NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Proposal to reduce wolf protections – E-001944/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001944/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Isabel Serra Sánchez (The Left)

    The European Commission’s recent proposal to lower the level of protection for wolves is a threat to the still pending achievement of the wolf recovery objective, as set out in both the Bern Convention and the Habitats Directive. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, six out of nine transboundary wolf populations in the EU are ‘vulnerable’ or ‘near threatened’. Reducing their level of protection at this point would compromise the objective of achieving viable and stable wolf populations.

    In addition to the fact that the proposal to lower protection has no scientific basis, the Commission itself confirmed in its analysis that hunting does not reduce predation on domestic livestock.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.How does the Commission assess the risk posed to the future of the wolf by reducing the level of protection accorded to the species?
    • 2.How will the Commission ensure that wolves cannot be hunted in countries where they are not in a favourable conservation status?
    • 3.How will the Commission ensure that any future changes to species included in the Habitats Directive will be based on science and not on political interests?

    Submitted: 3.10.2024

    Last updated: 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Meets Vietnam Veterans in DeRidder

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    ALEXANDRIA – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) visited the local Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Chapter in DeRidder, where he greeted veterans as they gathered for their monthly meeting and discussed what he can do to help them.
    “I appreciate having the opportunity to speak with veterans on what we can do for them,” said Dr. Cassidy. “My office helps vets every day get appointments at the VA or get disability claims reviewed. I’m also doing everything I can in Washington to protect their benefits. They served us. We need to serve them.”
    In 2022, Cassidy passed and signed into law the Solid Start Act, solidifying a Trump-era policy which requires that veterans be contacted three times by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) during their first year after leaving the service about the VA benefits they’re eligible to receive. More recently, Cassidy and U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) demanded answers from the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center in Shreveport after an inspector general report found they failed to comply with suicide prevention protocols, which enabled both a suicide and a suicide attempt.
    Cassidy has also introduced legislation to form a policy advisory commission that will ensure a transparent, expert-driven review process for the Veterans Health Administration, making sure that they efficiently and effectively provide health care to the veterans they serve. His Baton Rouge office also can expedite disability rating, pension, and appeal applications for veterans and their spouses or widows, under certain circumstances. They can also help with VA appointments and related matters, and can be reached at (225) 929-7711.
    The VVA chapter met in the War Memorial Civic Center for Beauregard Parish, which originally opened on November 28, 1941 as a United Service Organization (USO) base to entertain troops participating in the Louisiana Maneuvers and for those stationed at DeRidder Army Air Base and what was then Fort Polk. It was the first USO base not built on a military installation, and was donated to the USO. Soldiers of the U.S. 45th Infantry Division, known as the Thunderbirds, were the first to use it. It was used through World War II and the Korean War.
    89,000 soldiers visited the DeRidder USO, with 15,000 receiving showers and 27,000 watching movies. Dances were also held three times per week during World War II. Today, the Civic Center hosts a War Room Museum with many items from World War II on display, and hosts events such as the monthly meeting of VVA Chapter #1138. Their commander, Mr. Glenn Dean, welcomed Cassidy to their meeting.
    “We are grateful for Senator Cassidy stopping by our meeting to learn more about the needs of our community,” said Mr. Dean. “We fought for our country abroad so our neighbors could live in freedom here. In return, we ask for a VA that serves us, and we look forward to Senator Cassidy working to make that happen.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 10/10/2024 Conversation between Minister Radosław Sikorski and the Speaker of the Swedish Parliament

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Radosław Sikorski met in Warsaw with the Speaker of the Swedish Riksdag Andreas Norlén. The interlocutors emphasized that the excellent cooperation between Poland and Sweden for years has recently been intensified due to threats in the immediate vicinity and as a result of Sweden’s accession to NATO. Warsaw and Stockholm – the initiators of the Eastern Partnership – want to deepen cooperation for Ukraine and towards the Eastern partners. It was emphasized that Russia as an aggressor must face the consequences of its criminal actions, and international law must be observed. The outcome of the war will influence the shape of the world order for many years to come, and especially security in the Baltic Sea region. The head of Polish diplomacy emphasized the excellent contacts with the Swedish partners, both in bilateral and multilateral formats. Minister Sikorski indicated that Poland is interested in regional cooperation with the Nordic and Baltic countries, also in Baltic formats, such as the Council of the Baltic Sea States. This cooperation enables better coordination of Polish policy towards key challenges faced by our region, such as hybrid threats, disinformation or the shadow fleet in the Baltic Sea. The talks also covered the priorities of the Polish presidency of the EU Council, with particular emphasis on the security aspect. The interlocutors agreed on the need for cooperation between Poland and Sweden in counteracting the use of illegal migration by the Belarusian and Russian sides to attempt to destabilize the political situation in the European Union. The Speaker of the Swedish Parliament, Andreas Norlén, is in Poland on a two-day official visit.

    Photo: Barbara Milkowska/Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS: Capito Speaks at Battle of Point Pleasant Commemoration, Tours Nucor Site

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    MASON COUNTY, W.Va. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), traveled to Mason County, W.Va. to deliver remarks at an event commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Point Pleasant, and tour the construction site of the Nucor facility.
    First, Senator Capito, a member of the Congressional America 250 Caucus, spoke at a ceremony in Point Pleasant, W.Va. to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Point Pleasant, which is often cited as the first battle of the American Revolution. During the ceremony, Senator Capito laid a wreath in remembrance of the patriots who perished in that battle.
    “As we prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of America, it is important that we retrace the roots of the revolution to understand the struggle in the fight for freedom. Those roots brought us here to Point Pleasant when General Lewis fought to create a safe haven for settlers in what was then western Virginia,” Senator Capito said. “It was an honor to speak at the ceremony and remember some of the very first patriots who sacrificed so much for our freedom.” 
    Later, Senator Capito traveled to Apple Grove, W.Va. to visit the Nucor Steel construction site and receive an update on building efforts from the leadership there. Senator Capito has been a strong supporter of Nucor’s efforts to build a plant in West Virginia. Nucor’s investment in West Virginia is the largest in the state’s history, as well as the largest single private investment Nucor has ever made.
    In June 2022, Senator Capito toured the construction site of the facility, and advocated on behalf of the project’s progress through the permitting and federal review process during an EPW Committee hearing in May of 2023. Last year, Senator Capito participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the new facility.
    “As I helped lead negotiations for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that is now law, I saw an enormous opportunity to bring jobs to West Virginia workers by partnering with companies like Nucor. Nucor’s investment will make our communities stronger and open doors for so many workers and their families, while also putting our state at the center when it comes to supporting critical infrastructure and national security efforts in the future. It was great to see how much progress they have made on this facility in the last year and to meet with the leadership team to hear about their plans for the future,” Senator Capito said.
    “From the entire Nucor family, we extend our utmost appreciation to Senator Capito for her unwavering support provided not only to our West Virginia project, but to the manufacturing industry as a whole. Nucor is proud to call Mason County home for our state-of-the-art sheet steel manufacturing facility. It was an honor to host Senator Capito and her team onsite today to see the progress made after nearly one year from our groundbreaking event,” Johnny Jacobs, Vice President and General Manager of Nucor Steel West Virginia, said.
    Photos from today’s events are below:
     
    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) attends the ceremony commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Point Pleasant in Point Pleasant, W.Va. on Thursday, October 10, 2024.

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) attends the ceremony commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Point Pleasant in Point Pleasant, W.Va. on Thursday, October 10, 2024.

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) visits the Nucor Steel construction site in Apple Grove, W.Va. on Thursday, October 10, 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley, Salinas Announce $2 Million Federal Investment to Oregon Small Businesses to Lower Energy Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    October 10, 2024
    Seven small businesses in Marion and Jefferson counties to benefit
    Washington D.C.—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley with U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas today announced a federal investment of more than $2 million to help lower energy costs for farmers and small businesses in Marion and Jefferson counties while reducing carbon emissions.
    “Rural Oregonians are often on the frontlines of the fight against the climate crisis, whether that is combating wildfires, drought, or other extreme weather events caused by climate change,” Wyden said. “I applaud this federal investment that addresses this issue by supporting small Oregon businesses investing in becoming more climate resilient and reducing carbon emissions.”
    “Oregon’s small farms, ranches, and businesses know that leaning into renewable energy sources can help them significantly lower their energy costs, increase profits, and improve sustainability over the long run,” said Merkley, who prioritized REAP funding when he previously served as the top Democrat on the Appropriations subcommittee that writes the agriculture funding bill. “Too often, the upfront costs of making that switch often leave rural businesses stuck with outdated energy infrastructure and higher monthly bills. This federal funding from REAP is critical to help rural Oregon businesses in Jefferson and Marion counties overcome financial hurdles and realize energy-efficient projects that are good for both their pocketbook and the planet.”  
    “I am proud to announce that five more rural businesses in Oregon’s Sixth District have been selected for USDA’s REAP program,” said Rep. Salinas. “Federal partnership—when combined with the relentless work ethic and ingenuity of rural Oregonians—can be an incredible resource for our local farmers and small businesses. This funding will allow awardees to switch to renewable energy, helping them save money on utility bills while transitioning to clean energy. That’s a win-win for both our economy and our climate.”
    The $2.08 million federal investment is through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Energy for America program, and will be distributed as follows:
    Hanson Pacific, Inc. – Aurora: $99,444
    Barnett Farms and Nursery – Aurora: $30,943
    Champoeg Nursery, Inc. – Aurora: $43,889
    Oregon Flowers Inc. – Aurora: $697,824
    Blazer Industries, Inc. – Aumsville: $345,627
    Hari Nursery – Salem: $45,663
    Haystack Farm & Feed, Inc. – Culver: $822,360

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 10/10/2024 Joint statement of the Weimar Triangle foreign ministers on Georgia

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Weimar Triangle countries, we reaffirm our support for the democratic and European aspirations of the overwhelming majority of the Georgian people. We deplore the actions of the Georgian Government, which have de facto led to a standstill in Georgia’s accession process to the European Union, as stated by the European Council in its conclusions of 27 June, representing the Heads of State or Government of the 27 EU Member States. Since then, this negative trend has further worsened, with worrying threats of repression, the entry into force of the so-called “Transparency Law” stigmatising non-governmental organisations receiving more than 20 million foreign funding as pursuing the interests of a foreign power, recently adopted legislative amendments restricting the rights of LGBTI persons, as well as attacks on civil society organisations and independent journalists. Furthermore, we note with growing concern the increase in aggressive rhetoric against the European Union and its Member States. The European Union will not tolerate the spreading of false narratives about the European position and policies by the Georgian authorities. We reiterate our call on the Georgian Government to change course. The scope and level of relations and cooperation between the EU and Georgia are at stake. We expect the Georgian authorities to ensure that the upcoming elections in Georgia are free and fair and in line with the recommendations of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, including ensuring a free and safe election campaign. We hope that the Georgian Government will recommit to implementing the priority reforms stemming from the EU candidate status. We stand ready to continue supporting Georgian society on its path towards a European future. Our hands remain extended. We remain committed to strengthening and supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognised borders.

    Annalena BaerbockFederal Minister for Foreign Affairs

    Jean-Noël BarrotMinistro de la expansión europea en Foreign

    Radosław SikorskiMinister of Foreign Affairs

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected cannabis buds and suspected methamphetamine at airport (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹Hong Kong Customs yesterday (October 9) detected three drug trafficking cases involving baggage concealment at Hong Kong International Airport and seized about 13.5 kilograms of suspected cannabis buds and about 3kg of suspected methamphetamine with a total estimated market value of about $5.2 million.

         The first and second case involved two male passengers, aged 24 and 20, who respectively arrived in Hong Kong from Bangkok, and from Chiang Mai, Thailand, via Bangkok, yesterday. During customs clearance, about 7.8kg and 5.7kg of suspected cannabis buds was seized from their check-in suitcases respectively. The two men were subsequently arrested. The dangerous drugs were packed in plastic bags and vacuum-sealed bags, and mix-loaded with personal belongings.

         The third case involved a 30-year-old male passenger arriving in Hong Kong from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, yesterday. During customs clearance, about 3kg of suspected methamphetamine was found concealed in the false compartment of his check-in suitcase. The man was subsequently arrested.

         Investigations of the three cases are ongoing.

         Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not to participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary returns. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.

         Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.

         Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.

         Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).      

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by DSJ at Spanish National Day Reception in Hong Kong (English only) (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Deputy Secretary for Justice, Mr Cheung Kwok-kwan, at the Spanish National Day Reception in Hong Kong today (October 10):
     
    Consul General (Consul General of Spain in Hong Kong, Mr Miguel Aguirre de Cárcer), Deputy Commissioner Fang Jianming (Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         Good evening. I’m delighted to be here tonight to celebrate the national day of Spain. This is a proud and festive occasion throughout Spain, one of the major economies in the European Union.
     
         A celebration, too, of the growing ties between our two economies.
     
         Less than three weeks ago, the Financial Secretary visited Madrid, leading a high-profile delegation of Hong Kong start-up companies, together with the heads of Hong Kong Science Park and Cyberport.
     
         Over three fruitful days, the Financial Secretary and his delegation visited a variety of Spanish start-ups, investors and corporate representatives, such as start-up accelerators IMPACT and Wayra, and Spanish telecommunications company Telefónica, and met with the Director General of CDTI (the Centro para el Desarrollo Tecnológico y la Innovación), which promotes I&T (innovation and technology) co-operation between Spain and other economies.
     
         They also met with Spain Startup President and officials from IE University, the organisers of the renowned innovation and entrepreneurship event South Summit, which brings together a world of start-ups, investors, and entrepreneurs each year. The Financial Secretary welcomed the prospect of holding the South Summit in Hong Kong, and for good reasons.
     
         Asia’s super-connector, Hong Kong is at the heart of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and its consumer-powered population of more than 80 million people. Technology and innovation will drive the flourishing future of both Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.
     
         Hong Kong is also among the world’s leading financial centres – placing third worldwide and topping the Asia-Pacific in the latest Global Financial Centres Index. Also, in the World Bank Group Business Ready 2024 Report which was just published last week, Hong Kong is among the top ten performers among 50 economies covered in that report. 
     
         We are familiar with the common law and we have connection with the Mainland legal system through a number of very important mutual legal assistance arrangements. Hong Kong is also a unique gateway. We can help Spanish start-ups find markets, and fund their expansion in the Mainland China and throughout Asia.
     
         Our legal co-operation with Spain is also well-established. I’m pleased to say that there has been well-established regimes for legal co-operation on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, and the co-operation has been smooth and effective.
     
         Our good ties extend to culture and culinary creativity, too. This year’s Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival opens in less than two weeks at Central Harbourfont. And I know Hong Kong will revel in the Festival’s Spanish gourmet delights and featured wine and spirit tastings. They will surely be among the highlights of this year’s Wine & Dine Festival. I’ll see you there.
     
         And now, ladies and gentlemen, please join me in a toast: to the people of Spain.      

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital announces event involving insertion of nasogastric tube

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital announces event involving insertion of nasogastric tube
    Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital announces event involving insertion of nasogastric tube
    ******************************************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:     The spokesperson for Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital (PYNEH) made the following announcement today (October 10) regarding an event involving insertion of nasogastric tube:     A 76-year-old male patient was clinically admitted to PYNEH yesterday (October 9) for a scheduled colonoscopy. Owing to his clinical needs, a nasogastric tube was inserted on the day of admission for drug administration. The nasogastric tube was subsequently found to have been misplaced in the bronchus and the medication has entered the patient’s lungs. In view of the episode of transient deterioration of the condition, the patient was subsequently transferred to Intensive Care Unit for further support. The patient is in critical condition but had gradually improved after treatment.     After initial investigation, it was found that the procedure for verifying nasogastric tube position was in compliance with the prevailing guideline. A chest X-ray was arranged to confirm the tube position. It was suspected that an intern doctor had misinterpreted the chest X-ray findings, and could not identify that the nasogastric tube was misplaced in the bronchus. Following drug administration, the patient developed abdominal pain and shortness of breath. Immediate assessment and treatment were provided to the patient. The nasogastric tube was found to be misplaced in the bronchus upon re-examination of the chest X-ray.     PYNEH is very concerned about the incident and has contacted the patient’s family to provide explanation and extend sincere apologies. PYNEH will continue to closely communicate with the patient’s family and provide necessary assistance to them. Meanwhile, the hospital has reported the case to the Hospital Authority Head Office (HAHO) through the Advance Incident Reporting System, and will continue to enhance training and supervision for interns. A Root Cause Analysis Panel will be set up for investigation. The report will be submitted to HAHO in eight weeks. The Panel members are as follows:Chairperson:Dr Michael WongDirector (Quality and Safety), Hospital AuthorityMembers:Dr Ng Man-faiConsultant, Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, Tuen Mun HospitalMs Louisa LeungSenior Manager (Nursing), Hospital AuthorityDr Nicole ChauSenior Manager (Patient Safety and Risk Management), Hospital AuthorityDr Sara HoService Director (Quality and Safety), Hong Kong East ClusterMr Mok Long-chauCluster General Manager (Nursing), Hong Kong East Cluster

     
    Ends/Thursday, October 10, 2024Issued at HKT 21:25

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Resident of New Hampshire Sentenced for Involvement in Online Scheme to Defraud the Elderly

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

    ALEXANDRIA, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Raj Vinodchandra Patel, 34, of New Hampshire, has been sentenced by United States District Judge Dee D. Drell to 51 months in prison for his role in an online scheme to defraud the elderly.  On June 20, 2024, Patel pleaded guilty to one count indictment charging him with conspiracy to commit wire fraud.  

    Sometime in September 2023, an elderly resident in Alexandria, Louisiana, saw a “pop-up” message on their computer screen which directed them to call a computer “helpline.” This alleged computer helpline was merely a contact number being operated by one of Patel’s co-conspirators from India. When the victim called this supposed helpline, they were told that criminal activity had been seen on their computer and then transferred them to an alleged special agent working for the Federal Trade Commission in Washington, D.C. who would assist them further. However, the victim was not actually communicating with a federal agent but in truth and in fact, it was another of Patel’s co-conspirators operating from India. This fake federal agent falsely claimed that the victim’s Social Security number had been compromised, and that their monetary assets were at risk and that the only way to fix it would be for the victim to liquidate their bank account, buy gold bullion, and then transfer that gold bullion to another federal agent who would maintain the gold for supposed safe keeping until the “federal investigation” was completed. When in truth and in fact, there was no federal investigation, but this was an online scam to steal money and property from the victim. 

    Patel worked as a courier in this wire fraud scheme. On October 7, 2023, he flew from Boston to New Orleans, rented a car, and drove to the victim’s residence to retrieve the gold bullion. The victim had been instructed by Patel’s co-conspirator in India to place the gold bullion into the backseat of Patel’s rental car. Unbeknownst to Patel, however, the victim had contacted the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) about the fraud scheme. The FBI set up a sting operation and video recorded Patel retrieving the package from the victim and driving away.

    Troopers with the Louisiana State Police stopped Patel and he was placed under arrest. Following his arrest, Patel admitted to his part in this scheme and that he had flown to other places across the United States for gold pickups from other elderly victims. Patel further admitted that as he was being stopped by law enforcement officers, he deleted the “WhatsApp Business” application from his cell phone in order to conceal his communications with co-conspirators. The intended loss amount attributed to this fraud scheme was approximately $514,000.

    “There is a keen federal interest to protect the elderly and prosecute those who take advantage of their vulnerability by using them to commit financial crimes,” said United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “This is a transnational crime, spanning from India to central Louisiana, that was investigated because the victim trusted his/her instincts and immediately contacted law enforcement. The Department of Justice is ready, willing, and able to seek justice for the elderly, who are the backbone of our country.”

    “Victims in Louisiana lost nearly $12 million dollars to schemes just like this one last year and those are the people we know about,” said Special Agent in Charge Lyonel Myrthil of FBI New Orleans. “The victim in this case did exactly as we ask the public to do. Trust your instincts. Take a break and call law enforcement. These actors are getting bolder and potential victims are putting their lives at risk with these encounters. We ask the public to report any suspicious activity like this to IC3.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI.”

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Louisiana State Police and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mike Shannon.

    To report elder fraud, contact the dedicated National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 or 1-833-372-8311 and visit the FBI’s IC3 Elder Fraud Complaint Center at IC3.gov.  To learn more about the Department of Justice’s elder justice efforts please visit the Elder Justice Initiative page.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Formerly Married Couple Sentenced for Multimillion Dollar Fraud Schemes

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    Orlando, FL – United States District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Nikesh Ajay Patel (40, formerly of Windermere), and his ex-wife, Trisha Patel, (41, Orlando), for their roles in a financial scheme defrauding the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and others. On October 8, 2024, Nikesh Patel was sentenced to 27 years in federal prison, which must run consecutive to a 25-year term he is already serving from the Northern District of Illinois. Trisha Patel was sentenced on September 18, 2024, to 51 months in federal prison. Both are required to pay restitution to the USDA and four other financial institutions.

    According to court documents, Nikesh Patel was charged in 2014 by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Illinois for a $179 million fraud scheme. He was arrested and released on bond. For the next several years, Nikesh Patel claimed that he was cooperating with authorities and using his business skills to recover funds to repay the victims. In fact, Nikesh Patel had devised a new scheme against the USDA that netted him over $19 million. Nikesh Patel was planning to flee to Ecuador on a private jet and avoid sentencing in the Chicago case. Instead, FBI agents arrested Nikesh Patel at the Kissimmee airport on January 6, 2018, and arrested him for attempting to abscond. Nikesh Patel was subsequently returned to Chicago, where he was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison on June 6, 2018.

    Thereafter, on December 18, 2019, a federal grand jury in Orlando returned a 13-count indictment against Nikesh Patel for stealing $19 million while he was on federal pretrial release in the Chicago case. On February 28, 2023, Patel pleaded guilty as charged to all counts in that indictment: one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, three counts of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, and eight counts of money laundering.

    In the 2019 case, Nikesh Patel fabricated fraudulent loan documents and used a fictitious identity to perpetrate his conspiracy and scheme. He then applied to the USDA to guarantee the fake loans as part of their Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program. Once the USDA agreed to guarantee the loans, Nikesh Patel sold the guaranteed portion to the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac) and received $19,342,392. The FBI was able to recover $11,321,931 and Nikesh Patel was ordered to pay the remaining portion as restitution to Farmer Mac.

    While Nikesh Patel was in federal custody for the 2019 case, he recruited Trisha Patel (his wife at the time) to perpetrate a third financial scheme. Between January 2021 and December 2023, Nikesh and Trisha Patel devised a more sophisticated scheme utilizing a commercial pump manufacturer in Houston, Texas. At the direction of Nikesh Patel, Trisha pretended to be a senior representative of the company and falsely claimed to USDA that they wanted to expand their business in rural Puerto Rico. The Patels then created a fake lender to pretend that it was loaning $8,540,000 to the business for the expansion. USDA guaranteed 80% of the fake loan, and the Patels then sold that guarantee to financial institutions and received $7,446,880. The FBI was able to recover $74,545 in currency and a 2022 BMW model X7. The defendants were ordered to pay the remaining portion to USDA and four other financial institutions as restitution.

    For the third scheme, Trisha Patel and Nikesh Patel each pleaded guilty to an Information charging one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud on May 21, 2024, and May 22, 2024, respectively.

    These cases were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General. They were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael P. Felicetta and United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alexandria Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    ALEXANDRIA, La. – Tyrone Donnell Porter, 51, of Alexandria, has been sentenced for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. United States District Judge Dee D. Drell sentenced Porter to 360 months (30 years) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. 

    Porter was found guilty of the charge by a jury in Alexandria after a trial in December 2023. Evidence introduced at trial revealed that agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation began an investigation into the drug trafficking activities of Porter and others during 2021. Law enforcement agents obtained a search warrant for a hotel room which was rented under Porter’s name in Alexandria and where Porter was staying. On September 30, 2021, agents executed the search warrant and found Porter inside the hotel room, along with two other individuals. Inside the room, agents found two bags containing a glass pipe with methamphetamine residue, 2 boxes and 18 loose rounds of ammunition, as well as a Sig Sauer 9mm handgun in a holster loaded with 11 rounds in the magazine.

    In addition, agents found a large black plastic bag with a can which had a vacuum sealed bag containing 492 grams of suspected methamphetamine. Agents were later able to obtain video footage of Porter carrying the black plastic bag which had the can of methamphetamine into the hotel just minutes before law enforcement arrived to execute the search warrant. 

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John W. Nickel and Casey N. Richmond.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Remarks by President  Biden on the Initial Impacts of Hurricane Milton and the Federal Government’s Ongoing Support to State and Local  Officials

    Source: The White House

    South Court Auditorium
    Eisenhower Executive Office Building

    2:02 P.M. EDT

    THE PRESIDENT:  Good afternoon. 

    Q    Good afternoon.

    THE PRESIDENT:  I’ll be brief.  Last night, Hurricane Milton made landfall, as we all know, on the west coast of Florida.  It brought hurricane winds, heavy rains, including 10 to 20 inches of rain in the Tampa area overnight. 

    Storm surge measurements are still being taken, but 38 tornadoes ripped through 13 counties.  Four deaths have been reported thus far. 

    It’s too early to know the full account of the damage though, but we know lifesaving measures did make a difference.  More than 80,000 people followed orders to safety — to safely shelter last night.  And we’ve had search and rescue teams at the ready for any calls for help this morning. 

    There are still very dangerous conditions in the state, and people should wait to be given the all-clear by their leaders before they go out.  We know from previous hurricanes that it’s often the case that more lives are lost in the days following the storm than actually during the storm itself. 

    Vice President Harris and I have been in constant contact with the state and local officials.  And we’re offering everything they need.  I must have spoken to somewhere between 10 and 15 mayors and county executives and all the governors.

    And, in fact, starting this morning, we are getting direct assessments from the storm of FEMA and Director Criswell as well, also Florida Governor DeSantis, with whom I had a chance to speak. 

    And the vice president and I have just convened a meeting this morning with the leaders of the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Defense, including Northcom commander, who has responsibility for providing defense support to civilian authorities — and that, apparently, is going very well — as well as from the Coast Guard and FEMA, we’ve received reports. 

    We focused on what the American military can do like no one else can: provide emergency support for communities in need and we’re required by the governor in a federal — and — required by the governor in the affected states.  And I’ve spoken to all the governors — not today, all of them, but I’ve spoken to all of them thus far.  And how we can be ready to go in an instant when the call comes. 

    At my direction, Defense Secretary Austin has provided a range of capabilities both to Florida for Hurricane Milton as well as the states impacted by Hurricane Helene.  And the more capabilities are available, we assess the pressing needs, we can get whatever they need. 

    To the servicemen and women who are on the ground responding to this — these disasters: Thank you.  Thank you for pr- — your professionalism, your dedication to every mission you’re given.  And you’re repeating it again.

    This is a whole-of-government effort that also includes the Department of Energy and Department of Transportation, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which is providing mortgage relief for impacted homeowners. 

    As directed, FEMA is going to open disaster recovery centers all across the impacted communities right away so there’s one stop for the residents can go to to learn about the support they might need.  And that  — it’ll be advertised where those places are.

    Three million people are without power.  But more than 40 million [40,000] power work- — powerline workers have come from around the country, from Canada to Florida, to restore power across the state. 

    In addition, the Federal Aviation has authorized Florida Power and Light to fly large drones before other manned aircraft can get up in the sky to quickly assess the damage on the ground so ground crews can restore power as quickly as possible. 

    The Coast Guard and the Army Corps of Engineers are assessing how fast they can reopen the Port of Tampa to get fuel, food, water, and other basic goods flowing into the area again and quickly. 

    Additionally, Vice President Harris and I said yesterday and we’ll say it again: To anyone who seeks to take advantage of our fellow Americans’ desperation, whether you’re a company engaging in price gouging or a citizen trying to scam your neighbors, we will go after you and we will hold you accountable. 

    Now, not only that.  Our fellow Americans are putting their lives on the line to do this dangerous work and received death thre- — some received death penalties [threats] yesterday as a result of reckless, irresponsible, and relentless disinformation and outright lies that continue to flow.  Those who engage in such lies are undermining the confidence in the rescue and recovery work that’s opening and ongoing.  As I speak, they’re continuing. 

    These lies are also harmful to those who most need help.  Lives are on the line.  People are in desperate situations.  Have the decency to tell them the truth.  

    So, let me say this.  To all the people impacted by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, despite the misinformation and lies, the truth is we’re providing the resources needed to rescue, recover, and rebuild — and rebuild. 

    Let me close with this.  I know recovery and rebuilding projects can take a long and difficult time.  But as — long after the press and the cameras move on, I promise you — you have to pick up the pieces still.  I want you to know we’ll do everything in our power to help you put the pieces back together and get all that you need. 

    May God bless you.  And may God bless our troops and our first responders, who are — many — in some cases risking their lives to help. 

    Thank you very much.  I’ll be reporting again tomorrow.

    Thank you.

    Q    Mr. President, on FEMA funding.  On FEMA funding.  How much time does Congress have to act before FEMA or the SBA run out of money?

    THE PRESIDENT:  That’s in discussion now, and I don’t want to give you — mislead you.  I think in terms of the SBA, it’s pretty right at the edge right now.

    And I think the Congress should be coming back and moving on emergency needs immediately.  And they’re going to have to come back after the election as well, because this is going to be a long haul to- — for total rebuilding.  It’s going to take several billion dollars.  It’s not going to be a matter of just a little bit.

    But we’re providing now to make sure people have the emergency relief they need with dollars just to be able to get a prescription filled, to get a baby formula do- — all the thing- —

    That $750 that they’re talking about, Mr. Trump and every- — all those other people know it’s a lie to suggest that’s all they’re going to get.  That’s bizarre.  It’s bizarre.  They got to stop this.  It’s s- — I mean, they’re being so damn un-American with the way they’re talking about this stuff.

    But there’s going to be a need for significant amounts of money.  We’re already underway at trying to calculate what the cost will be because you don’t want to mislead anybody.  We want to make sure all the costs are able to be covered.

    Q    Have you spoken to Speaker Johnson about coming back before the election to vote?

    THE PRESIDENT:  No, I haven’t.

    Q    Mr. President, are you calling on Congress to come back early?

    THE PRESIDENT:  I think Congress should move as rapidly as they can, particularly on the most immediate need, which is small business.

    Q    Mr. President, the vice president said yesterday that — that FEMA has what it needs.  There’s enough resources.  They don’t need — that Congress does not need to come back right away.  Who’s right?

    THE PRESIDENT:  FEMA has what it needs.

    Q    Okay.

    THE PRESIDENT:  That’s different than SBA.

    Q    Okay.  So, it’s SBA that — they need to come back and do SBA?

    THE PRESIDENT:  Yeah, but they’re going to need a lot more.

    Q    Mr. President, wh- — what did you — what did Prime Minister Netanyahu tell you about his plans relating to retaliation against Iran?

    THE PRESIDENT:  He’s coming over to help with the storm.

    Q    Mr. President, have you spoken with former President Trump at all —

    THE PRESIDENT:  Are you kidding me?

    Q    — about the disinformation?

    THE PRESIDENT:  (Laughs.)  Mr. President Trump — former President Trump, get a life, man.  Help these people. 

    Q    Will you hold him accountable?  You said you were going to hold those accountable.

    THE PRESIDENT:  The public will hold him accountable. 

    Q    The —

    THE PRESIDENT:  You better, in the press, hold him accountable because you know the truth. 

    Q    Well, do you plan to speak with former President Trump?

    THE PRESIDENT:  No.

    2:10 P.M. EDT

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: A Proclamation on General Pulaski Memorial Day,  2024

    Source: The White House

         Today, we pay tribute to General Casimir Pulaski, a Polish immigrant who served alongside American soldiers in the Revolutionary War and made the ultimate sacrifice for our Nation.  And we honor the culture and contributions of all our Nation’s Polish Americans who follow his legacy, standing up for the cause of freedom at home and around the world.

         General Pulaski dedicated his life to the pursuit of liberty — not just for himself or his country but for all of us.  Born and raised in Warsaw, Poland, he fought against the Russian domination of Poland — efforts that ultimately led him to flee his home country.  Later in life, when he was offered an opportunity to join another fight for liberty on the other side of the world, he took it — joining our Nation’s fight for independence.  General Pulaski’s service was critical:  He led a critical counterattack that helped slow the British, and during the course of the war, it was said that he even saved George Washington’s life. 

         General Pulaski’s story and service are just one example of how much Polish Americans have shaped our Nation’s history and our future.  Our country’s Polish-American communities have helped create new possibilities for all of us — leading in every sector, powering our economy, and enriching our culture.  They also strengthen our deep alliance and partnership with Poland and its people at a critical time in our history.  Since Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, the people of Poland have courageously stood up for freedom, liberty, and justice, rallying around the Ukrainian people and offering them safety and light in their darkest moments.  At the same time, Poland has donated tanks, artillery, and aircraft to support Ukraine’s self-defense all while becoming an important hub for aid from key partners.

         No one knows better than the people of Poland that, in moments of great upheaval and uncertainty, what you stand for is important and who you stand with makes all the difference.  Today, we celebrate General Casimir Pulaski, who decided to stand with our Nation to fight for our freedoms.  And we honor all the Polish Americans, who continue to push our Nation forward and fight for a future based on our most fundamental values:  dignity, liberty, and opportunity.

         NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 11, 2024, as General Pulaski Memorial Day.  I encourage all Americans to commemorate this occasion with appropriate programs and activities paying tribute to General Casimir Pulaski, honoring all those who champion freedom around the world, and celebrating the vast contributions of the Polish American communities.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                                 JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Goose Creek Man Arrested on Child Sexual Abuse Material* ChargesRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced the arrest of Gregory Keith Day, 44, of Goose Creek, S.C., on 13 charges connected to the sexual exploitation of a minor. Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force investigators with the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office made the arrest. Investigators with the Attorney General’s Office, Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, Goose Creek Police Department, Mount Pleasant Police Department, Summerville Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations, all also members of the state’s ICAC Task Force, assisted with the investigation.

     

    Investigators received a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) which led them to Day.  Investigators state Day distributed files of child sexual abuse material.  

     

    Day was arrested on October 9, 2024. He is charged with 13 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, second degree (§16-15-405), a felony offense punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment on each charge.

     

     

    This case will be prosecuted by the Attorney General’s Office.

     

    Attorney General Wilson stressed all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty in a court of law.

     

     

     

    * Child sexual abuse material, or CSAM, is a more accurate reflection of the material involved in these heinous and abusive crimes. “Pornography” can imply the child was a consenting participant.  Globally, the term child pornography is being replaced by CSAM for this reason.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fort Mill Man Arrested on Child Sexual Abuse Material* ChargesRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina


  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Takes Action to Uphold Election Cybersecurity

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, Governor Polis took action to support election cybersecurity by issuing an Executive Order to ensure Colorado remains a national gold standard for safe and secure elections. 

    “In Colorado, we believe in the right to a free and fair election and ensuring every eligible Coloradan is able to vote and every vote is counted accurately. That is why we are proud Colorado sets the gold-standard for election systems and election integrity and for Coloradans to make their voices heard by voting” said Governor Polis. 

    Governor Polis signed an Executive Order activating members of the Colorado National Guard to assist with election cybersecurity defense efforts for the 2024 General Election on November 5, as has been done in previous elections.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Costa’s Legislation Paves the Way for Affordable Homeownership in the San Joaquin Valley and Rural America

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    FRESNO, Calif. – U.S. Representatives Jim Costa (CA-21), Lori Chavez DeRemer (OR-05), and Doug LaMalfa (CA-01) introduced H.R. 9814 – Rural Homeownership Continuity Act, bipartisan legislation that would help families attain federal loans at lower interest rates, making the American dream of homeownership more affordable in rural America.

    “The Rural Homeownership Continuity Act represents a vital step forward towards strengthening communities in the San Joaquin Valley and rural America,” said Costa. “By helping families take advantage of lower interest rates, we’re not just making homeownership more attainable, but fostering stability and economic growth. Every family deserves the chance to build a future in a home they can afford.”

    “Oregon is ranked the fifth-most unaffordable state for local homebuyers, and all of our communities – urban, suburban, and rural – have felt the effects of this affordability crisis. Too many Oregonians are forced to work multiple jobs just to afford their mortgages,” Chavez-DeRemer said. “That’s why I’ve been working to find bipartisan solutions that will make a direct, lasting impact. I’m honored to help introduce the Rural Homeownership Continuity Act, which will improve housing affordability and access in our rural communities.”

    “As we face a growing rural housing crisis in California and across the country, I’m happy to support this bill that removes bureaucratic barriers to low-income residents’ ability to achieve homeownership. By streamlining the process of loan transfer, this legislation makes it easier for rural families to get the financing they need to own a home,” said LaMalfa. 

    WHAT ARE THEY SAYING?
    “Unfortunately, this year has brought a crisis to both the families that we serve and the families that depend on our business. The approved funding for USDA Home Loans in California has been depleted, leaving families in limbo, unable to close on their new homes. These families, some of whom have been waiting for over a year and a half, continue to live in substandard conditions while brand-new homes sit completed and ready for occupancy,” said Leonel Alvarado, Century Builders.  

    “USDA’s Section 502 Guaranteed Loan program provides low- and moderate-income rural families across the country with a tool to achieve homeownership. And it is an example of a great public-private partnership between local lenders and USDA,” said Jonathan Harwitz, Director of Public Policy at the Housing Assistance Council. “We applaud Rep. Costa, Rep. Chavez-DeRemer, and Rep. LaMalfa for really looking into the nuts and bolts of this important program and identifying commonsense technical fixes. This bill will make the Section 502 Guarantee program more user-friendly for rural families looking to buy a home.”

    BACKGROUND
    The Section 502 Single Family Housing Loan Guarantee Program is a mortgage assistance program within USDA that assists with lending for low- and moderate-income households buying homes located in eligible rural areas. 

    In rural communities, where access to affordable housing is often limited, the Rural Homeownership Continuity Act would amend the Housing Act of 1949 to permit loan assumption under Section 502 to release departing borrowers from liability when their loans are assumed by new borrowers. 

    Right now, when someone sells a home that has a USDA Section 502 Guaranteed Loan, the buyer can’t transfer the seller’s low interest rate. Instead, they often must settle for higher rates from private lenders—averaging around 6% in California. In contrast, existing USDA loans can offer rates as low as 3-4.5%, and even down to 1% for very low-income buyers. This difference can save families a lot of money over time.

    The Senate version of the bill, S.4971 was introduced by U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-VT).    

    View the text of the bill HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Congresswoman Wilson Demands Speaker Johnson Bring Back Congress to Pass Hurricane Relief and Price-Gouging Legislation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Frederica S Wilson (24th District of Florida)

    Miami, Fla.— In the wake of Hurricane Milton, Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24) recently joined Congressional colleagues to demand Speaker Johnson bring back Congress to pass Hurricane Disaster Relief funds and call for a federal price gouging ban.

    On Wednesday, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (FL-24) joined 63 of her congressional colleagues, including Congresswoman Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Congressman Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09), on a letter to ask Speaker Mike Johnson to “bring the US House of Representatives back into session to approve the necessary funding that will empower FEMA and the SBA to fulfill their disaster relief missions.”

    This letter came “amidst a season marked by unprecedented natural disasters and increasingly severe weather events that have left communities across our nation in dire need of additional and comprehensive disaster relief funding,” including Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene.

    For the link to the full letter, click here.

    The House of Representatives recently passed a short-gap funding bill to keep the government open until December, but it failed to provide additional funds to FEMA and the SBA for supplemental disaster relief. MAGA Republicans denied those additional funds despite Democrats’ calls for a comprehensive emergency supplemental.

    Additionally, on Tuesday, in a joint statement with the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC), Chairwoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-7), along with Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Congressman Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09), and Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), addressed recent reports of airline and hotel price-gouging as Florida residents evacuate ahead of Hurricane Milton:

    “Right now, Floridians are preparing for what could become one of the state’s worst storms in a century. Authorities are telling families in the Tampa area that they will die if they don’t leave their homes. But instead of making it easier for people to evacuate, airlines and hotels are exploiting a horrific situation to charge astronomical fares only the rich can afford—from over $600 for a single night in a Hampton Inn to over $1,000 for flights that usually cost around $100. Exploiting vulnerable people fleeing a deadly storm for higher profits is a new low.

    “In North Carolina and Georgia, while families try to recover and rebuild from the devastating impacts of Helene, there have been hundreds of similar incidents of bad actors price-gouging residents on everything from groceries to gas to hotel rooms. This egregious price-gouging hampers evacuations and undermines recovery efforts, while putting vulnerable residents in serious jeopardy.

    “We applaud Secretary Pete Buttigieg for taking these allegations seriously. In the coming days and weeks, we will need a whole-of-government focus on protecting the people impacted by these disasters from predatory price-gouging.

    “Further action is still needed from the federal government to stop the corporate exploitation that impacts all areas of American life, whether at the grocery store or gas station. We need a federal ban on price gouging, more stringent antitrust laws and enforcement, and for Congress to reassert its role and governing power in this space—something CPC is deeply committed to and actively engaged in.”

    Congresswoman Wilson has and continues to communicate with FEMA to receive updates on Hurricane Milton. Congresswoman Wilson previously introduced the Homeowner’s Defense Act, which would provide homeowners in low-income communities with grants and resources to prepare for natural disasters and help ensure insurance companies pay claims arising from storms.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Garamendi, DeSaulnier Reintroduce Bill to Expand Servicemembers’ Right to File Claims for Medical Malpractice

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District

    WASHINGTON, DC— Today, on the anniversary of her tragic and preventable death, Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-08) and Representative Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10) introduced the “Seaman Danyelle Luckey Military Medical Accountability Amendment Act of 2024” (H.R.9943). This legislation aims to expand medical malpractice protections for service members serving aboard large naval vessels, ensuring that no other family suffers the heartbreak endured by Danyelle’s loved ones.

    Danyelle Luckey, a 23-year-old from Pittsburg, California, was serving aboard the USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier in 2016 when her life was tragically cut short—not by enemy action, but by preventable mistakes in her medical care. After seeking treatment aboard the ship for sepsis, Danyelle received inadequate care that failed to address her worsening condition. This bill, introduced in her honor, addresses the gaps in medical accountability that contributed to her untimely death.

    “No military family should ever have to endure what the Luckey family has gone through. This bill seeks to close a critical gap in medical accountability and ensure that our brave servicemembers receive the quality care they deserve, no matter where they serve. While we can never bring Danyelle back, her family has been tirelessly advocating to prevent such tragedies from happening to others. This bill is a step toward ensuring accountability and improving medical care for all who serve at sea,” said Representative Garamendi.

    “The pain the Luckey family has endured from the tragic loss of their daughter, Danyelle, has only been exacerbated by the fact that they have been unable to get answers and pursue justice due to a misinterpretation of the law,” said Representative DeSaulnier. “I am proud to join Congressman Garamendi in again introducing legislation to right this wrong by expanding the right of servicemembers and their families to file medical malpractice claims. We must pass this bill to ensure no other family experiences their same pain and to bring long overdue justice for Danyelle.”

    “My Danyelle always wanted to help her fellow service members- she would be so happy to know she made changes in the Navy medical care for her fellow service members. Danyelle wanted to serve her country and she wanted to make a difference in the world and her dad Derrick has fought to make it happen with the help of our Congressmen. I want to thank Congressmen DeSaulnier and Garamendi for standing with us in this fight,” said the Luckey family.

    Key provisions of the “Seaman Danyelle Luckey Military Medical Accountability Amendment Act” (H.R.9943) include:

    • Expanding the ability of service members to file medical malpractice claims against medical treatment facilities to include incidents occurring on aircraft carriers (CVN), landing helicopter assault ships (LHA), and landing helicopter dock (LHD) ships when those ships are not engaged in combat operations.
    • Recognizing that the medical facilities and personnel aboard these ships are comparable to the level of care available at most land-based medical treatment facilities.

    This legislation builds upon the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act, which initially created a system for service members to file medical malpractice claims against military medical treatment facilities.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi Statement on the Passing of Ethel Kennedy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Newark, N.J. – Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi released the following statement on the death of Ethel Kennedy:

    “The passing of Ethel Kennedy is a deep personal loss to her many loved ones and friends – and a profound official loss for our nation.  She was the matriarch of a great family and a national treasure.

     

    “After the tragic loss of her husband, Senator Bobby Kennedy, Ethel Kennedy moved forward with grace, dignity and a profound dedication to carrying on their untiring commitment to expanding opportunity, promoting civil rights and building a more peaceful world.  Her deep faith, personal resolve and strength helped America cope with a shared loss as she channeled her energies into establishing the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights, which for more than 56 years has worked to educate and inspire leaders, activists and students to transform their communities and expand the blessings of peace.  

    “For Ethel’s lifetime of service, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian honor, by President Barack Obama in 2014.  Ethel’s faith, fortitude and determination inspired all who had the opportunity to know her.

     

    “Paul and I knew and loved Ethel.  She was funny, she was a compelling storyteller and her integrity inspired hope that will endure for generations to come.  May it be a comfort to her loving children, her darling grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the entire Kennedy family that so many grieve with and pray for them during this sad time.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Garamendi Delivers Remarks at San Francisco Fleet Week Senior Leaders Seminar

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District

    SAN FRANCISCO, CA—Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-08), the top Democrat on the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness, joined Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro in addressing senior military leaders, industry experts, and international allies during the San Francisco Fleet Week Senior Leaders Seminar aboard the USS Tripoli.

    In his remarks titled “Reimagining the American Maritime Industry,” Garamendi emphasized workforce development, shipbuilding modernization, infrastructure investment, and the vital role that the Bay Area plays in strengthening the U.S. maritime industry. He also praised Secretary Del Toro’s focus on a whole-of-government approach to enhancing U.S. maritime capabilities. Garamendi outlined his “Congressional Guidance for a National Maritime Strategy,” co-led with Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Representative Waltz (R-FL-06), and discussed ongoing legislative efforts to bolster America’s maritime industries.

    “Reinvigorating the American maritime sector is not just a military imperative but an economic one. We must prioritize strategic investments that will drive innovation and keep our industry competitive on the global stage. The future of American shipbuilding and repair lies not only in technology but in the people who bring that technology to life,” said Garamendi.

    He also highlighted the Bay Area’s maritime legacy and its potential to lead the nation in green shipbuilding and port modernization. Citing Mare Island—the first U.S. Navy base on the West Coast—as an example, Garamendi highlighted how revitalizing legacy sites like Mare Island Shipyard with modern infrastructure and workforce development, position the San Francisco Bay Area as a cornerstone for revitalizing U.S. maritime strength.

    Garamendi stressed the importance of preparing the next generation of maritime workers, underscoring the need for strategic federal investments that will create high-paying jobs, strengthen local communities, and bolster national defense. 

    Garamendi has been a longtime advocate of reinvigorating the American maritime industry. Garamendi has led bipartisan efforts throughout his career to pass legislation supporting U.S. shipbuilding, maintaining a robust Ready Reserve Fleet, and enhancing ship repair capacity nationwide.

    He has supported key provisions in Congress, including:

    • 2023 Federal Ship Financing Improvement Act: 
      • This legislation aims to provide new federal loans and loan guarantees for repairs and retrofits of U.S.-flagged civilian vessels in domestic shipyards, like Mare Island Dry Dock.
    • Maritime Administration (MARAD) Funding Initiatives:
      • Garamendi has advocated for increased funding for MARAD programs that support shipbuilding and repair, including Title XI loan guarantees. In 2021, Garamendi secured a provision in federal law designating the California State University Maritime Academy (Cal Maritime) as national center of excellence for domestic maritime workforce training and education, ensuring closer cooperation and sharing of resources with the Maritime Administration (MARAD).
    • Sustained Funding for the National Defense Reserve Fleet:
      • In 2024, Garamendi secured funds to support the National Defense Reserve Fleet and the Maritime Security Program, U.S.-flagged commercial vessels used to transport military personnel, cargo, fuel, and equipment for the U.S. military in the National Defense Authorization Act.
    • National Maritime Strategy:
    • Support for the Jones Act:
      • Garamendi has worked to ensure that domestic maritime commerce is conducted by U.S.-flagged vessels, preserving jobs in the American maritime industry. He reintroduced the “Close Agency Loopholes to the Jones Act,” which would close nearly 50 years of loopholes that disadvantage American workers—known as “letter rulings”—by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Specifically, these loopholes allow federal regulators to circumvent the Jones Act—a federal maritime law that requires transportation and items shipped between U.S. ports to be conducted on ships that are built and operated by American citizens or permanent residents.
    • Maritime Workforce Development Programs:
      • In 2022, Garamendi announced a $13 million investment at Mare Island Dry Dock that would double its workforce and help the shipyard prepare to conduct ship repairs for the United States Navy and Coast Guard. In 2023, Garamendi secured $1 million for job training programs at a new Career Technical Education Centers in Contra Costa County. This will help young people throughout the Bay Area receive the highest possible industry-standard certifications to help them earn high-wage jobs in the skilled trades.
    • Environmental Standards for the Maritime Industry:
      • In the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, Garamendi secured a provision that will minimize runoff of untreated water and designate a DoD official responsible for coordinating regional stormwater management among military departments.
      • Garamendi secured funding for portable battery-electric generators, like those manufactured in Richmond, to ensure that installations can continue operations in the event of a blackout or Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS). This builds on Garamendi’s efforts to ensure that the military supports a transition to a clean energy economy.
    • Public-Private Partnerships for Infrastructure:
      • Garamendi has encouraged the use of public-private partnerships (PPPs) to finance port and maritime infrastructure projects, reducing the financial burden on public entities.
    • Maritime Research and Development Initiatives:
      • Garamendi authorized more than $58 million for state maritime academies like California State University Maritime Academy (Cal Maritime) in Vallejo. Once enacted into law, this new federal funding will support scholarships for low-income students, funding for shoreside infrastructure, and funding for fuel and maintenance expenses.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada to make an announcement on support for the toxic drug and overdose crisis

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Media advisory

    October 10, 2024, Ottawa, ON – The Honourable Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, will make an important announcement to address the urgent needs of municipalities and First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities in response to the toxic drug and overdose crisis.

    There will be a media availability following the announcement.

    Date

    October 11, 2024

    Time

    9:00 AM (ET)

    Location

    The event will be held in person at:

    National Press Theatre
    Room 325-180 Wellington Street
    Ottawa, Ontario

    Participation in the question and answer portion of this event is in person or via Zoom, and is for accredited members of the Press Gallery only. Media who are not members of the Press Gallery may contact pressres2@parl.gc.ca for temporary access.

    NOTE: To help ensure optimal simultaneous interpretation sound quality, journalists are encouraged to use a microphone (headphones/headset) or, when possible, a landline, and to avoid using speaker mode if queuing up for questions.

    X: @GovCanHealth

    Facebook: Healthy Canadians

    Media Inquiries:

    Yuval Daniel
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Honourable Ya’ara Saks
    Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health
    819-360-6927

    Media Relations
    Health Canada
    613-957-2983
    media@hc-sc.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee on the Yukon’s health system accomplishments

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:

    “I am pleased to take this opportunity to provide Yukoners with an update on the great work our Health and Social Services and health care staff have accomplished this year.

    • Read more about Statement from Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee on the Yukon’s health system accomplishments
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  • MIL-OSI Canada: New sidewalk in Canning

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    Canning, Nova Scotia, October 10, 2024 — Construction is beginning on a new sidewalk in the Village of Canning after an investment of more than $700,000 from the federal government.

    This new 630 metres of sidewalk will run along Summer Street between J Jordan Road and Chapel Road. The sidewalk will connect to other sidewalks in the village to create a safe route to the downtown core, a daycare, schools, a residential development, and recreation opportunities.

    Quotes

    “Our government is committed to investing in infrastructure that increases opportunities for Canadians to navigate their communities without relying on their cars, resulting in reduced greenhouse gas emissions and less traffic congestion. This new section of sidewalk in Canning will connect people to key services in the village and promote a healthy lifestyle by making it safer and easier to get around Canning as a pedestrian.”

    Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “The Canning Village Commission continues to support our community with updated infrastructure in our village. The funding assistance from the federal and provincial governments helped ensure that the new sidewalk along Summer Street could be completed. This sidewalk will ensure a safe accessible route for all pedestrians within our community.”

    Angela Cruickshank, Canning Village Commission Chair

    Quick facts

    • The federal government is investing $718,009 in this project through the Active Transportation Fund (ATF). The province and the municipality previously contributed to this project.

    • Active transportation refers to the movement of people or goods powered by human activity. It includes walking, cycling and the use of human-powered or hybrid mobility aids such as wheelchairs, scooters, e-bikes, rollerblades, snowshoes, cross-country skis, and more.

    • In support of Canada’s National Active Transportation Strategy, the Active Transportation Fund is providing $400 million over five years, starting in 2021, to make travel by active transportation easier, safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable.

    • The National Active Transportation Strategy is the country’s first coast-to-coast-to-coast strategic approach for promoting active transportation and its benefits. The strategy’s aim is to make data-driven and evidence-based investments to build new and expanded active transportation networks, while supporting equitable, healthy, active, and sustainable travel options.

    • Investing in active transportation infrastructure provides many tangible benefits, such as creating good middle-class jobs, strengthening the economy, promoting healthier lifestyles, ensuring everyone has access to the same services and opportunities, cutting air and noise pollution, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 

    • The new Canada Public Transit Fund (CPTF) will provide an average of $3 billion a year of permanent funding to respond to local transit needs by enhancing integrated planning, improving access to public transit and active transportation, and supporting the development of more affordable, sustainable, and inclusive communities. 

    • The CPTF supports transit and active transportation investments in three streams: Metro Region Agreements, Baseline Funding, and Targeted Funding.

    • We are currently accepting Expression of Interest submissions for Metro-Region Agreements and Baseline Funding. Visit the Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada website for more information.

    • The funding announced today builds on the federal government’s work through the Atlantic Growth Strategy to create well-paying jobs and strengthen local economies.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information (media only), please contact:

    Sofia Ouslis
    Communications Advisor
    Office of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
    Sofia.ouslis@infc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
    613-960-9251
    Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
    Email: media-medias@infc.gc.ca
    Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
    Web: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

    Ruth Pearson
    Clerk/Treasurer
    Village of Canning
    902-582-3768
    village.canning@xcountry.tv

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Yukon releases final flood hazard maps for Teslin and What We Heard report on Teslin Flood Hazard Maps Engagement

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Government of Yukon has released flood hazard maps that cover Morley Bay, the Village of Teslin, Deadman Creek, Brook’s Brook and Johnson’s Crossing. These maps provide critical flood information to help the public and all levels of government better adapt to climate change, reduce flood risk and make informed decisions. They are part of a series planned for all 14 flood-prone communities, as committed to in the Our Clean Future climate strategy.

    • Read more about Government of Yukon releases final flood hazard maps for Teslin and What We Heard report on Teslin Flood Hazard Maps Engagement
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  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Yukon introduces legislative amendments to enhance environmental protection

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    On October 7, the Government of Yukon introduced amendments in the Yukon Legislative Assembly to the Forest Resources Act as well as technical amendments to the Environment Act.

    • Read more about Government of Yukon introduces legislative amendments to enhance environmental protection
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  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada successfully re-opens 10-year green bond to raise an additional $2 billion

    Source: Government of Canada News

    This week, the Government of Canada successfully re-opened its second Canadian-dollar-denominated green bond, following its initial issuance in February 2024. This $2 billion re-opening of a 10-year bond is part of a commitment to regular green bond issuances.

    October 10, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Finance Canada

    This week, the Government of Canada successfully re-opened its second Canadian-dollar-denominated green bond, following its initial issuance in February 2024. This $2 billion re-opening of a 10-year bond is part of a commitment to regular green bond issuances.

    The government’s intent is to proceed with two smaller green bond transactions in fiscal year 2024-25—today’s re-opening and a separate offering at a later date—to meet the planned issuance outlined in Budget 2024.

    This offering is the second under Canada’s updated Green Bond Framework, which allows for certain nuclear energy expenditures to be eligible for green bond proceeds. Canada is the first sovereign borrower to issue a green bond including certain nuclear expenditures, demonstrating Canada’s commitment to being a global leader in clean nuclear power.

    This week’s offering saw robust demand from environmentally and socially responsible investors who represented a majority of buyers (53 per cent). The final order book stood at over $3.8 billion.

    Government of Canada green bond issuances support Canada’s sustainable finance market by providing a sovereign benchmark for the rest of the market, and high-quality environmental, social, and governance (ESG) assets for investors, backed by Canada’s AAA credit rating. Green bonds unlock private financing to speed up projects such as green infrastructure and nature conservation. Green bond projects will grow Canada’s economy and create more good-paying jobs across the country.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Progress on Jasper recovery: Premier Smith and Minister McIver Joint Statement

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    “Our government has been steadfast in our support for Jasper’s recovery. The Jasper Re-Entry Cabinet Committee has been meeting on a weekly basis since August 22, 2024. Prior to that, the Emergency Management Cabinet Committee was meeting daily to respond to emerging issues related to the wildfire situation across the province, including the wildfire that devastated the Municipality of Jasper and Jasper National Park.

    “The mandate of Alberta’s Jasper Re-Entry Cabinet Committee is to provide oversight and support in the transition from emergency response to long-term recovery. The committee provides direction to provincial representatives on the Jasper Recovery Task Force, which is working closely with the Municipality of Jasper and Parks Canada to determine the best solutions to promote recovery in the area.

    “While the wildfire in Jasper originated within Jasper National Park, Alberta’s Jasper Re-Entry Cabinet Committee provided $7.5 million in emergency evacuation payments to support more than 6,500 evacuees from the town of Jasper, followed by a provincial Disaster Recovery Program with a budget of up to $149 million to support Jasper’s recovery. However, under the federal Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) program, only a portion of Alberta’s costs are eligible for reimbursement.

    “Now that the federal government has also established a working group for Jasper’s recovery, we are calling on the federal government to waive the DFAA cost-share formula, given that this fire originated from the national park, which is under federal jurisdiction. We encourage quick decisions to ensure plans that fit Jasper’s unique circumstances are in place before the snow flies.

    “Alberta’s government has a plan for interim housing to support Jasper residents while they rebuild their homes and community. To support this plan we have asked the federal government to partner with Alberta in sharing the costs of this project that would provide much needed interim housing in Jasper through the DFAA. With winter fast approaching, we hope that they will support this important work to provide interim housing in Jasper.

    “We’re glad to see that the federal government has now appointed a task force of ministers at the federal level. It is our hope that the task force will respond to these requests and work with us to continue supporting Jasper residents.”

    Key Facts:

    • Alberta’s government contributed more than $12 million in matching funds to the Canadian Red Cross Alberta Wildfire Appeal for donations to help Jasper residents impacted by wildfires.
    • Residents affected by mandatory evacuation orders were provided emergency evacuation payments.
    • Weekly telephone townhalls were set up to provide information to Jasper residents.
    • Schools reopened in September after undergoing deep cleaning.
    • All services at the Seton-Jasper Healthcare Centre returned to normal on August 26.
    • Arrangements were made to safely relocate seniors from affected facilities.
    • The Canadian Red Cross launched its support program for small businesses and not-for-profit organizations with funds from the Alberta government.
    • Mental health supports were provided through reception centres and continue to be provided at the Re-Entry Centre in Jasper.
    • Together with the Municipality of Jasper, we have worked with the federal government to streamline processes for obtaining permits for demolition, remediation and debris removal at non-industrial sites.

    Membership of Alberta’s Jasper Re-entry Cabinet Committee (JRCC):

    • Danielle Smith, Premier (Chair)
    • Ric McIver, Minister of Municipal Affairs, (Vice-chair)
    • Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services
    • Nate Horner, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance
    • Pete Guthrie, Minister of Infrastructure
    • Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks
    • Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services
    • Brian Jean, Minister of Energy and Minerals
    • Joseph Schow, Minister of Tourism and Sport
    • Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade
    • Dan Williams, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction
    • Martin Long, parliamentary secretary for Rural Health, MLA for West Yellowhead

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Federal and provincial governments invest in upgrades for public buildings throughout Alberta

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    Edmonton, Alberta, October 10, 2024 — Ten communities across Alberta will have upgraded and more accessible buildings after a combined investment of almost $18 million from the federal and provincial governments.

    To ensure safer and longer-lasting working and public spaces, these projects will include replacing water lines and elevators and improving heating, ventilation and air conditioning units.

    In Edmonton, the Queen Elizabeth II Building and the Alberta Legislature Building will receive upgrades for the air quality in those spaces. The courthouse and provincial building in Stony Plain will see upgrades to the HVAC systems including chillers, air handling units, supply and return air ducts and controls. The Drumheller Provincial Building will see upgrades to its existing ventilation system and supply and return air ducts.

    A complete list of the projects can be found in the attached backgrounder.

    Quotes

    “The federal government continues to support infrastructure that protects the health and safety of Canadians across the country. Today’s announcement will help support building upgrades that increase energy efficiency and meet the standard for air quality for urban and rural communities in Alberta.”

    The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “It is important we keep our government-owned facilities in good condition for the many Albertans that rely on the programs and services they house. This investment will provide needed renewals and upgrades, support about 100 construction-related jobs, and generate economic activity in communities across Alberta.”

    Pete Guthrie, Minister of Infrastructure, Government of Alberta

    Quick facts

    • The federal government is investing $13,811,772 through the COVID-19 Resilience Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of Alberta is investing $4,182,373.

    • Under the COVID-19 Resilience Stream, the federal cost share for public infrastructure projects is 80 per cent in the provinces, and 100 per cent in the territories and for projects intended for Indigenous communities.

    • Including today’s announcement, 126 infrastructure projects under the COVID-19 Resilience Stream have been announced in Alberta, with a total federal contribution of more than $227 million and a total provincial contribution of over $35 million.

    • Under the Investing in Canada Plan, the federal government is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada’s rural and northern communities.

    • As the world moves towards a net-zero economy, people living and working on the Prairies are taking action and are leading to take advantage of growing economic development opportunities.

    • On December 18, 2023, the federal government launched the Framework to Build a Green Prairie Economy, which highlights the need for a collaborative, region-specific approach to sustainability, focusing on strengthening the coordination of federal programs, and initiatives with significant investments. This Framework is a first step in a journey that will bring together multiple stakeholders. PrairiesCan, the federal department that diversifies the economy across the Canadian prairies, has dedicated $100 million over three years to support projects aligned with priority areas identified by Prairie stakeholders to build a stronger, more sustainable, and inclusive economy for the Prairie provinces and Canada.

    • Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada is supporting the Framework to Build a Green Prairie Economy to encourage greater collaboration on investment opportunities, leverage additional funding, and attract new investments across the Prairies that better meet their needs. 

    Related products

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information (media only), please contact:

    Sofia Ouslis
    Communications Advisor
    Office of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
    Sofia.ouslis@infc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
    613-960-9251
    Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
    Email: media-medias@infc.gc.ca
    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
    Web: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News –