exchange ideas and learn from each other, said Tsai Chieh-teng, professor and dean of the Department of Painting and Calligraphy Arts, Taiwan University of Arts, as well as the academic adviser to the exhibition.

The exhibition invites a number of artists from the younger generation. Tsai noted that, based on his personal observation, although the artistic preferences of artists on the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are somewhat different, the younger generation’s creative focus is becoming increasingly similar, thanks to the internet and social media networks.

“Unlike artists from the older generation who prefer natural landscapes, young ink-painting artists are placing greater emphasis on personal and emotional expression. This tendency can be seen on both sides of the Strait,” he said.

Kuo Ching-chang, chairman of the Cross-Strait Association of Image Art, one of the event’s organizers, said that in the current cross-Strait climate, artistic and cultural activities like this one offer an opportunity for artists from both sides to learn from each other, inspire one another, and promote cultural development together, leading to a deeper emotional connection.

In a congratulatory message, Fujian Pictorial, one of the mainland organizers, said that Fujian and Taiwan have profound historical connections and share the same language and culture, adding that the fine works of calligraphy and painting at the show evoke not only the allure of art among audiences on both sides, but also a profound emotional resonance.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Morning scenery at ancient Great Wall in Xiaochang Township, N China

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

Morning scenery at ancient Great Wall in Xiaochang Township, N China

Updated: October 22, 2024 08:54 Xinhua

An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 21, 2024 shows the morning scenery at the ancient Great Wall in Xiaochang Township, Zunhua City of north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 21, 2024 shows the morning scenery at the ancient Great Wall in Xiaochang Township, Zunhua City of north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 21, 2024 shows the morning scenery at the ancient Great Wall in Xiaochang Township, Zunhua City of north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 21, 2024 shows the morning scenery at the ancient Great Wall in Xiaochang Township, Zunhua City of north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 21, 2024 shows the morning scenery at the ancient Great Wall in Xiaochang Township, Zunhua City of north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 21, 2024 shows the morning scenery at the ancient Great Wall in Xiaochang Township, Zunhua City of north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parliament Hansard Report – Karakia/Prayers – 001425

Source: New Zealand Parliament – Hansard

TUESDAY, 22 OCTOBER 2024

The Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.

KARAKIA/PRAYERS

ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Teanau Tuiono): E te Atua kaha rawa, ka tuku whakamoemiti atu mātou, mō ngā karakia kua waihotia mai ki runga i a mātou. Ka waiho i ō mātou pānga whaiaro katoa ki te taha. Ka mihi mātou ki te Kīngi, me te inoi atu mō te ārahitanga i roto i ō mātou whakaaroarohanga, kia mōhio ai, kia whakaiti ai tā mātou whakahaere i ngā take o te Whare nei, mō te oranga, te maungārongo, me te aroha o Aotearoa. Āmene.

[Almighty God, we give thanks for the blessings which have been bestowed on us. Laying aside all personal interests, we acknowledge the King and pray for guidance in our deliberations that we may conduct the affairs of this House with wisdom and humility, for the welfare, peace, and compassion of New Zealand. Amen.]

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China’s LPRs drop amid efforts to drive economic growth

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

BEIJING, Oct. 21 — China on Monday cut its market-based benchmark lending rates, with the one-year loan prime rate (LPR) down to 3.1 percent from the previous 3.35 percent.

The over-five-year LPR, on which many lenders base their mortgage rates, was lowered to 3.6 percent from 3.85 percent, according to the National Interbank Funding Center.

This marks the third LPR reduction this year, forming part of the country’s broader policy push to reduce financing costs, support the recovery of credit demand, and further fuel consumption and investment growth.

The cut exceeded market expectations, as both the one-year and over-five-year LPRs were lowered by the maximum margin, said Wu Bin, an analyst at China Minsheng Bank. Last week, central bank governor Pan Gongsheng said the LPRs would move downward by 0.2 to 0.25 percentage points.

Wu said the cuts underscored the government’s determination to support economic recovery through its monetary policy.

The central bank in late September lowered the interest rate of seven-day reverse repos, a key short-term policy rate, by 20 basis points and cut the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) for financial institutions by 0.5 percentage points.

Major commercial banks, aligning with central bank policies, have already moved to lower deposit rates.

In a further step to support the real economy, Pan indicated in his address at the Annual Conference of Financial Street Forum 2024 held last week that the RRR could be lowered by a further 0.25 to 0.5 percentage points within 2024, depending on the liquidity situation.

Analysts believe that these moves are part of the country’s coordinated efforts to strengthen counter-cyclical adjustments, stabilize capital and property markets, and expand high-level financial opening up.

“These LPR cuts are in line with the current macroeconomic policy direction and serve as key mechanisms for transmitting impactful interest rate cuts to the real economy,” noted Wang Qing, chief economist at Golden Credit Rating, a credit rating agency based in China.

Wang said the greater-than-expected LPR declines reflect the government’s fourth-quarter focus on guiding substantial reductions in corporate and household loan rates — particularly concerning new residential mortgages.

To ease the financial burden on homeowners, China’s central bank has asked commercial banks to lower interest rates for outstanding mortgage loans. This reduction will save borrowers 150 billion yuan, benefiting 50 million households, said Tao Ling, deputy governor of China’s central bank, at a press conference held last week.

These policy moves follow a crucial meeting convened by the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee in late September, which called for intensified efforts in economic work, including the implementation of impactful interest rate cuts and the promotion of the property market’s stabilization.

Looking ahead, Wang expects that the LPR drops will boost economic growth momentum, help stabilize the property market, and provide key support for achieving this year’s economic growth targets.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parliament Hansard Report – Tuesday, 22 October 2024 – Volume 779 – 001426

Source: New Zealand Parliament – Hansard

TUESDAY, 22 OCTOBER 2024

The Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.

KARAKIA/PRAYERS

ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Teanau Tuiono): E te Atua kaha rawa, ka tuku whakamoemiti atu mātou, mō ngā karakia kua waihotia mai ki runga i a mātou. Ka waiho i ō mātou pānga whaiaro katoa ki te taha. Ka mihi mātou ki te Kīngi, me te inoi atu mō te ārahitanga i roto i ō mātou whakaaroarohanga, kia mōhio ai, kia whakaiti ai tā mātou whakahaere i ngā take o te Whare nei, mō te oranga, te maungārongo, me te aroha o Aotearoa. Āmene.

[Almighty God, we give thanks for the blessings which have been bestowed on us. Laying aside all personal interests, we acknowledge the King and pray for guidance in our deliberations that we may conduct the affairs of this House with wisdom and humility, for the welfare, peace, and compassion of New Zealand. Amen.]

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025