Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Nature is increasingly integral to business decision-making, with more than half of the world’s GDP reliant on its resources.
From assessing nature-related risks to investing in sustainable practices that drive growth, what nature-positive strategies are private sector actors embracing as core elements of their business models?
MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –
Source: Government of Canada – in French 1
Media representatives are advised that the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will make an announcement regarding Indigenous-led stewardship initiatives.
Gatineau, Quebec – September 26, 2024 – Media representatives are advised that the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will make an announcement about Indigenous-led stewardship initiatives.
He will be joined by the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services, Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Rainy River, Jaimee Gaunce, Executive Director of the National First Nations Guardians Network, and Valérie Courtois, Executive Director of the Indigenous Leadership Initiative.
Minister Guilbeault will hold a press briefing after the announcement.
Activity: Announcement and press briefingDate: Friday, September 27, 2024Time: 9:00 a.m. (EDT)Location: Spirit GardenSleeping Giant Parkway (near Prince Arthur’s Landing) Thunder Bay, Ontario
Media representatives wishing to attend are requested to register with the media team. Media Relations Environment and Climate Change Canada and will be notified if there are any changes to the process.
Oliver AndersonDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change819-962-0686Oliver.Anderson@ec.gc.ca
Media RelationsEnvironment and Climate Change Canada819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll free)media@ec.gc.ca
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –
Source: Government of Canada – in French 1
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, attended the Global Coalition to Combat Synthetic Drug Threats Summit, hosted by United States President Joe Biden, on the margins of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
September 26, 2024 – New York, United States of America – Global Affairs Canada
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, attended the Global Coalition to Combat Synthetic Drug Threats Summit, hosted by United States President Joe Biden, on the margins of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Building on the Coalition’s successful work over the past year, the event highlighted the need for continued international action to stem the illicit production, distribution, trafficking and sale of synthetic drugs, to detect emerging drug threats, and to promote public health interventions and prevention services.
In her remarks, Minister Joly highlighted Canada’s efforts to address one of the most serious and deadly public health crises of our time. She noted that Canada is committed to providing timely access to a full range of strategies to help people access prevention, harm reduction, treatment or recovery services, and to access the support they need, when and where they need it. She noted that Canada has invested $25 billion in critical health priorities, such as improving access to mental health and addictions services.
In addition, Minister Joly welcomed the wide range of initiatives put forward by the Coalition and encouraged countries to act together, with determination and conviction, to reduce the threats posed by synthetic drugs to public health and safety. She committed to continuing national efforts to combat the supply of illegally manufactured synthetic drugs that are driving the overdose crisis, and to strengthening multilateral efforts to address the growing threats posed by synthetic drugs and organized crime.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –
Source: Government of Canada – in French 2
The Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, announced a federal investment of $14.9 million in 20 projects to support infrastructure, awareness measures, and codes and standards for zero-emission vehicles.
We all have a role to play in the fight against climate change. A broad shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is essential to decarbonizing road transportation, which accounts for 18% of Canada’s total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions—50% of which comes from light-duty vehicles or passenger cars.
Additionally, clean fuels such as clean hydrogen, advanced biofuels, liquid synthetic fuels and renewable natural gas will play a critical role in hard-to-decarbonize sectors such as industry and medium- and heavy-duty freight transportation.
The Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, today announced a federal investment of $14.9 million in 20 projects to support infrastructure, awareness measures, and codes and standards for zero-emission vehicles.
Projects funded under the Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program
Kang and Gill Construction, a limited liability company located in Victoria, British Columbia: an investment of $340,000 to install 68 EV charging stations by March 31, 2024. Halifax County Condominium Corporation No. 240, Halifax, Nova Scotia: an investment of $110,000 to install 22 EV charging stations by April 2023. Halifax International Airport, Goffs, Nova Scotia: an investment of $180,000 to install 37 EV charging stations by December 2024. Park Royal Shopping Centre Holdings, a limited liability company located in West Vancouver, North Vancouver and Whistler, British Columbia: an investment of $242,000 from NRCan to install 50 EV charging stations by November 2023. Concert Realty Services, a limited liability company located in Vancouver, British Columbia: an investment of $190,000 from NRCan to install 38 EV charging stations by January 2025. Westbank Projects, a company located in Toronto, Ontario and Vancouver, British Columbia: an investment of $4,914,660 to install 2,635 EV charging stations by May 2025. THE OWNERS, STRATA PLAN BCS4321, Vancouver, British Columbia: an investment of $150,000 to install 30 EV charging stations by June 2024. Austeville Properties, a limited liability company located in Vancouver, British Columbia: an investment of $250,000 to install 50 EV charging stations by October 2025. 2025. 1125 Denman Developments Limited Partnership through its general partner Denman Developments, in Vancouver, British Columbia: an investment of $500,000 for the installation of 16 EV charging stations by July 2025. The Owners Strata Plan LMS1108 “The National”, in Vancouver, British Columbia: an investment of $260,000 for the installation of 60 EV charging stations by May 2024. Strata Corporation LMS4255 “Marinaside Resort”, in Vancouver, British Columbia: an investment of $500,000 for the installation of 140 EV charging stations by May 2024. 1229488 BC, a limited liability company located in Vancouver, British Columbia: an investment of $99,999 for the installation of of 23 EV charging stations by March 2024.
Zero Emission Vehicle Awareness Initiative
Plug’N Drive, Toronto, Ontario: an investment of $1,560,633 to increase awareness of electric vehicles among Canadians through a comprehensive test-drive experimentation and awareness campaign targeting small and medium-sized communities with limited experience or exposure to EVs. Create Climate Equity Association, Coquitlam, British Columbia: an investment of $100,000 to consult with one or more underserved, low-income urban communities in the City of Vancouver on transportation needs and develop a model for developing equity-based zero-emission mobility solutions for participating communities. Steel River Group, a limited liability company located in Calgary, Alberta: an investment of $300,000 to empower and equip Indigenous youth with the knowledge, skills and confidence to lead sustainable transportation and clean energy projects in their communities. Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) in Edmonton, Alberta: an investment of $247,045 to develop non-credit courses on hydrogen fuel cell bus and heavy-duty vehicle maintenance to train fleet owners, drivers, heavy-duty mechanics and technicians on the operation and maintenance of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles and to increase public confidence and knowledge of these zero-emission vehicles. HUB Cycling in Vancouver, British Columbia: an investment of $241,545 to increase awareness and adoption of electric mobility in British Columbia.
Minister Wilkinson also announced $3.6 million in funding for CSA Group to update codes and standards related to zero-emission vehicle infrastructure under the Energy Innovation Program:
CSA Group, Toronto, Ontario: $3,616,373. The funded project aims to establish or update codes and standards, develop guidelines, manage committees, and conduct literature reviews on zero-emission transportation infrastructure, including advanced charging equipment, energy storage, management and various modes of transportation.
Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada – Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program
Finally, Minister Wilkinson announced a joint investment of more than $3.1 million through the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program for two green infrastructure projects in British Columbia. The projects will improve access to clean transportation options, tap into the province’s clean electricity supply, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Public Electric Vehicle Charging Network Expansion – Phase 3 in Vancouver, British Columbia: o The federal government is investing $824,600 through the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of British Columbia is investing $687,098 through the CleanBC Communities Fund. The City of Vancouver is providing $549,802. o The project involves installing approximately 15 Level 2 and 9 DC fast chargers near parks throughout the city, as well as upgrading electrical and mechanical systems. Public Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure in the District of North Vancouver, British Columbia: o The federal government is investing $217,447 through the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of British Columbia is investing $579,821 through the CleanBC Communities Fund. Finally, the District of North Vancouver is providing $289,965. o The project involves the development of a public network of approximately ten Level 2 charging stations and two DC fast chargers along major roadways, in major buildings, and near multi-family and social housing units in the district.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
Source: US State of Connecticut
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that his administration is making several changes to Connecticut’s early child care and education programs that will result in more children being able to receive access to these programs, while also lowering the associated costs to their parents.
“Access to child care and early education programs is massively important to the success of our state, not only because these programs provide valuable tools for children that will lead them to success in the future, but also because being able to enroll your child in care right now means that parents themselves can have an opportunity to obtain employment and earn an income that supports their family,” Governor Lamont said. “Right now, Connecticut is expanding access to child care for high-need communities to levels we’ve never experienced and I am determined to continue this trend. I appreciate the Biden-Harris administration for working with our state to make expanding access to child care a priority.”
Effective January 1, 2025, family fees for Care 4 Kids – the state program that supports low to moderate-income families with some of the costs of paying for child care – will be capped at 7% of household income, which is down from the current rate of 10%. This means that the fees required to participate in Care 4 Kids will decrease for all participating families. On average, it is estimated that this change will save families about $200 per month.
Additionally, effective October 1, 2024, in an effort to reduce the benefit cliff that families enrolled in Care 4 Kids can face, families participating in this program will be able to remain enrolled until their household income reaches 85% of the state median income, which is an increase from the current limit of 65%. This means that if a parent receives a promotion or pay raise from their employer, it is more likely they can accept the pay increase and not worry that it will prevent their child from continuing to receive this care.
Both of these changes bring Connecticut in alignment with federal requirements and can be implemented using existing federal funds.
An additional 1,500 children will be enrolled in Care 4 Kids, bringing the total number of children served under this program from 21,500 to 23,000, using existing state and federal funding.
In addition to the Care 4 Kids changes, the state is adding 900 new state-funded early care and education spaces for young children through the School Readiness and Child Day Care program by maximizing existing state funds.
These programs are administered by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood.
“Connecticut continues to look for ways to leverage state and federal resources to increase access to affordable child care for families,” Connecticut Early Childhood Commissioner Beth Bye said. “Today’s announcement is about adding capacity and affordability. It’s good for families, good for child care programs, and good for Connecticut’s economy.”
This added capacity brings the total number of children receiving municipal, state, and federally funded early childhood programs in Connecticut to 62,400, which is well ahead of the Connecticut Blue Ribbon Panel on Child Care’s goal of 60,000 children being funded in these programs by fiscal year 2026. With these new investments, 29% of children under 5 years of age will be enrolled in more affordable early childhood education programs in the current fiscal year.
“Child care is a necessity for Connecticut’s working families and the Biden-Harris administration commends the state for moving swiftly to implement a new federal rule to lower costs for families participating in the child care subsidy program,” Ruth Friedman, director of the Office of Child Care for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, said.
“Few things are more frustrating for parents than trying to find affordable child care,” U.S. Senator Chris Murphy said. “These new changes are going to make a big difference for thousands of families by lowering costs and opening up more spots in child care and early education programs. It’s a big deal for those kids’ development, but it will also give the state’s economy a boost. I’ll keep fighting to increase the federal government’s investment in child care in Connecticut.”
“I am thrilled to see federal funding be used to take bold steps that will make more child care slots available in our state and lower costs by capping fees for low and middle-income families receiving assistance at 7% of their household income,” U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) said. “Under Governor Lamont’s leadership, Connecticut is leading the nation to ensure working families can access the child care they need to make ends meet. I will continue to work with President Biden, Vice President Harris, and the entire Connecticut Congressional delegation to build on this progress in Washington so every family can afford high-quality child care.”
“Affordable child care is essential for families to thrive,” U.S. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) said. “And yet, they struggle with the high cost – making difficult decisions on their budget to ensure their children are cared for when they go to work. I am proud to have secured American Rescue Plan Act funding and Child Care and Development Fund dollars to help bring down the cost of childcare in Connecticut. Ensuring parents pay no more than seven percent of their income for childcare, will help families keep more of their hard-earned dollars.”
Governor Lamont made these announcements today during a news conference at the Enfield Child Development Center.
“We are very proud to serve families in our community who are working or attending training or college who are supported thorough the Care 4 Kids program,” Eileen Gardner, senior site manager for the Enfield Child Development Center, said. “These changes will help our families pay for child care and other critical household needs. We are also committed to partnering with the Office of Early Childhood to deliver state-funded high-quality early care and education services to our youngest children.”
“I began working at the Enfield Child Development Center two years ago as a teacher’s aide in the toddler program,” Ashley Plaza Torres said. “I have two children, 8 years old and 2 years old, and I am thankful to have the support of Care 4 Kids because it gives me the opportunity to work and afford child care for two children.”
These changes and their impacts on Connecticut’s workforce and its economy are projected to increase the state’s gross domestic product by $351 million and state revenue by $29.7 million. For every dollar invested in adding these child care slots, there is an expected one-year return of approximately $13.50 in total economic benefits. If it is assumed an additional slot enables on additional parent to join the workforce, even at minimum wage, this would add $33,000 in household earnings.
For information on Care 4 Kids, visit ctcare4kids.com.
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency
Headline: Free Legal Help Available for South Dakotans Affected by Summer Storms
Free Legal Help Available for South Dakotans Affected by Summer Storms
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – A Disaster Legal Services hotline is now available to provide legal assistance to South Dakotans impacted by this summer’s severe storms and flooding. The hotline connects residents in Davison, Lincoln, Turner, and Union counties with free legal services for those who cannot afford an attorney.
Residents can reach the hotline at 605-444-3719 during business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Callers can also
leave a message outside of business hours, and a representative will return your call.
The hotline may provide help with legal issues such as:
▪ Home repair contracts and property insurance claims
▪ Redoing wills and other important legal documents destroyed in the disaster
▪ Price gouging, scams, or identity theft
▪ Landlord and tenant problems, or threats of foreclosure
▪ Disability related access to federal state and local disaster programs
▪ FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration financial benefits
The hotline cannot help in all cases. For example, they cannot take cases where a settlement could include legal fees or an award, but they may refer those cases to other legal help. The service is a partnership between the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, FEMA, and East River Legal Services.
tiana.suber
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency
Headline: DHS Statement on Safety and Enforcement During Hurricane Helene
uring emergency events, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) works with its federal, state, local, and non-governmental partners to support the needs of the people in the areas that may be impacted.
In such circumstances, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) remind the public that sites that provide emergency response and relief are considered protected areas. To the fullest extent possible, ICE and CBP do not conduct immigration enforcement activities at protected areas such as along evacuation routes, sites used for sheltering or the distribution of emergency supplies, food or water, or registration sites for disaster-related assistance or the reunification of families and loved ones.
At the request of FEMA or local and state authorities, ICE and CBP may help conduct search and rescue, air traffic de-confliction and public safety missions. ICE and CBP provide emergency assistance to individuals regardless of their immigration status. DHS officials do not and will not pose as individuals providing emergency-related information as part of any enforcement activities.
DHS is committed to ensuring that every individual who seeks shelter, aid, or other assistance as a result of a natural disaster or emergency event is able to do so regardless of their immigration status.
DHS carries out its mission without discrimination on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation or gender identity, ethnicity, disability or political associations, and in compliance with law and policy.
For information about filing a complaint with the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties about these matters, please visit our Make a Civil Rights Complaint page.
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency
Headline: FEMA Announces Nearly $1.9 Million to Help Communities in Region 3 Build Resilience to Flooding Disasters Through Investing in America Agenda
FEMA Announces Nearly $1.9 Million to Help Communities in Region 3 Build Resilience to Flooding Disasters Through Investing in America Agenda
This funding announcement marks the 30th anniversary of the Flood Mitigation Assistance program, dedicated to addressing the nation’s costliest annual disaster
PHILADELPHIA— Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and more severe due to climate change, leading to increased response and recovery missions across the nation. This week, FEMA announced nearly $1.9 million in new project selections to eliminate or reduce flood damage in Maryland, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
The funding comes through the Flood Mitigation Assistance program to help communities across the nation enhance resilience to extreme weather events. This is the 30th anniversary of the Flood Mitigation Assistance program, created in 1994. Over the past 30 years, approximately $2 billion has been obligated by FEMA to address the nation’s costliest annual disaster.
Through this program, FEMA provides funding to states, local communities, Tribal Nations and territories to reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings insured under the National Flood Insurance Program.
There are three categories of funding which include:
The announcement also aligns with FEMA’s 2024 Year of Resilience campaign, as well as the goals of the National Climate Resilience Framework, and will help build capacity to withstand tomorrow’s hazards.
“The projects selected in Region 3 are an example of the many different ways that FMA funding can be used to make communities more resilient to flooding,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “While we look forward at the impact these future projects will have, it is also important to take a moment and celebrate the 30th anniversary of the FMA program and the difference it has made for communities not just here in Region 3, but across the country.”
Region 3 Flood Mitigation Assistance FY23 Selections:
|
State |
Number of Selections |
Total Funding for Selections (rounded) |
| Maryland |
2 |
$851, 195 |
| Pennsylvania |
4 |
$832,605 |
| West Virginia |
1 |
$202,125 |
$202,125
This project will develop a framework for long-term Flood Mitigation Assistance projects through the development of the state’s strategic flood mitigation plan. The plan aims to identify and profile flood hazards, analyze vulnerabilities, and implement capability assessment to address at-risk communities. It will focus on repetitive loss structures and aligns strategic mitigation actions with future grant funding opportunities. A key goal of the plan is to link grant funding to flood hazards identified in the State Hazard Mitigation Plan. The plan creation process includes setting goals, assessing existing mitigation actions, analyzing data, identifying new actions, and prioritizing grant submissions.
Projects in Maryland and Pennsylvania will include elevating and reconstructing homes to make them more resilient to flooding and creating engineering plans for future projects to protect communities from flooding. Additionally, FEMA is funding the voluntary acquisition of properties that have been flooded repeatedly.
In total, FEMA selected 197 projects in National Flood Insurance Program-participating communities in 25 states. In addition to flood control activities, the selections will reduce risk to individual properties through actions like elevations, acquisitions and mitigation reconstruction of buildings insured by NFIP.
The selections complement a July announcement of $1 billion nationwide through FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program and the current $300 million funding opportunity through Flood Mitigation Assistance’s Swift Current—another important part of the President’s Investing in America Agenda—to make the nation more resilient to natural hazards. Both programs provide climate resilience funding to help address increased demand for federal funds to address the climate crisis.
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.
###
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Follow us on “X” at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3
erika.osullivan
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
5th Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Forum concludes successfully (with photos)
5th Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Forum concludes successfully (with photos)
******************************************************************************************
The 5th Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Forum (BRITACOF) hosted by the Inland Revenue Department concluded successfully today (September 26). This three-day annual mega event in the international tax community attracted about 500 tax officials, tax experts, as well as representatives from international organisations, academic institutions and enterprises from nearly 50 countries and regions to discuss emerging tax issues and exchange tax administration experiences under the theme “Deepening Tax Administration Cooperation for High-Quality Belt and Road Development”. The Executive Secretary of the Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Mechanism (BRITACOM) Secretariat and the Deputy Commissioner of the State Taxation Administration (STA), Mr Wang Daoshu, announced the outcomes of the 5th BRITACOF at the closing ceremony today, including four outcomes of the task forces of the Nur-Sultan Action Plan (2022-2024), the Joint Statement of the Fifth BRITACOF, the Hong Kong Action Plan (2025-2027), the Annual Report of the BRITACOM (2024), the joining of Maldives Inland Revenue Authority as a new BRITACOM Council member tax administration, and the establishment of the BRITA·Algiers. The relevant documents set out in detail the efforts made by various parties in promoting the establishment of BRITACOM and the achievements made, reflecting the importance of BRITACOM in international tax co-operation. The documents also advocate multilateral and equal-footed dialogue to create a positive impact through facilitating the enhancement of the international tax environment amidst a future global tax administration landscape. Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Commissioner of Inland Revenue and the Chairman of the 5th BRITACOF, Mr Tam Tai-pang said, “The knowledge and insights gained from this forum are invaluable to all of us in our endeavours to improve our tax systems and enhance the quality and capacity of our tax administrations, which are vital to economic development in our respective jurisdictions.” He pointed out that BRITACOM had achieved significant outcomes and reached consensus on the work of deepening tax administration co-operation of the Belt and Road jurisdictions in the future. The success of the Belt and Road Initiative hinges on all parties’ ability to work together, and the collective efforts in tax administration co-operation will be pivotal in achieving shared goals. Hong Kong also took the opportunity of the 5th BRITACOF to deepen tax co-operation within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). On the margins of the 5th BRITACOF, the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, met with the Commissioner of the STA, Mr Hu Jinglin, and witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on tax co-operation within the GBA among the finance and taxation departments of Guangdong Province, Shenzhen, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) and the Macao SAR. The MOU will promote the co-ordination of tax administration and services in the GBA and facilitate Hong Kong’s active integration into the overall national development. As regards international tax co-operation, during the 5th BRITACOF the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, held bilateral meetings separately with representatives from Kazakhstan, Maldives, Tajikistan and Türkiye to discuss deepening tax co-operation at the international and Belt and Road levels. He also signed a comprehensive avoidance of double taxation agreement (CDTA) with the Government of the Republic of Türkiye on behalf of the Hong Kong SAR Government, marking a significant step forward for Hong Kong in its continuous fostering of international tax co-operation and expansion of the CDTA network. The 5th BRITACOF fully demonstrates Hong Kong’s unique advantages as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder”. The exchange of tax administration experiences has deepened relations among countries and regions, and facilitated the sharing of opportunities and achievements brought by the Belt and Road Initiative, contributing to the high-quality Belt and Road development. To showcase Hong Kong’s hospitality and tell the good story of Hong Kong, the Inland Revenue Department, as the host of the 5th BRITACOF, arranged various experiential activities for the participants to give them first-hand experience of Hong Kong’s unique charisma as an East-meets-West metropolis. Highlights include a cruise tour to enjoy the magnificent view of the Victoria Harbour, visits to the Hong Kong Palace Museum and M+ museum, and rides on Ngong Ping 360 cable cars. Established in 2019 under the lead of the STA, BRITACOM is a non-profit official mechanism for discussions on tax administration co-operation among countries and regions along the Belt and Road. BRITACOF, the annual signature event of BRITACOM, is hosted by member tax administrations in rotation. It was announced at the closing ceremony that the 6th and 7th BRITACOF would be held in Nepal in 2025 and Indonesia in 2026 respectively. For details of the 5th BRITACOF, please visit the thematic website (www.ird.gov.hk/BRITACOF/eng/index.html).
Ends/Thursday, September 26, 2024Issued at HKT 22:17
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Source: Government of Canada News
Media representatives are advised that the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will make an announcement on Indigenous-led stewardship initiatives.
Gatineau, Quebec – September 26, 2024 – Media representatives are advised that the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will make an announcement on Indigenous-led stewardship initiatives.
He will be joined by the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services; Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Rainy River; Jaimee Gaunce, Executive Director, First Nations National Guardians Network; and Valérie Courtois, Executive Director, Indigenous Leadership Initiative.
Following the announcement, Minister Guilbeault will hold a media availability.
Event: Announcement and media availability
Date: Friday, September 27, 2024
Time: 9:00 a.m. EDT
Location: Spirit Garden
Sleeping Giant Parkway (near Prince Arthur’s Landing)
Thunder Bay, Ontario
Media representatives are encouraged to register for this in-person event by contacting Media Relations at Environment and Climate Change Canada to be made aware of any changes.
Oliver Anderson
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
819-962-0686
Oliver.Anderson@ec.gc.ca
Media Relations
Environment and Climate Change Canada
819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll-free)
media@ec.gc.ca
Source: Council of the European Union
The EU issued a statement expressing extreme concern about the military escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, urging both parties to urgently implement a ceasefire and respect international humanitarian law, and reiterating its strong support for the state institutions of Lebanon.
Source: United States Department of Justice (video statements)
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division delivers remarks to highlight the Division’s work to protect the civil rights of all Americans.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Sept. 26 — Chinese State Councilor Shen Yiqin met with Tanzila Narbayeva, chairperson of the Senate of Uzbekistan, in Beijing on Thursday.
Noting that the development of China-Uzbekistan relations has entered a new stage, Shen, also president of the All-China Women’s Federation, said that the two sides should thoroughly implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, deepen exchanges and cooperation in various fields including women, and contribute women’s strength to enhancing the friendship between the two peoples.
Narbayeva offered congratulations on the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, as well as great appreciation for the great achievements China has made under the leadership of President Xi Jinping.
Narbayeva said that Uzbekistan is willing to jointly promote the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation with China, and further enrich cooperation on women and other fields to make new contributions to the development of Uzbekistan-China relations.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Sept. 26 — Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang met with Nepal’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel in Beijing on Thursday.
Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that China and Nepal — two nations linked by mountains and rivers — have enjoyed lasting friendship, setting a fine example of equality and mutual benefits between countries of different sizes.
He said that under the strategic guidance of the leaders of the two countries, China is ready to work with Nepal to deepen exchange and cooperation in various fields, build a high-quality Belt and Road, consolidate popular support for the bilateral friendship, and push China-Nepal relations to a higher level.
Paudel said that Nepal abides firmly by the one-China principle, supports China steadfastly in safeguarding its core interests, and hopes to strengthen its exchange of governance experience with China and deepen practical cooperation in various fields.
Source: United Nations – English
xcellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
Thank you for joining us on this important day highlighting the need for the total elimination of nuclear weapons.
There should be no place for these devices of death in our world.
Nuclear weapons are a double madness.
The first madness is the existence of weapons that can wipe out entire populations, communities and cities in a single attack.
We know that any use of a nuclear weapon would unleash a humanitarian catastrophe — a nightmare spilling over borders, affecting us all.
These weapons deliver no real security or stability — only looming danger, and constant threats to our very existence.
The second madness is that, despite the enormous and existential risks these weapons pose to humanity, we are no closer to eliminating them than we were 10 years ago.
In fact, we are heading in the wrong direction entirely.
Not since the worst days of the Cold War has the specter of nuclear weapons cast such a dark shadow.
Nuclear saber-rattling has reached a fever pitch.
We have even heard threats to use a nuclear weapon.
There are fears of a new arms race.
Meanwhile, the norms painstakingly established over decades against the use, spread and testing of nuclear weapons are being eroded.
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
The first-hand, lived experience of the hibakusha — the brave survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki — stand as clear reminders of where the nuclear path ends.
They continue to sound the alarm, reminding us that we cannot afford to forget the lessons learned from those horrifying nuclear attacks in 1945.
And yet, nearly 80 years later, nuclear-weapon States continue to roll the dice, resisting disarmament measures and believing that, somehow, our luck will never run out.
But luck is not a strategy.
They must stop gambling with humanity’s future.
This starts with nuclear-weapon States honoring their commitments, and meeting their disarmament obligations.
Until nuclear weapons are eliminated, these States should commit to never use them under any circumstances. And they must demonstrate the utmost transparency in all matters related to nuclear weapons.
I also call on the Russian Federation and the United States to return to the process of nuclear arms reductions, with other nuclear-weapon States following in due course.
Disarmament and non-proliferation are two sides of the same coin.
Progress in one spurs progress in the other.
States must pursue both as a matter of urgency.
Just days ago, the Summit of the Future — and the Pact for the Future that emerged — resulted in a new global commitment to revitalize the global disarmament regime, and bring our world closer to our goal of total elimination of nuclear weapons.
This goal is supported by the vast majority of Member States — including through the General Assembly’s first-ever resolution in 1946 calling for nuclear disarmament.
The time has come to take steps to ensure that a nuclear weapon is never used again.
Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,
Nous vivons – depuis bien trop longtemps – sous la menace des armes nucléaires.
Les générations précédentes ont appris à se cacher sous leur bureau ou à se réfugier dans des bunkers pour échapper à une attaque nucléaire.
Mais les dirigeants ne peuvent pas échapper à leur responsabilité primordiale de prendre des mesures concrètes pour réduire la menace nucléaire – et y mettre fin, une fois pour toutes.
L’heure de l’élimination totale des armes nucléaires a sonné.
L’Organisation des Nations Unies est aux côtés de tous les États membres – tandis que nous œuvrons ensemble pour bâtir l’avenir que nos enfants et petits-enfants méritent : un avenir pacifique et débarrassé des armes nucléaires.
Je vous remercie.
******
[all-English]
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
Thank you for joining us on this important day highlighting the need for the total elimination of nuclear weapons.
There should be no place for these devices of death in our world.
Nuclear weapons are a double madness.
The first madness is the existence of weapons that can wipe out entire populations, communities and cities in a single attack.
We know that any use of a nuclear weapon would unleash a humanitarian catastrophe — a nightmare spilling over borders, affecting us all.
These weapons deliver no real security or stability — only looming danger, and constant threats to our very existence.
The second madness is that, despite the enormous and existential risks these weapons pose to humanity, we are no closer to eliminating them than we were 10 years ago.
In fact, we are heading in the wrong direction entirely.
Not since the worst days of the Cold War has the specter of nuclear weapons cast such a dark shadow.
Nuclear saber-rattling has reached a fever pitch.
We have even heard threats to use a nuclear weapon.
There are fears of a new arms race.
Meanwhile, the norms painstakingly established over decades against the use, spread and testing of nuclear weapons are being eroded.
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
The first-hand, lived experience of the hibakusha — the brave survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki — stand as clear reminders of where the nuclear path ends.
They continue to sound the alarm, reminding us that we cannot afford to forget the lessons learned from those horrifying nuclear attacks in 1945.
And yet, nearly 80 years later, nuclear-weapon States continue to roll the dice, resisting disarmament measures and believing that, somehow, our luck will never run out.
But luck is not a strategy.
They must stop gambling with humanity’s future.
This starts with nuclear-weapon States honoring their commitments, and meeting their disarmament obligations.
Until nuclear weapons are eliminated, these States should commit to never use them under any circumstances. And they must demonstrate the utmost transparency in all matters related to nuclear weapons.
I also call on the Russian Federation and the United States to return to the process of nuclear arms reductions, with other nuclear-weapon States following in due course.
Disarmament and non-proliferation are two sides of the same coin.
Progress in one spurs progress in the other.
States must pursue both as a matter of urgency.
Just days ago, the Summit of the Future — and the Pact for the Future that emerged — resulted in a new global commitment to revitalize the global disarmament regime, and bring our world closer to our goal of total elimination of nuclear weapons.
This goal is supported by the vast majority of Member States — including through the General Assembly’s first-ever resolution in 1946 calling for nuclear disarmament.
The time has come to take steps to ensure that a nuclear weapon is never used again.
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
We have spent far too long living with the threat of nuclear weapons.
Previous generations learned how to hide under their desks or flee to bunkers to escape a nuclear assault.
But leaders cannot escape their overriding responsibility to take concrete steps to reduce and end the nuclear threat, once and for all.
The time for the total elimination of nuclear weapons is now.
The United Nations stands with all Member States as we work together to build the peaceful, nuclear-weapons-free future our children and grandchildren deserve.
Thank you.
******
[all-French]
Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,
Je vous remercie d’abord de vous être joints à nous en ce jour spécial qui nous rappelle combien il importe d’éliminer totalement les armes nucléaires.
Ces engins de mort n’ont pas leur place sur notre planète.
Les armes nucléaires sont une folie à deux titres.
D’abord, l’existence même de ces armes, capables d’anéantir des populations, des communautés et des villes entières en une seule frappe, est une aberration.
Nous le savons, tout emploi de l’arme nucléaire déclencherait une catastrophe humanitaire – un cauchemar qui ne connaîtrait pas de frontières et nous toucherait toutes et tous.
Loin d’apporter une véritable sécurité et stabilité, ces armes constituent un danger imminent et font peser une menace constante sur notre existence.
Deuxième aberration, malgré les risques énormes et existentiels que ces armes font courir à l’humanité, nous ne sommes pas plus près de les voir disparaître qu’il y a dix ans.
À vrai dire, nous allons dans la direction complètement opposée.
Jamais, depuis les pires heures de la guerre froide, le spectre des armes nucléaires n’a jeté une telle ombre.
Les rodomontades nucléaires ont atteint leur paroxysme.
On entend même des menaces d’emploi d’armes nucléaires.
On craint une nouvelle course aux armements.
Parallèlement, on voit s’éroder les normes qui, laborieusement, avaient été élaborées au fil des décennies pour prohiber l’emploi, la dissémination et la mise à l’essai de ces armes.
Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,
Ce qu’ont vécu dans leur chair les hibakusha – ces courageux survivants d’Hiroshima et de Nagasaki –nous rappelle où conduit inévitablement le chemin du nucléaire.
Ces femmes et ces hommes continuent de sonner l’alarme, en nous conjurant de ne pas oublier les leçons tirées des horribles frappes atomiques de 1945.
Pourtant, près de 80 ans plus tard, les États dotés d’armes nucléaires continuent de jouer avec le feu, de se soustraire aux mesures de désarmement et de croire que, d’une manière ou d’une autre, la chance les servira toujours.
Toutefois, la chance n’est pas une stratégie.
Ils doivent cesser de jouer avec l’avenir de l’humanité.
Avant tout, il faut que les États dotés d’armes nucléaires honorent leurs engagements et respectent leurs obligations en matière de désarmement.
Tant que les armes nucléaires n’auront pas été éliminées, ces États doivent s’engager à ne jamais les utiliser, quelles que soient les circonstances. En outre, ils doivent faire preuve d’une plus grande transparence sur toutes les questions concernant ces armes.
Je demande également à la Fédération de Russie et aux États-Unis de s’engager de nouveau dans une démarche visant à limiter les armes nucléaires. Les autres États dotés d’armes nucléaires pourront s’y joindre en temps voulu.
Le désarmement et la non-prolifération sont les deux faces d’une même médaille.
Tout progrès d’un côté entraîne des progrès de l’autre.
Les États doivent s’employer à atteindre ces deux objectifs de toute urgence.
Il y a quelques jours seulement, lors du Sommet de l’avenir – et dans le texte même du Pacte pour l’avenir qui a été adopté – la communauté internationale a pris un nouvel engagement : celui de revitaliser le régime mondial de désarmement et de faire en sorte que le monde progresse vers la réalisation de l’objectif commun qu’est l’élimination totale des armes nucléaires.
C’est un objectif auquel souscrit la grande majorité des États Membres, qui se sont notamment exprimés en ce sens dans la toute première résolution appelant au désarmement nucléaire adoptée en 1946 par l’Assemblée générale.
Le moment est venu de prendre des mesures pour que l’arme nucléaire ne soit plus jamais utilisée.
Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,
Nous vivons – depuis bien trop longtemps – sous la menace des armes nucléaires.
Les générations précédentes ont appris à se cacher sous leur bureau ou à se réfugier dans des bunkers pour échapper à une attaque nucléaire.
Mais les dirigeants ne peuvent pas échapper à leur responsabilité primordiale de prendre des mesures concrètes pour réduire la menace nucléaire – et y mettre fin, une fois pour toutes.
L’heure de l’élimination totale des armes nucléaires a sonné.
L’Organisation des Nations Unies est aux côtés de tous les États Membres ‒ tandis que nous œuvrons ensemble pour bâtir l’avenir que nos enfants et petits-enfants méritent : un avenir pacifique et débarrassé des armes nucléaires.
Je vous remercie.
Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve
Thank you, and thank you for the opportunity to speak to you today.1
It is great to be here again, particularly because this year marks the 10th annual conference on the Treasury market, a milestone that is worth celebrating. I want to acknowledge the Federal Reserve Bank of New York for its leadership in this area, including the dedication and excellence it has brought to hosting this conference over the past decade, in collaboration with the Inter-Agency Working Group on Treasury Market Surveillance, led by the Treasury Department. The Treasury market is the means by which our government meets its financing needs in service to the American people, and it is also the bedrock of the financial system. Promoting the resilience of the Treasury market and ensuring it can continue to fulfill these roles requires the collaboration of agencies and individuals across the government along with the private sector.
As others have pointed out today, we have made important progress since last year’s conference. The Securities and Exchange Commission has finalized a rule on central clearing of Treasury transactions, the Treasury Department has instituted a program for buying back less-liquid Treasury securities, and the Office of Financial Research is preparing for its permanent collection of data on non-centrally-cleared bilateral repurchase agreement (repo) transactions, which will support our understanding of this market segment as it evolves.
I will share some thoughts with you on how I see the work of the Federal Reserve in supporting Treasury market resilience. Our capital and liquidity regulations, our supervision of the firms over which we have authority, and our liquidity facilities play important roles in supporting market resilience and financial stability. Earlier this month, I gave a speech where I reiterated the crucial role of capital in serving these objectives, and the need to balance resilience and efficiency in designing our rules. In that speech, I also outlined the elements of a capital re-proposal that I believe will have broad consensus at the Federal Reserve Board. The adjustments are in response to a robust public comment process, and some of them are designed to address interactions and market functioning concerns raised by commentators.
In terms of rulemaking, today I will focus on some additional aspects of our regulatory framework—namely, enhancements to our liquidity regulations. I will share some perspective on how our liquidity regulations work together and are supportive of market functioning and the smooth implementation of monetary policy.
The Intersection of Monetary Policy Tools and Supervision and RegulationWe consider how all of the Fed’s tools work together to support our objectives. In previous speeches, I have talked about the role of the discount window and the standing repo facility (SRF) in supporting both monetary policy implementation and financial stability, noting how important it is that eligible institutions be ready to use these facilities.2 Today I want to dig into this topic a bit more, including how these tools support monetary policy implementation through appropriate incorporation into liquidity regulations and supervisory practices.
After the banking stress in March 2023, we saw a substantial improvement among banks of all sizes in their level of readiness to tap the discount window both in taking the necessary steps for set-up and in their pledging of collateral. Since that time, over $1 trillion in additional collateral has been pledged to the discount window, and additional banks have established access to the SRF. Both of these facilities are potential venues for monetizing assets and raising liquidity to address volatility in private funding market rates or gaps in the availability of private-market funding.
We had been hearing that some were confused about how banks could incorporate ready access to the discount window and the SRF into their contingency funding plans and internal liquidity stress tests. Supervisors have a role in assessing the viability of large banks’ plans to meet stressed outflows in their stress scenarios, and we have been asked whether the discount window, the SRF, and also Federal Home Loan Bank advances can play a role in those scenarios. The answer to this question is “yes.”
We provided clarity to the public in August on permissible assumptions for how firms can incorporate the discount window and the SRF into their internal liquidity stress-test scenarios. There are a couple of principles that underlie our response in the frequently asked questions we posted on the Board’s website.3 One principle is that our tools are readily available to firms. This means that we see it as acceptable and beneficial for firms to incorporate our facilities to meet liquidity needs in both planning and practice. If firms plan to use our facilities, we expect them to demonstrate ex ante that they are fully capable of doing so, including through test transactions. An additional principle underlying our approach is that, while firms should be ready to use a range of funding sources, firms need to hold sufficient highly liquid assets to meet their potential liquidity needs. That is, they need to self-insure against their own liquidity risks. A third principle is that firms should be ready and able to use private channels to turn these assets into cash, in addition to any public channels they may plan to use.
I want to dig a bit deeper into the benefits to both individual firms and the financial system when firms incorporate Fed facilities into their stress preparedness planning. Again, a design feature of our liquidity regulations is that large banks must self-insure against major liquidity risks. Our regulations also provide flexibility in terms of the portfolio composition such banks use to do so. This flexibility allows them to adjust their portfolios based on market conditions and firm needs. A key component of this flexibility is that reserves and certain high-quality liquid assets (HQLA), such as Treasury securities, are equivalent in terms of being treated as the highest quality of liquid assets. This feature is important because, while it allows firms to manage their liquidity buffers more flexibly, it also allows for greater flexibility in our monetary policy implementation and it supports market functioning. We have heard over the years, however, that the degree of substitutability among these assets has been limited by concerns about capacity in stress for the market to turn securities into reserves immediately; these concerns are valid. This constraint can be addressed in part by the appropriate incorporation of Federal Reserve facilities into monetization plans in firms’ internal liquidity stress tests.
When firms understand that they will not be fully constrained by the capacity of private markets or their individual credit lines to monetize HQLA immediately in stress, they can reduce their demand for reserves in favor of Treasury securities, all else being equal, for their stress planning purposes. This dynamic improves the substitutability of holding reserves and holding Treasury securities either outright or through repo transactions.
When banks exhibit a high degree of substitutability of demand for these assets, money market functioning improves. Let me explain with an example. If a bank sees holding reserves and investing in Treasury repo as near substitutes in its liquidity portfolio, it should lend into Treasury repo markets when repo rates rise above the interest rate earned on reserves. When banks can nimbly adjust portfolios in response to price incentives, the efficiency of reserves redistribution through the system improves, and market functioning is enhanced.
In aggregate, this activity can prevent rates from rising further, all else being equal. The point at which banks, in aggregate, have a relatively immutable demand for reserves, and are unwilling to lend them out, is evident when a small decrease in the supply of reserves results in a sharp increase in the cost to borrow them. Our monetary policy tools are well positioned to help us avoid this outcome. But, of course, greater willingness of banks to reallocate across close substitutes should help avoid the emergence of sudden pressures in money markets by reducing money market frictions.
In 2021, the Federal Reserve launched the SRF, which, along with the discount window, should help cap upward pressure in repo markets that could spill over into the federal funds market. Use of these facilities also increases the supply of reserves in the system. The enhanced clarity for firms that Fed facilities are a fully acceptable venue to get same-day liquidity for their HQLA should help reassure firms about holding reserves and their close substitutes, such as Treasury securities, in their liquidity portfolios.
Of course, as I stated earlier, for the largest banks, there is a requirement that they hold highly liquid assets to address their own liquidity risks. They must also be ready to use private markets to monetize these assets. It is also critical that banks recognize and manage the interest rate and liquidity risk of their securities portfolios to ensure those securities held for liquidity purposes can be monetized in stress without creating other adverse effects on a firm’s safety and soundness. In 2022 and 2023, certain large banks did not effectively manage the risks of rising rates, and suffered significant fair value losses on their securities holdings, including those in held-to-maturity (HTM) portfolios. These losses affected their ability to respond to liquidity stress, as monetizing the assets could result in realizing losses. When the banking stress hit in March 2023, these securities could not be sold to meet stressed outflows because large unrealized losses inhibited their sale without significant capital implications. This is further complicated in the case of HTM securities, which cannot be sold without risking revaluing a firm’s entire HTM portfolio. Selling HTM securities to generate liquidity would therefore have had a particularly large effect on these firms’ capital levels, likely increasing the stress on these firms. Further, some firms were unable to rely on private channels such as repo markets for monetization because they were not prepared, they were not regular participants in the market, and market participants were unwilling to lend because of counterparty credit concerns. This combination of factors meant that HTM securities that had been identified by banks as available to serve as a liquidity buffer of assets in stress could not effectively serve that function.
Improvements to Our Liquidity RegulationsAs I have mentioned in previous speeches, to address the lessons about liquidity learned in the spring of 2023, we are exploring targeted adjustments to our current liquidity framework.4 Many firms have taken steps to improve their liquidity resilience, and the regulatory adjustments we are considering would ensure that large banks maintain better liquidity risk–management practices going forward. Improvements to our liquidity regulations will also complement the other components of our supervisory and regulatory regime by improving banks’ ability to respond to funding shocks.
Specifically, we are exploring a requirement that larger banks maintain a minimum amount of readily available liquidity with a pool of reserves and pre-positioned collateral at the discount window, based on a fraction of their uninsured deposits. Community banks would not be covered, and we would take a tiered approach to the requirements. The collateral pre-positioned at the window could include both Treasury securities and the full range of assets eligible for pledging at the discount window. It is vital that uninsured depositors have confidence that their funds will be readily available for withdrawal, if needed, and this confidence would be enhanced by a requirement that larger banks have readily available liquidity to meet requests for withdrawal of these deposits. This requirement would be a complement to existing liquidity regulations such as those that require the internal liquidity stress tests (ILST) I described earlier as well as meeting the liquidity coverage ratio (LCR).5
Incorporating the discount window into a readiness requirement would also reemphasize that supervisors and examiners view use of the discount window as appropriate under both normal and stressed market conditions.
In addition, as I have discussed previously, we identified significant gaps in interest rate risk management in the March 2023 banking stress, including in portfolios of highly liquid securities. Relatedly, we saw that banks faced constraints in monetizing HTM assets with large unrealized losses in private markets because they were unable to repo these securities or sell these securities without realizing significant losses. To address these gaps, we are considering a partial limit on the extent of reliance on HTM assets in larger banks’ liquidity buffers, such as those held under the LCR and ILST requirements. These adjustments would address the known challenges of banks being able to use these assets in stress conditions.
Finally, we are reviewing the treatment of a handful of types of deposits in the current liquidity framework. Observed behavior of different deposit types during times of stress suggests the need to recalibrate deposit outflow assumptions in our rules for certain types of depositors. We are also revisiting the scope of application of our current liquidity framework for large banks.
These enhancements to our liquidity regulations will help bolster firms’ ability to manage liquidity shocks, and they will also be well integrated with our monetary policy tools and framework.
Modernizing Our Tools to Meet Current and Future NeedsTurning back to the discount window, I also want to note that the discount window has served its role well in recent years, and that we are also engaging in ongoing work to improve its operations. Given the crucial role of the discount window in providing ready access to liquidity in a wide variety of market conditions, we continuously work to assess and improve its functionality while engaging with current and potential users of the window.
Among the steps we have taken recently include that we now have an online portal, Discount Window Direct, that allows firms to request and prepay discount window loans in a more streamlined manner than was previously possible. We also recently published a request for information on discount window operations and daylight credit asking about key components of these functions. Feedback from the public will help us prioritize areas for improvement, so I strongly encourage anyone with an interest in this topic to weigh in during the comment period. Your feedback will help us ensure that the discount window continues to improve in its role of providing ready access to funding under a variety of market conditions.
Thank you.
1. The views I express here are my own and not necessarily those of my colleagues on the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System or the Federal Open Market Committee. Return to text
2. See Michael S. Barr (2023), “The 2023 U.S. Treasury Market Conference,” speech delivered at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, New York, November 16. Return to text
3. See “Subparts D and O—Enhanced Prudential Standards” in Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (2024), “Frequently Asked Questions about Regulation YY,” webpage. Return to text
4. See Michael S. Barr (2024), “On Building a Resilient Regulatory Framework,” speech delivered at Central Banking in the Post-Pandemic Financial System, 28th Annual Financial Markets Conference, the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, Fernandina Beach, Fla., May 20. Return to text
5. The LCR and ILST are two separate, but complementary, liquidity requirements. The LCR is a standardized liquidity measure across banks, meaning the outflow assumptions are the same for each bank. The ILST is a nonstandardized liquidity measure across banks, meaning each bank determines its own outflow assumptions, subject to supervisory input. Return to text
Source: US State of Missouri
JEFFERSON CITY —
This week, the Missouri Department of Agriculture celebrates the state’s position nationally in black walnut production. Governor Mike Parson has declared Sept. 26 – 29 as Black Walnut Week in Missouri. The proclamation was presented at the Black Walnut Festival in Stockton, Mo. earlier today.
“Black walnuts are a staple across our state,” said Governor Mike Parson. “It’s a family tradition for many to gather black walnuts throughout the fall months in Missouri. We love to see the products collected and used in treats statewide. From baked goods to ice cream, Missourians are sure to enjoy black walnuts year-round.”
Black walnut trees predominantly grow in the Midwest and East-Central United States. This native, wild-grown tree is important to the agriculture industry for the edible nuts and also for lumber. The black walnut shell can also be ground for use in abrasive cleaning.
“The black walnut is Missouri’s State Tree Nut,” said Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn. “I’m proud of Missourians for still celebrating the time-honored tradition of handpicking black walnuts. Harvesting black walnuts showcases the diversity of Missouri agriculture, and it’s fun to see all the ways harvested walnuts get utilized in our state.”
To learn more about Missouri agriculture and the Missouri Department of Agriculture, visit Agriculture.Mo.Gov.
Source: US National Republican Congressional Committee
The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –
September 26, 2024
A new report today highlights how the race for North Carolina’s 1st congressional district is coming down to Don Davis’ record on China.
Davis has a consistently soft-on-China approach to his job, and even called Republicans’ talk about China a “distraction.”
Don Davis has:
🇨🇳 Years-long ties to the CCP
🇨🇳 Voted to use tax dollars to buy Chinese drones
🇨🇳 Supported sending China billions in manufacturing
“Don Davis is a friend to China, not a friend to eastern North Carolina. Instead of lowering costs for North Carolinians, Davis is using his time in Congress to look out for his buddies in the CCP.” — NRCC Spokeswoman Delanie Bomar
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Susan Wild (PA-07)
Recently, Congresswoman Susan Wild hosted Allentown’s Victor Martinez with La Mega radio to provide a behind-the-scenes look at her work in Congress. During their conversation, they discussed Rep. Wild’s work on her committees, federal funding she secured for projects throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley, and her legislative priorities.
Check out some memorable moments of the conversation below:
Federal Funding Secured for Community
Rep. Wild’s Committee Work
“Big Deal”: Lowering Health Care Costs
You can watch the full interview here.
###
Source: Government of Canada News
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, participated in a summit of the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats hosted by the President of the United States, Joe Biden, on the margins of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
September 25, 2024 – New York City, United States of America – Global Affairs Canada
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, participated in a summit of the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats hosted by the President of the United States, Joe Biden, on the margins of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Building on the successful work of the Coalition over the past year, the event highlighted the need to continue driving international action to disrupt the illegal production, distribution, trafficking and sale of synthetic drugs, detect emerging drug threats and promote public health interventions and prevention services.
In her remarks, Minister Joly highlighted Canada’s efforts to combat one of the most serious and deadly public health crises of our time. She noted that Canada is focused on providing timely access to a full range of strategies to help people access the prevention, harm reduction, treatment, or recovery services and supports they need, when and where they need them. She noted the $25 billion investment Canada has made in critical health priorities such as increasing access to mental health and substance use services and supports.
Minister Joly welcomed the wide range of initiatives highlighted by the Coalition, and encouraged countries to act together, with purpose and commitment, to reduce the public health and public security threats posed by synthetic drugs. She pledged to continue domestic efforts to address the illegally manufactured and powerful synthetic drug supply that is driving the overdose crisis and to strengthen multilateral efforts to address the increasing threats of synthetic drugs and organized crime.
Source: United Nations secretary general
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
Thank you for joining us on this important day highlighting the need for the total elimination of nuclear weapons.
There should be no place for these devices of death in our world.
Nuclear weapons are a double madness.
The first madness is the existence of weapons that can wipe out entire populations, communities and cities in a single attack.
We know that any use of a nuclear weapon would unleash a humanitarian catastrophe — a nightmare spilling over borders, affecting us all.
These weapons deliver no real security or stability — only looming danger, and constant threats to our very existence.
The second madness is that, despite the enormous and existential risks these weapons pose to humanity, we are no closer to eliminating them than we were 10 years ago.
In fact, we are heading in the wrong direction entirely.
Not since the worst days of the Cold War has the specter of nuclear weapons cast such a dark shadow.
Nuclear saber-rattling has reached a fever pitch.
We have even heard threats to use a nuclear weapon.
There are fears of a new arms race.
Meanwhile, the norms painstakingly established over decades against the use, spread and testing of nuclear weapons are being eroded.
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
The first-hand, lived experience of the hibakusha — the brave survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki — stand as clear reminders of where the nuclear path ends.
They continue to sound the alarm, reminding us that we cannot afford to forget the lessons learned from those horrifying nuclear attacks in 1945.
And yet, nearly 80 years later, nuclear-weapon States continue to roll the dice, resisting disarmament measures and believing that, somehow, our luck will never run out.
But luck is not a strategy.
They must stop gambling with humanity’s future.
This starts with nuclear-weapon States honoring their commitments, and meeting their disarmament obligations.
Until nuclear weapons are eliminated, these States should commit to never use them under any circumstances. And they must demonstrate the utmost transparency in all matters related to nuclear weapons.
I also call on the Russian Federation and the United States to return to the process of nuclear arms reductions, with other nuclear-weapon States following in due course.
Disarmament and non-proliferation are two sides of the same coin.
Progress in one spurs progress in the other.
States must pursue both as a matter of urgency.
Just days ago, the Summit of the Future — and the Pact for the Future that emerged — resulted in a new global commitment to revitalize the global disarmament regime, and bring our world closer to our goal of total elimination of nuclear weapons.
This goal is supported by the vast majority of Member States — including through the General Assembly’s first-ever resolution in 1946 calling for nuclear disarmament.
The time has come to take steps to ensure that a nuclear weapon is never used again.
Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,
Nous vivons – depuis bien trop longtemps – sous la menace des armes nucléaires.
Les générations précédentes ont appris à se cacher sous leur bureau ou à se réfugier dans des bunkers pour échapper à une attaque nucléaire.
Mais les dirigeants ne peuvent pas échapper à leur responsabilité primordiale de prendre des mesures concrètes pour réduire la menace nucléaire – et y mettre fin, une fois pour toutes.
L’heure de l’élimination totale des armes nucléaires a sonné.
L’Organisation des Nations Unies est aux côtés de tous les États membres – tandis que nous œuvrons ensemble pour bâtir l’avenir que nos enfants et petits-enfants méritent : un avenir pacifique et débarrassé des armes nucléaires.
Je vous remercie.
******
[all-English]
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
Thank you for joining us on this important day highlighting the need for the total elimination of nuclear weapons.
There should be no place for these devices of death in our world.
Nuclear weapons are a double madness.
The first madness is the existence of weapons that can wipe out entire populations, communities and cities in a single attack.
We know that any use of a nuclear weapon would unleash a humanitarian catastrophe — a nightmare spilling over borders, affecting us all.
These weapons deliver no real security or stability — only looming danger, and constant threats to our very existence.
The second madness is that, despite the enormous and existential risks these weapons pose to humanity, we are no closer to eliminating them than we were 10 years ago.
In fact, we are heading in the wrong direction entirely.
Not since the worst days of the Cold War has the specter of nuclear weapons cast such a dark shadow.
Nuclear saber-rattling has reached a fever pitch.
We have even heard threats to use a nuclear weapon.
There are fears of a new arms race.
Meanwhile, the norms painstakingly established over decades against the use, spread and testing of nuclear weapons are being eroded.
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
The first-hand, lived experience of the hibakusha — the brave survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki — stand as clear reminders of where the nuclear path ends.
They continue to sound the alarm, reminding us that we cannot afford to forget the lessons learned from those horrifying nuclear attacks in 1945.
And yet, nearly 80 years later, nuclear-weapon States continue to roll the dice, resisting disarmament measures and believing that, somehow, our luck will never run out.
But luck is not a strategy.
They must stop gambling with humanity’s future.
This starts with nuclear-weapon States honoring their commitments, and meeting their disarmament obligations.
Until nuclear weapons are eliminated, these States should commit to never use them under any circumstances. And they must demonstrate the utmost transparency in all matters related to nuclear weapons.
I also call on the Russian Federation and the United States to return to the process of nuclear arms reductions, with other nuclear-weapon States following in due course.
Disarmament and non-proliferation are two sides of the same coin.
Progress in one spurs progress in the other.
States must pursue both as a matter of urgency.
Just days ago, the Summit of the Future — and the Pact for the Future that emerged — resulted in a new global commitment to revitalize the global disarmament regime, and bring our world closer to our goal of total elimination of nuclear weapons.
This goal is supported by the vast majority of Member States — including through the General Assembly’s first-ever resolution in 1946 calling for nuclear disarmament.
The time has come to take steps to ensure that a nuclear weapon is never used again.
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
We have spent far too long living with the threat of nuclear weapons.
Previous generations learned how to hide under their desks or flee to bunkers to escape a nuclear assault.
But leaders cannot escape their overriding responsibility to take concrete steps to reduce and end the nuclear threat, once and for all.
The time for the total elimination of nuclear weapons is now.
The United Nations stands with all Member States as we work together to build the peaceful, nuclear-weapons-free future our children and grandchildren deserve.
Thank you.
******
[all-French]
Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,
Je vous remercie d’abord de vous être joints à nous en ce jour spécial qui nous rappelle combien il importe d’éliminer totalement les armes nucléaires.
Ces engins de mort n’ont pas leur place sur notre planète.
Les armes nucléaires sont une folie à deux titres.
D’abord, l’existence même de ces armes, capables d’anéantir des populations, des communautés et des villes entières en une seule frappe, est une aberration.
Nous le savons, tout emploi de l’arme nucléaire déclencherait une catastrophe humanitaire – un cauchemar qui ne connaîtrait pas de frontières et nous toucherait toutes et tous.
Loin d’apporter une véritable sécurité et stabilité, ces armes constituent un danger imminent et font peser une menace constante sur notre existence.
Deuxième aberration, malgré les risques énormes et existentiels que ces armes font courir à l’humanité, nous ne sommes pas plus près de les voir disparaître qu’il y a dix ans.
À vrai dire, nous allons dans la direction complètement opposée.
Jamais, depuis les pires heures de la guerre froide, le spectre des armes nucléaires n’a jeté une telle ombre.
Les rodomontades nucléaires ont atteint leur paroxysme.
On entend même des menaces d’emploi d’armes nucléaires.
On craint une nouvelle course aux armements.
Parallèlement, on voit s’éroder les normes qui, laborieusement, avaient été élaborées au fil des décennies pour prohiber l’emploi, la dissémination et la mise à l’essai de ces armes.
Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,
Ce qu’ont vécu dans leur chair les hibakusha – ces courageux survivants d’Hiroshima et de Nagasaki –nous rappelle où conduit inévitablement le chemin du nucléaire.
Ces femmes et ces hommes continuent de sonner l’alarme, en nous conjurant de ne pas oublier les leçons tirées des horribles frappes atomiques de 1945.
Pourtant, près de 80 ans plus tard, les États dotés d’armes nucléaires continuent de jouer avec le feu, de se soustraire aux mesures de désarmement et de croire que, d’une manière ou d’une autre, la chance les servira toujours.
Toutefois, la chance n’est pas une stratégie.
Ils doivent cesser de jouer avec l’avenir de l’humanité.
Avant tout, il faut que les États dotés d’armes nucléaires honorent leurs engagements et respectent leurs obligations en matière de désarmement.
Tant que les armes nucléaires n’auront pas été éliminées, ces États doivent s’engager à ne jamais les utiliser, quelles que soient les circonstances. En outre, ils doivent faire preuve d’une plus grande transparence sur toutes les questions concernant ces armes.
Je demande également à la Fédération de Russie et aux États-Unis de s’engager de nouveau dans une démarche visant à limiter les armes nucléaires. Les autres États dotés d’armes nucléaires pourront s’y joindre en temps voulu.
Le désarmement et la non-prolifération sont les deux faces d’une même médaille.
Tout progrès d’un côté entraîne des progrès de l’autre.
Les États doivent s’employer à atteindre ces deux objectifs de toute urgence.
Il y a quelques jours seulement, lors du Sommet de l’avenir – et dans le texte même du Pacte pour l’avenir qui a été adopté – la communauté internationale a pris un nouvel engagement : celui de revitaliser le régime mondial de désarmement et de faire en sorte que le monde progresse vers la réalisation de l’objectif commun qu’est l’élimination totale des armes nucléaires.
C’est un objectif auquel souscrit la grande majorité des États Membres, qui se sont notamment exprimés en ce sens dans la toute première résolution appelant au désarmement nucléaire adoptée en 1946 par l’Assemblée générale.
Le moment est venu de prendre des mesures pour que l’arme nucléaire ne soit plus jamais utilisée.
Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,
Nous vivons – depuis bien trop longtemps – sous la menace des armes nucléaires.
Les générations précédentes ont appris à se cacher sous leur bureau ou à se réfugier dans des bunkers pour échapper à une attaque nucléaire.
Mais les dirigeants ne peuvent pas échapper à leur responsabilité primordiale de prendre des mesures concrètes pour réduire la menace nucléaire – et y mettre fin, une fois pour toutes.
L’heure de l’élimination totale des armes nucléaires a sonné.
L’Organisation des Nations Unies est aux côtés de tous les États Membres ‒ tandis que nous œuvrons ensemble pour bâtir l’avenir que nos enfants et petits-enfants méritent : un avenir pacifique et débarrassé des armes nucléaires.
Je vous remercie.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11)
U.S. Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) today announced that the National Park Service has awarded a competitive grant of nearly $4.5 million dollars toward land acquisition on Deaverview Mountain in Buncombe County for a future public park. Out of 54 projects in 24 states, this was the only one funded in North Carolina.
Deaverview Mountain is currently privately owned and this federal funding, along with the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s state grant secured last year, will provide recreational opportunities in this beautiful area for decades to come.
The grant is a part of the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Grant program, which supports the purchase of parks and renovation of recreation facilities in economically distressed areas of the United States.
Edwards said, “As a result of this award, the breathtaking views and recreational opportunities on Deaverview Mountain will be available for Western North Carolinians and the traveling public to enjoy. I applaud the hard work it took by the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy and Buncombe County to succeed in this extremely competitive process. As a member of the Interior & Environment Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee, which has jurisdiction over this funding, I will always support bringing more federal investment into Western North Carolina in a fiscally responsible manner.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement on the continuing resolution passed in the U.S. House of Representatives to extend the government funding deadline:
“Funding the government is a fundamental responsibility of elected officials. This extension safeguards important programs that people rely on, refills the Disaster Relief Fund, and renews the National Flood Insurance Program. This continuing resolution is now consistent with the spending levels agreed upon in the Bipartisan Fiscal Responsibility Act. I will continue fighting to put people over politics and solve problems for hardworking Louisianians.
“While I am encouraged that the DRF has been replenished in a way that allows long-term recovery projects to restart, I am concerned that we may be right back here in December with projects throughout Louisiana paused. Congress must come back with a comprehensive disaster relief bill to ensure important recovery projects don’t continue being delayed.
“We must find a bipartisan compromise to keep the government open at the end of the year. This short-term solution gives us time to find it.”
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Michelle Steel (CA-48)
WASHINGTON – Representative Michelle Steel (R-CA) and Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC) today sent a letter to Education Secretary Miguel Cardona asking for an investigation into the alarming pattern of antisemitism among senior officials of the Santa Ana Unified School District (SAUSD).
The letter builds upon the Committee’s work to fight against antisemitism and for Jewish students at all levels of education.
In the letter, Foxx and Steel write: “[W]e request that the Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) open an investigation into these incidents to determine whether violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act (Title VI) have occurred. At multiple meetings spanning the spring of 2023, the SAUSD Ethnic Studies Steering Committee (Committee) took collective action that deliberately excluded members of the school district’s Jewish community from involvement in constructing an ethnic studies curriculum. This likely violated California state law.”
The letter continues: “Senior officials of the Committee also discussed using Jewish holidays to approve courses so Jewish community members would not be able to attend. Specifically, two senior SAUSD officials discussed this matter over text. One stated, ‘We may need to use Passover to get all new courses approved,’ to which the other replied, ‘[T]hat’s actually a good strategy.’ Additionally, while discussing a potential meeting with the Jewish Federation of Orange County, a leader of the Committee stated that ‘someone has to guide [Committee members] or they will cave in to the racist Zionists.’ This alarming display of prejudice has no place in our communities, especially from the very educators entrusted with leading our public schools.”
The letter concludes: “Ongoing litigation has already revealed an alarming pattern of antisemitism at the highest levels of the SAUSD. It is also clear that certain individuals made a concerted effort to hide their prejudiced motives. For this reason, we are requesting that OCR open a formal investigation into this matter to ensure all wrongdoing is brought to light and that those responsible for perpetrating this discrimination are held fully accountable under federal law. We hope that we can work together on this issue to ensure that the protections afforded under the Civil Rights Act are vigorously enforced so that all students feel welcome.”
To read the full letter, click here.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Michelle Steel (CA-48)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Michelle Steel introduced House Resolution 1477 to designate September as “Boat People Awareness Month” in recognition of the hundreds of thousands of refugees who fled Vietnam with the fall of Saigon in 1978.
Rep. Steel gave a speech on the House floor in honor of those who risked their lives at sea to escape the Communist regime.
Following the Vietnam War and the fall of Saigon to an oppressive Communist regime, nearly 800,000 Vietnamese people fled by boat in the hopes of escaping to another country, becoming known as boat people.
Many of these refugees perished on the journey, succumbing to pirates, overcrowded boats, storms, and countless other dangers.
Those who survived the journey settled all over the world, including in Rep. Steel’s congressional district of California-45, where they have formed a vibrant and patriotic community.
“‘Boat People Awareness Month’ will honor refugees who fled Communist Vietnam to find freedom and community in places like Little Saigon, California,” said Rep. Steel. “This recognition will honor the courage of all those who fled Vietnam by boat in search for a better life, including the lives that were tragically lost.”
Following the war, about 725,000 Vietnamese refugees settled in the United States, including more than 50,000 who settled in Southern California.
Rep. Steel represents parts of Los Angeles County and Orange County, including the Little Saigon community, which has the largest population of Vietnamese anywhere outside of Vietnam.
Source: City of Leeds
This Halloween, thrill-seekers are invited to Lotherton to step into the pages of twisted fairy tales where ‘happily ever afters’ don’t exist.
Aimed at eight- to 15-year-olds, ‘Once Upon a Nightmare’ is an immersive scare event that transforms the serene grounds and gardens of Lotherton into a haunting world where legendary fairy tale characters live out their darkest versions of reality.
The event is on from 25 to 31 October, with 30-minute slots running between 5 and 8.30pm.
Visitors can expect a walk through the misty grounds of the estate as night falls, guided only by the faint glow of lanterns. Around every corner, familiar faces emerge, but the famous cheerful storybook characters have warped into the stuff of nightmares. Meeting a Snow White shadowed by a fateful curse, and a wary Little Red Riding Hood with the wolf always ready to pounce, it’s an adventure where fairy tales and horror collide.
Each encounter is a story come to life, but with a twist that will leave visitors gripping their friends’ hands a little tighter at every turn.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “Whether you’re a fan of fairy tales or just enjoy a good scare, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience. It’s a spooky event but it’s all been planned with young people in mind, so it’s a perfect way for the family to experience a thrilling Halloween together.”
‘Once Upon a Nightmare’ is delivered by Breeze at Lotherton, both part of Leeds City Council. It is not suitable for children under eight or those easily scared. Tickets can be booked at https://www.breezeleeds.org/nightmare/.
Starting 4 October, Lotherton is also hosting their first ever pumpkin patch experience where visitors can book to go on a fun tractor ride and choose a pumpkin to take home and carve.
A daytime ‘Scarytales’ experience suitable for all ages will also run from 26 October to 3 November and is included in the regular admission price.
All Leeds Museums and Galleries half term events can be viewed at https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/whats-on/school-holiday-events-2/.
ENDS
Source: City of Leicester
LEICESTER’S libraries are marking Black History Month this October with two free cultural events and plenty of suggestions for great books by Black authors.
Grenadian author and poet Merle Collins will be at the Central Library on 15 October to talk about her life and work.
Her latest book, Ocean Stirrings – which was shortlisted for the Orwell Prize for political fiction – will be available for sale after the event.
In conversation with Merle Collins starts at 7pm on Tuesday 15 October.
Also coming up at the Central Library on Bishop Street is an opportunity to meet the British Grammy-nominated singer Tippa Irie (pictured).
The reggae pioneer will talk about his 40-year career and his 2023 autobiography, Stick To My Roots, on 30 October.
In conversation with Tippa Irie gets under way at 7pm on Wednesday 30 October.
Admission to both events is free of charge but places can be booked in advance by contacting the library on 0116 454 0290 or central-library@leicester.gov.uk
Assistant city mayor Cllr Vi Dempster said: “Black History Month is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about Black history, music, culture and art.
“Throughout October, our libraries will be celebrating the work of Black authors and helping to bring Black history to life for visitors for all ages.
“There are lots of themed events taking place at our libraries, including crafts for children and a ‘Book Detectives’ treasure hunt.
“Pop into your local library or download an eBook or audiobook from our OverDrive page and discover an author you’ve never discovered before – and mark Black History Month with a great book.”
A list of titles suitable for children, teens and adults has been specially curated by library staff to mark Black History Month.
David Olusoga’s Black and British and Barack Obama’s Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters are two of the books on the children’s list, while Kamala Harris’s autobiography The Truths We Hold: An American Journey and Troy Jackson’s biography of Martin Luther King, Becoming King, are on the list of suggested reading for adults.
The list of themed titles for Black History Month can be viewed at Leicester Libraries’ OverDrive page at leicesteruk.overdrive.com
Events and activities taking place at Leicester Libraries can be found here
Opal 22’s exhibition Black Lives is on display at Highfields Library until 31 October, while other events taking place in Leicester to mark Black History Month include an exhibition featuring portraits of 100 Black women with connections to Britain and Ireland, led by Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage, and an evening of live music at the African Caribbean Centre.
100 Black Women Who Have Made A Mark opens at Leicester Gallery at De Montfort University on Tuesday 1 October.
A Journey Through Black Music takes place on Friday 18 October and will feature both local and national artists. Tickets are £10.
Listings for Black History Month events in Leicester are available at blackhistorymonth.org.uk/listings/region/east-midlands/leicester/
More information about Black History Month is available at blackhistorymonth.org.uk
Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen
Community Planning Aberdeen is to become a Volunteer Charter Champion in recognition of the significant role volunteers have in supporting communities and people across the city.
The Volunteer Charter, produced by Volunteer Scotland, is a tool for policy makers, elected members and funders to use when making decisions about how volunteering is represented in decision making processes, policy development, and how volunteering is resourced and utilised.
It sets out 10 key principles which help to underpin good relations within a volunteering environment and is open to any individual, group or organisation from any sector which either involve volunteers, or influence decisions on volunteering.
Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Christian Allard, Chair of the Community Planning Aberdeen Board, said: “We are very fortunate in Aberdeen that so many people give up their free time, share their knowledge and skills, and their enthusiasm to support people and communities across the city on a voluntary basis.
“It is in recognition of the importance of volunteers to communities, people and place that Community Planning Aberdeen has agreed to become a Volunteer Charter Champion.
“We would like to thank all volunteers for their dedication and commitment. By working in partnership, we can all ‘do our bit’ to ensure Aberdeen is a place where everyone can prosper.”
Volunteer Scotland and Aberdeen Council of Voluntary Organisations (ACVO) invited Community Planning Aberdeen to sign up to the Volunteer Charter. It was agreed that it could only sign the charter if partner organisations could collectively adhere to the principles.
Partners are supportive of the Volunteer Charter with some; Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership, NHS Grampian and North East College Scotland stating that they will also sign up as individual organisations. Aberdeen City Council agreed to become a Volunteer Charter Champion at the Council meeting on 3 July 2024.
Following the Chair’s formal pledge of support of the Volunteer Charter on behalf of the partnership the necessary arrangements will be put in place to ensure the charter is integrated within the appropriate Community Planning Aberdeen structures.
Find out more about volunteering opportunities with Community Planning Aberdeen here.
Source: City of York
Parents and carers in York are being reminded that there is a wide range of free courses to help support them and their children, many of which are available online.
The courses are run by both national and local providers and cover a wide range of topics from pregnancy and newborns, to teenagers or children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.
A full list of the courses is available on the Raise York website and parents and carers can search by topic or by their child’s age.
The website also has details of local support groups for parents and carers. Parents and carers come together to share their experiences and help each other.
These support groups offer a safe place to talk about new challenges and celebrate success; a chance to learn new tips and to meet people who understand what you’re going through.
Cllr Bob Webb, the council’s Executive Member for Children and Young People, said:
We know that raising children can be tough for anyone and parents may welcome a bit of low-stakes, low-pressure support at times, as well as an opportunity to build a supportive community of friends.
“This offer provides a wide range of courses depending on your needs, so if you’d like to connect with other parents and carers, you can do so by joining a group course, but you can also pick courses that you do in your own time. This really is an offer to families to pick from to help create something that works well for them.”
Parents and carers of new babies can also access information about services and support available locally in a dedicated booklet – Supporting you parenting journey in York – which is available to all parents via their midwife and/or when they register their child’s birth. The booklet is also available online.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Deputy Ambassador Brown condemns Russian disinformation and other forms of malign influence.
Thank you Madam Chair.
The United States has just informed this Council of steps it has taken to defend its democratic institutions in the face of a covert foreign influence operation by the Russian Federation. This follows other participating States’ interventions in this Council to highlight multiple forms of malign interference across our region in recent months.
Indeed the United Kingdom put Russia’s malign influence and interference onto the Permanent Council’s agenda in May and I thank the US for once again raising this matter.
All OSCE Participating States – including the UK – have made important commitments to uphold media freedom, including to foster “free, independent and pluralistic media” as part of open societies and accountable governments.
The United Kingdom will continue to uphold media freedom, learning from best practice – including that shared by the Office of the Representative for Freedom of the Media. And we again call on all other participating States – particularly Russia and Belarus – to uphold OSCE commitments on media freedom, safety of journalists and freedom of expression.
At the same time the United Kingdom will also take action to defend our national and regional security against the full spectrum of threats emanating from Russia, working in partnership with others. This has included sanctioning Russian media outlets like Rossiya Segodnya and TV Novosti (which controls Russia Today) which spread disinformation and propaganda designed to incite violence and hatred towards Ukraine and its people.
Madam Chair. Our message to Russia is clear: stop this illegal war; withdraw your troops from Ukraine; cease your malign activities including disinformation and information manipulation; and, respect the OSCE principles and commitments that keep us all safe.