Blog

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City gets set for a dazzling Diwali Day celebration

    Source: City of Leicester

    PREPARATIONS are well under way for Leicester’s annual Diwali Day celebration, which takes place on Thursday 31 October.

    Displays featuring more than 6,000 LED lights have been put in place along the city’s Golden Mile, and the Wheel of Light – a 35-metre illuminated ferris wheel which takes pride of place on Belgrave Road – will open this Saturday.

    The Diwali Day festivities will kick off at 3pm on 31 October, with the opening of the Diwali Village on Cossington Street Recreation Ground. A children’s funfair and arts and crafts will be among the activities on offer, as well as Indian food and drinks.

    Sponsored by Lidl GB, the Diwali Village will also feature a Fire Garden, offering a peaceful spot amid the hustle and bustle on the park.

    Leicester’s annual Rangoli exhibition will open at 4pm on Diwali Day. Brought to the Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre by the city council and Tilda, it will feature vibrant modern, and traditional Rangoli patterns, celebrating the ancient form of folk-art using bright powders, often seen on doorsteps at Diwali.

    Entertainment including Indian dancing will begin at 5pm on the park’s main stage, with performances organised by the Hindu Festival Council. At the same time, the Red Bull DJ truck will be providing music and energising the Belgrave Road. A family-friendly programme of street art and processions will also take place on the road throughout the evening.

    The finale to the celebrations will be a stunning firework display, starting at around 7.30pm.

    Cllr Vi Dempster, asst city mayor for culture said: “Diwali Day is always a special time in Leicester, and this year will be no exception. As usual, we are extending a warm welcome to everyone who wants to join us, and we look forward to sharing our celebrations with you.

    “We have a wide range of events taking place across the city in the coming weeks, and with lots of fantastic shops and restaurants to enjoy on the Golden Mile, you don’t need to wait for Diwali Day to visit us.”

    This year’s festivities are being sponsored by Malabar Gold & Diamonds, which recently opened its second UK showroom on Leicester’s Golden Mile. Mohammed Ziad, Head of UK Business Operations said: “We are absolutely delighted to be supporting Leicester’s Diwali Day event.

    “As a new business on the Golden Mile, we can’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate our arrival to the city than to give our backing to these wonderful celebrations for the festival of light.”

    Ranked as the 6th largest jewelry retailer globally, Malabar Gold & Diamonds boasts a vast network of more than 360 showrooms across the world, including those in Australia, the Middle East, the Far East, and India. Its other UK showroom is in the East Shopping Centre on London’s Green Street.

    Activities taking place in the build-up to Diwali Day include the opening of the Wheel of Light, an illuminated big wheel, which will be offering visitors a birds-eye view of the area from Saturday 12 October to 2 November.

    Leicester’s Attenborough Arts Centre will be hosting an evening of Hindustani classical music performed by Aayush Mohan and Sanju Sahai on Friday 18 October.

    And John Lewis Leicester has joined with the Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Leicester, to put on cultural performances in the Highcross store on Saturday 19 October; with the Haymarket Shopping Centre offering a puppet making working workshop, and performances from the Nupur Arts Dance Academy on the following Saturday – 25 October.

    A spectacular waterside event featuring a Waterfall of Light will take place at Leicester’s Outdoor Pursuits Centre (OPC) on the evening of Sunday 26 October. The Canal & River Trust, working in partnership with the OPC, will be holding community workshops to create a magical lights trial that will feature at the events, and activities on the water will be among the many on offer on the night.

    As part of Diwali celebrations at Curve Leicester, the Centre for Indian Classical Dance will be presenting a Ramayan storytelling workshop and performance on Saturday 26 October; and at Leicester Cathedral, visitors can enjoy its annual concert of Diwali Indian music, put on in partnership with the Sitar Music Society.

    A guide to all of the activities on offer is available from the Visit Leicester website.

    Diwali is an ancient festival celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains all over the world. Often described as the festival of lights, it celebrates light over darkness and good over evil. It’s a time for exchanging presents and wishing goodwill to all.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press Release – Army officer James Robinson lands in Alderney on a mission to help create a positive outlook – 10.10.24 Thursday 10 October 2024

    Source: Channel Islands – States of Alderney

    Press Release

    Date:  10th October 2024

    Army Officer James Robinson lands in Alderney on a mission to help create a positive outlook

    Alderney’s new Head of Operations has swapped a Colonel’s uniform for island life – and a mission to help foster a “positive and resilient” outlook for the community.

    James Robinson CBE has been finding his feet at Island Hall for a few weeks where he is bringing his experience to the States of Alderney’s operations.

    A key aspect of his job is to provide visionary leadership and build effective relationships with stakeholders including States Members, the community and business partners.

    “I wanted a role that allows me to get things done in a people-oriented way and with a touch of adventure,” he said.

    Coming from an Army family, his officer training at Sandhurst was followed by operational service in hotspots such as Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Kosovo, Sierra Leone, Iraq and Afghanistan. His last job in the Army was Head of the Brigade of Gurkhas during which time he was responsible for maintaining diplomatic relations with Nepal, India and Brunei.

    He left the Army as a full colonel after 36 years’ service since when he has undertaken a number of security and management consultancy projects in Riyadh, Kabul, Qatar, Jordan and for the UK G7 summit in Cornwall. He also managed his borough’s response to COVID for six months leading 3000 volunteers to support the local community.

    “I am here to help create a positive and resilient future for Alderney while seeking to protect its unique environment and heritage,” added Mr Robinson. “I had a hugely varied life in the Army that took me all around the world solving interesting challenges and I hope I can add value here.”

    Ends

    Media enquiries or for a high-res image:Alistair.Forrest2@gov.gg

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government to consult on five new Fisheries Management Plans

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Consultations open for five new draft Fisheries Management Plans to secure the sustainability of UK fish stocks

    Five new draft Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs) designed to improve the long-term sustainability of UK fish stocks have opened for consultation today, securing the health of the UK fishing industry which depends on them (Thursday 10 October).    

    The draft plans, which have been developed following input from the fishing industry, provide the policies and evidence required to support fish stocks and a healthy fishing sector for generations to come.  The formal public  consultations offering the fishing industry and other stakeholders a further chance to shape the plans before they are finalised. The consultations reflect feedback from stakeholders, with fewer documents and stakeholder questions, reducing the level of work needed to contribute. 

    The plans cover North Sea and Channel sprat (developed jointly with the Scottish Government and covering English and Scottish waters), Cockle, Queen scallop, Southern North Sea and Channel skates and rays, and Southern North Sea demersal non-quota species. Consultations will run for 14 weeks, ending on 19 January 2025. Each plan is tailored to the species, type of fishing and location – which is why working with the groups and communities that understand and use these fisheries is so important. 

    Proposals in the plans will help deliver sustainable fish stocks, supporting the UK fishing industry and delivering growth in coastal communities for generations to come.   

    FMPs will play a crucial role in supporting long-term sustainability of fishing businesses and delivering growth in coastal communities, restoring and protecting nature, and enhancing food security. They are recognised internationally as the gold standard in managing fisheries 

    UK Fisheries Minister Daniel Zeichner said:  

    Fisheries Management Plans are vital for securing the long-term sustainability of our fish stocks, and the fishing industry that relies on them.  

    These consultations give fishermen the chance to have their say on those plans, and for us to draw on the expertise of those on quaysides around the country. 

    Many opportunities lie ahead for our fishing sector, and this government is committed to making the most of them to ensure the industry can best contribute to our country’s food security and economic growth.  

    Mike Cohen, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations, said: 

    The FMP approach is positive, collaborative and forward-looking: exactly what we need to support sustainable food production from the sea and growth in coastal communities.  

    Expanding this ambition to new stocks in these latest consultations is a valuable step towards comprehensively modernising British fisheries management. The proposal to amend the deadlines for completing the FMP project is also deeply sensible.  

    The first round of Plans showed how much effort is required to develop them. Allowing sufficient time to complete such essential work with the care that it deserves shows that stakeholders have been listened to and will be warmly welcomed by everyone who wants to see FMPs succeed.

    In addition to publishing the new draft plans, and after engaging extensively with stakeholders, Defra has published the mixed flatfish FMP, following consultation last year. 

    The published plan reflects technical issues raised in the public consultation including restarting the sole survey in the Thames area and implementing minimum conservation reference size for lemon sole, turbot and brill in area 7.d.  

    Alongside the FMP consultations, Defra and the fisheries policy authorities in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have jointly launched a public consultation into amending deadlines for producing further FMPs as set out in the Joint Fisheries Statement.  This will be a shorter consultation, closing on 21 November.

    The consultation proposes amending the publication deadlines for five Defra-led plans to the end of 2025, for 29 Scottish Government, Defra and DAERA jointly-led plans to the end of 2026, and for one Welsh Government-led plan to the end of 2028.  Some additional technical amendments are proposed. 

    The proposed new deadlines will help to ensure that there is adequate time for the fishing sector and wider stakeholders to feed into the development of the FMPs, and for their views to be reflected as part of the co-design process.   

    Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands Mairi Gougeon said: 

    The revised timeline to deliver the remaining Fisheries Management Plans proposed by the four administrations will help to ensure that the fishing industry and others impacted by these proposals can play a meaningful role in developing them.  

    Work is ongoing to develop the Scottish-led Fisheries Management Plans for UK waters. The Scottish Government will continue to engage to ensure that FMPs are fit for purpose, supporting sustainable fishing and our marine environment and ultimately benefiting Scotland’s fishing industry and coastal communities.

    Wales’ Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said:  

    I am pleased to be launching a consultation with the other UK fisheries policy authorities (FPAs). The proposed changes will enable the FPAs to produce high-quality, comprehensive and robust FMPs that will achieve the long-term aim of sustainably managed fisheries. I now look forward to hearing views on the proposals we have set out. 

    Northern Ireland Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir MLA, said:   

    The development of fisheries management plans provides an important opportunity for Northern Ireland fisheries management, by enabling us to draw on the best available science and the expertise of our fishers and other stakeholders, to ensure that our fish stocks are healthy and sustainable into the long term.  

    I am committed to continuing engagement with all stakeholders likely to be impacted by the plans which my department has responsibility for. It is essential that the plans are fit for purpose and can deliver a thriving, sustainable fishing industry for Northern Ireland whilst improving the marine environment.

    Further information

    • The Joint Fisheries Statement currently lists 43 fisheries management plans. FMPs are intended to help restore or maintain stocks at sustainable levels 

    • The sprat plan was prepared jointly with the Scottish Government and covers sprat fisheries in English and Scottish waters of the North Sea and English Channel. The other 4 plans cover English waters.  

    • The five FMP consultations will run for 14 weeks, ending at 23:59 on 19 January 2025.   

    • The JFS consultation will run for six weeks, starting at 10.00 on 10 October and ending at 23.59 on 21 November.  

    Draft Fisheries Management Plans  

    The draft plans will deliver our obligations as set out in the Joint Fisheries Statement and the England Environmental Improvement Plan. They cover  

    • Cockle  
    • Queen scallop  
    • North Sea and Channel sprat (covering English waters and Scottish waters)  
    • Southern North Sea and Channel skates and rays  
    • Southern North Sea demersal non-quota species  

    More information about the Fisheries Management Programme can be found in the Fisheries Management Programme blog.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Alerts Public to Charity Scams in Wake of Hurricane Helene

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

    SAN DIEGO – United States Attorney Tara McGrath issued a public safety alert today advising the public to be vigilant to hurricane relief fraud in the wake of powerful hurricanes causing devastation on the East Coast.

    “During times of crisis, be vigilant, because not all who ask for help have good intentions,” McGrath said. “Be sure to protect yourself by verifying before you donate to ensure your generous support reaches those truly in need.”

    Hurricane Milton is heading for Florida now, less than a week after Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend Region on Sept. 26 and quickly caused major devastation there and across states including Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and others. As we have seen in the wake of previous national disasters, fraudsters will target victims of the storm along with citizens across the country who want to do what they can to assist individuals affected by the storm. Unfortunately, criminals exploit disasters for their own gain by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating deceiving websites designed to solicit contributions.

    The public should exercise diligence before giving contributions to anyone soliciting donations or individuals offering to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene. Solicitations can originate from phone calls, texts, social media, e-mail, door-to-door collections, flyers, mailings, and other similar methods. Before making a donation to benefit victims of Hurricane Helene, individuals should adhere to certain guidelines, including:

    • Make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.
    • Do not be pressured into making contributions as reputable charities do not use such tactics.
    • Do not respond to any unsolicited communications (e.g., e-mails and texts), and never click links contained within those messages because they may be targeting your personal information, to include bank and credit card account information, and other identifiers such as dates of birth and social security numbers.
    • Rather than clicking on a purported link to a charity, verify its legitimacy by utilizing various Internet-based resources that may assist in confirming whether the organization is a valid charity.
    • Beware of organizations with copy-cat names similar to, but not exactly the same as, those of reputable charities.
    • Avoid cash donations if possible. Pay by credit card or write a check directly to the charity. Do not make checks payable to individuals.
    • Know that legitimate charities do not normally solicit donations via money transfer services, and their website will normally end in .org rather than .com.
    • Be cautious of e-mails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files because the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.

    The U.S. Department of Justice established the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) in the wake of Hurricane Katrina to deter, investigate, and prosecute fraud in the wake of disasters. More than 50 federal, state, and local agencies participate in the NCDF, which reminds the public to be aware of and report any instances of alleged fraudulent activity related to relief operations and funding for victims. Complaints of fraud may be reported online at http://www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm. Complaints may also be reported to the NCDF at (866) 720-5721, a hotline that is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Letter to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Letter from the Independent Reconfiguration Panel Chair, Sir Norman Williams, to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, the Rt Hon Wes Streeting MP.

    Documents

    Letter from the IRP Chair to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care

    Request an accessible format.
    If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email IRPINFO@dhsc.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

    Details

    The Independent Reconfiguration Panel (IRP) Chair’s letter to the Secretary of State formally requests an introductory meeting to discuss the IRP’s work and approach to the ministerial intervention powers over the reconfiguration of NHS services which came into force via the Health and Care Act 2022.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 October 2024

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI China: PBOC and MOF Joint Working Group Holds its First Official Meeting

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    In order to implement the guidelines of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, as well as the requirement put forward at the Central Financial Work Conference to enrich the toolbox of monetary policy by gradually increasing the purchase and sale of government bonds in the central bank’s open market operations, the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) and the Ministry of Finance (MOF) have established a joint working group. Its first official meeting was held recently. Xuan Changneng, Deputy governor of the PBOC and Liao Min, Vice Minister of Finance attended and addressed the meeting. At the meeting, both sides highly recognized their previous close cooperation in buying and selling government bonds by the central bank. They also established the mechanism for the operation of the working group, and exchanged opinions on issues such as the operation of the bond market. Both agreed that the central bank’s buying and selling of government bonds is an important means to enrich the monetary toolbox and strengthen the liquidity management. Moving forward, both sides should strike a balance between development and security, and keep on promoting policy coordination. They should continuously improve relevant institutional arrangements, regulate the bond market and maintain its stable development, so as to provide a favourable market environment for the central bank to buy and sell government bonds. Officials from relevant departments of the PBOC and the MOF also attended the meeting.

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2024年10月09日

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Open Market Operations No.199 [2024]

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    Announcement on Open Market Operations No.199 [2024]

    (Open Market Operations Office, October 10, 2024)

    In order to keep liquidity adequate at a reasonable level in the banking system, the People’s Bank of China conducted reverse repo operations in the amount of RMB150 billion through quantity bidding at a fixed interest rate on October 10, 2024.

    Details of the Reverse Repo Operations

    Maturity

    Volume

    Rate

    7 days

    RMB150 billion

    1.50%

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2024年10月10日

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Multilingual NSW Academy launch invests in State’s diversity

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 10 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Minister for Multiculturalism


    The Minns Labor Government is investing $7.5 million into Multilingual NSW which will deliver the new Multilingual NSW Academy for translators and interpreters to further strengthen NSW’s linguistic diversity and government services.

    The Multilingual NSW Academy will support the development and sustainability of translating and interpreting services across the State and fulfil a 2024-25 Budget commitment.

    The Academy will explore new opportunities for partnerships and collaborations with leading training organisations, including University of New South Wales, Macquarie University, Western Sydney University and TAFE NSW. The Academy aims to increase the specialist and digital competency of Multicultural NSW’s more-than 1,000 language professionals by providing them with skills to work more effectively on NSW Government assignments.

    Digital uplift through technology and training will be a key feature of the Academy supported by an investment in new technology. Additionally, the Academy will embrace the customer-centric way of working as championed by the Department of Customer Service.

    At a recent event to recognise the work of NSW Government translators and interpreters and launch the new Multilingual NSW academy, three long serving Multicultural NSW employees were recognised for their 40-year professional commitment to their communities.

    Polish translator Czeslaw Olechnowicz, Hindi interpreter Neena Sinha and Thai translator and interpreter Songsri Foran were recognised with medals to commemorate their service.

    Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:

    “Translators and interpreters have a crucial role in ensuring everyone in NSW has access to important information and services, which is why we’re investing in our people.”

    “Multilingual NSW is focusing on building the skills and capabilities of our translators and interpreters so that language is no longer a barrier to our multicultural community accessing government services.”

    “This significant investment delivers on the government’s plan to build strong, diverse communities and a better NSW for everyone.”

    Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

    “With almost 1 in 3 people living in NSW born overseas and more than 280 languages spoken in homes across the state, it is essential we deliver the resources and services our communities need to stay connected.”

    “We are working on a Digital Inclusion Strategy which puts people at the centre of how we roll out technological innovations and develop solutions which focus on diversity and accessibility and bridge the digital divide.”

    “This digital funding will support the rollout of new technology which will support more effective translation and interpreting services to benefit our linguistically diverse residents.”

    “This is about delivering digital for people, with the needs of the community being considered at every step.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Open Market Business No.6 [2024]

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    Announcement on Open Market Business No.6 [2024]

    (Open Market Operations Office, October 10, 2024)

    To implement the requirements of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China on “establishing a long-term mechanism to enhance the internal stability of the capital market” and promote the healthy and stable development of the capital market, the PBOC decides to set up Securities, Funds and Insurance companies Swap Facility (SFISF) to support eligible securities, funds and insurance companies to use their assets including bonds, stock ETFs and holdings of CSI 300 constituent stocks as collateral in exchange for highly liquid assets such as government bonds and central bank bills from the PBOC. The initial scale of the swap operation will be set at RMB500 billion, with possible expansions in the future. As from today, applications are accepted from eligible securities, funds and insurance companies.

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2024年10月10日

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Audience with members of the Austrian Ski Association, on the occasion of the World Ski Championships 2025

    Source: The Holy See

    This morning, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father Francis received in audience the members of the Austrian Ski Association ( Ski Austria ), on the occasion of the World Ski Championships 2025, to be held in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Austria, from 4 to 16 February.
    The following is the Pope’s greeting to those present at the audience:
     
    Greeting of the Holy Father
    Dear Msgr. Lackner,
    Your Excellency,
    Dear athletes, dear friends,
     
    I warmly greet you, who have come to the Vatican from Austria to meet the Successor of Peter.
    Your homeland, rich in majestic mountains, offers excellent possibilities for alpine sports. Your association, Ski Austria , founded in 1905, aims to promote the various skiing activities nationwide, especially the athletes in their outstanding performances. I would like to encourage all of you to always cultivate in your endeavours the values inherent to sport: such as constancy, sincerity, friendship, solidarity. Constancy, sincerity, friendship, solidarity. In this way you make your contribution to a more fraternal world, because sport creates brotherhood, in order to sing, amidst the wonders of nature in your country, the hymn of praise to the Creator.
    May the Lord accompany you and the Guardian Angels protect you from every danger. I pray for you and you, pray for me.
    (Words in German) Ich bete für Sie, beten Sie für mich: Diese Arbeit ist nicht einfach! Vielen Dank.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Video: Innovation Lab – Energy I Corps

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Select PNNL staff and Washington State University Tri-Cities students participate in entrepreneurial training called Energy I-Corp, funded by the Department of Energy. PNNL research teams are paired with WSU student teams to create a plan to take a PNNL-developed technology to market.

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

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: FEMA Administrator Deanna Criswell Daily Press Briefing – October 9th, 2024

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell hosts a virtual daily briefing to discuss FEMA’s actions to prepare for Hurricane Milton and ongoing response to Hurricane Helene.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jtty1eO1guQ

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: Sec. Pete Buttigieg: We have personnel on the ground for Hurricane.

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    This storm is catastrophic. We have hundreds of DOT personnel on the ground supporting life-saving preparations for Hurricane Milton, as well as carrying out response and recovery efforts for communities impacted by Hurricane Helene.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBsxNJ_O2f4

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: Reporters Without Borders 1 year of war in Gaza: How do journalists report the news at the risk of their lives?

    Source: Reporters Without Borders (RSF) (Video Release)

    ‘If you allow it to happen to Palestinian journalists today, then it will happen to you tomorrow’ – Youmna El Sayed, Al Jazeera’s correspondent in Gaza

    It’s been one year since the start of the war in Gaza and practicing journalism has become nearly impossible in the Palestinian enclave. Only a handful of men and women continue to do so, risking their lives even after their fellow journalists have been forced into exile or killed by the Israeli army. In this brand new documentary, three Gazan refugee journalists tell RSF about their experiences.

    In just one year, over 130 Palestinian journalists have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza. This violence has been met with widespread impunity.

    The massacre of journalists in Gaza must stop.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5RGLIT2IXE

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: Lebanon: humanitarian crisis of catastrophic proportions – Press Conference | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Press conference by Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, and Imran Riza, UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Lebanon, briefing reporters on the country.

    The United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, today (9 Oct) said, “Lebanon finds itself facing a conflict and a humanitarian crisis of catastrophic proportions,” and called for a “realistic roadmap for the implementation by both sides of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701.”

    Briefing from Beirut together with the Humanitarian Coordinator for Lebanon, Imran Riza, Hennis-Plasschaert said, “unrelenting bombardment is now part and parcel of daily life in Lebanon, with the latest blasts not even 30 minutes ago. Far too many people are paying an unimaginable price with over 2,000 killed, many more wounded and hundreds of thousands displaced.”

    Meanwhile, she continued, Hezbollah, “continues to launch rockets and missiles into Israel, preventing tens of thousands of Israelis from returning home.”

    The Special Coordinator said it was “clear that 7th October changed everything, including the threat perception in Israel,” but stressed that “a continuation of the death and destruction we have seen so far will not, cannot bring about safety or security.”

    At the end of the day, she said, “it is the lack or non-implementation even of Resolution 1701 over the past 18 years that led to today’s harsh reality.”

    Riza for his part said, “healthcare and frontline workers have come under attack, as have civil defence centres and water supply systems, pushing essential services to the brink of collapse. The killing of over 100 paramedics, healthcare workers, and public servants impairs Lebanon’s emergency response capacity.”

    He said, “this must stop. Even wars have rules.”

    Responding to a journalist’s question, the Humanitarian Coordinator said, “the trauma, the fear, the anxiety here is very much about Gaza, whether we go on that route, whether that’s where it’s going right now,” adding that “the lessons are to have member states really exert everything they can, on the one hand towards the ceasefire,” but in the meantime, “respecting international humanitarian law, respecting protection of civilians, respecting that, protecting humanitarian workers, frontline workers and the like. And that is what we really need at this time.”

    Asked about whether 1701 was still relevant, Hennis-Plasschaert said, “the question is not whether 1701 is still relevant. The question is how to implement it and how come it was not implemented in the past 18 years. And therefore, I am pushing, or hinting, or suggesting that a serious discussion on the implementation and enforcement mechanisms will take place.”

    “What we would like to avoid,” she continued, is “a period of relatively calm or return to the cessation of hostilities, and then after ten, 15, 18 years, we have a similar situation as we are facing today.”

    More than 2,000 people have been killed in Lebanon in the past year, including at least 100 children and 300 women. At least 1 million people have been directly affected, many of them displaced – often multiple times — enduring the loss of loved ones, homes, livelihoods and their sense of security.

    More than 600,000 people are internally displaced across the country – over half of them women and girls. At least 350,000 children have been displaced in total. Most children remain out of school, with the start of the new year postponed to 4 November as 75 percent of the country’s public schools have been converted into shelters.

    At least 185,000 people have sought refuge in 1,000 shelters – 80 percent of which are already at capacity.

    And over 300,000 people have fled to neighbouring countries, such as Syria, and many of them are also moving to Iraq and Türkiye as well.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EDXZ26j7Kk

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £57 million paid to families to help with food shop

    Source: Scottish Government

    People urged to check and use Best Start Foods card  

    Families getting a Scottish benefit to help them buy healthy foods are being urged to check their balance on their prepaid card. 

    Best Start Foods, a payment of up to £42.40 every four weeks, helps eligible pregnant women, parents, families and carers with children under the age of three to buy healthy foods from a range of supermarkets, small shops and online stores.  

    Since its launch in 2019, over £57 million has been paid to over 86,000 parents and carers. 

    The majority of people say it is clear how to use the card, it has helped them to buy milk or healthy food and have been able to use it without any difficulty, according to a recent survey.  

    People that have not yet activated their card or don’t use it regularly could be missing out on money that can help pay for healthy foods. Social Security Scotland continue to contact those getting Best Start Foods via text message to alert them to balances available to spend on their cards.  

    People can apply for the payment as soon as they know they are pregnant, during pregnancy and up to when their child turns three.  

    The removal of income limits earlier this year also means even more people can now get the payment and are being urged to check if they are eligible.   

    Speaking at a visit Edinburgh Community Food during Challenge Poverty Week, Social Justice Secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville, said:   

    “We are determined to eradicate child poverty and reduce health inequalities in Scotland and Best Start Foods, part of the five family payments, is part of a package to support this. 

    “We want to make sure people know about, and get, all the financial help they are entitled to. This is particularly relevant during the continuing cost of living crisis. 

    “I’m urging anyone who has a Best Start Foods card to look it out, make sure it’s activated and check the balance for money to help pay for their food shop.  

    “If cards are lost, or people are unsure of how to use them, support is available to help them use their card. The card works the same as any chip and pin card and can be used in many supermarkets, small shops and online.   

    “The Scottish Government removed income limits earlier this year, so I would also urge anyone who has not yet applied for Best Start Foods to check if they are eligible.” 

    Brenda Black, Chief Executive Officer at Edinburgh Community Food, added: 

    Working together with Social Security Scotland and community partners we help mothers and (guardians) check their eligibility and to access their money through the handy Best Start Foods Pre-Paid Card providing a dignified way to spend their payment on healthier foods to enjoy with their growing family.  

    “Edinburgh Community Food plays a key role in supporting & nourishing futures for expecting mothers and their children. 

     “We are determined to use every creative way possible to support their access to nourishing food during the first 2001 days, which are crucial for every child’s growth and development.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Promising progress on eye health in African region, but challenges remain

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    BRAZZAVILLE, Congo (Republic of the), October 10, 2024/APO Group/ —

    Despite important progress towards integrating eye health into primary health care services in African countries, a dire shortage of financial resources, combined with the concentration of scarce human resources in urban areas and low community awareness, continues to threaten the gains.

    One in every six blind people globally live in Africa, along with 26 million others grappling with some degree of visual impairment. Yet statistics show that despite the onerous burden, only 14% of people who need cataract surgery receive it, while more than 80% of people with shortsightedness receive no treatment. The comparative figure for North America, Australasia, western Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, meanwhile, is lower than 10%.

    In addition, only 12% of people in Africa who need glasses or surgical interventions to address blurred vision will receive the necessary care, at significant economic cost to countries. The global estimated costs of uncorrected refractive errors and cataracts is US$14.3 billion annually.

    World Health Organization (WHO) in the African Region is recording a decrease in vision loss due to Vitamin A deficiency, onchocerciasis and trachoma, but emerging eye health challenges are rising. These are related to ageing populations, unhealthy lifestyles, and noncommunicable diseases.

    “The focus on eye care is critical, given the multiple positive impacts of good vision on all aspects of life, from overall well-being to academic achievements. The contribution to economic growth is also significant, raising the urgency of building on the gains already made, while addressing the emerging challenges,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, on World Sight Day today.

    WHO’s current focus in the region is to support countries to integrate eye health services at primary care level, as part of universal health coverage.  However, with severely limited human resources, the achievement of Integrated People-Centred Eye Care demands innovative interventions, dedicated community engagement, and cross-sectoral coordination of services.

    Over the past two years, WHO has provided technical support to six African countries, including Ethiopia, Ghana, Niger, Nigeria, Somalia and Zambia. The work began with the completion of national situational analyses, followed by the development of strategic plans and monitoring frameworks. Operational planning and costing of interventions and resources was also completed, specifically in relation to workforce needs, and the integration of eye care indicators into existing health information systems frameworks.

    To support countries towards the achievement of the global target of increasing the number of people with access to appropriate spectacles (known as effective coverage of refractive error or eREC) to 40% by 2030, WHO launched the SPECS 2030 initiative. Still in its initial stages, Liberia and Mozambique have begun implementation.

    Meanwhile, WHO also launched a free self-assessment tool designed to support countries to promote healthy habits and raise eye care awareness. Launched last year, the WHOeyes tool, available in multiple languages, is u used to check visual acuity, while also providing educational messaging.

    Other support has included the dissemination of strategic documents such as the World report on vision, which outlines WHO’s recommendations for integrated, people-centred eye care, and the launch of the WHO’s Eye Care in Health Systems: Guide for action.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Global: What Israel and its neighbours want now as all-out war looms in the Middle East – podcast

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Gemma Ware, Host, The Conversation Weekly Podcast, The Conversation

    The Middle East is perilously close to all-out war. In the year since the October 7 Hamas-led attacks on Israel, millions of people have been displaced from their homes in Gaza, Israel, the West Bank and now Lebanon, and tens of thousands killed.

    After Israel killed Hassan Nasrallah, leader of Iranian-backed militia Hezbollah, Iran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles against Israel on October 1. As the world waits to see how Israel will retaliate, Israel’s military continues to attack Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and in Beirut.

    In this episode of The Conversation Weekly podcast, we speak to two experts from the Middle East, Mireille Rebeiz and Amnon Aran, to get a sense of the strategic calculations being made by both Israel and its neighbours at this frightening moment for the region.

    Mireille Rebeiz is the chair of Middle East studies at Dickinson College in Pennsylvania in the US and an expert on Hezbollah. She says that since launching its manifesto in 1985 Hezbollah has always positioned itself “in opposition to the existence of the state of Israel”.

    It affirmed the dedication to the Palestinian cause. It affirmed its commitment to the Iranian revolution and the Shi’ite ideology.

    Rebeiz says Iran’s military goals are completely aligned with Hezbollah’s and traces them back to the US’s destabilisation of Iraq.

    When Iraq fell into a full chaos and war (it) allowed for Iran to meddle into Iraq and gave a big voice to the Shiite conservative voices.

    Then followed the 2011 Syrian civil war, in which Hezbollah stepped in to defend the regime of Bashar al-Assad.

    It’s a domino effect – it’s expansion from Iran to Iraq to Syria to Lebanon. And this is clearly visible in Iran’s military goals, which is ultimately the expansion of the Iranian ideology in the region. Honestly, at this point, I would say there is an attempt to hide behind the Palestinian cause to achieve that goal.

    Israel’s choices

    Amnon Aran is a professor of international relations at City St George’s, University of London, in the UK, and an expert in Israeli foreign policy. Aran says that for Israel, the past 12 months have been described as an “existential moment”, which has informed the war in the Gaza Strip and now Lebanon.

    When the question came about how to respond to this existential threat, it was very much from the prism of what I called elsewhere, a form of entrenchment, which really means that Israel only makes peace in exchange for peace. Any diplomatic arrangement has to be dependent upon and subordinate to a military advantageous balance of power towards Israel and that the Palestinians in the West Bank, and now in the Gaza Strip, would remain under Israeli occupation for the foreseeable future.

    Aran says there is fierce debate in Israel about what to do now. One side follows the line of thinking of the former Israeli prime minister, Nafthali Bennett, who took to X in early October to say that: “Israel now has its greatest opportunity in 50 years to change the face of the Middle East.” This camp is arguing that with Hezbollah weakened, this is the moment to attack Iran’s nuclear facilities.

    On the other side, Aran says, are those in the military establishment arguing against attacking Israel’s nuclear facilities and instead focus on weakening Hezbollah as much as possible. This camp’s reasoning is that:

    After a year of being in a prolonged and very difficult conflict, the next question is you are actually starting a war presumably on five or six fronts, including a very vast country, 90 million people, Iran, with a very rich history, and you are actually entering into a very new phase, which could become very prolonged.

    To hear the full interviews with Mireille Rebeiz and Amnon Aran, listen to The Conversation Weekly podcast.


    This episode of The Conversation Weekly was produced by Mend Mariwany. Sound design was by Michelle Macklem, and our theme music is by Neeta Sarl. Gemma Ware is the executive producer.

    You can find us on Instagram at theconversationdotcom or via email. You can also subscribe to The Conversation’s free daily email here.

    Listen to The Conversation Weekly via any of the apps listed above, download it directly via our RSS feed or find out how else to listen here.

    Amnon Aran does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. Mireille Rebeiz is affiliated with the American Red Cross.

    ref. What Israel and its neighbours want now as all-out war looms in the Middle East – podcast – https://theconversation.com/what-israel-and-its-neighbours-want-now-as-all-out-war-looms-in-the-middle-east-podcast-240952

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2024-44 DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL LAUNCHES ONLINE RESOURCE FOR PEOPLE SUPPORTING THOSE WITH SERIOUS MENTAL-HEALTH OR SUBSTANCE-ABUSE ISSUES

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    2024-44 DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL LAUNCHES ONLINE RESOURCE FOR PEOPLE SUPPORTING THOSE WITH SERIOUS MENTAL-HEALTH OR SUBSTANCE-ABUSE ISSUES

    Posted on Oct 9, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

    KA ʻOIHANA O KA LOIO KUHINA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    ANNE LOPEZ

    ATTORNEY GENERAL

    LOIO KUHINA

    News Release 2024-44

     

    DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL LAUNCHES ONLINE RESOURCE FOR PEOPLE SUPPORTING THOSE WITH SERIOUS MENTAL-HEALTH OR SUBSTANCE-ABUSE ISSUES

     

    Webpage is Designed to Help Practitioners and Loved Ones with Assisted Community Treatment Legal Process

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    October 9, 2024

    HONOLULU – The Department of the Attorney General has launched a webpage for those who seek the department’s help with filing assisted community treatment (ACT) petitions in family court, to provide treatment for those with serious mental illnesses or substance abuse that can render them dangerous to themselves or others.

    “Assisted community treatment is a holistic legal framework intended to support individuals with severe mental health and substance abuse issues in breaking free from detrimental cyclical patterns in which they episodically become dangerous to themselves or others,” said Special Assistant to the Attorney General Dave Day. “The Department of the Attorney General looks forward to working with practitioners and the people of Hawaiʻi who seek to help their patients and loved ones through ACT.”

    In 2013, the Hawaiʻi Legislature established the ACT law with the intent of providing support for someone who has a mental illness or drug addiction, who has demonstrated that without such support they will likely become unsafe in the community, and who may have difficulty participating in treatment. ACT is based in the community and is founded upon a family court-ordered treatment plan issued after a petition is filed. An ACT petition may be sought by a concerned parent, grandparent, spouse, sibling, adult child, reciprocal beneficiary, service provider, case manager, outreach worker, or mental health professional.

    In 2024, the Legislature provided that the Department of the Attorney General generally shall assist with the preparation and filing of ACT petitions and with the presentation of the case at any related court proceeding, although such assistance may be declined. The department’s ACT webpage includes forms and instructions that will facilitate this process, including legal definitions, forms and ways of submitting the necessary information to the department.

    “Assisted community treatment is a practice of providing community-based services to support people who have had difficulty engaging with treatment for their serious mental health conditions. ACT can improve a sense of personal engagement in treatment, support recovery in the community, and help people who are caught in a revolving cycle of hospitalization, incarceration, and homelessness,” said Michael K. Champion, M.D., Senior Advisor for Mental Health and the Justice System to Governor Josh Green, M.D. “The Department of the Attorney General’s assistance with the ACT petitioning process and court proceedings is an important step in lowering barriers and improving access to needed care.”

    “In Hawaiʻi, there have been a number of successful ACT cases with individuals suffering from severe mental illness. Having an involved treatment team is critical to the success of each of these cases,” said Deputy Director of Behavioral Health Marian Tsuji. “The Department of Health is working to expand use of the law across the state.”

    “Through an ACT order, individuals who do not realize the severity of their own illness, as well as the risk that treatment noncompliance may pose to themselves or others, are given the opportunity to be treated in the least restrictive setting by providers committed to their care,” said Deputy Attorney General Ian Tsuda, one of Hawaiʻi’s leading ACT practitioners. “The Department of the Attorney General recognizes that many in Hawaiʻi face challenges with such illnesses and are committed to supporting those seeking help for individuals who need this level of care.”

    The webpage can be found on the Department of the Attorney General’s website at https://ag.hawaii.gov/act_petition_info/. The webpage can also be accessed from the Department’s webpage in the “Division Links” column or the “Quick Links” pull-down menu.

    ###

     

    Media Contacts:

    Dave Day

    Special Assistant to the Attorney General

    Office: 808-586-1284

    Email: [email protected]

    Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

     

    Toni Schwartz
    Public Information Officer
    Hawai‘i Department of the Attorney General
    Office: 808-586-1252
    Cell: 808-379-9249
    Email: [email protected]

    Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: $52 Million Multistate Settlement with Marriott for Data Breach of Starwood Guest Reservation Database

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    RELEASE: $52 Million Multistate Settlement with Marriott for Data Breach of Starwood Guest Reservation Database

    Posted on Oct 9, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS

    KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

    OFFICE OF CONSUMER PROTECTION

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR | KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    NADINE Y. ANDO

    DIRECTOR | KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

    THOMAS MANA MORIARTY

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

              

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    October 9, 2024

    $52 Million Multistate Settlement with Marriott for Data Breach of Starwood Guest Reservation Database

     

    HONOLULU — The state of Hawai‘i Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Office of Consumer Protection announced today that a coalition of 50 attorneys general has reached a settlement with Marriott International, Inc. as the result of an investigation into a large multiyear data breach of one of its guest reservation databases. The Federal Trade Commission, which has been coordinating closely with the states throughout this investigation, has reached a parallel settlement with Marriott. Under the settlement with the attorneys general, Marriott has agreed to strengthening its data security practices using a dynamic risk-based approach, provide certain consumer protections, and make a $52 million payment to states. The state of Hawai‘i will receive$438,045.00 from the settlement.

    Marriott acquired Starwood in 2016 and took control of the Starwood computer network within the same year. However, from July 2014 until September 2018, intruders in the system went undetected. This led to the breach of 131.5 million guest records pertaining to customers in the United States. The impacted records included contact information, gender, dates of birth, legacy Starwood Preferred Guest information, reservation information, and hotel stay preferences, as well as a limited number of unencrypted passport numbers and unexpired payment card information.

    Shortly after the breach of the Starwood database was announced, a coalition of 50 attorneys general launched a multistate investigation into the breach. Today’s settlement resolves allegations by the attorneys general that Marriott violated state consumer protection laws, personal information protection laws, and, where applicable, breach-notification laws by failing to implement reasonable data security measures and remediate data security deficiencies, particularly when attempting to use and integrate Starwood into its systems.

    “When companies choose to collect and store consumer data, they must take steps to secure it,” stated Executive Director of the Office of Consumer Protection, Mana Moriarty. “We will continue to hold businesses accountable for their failure to do so.”

    Under the terms of the settlement, Marriott has agreed to strengthen and continually improve its cybersecurity practices. Some of the specific measures include:

    • Implementation of a comprehensive Information Security Program. This includes new overarching security program mandates, such as incorporating zero-trust principles, regular security reporting to the highest levels within the company, including the Chief Executive Officer, and enhanced employee training on data handling and security.
    • Data minimization and disposal requirements, which will lead to less consumer data being collected and retained.
    • Specific security requirements with respect to consumer data, including component hardening, conducting an asset inventory, encryption, segmentation to limit an intruder’s ability to move across a system, patch management to ensure that critical security patches are applied in a timely manner, intrusion detection, user access controls, and logging and monitoring to keep track of movement of files and users within the network.
    • Increased vendor and franchisee oversight, with a special emphasis on risk assessments for “Critical IT Vendors,” and clearly outlined contracts with cloud providers.
    • In the future, if Marriott acquires another entity, it must timely further assess the acquired entity’s information security program and develop plans to address identified gaps or deficiencies in security as part of the integration into Marriott’s network.
    • An independent third-party assessment of Marriott’s information security program every two years for a period of 20 years for additional security oversight.

    These settlement terms are grounded in a well-developed risk-based approach in which Marriott not only needs to conduct an annual enterprise level risk assessment, but it must also perform risk analyses throughout the year for changes to security controls. Those ongoing risk assessments must address the criteria of “harm to others” – which would include potential harm to consumers.

    As part of the settlement, Marriott will give consumers specific protections, including a data deletion option, even if consumers do not currently have that right under state law. Marriott must offer multifactor authentication to consumers for their loyalty rewards accounts, such as Marriott Bonvoy, as well as reviews of those accounts if there is suspicious activity.

    Connecticut, Maryland, and Oregon as well as the District of Columbia, Illinois, Louisiana, Massachusetts, North Carolina, and Texas co-led the multistate investigation, assisted by the Executive Committee of Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Vermont, and were joined by Alaska, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Hawai‘i, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

    ###

    Media Contact:

    William Nhieu

    Communications Officer
    Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
    Email:
    [email protected]

    Phone: 808-586-7582

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release-ʻALALĀ BEGIN JOURNEY BACK TO THE WILD ON MAUI, Oct. 9, 2024

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release-ʻALALĀ BEGIN JOURNEY BACK TO THE WILD ON MAUI, Oct. 9, 2024

    Posted on Oct 9, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES 

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D. 
    GOVERNOR 

     

    DAWN CHANG 
    CHAIRPERSON 

     

    NEWS RELEASE 

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

    October 9, 2024

     

    ʻALALĀ BEGIN JOURNEY BACK TO THE WILD ON MAUI

    (MAKAWAO, MAUI) –In a significant milestone for the conservation of Hawaiʻi’s native birds, five ʻalalā (Native Hawaiian crow) were transferred last week, from the Maui Bird Conservation Center (MBCC) to a temporary field aviary on the slopes of Haleakalā. This marks the beginning of their adaptation period before their eventual release into the wild. MBCC is operated by San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.

    The ʻalalā, revered in Hawaiian culture and known for their intelligence, are the only surviving native crow species in Hawaiʻi.They are currently extinct in the wild. The birds will spend three to four weeks in their temporary aviary, carefully monitored by conservation teams, before being released into the Kīpahulu Forest Reserve. The site, on the leeward slopes of Haleakalā, was selected for its native vegetation and relative isolation, key factors in ensuring the birds’ survival​.

    The pilot release on Maui follows a few years of reintroduction efforts on Hawaiʻi Island, which had both successes and challenges. While those challenges ultimately resulted in the birds being brought back into human care, there were lessons learned and insights gained that will help in the future.

    “Even though ʻalalā have been gone from Maui Nui longer than Hawaiʻi Island, we are trying to do an experimental release here to see if we have enough forest for them to survive in and see if maybe this could be a steppingstone to eventually a bigger recovery effort on Hawaiʻi Island,” said Dr. Hanna Mounce, manager of the Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project(MFBRP).

    Two females and three males were bred in captivity and have spent the last 10 months in a social group. Conservation teams hope this close bond will help them thrive as they adjust to the forest. “When you put birds in a captive environment, even though you’re trying to give them enrichment and care for them the right way, they are not doing all the things they need to do in the wild. They have to relearn those behaviors that came generations before them,” said Mounce. Each bird is equipped with transmitters to track their movements after release.

    Before the birds were transferred to their new home by helicopter, staff from the MBCC and the MFBRP joined local hālau Nā Hanona Kūlike ʻO Piʻilani to conduct an emotional send-off. Its pule honored the ʻalalā as hulu kūpuna and sought to guide them through their journey.

    “We were letting them know we need them to be around to thrive. So if they thrive, we all thrive,” Kumu Kaponoʻai Molitau explained. He also acknowledged the significance of the conservationists’ work. “They’re caring for the voice of that ancestor, so that one day we can have many of those voices returned.”

     

    Like the conservationists, Molitau is invested in the long term efforts to restore ʻalalā. “I look forward to coming back in five years and seeing what that those voices sound like. I look forward to future generations here on Maui being a part of this program, so that we can all collectively understand that it is our kuleana, it’s our responsibility, but it’s also a very big honor to be a part of that responsibility.”

    In addition to San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and The Nature Conservancy are active partners in the reintroduction of ʻalalā on Maui.

     

    # # #

     

    RESOURCES 

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR) 

     

    HD video – ʻAlalā in MBCC aviary and sendoff ceremony (September 26 and October 3, 2024):

    https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/1017770469

     

    HD video – Dr. Hanna Mounce and Kumu Kaponoʻai Molitau SOTs (October 3, 2024):

    https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/1017762254

    (Transcription attached)

    Photographs – ʻAlalā in MBCC aviary (September 26, 2024):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/jo6ns7nl2rsks5070az1p/AInVp9C9VWJppJzvCISCHHA?rlkey=gme1g90ng4j4p2vxuegstz7bd&st=38s3wulu&dl=0

     

    Photographs – ʻAlala transfer ceremony (October 3, 2024):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/s5mvbm5noeey85k2vq63w/AH6cZScDQjWw11TTvcl6a98?rlkey=ocvbz96rjjkxdxsmy0im8l145&st=ls09c6mi&dl=0

     

     

    Media Contacts: 

    Patti Jette

    Communications Specialist

    808-587-0396

    [email protected] 

    Dan Dennison

    Communications Director

    808-587-0407

    [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 10.9.24

    Source: US State of California 2

    Oct 9, 2024

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Jennifer Troia, of Sacramento, has been appointed Director at the California Department of Social Services. Troia has served as Chief Deputy Director at the California Department of Social Services since 2020. She was a Principal Consultant for the Joint Legislative Budget Committee from 2018 to 2019. Troia was a Policy Advisor in the Office of California State Senate President pro Tempore Kevin de Leon from 2014 to 2017. She held several roles for the California State Senate Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review from 2009 to 2014, including Deputy Staff Director and Principal Consultant. Troia was a Principal Consultant for the California State Assembly Committee on Human Services from 2008 to 2009. She was Director of Advocacy at the California Court Appointed Special Advocate Association from 2006 to 2008. Troia was an Equal Justice Works Fellow and Attorney at the Youth Law Center from 2004 to 2006. She earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from the University of Florida. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $244,572. Troia is a Democrat.  

    Nathan Williams, of Washington, D.C., has been appointed Chief, Immigration Integration Branch of the Office of Equity at the California Department of Social Services. Williams has been Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Affairs at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security since September 2024. He held several roles at the National Security Council in the Executive Office of the President of the United States from 2023 and 2024, including Director for Refugees and Director for Hemispheric Migration. Williams was a Senior Policy Advisor in the Office of International Affairs at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security from 2022 to 2023. He served in several roles, including several overseas assignments, at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees from 2010 and 2022, including Senior Liaison Officer, Digital Case Management Officer, Protection Officer, Associate Field Officer, Associate Protection Officer and Associate Resettlement Officer. Williams was an Emergency Officer at the Office of Emergency Programmes of the United Nations Children’s Fund in 2015. He earned a Master of International Affairs degree from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Anthropology from Santa Clara University. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $142,008. Williams is a Democrat.

    Daphne Hunt, of Fair Oaks, has been appointed Chief Deputy Director at the California Department of Community Services and Development. Hunt has served as Deputy Director of Programs at the California Department of Community Services and Development since 2021. She was Deputy Secretary of Legislative Affairs at the California Health and Human Services Agency from 2019 to 2021. Hunt held several roles at the California State Assembly’s Human Services Committee from 2015 to 2019, including Chief Consultant and Senior Consultant. She held several roles at the California State Senate Office of Research from 2012 to 2015, including Deputy Director and Policy Consultant. She held several roles at SEIU Local 1000 from 2007 to 2012, including Senior Research Analyst and Research Analyst. Hunt earned a Master of Arts degree in Social Policy from Brandeis University, a Master of Science degree in Community Development from the University of California, Davis and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology and English Literature from the University of Iowa. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $176,808.  Hunt is a Democrat.  

    Roy Bucton, of Duarte, has been reappointed to the California State Independent Living Council, where he has served since 2021. Bucton has been an Independent Contractor and Producer for music and performance since 1983. He was a Disability Advocacy Coordinator for Painted Brain from 2021 to 2024. Bucton was Director and Founder of the Filipino Artists Network from 2001 to 2011. He is Chair of the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness Advisory Council and a member of the Board of Directors of Disability Rights California. Bucton earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in World Music from the California Institute of the Arts. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Bucton is registered without party preference.

    Susan DeMarois, of Sacramento, has been reappointed to the California State Independent Living Council, where she has served since 2022. DeMarois has been Director of the California Department of Aging since 2021. She was a Member of the Master Plan for Aging Stakeholder Advisory Committee from 2019 to 2020. DeMarois held several positions at the Alzheimer’s Association from 1999 and 2021, including Director of Public Policy and Advocacy, California Government Affairs Director and California State Policy Director. She was Assistant Director of Government and Community Relations at the University of California, Davis Health System from 2002 to 2009. DeMarois was Associate Director of Public Policy at LeadingAge California from 1993 to 1999. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts from California State University, Chico. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. DeMarois is a Democrat. 

    Ariana “Rian” Dindzans, of San Ramon, has been reappointed to the California State Independent Living Council, where they have served since 2023. Dindzans has been a Volunteer Writer and Outreach Representative for the Bay Area Outreach and Recreation Program since 2023. They have been a Research Assistant for Dr. Christina Chin-Newman at California State University, East Bay since 2023.  Dindzans is a member of the Disability Justice Club and the Bay Area Outreach and Recreation Program. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Dindzans is a Democrat. 

    Anisa Escobedo, of Eureka, has been reappointed to the California State Independent Living Council, where she has served since 2023. Escobedo has been Owner and Designer at Escobedo Design since 2016. She held several roles at Tri-County Independent Living from 2019 to 2024, including Systems Change & Special Projects Coordinator, Advocacy and Fund Development Coordinator and Advocacy & Outreach Specialist. Escobedo was Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer at the Arcata Chamber of Commerce in 2022. She was Executive Director of the Ravenna Chamber of Commerce in 2020. Escobedo is a member of Kiwanis International. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Escobedo is a Democrat.

    M. Lisa Hayes, of Bellflower, has been reappointed to the California State Independent Living Council, where she has served since 2016. Hayes has been Executive Director at Rolling Start Inc. since 2018. She held several positions at Molina Healthcare between 2007 and 2017, including Associate Vice President of Managed Long-Term Services and Supports, Director of Disability and Senior Access Services, Manager of Senior Disability Programs and Manager of Provider Contract Review. Hayes was a Project and Contract Manager at United Health PacifiCare from 2000 to 2007. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Leadership from Biola University. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Hayes is a Democrat. 

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: News story: What does the Employment Rights Bill mean for you?

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    Our Employment Rights Bill will ban exploitative zero-hours contracts, end fire and rehire, and introduce basic employment rights from day one.

    We’re introducing new workplace rights to end unfair employment practices and help deliver economic growth.  

    Our Employment Rights Bill will ban exploitative zero-hours contracts, end fire and rehire, and introduce basic employment rights from day one – like paternity and parental leave, and protection from unfair dismissal. It also introduces right to bereavement leave from day one. 

    It will replace out-of-date employment laws, helping to boost pay and productivity with legislation fit for a modern economy.  

    This is the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation, and a significant step towards delivering this government’s plan to make work pay.   

    Basic rights from day one  

    We’re putting in place measures to give employees basic rights from their first day in a new job.   

    Our new Bill will give greater protection against unfair dismissal from day one, ensuring that the feeling of security at work is no longer a luxury for the privileged few.  

    We are also bringing in a new statutory probation period for companies’ new hires. This will allow for a proper assessment of an employee’s suitability for a role as well as reassuring employees that they have rights from day one. We will consult on the length of the period; the government’s preference is 9 months. 

    The Bill will establish rights to bereavement and paternity and parental leave from day one, and strengthen statutory sick pay, removing the lower earnings limit for all workers and cutting out the waiting period before sick pay kicks in.

    Our new Bill and measures will:   

    • Give protection against unfair dismissal from day one, while allowing employers to operate probation periods

    • Establish parental and bereavement leave from day one  

    • End exploitative zero hour contracts   

    • End unscrupulous practices of fire and rehire and fire and replace  

    • Make flexible working the norm where practical  

    • Deliver stronger dismissal protections for pregnant women and new mothers  

    • Establish a new Fair Work Agency with new powers to enforce holiday pay  

    • Strengthen statutory sick pay

    Ending unfair practices   

    Our new laws will end exploitative zero hours contracts and unscrupulous fire and rehire practices.   

    While workers can stay on zero hours contracts if they’d prefer to, our new Bill means they’ll have the right to a guaranteed hours contract if they work regular hours over a defined period.   

    Ending unscrupulous employment practices is a priority for this government. And this Bill will shut down the loopholes that allow bullying fire and rehire and fire and replace to continue.   

    A fairer and more flexible workplace   

    As part of the Bill, we’ll introduce new measures to help make the workplace more compatible with people’s lives. This includes making flexible working the default where practical.   

    Large employers will be required to create action addressing gender equality, including supporting employees through the menopause, and protections against dismissal will be strengthened for pregnant workers and those returning from maternity leave.   

    This is all with the intention of keeping people in jobs for longer, reducing recruitment costs for employers by increasing staff retention and helping the economy grow.  

    We’ll also establish a new Fair Work Agency bringing together existing enforcement bodies to enforce rights such as holiday pay, and support employers looking for guidance on how to comply with the law.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: California deploys additional Urban Search and Rescue personnel to support response to Hurricane Milton

    Source: US State of California 2

    Oct 9, 2024

    In total, California has now deployed 354 highly specialized personnel to support recent hurricane response efforts

    SACRAMENTO – With Hurricane Milton making landfall in Florida tonight, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the deployment of an additional 70 California-based firefighters to assist with search and rescue efforts. This additional aid follows the deployment of 144 California Urban Search and Rescue personnel earlier this week who are currently prepositioned in Florida.

    The Governor previously deployed California Urban Search and Rescue resources to support the response to Hurricane Helene, including 140 firefighters and support personnel.

    In total, California has now deployed 354 personnel to support hurricane response efforts. Together, the teams can provide support for search and rescue operations around the clock when conditions permit.

    “In times of crisis, Americans unite to lend a helping hand. California is sending hundreds of emergency personnel to aid Florida as the state endures devastating hurricanes. Floridians, please stay safe and follow all emergency guidance.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    In close coordination with FEMA, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) has deployed the additional 70 Task Force members from Orange County and Menlo Park. These highly specialized personnel are trained in structural collapse and swift water/flood environments.

    This deployment has no impact on California’s emergency response and firefighting capabilities.
     
    “California is dedicated to helping those in the path of this major storm,” said Cal OES Director Nancy Ward. “With the deployment of these additional resources, we can help bolster ongoing response and recovery efforts as Hurricane Milton impacts communities across Florida.”
     
    Last month, Governor Newsom deployed California support to Florida to bolster the response to Hurricane Helene. California also sent aid to Texas in July and Georgia in August in response to tropical storms. In the past two years, California has also deployed firefighters to New MexicoHawaiiOregon and Montana

    Recent news

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Jennifer Troia, of Sacramento, has been appointed Director at the California Department of Social Services. Troia has served as Chief Deputy Director at the California Department of…

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his appointment of 18 Superior Court Judges, which include one in Colusa County; one in Contra Costa County; five in Los Angeles County; two in Orange County; three in Sacramento County; one in San Bernardino…

    News What you need to know: The California Highway Patrol recently conducted two enforcement stops leading to the seizure of nearly $1.7 million of illegal fentanyl and multiple illegally possessed firearms and the arrests of three out-of-state suspects in the Central…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: What does the Employment Rights Bill mean for you?

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Our Employment Rights Bill will ban exploitative zero-hours contracts, end fire and rehire, and introduce basic employment rights from day one.

    We’re introducing new workplace rights to end unfair employment practices and help deliver economic growth.  

    Our Employment Rights Bill will ban exploitative zero-hours contracts, end fire and rehire, and introduce basic employment rights from day one – like paternity and parental leave, and protection from unfair dismissal. It also introduces right to bereavement leave from day one. 

    It will replace out-of-date employment laws, helping to boost pay and productivity with legislation fit for a modern economy.  

    This is the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation, and a significant step towards delivering this government’s plan to make work pay.   

    Basic rights from day one  

    We’re putting in place measures to give employees basic rights from their first day in a new job.   

    Our new Bill will give greater protection against unfair dismissal from day one, ensuring that the feeling of security at work is no longer a luxury for the privileged few.  

    We are also bringing in a new statutory probation period for companies’ new hires. This will allow for a proper assessment of an employee’s suitability for a role as well as reassuring employees that they have rights from day one. We will consult on the length of the period; the government’s preference is 9 months. 

    The Bill will establish rights to bereavement and paternity and parental leave from day one, and strengthen statutory sick pay, removing the lower earnings limit for all workers and cutting out the waiting period before sick pay kicks in.

    Our new Bill and measures will:   

    • Give protection against unfair dismissal from day one, while allowing employers to operate probation periods

    • Establish parental and bereavement leave from day one  

    • End exploitative zero hour contracts   

    • End unscrupulous practices of fire and rehire and fire and replace  

    • Make flexible working the norm where practical  

    • Deliver stronger dismissal protections for pregnant women and new mothers  

    • Establish a new Fair Work Agency with new powers to enforce holiday pay  

    • Strengthen statutory sick pay

    Ending unfair practices   

    Our new laws will end exploitative zero hours contracts and unscrupulous fire and rehire practices.   

    While workers can stay on zero hours contracts if they’d prefer to, our new Bill means they’ll have the right to a guaranteed hours contract if they work regular hours over a defined period.   

    Ending unscrupulous employment practices is a priority for this government. And this Bill will shut down the loopholes that allow bullying fire and rehire and fire and replace to continue.   

    A fairer and more flexible workplace   

    As part of the Bill, we’ll introduce new measures to help make the workplace more compatible with people’s lives. This includes making flexible working the default where practical.   

    Large employers will be required to create action addressing gender equality, including supporting employees through the menopause, and protections against dismissal will be strengthened for pregnant workers and those returning from maternity leave.   

    This is all with the intention of keeping people in jobs for longer, reducing recruitment costs for employers by increasing staff retention and helping the economy grow.  

    We’ll also establish a new Fair Work Agency bringing together existing enforcement bodies to enforce rights such as holiday pay, and support employers looking for guidance on how to comply with the law.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Myanmar: Two activists at grave risk of torture after arrests

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Myanmar’s military authorities must immediately account for the whereabouts and wellbeing of two pro-democracy activists arrested in Yangon on Wednesday, Amnesty International said today.

    Paing Phyo Min and Shein Wai Aung were arrested on 9 October and sent to an interrogation centre, Amnesty International understands. Paing Phyo Min’s family has not been able to reach him, while Shein Wai Aung and his father, mother and sister have also been uncontactable.

    As many as six additional people are also believed to have been arrested in raids.

    “The Myanmar military must urgently account for the whereabouts and wellbeing of Paing Phyo Min and of Shein Wai Aung and his family. Unless they can be charged with an internationally recognized crime, they must be immediately and unconditionally released,” Amnesty International’s Myanmar Researcher Joe Freeman said.

    “As leaders from The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meet in Laos and discuss a way out of the crisis brought on by the 2021 coup, the Myanmar military continues to arbitrarily detain people and carry out repression across the country.”

    Paing Phyo Min is known for his involvement with a group of young people performing Thangyat, a popular Myanmar traditional art form which fuses poetry, comedy and music to comment on social issues.

    In 2019, Paing Phyo Min and other members of an activist group called the Peacock Generation were arrested after performing Thangyat dressed as soldiers. For this, he was sentenced to six years in prison.

    In 2020, Amnesty International called for Paing Phyo Min’s release as part of its annual Write 4 Rights campaign, with many people writing letters to him to bolster his spirits. He was released in 2021 as part of a mass prisoner amnesty.

    After the military coup, he and others took part in peaceful protests in Yangon, despite enormous risks following violent crackdowns.

    Shein Wai Aung, a former student at Dagon University in Yangon, has been active in peaceful protests and in supporting political prisoners in Myanmar.

    “Protesting in Myanmar today is not the same as it was before the coup. Anyone involved in any kind of dissent against the military faces long jail terms, torture and other ill-treatment, and even death in custody,” Joe Freeman said.

    “In Myanmar’s prison system, there is little hope of fair treatment, no transparency, and extremely substandard conditions. Interrogation centers, where these two activists have likely been sent, are also notorious locations of abuse where torture has been used to extract information before charges are formally brought.”

    Myanmar’s military has killed more than 5,000 civilians since seizing power in the coup on 1 February 2021. The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights said in its latest report last month that at least 1,853 of those people have died in custody.

    In the 2022 report ‘15 Days Felt Like 15 Years’, Amnesty International documented torture and other ill-treatment against people arbitrarily detained by the military and police after the coup.

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier calls for building of an Asia of peace, openness

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

    VIENTIANE, Oct. 10 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Thursday that China is ready to work with ASEAN, Japan, South Korea and other Asian countries to uphold the Asian consciousness, carry forward the Oriental wisdom, and steadily move forward toward building an Asia of peace and tranquility, common prosperity, openness and interconnectivity.

    Li made the remarks when addressing the 27th ASEAN Plus Three Summit here in Vientiane.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier calls for stronger Asian consciousness

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

    VIENTIANE, Oct. 10 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Thursday called for the need to strengthen the Asian consciousness, saying that Asian countries share a common home, common interests, common opportunities, and a common pursuit of values.

    Addressing the 27th ASEAN Plus Three Summit here in Vientiane, Li said Asian countries value independence, adding that the affairs of Asia should be handled through consultation by the people of Asia, and Asia’s fate must be in its own hands.

    He also said that Asian nations all stress that development comes first and agree that peace is of paramount importance.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Sonbhadra Nagar Sahkari Bank Limited, Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated October 01, 2024, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹2.50 lakh (Rupees Two Lakh Fifty Thousand only) on Sonbhadra Nagar Sahkari Bank Limited, Sonbhadra (the bank) for contravention of the provisions of section 26A read with section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 (BR Act). This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under section 47A(1)(c) read with sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2023. Based on supervisory findings of contravention of the statutory provision and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said statutory provision. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing and examination of additional submissions made by it, RBI found, inter alia, that the charge of not transferring the eligible amounts to the Depositor Education and Awareness Fund within the prescribed period was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty.

    This action is based on deficiency in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/1264

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Parwanoo Urban Co-operative Bank Limited, Parwanoo, Himachal Pradesh

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated October 01, 2024, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹5.00 lakh (Rupees Five Lakh only) on The Parwanoo Urban Co-operative Bank Limited, Parwanoo (the bank) for non-compliance with the specific directions issued by RBI under Supervisory Action Framework (SAF). This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers vested in RBI, conferred under the provisions of section 47A(1)(c) read with sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2023. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI instructions issued under SAF and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made by it during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the charge of payment of dividend in violation of the directions issued under SAF, was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/1263

    MIL OSI Economics