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  • MIL-OSI USA: Volcano Watch — Potential long-term outcomes of recent intrusions in Kīlauea East Rift Zone

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Volcano Watch is a weekly article and activity update written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates. 

    Chain of Craters within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park before 1969, when several craters were partly or completely filled with lava. Now the Chain of Craters Road turns south, away from its pre-1969 route, between Pauahi and ʻAloʻi, a pit crater buried in 1969 by Maunaulu lava flows. The junction with the Hilina Pali Road is essentially at Devil’s Throat.

    The eruption in and near Nāpau Crater on September 15–20 is an example of a brief eruption in this area. If a longer and larger eruption were to occur, such as at Maunaulu (1969-1974), most lava flows would head south from their vents because of the topography. Some, however, could be trapped within craters, as at Nāpau, partly or completely filling them.

    This part of the rift zone is popularly known as the Chain of Craters. Geologically, all the craters are pit craters, which form solely by collapse of the ground surface without accompanying eruption at the site. Probably all the pit craters are younger than the 15th century.

    Before about 1900, 16 pit craters dimpled the surface from Luamanu to Nāpau. Some of the craters coalesced, so there are more craters than crater names; Hiʻiaka had two craters, Pauahi three; ʻAlae two, and Makaopuhi two. Another crater, Devil’s Throat, formed around 1900. 

    Beginning in the 1960s and continuing to the early 1980s, this area erupted numerous times. Seven craters were partly filled (Luamanu, Hiʻiaka, Pauahi, and Nāpau) or completely filled (Aloʻi, ʻAlae, and the deepest pit in Makaopuhi). Today, the upper East Rift Zone is defined by some to end at Maunaulu, a shield that grew in 1969-1974 between now-filled Aloʻi and ʻAlae Craters.

    The Chain of Craters is the only section of the East Rift Zone and its submarine extension, the Puna Ridge, that contains pit craters. This probably relates to the proximity of the Chain of Craters to the summit of Kīlauea, where magma rises from the mantle.  It stands to reason that such proximity leads to more intrusions than elsewhere along the rift zone. The infrequent lateral draining of such intrusions is the likely explanation of how pit craters form.

    The recent intrusions along the Chain of Craters could have three very different outcomes. Repeated intrusions might spawn eruptions could bypass the craters completely, or partly or completely fill one or more craters. Another possibility is that underground draining of one of the intrusions could lead to formation of a new pit crater. One or more eruptions seem far more likely (such as the recent Nāpau eruption), but collapse to form a new pit crater happened at least 17 times in the past 550 years and so is not a rare occurrence.

    History suggests another potential effect that could accompany continued intrusions in the East Rift Zone is earthquakes beneath the south flank of Kīlauea. Kīlauea volcano is always in a constant state of balance between extension of the south flank due to pressure beneath the summit of the volcano and intrusion of magma along the rift zones.  At times, the flank becomes loaded like a spring and even the relatively small force of an intrusion can trigger an earthquake. 

    The largest earthquake beneath Kīlauea’s south flank happened in 1975. On November 29, 1975, a deadly magnitude 7.7 earthquake, the largest on the island since 1868, struck the south flank. It unleashed a tsunami that killed two campers and many horses at Halapē, and the south flank of Kīlauea moved several meters southward and downward. We don’t know what led directly to this earthquake, but following, as it did, about 15 years of repeated intrusions along the Chain of Craters, a relationship with these intrusions is a possible interpretation. Current conditions provide an excellent opportunity to better understand the generation of south flank earthquakes. 

    All of these extreme scenarios—a new pit crater or massive seaward movement of the south flank— are less likely than one or more eruptions. Continued close monitoring of the Chain of Craters may provide clues down the road. 

    A holistic, historically based approach to studying Kīlauea helps us appreciate what can happen in the long run. Evaluation of the past activity of the volcano, no matter how imperfect known, can influence our thoughts about what could happen. Even with this approach, though, we must remind ourselves that there are no facts about the future.

    Volcano Activity Updates

    Kīlauea is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert level is ADVISORY.

    Over the past week, about 30 earthquakes were located in Kīlauea summit region, and about 100 were located in the upper-to-middle East Rift Zone. Ground deformation rates have greatly decreased since the September 15-20 middle East Rift Zone eruption, but data show that magma is continuing to move at a low rate from the summit to the middle East Rift Zone. Future intrusive episodes and eruptions could occur with continued magma supply. The most recent measurement of sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission rate at the summit was 60 tonnes per day on September 17, 2024, and SO2 emissions were not detected at downwind of the eruption site on Monday, September 23.

    Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert Level is at NORMAL.

    No earthquakes were reported felt in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week.

    HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

    Please visit HVO’s website for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake information, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi calls on Fujian to play leading role in country’s modernization drive

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

    XIAMEN, Oct. 17 — On a recent inspection tour in east China’s Fujian Province, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president, and chairman of the Central Military Commission, emphasized the need for the province to fully implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. He stressed the importance for the province to comprehensively implement the new development philosophy and uphold the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability. Xi also underscored the importance for Fujian to steadfastly pursue the goals of creating a new Fujian characterized by dynamic mechanisms, thriving industries, prosperous communities, and a beautiful environment, staying committed to translating these objectives into realities. He called on Fujian to make further progress in accelerating the building of a modernized economy, make greater achievements in serving and integrating into the new development paradigm, take even greater strides in blazing a new trail for integrated cross-Strait development, and achieve greater breakthroughs in improving quality of life. He urged the province to deepen reforms across the board, promote high-quality development comprehensively, and strive for a leading role in China’s modernization drive.

    From Oct. 15 to 16, Xi — accompanied by Zhou Zuyi, secretary of the CPC Fujian Provincial Committee, and Zhao Long, governor of the province — conducted an inspection and research tour in the cities of Zhangzhou and Xiamen, visiting sites including a village, a revolutionary education base, a cultural heritage site under government protection, and an area of the Fujian pilot free trade zone.

    On the afternoon of Oct. 15, Xi first inspected Dongshan County in the city of Zhangzhou. The village of Aojiao, located in Chencheng Town in the southeastern part of the county, faces the sea on three sides. Over the past few years, the village has embarked on a new path of development by leveraging the sea to revitalize and develop itself. Xi took a walk to inspect the marine environment of Aojiao Bay and the appearance of the village, and inquired in detail about the trading of dried seafood and freshly caught seafood products. Xi was glad to learn that many seafood products are in high demand and that the incomes of villagers have been on the rise. Speaking to the villagers and fishermen who gathered around him, he said: “I visited your village 23 years ago, and it left a deep impression on me. Seeing the significant changes here today is gratifying and inspiring.” He said rural areas will undoubtedly have a brighter future and farmers will enjoy a more vibrant life on the new journey in the new era. He urged the village Party committee to play a leading role, guide villagers to make good use of the sea, and strive forward to achieve rural revitalization and common prosperity.

    Xi then visited the Gu Wenchang Memorial Hall, where he learned about the inspiring deeds of Comrade Gu Wenchang and was briefed about how revolutionary traditions were carried forward. During the visit, he also engaged in cordial exchanges with representatives of teachers and students from Gu Wenchang Cadre College. Xi pointed out that public recognition is the key gauge to evaluate an official’s performance, calling on leading officials at all levels to learn from Gu, have a correct understanding of what it means to perform well, and bring benefits to local people during their term in office. He also asked the officials to deliver tangible results, make constant efforts for achievements in the long run, and build a good reputation in the hearts of the people. “Learning from Gu requires not only deep admiration, but also concrete deeds to follow his example in fostering integrity and performing duties,” Xi said.

    At the Guandi cultural industrial park, Xi was briefed about local efforts in strengthening the protection of cultural heritage and promoting cultural exchanges across the Taiwan Strait. He stressed that cultural heritage is a precious legacy left by our ancestors and should be protected and carried forward.

    On the morning of Oct. 16, Xi inspected the Xiamen Area of China (Fujian) Pilot Free Trade Zone. He visited an exhibition showcasing the achievements in the construction of the pilot free trade zone, and was briefed about local work in further expanding reform and opening up, as well as in exploring a new path for integrated development across the Taiwan Strait. He also talked with the staffers at a comprehensive service hall. Over more than 40 years of development, the Xiamen Special Economic Zone has experienced tremendous changes that were once unimaginable, he said. Today, the requirements for reform and opening up, both in depth and breadth, are higher than ever before. Fujian and Xiamen need to adapt to the changing situation, steadily advance institutional opening up, align with international high standards, and achieve more institutional and policy outcomes to contribute to the expansion of high-level opening up, Xi said.

    On the afternoon of Oct. 16, Xi listened to work reports from the CPC Fujian Provincial Committee and the provincial government. He commended what Fujian has achieved in various areas of its work and put forward clear requirements for the province’s work in the future.

    Xi noted the need to explore new pathways for the deep integration of technological and industrial innovation. He called on the province to accelerate the building of an all-around innovation support system, promote integrated reforms in education, technology, and talent systems in a coordinated manner, and strengthen the building of high-level scientific and technological innovation platforms. He also emphasized the importance of implementing major technological initiatives, enhancing the role of enterprises as major players in innovation, and improving financial policies and mechanisms that support technological advancement, so as to create a better environment for boosting innovation and attracting talent.

    He urged the province to firmly develop the real economy, consolidate the strengths of traditional industries, vigorously promote the transformation and upgrading of industries, cultivate and expand strategic emerging industries, make plans for future industries, develop new quality productive forces according to local conditions, and shape new advantages in industrial development.

    Xi stressed efforts to comprehensively deepen reform and expand high-level opening up. He called for continued efforts to boldly practice, explore and reform on its own, with a focus on key sectors and links and economic structural reform as the spearhead. It is imperative to unswervingly consolidate and develop the public sector and unswervingly encourage, support, and guide the development of the non-public sector, and innovatively develop the “Jinjiang Experience” to fully stimulate the whole society’s vitality for investing and starting businesses. It is essential to prioritize reforms aimed at improving the people’s well-being, with a focus on delivering on the people’s aspirations and expectations. Xi also called for efforts to further upgrade pilot free trade zones, align with major regional strategies, further integrate into high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, build a core area of the 21st-Century Maritime Silk Road, and consolidate and expand the roles of the province as an important link and an important channel in the interplay between domestic and international economic flows. He urged Fujian to build itself into a demonstration zone for integrated development across the Taiwan Strait.

    Xi noted that Fujian should play an exemplary role in promoting coordinated regional development and integrated urban-rural development. It is imperative for the province to advance the mechanism for collaboration between mountainous and coastal areas, further coordinate their development and strengthen the complementarity of their functions. It is essential for Fujian to advance the building of national ecological conservation pilot zones, build a great pattern of protection and governance covering from the mountains to the sea, strengthen overall governance in key areas, river basins and sea areas, and expand the capacity of the ecosystem. Xi called for efforts to strengthen coordinated integration of rural revitalization across the board and new-type urbanization, as well as to expedite integrated urban-rural development. He highlighted the need to bolster the county-level economy, speed up the revitalization and development of former revolutionary bases, and consolidate and further expand the achievements of poverty alleviation. It is imperative to ensure that the total area of farmland remains above the specified red line, adopt an all-encompassing approach to food and agriculture, and forge specialty-based agricultural clusters. Xi also underscored the importance of deepening the collective forest tenure reform and developing forest foods and under-forest economy, thus continuously exploring the forests’ potential in boosting the economy and grain production. Xi also urged accelerated efforts to develop the cities of Fuzhou and Xiamen as national-level marine economic development demonstration zones, as part of the wider endeavor to expand and strengthen the marine economy. He also stressed the imperative to guard against natural disasters, such as typhoons and earthquakes, and strengthen the capacity for disaster prevention, mitigation and relief.

    Xi urged continued efforts to improve the appeal of culture and present the province’s fresh image. He called on the province to inherit and carry forward the revolutionary traditions, commit to the construction of national culture parks for the Long March in Changting and Ninghua, as well as deepen the research and interpretation of revolutionary historical materials and relics. He underlined the need to strengthen the protection and inheritance of cultural heritage, stay committed to the work of cultivating people morally and intellectually, and actively transform outmoded habits and customs. He also stressed advancing deeper integration of culture and tourism, and developing the culture and tourism sector into a pillar industry. Xi urged continued efforts to promote cross-Strait cultural exchanges, jointly carry forward Chinese culture, and enhance the common sense of the Chinese national and cultural identity among Taiwan compatriots. Xi called on Fujian to rely on ties such as ancestral bonds and ancestral land culture to extensively rally the support of overseas Chinese.

    Xi pointed out that Party members and officials should be educated to inherit the best of traditions, carry forward our revolutionary heritage and the pioneering and innovative spirit of daring to think big and fighting to win big, forge ahead with fortitude, and make further achievements. All Party members and officials should have an understanding of performing their duties to serve the people, never forget the original aspiration, take on responsibilities, be honest and clean in performing duties, and always maintain the political integrity of communists. It is imperative to fight pointless formalities, and take further steps to ease the burdens on grassroots. He urged efforts to implement the practices of going into communities to communicate the Party’s lines and policies, carry out fact-finding missions, address people’s complaints, and conduct field work, follow the Party’s mass line in the new era, and raise the effectiveness of Party building in boosting grassroots governance.

    Xi stressed the necessity to conscientiously implement the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee, spare no efforts to do a good job in the economic work of the fourth quarter, and strive to achieve the economic and social development objectives for the whole year.

    Vice Premier He Lifeng and leading officials of relevant central Party and state departments accompanied Xi on the inspection tour.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 47 IP fast handling centers built or under construction across China

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 17 — A total of 47 national-level intellectual property (IP) fast handling centers have been built or are under construction across China as the country strengthens IP rights protection, the top IP regulator said on Thursday.

    The China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) recently approved the establishment of two new such centers in the cities of Linhai and Yuyao in east China’s Zhejiang Province.

    The two centers will provide expedited IP protection services for the fashion and leisure industry in Linhai and the plastic product industry in Yuyao, enabling design patents in these sectors to be applied for and granted within a short timeframe, according to an official of CNIPA.

    “This initiative will help build a specialized talent pool for IP protection, enhance the effectiveness of IP protection in the fast-moving consumer goods sector, and create a favorable environment for innovation and business development, thereby promoting the growth of small and medium-sized private enterprises,” the official said.

    The development of the two centers will further attract outstanding design talent to both regions, improve the level of product design, support the modernization of traditional industries, and contribute to high-quality economic development, added the official.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China boasts robust industrial ecosystem for intelligent connected vehicles: minister

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

    China boasts robust industrial ecosystem for intelligent connected vehicles: minister

    BEIJING, Oct. 17 — A comprehensive industrial system for China’s intelligent connected vehicle sector has basically taken shape, covering products and technologies such as basic chips, sensors, computing platforms and chassis control, Minister of Industry and Information Technology Jin Zhuanglong said Thursday.

    Jin made the remarks during the opening ceremony of the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing.

    China leads the world in human-machine interaction and is rapidly advancing toward breakthroughs in technologies like steer-by-wire and active suspension technologies, among others, the minister noted.

    According to him, the country’s intelligent connected vehicle sector currently boasts nearly 400 “little giant” firms, or novel elites of small and medium-sized enterprises that are engaged in manufacturing, specialize in a niche market and hold cutting-edge technologies.

    Five Chinese lidar companies have ranked among the global top ten in sales, while nine automotive manufacturers are piloting conditionally automated driving models, Jin said.

    To support such rapid industrial development, more than 50 cities in China have designated over 32,000 kilometers of test routes for intelligent connected vehicles and upgraded about 10,000 kilometers of roads with smart technologies.

    The 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference, running from Oct. 17 to 19, has attracted over 250 auto firms and institutions from home and abroad. More than 200 new technologies and products are expected to make their debut at the event.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China unveils first multidisciplinary diagnosis, treatment guidelines for obesity

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

    China unveils first multidisciplinary diagnosis, treatment guidelines for obesity

    BEIJING, Oct. 17 — China on Thursday unveiled its first guidelines for the multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment of obesity.

    Emphasizing a multidisciplinary team-based approach, the guidelines were released to standardize the diagnosis and treatment of the condition and to ensure the quality and safety of medical care, said the National Health Commission (NHC), which led the formulation of the document.

    The guidelines address the diagnosis standards, classification and staging of obesity. Its treatment section includes methods for behavioral, psychological and sports-based interventions, medical nutrition therapy, medication treatments, weight-loss and metabolic surgery, as well as approaches from traditional medicine.

    According to the guidelines, five medications have been approved in China for weight-loss treatment in adults with primary obesity. No medications have been approved for the treatment of inherited obesity in China.

    The second-largest economy is combating obesity, largely a “sweet burden” of affluence. More than half of adults in the country are overweight or obese, and the rate could reach 65.3 percent by 2030, according to a 2020 report from the NHC.

    China had struggled for centuries to feed its vast population. And undernourishment was a genuine concern for many families before the reform and opening-up started in the late 1970s. Obesity has emerged as an unintended consequence of improving living standards in the country.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Vice premier urges improved policy implementation to hit yearly growth targets

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

    NANJING, Oct. 17 — Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang has called for more effective implementation of both existing and incremental policies to fulfill the country’s annual social and economic development targets.

    Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during an investigation and research tour of Henan and Jiangsu, two provinces in central and eastern China, respectively.

    The tour, spanning from Monday to Thursday, focused on economic operations, sci-tech innovation and industry development.

    In Zhengzhou, capital of Henan, Ding visited places including an academy of science, a university and a digital technology firm, calling for concerted efforts to promote projects aligned with major national strategies. He underscored the need to cultivate the digital economy and develop new quality productive forces tailored to local conditions.

    While visiting a housing project in the city, Ding also urged strengthened financial support for the country’s real-estate market.

    In Suzhou and Jiangyin, two cities of Jiangsu, Ding learned about local efforts to attract foreign investment, develop the integrated circuit sector and promote vocational education. He said it is crucial to integrate sci-tech innovation and industry innovation to create momentum for high-quality development.

    Work should also be done to maximize the use of local government special-purpose bonds, improve the business environment for the private businesses, and enhance services for foreign investors, he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Director Rachel Rossi Delivers Keynote Address at the Community Legal Services 57th Annual Pro Bono Awards Dinner

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Remarks as Prepared for Delivery

    Thank you very much for that generous introduction, Executive Director Harvey. I want to first thank Jeff for his leadership and for hosting this awards dinner. And Jeff, thank you for your service as a lieutenant colonel in the Florida Army National Guard during the recent hurricanes.

    Also, a big thank you to Andrea Ortiz, CLS’ Director of Pro Bono Services, for all her work to make tonight’s event possible. And thank you to all those who helped plan this award dinner.

    I also want to recognize the distinguished attendees tonight for attending this event that recognizes the amazing work of volunteer attorneys throughout the 12-county service area of Community Legal Services.

    And I want to congratulate all those who will be recognized with awards tonight. The commitments you have made to the work of serving those most in need is truly inspiring. To all the pro bono volunteers, including those assisting the Community Legal Services’ Pro Bono Program and the Peer Academy, we commend your dedication and aid to the most in-need in our communities.

    Finally, I must acknowledge my colleague Roger Handberg, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Florida, and his leadership team. We’ve been impressed with the Office’s innovative access to justice initiatives, including their regular collaboration with CLS.

    It is an honor to be here. I am delighted to join all of you to shine a light on the access to justice work being done in the Orlando area and across Central Florida.

    As Jeff mentioned, I lead the Office for Access to Justice, a standalone office within the Justice Department. Our mission is to ensure access to the promises and protections of our civil and criminal legal systems for all communities. We do this work strategically, through several different initiatives:

    We are focused on dismantling economic barriers, including by promoting reduced reliance criminal and civil fines and fees.

    We’re breaking down language access barriers, through the department-wide Language Access Coordinator who led efforts to modernize the department’s Language Access Plan for the first time in over a decade.

    We’re combatting barriers to reentry for adults in custody, through innovative civil legal assistance programs in federal prisons.

    We’re also disrupting barriers through Access DOJ, an initiative that utilizes human centered design and best practices from the access to justice field to make it easier to access critical forms, understand important information and resources, or more easily navigate federal court systems, such as bankruptcy proceedings.

    And of course, we promote access to council and legal help. I don’t have to convince the people in this room that pro bono assistance is essential to disrupting barriers and closing the justice gap.

    Legal aid organizations provide invaluable assistance to the most vulnerable, but they can’t help everyone. There are eligibility requirements that limit the kinds of cases they can take. Even when eligibility is not an issue, the need for legal aid often outweighs the resources available.

    That’s where pro bono attorneys come in: they extend the reach of these limited resources by volunteering to represent low-income individuals, often in close collaboration with legal service providers. The justice gap is vast — and it will require a wide range of strategies and tools to close it. This includes the hard work and dedication of pro bono attorneys.

    That’s why I’m so inspired by programs like CLS’ Pro Bono Academy, an innovative program that provides structured training to prepare volunteers for pro bono representation.

    And that’s why the Office of Access to Justice is prioritizing promoting pro bono representation through our leadership of the Federal Government Pro Bono Program, which is working to mobilize a massive workforce — federal government attorneys and staff — to pitch in and help bridge the justice gap.

    I am particularly proud of the Federal Government Pro Bono Program’s significant work in Florida.

    Last year, ATJ launched the DOJ Pro Bono Portal on Paladin to enable Justice Department employees to find pro bono opportunities statewide. The portal has expanded to 15 jurisdictions so far, including Florida.

    Every Justice Department attorney in Florida can access pro bono opportunities with the click of a mouse, including those posted by Community Legal Services.

    Unfortunately, the urgent need for pro bono assistance and legal aid often becomes most salient in the wake of disaster. You know this better than anyone with Florida having experienced four hurricanes in the last 14 months. Parts of the state saw complete obliteration of homes and businesses. Other areas of the state are cleaning up debris and starting the long process of rebuilding.

    As you know, it is estimated that more than 200 people were tragically killed by Hurricane Helene. And even for those who survived, the costs are devastating. Helene’s path of destruction across the southeastern U.S. is expected to exceed 30-40 billion dollars in damages.

    And Hurricane Milton compounded the harms, with at least 24 additional lives lost. I don’t have to tell you, because you’re living it.

    When hurricanes and other natural disaster strike, first responders make sure people have the basics: food, shelter, utilities and medical care. Skilled professionals and volunteers bravely address immediate critical needs and conduct rescue efforts.

    While many know to call police, fire departments and disaster response officials for help, rarely do people think about the need for lawyers or legal help.

    Yet, in the midst of a disaster, attorneys — like those in CLS’ disaster unit — are critical to facilitating disaster survivors’ access to essential needs like food and shelter. And when disaster survivors start picking up the pieces of their lives in the weeks, months and sometimes years after a disaster — legal help is often a critical lifeline.

    In the immediate aftermath of a natural disaster, legal aid providers and pro bono volunteers address urgent civil legal issues — from defending against unlawful evictions, to helping apply for public assistance like unemployment benefits, food stamps and FEMA resources.

    And a disaster doesn’t end once the storm has passed. Legal challenges can haunt disaster survivors for years as they seek to replace identification papers, apply for benefits and deal with insurance claims. The hardest hit and the most vulnerable communities can be struggling to fully recover for even longer or in some cases may never fully regain their normal lives. Legal aid providers in Florida are still assisting victims impacted by Hurricane Ian, which hit the Ft. Myers area two years ago.

    The complications of seeking assistance and barriers to obtaining relief for disaster survivors can constitute a second disaster for survivor victims, especially for the elderly, disabled and persons who have limited proficiency in English. Unique complications also exist for those who live in rural areas, where distance or lack of broadband can create additional barriers to accessing legal help, or where damage to agricultural industries can create complex harms.

    Simply put, legal aid and pro bono assistance must be a central element of efforts to rebuild and support communities after a natural disaster.

    That’s what you’re demonstrating here in Florida. Today, I had the opportunity to participate in a Disaster Relief Legal Aid Roundtable hosted by CLS staff and joined by other members of the Florida Disaster Umbrella Group.

    I learned how the Umbrella Group collaborates to address common legal problems impacting low-income communities and how it fosters and promotes better coordination and communication between civil legal aid providers, pro bono volunteers, emergency managers and other advocates from across the state, to ensure that low-income disaster survivors receive the legal assistance they need.

    The Umbrella Group also helps educate the emergency management community about the importance of integrating legal services providers into their work and is an impressive model of collaboration and communication that can be implemented in other states to address natural disasters.

    And here in Florida you’re also demonstrating how pro bono volunteers — like those we celebrate tonight — play an essential role in helping people navigate a maze of post-disaster bureaucracy — including disputes with landlords, insurers and contractors.                          

    Like everyone in the state during an emergency, legal aid organizations have their resources stretched to the limit as they seek to respond to the overwhelming need of disaster survivors. Pro bono volunteers play an invaluable role in relieving the pressure on legal aid organizations during a disaster and in assisting those that would otherwise be forced to weather the storm alone.

    Initiatives like the Disaster Relief Hotline launched this month by the Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division are an innovative way to coordinate pro bono resources in the wake of a disaster. The hotline connects survivors with the help they need when they need it most and supports the legal community by making it easier to volunteer.

    The Office for Access to Justice is also focused on doing what we can to help ensure access to justice for disaster survivors. As one example, our Federal Government Pro Bono Program recently hosted a training for federal government employees on how to volunteer to provide legal help in the midst of a disaster. That training featured participation from legal services providers who specialize in this type of work. We were thrilled to be joined by Legal Services of North Florida, who I know collaborates closely with CLS.

    And next week, we will host the annual Federal Government Pro Bono Week, where we’ll provide a variety of trainings and clinic opportunities for federal employees, lift up their role as collaborators in closing justice gaps and recruit and expand the ranks of the federal volunteer workforce.

    Our Office will continue to promote pro bono volunteerism by federal government employees in the midst of a disaster and to develop resources that advance access to justice for disaster survivors.

    Florida has seen terrible tragedies this past month. But it has also been at the heart of incredible resilience and creative problem solving, producing unique and effective legal assistance programs that help bring people back from most difficult days of their lives. Programs that would not be possible without the vision, hard work and dedication of the legal aid providers and pro bono attorneys in this room and across the state.

    So I once again want to thank the awardees we have gathered tonight to celebrate. And as you continue in this difficult mission and this awesome responsibility, please know that the Office for Access to Justice stands shoulder to shoulder with you as a partner and ally.

    Thank you.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Saskatchewan — URGENT: Amber Alert Child Abduction Notification

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    This is an activation of the AMBER ALERT system at the request of WASKESIU RCMP.

    On October 17, 2024 at approximately 1:50 p.m. Waskesiu RCMP received a report that a five-day-old baby was abducted from the health centre in Montreal Lake.

    The victim is five-day-old baby boy Koda Moccasin. The baby was last seen wearing a blue sleeper.

    • Weight: 7 pounds
    • Last seen wearing: blue sleeper

    Police believe the child was taken by:

    • Name: Merlin Junior Crookedneck
    • Age: 35
    • Height: 5 foot 11 inches
    • Weight: stocky build
    • Hair colour/length: short dark hair
    • Eye colour: brown
    • Last seen wearing: unknown

    The suspect is believed to be driving a black 2022 Hyundai Tuscon SUV with Saskatchewan license plate 965 NAN.

    Investigators believe Merlin Junior Crookedneck may be traveling to the Big River, Loon Lake or Mudie Lake areas.

    The suspect and child were last seen at the health centre in Montreal Lake early this afternoon.

    If you see the suspect, do not approach. If you have information about this child, call 911 immediately.

    The official police service contact for this Amber Alert is:

    The Saskatchewan RCMP
    639-625-3605

    Criteria for and information about the Saskatchewan AMBER Alert program can be located on the Saskatchewan Association of Chiefs of Police website: https://www.sacp.ca/amber-alert.html

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Coast Guard, partners to discuss rescue of 17-year-old kayaker

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    10/17/2024 06:15 PM EDT

    WHO: Coast Guard Sector Honolulu, Honolulu Fire Department, Honolulu Ocean Safety Department WHAT: Holding joint press briefing about rescue of missing 17-year-old kayaker off Waikiki WHEN: 1 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024 WHERE: Hale Kinai Ahi Auditorium, Honolulu Fire Department Headquarters, 636 South St., Honolulu, HI 96813

    For breaking news follow us on twitter @USCGHawaiiPac

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Foreign Secretary visits China

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy arrives in China on two-day trip, which will include meetings in Beijing and Shanghai

    • Foreign Secretary arrives in China on two-day trip, which will include meetings in Beijing and Shanghai
    • UK is taking a consistent, strategic and pragmatic approach to China which prioritises the UK national interest
    • Foreign Secretary will urge China to stop its political and economic support of the Russian war effort

    The UK is to take a stable, consistent and pragmatic approach to China, with engagement vital between two global players. That is the message the Foreign Secretary David Lammy will deliver as he lands in Beijing today. 

    The Foreign Secretary will meet with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on Friday (18), with talks which will cover a breadth of issues, from climate and trade, to global foreign policy challenges including Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.

    In Shanghai, the Foreign Secretary will meet with British business leaders to discuss how our economic links with China support growth in the UK.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

    As permanent members of the UN Security Council with major global economies, the UK and China are global players. Our relationship matters.

    Engagement with China is pragmatic and necessary to support UK and global interests. From stopping Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, to supporting a global green transition, we must speak often and candidly across both areas of contention as well as areas for cooperation in the UK’s national interest.

    UK diplomatic efforts with China will be one of serious, stable and pragmatic reengagement across the full spectrum of government, prioritising the UK’s national interests.

    This will come with a firm recognition that the UK and China will not, and do not, always agree. We have significant differences including on democratic values and freedoms, Hong Kong and support for Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine; but we also have shared interests, including a global green energy transition, and deep economic links, with China including Hong Kong the UK’s 4th largest trading partner.

    The Foreign Secretary’s visit is a reflection of the consistent, strategic and pragmatic approach the UK government will take to managing the UK’s relations with China – co-operating where we can; competing where we need to; and challenging where we must.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Virtual reality and wearable technology pilot to cut drug deaths

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The government will fund research into wearable technology, virtual reality and artificial intelligence in a bid to support people with drug addictions.

    • Government funds research into wearable technology, virtual reality and artificial intelligence to support people with drug addictions and save lives
    • Projects include body-worn devices which alert emergency services if overdose is expected
    • 11 projects across UK could be rolled out more widely if successful

    Thousands of lives could be saved through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and wearable technology designed to reduce drug deaths and improve outcomes.

    The government has awarded £12 million to projects across the UK that are researching innovative technology to support people with addictions.

    One of the chosen projects, called PneumoWave ALERT, pairs a chest-worn sensor that monitors breathing to a mobile device that sends out an immediate alert to nearby antidote carriers and emergency services if an overdose is detected, helping people get potentially life-saving treatment as soon as possible.

    Another study will look at using virtual reality to help people overcome their triggers for cocaine addiction. People will be assessed using watch-like devices to determine which cues in their environment lead to a drug craving, by measuring physical changes to the body.

    Virtual reality will then be used to create realistic situations to repeatedly expose people to triggers in a safe environment. Previous research shows cue exposure treatment (CET) can significantly reduce the level of craving and relapse among alcoholics, but it has not yet been fully explored for people experiencing a cocaine addiction until now.

    Minister for Public Health and Prevention, Andrew Gwynne said:

    Drug addiction devastates lives and rips apart families, and this government is committed to gripping this problem.

    We’re determined to harness the full potential of cutting-edge technology to save thousands of lives across the country. I want the UK to lead the way in championing innovation to end the harmful effects of addiction.

    The research is being funded through the Addiction Healthcare Goals programme, which is run by the Office for Life Sciences (OLS). Around £12 million has been awarded to 11 projects across eight organisations in the UK. The projects were selected as part of the Reducing Drug Deaths Challenge and the NIHR i4i Addiction: Innovation for Treatment and Recovery Awards, which are being run in partnership with the Scottish government and National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).  

    The funding will also support research to improve the accessibility of the life-saving drug naloxone. Naloxone rapidly reverses heroin and opioid overdose but is typically available as an injection or nasal spray which have limitations and cannot always be used in time. Kings College London is looking into naloxone wafers which melt in the mouth and provide rapid access to this emergency medicine and can fit easily in a wallet or purse.

    Several of the projects are based in Scotland which has the highest rate of drug deaths in Europe.

    These include a wristband to monitor vital signs such as blood oxygen levels, heart rate and body temperature. If an overdose is suspected, the device, named “Saving Sam”, will send out an alert to a trusted contact. This research is being run by the University of Edinburgh and NHS Fife.

    The technology being researched could be rolled out to more sites across the UK if successful. The projects support the government’s Health Mission – building an NHS fit for the future – by helping to embed a greater focus on prevention and supporting services.

    It also helps establish the UK as a global leader for innovative treatments and technologies, supporting the UK’s Growth Mission – for sustained economic growth, good jobs and increased productivity across the country – by inspiring healthcare companies to invest in the UK, while supporting people back into stable work.

    Science Minister Lord Vallance said:

    The UK’s life sciences sector plays a critical role in finding new ways to tackle the biggest challenges facing healthcare, including the devastating impact of addiction. The Addiction Healthcare Goals Programme is testament to our commitment to bringing together researchers, clinicians, and innovators to create real change.

    From wearable technology to AI-powered tools, these innovative projects highlight the power of collaboration in delivering life-saving treatments. By investing in these partnerships, we are tackling addiction head-on and ensuring that cutting-edge science reaches those who need it most, improving public health across the UK.

    Professor Mike Lewis, NIHR’s Scientific Director for Innovation, said: 

    Innovation in managing addiction is needed to break the pattern of prison relapse and rebound and the wider impacts of addiction on society.

    Through the NIHR i4i Addiction: Innovation for Treatment and Recovery Awards, successful projects have been awarded funding to develop approaches to improve treatment and recovery outcomes.

    Interventions, including AI, that allow management in the community need this research to validate their potential so we can implement them at scale.

    Professor Dame Anna Dominiczak, Chief Scientific Advisor for Health, Scottish Government, said:

    Tackling drug-related deaths is a priority for the Scottish Government and NHS Scotland and we are committed to tackling these issues through targeted research, innovation and support.

    As part of phase two of the Reducing Drug Deaths Innovation Competition, funding has been awarded to develop seven prototypes aimed at reducing drug deaths.

    These innovative solutions include wearable sensors, digital monitoring and alert applications as well as novel antidote delivery systems.

    By harnessing the expertise we have in Scotland and across the rest of the UK, we can continue to develop new technologies to drive prevention initiatives.

    Professor Anne Lingford-Hughes, Chair of the Addiction Healthcare Goals, said: 

    New approaches to treat drug addiction and reduce drug related deaths, particularly from overdose, are urgently needed. The Addiction Healthcare Goals programme is pleased to fund promising innovations that have brought together partnerships between industry, academia and organisations involved in delivering treatment and care for those experiencing drug addictions.

    Establishing such collaborations also enhances the UK’s research capacity and ability to deliver novel patient research. This lays firm foundations for the UK to accelerate the development and testing of effective innovations to use in routine care to save lives, reduce harms, and benefit society.

    Notes to editors:

    Further information on some of the projects is available below:

    Reducing Drug Deaths Innovation Challenge

    Pneumowave ALERT

    PneumoWave ALERT is a remote monitoring platform designed to make opioid usage safer by detecting the onset of life-threatening respiratory problems caused by opioid-induced overdose. The platform consists of a discreet, chest-worn biosensor paired with a mobile device, which allows for the immediate alerting of nearby naloxone carriers and emergency medical services. The research involves conducting end-to-end monitoring, detection, and alerting in 200 high-risk patients residing in homeless accommodation, in collaboration with the University of Dundee, King’s College London, and Third Sector partners HumanKind, Thames Reach, and Hillcrest Futures.

    NOMW Health

    NOMW Health, in collaboration with Greater Glasgow and Clyde Innovation Hub and The University of Southampton, previously conducted a feasibility study on LifeSavr, an innovative wearable device aimed at addressing the opioid overdose crisis. The Scotland-based team is now advancing the development of LifeSavr to prepare it for consumer availability in the UK, Europe, and globally. LifeSavr features monitoring of oxygen saturation, heart rate, body movements and respiratory rate for accurate overdose detection. It is based on NASA research and uses a self-contained design that eliminates the need for a mobile phone. The device aims to reduce the burden on emergency services and long-term care.

    Kings College London

    Kings College London is developing rapid-dispersal naloxone wafers to improve the accessibility and portability of this life-saving emergency antidote medication. Naloxone rapidly reverses heroin/opioid overdose, but current forms (injection and nasal spray) have limitations, such as requiring healthy nasal passages and consistent carrying by users. The proposed naloxone wafers disintegrate within seconds and can easily fit into a wallet or purse, addressing the current low carriage rates which are around 15-20%.

    EMoodie – Saving SAM System for Alert and Monitoring of Potential Overdoses  

    ‘Saving SAM’ is an innovative, low-cost digital tool developed by eMoodie Limited to help prevent drug overdoses and save lives. The tool consists of a wristband that monitors vital signs such as blood oxygen levels, heart rate, body temperature, and movement patterns to detect potential overdose risks. If an overdose is suspected, the wristband sends an alert to the Saving SAM app on the user’s smartphone, alerting a trusted contact. The app also offers mental health support and well-being programs for people who use drugs. Co-created with people with lived experience, “Saving SAM” is an overdose detection tool that combines wearables, remote monitoring, artificial intelligence (AI), and a smartphone app with gamified digital therapeutics.

    Mesox-Ltd

    MESOX has developed a wearable patch of the antidotes Naloxone and Flumazenil for the rising number of drug deaths from mixed overdosing of opioids and benzodiazepines. The skin patch is designed for wide application by non-professionals in the community, avoiding the challenges of existing routes of administration and complexity of injectable antidotes. In the next phase of development on the programme, MESOX will work closely with NHS Fife and other sub-contractors to design acceptability studies with patients across all four UK nations.

    Science & Engineering Applications Ltd (Scienap)

    Scienap, in collaboration with ambulance services led by the Scottish Ambulance Service, has designed a low-cost alert and responder pathway to create effective responses to potentially fatal overdose events. The project includes a new Alert App for self-monitoring by drug users, automatically raising an alarm if they become unresponsive, and a Care & Respond App for trusted supporters to provide coordinated help, administer life-saving drugs, and be supported by emergency services when appropriate.

    University of Glasgow

    The University of Glasgow presents a significant advancement in wearable sensor technology for detecting and preventing overdoses. The soft sensor, designed for seamless body integration, provides real-time respiratory monitoring to identify early signs of overdose episodes. The team will test the usability and acceptability of the refined prototype with people with lived/living experience of substance use through an iterative co-design process supported by the West of Scotland NHS Innovation Hub.

    NIHR i4i Addiction Innovation: Innovation for Treatment and Recovery Awards

    Kings College London – is developing a Virtual Reality-enhanced cue exposure treatment integrated with a wearable device to address craving, prevent relapse and improve treatment outcomes of people with cocaine dependence.

    A key challenge in helping people to recover for cocaine addiction (or dependence) is their craving for the drug that can be triggered by ‘cues’ in their environment, such as situations or objects, which remind them of the pleasurable effects of cocaine. This process is known as ‘classical conditioning’ and the aim of this study is to reduce the risk of relapse to cocaine through use of novel technologies to reduce craving. This research will test the ability of technology-enhanced CET to reduce craving and relapse to cocaine use, compared to people receiving usual care.

    Another project led by Kings College London, The Prison Release Engagement Trial will refine and test an interactive smartphone app to improve Continuity of Care post-release for prisoners working to stay drug free. 

    For the full list of projects that have been successful in receiving funding across both competitions, please see the NIHR publications and the Scottish Government  publications.

    Further information

    The Addiction Healthcare Goals is being delivered by the Office for Life Sciences (OLS) alongside the Dementia, Mental Health, Cancer and Obesity Healthcare Goals. The Addiction Healthcare Goals programme is working to make the UK a globally leading location for researchers and industry to develop, trial and deploy innovative treatments and technologies which will help people recover from drug and alcohol addictions, save lives, and benefit society.

    Alongside funding innovative research, the Addiction Healthcare Goals programme is aiming to support the training of research leaders across the UK and is exploring ways to make better use of addiction healthcare data to enable researchers to develop better treatments. The programme has also been working with the James Lind Alliance to identify the key research priorities within the UK community and will be publishing this list in 2025 with the aim of influencing future research funding priorities.

    The projects were selected as part of the Reducing Drug Deaths Challenge and the NIHR i4i Addiction: Innovation for Treatment and Recovery Awards, which were run in partnership with the Scottish government and National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). The successful Reducing Drug Deaths projects builds on feasibility funding awarded through phase 1 of the Reducing Drugs Deaths Challenge last year.

    The Addiction Healthcare Goals form a part of the Department of Health and Social Care’s ambition to deliver a world-class treatment and recovery system for people experiencing drug and alcohol addictions.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Remarks by President Charles Michel at the press conference following the European Council meeting of 17 October 2024

    Source: Council of the European Union

    European Council President Charles Michel held a press conference at the end of the meeting held on 17 October 2024. EU leaders adopted conclusions on Ukraine, Middle East, competitiveness, migration and foreign affairs. Ahead of this meeting, EU leaders and leaders from the Gulf region gathered in the first EU-Gulf Cooperation Council summit on 16 October 2024.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Natural Gas Producer Agrees to Settlement to Reduce Emissions in New Mexico

    Source: US State of California

    Settlement Includes $9.4M Civil Penalty and Compliance Measures that Will Result in Reduction of Over 113,000 Tons’ Worth of CO2 Pollution

    The Justice Department, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) today announced a settlement with Hilcorp Energy Company resolving Clean Air Act and New Mexico state law violations at the company’s oil and gas production operations in New Mexico.

    Under the settlement, Hilcorp agreed to pay a civil penalty of $9.4 million for violations resulting from Hilcorp’s failure to reduce emissions during well completion operations. The civil penalty will be split between the U.S. and the State of New Mexico. In addition, the company must employ an EPA-approved third-party auditor to ensure compliance with all applicable Clean Air Act and New Mexico Air Quality Control Act requirements.

    Hilcorp is further directed to account for the excess volatile organic compound (VOC) and methane emissions released through improper well completions by replacing, on a faster timeline than federal regulations require, old process control equipment with equipment that does not emit air pollution. This mitigation project will occur on Tribal lands of the Jicarilla Apache Nation Reservation, in Rio Arriba County, and on Navajo Nation Off-Reservation Trust Land in San Juan and Sandoval counties; all of these areas have potential environmental justice concerns.

    The work that Hilcorp will do under this agreement will result in the equivalent of over 113,000 tons of reduced carbon dioxide emissions over the next three years, similar to the number of reductions achieved by taking 24,000 cars off the road for one year. The settlement will also eliminate nearly 583 tons of VOC emissions annually.

    The case is the first to address violations of the Clean Air Act New Source Performance Standards covering well completions following hydraulic fracturing, commonly referred to as “fracking.”

    “Hilcorp is a large, sophisticated natural gas producer and should know better than to violate Clean Air Act requirements to capture and control gas produced as a result of fracking,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “We are committed to upholding the rule of law and holding industry accountable. Today’s settlement importantly includes commitments to make infrastructure upgrades that will result in significant reductions of methane and VOC emissions.”

    “Oil and gas production results in significant air pollution, including emissions of methane that are one of the leading sources of near-term climate change, which makes today’s settlement with Hilcorp Energy a huge win for the environment and the planet,” said Assistant Administrator David M. Uhlmann of EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “EPA is requiring Hilcorp to pay a $9.4 million penalty and make substantial investments in Clean Air Act compliance, which will reduce climate damaging emissions and improve air quality for all New Mexico residents, including communities with environmental justice concerns.”

    “This settlement holds one of the San Juan Basin’s largest polluters accountable for their contribution to climate change and ozone pollution,” said Secretary James Kenney of the New Mexico Environment Department. “If we want to make New Mexico’s air safe for future generations then Houston-based Hilcorp Energy Corporation executives need to step up their game and comply with federal and state rules.”

    Federal Clean Air Act and New Mexico state air regulations require oil and gas producers to capture gas that flows back to the surface following fracking using equipment that can accommodate flowback and to implement a reduced emission completion control, commonly referred to as a green completion. Producers have several green completion options to choose from. If none are technically feasible, producers may route the captured gas to a pollution control device like a flare.

    Based on EPA’s and NMED’s investigations, the U.S. and the state allege that Hilcorp conducted at least 192 well completion operations in Rio Arriba and San Juan counties from Aug. 2, 2017, through Aug. 1, 2019.

    At 145 of these well completions, Hilcorp captured none of the gas and instead released into the atmosphere all gas that flowed back following fracking. At the remainder of well completions, Hilcorp captured a portion of the gas and directed it to a flare but did not demonstrate that all green completion options were infeasible. Hilcorp’s actions resulted in thousands of tons of harmful methane and VOC emissions being released into the environment. Methane is a climate super pollutant and potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, and VOCs adversely affect human health in multiple ways, including being involved in the formation of ground level ozone.

    Hilcorp is one of the nation’s largest privately-owned oil and gas exploration and production companies, and a top producer of natural gas in New Mexico from 2018-2021. New Mexico is one of the top ten producing states for natural gas in the United States for 2018-2023. In 2022, on-shore oil and gas industry data reported to EPA showed that Hilcorp’s San Juan Basin operation emitted the most methane in the U.S. among all oil and gas operations.

    The settlement is part of EPA’s Mitigating Climate Change National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative, which focuses, in part, on reducing methane emissions from oil and gas and landfill sources. Like all EPA’s national enforcement initiatives, the Mitigating Climate Change initiative prioritizes communities already overburdened by pollution and other potential environmental justice concerns.

    More information on the settlement agreement is available on EPA’s Hilcorp Energy Company webpage.

    The consent decree was filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico and is subject to a 30-day comment period. Information on providing public comment and the complaint and proposed consent decree are available on the Justice Department’s website at www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.

    EPA and NMED investigated the case.

    Attorneys of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Enforcement Section are handling the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Administrator Surveys Virginia Counties and Meets with Survivors and Local Community Officials Recovering from Helene

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Administrator Surveys Virginia Counties and Meets with Survivors and Local Community Officials Recovering from Helene

    FEMA Administrator Surveys Virginia Counties and Meets with Survivors and Local Community Officials Recovering from Helene

    WASHINGTON — As FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell continues to lead the federal response to Helene and Milton in six states, today she is in Virginia to meet survivors and local officials as they continue their recovery from Helene.

    In Virginia, the administrator visited affected communities with Gov. Glenn Youngkin. Earlier in the week she and North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper in Buncombe County to speak with disaster survivors and meet staff at a local high school as part of the recovery.

    Critical services continue being restored. The Commonwealth of Virginia is focused on debris removal, particularly in lakes that provide the commonwealth a source of drinking water. Removing debris will also reduce threats to public health and safety. In Florida—hit by both storms—power outages have been reduced to about 17,000, down from a peak of 3.2 million. And in North Carolina, approximately 13,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of about 1 million customers without power. 

    In total, about 433,000 households have been approved for nearly $619 million in FEMA assistance for their Helene recovery while 61,000 households have received $54 million for Milton. Survivors are using these funds to replace essential items, pay for somewhere to stay and make home repairs.

    Hurricane Milton survivors in 34 Florida counties and one Tribal Nation can register for federal disaster assistance. On Oct. 11, President Jospeh R. Biden, Jr., approved a major disaster declaration for Florida following the hurricane. President Biden previously approved federal disaster assistance in six states affected by Helene. This opens up federal help for survivors in designated areas in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

    In addition, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced the Operation Blue Tarp which is a free service to homeowners. Residents impacted by Hurricane Milton can sign-up at www.blueroof.gov, or by calling 888-ROOF-BLU (888-766-3258). The initial sign-up period is set for 21 days and ends Nov. 5. The Florida counties impacted by Hurricane Milton currently identified for the program include: Brevard, Citrus, Charlotte, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Manatee, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Lucie, Sumter and Volusia.

    FEMA encourages Helene and Milton survivors to apply online as this remains the best way to apply for disaster assistance. Here are the ways to apply for federal assistance: 

    ·         Apply online at disasterassistance.gov

    ·         Call 800-621-3362

    ·         Use the FEMA App

    ·         Visit a Disaster Recovery Center to talk with FEMA and state agency officials and apply for assistance

    In total, over 8,200 federal personnel—including 4,300 FEMA staff—are in communities in these states supporting the ongoing response and recovery efforts. 

    These photos highlight response and recovery efforts across states impacted by Helene and Milton.

    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56489″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/51c770e055bfac2bdf77a115b7d1e1e9.jpg?itok=d6OkGMpD” alt=”Caption: Lee County, Va. – A group comprised of staff from the Lee County 911, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and FEMA was conducting Preliminary Damage Assessments to survey properties affected by Tropical Storm Helene in September.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Lee County, Va. – A group comprised of staff from the Lee County 911, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and FEMA was conducting Preliminary Damage Assessments to survey properties affected by Tropical Storm Helene in September.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56511″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/0ac80a360274e00254b29ac8e241b18a.jpg?itok=d3rO453K” alt=”Caption: Burnsville, N.C. – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper visit the Pensacola Volunteer Fire Department to talk with staff and disaster survivors.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Burnsville, N.C. – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper visit the Pensacola Volunteer Fire Department to talk with staff and disaster survivors.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56462″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/7037f02841813c689a6e8dc2d71c40b7.jpg?itok=p12cSWX5″ alt=”Caption: Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.
    BUNCOMBE COUNTY, North Carolina – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell visits with staff and disaster survivors about recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station. (Source: FEMA)
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56452″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/a0cbc8cb1e9938b50f025fa483a0d283.jpg?itok=pClsD1s-” alt=”Caption: Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56481″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/80ff6cd868da9e52fceb6d20106f1667.jpg?itok=9Hhe7DBi” alt=”Caption: Swannanoa, NC – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance staff help survivors at a Community Care Station. FEMA, Buncombe County, City of Asheville and the private sector have worked together to offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, hot food, water, Wi-Fi, and medicine.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Swannanoa, NC – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance staff help survivors at a Community Care Station. FEMA, Buncombe County, City of Asheville and the private sector have worked together to offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, hot food, water, Wi-Fi, and medicine.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56531″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/50d8ffc037538c49d382007aa1769886.jpg?itok=xW7qucuF” alt=”Caption: Sarasota, Fla. (Oct. 17, 2024) – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assist a family of survivors in their first Blue Roof Project in Sarasota, Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Sarasota, Fla. (Oct. 17, 2024) – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assist a family of survivors in their first Blue Roof Project in Sarasota, Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56426″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/6ed91d66e28321cf80a1887989c06c4a.jpg?itok=qM79h6sL” alt=”Caption: Palm Beach County, Fla. (Oct. 15, 2024) – DSA crews canvas an area of The Acreage in Palm Beach County Florida.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Palm Beach County, Fla. (Oct. 15, 2024) – DSA crews canvas an area of The Acreage in Palm Beach County Florida.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56473″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/cf9d4bec75102ebbb97b6fc199bfe0d0.jpg?itok=9VB86i5n” alt=”Caption: Columbia, S.C. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA’s Director of Disability Integration and Coordination, Sherman Gillums, Jr., visits the Association for Better Living and Education to show support for their ongoing efforts in supporting the disabled community. Director Gillums met with Dori Tempio, Sr., Director of Community Education, and Mandy Halloran, Director of Public Health.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Columbia, S.C. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA’s Director of Disability Integration and Coordination, Sherman Gillums, Jr., visits the Association for Better Living and Education to show support for their ongoing efforts in supporting the disabled community. Director Gillums met with Dori Tempio, Sr., Director of Community Education, and Mandy Halloran, Director of Public Health.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56471″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/9050b3d4f1ac9a6e2bd7cdfbf7ae3a71.jpg?itok=o0HpV_iy” alt=”Caption: Sandersville, Ga. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA opens a Disaster Recovery Center in Sandersville, Georgia to register members of the community and surrounding counties effected by Hurricane Helene for disaster assistance.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Sandersville, Ga. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA opens a Disaster Recovery Center in Sandersville, Georgia to register members of the community and surrounding counties effected by Hurricane Helene for disaster assistance.

    FEMA’s Disaster Multimedia Toolkit page provides graphics, social media copy and sample text in multiple languages. In addition, FEMA has set up a rumor control web page to reduce confusion about its role in the Helene response. 

    amy.ashbridge

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Floridians May be Eligible for Transitional Sheltering in Hotels

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Floridians May be Eligible for Transitional Sheltering in Hotels

    Floridians May be Eligible for Transitional Sheltering in Hotels

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- FEMA has activated Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) for Floridians displaced by Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Milton in 52 counties and for tribal members of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians.

    Residents in these counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA. Applicants do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance.

    Applicants may be eligible if they cannot return to their disaster-damaged home and their housing needs cannot be met by insurance, shelters or rental assistance provided by FEMA or another agency.

    Under the TSA program, FEMA pays the cost of room, taxes and non-refundable pet fees directly to participating hotels and motels. Pet fees will only be paid up to the approved limit of assistance for individual rooms. Survivors are responsible for all other costs, including laundry, restaurant/room service, parking, telephone or movie rental. 

    Continued eligibility is determined on an individual basis. When eligibility ends, survivors will be notified by FEMA seven days prior to checkout date.

    TSA is limited to participating hotels and motels in Florida, Alabama and Georgia. Applicants must refer to the TSA Locator to find a hotel, which will be visible to them when they go to DisasterAssistance.gov.  

    TSA participants may also be eligible for other FEMA financial help, including Displacement Assistance, Rental Assistance, Home Repair Assistance and other aspects of the Individual Assistance program.

    Floridians can apply for either storm online at DisasterAssistance.gov. They can also apply using the FEMA mobile App or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand calls to FEMA’s helpline are experiencing delays because of the increased volume due to multiple recent disasters. The fastest way to apply is online or through the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube. 

    For the latest information about Florida’s Hurricane Helene recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834.Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

    kirsten.chambers

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Statement On Death Of Yahya Sinwar

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    October 17, 2024

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism, on Thursday released the following statement on the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
    “Yahya Sinwar was a brutal U.S.-designated terrorist and the mastermind of the October 7th terror attacks. His death provides an important measure of justice for the 1,200 innocent Israelis murdered that day, their families, and the more than 100 hostages still being held in Gaza. With Sinwar’s death, Hamas’s military command structure has been decimated and the group no longer has the capability to stage another attack like October 7th. It is time to redouble efforts to secure an agreement to end this war and bring home all of the hostages.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rubio, Moolenaar, Colleagues Question Treasury on Failure to Block Gotion Industrial Site

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

    Rubio, Moolenaar, Colleagues  Question Treasury on Failure to Block Gotion Industrial Site
    Oct 17, 2024 | Press Releases

    Gotion Incorporated, a company with deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party, has developed a large industrial site near a U.S. military installation in Mecosta County, Michigan. The failure of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to investigate and block this development poses a serious threat to U.S. national security.
    U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), U.S. Representative John Moolenaar (R-MI), and colleagues sent a letter to U.S. Department of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen questioning CFIUS’s decision-making and urging an update of the committee’s rules.
    “We write to express our deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s apparent failure to block Gotion Incorporated (Gotion)—an entity with deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)—from developing a large industrial site near a major U.S. military installation.
    “Given CFIUS’ failure to launch a review of Gotion’s site development when the project was first publicly announced two years ago, it is now imperative that CFIUS update its proposed rulemaking to clarify the Committee’s ability to conduct retroactive reviews of covered greenfield investments that it previously failed to address.”
    Joining Rubio and Moolenaar were Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR), Mike Braun (R-IN) and Joni Ernst (R-IA), as well as Representatives Lisa McClain (R-MI), Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Jack Bergman (R-MI), John James (R-MI), and Tim Walberg (R-MI).
    Flashback… In September 2023, Rubio and Moolenaar sent a letter to Secretary Yellen urging CFIUS to review Gotion’s ownership.
    The full text of the letter is below. 
    Dear Secretary Yellen:
    We write to express our deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s apparent failure to block Gotion Incorporated (Gotion)—an entity with deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)—from developing a large industrial site near a major U.S. military installation. The scope of United States warfighting capabilities is extremely sensitive knowledge. We must only share this information selectively, exclusively, and knowingly with close allies and partners. Federal agencies have a duty to prevent America’s adversaries from obtaining information concerning our national defense personnel and assets. As we are sure you will agree, the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) plays a vital role in blocking foreign efforts to collect intelligence on our military via domestic investment.
    Unfortunately, CFIUS seems to have neglected a substantial foreign project constituting a major national security threat stemming from a major facility being constructed by Gotion. Gotion is the U.S. subsidiary of Gotion High-Tech, an electric vehicle (EV) battery company which is based in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and has documented ties to the CCP. The House Select Committee on the CCP has routinely documented Gotion High-Tech’s notorious, widespread human rights abuses and use of forced labor in mainland China, in addition to its connection with Chinese paramilitary groups. Nonetheless, Gotion is currently constructing a $2.4 billion EV battery plant in Mecosta County, Michigan.
    In June 2023, Gotion announced that its plans for plant construction were outside of CFIUS’ jurisdiction, and could therefore continue the project. But as you know, as of February 13, 2020, CFIUS’ jurisdiction applies to greenfield investments when a foreign entity purchases real estate near certain sensitive military bases. Federal regulations define the extended range of a military installation as land within a 100-mile radius of the military installation (31 C.F.R. § 802.211). Covered installations include certain Army combat training centers within the continental United States (31 C.F.R. § 802.227(h)).
    According to CFIUS’ own Part 802 geographic reference tool, Gotion’s site in Michigan is located just under 60 miles south of the Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center—well within the regulation’s definition of extended range. Camp Grayling is the largest National Guard training facility in the United States, and is host to both the Northern Strike joint exercises and the National Guard Exportable Combat Training Center Exercises. Yet, despite Camp Grayling’s significance, and the overwhelming evidence that this facility meets CFIUS’ conditions for a sensitive military installation, CFIUS did not include the camp under its definition of covered real estate until its July 2024 proposed rule, “Definition of Military Installation and the List of Military Installations in Regulations Pertaining to Certain Transactions by Foreign Persons Involving Real Estate in the United States.”
    Given CFIUS’ failure to launch a review of Gotion’s site development when the project was first publicly announced two years ago, it is now imperative that CFIUS update its proposed rulemaking to clarify the Committee’s ability to conduct retroactive reviews of covered greenfield investments that it previously failed to address. This step is well within CFIUS’ authority under 50 U.S.C. 4565 §(b)(1)(D)(i). This common-sense measure would not only allow CFIUS to put a stop to Gotion’s continued nefarious activity, but also the activities of many other adversarial entities that have slipped under CFIUS’ radar and acquired land near sensitive military sites. CFIUS’ failure to retroactively review these transactions would constitute a major security blunder and permit the CCP to engage in intelligence gathering that compromises our military capabilities and readiness.
    Given the severity of what seems to be a grave lapse in CFIUS’ judgement, we request answers to the following questions:
    Why did CFIUS fail to designate Camp Grayling as an army combat training center under covered real estate until its July 2024 proposed rule?
    If Camp Grayling’s exclusion from covered real estate was a failure in oversight, what steps is CFIUS taking to rectify the situation?
    What action is CFIUS taking to stop Gotion from continuing its plant construction given its proximity to a major military installation?
    Will CFIUS commit to clarify its authority to conduct retroactive reviews of covered greenfield investments that have slipped under CFIUS’ radar?
    Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to your prompt response.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man appears in court in relation to three Rotorua murders

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    To be attributed to Detective Inspector Lindsay Pilbrow: 

    A 52-year-old man has appeared in court today, in relation to the murder of three people in Rotorua in September.

    Justin Matthew Jeffries appeared in Rotorua High Court today, charged with the murders of Glendon Brent Currin (76), Jessie Florence Currin (78).

    Mr and Mrs Currin had been assaulted at their Western Heights home on 23 September and subsequently both passed away in hospital.

    Jeffries had previously been charged with the murder of Michelle Nicola Schiller (59), who was found deceased at her Utuhina home on 23 September.

    Jeffries is also facing a number of other charges, including wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, burglary and fraud.

    He has been remanded in custody to appear again on 15 November 2024

    Police are continuing to support the families of the three victims. This has been an incredibly distressing time for them and they have asked for privacy as they continue to grieve the loss of their loved ones.

    As part of our enquiries into the three homicides, Police would like to hear from anyone who was in contact with Jeffries since the beginning of September.

    If you can help, please contact Police via 105 and quote reference number 240923/0552.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Speech – Community Broadcasting Association of Australia Conference 2024 – Gold Coast

    Source: Australian Ministers for Infrastructure and Transport

    Hi, I’m Michelle Rowland, Federal Communications Minister.

    Thank you for inviting me to say a few words.

    I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands you are gathered on – the You-Gam-Be (Yugambeh) people – and the Traditional Owners of the lands that community radio broadcasts from across Australia.

    I pay respect to First Nations people attending. 

    And thank all the community broadcasters who give First Nations communities, connection to culture, and language a voice and a platform.  

    I congratulate you on a very special milestone: 50 years of community broadcasting in Australia.

    The Whitlam Government’s move in 1974 to establish this sector was a landmark moment in our history.

    What was then referred to as ‘experimental radio licences’ were granted to a handful of community groups.

    Five decades on, more than 450 stations reach 5 million Australians each week.

    Your sector is vibrant, diverse and it enriches people’s lives. 

    It connects communities and gives locals a voice.

    On behalf of the Albanese Government, thank you to all the staff and the volunteers for your outstanding contribution to our media landscape.

    I also congratulate you on your comprehensive ten-year roadmap, which sets clear priorities to ensure your sector continues to thrive and meet community needs.

    Labor has long backed community radio.

    The first Bill I presented to Parliament as Communications Minister was to provide a funding boost and on-going certainty for community broadcasting.

    This financial year, this translated into $23 million through the Community Broadcasting Program. 

    My first visit as a Minister was to a community radio station. 

    And I haven’t stopped since.

    At every station I visit around the country, I’m inspired by your commitment to serving your audiences. 

    And you are well-represented by an industry organisation in CBAA

    The Albanese Government is committed to working with community broadcasting to identify a sustainable funding basis for the future.

    At last year’s event, I spoke about the importance of the Community Broadcasting Sector Sustainability Review and outlined key findings.

    Phase 1 of the review found that while the Community Broadcasting Program delivers positive impacts, grant funding does not adequately promote sustainability and resilience.

    The Community Broadcasting Foundation has since actioned key recommendations to better measure outcomes and impact of the Commonwealth funding it distributes. 

    I look forward to seeing this translate into outcomes-based funding streams that better align to areas of need, like news, youth engagement and emergency broadcasting.

    Phase 2 of the review has gathered views and ideas directly from you – the community broadcasters – on how to build a stronger, more sustainable future.

    As part of this, I met with community broadcasters in suburban Sydney, Byron Bay, Cairns and Darwin. 

    My Department has held a series of stakeholder roundtables in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Darwin and online. 

    What we are hearing is a united call for increased, sustainable funding. 

    Alongside diverse views on how to create a sustainable future. 

    This includes regulatory changes to reflect the modern broadcasting era, and to afford licensees flexibility in community participation and sponsorship. 

    And views on supports that sector bodies, such as CBAA, can deliver to better assist stations with governance and business planning.

    Thank you to everyone who participated; I look forward to receiving the Department’s findings and advice by the end of the month.

    In establishing the community broadcasting sector in Australia, the then Minister for Media, Doug McClelland, heralded – and I quote – “a new era in the advancement of radio development in Australia.” 

    The subsequent Labor Minister, the great Dr Moss Cass, oversaw the national expansion of the experimental radio licences which enabled the sector to grow.

    The community broadcasting sector has more than delivered on the vision of the Whitlam Government. 

    You are at the heart of every community.

    The Albanese Government is 100 per cent committed to supporting the next era of community broadcasting in Australia.

    To ensure it is strong, sustainable, vibrant and remains an essential part of our media landscape. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: How did public service leaders talk to staff about Robodebt? What they said – or didn’t – is revealing

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daniel Casey, Lecturer, School of Politics and International Relations, Australian National University

    In July 2023, after the release of the damning Robodebt Royal Commission report, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declared:

    it was wrong, it was illegal, it should never have happened and it should never happen again.

    A major finding was some senior public servants were overly responsive to the wishes of ministers, to the detriment of the general public. The report describes an environment that was:

    fraught […] characterised by a powerful drive for savings, strongly expressed ministerial policy positions […] and intense pressure experienced by public servants.

    Investigating the scheme, which ran under the Morrison government, Commissioner Catherine Holmes was disturbed by “the lengths to which public servants were prepared to go to oblige ministers”, undermining the concept of impartiality and frank and fearless advice.

    The release of Rick Morton’s new book Mean Streak brings a renewed focus on the lessons from Robodebt. To learn from such a serious crisis, organisations need to openly confront what happened, discuss and understand what the failure means. What were the systemic causes? What cultural failings did it expose? How can we ensure a similar disaster does not happen again?

    Our research found little evidence these questions were being asked by many public service leaders immediately after the royal commission.

    In the six months after the royal commission report’s release, almost half of the heads of Australian Public Service (APS) agencies apparently decided they didn’t need to communicate with their staff about Robodebt and explain what it meant for them.

    What did department leaders do?

    Learning from the failure of Robodebt will take time. In 2024, the public service is investigating and punishing some of those involved and implementing a new integrity plan.

    Our research focuses on the six months after the release of the royal commission report: July to December 2023. Research shows the immediate post-crisis period is crucial to effective learning.

    But before organisations can respond, they have to interpret and understand the meaning of the failure.

    Just as the public turns to political leaders in a crisis, employees look to management. Leaders’ communication, whether by email, an all staff video, or a town hall meeting, is crucial.

    These messages set the organisational narrative that explains what happened and why, what the repercussions are, how it can be resolved, and what lessons (if any) should be drawn from the crisis.

    Three days after the royal commission report was released, the secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Glyn Davis, and Australian Public Service Commissioner Gordon de Brouwer, emailed all public service employees saying:

    we are committed to working through the findings in an open and constructive way with you — the APS — and with the Australian public.

    Our focus, however, is on how leaders of individual departments and agencies responded. Using Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, we asked how leaders communicated with staff in the crucial period straight after the commission reported.

    Departments are where policy development occurs and they often work closely with ministers.

    But only half of all public servants work for departments. The rest work across the 100 or so agencies.

    While most department heads communicated with their staff about Robodebt, only 54% of agencies’ leaders did.

    The 50 agencies that did not communicate with their staff about the meaning of Robodebt in the months following the report employ more than 45,000 people, more than 25% of the public service.

    Not my problem mentality

    Three large departments told us that “no documents were identified” or “the Department does not hold documents […] that meet the terms of the request”. This indicates they did not communicate with staff in the first six months after the Robodebt report was handed down. The departments were:

    It is not clear why those secretaries decided not to write to their staff directly about Robodebt, but the absence of communication sends a message.

    This was explicit in some responses. For example, in declining our request, we were told that the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority:

    […] is not an outwardly facing organisation and as such does not provide payments to individual recipients. Consequently, it is not required to respond to the Royal Commission and there are no documents that are relevant to your request.

    Even when there was some communication, agencies were not necessarily addressing the cultural issues. For example, the Clean Energy Regulator was focused on public perception:

    there is a heightened sense of scrutiny on regulators […] please be vigilant if you are approached by anybody working for a media outlet.

    In such circumstances, it is unlikely cultural change will occur.

    Some positive signs

    On the positive side, there were examples of agencies that addressed the serious implications of Robodebt for their work, which is likely to improve their organisational culture.

    The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) identified a number of recommendations “albeit directed at other agencies […] that ASIC should act on”. They noted that “given most of our people come from the private sector”, there was a need to improve training on “our obligations as public servants”.



    Read more:
    Two former federal departmental heads breached public service code 25 times in Robodebt scandal

    Similarly, Australian statistician David Gruen emphasised creating a culture where “people feel supported if and when they seek to raise difficult issues with their colleagues or superiors”. Similar discussions were had at AUSTRAC.

    Departments are closest to ministers, so we hoped their communications would address problems in the relationships between senior public servants and ministers, a key issue exposed in the Robodebt case.

    Unfortunately, only four departments discussed over-responsiveness with their staff or in executive meetings, in the period studied.

    The department of industry and science was the most comprehensive. Secretary Meghan Quinn wrote to staff several times, reflecting that the “findings go to the heart of leadership and culture and this should be our focus going forward”. The department’s integrity branch wrote to staff:

    public servants [must] […] provide the government with advice that is frank and honest. If you ever feel pressured to do or sign something you are not comfortable with, it’s important you speak with your supervisors […] you have the Executive’s backing not to put your name to anything that is not true or not in the public interest.

    However, this was one of the few departments where senior staff confronted these core issues directly in the early months after the royal commission reported. Most departments did not name or discuss the underlying cause of the failures: over-responsiveness to ministers at the expense of protecting the public.

    While many of the errors of Robodebt can be solved through new procedures and rules, changing public service culture is a bigger learning project.

    It requires a shift in norms and reweighting the competing duties of public servants. They must serve elected ministers, but equally, they must serve the public by ensuring probity, fairness and legality.

    Robodebt illustrated the harm that occurs when the balance tips too far towards ministers and away from the public interest.

    That this was rarely part of the communication from public service leaders to their staff in the immediate aftermath of the royal commission does not bode well for lessons being learnt from the crisis.

    Daniel Casey worked in the Department of Social Services during the period of Robodebt, but did not work on the Robodebt program.

    Maria Maley received funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. How did public service leaders talk to staff about Robodebt? What they said – or didn’t – is revealing – https://theconversation.com/how-did-public-service-leaders-talk-to-staff-about-robodebt-what-they-said-or-didnt-is-revealing-240015

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Can NZ’s supply chain build enough resilience and sustainability to survive the next global crisis?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julia Fehrer, Associate Professor, Business School, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    New Zealand is highly reliant on trade – particularly on maritime routes, which are lifelines for exports and imports. Key sectors such as agriculture, construction, and wholesale and retail trade depend heavily on this global network.

    External events can severely disrupt the flow of goods, delay deliveries or damage critical infrastructure.

    But a crisis like the COVID pandemic can also disrupt business commitments to sustainability goals such as reducing carbon emissions, minimising waste and improving resource efficiency.

    This is important, because several major New Zealand companies have introduced sustainability measures into their operations over the past decade.

    Fonterra, for example, adopted low-carbon logistics and distribution practices. Zespri uses blockchain technology to improve the transparency of its sustainable practices and enhance tracking across its supply chain. Air New Zealand partners with local suppliers and adopts initiatives to lower its carbon emissions.

    In our recent research, we reviewed 287 studies on supply chains. We identified key tensions between efficiency and sustainability, and how major disruptions to supply chains and operations can swing the balance between the two.

    On one hand, businesses are pressured to maintain lean, cost-effective operations. On the other, there is a growing recognition of the need to build resilience and sustainability, particularly in the face of climate change.

    Traditional strategies

    New Zealand’s supply chains are susceptible to disruptions from natural disasters (such as earthquakes and floods), geopolitical tensions and global health crises.

    Businesses have historically responded in a variety of ways: diversifying suppliers, increasing inventory buffers and securing alternative transport routes.

    The use of technology, such as radio frequency identification, has played a crucial role in tracking goods across the supply chain. It provides real-time visibility and accurate inventory management.

    Blockchain is becoming a key tool for making supply chains more sustainable. This technology uses a digital ledger to keep information safe and easy to trace.

    But the ongoing technological innovation risks disadvantaging people and businesses with limited resources and capabilities along the supply chain.

    Embracing a circular economy

    During the pandemic, businesses experienced shortages of critical supplies, delays in shipments and fluctuating demand. This forced them to temporarily abandon long-term sustainability strategies in favour of short-term survival tactics.

    This made sense from a business perspective. But to build more resilient and sustainable supply chains, businesses will need to move beyond traditional strategies.

    Our research found integrating circular economy principles into supply chain management can help create a buffer for businesses.

    The circular economy model focuses on minimising waste – keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible. There is also a focus on regenerating natural systems to foster economic, social and environmental resilience.

    Companies can reduce their reliance on external supply chains by focusing on reusing materials, creating closed-loop systems with regional partners and by boosting the technologies already in place.

    By fostering stronger links with local suppliers and focusing on regional sourcing, businesses can reduce their exposure to global risks. This will also help build more self-sufficient supply chain ecosystems.

    Building sustainable supply chains requires investing in advanced technologies, such as blockchain and artificial intelligence. But implementing these technologies should be done carefully and in stages to minimise disruption. Going slowly can also allow for the inclusion of all supply chain partners in these technological transitions.

    The way forward

    New Zealand’s supply chain future hinges on greater collaboration between everyone involved, including businesses, policymakers and communities.

    In practice, this means working together to build systems that are not only efficient and cost-effective but also resilient and sustainable.

    Equally, resilient supply chains require regional manufacturing ecosystems. To mitigate the risks from global supply chain disruptions, it’s essential to support local manufacturing, even when offshore manufacturing costs are lower.

    This will require government support and strategic investment in regional manufacturing innovation.

    While New Zealand’s supply chains face significant challenges, there are great opportunities to reshape them for a more resilient and sustainable future.

    By integrating circular economy principles, using advanced technologies and fostering regional collaboration, New Zealand can build supply chains that are prepared for future crises and which also contribute to the country’s sustainability goals.

    Julia Fehrer receives funding from the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment.

    Christina Stringer, Sunny Kareem, and Timofey Shalpegin 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. Can NZ’s supply chain build enough resilience and sustainability to survive the next global crisis? – https://theconversation.com/can-nzs-supply-chain-build-enough-resilience-and-sustainability-to-survive-the-next-global-crisis-241348

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Eye in the sky: Drones assist mapping estuarine habitats

    Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

    18 Oct 2024

    Coastal ecosystems are being targeted by eyes in the sky as part of an ongoing effort to monitor and protect, seagrasses, saltmarshes and mangroves across the state’s estuaries.

    NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Fisheries Research Scientist Dr Daniel Swadling said the state-wide mapping project is using drones to capture images of these challenging environments.

    “Accessing remote saltmarsh and mangrove areas is no easy task, due to the challenging environments. Some sites are so remote that they can’t be accessed by boat or 4WD,” Dr Swadling said.

    “By using drone technology, the team can capture high-resolution phot
    ographs of these areas which is crucial for tracking changes in these habitats and assessing their overall condition.

    “These images are then compared to preliminary maps created from aerial imagery, a process known as validation, which helps ensure the accuracy of the habitat data.”

    Dr Swadling said a recent mapping expedition in the Clarence River demonstrated the benefits of blending technology with the natural habitat.

    “Because of the difficulty in accessing some of these areas, we were able to obtain ‘Extended Visual Line of Sight’ (EVLOS) endorsements. This approval allows drone pilots to fly beyond the usual visual line of sight. With EVLOS, we could photograph areas up to 1.5 kilometres away, well beyond standard drone operating limits,” Dr Swadling said.

    “Mapping estuarine habitats is a key component of the Marine Estate Management Strategy (MEMS) and vital for safeguarding the future of NSW’s estuaries by providing data to protect these ecosystems for future generations.”

    The NSW Estuarine Habitat Monitoring and Threat Assessment Project is conducted by DPIRD Fisheries and funded via the NSW Marine Estate Management Strategy.

    An updated map of the Clarence River estuary will soon be available to the public via the Estuarine Habitat Dashboard and Fisheries Spatial Data Portal.

    Media contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee, Jayapal Statement on Death of Yahya Sinwar

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Barbara Lee 13th District of California

    October 17, 2024

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Representatives Barbara Lee (CA-12) and Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) released the following statement regarding the death of terrorist Yahya Sinwar:

    “Yahya Sinwar was the leader of Hamas who planned the brutal October 7 terrorist attack. His death should provide new opportunities to work towards peace in the Middle East. As we have maintained from the very beginning of this war, a ceasefire and hostage deal is key to resolving this conflict. Both sides should use this opportunity to agree to President Biden’s proposal for a ceasefire, and immediately reunite surviving hostages with their families.

    “History shows that the death of a terrorist leader does not necessarily mean the end of violence – it will only lead to peace and security if the strategy includes smart, principled, and tough diplomacy.”  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pettersen Highlights Community Investments in Chaffee, Joins Reopening of Historic McGinnis Gym

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brittany Pettersen (Colorado 7th District)

    SALIDA – U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) recently stopped by Chaffee County to visit facilities that she championed through state and federal funding, including the historic McGinnis Gymnasium in Buena Vista and Solvista Health’s Regional Assessment Center (RAC) in Salida. 

    At Pettersen’s first stop in Chaffee County, she visited Solvista Health’s RAC in Salida, a substance use disorder recovery center that she helped secure funding for alongside former state Representative Jim Wilson during her time in the Colorado state legislature. As chair of the Interim Study Committee on Opioids and Other Substance Use Disorders, Pettersen helped establish the Building Substance Use Disorder Treatment Capacity in Underserved Communities Grant Program, delivering $700,000 to Solvista Health’s RAC in Salida. In Congress, Pettersen has built upon this work by calling for increased funding and expanded access to mental health and substance treatment programs.

    Following her visit to Salida, Pettersen joined the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the McGinnis Gymnasium in Buena Vista, reopening the facility after refurbishments. Originally built in 1936 through the Public Works Administration as part of the New Deal, this gym holds a unique place in Buena Vista’s history. Pettersen wrote a letter of support to the Environmental Protection Agency for a Brownfields grant that was awarded to the gym. Now, the facility will serve as a safe, indoor recreation space for children and the Chaffee community for generations to come. 

    “Projects like these are a testament to the positive difference that state and federal dollars can make in our communities,” said Pettersen. “I supported funding for these facilities because I know investments like this will elevate the entire Chaffee community. The McGinnis Gym will foster creativity and community engagement in Chaffee for generations to come.”

    Pettersen continued, “It was amazing to tour Solvista Health and see this center come to fruition after years of dedicated work during my time in the legislature with former Rep. Jim Wilson. This facility provides desperately needed care to those who have often been left behind. As the only place in this region to provide detox and withdrawal management services, Solvista has served over a thousand people in the last year and no doubt has saved hundreds of lives. I remain committed to advocating for the people of Chaffee in Congress, ensuring critical investments continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of this community.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: What’s next for data-driven medicine – and what AI-powered innovation needs now: insitro CEO Daph…

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    Daphne Koller is an AI pioneer, MacArthur fellow, member of the National Academy of sciences and the founder and CEO of drug discovery and development company insitro. She’ll talk about how attitudes surrounding AI have evolved in her multi-decade career and what’s ahead – including how technology is reshaping drug discovery, paving the way for more targeted treatments for the patients who can benefit most. But maximizing AI-powered innovation will depend on better investments in data aggregation, quality and collection and navigating hype cycles that can distract from real impact. 

    This academic-turned-entrepreneur will also share how founding insitro (and a previous company, Coursera) helped her expand her leadership and management skills, all while driving home the importance of shaping a company culture. At insitro, this focus building a culture that works for unique needs led to a special ‘helix’ inspired-structure that helps discovery biologists, automation engineers and others in the company’s cross-functional teams keep communication flowing, problem solve, and prevent the siloes that can hold true innovation back. 

    Transcript: https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/meet-the-leader/episodes/daphne-koller-insitro-AI-soft-skills Insitro: https://www.insitro.com/ Top Ten Technologies of 2024: https://www.weforum.org/publications/top-10-emerging-technologies-2024/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4mQtLEOsVk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Stands Ready to Assist Alaska Businesses and Residents Affected by the Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Alaska businesses and residents as a result of President Biden’s major disaster declaration, U.S. Small Business Administration’s Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman announced.

    The declaration covers the City and Borough of Juneau as a result of flooding that occurred Aug. 5–6.

    “SBA’s mission-driven team stands ready to help Alaska’s small businesses and residents impacted by flooding,” said Administrator Guzman. “We’re committed to providing federal disaster loans swiftly and efficiently, with a customer-centric approach to help businesses and communities recover and rebuild.”

    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 to businesses regardless of 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,” said Francisco Sánchez, Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. “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.

    As soon as Federal-State Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the affected area, SBA will provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants. Additional information and details on the location of disaster recovery centers is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.

    ###

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 150 years of protecting Alexandra

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Brigade members walking in the parade. Credit: Blair Dellemijn

    An impressive crowd gathered as more than 12 fire trucks and partner emergency services paraded down the main street of town to mark Alexandra Fire Brigade’s 150th anniversary.

    On Saturday 12 October, the brigade celebrated the incredible milestone with the local community throughout the day and a dinner with more than 100 guests which included long-service medals.

    Alexandra Captain Chris Lynch said leading the brigade during this historic event was an honour and a privilege.

    “I don’t lead alone, I have an amazing team that joins me and without them, I am only one person,” Chris said.

    “A lot of work went into the event and it was a great day. This isn’t just about Alexandra’s 150th, this is the community being able to have a minute to look and see the people that support them in their time of need.”

    The brigade was formed in February 1874, with Captain Radford Huddle as officer in charge and around 20 members on board.

    A few months after the brigade was formed, the main street suffered significant fires with several buildings lost. The town had been hit with fires in the past, but reports indicate the formation of the fire brigade paid dividends, as the fire was contained. However, with every fire comes problems and Captain Huddle and three members resigned immediately after the incident.

    Training back in the day saw the firefighters don their new red uniforms before marching to the local racecourse, and while one member climbed a tree, others then had to source a continuous supply of water using buckets to get it to the top of the tree.

    Over the years the brigade became involved in the demonstrations, which was later known as the State Championships – where they went on to being quite successful, winning many trophies.

    The construction of a fire bell on a small tower in the main street was a major move forward to alert brigade members to fire calls. This historic bell still exists in front of the joint emergency services facility in Shamrock Street, Alexandra.

    The brigade acquired its first motor vehicle during the late 1930s, a Dodge, 4 cylinder, open cap, fitted with a bell. It was a hose carriage and firefighters transport vehicle only, which proved better than having to run a reel. This truck was replaced by an Austin Series 1 fitted with a Thompson front mounted pump around 1950.

    Alexandra Captain Chris Lynch said the brigade has been involved in numerous major fires over the decades.

    “The 2019/20 Black Summer fires stand out, our brigade spent time at the fires at Swift Creek,” Chris said.

    “Not long after I was voted in as Captain a few years ago, we responded to a fire at Maintongoon which ended up being one of the biggest fires for the season.”

    Chris joined CFA around 12 years ago and said it’s a great way to meet people, have community spirit and assist people in need.

    “Many people have come and gone over the years but it’s important to talk to the people who have been there before, learn from them and respect everybody’s opinion,” Chris said.

    “One of the most amazing things about Alexandra Fire Brigade is the members. We are such a diverse brigade, and we have the ability to do anything we put our minds to.

    “We also couldn’t do what we do without our Fire Equipment Maintenance (FEM) team and the auxiliary members who raise much needed funds for our brigade.”

    More than 30 service awards were presented during the brigade dinner including five members who received the prestigious 55 years of service.

    Dignitaries at the event included Cindy McLeish MP, Mayor Damien Gallagher, CFA Board Member Ross Coyle, Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer Stephen Keating and Commander Paul Brislin.

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Summer maintenance on State Highway 29 to deliver smoother journeys

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    State Highway 29 is a key focus as part of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi summer maintenance programme.

    Between October 2024 and May 2025 there are 9 significant sites on the Bay of Plenty side of the Kaimai Range where we will be rebuilding and resurfacing the road.

    Once complete, drivers will have smoother and safer journeys along this section of the SH29 corridor.

    The work is part of the $235 million 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme maintenance investment in state highways across the Bay of Plenty.

    To minimise impacts to traffic, most of the works will be carried out in the evening, between 7pm and 6am, on Sunday to Thursday nights (excluding public holidays) with stop/go in place.

    Starting this weekend, contractors will begin with a road rebuild near Hanga Road on Sunday 20 October*, for an expected period of 3 weeks, followed by resurfacing near Old Kaimai Road on Sunday 17 November until Thursday 28 November.

    A temporary speed limit of 30km/h will be in place and some work sites will have stop/go traffic lights. People should expect delays when travelling through the area.

    Meanwhile, further west on SH29, resurfacing work will get underway between Gargan Road and Redwood Lane on Sunday 3 November.

    This work will be completed over 5 nights between 7pm and 5am with stop/go and a temporary reduced speed limit of 30km/h at night and 50km/h during the day.

    The next round of Kaimai Range closures is also scheduled to take place, starting on Sunday 17 November, from 8pm to 3.30am for 5 nights. The closures are needed to undertake asphalt work and other routine maintenance activities such as clearing drains, sign maintenance and road marking.

    The closure points on the western (Waikato) side are at the SH29/24 and SH29/28 intersections and on the eastern (BOP) side at the SH29/Cambridge Road intersection. Emergency services will have access at all times, and residents can access their property from the relevant side of the closure.

    Other upcoming work sites scheduled to get underway in December include near Soldiers Road and Kaimai School. View more on these in the map below.

    View/download map [PDF, 275 KB]

    As much work as possible will be completed ahead of Christmas and a short break over the holiday period. Crews will then get back into it until autumn sets in.

    In addition to this, the SH29 Tauriko Enabling Works project is also underway, with lots of activity along the state highway between Belk and Cambridge Roads. 

    Tauriko Enabling Works

    Meanwhile on the Waikato side, works are also ongoing at the SH1/29 intersection in Piarere. 

    SH1/SH29 intersection

    People are encouraged to plan ahead and see where disruptive works are by using the NZTA Journey Planner.

    NZTA Journey Planner(external link)

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi thanks road users and the community for their patience.

    *All dates are subject to weather.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland overnight motorway closures 20-28 October 2024

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi advises of the following closures for motorway improvements. Work delayed by bad weather will be completed at the next available date, prior to Friday, 25 October 2024.

    Please note this Traffic Bulletin is updated every Friday.

    Daily updated closure information(external link) 

    Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am. Traffic management may be in place before the advertised closure times for the mainline.

    NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

    • Southbound lanes between Warkworth Roundabout and Silverdale on-ramp, 21 October
      • Puhoi southbound on-ramp, 21 October 
    • Northbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Warkworth Roundabout, 21 October
      • Orewa northbound on-ramp, 21 October
      • Silverdale northbound on-ramp, 21 October
    • Southbound lanes between Constellation Drive off-ramp and Tristram Avenue on-ramp, 21-22 & 24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Constellation Drive southbound on-ramp, 21-22 & 24 October
    • Northbound lanes between Onewa Road off-ramp and Northcote Road on-ramp, 20 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Esmonde Road (Diamond) northbound on-ramp, 20 October
      • Esmonde Road (Loop) northbound on-ramp, 20 October
      • Onewa Road northbound on-ramp, 20 October
    • Onewa Road southbound on-ramp, 21-24 October
    • Shelly Beach Road southbound off-ramp, 21-24 October

    CENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)

    • Eastbound lanes between Wellesley Street East (SH1) off-ramp and Alten Road, 20 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Eastbound lanes between Wellesley Street East (SH16) off-ramp and Alten Road, 20 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Grafton Road eastbound on-ramp, 20 October

    SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

    • Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 20-21 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Takanini southbound on-ramp, 20-21 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
    • Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Takanini southbound on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Papakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
    • Northbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 23-24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Drury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 23-24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Ramarama northbound on-ramp, 23-24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Northbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 20-22 October
      • Ramarama northbound on-ramp, 20-22 October
    • Bombay southbound off-ramp, 20-24 October
    • Bombay northbound off-ramp, 20-24 October
    • Nikau Road southbound off-ramp, 20-23 October
    • Southbound lanes between Hampton Downs off-ramp and Te Kauwhata on-ramp, 20 October
      • Hampton Downs southbound on-ramp, 20 October

    NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)

    • Southbound lanes between Foster Road and Trigg Road, 20 October (approx. 6:00pm to 6:00am)
    • Northbound lanes between Trigg Road and Foster Road, 20 October (approx. 6:00pm to 6:00am)
    • Newton Road westbound on-ramp, 20-23 October
    • Newton Road westbound on-ramp, 25-28 October (approx. 9:00pm to 9:00pm, 24hrs)
    • Newton Road westbound on-ramp, 28 October

    UPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)

    • None planned

    SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)

    • Northbound lanes between Hillsborough Road off-ramp and Maioro Street on-ramp, 22 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Hillsborough Road northbound on-ramp, 22 October
      • Dominion Road northbound on-ramp, 22 October
    • Northbound lanes between Neilson Street off-ramp and Hillsborough Road on-ramp, 21 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Neilson Street northbound on-ramp, 21 October
    • Mahunga Drive southbound off-ramp, 20 October
    • Northbound lanes between Massey Road off-ramp and Rimu Road on-ramp, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Coronation Road northbound on-ramp, 23 October
      • SH20 northbound to SH20A southbound link, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Massey Road northbound on-ramp, 23 October
    • Northbound lanes between Cavendish Drive off-ramp and Massey Road on-ramp, 24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Puhinui Road northbound on-ramp, 24 October
      • Cavendish Drive northbound on-ramp, 24 October

    GEORGE BOLT MEMORIAL DRIVE (SH20A)

    • Northbound lanes between Kirkbride Road off-ramp and SH20 link, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • SH20A northbound to SH20 northbound link, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Kirkbride Road northbound on-ramp, 23 October

    PUHINUI ROAD (SH20B)

    • None planned

    STATE HIGHWAY 22 (SH22)

    • None planned

    STATE HIGHWAY 2 (SH2)

    • None planned

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Car yard burglar lands in court

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A brazen burglar who attempted to break in to a car yard in Penrose during the early hours of this morning has been sprung.

    At about 3.51am, Police were notified by security of a man who had allegedly entered a commercial premises on Great South Road.

    Auckland City East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rachel Dolheguy, says when security approached the man he fled on foot along railway tracks towards Penrose.

    “The Police Air Support Unit was able to quickly gain observations on the male and provide directions to units on the ground.”

    Inspector Dolheguy says officers arrested the alleged offender without incident.

    “This was a great result and a timely response by all staff involved.

    “It’s also another example of how quick reporting can assist Police in locating and arresting those involved in crimes in our community.”

    We continue to ask anyone who sees anything of concern to contact Police immediately on 111.

    For all other matters, please update us online now at https://webforms.police.govt.nz/en/update-report or call 105.

    Information on anything of concern can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    A 27-year-old man will appear in Auckland District Court next week charged with possession of an instrument for burglary.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –