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  • MIL-OSI USA: News 10/4/2024 Blackburn on McGhee Tyson ANG Base’s Advancement in Competition to Become Main Operating Base for KC-46 Aircraft

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after the 134th Air Refueling Wing at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard (ANG) Base outside of Knoxville, Tennessee, was selected for the final phase of competition to house the U.S. Department of the Air Force’s next generation of air refueling aircraft, the KC-46 Pegasus:

    “With decades of proven experience and service, McGhee Tyson ANG Base would be the perfect fit to receive and employ the KC-46, and I applaud the Air Force’s decision to keep Tennessee in the running,” said Senator Blackburn.

    Earlier this year, Senator Blackburn led the entire Tennessee congressional delegation in sending a letter urging U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall III to make McGhee Tyson ANG Base the seventh main operating base for the KC-46. Senator Blackburn recently spoke with Air Force officials, who informed her of the Department’s decision to keep Tennessee in the running between seven possible locations. 

     

    Click here to download this photo of Senator Blackburn with Airmen of Tennessee’s 134th Air Refueling Wing. 

    BACKGROUND:
    • McGhee Tyson ANG Base boasts over 68 years of volunteer excellence and service to the Air Force. The unit has received a remarkable 16 Air Force Outstanding Unit awards and is one of the most decorated air refueling units in Air Force history. 
    • KC-46 acquisition is the Tennessee Air National Guard’s number one short-term priority. Securing KC-46 aircraft for McGhee Tyson ANG Base will preserve over 1,500 jobs and $203 million annually for decades to come. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHILADELPHIA – Governor Shapiro to Visit the Weitzman Museum’s Exhibition Memorializing the October 7 Anniversary

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 07, 2024 – Philadelphia, PA

    ADVISORY – PHILADELPHIA – Governor Shapiro to Visit the Weitzman Museum’s Exhibition Memorializing the October 7 Anniversary

    Governor Josh Shapiro, Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, and Senator Bob Casey will visit the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to privately tour the Nova Exhibition – which the Governor worked with the museum to bring to Philadelphia in recognition of the first anniversary of the October 7th massacre.

    The week-long interior and exterior pop-up exhibition will be open to the public and free of charge as the Weitzman Museum works to share these stories with communities across our Commonwealth.

    After the Governor privately tours the exhibition alongside business leaders, elected officials, and leaders from various faith communities, he will hold a media availability at the Weitzman Museum.

    WHO:
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis
    Senator Bob Casey

    WHEN:
    Monday, October 7, 2024 at 10:00AM

    WHERE:
    Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
    101 S Independence Mall E
    Philadelphia, PA

    LIVE STREAM:
    pacast.com/live/gov
    governor.pa.gov/live/

    RSVP:
    Press who are interested in attending must RSVP with the names and phone numbers for each member of their team to ra-gvgovpress@pa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Hawke’s Bay man charged for indecent communication with young person

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A 46-year-old man has been arrested and charged by Police, after allegedly attempting to meet a young teenage girl for sex.

    The man was arrested on Friday 4 October following an investigation by Hawke’s Bay Police and the OCEANZ (Online Child Exploitation Across NZ) unit. 

    He is facing three charges of indecent communication with a young person under 16, and one charge of travelling to meet a young person-sex grooming.

    Detective Sergeant Alex MacDonald says OCEANZ had received information that the man was allegedly attempting to contact young girls for the purposes of sexual abuse.

    “This kind of offending in our communities is incredibly alarming and serves as an excellent reminder of the need to be vigilant around online safety for children and young people,” says Detective Sergeant MacDonald.

    “The school holidays would be a great time to sit down with your kids and have a conversation about how to stay safe online. You can find information on the Police website to help with those conversations.”

    The man charged with this offending is scheduled to appear in Hastings District Court today (Monday 7 October).

    Detective Senior Sergeant John McCarthy from Hawke’s Bay Police’s Child Protection Team says the investigation into this matter is ongoing and is not ruling out identifying further victims.

    “We will continue to work with OCEANZ to ensure that offenders targeting young people in our community in this way are held to account for their actions,” says Detective Senior Sergeant McCarthy.

    “We urge anyone with concerns about potential criminal behaviour targeting children or young people to get in touch with Police so that we can investigate.”
     

    ENDS
     

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Disclosure of Voting Rights in IDEX Biometrics to Chair, Morten Opstad – 06 Oct 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    At the close of business on 04 October 2024, Morten Opstad, chair of the board of IDEX Biometrics, held the following voting rights in IDEX, for the extraordinary general meeting on 09 October 2024.

    Total 96,929,296 shares or 22.01% of the share capital and votes, including shares held by Mr. Opstad and close relations.

    Some of the proxies may include voting instructions.

    Contact person
    Marianne Bøe, Head of Investor Relations
    E-mail: ir@idexbiometrics.com
    Tel: +47 67 83 91 19

    About IDEX Biometrics
    IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity.  Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market.

    For more information, visit http://www.idexbiometrics.com (http://www.idexbiometrics.com)

    About this notice
    This notice was issued by Marianne Bøe, Head of Investor Relations, on 06 October 2024 at 22:45 CET on behalf of IDEX Biometrics ASA. The information shall be disclosed according to section 4‑2 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act (STA) and published in accordance with section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Fast track list reveals Govt’s backroom deals

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The coalition Government’s backroom deals with coal and ironsands mining companies have finally been revealed – and it’s not pretty.

    “The coalition Government has just confirmed a line-up of projects that could wreak havoc on our natural environment,” Labour’s acting environment spokesperson David Parker said.

    “The list includes previously rejected projects like Trans-Tasman Resources’ seabed mining and the Waitaha Hydro Project – both rejected for their adverse effects on the environment. 

    “It’s now clear why the Government has hidden this list for so long.

    “We’ve seen worrying cases like the Ōhinemuri River turning orange due to arsenic from an old mine. Dozens of other contaminated sites, many from mining, are still waiting to be cleaned up at the cost of New Zealanders, not the polluters.

    “More than 100 projects were approved under Labour’s version of fast track without overriding environmental laws. This included projects for renewable energy, transmission, housing, roads and retirement villages.

    “This time it is different – environmental protections under the Resource Management Act, the Conservation Act, the Wildlife Act and the Mining Act can and will be overridden. There is no credible explanation for conferring those wide powers to override those Acts.  

    “This backwards move is irresponsible, and will undermine our clean-green reputation, which underlies the premium price New Zealand gets for our milk and meat exports.

    “The tens of thousands of New Zealanders who marched in protest against the Fast Track Bill are right to be disappointed,” David Parker said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Nicole McKee unfit for firearms portfolio

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Fresh questions have been raised about the conduct of the Firearms Minister after revelations she misled New Zealanders about her role in stopping gun reforms prior to the mosque shootings.

    Despite previously claiming on TVNZ Q+A that she urged the Government to close the loopholes around high capacity magazines – it’s now been revealed that did not happen.

    In fact, it was her suggestion to the then Minister Paula Bennett that she reject select committee recommendations around semi-automatic firearms, which would’ve closed the loopholes later exploited by the March 15 terrorist.

    “It’s the latest in a list of concerns about conflicts of interest for the Minister, who is still closely linked to the gun lobby while trying to roll back legal safeguards put in place after the terror attacks,” Labour’s Police spokesperson Ginny Andersen said.

    “This reporting is even more concerning as the next phase in the coronial inquiry into the terror attack gets underway this coming week. It will explicitly address the history of firearms reforms and make recommendations to stop such an attack happening again.

    “The Firearms Minister also has authority over Coronial matters in her role as Courts Minister. The conflicts and questions are now too great for the public to have any confidence that she is the right person to be in charge of gun laws.

    “The Prime Minister must strip her of the firearms portfolio. The Coalition Agreement never required her to hold that position and it would be a display of leadership if he took action,” Ginny Andersen said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The chemistry behind beer brewing is still shrouded in mystery, but tiny microfluidic chips could change that

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Katherine Elvira, Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair, Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria

    As the brewing industry expands and new beer styles, such as hazy pale ales, emerge, brewers are constantly looking for new ways to analyze the composition of their beers to preserve the carefully crafted sensory quality of their products.

    However, analyzing how the molecules in beer affect its flavour is challenging because of the sheer amount of different types of molecules present in the beverage. To address this issue, our research team at the University of Victoria has developed a user-friendly lab-on-a-chip device to investigate how we can add more hop flavours to beer by making oil-in-beer emulsions.

    Lab-on-a-chip, or microfluidic, technologies are tiny devices usually made from a transparent, rubbery material that can be used to transport and analyze liquids in pipes the size of a human hair.

    While these technologies are not commonly used in the food sciences, they are perfectly suited for the creation of emulsions, which are widely used in the food industry. Emulsions are formed by creating tiny drops of one liquid in another immiscible liquid.



    Read more:
    Microfluidics: The tiny, beautiful tech hidden all around you

    For example, salad dressing is usually made by mixing oil and vinegar, a water-like liquid. Oil and water do not mix, so to create an oil-in-vinegar emulsion, a stabilizer like mustard or egg is added. This allows tiny oil drops to be suspended in the vinegar, giving a pleasant texture to the salad dressing.

    Similarly, in beer, hop oils (essential oils from hops) are stabilized in the water-like beer. Understanding the type of molecule responsible for this stabilization could help brewers create more highly hop-flavoured beers.

    Katherine Elvira explains how her lab makes and uses microfluidic devices. Video by Julian Sketchley.

    Creating a new method

    Brewing beer requires a precise understanding of four main ingredients: malted barley, hops, water and yeast. Each of these ingredients contains a complex mixture of components, and their interactions, while used by humans for thousands of years, are still not well-understood chemically.

    The wealth of ingredients in beer makes it hard to tease out the behaviour and interactions of specific molecules, and how these relate to the flavour and composition of the beverage. Each ingredient interacts with others in complex ways, influencing the brewing process and the final product.



    Read more:
    Brewing Mesopotamian beer brings a sip of this vibrant ancient drinking culture back to life

    This is where our lab-on-a-chip device comes in. Our research, conducted in lead author Katherine Elvira’s laboratory at the University of Victoria’s Department of Chemistry, was done in collaboration with local microbrewery Phillips Brewing and Malting Co.

    The new method for making oil-in-beer emulsions was developed by undergraduate students Danielle Hanke, Jaling Kersen, Alexandra Schauman, Caitland Stagg and Nicole York, and graduate students Alex McDonald, Jaime Korner and Kaitlyn Ramsay.

    Together, they created a simple microfluidic platform designed to be usable by non-experts in the academic and industrial sectors, making it a valuable tool for advancing the science of brewing.

    Unlocking new possibilities

    Our research explored the role of gluten, a protein present in beer, in stablizing hop oil emulsions. By gaining a better understanding of this, brewers can fine-tune the composition of their ingredients to influence the final visual and sensory quality of beer.

    We tested two different hop oils, alpha-terpene and linalool, that are commonly present in hoppy beers. The two hop oils differed in droplet stability with protein and enzyme treatment, suggesting this effect may also be dependent on the type of hop oils present.

    This research could help brewers decide which types of grains and hops to include in their hazy beers — a style characterized by their cloudy appearance and strong hop flavour — to create the most shelf-stable and flavoursome beers.

    The future of brewing

    Our beer-on-a-chip platform can be used to generate experimental conditions that reflect full-scale brewing operations on a smaller, more manageable scale. By doing this, we can gain better insight into the brewing process, which still contains many chemical mysteries.

    Traditionally, these technologies have not been widely used in the brewing industry, but our research shows how microfluidic platforms can be more widely used in the food sciences to study emulsions.

    Whether it’s developing new beer styles, improving the shelf life of existing ones or enhancing flavour profiles, this technology could become an invaluable tool for brewers worldwide. Future work on microfluidic brewing may yet reveal more interesting and delicious insights into brewing.

    Alex McDonald, a graduate of the Master of Science in Chemistry program from the University of Victoria, co-authored this story.

    Katherine Elvira received funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Engage program to fund this research.

    – ref. The chemistry behind beer brewing is still shrouded in mystery, but tiny microfluidic chips could change that – https://theconversation.com/the-chemistry-behind-beer-brewing-is-still-shrouded-in-mystery-but-tiny-microfluidic-chips-could-change-that-238182

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why heart patients have trouble sticking to a healthy diet, and 3 things that help them eat better

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Gabriela Ghisi, Affiliate Scientist, KITE Research Institute, Adjunct Professor, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto

    Following nutritional recommendations is vital for managing cardiovascular disease, but it’s not always easy, especially for those with limited resources. (Shutterstock)

    Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death worldwide, and managing it effectively requires more than just medical intervention: what you eat plays a crucial role in your heart’s health.

    For cardiac patients, following nutritional recommendations isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a lifeline. A heart-healthy diet can help control risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol levels and obesity, all of which are key contributors to heart disease.

    For cardiac patients, following nutritional recommendations isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a lifeline.
    (Shutterstock)

    A healthy diet will help you prevent new heart problems, which is called secondary prevention, and it will help improve functional capacity and quality of life, giving you more independence for daily activities. But for many patients, adhering to these dietary guidelines can be a significant challenge even while they are in a cardiac rehabilitation program. This is especially challenging for those who live in low-resourced settings (areas or communities with few resources and little support for health and wellness).



    Read more:
    Cardiac rehab is a proven but underused therapy in women, but tailored resources aim to change that

    Cardiac rehab is an interdisciplinary approach focused on interventions for secondary prevention and improving cardiovascular prognosis, to reduce the global impact of cardiovascular disease. We recently conducted a study aimed at understanding the barriers and facilitators that low-resourced patients face when trying to follow nutritional recommendations in cardiac rehab.

    The findings underscore how critical, yet complex, it is for patients to maintain a heart-healthy diet. The results of this study are not just informative — they are a call to action for health-care providers, policymakers and communities alike.

    The cost of healthy eating

    Many heart-healthy foods — like fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins — can be expensive, especially for individuals or families living on a tight budget.
    (Shutterstock)

    One of the primary barriers we identified is the cost of healthy foods. Many heart-healthy foods — like fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins — can be expensive, especially for individuals or families living on a tight budget. In low-income areas, access to these foods is often limited, with more affordable but less healthy options readily available.



    Read more:
    Why are grocery bills so high? A new study looks at the science behind food price reporting

    This economic reality makes it difficult for patients to consistently choose foods that support their heart health. In the last few years the cost of healthy food in Canada, a high-income setting, has been rising due to high food inflation. Despite that, the current Canada’s Food Guide is less expensive for adults to follow compared to the previous ones.

    Another significant barrier is the complexity of nutritional information. Patients are often bombarded with a wealth of dietary guidelines, which can be confusing and overwhelming. Without proper guidance, including education and individualization, it’s easy for someone to feel lost or discouraged, particularly if they lack basic nutritional knowledge. This can lead to frustration and, ultimately, poor adherence to dietary recommendations.

    Cultural factors also play a role. In many cases, traditional diets may not align with the standard dietary guidelines recommended for heart health. Patients may find it challenging to adapt their eating habits without feeling like they are losing an important part of their cultural identity. This disconnect can make it even harder for patients to stick to a heart-healthy diet.

    Empowering patients to eat better

    Despite these challenges, our study also highlighted several facilitators that can make a significant difference. One of the most effective is community support. Programs that provide affordable access to healthy foods, like food banks or community gardens, can help alleviate some of the financial pressures.

    Additionally, accessible information sources that break down complex nutritional advice into simple, actionable steps can empower patients to make healthier choices.

    Programs that provide affordable access to healthy foods, like food banks or community gardens, can help alleviate some of the financial pressures of healthy eating.
    (Shutterstock)

    Importantly, incorporating culturally relevant foods into dietary plans can make the transition to a heart-healthy diet more manageable and acceptable. When patients see that their traditional foods can be part of their diet, they are more likely to embrace and maintain the recommended changes.

    Our findings emphasize the importance of a tailored approach to nutritional guidance in cardiac rehab, especially for low-resourced patients. It’s not enough to simply tell patients what to eat — health-care providers need to listen and understand the unique challenges patients face and provide practical, sustainable solutions. This means working closely with patients, offering personalized advice that considers their financial situation, providing access to resources and considering cultural preferences.

    Making heart-healthy diets accessible

    The implications of our research extend beyond individual patient care. They highlight the need for systemic changes that make healthy eating more accessible for everyone. This could include policies that subsidize healthy foods, increase the availability of fresh produce in underserved areas or create educational programs that are accessible to all.

    Following nutritional recommendations is vital for managing cardiovascular disease, but it’s not always easy, especially for those with limited resources. Identifying and addressing the specific barriers these patients face can help them make lasting, positive changes to their diet and, ultimately, their heart health.

    This research underscores the need for a more equitable approach to health care, one that ensures all patients have the support they need to live healthier, longer lives.

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

    – ref. Why heart patients have trouble sticking to a healthy diet, and 3 things that help them eat better – https://theconversation.com/why-heart-patients-have-trouble-sticking-to-a-healthy-diet-and-3-things-that-help-them-eat-better-239172

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canada has always had a ‘tap on, tap off’ immigration policy aimed primarily at filling jobs

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Thomas Klassen, Professor, School of Public Policy and Administration, York University, Canada

    The federal government will soon announce its immigration plan and immigration levels for the next three years. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberals have already signalled, however, that the number of immigrants will decline from the levels of the past several years.

    The government has been under fire for its immigration policy and must move carefully with a federal election likely next year. The increase in housing costs is cited by critics as consequence of too many immigrants arriving in Canada over a short period of time.



    Read more:
    What’s behind the dramatic shift in Canadian public opinion about immigration levels?

    Sharp increases and decreases in the number of immigrants are nothing new in Canada’s history. Historically, immigration policy has been “tap on, tap off,” with immigration levels increased when the unemployment rate falls and reduced when unemployment rises. Immigration has always been thinly veiled labour market policy; that is, a way to fill jobs.

    Influx of immigrants

    In 1913, an estimated 400,900 immigrants arrived in Canada, accounting for five per cent of the country’s population. At that time, the government sought farmers to settle the Prairies and allow the western expansion of Canada.

    It took more than a century — until 2021 under Trudeau — before a larger number of immigrants was accepted in a single year; 406,000 were admitted.

    But those who came in 2021 accounted for only one per cent of the nation’s much larger population, rather than five per cent in 1913.

    When the Liberals came to power in late 2015, the national unemployment rate was seven per cent and dropping. By 2019, it was under six per cent, a level not experienced for nearly half a century.

    The economy was humming with low unemployment and inflation, allowing the immigration tap to be turned on. From 2017-19, 300,000 immigrants were accepted each year, but from 2021 to 2023, that increased to a record high of about 430,000 annually.

    In the past decade, employers have benefited from high levels of immigration and voiced few complaints. Businesses know that labour costs are kept low when immigrants flood into the job market.

    International students

    What has made the nation’s immigration policy distinct under Trudeau is that the tap has also been turned on for international students. These students are not immigrants, but rather are allowed to enter Canada and, initially, remain only during the time they are studying.

    In the past several decades Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States have become extraordinarily attractive for college and university students.

    Middle-class families in China, India, Brazil and other countries are willing to spend what is required to send their children to study abroad.

    Universities and colleges covet international students as a source of income since they pay twice or more what local students pay in tuition.

    The additional income earned by post-secondary institutions from international students has allowed provincial governments to limit tuition fee increases for Canadian students. For example, the Ontario government reduced tuition fees by 10 per cent in 2019 and has kept tuition frozen for local students ever since.

    Permanent citizenship pathways

    When the Liberals came to power, there were about 300,000 international students in Canada. Last year, that number reached one million. Immigration rules were tweaked in the past decade to open paths to permanent citizenship for some international students and their families.

    Some believe the combination of high immigration rates and a large number of international students has created an unsustainable situation as housing costs in many parts of Canada increase significantly over the past several years.



    Read more:
    International students are not to blame for Canada’s housing crisis

    Suddenly, earlier this year, the federal government placed limits on the number of student visas it would issue annually to reduce the flow of students coming from abroad. Provinces and educational institutions were furious, especially by the lack of advance notice and the loss of expected revenues.

    However, rapid swings in immigration policy are a feature of Canada’s history. After welcoming 400,000 immigrants in 1913, only 10 per cent of that number were granted entry five years later.

    Sharp U-turns

    The causes that necessitated the recent sharp U-turn in the number of international student visas — and limiting the pathways to students and their dependants to become immigrants — are instructive.

    The federal government ignored the fact that colleges and universities were not equipped for the massive ramp-up of foreign student enrolment. Some post-secondary institutions, particularly those operated for profit, took advantage of incoming students by providing sub-standard education.

    A closer monitoring of the impact of high numbers of international students would have allowed the federal government to more gradually adjust the visa tap. More consultation between all levels of government would have permitted problems to quickly reach the appropriate decision-makers.

    Moving forward, the federal government would do well to better monitor the impacts of immigration levels. More consultation with other levels of government, employers and stakeholders will result in more gradual adjustments to the number of newcomers who are — and always have been — critical to Canada’s economic and cultural successes.

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

    – ref. Canada has always had a ‘tap on, tap off’ immigration policy aimed primarily at filling jobs – https://theconversation.com/canada-has-always-had-a-tap-on-tap-off-immigration-policy-aimed-primarily-at-filling-jobs-239896

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: YORK – Commission on Crime and Delinquency Joins Victim Service Agencies to Highlight Support for Survivors of Domestic Violence and 2024-25 Shapiro-Davis Budget Investment for Victims Compensation

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 07, 2024 – York, PA

    ADVISORY – YORK – Commission on Crime and Delinquency Joins Victim Service Agencies to Highlight Support for Survivors of Domestic Violence and 2024-25 Shapiro-Davis Budget Investment for Victims Compensation

    In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) will visit the York County Victim/Witness Unit to highlight the support and services offered to survivors of domestic violence and importance of the $5 million investment in the Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP) in the Shapiro-Davis 2024-25 state budget.

    WHO:
    Kathy Buckley, Director of Victims’ Services, PCCD
    Faith I. Uhler-Myers, Deputy Administrator, York County DA’s Office Victim/Witness Unit
    Paula Copeland, Chief Services Officer, YWCA York
    Sarah Harvey, Director, YWCA Hanover Safe Home

    WHEN:
    October 7, 2024 at 1:30 PM.

    WHERE:
    York County Administrative Center
    28 E Market Street
    Commissioners’ Meeting Room, 2nd floor
    York, PA 17401

    RSVP: Please email algantz@pa.gov to share the reporter’s name and media outlet who wishes to attend.

    Photos and video will be available on

      • Full Advisory

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update – serious crash, Canvastown

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can confirm one person died following a serious single-vehicle crash on SH6 near Canvastown on Friday.

    Emergency services had been called to the scene about 3.20pm.

    Sadly the sole occupant died at the scene.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: The Government of New Caledonia at the 19th Francophonie Summit

    MIL OSI Translation. French Polynesian to English –

    Source: Government of New Caledonia

    Yoann Lecourieux, member of the government responsible for the Francophonie in conjunction with President Louis Mapou, participated in the 19th Francophonie Summit in Villers-Cotterêts, France, on October 3, 4 and 5. Chaired by Emmanuel Macron, the event was held on the theme of “Creating, innovating and undertaking in French”.

    During this summit, the 88 member and observer states and governments of the Francophonie adopted the Villers-Cotterêts Declaration, a text formulating commitments and intentions in favour of employability, innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly among young people, but also a resolution on crisis situations, crisis recovery and peacebuilding in the French-speaking world.

     

    In light of the violence that occurred in May 2024 in our territory, the members of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) wished to include in this resolution a paragraph devoted to New Caledonia. It welcomes “the desire for appeasement led by the national and local authorities”, also calling for “dialogue between the different parties in the spirit of the Matignon (1988) and Noumea (1998) Accords, for a common destiny”.

    An honest and inclusive digital space

    This Summit was also an opportunity for its participants to launch an appeal for “an honest and trustworthy French-speaking digital space”, “inclusive, respectful of democracy and human rights, promoting cultural and linguistic diversity”. A way to challenge digital platforms for, in particular, greater responsibility in terms of content moderation by fighting against disinformation and hate speech or calls for violence, but also to contribute to the fair remuneration of artistic creation.

     

    These three days of work will have been a source of opportunities for New Caledonia, also allowing the promotion of innovative Caledonian entrepreneurs on the occasion of Francotech, a trade fair dedicated to French-speaking innovation, organized as part of the Summit.

    The Francophone friendship ties were finally able to be renewed with Vanuatu, also present, French Polynesia, whose membership in the OIF was confirmed, and Cambodia, which will host the next Francophonie Summit in 2026.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Unlocking the potential of ethnic businesses

    Source: New Zealand Government

    This week’s inaugural Ethnic Xchange Symposium will explore the role that ethnic communities and businesses can play in rebuilding New Zealand’s economy, Ethnic Communities Minister Melissa Lee says.

    “One of my top priorities as Minister is unlocking the economic potential of New Zealand’s ethnic businesses,” says Ms Lee.

    “Ethnic communities contributed an estimated $64 billion to New Zealand’s economy in 2021. Ethnic communities are also the fastest-growing population group in New Zealand, tripling in size since 1996, and our country’s migrant employment rate is the highest within the OECD.

    “It’s clear that there’s vibrant potential within our ethnic communities. This symposium focuses on unleashing that potential.”

    The symposium, delivered by the Ministry for Ethnic Communities, brings together Government and business, community, and industry experts to discuss how we can supercharge the economy through boosting trade, investment, and innovation.

    In addition to Ms Lee, ministers speaking at the symposium include Finance Minister Nicola Willis; Regulation Minister David Seymour; and Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Judith Collins KC.

    “Given this Government’s goal of doubling the value of our exports within 10 years, it is fitting that one of the symposium’s core themes is how ethnic businesses may support New Zealand’s trading aspirations, as they bring expertise in navigating overseas markets and international business environments,” says Ms Lee.

    “While their contributions are significant, many ethnic businesses still face challenges such as policy and regulatory barriers, access to finance, and cultural differences. This means they often cannot fully contribute to our economy, although they have the ambition and aspirations to do so.

    “I’m looking forward to the discussions at the symposium as we find solutions to unlock the full potential of ethnic businesses for the benefit of New Zealand.”

    The Ethnic Xchange Symposium is on this Friday, 11 October in Auckland. More information, and tickets, are available at https://ethnicxchange.org.nz/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: News story: PM statement on one-year anniversary of the October 7th attacks

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

    Words from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th attacks.

    7 October 2023 was the darkest day in Jewish history since the Holocaust. One year on, we stand together to remember the lives so cruelly taken. 

    Over a thousand people were brutally murdered. Men, women, children and babies killed, mutilated, and tortured by the terrorists of Hamas. Jewish people murdered whilst protecting their families. 

    Young people massacred at a music festival. 

    People abducted from their homes.

    Agonising reports of rape, torture and brutality beyond comprehension which continued to emerge days and weeks later. 

    As a father, a husband, a son, a brother – meeting the families of those who lost their loved ones last week was unimaginable. Their grief and pain are ours, and it is shared in homes across the land. 

    A year on, that collective grief has not diminished or waned.

    Yet their strength and determination to cherish the memories of those they had lost continues, and our determination to bring those still captive home endures. I stand firm in our commitment to bring the hostages home, and we will not give up until they are returned.

    One year on from these horrific attacks we must unequivocally stand with the Jewish community and unite as a country. We must never look the other way in the face of hate. 

    We must also not look the other way as civilians bear the ongoing dire consequences of this conflict in the Middle East. I reiterate my call for immediate ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon, and for the removal of all restrictions on humanitarian aid into Gaza.

    We will not falter in our pursuit of peace and on this day of pain and sorrow, we honour those we lost, and continue in our determination to return those still held hostage, help those who are suffering, and secure a better future for the Middle East.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Telephone interview with Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of the State of Israel.

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    The President of the Republic spoke with Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of the State of Israel, this Sunday, October 6.

    On this occasion, the President of the Republic and the Israeli Prime Minister discussed the situation in the Middle East at length, in complete frankness and with respect for the friendship between France and Israel. The two leaders acknowledge their differences of view as well as their desire to be well understood by each other.

    The President of the Republic reiterated to the Israeli Prime Minister that France’s commitment to Israel’s security is unwavering and reminded him of the mobilization of French military resources to defend it during the attacks carried out by Iran in recent months. On the eve of the first anniversary of Hamas’ terrorist offensive against Israel, he expressed the solidarity of the French people with the Israeli people, particularly the victims, the hostages and their loved ones. Like everyone, Israel has the right to defend itself against terrorism. Attacks against Israel and its citizens must cease, whether they are carried out by Iran or its proxies in the region.

    The President of the Republic also told the Israeli Prime Minister of his conviction that the time for a ceasefire has now come. The arms deliveries, the prolongation of the war in Gaza and its extension to Lebanon cannot produce the security expected by the Israelis and by everyone in the region. We must immediately produce the decisive effort that will allow us to develop the political solutions necessary for the security of Israel and everyone in the Middle East.

    The President of the Republic and the Israeli Prime Minister have agreed to remain in contact. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, will meet with Israeli officials tomorrow and will report to the President of the Republic in the coming days. France will continue to act in trust with Israel and all of its regional and international partners interested in building a just and lasting peace in the Middle East.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police get the jump on burglars

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A group of alleged burglars who climbed onto the roof of Māngere Town Centre in an attempt to evade Police, will now face court.

    At about 11pm, Police were alerted by security of three males breaking into the Māngere Town Centre.

    Counties Manukau West Acting Area Prevention Manager, Acting Inspector Clint McCarthy, says the trio allegedly broke into five businesses, taking a number of items including clothing and cash registers.

    “Upon Police arrival, we witnessed a group of people climbing onto the roof inside the centre.

    “Units cordoned off the area and voice appealed for the offenders to come down, however one has jumped from the roof and attempted to flee on foot,” Acting Inspector McCarthy says.

    “The Police Dog Unit, Delta has tracked the alleged offender where he was swiftly taken into custody.”

    He says the other two suspects quickly surrendered to Police

    “Police will continue to deploy a range of resources to respond to this sort of offending so that we can hold these people to account.

    “This is a great outcome, and we acknowledge the centre’s security team for reporting offending as it was occurring, which allowed us to respond in a timely manner.”

    He says the stolen property was left on the roof and recovered by staff shortly after.

    Three males, aged 23, 19 and 18, will appear in Manukau District Court today charged with five counts of burglary.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, State Highway 2, Waipawa

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are responding to a serious crash on State Highway 2 near Waipawa in Central Hawke’s Bay.

    The single vehicle crash occurred near Argyll Road and was reported to Police at 10.15am.

    Initial information from the scene indicates at least one person is seriously injured.

    The road is closed and motorists are asked to take alternative routes.

    ENDS
     

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Minister McLean on World Teachers’ Day

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Minister of Education Jeanie McLean has issued the following statement:

    “We celebrate the work of educators every day, but especially today on World Teachers’ Day.

    “October 5 marks the anniversary of the Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This recommendation sets essential standards for teachers’ rights, responsibilities and professional development.

    • Read more about Statement from Minister McLean on World Teachers’ Day
    • Add new comment

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Minister McLean on Sisters in Spirit Vigil and National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit+ People

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Minister responsible for the Women and Gender Equity Directorate Jeanie McLean has issued the following statement:

    “Today, I ask all Yukoners to join me in recognizing the Sisters in Spirit Vigil and the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit+ People.

    • Read more about Statement from Minister McLean on Sisters in Spirit Vigil and National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit+ People
    • Add new comment

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM statement on one-year anniversary of the October 7th attacks

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Words from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th attacks.

    7 October 2023 was the darkest day in Jewish history since the Holocaust. One year on, we stand together to remember the lives so cruelly taken. 

    Over a thousand people were brutally murdered. Men, women, children and babies killed, mutilated, and tortured by the terrorists of Hamas. Jewish people murdered whilst protecting their families. 

    Young people massacred at a music festival. 

    People abducted from their homes.

    Agonising reports of rape, torture and brutality beyond comprehension which continued to emerge days and weeks later. 

    As a father, a husband, a son, a brother – meeting the families of those who lost their loved ones last week was unimaginable. Their grief and pain are ours, and it is shared in homes across the land. 

    A year on, that collective grief has not diminished or waned.

    Yet their strength and determination to cherish the memories of those they had lost continues, and our determination to bring those still captive home endures. I stand firm in our commitment to bring the hostages home, and we will not give up until they are returned.

    One year on from these horrific attacks we must unequivocally stand with the Jewish community and unite as a country. We must never look the other way in the face of hate. 

    We must also not look the other way as civilians bear the ongoing dire consequences of this conflict in the Middle East. I reiterate my call for immediate ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon, and for the removal of all restrictions on humanitarian aid into Gaza.

    We will not falter in our pursuit of peace and on this day of pain and sorrow, we honour those we lost, and continue in our determination to return those still held hostage, help those who are suffering, and secure a better future for the Middle East.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rescue Teams Continue to Locate Survivors as Communications Improve and More Military Assets Join Storm Response Efforts

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Rescue Teams Continue to Locate Survivors as Communications Improve and More Military Assets Join Storm Response Efforts

    Rescue Teams Continue to Locate Survivors as Communications Improve and More Military Assets Join Storm Response Efforts
    mseets

    Air search and rescue teams flew 48 additional missions on Saturday, locating 39 survivors stranded in Western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene brought catastrophic flooding to the region. So far 6,586 people and counting have been rescued, evacuated or assisted by search and rescue teams since the storm hit.

    Almost 50 search and rescue teams have deployed more than 1,600 responders to the region over the past 10 days. Local and state emergency responders now have the assistance of approximately 1,700 North Carolina National Guard and 1,000 active-duty military personnel.

    “Continuing search and rescue missions in rough terrain, better communications and more resources on the ground are helping as we race to find missing people, reunite families and coordinate the delivery of supplies,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “The people of Western North Carolina are strong, and they deserve every bit of help we can get them. I’m so grateful for everyone stepping up to help as we dig out from this unprecedented storm.”

    At Gov. Cooper’s request, nearly 1,000 soldiers from Fort Liberty and Fort Campbell have been mobilized to assist with search and rescue and coordination of air traffic to ensure the safety of relief missions. They are partnering with the North Carolina Department of Transportation to help speed the clearing of roads, and with county emergency managers to distribute commodities including food and water. An additional 500 active-duty soldiers will join those already deployed.

    Communications in the region are improving rapidly, making it easier to identify help needed by communities and people. Cellphone providers reported significant gains in service coverage Sunday, with an estimated 80% of access to cell service in the region restored. Federal Emergency Management Agency teams will install a fiber optic cable to support telecom partners in restoring communications to the remaining inaccessible areas. An additional 30 Starlink satellite systems have arrived and will support search and rescue efforts underway at the North Carolina Emergency Response Center and at mobile locations.

    People and crews in hard hit areas are urged to be careful when removing debris, to ensure they do not disrupt fiber optic cables or cell tower infrastructure critical to keeping communications open. People in the area should restart their cell phones periodically to allow the devices to reconnect to repaired infrastructure.

    North Carolina National Guard and Military Response

    Gov. Cooper activated more than 1,700 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen who are conducting ongoing search and rescue operations and delivering critical supplies. Active-duty military personnel and equipment requested by the Governor are now also part of response efforts.

    National Guard and military personnel from NC and other states are operating more than 50 helicopters and more than 716 specialized vehicles in Western North Carolina to facilitate these missions. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is helping to assess water and wastewater plants and dams. Residents can track the status of the public water supply in their area through a website launched on Saturday.

    FEMA Assistance

    More than $30.2 million in FEMA Individual Assistance funds have been paid so far to Western NC disaster survivors and more than 96,747 people have registered for Individual Assistance. Nearly 1,700 people are now housed in hotels through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance. Federal partners have delivered more than 6.1 million liters of water and more than 4.1 individual meals in North Carolina to support both responders and people living in the affected communities.

    More than 700 FEMA staff are in the state to help with the western North Carolina relief effort. In addition to search and rescue and providing commodities, they are meeting with disaster survivors in shelters and neighborhoods to provide rapid access to relief resources. They can be identified by their FEMA logo apparel and federal government identification.

    The Major Disaster Declaration requested by Governor Cooper and granted by President Biden now includes 27 North Carolina counties (Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey) and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

    North Carolinians can apply for Individual Assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 from 7am to 11pm daily or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, or by downloading the FEMA app. FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs.

    Help from Other States

    More than 1,600 responders from 35 state and local agencies have performed 102 missions supporting the response and recovery efforts through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). This includes public health nurses, emergency management teams supporting local governments, veterinarians, teams with search dogs and more.

    Beware of Misinformation

    North Carolina Emergency Management and local officials are cautioning the public about false Helene reports and misinformation being shared on social media. NCEM has launched a fact versus rumor response webpage to provide factual information in the wake of this storm. FEMA also has a rumor response webpage.

    Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution

    Efforts continue to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, using both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. More than 20,000 hot meals a day are being prepared and served by mobile kitchens. Food, water and commodity points of distribution are open throughout western North Carolina. For information on these sites in your community, visit your local emergency management and local government social media and websites or visit ncdps.gov/Helene.

    Missing Persons

    To report a missing person or request non-emergency support, please call NC 211 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state. NC 211 also has a registry page for missing persons and welfare check requests.

    Shelters

    A total of 22 shelters are open in Western North Carolina and Saturday night served more than 825 people and 94 pets.

    Storm Damage Cleanup

    If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.

    Power Outages

    Across Western North Carolina, approximately 142,000 customers remained without power at 12:30 p.m., down from a peak of more than 1 million. Overall power outage numbers will fluctuate up and down as power crews temporarily take circuits or substations offline to make repairs and restore additional customers.

    Road Closures

    Travel remains dangerous, with approximately 650 roads closed as of Sunday morning. More than 100 of those roads are primary routes connecting the region. As connectivity and reporting measures improve, these number may increase.

    NCDOT is asking people to avoid unnecessary travel to or in Western North Carolina. NCDOT has posted at ncdot.gov an interstate detour map for travelers to avoid western N.C. NCDOT currently has more than 2,050 employees and 1,100 pieces of equipment working on more than 3,200 damaged road sites.

    Fatalities

    Seventy-seven storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We expect that this number will continue to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If you have an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911. To report that you have been unable to reach a person in Western North Carolina, please call 211.

    Volunteers and Donations

    Due to dangerous road conditions and the need to maintain open routes for emergency operations, travel to Western North Carolina is strongly discouraged. Instead, consider the following options for donations and volunteer opportunities:

    • If you would like to donate to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, visit nc.gov/donate. Donations will help to support local nonprofits working on the ground.
    • For information on volunteer opportunities, please visit nc.gov/volunteernc

    Additional Assistance

    There is no right or wrong way to feel in response to the trauma of a hurricane. If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org.

    If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599.

    For general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.

    If you are seeking information on resources for recovery help for a resident impacted from the storm, please email IArecovery@ncdps.gov.

    ###

    Oct 6, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 7 October 2024 Now we can eat together! Whānau in Tuakau love their newly renovated homes, describing them as being “like brand new”.

    Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

    Kāinga Ora homes in the little town just south of Auckland are amongst the hundreds of older state houses across New Zealand being extensively refurbished as part of our Retrofit Programme. The programme is designed to make our homes warmer, drier and healthier, places that tenants are proud to call home.

    “When we walked in, we were like ‘Wow!’” recalls Eteta. “We already love living in Tuakau because it’s quiet and safe, the kids can walk to school, and I can walk to work. Now the house looks brand new – and we love it!

    Eteta and her partner Alexander are especially happy that their kitchen-dining area has been opened up because now there’s space for the young family to eat together. The bathroom has been reconfigured too, and the home has new windows, doors and a heat pump, making it cosy for winter. In addition, the house has fresh paint, new carpets and improved layouts in the kitchen and bathroom.

    Just along the road from Eteta’s whānau is customer Beverly. She loves her renovated home so much that she wants to buy it.

    “If I won the lottery, I’d buy this house. It’s beautiful now and I’m so proud of it.”

    Beverly’s home, a three-bedroom weatherboard and tile house, dates back to 1983 before open-plan living was popular and it’s been reconfigured to create a more spacious kitchen-dining area.

    “I absolutely love the kitchen; there’s more storage space and it’s very easy to clean. That means a lot to me because I have heart problems and limited mobility.”

    Amazingly, it’s the third time Beverly has lived in this particular house. The first time was when it was new and she was a young mother; the next time was when she returned to the area with older children, and most recently she moved back after the retrofit.

    “All my family’s memories are in this home. We know all our neighbours and we just love it here. I’m so happy about how smart my house looks now.

    “It’s also a big relief to know the power bills will be lower now. We used to bring our mattresses into the lounge at night to save on the heating, but we don’t have to do that anymore. The house is much warmer.”

    Retrofitting includes full insulation, double glazing and improved air tightness, making homes fit for a further 50 years’ use.

    It can be more efficient and sustainable to retrofit rather than build new, making use of existing materials rather than demolishing and building new homes.

    And it supports tenants’ wellbeing by enabling them to stay in their homes and communities, in warmer and drier conditions.

    Beverlys new kitchen is light and spacious

    Page updated: 7 October 2024

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Taranaki road renewal season to ensure reliable, secure, resilient access for communities

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is ramping up renewal work in Taranaki this 2024/2025 road maintenance season to promote resilient, secure, and reliable access for communities.

    During the course of the 2024/25 maintenance season, which is now underway, it’s anticipated that 32 lane kilometres of state highway in the region will be rebuilt.

    Typically the season runs from October to the end of March – to make the most of the traditionally drier, sunnier, calmer weather – essential to successfully reseal roads.

    “Because summer in Taranaki is busy with lots of different events planned, we’ve started the Taranaki maintenance season early (with the SH3 rebuild at Burgess Park) to get our most impactful work completed prior to the event season,” says Rua Pani, Regional Manager of Maintenance and Operations.

    “We know that a well-maintained state highway network promotes safety and improves options for moving people and freight.”

    “Undertaking a higher number of road rebuilds is a key priority in the region. This is how we improve road conditions long-term,” says Ms Pani.

    These works are underway:

    • State Highway 3 Burgess Park rebuild – Work began on Monday 16 September and is expected to run for approximately 8 weeks. Single lane closures, and a detour will be in place.
    • State Highway 45 Vivian Street – Work is underway to resurface SH45 Vivian Street. Single lane closures, and a detour will be in place.

    These works are coming up:

    • State Highway 45 Powderham Street – Following the Vivian Street work, asphalt repairs will be completed on SH45 Powderham Street between Dawson and Robe Streets. This work will take approximately 3-4 nights to complete under a single lane closure. We will confirm the dates for this work as soon as possible.
    • State Highway 3 Onaero rebuild – From Monday 14 October, crews will be rebuilding two sections of the road over 7 weeks – starting at the intersection with Onaero River Road and then moving to a stretch of state highway between Ohanga and Waiau Roads.

    Both NZTA and New Plymouth District Council (NPDC) will also complete many asphalt reseals on roads this season.

    Most of the asphalt work will be done at night, ensuring shorter construction periods and minimise  disruption to the public and road users.

    Further reseal sites that NZTA will be completing are listed below:

    • SH3 Elliot Street between Pendarves and Courtenay Streets 
    • SH3 Courtenay Street between Elliot and Hobson Streets 
    • Sections of SH3 Northgate between Mangorei and Smart Roads
    • SH3 Devon Road at the intersection of Corbett Road
    • SH44 Molesworth Street between Eliot and Liardet Streets
    • SH45 South Road at Spotswood 

    With the increase in renewal work, road users can expect to encounter a number of roadwork sites and sections of newly sealed road on their journeys.

    “It is important that drivers follow the temporary traffic management in place, adhere to all speed restrictions in place and respect our crews while travelling through the roadworks site.

    “Crews are there to make everyone’s journey safer while traffic management is in place and while our roads are made more resilient and efficient,” says Ms Pani.

    “Speeding over a freshly sealed road can damage the new seal, lifting and flicking stones from the road that can, in turn, damage nearby vehicles or your own. To minimise the risk of damage to both vehicles and the new seal, it is crucial that road users adhere to all temporary speed restrictions in place.

    “We are working hard to minimise the impact of works on road users, but some level of disruption is unavoidable. We appreciate the patience of all road users in Taranaki as we complete this necessary maintenance work on the region’s roads,” says Ms Pani.

    Further information

    More information on works will be shared with stakeholders once confirmed. Locations may be subject to change ahead of work starting on site.

    Please note, the lists above are not complete, and NZTA will continue to communicate with local communities as soon as possible before work begins at various sites.

    To stay up to date on work happening on the local road network, visit the NPDC website(external link).

    For more information about the 2024/2025 road maintenance seasons in Taranaki, visit the NZTA website nzta.govt.nz/taranaki-maintenance.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Dunedin state highway update – clean up and damage assessment under way

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is advising motorists to expect delays when using SH88 as contractors investigate the extent of damage from last week’s massive downpour.

    There will be up to 30min delays between 9am and 4pm for the next three days on SH88 at the Parry Street rockfall site due to traffic control in place while contractors do scaling works to make the road safe.

    • Investigations are underway at the Burkes slip on SH88 to understand the extent of the damage to this section of highway. The road is currently under traffic lights stop/go traffic management.
    • Other geotechnical investigations are continuing at various sites on SH88

    NZTA is also advising that SH87, which remains closed because of the flood, is expected to re-open this afternoon with a temporary road surface in place, however further investigations into a permanent fix are required.  

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Summer maintenance means smoother and safer journeys for Top of the South Island drivers

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Drivers travelling at the top of the South Island can expect lots of activity this summer as NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi invests in resurfacing and rebuilding the region’s highways.

    Mark Owen, Regional Manager Lower North Island/Top of the South, says it is critical state highways are well-maintained to a reliable standard.

    “This work is about ensuring everyone can use them efficiently, quickly, and safely.”

    Mr Owen says our busy work programme is underway with one project almost complete.

    “It means drivers will see more road crews and work sites when travelling over the next few months.”

    “We will do as much work as possible between now and mid-December, which will mean less impact on holiday travel over the summer break,” Mr Owen says.

    He says this year’s summer maintenance programme will renew just short of 150 lane kilometres on local state highways – slightly more than what was completed last season.

    “This will see around 8,100 tonnes of asphalt and around 100 lane kilometres of chipseal laid by our crews across the Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough regions. The result will be safer, smoother journeys for motorists.”

    Most of the work will be done during night closures to minimise disruption and reduce cost through less traffic management.

    Work will also be done at several other smaller sites across the top of the South Island under stop/go traffic management. The public will receive further information before the projects begin.

    Mr Owen says there’s more than just summer maintenance work to do.

    “We have repair work on SH60 Tākaka Hill following a slip in July, proactive resilience projects underway on SH63 and about to begin on SH6 Rai Saddle in Marlborough, and ongoing work to repair the Marlborough Sounds roads.”

    “There are also other ongoing safety improvement projects like the SH6 Tancred Crescent Roundabout at the Marlborough Airport,’ Mr Owen says.

    He says with so much work planned, drivers need to check road conditions before they travel. 

    “Planning ahead and knowing what’s happening on the network can save you time and hassles. Knowing when and where roadworks are happening means you can time your travel to avoid them or allow extra time for your trip.”

    Mr Owen says allowing extra time is essential for people travelling between Christchurch to Picton, and between Blenheim and Nelson.”

    “If you’re traveling to the ferry or for an appointment, we recommend allowing an extra 60 minutes travel time between Christchurch and Picton and an extra 30 minutes if you’re traveling between Nelson and Blenheim.”

    Mr Owen acknowledges that roadworks occur more frequently during spring, summer, and early autumn and affect people’s travel – but there’s a good reason for it.

    “To be effective and durable, road renewals and re-sealing must be done during the warmer, drier months. It can’t be done during winter when the weather is wet and cold.”

    “Whenever you come to a worksite, remember that our road workers are doing their best to complete their work and keep you moving. Please be respectful and follow their advice and instructions,” Mr Owen says.

    Summer Maintenance Schedule – Top of the South Island

    Location

    Month

    Duration of work

    Type of work

    SH6 Gladstone Road, Richmond

    In progress

    2 weeks of night closures

    Resurfacing

    SH63 The Wash, Marlborough

    In progress

    8 weeks of daytime stop/go

    Resilience

    SH6 Rai Saddle, Marlborough

    14 October – 22 November

    24/7 stop/go

    Resilience

    SH60 Mariri Causeway, Motueka

    19 October

    1-day closure

    Resurfacing

    SH1 Weld Pass, Marlborough

    20 – 23 October

    4-night closures

    Drainage

    SH6 Canvastown, Marlborough

    November

    3 weeks of Stop/Go

    Rebuilding

    SH6 Tunnicliffe Bridge, Motupiko, Tasman

    October/November

    3 weeks of stop/go followed by 2 weeks of night closures

    Rebuilding

    SH60 Commercial Street, Golden Bay, Tasman

    November

    1 week of night closures

    Resurfacing

    SH60 Tākaka Hill, Tasman
    NB: Other work at the underslip site on SH60 Tākaka Hill will also be carried out to repair the road to two lanes before Christmas

    November

    4 weeks including
    3 weeks of night closures + 1 week of day closures)

    Resurfacing (3 weeks)
    Resealing (1 week)

    SH6 Pelorus, Marlborough

    December

    4 weeks of stop/go

    Rebuilding

    SH1 Main Street roundabout, Blenheim 

    January/February

    1 week of night closures

    Resurfacing

    SH6 Annesbrook Drive, Tāhunanui, Nelson

    January

    1 week of night closures

    Resurfacing

    SH1 Grovetown, Marlborough

    February

    3 weeks including night closures and stop/go

    Rebuilding

    SH6 Whangamoa

    February

    2 to 3 weeks of night closures

    Resurfacing, drainage, other general maintenance i.e. guardrails, signage

    SH6 Havelock, Marlborough

    February

    1 week of night closures or stop/go at the same time as the SH6 Whangamoa night closure to maximise efficiency

    Resurfacing

    SH1 Weld Pass, Marlborough

    February

    2 weeks of night closures

    Resurfacing and other general maintenance i.e guardrails, signage

    SH1 South of Riverlands/Co-op Drain

    February

    2 weeks of stop/go

    Rebuilding

    SH1 South of Seddon/Taimate

    February/March

    3 weeks of stop/go

    Rebuilding

    Note: The works in the table above may change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

    Summer Maintenance Programme – additional information

    • Key holiday periods are kept free of roadworks to help ease the pressure on peak travel times. 
    • More information about our summer maintenance work can be found on our website
    • Further details about  planned National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) 2024-27 investment for the top of the South Island are also available online 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: State Highway 6 closed near Canvastown due to serious crash (SH6 is now open)

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    9 pm:
    State Highway 6 has reopened.

    Drivers may experience delays until queued traffic clears and should take extra care while driving through the crash site.

    6:55 pm:
    State Highway 6 remains closed to traffic near Havelock this evening following a serious crash this afternoon.

    A crash scene investigation is continuing, and the vehicle involved is still to be recovered and removed.

    The highway is not expected to reopen until later tonight.

    Drivers travelling between Nelson and Blenheim should continue to detour via State Highway 63 Wairau Valley and Kawatiri Junction.

    Updates on the highway’s status can be found in the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:

    4:20 pm:

    People driving between Blenheim and Nelson can expect delays this afternoon as emergency services attend a serious crash on State Highway 6 east of Canvastown.

    The crash was reported around 3.20 pm. Emergency services are at the scene, and road contractors are also attending.

    State Highway 6 is closed in both directions and there are no suitable local road detours available.

    Drivers are asked to avoid the area or delay their travel.

    The only suitable detour route for people travelling between Nelson and Blenheim is via State Highway 63 Wairau Valley and Kawatiri Junction. This will add 30 minutes or more to travel times between Blenheim and Nelson.

    The highway is expected to remain closed until the Police Serious Crash Unit complete an investigation. This is likely to take several hours.

    Further updates will be provided when the highway’s status changes. Details can also be checked on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: A big season ahead for Wairarapa – Lower North Island State Highway summer maintenance season

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    State Highway 2 Wairarapa will be a major focus for road repairs and rehabilitation in the Wellington region this coming summer maintenance season.

    Over the next three years of the National Land Transport Programme (NLTP), the region has $162 million allocated for state highway maintenance and another $116 million ringfenced for state highway pothole prevention – a total investment of $278 million.

    Mark Owen, Regional Manager – Lower North Island/Top of the South, says the funding is integral to the work planned for this coming summer.

    “Road crews will carry out 15 lane km of chipsealing, 40 lane km of asphalt resurfacing, and four lane km of road rebuilding across the region from spring to autumn.”

    “This season we are focusing on more road rebuilding in an effort to improve overall network condition through more intensive treatments, increasing pavement quality,” Mr Owen says.

    He confirms significant work is planned for Wairarapa.

    “We’ll be making a huge investment in rebuilding areas of the state highway that most need repair. This includes sections in Greytown, Carterton and Masterton.”

    “The planned work will result in stronger highways that need fewer repairs and less maintenance. The highways will be resilient, less susceptible to potholes, and will only need occasional resurfacing work for the next 25 years,” Mr Owen says.

    Wellington/ Wairarapa – Summer Maintenance Programme

    Location

    Date

    SH1 Raumati Straights

    November 2024

    SH2 Greytown

    April 2025

    SH2 Solway (Masterton)

    Date to be confirmed 2025

    SH2 Carterton

    May 2025

    SH2 Featherston         

    May 2025

    SH2 Masterton to Carterton maintenance

    Ongoing

    (Timing is indicative, more details will be provided before works begin)

     

    View larger map [PDF, 370 KB]

    NZTA/Waka Kotahi and the Wellington Transport Alliance will work closely with local councils on the timing of these works. The aim is to align our projects with theirs to minimise disruption for communities. Where possible, full closures will be used to complete work quickly and efficiently with more cost-effective traffic management.

    Mr Owen says it does mean there will be road works, detours, and delays for Wairarapa drivers over the coming months, and disruption for residents and businesses near road rebuilding worksites.

    “We do understand that people find road work delays frustrating. However, this investment is about providing better highways that require fewer repairs. Doing this work now secures a better future for all road users.”

    More information

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: State Highway 58 to partially close briefly for crash site clearance (SH58 OPEN IN BOTH DIRECTIONS)

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

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    1:20 pm:

    State Highway 58 has now reopened to eastbound traffic. Drivers may experience delays as queued traffic clears

    NZTA/Waka Kotahi and the Wellington Transport Alliance thank drivers for their patience and cooperation while road crews worked to clear the crash site and reopen the highway.

    12:20 pm:

    Drivers are asked to avoid State Highway 58 between the Hutt Valley and Pāuatahanui as contractors clear a crash scene.

    The highway will be closed for eastbound traffic from 12:30 this afternoon for around 30 minutes.

    Drivers should avoid the area, delay their travel, or consider an alternate route.

    The crash, involving a car versus median barrier, was reported shortly before 11 this morning and partially blocked the highway’s westbound lanes.

    Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Serious crash at Tuamarina – expect travel delays on State Highway 1 (SH1 OPEN IN BOTH DIRECTIONS)

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    3:25 pm:

    State Highway 1 is now open in both directions under a 30 km/h temporary speed limit at the crash site. Drivers may experience delays while travelling through the area

    NZTA/Waka Kotahi thanks drivers for their patience and cooperation today while  emergency services and contractors attended this incident.

    1:50 pm:

    State Highway 1 is currently under stop/stop traffic controls while the crashed vehicle is recovered. This affects both north and southbound traffic

    Traffic delays can be expected for approximately an hour between Picton and Springfield while this work is completed.

    Drivers should delay their travel and avoid the area.

    Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:

    12:02 pm:

    State Highway 1 is now open in both directions following a serious crash at the intersection of Bush Road earlier today

    A car crashed off the road into the Tuamarina River shortly before two am this morning.

    The highway was restricted to one lane under stop/go traffic controls while the Police Serious Crash Unit carried out a scene investigation

    While the highway is now open to traffic, it is expected to be closed briefly later today for recovery operations.

    Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website. NZ Police are also issuing media releases:

    6:55 am:

    State Highway 1 is under stop/go traffic management near Tuamarina following a serious crash early this morning.

    The crash, which occurred on Bush Road at the intersection with State Highway 1, was reported around two am this morning.

    State Highway 1 is currently closed to northbound traffic near the intersection of Bush Road and under stop/go traffic control while Police and emergency services attend the incident.

    Drivers can expect delays when travelling through the area. Please take extra care when travelling past the crash site and follow all instructions from emergency services.

    A full closure of State Highway 1 is possible later this morning to support ongoing crash scene investigations.

    People travelling between Picton and Blenheim, particularly those with ferry connections, should allow extra time for their journeys.

    Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Motorists urged to drive with caution this morning over Harbour Bridge

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

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    Aucklanders are urged to drive with extra caution this morning with heavy winds predicted between 8am and 1pm today (Monday 7 October).

    The bridge currently remains in a 4×4 configuration.

    Motorists are urged to drive to the conditions and look out for the electronic message boards which will indicate lane closures and reduced speeds, and stay within their lane while travelling across the bridge. 

    Drivers of high sided vehicles and motorcyclists are advised to avoid the Auckland Harbour Bridge and use the western ring route on State Highways 16 and 18. 

    NZTA thanks road users for their patience and understanding.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –