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  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – High says goodbye, low says hello! Wet weather for the South Island later this working week – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Monday 21st  – Thursday 24th October – Largely settled and fine weather continues to be the main feature over northern and central Aotearoa New Zealand through to Tuesday evening, thanks to a broad area of high pressure. However, a series of weak fronts bring some patchy rain to western and southern parts of the South Island.

    MetService Meteorologist Dom Barry says, “As we head into Wednesday, warm and moist northwesterlies develop over the South Island, bringing rain to western and southern parts of the South Island. Fiordland has a Heavy Rain Watch in force from Wednesday to Thursday, which is likely to be upgraded to an Orange Heavy Rain Warning in the near future.”

    With this warmer air also comes warmer temperatures – many places across the east of the country will see higher than average maximum and minimum temperatures later this week.

    Barry continues, “For the easternmost places like Christchurch, Oamaru, Napier and Hastings, maximums in the mid-twenties can be expected. Overnight temperatures will stay warm as well, in some cases only being a couple of degrees cooler than the day’s maximum, which might make sleeping a struggle for some.”

    A series of fronts move up the South Island on Thursday, bringing rain to southern and western parts of the Island, as the high moves off to the northeast of the country, keeping things mainly fine and dry in the north.

    While the fine, warm weather looks set to hold on for Hawke’s Bay’s anniversary day on Friday, the weather is looking more unsettled elsewhere as rain and wind returns.

    Barry explains, “Low pressure is returning at the end of this week meaning some wetter weather is in store over the long weekend. With some drier weather possible for Labour Day, it is worth checking the forecast to get the best out of the weekend.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Insurance Sector – Commonwealth insurance peaks collaborate on global insurance protection gap

    Source: Insurance Council of NZ

    The peak bodies representing personal and business insurers in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand have called on Commonwealth leaders at this week’s Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa to discuss worsening extreme weather and its impact on national economic and community resilience across the Commonwealth.
    The Association of British Insurers (ABI), the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA), and the Insurance Council of New Zealand (ICNZ), have jointly written to the Prime Ministers of their respective nations calling for the issue to be put on the agenda as part of the Commonwealth Business Forum on 23 and 24 October.
    This followed a Global Insurance Protection Gap Forum held in Sydney, Australia on Friday 18 October involving the four leaders of the ABI, IBC, ICA, and ICNZ, along with insurers, Australian government representatives, and regulators.
    The four associations collectively represent insurers writing approximately US$200B in gross annual premium, with their members playing an essential role in enabling individuals, communities and businesses to recover from the unexpected and reduce risk across the economies in which they operate.
    Operating in Commonwealth nations, the four organisations and their members face similar regulatory, political, and financial environments, with their governments and regulators having similar tools at their disposal to implement solutions.
    The Global Insurance Protection Gap forum agreed that:
    – As extreme weather intensifies, populations expand and more homes are put in harm’s way, the insurance protection gap will widen.
    – Flood risk is often concentrated in particular areas, but the widespread nature of flood risk is going to increase.
    – Governments and insurers have a critical opportunity to collaborate across global markets to build a shared view of current and future hazard risk.
    – We must stop locking further risk into our economies by building homes in the wrong places.
    – Applying excessive taxes and levies to insurance premiums can directly affect the affordability of insurance coverage.
    Comment attributable to Hannah Gurga, Director General, Association of British Insurers
    Our changing climate represents a real and growing threat to our resilience as a nation and globally. The UK led the way with the creation of Flood Re, which has helped keep insurance accessible for hundreds of thousands of homes. We are now at a crossroads, with a new government in post and a review of the planning system underway. It’s vital that decisions are taken for the long-term and made for the benefit of all. That’s not just investing in flood defences but also changing where and how we build. Action is needed now, not in the future when the challenge will be ever greater.
    Comment attributable to Celyeste Power, President and CEO, Insurance Bureau Canada
    In the span of just five weeks this past summer, Canada saw five natural catastrophes: three major floods, a devastating wildfire, and a destructive hailstorm resulting in $7 billion of insured losses.
    This isn’t an anomaly. It isn’t bad luck. It’s part of an escalating trend of severe weather events that is making Canada a riskier place to live, work and insure.
    I know Canada is not facing these challenges alone and I join with my colleagues in Australia, New Zealand and Britain in our call for meaningful action to reduce the growing physical and financial risks our citizens are facing.
    Comment attributable to Andrew Hall, CEO, Insurance Council of Australia
    More frequent and intense disasters, coupled with ongoing development of areas at high risk of extreme weather and growing asset values, are widening the gap globally between those who can afford insurance in high-risk areas and those who can’t – often leaving society’s least wealthy unable to rebuild and recover when disaster strikes.
    As the bodies representing personal and business insurance providers in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, we have a unique perspective on this issue.
    Insurers remain steadfastly committed to the policies of derisking as the only sustainable way to reduce the pressure on premiums and close the protection gap: better planning so no more homes are built in harm’s way, stronger buildings that are better able to withstand extreme weather, greater investment in public infrastructure to better protect communities, and an ongoing program of home buybacks where no other mitigation is possible.
    Comment attributable to Kris Faafoi, CEO, Insurance Council of New Zealand
    Our nations share a common history and a future challenge with climate change. By working closely together our insurance representative bodies are committed to doing their bit to help reduce risk from natural hazards and protect our families and communities.
    By reducing the protection gap we keep communities safe, reduce the costs to taxpayers and ratepayers and maintain insurance capacity and affordability.
    Just last year New Zealand experienced just how devastating severe weather events can be on lives, livelihoods and communities. There is much to be gained by working together on these issues across the UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand through policy work, relationships and our responses to natural disasters.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 1st ‘Jinbo’ China-Europe freight train arrives in Shanghai

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

    1st ‘Jinbo’ China-Europe freight train arrives in Shanghai

    Updated: October 21, 2024 09:12 Xinhua
    This year’s first “Jinbo” China-Europe freight train arrives at the Minhang Station in Shanghai, east China, Oct. 20, 2024. The first “Jinbo” China-Europe freight train carrying exhibits for the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) arrived at the Minhang Station in Shanghai on Sunday, marking the fourth consecutive year that CIIE exhibition products have been transported to Shanghai via the China-Europe freight train service. “Jinbo” is short for CIIE in Chinese. The train, which traveled more than 11,000 km over 21 days, is loaded with 76 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of containers of goods valued at about 100 million yuan (about 14.08 million U.S. dollars), including cosmetics and mechanical equipment. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Customs officers check products delivered by this year’s first “Jinbo” China-Europe freight train at the Minhang Station in Shanghai, east China, Oct. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo shows this year’s first “Jinbo” China-Europe freight train pulling in the Minhang Station in Shanghai, east China, Oct. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This year’s first “Jinbo” China-Europe freight train arrives at the Minhang Station in Shanghai, east China, Oct. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo shows this year’s first “Jinbo” China-Europe freight train pulling in the Minhang Station in Shanghai, east China, Oct. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This year’s first “Jinbo” China-Europe freight train arrives at the Minhang Station in Shanghai, east China, Oct. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Investigation – Rights of man were breached by social workers says Deputy Commissioner 19HDC01187

    Source: Health and Disability Commissioner

    A man’s rights under the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights were breached by two psychiatric social workers, said the Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner in a decision released today. Deborah James said the social workers’ actions represented a serious departure from the appropriate standard of care the man should have received.
    The man lived with schizophrenia and was experiencing deteriorating mental health. After a suicide attempt, the man was taken to a police station for a mental health assessment. There, he was assessed by two psychiatric social workers.
    A risk assessment form was completed but important information was missed such as his suicidal ideation and previous suicide attempts. The social workers also did not give appropriate weight to the fact of the man’s suicide attempt on that day, and they relied too heavily on the man’s self-reporting. Neither social worker consulted a psychiatrist, or other clinician, contacted the man’s wife or his other support worker, or followed the Health New Zealand guidance for safety planning.
    They recorded him as a low risk to himself and others, developed an overnight safety plan which involved medication, refraining from drugs and alcohol, and calling the mental health crisis team if needed, and sent him home. The man took his life later that day.
    The man’s wife complained to HDC saying he should have been taken to hospital and that he was three days overdue for his schizophrenia medication, despite requesting it. The social workers reported that although the man requested his usual injection for managing schizophrenia, they agreed this could wait and be done by a registered nurse the next day.
    One social worker expressed the view that because of her lack of familiarity with the man, she had less responsibility at key parts of his care. Ms James stated “I remain of the view that, as she was present and assisting with the assessment, she could have acted at any point to remedy the failures identified.”
    Deborah James noted that the other social worker was a junior and said, “I consider that if Ms B did not have the requisite skills and training, once she recognised this while assessing Mr A, she should have sought further support, rather than continuing”.
    Ms James made an adverse comment about the clinical note taking of both social workers, and against Health NZ for issues identified in the report with resourcing and training of mental health staff.
    Ms James’ recommendations acknowledged that considerable time had passed since the events and both social workers had undertaken significant extra training in their practice. She encouraged them to further reflect on the events and report back to HDC, including on any further training they have taken up, which they both did. She also acknowledged Health NZ had made several relevant and appropriate changes in its policies and procedures, so made no further recommendations. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Fishermen busy unloading, processing seafood in harvest season in S China

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

    Fishermen busy unloading, processing seafood in harvest season in S China

    Updated: October 21, 2024 09:53 Xinhua
    An aerial photo taken on Oct. 19, 2024 shows fishermen unloading seafood at a port in Lingao County, south China’s Hainan Province. Fishermen here are busy unloading and processing seafood in harvest season. These fresh catches, apart from meeting local demand, will also be marketed nationwide via cold-chain logistics. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Fishermen move seafood at a fishing port in Lingao County, south China’s Hainan Province, Oct. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A shop owner weighs fresh seafood for sale at a fishing port in Lingao County, south China’s Hainan Province, Oct. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A fisherman transfers seafood at a fishing port in Lingao County, south China’s Hainan Province, Oct. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial photo taken on Oct. 19, 2024 shows a fishing port in Lingao County, south China’s Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Investigation – Post birth care of baby boy breaches the Code 22HDC00236

    Source: Health and Disability Commissioner

    In a report published today, Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner Rose Wall has found Health NZ Te Toka Tumai Auckland breached the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights (the Code) for failures in the care of a baby boy in his first hours post-delivery.
    The baby, born at Auckland hospital at full term gestation, required transfer to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). At 10.5 hours post birth he was assessed as having mild hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy [1] (HIE) with some features of moderate HIE. Months later he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.
    At the time of the incident, national guidelines outlined that standard practice was to manage babies at high risk of HIE after birth by conducting an initial neurological assessment, followed by subsequent ‘serial’ observations every hour for six hours.
    In this case, the initial Baby Newborn Record, which includes neurological testing, was only partially completed and there was no documentation of neurological assessment in the admission note to the NICU.
    The junior registrar who attended the birth and accompanied the infant to NICU should have completed this documentation. She told HDC that neurological checks would likely have been performed as part of managing other procedures and that, due to a heavy and complex clinical workload that day, there had not been an opportunity to review paperwork.
    Ms Wall accepted that the initial neurological examination was likely done, and made an adverse comment about the registrar’s incomplete documentation, noting the importance of ensuring a full and complete picture of the baby’s health be available for all others responsible for his care from that point on.
    Ms Wall found that the required subsequent hourly monitoring did not occur.
    “On review of the available information, it is apparent that this baby did not receive any further specific neurological assessment or serial monitoring in line with his risk, as required under the national guidelines,” said Ms Wall.
    Although the registrar was responsible for the baby’s care, Ms Wall considered the failure was attributable to Health NZ at an organisational level.
    Ms Wall said Health NZ had a duty to ensure that the services the baby received complied with legal, professional, ethical and other relevant standards. She found Health NZ breached the Code for failing to provide an appropriate standard of care | Tautikanga.
    The breach covered several shortcomings in care:
    – The registrar was not provided with encephalopathy training in a timely manner.
    – The orientation booklet did not include information about neonatal encephalopathy, or refer to specific guidelines to guide practice.
    – There were no internal policies and procedures in place to ensure that babies at high risk of HIE were managed and monitored using serial Sarnat scoring, in accordance with national guidance on neonatal encephalopathy in place at the time.
    “I am critical that Health NZ did not have in place sufficient policies and procedures to support its staff adequately regarding the baby’s neurological assessments and monitoring,” Ms Wall said.
    Since the events, HNZ has made changes, including the development of Auckland-specific protocols and processes and an Auckland guideline for managing babies at risk of encephalopathy, along with changes to orientation and training (including changes to the orientation booklet).
    Taking into account the changes already made, Ms Wall made several further recommendations for Health NZ and the registrar.
    [1] Disturbed neurological function in the earliest days of life. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China cuts market-based benchmark lending rates

    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 reading of 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.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Save the Children statement: ‘Rohingya refugees must be given humanitarian assistance and protection’

    Source: Save the Children

    Save the Children is calling for Indonesia and other countries in Asia to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to Rohingya refugees after a boat carrying more than 100 Rohingya, including women and children, was sighted off the coast of Indonesia.
    The wooden fishing boat is carrying more than 100 Rohingya refugees according to local authorities and fishermen and is anchored around 5 kilometers off the coast of South Aceh[1]. This is the first boat carrying Rohingya refugees to arrive in Indonesia since March 2024.
    It was not immediately clear where the boat has come from. Earlier in the week local fishermen and authorities said they had discovered in the sea the body of a woman thought to be a Rohingya woman, but it was not immediately clear if the woman was a passenger on the boat.
    From November 2023 to date, at least 15 boats carrying more than 2,000 Rohingya refugees (73% of whom are women and children) landed in Aceh and North Sumatra, Indonesia, a staggering 298% increase from the 574 people who arrived in 2022.[2]
    While many have since departed Indonesia, around 1,000 remain in informal and temporary accommodation in Aceh, North Sumatra, and Riau Provinces.[3]
    Fadli Usman, Humanitarian Director at Save the Children in Indonesia, said:
    “Nobody should have to put their lives at risk to make perilous journeys by sea in search of a better life, but this is sadly the reality for Rohingya refugees who have undertaken dangerous sea journeys, often in boats that are not sea worthy, to seek protection, to access livelihoods and education, and to reunite with families.
    “Indonesia has displayed strong solidarity and humanity in the past by allowing Rohingya refugees to disembark and should continue to do so. We’re also calling on governments in Asia, including Indonesia, to honour their international commitments and provide humanitarian assistance to Rohingya refugees, including children. Around 40% of Rohingya arrivals in Indonesia so far this year have been children. Among other horrors, these children are at risk of physical abuse, malnutrition, gender-based violence and exploitation. No child should have to go through the ordeals that Rohingya children do during these journeys. We must ensure that the Rohingya are not forgotten.”
    Save the Children is also calling on the international community to take on their share of responsibility, by stepping up financial support for Rohingya refugees arriving on boats to Indonesia and other countries in the region.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace raises alarm over looming public health crisis in Canterbury

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace is again raising the alarm over what it has labelled a ‘public health crisis’ in Canterbury after a drinking water testing event in Oxford on Sunday found more bore water supplies tested over the maximum allowable value of nitrate in drinking water.
    The Greenpeace testing also found that the Darfield public water supply is now averaging around 6 mg/L of nitrate in drinking water – 1 milligram per litre more than when the organisation last tested the Darfield public water supply six months ago. Additionally, the Oxford Rural 1 public supply is still consistently testing at levels associated with an increased risk of preterm birth.
    Greenpeace freshwater spokesperson Will Appelbe says, “Everyone should be able to safely drink the water coming out of their kitchen tap, without fear of getting sick. But sadly, the samples we tested in Oxford are not outliers, and many people in Canterbury are drinking water with levels of nitrate that put them at risk of increased health impacts.
    “People in rural Canterbury are facing a looming public health crisis that’s been caused by the dairy industry. Nitrate contamination is a result of diffuse pollution from the intensive dairy industry. Put simply, there are too many cows in Canterbury, and nitrate from the oversized dairy herd is making its way into people’s drinking water.
    “To compound the problem, right now, the Luxon Government is stripping away protections for lakes, rivers, and communities’ drinking water under the Resource Management Act.
    “This is damning evidence that the Government is not acting in the best interests of rural communities – and in fact is knowingly putting them at increased risk of potential health impacts that include bowel cancer and preterm birth,” says Appelbe
    A growing body of science has shown that long-term exposure to nitrate in drinking water at levels as low as 1 mg/L can increase the risk of developing bowel cancer. Additionally, the New Zealand College of Midwives advises that pregnant people should consider accessing an alternative water source if their water supply is testing at or above 5 mg/L, due to scientific evidence indicating that this level of nitrate contamination increases the risk of preterm birth.
    “Nitrate contamination will get worse before it gets better – and that’s all the more reason to take action now to stop the pollution at its source,” says Appelbe.
    “That means phasing out synthetic nitrogen fertiliser use, and it also means less irrigation and fewer cows on farms. If Luxon’s Government won’t take these actions, then regional councils like Environment Canterbury must do so. It’s their responsibility to protect the residents of towns like Darfield and Oxford who are at increased risk of adverse health impacts due to nitrate contamination.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Oxfam condemns killing of water engineers in Gaza

    Source: Oxfam –

    Oxfam condemns in the strongest terms the killing in Gaza today of four water engineers and workers from the Khuzaa municipality who were working with our strategic partner the Coastal Municipalities Water Utility (CMWU).  

    The four men were killed on their way to conduct repairs to water infrastructure in Khuzaa, east of Khan Younis. Despite prior coordination with Israeli authorities their clearly-marked vehicle was bombed. Oxfam stands in solidarity with the CMWU, their partners and the families of the victims.  

    Their deaths deepen the catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza where access to clean water is already severely compromised.  

    Dozens of engineers, civil servants and humanitarian workers have been killed in Israeli airstrikes throughout this war. They were all working on essential services to keep Gaza’s fragile infrastructure running. Despite their movements being coordinated with the Israeli authorities by the CMWU and the Palestinian Water Authority, to ensure their safety, they were still targeted.  

    Attacks on civilian infrastructure and those who maintain it are clear violations of international humanitarian law. Those responsible must be held to account. Such attacks are part of the crime of using starvation as a weapon of war.   

    Oxfam demands an independent investigation into this and other attacks on essential workers. We reiterate our calls for a ceasefire, an immediate halt to arms transfers to Israel, and the international community to ensure Israel is held accountable for its continued assault on civilians and those working to deliver life-saving services. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: “Dispiriting, dangerous, anti-development” education and health cuts by nearly every country with World Bank and IMF loans

    Source: Oxfam –

    New global index reveals that nine out of ten countries worldwide are pursuing policies that are likely to increase levels of economic inequality.

    94 percent of countries (94 out of 100 countries) with current World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) loans have cut vital investments in public education, health and social protection over the past two years, according to a new report published today by Oxfam and Development Finance International (DFI).

    The figure is even higher for International Development Association (IDA) countries, the world’s poorest countries —95 percent (40 out of 42 countries) have pursued such cuts.

    “These cuts are not just dispiriting; they’re dangerous and fundamentally anti-development,” said Kate Donald, Head of Oxfam International’s Washington DC Office. “Too many Global South countries are facing the agonizing choice between investing in education and health or adopting austerity measures to keep up with crushing debt payments. These decisions come at a terrible human cost —millions of people depend on public services to thrive and build better lives for themselves and their children.”

    “Last year, we applauded the World Bank for finally making inequality an institutional priority. But our latest findings show that both the Bank and IMF have a lot of work to do if they are to genuinely contribute to tackling inequality rather than perpetuate it,” said Donald.

    In 2023, under growing pressure from economists, shareholders and civil society, the World Bank introduced its first-ever “vision indicator” aimed at reducing the number of countries with high inequality (Gini of 0.4 or above). Despite this step forward, the Bank has watered down previous commitments to support progressive taxation, including increased taxation of the super-rich. Tackling inequality has so far not been incorporated into the policy framework for the upcoming replenishment of the Bank’s IDA, which provides grants or low-interest loans to the world’s poorest countries, over half of which are in Africa. Inequality is high or increasing in 54 percent of countries that receive funds from IDA.

    Using the latest data from government budgets, the “Commitment to Reducing Inequality (CRI) Index 2024” ranks 164 governments on their policies regarding public services, tax, and workers’ rights —policies central to reducing inequality. This year’s edition shows that, for the first time since the Index began in 2017, the majority of countries are backsliding across all the three critical areas.

    Overall, 84 percent of countries have cut investment in education, health and social protection, 81 percent weakened their tax systems’ ability to reduce inequality, and in 90 percent of them, labour rights and minimum wages have worsened.

    Some countries have improved their ranking since 2022. Burkina Faso and Vanuatu increased their minimum wage, Croatia boosted investment in health, and Guyana retains one of the highest corporate tax rates (40 percent).

    Others have fallen sharply, including Argentina whose new government has slashed public health and education budgets by 76 percent and 60 percent, respectively, and is phasing out the country’s wealth tax. Pakistan has cut education and social protection budget shares by a third under IMF-imposed austerity measures.

    Even the top performers, high-income countries led by Norway and Canada, are lagging in many indicators. Around 5 percent of their populations face catastrophic out-of-pocket healthcare costs. Excepting Japan, most have low rates of corporate income tax. Denmark has been cutting the income tax rate paid by the richest 1 percent for years.

    The bottom performers in the Index remain dominated by those from Sub-Saharan Africa (all countries in the region have World Bank and IMF programs). In addition to low tax revenues, the debt crisis, conflict and climate breakdown are diverting scarce resources from education, health and social safety nets. On average, low- and middle-income countries are spending 48 percent of their budgets on debt service, far more than they do on education and health combined. Six of the bottom ten countries are in or at high risk of debt distress.

    Higher taxes on the income and wealth of the super-rich could raise trillions of dollars to plug financing gaps for public services in low- and middle-income countries. At the G20 finance ministers’ meeting in July 2024, for the first time in history, the world’s largest economies agreed to cooperate to tax the ultra-rich, a move welcomed by President of the World Bank Ajay Banga.

    “The world’s governments are doing even less to fight inequality, exacerbating extremism and undermining growth. With the World Bank adopting a new anti-inequality target, the World Bank and IMF have a new opportunity to champion policies which cut inequality —free public services, fairer tax systems, and stronger workers’ rights. They must seize this with both hands,” said Matthew Martin, Executive Director of DFI.
     

    Download Oxfam and DFI’s “Commitment to Reducing Inequality (CRI) Index 2024” at http://www.inequalityindex.org. Development Finance International (DFI) is a non-profit capacity-building, advocacy, advisory and research group.  

    According to Oxfam’s research, inequality is high or increasing in 25 (54 percent) of countries that receive funds from IDA.

    Significant investment from the World Bank is needed to radically and rapidly improve data on inequality, particularly on the incomes and the wealth of those at the top.  For more than 100 countries, the most recent data available is from 2019 or earlier, predating the last five years of crisis.
     

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI China: Global artists craft dreams in ‘porcelain capital’

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Dutch designer Johannes Gille crafts ceramic lamp shades in Jingdezhen, the world-famous “porcelain capital” in east China’s Jiangxi.

    “Historically, the blue and white porcelain from Jingdezhen had influenced the renowned Delftware in my hometown,” Gille said at the city’s Taoxichuan International Studio. “I collaborate with local artisans to bring traditional blue and white patterns to life, and I can’t wait to showcase these pieces at my design studio in Delft.”

    Jingdezhen has long served as a cultural bridge, with its porcelain being a vital commodity on trade routes since the 16th century. Today, the city has evolved into a cultural oasis and attracted a vibrant mix of talent from around the globe.

    At times, as many as 5,000 foreign creators work and live in Jingdezhen. The influx of global artisans, often referred to as “Yangjingpiao,” has turned the city into a melting pot of ideas and cultures.

    Park Ju-hee from the Republic of Korea has made Jingdezhen her home. Before settling in the city, she worked as an architect in cities like Beijing and Hangzhou after graduating from Tsinghua University.

    Her recent ceramic creations are inspired by nature’s changing seasons by adopting the coiling technique.

    “Jingdezhen’s environment is ideal for my work,” she said, emphasizing the rich artistic community that fuels her creativity as well as the city’s friendly environment for start-ups.

    Gille added that in Europe, custom porcelain molds are significantly more expensive and require more complex arrangements compared to the process in Jingdezhen, where things can be organized with just a few calls.

    Spanish ceramic artist Jaume Ribalta has embraced the rural lifestyle on the outskirts of the city.

    He rented a farmhouse in Xianghu Town, where he set up his studio. Jaume blends the black-and-white ceramic patterns from his hometown of Barcelona with Jingdezhen’s exquisite blue-and-white technique.

    After two and a half years in Jingdezhen, he has handcrafted 50 covered bowls, 40 teacups, and 10 teapots, all of which have sold out, helping him navigate the challenging early stages of his business.

    “Contemporary ceramics often see artists working independently, but in Jingdezhen, artisans emphasize collaboration,” Ribalta said.

    He noted that every step of the process, from mold making to hand-painting and firing, is open to newcomers, benefiting from the support of dozens of experienced local craftsmen.

    In Jingdezhen, the spirit of collaboration among artisans fosters a unique creative environment that is hard to find elsewhere, Ribalta added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: International photography week opens in Beijing

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Photo Beijing, an international photography week held annually since 2013, kicked off in the Chinese capital on Saturday, featuring more than 5,400 works from over 2,600 photographers.

    The works are displayed across 58 themed exhibitions, such as life and landscapes in Beijing, cultural heritage in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and mobile phone photography.

    People can enjoy the exhibitions in the main venue of the China Millennium Monument and 11 other locations, including the Central Academy of Fine Arts, Beijing Film Academy and the Summer Palace.

    The photography week, running until Oct. 28, will also feature 13 dialogues and discussions on topics such as ethnographic photography and large-format photography.

    Photo Beijing 2024 is co-hosted by China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Beijing municipal government. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 3 killed in trail ride shooting in US state of Mississippi

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Three people were killed and eight others injured on Saturday during a trail ride shooting in Holmes County, the southern U.S. state of Mississippi, authorities said.

    The incident occurred when at least two people opened fire into a crowd of 200 to 300 people celebrating Holmes County Consolidated School’s homecoming football win at an outdoor event several hours after the game ended.

    Holmes County Sheriff Willie March said the shooting followed an argument among several young men.

    The sheriff said police officers are searching for the suspects in connection to the shooting and an investigation is underway. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZ heads to Samoa for Commonwealth talks

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters will be among world leaders travelling to Apia this week for a meeting of the 56-nation Commonwealth.

    This is the first time the two-yearly Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) is hosted by Samoa, representing a great opportunity to profile the Pacific to the world.

    “CHOGM is a fantastic opportunity to connect with other Commonwealth leaders,” Mr Luxon says.

    “In these uncertain geopolitical times, it is important to meet face-to-face to talk about how we can be more resilient in the face of global challenges.”

    Approximately 460 New Zealand personnel will be deployed in Samoa. This includes around 260 Defence personnel, 100 Police, and 50 medical specialists including doctors, nurses and paramedics, as well as five ambulances, one naval vessel, three NZDF helicopters and two explosive ordnance detector dogs.

    Foreign Minister Winston Peters says this year’s CHOGM will provide a platform for smaller countries, and the Pacific region.

    “We hope that Samoa’s hosting this year will put the Pacific region and its specific concerns at the forefront of delegates’ minds,” Mr Peters says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lexington Man Sentenced for Possession of Firearm by a Convicted Felon

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Lexington man, David Allen Baxter, 40, was sentenced to 100 months, on Friday, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

    According to his plea agreement, on February 9, 2024, law enforcement observed Baxter, who had an outstanding warrant for a parole violation, entering and exiting a building.  Officers attempted to make contact, but Baxter fled on foot.  While Baxter was fleeing, officers observed him reaching into his jacket pocket and attempting to grab something.  Officers eventually caught Baxter, who was in possession of a loaded and chambered firearm.  Baxter admitted that he knew he was a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms.

    Baxter had previously been convicted of the following:  convicted felon in possession of a handgun, receiving stolen property, and possession of a controlled substance, in Scott Circuit Court in December 2019; convicted felon in possession of a firearm and wanton endangerment, in Fayette Circuit Court in September 2016; trafficking in a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance, in Fayette Circuit Court in December 2003; and robbery, in Fayette Circuit Court in May 2001.

    Under federal law, Baxter must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence.  Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years.

    Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.

    The case was investigated by the ATF and Lexington Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Paco Villalobos prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.

    This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities.  It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts.  In the Eastern District of Kentucky, U.S. Attorney Shier coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.

    — END —

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lexington Man Sentenced for Armed Fentanyl Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Lexington man, Jago Clay, 24, was sentenced to 108 months, on Friday, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. 

    According to his plea agreement, on June 17, 2022, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of Clay’s vehicle, due to an upside-down license plate affixed to the wrong vehicle.  During the stop, officers found a large bag containing approximately 256 pressed fentanyl pills, a digital scale, and two loaded handguns. Clay admitted to knowingly possessing the fentanyl pills, with the intent distribute them, and to possessing the firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking.

    Under federal law, Clay must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence.  Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years.

    Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; Col. Phillip J. Burnett, Jr., Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.

    The case was investigated by the ATF, KSP, and Lexington Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Paco Villalobos prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.

    This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities.  It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts.  In the Eastern District of Kentucky, U.S. Attorney Shier coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.

    — END —

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A year on from the Senate inquiry into concussion, what’s changed and what comes next?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Annette Greenhow, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Law, Bond University

    In September 2023, an Australian Senate committee released a landmark report on concussions and repeated head trauma in contact sports.

    The committee made 13 recommendations to improve outcomes for past, present and future players.

    The report emphasised shared responsibility and transparency in developing a national approach, with the government to lead nine of the recommendations.

    As of October 2024, no official government update has been provided.

    We’ve assessed the status of the recommendations – of the publicly available sources, we found evidence of action in some areas but no national strategy in directly addressing the focus of several key recommendations.

    As part of this review, we searched the websites of the Australian government’s Department of Health and Aged Care and the Australian Sports Commission/Australian Institute of Sport (ASC/AIS).

    We approached the Senate committee secretary and the Department of Health and Aged Care for more information but neither was able to comment.

    We acknowledge there is likely more work going on behind the scenes, and these processes take time.

    Here’s what we found.

    Progress being made

    In the past year, there has been progress made with several recommendations including those addressing community awareness, education and guidelines for amateur and youth sports.

    The AIS continues to engage in health-led efforts with a suite of resources aimed at increasing community awareness and education.

    In June this year, the institute published a new set of return-to-play guidelines specifically targeting community and youth athletes.

    This represents a tangible response from a federally funded sporting body.

    However, these guidelines must be easily implemented by clubs. To date, there is no indication the government plans to increase funding or resources to clubs to help do so.

    The committee also called for national sporting organisations to “further explore rule modifications to prevent and reduce the impact of concussions and repeated head trauma, prioritising modifications for children and adolescents”.

    Several major sporting codes have modified their rules and we expect them to remain focused on rule modifications to ensure the longevity of their sports.

    General practitioners (GPs) are often the first port of call after a concussion, and the committee recommended the development of standardised guidelines for GPs and first aid responders.

    This addresses concerns that GPs may require additional training in treating sport-related brain trauma.

    In response, the AIS developed a free, online short course for registered GPs.

    Work in progress, or lack of progress?

    There appears to be work in progress or a lack of progress elsewhere, including key recommendations for a National Sports Injury Database (NSID) and professional sport data sharing.

    The inquiry highlighted how patchy data collection had contributed to evidence gaps in understanding sports injury management and surveillance. The committee’s most urgent recommendation therefore was for the government to establish the NSID.

    This would work closely with another recommendation that called for professional sport codes to collect and share de-identified concussion and sub-concussive event data with the NSID.

    As of October 2024, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports the NSID is still under development and is not yet ready to receive data.

    Other recommendations related to research – establishing an independent research pathway, ongoing funding commitments and a co-ordinated and consolidated funding framework.

    These recommendations called for the government’s existing agencies, or a newly created body, to coordinate research on the effects of concussion and repeated head trauma.

    No new dedicated sports-related concussion research pathways have emerged since the inquiry.

    In terms of funding commitments, in April this year – after former rugby league star Wally Lewis’s National Press Club appearance – Dementia Australia reported the government had pledged $A18 million for concussion and CTE support services and education.



    Read more:
    Why a portrait of a former NRL great could spark greater concussion awareness in Australia

    The May 2024 federal budget allocated $132.7 million to boost sports participation from grassroots to high performance. But this did not address concussion and repeated head trauma, and we haven’t been able to find evidence of a co-ordinated and consolidated funding framework.

    Our view is concussion funding pools should be primarily focused on supporting independent research projects. However, sporting bodies clearly need to be involved – they provide access to athlete populations and most people in these organisations have a genuine care for athlete welfare.

    Another recommendation called for a national concussion strategy. This should focus on binding return-to-play protocols and rules to protect participants from head injuries.

    The recommendation included a role for government and whether any existing government bodies would be best placed to monitor, oversee and/or enforce concussion-related rules and protocols.

    In our view, this recommendation involves much more than producing guidelines. It requires a more comprehensive national strategy, with consideration to monitoring compliance and enforcement.

    We could not find any evidence indicating the current status of this recommendation.

    Increased funding and support for affected athletes were also focus areas.

    These recommendations called for a review to address barriers to workers’ compensation and ensure adequate insurance arrangements remain in place.

    We could not find any evidence of whether state and territory governments are involved in the reviews of workers compensation to apply to professional athletes.

    The committee recommenced the government consider measures to increase donations to brain banks for scientific research.

    We couldn’t find any evidence of steps taken to implement this recommendation.

    Moving forward

    There has been progress in education and guidelines but a lack of the coordinated, transparent approach the committee envisioned.

    A formal government response, as demonstrated in Canada and the United Kingdom, is essential to establish trust and chart a clear path forward.

    The Australian government, as guardian of the Australian public’s health, has an opportunity to do the same.

    Annette Greenhow receives funding from SSHRC Partnership Development Grant. Annette is a Board Member of the Australian and New Zealand Sports Law Association. The views expressed in this article are her own.

    Stephen Townsend does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. A year on from the Senate inquiry into concussion, what’s changed and what comes next? – https://theconversation.com/a-year-on-from-the-senate-inquiry-into-concussion-whats-changed-and-what-comes-next-239929

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Attempted ram raid – Woolner

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police are calling for information after an attempted ram raid in Woolner on Saturday morning.

    Around 3:05am, police received reports of a vehicle attempting to ram the front doors of a business on Bishop Street, before being confronted by the owner and fleeing the scene.

    The vehicle used by the alleged offenders was later reported stolen.

    Police urge anyone with information regarding the incident to make contact on 131 444 and quote reference NTP2400105693.

    Anonymous reports can be made via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or through https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN shares views with Channel News Asia

    Source: ASEAN

    While in Singapore for the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) 2024 Summit, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today shared his views and perspectives with Channel News Asia (CNA), where he highlighted the key outcomes of the recently-held 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Meetings in Vientiane, Lao PDR, and talked about the importance of promoting ASEAN’s relations with its external partners, among others.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN shares views with Channel News Asia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Humanising AI could lead us to dehumanise ourselves

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Raffaele F Ciriello, Senior Lecturer in Business Information Systems, University of Sydney

    Shutterstock

    Irish writer John Connolly once said:

    The nature of humanity, its essence, is to feel another’s pain as one’s own, and to act to take that pain away.

    For most of our history, we believed empathy was a uniquely human trait – a special ability that set us apart from machines and other animals. But this belief is now being challenged.

    As AI becomes a bigger part of our lives, entering even our most intimate spheres, we’re faced with a philosophical conundrum: could attributing human qualities to AI diminish our own human essence? Our research suggests it can.

    Digitising companionship

    In recent years, AI “companion” apps such as Replika have attracted millions of users. Replika allows users to create custom digital partners to engage in intimate conversations. Members who pay for Replika Pro can even turn their AI into a “romantic partner”.

    Physical AI companions aren’t far behind. Companies such as JoyLoveDolls are selling interactive sex robots with customisable features including breast size, ethnicity, movement and AI responses such as moaning and flirting.

    While this is currently a niche market, history suggests today’s digital trends will become tomorrow’s global norms. With about one in four adults experiencing loneliness, the demand for AI companions will grow.

    The dangers of humanising AI

    Humans have long attributed human traits to non-human entities – a tendency known as anthropomorphism. It’s no surprise we’re doing this with AI tools such as ChatGPT, which appear to “think” and “feel”. But why is humanising AI a problem?

    For one thing, it allows AI companies to exploit our tendency to form attachments with human-like entities. Replika is marketed as “the AI companion who cares”. However, to avoid legal issues, the company elsewhere points out Replika isn’t sentient and merely learns through millions of user interactions.

    Some AI companies overtly claim their AI assistants have empathy and can even anticipate human needs. Such claims are misleading and can take advantage of people seeking companionship. Users may become deeply emotionally invested if they believe their AI companion truly understands them.

    This raises serious ethical concerns. A user will hesitate to delete (that is, to “abandon” or “kill”) their AI companion once they’ve ascribed some kind of sentience to it.

    But what happens when said companion unexpectedly disappears, such as if the user can no longer afford it, or if the company that runs it shuts down? While the companion may not be real, the feelings attached to it are.

    Empathy – more than a programmable output

    By reducing empathy to a programmable output, do we risk diminishing its true essence? To answer this, let’s first think about what empathy really is.

    Empathy involves responding to other people with understanding and concern. It’s when you share your friend’s sorrow as they tell you about their heartache, or when you feel joy radiating from someone you care about. It’s a profound experience – rich and beyond simple forms of measurement.

    A fundamental difference between humans and AI is that humans genuinely feel emotions, while AI can only simulate them. This touches on the hard problem of consciousness, which questions how subjective human experiences arise from physical processes in the brain.

    Science has yet to solve the hard problem of consciousness.
    Shutterstock

    While AI can simulate understanding, any “empathy” it purports to have is a result of programming that mimics empathetic language patterns. Unfortunately, AI providers have a financial incentive to trick users into growing attached to their seemingly empathetic products.

    The dehumanAIsation hypothesis

    Our “dehumanAIsation hypothesis” highlights the ethical concerns that come with trying to reduce humans to some basic functions that can be replicated by a machine. The more we humanise AI, the more we risk dehumanising ourselves.

    For instance, depending on AI for emotional labour could make us less tolerant of the imperfections of real relationships. This could weaken our social bonds and even lead to emotional deskilling. Future generations may become less empathetic – losing their grasp on essential human qualities as emotional skills continue to be commodified and automated.

    Also, as AI companions become more common, people may use them to replace real human relationships. This would likely increase loneliness and alienation – the very issues these systems claim to help with.

    AI companies’ collection and analysis of emotional data also poses significant risks, as these data could be used to manipulate users and maximise profit. This would further erode our privacy and autonomy, taking surveillance capitalism to the next level.

    Holding providers accountable

    Regulators need to do more to hold AI providers accountable. AI companies should be honest about what their AI can and can’t do, especially when they risk exploiting users’ emotional vulnerabilities.

    Exaggerated claims of “genuine empathy” should be made illegal. Companies making such claims should be fined – and repeat offenders shut down.

    Data privacy policies should also be clear, fair and without hidden terms that allow companies to exploit user-generated content.

    We must preserve the unique qualities that define the human experience. While AI can enhance certain aspects of life, it can’t – and shouldn’t – replace genuine human connection.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Humanising AI could lead us to dehumanise ourselves – https://theconversation.com/humanising-ai-could-lead-us-to-dehumanise-ourselves-240803

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fred Graham work a tribute to home town

    Source: Auckland Council

    Celebrated artist Fred Graham has unveiled a gift to the town he loves in the form of a sculpture carrying its name.

    Waiuku becomes the latest addition to Auckland’s public art collection after its unveiling on the Glenbrook-Waiuku Road / Cornwall Road intersection.

    It expresses his aroha (love) and whakawhetai (gratitude) for the town where he has lived, worked and raised his family with wife Norma for more than 30 years.

    Franklin Local Board member Sharlene Druyven says Graham (Ngāti Korokī Kahukura, Tainui) is internationally and nationally celebrated and is a taonga of the area.

    Now 96, he is still being commissioned – especially in Waikato – where his ancestry anchors him, with Waiuku acknowledging Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua history in the rohe (area) and the immigrants who have made it their home.

    Based on the letter W, three of the four inner panels feature the koru, honouring those involved in the story of how Waiuku got its name.

    Brothers Tamakae and Tamakou vied for the hand of Waikato chieftainess Te Atairehia – after whom Ngati Te Ata are named – and who is represented by a fourth koru.

    Tamakae was the provider, Tamakou the orator. Tamakou was first to meet Te Atairehia but she requested Tamakae be presented. He was working in the kumara gardens and had to be washed in the wai (water) and uku (a type of white clay) at the stream that flows into the Manukau Harbour before he could meet her.

    He won her heart and they married, and from then on, the area was known as Waiuku.

    Fred Graham’s work is held in international collections.

    Graham was born in 1928 in Arapuni, going on to Taita College where his talent was recognised, a gift nurtured at Ardmore Teachers Training College.

    From there he developed an interest in sculpture, teaching himself to carve in wood and stone, and later using steel – a cornerstone of Waiuku with its iron sand and mill.

    He was part of a collective that ran a Te Tai Tokerau (Northland) initiative in rural Māori communities with artists such as Cliff Whiting and Paratene Matchitt known as the ‘Class of ’66’ after a Hamilton show called ‘Contemporary Māori Painting and Sculpture’.

    Friendships with art greats Ralph Hotere and Muru Walters were also established during his early days, while his own works fused Māori and European cultures, often combining wood, stone and modern materials in commissions displayed across Aotearoa.

    “Fred is known for drawing on Māori traditions, but that is in the art world. In Waiuku he is better known for his gentleness, kindness and wisdom,” Druyven says.

    “This is a man who has walked alongside greats of the art world but who is humble, who celebrates what matters to him, whanau and whenua.

    “Very few of us can say we are friends with an art great, and the fact he’s just Fred to so many here in Waiuku tells you everything you need to know.”

    Ngaati Te Ata kaumatua Riki Minhinnick leads the blessing of the site.

    His son Brett followed his own path, also becoming an acclaimed artist and exhibiting currently with his father and other prominent Māori artists at this year’s Venice Biennale.

    Fred Graham received the Te Waka Toi Te Tohu Aroha mō Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu Award in 2017 and a year later the Arts Foundation Icon Award and was also made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

    The 5.2 metre tall 1.4 tonne stainless steel work was made in Waiuku by retired engineer Rex Erikson, a long-term friend and collaborator.

    Waiuku is the second major Graham installation in the town. In 2020 his work recognising NZ Steel’s 50th anniversary in 2015, was unveiled at Centennial Park – Lions Lake to locals.

    That eight-metre steel statue features triangular panels depicting the three Franklin sites that converge to see steel forged at the mill, Taharoa, Waikato North Head and Glenbrook.

    Fifty birds adorn the panels, the cut-outs recognising the lives of those connected to the mill who have passed, and the shaped birds the lives of those now associated with the mill, and the whanau supported by that relationship.

    Inside the triangle, pipes can be seen, honouring the pipeline that sees iron sand shaped into steel.

    Atop the structure three birds rise into the sky, the past, present and the future.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Progress towards Auckland’s climate goals puts resilience at the forefront

    Source: Auckland Council

    From increasing public transport options, to decarbonising the council’s operations, to community food initiatives and building resilience to flood events, Auckland Council is delivering tangible, positive climate outcomes for Aucklanders. That’s according to Auckland Council’s Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan 2024 progress snapshot.

    Councillor Richard Hills, Chair of the council’s Policy and Planning Committee applauds the progress already made but reminds us that to maintain momentum and achieve our climate goals requires continued commitment from all of us.

    “As a region, the scale and speed of climate action needed to make an impact on resilience continues to grow and will require increasing levels of cohesion and investment across both government and our council.”

    Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan is Auckland Council’s long-term approach to climate action. It sets out eight priority action areas to deliver our goals to reduce carbon pollution and plan in ways that prevent further climate disruption.

    Kataraina Maki, Auckland Council’s Chief Sustainability Officer, believes the council plays a crucial role in forward-thinking to make caring for everyone in a climate-disrupted future a reality.

    “Imagine the lives we can all live when, across our communities, we are empowered to take the bold climate actions we need, and know are feasible. Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan provides long term solutions to make wise decisions now that will prevent further disruption to the climate later for future generations.

    “Kia kotahi, Auckland Council supports our communities to unite, work together, and adapt to low-carbon, climate-prepared lifestyles to meet peoples’ needs and make our city better for everyone, especially those most vulnerable to climate disruption.”

    The annual progress report highlights the council’s contribution towards the implementation of Te Tāruke-a-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan based on the levels of actions that are completed, in progress, and still required in reducing emissions and improving resilience to climate change. It also provides highlights of progress and key challenges for each priority in the plan along with a summary of key initiatives planned for the year ahead.

    Key highlights of 2023/2024 report include:

    • Collecting and diverting 20,000 tonnes of food scraps from landfill, exceeding the target of 18,000 tonnes for year one
    • Investment in public transport to increase patronage up to 100 million boardings by March 2025
    • Issuing three new green bonds increasing total green bond holdings to NZ $3.7 billion
    • The Auckland Council climate grant funded 32 community-led projects, with approximately a third going to underserved communities
    • Approximately 750,000 trees were planted across the region as part of the Urban Ngahere programme
    • Several projects including Auckland Art Gallery and Auckland Domain Wintergardens have switched from gas to electricity and alternative energy sources, saving money and reducing emissions.

    A planted area and stormwater stream beside the motorway in South Auckland.

    Building resilience to future extreme weather events top priority for the council

    In response to the 2023 extreme weather events, Auckland Council has partnered with the government to implement a $2 billion flood recovery and resilience package. As severe weather events happen more frequently, the council is preparing for the additional water we know to expect and preventing further flood risks through financial support for affected homeowners, supporting community-led responses and accelerating crucial repairs to affected infrastructure.

    The Making Space for Water programme has been integral to this work where $820 million has been given to help build resilience, repair affected stormwater assets and reduce the impacts of future intense rainfall.

    Councillor Hills says that rebuilding our infrastructure after big flooding and climate events can prevent worsening climate disruption.

    “Rampant carbon pollution has trapped heat like a blanket in our atmosphere and warmed the oceans, leading to a disrupted climate and more extreme weather events. A lot more water is one of the effects,” he says.

    “Auckland Council prioritises working alongside mana whenua, communities, and infrastructure experts to redesign our city to be more spongy to soak up this extra water and reduce heat in our neighbourhoods.

    “By uncovering our natural waterways and enhancing and maintaining our stormwater systems through programmes like Making Space for Water, we’re giving water space to flow and rise to build resilience and reduce the impacts of future flooding.”

    An electric bus on Waiheke Island.

    Zero emission transport

    Auckland’s public transport network is becoming fully electric. A total of 180 buses are now zero emissions in the fleet, making it the largest fleet of zero-emission buses of any city in Australasia. Investment in the transition from fossil fuels to lower emissions has also seen the construction of the first low emission ferries. The Climate Action Transport Targeted Rate has also increased our frequent bus network to forty routes in total, the most recent addition is the 94, which is seeing almost 400 new users each day.

    Te Herenga Waka O Orewa Marae has received funding to repair flooring in the wharekai, an engineering design to improve stormwater management.

    Mana whenua partnerships

    Auckland Council supports leadership of mana whenua who have expertise in living in harmony with natural systems to care for their rohe and tāngata, using mātauranga Māori to guide how te taiao is valued and protected. The council supports climate resilience programmes across seven Auckland marae as part of the Resilient Marae Programme, and rangatahi Māori-led responses to the environment such as Mātātahi Taio to deliver climate action outcomes using traditional Māori knowledge systems and practices.

    About the progress snapshot

    The council group this year reports that based on the current allocation of funding for greenhouse gas emissions reduction, meeting the 2050 net zero target set in Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri is becoming more challenging within timeframe and financial constraints. Regional emissions are also starting to rise, after they temporarily decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The report identifies that we all face big challenges in a climate-disrupted future. Better, resilient lives for everyone are possible through bold community climate planning, and a sustained collective commitment and effort from government, the council, businesses, communities and individuals to climate action.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on October 18, 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 6,170.25 6.31 5.50-6.55
         I. Call Money 970.10 6.11 5.50-6.24
         II. Triparty Repo 4,266.15 6.34 5.81-6.55
         III. Market Repo 6.00 5.90 5.90-5.90
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 928.00 6.40 6.39-6.45
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 9,547.65 6.47 5.10-6.60
         II. Term Money@@ 1,233.00 – 6.85-6.90
         III. Triparty Repo 361,634.75 6.29 6.23-6.60
         IV. Market Repo 150,948.36 6.29 5.00-6.64
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Fri, 18/10/2024 13 Thu, 31/10/2024 20,073.00 6.49
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Fri, 18/10/2024 3 Mon, 21/10/2024 54,755.00 6.49
    3. MSF# Fri, 18/10/2024 1 Sat, 19/10/2024 866.00 6.75
      Fri, 18/10/2024 2 Sun, 20/10/2024 0.00 6.75
      Fri, 18/10/2024 3 Mon, 21/10/2024 3,350.00 6.75
    4. SDFΔ# Fri, 18/10/2024 1 Sat, 19/10/2024 144,586.00 6.25
      Fri, 18/10/2024 2 Sun, 20/10/2024 0.00 6.25
      Fri, 18/10/2024 3 Mon, 21/10/2024 4,259.00 6.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -219,457.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    5. On Tap Targeted Long Term Repo Operations€ Mon, 15/11/2021 1095 Thu, 14/11/2024 250.00 4.00
    Mon, 27/12/2021 1095 Thu, 26/12/2024 2,275.00 4.00
    6. Special Long-Term Repo Operations (SLTRO) for Small Finance Banks (SFBs)£ Mon, 15/11/2021 1095 Thu, 14/11/2024 105.00 4.00
    Mon, 22/11/2021 1095 Thu, 21/11/2024 100.00 4.00
    Mon, 29/11/2021 1095 Thu, 28/11/2024 305.00 4.00
    Mon, 13/12/2021 1095 Thu, 12/12/2024 150.00 4.00
    Mon, 20/12/2021 1095 Thu, 19/12/2024 100.00 4.00
    Mon, 27/12/2021 1095 Thu, 26/12/2024 255.00 4.00
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       7,222.87  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     10,762.87  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -208,694.13  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on October 18, 2024 991,699.56  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending October 18, 2024 1,001,756.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ October 18, 2024 0.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on October 04, 2024 488,495.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    € As per the Press Release No. 2020-2021/520 dated October 21, 2020, Press Release No. 2020-2021/763 dated December 11, 2020, Press Release No. 2020-2021/1057 dated February 05, 2021 and Press Release No. 2021-2022/695 dated August 13, 2021.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    £ As per the Press Release No. 2021-2022/181 dated May 07, 2021 and Press Release No. 2021-2022/1023 dated October 11, 2021.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2024-2025/1340

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU students entered the top 115 best students in Russia following the conference “Management of the Future”

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Four students Faculty of Economics, NSU — Leonid Chistopolov, Anastasia Karunina, Alena Kozich and Makar Fedorov — entered the top 115 best students in Russia following the results of the XII conference “Management of the Future”, organized by the Graduate School of Management of St. Petersburg State University.

    The conference “Management of the Future” has been held since 2012 and attracts the most promising students interested in modern trends in management and business. The selection of participants consists of several stages: filling out a questionnaire with a resume and portfolio, a test of logic and mathematics, as well as a final video interview, which has become one of the most difficult tests for participants.

    — I learned about the conference from the previous head of Case Club NSU, who went to the conference last year and shared positive emotions. Therefore, I decided that I definitely needed to participate in the selection in order to meet ambitious students from all over Russia at the conference, hear expert opinions from top executives of large Russian companies on the topic of “Growth at the intersection of competencies” (the topic of this year’s conference), get a job opportunity and, of course, visit St. Petersburg! When I received the coveted letter of passage, of course, I was happy and felt confident in my abilities. And when I learned that three from NSU passed the selection, I realized that it was not in vain that I chose this university three years ago, — shared Anastasia Karunina.

    This year, the event brought together more than 100 students from all over the country, providing participants with unique opportunities to communicate with top managers of leading companies and participate in practical cases.

    — I decided to participate because I wanted to develop connections, expand my knowledge in the industries where I work, and see the city (I have never been to St. Petersburg). The conference gives me the opportunity to do all of this. When I found out that I had passed the selection, I was happy, — said Leonid Chistopolov.

    For university students, this is not only an opportunity to exchange experiences and establish new connections, but also a chance to demonstrate the high level of training at NSU.

    We congratulate the guys on such an important achievement and wish them success!

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.nsu.ru/n/media/nevs/education/NSU students-entered the top-115-best-students-of-Russia-at-the-future-management-conference/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to support listing of innovative SMEs

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    This photo taken on Feb. 17, 2023 shows a view of the Beijing Stock Exchange in Beijing, capital of China.[Photo/Xinhua]

    China will intensify its support for the listing of high-quality innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) on the Beijing Stock Exchange and the “new third board,” a financing platform designed for SMEs.

    This initiative is outlined in a strategic cooperation agreement signed by the Beijing Stock Exchange, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), and the National Equities Exchange and Quotations during the Annual Conference of Financial Street Forum 2024 on Sunday.

    According to the agreement, the three parties will enhance their coordination and collaborate in areas such as institutional synergy, company cultivation and work coordination to form a cohesive force that promotes the development of these enterprises.

    They also aim to assist the enterprises in effectively utilizing capital market tools like mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, and equity incentives to achieve high-quality development.

    So far, China has cultivated about 141,000 innovative SMEs that use specialized, sophisticated technologies to produce novel or unique products, including 14,600 “little giant” firms, according to data from the MIIT.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s railway cargo transportation rises

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    This aerial photo shows a freight train loaded with auto parts, home appliances and textile products pulling out of the Xiahuayuan railway cargo terminal in Zhangjiakou, north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s railway network transported 1.004 billion tonnes of cargo in the third quarter of this year, marking a year-on-year increase of 3.8 percent and setting a new record for freight volume in a single quarter, official data showed Sunday.

    China’s railway industry has been improving its transportation services and efficiency to support the high-quality development of the economy, according to China State Railway Group Co., Ltd.

    During this period, railways handled 520 million tonnes of coal, up 3.5 percent year on year.

    The company said it will further speed up the development of a modern railway logistics network to facilitate domestic and international economic circulations, and reduce logistics costs.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name Release, fatal water incident, Manukau Harbour

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can now confirm the name of the man who died after a boat capsized in the Manukau Harbour on Sunday 20 October.

    He was 52-year-old Parma Siwam Samy, also known as Vimal, of Māngere East.

    Police would like to extend our condolences to his whānau at this difficult time.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing and his death will be referred to the Coroner.

    Police would like to thank the members of the public who assisted with the rescue.

    ENDS.

    Tony Wright/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Average speed camera trial to investigate safety dividend

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Average speed camera trial to investigate safety dividend

    Published: 21 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Minister for Roads

    Previously, average speed cameras have only been used in NSW to monitor the speed of heavy vehicles. Road safety benefits will be evaluated when a trial of average speed cameras for light vehicles is conducted from next year.

    Legislation that passed NSW Parliament has enabled their use for all vehicles, bringing the state into line with all other Australian mainland states and the ACT where the technology is an integral part of their speed enforcement programs.

    The NSW Government will now trial the lifesaving benefits of average speed cameras as part of efforts to combat the rising road toll which today stands at 271 – two more than at the same date in 2023.

    The average speed camera trial will build on road safety initiatives introduced by the Minns Labor Government, including:

    • Seatbelt enforcement by the existing mobile phone camera detection network
    • Removing a loophole to force all motorists driving on a foreign licence to convert to a NSW licence within six months
    • The demerit return trial that rewarded more than 1.2 million drivers for maintaining a demerit-offence-free driving record during the initial 12-month period up to 16 January 2024
    • Doubling roadside enforcement sites used for mobile speed cameras, with the addition of 2,700 new locations where a camera can be deployed. Enforcement hours will remain the same
    • Hosting the state’s first Road Safety Forum of international and local experts
    • Signed National Road Safety Data Agreement with the Commonwealth

    Speeding is the biggest killer on NSW roads, contributing to 41 per cent of all fatalities over the past decade.

    Regional NSW is home to a third of the population but is where two-thirds of all road deaths happen.

    Two trials will be conducted on limited stretches of highway in regional NSW to assess whether these measures reduce speeding at these locations, improving safety and preventing injuries and fatalities. The trial areas are:

    • Pacific Highway between Kew and Lake Innes (Port Macquarie) – 15kms between cameras
    • Hume Highway between Coolac and Gundagai – 16kms between cameras

    There were a combined total of six fatalities and 33 serious injuries between 2018 and 2022 at these locations.

    Road safety experts have backed the use of average speed cameras and the NRMA will be part of the assessment process to ensure drivers have a voice in the review of the trial. 

    Transport for NSW will now work on the technical elements and deliver a communications campaign to inform motorists about the trial to begin mid-2025.

    Trials are proposed to begin with a 60-day period in which speeding drivers will receive a warning letter rather than a fine before normal enforcement, including fines and demerit points, begin.

    Minister for Roads John Graham said:

    “This is the right time to investigate whether lives can be saved by the use of average speed cameras for all vehicles, not only trucks.

    “This technology has been found to be effective in other states and in the UK, Norway, Italy and the Netherlands.

    “It is our responsibility to properly evaluate whether they are effective in preventing another family and another friendship circle from being devastated – which is the sad result every time someone dies on NSW roads.

    “Before trials begin next year, the NSW Government will conduct a comprehensive awareness campaign so the public is aware of average speed cameras and a 60-day warning letter period will give motorists time to adjust to their use in these limited locations.”

    Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

    “In 2023, over two thirds of the deaths on our roads were in regional NSW. Our goal is to assess how effective the cameras can be in changing speeding habits and reducing needless deaths.

    “The NSW Government will continue to inform all drivers but particularly the regional communities around these trial sites about how it will work.

    “Unfortunately, on Tuesday night we saw Nationals in the Legislative Council cynically voting against the average speed camera trial, putting politics above the safety of the people they purport to represent.

    “There have been a few times in this Parliament that the Leader of the Nationals has torched the Coalition agreement allegedly on a matter of principle – but saving lives on our roads in the bush? The Nationals are clearly confused about what is important.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 225-2024: Australian Fumigation Accreditation Scheme: treatment provider suspended – Ceylon Pest Control Co. (Pvt.) Ltd (AEI: LK0010MB)

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    21 October 2024

    Who does this notice affect?

    Stakeholders in the import and shipping industries—including vessel masters, freight forwarders, offshore treatment providers, Biosecurity Industry Participants, importers, customs brokers, principal agents and master consolidators.

    What has changed?

    Following identification of critical non-compliance, we have suspended Ceylon Pest Control Co. (Pvt.) Ltd (AEI: LK0010MB) from the…

    MIL OSI News –