NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Daines, Cruz, Hirono Renew Bipartisan Push to Better Protect Parents Traveling with Breast Milk

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    January 27, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to make it easier for parents to safely embark on air travel with breast milk and breastfeeding supplies. The Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening (BABES) Enhancement Act, co-led by U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-MT), Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), would require the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to clarify and regularly update guidance on the safe handling of breast milk and breastfeeding supplies, baby formula and other related products in consultation with nationally recognized maternal health organizations. This reintroduction comes after the bipartisan legislation passed the Senate by unanimous consent late last year in the 118th Congress.
    “Far too often, traveling moms are mistreated and wrongfully denied access to their breast milk and the breastfeeding equipment they need to pump and feed their babies,” said Senator Duckworth. “Ensuring that the TSA keeps its employees up to speed on their own policies and updates those policies as necessary is the least we can do to help parents travel through airports with the dignity and respect they deserve. After our bipartisan legislation passed the Senate by unanimous consent last Congress, I’m proud to work with Senators Daines, Cruz and Hirono to reintroduce the bill, and I’ll continue to do everything I can to get this done for traveling moms everywhere.”
    “Supporting moms and families will always be one of my top priorities. I’m proud to join my colleagues in supporting this bipartisan legislation that will make it easier for mothers to safely and easily travel with breast milk and formula for their babies, and I’ll continue to fight for ways to support our families in Montana and across America,” said Senator Daines.
    “Far too often, families traveling with infants and young children are subjected to inconsistencies when going through TSA’s screening, causing inconveniences that can make traveling together even more difficult. This simple legislation to update the TSA’s compliance guidance for the 3-1-1 liquids will help families travel without added hassles,” said Senator Cruz.
    “On any given day, thousands of families travel by air with milk and the supplies they need to keep their babies fed,” said Senator Hirono. “The BABES Enhancement Act will require TSA to clarify and regularly update its guidance on handling breast milk and baby formula, helping to ensure that parents and their young children can travel with peace of mind. I’m glad to join my colleagues in reintroducing this legislation to keep families and their children safe and healthy.”
    The bipartisan BABES Enhancement Act would help keep breastfeeding parents and their kids safe and healthy while traveling by air. Mishandled breast milk can become contaminated, which puts children at risk. Moreover, parents who lactate typically need to breastfeed or pump once every few hours. Failure to do so can result in a clogged milk duct, or a painful infection called mastitis. The legislation would better protect families by requiring TSA to:
    Issue guidance promoting the hygienic handling of any breast milk, baby formula and other infant nutrition products, as well as accessories required to preserve these products;
    Consult with nationally recognized maternal health organizations in establishing and communicating this guidance; and
    Update guidance every five years to respond to emerging needs of parents and to account for developments in technology.
    This legislation would also direct an independent government watchdog to conduct an audit of compliance with TSA screening policies for passengers traveling with breast milk and other infant nutrition products, providing lawmakers with information related to violations of policies. U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell (D-CA-14) is the lead sponsor of bipartisan companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    “As a husband and father, my wife and I know how challenging traveling can be for new parents. TSA screening is already stressful enough without the added anxiety and humiliation of having your breast milk or formula heavily scrutinized and mistreated,” said Congressman Eric Swalwell. “The BABES Act will ensure TSA handles these screenings with care, consulting maternal health experts to establish proper hygienic standards while maintaining robust security measures. This bill is about giving parents peace of mind so they can focus on their families while they travel.”
    A copy of the bill text is available on the Senator’s website.
    Duckworth has been a strong advocate in ensuring moms receive the dignity and respect they deserve while traveling. In 2022, Duckworth pressed TSA Administrator David Pekoske for improved treatment of new mothers and Americans with disabilities from employees of the TSA. That same year, Duckworth also called on TSA to address inconsistent implementation of the 3-1-1 Liquids Rule Exemption travel policy for breast milk and formula at airport security checkpoints as well as ensure new moms and their infants can travel safely without fear of harassment.
    Duckworth has also championed several policies that help make air travel easier for new moms. Her bipartisan Friendly Airports for Mothers (FAM) Improvement Act, which was signed into law in 2020, is helping ensure our small airports across the country support new moms and promote breastfeeding-friendly environments. The legislation builds on Duckworth’s success in enacting a law that ensures all large and medium airports provide a clean, private space where moms can breastfeed or pump. As a result of her legislation, O’Hare and Midway Airports both installed free-standing lactation pods.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Millions at Risk as Conflict Escalates in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo: PHR

    Source: Physicians for Human Rights (PHR)

    January 27, 2025 – In response to the escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the following quote is attributable to Sam Zarifi, JD, executive director of PHR:

    “Civilians in DRC are again caught between regional rivals fighting for power and mineral resources, and hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced in recent weeks alone, adding to the seven million already forced to flee due to this crisis. The conflict in DRC has been ignored for too long – DRC and Rwanda must work together, with assistance from their neighbors, the African Union, and the United Nations, to ensure the civilian population is protected and has access to vital aid.  

    “PHR calls on all combatants to comply with international humanitarian law and international human rights law. Fighters must also respect and protect the area’s many internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, which are acutely vulnerable. Bombs have already fallen on some IDP sites while the M23 has reportedly forced residents to flee other camps. The M23 and Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF) have ordered the demolition of all displaced persons camps. International actors must surge humanitarian aid to the region, as millions of people are facing a humanitarian crisis.  

    “We are also alarmed by emerging reports of indiscriminate attacks impacting health care facilities and personnel, including rockets and gunshots that hit facilities connected to the Masisi General Referral hospital in North Kivu province, as well as attacks on hospitals in Goma like Hospital de la Charité and Hospital Virunga. Health workers must be protected as they respond to the mounting health care needs of their communities, including urgent threats from malaria, measles, and mpox.

    “Massive attacks on the region by the M23, which has been found by the UN to be under the control of Rwanda, threaten a human rights and humanitarian catastrophe.  The entire Kivu region could very quickly come under control of a militia that has been widely documented as responsible for atrocities over many years.

    “PHR recently published research documenting the health and human rights emergency in eastern DRC, including a ‘massive influx of cases’ of conflict-related sexual violence against children and adults. PHR has worked in DRC for the past 14 years to support survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and to help end impunity for these crimes. The ongoing escalation in the conflict has drastically heightened the risk of conflict-related sexual violence in the days ahead.”

    Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) is a New York-based advocacy organization that uses science and medicine to prevent mass atrocities and severe human rights violations.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Durbin Statement On Trump’s Mass Deportation Actions In Chicago

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    January 26, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, (D-IL) today issued the following statement after President Donald Trump’s administration started mass deportation actions in and around Chicago: 
    “We can all agree that we must remove any dangerous individuals from our country who are here illegally. But the mass deportation actions being undertaken by President Trump’s administration go far beyond those important goals. These actions have the potential to sweep up Dreamers who came to the United States as children, Veterans who have served our nation, and essential workers who care for our family members, build our homes, and ensure we have food on our tables.
    “Instead, we should focus on deporting those who pose a danger to our country. And we should give the rest a chance to earn legal status. They would have to register with the government, pay their dues, and submit to background checks. 
    “We stand with the immigrant community in Chicago and across the country, and our offices and caseworkers are ready to help those who are improperly caught up in these raids.”
    Last month, as Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Durbin held a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing entitled “How Mass Deportations Will Separate American Families, Harm Our Armed Forces, and Devastate Our Economy.” The hearing examined the consequences of mass deportations, as well as stressed the need to shift congressional efforts toward sensible solutions that bring order to the border and provide a path to citizenship to longtime residents with no serious criminal convictions.
     
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Risch, Britt Introduce Bill to Finish Southern Border Wall, Eliminate Taxpayer-funded Entitlement Benefits for Illegal Immigrants

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Katie Britt (R-Ala.) introduced the WALL Act to finish construction of the southern border wall and protect American families.
    “Now is the time to finish the southern border wall. The WALL Act helps President Trump complete what he started in his first term and does it all without adding a dime to our national debt,” said Risch. “For the last four years, millions of illegal immigrants flooded across our southern border, exploiting open-border policies and wasting vast sums of taxpayer dollars. Those days are over.”
    “President Donald Trump and the Republican majorities in the House and Senate have not just a mandate but an obligation to secure the border and protect American families,” said Britt.“The United States needs a completed border wall—it is just common sense to have a physical barrier in place to ensure only lawful entry into our country. The WALL Act would ensure the completion of America’s border wall without raising taxes on U.S. citizens or increasing the national debt by a single penny. It would accomplish this by eliminating taxpayer-funded entitlement benefits for illegal aliens, which would further deter illegal migration.”
    The WALL Act would appropriate $25 billion to finish building a wall on our southern border without raising taxes on U.S. citizens or increasing the national debt. It would be funded by closing loopholes and eliminating taxpayer-funded entitlements and tax benefits for people who are in the U.S. illegally. The bill also imposes monetary fines on people who enter the country illegally or overstay their visas. The Joint Committee on Taxation estimated in 2018 that enacting the provisions in this bill would save $33 billion of taxpayer dollars over ten years.
    Risch and Britt are joined by U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Mike Rounds (R-S.Dak.), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) in introducing the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons statement of support for Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) released the following statement announcing that he would vote to confirm Scott Bessent as the next Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Treasury:
    “I support Mr. Bessent’s nomination to lead the Department of the Treasury because of his decades of experience in the financial sector and his conviction that American strength is built on a stable, innovative, and growing economy. While I disagree with many of his policy positions, particularly his support for extending tax cuts for the wealthy and President Trump’s tariff threats, I hope that he will focus the Treasury Department on bringing down costs for middle-class Americans. I am particularly encouraged by his commitment to continue U.S. investment in international financial institutions, which are essential tools for advancing global prosperity and demonstrating U.S. leadership.”  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Myers Tree Farm

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Myers Tree Farm of Des Moines County. Throughout the 119th Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties.
    “For over 35 years, Myers Tree Farm has rooted itself in the Sperry community, sprucing things up with their variety of houseplants, succulents, and home decor,” said Chair Ernst. “Home to over 5,000 Christmas trees, this family-owned and operated small business continues to bring holiday joy to families across Iowa!”
    In 1987, Robert and Patti Myers planted a group of Christmas trees on an acre of land in hopes to sell them and pay for their kids college education. After Chad graduated from Iowa State University in 1993 with a degree in horticulture, he joined the business full-time and eventually took over with his wife. The couple expanded Myers Tree Farm to include full-service landscaping and a potting shed that houses flowers, garden and vegetable plants, and succulents. In 2019, the Myerses fully renovated their barn to host weddings ceremonies. The business hosts an annual Fourth of July fireworks celebration that attracts over 5,000 people to the family farm. This year, Myers Tree Farm will celebrate 38 years in Iowa. 
    Stay tuned as Chair Ernst recognizes more Iowa small businesses across the state with her Small Business of the Week award.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Section 106 affordable housing: call for next level support to new clearing service as registrations near 300 in first 50 days

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Home builders and providers looking to sell or buy homes, built as part of Section 106 planning agreements, urged to maximise use of new service.

    Nearly 300 organisations from across England have signed up to the new Section 106 Affordable Housing Clearing Service to help unlock delivery.

    More than 70 housebuilders have registered to provide details of affordable homes they have planning permission to build, alongside private homes, but have been unable to find a buyer for.

    They join 140 Registered Providers (RPs) and more than 70 Local Authorities (LAs) who have already registered for the service as potential buyers, and are viewing available information about potential opportunities on a regular basis.

    Registered users, especially sellers, are urged to continue their support by providing crucial details in addition to basic registration information; such as site location, construction progress, number of homes and types of tenure.

    It is hoped the service, created and managed by Homes England in response to sector feedback, will play its part in facilitating and accelerating the sale of uncontracted and unsold affordable homes across England, excluding London.

    Homes England Chief Customer Officer Ian Workman, said:

    This is a relatively simple but potentially impactful service that means greater visibility of opportunities to get affordable homes sold and occupied. I would urge house builders in particular to register and add as much detail as they can.

    Over 200 registered providers and local authorities have already signed up, and regularly checking for potential opportunities to acquire homes for the communities they serve.

    Listening, acting and working hand-in-glove with partners is fundamental, if we are to move forward and find solutions together to the challenges the sector is facing.  I am grateful to all those who have helped to shape this service so far, with promising early signs of uptake.

    Housing Minister, Matthew Pennycook, said:

    We recognise the challenge posed by the reduced appetite of registered providers of social housing to buy affordable homes delivered under section 106 agreements.

    The new clearing service we have worked in partnership with Homes England to establish will help improve the functioning of the market and unblock the delivery of section 106 affordable housing.

    Hundreds of developers and providers have already come forward to engage with this new service and real progress is being made as a result.

    Cllr Adam Hug, LGA housing spokesperson said:

    Councils urgently want to deliver more affordable housing including those affordable homes agreed in Section 106 agreements with developers in local planning applications.

    This service is a positive step to promoting stalled sites to registered providers of affordable housing, and the LGA encourages all local authorities to engage with it. But it is just one tool which will help bring forward more affordable housing. Much more needs to be done.

    Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, says:

    This clearing service is a welcome tool in tackling the current issue in the delivery of Section 106 affordable homes. Building new relationships between developers and social housing providers is important in overcoming the immediate challenges, as well as helping developers to understand the requirements of housing associations in the future.

    Housing associations are facing significant competing financial pressures, which is also impacting their ability to both buy Section 106 homes and build other new affordable homes. In the longer term, housing associations are committed to working in partnership with the government on a long-term housing strategy to rebuild their capacity and deliver more much needed social and affordable homes.

    Notes to editors

    1. Homes England is the government’s homes and regeneration agency. We drive the creation of more high-quality homes and thriving places so that everyone – no matter their background – has a place to live and thrive. We work in partnership with thousands of public and private bodies including local authorities, home builders, developers, affordable housing providers, commercial real estate companies  and financial institutions to make this happen. For more information visit: Homes England – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
    2. A Section 106 agreement is a planning obligation that requires developers to contribute to local infrastructure and community facilities, such as affordable housing, schools, parks, or transport improvements, as a condition of planning permission.
    3. For more information about the service or to register visit: The Section 106 Affordable Housing Clearing Service – GOV.UK
    4. The service does not include London, where the Greater London Authority has responsibility for affordable housing delivery.
    5. For further information or interview requests please contact media@HomesEngland.gov.uk or 0207 874 8262.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pension reforms to go further to unlock billions to drive growth and boost working peoples’ pension pots

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Working people and businesses are set to benefit from new rules that will give more flexibility over how occupational defined benefit pension schemes are managed, as the government continues to remove blockages that are inhibiting its growth agenda that will improve lives of working people across the UK.

    • Prime Minister and Chancellor to tell leading CEOs that Britain is back and open for business.
    • Changes to pension rules will allow trapped surplus funds to be invested in the wider economy, fuelling economic growth.
    • Move is part of government action to remove blockages that are stopping growth – from regulation to planning processes.

    Working people and businesses are set to benefit from new rules that will give more flexibility over how occupational defined benefit pension schemes are managed, as the government continues to remove blockages that are inhibiting its growth agenda that will improve lives of working people across the UK. 

    Hosting a meeting with leaders of Britain’s biggest businesses in the City of London today (Tuesday 28 January), the Prime Minister and the Chancellor will set out the details of changes and tell some of the country’s leading CEOs that Britain is back and open for business.

    At the roundtable, the PM and Chancellor will outline how restrictions will be lifted on how well-funded, occupational defined benefit pension funds that are performing well will be able to invest their surplus funds. 

    This follows action taken by the government last week to bring a renewed focus on growth from some of the UK’s biggest regulators, a shake-up to legal challenges on planning applications, and new “brownfield passports” to speed up housing in commuter hotspots.

    Prime Minister, Keir Starmer said: 

    The number one mission of my government is to secure growth, drive higher living standards for everyone, and get more money into people’s pockets.

    To achieve the change our country needs requires nothing short of rewiring the economy. It needs creative reform, the removal of hurdles, and unrelenting focus. Whether it’s how public services are run, regulation or pension rules, my government will not accept the status quo. Today’s changes will unlock billions of investment, pushing forward in delivering my Plan for Change.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

    I know this government and businesses are united on growth being the top priority for our economy, which is why I am fighting every day to tear down the biggest barriers to growth, taking on regulators, planning processes and opposition to this urgent mission.

    The Prime Minister and Chancellor will tell CEOs from some of the UK’s most successful companies that that the government is seeking to create the best possible conditions for the private sector to thrive. They will promise to work in partnership with businesses, to deliver high-quality jobs across the country, and the economic growth that will fund the schools, hospitals and roads that we all rely on.

    Pension trustees and the sponsoring employers could then use this money to increase the productivity of their businesses – to boost wages and drive growth or unlock more money for pension scheme members. 

    High growth and more productive businesses boost the size of the economy which in turn will fund our vital public services.

    This more efficient approach demonstrates that the government has been listening to business, and will give businesses more flexibility, allowing trapped surplus funds to be invested into the wider UK economy, or given to scheme members as additional benefits.

    Where trustees agree to share a portion of scheme surplus with a sponsoring employer, the employer may choose to invest these funds in their core business, for example to purchase equipment or supplies, and/or provide additional benefits to members of the pension scheme.

    Approximately 75% of schemes are currently in surplus, worth £160 billion, but restrictions have meant that businesses have struggled to invest them.

    These reforms build on the Chancellor’s Mansion House reforms which will create pension megafunds as part of the biggest set of pension reforms in decades, unlocking billions of pounds of investment in exciting new businesses and infrastructure and local projects.     

    Over £1.1 trillion is held by pension funds in the UK and defined contribution pension schemes are set to manage £800 billion worth of assets by the end of the decade. This Government is determined to encourage these pension funds to deliver investment and drive economic growth – which is the only way to make people better off.    

    Jonathan Lipkin, Director of Policy, Strategy & Innovation at the Investment Association said:

    Unlocking surplus capital from defined benefit schemes has the potential to both boost UK growth by opening up investment opportunities for companies and their stakeholders, as well as the possibility of higher pensions for scheme members. With around £1.1 trillion in assets, defined benefit schemes already make a significant contribution to the funding of the UK economy and public services. 

    With the right guardrails in place, the government’s proposals could help channel more funding into the economy, by enabling schemes to invest more widely and take on greater risk, while allowing for members to receive an uplift to pension benefits.

    Zoe Alexander, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Pensions and Lifetime Saving Association, said: 

    The PLSA backs surplus release, with the right protections in place to ensure member benefits are secure. Surpluses could be used to increase DB scheme benefits or could be redirected to fund contributions to sponsoring employers’ defined contribution workplace schemes.

    Lowering the legislative threshold for allowing returns of surplus could potentially encourage trustees, in conjunction with their employers, to adopt a more ambitious mindset and take on slightly riskier investment strategies for their DB assets, including greater investment in UK assets.

    Patrick Heath-Lay, Chief Executive Officer for The People’s Pension, said:

    It is positive news to see the government is looking at the pension industry as a whole. This will help unlock more of the £2.9trillion that is held in UK pension savings, to benefit savers and the economy alike.

    We look forward to other pension schemes following our plans and outlining how they will invest in private markets.

    The roundtable discussion will focus on the government’s partnership approach to growth with business, including how regulation can better support the Growth Mission, and the role of business in achieving the UK’s ambitions in AI which the Prime Minister unveiled earlier this month. Every regulator has a role to play in the Growth Mission and the Chancellor is hosting a series of roundtables with the 17 regulators that the Prime Minister wrote to in December, to discuss their proposals to support growth in the coming year. 

    The meeting with CEOs comes days after the Chancellor’s return from the World Economic Forum, where she pitched Britain’s investment credentials and let global business leaders know that the UK is open for business again. She championed early reforms to planning, pensions, and regulation that make it easier to do business in Britain and remove barriers investors from overseas face.

    On Wednesday, the Chancellor will make a speech where she will set out plans to push through further planning reforms to get Britian building again, rip up regulatory barriers so we can encourage more investment into the UK and announcements to boost trade and investment.

    The government will set out the details of the surplus policy in its response to the Options for Defined Benefits consultation, due this Spring.

    Further information: 

    • Currently DB scheme surplus can only be accessed where schemes passed a resolution by 2016, so not all schemes can access surplus even if trustees and sponsors both want to do so. 
    • Legislative changes could enable all DB schemes to change their rules to permit surplus extraction where there is trustee-employer agreement. This allows trustees to assess the suite of options available in striking a deal with employers on how best scheme members can also benefit – linked to improving member outcomes. 
    • Trustees have an overarching fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of their members. When considering surplus extraction, trustees must fund the scheme and invest its assets in a way that leads to members receiving their full benefits.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: Pension reforms to go further to unlock billions to drive growth and boost working peoples’ pension pots

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

    Working people and businesses are set to benefit from new rules that will give more flexibility over how occupational defined benefit pension schemes are managed, as the government continues to remove blockages that are inhibiting its growth agenda that will improve lives of working people across the UK.

    • Prime Minister and Chancellor to tell leading CEOs that Britain is back and open for business.
    • Changes to pension rules will allow trapped surplus funds to be invested in the wider economy, fuelling economic growth.
    • Move is part of government action to remove blockages that are stopping growth – from regulation to planning processes.

    Working people and businesses are set to benefit from new rules that will give more flexibility over how occupational defined benefit pension schemes are managed, as the government continues to remove blockages that are inhibiting its growth agenda that will improve lives of working people across the UK. 

    Hosting a meeting with leaders of Britain’s biggest businesses in the City of London today (Tuesday 28 January), the Prime Minister and the Chancellor will set out the details of changes and tell some of the country’s leading CEOs that Britain is back and open for business.

    At the roundtable, the PM and Chancellor will outline how restrictions will be lifted on how well-funded, occupational defined benefit pension funds that are performing well will be able to invest their surplus funds. 

    This follows action taken by the government last week to bring a renewed focus on growth from some of the UK’s biggest regulators, a shake-up to legal challenges on planning applications, and new “brownfield passports” to speed up housing in commuter hotspots.

    Prime Minister, Keir Starmer said: 

    The number one mission of my government is to secure growth, drive higher living standards for everyone, and get more money into people’s pockets.

    To achieve the change our country needs requires nothing short of rewiring the economy. It needs creative reform, the removal of hurdles, and unrelenting focus. Whether it’s how public services are run, regulation or pension rules, my government will not accept the status quo. Today’s changes will unlock billions of investment, pushing forward in delivering my Plan for Change.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

    I know this government and businesses are united on growth being the top priority for our economy, which is why I am fighting every day to tear down the biggest barriers to growth, taking on regulators, planning processes and opposition to this urgent mission.

    The Prime Minister and Chancellor will tell CEOs from some of the UK’s most successful companies that that the government is seeking to create the best possible conditions for the private sector to thrive. They will promise to work in partnership with businesses, to deliver high-quality jobs across the country, and the economic growth that will fund the schools, hospitals and roads that we all rely on.

    Pension trustees and the sponsoring employers could then use this money to increase the productivity of their businesses – to boost wages and drive growth or unlock more money for pension scheme members. 

    High growth and more productive businesses boost the size of the economy which in turn will fund our vital public services.

    This more efficient approach demonstrates that the government has been listening to business, and will give businesses more flexibility, allowing trapped surplus funds to be invested into the wider UK economy, or given to scheme members as additional benefits.

    Where trustees agree to share a portion of scheme surplus with a sponsoring employer, the employer may choose to invest these funds in their core business, for example to purchase equipment or supplies, and/or provide additional benefits to members of the pension scheme.

    Approximately 75% of schemes are currently in surplus, worth £160 billion, but restrictions have meant that businesses have struggled to invest them.

    These reforms build on the Chancellor’s Mansion House reforms which will create pension megafunds as part of the biggest set of pension reforms in decades, unlocking billions of pounds of investment in exciting new businesses and infrastructure and local projects.     

    Over £1.1 trillion is held by pension funds in the UK and defined contribution pension schemes are set to manage £800 billion worth of assets by the end of the decade. This Government is determined to encourage these pension funds to deliver investment and drive economic growth – which is the only way to make people better off.    

    Jonathan Lipkin, Director of Policy, Strategy & Innovation at the Investment Association said:

    Unlocking surplus capital from defined benefit schemes has the potential to both boost UK growth by opening up investment opportunities for companies and their stakeholders, as well as the possibility of higher pensions for scheme members. With around £1.1 trillion in assets, defined benefit schemes already make a significant contribution to the funding of the UK economy and public services. 

    With the right guardrails in place, the government’s proposals could help channel more funding into the economy, by enabling schemes to invest more widely and take on greater risk, while allowing for members to receive an uplift to pension benefits.

    Zoe Alexander, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Pensions and Lifetime Saving Association, said: 

    The PLSA backs surplus release, with the right protections in place to ensure member benefits are secure. Surpluses could be used to increase DB scheme benefits or could be redirected to fund contributions to sponsoring employers’ defined contribution workplace schemes.

    Lowering the legislative threshold for allowing returns of surplus could potentially encourage trustees, in conjunction with their employers, to adopt a more ambitious mindset and take on slightly riskier investment strategies for their DB assets, including greater investment in UK assets.

    Patrick Heath-Lay, Chief Executive Officer for The People’s Pension, said:

    It is positive news to see the government is looking at the pension industry as a whole. This will help unlock more of the £2.9trillion that is held in UK pension savings, to benefit savers and the economy alike.

    We look forward to other pension schemes following our plans and outlining how they will invest in private markets.

    The roundtable discussion will focus on the government’s partnership approach to growth with business, including how regulation can better support the Growth Mission, and the role of business in achieving the UK’s ambitions in AI which the Prime Minister unveiled earlier this month. Every regulator has a role to play in the Growth Mission and the Chancellor is hosting a series of roundtables with the 17 regulators that the Prime Minister wrote to in December, to discuss their proposals to support growth in the coming year. 

    The meeting with CEOs comes days after the Chancellor’s return from the World Economic Forum, where she pitched Britain’s investment credentials and let global business leaders know that the UK is open for business again. She championed early reforms to planning, pensions, and regulation that make it easier to do business in Britain and remove barriers investors from overseas face.

    On Wednesday, the Chancellor will make a speech where she will set out plans to push through further planning reforms to get Britian building again, rip up regulatory barriers so we can encourage more investment into the UK and announcements to boost trade and investment.

    The government will set out the details of the surplus policy in its response to the Options for Defined Benefits consultation, due this Spring.

    Further information: 

    • Currently DB scheme surplus can only be accessed where schemes passed a resolution by 2016, so not all schemes can access surplus even if trustees and sponsors both want to do so. 
    • Legislative changes could enable all DB schemes to change their rules to permit surplus extraction where there is trustee-employer agreement. This allows trustees to assess the suite of options available in striking a deal with employers on how best scheme members can also benefit – linked to improving member outcomes. 
    • Trustees have an overarching fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of their members. When considering surplus extraction, trustees must fund the scheme and invest its assets in a way that leads to members receiving their full benefits.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland’s most colourful festival returns this February

    Source: Auckland Council

    A burst of colour is on the horizon for Tāmaki Makaurau as Auckland Pride Festival returns for February 2025. As a proud Strategic Partner, Auckland Council is calling on all Aucklanders to join the vibrant festivities in support of rainbow communities across our region. 

    The month-long festival kicks off on 1 February and is an annual open-access arts, cultural and community fiesta featuring 160 events, with major events like Pride Fest Out West and Big Gay Out. Also included are key works as part of Te Tīmatanga, a rangatahi-led exhibition at Season Gallery Aotearoa, and Pride Elevates at Q Theatre Loft, within Auckland Pride’s own curated arts programme.   

    The festival celebrates and empowers Auckland’s rainbow communities with a special focus this year on fostering resilience, visibility, and unity through events, creativity, and advocacy – a focus that strongly aligns with Auckland Council values. 

    Councillor Richard Hills says Auckland Council is committed to supporting our rainbow communities in Tāmaki Makaurau.  

    “As a Pride Pledge partner, we’re happy to be on board for yet another year of fabulous celebrations alongside Auckland Pride Festival,” says Cr Hills.  

    “The festival has a fantastic programme for us all this year, with something on offer for everyone to enjoy including live performances, community events, art installations and new and exciting activity in our Proud Centres and libraries to name a few. It’s the perfect opportunity to get out and about, show your support and make the most of the community-focused activities on offer”. 

    Hāmiora Bailey, Auckland Pride’s Executive Director says the theme of this year’s festival is Tētahi Ki Tētahi or ‘to one another, and each other’ which encompasses Auckland Pride’s values of inclusivity, respect and peace.  

    “Auckland Pride Festival offers a safe space for all, and we’re back this year to continue championing our takatāpui and rainbow community members who make Auckland a more liveable and exciting city,” adds Hāmiora. 

    “We are thought leaders, business owners, creatives and artists who contribute to the lifeblood of Tāmaki Makaurau. We’re proud to be back and working alongside Auckland Council as we align with its long-term plan of ‘providing for our communities in the greatest need’ and in addition, through Waimahara and Te Tīmatanga, we enact the council’s commitment to deliver outcomes for and with Māori. We’re excited for what’s ahead and look forward to celebrating in unison right across Tāmaki Makaurau”. 

    At Pride Festival 2025 be sure to check out: 

    Proud Centres  

    Auckland Council’s Proud Centres are back! Proud Centres offer opportunities for people to come together in their local neighbourhoods across Auckland, providing a dynamic range of events and activities that champion local takatāpui and rainbow community members.  

    Highlights for this year’s Proud Centres programme include Ang Sininang Bulawan (The Golden Dress) by Marc Conaco at Studio One Toi Tū, Embroidery for Crafty Queers, Proud Voices Open Mic Night on Waiheke Island, The Starlight Disco at Onehunga Oranga Community Centre, Insider Outsider at Mt Albert Library, and the LGBTQIA+ Craft Club (Pride Edition) at Point Chevalier.  

    Love is Love: Take 3 Romances 
      
    Calling all book worms! From 1 February, you’re invited into our libraries to celebrate Auckland Pride Festival and our rainbow communities, and mark Valentines Day by making the most ‘Love is Love: Take 3 Romances’. 

    Auckland Council Libraries will feature a Love is Love display showcasing books from a curated list that celebrations the rainbow community. Members aged 18 and over who borrow three or more books from the collection will be automatically in to win one of five eGift vouchers to spend on something special for themselves and their dearest – don’t miss out! 

    Pride Artist Residencies 

    If you’re in the city centre, be sure to check out The Ellen Melville Centre’s Queer Creative Residency, as part of Auckland Council’s Proud Centre initiatives for Auckland Pride Festival 2025. This exciting opportunity offers one takatāpui creative from any discipline the chance to transform the Marilyn Waring Room into a public-facing studio space, visible from High Street. 

    Rainbow storytelling on the Auckland Harbour Bridge  

    Vector Lights is proud to present its first rainbow story on the Auckland Harbour Bridge! Contemporary installation and takatāpui artist, and a master’s student at Unitec, Alex Watene (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Whātua, Te Arawa a Tūhoe) brings his thesis to life in a new dynamic light and sound show). ‘Re-indigenising gender diversity here in Aotearoa New Zealand’ explores the impact of colonisation and raises awareness about Takatāpui identity and its acceptance in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

    The show will repeat every 15 minutes from 9pm until midnight and is the feature of Vector Lights for Auckland Pride Festival. Head to vector.co.nz/lights and listen live from some of the best viewing spots including, Silo Park, Bayswater Marina and Takarunga Mt Victoria. 

    Due to critical maintenance work by NZTA, some of the lights will not appear on the west side overarch of the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Completion of the work is expected by 31 March 2025. 

    Waimahara at Myers Park for the big finish! 

    Auckland Pride Festival has something special in store before the curtains shut for another year. Pride month will culminate at Waimahara at Myers Park, a reimagined gathering that shifts the traditional Pride March and Pride Party to an activation that reflects on the strength within rainbow communities and galvanises the shared vision of queer liberation and social justice.  

    All are welcome to join in on the celebration, beginning with a rally in Aotea Square Grass Terraces. Attendees will walk together to Myers Park, experiencing multi-sensory artwork Waimahara by Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Hauā, Ngāti Manu), for a day of connection, learning, and organising around shared advocacy goals. 

    Visit aucklandpride.co.nz for the full programme 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Awards and Recognition – Site Safe Announces 2025 Health and Safety Award Finalists

    Source: Site Safe

    Site Safe today announced the finalists for its 2025 Health and Safety Awards, celebrating excellence in workplace safety across Aotearoa New Zealand.
    The finalists, representing a diverse range of industries, will now compete at the largest health and safety event of the year, the Evening of Celebration, for top honours at a gala evening held at the Due Drop Event Centre in Auckland on 5 March 2025, attended by hundreds of industry leaders and safety professionals.
    “We are incredibly proud to announce these outstanding finalists,” said Brett Murray, Chief Executive of Site Safe.
    “The record number of entries received this year underscores the importance industry places on effectively managing health and safety risks in their workplaces. It’s inspiring to see the dedication and innovation showcased by these individuals, teams, and organisations.”
    The judging panel, comprised of respected industry representatives and safety professionals, were highly impressed by the calibre of entries.
    The judges commented, “Selecting the finalists was a challenging task, as the level of innovation, dedication, and positive impact demonstrated by all applicants was truly exceptional.”
    Here are the 2025 Site Safe Award Finalists:
    The  Safety Innovation Award:
    • Beon  Energy Solutions: Beon’s new Pile Extractor revolutionises solar farm construction by safely and efficiently removing piles. Unlike traditional methods, which are dangerous and inefficient, the Pile Extractor is operated by one person, applies controlled forces, and eliminates the need for heavy machinery. This innovation enhances worker safety, increases productivity, and promotes a safer work culture within the renewable energy sector.
    • Fulton  Hogan: The SH1 Brynderwyns Recovery Project faced challenges due to the terrain, environmental concerns, and a major slip. Despite these obstacles, the team innovated, employing remote-controlled machinery to safely clear unstable slopes. This approach ultimately ensured a safer and more efficient recovery effort.
    • Traffic  Safe NZ: Traffic Safe developed a robotic system to eliminate the dangerous manual placement of road cones. This system uses cameras, sensors, and a robotic arm mounted on a truck to automatically deploy and retrieve cones, significantly reducing worker risk.
    The  Safety Leadership Award:
    • The  DEI team, New Zealand Defence Force: Defence Estate and Infrastructure (DEI) manages health and safety for numerous contractors across NZ. DEI developed the CHESS framework, outlining minimum H&S requirements for all contractors, with a focus on high-risk work. This framework is successfully implemented and fully supported by NZDF leadership. DEI prioritises H&S in all projects, striving to ensure all personnel return home safely each day.
    • Yolanda  Oosthuizen – Horizon Energy Group: As the Horizon Energy Group GM for HSEQ, Yolanda has led safety, wellness, quality, and sustainability. She champions their ESG agenda, fostering a Switched-ON safety culture. Her focus is on visionary leadership, aligning safety with organisational goals. Effective communication and measurable impact drive initiatives like the implementation of the ecoPortal Safety System. She also mentors’ future leaders, positioning Horizon as an industry leader in safety and sustainability.
    • Jamie  Greentree – Kinetic Electrical Wellington: Jaime started an electrical business with minimal health and safety focus initially. However, post-COVID, Jaimie prioritised compliance, investing in staff training and achieving a NZ Certificate in Workplace Health and Safety Practice (Level 3). As the sole director, Jaimie led this change, influencing other franchisees. As a small business, he adapted to the economic climate by diversifying.
    The  Safety Contribution Award (Team):
    • Canterbury  Aluminium Ltd: Chris and Nicky Averill acquired Canterbury Aluminium in 2022, prioritising staff health and safety. They believe a strong health and safety culture leads to happy staff and satisfied clients. The company’s Health & Safety Committee fosters a collaborative environment where all employees are encouraged to prioritise safety in their work. This award nomination recognises the committee’s efforts to improve health and safety outcomes for all staff.
    • Mason  Clinic Project – Southbase: Southbase Construction implemented numerous safety initiatives on the Mason Clinic project, fostering a strong safety culture. These measures included Wellbeing and Suicide Prevention, Health15 Program, Collaboration with Safety Brands and Organisations, Working at Height/Dropped Objects, Emergency Scenario Drills, and Health and Safety Recognition.
    • Tradestaff  Group Ltd: Tradestaff’s Safety Team has successfully fostered a safety-first culture within the construction sector. They’ve addressed challenges specific to on-hire labour, including short-term placements and diverse demographics. By focusing on candidates, clients, and consultants, they’ve implemented initiatives that promote safer onsite outcomes and drive cultural change in health and safety.
    The  Safety Contribution Award (Individual):
    • Glen  Sturgess, Naylor Love: Glen is a dedicated Health & Safety Champion. He consistently goes above and beyond to ensure site safety. Glen excels in logistics, effectively communicating safe movement of vehicles and personnel.
    • Shelley  Compston – Apprentice Training Trust: Shelley is a Health & Safety Co-ordinator and excels in improving workplace safety. She fosters a strong safety culture, inspires colleagues, and drives continuous improvement. Through effective collaboration and communication, she encourages best practices among hosts, staff, and apprentices. Shelley’s leadership, innovation, and dedication to protecting workers are exemplary.
    • Mark  Nicholas – Accent Construction: Mark utilises weekly toolbox meetings to upskill his construction team beyond basic safety. He develops workshops and bulletins on diverse topics like site access, hot works, and mental wellbeing. These initiatives enhance worker awareness and knowledge, leading to a stronger safety culture within the company and among subcontractors. Workers are better equipped to identify and manage hazards onsite.

    The  Mental Health and Wellbeing Award:

    • Workforce  Central Dunedin: Dunedin Hospital Outpatients workers enjoy exceptional onsite care. Services include free haircuts, health screenings, physio, GP consultations, and mental health support. Recreational activities like cornhole and billiards are provided. The site promotes a positive work-life balance and worker well-being through initiatives like Maori Language Week and Suicide Awareness Day. Workers consistently praise the unique and supportive environment.
    • Anita  Teo-Tavita – Programmed: Anita leads the Programmed Mental Health First Aid training, both internally and in the community. She’s a key figure in promoting worker wellbeing, taking a holistic approach. Anita not only facilitates training but also supports workers with initiatives outside of work hours, demonstrating her commitment to their overall wellbeing.
    • Tūpore: At Tūpore, prioritising mental wellbeing is core. They have created a supportive whanau culture, with initiatives like the “Raranga Oranga” role and the Big Buds programme. These efforts, combined with tikanga Māori practices and community partnerships, foster a thriving and connected workforce. This focus on mental health has significantly improved employee wellbeing and reduced the impact of high suicide rates in Hawke’s Bay.

    The  Future Safety Leader Award:

    • Aimee  Daw – Programmed: Aimee, initially a HSEQ Administrator at AIMs, quickly advanced to HSEQ Coordinator at Programmed, providing key HSEQ support. Despite her short tenure and lack of HSEQ background, her contributions have been significant, particularly in improving safety systems and processes. She is recognized for her dedication, resilience, and impactful safety leadership.
    • Fern  Harper – Naylor Love: Fern’s outstanding contributions to health & safety and her dedication, leadership, and commitment to safety excellence have inspired others. Fern’s inclusive approach and proactive nature make her an exceptional Emerging Practitioner in the field of health and safety.
    • Fiona  Brabant – Cook Brothers Construction: Fiona, or Fi, is a passionate Health & Safety leader at Cook Brothers Construction in Queenstown and Wanaka. Joining recently, she prioritises team wellbeing, viewing colleagues as people, not just workers. Her background in health drives innovation and motivation. From onsite care to wellness initiatives, Fi strives to ensure everyone returns home safely, despite the challenges.

    The Site Safe Awards recognise and celebrate individuals, teams, and organisations that have made significant contributions to improving workplace safety in New Zealand. These awards provide valuable recognition and inspire others to prioritise safety in their workplaces. About Site Safe Site Safe is a leading provider of health and safety training and consultancy services in New Zealand. We are committed to empowering New Zealanders to work safely and return home safely every day. For more information about Site Safe’s Evening of Celebration, click HERE: https://www.sitesafe.org.nz/about/news-and-events/events/2025-auckland-evening-of-celebration/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Housing Sector – Affordable housing project for Wānaka seniors receives $100k grant

    Source: Queenstown Lakes Housing Community Trust (QLCHT)

    A Wānaka housing project that will provide affordable rentals to seniors has received a $100,000 grant from a local trust that assists people in need in the Upper Clutha.

    The housing project, which is being developed and managed by Queenstown Lakes Housing Community Trust (QLCHT), received the six-figure donation from the Elsie and Ray Armstrong Charitable Trust recently. The financial contribution will go towards the development of 10 affordable, one-bedroom units along with two three-bedroom family units on the corners of Upton and McDougall Streets in central Wānaka.
     
    The concept first began in November 2022 when QLCHT purchased a section on McDougall Street – beside five council-owned rental properties – with the intent of developing the vacant lot into affordable rental units for seniors.
     
    Last year, the Queenstown Lakes District Council approved the transfer of ownership and operational management of the five neighbouring properties to QLCHT, following public consultation. Currently in the planning phase, the housing project will contain 12 units across both sites, with stage one consisting of civil works and new builds on the empty section, followed by the redevelopment of the existing site.
     
    Queenstown Lakes Community Housing Trust chief executive Julie Scott says the grant is greatly appreciated, especially in the current economic climate. QLCHT will fund the project, estimated to be around $5m-$6m, but grants like this one are vital to ensure ongoing costs to residents can be kept to a minimum.
     
    “There is not a lot of funding for these types of projects at the moment, and we are so grateful to the Elsie and Ray Armstrong Charitable Trust for their generous donation,” she says. “It will allow us to provide additional features such as solar panels, a communal laundry space and shared services, including a highly efficient hot water heating system to the 12-units.
     
    “These extra infrastructure benefits will provide substantial financial support to the occupants by significantly reducing power costs,” Scott adds.
     
    Elsie and Ray Armstrong Charitable Trust trustee Simon Telfer says the group is excited to contribute towards the important community project.
     
    “The elderly are an important demographic in our local community who need support and we are thrilled about what this project will provide them,” he says. “We’re pleased this grant helps to kickstart the development and hope it leads to others supporting our fellow Wānaka residents.”
     
    The site is located within 200 metres of the Wānaka Community Hub, which provides critical services and amenities to many local seniors.
     
    QLCHT Wānaka tenancy manager Emma Roberts says the demand for affordable senior housing is growing.
     
    “We have a lot of people aged over 60 living in the district, and some encounter unfortunate and unexpected circumstantial changes, which are outside of their control,” Roberts explains. “For many of these people, their only option is to upheave their lives and leave town.
     
    “By offering an alternative rental option it allows them to have a greater sense of security, which is important as the local population grows and ages. And with 250 eligible Wānaka households currently on our waiting list today, we have significant demand for this type of housing,” she says.
     
    “Tenants living in the five existing units will be cared for by our team throughout the build process and will have the opportunity to shift into one of the new units, before stage two starts,” Scott says. “All going to plan, we hope to break ground on the first stage in the middle of this year.”

    About the Queenstown Lakes Community Housing Trust:
    QLCHT is a not-for-profit, registered community housing provider created to manage and deliver affordable housing solutions to those vital to the community who cannot afford it. Initiated by Queenstown Lakes District Council in 2007, which recognised the affordability issue and acted upon it, the Trust is an independent entity operating throughout the Queenstown Lakes District.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley Co-sponsor Climate Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    January 27, 2025
    Senators fight back against Donald Trump’s day-one withdrawal of the United States from Paris Climate Agreement
    Washington DC—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced they have joined 20 U.S. Senate colleagues to reintroduce the We Are Still In resolution in response to Donald Trump’s withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement through a day-one executive order.  
    “With increasingly severe weather consistently threatening Oregon and the wildfires now ravaging southern California, it’s clear the climate is in crisis and it’s no time to retreat on clean energy policies,” Wyden said. “With the passage in 2022 of the largest climate and clean energy investment in history, the United States has led on  international climate policy to create an economically and environmentally viable future for our children. The We Are Still In resolution would keep our country on track of refusing to sacrifice good-paying, forward thinking jobs and the future our children deserve by appeasing a few big oil billionaires.” 
    “Climate chaos is a global problem, and it requires global solutions,” Senator Merkley said. “Our communities are ravaged by wildfires and smoke, hurricanes and extreme flooding – all exacerbated by climate chaos. To address the worsening crisis, we need strong international partnerships and the United States has both a moral and a strategic responsibility to lead the world in climate action.”
    The We Are Still In resolution signals ongoing support for U.S. climate ambition by leaders in Congress continuing to work with and highlighting local, state, regional, Tribal, and nongovernmental climate partners. The resolution underscores significant climate and clean energy actions by local and state governments, critical investments made through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act, and widespread support for the Paris climate agreement. With Trump’s withdrawal, the United States joins Iran, Yemen, and Libya as the only countries in the world not party to the Paris climate agreement. 
    Full text of the We Are Still In resolution is here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murkowski and Chemnitz: Greenland “Ally, not an Asset”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
    01.27.25
    Washington, DC – Today, United States Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska and Co-Chair of the Standing Committee of Parliamentarians of the Arctic Region) and Aaja Chemnitz (Member of Danish Parliament representing Greenland for Inuit Ataqatigiit and Chair of the Standing Committee of Parliamentarians of the Arctic Region), released the following joint statement:
    “In recent weeks, as President Trump has suggested the U.S. should purchase Greenland from the Kingdom of Denmark, attention has rapidly turned to what the future may hold. The appeal of Greenland is easy to understand. It is strategically located for defense, shipping, and more. It is also a storehouse for all sorts of minerals, the building blocks of society that will determine who leads—and controls—the industries of the future.
    “Of course, a businessman turned president would be interested. But Greenland is not for sale. The question has been asked and firmly answered by the government of Greenland, Naalakkersuisut.
    “As legislators representing Greenland in Denmark and the United States, we see a better path forward. The United States, like Denmark, should recognize that the future will be defined by partnership, not ownership. To ensure our alliance reaches its full potential, Americans must view Greenland as an ally, not an asset. Open for business, but not for sale.
    “From our work on Arctic Parliamentarians, we are certain that U.S. ambitions for national security can be achieved without altering Greenland’s autonomy. We see that in Pittufik Space Base. Dialogue and cooperation can strengthen our ties; diplomacy can pave the way for a relationship and alliance that fulfills our mutual interests. 
    “We can also affirm that Greenland welcomes increased cooperation with the U.S. on defense, mineral development, trade, and our common values of freedom and democracy. The U.S. should embrace that. And it should be paired with a larger acceptance of the Arctic as a region of shared responsibility whose opportunities cannot be seized, and whose challenges cannot be overcome, by any one nation on its own.
    “Let’s remember that the U.S. portion of the Arctic—Alaska—shares more than lines of latitude with Greenland. Whether you’re in Nuuk or Nome, you will see and hear familiar words, a reflection of our Inuk and Iñupiaq peoples’ common history. Alaska has the same advantages as Greenland, from strategic location to abundant resources. We can form the heart of this union throughout the 21st century and beyond.
    “We work hard to ensure prosperity, peaceful and respectful collaboration and protection of our people. We do so through international cooperation including through the Arctic Council which is the main Arctic cooperative governance body. We call on continued support and engagement in the peaceful dialogue through the Arctic Council, and we look forward and support the incoming chairship of Kingdom of Denmark, and recognize the leading role of Greenland in the chairship.
    “The future does not require us to redraw the borders on that map, but to work harder than ever across them. The respectful, consensus partnership is the only way to truly foster the ties that will bind Greenland and the United States together for the long haul. We call the Arctic our home. We work hard to ensure prosperity, peaceful and respectful collaboration and protection of our people. We believe in a stronger partnership for a brighter future across the Arctic.”
    Yesterday, the Standing Committee of Parliamentarians of the Arctic Region (SCPAR) met in Tromsø, Norway, for the organization’s winter meeting. Senator Murkowski participated virtually.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin: RFK Jr. Is Dangerously Unqualified To Serve As HHS Secretary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    January 27, 2025
    In a speech on the Senate floor, Durbin warns that Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s dangerous and irresponsible views could jeopardize children’s health
    WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today spoke out against the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), citing the nominee’s false and irresponsible views on vaccines.  In his remarks, Durbin pointed to specific examples of Kennedy spreading lies about vaccines, fluoride, and other measures with proven scientific history of safety and improving health.
    “Every day HHS makes life or death decisions. That [department] oversees the Food and Drug Administration to make sure that what we eat is safe, to make sure the drugs that are sold to us are effective and safe as well. The National Institutes of Health, the premier medical research agency in the world, with $48 billion spent each year to find cures, to find new drugs, to move us toward a better America.  And the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to make sure that whatever is going around, as they say, doesn’t hit our families. We count on them every single day. It’s a big job, it requires responsible leadership and honesty,” Durbin began. 
    Durbin acknowledged that he has some common ground with Kennedy, specifically related to curbing pharmaceutical advertisements, which mirrors a policy laid out in Durbin’s DTC Act.
    “There may be some certain areas where we agree, such as curbing drug ads or improving the quality of food supply… I can work with him on those issues,” Durbin said.
    “But on the fundamentals… his leadership is troublesome.  Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is dangerously, dangerously unqualified and entirely irresponsible in his judgement.  He embraces quack science and cherry-picks information to fulfill his numerous conspiracy theories,” Durbin said.
    Durbin spoke to Kennedy’s record of spreading lies about the efficacy and safety of vaccines.  Durbin quoted Kennedy directly during his remarks, reiterating that Kennedy has said as recently as July 2023 that, “there’s no vaccine that is safe and effective.”
    “His decades-long crusade to spread lies about vaccines is just one example,” Durbin said.  “Contrary to scientific fact, he has also said that ‘I do believe that autism does come from vaccines.’”
    Durbin explained that Kennedy helped to publish, promote, and wrote the foreword for a book called Cause Unknown, which included faulty, unsubstantiated claims linking COVID-19 vaccines and deaths in children.  The book’s cover features the face of 12-year-old Braden Fahey, implying that COVID-19 vaccines played a role in Braden’s death.  However, Braden never received a COVID-19 vaccine—he died at football practice due to a malformed blood vessel in his brain, but the book included Braden’s photo without the knowledge or consent of his grieving parents.
    “The height of irresponsibility.  Mr. Kennedy pushes facts aside when he wants to tell us about his agenda.  The Hippocratic Oath for doctors states: first, do no harm.  But I am fearful that if we put Robert F. Kennedy Jr., in charge of our nation’s health, innocent children will die,” Durbin continued.
    “It’s no secret what he would do.  Mr. Kennedy himself petitioned the FDA to rescind authorization of all COVID vaccines in 2021.  And a key associate of his has petitioned to remove the polio vaccine,” Durbin said.
    “In 1952, polio paralyzed more than 21,000 Americans and killed more than 3,000.  But thanks to researcher Jonas Salk, a vaccine was discovered and studied among 1.3 million children… It was proven safe,” Durbin said.
    As Durbin points out, Kennedy has travelled internationally to spread doubt and falsehoods about the safety and efficacy of the measles vaccine.
    “Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has spread conspiracy theories to discourage uptake of the measles vaccine, for example – including travelling to Samoa to spread lies about its safety, fueling an outbreak that took 80 lives,” Durbin continued.  “Before the measles vaccine, 48,000 people were hospitalized each year—with thousands experiencing life-threatening brain swelling.  By 2000, measles was declared eliminated because of vaccines.”
    Durbin then spoke about Kennedy’s unsupported claims that fluoride in water is unhealthy despite clear scientific evidence proving that fluoride helps prevent cavities and dental surgery.
    “Mr. Kennedy’s dangerous, anti-science views don’t stop… He has also targeted the fluoride in drinking water.  We’ve been adding… fluoride in our drinking water for over 70 years in the United States.  We have tested it every way you can imagine, as we should, to make sure that it is safe for all of us to drink,” Durbin said.
    “This man is not a scientist… He has no special knowledge or authority when it comes to these issues and sadly, [he] buys into a myriad of conspiracy theories,” Durbin said.  “God forbid we encounter another pandemic or infectious disease threat.  Do you really want this vaccine denier, Robert Kennedy Jr., at the helm?”
    Durbin concluded his floor speech by calling on his Senate colleagues to stand against Kennedy’s nomination for the sake of public health.
    “I issue a challenge to my 99 Senate colleagues: go ask your local children’s hospital if they think this nominee, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., would help or harm their work to treat sick children,” Durbin said.  “The United States Senate is better than this.  I urge my colleagues to think twice before voting for this irresponsible nominee…  This is the wrong nominee for this critical agency.”
    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Highlights Bill To Halt U.S. Investment In Venezuela’s Energy Sector Until Legitimate 2024 Election Results Are Elected

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    January 27, 2025
    WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today highlighted a bill he introduced terminating all U.S. petroleum cooperation and petroleum-related trade with Venezuela until the legitimate results of the recent Venezuelan election are respected. On July 28, 2024, more than 10 million Venezuelans peacefully voted in the presidential election, with results meticulously compiled by credible election monitors showing an overwhelming victory for opposition candidate, Edmundo González, over President Nicolás Maduro. The regime issued an arrest warrant forGonzález and brazenly refused to swear him in as President on January 10, the country’s Inauguration Day. The Maduro regime currently uses oil revenues dependent on U.S. involvement to maintain its police state. Durbin filed the bill as an amendment to the annual defense authorization bill last year. A bipartisan companion bill was reintroduced in the House earlier this month by Representatives Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (D-FL-25) and Maria Salazar (D-FL-27).  
    “In 2018, I had the opportunity to visit Venezuela—it was a once prosperous, albeit imperfect, democracy suffering from terrible economic and political decline. I told then-President Maduro that if he rigged the upcoming election, Venezuelans would be more isolated and endure unnecessary suffering. It didn’t stop him for a minute. He went ahead with a discredited election. The result was as predicted. The economy of Venezuela started descending into chaos. People were literally starving. There was an exodus of millions of people from Venezuela,” Durbin said.
    “Last July, Venezuela held another presidential election during which the regime arbitrarily blocked leading opposition candidates from the ballot and tried to undermine the electoral process. Nonetheless, more than 10 million Venezuelans actually voted and the results were meticulously documented by credible election monitors showed a sweeping victory for Edmundo González—his opponent,” said Durbin. “I was glad to see that one of newly confirmed Secretary of State Rubio’s first calls was to President-elect González.”
    “Yet, despite his clear victory, the Maduro Administration has refused to give up the office of presidency and refused to recognize the legitimate election result. …. [it] announced that it had won actually… which is becoming a common trick by these dictators, and refused to swear him in on their inauguration day,” Durbin said. “So, today, I am reintroducing a short, simple bill terminating all U.S. petroleum cooperation and related trade with Venezuela until the legitimate results of the election are respected. It’s pretty simple—the entrenched regime clings to power using oil revenues dependent on the U.S. Under my bill, that will end. President Trump and Secretary Rubio could also take this step right away without my legislation.”
    Durbin concluded, “Lastly, I appeal to our democratic allies in the region, including the democracies of the Caribbean, to stand resolute in defense of a sweeping and clear vote by their exhausted Venezuelan neighbors. They cannot sit idly by for another six years of regime-inflicted suffering and collapse in Venezuela.”
    Durbin traveled to Venezuela in April 2018, during which time he met with then National Assembly Member Juan Guaidó as well as Nicolás Maduro, warning him that pursuing a sham election the following month would further isolate his autocratic regime.
    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall, Kansas State Senators Announce $41 Million Savings to Kansas Taxpayers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    WICHITA, KS – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D., and Kansas State Senators Michael Fagg and Rick Billinger are pleased to announce more than $41 million in savings to Kansas taxpayers through a reduction in the state’s federal debt payments.
    “I was honored to work with long-time friend, Senator Mike Fagg, to deliver important debt relief to Kansas taxpayers,” said Senator Marshall. “This was a simple but impactful change that will save the state millions of dollars.” 
    “I’m excited and proud of how all of our federal and state officials worked together to guide this project through to a successful finish,” said State Senator Mike Fagg, R-El Dorado. “This is a great deal for Kansas and will financially help towards the water challenges in our state.” 
    I would like to thank Senator Roger Marshall for leading the way in the Us Senate and making the forgiveness of the compounding interest his number one priority,” said State Senator Rick Billinger, R-Goodland. “I also thank Senator Jerry Moran for making the forgiveness of the compounding interest his number one priority. Thank you Representative Tracy Mann for leading the charge in the US House and voting for the bill. Thanks to Representatives Ron Estes and Sharice Davids, who both voted for the bill. I would like to thank Governor Kelly for having the Kansas water office write a letter asking forgiveness for the compounding interest. I would also like to thank Senator Mike Fagg for all his hard work in making this savings to the state of Kansas happen. Mike and Senator Marshall had worked together to have the compounding interest forgiven. They also worked on a loan at El Dorado lake a few years earlier.”
    Background: 
    The State of Kansas has a water storage agreement with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) for water storage at 14 Kansas reservoirs. However, Milford Lake and Perry Lake still have contracts that date back to the 1970s and require the state to pay compound interest to USACE. Through the 2024 Water Resource Development Act (WRDA) passed by Congress in December, Senator Marshall was successful in changing the compound interest payments to simple interest payments, saving the state more than $40 million over the course of the contracts. 
    In 2022, Senator Marshall was successful in changing the City of El Dorado’s debt payment to USACE for water storage in El Dorado Lake from compound to simple, saving the city millions of dollars. Senator Fagg, who previously served as mayor of El Dorado, reached out to Senator Marshall’s office asking for assistance in making the same changes to the state’s debt agreements with USACE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Joins Newsmax National Report: RFK Jr. Will Execute President Trump’s Agenda

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined Newsmax: National Report to discuss CIA Director John Ratcliffe’s recent release of declassified COVID-19 origins documents confirming the intelligence community’s long-suspected lab leak theory, as well as former President Joe Biden’s preemptive pardoning of Covid Czar Dr. Anthony Fauci. Senator Marshall has been an advocate in calling for transparency around the lab leak theory and the Biden Administration’s lack of transparency. 
    Additionally, Senator Marshall shared his support for President Trump’s Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Nominee, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., as he prepares for his confirmation hearings this week in the Senate Finance and Health Committees. As the leader and founder of the Senate Make America Healthy Again Caucus, Senator Marshall discussed how RFK Jr. will combat America’s chronic disease epidemic. 
    You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview. 
    Highlights from Senator Marshall’s interview include:
    On CIA Director John Ratcliffe Releasing Classified Covid Origin Reports: 
    “I think number one is this is a sign of President Trump’s more transparency model. But look, most of the evidence, the preponderance of the evidence, supports that this virus came from a lab in Wuhan China, partially funded by Dr Fauci. We’ve known that for years. Look, China’s had five years to show us some type of an intermediate species, how this virus could have came from a bat, to some type of an animal, and then to humans. We’ve known from day one that this was very suspicious.”
    “This is just transparency. Promises made, promises kept. President Trump has promised that he would make everything more transparent. Here’s John Ratcliffe implementing that plan.” 
    On President Biden’s pre-emptive pardoning of Dr. Fauci: 
    “Once again, what are they hiding? And of course, he did this with the entire Biden cartel as well. He pardoned them from future charges, which is just unheard of.”
    “I think there’s going to be a preponderance of evidence coming out showing that Dr. Fauci is partially responsible for the 1 million Americans that died due to COVID, that he funded the research to develop this COVID virus, and it was then accidentally leaked from a lab in Wuhan, China. It’s a horrible, horrible [precedent] for the President to do this.”
    On President Trump’s Nominee for HHS Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.: 
    “I don’t agree with RFK Jr. on everything, but I fully support him. I think he’s absolutely going to be a game-changer. I think there’s a groundswell of people, Americans who support RFK Jr. as well – and we need those people to reach out to their senators this week as RFK Jr. goes into nomination hearings. He actually has two hearings going forward, so we need folks to reach out and say ‘this is why we support him.’”
    “Look, RFK Jr. is going to execute the President’s agenda. There’s some things in the past that RFK Jr. and I disagree with, but he’s going to put those beside him and focus on making America healthy again, and that’s all President Trump’s goal is here.”
    “60% of Americans have some type of a chronic disease, and mostly that’s determined by what they eat and the toxins they’re exposed to. So I’m just looking forward to working with RFK Jr. again. He’s going to be a game changer and is going to give us an opportunity to address some of these challenges. He’s going to do a great job.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Marshall, Johnson Introduce Legislation To Require Federal Agencies to Make Regulatory Guidance Publicly Accessible

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington, D.C. –  U.S. Senators Roger Marshall, M.D., Ron Johnson (R-WI) and 14 of their Senate colleagues introduced the Guidance Out Of Darkness (GOOD) Act. The GOOD Act requires federal agencies to publish their regulatory guidance on the Internet in an easily accessible location. This bill will help impacted entities — including small businesses, workers and households — be fully informed of regulatory requirements in order to take any necessary actions for compliance.
    “There must be full transparency between government bureaucrats and the American taxpayers who pay their salaries. Requiring federal agencies to publish their regulatory guidance on the internet in an easily accessible location should be a no brainer,” said Senator Marshall. “I’m shocked we’ve come far without this basic step being taken, I am proud to join Senator Johnson in introducing the GOOD Act, which would introduce common-sense reforms to our governing system to improve transparency and efficiency.”
    Senators Marshall and Johnson were joined by Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Joni Ernst (R-IA), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Rick Scott (R-FL), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Hoeven (R-ND), Ted Budd (R-NC), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), and James Risch (R-ID). 
    The full text of the legislation can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER: STANDING AT ALTON’S RESTAURANT IN CHEEKTOWAGA WITH EGG & GROCERY PRICES RISING DUE TO BIRD FLU OUTBREAK CALLS ON FEDS TO SURGE ‘BIOSECURITY’ AND GET ALL HANDS ON DECK TO HELP FARMS CONTAIN…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    Schumer Says Egg Prices Already Increased $2 Per Dozen In Last Two Months And Could Get Worse If New Admin Doesn’t Surge Efforts To Beat Bird Flu; Farmers Do Not Have Resources To Contain Bird Flu Alone, Says Feds Must Ramp Up Efforts NOW Before Prices Climb Higher
    With Millions Of Birds Impacted Last Month, And More Bird Flu Being Found In NY Just Last Week, Schumer Says Biosecurity And Increased Fed Response Is Key To Isolate & Contain Bird Flu And Lower Grocery Costs
    Schumer: With New Admin, We Can’t Afford To Scramble To Keep Bird Flu Mitigation Going—Or Egg & All Grocery Prices Could Surge
    Amid the increasing price of eggs in Western NY and across Upstate New York amid the bird flu outbreak, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today stood at Cheektowaga’s beloved Alton’s Restaurant and called on HHS and the USDA to surge funding and get all hands on deck for coordinated federal response to stop the spread causing sky-rocketing egg prices and lower costs for families, diners, and local bakeries.
    “Alton’s has been a staple in Western New York for over 40 years, but recently restaurants like Alton’s and families in Buffalo have been shell-shocked by higher egg and grocery prices. Egg prices are skyrocketing because of bird flu, driving costs up for families, farms, diners, and small businesses. In November, a dozen eggs cost about $4 in NY which is already high, but now the average is nearly $6, and with bird flu getting worse this problem could quickly spiral into a crisis,” said Senator Schumer. “Last year I secured millions to help contain this disease and we need the new administration to surge biosecurity efforts to beat back bird flu. We need a robust, coordinated federal response to crack down on bird flu and I am committed to working in a bipartisan way with the new administration to get grocery prices lower and that starts with getting a handle on bird flu. The health of our livestock, our restaurants, and Western NY families’ wallets depend on it.”
    For decades, Alton’s has been a beloved cornerstone of Western New York’s culinary scene, serving hearty Greek-American comfort food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Since opening its doors in 1982, the Cheektowaga-based restaurant, owned by Milton Koutsandreas, has built a loyal following with its warm atmosphere and home-cooked meals. However, like many local businesses across the region, Alton’s has felt the strain of rising costs, particularly the significant increase in egg prices. Just a few months ago they were able to get 30 dozen eggs for $50 a case, and now the diner is seeing prices climb to $180 a case.
    Some grocery stores are limiting the number of egg cartons consumers can purchase, and the price of eggs in New York State has increased from $4.23 in November to $6.10 as of January 10 according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Roughly 8% of egg supply has been affected by the avian flu nationwide, and experts say prices could increase an additional 20% in 2025 if the bird flu keeps spreading.
    Schumer added, “I’ll be pushing for more federal resources in the upcoming budget bill to stop the bird flu, and the feds need to continue prioritizing biosecurity, get all hands on deck for containing bird flu. This will give farmers the resources to isolate, sanitize, and purchase the protective equipment they need.”
    More than 20 million egg-laying chickens died last quarter because of bird flu, and last week Long Island’s last commercial duck farm was forced to kill thousands of ducks after health officials detected cases of bird flu, forcing the farm to cease operations. An outbreak in Georgia last week showed how the virus can spread, and Schumer highlighted the need for federal coordination to prevent further spread and support farms in New York and across the country. With infections across the country, there have been fewer eggs available, and decreased supply has led to increasing prices at grocery stores.
    “As a restaurant manager, I know firsthand how crucial affordable ingredients are to keeping our business running and our customers happy. Eggs are a staple in so many of the dishes we serve, and rising prices significantly affect our costs and prices – something we always try to avoid,” said Alton’s Restaurant General Manager Audrea Arricale. “I want to thank Senator Chuck Schumer for taking the issue of excessively high food costs seriously.”
    “Stable egg prices are critical for the success of Cheektowaga’s local businesses, especially restaurants and grocery stores, which are already navigating the challenges of inflation,” said Cheektowaga Chamber of Commerce President and CEO James Burns. “Senator Schumer’s push to strengthen biosecurity and support farmers in fighting bird flu is essential to keeping costs down for both businesses and families in our community.”
    “I thank Senator Schumer for standing up for basic, common sense public health efforts. As the COVID-19 pandemic showed, we need everyone, from global partners and academia to local health departments in the fight together against illnesses like H5N1 highly pathogenic avian flu, which is a looming threat to the public’s health, our economy and our food security,” said Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz.
    “I thank Senator Schumer for his efforts to advance a practical solution to an issue that has a concrete impact on all of us. Resources are already in the federal budget and should be expended to address the issue,” said Cheektowaga Town Supervisor Brian Nowak.
    Schumer said that the federal government must invest in biosecurity efforts including isolation, sanitation, and more personal protective equipment (PPE). The senator called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and National Institutes of Health, among other federal agencies, to engage in a coordinated federal response to manage this bird flu outbreak. HHS invested $300+ million dollars before the new administration took office and the USDA has said that preparedness is the key to keeping Americans healthy and our country safe. Schumer said that as Congress continues to negotiate the Farm Bill, which regulates the federal budget for agricultural-related programs, the new Congress and the new administration must continue to prioritize investing in helping farms detect and contain bird flu.
    “The bottom-line here is that we do not want farmers, the feds, or consumers at the grocery store to scramble with this threat of bird flu sustaining into 2025. We want to try and keep grocery prices in check, and that means keeping the new Congress and the new administration laser-focused on ending this latest bird flu outbreak,” said Schumer.
    Under the Biden administration, the CDC made plans to award approximately $111 million in funding to enhance our ability to monitor the bird flu at the local, state and national levels, including $103 million to increase monitoring of individuals exposed to infected animals, testing, and outreach to high-risk populations (such as livestock workers) and $8 million to manufacture, store, and distribute influenza diagnostic test kits for virologic surveillance. The NIH made plans to award approximately $11 million in funding for additional research into potential medical countermeasures for the bird flu.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER: STANDING AT ROCHESTER’S JINES RESTAURANT WITH EGG & GROCERY PRICES RISING DUE TO BIRD FLU OUTBREAK CALLS ON FEDS TO SURGE ‘BIOSECURITY’ AND GET ALL HANDS ON DECK TO HELP FARMS CONTAIN BIRD…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    Schumer Says Egg Prices Already Increased $2 Per Dozen In Last Two Months And Could Get Worse If New Admin Doesn’t Surge Efforts To Beat Bird Flu; Farmers Do Not Have Resources To Contain Bird Flu Alone, Says Feds Must Ramp Up Efforts NOW Before Prices Climb Higher
    With Millions Of Birds Impacted Last Month, And More Bird Flu Being Found In NY Just Last Week, Schumer Says Biosecurity And Increased Fed Response Is Key To Isolate & Contain Bird Flu And Lower Grocery Costs
    Schumer: With New Admin, We Can’t Afford To Scramble To Keep Bird Flu Mitigation Going—Or Egg & All Grocery Prices Could Surge
    Amid the increasing price of eggs in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region and across Upstate New York, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today stood at Rochester’s beloved Jines Restaurant and called on HHS and the USDA to surge funding and get all hands on deck for coordinated federal response to stop the spread causing sky-rocketing egg prices and lower costs for families, diners, and local bakeries.
    “Everyone in Rochester has eaten at Jines at some point, but diners like Jines and families in Rochester have been shell-shocked by higher egg and grocery prices. Egg prices are skyrocketing because of bird flu, driving costs up for families, farms, diners, and small businesses. In November, a dozen eggs cost about $4 in NY which is already high, but now the average is nearly $6, and with bird flu getting worse this problem could quickly spiral into a crisis,” said Senator Schumer. “Last year I secured millions to help contain this disease and we need the new administration to surge biosecurity efforts to beat back bird flu. We need a robust, coordinated federal response to crack down on bird flu and I am committed to working in a bipartisan way with the new administration to get grocery prices lower and that starts with getting a handle on bird flu. The health of our livestock, our restaurants, and Rochester families’ wallets depend on it.”
    Jines Restaurant serves thousands of eggs per week, and says the cost of egg cases has increased at unprecedented rates since the start of the avian flu. The restaurant is used to a dozen eggs costing $1.50 a dozen, but now sees prices at $6.50 a dozen and above. With the price of eggs continuing to rise steeply in Rochester and across the country, local diners like Jines are being forced to decide between absorbing the costs and raising prices for customers.
    Some grocery stores are limiting the number of egg cartons consumers can purchase, and the price of eggs in New York State has increased from $4.23 in November to $6.10 as of January 10 according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Roughly 8% of egg supply has been affected by the avian flu nationwide, and experts say prices could increase an additional 20% in 2025 if the bird flu keeps spreading.
    Schumer added, “I’ll be pushing for more federal resources in the upcoming budget bill to stop the bird flu, and the feds need to continue prioritizing biosecurity, get all hands on deck for containing bird flu. This will give farmers the resources to isolate, sanitize, and purchase the protective equipment they need.”
    More than 20 million egg-laying chickens died last quarter because of bird flu, and last week Long Island’s last commercial duck farm was forced to kill thousands of ducks after health officials detected cases of bird flu, forcing the farm to cease operations. An outbreak in Georgia last week showed how the virus can spread, and Schumer highlighted the need for federal coordination to prevent further spread and support farms in New York and across the country. With infections across the country, there have been fewer eggs available, and decreased supply has led to increasing prices at grocery stores.
    Peter Gines, Jines Restaurant Owner said, “Eggs are used in nearly every dish that we serve and when you need thousands of eggs a week, every cost increase multiplies quickly.  As a small business owner, and on behalf of our employees and customers, we appreciate Senator Schumer’s attention to addressing this issue.”
    Schumer said that the federal government must invest in biosecurity efforts including isolation, sanitation, and more personal protective equipment (PPE). The senator called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and National Institutes of Health, among other federal agencies, to engage in a coordinated federal response to manage this bird flu outbreak. HHS invested $300+ million dollars before the new administration took office and the USDA has said that preparedness is the key to keeping Americans healthy and our country safe. Schumer said that as Congress continues to negotiate the Farm Bill, which regulates the federal budget for agricultural-related programs, the new Congress and the new administration must continue to prioritize investing in helping farms detect and contain bird flu.
    “The bottom-line here is that we do not want farmers, the feds, or consumers at the grocery store to scramble with this threat of bird flu sustaining into 2025. We want to try and keep grocery prices in check, and that means keeping the new Congress and the new administration laser-focused on ending this latest bird flu outbreak,” said Schumer.
    Under the Biden administration, the CDC made plans to award approximately $111 million in funding to enhance our ability to monitor the bird flu at the local, state and national levels, including $103 million to increase monitoring of individuals exposed to infected animals, testing, and outreach to high-risk populations (such as livestock workers) and $8 million to manufacture, store, and distribute influenza diagnostic test kits for virologic surveillance. The NIH made plans to award approximately $11 million in funding for additional research into potential medical countermeasures for the bird flu.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AI sensors on fridges and kettles helping vulnerable people to live independently

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Councils are leveraging AI and technology to enhance public services, save money, and improve living standards, aligning with government plans for £45 billion in efficiency savings under the Plan for Change.

    10 records of how local councils use AI to help local residents and save money.

    • From estimating budgets and improving care, to getting people new bins more quickly, new records reveal how councils are using AI and tech to help local residents and save money
    • Follows government announcing plans to put technology to work across public services, targeting £45 billion in efficiency savings
    • Innovations demonstrate the potential for AI and technology to improving public services and living standards, delivering on Plan for Change

    Local councils are picking up the AI mantle to help unleash this revolutionary technology across the UK – to turbocharge the Plan for Change and deliver a decade of national renewal.

    The latest transparency data – published by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) – shows that councils are wasting no time in putting the weight of the public sector behind AI and finding new and innovative ways to make it work for working people.

    It shows that AI is being used to identify when a pensioner has had a fall, to stop people fall into rent arrears, to map which houses need loft insulation, to give people bigger bins, and – instead of taking people’s jobs – to help them find work in social care.

    The publication of records follows the Technology Secretary setting out a blueprint for how his department will help the public sector use technology to transform public services, targeting £45 billion in potential productivity savings.

    The plan will see a new team, housed in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), cut across barriers to join up public services, including those provided by local councils, so people do not have to tell dozens of organisations the same thing.

    The team will first start by looking at services used by people with long term health conditions across organisations like the NHS, Department for Work and Pensions, local councils and more.

    As the digital centre of government, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) will champion innovation, like that shown by the London Borough of Sutton, and help to spread it around the country so it can be used to improve public services and drive the Government’s Plan for Change.

    Speaking from a trip to see the Tech Enabled Care solution in Sutton, AI and Digital Government Minister Feryal Clark said:

    AI has immense potential to make our lives easier and improve public service. The technology we are together sharing with the public today includes shining examples of innovation that does everything from speeding up crucial applications for bigger bins, to helping people live independently.

    Being transparent with the detail of how we are putting AI to work in public services is crucial to our plans to use technology to improve public services, which is a key part of our Plan for Change.

    Other initiatives include AI-enabled fridge sensors and connected kettles are being used to detect changes in the daily routines of vulnerable people that could indicate a decline in health and ultimately lead to a fall, thanks to technology used by the London Borough of Sutton.

    Helping people who would otherwise need additional care, the technology uses sensors to spot changes in behaviour, like missed meals, a skipped cup of tea or whether a door has been left open for too long, before AI analysis is used to detect whether something might be wrong. An alert is then sent to close family members or carers so they can stop by to check on how they are and offer additional support if needed.

    Details of the technology, which was developed by Loughborough tech company The Access Group and Medequip Connect, have been released today alongside nine other public sector organisations setting out how they use AI and algorithmic tools. 

    Councillor Marian James, Lead Member for People Services at the London Borough of Sutton said:

    Research shows that people live well for longer when they can maintain their sense of independence and dignity by remaining in their own home. That’s why we are using the latest digital technology to enable our residents to continue living their lives independently within the comfort of their own home, but with the peace of mind that support is available when they need it. 

    The pressures facing our adult social care services show no sign of easing, so I’m proud the Council is taking this forward-thinking approach to find solutions that will reduce the pressure on the system, as well as being beneficial for our residents.

    Among the records published today, West Berkshire Council also shared how it is using technology to help residents get a bigger black bin more quickly, if they are eligible.

    A tool, built entirely in-house by the council, takes in information from an online application form, like the number of people living in a home, and the number of children in nappies, to automatically rule out people who might not be eligible for a bigger bin.

    Though, people whose applications are declined can still appeal the crucial decision, and have a human quickly look at their request. By speeding up the processing of requests, it makes sure families with newborns can get a bigger bin to handle the increased waste much more quickly.

    Other records published today detail chatbots used to help people apply for social care qualifications in Wales, and algorithmic tools to help councils more accurately predict the cost of adult care, so they can better manage their budgets.

    Minister of State for Care, Stephen Kinnock said:

    Around a third of adults over 65 will have at least one fall a year. This can be devastating and doesn’t just risk broken bones, but a loss of confidence and independence in older people.

    I am determined that we harness cutting-edge technology to protect them – and this groundbreaking AI will help to stop accidents before they happen and cut down on hospital visits.

    Our Plan for Change will drive forward this kind of innovation, transform the NHS, and ensure people can live safely and independently.

    Andy Sparkes, Managing Director, Local Government, The Access Group, said:

    We’re delighted to support Sutton Council’s ambitious approach to AI and technology-enabled care, which offers a personalised service that enables individuals to live independently for longer.

    AI and machine learning have the potential to enable all local authorities to shift their approach to care from the traditional reactive model to a more proactive approach that allows for early intervention. By scaling these proven examples of success, councils can reduce the pressure on current services and empower residents to remain in their homes for as long as possible.

    Notes to editors

    Full list of transparency records in this bundle.

    Dorset City Council

    Formulate for Adult Care – estimates financially sustainable personal budgets for adults with eligible care and support needs.

    Camden Council

    RentSense AI Tool Pilot – analyses council housing tenants’ rent transactions to prioritise arrears cases for management.

    Ealing Council

    Adult Social Care Annual Financial Expenditure Forecast – forecasts annual adult social care expenditure more accurately to make it easier for services to allocate budgets.

    Greater London Authority

    London Building Stock Model 2 – predicts missing information about London’s properties to help inform housing improvement programmes and decisions that reduce carbon emissions and energy bills.

    London Borough of Sutton

    Access Assure, Technology Enabled Care (TEC) – helps residents live independently by monitoring their data and alerting carers and family/friends where necessary.

    Social Care Wales

    Qualifications Chatbot – helps anyone with an interest in social care qualifications find appropriate qualification and information to work in the social care, early years, and childcare sector in Wales.

    Warwickshire County Council

    Domestic EPC Estimates – estimates domestic energy performance certificates (EPC) of households that have a missing EPC to help support better outcomes for citizens.

    West Berkshire Council

    Apply for a Larger Rubbish Bin – assesses whether applicants for a larger household waste container meet the minimum threshold set out in the council’s policy to provide a faster, improved service.

    London Borough of Barnet

    Ami Chatbot – a chatbot on the council’s website to provide better customer experience.

    Bristol City Council

    Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEET) – assesses the risk of an individual becoming NEET to enable safeguarding professionals deliver timely and targeted interventions and support.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Readout: Foreign Secretary meeting with US Secretary of State

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Foreign Secretary call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio: 27 January 2025 

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy spoke with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio today.  

    The Foreign Secretary congratulated Secretary Rubio on his appointment as Secretary of State and the pair discussed their shared links to the Caribbean, with the Foreign Secretary’s family ties to Guyana and Secretary Rubio’s family links to Cuba. 

    They both welcomed the opportunity for the UK and the US to work together in alignment to address on shared challenges including the situation in the Middle East, Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine, the challenges posed by China and the need for Indo-Pacific security.  

    The pair said they looked forward to working together and to meeting in person soon.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Centre of Excellence to shape the future of disability employment

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    The Albanese Labor Government is committed to an inclusive Australia where everybody has the opportunity for secure, fairly paid work – including people with disability.

    The unemployment rate for people with disability has remained stubbornly high for the past three decades and Labor has been acting to implement a range of changes to help shift this.

    To further assist, our Government has awarded $22.1 million to the Swinburne University of Technology and its consortium partners to realise our election commitment for a Disability Employment Centre of Excellence.

    The consortium includes representatives from peak disability and capacity building organisations, including Inclusion Australia, Family Advocacy, Disability Employment Australia, National Disability Services and the University of Melbourne.

    The Centre of Excellence will improve job outcomes for people with disability seeking to find and keep a job, by strengthening the capacity of employment service providers to deliver quality employment services and supports to people with disability and employers.

    Service providers will have centralised access to evidence-based best-practice resources developed by the Centre of Excellence. The resources will be specialised, innovative and drive quality practice.

    Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, said the Centre will bring together lived experience and expertise from across the disability community and beyond, including researchers, advocates, peak bodies, employers and service providers.

    “In order to deliver real change to disability employment in Australia, we need evidence of effective service approaches and what works to reduce the barriers preventing the participation of people with disability in the workforce,” Minister Rishworth said.

    “The Centre will collect and translate this evidence into best-practice resources to help support all employment service providers improve the services they deliver to people with disability and employers.

    “The establishment of the Centre of Excellence is a cornerstone of the Government’s package of reforms to disability employment, and it will help support the beginning of the new specialist disability employment program which commences this year,” Minister Rishworth said.

    Professor Karen Hapgood, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research at Swinburne University said the partnership will help shape a fairer, more inclusive future for disability employment.

    “Swinburne University of Technology is excited to work with the Commonwealth Government, our partners and stakeholders across the sector to lead change and increase the employment of people with disability in Australia,” Professor Hapgood said.

    “Our vision for the Centre of Excellence is to provide best-practice, evidence-based information that can bring people and technology together for a better world.

    “By harnessing the collective expertise, knowledge and resources of those with lived experience, their families, researchers, service providers, employers and industry bodies, we can help providers improve employment outcomes for people with disability.”

    The Centre of Excellence will commence in March 2025 and be funded for a period of four years to 2027-28.

    More information about the Centre of Excellence is available on the Department of Social Services website at www.dss.gov.au/disability-employment-reforms/disability-employment-centre-excellence

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Landmarks Lit Yellow for Holocaust Remembrance Day

    Source: US State of New York


















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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: What to watch about China’s Spring Festival travel rush

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

    BEIJING, Jan. 24 — Chunyun, the world’s largest annual human migration, officially kicked off on Jan. 14 in China ahead of the Spring Festival. Authorities predict travel volumes will hit new highs during the 40-day travel rush.

    The latest episode of the China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency, spotlighted key trends shaping this year’s travel season, including record-breaking travel numbers, booming tourism, transformative technologies, the rise of electric vehicles and a surge in inbound travel.

    TRAVEL PEAK

    The annual travel frenzy is driven by the movement of people working, studying or living far from their hometowns as they head back to celebrate China’s most important festival.

    It is estimated that 9 billion passenger trips will be made, with car journeys accounting for 80 percent. Railway trips are projected to surpass 510 million, while air passenger volume will likely exceed 90 million.

    Faced with such a massive travel demand, transportation systems are undergoing their annual tests. “Safety remains our top priority,” Wang Xiuchun, an official of the Ministry of Transport, said on the show.

    Rail and aviation authorities have deployed robust safety measures to ensure secure and efficient operations, including addressing weather-related challenges and improving risk prevention.

    TOURISM TAKING OFF

    While family reunions remained the primary reason for travel, tourism saw a notable surge this year.

    Wang predicted a 25-percent increase in travel for leisure purposes. Popular destinations include tropical hotspots like Hainan and Yunnan, as well as winter wonderlands in Heilongjiang, Jilin and Xinjiang, said Shang Kejia, an official of the Civil Aviation Administration of China.

    Local tourism authorities are seizing the opportunity to attract visitors with unique offerings. Guangzhou’s Flower City Square is holding a spectacular lantern festival, while Tianjin’s cruise market is already bustling with holiday travelers. Harbin, the host of the 9th Asian Winter Games, is blending winter sports with holiday festivities, a combination that is a real boost to the ice-and-snow economy.

    “The way people celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year is becoming more diverse and enriched, reflecting changing travel habits,” said Shang.

    TECHNOLOGY RESHAPING TRAVEL

    Technology has also reshaped the Spring Festival migration. Online purchases now account for over 93 percent of railway ticket sales, said Zhu Wenzhong from China State Railway Group Co., Ltd.

    As of 9 a.m. Tuesday, 12306, the railway booking platform, had sold 235 million tickets since Dec. 31. Travelers no longer need paper tickets, as ID cards grant seamless access to trains. The app also offers a wide range of additional services like hotel bookings, car rentals and food delivery.

    Beyond ticketing, innovations like smart inspection robots, drone-assisted traffic monitoring, and highway ice warning systems are also helping ensure safer and smoother journeys.

    RISE OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES

    New energy vehicles (NEVs) are joining the chunyun in growing numbers.

    NEVs accounted for 15.9 percent of road trips during the National Day holiday in October last year, and their share is expected to rise further this Spring Festival, experts said.

    To meet the rising charging demand, the country has accelerated the construction of charging infrastructure. By the end of 2024, 98 percent of highway service areas had charging facilities, with 35,000 charging stations in place. “Aside from a few remote, high-altitude areas, nearly all service areas now offer charging options,” said Hua Lei, an official with the Ministry of Transport.

    In 2024, China’s NEV production and sales hit record highs, exceeding 12.8 million units, which solidified the country’s position as the global NEV leader for a tenth consecutive year.

    CHINA TRAVEL

    Another notable highlight this year is the surge in inbound tourism. According to preliminary statistics, ticket bookings for inbound flights during the chunyun period surged 47 percent year on year, Shang said.

    “China Travel” has become a trending topic, globally. In 2024, 64.88 million foreign visitors traveled to the country, an 82.9 percent increase from the previous year. In particular, visa-free entries involved 20.12 million visits, more than double that of 2023.

    China’s commitment to opening-up is driving this tourism boom.

    Expanded visa policies, such as mutual visa waivers with 25 countries, unilateral visa-free policies for 38 countries, and transit visa exemptions for 54 countries, are making it easier for tourists to explore China.

    Additionally, improvements in payment systems, accommodations and public transport also ensure foreign visitors can fully enjoy China’s cultural and technological charms, experts said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese medical team provides free health checkups to rural community in South Sudan

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

    Chinese medical team provides free health checkups to rural community in South Sudan

    JUBA, Jan. 27 — The 12th batch of the Chinese medical team recently visited Juba Nabari, a local village north of Juba, the capital of South Sudan, to provide free medical checkups and treatment to hundreds of ailing patients.

    Fauzia Lotombiko, a 50-year-old mother of eight, was one of several patients who braved the sweltering heat to seek treatment under a mango shed. The Chinese doctors provided Lotombiko with medication to regulate her blood pressure and relieve some back pain.

    Since 2014, Lotombiko has endured immense back pain after a fall, and her condition worsened when she was later diagnosed with high blood pressure. This condition has robbed her of the ability to do normal chores and forced her to stay at home.

    “The arrival of the Chinese doctors in my home village gave me hope of recovery. In addition to giving me essential medicines, they also gave me advice,” Lotombiko said Saturday.

    James Jada, 41, brought his daughter to the Chinese medical team. He said he had given up trying to find proper treatment for her severe flu and cough, which had been going on since last November.

    Jada said he was hopeful that his daughter’s condition would improve with the medication he was given to treat her. The doctors did a complete physical exam on Jada’s daughter before recommending the medication.

    “I thank the Chinese doctors for taking care of my daughter. I hope that my daughter’s condition will improve, and I believe that healing is not instantaneous, but a process,” said Jada.

    Pierina Abraham Norah, a 50-year-old woman who suffered from severe back and joint pain, was visited at home by Chinese doctors to assess her condition. She thanked the Chinese doctors for their compassion for the needy in her community.

    Natalie Kon Justine, Abraham’s son, who organized the arrival of the Chinese medical team to conduct outreaches in his village, commended them for reducing the burden of disease in his community.

    “This village has a good number of health clinics, but they are very expensive, and many citizens cannot easily afford the cost of treatment at these private health facilities around here,” Justine said. “This medical outreach has eased the burden of treatment for many families because the medicines provided by the Chinese doctors are effective.”

    Du Changyong, leader of the 12th batch of the Chinese medical team, said the visit to Juba Nabari was aimed at implementing the outcomes of the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the program of “100 Medical Teams in 1,000 Villages” to provide medical services to people at the grassroots level.

    According to Du, the 12th batch of the Chinese medical team arrived in South Sudan in September 2024, and they have already served 6,300 outpatients, carried out 64 surgical operations, and treated 441 patients in critical condition. The team has also provided traditional Chinese medicine treatment to 1,200 patients, carried out laboratory tests on 850 patients, provided image testing to 800 patients, and introduced the new medical technology used at the Juba Teaching Hospital.

    In early December 2024, the 12th batch of the Chinese medical team provided medical outreach services to hundreds of patients in Lobonok town on the outskirts of Juba.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Local power supply bureau carries out inspection, maintenance work in Liupanshui, China’s Guizhou

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

    Local power supply bureau carries out inspection, maintenance work in Liupanshui, China’s Guizhou

    Updated: January 28, 2025 07:41 Xinhua
    Staff members of local power supply bureau check power lines in Liupanshui City, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, Jan. 26, 2025. In case of power disruption due to continuous snowfall, local power supply bureau carried out an urgent inspection and maintenance work to ensure the safe and stable operation of local power grid. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Staff members of local power supply bureau patrol in Liupanshui City, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, Jan. 26, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Staff members of local power supply bureau check power lines in Liupanshui City, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, Jan. 26, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 26, 2025 shows staff members of local power supply bureau on their way to a check point in Liupanshui City, southwest China’s Guizhou Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 26, 2025 shows staff members of local power supply bureau on their way to a check point in Liupanshui City, southwest China’s Guizhou Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Staff members of local power supply bureau patrol in Liupanshui City, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, Jan. 26, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Second arrest over Middlemore firearms incident

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A second person has appeared in court over a firearms incident at Middlemore Hospital earlier this month.

    An investigation has been ongoing since 4 January, when a firearm was allegedly fired from a vehicle.

    Detective Inspector Shaun Vickers says the Counties Manukau Offender Prevention Team executed a search warrant late last week.

    “At a Manurewa address, a 23-year-old man was located by our staff and arrested,” he says.

    “The investigation team have laid a number of serious charges against this man.”

    He has been charged with committing a dangerous act with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and commission of an offense with a firearm.

    The 23-year-old appeared in the Manukau District Court over the weekend and will reappear today.

    Two arrests have now been made in the investigation.

    Police are not ruling out further arrests or charges being made, Detective Inspector Vickers says.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New data shows Albanese Labor Government’s early childhood education plan is working for families and educators

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    New data released today shows families across Australia have saved up to $2,768 since childcare subsidies came into effect in 2023, as the Albanese Labor Government shores up the early childhood education workforce and moves towards universal childcare.

    The data, provided by the Department of Education, shows an Australian family on an income of $120,000 a year paying the average quarterly fee for 30 hours childcare per week has saved approximately $2,768 since September 2023.

    This is real cost of living relief, going back into the pockets of Australian families.  

    This comes on top of new data released by Jobs and Skills Australia showing workforce vacancy rates in the early education and care sector have plummeted over the last 12 months, with internet vacancy rates down 22 per cent since December 2023.

    The decrease coincides with the Albanese Labor Government’s commitment last year to fund a 15 per cent wage increase over two years for ECEC workers.

    In addition, Goodstart, the biggest ECEC employer in Australia, says completed job applications have increased by 35 per cent year-on-year and expressions of interest are up 50-60 per cent.

    More than 50 per cent of services have now applied for Labor’s Worker Retention Payment.

    The Worker Retention Payment supports pay rises for up to 200,000 ECEC workers, recognising the important work they do and helping with cost-of-living pressures.

    Pay rises of 10 per cent above the award rate started hitting the pay packets of eligible ECEC workers in December, with a further 5 per cent increase due in December this year.

    The wage increase will support early education and care providers to give their employees a pay boost, helping to retain the existing workforce and attract new workers to the sector.

    We know Building Australia’s Future is about more than bricks and mortar. It’s about investing in people, in skills and education.

    That’s why the Albanese Labor Government is committed to establishing a $1 billion Building Early Education Fund from July 2025 and guaranteeing every child access to at least three days of high-quality early education as critical next steps to building a universal early education and care system.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:

    “We have cut the cost of child care for more than 1 million families. The next step is fixing the pay of some of the most important workers in this country.

    “This shows our 15 per cent pay rise for early educators is working. Applications are up and job vacancies are down.

    “If we win the next election, we will build more centres where they are needed in the outer suburbs and the regions and guarantee every child who needs it three days of subsidised early education so they start school ready to learn.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Early Childhood Education Anne Aly:

    “Properly valuing the early childhood education and care workforce is crucial to attracting and retaining workers and vital to achieving the quality universal early learning sector Australian families deserve.

    “We’re boosting the wages of early childhood education workers, while relieving cost of living pressures on Australian families.

    “I urge all eligible early learning services to sign up to this important initiative, so their hardworking staff get the full benefit of this wage increase.”

    MIL OSI News –