NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 702

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL2

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 702
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    205 PM CST Sun Nov 3 2024

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Central and Southeast Oklahoma
    North Texas

    * Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 205 PM until
    800 PM CST.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes likely
    Widespread damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
    to 75 mph possible
    Scattered large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Clusters of intense thunderstorms over southwest OK and
    northwest TX will track rapidly northeastward this afternoon across
    the watch area. Strong low-level shear will support a risk of
    tornadoes and damaging wind gusts with these storms.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 60 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 15 miles north northwest of Fort Sill
    OK to 45 miles southeast of Mcalester OK. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU2).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 701…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 24035.

    …Hart

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW2
    WW 702 TORNADO OK TX 032005Z – 040200Z
    AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    15NNW FSI/FORT SILL OK/ – 45SE MLC/MCALESTER OK/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM N/S /52N SPS – 38SE MLC/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24035.

    LAT…LON 35729850 35299522 33559522 33989850

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU2.

    Watch 702 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    High (70%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (80%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (30%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Low (20%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland Transport director appointed

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland Council has appointed Dale Dillicar as a director of Auckland Transport.

    This appointment brings the Auckland Transport board to its full complement of eight voting members appointed by Auckland Council. Mrs Dillicar will chair the board’s Finance and Assurance committee.

    Councillor Christine Fletcher chaired the selection panel and welcomes Mrs Dillicar to the Auckland Transport board.

    “I am delighted to welcome Dale to the board of Auckland Transport. She brings a fresh perspective and a wealth of financial experience that will add a valuable dimension to our board, complementing the talents of our existing members as we continue to deliver long term value for Auckland,” says Cr Fletcher.

    The appointment was approved by the Performance and Appointments Committee on 22 October. The committee is responsible for all appointments to the boards of council-controlled organisations, in accordance with the council’s Appointment and Remuneration Policy for Board Members and the Local Government Act.

    About Dale Dillicar

    Dale is a senior finance executive with over 25 years’ experience across global industries, specialising in financial management, risk governance and operational oversight. She spent 12 years in the UK, where she led senior finance roles that enhanced her expertise in financial operations, treasury management and strategic risk management.

    For the past decade, Dale has been with Fonterra, currently serving as General Manager Risk Assurance for Fonterra’s operating office. Previously she was General Manager for Commercial, Category and Innovation where she successfully drove financial performance and cultivated a high-performing team culture.

    As a Chartered Accountant and qualified Treasurer, Dale offers deep expertise in governance, financial oversight and stakeholder engagement, with a focus on aligning practices with organisational goals to deliver long-term value.

    A born and bred Aucklander, Dale is committed to Auckland Transport’s purpose of a safe, integrated and efficient transport network for the people of Tāmaki Makaurau.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Simplifying Auckland’s traffic rules

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland Transport and Auckland Council are working together to merge the region’s traffic bylaws into one.

    Andrew McGill, Group Manager for Transport Network Planning and Policy at Auckland Transport says there will be no changes to existing traffic rules as a result of this review. The proposal being consulted on is to consolidate the existing rules into one bylaw that covers all traffic issues, to be more efficient, effective and easier to work with.

    “The aim is to have all of Auckland’s traffic-related rules in one place instead of spread across three different bylaws.”

    “It won’t change how you can currently drive, park and move around Auckland, but it will help make the rules clearer and easier to follow.”

    “As with all bylaw reviews, we want to hear from Aucklanders on this proposal and encourage you to give us your feedback.”

    The proposal will see the rules in Auckland Transport’s Traffic Bylaw 2012, Auckland Council’s Traffic Bylaw 2015 and traffic rules from the Auckland Council Public Safety and Nuisance Bylaw 2013 absorbed into a single new Vehicle Use and Parking Bylaw.

    Will this change anything?

    This will not change how you can drive, park and move around Auckland.

    However, there will be some changes to more easily address issues, such as unpermitted vehicles on beaches and heavy vehicles such as trucks where they are parked unsafely.

    This will also allow Auckland Transport to respond more quickly when issues are raised with parking, such as where this causes safety concerns or damages utilities under a berm.

    Finally, reviewing the bylaws is an opportunity to remove rules that are no longer needed or that can no longer be enforced by us, such as setting new speed limits which is now controlled by central government’s Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024.

    What is a bylaw?

    Louise Mason, General Manager for Policy at Auckland Council, explains bylaws are designed to respond to issues that affect local residents.

    “Different cities and regions often face issues unique to their local areas. Bylaws are local rules designed to respond to local issues and to reflect the views of the region’s communities.”

    “Councils and council-controlled organisations, such as Auckland Transport, create and implement bylaws, but they need input from the public, councillors and local boards to do so. The council’s elected governing body gives the final sign-off on changes to bylaws, which can then be enforced by the police, councils and council-controlled organisations.”

    Have your say

    You can find out more and have your say on the proposed changes on Auckland Transport’s Have Your Say page from Monday 4 November to Wednesday 4 December 2024. If you’d like to give feedback in person, you can find details of drop-in events here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Labour welcomes OAG fast track inquiry

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The Government should consider the outcome of an Auditor-General report into conflicts of interest before progressing the Fast track Approvals Bill through Parliament. 

    “We welcome this inquiry, and call on the Government to wait until the Auditor-General reports back before going to committee stage where 149 projects will be added to the Bill and further progressed through the House,” Labour environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said.

    “The 149 companies who have projects on the fast track list get an enormous advantage by not having to comply with current laws that protect the environment.

    “The public must have confidence the decision to put projects on the list was not made because a minister had a vested interest in it.

    “We’ve shown that coalition parties received donations from companies such as Winton and Kings Quarry to name just two, whose projects made it on to the list.

    “It’s also concerning that some of the projects on the list have been previously declined because the impact on the environment is too great.

    “The whole process around the Fast Track Approvals Bill has been murky. The projects were kept secret, ministers initially would have had the power to override conditions put on projects by an expert panel, and Shane Jones wouldn’t come clean about a meeting he had with mining interests on the West Coast.

    “Hopefully the Auditor-General’s inquiry can bring some sunlight to this situation,” Rachel Brooking said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Trade deal with Gulf states welcomed

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Labour welcomes the conclusion of a trade deal with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) that was restarted under a Labour government after languishing for many years.

    “Given the global situation, this deal paves the way for further trade and cooperation with the Gulf States,” Labour trade spokesperson Damien O’Connor said.

    “When in government, we understood that trade and export access would be a crucial part our country’s recovery from Covid-19.

    “This deal is a reflection and result of the decisions we made in government to explore where we could strengthen our ties and trade relationships to help our economic recovery,” Damien O’Connor said.

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI El Paso to Stand Up Election Command Post

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    In keeping with our standard Election Day protocol, FBI El Paso has stood up an Election Command Post in preparation for the November 5 election. The command post is staffed 24 hours a day to provide a centralized location for assessing election-related threats in our area of responsibility. The FBI has a duty to plan for a host of potential scenarios related to election fraud, voter suppression, foreign malign influence, malicious cyber activity against election infrastructure, and threats to election workers. We are committed to protecting the American public’s right to a fair and safe election. 

    For decades, the FBI has served as the primary agency responsible for investigating allegations of federal election crimes, including campaign finance violations, ballot/voter fraud, and civil rights violations. In close partnership with Department of Justice (DOJ), the FBI established the Election Threats Task Force to identify and address reported threats targeting election workers. 

    The FBI takes our responsibility very seriously, and works closely with our federal, state, and local partners to identify and stop any potential threats to public safety. We gather and analyze intelligence to determine whether individuals might be motivated to take violent action for any reason, including due to concerns about the election. 

    It is vital the FBI, our law enforcement partners, and the public work together to protect our communities as Americans exercise their right to vote. We encourage the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. The FBI takes all threats of violence seriously, including threats targeting those who do the critical work of administering free and fair elections throughout the U.S. 

    The Justice Department has long recognized that the states—not the federal government—are responsible for administering elections, determining the validity of votes, and tabulating the results, with challenges handled by the appropriate election administrators, officials, legislatures, and courts.  The Department’s role is limited to investigating and prosecuting violations of federal election laws and deterring criminal conduct.

    FBI El Paso encourages citizens to report allegations of election fraud and other election abuses to FBI El Paso directly at (915) 832-5000.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Las Vegas Election Command Post

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    In keeping with our standard Election Day protocol, FBI Las Vegas has stood up an Election Command Post in preparation for the election on November 5. The command post is staffed 24 hours a day to provide a centralized location for assessing election-related threats in our area of responsibility. The FBI has a duty to plan for a host of potential scenarios related to election fraud, voter suppression, foreign malign influence, malicious cyber activity against election infrastructure, and threats to election workers. We are committed to protecting the American public’s right to a fair and safe election.

    For decades, the FBI has served as the primary agency responsible for investigating allegations of federal election crimes, including campaign finance violations, ballot/voter fraud, and civil rights violations. In close partnership with Department of Justice (DOJ), the FBI established the Election Threats Task Force to identify and address reported threats targeting election workers.

    The FBI takes our responsibility very seriously and works closely with our federal, state, and local partners to identify and stop any potential threats to public safety. We gather and analyze intelligence to determine whether individuals might be motivated to take violent action for any reason, including due to concerns about the election.

    It is vital the FBI, our law enforcement partners, and the public work together to protect our communities as Americans exercise their right to vote. We encourage the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. The FBI takes all threats of violence seriously, including threats targeting those who do the critical work of administering free and fair elections throughout the U.S.

    The Justice Department has long recognized that the states—not the federal government—are responsible for administering elections, determining the validity of votes, and tabulating the results, with challenges handled by the appropriate election administrators, officials, legislatures, and courts. The Department’s role is limited to investigating and prosecuting violations of federal election laws and deterring criminal conduct.

    FBI Las Vegas encourages citizens to report allegations of election fraud and other election abuses. You can reach the FBI at tips.fbi.gov or 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Statement Attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on Ukraine

    Source: United Nations – English

    he Secretary-General is very concerned about reports of troops from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea being sent to the Russian Federation, including their possible deployment to the conflict zone. This would represent a very dangerous escalation of the war in Ukraine. 

    Everything must be done to avoid any internationalization of this conflict. 

    The Secretary-General reiterates his support for  all meaningful efforts towards a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in Ukraine, in line with the UN Charter, international law and resolutions of the General Assembly.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Ngarewa-Packer Demands Support for Palestine Ceasefire from New Plymouth Mayor

    Source: Te Pati Maori

    Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader and MP for Te Tai Hauāuru, Debbie Ngarewa-Packer is calling on the Mayor for New Plymouth, Neil Holdom, to do the right thing.

    “I am shocked at his decision to disregard the petition presented by Palestine Solidarity Taranaki calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire”, said Ngarewa-Packer.

    “The group made up of his constituents have shown up week after week at Puke Ariki Landing for over a year to stand against the genocide taking place in Gaza, and the killing now extending to Lebanon, Syria and Yemen.

    “They have worked with other Palestine Solidarity Network groups who have successfully garnered support from their local councils. They gathered 1800 signatures from local supporters and endorsements from two Iwi, church groups and Taranaki Muslim Association.

    “These are your constituents, your people.

    “This process unfairly removes the ability for input of hardworking and empathetic councillors who may have chosen to vote in support of this group.

    “Unfortunately, this action mirrors what is happening with the current Government – removing due process, disallowing input by those most affected and most informed and harming those who already suffer the most. Fast-tracking and bypassing.

    “I refuse to accept that this is not a council issue. This is an everyone issue… this is an absolute issue of human rights.

    “In Gaza there have been at least 43 000 killed, over 100 000 injured, over 10 000 missing, almost the entire population displaced and faced with starvation. This is a human issue.

    “We have seen successful support from other councils around Aotearoa such as Whanganui and Christchurch and the Mayor himself has in the past shown support for Ukraine, citing the need to support his constituents who may be affected.

    “We must afford that same curtesy to Palestinians, their friends, whānau, and advocates within your own community.

    “As Te Pāti Māori co-leader and MP for Te Tai Hauāuru I stand wholeheartedly in solidarity with the indigenous peoples of Palestine and stand against colonial forces.

    “I urge New Plymouth Mayor to reconsider his position, show his humanity and afford New Plymouth District Council the opportunity to stand on the right side of history”, concludes Ngarewa-Packer.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: PSA – Mental health workers fear for safety of patients after police withdrawal of support – PSA survey

    Source: PSA

    – Nine out of 10 workers say change will increase risks to them and clients
    – Two out of three workers not confident workplace can manage risks
    – Nine out of 10 workers say change will add to already heavy workloads
    Mental health workers fear serious harm to themselves, their clients and members of the public from the withdrawal of police support for mental health call outs, a PSA survey shows.
    The phased withdrawal of police from responding to mental health callouts begins today. This includes police staying in EDs for a maximum of 60 minutes, falling to 15 minutes.
    “Mental health workers are saying loud and clear the implementation of the change is profoundly unsafe and that the risks of serious harm to them, the people in their care and the public are very high,” said Ashok Shankar, Health Lead for Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “We are calling on Te Whatu Ora and the police to delay this change until we can be reassured it can be done safely. Our members are at the frontline of this change, they know the risks, so it’s extremely disappointing that their views to date have been ignored.
    “It’s high time both the Health and Mental Health Ministers step in before real harm is caused.
    “Te Whatu Ora is failing to properly plan for the transition to the new regime despite months of consultation. Our members are not getting the extra training they deserve to adjust to the change.
    “One highly experienced mental health worker, who leads a team, said he only received a raft of documents explaining changes to operating procedures 10 days out from the 4 November start date.
    ‘These changes are going to add to the burden of what we endure now’, he said. He warned Te Whatu Ora that ‘patients, the public and staff will be injured, maimed and no doubt die in response to these changes and the poor planning and resourcing that goes with it’.
    Ashok Shankar said: “Mental health crisis teams are already under extreme stress – workloads are as heavy as they have ever been, yet the Government is allowing even more pressure to pile on overstretched teams.
    “Te Whatu Ora needs to expand mental health teams and provide additional training, if required, so they can safely pick up the burden of taking over from the police.
    “But the hiring freeze and the Government’s failure to properly fund Te Whatu Ora is making a dire situation that much worse.
    “The survey shows members expect time taken to see people in distress will increase. It will mean those with less urgent needs will wait even longer as more urgent cases are prioritised. Their health outcomes are being put at risk. That’s just not acceptable when we already have a mental health crisis in this country.
    “Mental health should be a priority – all of us want the best outcome for the people and their families facing challenges, but this process of police handover feels botched from the get-go – patients and workers may pay a heavy price,” said Ashok Shankar.
    ENDS
    Summary of findings from PSA survey (attached summary graphs)
    The survey was taken between 8 and 22 October 2024 and sent to 6,151 members who work in mental health. It attracted 438 responses. The margin of error is 5% at a 95% confidence interval.
    – 66% of workers say they are not confident in the ability of their workplace to manage risk. Only 12% are confident.
    – 38% disagree or strongly disagree that their workplace has a process in place to assess risk in mental health response
    – 88% say it will increase safety risk for clients
    – 91% say it will increase safety risk for workers
    – 86% say it risks increasing workloads
    – 72% say it risks increasing the time taken to see people
    Sample of quotes from survey of mental health workers
    I can understand the pressures that the police service are under and the reasons they want to withdraw, however there is no alternative in place so this just leaves a dangerous void in the process and I would not be surprised if there is an increase in incidents and possibly even lives being at risk.
    I do not understand how an 111 operator with just one days training in mental health could over rule the registered mental health professional decision who could be facing an client and made a risk assessment.
    Police are the only ones who can detain under the Act, and therefore, a withdrawal of their support when requested means more people will go without treatment, more people will fall off the act, the more people with become unwell, and the more mental health patients will end up in Police custody
    As a staff member I am left wondering of we will be safe and whether we will have to argue with police comms to get officers to respond to a danger to life. Having the building smashed up is scary enough but risk to staff, clients and the public is even worse.
    I think it is appropriate. My only concern is if Police take it upon themselves to determine if a person is mentally disordered or not. It could open the gate for police to deliver people to ED who are socially problematic but do not meet a criminal offense threshold. Would not want to see ED inappropriately burdened with these people. Perhaps police liaison nurses, based with Police would be a better use of a resource.
    The withdrawal of police at mental health jobs ultimately shows a failure in resource division at the national government level.
    I feel sorry for the police, but our system is in crisis. I am actually returning to work at present after being knocked out by a patient and having several months off with a nasty concussion. I don’t want this to happen again to myself or any other staff. I am lucky that I did not suffer a more serious injury.
    We are feeling very anxious about the safety of both ourselves and the patients and families involved with the withdrawal process. While we understand that we have the right to refuse and walk away, doing so may leave families at risk with individuals who are very unwell.
    It makes me reconsider my career choices. Do I really want to be in a front-line role where I have to justify my requests for assistance by Police in writing to non-health professionals with limited training in assessing mental health risk?
    The most important change that could be made is for us to have more staff, skilled staff rather than inexperienced ones that we have to spend time teaching when there already is too much to do in terms of clinical assessments.
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Staff intervene during property damage

    Source: South Australia Police

    A man was arrested at licenced premises in Fullarton yesterday after causing damage and assaulting staff members.

    About 2pm Sunday 3 November police were called to a hotel on Glen Osmond Road after a man entered the gaming room and caused damage to a number of pokie machines. Staff intervened and were allegedly assaulted by the man, however they were able to restrain him until police arrived.

    Police attended and placed the 34-year-old NSW man under arrest. He has been charged with property damage, two counts of assault, affray and possess controlled drug.

    The man was refused bail and will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court Monday 4 November. He was also issued a barring order from the premises.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: VIDEO AVAILABLE: Coast Guard medevacs 66-year-old woman 92 miles southeast of Southwest Pass, Louisiana

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard 8th District Heartland
    Contact: 8th District Public Affairs
    Office: 504-671-2020
    After Hours: 618-225-9008
    Eighth District online newsroom

     

    Port conditions change based on weather forecasts, and current port conditions can be viewed on the following Coast Guard homeport webpages:

    For more information follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Safety – TDDA Launches Imperans Report, a New Quarterly Workplace Drug Use Snapshot

    Source: Fred Russo, Botica Butler Raudon Partners  

    Imperans Report to Provide Businesses with Actionable Health and Safety Information

    04 November 2024, Auckland, New Zealand – The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA), New Zealand’s largest workplace drug testing provider, has launched the Imperans Report, its new quarterly workplace drug trends report. The report aims to provide Australasian employers with an analysis of drug and alcohol usage trends, combining results from both New Zealand and Australia to empower businesses to engage in proactive workplace risk management.

    The Imperans report addresses an information gap for business. Government organisations like ACC and WorkSafe publish incident reports, but they do not quantify when substances are a factor. Future reports will serve to build businesses’ understanding of substance use patterns regionally and temporally so that they can anticipate and reduce workplace risks.

    TDDA provides over 250,000 drug tests every year in New Zealand and Australia. In Q3/2024 tests from accredited clinic locations and mobile clinics throughout Australasia were used. All tests were taken between 1 July 2024 and 30 September 20241.  Data is anonymised and aggregated using TDDA’s Imperans system, a bespoke IT platform for testing services, data recording, and reporting.

    TDDA drug tests screen for amphetamine-type substances (ATS); benzodiazepines; cocaine; methamphetamine; opiates and opioids; cannabis; and synthetic drugs like synthetic cannabis.

    This quarter, 4.55 per cent of the screens conducted by TDDA in New Zealand indicated the presence of drugs. THC remained the most common substance detected in workplaces in New Zealand, accounting for 72.9 per cent of cases, closely followed by amphetamine-type substances at 34.2 per cent. There was also significant opioid detection, indicating workplaces may want to remind employees of their drug policies surrounding prescription painkillers.  

    Below are the most prevalent substances detected across New Zealand in TDDA testing:

    • THC: 72.9 per cent
    • Amphetamine-type substances (including methamphetamine): 34.2 per cent
    • Opiates (including oxycodone): 12.9 per cent
    • Benzodiazepines: 4.9 per cent
    • Cocaine: 1.7 per cent
    • Alcohol: 0.19 per cent

    It is crucial for Kiwi businesses to stay vigilant and adapt their safety strategies to evolving drug trends. By being proactive and staying committed to addressing drug-related issues, businesses can play a vital role in promoting safer communities and protecting the well-being of their employees.

    “Businesses across New Zealand should be cognisant of the prevailing drug testing trends and the potential impact on employee safety, workplace productivity, and company reputation,” says Glenn Dobson, CEO, TDDA.

    “Substances like cannabis and methamphetamine can significantly affect workplace safety. Symptoms may include impaired judgement, decreased coordination, and delayed reaction times. Anyone using these substances should not be operating vehicles or heavy machinery.”

    TDDA recommends that businesses update their drug and alcohol policies, educate themselves, and train key personnel to recognise signs of substance misuse. Staying informed and prepared is the best strategy to ensure a safe and productive workplace.

    1 Total figures on testing volumes or testing results by industry and region are commercially sensitive.

    Methodology  
    Testing data from 1 July 2024 and 30 September 2024 is aggregated and anonymised from fixed and mobile clinic operations throughout Australasia. Data from preemployment, post incident, and random testing has been combined. Testing methods included urine and oral fluid screening. Data is reported into the TDDA Imperans system, anonymised, and represents a snapshot of drug trends across Australasian workplaces and industries.  

    About The Drug Detection Agency
    The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA) is a leader in workplace substance testing with more than 300 staff, 90 mobile health clinics, 65 locations throughout Australasia, and processing more than 250,000 tests annually. TDDA was established in 2005 to provide New Zealand and Australian businesses with end-to-end workplace substance testing, education and policy services. TDDA holds ISO17025 accreditation for workplace substance testing in both AU and NZ. Refer to the IANZ and NATA websites for TDDA’s full accreditation details. Learn more about TDDA at https://tdda.com/.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: On-sold programme changes bring resolution to homeowners and taxpayers

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Finance Minister David Seymour has asked the Natural Hazards Commission (NHC) to make changes to how it delivers the On-sold support package to prevent a cost blowout while helping eligible homeowners repair their homes in a timely manner. 

    The On-sold programme was set up by the Government in 2019 as a time-limited offer of support for owners of eligible on-sold over-cap properties in Canterbury. Applicants had 12 months to apply for an ex-gratia payment towards the cost of having their homes repaired for remaining earthquake damage. Applications for the programme closed on 14 October 2020. 

    “The On-sold programme has supported over 800 Canterbury homeowners to complete repairs and move back into their homes, and hundreds more are in the process of doing so,” says Mr Seymour. 

    ““The programme was never intended to continue indefinitely though, so the Government is making changes to simplify it, encourage timely settlement for these remaining homeowners, and avoid delays that add to programme costs. 

    “Initial cost estimates for the programme in 2019 had it at $250 million. By June 2024 the estimated cost of the completed programme is at $717.9 million. Instead of allowing a rolling maul of cost increases, we’re putting a full stop on the programme in a way that allows applicants fair settlement.  

    The following changes come into effect immediately: 
     

    • No application can be settled in excess of 1.5 times the current rateable capital value (CV) of the property.  
    • Applicants need to meet new deadlines to remain in the programme. For example, they have 30 business days to sign their Settlement Deed (from the date of offer) and six months to begin construction from the date of agreement. Applicants will also need to supply the information needed to progress applications within strict timeframes. 
    • Pre-construction project-management costs under the programme are limited to 4% of the ex-gratia payment. 

    “The Government wants to see earthquake damage to residential properties repaired as soon as possible so Cantabrians don’t continue to live in earthquake-damaged homes,” says Mr Seymour. 

    “Other changes reinforce the need to manage costs in the programme. From 23 December, a further limit will be applied to settlements where the homeowner has chosen to purchase a new home.”  

    The amount of the repair grant that can be repurposed will be limited to the market value of the building(s) at the on-sold property – assuming the damage eligible for remediation through this programme did not exist – plus the costs of demolishing the damaged on-sold property. The other existing parameters for, and limits to, these alternative settlement payments will continue to apply; and NHC will continue to verify the appropriateness of proposed costs on behalf of the Crown.  

    “The NHC is communicating the changes to homeowners in the programme today and will be in contact with each homeowner over the next two days with information about what this means for their specific situation,” says Mr Seymour.  

    “There are around 250 applicants in the programme who have not yet signed a Settlement Deed. I hope these changes will lead to positive outcomes and certainty for these applicants.    

    “I’m happy that we’re delivering an outcome that benefits everyone – with remaining applications on track without creating more costs for taxpayers.” 
     
    Note to editors: Further information is available at https://www.naturalhazards.govt.nz/insurance-and-claims/canterbury-earthquake/on-sold-over-cap-properties/about-the-on-sold-support-package/ 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – Geopolitical tensions highlighted as risk to financial stability – Reserve Bank of NZ

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    4 November 2024: The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua today announced key findings from its 2024 Reverse Stress Test, alongside an assessment of how geopolitical tensions could impact financial stability in New Zealand.

    The findings are being pre-released from our upcoming Financial Stability Report and highlight the importance of proactive risk evaluation and management to safeguarding New Zealand’s financial stability.

    The Reverse Stress test asked participating banks to model severe but plausible scenarios that could cause their capital levels to fall below the regulatory minimums. The scenarios banks used featured severe recessions, with significant increases in unemployment and falls in property prices. Several banks identified escalation of geopolitical tension as the primary driver of economic downturns. Scenarios were often accompanied by secondary shocks, such as cyber-related events or insurance retreat.

    Banks also identified actions they could take in response to the scenarios to rebuild their capital positions. Responses included reducing dividends, cutting costs, tightening lending standards, repricing and extending loan terms for existing customers.

    “The Reverse Stress test prompted banks to explore severe scenarios that threatened their businesses and identify how they might respond. The exercise has improved our understanding of the potential vulnerabilities of the financial system. It has also been a valuable exercise for testing and enhancing industry’s risk management capabilities,” Director of Financial Stability Assessment & Strategy Kerry Watt says.

    An important part of Te Pūtea Matua’s financial stability work is promoting public understanding of risks. This stress testing exercise highlighted geopolitical risks as material for New Zealand. These risks arise from international tensions and can impact the financial system through various channels.

    Geopolitical risk can disrupt international trade, weaken domestic demand and lead to financial market volatility. This in turn can lead to higher loan defaults, raise funding costs, and increase cyber risks for financial institutions. The nature of the impact will depend on the transmission channel, severity and location of the geopolitical shock.

    “Concern about geopolitical tension has been increasing recently. As a small open economy, dependent on international trade and investment, geopolitical risks are clearly relevant to our financial system. Their potential impacts cannot be underestimated,” Mr Watt says.

    “We must be aware of these risks and be prepared to manage them to ensure the stability of the financial system.”
     

    More information

    Read our Reverse Stress Testing special topic here : https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=23fad86f03&e=f3c68946f8
    Read our Geopolitical box article here: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=be28deaca3&e=f3c68946f8
    The 2024 November Financial Stability report will be published on our website at 9am on Tuesday 5 November, with a media conference at 1pm. See full details
    What is the Financial Stability Report: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=744e75eb37&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Opening of the Christchurch Youth Hub

    Source: New Zealand Governor General

    E nga mana, e nga reo, e nga iwi o te motu e huihui nei, tēnei aku mihi nui ki a koutou. Kia ora tātou katoa.

    I specifically acknowledge: Hon Megan Woods, Member of Parliament; His Worship Phil Mauger, Mayor of Christchurch; and Dame Sue Bagshaw, Chair of Youth Hub Trust. Kia ora koutou.

    I am pleased to be here in Ōtautahi to open the first stage of Youth Hub Christchurch – what I’m sure will be a welcome and hugely important asset for this city.

    As a former Children’s Commissioner, and in my time as an academic, I have dedicated much of my career supporting the wellbeing of children. I am keenly aware of the challenges faced by our young people, and that mental health is the area of greatest need.

    I know that events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the March 15th terrorist attacks, and the Christchurch Earthquakes make providing such support to our young people all the more important.

    Research such as the Dunedin Study shows us that our formative years are critical in shaping who we become as adults. Ensuring the wellbeing of young people ultimately has a huge bearing on all areas of our society. 

    We must ensure that every child has the love, care and support they need to fulfil their potential in life – whatever that might be.

    I am delighted to see the first stage of Youth Hub Christchurch come to fruition, ready to welcome and support all who need it. This facility – the first of its kind in New Zealand – will elevate the way care is delivered to our young people, and I hope it will be the first of many such facilities around the country.

    As Governor-General, I am always energised and inspired when I meet young people: the energy and passion of the next generation who are the kaitiaki of our planet, and of our future – bringing new perspectives, ideas, and a sense of hope that we can solve the greatest issues of our time.

    I am confident Youth Hub will become a place where rangatahi are given the tools and support they need to build healthy, happy lives: to help them discover their strengths and passions, to celebrate what makes them who they are, and to guide them on their way to making a positive difference in the world.

    To that end, I would like to offer my sincere thanks to Dame Sue, your team, and everyone involved in bringing Youth Hub to life. Your commitment to ensuring this will be a place of inclusive, sensitive, and meaningful care is to be commended.

    The work you will do and the good you will achieve here brings to mind the whakataukī: ‘Poipoia te kakano kia puāwai. Nurture the seed and it will blossom.’

    I once again thank you for inviting me here today to open Stage One. I have every confidence that all who walk through these doors will feel welcomed and supported, and the very real sense of a place where they belong. I wish you all the very best for the future, as you move into the next stages of completing this wonderful facility.

    No reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: UPDATE: State Highway 2 Kaitoke to Featherston now OPEN following serious crash

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    10:15 am:

    State Highway 2 is now open to traffic in both directions following this morning’s serious crash.

    The highway was closed for around four hours while the Police Serious Crash Unit carried out an investigation, and the crash scene was cleared.

    NZTA/Waka Kotahi thanks drivers for their patience and cooperation during this closure.

    9 am:

    State Highway 2 remains closed between Kaitoke and Featherston following a serious crash earlier this morning.

    The Police Serious Crash Unit  is at the scene conducting an investigation – the highway is closed while this is on-going.

    Drivers must avoid the area, delay their journey, or use an alternative route – the Paihiatua Track (Aokautere – Paihiatua) or Saddle Road (Woodville – Ashurst). These require up to three hours additional travel time.

    Further updates will be provided when the road’s status changes

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

    6:10 am:

    State Highway 2 is closed near Kaitoke as emergency services and contractors attend a serious crash in the area.

    The two-car collision, near the intersections of Gilbert Road and Waterworks Road, was reported around five o’clock this morning.

    State Highway 2 is currently closed between Gilbert Road and Waterworks Road, meaning there is no access between  Upper Hutt and Featherston. This closure will be extended to cover all of Remutaka Hill,  Kaitoke – Featherston.

    The highway is expected to remain closed for several hours while the crash is cleared, and a Police Serios Crash Unit investigation is completed.

    Drivers must follow the instructions of emergency services at the scene.

    Road users are asked to avoid the area, delay their journeys, or use an alternative route.

    The only alternative routes between Wellington and Wairarapa are the Paihiatua Track (Aokautere – Paihiatua) or Saddle Road (Woodville – Ashurst). These require up to three hours additional travel time.

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

    Meanwhile, drivers can also expect delays on State Highway 59 near Pukerua Bay where a crash has blocked the road’s southbound lane. People travelling between Paekākāriki and Porirua should use State Highway 1 as an alternative route.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZTA welcomes Te Ara o Te Ata – Mt Messenger Bypass Court of Appeal ruling

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi has welcomed yesterday’s Court of Appeal decision ruling in favour of the Minister of Land Information and supporting the process undertaken for land acquisitions for Te Ara o Te Ata – Mt Messenger Bypass project.

    Court of Appeal decision

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi Regional Manager of Infrastructure Delivery Rob Partridge says the court’s ruling dismissed the northern landowners’ argument that LINZ officials or the Minister of Land Information are the only people who can negotiate with them; and awarded costs in favour of the Crown.

    “This decision is a timely boost for the team on the ground building a safer, more resilient and reliable 6km section of State Highway 3 in northern Taranaki.”

    NZTA is now awaiting a ruling on an appeal by landowners, heard in the High Court in August 2024, against a May 2024 Environment Court ruling supporting the Crown’s intent to acquire an 11ha block of land required in the north of the project area.

    “We are taking up every avenue to progress resolution of all outstanding legal proceedings, and gain access to the land needed at the northern end of the project as soon as possible,” says Mr Partridge.

    2024/25 construction season 

    On the southern side of Mt Messenger, the team is focussed on excavating a spur to create access for construction of the project’s 125-metre bridge, which will carry the road over a stream that feeds into the Mimi wetland.

    Further towards the central section of the project, the award-winning cableway has been busy transporting earthworks gear into the project’s largest fill site that extends 500m from the tunnel’s northern portal.

    Environmental recognition

    The Alliance’s environmental, pest management and ecology teams are busy delivering the project’s major environmental benefits alongside mana whenua partner Ngāti Tama.

    The project has recently won the Environmental Excellence Award from the Australasian division of the International Erosion Control Association, recognising its work to minimise impacts on the surrounding landscape and waterways.

    “State Highway 3, over Mt Messenger, is a crucial connection for freight and other road users, between the West Coast and upper North Island.  The bypass project is essential to contributing to this economic growth, saving road users time, but more importantly, providing a safer, more resilient road, ultimately benefiting efficiencies, and we’re looking forward to all the progress on site over the coming construction season.”

    Te Ara o Te Ata – Mt Messenger Bypass earthworks.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government’s creative sector strategy released

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government’s creative sector strategy is designed to increase Kiwis’ engagement with culture and creativity and to boost its economic contribution, Arts Minister Paul Goldsmith says.

    “Amplify has been released for public consultation and I encourage people to read the strategy and to share their feedback.

    “There’s an opportunity to increase the impact of our arts and culture here and on the world stage, and significantly increase the sectors’ contribution to GDP and export revenue by 2030.

    “Our creative and cultural sectors also face many common challenges, so Amplify uses the levers the Government has to help.”

    Amplify proposes four key targets: 

    • New Zealand ranks among the top 25 nations in the world for culture and heritage ‘soft power’.
    • The median income for creative professionals more closely matches the median wage/salary income.
    • The GDP contribution from the arts and creative sector increases to at least $20 billion.
    • More New Zealanders are actively engaging with New Zealand arts, culture, and heritage.

    There are three strategic pillars which outline actions the Government will take over the next six years to reach these targets:

    • Maximising impact through the $450m annual Crown investment.
    • Nurturing talent and supporting a pipeline to provide sustainable career opportunities.
    • Reducing barriers to growth – modernising and streamlining government regulation to enable our cultural sectors to thrive.

    “This is just a draft and I am open to ideas,” Mr Goldsmith says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Southbound closure for SH1 Hikurangi from next week

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advises State Highway 1 will be closed to southbound traffic between Twin Coast Discovery Highway and George Street at Hikurangi from Monday 11 November to Friday 13 December for road rebuild works

    Work will take place both during the day and overnight, with southbound traffic detoured via Hikurangi township for the duration of the works. The detour is expected to add less than five minutes to southbound journeys.

    The detour route is not approved for HPMV and over-dimension loads.They will be queued and escorted through the site approximately every 20 minutes, as required.

    Access for residents and emergency services will be maintained throughout the works.

    We appreciate there will be increased noise for residents and businesses in the area, and short delays for road users.

    Rebuilding the road, which often involves replacing all or most of the structural road layers, improves the longevity of the network, the resilience and ultimately the safety and efficiency for all road users.

    This summer maintenance period (September 2024 to May 2025), we’re investing in the largest road rebuild programme ever for the region, with Northland one of three regions across Aotearoa with the most significant road rebuild programmes over the next three years.  

    For more information about the overall maintenance programme and planned works, visit the Northland State Highway Maintenance Programme website:

    Northland state highway maintenance programme(external link)

    NZTA thanks everyone for their understanding and support while we carry out this essential maintenance.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Waimate High School Enviro-Group initiative takes root

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Date:

    Spearheaded by the Waimate High School Enviro-Group, the project will see a shade house built at the school and approximately 2000 trees planted.

    At recent Lower Waitaki South Coastal Canterbury Water Zone Committee meetings, the group was successful in having two funding requests approved.

    Group facilitator and Head of Science Aaron Harbour says the Enviro-Group had attracted approximately 20 students, each showing a keen interest to learn about seed propagation.

    The group will predominantly grow native trees and grasses, with the shade house helping to accelerate the growth of kowhai trees in the coming months.

    Some members of the Waimate High School Enviro-Group on their latest field trip

    “The students wanted a space of their own to put their environmental ideas into reality, and the shade house achieves this,” Aaron said.

    “Having the shade house on school grounds is great for the students and it also gives us the opportunity to bring the community in at various times to get involved. We also hope that in the future this space will serve as a living classroom where students can learn about native plants, sustainable gardening practices, and the importance of biodiversity and ecological communities.”

    Sowing seeds for the future

    The group hopes the planting initiative will help establish a legacy project as part of the school’s revolutionary Ag Hub initiative – encouraging students to plant a tree when they first arrive in year 7 and again, when they leave.

    The project aligns with the committee’s goal of engaging with young people and supporting educational projects that raise awareness of environmental issues in the zone.

    The first batch of trees (500) have already been planted, with the next round of planting scheduled later this month. Other plant species to be introduced include tarata (lemonwood), kōhūhū (black matipo), kanuka (kunzea robusta), among others.

    Propagation will officially get underway in term one, next year.

    The Waimate High School Enviro-Group have already planted 500 trees on their riparian corridor

    Environment Canterbury © 2024
    Retrieved: 12:04pm, Mon 04 Nov 2024
    ecan.govt.nz/get-involved/news-and-events/zone-news/lower-waitaki/waimate-high-schools-enviro-group-initiative-takes-root/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: All Shenzhou-18 astronauts out of return capsule

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

    JIUQUAN, Nov. 4 — The three astronauts of the Shenzhou-18 manned mission — Ye Guangfu, Li Cong and Li Guangsu — were all out of the return capsule that touched down at the Dongfeng landing site in north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on Monday.

    They are all in good physical condition, and the mission is a complete success, according to the China Manned Space Agency.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 245-2024: Trial of new community protection profile questions on tariffs 3002.12, 3002.15 and 3822.19

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    4 November 2024

    Who does this notice affect?

    Importers and brokers of commodities lodged in tariffs:

    • 3002.12 – Antisera and other blood fractions
    • 3002.15 – Immunological products, put up in measured doses or in forms or packings for retail sale.
    • 3822.19 – Other diagnostic or laboratory reagents on a backing, prepared diagnostic or laboratory reagents whether or not on a backing, whether or not put up in the form of kits, other than those of 3006;…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Kim, Nickel Lead Bipartisan Bill to Protect Consumers from Credit Card Repair Scams

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Wiley Nickel (NC-13) introduced the Ending Scam Credit Repair Act (ESCRA) to combat fraudulent practices in the credit repair industry. The bill targets credit repair organizations (CROs) that exploit consumers by charging high fees without delivering on promises to improve credit scores. By strengthening CROs regulations, the bill will ensure transparency and accountability in the industry.

    The bipartisan Ending Scam Credit Repair Act empowers consumers by ensuring that CROs only receive payment after delivering documented improvements to credit reports, while increasing civil penalties for violations.

    “Credit scores can be the key to unlocking the American dream. Fraudulent CROs should not get away with scamming hardworking Americans seeking to improve their scores,” said Congresswoman Young Kim. “The Ending Scam Credit Repair Act creates accountability and transparency for consumers and hikes penalties for scammers. I’m thrilled to introduce the bipartisan Ending Scam Credit Repair Act and will continue to work on commonsense solutions to protect the American dream.”

    “Too many hard-working Americans have been scammed by bad actors in the credit repair industry,” said Congressman Wiley Nickel. “Our bill puts a stop to these deceptive practices by banning upfront fees, improving dispute transparency, and requiring state registration. Consumers deserve real results, not empty promises and financial loss.”

    “Financial-services companies and consumer advocacy groups are grateful for congressional action on behalf of consumers, having seen first-hand the real harm credit repair organizations cause consumers, often charging hundreds of dollars a month, but yielding few if any positive results,” said Bill Himpler, President and CEO, American Financial Services Association (AFSA).

    “Paying for credit repair is almost always a waste of money,” said Andrew Pizor, senior attorney, National Consumer Law Center (NCLC). “The amendment from Representatives Nickel and Kim will help ensure consumers are not prey to credit repair scams and that they don’t get charged unless they get the results they are paying for.”

    Edward Boltz, Legislative Chair of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA), whose members represent people in and after bankruptcy, agreed that the “Ending Credit Repair Scams Act” will stop credit repair jamming schemes which mislead consumers by holding themselves out as “lawyers,” but “will also now make it clear that honest attorneys can provide advice and assistance to those who need real help with credit report errors.”

    Read the full bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 246-2024: Addition of AUST R human vaccines onto the Compliance-Based Intervention Scheme (CBIS)

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    4 November 2024

    Who does this notice affect?

    Importers and brokers of:

    • Australian registered (AUST R) human therapeutics and medicines imported under tariff 3002.41.00.01 — Vaccines for human medicine (AUST R human vaccines).

    What has changed?

    The department is expanding the…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Disappointing driver behaviour over long weekend

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Disappointing driver behaviour over long weekend

    Monday, 4 November 2024 – 10:22 am.

    Police have expressed disappointment after several people were caught drink and drug driving, speeding, not wearing seat belts, using mobile phones illegally and driving without a licence in the North West over the weekend.
    Inspector Adam Spencer from Western Road Policing Services said police were upfront that officers would be out in force over the long weekend.
    “We were out and about in rural and popular tourist areas as we said we would be,” he said.
    “This included a major police operation in the Smithton and Arthur River areas, and the results were very disappointing.”
    “Between Queenstown, Smithton, Devonport and Burnie, our police issued 24 infringement notices.”
    “Police will again be out in force as the long weekend continues today, you can expect to see us again on highways, urban and rural roads.”
    “Please do the right thing and obey the road rules so everyone can get home safely.”
    Results included:

    28-year-old man intercepted in Devonport and returned a reading of 0.243, almost five times the legal limit. Disqualified from driving and will appear in court.
    40-year-old Burnie woman intercepted following reports she was driving under the influence after leaving a licensed premises. Returned a reading of 0.178. Disqualified from driving and will appear in court.
    66-year-old Montagu man caught drink driving and not wearing a seatbelt. Disqualified from driving and will appear in court.
    60-year-old Boat Harbour man returned a positive drug test and quantities of a controlled substance were located in his vehicle. He will be summoned to court.
    26-year-old Devonport man caught hooning. He was arrested and charged and the vehicle was clamped.
    33-year-old Devonport woman caught driving disqualified. Will appear in court.
    43-year-old Irish Town man detected speeding 32km/h over the posted limit on Blackwater Road, West Coast. Given five demerit points and a $606 fine.
    59-year-old Port Sorell man detected speeding 33km/h over the posted limit on Backline Road, Forest. Given five demerit points and a $606 fine.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Better health taking flight for rural and regional Tasmanians

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    As part of the Albanese and Rockliff governments’ commitment to improving the state’s regional healthcare, the new Tasmanian home of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) is a step closer, with planning and design works underway.

    The $21.3 million redevelopment will support the RFDS to expand its operations, and was made possible by $15 million from the Albanese Government, $6 million from the Rockliff Government, and additional support from the RFDS.

    The new base at Launceston Airport will boost capacity for rotary and fixed-wing aircraft, as well as ground vehicle transfers, and will include space needed to cater for surge workers through either infectious disease outbreaks, or for fire-fighting personnel to tackle bushfires.

    This will enable the RFDS to increase outreach support such as mobile mental health services, mobile dental services, and mobile general practitioner services – and support them to deliver urgent care to people across regional Tasmania.

    Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain joined Federal Member for Lyons, Brian Mitchell last week to inspect the site of the new base, and to receive an update on the project.

    Up to 62 full time jobs will be supported during the construction phase, with up to 41 ongoing jobs in the healthcare sector set to be created once operational in 2027.

    When completed, the facility will also house staff and equipment for other emergency service providers, including Ambulance Tasmania, Tasmanian Police and the Fixed Wing Aeromedical Providers.

    Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain:

    “It was fantastic to visit RFDS Tasmania to see planning work on this important redevelopment progressing – a region-shaping project made possible thanks to $15 million from the Albanese Government.

    “Your postcode shouldn’t impact the quality of your healthcare, which is why we’re partnering with the RFDS to improve and expand their services across regional Australia – with this project to ensure Tasmanians can continue to access support when they need it.”

    Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Minister for Health, Jacquie Petrusma:

    “The Tasmanian Liberal Government’s $6 million investment for the new base will enable the RFDS to continue its vital work. 

    “Not only will this project improve access to healthcare across regional Tasmania, it will support local jobs during construction, and once the upgraded site is operational.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lyons, Brian Mitchell:

    “While the RFDS’s current home in Tasmania has served the community for 20 years, our government is getting on with updating the site ensure it continues to provide the service Tasmanian needs and deserves. 

    “By securing the future of the Royal Flying Doctor Service at Launceston Airport, we’re ensuring that the RFDS can continue to deliver lifesaving care throughout our state, from clinic charter services to road transfers.”

    Quotes attributable to RFDS Tasmania Board Chair, Malcolm White and CEO Nicole Henty:

    “The Royal Flying Doctor Service Tasmania is delighted to be building a new world class facility. We are grateful to both the Federal and State Governments for coming together to support this initiative and help us construct this base at Launceston Airport”

    “This is an exciting development for the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Tasmania and we look forward to developing an aeromedical base that all Tasmanians can be proud of.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Child Poverty – OIA documents reveal Minister is considering changing long-term child poverty reduction targets (CPAG)

    Source: Child Poverty Action Group

    Documents obtained by Child Poverty Action Group under the Official Information Act reveal the Minister for Child Poverty Reduction, Louise Upston, is considering changing our country’s long-term child poverty reduction targets.
    Unlocking children and whanau from poverty is the right and compassionate thing to do. It is also a non-partisan issue. In 2018, in a moment of political harmony, National, Labour, NZ First and the Green parties supported the introduction of the Child Poverty Reduction Act. [1] In doing so they signed up to the ten year goal of halving child poverty by 2028. On the election trail Christopher Luxon recommitted National to the promise of halving child poverty by 2028.
    CPAG Chairperson Sally Ward states, ‘We have made a commitment as a country to end child poverty. We need the government to keep their promise and deliver the policies that will allow all children to reach their potential. We’ve made progress before, and we can do it again.’
    For example, between 2018 and 2022 New Zealand saw statistically significant reductions on 8 out of the 9 poverty measures. As officials noted, the reductions ‘exceeded the average reductions required to meet the ten-year targets’ partly because the previous government ‘delivered significant investments … aimed at lifting the incomes of low-income households as well as wider initiatives aimed at addressing the deeper causes of poverty’. [4]
    However, in April this year, the Minister was advised that the coalition-government’s policies were ‘likely to fall well short of the reductions required to meet the current ten-year targets’. Furthermore, the Minister was warned that other policy changes like those to the school lunch programme and public transport subsidies ‘could potentially have a negative impact on progress towards reducing material hardship’. [5]
    As previously reported, the Minister was presented with options that would put us back on track, but has so far, failed to pull those levers.
    CPAG Executive Officer Sarita Divis states, ‘We are seeking a commitment from the National-led coalition that we will retain our ten-year target of halving child poverty, and the government will do all in its power to ensure we meet those targets.’
    ‘Nicola Willis said she would resign if she failed to deliver the tax cuts she promised during the election. Well, the Prime Minister promised he would retain our 2028 goal on the election trail. Why are children and families experiencing the constraints of poverty being treated differently?’ Divis asks.
    Ward also encourages the New Zealand public to call on all politicians in parliament to hold each other to account on this issue of national significance.
    This November CPAG is launching a campaign called #PACT2028 that calls upon New Zealanders to show their support for children and whanau experiencing poverty and reminds our politicians of the pact they have made.
    ‘If we are to meet the 2028 target then we need politicians from across the political spectrum to once again come together and deliver on the promises they made.’ Divis states.
    BACKGROUND:
    In 2015 the then-National Government signed up to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals which included a commitment to halve poverty rates by 2030.
    In 2018 all parties in parliament, except ACT, supported the introduction of the Child Poverty Reduction Act, which included a ten-year goal to halve child poverty.
    Under the Act the Child Poverty Reduction Minister must set intermediate targets every three years that support the overall goal to halve poverty. Upston’s earlier decision to soften those targets means it will be harder to meet our long-term goal.
    OIA documents reveal that when the Minister lowered the third-intermediate targets, official assumed she was going to seek cross-party agreement to new ten-year targets. [6]
    The advice she received in March 2024 was to set the level of the ten-year targets in principle and then set the third intermediate targets. [7] This did not happen, instead she set the third intermediate targets alone and these did not align with the ten-year targets. [8]
    In March 2024, officials advised the Minister that ‘the current trajectory is off-track to meet the ten-year targets without significant and timely, further investment [which would be possible through income support increases through the tax and benefit system].’ Instead, the Minister’s chosen path was (in the officials’ words) likely to have a ‘modest, and more uncertain, impact on measured poverty rates’. [9]
    In June 2024, the Minister was provided with the following speaking points:
    – ‘There is currently a mismatch between the proposed third intermediate targets and the ten-year targets due to be achieved a year later’. [10]
    –  ‘I considered changing the ten-year targets alongside setting the third intermediate targets, but decided now was not the right time.’
    – ‘The proposed third intermediate targets are significantly higher than the ten-year targets due to be achieved in 2027/28, which is just a year after the third intermediate target period ends (2026/27). But I have set the intermediate targets in line with what I consider to be achievable in the current context. I am continuing to consider whether the ten-year targets need to be changed and when the right time to do this would be.’ [11]
    [1] ACT did not support the introduction of the Child Poverty Reduction Act.
    [2] REP/24/6/520
    [3] REP/24/6/520
    [4] DPMC-2023/24-1058
    [5] DPMC-2023/23-1058
    [6] DPMC-2023/24-976
    [7] DPMC-2023/24-920
    [8] REP/24/5/457
    [9] DPMC-2023/24-920
    [11] REP/24/6/520 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Culture – 20-year homecoming anniversary of NZ’s Unknown Warrior this Armistice Day

    Source: Ministry for Culture and Heritage

    Monday 11 November 2024 is an opportunity to remember the Armistice of 1918 that ended four horrific years of the First World War.
    This year’s national Armistice Day commemoration will also mark 20 years since our Unknown Warrior returned to New Zealand and was laid to rest at the National War Memorial in Wellington. Public are welcome to attend the ceremony that will take place at his Tomb.
    “The Tomb of the Unknown Warrior is a poignant symbol of remembrance. The soldier is one of 9000 New Zealanders killed overseas with no known graves and represents all New Zealanders who have died in wartime,” says Leauanae Laulu Mac Leauanae, Secretary and Chief Executive Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage.
    The Armistice is marked at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, commemorating the moment First World War hostilities ceased. It is a time to acknowledge the trauma and loss of that war, and all the subsequent conflicts and peacekeeping operations in which New Zealanders have been involved.
    “It is an opportunity to reflect on our shared war experiences with other nations and to reaffirm our hopes for global peace and security.
    “Armistice Day, and the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, represent what should never be forgotten, the sacrifices of the past in pursuit of a better future,” says Leauanae.
    Interview requests:
    Event information:
    Public who are interested in attending the Armistice Day commemoration should arrive at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park by 10:45am for a 10:55am start.
    In the event of bad weather, the ceremony will be held inside the Hall of Memories.
    About Armistice Day:
    The First World War ended with the signing of an armistice between Germany and the Allies on 11 November 1918.
    New Zealand’s Unknown Warrior:
    The Tomb of the Unknown Warrior contains the remains of an unidentified New Zealand soldier exhumed from Caterpillar Valley Cemetery in the Somme region of northern France.
    He was reinterred at the National War Memorial on 11 November 2004.
    The soldier is one of 9000 New Zealanders killed overseas with no known graves and represents all New Zealanders who have died in wartime.
    The tomb was designed by sculptor Kingsley Baird and is made of marble, granite, pounamu (greenstone) and bronze. The design was inspired by the Southern Cross constellation, the stars of which guide the warrior back home to New Zealand.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education and Media – News is good for Ara journalism grads – Ara

    Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury

    In 2024, the media landscape has been described as bleak, with major headlines focusing on the closure of Newshub and significant cutbacks for TVNZ.
    These developments have raised concerns about the future of traditional media roles, reflecting broader industry challenges associated with shifting audience preferences towards digital platforms and customised, OnDemand content.
    It’s prompted academics and former industry professionals now teaching at Ara’s New Zealand Broadcasting School (NZBS) to be inundated with interview requests about the supposed demise of journalism.
    But the current demand for NZBS journalism grads belies that narrative.
    Right now, the current cohort are securing industry placements that both complete their studies and springboard them into their media careers. And the NZBS reports that opportunities abound for their highly skilled multi-media professionals who are industry ready.
    Placement Lead Simon Tuck said it’s the time of year when “the rubber hits the road”.
    “This is the time our learners truly realise their dream of getting into their chosen field. In recent weeks we’ve been delighted to host industry here as they seek to recruit our talented learners into their many and varied businesses.”
    Tuck said mainstream outlets NZME, Sky, Stuff, TVNZ, Radio New Zealand, MediaWorks and Newstalk ZB as well as smaller or more niche outlets had been in touch about placements.
    “Stuff is an exciting new outlet for us. We’ve enjoyed having them on campus as we’ve built our relationship with them this year and in recent weeks they’ve interviewed 30 learners across our journalism, radio and screen streams for the multiple places they’re offering,” he said.
    “They’re looking for cross-stream capable journalists with strong audio and video skills. Their feedback was that they were ‘spoiled for choice’ and if they could take everyone, they would.”
    Second-year journalism tutor (and foundation Newshub staffer) Jeff Hampton’s long-held view that there would always be demand for quality content creators was ringing true.
    “Whether it’s video audio or written, journalism is simply being delivered in a different form. There’s always going to be a need for journalism and there will always be work for people who can produce quality content,” Hampton said.
    “We’re seeking to be ahead of trends here at Broadcasting School, adopting technologies like our Mojo kits, to ensure our graduates have relevant skillsets.
    NZBS Programme Leader Karen Neill said another example was the newly devised “Extravaganza”, this year’s final project for Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications learners.
    Industry experts had been involved alongside learners in the creation of the on-screen, on-air and online offering due to go live next month. Communications experts and content creators from several production houses and agencies had also had input.
    “Our learners are being challenged to come up with an audience-grabbing product that crosses all information platforms. Be it audio, visual, online or social media – developing this crossover skillset makes them equipped for everything,” Neill said.
    Industry guests will be invited to observe the live Freeview broadcast showcasing the learner-led approaches to news in a multimedia context.
    At the end of the Extravaganza season the next step for NZBS students will be their industry placements. Records show 93% of NZBS journalism graduates will continue in their chosen field following their first foray into the workplace.
    As he prepares to oversee the next cohort’s initial industry experience, Tuck sees no reason that will change.
    “We find that our industry partners who invest in the future of our graduates with paid placements do their all to look after them. That’s been the case even amid the challenges of 2024,” he said.
    “With all this in mind, I can only encourage anyone who has a desire to be among New Zealand’s next content creators to apply to study at Ara. We’re ready to foster their talent and continue to work to satisfy industry demand.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –