NewzIntel.com

Blog

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Applauds New Biden Administration Rule Banning Chinese Vehicle Software and Technologies to Protect National Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement on the U.S. Department of Commerce’s new rule banning key Chinese and Russian-controlled software and hardware in vehicles. The proposal would help safeguard American consumers and companies against the national security threat posed by allowing certain vehicles and technologies made by Chinese Community Party-backed (CCP) companies to be imported or sold in the United States:

    “I applaud the Administration for taking this needed step to protect American citizens and critical infrastructure from the serious national security threats posed by Chinese and Russian vehicle components. We simply cannot allow technologies controlled by foreign entities of concern on our roads that are capable of storing and sharing Americans’ personal data, committing espionage, and even manipulating our cars.

    “Vehicle technologies made by Chinese Communist Party-backed companies, assisted by China’s unfair trade practices, also present a real threat to U.S. economic competitiveness, intellectual property, and automotive manufacturing. This rule would help improve the security of the U.S. automotive supply chain and keep Michigan at the forefront of global mobility innovation and the creation more good-paying, union jobs here at home.”

    Peters has consistently worked to combat the national security and economic threats posed by Chinese-made vehicles. Peters recently sent a letter to several Chinese automakers pressing for more transparency into their ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The letter highlighted the significant national security concerns associated with importing vehicles made by companies with CCP ties into the U.S, such as allowing the CCP to access Americans’ sensitive personal data and gathering information about our critical infrastructure by leveraging certain connected vehicle technologies. During a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee hearing earlier this year, Peters urged U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to ensure the Commerce Department takes further action to combat threats posed by vehicles and high-risk technologies controlled by Chinese Communist Party-backed companies. In March, Peters also wrote a letter to Secretary Raimondo and the United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai highlighting the need for continued application of Section 301 tariffs on Chinese-made vehicles and supporting the Department of Commerce’s announcement of an investigation into the national security concerns posed by Chinese-made vehicles which led to this proposed rule. Peters then applauded the Commerce Department’s decision to raise tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles and other goods across numerous key sectors, including steel and aluminum imports, lithium batteries, critical minerals, solar cells, semiconductors, and medical equipment. 

    Peters has also consistently worked to boost American development of connected vehicles and other critical roadway safety technologies to support Michigan’s auto industry and create good-paying jobs for Michiganders. Last year, Peters – who Chairs the Senate Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports – called on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to allow the deployment of safe, secure Cellular Vehicle to Everything (C-V2X) technology in order to accelerate the use of this lifesaving mobility safety technology and ensure the U.S. does not fall behind other countries in its development and adoption. Following this bipartisan call from Peters, the FCC approved the deployment of C-V2X technology – which is an intelligent transportation system (ITS) technology that enables data sharing between vehicles, the infrastructure they operate on, and nearby road users – improving roadway safety and efficiency. In 2022, Peters welcomed the U.S. Department of Commerce’s $52.2 million investment in the Global Epicenter of Mobility to drive and advance mobility innovation across Michigan’s automotive sector. Peters secured this funding through the American Rescue Plan he helped enact. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran.  The Secretary-General and the President discussed issues of mutual concern, including the Middle East, particularly the war in Gaza, as well as the situation in Lebanon and Yemen. The Secretary-General highlighted the pressing need for regional de-escalation and Iran’s important role in the realization of that objective.
     
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Understanding Antarctica’s contribution to sea level rise

    Source: Australian Government – Antarctic Division

    Over the next decades to centuries, will melting of the Antarctic Ice Sheet (AIS) – Earth’s largest ice mass – cause global sea level to rise by five metres, two metres or less?
    It’s a difficult question to answer. The Antarctic and Southern Ocean environment is dynamic and unpredictable. This means that there is uncertainty in our understanding of the behaviour of the AIS and what this means for future sea-level rise.
    Now scientists from Australia, the United States and Canada, have identified actions that will help reduce uncertainties about the future behaviour of the ice sheet and sea-level rise projections.
    Their work will also guide research to reduce the uncertainties faced by policymakers, decision-makers and communities needing to plan and adapt to a changing world.

    Sources of uncertainty
    The team of researchers, led by Australian Antarctic Division glaciologist Dr Ben Galton-Fenzi, reviewed research on the key processes and potential feedbacks that can accelerate AIS retreat.
    “We examined how Antarctica will contribute to sea-level change in the coming decades to centuries and where the uncertainties lie that make it difficult to project future behaviour of the ice sheet,” Dr Galton-Fenzi said.
    “Then we looked at what processes and regions should be the focus of future scientific research to reduce these uncertainties.”
    If the AIS were to completely melt, global sea levels would rise by about 58 metres. The huge East Antarctic Ice Sheet (covering two thirds of the continent) would contribute about 52 metres of this sea-level rise, while the West Antarctic Ice Sheet and the Antarctic Peninsula would make up the rest.
    In the simplest terms, the Antarctic Ice Sheet grows due to snowfall that compresses into ice, and shrinks due to iceberg calving and melting from beneath the ice shelves.
    However, there are many complex interactions and feedback mechanisms involved in these physical processes and how the ice moves that make it difficult to predict ice sheet behaviour. Critical thresholds if they are crossed can dramatically amplify the contribution of Antarctica to sea-level rise.
    Also contributing to the uncertainty are limitations with current climate and ice sheet models in simulating these physical processes and feedback mechanisms, and a lack of data that can capture physical processes at the right time and spatial scales.
    Sea-level rise is also uneven across the globe due to what are known as “gravitational, rotational and deformational effects”.
    “When the Antarctic Ice Sheet loses mass from ice melting into the ocean, it weakens the gravitational pull of the continent, causing the sea level to drop close to the continent, but rise in more distant locations,” Dr Galton-Fenzi said.
    “The loss of ice mass and the redistribution of water in the ocean also cause changes in the rotation and shape of the Earth, which adds to the spatial variability in sea level.”
    Areas for action
    Among the priority areas for future research identified by the team are high resolution measurements focused on regions thought to be particularly vulnerable to rapid change, to better understand the physical processes impacting on the ice sheet.
    Improved understanding based on these observations can then be used to improve models and analytical tools which, in turn, improve projections of sea-level rise that can inform effective policy decisions.
    “By reducing the uncertainties associated with the Antarctic Ice Sheet and sea-level rise, we’ll give policymakers and decision-makers better information to develop coastal planning measures, resilient infrastructure and adaption strategies,” Dr Galton-Fenzi said.
    “Interdisciplinary and international collaboration, particularly in regions vulnerable to rapid retreat in the East Antarctic Ice Sheet, will enhance our overall research quality and accelerate progress in reducing the level of uncertainty.”
    The research will appear in Antarctica and the Earth System, published by Taylor & Francis Group, in early 2025.
    More information

    Galton-Fenzi, B.K., Gold, M. and Souter, D. (2024) Outlook for Policy Makers: The Antarctic Ice Sheet and Sea Level, Australian Antarctic Division Data Centre. [PDF link below]
    Opening the floodgates – a science briefing on Antarctica and sea-level rise 
    Galton-Fenzi, B.K., H. A. Fricker, J.N. Bassis, A.J. Crawford, N. Gomez and C. Schoof. (In press, 2025) The Antarctic Ice Sheet and sea level: contemporary changes and future projections, in M. Meredith, J. Melbourne-Thomas, M. Raphael and A. Naveira Garabato (eds), “Antarctica and Planet Earth”, Taylor & Francis Group. (Link when published: https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003406471)

    This content was last updated 1 minute ago on 24 September 2024.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Van Drew Demands Accountability from Atlantic City Electric

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jeff Van Drew (NJ02)

    Washington, DC –Today, Congressman Van Drew issued the following statement on Atlantic City Electric’s (ACE) inadequate response to his request for a halt to all shut-off notices as well as a public forum amid the surge in electric bills affecting South Jersey residents.

    “This response from Atlantic City Electric is absolutely unacceptable,” said Congressman Van Drew. “Their weak excuses do not make up for their lack of action when thousands of constituents are struggling under the weight of these outrageous electricity bills. I am putting them on notice that I am not backing down until my constituents get real answers and relief. It is long overdue for them to take immediate action to address this crisis.”

    Click here to read ACE’s response to Congressman Van Drew’s letter.

    Click here to read Congressman Van Drew’s follow-up letter to their response.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Allred Legislation to Streamline Federal Permitting for Microchip Projects Passes House With Bipartisan Support

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Colin Allred (TX-32)

    Building Chips in America Act would support billions in domestic manufacturing investments by streamlining federal reviews 

    Washington, D.C. – Today, a bill co-led by Congressman Colin Allred (D-TX-32), the Building Chips in America Actpassed the House with bipartisan support. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX-10) also helped lead the House bill along with a bipartisan coalition of 5 total members who introduced the legislation together. It ensures federal environmental reviews are completed in a timely manner for microchip projects supported by the CHIPS and Science Act by streamlining approval for projects currently under construction and others that could be delayed. The bill also adds tools to more effectively and efficiently carry out reviews. This will maximize the opportunity to bring microchip manufacturing back to America while ensuring we maintain protections for clean air and water. 

    “The CHIPS Act is a huge opportunity for Texas and the nation to invest in microchip manufacturing and grow the semiconductor industry, but to do that we must ensure these projects can get approved quickly,” said Allred. “The CHIPS Act is already creating thousands of jobs across our great state. I am proud our legislation passed the House and is now on track to become law. We can do big things if we work together, and I look forward to this legislation continuing to create jobs and deliver for Texas.” 

    The bill now heads to President Biden’s desk. It was also led in the House by Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02), Congressman Scott Peters (D-CA-50), and Congressman Brandon Williams (R-NY-22). The Building Chips in America Act was led in the Senate by U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Todd Young (R-IN), Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH). 

    Allred championed the passage of the CHIPS and Science Act, and now, following the passage of the landmark bill, the Department of Commerce has announced billions in federal investments to support domestic manufacturing projects in Texas. Including  $6.4 billion for Samsung in Taylor, $1.6 billion for Texas Instruments in North Texas and $400 million for GlobalWafers in Sherman, TX and Missouri. 

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Consumer confidence at its highest since 2023

    Source: ANZ statements

    “Last week, Consumer Confidence increased 0.8 points, taking the series to its highest level since January 2023,” ANZ Economist, Madeline Dunk said.

    “Confidence is sitting just below 85 points, a ceiling it has been unable to break through for 19 months.

    “In the 1990s recession, confidence stayed below 85 points for nine months. This week’s rise in confidence was driven by an improvement in household confidence in the economic outlook.

    “Confidence about the next 12 months rose 2.7 points and confidence about the next five years lifted 3.0 points. Both were at

    their highest levels since Q1 this year. This may be related to last week’s stronger-than-expected labour market data, which showed employment had increased by more than 143,000 in three months, with participation at a record high. This may be easing fear of job losses.

    “We expect the labour market to remain resilient and see only a modest lift in the unemployment rate to 4.4 per cent.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Art Week brings brush strokes of the unexpected from 4 to 13 October

    Source: Auckland Council

    With mind-nourishing art installations, exhibitions and walking tours popping up in the city centre this Art Week, expect a burst of feel-good hormones lifting your soul.

    The theme for Art Week 2024 is happiness, so smiles are set to fill the city centre’s galleries, streets, lanes and spaces this October in a celebration of all things art.

    Art Week is delivered by Heart of the City and is proudly supported by Auckland Council and the city centre targeted rate.

    For the full programme visit heartofthecity.co.nz/artweek

    To get started, here’s a ten-day diary of suggestions:

    Random Acts by Shannon Novak; photo by Jasper Johnstone.

    Day one: 4 October – Random Acts

    Te Ara I Whiti – The Lightpath glows with touches of kindness this Art Week.

    Artist Shannon Novak has teamed up with iion, programming the lights to change from magenta to a colourful display in response to the movement of people along the path. As people pass each other the colours merge and intensify, expressing positivity as people connect. This artwork has been commissioned by Auckland Council. It shines with movement, colour and light from 7.30pm to 6.30am every day from 4 to 13 October.

    Adding to the light effects, actual random acts of kindness will be shared with people along Te Ara I Whiti – The Lightpath and in city centre streets and spaces in an evening of art and mindfulness during Late Night Art on Thursday 10 October between 5pm and 9pm.

    Learn more about Random Acts here.

    RIPPLE – A Light Memory of a lost Shoreline by Catherine Ellis and Angus Muir in Exchange Lane.

    Day two: 5 October – Changing Lanes

    Changing Lanes is a glittering centrepiece of Art Week. Tasked with transforming some of the inner city’s iconic laneways, artists have created public artworks for these characterful spaces. Drawing on sculpture, painting, design and digital practices the artists have responded to the theme happiness. Pursuing big, bold and immersive ideas, this collection of art is intended to alter our experience of familiar places, prompt us to look with fresh eyes and see our city giving us a new reason to play, explore and discover.

    You will find the Changing Lanes installations across Bledisloe Lane, Darby Street, Vulcan Lane, Durham Street East, Little High Street, Jean Batten Place, Lorne Street, Elliott Street and Exchange Lane; brought to the city centre by Auckland Council with curator Ross Liew.

    Learn more about the city’s historic laneways here.

    Day three: 6 October – Viaduct Harbour – BLOOM

    A larger-than-life vase of flowers, BLOOM is set to instil wonder and joy as people meander through the Viaduct in Art Week. This art installation by Angus Muir and Harris Keenan will be seen and heard. Listen to a soundscape by Arun Strickland, while you see bright, vivid colours and neon design elements that radiate an ‘electric kaleidoscope of untamed beauty.’

    Day four: 7 October – Freyberg Steps

    Despite the fast pace of urban life, Pink Blossoming Spring at Freyberg Steps offers a moment of peace amidst the hustle and bustle. Missed the blossoms this spring? No worries – come to the inner city and enjoy an everlasting springtime!

    Full Spectrum; photo credit Auckland Live.

    Day five: 8 October – Aotea Square

    Auckland Live presents Spring in Aotea Square from 28 September until 13 October. Head down and join a variety of FREE creative fun for the kids (and the big kids). These school holidays show off some moves to your favourite tunes on our Dance-O-Mat, and get involved in our dance workshops from K-Pop to Line Dancing to Bollywood and more.

    Make sure you get a stunning selfie for your social media feed with Full Spectrum, our captivating rainbow sculpture, and witness the glorious Late Night Art – including Late Night Latin Dancing – across the city.

    Day six: 9 October – free guided walking tours

    Explore diverse forms of art and creative expression on free guided walking tours throughout the city centre. Here’s a taste.

    • Unlocked Collections – discover the incredible art that is usually hidden away behind closed doors, or in areas you have not noticed in the city’s hotels, institutions and public buildings.

    • City Art Walks – walk with heritage and conservation architect Kent Dadson and uncover the Classical world, all the intricacies of the form, function and style, that continue to be expressed in the buildings of the central city. There are two tours taking place, October 6 and 13, from 3-5pm. Bookings essential.

    • The art on the walls of a city become part of its fabric, framing as well as reflecting its character. Poster-Art icon and Master of Design Eleanor Whyle will open your eyes to street art both new and old, commissioned and not, on this back-street tour of the inner city.

    Head to heartofthecity.co.nz/artweek for details.

    Day seven: 10 October – LATE NIGHT ART

    Late Night Art’s 2024 line-up of art, innovation, colour, music, lighting, markets, exhibitions, laser art and dance lessons on offer might feel overwhelming, so here’s your checklist:

    • Open Late at EMC

    • Late Night Art in Freyberg

    • Freyberg Steps

    • Khartoum After Dark

    • Urban Art Village – O’Connell Street

    • Jazz on Vulcan

    • Late Night Art on High (art market – 20+ stalls, roaming performers, skaters and actual Random Acts)

    • Galleries open late

    • Lighting installations: Te Ha o Hine Place, Freyberg Place, Deloitte’s Building, Viaduct, Darby St lampposts, Aotea Square, Exchange Lane

    • Britomart – performance

    • The midtown Street Art Festival

    • Aotea Square (Lighting ‘Full Spectrum’ and Dance-O Mat by GapFiller with Latin Dancing)

    • Viaduct – lighting (Angus Muir & Harris Keenan – Bloom) and performance

    • Commercial Bay – lighting Ngā Huinga o Mataaoho – The Gathered Volcanoes of Mataaoho

    • Changing Lanes

    • Guided Walks – Unlocked Collections and City Art Walks

    • Exhibitions – Maritime Museum, Central City Library, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, Gow Langsford, Gus Fisher, Kura Gallery, Fingers 50-year celebration and SO/ Auckland Hotel

    • Exchange Lane Rave – with laser art and an explosion of music. Groove with All my Friends (AMF) favourites Tyrun and RNG-sus, along with special guests, as they take over Exchange Lane. Together with Angus Muir Design and Cat Ellis, laser artist, we’re bringing an explosion of colour and music to the city’s heart.

    Day eight: 11 October – Kura Gallery Urban Māori Exhibition

    Kura Gallery is opening up to all kai mahi toi Māori to contribute to a show looking at the term “Urban Māori”.” The term is provocative and significant for ngā iwi Māori, the majority of whom live away from their papa kāinga, or ancestral lands. The reasons are layered.

    The kaupapa is broad and left entirely up to the artists’ interpretation of what the term means to them, which should make for an exciting and fresh exhibition from artists from across the motu, some of whom are already represented in the gallery.

    The show will hang in the gallery for Art Week, with a late night kōrerō about the works with the curator on 10 October for Late Night Art.

    Day nine: 12 October – Silo Park for the family

    Open to all ages, come along to Sonic Playground at the iconic Silo 6 in the Wynyard Quarter from midday to 4pm and explore the unique acoustics of the space. Curated by the Audio Foundation, there will be a playful feast of sonic experiences, with a rolling programme of improvisations, drawing from the rich scene of sound art and alternative music in Tāmaki Makaurau. Supported by Eke Panuku, it’s part of a series of Art Week events at Silo 6, beginning with Drawing Playground on 5 October, 11am-3pm.

    Where do the children play? Explore more in Wynyard Quarter here.

    Artist Dr Bobby Hung.

    Day ten: 13 October – midtown’s Street Art Festival

    Murals, street art, graffiti, workshops and talks are coming to midtown for Art Week and beyond. Watch or take part in live painting and a battle of graffiti writers hosted by Dr Bobby Hung in the historic Strand Arcade. A highlight will be Wellington-based adventurist and interventionist Cameron Hunt who fluidly shifts between painting, photography, sculpture, installation, performance and videography, often wrangling a sense of chaotic, playful energy from each distinct form. Brought to midtown by Auckland Council.

    For all dates, times and venues visit heartofthecity.co.nz/artweek

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Ship’s sailed for boat burglar

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A man who allegedly stole a $100,000 boat from the Westhaven Marina for 24 hours before attempting to return it, will now face court.

    At about 7.10pm last night, Police were informed that a man was attempting to steal a boat from the pier in Westhaven.

    Auckland City Central Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Mark Miller, says a group of people at the marina have held the man until Police arrived and he was placed under arrest.

    “It appears the alleged offender has boarded the 48 foot launch on Sunday evening and stayed on it overnight before starting it up the next morning and leaving the marina.

    “The man has then attempted to return the boat where he was arrested upon Police arrival.”

    Inspector Miller says Police have zero tolerance for this type of offending, and will continue to hold those responsible to account.

    “This is another example of Police responding and apprehending those responsible for these crimes in our community.

    “We also continue to encourage people to report all crimes of this nature to Police rather than taking matters into your own hands as this can put yourself at risk.”

    A 33-year-old man charged with burglary will appear in Auckland District Court today.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace thugs harass productive Kiwis

    Source: ACT Party

    “The Greenpeace protestors who have locked themselves in the Wellington offices of Straterra are nothing more than thugs harassing productive Kiwis who just want to build a wealthier country”, says ACT’s Energy and Resources spokesperson Simon Court.

    Greenpeace protestors have occupied the Wellington offices of the mining group Straterra. Three protestors have locked themselves inside the building, and two more have climbed onto an awning at the front of the building.

    “Not content with holding up renewable energy projects in court, Greenpeace have moved on to harassing the people representing one of our critical industries.

    “Greenpeace opposes mining anywhere and everywhere in New Zealand. Their anti-mining position is actually anti-progress and anti-humanity.

    “New Zealanders who wonder how they’re going get ahead in life and are considering mining as a career have only one option: move to Australia. New Zealanders need better jobs and higher incomes and that is what mining offers.

    “Greenpeace activists should consider doing something constructive with their lives instead of harassing productive New Zealanders who just want to get ahead.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Kenya: High Court to decide jurisdiction status in landmark Meta case 

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The Kenyan High Court is today hearing a case in which two Ethiopian citizens, Abrham Meareg and Fisseha Tekle, and Kenyan civil society organization The Katiba Institute are accusing Facebook’s parent company Meta of promoting content that led to ethnic violence and killings during the armed conflict in northern Ethiopia from November 2020 to November 2022. 

    The petitioners argue that the Facebook platform’s algorithmic recommendation systems prioritized and promoted inciteful, hateful and dangerous content on its platform during the conflict, contributing to significant human rights violations. The Kenyan court will decide if it has jurisdiction to hear the case. 

    Meta’s legal team has argued that the case should not be heard in Kenya because the company is registered in the US and that Meta’s terms of service require such claims to be filed in the US.  

    They also argue that the alleged human rights violations occurred in Ethiopia and therefore cannot be heard in Kenya. 

    Today’s hearing is focused on two critical procedural aspects: the petitioners’ application to have no fewer than three judges appointed to hear the case as it raises important substantial questions of law and whether Kenyan courts have jurisdiction to hear the case as challenged by Meta.

    Mandi Mudarikwa, the Head of Strategic Litigation at Amnesty International. 

    “Communities and individuals impacted by corporate human rights abuses committed by multi-nationals often struggle to access justice and effective remedies because of jurisdictional, practical and other legal challenges. As a result, Amnesty International is advocating for an approach to both cases that is informed by human rights obligations and corporate responsibilities that ensure justice and accountability.” 

    In Kenya, a single Judge presides over a case, but petitioners can request their cases to be heard by not less than three judges if it raises significant constitutional issues. 

    The petitioners, represented by Nzili and Sumbi Advocates and supported by the tech-justice organization Foxglove, argue, among other reasons, that because the content moderation operation reviewing Facebook content from Ethiopia was located in Kenya, the case can be brought to the Kenyan High Court.  

    Other reasons cited for considering the case under Kenyan jurisdiction are Fisseha Tekle’s current residence in Kenya and safety concerns preventing him from returning to Ethiopia, the fact that The Katiba Institute is a Kenyan organization and the existence of a significant Facebook user base in the country.  

    Amnesty International is one of seven human rights and legal organizations involved as interested parties to the case. The organization submitted written responses in support of the petition and opposing the application challenging jurisdiction by Meta. 

    Background 

    Abrham Meareg is the son of Meareg Amare, a University Professor at Bahir Dar University in northern Ethiopia, who was hunted down and killed in November 2021, just weeks after posts inciting hatred and violence against him were posted on Facebook.  

    He claims that Facebook only responded to reports about the posts eight days after Professor Meareg’s death, more than three weeks after his family had first alerted the company. 

    The second petitioner, Fisseha Tekle, an Amnesty International employee, has faced extensive online hate due to his human rights work in Ethiopia. Now living in Kenya, Tekle fears for his safety, underscoring the transnational impact of the content spread through Facebook’s channels. 

    Katiba Institute, the third petitioner, has brought the case in the public interest given the unchecked viral hate and violence on Meta’s Facebook platform and Kenya’s constitutional obligations. 

    The petition seeks to stop Facebook’s algorithms from recommending such content to Facebook users, to change Meta’s content moderation practices, and to compel Meta to create a 200 billion shilling ($1.6 billion USD) victims’ fund.  

    The case will proceed to deal with the substantive questions relating to the extent, if any, to which Meta is accountable for the human rights violations and human suffering caused as a result of the content promoted on Facebook. 

    In October 2023, Amnesty International published the report, A death sentence for my father: Meta’s contribution to human rights abuses in northern Ethiopia, which shows how Meta contributed to human rights abuses suffered by the Tigrayan community during the conflict in northern Ethiopia two years ago. 

    Notes to Editors: 

    We expect this hearing to be heard in person and will provide further details before the court session on 24 September, 2024 once they become available. 

    Mercy Mutemi of Nzili and Sumbi Advocates represents the two individual petitioners and was Africa Legal’s Tech Lawyer of the Year for 2022. Foxglove, the tech-justice organization behind several cases against tech companies, are supporting the case. Backing the case as interested parties are a long list of major human rights organizations including Amnesty International, Global Witness, Article 19, Kenyan Human Rights Commission, Kenya’s National Integration and Cohesion Commission among others. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Competition Bureau wins deceptive marketing case against Cineplex

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Today, the Competition Tribunal ruled in favour of the Competition Bureau and found that Cineplex engaged in drip pricing by adding a mandatory $1.50 online booking fee.

    Cineplex ordered to pay a record penalty of nearly $39 million dollars

    September 23, 2024 – GATINEAU, QC – Competition Bureau

    Today, the Competition Tribunal ruled in favour of the Competition Bureau and found that Cineplex engaged in drip pricing by adding a mandatory $1.50 online booking fee.

    The Tribunal determined that the representations on Cineplex’s website and mobile application constituted drip pricing and that consumers were deceived by contradictory and incomplete information on Cineplex’s tickets page.

    As part of its ruling, the Tribunal ordered Cineplex to pay a financial penalty of over $38.9 million dollars and legal costs. The penalty is equivalent to the amount Cineplex collected from consumers from the introduction of the online booking fee in June 2022 until December 2023.

    Consumers are entitled to clear information, and should never be surprised by hidden or additional fees. When businesses engage in false or misleading practices, it harms competition and businesses who comply with the law. 

    • The Tribunal ordered Cineplex not to engage in the conduct or similar conduct for a period of 10 years.

    • Following an investigation, the Bureau filed an application with the Competition Tribunal, on May 18, 2023, seeking, among other things, for Cineplex to stop its deceptive advertising.

    • Amendments to the Competition Act came into force on June 24, 2022, which explicitly recognize drip pricing as a harmful business practice.

    • Drip pricing involves offering low prices to attract consumers, but then adding mandatory fees so that the prices are unattainable. This practice is against the Act, unless the additional fixed charges or fees are imposed by the government on purchasers, such as sales tax.

    • The Bureau has taken action against drip pricing for many years under the Deceptive Marketing Practices provisions of the Competition Act, notably in the car rental, satellite radio subscriptions, online sporting and entertainment ticketing industries.

    • The Bureau recently issued a consumer alert to raise awareness and reporting of drip pricing.

    • We strongly encourage anyone who suspects that a company or individual is making false or misleading price claims to report it by using the Bureau’s online complaint form.

    The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that protects and promotes competition for the benefit of Canadian consumers and businesses. Competition drives lower prices and innovation while fuelling economic growth.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep Mike Garcia’s Bipartisan ANCHOR Act Passes House to Upgrade National Security on Research Vessels

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Garcia (CA-25)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Rep. Mike Garcia’s (CA-27) ANCHOR Act, H.R. 7630, a bipartisan bill co-led by Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), passed the House unanimously. This critical legislation facilitates much-needed cybersecurity and telecommunications upgrades for the 17 oceanographic vessels in the U.S. Academic Research Fleet, including three based in California.

    “These ships are vital to our national security and environmental research, but they’re outdated and vulnerable to rising cyber threats from adversaries like Russia and China,” said Rep. Garcia. “The ANCHOR Act is about securing these vessels and making sure they can continue their important missions—whether it’s studying our oceans or supporting our national defense—for years to come.”

    The ANCHOR Act directs the National Science Foundation (NSF) to create a detailed plan within one year to modernize the fleet’s cybersecurity and telecommunications systems and implement it within the following two years and report back to Congress.

    “These vessels have already made significant discoveries, like locating WWII-era munitions off the Los Angeles coast,” said Rep. Garcia. “We’re protecting not just our oceans, but our national interests and future research, ensuring America stays at the forefront of global innovation.”

    The ANCHOR Act is endorsed by leading research institutions, including Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, and marks a major step forward in securing the tools and technologies critical to our nation’s research and security.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mike Garcia’s ACERO Act Passes the House as Part of NASA Reauthorization

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Garcia (CA-25)

    Washington, D.C.—Rep. Mike Garcia’s (CA-27) bipartisan ACERO Act passed the House today, included as part of H.R. 8958, the NASA Reauthorization Act of 2024. The ACERO Act, a key component of this legislation, not only strengthens wildfire response capabilities but also supports the Antelope Valley’s aerospace economy, a critical sector for national security and American space leadership.

    “You can’t tell the story of the Antelope Valley without telling the story of NASA. The Aerospace Valley, as we call it, is home to some of the most important advancements in aerospace history—from Chuck Yeager breaking the sound barrier to the first flights of the Space Shuttle,” said Rep. Garcia. “With the ACERO Act, we’re pushing the boundaries of technology-assisted disaster response by equipping our firefighters with the tools they need to stop fires before they spread—much like how we equip our warfighters with cutting-edge technology to protect our nation.”

    The ACERO Act expands NASA’s Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) project, which focuses on integrating unmanned aerial systems (UAS) into wildfire response. These UAVs will act as a force multiplier for firefighters, enhancing their ability to respond swiftly and effectively to wildfires, especially in remote areas.

    “I’m proud that this bill not only supports our firefighters but continues to fuel the next generation of aerospace innovation that starts right here in the Aerospace Valley,” said Rep. Garcia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Bipartisan NASA Reauthorization Act to Advance American Space Exploration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (Virginia 4th District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), a member of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee,voted in support of H.R. 8958, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Reauthorization Act of 2024. 

    The NASA Reauthorization Act provides support and direction for NASA’s civil space activities, including directing human space exploration initiatives like the Artemis and Moon to Mars Programs; maximizing utilization and productivity of the International Space Station; investing in technology development to support America’s space innovation; and cultivating scientific discovery and expansion of humankind’s collective knowledge. 

    “The House Science Committee advanced the NASA Reauthorization Act unanimously to support our nation’s continued innovation and leadership in space exploration,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “I’m thrilled to have secured important provisions in this legislation, including my Celestial Time Standardization Act, the ACERO Act, and my amendment to ensure the agency can address PFAS water contamination in the Town of Chincoteague near the NASA Wallops Flight Facility. I urge my Senate colleagues to pass this legislation expeditiously and look forward to President Biden signing it into law.” 

    The final version of the bill included the following priorities championed by McClellan:

    1. H.R. 8837, the Celestial Time Standardization Act: The legislation directs NASA to lead the development of a celestial time standard to improve interoperability in space exploration and further establish American leadership in standards setting. 
    1. H.R. 8118, the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response to Operations (ACERO) Act: The bipartisan legislation, co-led by Rep. Mike Garcia (R-CA-27), will codify and expand the existing ACERO Project at NASA to enhance the use of manned and unmanned firefighting technologies to support firefighters and protect our communities. 
    1. Chincoteague Well Replacement: Authorizes NASA to plan to enter into an agreement with the Town of Chincoteague to reimburse costs associated with replacing PFAS-contaminated drinking water wells.

    The House passed H.R. 8658 on a vote of 366 Yays, 21 Nays, 1 Present Vote. Read the NASA Reauthorization fact sheet, section-by-section summary, and full bill text. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government introduces revised clubs and ranges rules

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Improving the way shooting clubs and ranges are regulated will be the outcome of a Bill introduced today Associate Minister of Justice Nicole McKee says.

    “Cabinet has agreed to a package of reforms to amend Part 6 of the Arms Act 1983 which will enable simple and effective regulation of pistol and non-pistol shooting clubs and ranges.

    “As I have stated repeatedly clubs and ranges play an important public safety role in our communities. As well as providing places for people to learn how to safely operate firearms they also act as the eyes and ears of the firearms community.”

    “The changes introduced in 2020 went beyond what was necessary to ensure public safety. They jeopardised the ability for clubs and ranges to provide a safe environment for New Zealanders to learn, practise, and compete, and placed some ranges at risk of closing.

    The Arms (Shooting Clubs, Shooting Ranges and Other Matters) Amendment Bill will: 

    • maintain the regulatory requirements for pistol clubs and ranges but streamline annual reporting requirements;
    • simplify the regulatory requirements for non-pistol clubs and ranges by replacing the approval and certification systems with a more effective enrolment system;
    • require non-pistol clubs to be incorporated only if they sell ammunition, unless all ammunition sold by the club is purchased for, and used, on the day of sale at the club range or event and is not taken off the premises;
    • support the operation of temporary non-pistol ranges to enable the holding of club events, as long as the Firearms Safety Authority is informed; and
    • provide certainty about when inspections for compliance can occur and clarify what can be removed when an inspection is conducted, to reduce the burden on operators.

    “The focused consultation undertaken by the Ministry of Justice provided valuable insights, and I am confident that the changes, once implemented, will deliver better public safety outcomes, while reducing unnecessary requirements to better support shooting clubs and ranges to comply.” 

    “Firearms reform is a priority for the Government and today’s announcement delivers on a commitment made in the National-ACT coalition agreement.”

    The Bill will have its first reading before being referred to select committee for at least four months, where all interested parties will have the opportunity to have their say on the proposals.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rubio, Clement Present Plan to Stop Antisemitism on College Campuses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

    ICYMI: Rubio, Clement Present Plan to Stop Antisemitism on College Campuses
    Sep 23, 2024 | Press Releases

    Congress Can Protect Jews on College Campuses
    U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Paul Clement
    September 23, 2024
    Wall Street Journal

    The ancient poison of antisemitism has infected American higher education…. Campus antisemitism isn’t restricted to…widely publicized incidents…. A survey by Alums for Campus Fairness finds “44% of Jewish students report never or rarely feeling safe identifying as a Jew at their school.”
    College administrators and local authorities have the power and responsibility to protect Jewish students, but they have often failed…. Universities and law enforcement need better leaders, but the U.S. also needs a legal structure prohibiting antisemitic harassment on college campuses with clarity and teeth. 
    Doesn’t this structure already exist? Yes and no. Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color or national origin in federally-funded institutions of education. But it doesn’t specifically prohibit discrimination against Jews, and [it] doesn’t cover religious discrimination….
    The Preventing Antisemitic Harassment on Campuses Act…would extend Title VI of the Civil Rights Act to cover religious discrimination (with an exception for religious institutions)…. The bill affirmatively respects and preserves free speech rights. It targets [harassment that] the U.S. Supreme Court has already held the First Amendment doesn’t protect….
    The bill would also address a status quo in which the Education Department gives schools a slap on the wrist when they fail to protect Jewish students. Academic programs would receive a clear warning for the first offense, escalating to a 10% reduction of federal assistance after the second and a 33% reduction after the third….
    Read the rest here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: State Government to extend subsidies for commercial air flights in Western NSW

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 24 September 2024

    Released by: Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW, Minister for Western New South Wales

    The Minns Government is continuing work to support Western NSW communities with the announcement today the $2 million subsidy scheme for commercial flights in Western NSW will continue at least until November 2025.

    The agreement will allow for the continuation of subsidies on flights from Dubbo to Bourke, Walgett and Lightning Ridge operated by Air Link and from Sydney to Cobar operated by FlyPelican.

    The NSW Government and the Far North-West Joint Organisation (FNWJO) subsidy agreement will provide residents, workers and industry in Western NSW with continued access to air services helping to reduce travel times in rural and remote NSW.

    Subsidised air travel is vital for the delivery of essential services such as health, childcare, justice, family and community services, with doctors, specialists, nurses and social workers among the frequent fliers travelling to and from Western NSW.

    As part of the Government’s continued commitment to Western NSW, work is also underway to deliver the Regional Development Trust $15 million Airstrips Improvement Package.

    The package will upgrade rural and remote airstrips to improve access for emergency services, health professionals and other essential services in some of the most remote parts of the state.

    An audit of remote and rural airstrips across 19 local government areas and the unincorporated area in Western NSW is underway to prioritise those most in need of upgrades.

    Work on the airstrips and related infrastructure is expected to start before the end of the year.

    Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

    “For Sydneysiders, air travel is an easily accessible convenience but for people living in Western NSW it is not so easy.

    “This funding will help commercial operators offer a two-way service connecting regional NSW with essential workers, trades, and services that they often depend on.

    Independent member for Barwon, Roy Butler said:

    “Western Air Services flights provide people in remote areas with much-needed access to health services, social engagements, and major economic benefits to our primary industries.

    “For many people in my electorate these flights are not a luxury but an absolute necessity, especially given the vast distances people need to cover in the west of the state.

    “I want to thank the Minister for her understanding of the importance of this issue when I raised it with her, and for her following through to ensure the continuation of these vital air services.”

    Retiring Far North-West Joint Organisation Chairman, Councillor Barry Hollman said:

    “This is a very exciting announcement, and I thank the NSW Government and particularly the Minister for Western NSW, the Hon Tara Moriarty, MLC for her responsiveness.

    “Just as commuters on the recently opened Metro in Sydney described the new train service as ‘transformational’ and ‘life changing’, the same can be said about the provision of these air services to the remote far North West area of the State.

    “The Government has certainly gone the extra mile to assist our remote communities.

    Chief Executive Officer, Fly Pelican, Marty Hawley said:

    “Today we welcome this announcement from the NSW Government and we look forward to continuing to service these critical flights for the far North West region and its communities.

    “Flight services to our remote regions are critical, and we are very pleased with today’s announcement to ensure the far North West region remains connected.”

    General Manager, Air Link Airlines, Ron O’Brien said:

    “This funding plays a crucial role in maintaining reliable air services that are lifelines for the communities of Bourke, Walgett, and Lightning Ridge.

    “Regional air services help to bridge distances and improve quality of life for residents in regional NSW by facilitating economic development and enhanced connectivity for businesses and residents alike.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Early works for Currumbin Waters intersection upgrade

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    Early works are set to begin in preparation to upgrade the Currumbin Creek Road and Bienvenue Drive intersection, on the Gold Coast.

    Weather and construction conditions permitting, the early works which will include tree and vegetation clearing, and relocating water and power utilities are expected to begin later this month.

    The upgrade, which will help to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion at this busy Currumbin Waters intersection, will be welcomed by local residents.

    Main works being undertaken will include:

    • The addition of a signalised left turn slip lane from Currumbin Creek Road into Bienvenue Drive.
    • Increased capacity for vehicles turning right from Bienvenue Drive into Currumbin Creek Road.
    • Extending the right turn lane into Bienvenue Drive.

    The intersection will also be made safer for pedestrians and cyclists with the addition of a new bike lane on Currumbin Creek Road and a signalised pedestrian crossing at the intersection.

    Upgrades to existing pedestrian ramps within the intersection, footpath construction and drainage improvements are also planned.

    Construction on the upgrade is expected to start in early 2025.

    The tender for construction works is being released in late 2024 and can be viewed at https://etender.hpw.qld.gov.au/.

    Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

    “Across Queensland and here in Currumbin we are getting on with the job of delivering the transport infrastructure local residents need and deserve.

    “With early works starting and the upgrade expected to get underway early next year, people living in Currumbin Waters will get where they need to go safer and sooner.”

    Quotes attributable to Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish:

    “The $10 million upgrade is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments, showing our commitment to upgrading roads in south east Queensland.

    “Once complete this upgrade will improve safety for surrounding residents and road users.

    “These necessary upgrades may cause some disruption whilst under construction, but my department and the contractor will work with surrounding residents to ensure impacts are mitigated wherever we possibly can.

    “We would like to thank road users and the local community for their patience during these works.”

    Quotes attributable to Senator for Queensland Murray Watt:

    “This intersection upgrade at Currumbin will deliver much-needed safety benefits, improve traffic flow and reduce congestion for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians alike. It’s great to see it get underway soon.

    “The Albanese and Miles Governments are committed to significantly reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads, and improving road safety at this busy intersection is a great example of that commitment in action.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW Government invests $750,000 to improve coastal fish habitat

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: NSW Government invests $750,000 to improve coastal fish habitat

    Published: 24 September 2024

    Released by: Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW

    The Minns Labor Government is continuing to invest in on-ground activities to improve fish habitat and recreational fishing in NSW, with more than $750,000 in grants awarded to five innovative coastal projects.

    The Flagship Fish Habitat Rehabilitation Grant program provides funding for large-scale projects that significantly enhance fish habitat, water quality and fish passage opportunities within the coastal catchments of NSW.

    This includes projects to significantly rehabilitate river banks and coastal wetlands, remove or modify barriers to fish passage and construct fishways, re-snag waterways and undertake remediation works including riverbank stabilisation.

    After assessing applications for the 2023-24 grants round, a total of $756,947 is being awarded to five projects:

    • $109,222 to Nambucca Valley Landcare to improve fish habitat and reduce risks to water quality in the Nambucca River by restoring an eroding riverbank;
    • $169,150 to OzFish Unlimited to rehabilitate an area of critical fish habitat in the Bellinger River catchment together with recreational fishers;
    • $158,000 to Rous County Council to restore 1,600m2 of complex fish habitat and a popular bass fishing destination on Bungawalbyn Creek;
    • $261,275 to Port Macquarie Hastings Council to stabilize an eroded area, improve shoreline vegetation and enable access for recreational fishers on the Hastings River estuary;
    • $59,300 to Shoalhaven City Council to complete design and plans for a living shoreline including accessible and resilient foreshore, and oyster reef restoration on the Crookhaven River.

    The grants are part of the Government’s ongoing work to grow recreational fishing opportunities by enhancing the habitats that fish need to thrive.

    Since the inception of the Flagship Grant Program in 2016, almost $3 million from the Recreational Fishing Trust has been invested in coastal aquatic habitat rehabilitation, water quality improvement and fish passage opportunities.

    Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:

    “These Flagship grants allow fishing clubs, non-Government organisations and other agencies to tackle large, complex projects that will safeguard and enhance local fish habitats and recreational fisheries.

    “Improved habitat means better opportunities for fish and therefore better opportunities for recreational fishers.

    “This program is yet another excellent example of how recreational fishing fees are helping to support and improve sustainable fisheries in NSW.”

    More information on Flagship Habitat Rehabilitation Grants is available here.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview with Ali Moore, Melbourne Drive, ABC Radio

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    ALI MOORE:

    Dr Andrew Leigh is Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury. Minister, welcome.

    ANDREW LEIGH:

    G’day, Ali.

    MOORE:

    First, before we get to the draft mandatory code, your response to the ACCC legal action launched today?

    LEIGH:

    These are incredibly serious allegations, Ali. I mean, we’re talking about 266 Woolies products, 245 Coles products, consumers would have paid millions of dollars for these products and if the specials are false specials, as the ACCC is claiming, then that’s incredibly serious for what it means for consumers.

    You know, just to give you one sort of concrete example, which is in the ACCC’s media release, they talk about Oreos being sold at $3.50 a pack for about a year, then temporarily spiked up to $5 a pack, dropped down to $4.50, which was then advertised as ‘price dropped’. That doesn’t look like a real special to me. So, obviously this will be tested before the courts, but if it’s found that Coles and Woolies have breached the law, then they deserve every penalty that’s thrown at them. Australians are under cost‑of‑living pressures they deserve to get specials that are real specials.

    MOORE:

    Well, we’ve had lots of people text with examples today. I don’t know who does the shopping in your family, Andrew Leigh, but have you had your own suspicions about this sort of thing?

    LEIGH:

    Look, my wife and I do the shopping. She does the online, and I tend to do the in‑person. And, yeah, there was now specials – they’re certainly been something that’s been under appropriate scrutiny. As government, it’s not up to us to do the enforcement. That’s the ACCC’s job and Gina Cass‑Gottlieb does a great job of it.

    It’s our job to make sure they have the right resources and the sufficient penalties. So, one of the first things we did when we came to office was to increase the penalties for anti‑competitive conduct, raising those penalties and so they weren’t just a cost of doing business. And people can see in the ACCC’s media release today that they say very explicitly that for half the period in which they’re looking at, the penalties are higher. A direct result of the Albanese government increasing the penalties for anti‑competitive conduct.

    MOORE:

    Andrew Leigh, today, at the same time, as I just said, you have released a draft of legislation that essentially follows a review of a voluntary code of conduct by Craig Emerson. You followed most or all of his recommendations and this code will be made mandatory?

    LEIGH:

    That’s right. So, under the Liberals and Nationals, it was a voluntary code – effectively toothless, effectively without penalties. What we’re doing now is making it a mandatory code. And so, we’re getting a fairer deal, not only for families, but also for farmers. Previously, farmers had feared retribution because, who complains under a voluntary code when the risk is that you can lose your contract with the supplier? So, now we’re bringing in place a code with teeth, a code that will actually get a fairer deal for farmers. We’re putting in place code mediators. We’re ensuring that there is an ability to complain directly to the competition watchdog, to make anonymous complaints there, and greater protections for fresh produce suppliers. If you’re supplying berries to the supermarket, Ali, you’ve got that problem that your berries might well go off in a couple of weeks. So, we’re ensuring obligations for supermarkets to specify the basis for determining prices, to conduct their forecasts with due care, and to have reasonable quality standards.

    MOORE:

    So the arbiter will be the ACCC if there’s an anonymous process for whistleblowers, if they’ve got a complaint, that’s where they’ll go?

    LEIGH:

    Well, there’ll be code mediators, currently known as code arbiters. And then there’s also this additional ability for people to make an anonymous complaint to the ACCC. So, it’s a much more robust code than was in place under the Liberals and Nationals. We take much more seriously than they did the allegations that are being raised by farmers and the concerns among shoppers, that they want to make sure that farmers are getting a fair deal as they supply to these major supermarkets. It’s one of the most concentrated supermarket sectors in the world. We’ve got to do more for consumers and for farmers.

    MOORE:

    What will be the standard of proof, though? I mean, sometimes these things are not always in black‑and‑white.

    LEIGH:

    The standard proof will be the usual balance of probabilities as it is in the civil law. And one of the things that Craig Emerson has done is to deal with a constitutional challenge in this space by getting agreement from the 4 supermarkets and supermarket chains that are signed up that they will agree to the mediation process with penalties up to $5 million. It’s a real credit to Craig that he’s able to do that, and that allows us to better deal with disputes under the code.

    MOORE:

    So, if a supermarket does the wrong thing by a supplier, what sort of penalty could they face?

    LEIGH:

    $5 million. So, the agreement that they have made is that the code mediator can impose penalties going up to $5 million, and then also we have penalties that can be imposed more broadly, they will go up to $50 million.

    MOORE:

    And when will the code of conduct come into force?

    LEIGH:

    We’ll expect that to come in the coming months. We’re a consultative government. Obviously, whenever we take actions that affect stakeholders, we give them a chance to comment. People have the chance to comment on this mandatory code and to give their feedback in the way in which we’ve said about implementing Craig Emerson’s review. Craig Emerson’s the former Competition Minister. He’s done a power of work on this. We want to make sure that we get the best deal we can for families and for farmers.

    MOORE:

    Andrew Leigh, thanks for joining us.

    LEIGH:

    Pleasure, Ali. Thanks again.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Privacy Commissioner issues first compliance notice to Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    The Privacy Commissioner has today issued a compliance notice to the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, triggered by a cyber-attack in December 2020. This is the first time the Privacy Commissioner has issued a compliance notice since receiving these new powers in the Privacy Act 2020. Privacy Commissioner John Edwards says, The cyber-attack was a significant breach of one of the Banks security systems and raised the possibility of systemic weakness in the Banks systems and processes for protecting personal information.

    As part of the investigation into the breach the Bank engaged KPMG to undertake an independent review of its systems and processes. The review revealed multiple areas of non-compliance with Privacy Principle 5. Mr Edwards says, We are heartened by the speed and thoroughness of the Banks response.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Missing man in Sham Shui Po located

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         A man who went missing in Sham Shui Po has been located.

         Tam Kwok-on, aged 53, went missing after he left his residence in Shek Kip Mei Estate on September 21 evening. His family made a report to Police on September 22.  

         The man was located on Waterloo Road, Kowloon City this morning (September 24). He sustained no injuries and no suspicious circumstances were detected.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS continues to visit Madrid, Spain (with photos/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    FS continues to visit Madrid, Spain (with photos/video)
    FS continues to visit Madrid, Spain (with photos/video)
    *******************************************************

         ​The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, continued his visit to Madrid, Spain, yesterday (September 23, Madrid time).     Mr Chan visited the Plenary of the City Council of Madrid yesterday and met with its President, Mr Francisco de Borja Fanjul Fernández-Pita. They exchanged views on strengthening co-operation between the two places. Mr Chan presented the latest developments in Hong Kong across various sectors and noted that, with staunch support from the Central Government, the “One Country, Two Systems” arrangement will continue to be implemented in Hong Kong in the long run. He emphasised that Hong Kong will maintain an international, open and friendly business environment practising the common law. Mr Chan expressed hope for enhancing mutually beneficial co-operation in areas such as finance, innovation and technology (I&T), culture, and education. He also welcomed Spanish enterprises to invest in Hong Kong and leverage it to explore the vast markets of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, broader Mainland China, and Asia.     In the afternoon, Mr Chan called on the Chinese Ambassador to Spain, Mr Yao Jing. Mr Chan briefed Ambassador Yao the latest situation in Hong Kong, as well as its development direction and strategies. They had in-depth exchanges on topics including economic and trade co-operation between China and Spain, and promoting collaboration in business and I&T between Hong Kong and Spain.     Mr Chan then met with Mr José Moisés Martín Carretero, the Director General of the Centro para el Desarrollo Tecnológico y la Innovación (CDTI). The CDTI provides funding support for projects aligned with Spain’s I&T development strategy, and promotes technological co-operation between Spain and other countries and regions. Mr Chan highlighted the progress Hong Kong has made in recent years by investing substantially in I&T, and presented the support provided by Hong Kong’s full-spectrum financial services to I&T enterprises and projects at various development stages. They also exchanged ideas on strengthening co-operation on technology projects and the matching of funds with projects.     In the morning, Mr Chan led the delegation of technology startups to visit Wayra, one of Spain’s innovation accelerators and venture capital funds, where he met with its investment team leaders. Through its global network, Wayra helps startups connect with technology and capital worldwide and provides guidance to expand their markets. During the meeting, Wayra’s technology and investment teams introduced the organisation’s operations and development strategies, and both sides discussed ways to promote mutual co-operation. Mr Chan expressed hope that the visit would facilitate better connections between the I&T ecosystems of both places and create more practical collaboration opportunities for their startups.     The Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Dr Peter Lam; the Executive Director of the HKTDC, Ms Margaret Fong; the Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Science and Techlogy Parks Corporation, Mr Albert Wong; the Chief Public Mission Officer of Cyberport, Mr Eric Chan, and the Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Miss Shirley Yung, participated in all or parts of the visit above.     Mr Chan will continue his visit in Madrid today (September 24, Madrid time), including attending a themed business luncheon organised by the HKTDC to promote Hong Kong’s advantages to local political, business, financial, and innovation communities.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, September 24, 2024Issued at HKT 9:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Chancellor of Germany Olaf Scholz on the margins of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Chancellor Scholz highlighted the close relationship between Canada and Germany. They discussed shared priorities, including combating climate change, advancing clean energy such as green hydrogen, expanding economic cooperation, promoting trade and investment, and making progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through actions announced at the Future Summit.

    The two leaders discussed their shared concerns over the recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East and agreed on the need to promote lasting peace and security in the region. They also reiterated their readiness to support Ukraine in the face of Russia’s continuation of its unjustifiable war of aggression.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Chancellor Scholz agreed to remain in close and regular contact and looked forward to continuing to work together to advance their shared priorities, including in the context of Canada’s G7 presidency next year.

    Related links

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Competition Bureau wins case against Cineplex in deceptive marketing practices case

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French

    Today, the Competition Tribunal ruled in favour of the Competition Bureau and found that Cineplex made partial price representations by adding a mandatory $1.50 online booking fee.

    Cineplex ordered to pay record fine of nearly $39 million

    September 23, 2024, GATINEAU, Quebec, Competition Bureau

    Today, the Competition Tribunal ruled in favour of the Competition Bureau and found that Cineplex made partial price representations by adding a mandatory $1.50 online booking fee.

    The Tribunal determined that the representations on Cineplex’s website and mobile application constituted partial price representations and that consumers were misled by the contradictory and incomplete information on Cineplex’s ticket page.

    As part of its decision, the Tribunal ordered Cineplex to pay a monetary penalty of more than $38.9 million as well as legal costs. The penalty is equal to the amount Cineplex collected from consumers since the introduction of the online booking fee in June 2022 until December 2023.

    Consumers deserve clear information and should never be surprised by hidden or additional fees. When businesses engage in false or misleading practices, they harm competition and law-abiding businesses.

    The Court ordered Cineplex not to engage in the relevant conduct or similar conduct for a period of 10 years.

    Following an investigation, the Office has filed an application to the Competition Tribunal on May 18, 2023 to, among other things, have Cineplex cease its misleading advertising.

    Amendments to the Competition Act that came into force on June 24, 2022 explicitly recognize partial pricing as a harmful business practice.

    Partial pricing involves offering low prices to attract consumers, but then adding mandatory fees so that the advertised prices are unobtainable. This practice is against the Act unless the additional fixed fees are imposed on buyers by the government, such as sales tax.

    The Bureau has already taken action against partial pricing over the years under the deceptive marketing provisions of the Competition Act, particularly in the car rental, of the satellite radio subscriptions, and of the ticket sales online for sporting events and shows.

    The Office recently published a consumer alert to raise public awareness about cases of partial price indication and to promote their reporting.

    We strongly encourage anyone who suspects that a business or individual is making false or misleading pricing claims to report it through our online complaint form.

    Media Inquiries: Media Relations Email:media-cb-bc@cb-bc.gc.ca

    The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that protects and promotes competition for the benefit of Canadian consumers and businesses. Competition leads to lower prices, innovation and economic growth.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB Launches Country Partnership Strategy for Fiji for 2024-2028

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (24 September 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched a new country partnership strategy (CPS) with Fiji for 2024–2028, which will support Fiji’s resilience to economic and climate-related shocks.

    “This new CPS will build on ADB’s ongoing assistance to support more resilient public finances, quality infrastructure and services, and a greener and more diversified private sector,” said ADB Director General for the Pacific Leah Gutierrez. “The strategic partnership will tailor ADB support towards Fiji’s recently launched National Development Plan 2025-2029.”

    The new strategy will prioritize assistance for public sector management, improving access to climate-resilient transport infrastructure, and climate-resilient urban water and wastewater services. The CPS emphasizes emerging areas of engagement in coastal protection for vulnerable communities, upgrading national health care facilities, and accelerating Fiji’s renewable energy transition. It focuses on promoting private sector investment, accelerating progress in gender equality, and fostering regional cooperation and integration.  

    “The strategy reflects the close partnership between the Government of Fiji and ADB, aligning future support with Fiji’s National Development Plan 2025–2029,” said Fijian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Biman Prasad.

    The 5-year strategy will assist Fiji’s efforts to bolster climate and disaster resilience through innovative financial solutions, upgrading critical infrastructure, reinforcing climate policy reforms, and improving access to concessional climate finance.    

    ADB has been supporting Fiji since 1970, and has committed 117 public sector loans, grants, and technical assistance totaling $991 million to Fiji.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB Joins Partnership for a Lead-Free Future

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (24 September 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) today announced a set of actions to mainstream lead exposure mitigation into its operations, as part of its participation in the newly formed Partnership for a Lead-Free Future, a global initiative led by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The partnership aims to eliminate childhood lead exposure by 2040.

    The initiative, launched at the United Nations General Assembly today, will target high-risk countries including Bangladesh, Indonesia, India, and Nepal, among others throughout Asia and the Pacific.

    ADB’s participation in the partnership underscores its ongoing commitment to addressing health and environmental challenges in developing Asia and the Pacific. Lead contamination, particularly from informal used lead-acid battery recycling sites, presents a major health crisis. Toxic lead exposure is affecting at least 400 million children in the region, leading to cognitive impairments, health complications, and major economic losses. The global economic cost of lead-related cognitive underdevelopment is estimated at about $1 trillion annually.

    “Lead exposure doesn’t just affect children’s health—it holds back entire economies,” said ADB Vice-President for East and Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Scott Morris. “The Partnership for a Lead-Free Future is an important step in addressing this environmental, health, and economic issue. We will dedicate ADB’s expertise and resources to help ensure that countries across Asia and the Pacific can mitigate lead exposure, enhance public health, and secure a healthier, more productive future for all.”

    ADB is embedding lead management into its broader environmental safeguards and technical assistance programs, and has already begun engaging with governments in Indonesia, India, and the Philippines to tackle lead contamination. The bank will co-host a technical side event on lead pollution at the 12th Asia Pacific Regional Forum on Health and Environment in Jakarta on 25 September, which will serve as a platform to advance the lead elimination agenda. Co-organized with the governments of Indonesia, Japan and Thailand, USAID, and the World Bank, the forum will highlight cutting-edge research on lead exposure and showcase effective strategies for reducing lead poisoning. 

    In collaboration with the Global Environment Facility and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, ADB is also developing the Chemical and Wastes Financing Partnership Facility, the first of its kind. This facility will scale chemical management, including lead mitigation, across the region. The initiative complements ADB’s work in managing hazardous waste, providing governments with the resources to regulate industries, replace hazardous materials, and enforce environmental standards.

    ADB plans to integrate lead elimination into its universal health care support programs, starting in the Philippines. Through these programs, ADB has been working to ensure equitable access to health services, address gender-specific health needs, and mitigate the health impacts of climate change.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: CAF and UNOPS Join Forces to Boost Sustainable Development in Latin America and the Caribbean

    Source: CAF Development Bank of Latin America

    CAF- development bank of Latin America and the Caribbean and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a framework for collaboration aimed at promoting sustainable development in Latin America and the Caribbean.

    The agreement, signed by CAF’s Executive President Sergio Díaz-Granados and UNOPS Executive Director Jorge Moreira Da Silva, outlines key areas of cooperation. These include technical assistance and implementation of infrastructure projects, conducting feasibility studies and project structuring, development of joint training activities in project management and procurement, resource mobilization to support regional countries, as well as information exchange and capacity building initiatives.

    This agreement strengthens the relationship between the two organizations, as since 2017, CAF and UNOPS have worked together in Latin America on technical assistance projects in Panama, Bolivia, Ecuador, Paraguay and Uruguay.

    By combining CAF’s financial strength with UNOPS’ technical expertise, we are better positioned to address the complex challenges facing Latin America and the Caribbean

    Sergio Díaz-Granados

    Sergio Díaz-Granados, Executive President of CAF, stated: “This partnership with UNOPS represents a significant step towards enhancing our capacity to deliver impactful projects across the region. By combining CAF’s financial strength with UNOPS’ technical expertise, we are better positioned to address the complex challenges facing Latin America and the Caribbean, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of our member countries.”

    We’re consolidating the efforts we have made together with CAF to continue to improve the lives of millions of people across the Latin America and Caribbean region

    Jorge Moreira Da Silva

    “In a world facing multiple global crises, partnerships like this are instrumental. We’re consolidating the efforts we have made together with CAF to continue to improve the lives of millions of people across the Latin America and Caribbean region”, said Jorge Moreira Da Silva, UNOPS Executive Director.

    The MOU provides a foundation for future specific agreements between the two organizations. It emphasizes the importance of knowledge sharing, joint communication efforts, and the potential for collaborative resource mobilization.

    This collaboration between CAF and UNOPS is expected to bring valuable synergies to development efforts in the region, leveraging the strengths of both institutions to promote sustainable growth and improved quality of life for Latin American and Caribbean communities.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Electronics Develops Industry’s First Automotive SSD Based on 8th-Generation V-NAND

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung Electronics, the world leader in advanced memory technology, today announced it has successfully developed the industry’s first PCIe 4.0 automotive SSD based on eighth-generation vertical NAND (V-NAND). With industry-leading speeds and enhanced reliability, the new auto SSD, AM9C1 is an optimal solution for on-device AI capabilities in automotive applications.
     
    With about 50% improved power efficiency compared to its predecessor, the AM991, the new 256GB auto SSD will deliver sequential read and write speeds of up to 4,400 megabytes-per-second (MB/s) and 400MB/s, respectively.
     
    “We are collaborating with global autonomous vehicle makers and providing high-performance, high-capacity automotive products,” said Hyunduk Cho, Vice President and Head of Automotive Group at Samsung Electronics’ Memory Business. “Samsung will continue to lead the Physical AI1 memory market that encompasses applications from autonomous driving to robotics technologies.”
     
    Built on Samsung’s 5-nanometer (nm) controller and providing a single-level cell (SLC) Namespace2 feature, the auto SSD AM9C1 demonstrates high performance for easier access to large files. By switching from its original triple-level cell (TLC) state to SLC mode, users can enjoy boosted read and write speeds of up to 4,700MB/s and 1,400MB/s, respectively, while also benefiting from the added reliability of SLC SSDs.
     

     
    The 256GB AM9C1 is currently being sampled by key partners and is expected to begin mass production by the end of this year. Samsung plans to offer multiple storage capacities for the AM9C1 ranging from 128GB to 2 terabytes (TB) to address the growing demand for high-capacity automotive SSDs. The 2TB model, which is set to offer the industry’s largest capacity in this product category, is scheduled to start mass production early next year.
     
    Through intensified board-level tests, Samsung’s new auto SSD satisfies the automotive semiconductor quality standard AEC-Q1003 Grade 2, ensuring stable performance over a wide temperature range of -40°C to 105°C.
     

    To further meet the high standards of the automotive industry in terms of durability and stability, Samsung also conducts various quality assurance processes. The company received ASPICE CL3 authentication4 for its UFS 3.1 product in March this year.
     

    In an effort to obtain CSMS certification based on ISO/SAE 21434,5 Samsung will continue to actively enhance the technological reliability and stability of its automotive solutions.
     

    “ASPICE and ISO/SAE 21434 certifications are milestones that affirm the reliability and stability of our technology,” said Hwaseok Oh, Executive Vice President at Samsung Electronics’ Memory Business. “Beyond these achievements, Samsung will continue to elevate its product stability and quality by consistently providing the best solution to key partners.”
     
     
    1 AI such as robots and autonomous vehicles that perceives and interacts with the physical world through sensors.2 Provides SLC partition with better performance and reliability than TLC, allowing users to configure it in accordance to data type. However, when switched to SLC mode capacity decreases to 1/3 of the TLC.3 Global standard that Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA) has established for the reliability evaluation procedures and criteria for automotive electronic components.4 Automotive Software Process Improvement and Capability dEtermination (ASPICE) is a software development standard developed and distributed by the German Automotive Association (VDA) that evaluates the reliability and competence of automotive component manufacturers’ software development processes. It is divided into Capability Level (CL) stages 0 to 5, with CL3 meaning that an organization has established a systematic process and can effectively execute it.5 Cyber Security Management System certification is an international standard designed to enhance cybersecurity in the automotive industry based on ISO/SAE 21434, covering cybersecurity processes and requirements from design to development, evaluation and mass production.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: FishTech visit boosts regional research collaborations

    Source: Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research

    Among the tour delegates was Cambodian Secretary of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, His Excellency Khun Savoeun. 

    His Excellency said the visit provided an excellent opportunity for Mekong leaders to rethink water and fish management, and to expand efforts to maintain fish migration routes. 

    ‘It promoted collaboration between irrigation engineers and fishery biologists to work together on river connectivity, aiming to save both water and fish, which are essential for rural food security. 

    We learned that the integration of fishery technology into river engineering is crucial for conserving fish and saving water for multiple purposes.

    His Excellency Khun Savoeun
    Cambodian Secretary of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries,
     

    His Excellency said the visit also underscored the importance of leadership in environmental planning and sustainable development in his own country.  

    ‘Fish are a vital Cambodian food source, with many poor households dependent on fishing for their livelihoods. 

    ‘This program was both useful and necessary, especially for incorporating fish passage outcomes into water and development policies.’ 

    Dr Baumgartner said the visit also provided a valuable knowledge exchange for the Australian project partners.  

    ‘What was particularly interesting were design discussions and hearing how the different countries are developing policies and legislation to protect fish.’ 

    MIL OSI News –