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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funfair Suppliers – Applications Open for St Patrick’s Festival 2025

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council invites proposals from suppliers to bid for the supply of a combined package of fun fair rides that offer excellent value and create a family friendly event over Saint Patrick’s weekend.

    Please note that all bids should include a proposal that is quoting for both locations combined. Council will not accept any bids that quote for one or the other location separately.

    Solitude Park, Banbridge
     Saturday, 15 March 2025 – 12pm-10pm
    Sunday, 16 March 2025 – 1pm-10pm
    Monday, 17 March 2025 – 12pm-8pm

    Shambles Yard, Armagh
     Saturday, 15 March 2025 – 12pm-10pm
    Sunday, 16 March 2025 – 12pm-10pm
    Monday, 17 March 2025 – 12pm-8pm

    DEADLINE for submission of responses is Tuesday, 12th November 2024 at 12 noon
    Download application here.

    For additional queries, please contact Jayne Currie at 

    *protected email*

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Inflation, trade uncertainty and labour gaps cloud business outlook, says new global survey of chambers

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: Inflation, trade uncertainty and labour gaps cloud business outlook, says new global survey of chambers

    The findings of the ICC World Chambers Federation (WCF) 2024 Global Economic Survey capture perspectives from businesses on key economic and sustainability issues across economies that collectively account for 90% of global GDP.    

    Commenting at the launch of the survey results in Istanbul, ICC Secretary General John W.H Denton AO said: 

    “As the voice of the real economy worldwide, ICC has leveraged its unique institutional reach to provide a comprehensive global picture of the realities of doing business in today’s increasingly complex environment. We hope this real-time data will help shape the strategic response of governments to the key challenges faced by MSMEs.”  

    Global business environment  

    Rising prices and labour costs were cited as a significant challenge in the majority of countries surveyed, with more than 80% of respondents expressing concern that cost pressures will persist into 2025 — casting doubt on recent claims from prominent economists that inflation is “no longer a thing”.  

    Inflation has translated into significantly higher staffing costs for businesses in some 44 countries— a trend exacerbated in several regions by skills shortages in the local workforce, most notably North America and Europe.   

    The economic environment and tight financial conditions have hindered access to finance where findings show that high interest rates are limiting access to credit particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa (80%), Latin America and the Caribbean (63%) and South Asia (60%). 

    Trade uncertainty was cited as a challenge by 50% of chamber respondents — with concerns highest in East Asia and Pacific (69%) the Middle East and North Africa (60%) and Latin America and the Caribbean (50%).   

    Despite these challenges, the respondents in more than 50% of countries covered by the survey expressed cautious optimism for the outlook for business in their respective economies — suggesting a large degree of resilience in the face of economic and operational risk.  

    Mr Denton added:

    “Though headline rates of inflation have generally receded in recent months, the impact of the price surge seen from 2022 is clearly having a sustained impact on the private sector in many countries. We need policymakers to be sensitive to the disconnect between macroeconomic data and the day-to-day experience of local businesses.” 

    Outlook on climate action  

    One month before the United Nations climate summit COP29, the survey also looked at the experience of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in transitioning to climate-friendly business models.  

    In developing economies, chambers pointed to difficulties SMEs face in accessing clean sources of energy — both from national grids or decentralised generation.   

    In advanced economies, SMEs are held back by a perceived lack of access to cutting-edge green technologies and limited in-house capacity to implement emissions reductions programmes.   

    In both developed and developing economies, access to cost-effective finance to enable investments in decarbonisation was cited as a major challenge — pointing to the need for enhanced public support to enable SMEs to adopt green technologies and upgrade existing facilities.  

    Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu, Chair of the ICC World Chambers Federation added:

    “This survey highlights the crucial role chambers of commerce worldwide play as private sector champions. They are deeply in touch with the grassroots realities of doing business while maintaining a global perspective and remaining connected through our ICC World Chambers Federation.”   

    Read more and download the full report. 

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: XSET and Samsung Galaxy Unite to Empower Women in Gaming

    Source: Samsung

    XSET, the revolutionary lifestyle gaming organization, and Samsung Galaxy , the internationally recognized industry leader in technology, today announced a dynamic partnership aimed at elevating the gaming experience and empowering women in the industry. The collaboration will debut at New York Comic Con (NYCC) with an immersive activation featuring special appearances by the XSET QUEENS.
    This strategic alliance aims to enhance the gaming experience with a particular focus on empowering women in the industry. By combining Samsung’s advanced mobile technology with XSET’s cultural influence, the partnership creates new opportunities for female gamers to showcase their skills and creativity. The collaboration, spotlighting talents like the XSET QUEENS, will encourage broader representation and inspire the next wave of diverse gaming enthusiasts. XSET and Samsung Galaxy are taking concrete steps towards a more inclusive and innovative gaming community.
    The partnership will make its IRL debut at New York Comic Con (NYCC), October 17-20 at the Jacob Javits Convention Center. Samsung Galaxy is creating an immersive onsite experience that offers gaming enthusiasts hands-on interactions with cutting-edge devices. Visitors to the activation can look forward to:
    XSET QUEENS Meet and Greet: Special appearance by XSET’s Aliyah Will on Saturday, October 19
    PUBG MOBILE Battle Royale: An adrenaline-pumping elimination competition showcasing Galaxy Z Fold6
    Lone Survivor Photo-Op: A unique opportunity for fans to capture their NYCC memories using state-of-the-art Samsung technology
    Exclusive Giveaways: Chances to win premium Galaxy products, including the revolutionary Galaxy Z Fold6 and the immersive Galaxy Buds3 Pro
    XSET QUEENS Meet and Greet: Special appearance by XSET’s Aliyah Will on Saturday, October 19
    Olga Suvorova, Vice President, Mobile eXperience Marketing at Samsung Electronics America, commented, “Samsung Galaxy devices are designed to make a difference by breaking down barriers and empowering users to pursue their passions. Partnering with XSET affords us the opportunity to bring our innovations to the next generation of female content creators, including gamers, athletes, musicians, and many others. With its unparalleled gaming experience, and the countless ways the device seamlessly fits into users’ lives, we know Galaxy Z Fold6’s incredible hardware, software, and Galaxy AI innovations will empower these creators to reach new heights.”
    “This partnership with Samsung Galaxy represents a pivotal moment for XSET and the gaming industry as a whole,” said Brynanna Goecke, Chief Revenue Officer of XSET. “Together, we’re not just advancing technological innovation; we’re redefining what it means to be a gamer in today’s world. The XSET QUEENS embody the spirit of innovation and diversity that both our brands champion.”

    The NYCC activation marks just the beginning of the XSET and Samsung Galaxy partnership. Fans can look forward to a series of unboxing videos featuring XSET QUEENS, showcasing how Galaxy Z Fold 6‘s powerful performance,  long-lasting battery, and  immersive display will help them take their gaming to the next level. Additional collaborations, content, and events will be announced in the coming months.
    For more information about the XSET and Samsung Galaxy partnership,  follow @XSET and @SamsungMobileUS on social media platforms.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Two Weeks Later: Action Needed from Governor Whitmer Following CCP Spying

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

    Headline: Two Weeks Later: Action Needed from Governor Whitmer Following CCP Spying

    Two weeks after five Chinese nationals who were studying at the University of Michigan were charged with spying on Michigan National Guard (MNG) assets at Camp Grayling more action is needed from Governor Gretchen Whitmer, the commander-in-chief of the MNG, to secure Camp Grayling and prevent espionage in Michigan.   

    Governor Whitmer needs to:

    • Cancel the millions of dollars in state funding for CCP-affiliated Gotion to bring 20-50 Chinese nationals to build and operate a battery component facility that is less than 100 miles from Camp Grayling. 
    • Issue a statement regarding the CCP espionage incident at Michigan’s largest military base.
    • Answer questions about why the Michigan National Guard failed to stop the espionage from occurring.
    • Call on the University of Michigan to end its partnership with Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU). The U-M students charged with spying were studying at U-M as part of U-M’s partnership with SJTU. SJTU is linked to the cyber-spying unit of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
    • Call on the legislature to bar U-M from using state funding to support its joint institute with Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

    After federal charges were announced against the U-M students on October 2, Congressman John Moolenaar again called on Whitmer to end state funding for Gotion. He also called for the University of Michigan to shut down its joint institute with SJTU. 

    This is the second time during Whitmer’s governorship that Chinese nationals at U-M have been caught spying on U.S. military installations.  

    Last year, the Wall Street Journal reported the FBI is aware of over 100 incidents of Chinese nationals gate crashing at sensitive sites across the US in the past three years. When asked if the CCP would utilize the Gotion plant for this kind of espionage, Bill Evanina, the former director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center responded, “100%.” 

    Additionally, earlier this year, Obama Defense Secretary Leon Panetta testified to Congress that the planned Gotion site would be used for espionage by the CCP. He said, “I don’t think there’s any question that they are going to take advantage of that situation and I think we have to be very vigilant about what the hell is going on.” 

    In January 2024, FBI Director Christopher Wray testified to Congress that allowing CCP-affiliated businesses to operate in the United States “can still raise national security concerns because it provides a vehicle for [the CCP] to, if they want to leverage that access, to conduct surveillance or other operations that undermine our national security, and we’ve seen time and time again, where they have used that access, leveraged that access, to do that.”

    Finally, the Department of Defense is prohibited from purchasing products from Gotion because of Gotion High-Tech’s partnerships with China’s People’s Liberation Army.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont and Secretary Thomas Remind Connecticut Voters That 14 Days of Early Voting Begins Monday, October 21

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas today are reminding voters in Connecticut that a 14-day period of early voting for the 2024 general election is set to begin on Monday, October 21, 2024.

    Early voting provides all voters with the opportunity to cast their ballots in-person on a day of their choosing in advance of Election Day – including on two separate weekends – creating more convenience for voters and encouraging greater participation in elections.

    This is the first time in history that early voting is being offered in Connecticut for a general election, making the state one of the last in the nation to enact a system of early voting. Connecticut was the 47th state to adopt early voting.

    “Connecticut is finally joining the rest of the nation by having a system of early voting, and our hope is that the convenience this creates will encourage more people to vote,” Governor Lamont said. “Early voting is nearly identical to voting on Election Day with two main differences. First, instead of going to your normal polling place, every town has at least one designated location where all early voting for that town is held. Most towns are choosing to do their early voting at their town hall, however it may vary, so check for your town’s early voting location before you go. Second, all ballots cast during the early voting period will remain secured and unopened until Election Day, when election officials begin the counting process.”

    “After years of waiting, voters will no longer need to worry that an emergency or unexpected event could prevent them from casting their vote,” Secretary Thomas said. “Early voting provides every type of Connecticut voter, from seniors, parents, and students, to commuters, those who work long hours, and anyone with an unreliable schedule. Together with our office, registrars of voters and town clerks have worked diligently and collaboratively on a nonpartisan basis all year on the roll out of early voting in order to ensure a safe, secure election for all.”

    “Early voting offers convenience and flexibility in voting, ensuring that your voice is heard without the constraints of a single Election Day,” Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said. “Many people do not have the privilege of flexible work hours, reliable childcare options, or circumstances that allow them to cast their vote on Election Day. That’s why almost every other state in the country offers an early voting option, and now Connecticut residents have the choice too. So, whether you’re busy on Election Day or just prefer to vote at your own pace, early voting empowers you to participate in shaping the future of our democracy.”

    A list containing each town’s designated early voting location can be found online at myvote.ct.gov. Voters can also check the website of their town’s registrar of voters for location information. Voters can only vote in the town in which they are registered.

    The 14 days of early voting and their hours of operation for the 2024 general election are as follows:

    1. Monday, October 21, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    2. Tuesday, October 22, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    3. Wednesday, October 23, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    4. Thursday, October 24, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    5. Friday, October 25, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    6. Saturday, October 26, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    7. Sunday, October 27, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    8. Monday, October 28, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    9. Tuesday, October 29, 2024 – 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
    10. Wednesday, October 30, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    11. Thursday, October 31, 2024 – 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
    12. Friday, November 1, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    13. Saturday, November 2, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    14. Sunday, November 3, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

    Election Day is on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, and all polling places in Connecticut will be open like normal from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

    Election officials in every town keep a record of every voter who has voted early, preventing them from voting early at any other location, submitting an absentee ballot, or voting on Election Day.

    For more information about voting in Connecticut, visit myvote.ct.gov.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 3022, IHS Workforce Parity Act of 2024

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 3022 would modify two workforce development programs aimed at recruiting health professionals for the Indian Health Service (IHS). The IHS Scholarship Program provides grants to current students who are members of federally recognized tribes and working toward degrees in the health professions. The awards cover tuition and education-related expenses in exchange for a two-year, full-time commitment to work for IHS after certification as a health professional. The Loan Repayment Program pays current health professionals up to $25,000 annually to cover student loan repayments and up to $6,000 a year to cover the associated income tax liability in exchange for a two-year, full-time commitment to work for IHS. 

    S. 3022 would modify both programs by allowing recipients to work part-time for twice the number of years as full-time recipients in exchange for the assistance. The aim is to improve recruitment of health professionals at IHS, which has reported chronic medical staff shortages for many years. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Hubble Sees a Stellar Volcano

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope has provided a dramatic and colorful close-up look at one of the most rambunctious stars in our galaxy, weaving a huge spiral pattern among the stars.

    Located approximately 700 light-years away, a binary star system called R Aquarii undergoes violent eruptions that blast out huge filaments of glowing gas. The twisted stellar outflows make the region look like a lawn sprinkler gone berserk. This dramatically demonstrates how the universe redistributes the products of nuclear energy that form deep inside stars and jet back into space.

    R Aquarii belongs to a class of double stars called symbiotic stars. The primary star is an aging red giant and its companion is a compact burned-out star known as a white dwarf. The red giant primary star is classified as a Mira variable that is over 400 times larger than our Sun. The bloated monster star pulsates, changes temperature, and varies in brightness by a factor of 750 times over a roughly 390-day period. At its peak the star is blinding at nearly 5,000 times our Sun’s brightness.

    When the white dwarf star swings closest to the red giant along its 44-year orbital period, it gravitationally siphons off hydrogen gas. This material accumulates on the dwarf star’s surface until it undergoes spontaneous nuclear fusion, making that surface explode like a gigantic hydrogen bomb. After the outburst, the fueling cycle begins again.

    This outburst ejects geyser-like filaments shooting out from the core, forming weird loops and trails as the plasma emerges in streamers. The plasma is twisted by the force of the explosion and channeled upwards and outwards by strong magnetic fields. The outflow appears to bend back on itself into a spiral pattern. The plasma is shooting into space over 1 million miles per hour – fast enough to travel from Earth to the Moon in 15 minutes! The filaments are glowing in visible light because they are energized by blistering radiation from the stellar duo.

    Hubble first observed the star in 1990. R Aquarii was resolved into two very bright stars separated by about 1.6 billion miles. The ESA/Hubble team now has made a unique timelapse of R Aquarii’s dynamic behavior, from observations spanning from 2014 to 2023. Across the five images, the rapid and dramatic evolution of the binary star and its surrounding nebula can be seen. The binary star dims and brightens due to strong pulsations in the red giant star.

    The scale of the event is extraordinary even in astronomical terms. Space-blasted material can be traced out to at least 248 billion miles from the stars, or 24 times our solar system’s diameter. Images like these and more from Hubble are expected to revolutionize our ideas about such unique stellar “volcanoes” as R Aquarii.

    The Hubble Space Telescope has been operating for over three decades and continues to make ground-breaking discoveries that shape our fundamental understanding of the universe. Hubble is a project of international cooperation between NASA and ESA (European Space Agency). NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, manages the telescope and mission operations. Lockheed Martin Space, based in Denver, Colorado, also supports mission operations at Goddard. The Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore, Maryland, which is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, conducts Hubble science operations for NASA.

    Media Contact:

    Claire AndreoliNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MDclaire.andreoli@nasa.gov

    Ray VillardSpace Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD

    Bethany DownerESA/Hubble

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canadian Grain Commission to use surplus to avoid new fee increases

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    October 16, 2024         Winnipeg        Canadian Grain Commission

    Since the Canadian Grain Commission reduced its official inspection and weighing fees in 2021, the organization has inspected and weighed lower-than-expected grain volumes, leading to a gap between revenue and costs. Instead of changing its fee formula to increase fees, the Canadian Grain Commission will use its accumulated surplus to cover anticipated shortfalls this year and for the next two fiscal years.

    After completing its 2024 fee review, the Canadian Grain Commission found that current fee levels will not cover operating costs going forward. Fees are automatically adjusted on April 1 each year by the 12-month percentage change to the Consumer Price Index. Over the past few years, these adjustments have not kept pace with lower-than-expected grain volumes and increased operating costs.

    The Canadian Grain Commission has used accumulated surplus funds to manage the growing gap between lower-than-projected revenue and increasing costs since 2021. The organization will continue to use surplus to cover expected operating shortfalls until its next planned fee review in 2027. Together, these successive years of surplus draw are projected to reduce the available balance to approximately $57 million by March 31, 2027. This includes $40 million previously set aside as an operating contingency.

    The Canadian Grain Commission will consult with grain sector stakeholders before implementing any changes to fees in the future. 

    Quotes

    “The Canadian Grain Commission is committed to being part of the success and sustainability of Canadian agriculture. Drawing on the accumulated surplus will avoid new fee increases for the next 3 years, while ensuring our programs and services continue to deliver results for the grain sector.”

    David Hunt, Chief Commissioner
    Canadian Grain Commission

    Quick facts

    • The Canadian Grain Commission has been drawing on the accumulated surplus to cover budgetary shortfalls since 2021, drawing down the balance from $156 million to $112 million.

    • Using the surplus to cover budget shortfalls due to lower-than-anticipated grain volumes for the 2025-26 and 2026-2027 fiscal years is expected to draw a further $50 to $60 million.

    • The Canadian Grain Commission will consult with stakeholders before making any future fee updates.

    • The Canadian Grain Commission is committed to making targeted investments in its services in accordance with its strategic plan and surplus investment framework to ensure that the organization continues to meet the needs of producers and industry.

    Related products

    Contacts

    Eve Froehlich
    Acting Executive Director, Innovation & Strategy
    Canadian Grain Commission
    204-297-8541
    eve.froehlich@grainscanada.gc.ca

    Canadian Grain Commission

    The Canadian Grain Commission is the federal agency responsible for establishing and maintaining Canada’s grain quality standards. Its programs result in shipments of grain that consistently meet contract specifications for quality, safety and quantity. The Canadian Grain Commission regulates the grain industry to protect producers’ rights and ensure the integrity of grain transactions.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitoba Government Co-Hosts Business and Housing Summit

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 8, 2024

    Manitoba Government Co-Hosts Business and Housing Summit

    – – –
    Summit will Create Solutions for Homelessness Through Strategic Partnerships and Investments: Premier

    The Manitoba government is co-hosting a business and housing summit to build relationships between sectors to create affordable housing options and reduce chronic homelessness in the province, Premier Wab Kinew announced today. 

    “To end chronic homelessness in Manitoba, we need to work together as governments, as community and as business leaders,” said Kinew. “This summit is one part of our plan to instill hope and improve the lives of thousands of Manitobans through the safety and dignity of housing. These are important conversations where we come together and build solutions.” 

    “To end homelessness, we need to move beyond isolated efforts and build one unified strategy,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham, City of Winnipeg. “This summit is about breaking down silos and driving collaboration – across government, business and community – so we can create lasting, co-ordinated solutions that make a real difference in people’s lives.” 

    Today, the business and housing summit will bring together community leaders from across Manitoba to discuss the resources and tools available for the business sector to create affordable housing solutions. Summit participants include representatives from Indigenous leadership and organizations, business sectors, governments, community organizations and other agencies. 

    “The Business Council of Manitoba believes our community is strongest when we work together,” said Mike Pyle, board chair, Business Council of Manitoba. “By collaborating across industries, we can share knowledge and lead in our areas of expertise. We all have a role to play in providing safe, affordable housing for Manitobans and the business community is no exception. Collaborative initiatives like the business and housing summit allow us to ensure all voices are heard and all needs are met in our collective effort to make Manitoba a preferred place to live, work and invest.”  

    The summit takes place today, Oct. 8 at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. It is co-hosted by the Manitoba government, the City of Winnipeg and the Business Council of Manitoba and supported by End Homelessness Winnipeg. Other sessions include:

    • an overview of federal, provincial and municipal programs related to housing and homelessness;
    • a panel presenting case studies describing recent partnerships between non-profit housing providers and private sector developers; and
    • an interactive session with business leaders to inform the response to housing and homelessness issues from all levels of government. 

    To learn more about the Manitoba government’s work related to housing and ending homelessness, visit http://www.gov.mb.ca/housing/index.html. 

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitoba Government is Prepared for Respiratory Virus Season

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 16, 2024

    Manitoba Government is Prepared for Respiratory Virus Season

    The Manitoba Government is prepared for the respiratory virus season with a comprehensive strategy designed to reduce the strain on the health-care system and keep Manitobans healthy, safe and informed, Health Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced today.

    “I encourage every Manitoban to get vaccinated and keep yourself, your loved ones and your broader community safe,” said Asagwara. “The previous government failed to prepare for respiratory virus season, they made cuts to health care and refused to listen to front-line workers. We’ve made significant progress in one year and the system is prepared to meet an increased need for care during this difficult season.”

    Preparation includes:

    • building up intensive care unit (ICU) and acute care beds so that everyone gets the care they need:
    • the Manitoba government has newly funded 18 ICU beds, for a total of 110 adult ICU beds, and eight pediatric ICU (PICU) beds, plus four step-down beds, for a total of 21 PICU beds; and
    • the Manitoba government has opened 112 acute care beds with a plan to open 70 more, 43 transitional care unit beds and 27 more opening in the coming months.  
    • vaccines to protect Manitobans and their loved ones:
    • influenza (flu) and COVID-19 vaccines are available at medical clinics, ACCESS centres, vaccine clinics, pharmacies, nursing stations and through public health;
    • the Manitoba government is providing the RSV vaccine free of charge to seniors over the age of 60, living in a long-term care home, and encouraging residents to get vaccinated through their long-term care facility; and
    • the Manitoba government launched a provincewide ad campaign to inform Manitobans about respiratory virus season and encourage everyone to get vaccinated as soon as they are able.

    The minister noted the government knows staffing is critical when it comes to beds and the Manitoba government hired 873 net new health-care workers to the system in six months, marking over halfway to its goal of hiring 1,000 healthcare workers this year.

    “Considerable planning has occurred within the health system in an effort to mitigate or minimize service disruptions during respiratory virus season,” said Dr. Jose Francois, chief medical officer, Shared Health. “This planning has been strongly supported by our partners in government, who have worked in collaboration with clinical leaders to ensure Manitoba’s health system is as fully prepared as it possibly can be for the coming respiratory virus season.”

    Information and resources regarding the vaccine-preventable respiratory diseases, including resources for prevention, treatment and care of affected individuals in Manitoba, is provided at http://www.manitoba.ca/vaccine.

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Sudds highlights 9 federal properties in the National Capital Region available for housing development

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    October 16, 2024             Ottawa, Ontario                              ESDC

    Everyone deserves a place to call home. However, for many across the country, home ownership and renting is out of reach due to the unprecedented housing crisis Canada is facing. We need to build more homes, faster, to get Canadians into homes that meet their needs, at prices they can afford. That’s why in Budget 2024 and Canada’s Housing Plan, the federal government announced the most ambitious housing plan in Canadian history: a plan to build 4 million more homes.

    As part of this plan, the Government of Canada is identifying properties within its portfolio that have the potential for housing, and is actively adding them to the Canada Public Land Bank. Wherever possible, the government will turn these properties into housing through a long-term lease, not a one-time sale, to support affordable housing and ensure public land stays public.

    Today, the Honourable Jenna Sudds, Minister for Families, Children and Social Development, with Anita Vandenbeld, Member of Parliament for Ottawa West—Nepean and Yasir Naqvi, Member of Parliament for Ottawa Centre, highlighted a property located at Baseline Road at Cedarview Road south-east corner that is now available for housing development through the Canada Public Land Bank. This property will help create up to 200 units and is one of 9 new properties in the National Capital Region that was added to the land bank last week.

    Other properties in the NCR include:

    • Hurdman North, a parcel west of Riverside Drive and south of Highway 417, Ottawa (4,000 units)
    • 315 Terminal Ave., Ottawa (300 units)
    • 1460 Riverside Dr., Ottawa (500 units)
    • 1250 Ledbury Ave., Ottawa (up to 200 units)
    • Southern Corridor, Woodroffe Avenue at Norice Street South, Corner to Merivale Road at Colonnade Road West Side, Ottawa (up to 1,000 units)
    • 1730 Robertson Rd., Ottawa (up to 500 units)
    • 1055 Aylmer, Gatineau (up to 200 units)
    • 210 Laurier, Gatineau (up to 400 units)

    A total of 70 federal properties have now been identified as being suitable to support housing. This list will continue to grow in the coming months, with further details on listed properties available soon.

    As part of the initial launch of the Canada Public Land Bank in August 2024, the Canada Lands Company, in partnership with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, issued a call for proposals for 5 properties located in Toronto, Edmonton, Calgary, Ottawa and Montréal. The call for proposals for the properties in Toronto and Montréal closed on October 1, 2024, and evaluations have begun. The call for proposals for the Edmonton, Calgary and Ottawa properties will close on November 1, 2024.

    To provide feedback on the land bank and its properties, the Government of Canada launched a call for housing solutions for communities: a secure online platform.

    To date, the Government of Canada has already received interest and feedback from provinces, territories and municipalities, as well as developers, housing advocates and Indigenous groups. This information will be used to develop and bring more properties to market starting this fall.

    To solve Canada’s housing crisis, the federal government is using every tool at its disposal. The Government of Canada is accelerating its real property disposal process to match the speed of builders and the urgency of getting affordable homes built for Canada. 

    Quotes

    “Safe, accessible and affordable housing options are out of reach for far too many Canadians. The launch of the Canada Public Land Bank in August 2024 laid the foundation for our efforts to unlock public lands for housing at a pace and scale not seen in generations. We are delivering on our promise to continue to add more properties to the land bank and meet the deliverables outlined in Budget 2024 to support a new, ambitious Public Lands for Homes Plan. In doing so, we can build strong communities and more affordable housing across the country.”

    The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos

    Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant

    “We need to build more homes in Canada, and one of the largest costs in building is land. With 14 more properties being added to the land bank, we’re growing the list of potential public lands where new homes can be built.”

    The Honourable Sean Fraser,

    Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “In Ottawa, we have the land we need to build more homes, and we’re going to put it to use. By getting more homes built on federal land, we’re going to give families in our communities a place to call home at prices they can afford. This brings us one step closer to solving the housing crisis here in Ottawa and across the country.”

     

    The Honourable Jenna Sudds

    Minister of Families, Children and Social Development

    “Canada’s Housing Plan marks a pivotal change in how all levels of government and community partners collaborate to address the urgent affordable housing challenges in cities like Ottawa. We are eager to seize the opportunities this plan creates—transforming vacant spaces, significantly increasing affordable housing, and revitalizing our city.”

     

    Yasir Naqvi

    Member of Parliament for Ottawa Centre

    “Building homes on public land is a vital initiative that directly addresses the pressing needs of Ottawa residents, providing a tangible solution to the housing crisis and improving access to affordable housing for all.”

     

    Anita Vandenbeld

    Member of Parliament for Ottawa West—Nepean

    Quick facts

    • In Budget 2024 and Solving the Housing Crisis: Canada’s Housing Plan, the federal government announced an ambitious whole-of-government approach to addressing the housing crisis by building more homes, making it easier to rent or own a home, and helping Canadians who cannot afford a home. 

    • A key component of Canada’s Housing Plan is the new Public Lands for Homes Plan. This plan aims to partner with all levels of government, homebuilders and housing providers to build homes, faster, on surplus and underused public lands across the country. 

    • The Public Lands for Homes Plan supports the government’s goal of unlocking 250,000 new homes by 2031.

    • Budget 2024 also provided $500 million, on a cash basis, to launch the new Public Lands Acquisition Fund. This fund will buy land from other orders of government to allow the federal government to acquire more land for housing to help build middle-class homes. Work on the fund is already underway, and more details will be released in the coming weeks.  

    • In August 2024, a new tool for builders called the Canada Public Land Bank was launched with an initial 56 properties under the Public Lands for Homes Plan. 

    • As of October 8, 2024, there are 70 properties listed in the Canada Public Land Bank, representing a total of 385 hectares of land, which is the size of approximately 2,500 hockey rinks or almost 750 Canadian Football League football fields.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Geneviève Lemaire
    Press Secretary and Communications Advisor
    Office of the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development
    Genevieve.lemaire@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

    Media Relations Office
    Employment and Social Development Canada
    819-994-5559
    media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK ranked world’s freest economy

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Fraser Institute’s Economic Freedom of the World 2024 Annual Report published today has ranked Hong Kong as the world’s freest economy among 165 economies, up by one place from 2023.

    Among the five areas of assessment in the report, the city ranked top in “Freedom to trade internationally” and “Regulation”, while its ranking in “Sound money” rose to third.

    In a statement, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government said that Hong Kong has for long, fully leveraged the advantages of a free market, and maintained a free, open, effective and fair business environment, and the ranking fully reflects the international recognition of these advantages.

    The statement noted that Hong Kong’s free market and premier business environment are attributable to its distinctive institutional strengths under “one country, two systems”.

    These include the practice of the common law system, robust rule of law, a judiciary that exercises powers independently, free flow of goods and factors of production such as capital, talent, and information, a simple tax system and low tax rates, a conducive business environment as well as efficient and transparent markets, and a regulatory regime that adheres to international standards.

    These factors have made Hong Kong an ideal city for doing business, it added.

    Looking forward, the Hong Kong SAR Government said that with the staunch support of the country, Hong Kong will proactively integrate into the overall national development, align with national development strategies, maintain and improve a free and open business environment, and continue to serve as a two-way springboard for attracting international enterprises to Hong Kong and supporting Mainland enterprises to “go global”.

    The Policy Address delivered by the Chief Executive today has set out clear directions as well as specific and impactful policies and measures to reinforce and enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international financial, shipping and trading centre, build itself into an international hub for high-calibre talent, develop new quality productive forces tailored to local conditions, and foster collaboration with the Greater Bay Area, to further enhance the city’s development momentum and promote the high-quality development of its economy.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s remarks to the Fifth Committee of the General Assembly on the Proposed Programme Budget for 2025

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Excellencies, Distinguished delegates,

    I welcome this opportunity to introduce the proposed programme budget for 2025.

    I do so in a context of a multiplicity of challenges and with a strong sense of urgency.

    In a context of major global shocks, the United Nations is more needed than ever — with our unmatched convening power.

    The Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations represent a commitment towards updating and reforming international cooperation to make it more networked, effective, fair and inclusive.

    The 2025 programme budget proposal reflects in many ways, the priorities set out in these landmark agreements.

    The proposal renews our commitment to deliver on our mandates to advance peace, sustainable development, and human rights.

    At the same time, we will continue to work to cement our reforms, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

    In the new digital age, the United Nations has an essential part to play.

    We reached a milestone with the Global Digital Compact which includes the first truly universal agreement on the international governance of Artificial Intelligence with the UN at its centre. 

    Madam Chair, distinguished delegates,

    In December 2022, the General Assembly lifted the trial period and formalized the change to an annual budget period.

    The format of the programme budget has stabilized. The programme plans reflect our increased results-orientation.
    Our 350 results frameworks continue to move further towards demonstrating the impact and positive change of our work on the ground. 

    The planned targets have become more ambitious.

    More than 65 percent of quantitative planned targets are now aiming to achieve a 10 percent or more increase in performance. This is an increase from less than 30 percent in the 2018-19 biennium, 45 percent for 2023, and 60 percent for 2024.

    We have reduced duplication in the strategies and deliverables, while maintaining the same level of programmatic information. 

    Every programme manager is expected to scrutinize every dollar spent and planned to be spent.

    And they must constantly review and adjust programmatic activities to achieve planned results.

    This will allow us to optimize resources for mandate delivery and focus even more effectively on results.

    Let me now turn to the overall resource requirements.

    To fully implement our mandates, we will require a total of $3.6 billion in 2025.

    Excluding Special Political Missions, this includes a total of 10,494 posts, representing a net increase of 115 posts required to implement new or strengthen existing mandates.

    The proposed budget also includes $711 million for the continuation of 36 Special Political Missions for 2025. 

    This reflects a decrease of $31 million from last year primarily because of the discontinuation of the field mission in Sudan (UNITAMS), and our investigative team to promote accountability for the crimes committed in Iraq by Da’esh/ISIL (UNITAD). 

    In line with the usual practice, you will consider later in the session additional proposals for construction, revised estimates and programme budget implications resulting from new or revised mandates. These include revised estimates in support of the implementation of the Pact of the Future, and for UNRWA.

    We continue to make every effort to find efficiencies while also recognizing that any further cuts to support departments risk jeopardizing policy, operational, or communication support to our programmatic work.

    Allow me to highlight five specific elements of our 2025 programme budget proposals:

    First, we propose to continue our investment in sustainable development.

    We propose an increase of approximately $4.5 million, the sixth consecutive annual increase for the development pillar.

    The Regular Programme of Technical Cooperation – or RPTC — will be a key recipient. 

    The increases will further strengthen the direct support provided to governments to help advance their development efforts.

    With the proposed increase of $2 million, resources for the RPTC will have grown by more than 45% since 2019.

    The proposed increase in the RPTC will be split evenly between all entities. 

    However, we propose an additional $0.5 million for the Economic Commission for Africa for technical assistance and advice to Member States on the 2030 Agenda and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

    Our proposal also includes an increase of $1 million for the Development Account to enhance and expand targeted, country-level capacity development support and to broaden the dissemination of the projects’ results to more countries.

    We also seek increases of $0.6 million for the Office of the Special Adviser on Africa and $0.75 million for the Office of the High Representative for Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States.

    Further, we want to strengthen the UN development system through structural changes to help ensure sufficient and predictable funding — and enhanced accountability.

    The Resident Coordinator system has faced a chronic funding shortfall since day one.

    A sustainable and predictable funding mechanism, through partial financing from the regular budget, is essential. 

    My proposal for assessed funding is under review by this Committee.

    It is important to reach a decision on this topic.

    Member States’ expectations of the RC system are growing.

    The effects of the funding gap are felt every day.  For example, the recruitment for 78 posts across 52 countries has been suspended.

    We also seek to put the small System-Wide Evaluation Office on a firmer footing with regular budget funding.

    This will further enhance transparency and ensure effective, independent evaluation of the UN development system at the country level – the raison d’etre of the UNSDG System-Wide Evaluation Office.

    Second, human rights.

    The proposal includes an additional $8.3 million to support the work of the Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic and ensure its functioning at full capacity in 2025. 

    We are also seeking an increase of $8 million for the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights for more effective implementation of mandates, especially at the regional level.

    Additionally, based on the recommendation of the ACABQ and the guidance from the General Assembly, we have included resource requirements that will arise from anticipated mandate renewals by the Human Rights Council later in the year.  

    By presenting these resource requirements now rather than separately later in the session, Member States have a more complete picture of the resources being sought for the Office. This will also reduce fragmentation and increase transparency. 

    Let me emphasize that this consolidation, which amounts to $28.8 million, does not represent an increase in resources – only a change in presentation.

    Third, boosting support for the unprecedented humanitarian challenges in Gaza, with approximately $3.5 million in additional resources.

    This includes an increase of nearly $2.5 million for UNRWA which complements the additional $30 million approved for 2024.

    UNRWA is a lifeline for Palestine refugees, and a crucial factor for regional stability.

    Fourth, advancing peace and security. 

    This includes an increase of $2.5 million for disarmament, including the establishment of 9 posts to implement activities requested by the General Assembly.

    We are also seeking an increase of $1 million for the Office of the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East peace process to intensify its vital work.

    Following the landmark decision of the General Assembly, we will address persistent funding challenges of the Peacebuilding Fund due to its exclusive reliance on voluntary contributions — by approving a $50 million dollar grant for the Peacebuilding and Recovery Facility of the Peacebuilding Fund starting in 2025.

    And fifth, strengthening our capacities in investigation and ethics. 
    We are seeking an approximately $2 million increase, for the creation of three temporary positions for the Ethics Office and ten for the Office of Internal Oversight Services.

    Madam Chair, distinguished delegates,

    With the structural aspects of the reforms now well consolidated, it is imperative to keep working together to achieve the cultural change for results.

    Our 2025 budget continues to strive towards our shared vision for UN 2.0, through a forward-thinking workforce culture, empowered by cutting-edge skills.

    Gender equality and geographical representation remain priorities.

    We are working nonstop to ensure that our workforce reflects the membership of the United Nations.

    The General Assembly decision to increase the number of geographical posts has enabled us to reduce the total countries that were un- or under-represented and over-represented. 120 countries are now within range compared to 103 in December 2023.  

    We are revising our strategy for equitable geographical distribution to focus on attracting more staff from countries that are un-or under-represented.  

    Through our RC system and UN Information Centres, we have launched targeted outreach strategies in those countries, namely in many of the developing countries that are under-represented. 

    In the same vein, we strive to expand opportunities for recruitment from as wide a geographical basis as possible for all posts.

    All these efforts are yielding results.  For example, at the start of the UN development system reform, 41% of Resident Coordinators were from the global South.  Today, this number has increased to 57%.

    We have successfully maintained gender parity at senior levels and, based on current projections, we will be able to reach parity at an Organizational level before 2028.

    But we must do more to achieve parity at every entity and every level.

    We are also working on the next phase of our system-wide disability inclusion strategy and making progress in our efforts to combat racism and racial discrimination at work.

    Madam Chair, distinguished delegates,

    The proposal before you reflects our ambition to respond to new threats and opportunities.

    For us to deliver on our promises, Member States must also honour their commitments to this Organization.

    Ultimately, the effectiveness of programme delivery and use of financial resources in 2025 will depend on the availability of cash.

    I hope that we can end the current trend of declining liquidity.

    The Organization started this year with only about $67 million in cash, compared to $700 million last year, making it extremely vulnerable to adverse changes in payment patterns of assessed contributions.

    On top of that, the Organization had to return $114 million as credits to Member States as part of the 2024 assessments, which meant that we would collect less than the budget approved for 2024, even if all Member States pay in full in 2024.

    The depletion of the regular budget liquidity reserves at the end of 2023 therefore necessitated imposing stringent cash-conservation measures from the very beginning of 2024. 

    Unless the liquidity reserves are replenished fully at the end of this year, cash conservation measures are again likely to constrain budget implementation in 2025. 

    This is why I have proposed that the General Assembly temporarily suspend the return of credits for 2023 against the 2025 assessment. 

    The credits will be held in a reserve and released to Member States as soon as conditions improve.  

    This is critical to both minimize the risk of negative impact on programme delivery and the ability to fulfill even non-discretionary commitments to personnel and third-party partners in 2025. 

    I once again urge Member States to meet their financial obligations in full and on time.

    I thank Member States that have paid in advance or earlier than before, and have made adjustments to their internal processes to continue to pay earlier.

    We will keep monitoring the situation and reach out to Member States to pay in full and inform us of their plans so we can adapt our spending based as needed.

    However, when programme delivery is repeatedly constrained by liquidity, past spending patterns become less reliable indicators of the real needs of the Organization.

    Madam Chair, distinguished delegates,

    The outcome of the Summit of the Future has opened pathways to new possibilities and opportunities towards securing a peaceful and livable future for everyone on our planet.

    Against this backdrop, I look forward to your support for my 2025 programme budget proposal.

    I welcome this opportunity to engage with you today and assure you that my senior managers will continue to support your deliberations on these proposals.

    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Making a splash: Historic Hilsea Lido seeks tenant amid transformation

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Global real estate firm, Avison Young, is working with Portsmouth City Council to bring to market Hilsea Lido whilst it undergoes a transformational renovation project. The lido is set to reopen in summer 2025, which is the same year it will celebrate its 90th anniversary.

    The 1930s open-air swimming pool is part of Portsmouth City Council’s Hilsea Lines project to improve the area, which was awarded funding from the UK government.

    The renovation of this much-loved community asset includes a total refurbishment of the 67m long pool and surroundings, with new outdoor changing facilities and showers, and extensive landscaping, allowing it to be enjoyed once again for many years to come.

    The original lido changing rooms, splash pool and the former Blue Lagoon café offer the opportunity for future transformation by a tenant to create complementary facilities to enhance the wider offer and development of a destination landmark facility for the community, residents of Portsmouth and the public alike.

    The restoration and reopening of the Lido comes as Swim England recently launched their ‘Don’t Cap Swimming’ campaign, which found that over 1,500 pools in England are over 40 years of age and in need of funding for renovation.

    Richard Baldwin, Director at Avison Young UK said:

    “We’re delighted to be working with the Council on this important historical leisure project. It’s rewarding to see such an important community asset being brought back to life. We’re now seeking all expressions of interest for a long-term tenant operator who shares the Council’s vision to promote Hilsea Lido’s use as a hub for the people of Portsmouth, encouraging people to swim, children to learn and families to play.

    The lido will be transformed into a much needed and loved asset for the people of Portsmouth, and we’re delighted to play a part in its reopening.”

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council added:

     “Hilsea Lido is an iconic Portsmouth attraction, which is now receiving some much-needed TLC to get it open so it can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Our work will ensure the pool will open next year with modern changing facilities ready for the 90th anniversary of the lido.

    “We’ll work closely the appointed operator to enable future phases of renovation work at the lido, so we can create a real ‘jewel in the crown’ of the wider Hilsea Lines project. We’re committed to sport in this city, so we see this a real opportunity to offer open air swimming and other water-based activities in a safe and unique environment.”

    £20m was awarded to Portsmouth City Council from the UK government for the ‘Transforming the Visitor Economy’ project, which the Hilsea Lines scheme is part of. £11.25m of the funding went to the now completed terminal transformation project at Portsmouth international Port which opened in August 2023.

    Expressions of interest for Hilsea Lido can be directed to: https://www.avisonyoung.co.uk/

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tonko, Turner Launch Inquiry to Ensure Access to Addiction Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

    ALBANY, NY — Representatives Paul D. Tonko (D-NY) and Mike Turner (R-OH) today announced that they have sent inquires to dozens of hospitals, insurance plans, pharmacies, pharmacists, and providers aimed at gathering information on their existing actions and plans to eliminate barriers for accessing medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD).

    The letters are intended to gain insight into the successes and barriers that have arisen following the implementation of the Congressmembers’ law, the Mainstreaming Addiction Treatment (MAT) Act. That bill, which was signed into law in early 2023, aims to expand access to the proven addiction treatment buprenorphine by increasing the number of medical professionals who can prescribe buprenorphine for opioid use disorder from 130,000 to 1.8 million. With this barrier eliminated, work continues to implement the MAT Act to the fullest extent and have addiction treatment accessible in every community. This goal will require many communities, providers and interests to step up and lead.

    “For the millions of Americans battling substance use disorder, having access to proven, affordable treatment can mean the difference between life and death,” Congressman Tonko said. “I worked tirelessly to pass the Mainstreaming Addiction Treatment (MAT) Act into law to open the doors of access to the proven addiction treatment, buprenorphine. We must use every tool possible to realize the dream of the MAT Act. I look forward to hearing the responses and insights from these healthcare stakeholders about how we can best move forward to ensure that those on the path to recovery have the treatment they need and deserve.”

    “Passing the MAT Act into law last Congress was a crucial step forward in our country’s battle against opioid addiction and substance use disorder,” said Congressman Turner. “Too many Ohio families have been ripped apart by the opioid epidemic that has swept over the nation. The MAT Act offers greater access to life-saving care to those struggling with addiction, and we are already seeing positive results as drug overdose deaths dropped by 10% in 2023. However, our work is not finished. We must ensure this progress continues, and it is my hope that these healthcare providers can offer greater insight for Congress to combat opioid addiction and help save lives.”

    As co-chair of the Addiction, Treatment, and Recovery Caucus, Tonko has long spearheaded federal efforts to address the overdose epidemic and expand addiction treatment. He, along with Rep. Turner also champion the Reentry Act, bipartisan legislation that empowers states to restore access to healthcare, including addiction and mental health treatment, through Medicaid for incarcerated individuals up to 30 days before their release.

    Most recently, Tonko introduced the BUPE for Recovery Act, legislation that would require the Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to temporarily exempt buprenorphine from the Suspicious Orders Report System (SORS) for the remainder of the opioid public health emergency.

    38 letters have been sent to healthcare providers throughout the nation, including: UnitedHealth Group; The Cigna Group; Kaiser Permanente; Elevance Health; Centene Corporation; Blue Cross and Blue Shield; CVS Health/Aetna; Molina Healthcare; Health Care Services Corporation; Highmark Health; Humana; American Medical Association; American Nurses Association; American College of Emergency Physicians; American Academy of Family Physicians; American Academy of Pediatrics; American Academy of Physician Assistants; American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; National Association of Chain Drug Stores; Express Scripts; Blink Health; CVS Health; Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.; Health Mart; Good Neighbor Pharmacy; Rite Aid Corporation; Albertsons Companies, Inc.; Safeway; The Vitamin Shoppe; Kroger; Publix Super Markets, Inc.; Costco; Walmart; American Hospital Association; American Pharmacists Association; National Community Pharmacists Association; ASHP; and National Association of Boards of Pharmacy

    The full list of healthcare providers and attached letters can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Gaetz Exposes Biden-Harris Administration “Border Czar” Cover-up to Help Harris Presidential Campaign

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Matt Gaetz (1st District of Florida)

    Washington, D.C. — This week, U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas exposing a White House cover-up related to Vice President Kamala Harris working as the “border czar,” which was done deliberately to assist candidate Harris in her presidential campaign. 

    Last month, following Vice President Harris’ denial of her involvement with the border crisis, Rep. Gaetz sent a letter to Secretary Mayorkas demanding all correspondence from DHS that refers to Harris as the “border czar” by August 30th. According to documents obtained by a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request from the Heritage’s Oversight Project, the White House’s Ian Sams got involved and apparently blocked the response. At the time he was doing this, Sams knew that within days, he would be moving to the Harris 2024 presidential campaign as a top spokesman. Sams’ actions may have been violations of the Hatch Act, agency ethics rules, and campaign finance laws. Therefore, Rep. Gaetz’s follow-up letter requests unredacted copies of the Sams’ correspondence on this matter.

    Full text of Congressman Gaetz’s letter to Secretary Mayorkas can be found HERE. Additionally, exclusive coverage of the letter by Fox News can be found HERE.

    LETTER TEXT

    Secretary Mayorkas:

    I am concerned that the good government work of your career employees—to respond in a timely fashion to a small but important request of a Member of Congress—was scuttled by a White House cover-up to assist candidate Kamala Harris in her campaign. The very staffer, Ian Sams, who blocked my oversight request is now a senior spokesman for the Harris campaign. At the time he was engaged in a cover-up for her using government resources, he already had lined up his job on her campaign, which he officially started less than two weeks later. This is shady.

    On August 7, 2024, I sent you an oversight request, and that week, House Oversight and Accountability Committee Chairman Comer apparently sent you a similar oversight request, requesting similar sets of information in your possession, which are required by law to be released. My letter requested a very simple production of, firstly, “communications Office of the Vice President and any employee (including detailees) of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), between March 24, 2021 and March 24, 2022, using the term ‘czar,’ ‘border,’ ‘migration,’ or ‘immigration.’” An IT employee of DHS could collate and produce these documents in a matter of hours, if not minutes, and yet the August 30, 2024, deadline has come and gone without response. I, therefore, reiterate my document request. The American people know that Vice President Harris was appointed the “border czar” and bragged about her role, and I am confident that you have records that would again prove this.

    More troubling, however, is the FOIA response that the Heritage Foundation Oversight Project has provided my office (attached as “Exhibit A” and available at https://oversight.heritage.org/GaetzLetterBorderCzar.pdf). This FOIA production proves that DHS front-office career employees did their job. They forwarded my request and actively worked to get a response out to me on time. In fact, the day before the due date, on August 29, 2024, they raised the issue again to political appointees. Kudos to them. But the reason they did not respond to my request, apparently, is that the White House got involved. Ian Sams was forwarded the oversight request, and his directives to your subordinates are redacted, but he stopped the oversight in its tracks, to protect his boss, possibly in violation of the Hatch Act, agency ethics rules, and campaign finance laws.

    In addition to my outstanding request, please provide my office with unredacted copies of the Ian Sams correspondence on this matter to my office by October 25, 2024. Surely, you can produce one or two emails in two weeks.

    Sincerely,

    Matt Gaetz
    Member of Congress

    ###

    For updates, subscribe to Congressman Gaetz’s newsletter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Online Public Briefing- National Panel of Assessors Request for Tender (RFT)

    Source: Australian Department for Social Services

    16 October 2024

    The Department of Social Services is hosting a National Panel of Assessors (NPA) Request for Tender (RFT) public briefing which will take place on Monday 21 October at 1pm (AEDT).

    To register for the webinar, visit: National Panel of Assessors (NPA) – Public Briefing Webinar (humanitix.com).

    The RFT is open from Wednesday 16 October 2024 to 12pm (AEDT) on Monday 11 November 2024.

    What is the NPA?

    The Australian Government is committed to ensuring that people with disability have access to a range of Assessment Services to support them in the workplace. The NPA program will bring together a panel of independent Providers under a Deed of Standing Offer arrangement to conduct:

    • Supported Wage System (SWS) assessments
    • Ongoing Support Assessments (OSA), and
    • Workplace Modifications Services (WMS) assessments.  

    Respondents to the RFT may bid to provide either or both of the following combinations of assessments:

    • OSA and SWS assessments together, or
    • WMS assessments, including any specialist WMS assessments nominated by the Respondent.

    What the online public briefing will cover?

    The briefing will outline key elements of the NPA RFT, provide an overview of key changes from the Exposure Draft and provide an overview of the procurement process. The presenters are Pene Futcher, Branch Manager, Disability Employment Programs and Sonya McCarthy, Acting Branch Manager, Disability Employment Implementations.

    Questions and comments will not be open for this briefing. It will be an accessible live streamed event. If you are unable to attend the briefing, it will be recorded and made available on engage.dss.gov.au and dss.gov.au.

    For questions about the briefing registration process, please contact DESCommunications@dss.gov.au.

    Find out more

    The RFT is available on AusTender. Find out more about the NPA program.

    All questions in relation to the RFT must be submitted to the Contact Officer at DE2025Purchasing@dss.gov.au. Publication of responses to questions will be managed in accordance with the process outlined in the RFT.

    Last updated:

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: World Food Day (October 16, 2024)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    On this World Food Day, France reaffirms its commitment to the fight against every form of food insecurity and malnutrition.

    In 2023, 281.6 million people faced high levels of food insecurity, 24 million more than in 2022. One hundred fifty million children under the age of five are suffering from delayed growth and 37 million are underweight.

    France is fully engaged in the fight against malnutrition, which affects health and education systems and economies worldwide.

    On March 27 and 28, 2025, Paris will host the Nutrition for Growth (N4G) summit, which will bring together members of the entire international nutrition community (governments, international organizations, civil society, companies, scientists) to undertake concrete, ambitious commitments to help combat all forms of malnutrition.

    In light of worsening food crises in conflict zones, particularly in Gaza and Sudan, France remains fully mobilized through financial support for international organizations and food aid projects. France is also the leading funder of the Grain from Ukraine program, which was launched in 2022 as a response to the impact of the Russian aggression on global food insecurity in seven countries : Somalia, Yemen, Sudan, Palestine, Djibouti, Malawi and Zambia.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada strengthens protection of freshwater with launch of standalone Canada Water Agency

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    October 16, 2024 – Winnipeg, Manitoba

    Fresh water is our most precious natural resource, needed for drinking, cleaning and sanitation, recreation, industry, agriculture, and ecosystem health. Water is also sacred to many Indigenous peoples and honoured as a giver of life. Yet, fresh water in Canada is under increasing pressure from climate change, pollution, and other threats. Canadians recognize the importance of fresh water and have called for action.

    Today, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, officially announced the establishment of the Canada Water Agency as a standalone federal entity headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Previously within Environment and Climate Change Canada for an interim period, the new independent Agency will strengthen freshwater management in Canada by providing leadership and improved coordination and collaboration federally and with provinces, territories, and Indigenous peoples. As a standalone entity, the Canada Water Agency will work closely with partners to deliver major elements of the Freshwater Action Plan, build a strong approach to freshwater protection, and help address transboundary freshwater challenges and opportunities.

    The Agency also will provide freshwater policy expertise and lead the development of a national freshwater data strategy, which will make it easier for Canadians to make informed decisions impacting their environment, economy, health, and safety. It will also work closely with Environment and Climate Change Canada and other federal departments and agencies to support and leverage freshwater science.

    The Canada Water Agency will administer freshwater funding programs in eight waterbodies of national significance: the Great Lakes, Lake Winnipeg, Lake of the Woods, Lake Simcoe, the St. Lawrence River, the Mackenzie River, the Fraser River, and the Wolastoq/Saint John River. Over the coming years, the Canada Water Agency will provide grants and contributions to hundreds of projects supporting the restoration and protection of fresh water in Canada funded by the historic $650 million investment outlined in Budget 2023.

    The Agency will be based in Winnipeg, a historical gathering place for Indigenous peoples and home to Lake Winnipeg—one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes and a priority Canada Water Agency waterbody. The Agency will also have five regional offices across Canada to ensure responsiveness to local freshwater issues. It is clear that the creation of the Canada Water Agency as a standalone marks an important step for Canada in protecting and restoring freshwater resources. Through its efforts, the Agency will help safeguard freshwater for generations of Canadians, which in turn improves upon the environment, economy, health, and safety of Canada.

    Quotes

    “Canadians value fresh water and understand its importance for health, prosperity, and cultural practices. Given pollution, land-use, and other stressors, we must take action now to safeguard fresh water. The creation of the Canada Water Agency is a key step in strengthening freshwater management, protection, and stewardship in Canada.”

    – The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

    “Tackling today’s freshwater challenges will require strong collaboration among governments, Indigenous partners, non-government organizations, academia, industry, and others. The Canada Water Agency will provide the leadership to foster the partnerships that we need to protect fresh water. I think that it is fitting that Winnipeg, at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers which flow into Lake Winnipeg, is home to this important federal agency.”

    – Terry Duguid, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and Special Advisor for Water

    “Manitoba is so proud to be the home of the new Canada Water Agency. With over 100,000 lakes, Manitobans value our fresh water and care deeply about the health of our waterways. Our government is proud to have recently established Manitoba’s first-ever formal Nutrient Targets Regulation for Lake Winnipeg and its tributaries to reduce nutrient loading and restore the health of this important lake. We look forward to the increased opportunities for collaboration that will come from having the Canada Water Agency here in Manitoba, and our government is pleased to work together with the federal government, Indigenous communities, other freshwater experts, and all stakeholders to ensure the health of our waterways for generations to come.”

    – The Honourable Tracy Schmidt, Manitoba Minister of Environment and Climate Change

    Quick facts

    • In Budget 2023, the Government of Canada provided $650 million over ten years for the Freshwater Ecosystem Initiatives, as well as $85.1 million over five years (and $21 million ongoing thereafter), for the creation of the Canada Water Agency. It also committed to introducing legislation to fully establish the Agency as a standalone entity.

    • Working with Indigenous peoples to seek their perspectives and support their participation is a central part of the mandate of the Canada Water Agency.

    • The Canada Water Agency was first established as a branch of Environment and Climate Change Canada in June 2023.

    • On June 20, 2024, Bill C-59 (which included the Canada Water Agency Act), received Royal Assent, paving the way for the creation of the standalone Canada Water Agency.

    Related products

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Hermine Landry
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
    873-455-3714
    Hermine.Landry@ec.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Environment and Climate Change Canada
    819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll-free)
    media@ec.gc.ca

    Canada Water Agency’s X (Twitter) page

    Canada Water Agency’s LinkedIn page

    Environment and Natural Resources in Canada Facebook page

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Standalone Canada Water Agency launches

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Canada Water Agency is a Government of Canada agency under the Minister of Environment and Climate Change portfolio.

    The Canada Water Agency is a Government of Canada agency under the Minister of Environment and Climate Change portfolio. Its mandate is to improve freshwater management in Canada by providing leadership, effective collaboration federally, and improved coordination and collaboration with provinces, territories, and Indigenous peoples to address transboundary freshwater challenges and opportunities.

    The Canada Water Agency (the Agency) is headquartered in Winnipeg and has five regional offices across Canada to ensure responsiveness to regional freshwater issues. Once fully staffed, the Agency will have approximately 220 employees nationwide.

    Creation of the Canada Water Agency

    In 2019, the Prime Minister directed the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to “Create a new Canada Water Agency to work together with the provinces, territories, Indigenous communities, local authorities, scientists, and others to find the best ways to keep our water safe, clean, and well-managed.” Over the following three years, Environment and Climate Change Canada engaged with partners and stakeholders to shape the mandate, activities, and structure of the Agency.

    In Budget 2023, the Government of Canada announced funding for the Canada Water Agency and committed to introducing legislation to make the Agency a standalone entity reporting directly to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change. Soon thereafter, in June 2023, the Canada Water Agency launched as a branch within Environment and Climate Change Canada, delivering key elements of the Freshwater Action Plan and advancing efforts to establish the standalone entity. Starting in 2024, the Canada Water Agency has committed to providing more than $90 million in grants and contributions to 175 different projects across the country to strengthen freshwater management in Canada. Lastly, several other key accomplishments of the past year have included launching pre-engagement with First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and provincial and territorial governments on the review of the Canada Water Act, convening partners from across Canada to support development of a National Freshwater Data Strategy, and supporting partners to advance protection in several freshwater ecosystems across Canada.

    Later in 2023, the legislation to create the standalone Canada Water Agency (the Canada Water Agency Act) was introduced in Parliament as part of Bill C-59. The legislation received Royal Assent on June 20, 2024, and came into force on October 15, 2024.

    The Canada Water Agency’s current initiatives

    Freshwater ecosystem initiatives

    The Canada Water Agency leads the delivery of Freshwater Ecosystem Initiatives in eight waterbodies of national significance across Canada: the Great Lakes, Lake Winnipeg, Lake of the Woods, the St. Lawrence River, the Wolastoq/Saint John River, the Fraser River, the Mackenzie River, and Lake Simcoe.  

    The goals of the Freshwater Ecosystem Initiatives are to:

    • take action to restore and protect water quality and aquatic ecosystem health
    • advance science, monitoring (including community-based monitoring) and the application of Indigenous knowledge in cooperation with Indigenous peoples to support decision-making and effective action 
    • enhance governance to improve collaboration with Indigenous partners, provinces and territories, and stakeholders 
    • mobilize knowledge and reporting to measure progress towards results 
    • improve climate change resiliency through on the-ground-action

    Review of the Canada Water Act

    Proclaimed in 1970, the Canada Water Act is federal legislation administered by the Minister of Environment and Climate Change. It provides a legal framework for cooperation among federal, provincial, and territorial governments in the conservation, development, and use of water resources.

    In his 2021 mandate letter, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change was directed to advance the modernization of the Canada Water Act to reflect Canada’s freshwater reality, including climate change and Indigenous rights. This commitment was reaffirmed in the 2023–2028 Action Plan for implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.

    As an initial step, the Canada Water Agency led pre-engagement with partners to understand how they would like to be involved in the review of the Canada Water Act. The Canada Water Agency will use this information to develop engagement plans for the subsequent engagement phase, which is expected to begin in 2025.

    National freshwater data strategy

    The Canada Water Agency is developing a National Freshwater Data Strategy with partners and stakeholders. The Strategy will establish guidelines and principles for how freshwater information should be organized, stored, and shared in Canada. The Canada Water Agency published a discussion paper on the creation of a National Freshwater Data Strategy on July 26, 2024, and accepted comments until September 15, 2024. It also hosted a workshop on September 25–26, 2024, to develop an outline and path forward for the Strategy.

    Once implemented, the Strategy will make it easier for Canadians to find and access freshwater data and use and combine data from various sources. This, in turn, will support more informed decision-making and will help keep fresh water safe, clean, and well-managed.

    The Strategy will build on existing data systems, data science, and analytics expertise. It will also align with broader federal data efforts, including the Government of Canada’s Digital Ambition and the 2023–2026 Data Strategy for the Federal Public Service.

    Supporting freshwater science

    Freshwater science is critical to freshwater management and protection.

    For these reasons, Canada’s strengthened Freshwater Action Plan includes significant funding to support freshwater science. Environment and Climate Change Canada will continue to lead on freshwater science, including the National Freshwater Science Agenda, as well as freshwater monitoring. The Canada Water Agency will support and leverage science efforts to inform the Freshwater Ecosystems Initiatives and promote coordination among government and non-government freshwater science partners.

    Partnering with Indigenous peoples

    • The Canada Water Agency Act underscores the centrality of respectful and trusting partnerships with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit and strengthens their role in the development and implementation of the Canada Water Agency’s freshwater programs. The Act says that the Canada Water Agency will:
      • respect the rights of Indigenous people and support implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People Act
      • honour existing treaties and agreements
      • recognize Indigenous knowledge systems and data sovereignty
      • work to advance reconciliation

    As part of the pre-engagement phase of the Canada Water Act review, the Canada Water Agency spoke with and supported First Nations, Métis, and Inuit partners to facilitate effective, meaningful and relevant dialogues from the start. As part of the review, the Canada Water Agency piloted an Indigenous Grassroots Water Circle to create an accessible, safe, Indigenous-centered space to engage directly with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit grassroots individuals (for example, Elders, youth, women as water carriers, parents, academics, people with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+).

    Lastly, the Canada Water Agency is working to develop a deeper understanding of the various freshwater data interests of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to better inform the Canada Water Agency’s work while advancing the conversation to strengthen relationships; honour agreements; and respect Indigenous rights, interests, cultures, and Indigenous knowledge systems.   

    Collaboration with provinces, territories, partners and stakeholders

    The Government of Canada has more than 20 departments and agencies with freshwater-related responsibilities. The Canada Water Agency promotes coordination, collaboration, and information exchange among these entities. In addition, central to its mandate, the Canada Water Agency is committed to working with provinces, territories, and stakeholders to improve freshwater management, protection, and stewardship in Canada.

    The Canada Water Agency is collaborating closely with stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations and academia, to implement the Government of Canada’s freshwater agenda. The Canada Water Agency has also held information sessions with stakeholders in French and English to provide updates on the Canada Water Agency Act and continues to value their input and involvement in the review of the Act.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Renewal of interim understanding with Wasoqopa’q (Acadia), Annapolis Valley, Bear River and Glooscap First Nations to support moderate livelihood lobster fisheries

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Today, the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, the Honourable Diane Lebouthillier announced that for the fourth consecutive year, an interim authorization has been issued to Wasoqopa’q (Acadia), Annapolis Valley, Bear River and Glooscap First Nations. This interim authorization will see community members fishing and selling their catch in pursuit of a moderate livelihood during the commercial seasons in Lobster Fishing Areas (LFAs) 33, 34 and 35, without increasing overall fishing effort.

    October 16, 2024

    Dartmouth, Nova Scotia – The Government of Canada is committed to building a renewed relationship with Indigenous peoples. As part of this commitment, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) works in partnership with First Nations in Quebec and Atlantic Canada to implement the right to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood, as set out in the Marshall decisions handed down by the Supreme Court of Canada 25 years ago. In undertaking these Nation-to-Nation discussions, DFO and First Nations are advancing the shared goal of seeing First Nations harvesters fishing to make a living for themselves and provide for their families.

    Today, the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, the Honourable Diane Lebouthillier announced that for the fourth consecutive year, an interim authorization has been issued to Wasoqopa’q (Acadia), Annapolis Valley, Bear River and Glooscap First Nations. This interim authorization will see community members fishing and selling their catch in pursuit of a moderate livelihood during the commercial seasons in Lobster Fishing Areas (LFAs) 33, 34 and 35, without increasing overall fishing effort.

    DFO supports this moderate livelihood fishery which is based on a renewed interim understanding between Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and the four Kespukwitk Mi’kmaw communities that operationalizes the community-developed Kespukwitk District Netukulimk Lobster Livelihood Fisheries Plan through the Kespukwitk Collective Fisheries Committee and their Fisheries Implementation Team. Fishery officers are in the field each day, working with designated community members to make sure they can fish within the conditions of their authorization, and in accordance with the measures in their community-developed fishing plans. 

    Representatives from the inshore lobster industry are informed of interim understandings with First Nations, and associated authorizations. These measures result in  increased Indigenous participation in the commercial fishery through the continued implementation of their right to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood.

    DFO has been working with Indigenous communities to further implement their right to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood by reaching interim understandings that authorize community members to fish under community-developed moderate livelihood fishing plans. Under these understandings, communities identify community members who wish to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood as part of their community-developed fishing plan and these harvesters are subsequently designated as authorized harvesters under a harvest document issued by DFO.

    Interfering with lawful fishing and damaging or destroying fishing gear are illegal, causes debris that harms fish and fish habitat, and may result in a fine of up to $100,000 for offences under the Fisheries Act. Any harvesters whose equipment has been destroyed or tampered with should immediately report this incident to their local DFO Conservation and Protection office.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Minister Champagne and Minister Holland on the release of the engagement report on modernizing Canada’s research support system

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Statement

    October 16, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

    Today, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, and the Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, made the following statement:

    “As scientists and researchers work to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges, their work becomes increasingly complex and interdisciplinary. To keep pace with this evolution, Canada must ensure its research support system also evolves and becomes more collaborative to best meet the needs of our diverse science and research communities. That is why in Budget 2024, our government announced that it will establish a new capstone research funding organization, within which the granting councils—the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research—will continue to exist and support excellence in investigator-driven research, including a clear and direct linkage with the Health Portfolio. This new organization will allow Canada to leverage the best parts of the current system, while also modernizing it to bring more coordination, cohesion and agility.

    “In June 2024, we asked the federal granting councils to jointly undertake engagement with the research community to help inform the government’s ongoing work to create the new capstone organization. We would like to thank the granting councils and all who participated in the engagement for their valuable input that will help shape the future of the Canadian science and research support system.

    “The granting councils have jointly submitted to us their summary report: What We Heard: Tri-agency engagement with the research community on modernization of the federal research support system. The government has reviewed the report and is taking it under consideration to advance the design and implementation of the capstone organization and a truly modernized, collaborative, inclusive and responsive research support system. We will continue to seek the perspectives of the science and research community, including Indigenous partners, researchers and communities, to ensure the strength of the new organization.

    Quick facts

    • Since 2016, including initiatives proposed in Budget 2024, the federal government has invested over $22 billion in science and research initiatives, including infrastructure and emerging talent, as well as other science and technology support measures.
    • Budget 2024’s investments include providing $825 million over five years, and $199.8 million per year ongoing, to increase support for master’s and doctoral students and post-doctoral fellows, as well as $1.8 billion over five years, and $748.3 million per year ongoing, to the federal granting councils to increase core research grant funding and support Canadian researchers.
    • The government’s work to modernize the research ecosystem is informed by the findings of the independent Advisory Panel on the Federal Research Support System.

    Contacts

    Audrey Milette
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
    audrey.milette@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada 
    media@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Matthew Kronberg
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Health
    343-552-5654

    Media Relations
    Health Canada
    613-957-2983
    media@hc-sc.gc.ca

    Stay connected

    Find more services and information on the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada website.

    Follow Canadian Science on social media.
    Facebook: Canadian Science | Instagram: @cdnscience

    Follow the department on social media.
    X (Twitter): @ISED_CA | LinkedIn: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Duclos highlights 3 new federal properties in Québec available to build more housing, faster

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The federal government announces the most ambitious housing plan in Canadian history: a plan to build 4 million more homes.

    October 16, 2024 – Québec, Quebec – Public Services and Procurement Canada

    Everyone deserves a place to call home. However, for many across the country, home ownership and renting is out of reach due to the unprecedented housing crisis Canada is facing. We need to build more homes, faster, to get Canadians into homes that meet their needs, at prices they can afford. That’s why in Budget 2024 and Canada’s Housing Plan, the federal government announced the most ambitious housing plan in Canadian history: a plan to build 4 million more homes.

    As part of this plan, the Government of Canada is identifying properties within its portfolio that have the potential for housing, and is actively adding them to the Canada Public Land Bank. Wherever possible, the government will turn these properties into housing through a long-term lease, not a one-time sale, to support affordable housing and ensure public land stays public.

    Today, the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant, highlighted that properties located at 94, 104 and 112 Dalhousie in Québec, Quebec, are now available for housing development through the Canada Public Land Bank. These properties are part of the list of 14 new properties added to the land bank last week.

    A total of 70 federal properties have now been identified as being suitable to support housing. This list will continue to grow in the coming months, with further details on listed properties available soon.

    As part of the initial launch of the Canada Public Land Bank in August 2024, the Canada Lands Company, in partnership with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, issued a call for proposals for 5 properties located in Toronto, Edmonton, Calgary, Ottawa and Montréal. The call for proposals for the properties in Toronto and Montréal closed on October 1, 2024, and evaluations have begun. The call for proposals for the Edmonton, Calgary and Ottawa properties will close on November 1, 2024.

    To provide feedback on the land bank and its properties, the Government of Canada launched a call for housing solutions for communities: a secure online platform.

    To date, the Government of Canada has already received interest and feedback from provinces, territories and municipalities, as well as developers, housing advocates and Indigenous groups. This information will be used to develop and bring more properties to market starting this fall.

    To solve Canada’s housing crisis, the federal government is using every tool at its disposal. The Government of Canada is accelerating its real property disposal process to match the speed of builders and the urgency of getting affordable homes built for Canada.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: North Carolina National Guard Soldiers go door to door to aid residents affected by Hurricane Helene

    Source: US National Guard (video statements)

    North Carolina National Guard Soldiers provide door to door aid in Haywood County, North Carolina on October 14, 2024, while supporting Hurricane Helene relief efforts. As of Oct. 16, more than 6,000 Guardsmen continue to support Hurricanes Helene and Milton response efforts. (U.S Army National Guard Video by Cpl. Nigel Hatcher)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jq00dnL_5Kc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Students of SPbGASU met with participants of the Special Military Operation

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Valery Zinkevich and Anatoly Noskov

    On October 15–16, the SPbGASU Youth Policy Department organized meetings between our university students and participants of the Special Military Operation Anatoly Noskov, Valery Zinkevich, and Gennady Kuz. They came to the front line by different paths, but with one goal – to defend the Fatherland.

    Captain Anatoly Noskov is a 2022 graduate of SPbGASU. He was mobilized at the same time. Anatoly is a hereditary military man: the grandson of an admiral and the son of a KGB colonel. First, he graduated from the Nakhimov School, then the Frunze Higher Naval School (now the Peter the Great Naval Corps – St. Petersburg Naval Institute). He worked in the criminal investigation service. He started as a deputy company commander for military-patriotic work, and later became the commander of the assault company Z. In total, Captain Noskov’s front-line biography includes 11 assaults, two wounds, one of which was serious.

    Valery Zinkevich has been involved in public activities since 2010 and has traveled to almost all the liberated territories of the new regions as a volunteer since the beginning of the SVO. He admits that what he saw inspired him to decide to go to the front as a volunteer. The commander of the assault platoon of the special forces “Akhmat” has difficult battles and a serious injury behind him. Today, he manages seven charity projects, is the leader of the public-patriotic bloc “For the Fatherland and Faith”, and an adviser to the head of the Moscow district of St. Petersburg on patriotic education of youth.

    Gennady Kuz is a combat veteran who organizes humanitarian aid and solves social problems for the SVO servicemen and their families.

    At the meeting with students, they talked not only about the difficult and dangerous everyday life of the military on the front line, about what success in completing combat missions depends on, and the role of the ability to work in a team. They also talked about what is no less important for each person: goals in life, civic duty, service to the Motherland, moral priorities, family.

    “Our life is formed on the values and traditions that are laid down in childhood and youth. I am talking about the role of family, the importance of traditions and goals. Only together are we strong. Such meetings provide feedback: schoolchildren, students, and their parents contact me. This confirms that we are on the right path,” said Valery Zinkevich.

    Student Andrey Gogenko is one of the most active participants of the meeting. It turned out that he has a good idea of what they are talking about.

    “I am a great-grandson, grandson, son of military personnel, and most of my life was spent in military towns. My father will soon go on a mission to a combat zone. At first, I also wanted to follow in their footsteps, but then I decided to first get a civilian profession. I learn about the situation in the SVO from the media, but from the participants themselves it is perceived completely differently. I agree with them: we must be united, attentive to each other, in order to achieve common and significant goals for all of us,” Andrey said.

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

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

    http://www.spbgasu.ru/nevs-and-events/nevs/students-spbgasu-met-with-participants-of-a-special-military-operation/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The University acted as a regional platform for the All-Russian Economic Dictation

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –

    On October 15, the eighth annual event “All-Russian Economic Dictation” took place, the motto of which is “Strong Economy – Prosperous Russia!” The goal of this event is economic education and development of economic culture of citizens. Residents of Russia in all regions of the country, as well as citizens of neighboring countries, participate in writing the economic dictation. This year, 1,340 regional sites were registered for holding the event: interest in the economic dictation is growing every year.

    SPbGASU annually acts as a regional venue for the event, and students of the Faculty of Economics and Management become active participants in the event. Third- and fourth-year students managed to successfully answer questions, some of which were interdisciplinary in nature in connection with such sciences as history, social science, and jurisprudence.

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

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

    http://www.spbgasu.ru/nevs-and-events/nevs/university-acted-as-a-regional-platform-for-all-Russian-economic-dictation/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: On 17.10.2024, the deposit auction of JSC “Corporation “MSP” will take place

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Parameters;

    The date of the deposit auction is 10/17/2024. The placement currency is RUB. The maximum amount of funds placed (in the placement currency) is 1,455,000,000.00. The placement period, days is 33. The date of depositing funds is 10/18/2024. The date of return of funds is 11/20/2024. The minimum placement interest rate, % per annum is 18.00. Terms of the conclusion, urgent or special (Urgent). The minimum amount of funds placed for one application (in the placement currency) is 1,455,000,000.00. The maximum number of applications from one Participant, pcs. 1. Auction form, open or closed (Open). The basis of the Agreement is the General Agreement. Schedule (Moscow time). Applications in preliminary mode from 10:30 to 10:40. Bids in competition mode from 10:40 to 10:50. Setting the cutoff percentage or declaring the auction invalid before 11:30.

    Additional terms

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

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

    https://www.moex.com/n74042

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lord Mayor of Oxford continues 600-year-old tradition by inspecting city’s historic walls

    Source: City of Oxford

    Wednesday, 16 October 2024

    The Lord Mayor of Oxford, Councillor Mike Rowley, will uphold a 600 year old tradition by inspecting the city’s historic walls on 23 October; a responsibility dating back to the reign of Richard II.

    This unique ceremony honours a centuries-old agreement between Oxford and New College, which has been preserved since 30 June 1379. 

    The tradition began when King Richard II granted the land for the founding of New College on the condition that the college maintains the city’s defensive walls. To ensure that the walls were kept in good repair, a contract was established, and every three years since then, the Lord Mayor of Oxford has inspected them. 

    This year the Lord Mayor, accompanied by fellow city councillors, will once again undertake the ceremonial walk from Oxford Town Hall to New College. The procession will be led by the City Mace, and as custom dictates, they will stop at New College’s gate on New College Lane. There, the Mace Bearer will knock three times, symbolically requesting permission for the Lord Mayor and councillors to enter. 

    Upon receiving permission, the Warden and Fellows of New College will lead the group through the college garden to inspect the ancient walls that still stand as part of Oxford’s rich history. 

    In accordance with the 14th-century contract, New College features gates on either side of the city walls. These gates were not only constructed to facilitate the Lord Mayor’s inspections but also to provide a passage for the defence of Oxford in times of war. 

    Comments 

    “It is a privilege to continue this long-standing tradition, which connects our modern city to its medieval roots. The walls are a testament to the strength and resilience of Oxford, and it is an honour to carry out this duty on behalf of the city and its people.” 
    The Lord Mayor of Oxford, Councillor Mike Rowley 

    “We are proud to uphold the agreement made over six centuries ago. This tradition is a reflection of our commitment to Oxford and its heritage, and we look forward to welcoming the Lord Mayor and the councillors for this important inspection.” 
    Miles Young, Warden, New College 

    The event is a reminder of Oxford’s deep historical ties and its commitment to preserving the city’s heritage for future generations. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Île-à-la-Crosse  — Île-à-la-Crosse RCMP seize cocaine in traffic stop

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 12, 2024 at approximately 3:00 a.m., Île-à-la-Crosse RCMP conducted a traffic stop on Highway #155 near Île-à-la-Crosse.

    During the traffic stop, officers located and seized a small amount of cocaine, a large sum of cash and drug trafficking paraphernalia. The adult male driver and adult female passenger were arrested at the scene.

    As a result of investigation, 46-year-old Jamey Hanson and 31-year-old Ashley Desjarlais, both from Buffalo Narrows, were charged with:

    • one count, possession for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine, Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;
    • one count, possession of property obtained by crime over $5000, Section 354(1)(a), Criminal Code.

    Hanson and Desjarlais will appear in Meadow Lake Provincial Court on October 15, 2024.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Fleet to Faculty: GM1 Smith’s Impact as an Instructor at SCSTC San Diego

    Source: United States Navy

    NETC and SCSTC: Delivering Fleet-Ready Training

    SCSTC San Diego, part of the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC), is charged with the vital mission of training Sailors for success in the fleet. NETC’s training infrastructure, including SCSTC and its other subordinate commands, focuses on equipping Sailors with relevant, real-world skills for operational readiness.

    “NETC’s training programs are built on the strength of passionate instructors and fleet-relevant equipment,” Smith shares. “It’s one thing to read about a system, but when Sailors work on the same equipment they’ll use in the fleet, they’re more confident and prepared to fulfill their roles.”

    By combining knowledgeable instructors with real-world technology, NETC ensures that Sailors are ready to apply their skills immediately, contributing directly to mission success.

    Mentorship and Success in the Classroom

    As an instructor at SCSTC, Smith serves as a mentor to students, guiding them through the technical challenges of their coursework. Reflecting on one student’s journey, Smith describes how they struggled initially with the course’s technical depth but demonstrated a steadfast determination to learn.

    “This student had a strong will to learn, so we took the time to break down the lessons into manageable pieces,” Smith explains. “Once they had a solid foundation, it was incredible to see them build on that knowledge and graduate at the top of their class. Moments like these are why I teach.”

    Smith’s dedication to mentorship ensures that Sailors are not only knowledgeable but also empowered to overcome obstacles and succeed.

    Essential Qualities for Success in Navy Training

    Smith emphasizes that success in NETC’s demanding programs goes beyond technical knowledge; personal qualities are just as critical.

    “The best qualities for success here are a positive attitude, willingness to learn, resiliency, and a growth mindset,” she says. “A positive attitude keeps you motivated, resiliency helps you push through challenges, willingness to learn broadens your skills, and a growth mindset allows you to learn from mistakes and continuously improve.”

    These qualities enable Sailors to excel in their training and maximize the opportunities provided by NETC.

    Looking to the Future: A Career of Growth and Opportunity

    From her time aboard USS Pinckney to her current role at SCSTC, Smith’s career reflects the Navy’s commitment to developing combat-ready Sailors. Now serving as a Leading Petty Officer and the Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) coordinator for SCSTC, Smith continues to shape the future of the fleet by training and mentoring the next generation of Navy warfighters.

    “The Navy has given me opportunities I never imagined,” she reflects. “As an instructor, I’m honored to help shape the Sailors who will carry out the Navy’s mission in the future.”

    Through NETC’s programs, Smith and her fellow instructors provide a foundation of knowledge, resilience, and dedication, preparing Sailors to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

    Smith’s journey from fleet Sailor to instructor at SCSTC San Diego demonstrates the vital role of NETC and its subordinate commands in providing top-tier, hands-on training that prepares Sailors for the complex demands of modern naval warfare. Her leadership and dedication continue to inspire Sailors, ensuring that the Navy remains equipped with technically proficient and highly motivated personnel.

    For more information on the training programs offered by NETC and SCSTC, visit https://www.netc.navy.mil/

    MIL Security OSI –