NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis’s Budget Proposal Preserves Education Funding, Makes Strategic Investments in Public Safety, Makes Government More Efficient & Protect Colorado’s Future

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, Governor Polis released the administration’s Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget proposal. This strategic budget proposal makes prudent investments that protect Colorado’s funding for education, continue investing in public safety, and prioritize fiscal responsibility to maintain financial reserves and ensure the state is prepared for future rainy days. 

    “We’ve made real progress on what matters most to Coloradans over the last five years, and this budget is about protecting those investments while ensuring that we are putting fiscal responsibility front and center, driving greater government efficiency, and continuing delivering for Coloradans. This budget reflects tighter budget conditions due to rapidly declining inflation, and I’m proud of the values and priorities represented here,” said Governor Jared Polis. 

    Since taking office in 2019, the Polis-Primavera administration has delivered on the priorities most important to Coloradans. This includes everything from delivering free, full-day kindergarten and universal preschool; cutting health care costs through Reinsurance, the Colorado Option, Prescription Drug Affordability Board, capping the cost of insulin and more; saving Coloradans money by cutting income, and property taxes; moving closer to the goal of 100% renewable energy while saving Coloradans money on their energy bills, and more. This work all continues. 

    This budget builds on those investments with continued support to help make Colorado one of the ten safest states. This includes: 
     

    • $15.0 million to support and sustain Colorado’s emergency and operational communications dispatching system, which is used by 90 percent of the state’s first responders. This will help first responders do their jobs effectively. 
    • $3.4 million to the Crime Prevention Through Safer Streets program. This grant program supports local governments and law enforcement entities in making physical infrastructure and security improvements like improved lighting, which can reduce crime and make neighborhoods safer. 
    • $1.7 million to increase the bed cap for youth detention to reflect increasing demands across the state and provide more services for at-risk youth. 
    • $1.8 million in repurposed funding for Colorado Youth Detention Continuum (CYDC) programs to provide community-based placements for at-risk youth. 
    • $2.0 million to the Youth Delinquency Prevention and Intervention program, which supports the collaborative work of community-based organizations and local governments to reduce crime among youth. 
    • $0.9 million for legislation to address the penalty for firearm theft, the connection between motor vehicle theft and firearm possession, and establish an entity to research and make recommendations on criminal justice policy. 
    • $7.6 million to expand capacity at the Colorado Mental Health Hospital in Fort Logan for competency restoration, which will accommodate more individuals in the criminal justice system to gain competency and proceed to trial more quickly. 
    • $6.1 million for Community Corrections to expand the capacity at facilities often called “halfway houses,” which are an effective and less expensive alternative to traditional incarceration facilities. 
    • $0.6 million to support crime victims by investing in the Address Confidentiality Program resources. This increase in state investment will backfill declining federal funds so that DPA can continue this program to protect survivors of stalking, sexual assault, and domestic violence. 

    This budget also prioritizes education funding to ensure the success of students and educators, including: 

    • $115 million from the General Fund to bolster Total Program funding for education in an effort to preserve a significant balance in the State Education Fund to ensure the state never has to go back to a Budget Stabilization Factor. 
    • Proposed changes that move Colorado to the best-practice of a current-year enrollment funding method. Adopting a method based on current-year enrollment more accurately represents the current population of students to better target resources to where kids are. Only nine other states employ a method that averages enrollment over multiple years. 
    • $13.5 million in categorical funding to specific groups of students and student needs, including special education, transportation, English language proficiency, and career and technical education. 
    • $3.4 million in repurposed funding to provide greater support to young students with reading deficiencies (K-3) using evidence-based interventions. 
    • $2.0 million to provide support and new learning opportunities to students attending turnaround and priority improvement schools.
    • $7.8 million placeholder for Universal Preschool reflecting anticipated Proposition EE and General Fund revenue. 
    • $3.6 million funding increase to support Early Intervention, which provides developmental supports such as speech therapy to children from birth through age two with developmental delays. 

    Fiscal responsibility is also front and center in this budget with a proposal to maintain a 15 percent reserve level in FY 2025-26. This was made possible by difficult decisions and balancing actions made to balance the budget and protect funding for critical investments in education, public safety and health care. 

    This budget also requests a number of transfers, efficiencies, and other policy changes to slow the growth in spending and limit spending to create space for critical budget needs. 

    In addition to these priorities, the budget also makes critical investments in economic growth, housing, child care, higher education, health care and Medicaid funding, support for counties and benefits administration to help connect Coloradans to services faster, support for homelessness, expanding behavioral health care, in Colorado’s state employees, and investments to help Colorado celebrate its 150th birthday and America’s 250th birthday. 

    In total, this budget requests total expenditures of $46.1 billion, including $17.8 billion General Fund. Read the full budget letter here and view the slide deck here. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Landmarks to be Lit Teal for Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that 14 New York State landmarks will be lit teal on Friday, Nov. 1 to mark the beginning of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.

    “Alzheimer’s is a debilitating and brutal disease, and, like many of you, it is one that I have a personal connection with,” Governor Hochul said. “I take Alzheimer’s Awareness Month as the time to reflect on the struggles my fellow New Yorkers have faced when it comes to watching a family member or a loved one battle an incredibly heartbreaking diagnosis. I am remembering my grandfather this month as well as all of the New Yorkers and their families who are currently battling an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.”

    The landmarks that will be lit include:

    • Albany International Airport Gateway
    • Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
    • Empire State Plaza
    • Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
    • Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
    • Kosciuszko Bridge
    • Moynihan Train Hall
    • MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
    • Niagara Falls
    • One World Trade Center
    • State Education Building
    • State Fairgrounds – Main Gate & Expo Center
    • The “Franklin D. Roosevelt” Mid-Hudson Bridge
    • The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building

    The Office of the Aging reported — according to New York State data shared by the Coalition of New York State Alzheimer’s Association Chapters — that more than 426,000 New Yorkers aged 65 or older have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The 2024 New York Alzheimer’s statistics, which includes caregiving, workforce and healthcare data, can be found here.

    New York State is proud to have a network of resources for patients suffering from Alzheimer’s and their families. The New York State Department of Health outlines a map of counties across New York State which includes a list of Caregiver Support Programs and Centers for Excellence in Alzheimer’s Disease in each respective county. This list can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Rubio Lead Bipartisan Letter Urging Administration to Redesignate The Houthis As A Foreign Terrorist Organization

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) led a bipartisan letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken urging him to redesignate the Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). As the Houthis, backed by Iran’s regime, continue to escalate their attacks in the Middle East, this designation would impose meaningful costs on the Houthis and help limit their ability to commit acts of terrorism. Both senators have been outspoken in their strong support for this redesignation. They were joined by Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Rick Scott (R-FL), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN). 
    “Since the misguided revocation of the Houthis’ FTO designation in 2021, the Houthis, backed by the Iranian regime, have only escalated their efforts to destabilize the Middle East,” wrote the Senators. “These actions include firing drones and missiles against Israel that have killed civilians, disrupting international shipping by targeting commercial vessels, directly attacking U.S. forces, and obstructing the delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians in Yemen.”
    “Relisting the Houthis as an FTO would make individuals or entities providing material support to the group liable for criminal prosecution and considered Tier III terrorists subject to sanctions and a travel ban, open up economic tools to target the Houthis’ weapons procurement networks and manufacturing capabilities, provide a legal right of action to U.S. victims of Houthi terrorism, and ban Houthi members from obtaining a visa or entering the United States,” they continued. “We therefore urge you to immediately restore the designation of the Houthis as an FTO, which would enable the United States to better target the group’s assets and financial support and hold the group accountable for committing terrorism against the United States, Israel, and our partners and allies throughout the region.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been a leader in the fight to counter Iran’s destabilizing actions in the Middle East and protect U.S. national security. Last month, she joined a bipartisan letter calling on the administration to ensure Iran’s regime cannot benefit from the petroleum trade. Senator Rosen introduced bipartisan legislation to counter space threats posed by Iran and called on the Biden Administration to refreeze $6 billion in Iranian assets held in Qatar following Hamas’ October 7th terrorist attack on Israel. She also helped introduce the bipartisan Solidify Iran Sanctions Act to make the Iran Sanctions of 1996 permanent, allowing the President to impose sanctions on Iran’s energy sector.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cardin, Grassley Urge President Biden to Raise U.S.-China Adoption Cases with Beijing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maryland Ben Cardin
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging continued advocacy on behalf of American families navigating the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) recent decision to discontinue intercountry adoptions for those without Chinese familial ties. U.S. Representatives Erin Houchin (IN-09) and Val Hoyle (OR-04) co-led this bipartisan letter, which secured 103 bicameral signatories.
    On August 28th, 2024, the PRC ended its foreign adoption program, four years after the country suspended the program during the COVID-19 pandemic. The lawmakers expressed concern for the adoptive children that remain in the PRC, many with health conditions, who were already paired with families in the United States, as well as for the American families who have been devasted by the announcement.
    “We express our concern for the vulnerable children in the PRC who have been matched with a permanent and loving home but remain separated from their prospective adoptive families,” wrote the lawmakers. “We request that you act in the best interest of these children and families by urging the PRC to fulfill and uphold the commitment the country has made.”
    “The American families that have been matched with their adoptive children are prepared to meet their long-term medical and emotional needs, and to give them the love and nurturing they need,” continued the lawmakers. “Many of these children know that they have a home, which in many cases have been prepared for their arrival since the families were notified that they were matched and moving forward with the adoption process.”
    Full text of the letter is available HERE and provided below.
    Dear President Biden,
    We write to you on behalf of hundreds of American families who have been left in a state of uncertainty about the completion of their adoption from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) following its announcement that as of August 28, 2024, foreign adoptions from the country will no longer proceed. Likewise, we express our concern for the vulnerable children in the PRC who have been matched with a permanent and loving home but remain separated from their prospective adoptive families. We request that you act in the best interest of these children and families by urging the PRC to fulfill and uphold the commitment the country has made.
    The Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Convention) concluded in 1993, with several objects to ensure that the best interests and rights of the child are recognized and safeguarded in international law. 1 The United States and the PRC are parties to the Convention and up until the COVID-19 pandemic, have collaborated successfully to work towards permanency for over 82,000 children in the PRC.2 Roughly three-hundred children in the PRC, many of whom have medical and emotional needs, have been matched with an adoptive family in the U.S. in accordance with the Convention. Yet, the PRC appears to be going back on its commitment to these families.
    The American families that have been matched with their adoptive children are prepared to meet their long-term medical and emotional needs, and to give them the love and nurturing they need. While these families have waited for years for their adoptions to be completed, they have become deeply bonded with their adoptive children. Many of these children know that they have a home, which in many cases have been prepared for their arrival since the families were notified that they were matched and moving forward with the adoption process.
    We appreciate the efforts of the U.S. Department of State to seek written clarity on the PRC’s end to international adoptions and unite these families. That said, our understanding is that the policy decision was made at top levels within the PRC, necessitating your direct intervention. We believe that the adoptions of children who have already been matched with an adoptive family in accordance with the convention should be allowed to be completed. According to a notice sent on October 25, 2024, by the Department of State to adoption service providers, we understand that the PRC may be continuing to process intercountry adoptions for families from other countries. Our hope is that American families will be provided the same opportunity and that the PRC’s participation in the Convention is not going to end with heartbreak for families who won’t ever be united with their adoptive child, and with vulnerable children left without the loving home that they knew they had. Your leadership could be life altering for these families.
    Thank you for your attention to our correspondence. We hope that our plea for the families and children that have been matched is well received and that you will act to ensure the United States is dedicated to seeing that the commitment made to these families is fulfilled.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: What’s UNDOF? Why UN peacekeepers patrol the Israel-Syria border

    Source: United Nations 4

    By Eileen Travers

    Peace and Security

    More than 1,100 UN peacekeepers are currently deployed in the Golan, a demilitarised zone along the Israel-Syria border at what is a tense and dangerous time in the history of the region. But, why are the Blue Helmets there?

    One of the UN’s longest-standing peacekeeping missions – the UN Disengagement Observer Force, known by its acronym UNDOF – began more than a half century ago when the 1973 Middle East crisis erupted.

    The Agreement on Disengagement between Israeli and Syrian forces was concluded which provided for an area of separation and for two equal zones of limited forces and armaments on both sides of the area. UNDOF was established to supervise its implementation.

    Here’s what you need to know:

    Forging peace to end a crisis

    On the heels of the Israeli-Egyptian war in 1973, the situation in the Israel-Syria sector became increasingly unstable in March 1974 as clashes intensified.

    UNDOF was established in late May 1974 and by 3 June, the Secretary-General had appointed an interim commander of UNDOF who arrived in Damascus, Syria’s capital, that very day.

    The mission operates with the same mandate today.

    UNDOF

    A peacekeeper greets the students of the Faouar School in Syria. (file)

    What does UNDOF do?

    UNDOF’s mandate remains largely unchanged since 1974:

    • Maintaining the ceasefire between Israel and Syria
    • Supervising the disengagement of Israeli and Syrian forces
    • Supervising the areas of separation and limitation, as provided in the May 1974 Agreement on Disengagement.

    Every six months, the Security Council reviews and has extended the force’s mandate, which is due to expire on 30 June 2025.

    UNDOF has two base camps. Its headquarters at Camp Faouar handles logistics and the force operates patrols by day and night, intervening whenever any military personnel enters or try to operate in the area of separation.

    The force also addresses mine and explosive remnant of war clearance and has instituted a security and maintenance programme in the area of separation to identify and mark all minefields.

    UNDOF is one of three UN peacekeeping missions in the region, charged with monitoring ceasefires and peace agreements. The other two are the UN Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), established in 1948, and the UN Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which has been operational since 1978.

    UN Photo/Yutaka Nagata

    Members of the UNDOF Austrian Battalion Ski Patrol on Mount Hermon in 1975. (file)

    What’s the area of separation?

    The area of separation is a demilitarised zone and measures approximately 80 km long, varying in width from 10 km in the centre to less than one km in the extreme south, with hilly terrain dominated in the north by Mount Hermon.

    The highest permanently staffed UN position, it sits at an altitude of 2,814 metres, where it often snows and peacekeepers conduct patrols thanks to specialised winter season equipment.

    The area is inhabited and has historically been policed by the Syrian authorities. No military forces other than UNDOF are permitted to operate inside of this area.

    There is also an area of limitation on both sides, where limits are placed on the number and types of military forces and equipment allowed by the parties.

    UNDOF monitors these restrictions through fortnightly inspections of the military positions of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Syrian security forces carried out by the Observer Group Golan, comprised of military observers from UNTSO.

    Check out UNDOF’s latest deployment map here.

    UN Photo/Yutaka Nagata

    UNDOF officers patrol the Golan Heights in 1974. (file)

    Main challenges in the current Middle East crisis

    Over the years, UNDOF has recorded ceasefire violations and worked with Israeli and Syrian authorities to resolve them.

    As tensions rose last year during the war in Gaza, a missile killed 12 people in the Golan and recent heightened tensions in the area of separation emerged with Israel Defense Forces (IDF) moving into the area as Syria’s new de facto authorities seized power in early December.

    UNDOF peacekeepers, supported by UNTSO observers, remain at their pre-December 2024 positions and continue key tasks such as monitoring and patrolling the ceasefire line, according to UNDOF interim head Major General Patrick Gauchat, who briefed the Security Council in mid-January.

    Residents of the Golan have also expressed concerns to UNDOF, calling for the IDF to leave their villages amid reports of searches and arrests of their relatives. The IDF’s presence and roadblocks have also severely impacted UNDOF’s operational capacity, reducing its daily vehicle convoys and compromising its freedom of movement.

    UN Photo/Gernot Maier

    An UNDOF observation post in the Golan Heights, Syria. (file)

    Adapting to new realities

    In the face of these current operational challenges, the mission has adapted its approach.

    Right now, it has increased weekly patrols from 10 to 40 and addressed such urgent safety concerns as the neutralisation of unexploded ordnance in public areas.

    Meanwhile, efforts are underway to establish stable communication channels with the de facto authorities, acting mission chief Mr. Gauchat explained.

    But, concerns remain.

    “It is imperative that the UN peacekeepers are allowed to carry out their mandated tasks without obstruction,” Mr. Gauchat told the 15-member Security Council on 17 January, urging all parties to maintain the ceasefire and respect the terms of the 1974 agreement. “We count on the continued support of Member States to return to full mandate implementation.”

    Can UNDOF use force?

    Yes. UNDOF peacekeepers are authorised to use force in self-defence or to defend UN personnel, facilities and equipment.

    UNDOF operates under Chapter VI of the UN Charter, which emphasises monitoring, observation and facilitating the implementation of peace agreements.

    Find out more about UNDOF here.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: CFA members receive Australian Fire Service Medals

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Six highly regarded CFA members have been named as this year’s Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) recipients, in recognition of their outstanding service to CFA and their communities.

    The AFSM is the highest award for a member of an Australian fire service and as part of the Australia Day honours list, is awarded yearly to a select group of dedicated fire service members.

    The six members have been recognised for their exceptional bravery, expertise, and leadership, leading their regions through major fire and flood emergencies such as Black Saturday, the 2019/20 bushfire season, and more recently the 2024 Grampians bushfire, all while imparting modern and innovative knowledge towards CFA’s fleet, training and equipment to enhance capabilities.

    The 2025 CFA Australian Fire Service Medal recipients are:

    Known for her proactive, solutions-focused approach, Diana Billingsley is willing to roll her sleeves up to help drive positive change and support volunteer training and development. Over her 20 years as a firefighter with Boolarra Fire Brigade, Diana has attended more than 200 incidents and was a crew leader during the 2009 Black Saturday and 2019/20 bushfires. She is now the Deputy Group Officer and Group Training Officer for the Merton Group.

    Fiona Burns has served CFA for more than 21 years at Launching Place and Hillcrest brigades and is currently the Group Officer of Yarra Valley Group. Fiona has distinguished herself as an extremely capable and highly sought after member of incident management teams as a planning officer during large and prolonged, multi-agency campaign fires in 2013, 2019-20 and again in 2024 in Gippsland and the Grampians.

    For more than 30 years, Mark King has exemplified the spirit of CFA with Yallourn North Fire Brigade. Mark currently serves as the brigade’s secretary, a role he took on after stepping down as Captain in June 2023 following nearly 17 years in leadership. Mark has held several additional critical leadership roles, including strike team leader, sector commander, divisional commander and health team leader.

    As a valued member of the firefighting community, Tim Smith has dedicated more than 42 years of volunteer service to Hurstbridge Fire Brigade, holding various leadership positions including Lieutenant and Captain during his tenure. As CFA’s Manager Fleet Operations, Tim has been instrumental in modernising and maintaining the CFA fleet, with his innovative approach and expertise significantly enhancing operational capability, safety and performance.

    Lisa Hicks has been a highly respected, dedicated member of CFA for more than 49 years, with 30 of those supporting incident control centres as a crew leader and public information officer. Lisa has served in a range of brigade roles for Narre Warren North, Pakenham Upper and the Cardinia group. From operational firefighter, to secretary, community safety coordinator, general firefighter assessor and full time Brigade Administrative Support Officer at District 8.

    Mark Gunning’s more than four decades of remarkable service to CFA, Fire Rescue Victoria and the broader fire and emergency services spans frontline response, incident management, fire operations, flood response and crisis leadership – all of which have had a lasting impact on the safety, wellbeing and recovery of communities across the state. His guidance has been pivotal during Black Saturday, the Black Summer bushfires, 2011 and 2022 Victorian Floods, the Victorian COVID-19 Response and most recently the 2024 Grampians bushfires. 

    CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan congratulated the six highly respected CFA AFSM recipients for their invaluable service during their many decades of service.

    “CFA is incredibly proud of its volunteers and staff, and it is great to see our members recognised with the highest fire service medal in the country,” Jason said.

    “We are fortunate as an organisation to have so many incredible people who devote a large part of their life to the protection of lives and property in their communities, and I thank them for their dedication.”

    CFA would also like to recognise AFSM recipient and Fire Rescue Victoria Senior Station Officer Benjamin Schmidt, who has also contributed significantly to CFA and Victoria’s fire services.

    Another three former and current CFA members were awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), Gwendoline Blandthorn, Neville Seymour and John Wheal.

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recovering from Storm Éowyn

    Source: Scottish Government

    First Minister thanks people for patience as recovery operation continues.

    A further meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGoRR) has been chaired by First Minister John Swinney to coordinate the recovery response to Storm Éowyn.  

    Due to the severity and impact of the storm, there is significant disruption to parts of the country. This includes around 35,000 properties without power and continued transport disruption with road closures and rail, bus, flight and ferry cancellations. It is expected to take some time to get all services fully restored.   

    Utility companies, national agencies and local authorities are working at pace to restore power and assess the impact, including responding to significant damage, removing fallen trees and debris, to ensure services can fully resume in the coming days.   

    The First Minister joined a Ministerial COBR meeting chaired by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden earlier this evening. The First Minister also spoke with the Prime Minister today to discuss the ongoing response to Storm Éowyn and the impact on Scotland.

    First Minister John Swinney said:   

    “I want to thank everyone who followed Police Scotland advice not to travel and express my sincere gratitude to the emergency services and to those working in the public, private and third sector who are continuing to support people and communities across the country.   

     “With yellow warnings in place for wind, snow and ice over the weekend, it is clear the severity of Storm Éowyn will continue into next week and this will have an impact on the speed at which utilities and local services can fully resume.  

     “Given the damage and disruption facing the network across the United Kingdom, utility companies are under significant pressure and are working in challenging conditions. I have stressed the importance of getting power restored as quickly as is practically possible and have been assured that assessments are being made at pace to ensure power is restored to affected properties in Scotland as soon as possible. Alongside our partners, Ministers are being updated regularly and ensuring all steps are being taken. 

    “I am pleased at the progress made to restore power to many communities over the course of today however a significant number of properties remain without power. Utility companies are continuing to provide support to customers, including ensuring provisions are in place for the most vulnerable.   

    “I want to thank people for their continued patience and encourage them to take extra care and look out for each other, particularly those who are supporting vulnerable neighbours and family members.  

    “As we look ahead to Monday, partners are working at pace to ensure services can resume next week. Local authorities – who are responsible for school closures – will be working to ensure all buildings meet the required safety standards to reopen safely to pupils. We would expect decisions on schools to be clearly communicated by local authorities to parents, pupils and staff, with as much advance warning as possible, and would encourage all parents to follow that advice. 

     “People should prepare for continued disruption, especially in areas that have been impacted by a loss of power, and I encourage everyone to follow advice being issued by local authorities, as well as continuing to follow updates from national agencies.”  

    Background  

    • SGoRR was attended by the Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop, Justice and Home Affairs Secretary Angela Contance, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Neil Gray, Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth, Rural Affairs and Islands Secretary Mairi Gougeon, Acting Net Zero and Energy Secretary Gillian Martin and Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture Angus Robertson. They were joined by representatives from the Met Office, Police Scotland, Transport Scotland, SEPA, transport and utilities companies and resilience partners.
    • The latest Met Office weather warnings are available on the Met Office website.
       
    • Flood alerts are issued by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency and can be viewed on their website. 
    • Advice on preparing for severe weather can be found on the Ready Scotland website.
    • Follow Traffic Scotland for the most up-to-date information on the trunk roads throughout the warning periods, via their website, social media channels and radio broadcasts. Updates on ScotRail services and road conditions are available online. 
    • To report a power cut or damage to electricity power lines or substations call the SP Networks national Freephone number 105. More information on what to do during a storm can also be found on SP Energy Website.
    • During a power cut firefighters can be called to fires started by candles or portable heaters. For advice on how to stay safe during a power cut visit Scottish Fire and Rescue Website.   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Supports Noem Confirmation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement after the Senate confirmed, by a vote of 59-34, Kristi Noem to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS):
    “The previous Administration’s open-border policies exacerbated the crisis at our southern border, bringing in record numbers of illegal crossings in the last four-year span.  Blocking the flow of illegal immigration was one of the top voting priorities for millions of Americans, including Idahoans.  Kristi Noem has demonstrated exceptional leadership in providing resources to stop the crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border.  She will streamline functions at DHS to bring public security back to the forefront of the Department’s activities, secure our nation from hostile threats and expeditiously provide appropriate disaster assistance where needed.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Votes Against Kristi Noem for Secretary of Homeland Security 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) voted against confirming South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as the next Secretary of Homeland Security. Senator Rosen met with Governor Noem earlier this month and strongly opposed the Trump Administration’s plans to carry out mass deportations. She also emphasized the importance of protecting Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipients.
    “Nevada is the proud home of countless law-abiding immigrants looking for a better future and making contributions to our state and our economy. We also have thousands of DACA and TPS recipients who deserve a permanent solution that provides them peace of mind and a pathway to citizenship,” said Senator Rosen. “The Trump Administration has already taken shameful actions to try to eliminate automatic citizenship of children born here to immigrant parents, target sensitive locations like schools and churches, and start to carry out mass deportations. I voted against Kristi Noem for Secretary of Homeland Security because I believe she will take actions that will hurt families in my state. I’ll keep fighting back against the Trump Administration’s actions that negatively impact Nevadans.”
    Senator Rosen has been outspoken in her opposition to mass deportation, and her strong support for DACA and TPS recipients and their families. Earlier this year, she applauded the extension of TPS status for immigrants from El Salvador and Venezuela, after calling on the Biden Administration to continue to protect displaced Salvadorans. She has also raised concerns over the significant application delays impacting DACA recipients, and gave a floor speech urging her Senate colleagues to take immediate action to permanently protect Dreamers, while simultaneously continuing to work to pass comprehensive immigration reform that provides a pathway to citizenship.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins’ Statement on Confirmation of Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued a statement following her vote to confirm Governor Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security.

    “Our nation is currently facing serious threats on multiple fronts, including at our northern and southern borders. Mexican drug cartels, especially, are using the chaos at the southern border to facilitate their drug and human trafficking operations and to flood our nation with fentanyl and other illegal drugs. As Governor of South Dakota, Kristi Noem understands that what happens at the southern border has repercussions for communities all over the United States, including here in Maine. I support her nomination because we need to secure our borders and stem the flow of fentanyl that is destroying lives across our country.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Respected leader honoured with AFSM

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Mark Gunning AFSM

    Mark Gunning’s more than four decades of service to CFA, Fire Rescue Victoria and the broader fire and emergency services is testament to his commitment to the protection and wellbeing of all Victorians.

    Mark has been recognised for his dedication and contribution with an Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) in today’s Australia Day Honours. 

    With more than 44 years of firefighting and emergency management service under his belt, Mark Gunning AFSM has been a driving force in the protection of communities throughout Victoria and beyond. His remarkable contributions span frontline response, incident management, fire operations, flood response and crisis leadership – all of which have had a lasting impact on the safety, wellbeing and recovery of communities across Victoria. 

    Although he stems from a family of CFA volunteers, Mark said he was inspired to join Mortlake Fire Brigade in 1980 as a teenager after working on different farms in the area and getting a taste for firefighting.  

    “Back in those days you would work on people’s farms during the day and proactively burn with local landowners to reduce fire risk during the evening,” Mark said. “That experience, together with that family connection, very much shaped me and encouraged my long-term involvement in CFA and broader emergency services.” 

    Mark attended when the largest Victorian Ash Wednesday fires erupted at Ballangeich-Cudgee on 16 February 1983 and a move to North Geelong Brigade (now Corio) in 1985 saw him on the frontline during the Little River fire. He credits this experience for further teaching him important skills and knowledge about firefighting and fire behaviour.  

    “Ash Wednesday had a huge impact on me as a volunteer, especially being local to the area and knowing so many of the people who had been affected,” Mark said. 

    In 1988, Mark joined CFA as a career firefighter, working in various locations across the state including Hamilton, Dandenong, Bairnsdale, Casterton and Horsham as well as CFA’s Fiskville training ground and CFA headquarters. During this time, he has contributed significantly as an operational leader, working his way through the ranks to his current role as Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO) Regional Commander based in West Region, seconded to CFA from Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV). 

    A respected figure in the emergency management community, Mark’s innovative and inspirational leadership has been pivotal during major emergencies such as the 2009 bushfires, St Patrick’s Day peat fires, Black Summer bushfires 2019-20, the 2011 and 2022 Victorian Floods, and the Victorian COVID-19 response.  

    Mark is well known for his commitment to ensuring communities are not only protected during emergencies and supported in their recovery but are better prepared for future fires and other emergencies. Most recently he was an Incident Controller at Horsham Incident Control Centre, managing response to the Grampians complex fires which started in December 2024 and burned for three weeks. Mark’s leadership has also extended beyond Victoria’s borders, and he has provided invaluable support during operations in New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland.  

    “Out of all the fires and events I’ve experienced, the Linton fire, Black Saturday and the St Patrick’s Day peat fires of 2018 have all stayed with me for different reasons,” he said. 

    “The fire at Linton on 2 December 1998 was my worst day at CFA. You never want to be in the position where you have to look someone in the eye and tell them their child is not coming home.  

    “Black Saturday and the peat fires, in particular, highlighted how important those connections with our communities are in times of emergency.  

    “You spend weeks building relationships with members of communities; you get to know them and their lives, and they start to see you as one of their own. I took what I learned at those fires about working with communities into the approach to the recent Grampians fires.”

    In addition to the Australian Fire Service Medal announced today, Mark has received the National Medal (two clasps) and a National Emergency Medal and clasps for his roles on Black Saturday and for the 2019-20 Bushfires. He is also a Life Member of CFA. 

    “I am humbled to receive an AFSM in today’s honours,” Mark said. “It’s just nice to know that someone thought that much of me to nominate me. 

    “Working in the emergency services is a privilege in many ways. We are there helping people on their worst day. But the challenges you face, you can’t do on your own, and that’s when fellow agencies whether local, interstate or international are there to support you. The value of teamwork in our sector is the best thing you can take away.” 

    Submitted by CFA Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: CFA volunteer and educator awarded ASFM

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Lisa Hicks ASFM

    CFA firefighter Lisa Hicks was recognised in today’s Australia Day Honours, receiving an Australian Fire Service Medal for her 49 years of dedicated service to CFA and her community.  

    CFA firefighter Lisa Hicks was recognised in today’s Australia Day Honours, receiving an Australian Fire Service Medal for her 49 years of dedicated service to CFA and her community.   

    Lisa Hicks has been a dedicated member of CFA for almost 50 years. During this time, she has served in a range of roles in Narre Warren North and Pakenham Upper brigades and supporting roles in Cardinia Group.    

    She is currently the secretary and community safety coordinator of Pakenham Upper brigade and group community safety coordinator and is employed full-time as a brigade administrative support officer (BASO). She has supported incident control centres (ICC) and incident management teams for 30 years as a public information officer and is an endorsed crew leader and is still operational.  

    “When I’m in an ICC, I know what the firefighters are facing and that helps me to understand what they need to make informed decisions. And as a crew leader, I see it through the eyes of a firefighter on the ground and know what I need from an ICC,” Lisa said.    

    Lisa also delivered the Fire Safe Kids Program to local schools and kindergartens for the past 20 years and is involved in a working group to update the program.  

    “Fire Safe Kids has been an amazing journey,” Lisa said. “Although each class is different, the children are like sponges absorbing the information. When you deliver the information in a fun way, they learn better. I recently worked with all the schools in Cardinia and asked the kids to do a home fire safety plan and make sure they have working smoke detectors.”  

    She was instrumental in establishing and maintaining the Cardinia Group compressed air breathing apparatus refilling station. She supervised the build and testing of the facility, development of documentation and the training of all refilling operators.    

    In her role as a BASO she has supported brigades across the Cardinia Group to recruit new members over many years. She has a strong understanding of the operational and non-operational requirements of brigades.   

    As a dedicated firefighter for almost 50 years, Lisa has made a significant contribution on the frontline of many major fires, including the 1983 Ash Wednesday fire at Upper Beaconsfield. When the fire started in Belgrave South, she responded on Narre Warren North brigade’s tanker and was on one of the first trucks on scene. Despite having only just married Steve Hicks, captain of Narre Warren North, she spent the next fortnight working long hours on opposite shifts to her husband. She fought through all stages of this major fire, including the response, containment, blacking out, patrolling, and supporting the local community, brigade, family, and friends.  

    “As we headed to Belgrave South, the column of smoke just kept growing – it looked bad. None of us had experienced anything like it before. It seemed to change direction at will,” Lisa said.   

    “It was a hot, windy day and nothing was going to stop the fire. We couldn’t hold it, so we were sent further along to try to get ahead of it. Unfortunately, that was impossible so we just did what we could, wherever we could. We never stopped fighting until late that night when we changed crews.  

    “Through the heartache of the loss of fellow firefighters, we took comfort that this was a turning point for CFA to make sure it was never repeated. We now have crew protection, diesel pumps, better radio communication, strike teams and incident control centres.”  

    Another catastrophic fire, the Bunyip Ridge fire, ripped through the Cardinia Group area in February 2009 following a lightning strike three days earlier. In the lead-up to the fire, Lisa supported key district pre-planning meetings and activities to prepare for the extreme weather.  She ensured the Pakenham ICC was fully operational and Cardinia Group brigades were fully stocked and prepared. Over the next few weeks, Lisa worked continuously, undertaking fire brigade activities wearing her two hats – that of a CFA employee and CFA volunteer. Perhaps the most important support she gave was offering a friendly face and focusing on the wellbeing of our brigade leaders and volunteers.   

    On 1 March 2019, multiple lightning strikes started fires across the Bunyip State Park and Gembrook areas. Over the next five days, four fires combined to form one large blaze with the Bunyip fires burning until the end of the month. Through March, Lisa was in high demand by her brigades and the Cardinia Group. She was constantly picking up and dropping off replacement turnout gear, maps, incident action plans, water, foam, and countless other items to brigades and the divisional command point.   

    Lisa’s husband Steve received an AFSM last year.  

    “It’s amazing that both Steve and I have now received this award. To be nominated for an AFSM was an honour, and I’m even more honoured to receive one,” Lisa said.  

    Submitted by CFA Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Cotton Statement on CIA Findings on Covid Origins

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353January 25, 2025
    Chairman Cotton Statement on CIA Findings on Covid Origins
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, released the following statement about the CIA’s findings on the origins of the Coronavirus:
    “I’ve said from the beginning that Covid likely originated in the Wuhan labs. Communist China covered it up and the liberal media covered for them. I’m pleased the CIA concluded in the final days of the Biden administration that the lab-leak theory is the most plausible explanation of Covid’s origins and I commend Director Ratcliffe for fulfilling his promise to release this conclusion. Now, the most important thing is to make China pay for unleashing a plague on the world.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Volunteer leader awarded AFSM medal

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    CFA volunteer Fiona Burns

    CFA volunteer Fiona Burns was recognised in today’s Australia Day Honours, receiving an Australian Fire Service Medal for her more than 21 years of dedicated service to CFA and her community. 

    Fiona Burns has been an inspirational member of CFA for more than 21 years, serving as a member of two brigades (Launching Place and Hillcrest) and is the current group officer of Yarra Valley Group. 

    She has served with distinction as an officer of her brigade and group for 19 of her 21 years of CFA service.  

    Fiona has distinguished herself through her outstanding ability and reputation as an extremely capable member of incident management teams. As a result, she was chosen to take on Level 3 planning officer role in incident control centres (ICC) at large and prolonged, multi-agency campaign fires in 2013, 2019-20 and again in 2024 in Gippsland and the Grampians.

    In addition, she has represented CFA internationally as a planning officer undertaking two five-week stints to support fire suppression in Canada in 2014 and 2015. She has been a Level 3 accredited planning officer for 10 years. 

    “I love the planning officer role because I can take my fireground skills and use them in ICCs to support our firefighters on the front line,” Fiona said. “It’s a demanding role but I really enjoy the challenges.” 

    Fiona is also an experienced fireground commander where she identifies emerging operational leaders with whom she willingly shares her significant experience.  

    Her extensive fire management experience and analytical ability were influential during the successful transition of the former Launching Place and Woori Yallock brigades into one new brigade – Hillcrest Fire Brigade – in 2007.

    As brigade captain, Fiona was responsible for driving the creation of an emergency services hub with Ambulance Victoria, co-locating an ambulance at Hillcrest Fire Station to allow better medical response for the Yarra Valley and surrounds.   

    Fiona was a foundation mentor in CFA’s statewide Women In Leadership mentoring program, and she is still involved in this important initiative. She is also part of the District 13 Captains’ Leadership Mentoring Program, providing guidance to new captains about leadership and administration. These programs align with Fiona’s leadership philosophy.

    “Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors and supporters who share their knowledge and experiences with me, and I believe that it’s my responsibility to do the same for emerging leaders.

    ”By sharing my experiences and insights, I hope to inspire others to realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to CFA and beyond.

    “I gain as much from the people I mentor as they get from me. It’s not a one-way street. 

    As a mentor, Fiona encourages diversity and opportunity to the women of CFA and is helping to future-proof CFA by developing a pool of future leaders to replace those currently holding leadership roles.  

    She has been a CFA trainer and assessor since 2013 and continues to combine her practical skills and knowledge to deliver training in District 13 on General Firefighter, Low Structure and Introduction to AIIMS courses, as well as leading skills maintenance and specialised bushfire training for brigades in the group and other local brigades.   

    Fiona has made significant contributions to community safety and education. She is a founding committee member of the Teenage Road Information Program (TRIP) and has been the chair of TRIP for the past six years. TRIP is presented by people who have lived the experience of a road crash. It includes all the emergency services agencies who attend a crash and have to deal with the resulting devastation. It’s a hard-hitting program that’s delivered in a funeral home.  

    “TRIP is my passion. It is primarily aimed at 16 to 25-year-olds because statistics show they have more crashes,” Fiona said. 

    “The program is designed to be thought-provoking and initiate conversations between mates and families about making good decisions while driving. There are consequences to decisions that drivers make. For every road fatality about 800 people are impacted.”   

    Along with TRIP, Fiona is an ongoing advocate of creating links to local Yarra Valley community groups that has ensured the development of more integrated emergency preparedness and response planning processes between Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria, Victoria State Emergency Service, local government, community groups and the local schools.  

    Post Black Saturday, Fiona recognised that some lives were lost by people who tried to stay to rescue their pets. The Grab and Go Pet Bag concept was developed as a result of a local school art competition. The bags, which are made from reusable calico, include a checklist for pet owners who need to evacuate.

    “It was an absolute delight for me to present a framed Grab and Go Pet Bag to the winning student at their school assembly.

    “I want to take moment to acknowledge those who have played a significant role in shaping my CFA journey. Brian Willians, my first captain, set a strong foundation for me. Graeme Bourne offered unwavering support during my early captaincy days. Lex de Man for his support to establish and develop Hillcrest brigade, whilst Geoff Conway and Graeme Armstrong provided me exceptional leadership and guidance. Locally, Don Bigham and Roly Rak challenged and supported me, pushing me to grow in ways I hadn’t imagined and seek opportunity to enhance our local brigades’ capacity and capability.

    “Lastly and most importantly, I want to thank my mum. None of us can volunteer without the unwavering support of our loved ones, and her encouragement and support has been a cornerstone of my journey.”

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Hassan Votes to Confirm Governor Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) issued the following statement today after voting to confirm Governor Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security:
    “In our conversations throughout the confirmation process, Governor Noem has demonstrated to me that she’s willing to work together to tackle the important challenges facing our country, including strengthening border security and protecting our communities from the spread of illicit fentanyl. Of course, there are policy areas where we disagree, but we do agree that there is no more important task of government than keeping people safe. I believe that she has the qualifications necessary to be our next Secretary of Homeland Security, and I look forward to partnering with her in the future.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Statement On Confirmation On Pete Hegseth

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    January 25, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today released the following statement after voting against the confirmation of Pete Hegseth, President Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense:

    “Today, I voted against the confirmation of Pete Hegseth to serve as Secretary of Defense.  We must have military leaders who have proven good judgement for when they are sitting in the Situation Room.  From the outset, Pete Hegseth has failed to position himself as someone who can be trusted to develop a strategic plan to address the threats to our nation. 

    “Between his unacceptable views on women in the military, his stunning lack of basic knowledge on the rules of engagement, and serious allegations of personal misconduct, it’s crystal clear that Pete Hegseth should not be leading the Department of Defense.”

    Hegseth was confirmed with a vote of 50-50, with Vice President JD Vance casting a tie-breaking vote. 

    Earlier this week, Durbin delivered a speech on the Senate floor explaining his objections to Hegseth’s nomination, including his inability to articulate a defense strategy in addressing threats to the U.S., his disparaging comments about women serving in the military, and troubling reports of financial mismanagement, alcohol abuse, and personal misconduct.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Statement On President Trump Unlawfully Firing Independent Inspectors General Across Multiple Federal Agencies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    January 25, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today released the following statement after President Donald Trump unlawfully fired at least 12 independent inspectors general across multiple federal agencies:

    “President Trump’s firing of at least 12 independent inspectors general at important federal agencies is a continuation of his efforts to reshape the federal government without oversight or accountability—and with loyalty to Donald Trump and Donald Trump alone. It is a brazen attempt to rig these offices to look the other way when violations of law take place. These dismissals clearly violate federal law, which requires the President to provide Congress with 30-day notice of intent and detailed reasons to fire inspectors general.

    “Inspectors general are vital for keeping the government honest and revealing waste, fraud, and abuse. Less than one week in office and President Trump is dismantling the checks and balances on the Executive Branch at an astounding rate.”

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: State Highway 2, Takapau crash

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)


    District:

    State Highway 2, north of Takapau remains closed and is expected to be closed for most of the day. 

    A detour is in place via State Highway 50.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect ongoing delays. 

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers keynote remarks at the Jakarta Forum on ASEAN-China Relations

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this morning delivered a keynote speech at the Jakarta Forum on ASEAN-China Relations with the theme “Bridging and Bonding by Connectivity,” aligning with Lao PDR’s ASEAN Chairmanship theme of “ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience,” and in support of 2024 as the ASEAN-China Year of People-People Exchanges.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Statement on Fentanyl Trafficking Bust

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    10.31.24

    Cantwell Statement on Fentanyl Trafficking Bust

    EDMONDS, WA – U.S Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement on today’s fentanyl trafficking bust.

    “Tonight’s announcement of the indictments against a violent criminal ring peddling fentanyl is welcome news. Tracking fentanyl in every mode of transportation like in our airports is critical to stopping the movement of this deadly drug because it helps expose local distribution rings. All of the Pacific Northwest should applaud the massive amount of federal, state, and local law enforcement work and coordination that led to these indictments and arrests,” said Sen. Cantwell.

    A full timeline of Sen. Cantwell’s actions to combat the fentanyl crisis is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: No Oil Sightings Arising From Oil-Related Incidents; Precautionary Measures To Stand Down From Today

    Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

    JOINT NEWS RELEASE BETWEEN NEA, BCA, JTC, MPA, NPARKS, PUB, SDC, SFA AND SL

    Singapore, 30 October 2024 – The clean-up of Shell’s leaked slop in the channel between Pulau Bukom and Bukom Kechil, including the cleaning of the oil-stained rock bunds and infrastructure, has been completed.

    2.             There have been no other oil sightings at sea and ashore since 20 October 2024 when Shell first reported the leak.

    3.            There are also no oil sightings arising from the separate oil overflow bunkering incident on 28 October off Changi.

    4.            All the seaward oil response assets deployed by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) for both incidents will stand down today.

    5.           The containment and absorbent booms that were installed by government agencies at various locations as a precautionary measure since 20 October, will be removed progressively. 

    6.            Investigations by the National Environment Agency and MPA into the leaked slop incident at Pulau Bukom are ongoing. MPA will also be investigating the Changi oil overflow bunkering incident.

    ~~ End ~~

    For more information, please submit your enquiries electronically via the Online Feedback Form or myENV mobile application.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Ending QLD Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry is harmful and divisive

    Source: Australian Human Rights Commission

    The Queensland Government’s decision to abolish the state’s Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry and repeal its Path to Treaty Act marks a major step backwards for First Nations rights, says Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Katie Kiss. 

    Newly-elected Premier David Crisafulli, who was sworn into office this week, said yesterday he will follow through on his election promise to end the Queensland’s truth- telling inquiry, which is underway, and repeal its treaty legislation.  

    Commissioner Kiss, a proud Kaanju and Biri/Widi woman who grew up in Rockhampton on the lands of the Darumbal People, was previously the Executive Director of the Interim Truth and Treaty Body supporting Queensland’s Path to Treaty. 

    “The decision to scrap the Inquiry, denying our First Nations People a chance to share their stories to help accurately convey our state’s history, is extremely disrespectful and harmful,” Commissioner Kiss said. 

    “It is disrespectful to communities, but also to the many people who put in years of work to make this Inquiry happen. This includes the contributions of everyday Queenslanders – Indigenous and non-Indigenous – who provided invaluable input to support truth, justice and healing. 

    “The inaugural truth-telling hearings of the Commission that occurred in September showed the enormous contribution that this process can make to public understanding of the treatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Queensland, building a basis for dialogue, understanding and compassion. These hearings showed the immense benefits truth-telling has for everyone. 

    “The Path to Treaty was something our People have long called for. They believe this is what is needed to bring Queenslanders together in a way that fosters unity, understanding, respect, dignity and wellbeing for all. In particular, those Elders who have lived experience of the impacts of colonial policies and practices of the past, and our families and communities who experience the ongoing trauma and effects. 

    “Now more than ever, we need policies that promote reconciliation and unity – not division and discord. First Nations Queenslanders deserve and need to have their rights upheld and their stories heard.” 

    Commissioner Kiss has written to Premier Crisafulli, urging him to reconsider his decision and offering to work collaboratively with his government to achieve better outcomes for First Nations people in Queensland. 

    “I am very keen to establish a positive working relationship with the new Queensland Government – supporting it to advance the human rights of First Nations people. Truth-telling about past and ongoing injustice is critical to advancing human rights and building a better future for First Nations people and all Queenslanders. I urge the Premier to reconsider his decision,” Commissioner Kiss said.

    “With the absence now of a First Nations member in the new Queensland Government, it is of great importance to include First Nations People in decisions that affect them. That means meeting with us, talking with us and hearing and incorporating our views into decisions that will impact us all.” 

    ENDS | Media contact: media@humanrights.gov.au or 0457 281 897 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s 41st Antarctic expedition begins

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China’s 41st Antarctic expedition team set sail Friday, starting a mission expected to last nearly seven months.
    Over the coming months, researchers will build the supporting infrastructure for the Qinling Station in Antarctica, investigate the impact of climate change on the Antarctic ecosystem, and conduct international research and logistics cooperation.
    The expedition will be carried out by three ships, including research icebreakers Xuelong and Xuelong 2, or Snow Dragon and Snow Dragon 2, as well as cargo vessel Yong Sheng. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Dongfeng landing site ready to welcome return of Shenzhou-18 astronauts

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The Dongfeng landing site in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, north China, is ready to welcome the return of the Shenzhou-18 astronaut crew, according to Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.
    To ensure search and rescue readiness, the last comprehensive drill was carried out at the Dongfeng landing site from Thursday evening to early morning on Friday, said the center.
    The return capsule of the Shenzhou-18 manned spaceship, carrying three astronauts, is scheduled to touch down on Earth in the early morning on Nov. 4.
    The comprehensive drill was designed to target any difficulties and requirements expected from challenging conditions, such as the weather, the center added.
    All personnel and equipment at the Dongfeng landing site are ready to be deployed to support the search and rescue missions. Moreover, the Shenzhou-18 crew completed all preparations before leaving the Tiangong Space Station.
    China launched the Shenzhou-19 crewed spaceship on Wednesday, sending three astronauts to its orbiting space station for a six-month mission.
    The Shenzhou-19 and Shenzhou-18 crews met in the Tiangong space station, starting a new round of in-orbit crew handover. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ​Falcon Project gives platform for Hubei-focused short films

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A new season of short film creation under the Falcon Project was launched at the China National Film Museum on Oct. 28 in Beijing.

    Leadership, mentors and guests pose for a group photo at a new Falcon Project creative season launch ceremony held at the China National Film Museum in Beijing, Oct. 28, 2024. [Photo courtesy of China Film Association] 

    With the theme of “The City in My Heart – The Jingchu Land that Extends for Thousands of Miles,” the new season will give participating young filmmakers a platform to produce shorts about Hubei province. The term “Jingchu” is an ancient name for what is now China’s Hubei province.

    Shorts will be no longer than 30 minutes and depict everyday stories, focusing on the five Hubei cities of Huangshi, Jingzhou, Xianning, Jianshi, and Xiangyang.

    Deng Guanghui, the resident vice president of the China Film Association (CFA), at the ceremony stated that this season of the Falcon Project aims to be an educational platform to help budding filmmakers cultivate their cinematic skills as well as hone creativity. 

    As the second run of this mentorship program, this season plans to continue the Falcon Project’s objective of guiding young talent with documenting the era and expressing various sentiments of the people.

    “I hope that young filmmakers will set the right direction, create for the great era and use the medium of film to document the new journey of the new era,” Deng said, “by fulfilling their artistic mission and telling good Chinese stories, they shall create film works of both artistic grace and substantial content to reflect the history, culture and eras of transformation in Hubei.”

    As part of the bigger outreach project to connect future filmmakers with today’s industry, selected young filmmakers will be given the chance to work with established professionals. Additionally, numerous filmmakers specializing in professional fields such as cinematography, sound recording and film art will be invited to contribute as mentors, providing comprehensive guidance and support throughout the project.

    Interested young filmmakers are asked to submitted a short no longer than three minutes as part of the registration process. Tian Zhuangzhuang, veteran actor, filmmaker and artistic director for the Falcon Project, explained: “a 3-minute short film can reveal the creator’s basic understanding of film visuals and aesthetic talent. Creators should be focusing on reality and rooting in life to find better stories. I hope we can cultivate better talent for the film industry.”

    At the launch ceremony, other mentors also stepped onstage to share their experiences and expectations. Among them, Wang Kai, a native of Wuhan, Hubei province, expressed his hope that through these future shorts, everyone will be able to understand and appreciate the spirit and mentality of Hubei and its people in a more holistic and multi-dimensional way.

    Participating young directors and screenwriters from the previous program also appeared on stage to share their gratitude, insights and anticipations. They encouraged more young filmmakers to join the new season to showcase Hubei stories and make friends with those who share similar visions.

    Entitled “The City in My Heart – Altay,” the previous season saw the production of shorts that focused on Altay, a prefecture in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region.

    Mentors for the new Falcon Project creative season share their expectation and insights on stage at the China National Film Museum in Beijing, Oct. 28, 2024. [Photo courtesy of China Film Association] 

    Liu Haijun, deputy head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Hubei Provincial Committee, noted in his speech that Hubei is an important, historic and strategic area within China, holding a vital role in Yangtze River civilization as well as Chinese society as a whole.

    “This short film season, focusing on Hubei, fully leverages the unique influence and communicative power of short films to more vividly shape the urban and cultural image of Hubei, spread Jingchu culture and enhance understanding of the region. It is a very meaningful activity,” he stated.

    This new Falcon Project creative season is guided by the CFA and sponsored by the Film Art Center of the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles and the Hubei Provincial Federation of Literary and Art Circles. The season is organized by the Hubei Changjiang Film Group and the Hubei Film Association. 

    Registration for the season is open from Oct. 29 to Dec. 15, with applicants being chosen for two categories: directing and screenwriting. The process then will include phases ranging from talent selection and training to filming and post-production.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS concludes Riyadh trip

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Financial Secretary Paul Chan completed the final day of his visit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, yesterday by participating in several events at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) with his delegation.

    Speaking at a themed session at the conference, Mr Chan highlighted that Hong Kong is actively developing as an international centre for green tech and green finance, contributing to the future of the New Silk Road.

    Also during the FII, Mr Chan witnessed the signing of co-operation agreements between a number of Hong Kong organisations and enterprises with their Saudi counterparts.

    Among such agreements are a memorandum of understanding between the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund to jointly establish a new investment fund of up to US$ 1 billion and a pact between the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation and the FII Institute to join the institute’s investment ecosystem.

    Earlier in the day, the Financial Secretary attended the listing ceremony of the SAB Invest Hang Seng Hong Kong Exchange Traded Fund at the Saudi Exchange.

    The product, developed in collaboration with Saudi Awwal Bank’s subsidiary, SAB Invest, provides Middle East investors with opportunities to invest in Hong Kong’s capital markets.

    After concluding his visit, Mr Chan departed for Hong Kong last night and is scheduled to arrive in the city this afternoon.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New marine park established

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department today announced the establishment of Hong Kong’s eighth and largest marine park, the 2,400-hectare North Lantau Marine Park (NLMP).

    The NLMP is also one of the measures for mitigating the impacts on Chinese White Dolphins (CWD) and fisheries habitats brought by the construction and operation of the Three-Runway System Project.

    Its establishment increases the area of the city’s protected marine habitat to over 8,500 hectares, which is conducive to the conservation of the CWD and the marine environment and ecosystem in North Lantau waters.

    The NLMP links with the nearby Sha Chau & Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park and The Brothers Marine Park in North Lantau waters to form a matrix of connected marine protected areas totalling about 4,570 hectares.

    The NLMP is also contiguous with the Pearl River Estuary Chinese White Dolphin National Nature Reserve established in Guangdong Province, allowing for better protection of core CWD habitats.

    The department pointed out that it is liaising with the relevant Mainland authorities regarding the establishment of the Guangdong-Hong Kong CWD marine protected areas network platform.

    This platform will serve to strengthen co-operation on management and enforcement, ecological monitoring and enhancement as well as education and publicity between the two places, the department added.

    It indicated that it also plans to conduct long-term ecological and water quality monitoring in the marine parks and encourage scientific research in marine parks.

    Furthermore, the NLMP will adopt management measures similar to those of the existing marine parks, such as routine patrols and law enforcement, restricting vessel speed to 10 knots, and accepting NLMP fishing permit applications for local fishing vessels registered under the Fisheries Protection Ordinance.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Inter-departmental help desk stood down

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Inter-departmental help desk stood down
    Inter-departmental help desk stood down
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    Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:     The inter-departmental help desk set up by the Central and Western District Office at Queen Mary Hospital today (November 1) in response to the ferry accident occurred in the Central Pier No. 9 has now been stood down.

     
    Ends/Friday, November 1, 2024Issued at HKT 13:47

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Facilitation measure on Standard Contract for the Cross-boundary Flow of Personal Information Within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (Mainland, Hong Kong) extends to all sectors

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Facilitation measure on Standard Contract for the Cross-boundary Flow of Personal Information Within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (Mainland, Hong Kong) extends to all sectors
    Facilitation measure on Standard Contract for the Cross-boundary Flow of Personal Information Within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (Mainland, Hong Kong) extends to all sectors
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         The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address announced the extension of the facilitation measure on the Standard Contract for the Cross-boundary Flow of Personal Information Within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (Mainland, Hong Kong) (the GBA Standard Contract) to all sectors, promoting more cross-boundary services to benefit the public and businesses while facilitating data flow throughout the Greater Bay Area (GBA). The related measure commences today (November 1).     According to the agreement framework of Memorandum of Understanding on Facilitating Cross-boundary Data Flow Within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, signed by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau and the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) in June 2023, the GBA Standard Contract facilitation measure was launched at the end of last year, allowing individuals and organisations of the two places, namely the nine Mainland cities in the GBA (i.e., Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Foshan, Huizhou, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Jiangmen and Zhaoqing in Guangdong Province) and Hong Kong, to enter into a standard contract by adopting a standardised template on a voluntary basis, with a view to facilitating and streamlining the cross-boundary flow of personal information within the GBA in a safe and orderly manner.        The “early and pilot implementation” arrangements of the facilitation measure on GBA Standard Contract for the banking, credit referencing and healthcare sectors has been operating smoothly and has been well received. Thus, the Digital Policy Office (DPO) announced that starting from November 1, 2024, industries of all sectors in the nine Mainland cities in the GBA and Hong Kong can take part in the facilitation measure and voluntarily adopt the GBA Standard Contract. The DPO, at the same time, optimises the filing arrangements and rationalises several operational details to further facilitate the compliance of the cross-boundary flow of personal information by enterprises.      The Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Tony Wong, said, “Facilitating the Mainland’s data flow in the GBA is an important initiative to promote the development of cross-boundary services, digital economy and smart cities. It not only brings benefits to citizens and enterprises, but also accelerates the integration of economic development in the GBA. We are grateful for the support of the CAC and the Cyberspace Administration of Guangdong Province in enabling industries of all sectors in the GBA to enjoy the benefits from the GBA Standard Contract facilitation measure.”      Mr Wong added that, “The GBA Standard Contract is an administrative measure. It does not affect the supervisory and regulatory roles of the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data in ensuring compliance with the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (PDPO). The processing and cross-boundary transfer of personal information in Hong Kong will continue to be on a voluntary basis and being regulated in accordance with the PDPO of Hong Kong.”     The DPO will arrange briefings and production of promotional videos to facilitate industries’ understanding of the details of the facilitation measure on the GBA Standard Contract. For details, please visit the DPO’s thematic webpage (www.digitalpolicy.gov.hk/en/our_work/digital_infrastructure/mainland/cross-boundary_data_flow/index.html).

     
    Ends/Friday, November 1, 2024Issued at HKT 14:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EDB announces Saint Francis University becomes university of applied sciences

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    EDB announces Saint Francis University becomes university of applied sciences
    EDB announces Saint Francis University becomes university of applied sciences
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         The Education Bureau (EDB) today (November 1) announced that Saint Francis University (SFU), having successfully gone through a stringent institutional review by the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications (HKCAAVQ) and fulfilled all relevant criteria as confirmed by the EDB, has become a university of applied sciences (UAS).      An EDB spokesman said, “The Government actively promotes the development of UASs to enhance the status of vocational and professional education and training (VPET) at the degree level and provide an alternative pathway to success for young people. The EDB is pleased that SFU has demonstrated its vision, commitment, capabilities and experience in providing high-level VPET programmes in close collaboration with relevant industries, and has successfully gone through the stringent review by the HKCAAVQ and met all of the relevant criteria, becoming the second UAS in Hong Kong.”                                              In assessing SFU’s application for becoming a UAS, the Government has taken into account relevant factors, including the outcome of the institutional review for UAS by the HKCAAVQ, and SFU’s experience in operating applied degree programmes and other VPET programmes. The institutional review by the HKCAAVQ focuses on the commitment and competence of SFU to operate as a UAS at both institutional and programme levels, based on three domains, namely governance, management and quality assurance; learning environment and learner support; and industry collaboration and recognition.       SFU was founded as the Caritas Francis Hsu College. It began offering degree programmes and changed its name to the Caritas Institute of Higher Education in 2011, and was conferred a university title and was approved to change its name to SFU in January 2024. In the 2024/25 academic year, SFU offers two master’s degree programmes, 13 bachelor’s degree programmes (including two applied degree programmes) and four higher diploma programmes, with about 3 800 full-time and 800 part-time students in total.      Similar to the Hong Kong Metropolitan University, the first UAS in Hong Kong, SFU is subject to ongoing reviews by the HKCAAVQ to ensure further development of its maturity and competency as a UAS. It is also required to submit annual progress reports to the EDB.          To bolster the UAS development, as announced in “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address”, the Government has allocated a start-up fund of $100 million to support UASs and aspiring institutions to establish an UAS alliance this year to embark on joint promotion with the industries and stakeholders, including organising international conferences, strengthening collaboration with applied sciences institutions from other places and initiating collaboration and research on applied education at the post-secondary level. Priority will be accorded to eligible programmes of a UAS for inclusion under the Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors and eligible applications from UASs when considering applications for relevant support measures, including the EDB’s Quality Enhancement Support Scheme and Enhancement and Start-up Grant Scheme for Self-financing Post-secondary Education.           Self-financing post-secondary institutions planning to apply for becoming a UAS should have a university title and possess the vision, commitment, capabilities and experience in operating an institution that embodies the key features of a UAS, including: (a) the vision, maturity and capability in providing high-level VPET programmes ranging from Levels 5 to 7 under the Hong Kong Qualifications Framework, blending theory and practice with substantial workplace learning and assessment, having flexibilities in curriculum design, admission and delivery mode, and having recognition and support from industries and professions; and (b) the experience in providing (an) applied degree programme(s) in at least one area of applied sciences for which it has attained the programme area accreditation or self-accrediting status, and the commitment to developing and providing more applied degree programmes.                                                The relevant criteria and application procedures are set out in the Manual for Institutional Review for UAS on the HKCAAVQ website (www.hkcaavq.edu.hk/en/accreditation/institutional_review/). Applications are accepted all year round. Eligible institutions may apply for combining the institutional review for becoming a private university and that for a UAS, subject to the EDB’s approval.

     
    Ends/Friday, November 1, 2024Issued at HKT 14:08

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