NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rai Valley crash: Police seek public’s help

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Dashcam video and witnesses are being sought by Police investigating a serious motorcycle crash in Rai Valley, Tasman, on Saturday.

    The crash, involving one rider, happened about 4.50pm on State Highway 6 at Whangamoa.

    The rider suffered critical injuries after falling while navigating a curve. They were part of a group of about six motorcyclists.

    The victim remains in a critical condition in Wellington Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit.

    Police would like to hear from witnesses or anyone who has dashcam footage of the crash, or the moments before it.

    If you have any information that could help our enquiries, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 240922/5105.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Hungary stage concert to mark 65-day countdown to the 2nd China Intl Supply Chain Expo

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and the Hungarian Embassy in China jointly hosted a friendship concert on Sept. 22, marking the 65-day countdown to the second China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE). 

    Ren Hongbin, chairman of the CCPIT, attended the event and met with guests and musicians. Zhang Shaogang, vice chairman of the CCPIT, and Peter Kiraly, deputy head of mission of the Hungarian Embassy, were present and addressed the gathering.

    World-renowned violin virtuoso Roby Lakatos, accompanied by young musicians from the China Central National Orchestra, and Central Conservatory of Music, performed a repertoire of global classics, including “Csárdás,” “Sabre Dance,” “Hungarian Dance No. 5,” and “Mo Li Hua” (Jasmine Flower).

    Over 300 exhibitors and buyers from the upcoming CISCE enjoyed the musical feast, harmoniously blending Eastern and Western cultures.

    Hungary confirmed its role as guest country of honor for the upcoming expo during the event. Officials also named Hungarian violinist Roby Lakatos as the expo’s promotional ambassador.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary for Health receives vaccinations against seasonal influenza and COVID-19

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Secretary for Health receives vaccinations against seasonal influenza and COVID-19
    Secretary for Health receives vaccinations against seasonal influenza and COVID-19
    **********************************************************************************

         The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, received vaccinations against seasonal influenza and COVID-19 at Sai Wan Ho General Out-patient Clinic today (September 24). The Under Secretary for Health, Dr Libby Lee; the Director of Health, Dr Ronald Lam; the Controller of the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH), Dr Edwin Tsui; the Commissioner for Primary Healthcare of the Health Bureau, Dr Pang Fei-chau; the Chairman of the Hospital Authority (HA), Mr Henry Fan; the Chief Executive of the HA, Dr Tony Ko; and frontline healthcare workers also echoed the move and were vaccinated.     Professor Lo said, “Seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) is one of the most effective means to prevent seasonal influenza and its complications. I strongly appeal to all members of the public to receive SIV early as it is now the best timing to get vaccinated for effective protection in the coming year against the  influenza strains predicted by the World Health Organization in preparation for the possible winter or summer influenza seasons. Separately, individuals of high-risk priority groups should also receive an additional COVID-19 booster no less than six months after the last dose or COVID-19 infection (whichever is later) to enhance protection and reduce the risks of serious complications and death.”     He continued, “To boost the SIV coverage rate among schoolchildren, special arrangements have been made under the Seasonal Influenza Vaccination School Outreach Programme (SIVSOP) this year to offer a more flexible choice of vaccine options for kindergartens and childcare centres. They can choose both injectable inactivated influenza vaccines (IIV) and live attenuated influenza vaccines (LAIV) (i.e. nasal vaccines) for the same or different outreach vaccination activities. Moreover, the DH will roll out a pilot scheme in which LAIV will be provided to  primary and secondary schools that had indicated earlier this year their preference for arranging LAIV for their students.”     At present, around 870 kindergartens and childcare centres (80 per cent) have already arranged vaccination activities for their schoolchildren. Among them, 246 schools will offer LAIV, eight schools will offer both IIV and LAIV, and the rest will offer IIV. Separately, around 610 primary schools (93 per cent) and around 390 secondary schools (77 per cent) have arranged vaccination activities for their students. Professor Lo added, “I call on those schools that have yet to join the outreach vaccination programme to enrol as soon as possible to seize the optimum timing for vaccination and do their part to provide the best protection for schoolchildren.”     Hong Kong generally experiences two influenza seasons each year. The winter influenza season usually lies between January and March or April, whereas the summer influenza season typically runs from July to August. The overall influenza activity has remained at a low level since the end of the influenza season in late July this year. However, with reference to previous surveillance data, as the weather is expected to become cooler gradually, the CHP foresaw that the influenza activity level may rise at the end of the year. All citizens should receive SIV which can reduce the risks of serious illnesses and death.      The Government will launch the 2024/25 Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programmes, including the Vaccination Subsidy Scheme, the Government Vaccination Programme, the SIVSOP and the Residential Care Home Vaccination Programme the day after tomorrow (September 26) to provide free or subsidised SIV for persons aged 50 or above (including the elderly living in residential care homes); adults aged 18 to 49 with underlying comorbidities; persons aged 6 months or above with immunocompromising conditions; pregnant women and healthcare workers etc.       Furthermore, individuals of the abovementioned  groups should receive an additional COVID-19 booster in a timely manner regardless of the number of doses of COVID-19 vaccines received before for dual protection. A COVID-19 vaccine can be co-administered with, or separated from, an SIV under informed consent. The inactivated COVID-19 vaccines currently used in Hong Kong (i.e. Sinovac CoronaVac) will expire on October 3, and the vaccine supplier has confirmed that they will no longer produce inactivated COVID-19 vaccines. Members of the public who would like to receive an inactivated COVID-19 vaccine should make a booking as early as possible. Starting from October 4, only mRNA vaccines will be available under the Government’s COVID-19 Vaccination Programme.     For more details, members of the public may call the CHP at 2125 2125 or visit the Vaccination Schemes page.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, September 24, 2024Issued at HKT 12:52

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Kevin Yeung headed to Chengdu

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Kevin Yeung is on his way to Chengdu, Sichuan, where he has been invited by the China Conservation & Research Centre for the Giant Panda to attend a ceremony bidding farewell to An An and Ke Ke, two giant pandas bound for Hong Kong.

    Director of Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Mickey Lai and representatives from Ocean Park Hong Kong are joining Mr Yeung on the visit.

    Mr Yeung will also visit heritage sites and arts and cultural facilities in Chengdu to learn about the city’s integrated development of culture and tourism, and its promotion of tourism development.

    The tourism chief will depart for Hong Kong tomorrow evening. During his absence, Under Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Raistlin Lau will be Acting Secretary.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Smart Dragon-3 rocket launches 8 satellites from sea

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China launched a Smart Dragon-3 carrier rocket from the waters near the city of Haiyang in east China’s Shandong Province on Tuesday, placing eight satellites into planned orbit.
    The commercial rocket blasted off at 10:31 a.m. (Beijing Time), carrying Tianyi-41 and other satellites.
    The Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center carried out this offshore launch.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Green Government will revoke oil and gas permits

    Source: Green Party

    The Green Party vows to reinstate the oil and gas ban and revoke permits when it returns to government following the coalition’s introduction of legislation to reopen offshore oil and gas exploration this afternoon. 

    “A Green Government will reinstate the oil and gas ban and revoke any permits granted under the current regime and their obsession with pouring oil, coal and gas on the climate crisis fire,” says Green Party Co-Leader and spokesperson for Climate Change, Chlöe Swarbrick.

    “We can have an economy that supports people and the planet, instead of exploiting both. It’s simply a matter of political willpower.

    “Overturning the oil and gas ban risks exacerbating energy insecurity and driving exorbitant power prices. The Government must know this. And yet they persist with their lobbyist’s wish list.

    “Luxon’s Government has weaponised the energy crisis to argue for more fossil fuels, conveniently neglecting that it’s the very reliance on those fossil fuels which is behind the energy crisis.

    “Climate delay is the new denial.

    “We can reduce emissions, lower power bills, and improve the resilience of our energy system. All we need is mainstream political willpower. New Zealanders deserve better than the Government’s attempts to pull the wool over their eyes,” says Chlöe Swarbrick.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI to conduct 2-day Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction under LAF on September 24, 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    On a review of current and evolving liquidity conditions, it has been decided to conduct a Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction on September 24, 2024, Tuesday, as under:

    Sl. No. Notified Amount
    (₹ crore)    		 Tenor
    (day)    		 Window Timing Date of Reversal
    1 50,000 2 10:45 AM to 11:15 AM September 26, 2024
    (Thursday)

    2. The operational guidelines for the auction will be same as given in Reserve Bank’s Press Release 2021-2022/1572 dated January 20, 2022.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/1153

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: The Agtech Schools Immersion Program concludes with successful session in Wagga Wagga

    Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

    24 Sep 2024

    Nearly 100 students from across regional NSW gathered at Wagga Wagga Agriculture Institute to take part in the final session of a NSW Government Agtech program immersing kids with cutting-edge agricultural technologies.

    The final event of the 2024 Agtech Schools Immersion Program took place today, with dozens of eager students participating in six workshop rotations covering everything from feed testing and livestock EID to field equipment including Swarmbot, handheld infrared sensors and drones.

    The Agtech Schools Immersion Program has provided students an opportunity to visit NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) research institutes and participate in hands-on learning at TAFE NSW where they design model smart farms, use drone mapping, and learn to use data and artificial intelligence to analyse weather patterns.

    The delivery of this program would not have been possible without the considerable support provided by the Charles Sturt University’s Global Digital Farm team over the course of the program at Wagga.

    This final event followed a series of excursions held in Tamworth and Orange throughout August, showcasing the program’s commitment to equipping students with essential skills and hands-on experience in using agricultural technology.

    NSW DPIRD Schools Program Coordinator Michelle Fifield said these sessions help spark interest, drive innovation and attract investment, contributing to the growth and development of the agricultural technology sector.

    “Giving students hands-on experience with Agtech helps provide them with the right tools and enables them to gain essential skills, opening the door for more opportunities for those looking to enter agricultural industries,” Ms. Fifield said.

    “This experience not only allowed these students to explore innovative tools but also deepened their understanding of how Agtech is shaping the future of farming and how this technology can be used practically.

    “The excitement and enthusiasm we’ve witnessed over the course of the program is a testament to the bright future of our agricultural industry and the willingness of the participants in furthering their skills with agricultural technologies.

    “By investing in our youth and their education in Agtech, we are ensuring a sustainable and innovative future for agriculture in NSW.”

    The Agtech Workforce Development Strategy is part of the NSW Government’s ongoing work to invest in skills and employment to future-proof the agriculture sector.

    This event is being delivered by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and Training Services NSW under the Targeted Workforce Development Scheme.

    Media contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Tax Support Scheme consultation begins

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Council is consulting on future options for its Council Tax Support Scheme affecting working age people. 

    Council Tax Support is a discount which helps households on low incomes with their Council Tax bill.

    Around a third of households in Liverpool are in receipt of Council Tax support and the scheme costs £74 million a year to operate.

    Applying the discount affects the amount of Council Tax the Council receives and also has an impact on the amount of Council Tax that all households in the city pay.

    The scheme has not been reviewed since it started in 2013, despite changes to welfare benefits and Council funding over this period.

    Like all local authorities the Council has a number of financial challenges. The proposals enable the Council to provide a scheme that is financially sustainable in future years.

    The aim is to have a scheme that supports those on the lowest incomes, enables residents to budget, is easy to understand, provides incentives for people moving into work, and is future proofed in terms of its cost.

    The current scheme is means tested and entitlement is calculated by comparing the money coming into a household with the amount the Government says the household needs to live on.

    The Council’s aim, through its proposed changes, is to simplify the rules so that people know how much their Council Tax bill will be reduced by over a year, enabling them to budget. The proposed changes will also align with Universal Credit and provide some certainty for people moving into – or out of work – whilst continuing to provide support to those that need it most.

    The proposals do not affect the Council Tax Support Scheme for pensioner households, the rules for which are controlled by central Government.

    There are four options being consulted on:

    Option 1

    Keep the existing Council Tax Support Scheme with no changes.

    Option 2

    Make limited changes to the Council Tax Support Scheme, including:

    • Changing the maximum discount given
    • Simplifying deductions for the amount deducted from Council Tax Support for another adult living in the property
    • Providing a 12-month award so there is no need to report every change in income
    • Supporting people who move into work by allowing them to stay in the same band for 12 months
    • Capping the maximum award level to Council Tax band B or C, for those in the higher bands C/D, E, F, G or H properties
    • Changing the length of time that an award can be backdated

    Option 3

    Introduce a simple banded scheme based on net earnings only, aligning with Universal Credit, which gives a lower level of discount (support) for those on higher net earnings.

    Option 3 Monthly Net Earnings Bands

    Band    Support           Monthly Earnings

    1          84%                 £0

    2          60%                 £0.01-£400

    3          40%                 £401-£800

    4          20%                 £801-£1,200

    5          10%                 £1,201-£1,500

    –           0%                   More than £1,500

    It also includes:

    • Simplifying non-dependant deductions (the amount deducted from Council Tax support for another adult living in the property)
    • Providing a 12-month award so there is no need to report every change in income
    • Supporting people who move into work by allowing them to stay in the same band for 12 months
    • Capping the maximum award level to Council Tax band B or C, for those in the higher bands C/D, E, F, G or H properties
    • Changing the length of time that an award can be backdated

    Option 4

    Introducing a simple income band scheme based on net earnings and household composition, aligning with Universal Credit.

    This option is designed to reflect the different needs of different types of household.

    The scheme has four bands with the level of award, varying with net earnings and household composition. To reflect the different levels of need, the upper and lower limits of the net earnings bands will be different for different types of household, such as single people, couples, or households with children.

    For couples, the upper and lower limits in the net earning bands will be extended by £50 per week. For households with children, the upper and lower limits to the net earnings bands will be extended by £25 per child per week, with no limit on the number of child additions.

    Option 4 Monthly Net Earnings Bands

    Band    Support          Monthly Earnings

    1          84%                £0

    2          60%                £0.01-£400

    3          40%                £401-£800

    4          20%                £801-£1,200

    5          10%               £1,201-£1,500

    *Households with more than £1,500 in net monthly earnings would receive no support

    It also includes:

    • Simplifying non-dependant deductions (the amount deducted from Council Tax support for another adult living in the property)
    • Providing a 12-month award so there is no need to report every change in income
    • Supporting people who move into work by allowing them to stay in the same band for 12 months
    • Capping the maximum award level to Council Tax band B or C, for those in the higher bands C/D, E, F, G or H properties.
    • Changing the length of time that an award can be backdated.

    Have your say until Monday 21 October at https://liverpool.gov.uk/ctaxsupportconsultation.   

    Following the consultation, a report will be sent to a Full Council meeting to make a final decision in January 2025.

    Deputy Council Leader, Cllr Ruth Bennett, said: “We are hugely proud of the range of welfare support we offer to the most vulnerable residents in Liverpool.

    “We have not reviewed the Council Tax Support Scheme for more than a decade, as a result the current system is complex for residents to understand and does not target support to those who most need it.  We want to build a system which works for our residents. 

    “We want to look at how we can simplify the scheme and make it more easily understandable for those who receive assistance.

    “We are also looking at how to give residents more certainty, for example by giving them a settlement for the whole year, rather than them having to report any changes in their income to us. This is not just time consuming for them, but is also costly to administer for the Council.

    “We also want to support people into work. We will do this by providing some certainty so whe residents go into work they will retain the same award of Council Tax Support for a full 12 months before it is reassessed.

    “We want residents’ feedback on the options before we make a final decision later on this year, with the changes being introduced from April 2025.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Giant panda pair to arrive in Hong Kong

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    A pair of giant pandas gifted by the central government to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) of China will arrive in the city on Thursday, John Lee, chief executive of the HKSAR announced on Tuesday. 
    Follow China.org.cn on Twitter and Facebook to join the conversation.ChinaNews App Download

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal Welfare – Greyhound dies due to ‘carnage collision’ at Addington Raceway – SAFE for Animals

    Source: SAFE For Animals

    SAFE is renewing its urgent call for a ban on greyhound racing after the first race-related death of the 2024/25 season. Rocket Queen suffered a catastrophic compound fracture to her right leg during a race at Addington Raceway, Christchurch, on 20 September 2024.
    Rocket Queen was one of four greyhounds involved in a collision during the race, with three other dogs sustaining injuries, including a suspected fracture.
    SAFE Campaign Manager Emma Brodie says this tragic incident is not an isolated event, but part of an ongoing pattern of cruelty in the greyhound racing industry.
    “Rocket Queen’s death is not an anomaly; this is a predictable outcome in an industry that consistently fails to protect the dogs in its care,” says Brodie.
    “It’s both infuriating and heartbreaking that, despite years of warnings and public outcry, greyhounds continue to suffer and die in the name of entertainment.”
    This latest death adds to the growing toll of greyhound fatalities. Last season saw nearly double the number of deaths compared to the previous season. Thirteen greyhounds died in the 2023/24 season from race-related injuries, compared to seven in 2022/23.
    Earlier this year, Addington Raceway was temporarily closed for two months for remedial work following a spate of animal welfare concerns, including the deaths of three dogs in just one month.
    “No amount of track repairs or superficial ‘safety measures’ can change the reality that greyhound racing amounts to a death sentence for these dogs,” says Brodie.
    “This industry exists solely to fuel gambling profits, and it has no place in modern Aotearoa.”
    SAFE is calling on the Government to intervene immediately and ban greyhound racing in New Zealand.
    “This is more than just a welfare failure; it’s a moral failure. Greyhound racing does not reflect the values of New Zealanders, and the continuation of this industry is a stain on our national conscience.”
    “It’s time for the Government to show true leadership and bring an end to this cruel and outdated industry before more lives are needlessly lost.” 
    SAFE is Aotearoa’s leading animal rights organisation.
    We’re creating a future that ensures the rights of animals are respected. Our core work empowers society to make kinder choices for ourselves, animals and our planet.
    Notes:
    • In May 2024, leading animal organisations Dogwatch, HUHA, SAFE and SPCA announced a commitment to assist with the rehoming of greyhounds should a ban be enacted.
    • A 2022 poll commissioned by SPCA found that 74% of New Zealanders would vote to ban greyhound racing in a referendum.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – ASB Regional Economic Scoreboard Q2 2024

    Source: ASB Regional Economic Scoreboard Q2 2024

    Gisborne the country’s top performer in ASB’s latest Regional Economic Scoreboard

     

    • Gisborne claims first place on the leaderboard for first time in more than four years
    • Biggest drops seen in Southland, down from first spot to ninth, and Marlborough, falling from fourth place to second-to-last
    • Despite signs of optimism in housing market and export growth in some regions, economic outlook to remain sluggish until 2025.

    Growth is on the horizon, according to ASB’s Regional Economic Scoreboard released today. The Scoreboard ranks regions based on year-on-year growth across a range of measures, including employment, building consents and retail sales.

     Scoreboard data for the April to June quarter paints a fairly bleak picture but ASB Senior Economist Chris Tennent-Brown expects inflation pressures to ease further by the end of the year, leading to a brighter 2025.  

    “The unemployment rate rose to a three-year high of 4.6% in Q2, and we expect this to move above 5% by the end of the year. The construction outlook remains soft and household spending is weak, as cost of living pressures bite.

    “However, we’re seeing some positive signs in the housing market with house sales increasing by 6.8%, and prices rising by 2.2% this past quarter, and we can expect it to pick up with a bit more speed in 2025.

    “Exports for Q2 were $26.26bn, up from $25.99bn a year ago, with dairy still our most attractive offering. Our 2024 growth forecasts for some of our key trading partners have been revised higher which is good news for the country. Much like the rest of the economy however, growth is expected to remain below average for 2024, with weakness in China a concern.”

    Gisborne claims top spot on scoreboard

    For the first time in more than four years, Gisborne has claimed the top spot on the scoreboard, largely due to the post-cyclone rebuild in the region. Annual construction consents rose sharply by 40.8%, driven by a 152.8% increase in non-residential building.  Annual house sales growth was the second highest in the country at 25.8%, and employment performed well, growing 3.6% year-on-year and exceeding the national average of 1.6% growth.

    “It’s fantastic to see Gisborne make a comeback on the scoreboard, and we saw the same post-cyclone rebuild having a positive impact for Hawke’s Bay in the rankings last year.  We expect this forward momentum for the region to continue in the short-term.”

    Otago and Canterbury round out the podium

    Otago remained steady in second place, while Canterbury climbed four spots to claim bronze, with both regions differentiating themselves from other parts of the country.  

    Otago generated the highest house price growth across the country, which rose 4.4% annually at double the national 2.2% average.  Otago also showed strength in the labour market, with employment increasing 5.5% annually, the strongest pace of all the regions. Meanwhile, Cantabrians’ above-average consumer confidence showed in their spending, with retail sales growing at the fastest rate in the country at 2.5% annually, compared to a decline of 0.4% nationwide.

    Marlborough and Southland see biggest declines to scoreboard positions

    Marlborough’s position in the top four in Q1 was short-lived, with declines across construction, real estate and employment informing the region’s second-to-last placing. Tennent-Brown says the region’s most famous export could be the key to growth in future quarters.

    “Marlborough enjoyed a spectacular 2024 wine season and if wine exports pick up as we head into summer, the region could see some much-needed momentum in the next 6-12 months.”

    The full ASB Regional Economic Scoreboard, along with other recent ASB reports covering a range of commentary, can be accessed at our ASB Economic Insights page: https://www.asb.co.nz/documents/economic-insights.html

    www.asb.co.nz

    About the ASB Regional Economic Scoreboard

    The NZ Regional Economic Scoreboard takes the latest quarterly regional statistics and ranks the economic performance of New Zealand’s 16 Regional Council areas. The fastest growing regions gain the highest ratings, and a good performance by the national economy raises the ratings of all regions. Ratings are updated every three months, and are based on 11 measures, including employment, construction, retail trade, and house prices.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HOUSE PASSES MATSUI’S RARE ACT

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), co-chair of the Rare Disease Congressional Caucus, released the following statement after the House passed the Give Kids a Chance Act, a package of rare disease legislation that included her Retaining Access and Restoring Exclusivity (RARE) Act. The RARE Act would ensure that promising options for rare disease patients with no approved therapies are able to come to market without being blocked by other pharmaceutical companies.

    “With less than five percent of rare diseases having FDA-approved therapies, we need all the help we can get to ensure rare disease patients can access the cutting-edge care they need,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “The RARE Act will prevent pharmaceutical companies from abusing their orphan drug status to keep other innovative drugs from coming to market. Every rare disease patient deserves a fighting shot. Their access to medicine shouldn’t be sacrificed for drug companies’ bottom line.”

    Specifically, the RARE Act clarifies FDA’s longstanding interpretation of the Orphan Drug Act to ensure that the scope of the orphan drug exclusivity applies only to the same approved use or indication within such rare disease or condition, instead of the same disease or condition. This will give FDA the necessary authority to approve the same drug from different manufacturers if they aim to serve different patient populations.

    Full text of the RARE Act is available HERE.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Minister Rishworth press conference in Ipswich

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    E&OE TRANSCRIPT

    Topics: Supporting adolescent boys and young men trial; Family, domestic and sexual violence.

    SHAYNE NEUMANN, FEDERAL MEMBER FOR BLAIR: I’m Shayne Neumann, Federal Member for Blair. I’m here with my friend Amanda Rishworth, who’s the Minister for Social Services, and Aime Carrington, who’s the CEO of Domestic Violence Action Centre, commonly known as DVAC, west of Brisbane, a great service that provides a lot of assistance for women and children in particular. But I’m so pleased, Amanda, to have you here today with this announcement, and you have as a psychologist and I as a lawyer, who practiced in family law and child protection, have worked in this field before, in our professional lives, before in Parliament. But I know this announcement is very, very good for Ipswich and surrounds, and I know that DVAC will do a lot of good with the Federal Government funding and support that you’re providing. I’ll hand over to you, Amanda, to tell us about it.

    AMANDA RISHWORTH, MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SERVICES: It’s so wonderful to be here today. Firstly, I’d like to thank Shayne, who’s been an amazing advocate for women and children in particular, who have experienced family, domestic and sexual violence. His advocacy has made sure that the attention, not just here in Ipswich, but right across the country, is really, really focused. I’d also like to thank Aime and the whole team at the Domestic Violence Action Centre, the frontline workforce that I met today. The Commonwealth Government, under the Albanese Labor Government, has really focused on family and domestic violence since we were elected. Our National Plan to End Family Domestic and Sexual Violence in a generation is something that we put in place very soon after we were elected, and we’ve now had a number of budget rounds that have put close to $4 billion on the table when it comes to frontline services and other programs. But it was wonderful to meet with Aime and the other frontline workers to hear how they’re actually working to spend this money. Whether it is through our frontline workforce, through the National Partnerships Agreement that we have, providing help to women and children really in crisis. Or whether it is the work that they complement their casework with, with keeping women safe in their homes, ensuring that there’s the right technical solution and support for women to stay where they want to live in their community, but don’t always feel certain to do so without this extra support. But most importantly, it was wonderful to hear about the enthusiasm for the new announcement today that we’ve made about supporting young men and boys break the cycle of family and domestic violence. We know that children, particularly men and boys, who have experienced family and domestic violence or other adverse childhood experiences, are more likely to choose to use violence, and therefore we know that if we are going to break the cycle, we must work with these boys and men to make sure that the cycle is not repeated. And that is what this trial I’m announcing today is. There’s 12 different organisations that will run support across the country. And it is wonderful that the Domestic Violence Action Centre will be one of those working in this new way. I have to say that one of the really key elements of the National Plan is to acknowledge the experience of children as domestic violence victim survivors and to make sure that they get the support that they need. That’s what these programs are all about. There’ll be both rural and regional areas that will have these trials, as well as metropolitan areas. And here in Ipswich, there is a there is a wonderful program that will be delivered. I’m going to ask Aime to speak about that soon. Services will begin to roll out, and support will begin to roll out from January this year, and will be over a three year period. But I’d just like to thank Aime and her team for the really wonderful application they’ve put in to work with these boys and young men and to make sure that we are really breaking the cycle when it comes to family and domestic violence. So I’m going to ask Aime to speak about her program in particular.

    AIME CARRINGTON, CEO OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ACTION CENTRE: I’m Aime Carrington. I’m the CEO of the Domestic Violence Action Centre. DVAC has been operating for just under 30 years within the Ipswich region, and we’re really excited about the announcement today and to be a part of this new partnership with YFS to pilot a program called ‘Breaking the Cycle’. Breaking the Cycle will be working with young men and boys aged 12 to 18 years who have experienced domestic and sexual violence. We will be supporting them on their journey for healing and trauma and abuse that they’ve experienced, and we’ll be supporting them to build their own positive masculinities, behaviours, and ways of behaving within the family and with their own intimate partners. We’re really excited, because what this program will do is it will build a new evidence base through being evaluated to show what really works with breaking the cycle of domestic and sexual violence. I’m really proud of the team at DVAC, and really excited to see the positive gains that we’ll be able to achieve alongside our community, our community partners, young men and their families, with this work together.

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: Okay, we’ll hand over to you for some questions.

    JOURNALIST: Thank you. First question to the Minister. This kind of program for young boys is the first of its kind in Australia, is it? Why do you think it’s so important to have?

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: What we know, and what the evidence shows us is that we must make sure that if we break the cycle, we have to intervene early. And of course, particularly boys and young men, if violence has been normalised in the home, if it has been shown that that’s the only way to respond, then we’re going to see that violence cycle continue. So we must intervene early to break the cycle, but also we must ensure that children, in particular that have experienced family and domestic violence carry their own scars, their own trauma, and we need to support them to heal. We need to make sure that they are over able to overcome what is often a very traumatic experience. So our National Plan has been very focused on that we need to elevate children. Children didn’t get the type of focus in the first National Plan around gender-based violence, but in this plan, we are elevating children, because that’s where we know we can make a real difference.

    JOURNALIST: And of course, it’s not just here in Ipswich, but it is across the country, 12 sites, but likely more to come next year. Is that right?

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: There’s 12 sites that will be running over the next few years. There’s one, for example, in Rockhampton, being run by Centrecare Rockhampton. They’ll be run across rural and regional areas as well as metropolitan areas in most states and territories. And we will be gathering the evidence from these trials to look at how we put in best practice and expand this type of support across the country.

    JOURNALIST: And I have a question for Aime, sorry, how important is it to have these services funded by Government to, I guess, you know, get these kids to help they need?

    AIME CARRINGTON: Government funding is essential to the success of specialist domestic family and central violence services. And it’s really important to be doing innovative pilots like the Breaking the Cycle program, because we need to do more as a society to really make a difference and to change the trajectory. If we want to achieve ending gender-based violence in one generation, it’s services like this that are going to make a real difference alongside everything else that we’re doing. Ending gender-based violence is going to take a whole society, and so this is a really important step forward.

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: Thank you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: First Responders – 2024 Port Hills Fire Investigation Report

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    A fire investigation report into the Port Hills fire, which started on 14 February 2024, has located a specific origin area on private property but the cause of the fire remains undetermined.
    District Commander Dave Stackhouse says, “Investigators were unable to identify a specific ignition source. As the cause of the fire cannot be proven to an acceptable level of certainty, it is classified as undetermined. However, if further information becomes available, the investigation will be reopened.”
    Dave Stackhouse says an examination of the scene identified a specific origin area of approximately five square metres, on private property about 50 metres off the side of Worsleys Road.
    “The owner of the property where the fire originated cooperated with the investigation and advised that there had been no activity or equipment used on the day the fire started,” Dave Stackhouse says.
    “Our legal advice is that, due to privacy reasons, Fire and Emergency is unable to release the specific origin area of the fire because it is on private property,” he says.
    “We acknowledge this may be disappointing for all those who were affected by the Port Hills fire in February and were hoping for answers,” the District Commander says.
    “Our investigation into the cause of the fire included three experienced wildfire investigators working alongside the New Zealand Police and who arrived in Christchurch the day after the fire started.
    “They interviewed three witnesses who were in the vicinity of the fire when it started and were the first to report the fire to 111. They assessed photos and videos of the early stages of the fire which were sent in by the public or captured on CCTV,” he says.
    “In the lead up to the fire, Canterbury was experiencing a warm, dry summer, combined with dry vegetation across the District. These conditions assisted in the ignition and spread of the fire.”
    Dave Stackhouse says that while the cause of the fire is undetermined, significant incidents like this one are a strong reminder that everyone should take steps to protect themselves from wildfire.
    “Now is the time to prepare for the fire season. We encourage the community to develop an emergency plan, this should include a plan for pets and livestock,” he says.
    “We also recommend that property owners take action to create a defensible space around their properties, remove unwanted vegetation and leaves and use low flammability plants to assist with creating a green fire break around properties.”
    People can find out more information about protecting themselves from wildfires on the Fire and Emergency New Zealand website and at Checkitsalright.co.nz.
    “Fire and Emergency extends its thanks to the many volunteers and staff who worked long hours to contain and extinguish the Port Hills fire.
    “We also want to acknowledge and thank partner agencies for their support throughout the response and the Port Hills residents and Christchurch community for their cooperation.
    “We would also like to thank everyone who contributed to our investigation through sending in photos and videos of the fire during the incident,” Dave Stackhouse says.
    A copy of the fire investigation report will also be available on Fire and Emergency’s website from 1pm on Tuesday 24 September 2024.
    Background
    Just after 2pm on 14 February 2024, Fire and Emergency New Zealand was alerted to a vegetation fire near Worsleys Road on the Christchurch Port Hills. The fire burnt through approximately 650 hectares and destroyed a residential structure and various infrastructure, including causing some damage to the Christchurch Adventure Park.
    The fire burnt across the Port Hills for three weeks and involved firefighters from across Canterbury, multiple aircraft and ground machinery, a large number of support and incident management personnel, and Fire and Emergency’s specialist drone team.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Activist News – Government called to condemn Israel’s reckless provocation in civilian slaughter in Lebanon – PSNA

    Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

     

    Israel has begun the wholesale slaughter of Lebanese civilians in a war model based on the genocide in Gaza and PSNA is calling on the government to condemn the killing.

     

    Over the past few days at least 492 people, including 35 children, have been killed and 1,645 wounded in Israeli attacks on Lebanon.

     

    This is the latest of Israel’s highly-inflammatory actions to provoke a wider Middle East War which include:

     

     

    “Israel is an out-of-control rogue state which is pushing hard for an all-out war with Iran” says PSNA National Chair John Minto. “Our government must condemn the killings and demand accountability for Israel’s reckless provocations”

     

    “Christopher Luxon claims the government wants all parties to refrain from actions that would escalate Israel’s war on Gaza into a wider Middle East war. Israel is actively fanning the flames of war and Mr Luxon must call this out on behalf of Aotearoa New Zealand”

     

    “The problem in the Middle East has always been Israel’s colonisation of Palestine over 76 years, driving Palestinians off their land before stealing the land”

     

    In the meantime Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is driving for a wider war to avoid the collapse of his far-right government and his looming trial on bribery and corruption charges.”

     

    John Minto

    National Chair

    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Stats NZ information release: Injury statistics – work-related claims: 2023

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Injury statistics – work-related claims: 2023 – 24 September 2024 – Injury statistics for work-related claims give information about claims accepted by ACC for work-related injuries.

    Key facts

    • A total of 226,600 work-related injury claims were made in 2023 (up 1,200 from 2022).
    • The incidence rate for claims related to work-related injuries was 86 claims per 1,000 full-time equivalent employees (FTEs) in 2023. This is the lowest rate since the start of the series in 2002.
    • The manufacturing; agriculture, forestry, and fishing; and construction industries had the highest incidence rates of work-related injury claims in 2023.
    • Trades workers had the highest number of claims by occupation in 2023, with 39,000 claims.

    Visit Statistics NZ’s website to read this information release:

     

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU to host first international student cybercriminology festival CrimeLab Fest-2024

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    On September 27-28, the first international student cybercriminology festival CrimeLab Fest-2024 will be held at NSU. The event will involve 9 student teams: 8 of them represent Russian cities such as Novosibirsk, Barnaul, Krasnoyarsk and Krasnodar, and one combined team, which will include students from Harbin (China). Using cyber simulators, they will compete in investigating simulated situations. The students’ results will be assessed by an authoritative jury, which will include leading Russian experts in the field of forensics. The festival will also include lectures and a round table, where experts and students will discuss the prospects and future of the profession.

    — Several years ago, educational institutions began to request the introduction of modern products at the intersection of IT and forensics into the educational process. This is how the idea of creating cyber simulators appeared, which are based on the idea of a computer game, a quest, but at the same time they incorporate the entire arsenal of forensic tools for investigation, evidence collection, verification of versions, etc. That is, they allow you to simulate the situation of investigating certain types of crimes in a game form. At the moment, 10 such simulators have been developed. Our festival will be the first platform where we will test these simulators in action, — said the head of the CrimeLab project, Doctor of Law, Professor of the Department of Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure and Forensics of NSU Roman Borovskikh.

    The simulators were created by a team of developers from the ANO “Digital Educational Technologies”, which includes NSU graduates. Each simulator simulates the investigation of individual types of crimes, including bribery, murder, fraud, robbery, etc. The user of the simulator has the opportunity to choose not only the type of crime, but also the location. In the future, it is planned to introduce this tool into the educational process and make it part of the curriculum.

    According to Roman Borovskikh, “our task now is to test how this tool works, what the impressions and feedback from students will be, and to understand how these electronic educational tools need to be improved in order to use them in real educational practice.”

    The festival will feature student teams, 3 of which are from out of town, representing Altai State University, Kuban State University and Krasnoyarsk State Agrarian University. Also, one team is international, it is formed by students of Heilongjiang University and NSU. During the competition, the guys will have to demonstrate their knowledge and skills at all stages of the investigation, such as collecting evidence, checking versions, etc., using correct forensic methods, using simulators.

    The teams’ work will be assessed by an expert jury chaired by Igor Mikhailovich Komarov, Doctor of Law, Professor, Head of the Forensic Science Department at Moscow State University. The jury also includes leading Russian forensic scientists. Among them are Lev Vladimirovich Bertovsky, Doctor of Law, Professor, Director of the Institute of High-Tech Law, Social and Humanitarian Sciences at the Moscow Institute of Electronic Technology. As well as practicing forensic scientists, led by Colonel of Justice Vitaly Vitalyevich Brytkov, Head of the Forensic Support Department for the Siberian Federal District (based in Novosibirsk) of the Forensic Support Directorate for Investigations in the Federal Districts of the Main Forensic Science Directorate (Forensic Center) of the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation.

    On the second day of the festival, there will be an off-site session, during which experts will give original lectures on new methods and the future of the profession, and a student round table will also take place.

    The festival is organized by NSU, Institute of Philosophy and Law of NSU And Student CenterNSU initiatives. The project partners are the Department of Forensic Support of Investigations for the Siberian Federal District, the ANO Digital Educational Technologies, and the federal project CrimeLab.

    More detailed information about the festival.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.nsu.ru/n/media/nevs/education/nsu-will-host-the-first-international-student-festival-cyberforensics-crimelab-fest-2024/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Have a sweet time in Porirua

    Source: Porirua City Council

    Porirua’s ChoctoberFest is back for its third year, with 20 cafés across the city serving up unique creations throughout October, all featuring iconic Whittaker’s chocolate.
    For the whole month, 19 Porirua cafés will be offering unique chocolate drinks, vying for the title of Top of the Chocs, and from 1 to 13 October there will be 10 delicious baked treats available as part of the Whittaker’s Bake Off.
    Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says having the support of Whittaker’s is great for the city.
    “We know how much Kiwis love Whittaker’s chocolate and to have it made on our doorstep here in Porirua is something we’re really proud of.
    “We’ve also got some amazing hospitality outlets and we know it’s a tough time for that industry. So ChoctoberFest is a great way to get behind local businesses and show some support, while enjoying something delicious,” she says.
    Whittaker’s CEO James Ardern says the company is proud to have been making chocolate in Porirua for more than 50 years.
    “The annual ChoctoberFest is always a great opportunity to celebrate that, and we are delighted to be part of it again this year.
    “We look forward to seeing how local businesses get creative with chocolate, and to sampling what’s on offer throughout the month.”
    With hot and cold drinks, imaginative baked creations, vegan options, gluten free choices and even cocktails, there should be something for almost everyone.
    Once you’ve tasted, you can vote for your favourites to help decide who comes out on top.
    There are amazing prizes up for grabs, including a Whittaker’s factory tour, invites to an exclusive Whittaker’s event at Kai Tahi, café vouchers, and a year’s supply (52 blocks) of chocolate.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Milestones reached to improve Porirua’s water infrastructure

    Source: Porirua City Council

    Pipe renewals along Awarua and Prosser streets and the first stage of replacement of the water trunk main at Titahi Bay have been completed as part of Porirua City Council’s ongoing work to renew the city’s drinking water network.
    Wellington Water’s GM of Network Development and Delivery, Susannah Cullen, says the community’s patience is appreciated during some disruptions as these important jobs are carried out.
    “Vital work like these pipe renewals is key to keeping the leaks backlog at a sustainable level and building a more resilient water supply,” she says.
    While leaks are a concern across the region, the number of leaks in Porirua is manageable, Ms Cullen says. A “sustainable backlog” is the level of leaks agreed to by Porirua City Council and Wellington Water, meaning water loss is being contained and projects and work can be delivered efficiently.
    Mayor Anita Baker was pleased to see the positive impact from Council’s increased investment.
    “Balancing pipe renewals with leak fixes is vital to keep water loss down in the long term,” she says.
    “But our work doesn’t stop here. As we look ahead to summer, we’ll work to keep leaks down and keep an eye on our wai across the board.”
    Mayor Baker added there are simple, sensible ways the community can help too.
    “Following water restrictions, making easy choices like doing full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher, and turning the tap off when you’re brushing your teeth – it all makes a difference.”
    Porirua City will enter level 1 water restrictions at midnight on Sunday 29 September. At this level, the public are asked to only use sprinklers every second day. Even numbered houses can use their sprinklers on even numbered days, and odd numbered houses on odd numbered days.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – Transporting New Zealand calls for additional measures to support the Low Emissions Heavy Vehicle Fund

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    National road freight association Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand has welcomed the launch of the Low Emissions Heavy Vehicle Fund (the LEHVF) but says additional policy changes and investment are required to support freight decarbonisation.
    The fund, administered by the Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority (EECA) can contribute up to 25 per cent of the cost of new zero and low-emissions heavy vehicles. 
    The LEHVF can also contribute up to 25 per cent of the cost to convert existing higher emitting heavy vehicles to be powered by low-emissions technology – including hydrogen-diesel dual fuel engines. EECA has estimated the LEHVF could prevent 366,622 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions, replacing 500 diesel-only vehicles by 2028.
    Dom Kalasih says the 27-million-dollar fund will help Transporting New Zealand’s members get zero and low carbon trucks on the road, reducing transport emissions.
    “The road freight sector is committed to decarbonisation, including adopting low and zero emission vehicles. However, the high purchase cost and limited range and freight capacity of many available models is a big barrier to uptake. In a low margin industry like ours, practical support from the Government is essential.”
    “Battery electric trucks cost between 2-3 times more than internal combustion equivalents, with limited range and loads. Freight customers are understandably price sensitive, particularly in the current economic climate, and this can make low and zero emission freight services a tough sell.”
    Transporting New Zealand is also calling for the Government to prioritise three actions to support decarbonisation in the road freight sector:
    – introduce accelerated depreciation for low and zero emission vehicles (including higher productivity motor vehicles);
    – reform the vehicle dimension and mass rules to allow more battery weight on front axles; and
    – strengthen roads surfaces and bridges to allow heavier, more efficient, electric vehicles and high productivity motor vehicles to access more of the roading network.
    “Co-funding vehicle purchases is an important piece of the puzzle, but getting our regulatory settings and roading network ready for more efficient vehicles is also essential to increasing uptake and driving down emissions.”
    Transporting New Zealand is currently working with several other transport associations and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi to propose practical amendments to the Land Transport Rules that will improve freight efficiency. 
    About Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand
    Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand is the peak national membership association representing the road freight transport industry. Our members operate urban, rural and inter- regional commercial freight transport services throughout the country. 
    Road is the dominant freight mode in New Zealand, transporting 92.8% of the freight task on a tonnage basis, and 75.1% on a tonne-km basis. The road freight transport industry employs over 34,000 people across more than 4,700 businesses, with an annual turnover of $6 billion.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace occupies Straterra’s Wellington HQ in seabed mining protest

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace activists have occupied the Wellington offices of the mining lobby group Straterra to protest plans to Fast Track its client Trans-Tasman Resources’ seabed mining in the South Taranaki Bight.
    Three activists have locked themselves inside the building, and two more have climbed onto an awning at the front of the building to deploy a large ‘No Seabed Mining’ banner.
    Greenpeace says this action is “a demonstration of the resistance promised” in a recently published open letter to all companies considering using the Fast Track Approvals process. More than 7,500 people have signed on to the letter so far.
    A second company seeking consent for seabed mining in the area has just confirmed they are voluntarily withdrawing, citing regulatory uncertainty as one of the reasons, along with the emergence of an offshore wind energy generation proposal that would be incompatible with the seabed mining industry.
    Greenpeace says that’s evidence that the pressure is working.
    Australian mining company TTR is vying to mine 50 million tons of iron sands in the South Taranaki Bight every year for 30 years. The company has made no secret of the fact it will use the much-maligned Fast Track Bill to get a green light after years of opposition by Taranaki hapū, environmentalists, the fishing industry and marine mammal experts.
    Greenpeace Aotearoa spokesperson Juressa Lee says, “We’re taking this action to highlight the danger that Trans-Tasman Resources may slip through the Fast Track process, despite years of community opposition and rejection by the courts.
    “We’re also highlighting the role played by the mining industry lobbyist Straterra, which has the ear of this government and is pushing this extractive, polluting project.
    “Straterra is a malignant force in New Zealand politics, operating in the shadows and backrooms to exert a pernicious influence over Government policies. Straterra’s stated objectives would shock all New Zealanders who value the natural world and a healthy democracy.
    “Today, we will drag Straterra’s dirty business into the sunlight and expose their malevolent intentions for all to see.
    “TTR has tried and failed for more than a decade to get approval to mine the seabed because it was never able to show that it wouldn’t cause substantial harm to the environment. If seabed mining is fast tracked, it will be in contempt of all expert advice and the wishes of local iwi, environmental groups, Taranaki communities and the 60,000 New Zealanders who have signed the petition calling for it to be banned.”
    Lee says it’s clear that even the coalition’s own supporters are against the Fast Track too.
    Recent Horizon Research polling shows that 55% of NZ First supporters do not support the Fast Track Bill, an increase from 36% of respondents in May 2024.
    “The Luxon coalition government needs to stop listening to Stratera and start listening to their constituency, and the broader public that are saying they do not want seabed mining, and they do not want seabed mining fast tracked.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Environment – New species of NZ ghost shark discovered – NIWA

    Source: NIWA

    Scientists have found a new ghost shark that lives exclusively in the deep waters of Australia and New Zealand.
    The Australasian Narrow-nosed Spookfish was described by NIWA Fisheries Scientist Dr Brit Finucci.
    It was previously thought to be part of a single globally distributed species, until research revealed it is genetically and morphologically different to its cousins.
    Dr Finucci gave it the scientific name Harriotta avia in memory of her grandmother.
    “Avia means grandmother in Latin; I wanted to give this nod to her because she proudly supported me through my career as a scientist. Chimaeras are also rather ancient relatives – the grandmas and grandpas – of fish and I thought the name was well suited,” said Dr Finucci.
    Ghost sharks, or chimaeras, are a group of cartilaginous fish closely related to sharks and rays. Other names for these mysterious animals include ratfish, rabbitfish and elephant fish.
    They have smooth skin, free of scales, and feed off crustaceans such as shrimp and molluscs with their distinctive beak-like teeth.
    ” Harriotta avia is unique due to its elongated, narrow and depressed snout; long, slender trunk; large eyes; and very long, broad pectoral fins. It is a lovely chocolate brown colour.
    “Ghost sharks like this one are largely confined to the ocean floor, living in depths of up to 2,600m. Their habitat makes them hard to study and monitor, meaning we don’t know a lot about their biology or threat status, but it makes discoveries like this even more exciting,” said Dr Finucci.
    The specimens were collected in the Chatham Rise off New Zealand’s coast during research surveys for Fisheries New Zealand. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Emergency Management – Nearly half a million people signed up for ShakeOut with one month to go

    Source: National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)

    With one month to go, nearly half a million people have already signed up for New Zealand ShakeOut 2024, our national earthquake drill and tsunami hīkoi.

    The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) says over 480,000 people have signed up to Drop, Cover and Hold and practice their tsunami hīkoi on Thursday 24 October at 9:30am. You can join them and sign up at www.ShakeOut.govt.nz.

    NEMA’s Director Civil Defence Emergency Management, John Price says it’s fantastic to see almost half a million people already signed up, and he encourages schools, businesses, community groups and whānau to sign up if they haven’t already.

    “All of New Zealand is at risk of earthquakes and tsunamis at any time. Shake Out gives us the chance to practice, exercise and test the correct actions to take during an earthquake and tsunami.

    “A large earthquake such as an Alpine Fault rupture will be a defining event for all of New Zealand. We need to be ready.

    “By practising Shake Out each year, knowing what to do to stay safe in an earthquake and tsunami will become second nature. Exercising regularly improves our ability to cope on the day and keep ourselves and our communities safe.”

    Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake Chief Resilience and Research Officer, Dr Jo Horrocks says they are proud to support ShakeOut again. “At NHC Toka Tū Ake, we’re working really hard to minimise the impact of future natural hazards on communities. Our beautiful land is one of the highest-risk countries in the world for a range of natural hazards, but there is a lot we can all do to prepare for them.”

    Dr Horrocks is pleased to see that almost half a million Kiwis have already signed up for ShakeOut and is hopeful more will join the challenge. “Taking a bit of time to think about how hazards could affect us at home, work or school, and then taking steps to prepare – these are things that will make a big difference in a disaster.”

    John Price says, “Before the drill, check your tsunami evacuation zone using our map and make plans for your tsunami hīkoi if you are in a coastal area. (ref. https://getready.govt.nz/en/emergency/tsunami/tsunami-evacuation-zones/ )

    “Remember that no matter where you live, visit, work or play –  if you are near the coast, or any large body of water and you’re in an earthquake that is strong enough to make it difficult to stand up, or lasts a minute or more, you should immediately head inland or for higher ground. Remember, if it’s long or strong, get gone.”

    New Zealand ShakeOut 2024 is sponsored by the Natural Hazards Commission and supported by New Zealand Red Cross. The drill is taking place on Thursday 24 October 2024 at 9:30am.

    New Zealand ShakeOut is based on the highly successful California ShakeOut which began in 2008 and has now expanded to numerous other US states and countries such as Canada and Japan.

    Sign up and go into the draw to win a prize pack! Find more information at www.ShakeOut.govt.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Employment – First day of bargaining action for Te Whatu Ora nurses – NZNO

    Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

    New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki O Aotearoa members will gather in support of their bargaining team on tomorrow morning to mark the first day of collective contract negotiations with Te Whatu Ora.
    Wednesday 25 September will be the first day of bargaining for NZNO’s biggest collective contract.
    “This year’s bargaining is taking place at a time when our health system is om crisis,” NZNO delegate Bruce McIntosh says.
    “There is a chronic shortage of thousands of nurses at Te Whatu Ora nurses which is leading to increased wait times in Emergency Departments and compromising the quality of patient care,” Bruce McIntosh says.
    “Understaffing in our hospitals has been exacerbated with the Government’s obsession with cutting costs.
    “With a commissioner appointed to Te Whatu Ora and a voluntary redundancy process underway, there’s no doubt our bargaining team has their work cut out for them.
    “Members are gathering on Wednesday morning in solidarity with the bargaining team and to wish them all the best as they arrive for this important mahi. They will take with them into the negotiation room the collective strength of 35,000 members covered by this agreement,” Bruce McIntosh says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parliament Bill passes first reading

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Parliament Bill has passed its first reading this afternoon, Leader of the House Chris Bishop says. 

    “Today Parliament has taken an important step towards modernising the legislation that supports its operations. 

    “The Parliament Bill will consolidate and modernise the four Acts comprising Parliament’s statutory framework: the Clerk of the House of Representatives Act 1988, the Parliamentary Service Act 2000, the Members of Parliament (Remuneration and Services) Act 2013, and the Parliamentary Privilege Act 2014.

    Other important changes in the Bill include:

    • Updating the functions of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker to clarify when the functions and duties of the Speaker are carried out by the Deputy;
    • Modernising the statutory functions of the Clerk of the House;
    • Providing Parliamentary Security Officers with statutory powers similar to those of court security officers, and
    • Transferring to the Electoral Commission the role of determining whether a petition carries the required number of signatures to trigger a referendum.

    “I am pleased to see this Bill receive unanimous support from across the House. When dealing with matters regarding how Parliament is run, we want to ensure a bipartisan, constructive approach. I thank Members for their contributions to this Bill and to the first reading debate today.

    “As part of the cross-party collaborative approach to this Bill, it has been agreed that a special select committee will be created with representatives from every parliamentary party to consider it. The Government intends to nominate former Speaker of the House, Rt Hon Adrian Rurawhe, to chair this committee.

    “The Bill has now been referred to the special select committee for six months and I hope to pass it into law in 2025.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Porirua City – Local councillors briefed on water reform

    Source: Porirua City Council

    This week briefings to councillors in Wellington, Porirua and Lower Hutt will outline the challenges they face as they consider a joint water services delivery plan in response to the Government’s Local Water Done Well policy. Greater Wellington Regional councillors were briefed last week.
    The briefing sessions focus on the changes to legislation, scale of the challenge, implications around funding and pricing and are to prepare councillors for significant decisions ahead.
    Nine councils in the Wellington region and Horowhenua District are working together to consider a joint water services delivery plan which must be developed by September 2025. The councils collectively represent more than 500,000 people.
    Work is being led by the region’s Advisory Oversight Group (AOG) made up of elected members and Iwi/ Māori representatives.
    Dame Kerry Prendergast, Independent Chair of the region’s Advisory Oversight Group says all councils are committed to the process and working at pace to ensure the right approach to water management is reached.
    “We are committed to an enduring solution, as a sustainable and long-term approach is required to address the challenges our water networks face – now and into the future,” Dame Kerry said.
    “Our region has a significant backlog of investment needed in three waters infrastructure,” Dame Kerry said.
    “Currently over 20 percent of the region’s water assets are worn out and needing replacement, which presents significant risk of major services failures. If we don’t fix the network, we will keep on seeing major pipe failures like at Day’s Bay and Kent Terrace or ongoing challenges like at the Seaview wastewater treatment plant.
    “Significant investment in water is going to be needed over the next 20 years. We know that this will be really challenging and we will have to work closely with contractors and suppliers to grow the workforce, explore new delivery models and find new and lower cost solutions.
    “Our preliminary analysis of the water network and the level of investment needed highlights that there are no quick fixes – this will take sustained effort,” Dame Kerry said.
    “We know what people pay for water will need to rise and we are looking at a range of options and scenarios to keep this affordable.
    “This is why it’s imperative that councils work together, despite each facing different issues. Some councils have challenges now, some have challenges to come in the future. This is a long game, and working together, at scale, gives us the best chance to work our way out of the current water infrastructure situation.”
    New funding arrangements announced by the Government on 8 August for water organisations through the Local Government Funding Agency mean that if councils set up a new delivery organisation these will have access to additional debt funding.
    There are some real positives to this change, Dame Kerry said. “The investment will enable growth and new home building; it will create a lot of jobs in the region. Over the next 20 years, about 44 percent of the network could be replaced, building significant resilience for future earthquakes. The investment will also address the region’s critical water shortage challenges through meters, increased water storage, and fixing leaks.”
    Local Water Done Well is the Government’s plan for water reform and requires councils to develop water service delivery plans by September 2025. It is being implemented in three stages, each with its own piece of legislation. The second stage is underway, with the Local Government (Water Services Preliminary Arrangements) Act passed into law on 2 September.
    The report outlining the regional option for water service delivery will be finalised and released in October, for each council to then consider and make decisions. These decisions will shape the next steps for the region.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Defence News – Mortars and machine guns pack the punch in latest Fiji-New Zealand Army exercise – NZDF

    Source: New Zealand Defence Force

    Nearly 50 New Zealand Army personnel have returned from Fiji following a valuable week of mortar and machine gun tactical training exercises.

    Exercise Cartwheel involved soldiers from 16th Field Regiment, Royal Regiment of New Zealand Artillery and 1st Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment delivering training courses to Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) personnel, to further build their 81mm mortar and sustained-fire machine gun capabilities.

    The exercise culminated with a live fire exercise in the Nausori Highlands, which was a prime opportunity for RFMF and NZ Army soldiers to not only put theory into practice, but also enhance the relationship between the two forces and their ability to work together in a jungle warfare environment.

    1 (NZ) Brigade Commander, Colonel Ben Bagley, was in Fiji for part of the exercise and says these opportunities are invaluable.

    “Purely on a tactical and technical level, any opportunity to get our soldiers into the field and put their skills into practice is fantastic, but Exercise Cartwheel is much more than just that. It allows us to spend some valuable time with one of our key Pacific partners in the RFMF and enhance our interoperability,” Colonel Bagley said.

    “The feedback we receive from the RFMF has always been positive around this exercise, and we equally value the opportunity to come and learn from our partners – it goes both ways.”

    Exercise Cartwheel is an annual RFMF-US Army Pacific bilateral exercise designed to train, assess and build light infantry and combat support warfighting capability. Fiji and the US are the main participants. Partner nations like Australia and the United Kingdom also regularly take part, with the NZ Army involved in the past three editions.

    “Getting the opportunity to link up with our partners for these exercises in the field is critical for our relationships in the region, because fundamentally we – Ngāti Tūmatauenga, the New Zealand Army – are from, and of the Pacific. What happens here is of huge significance to us all,” Colonel Bagley said.

    “We’d like to thank our friends and partners in the RFMF for their continued trust and support in us, and welcoming us back here every year. The camaraderie between our people is as strong as ever, and we look forward to the next opportunity to link up.”

    Commanding Officer 3rd Battalion Fiji Infantry Regiment (3FIR), Lieutenant Colonel Atunaisa Vakatale, says the exercise marks another milestone in the defence partnership of both nations, and reflects the understanding, trust and shared vision between both armies.

    “It also highlights the successful transfer of knowledge and skills, and the completion of training objectives that immensely contributes to the readiness and capabilities of both forces,” Lieutenant Colonel Vakatale said.

    “I am certain the training activities over the past three weeks have not only further enhanced our cooperation and interoperability, but it has also set the conditions for more people-to-people connections and networking amongst our troops.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace seabed mining protest extends to a second site

    Source: Greenpeace

    After five Greenpeace activists occupied the Wellington offices of mining lobby group Straterra to protest seabed mining by its client Trans Tasman Resources today, two more have scaled a tower near Parliament and deployed a 22-meter banner that reads No Seabed Mining.
    Greenpeace says today’s action is “a demonstration of the resistance promised” in a recently published open letterto all companies considering using the Fast Track Approvals process.
    Spokesperson Juressa Lee says that while today’s focus has been on Trans Tasman Resources and their plan to mine the seabed of the South Taranaki Bight, it should also be a warning to any company considering using the Fast Track approvals process that they will face resistance.
    Earlier in the day, three Greenpeace activists gained entry to the Straterra HQ and locked it from the inside to prevent entry. They then proceeded to tweet images from a Straterra document outlining its intention to influence Government policy and clear the way for mining on the seabed and on conservation land.
    Meanwhile, two more activists climbed onto the awning outside the Straterra offices and firefighters and erected a large banner reading No Seabed Mining.
    All five activists at the Straterra building were eventually arrested by police.
    Australian mining company TTR is vying to mine 50 million tons of iron sands in the South Taranaki Bight every year for 30 years. The company has made no secret of the fact it will use the much-maligned Fast Track Bill to get a green light after years of opposition by Taranaki hapū, environmentalists, the fishing industry and marine mammal experts.
    Greenpeace Aotearoa spokesperson Juressa Lee said, “We’re taking this action to highlight the danger that Trans-Tasman Resources may slip through the Fast Track process, despite years of community opposition and rejection by the courts.
    “We’re also highlighting the role played by the mining industry lobbyist Straterra, which has the ear of this government and is pushing this extractive, polluting project.
    “Straterra is a malignant force in New Zealand politics, operating in the shadows and backrooms to exert a pernicious influence over Government policies. Straterra’s stated objectives would shock all New Zealanders who value the natural world and a healthy democracy.
    “Today, we have dragged Straterra’s dirty business into the sunlight and expose their malevolent intentions for all to see.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: World leaders hail adoption of Pact for the Future

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva (at the podium) speaks at the Summit of the Future at the UN headquarters in New York, Sept. 22, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    As the Summit of the Future entered its second and final day at the United Nations headquarters in New York on Monday, leaders from the world body’s member countries continued to hail the adoption of the Pact for the Future, with Global Digital Compact and Declaration on Future Generations as its annexes.

    The pact and its annexes cover a broad range of themes including peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, digital cooperation, human rights, gender, youth and future generations and the transformation of global governance.

    “The Summit of the Future is a high-level event, bringing world leaders together to forge a new international consensus on how we deliver a better present and safeguard the future,” said the world organization in its release. “This once-in-a-generation opportunity serves as a moment to mend eroded trust and demonstrate that international cooperation can effectively tackle current challenges as well as those that have emerged in recent years or may yet be over the horizon.”

    President of Angola João Lourenço said that the adoption of the Pact for the Future represents “a real turning point” for a more dynamic, engaged and assertive approach to the issues that are of concern to the humanity. Stressing the importance of including youth and women as “vital drivers” of transformation and modernization, he called for a commitment “to step up the fight against poverty in all forms and dimensions.”

    President of the Czech Republic Petr Pavel said that the Pact for the Future creates a solid base for a better and more effective multilateral system. Particularly, he insisted, it is critical to “contribute to our shared understanding of how to handle technology safely on a daily basis and protect ourselves against its misuse by malign actors.”

    President of Ecuador Daniel Noboa said that all global decisions and commitments must be determined with “the involvement and contribution of those who today can build tomorrow.” To tackle “the alarming and growing rates of youth unemployment” through targeted investment, he said that this is the only way “to pull youth from the grasp of crime, drugs and transnational organized criminal activities.”

    President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon said that the inclusion of climate and water issues in the final document “underscores the imperative for sustained and urgent action” to secure a peaceful and sustainable future. Despite some progress, “access to filtered water and sanitation remains insufficient,” he said, voicing the commitment of his country to enhancing collaboration with other nations to advance water resource management and climate change action.

    Albert II, Prince of Monaco, said that the Pact for the Future establishes a bedrock for a more prosperous world and allows young people to flourish in an environment protected from security threats such as transnational crime. “Peace is our most valuable asset,” he added, noting that without access to human rights, a world benefiting all people is impossible.

    Speaking on behalf of the least developed countries (LDCs) group, Prime Minister of Nepal KP Sharma Oli said that millions of their children are going hungry every day, highlighting the clear inequality evident around the globe. “Nothing could be more unjust and ethnical than to be ignorant to the fact that millions of people in LDCs live in extreme poverty while a small minority in some corners of the world accumulate billions in wealth,” he said, noting that this is not the future that humanity should aspire towards. “The International community must act now to ensure every child and young person has the chance to thrive.”

    Nangolo Mbumba, president of Namibia, noted that the world is at a crossroads. One path leads to environmental catastrophe, widening inequality, global conflict, destruction and the rise of dangerous technology that threatens peoples’ security and civil liberties; the other, to peace, the eradication of poverty and hunger and the responsible harnessing of digital technologies for the benefit of humanity.

    Olaf Scholz, chancellor of Germany, urged those present to take steps towards a more peaceful, fairer world, stating that, while “the road ahead is rocky,” history will judge member states for their commitment to the plan at hand. The pact can serve as a compass towards cooperation instead of conflict, showing determination to restore international justice and expelling all the talk of polarization, he added.

    “We do not have time to waste,” stressed Sadyr Zhaparov, president of Kyrgyzstan, urging “decisive” action to strengthen the connections between nations and forge global partnerships to address challenges such as forced migration, climate threats and the unjust distribution of resources.

    Stressing that “inaction is not an option,” Chandrikapersad Santokhi, president of Suriname, pointed to Caribbean nations’ lack of financial resources to invest in health, education and infrastructure due to external debt.

    The failure to share global resources will continue to drive humanity to war, social disintegration and migration and “condemn us to live in two separate worlds”, said Mia Amor Mottley, prime minister of Barbados.

    “The future is not distant,” stressed Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, president of Ghana. “It is here, and the choices we make here will determine the fate of generations to come.” No nation, regardless of power, can solve today’s challenges alone, he stated.

    Lula da Silva, president of Brazil, highlighted the “great responsibilities to those who will succeed us,” and urged them not to back down from the promotion of equality between men and women and the fight against racism and all forms of discrimination. He also stressed that “we cannot live with nuclear threats again, nor fuel new arms races on Earth or in space,” noting that it is unacceptable to regress to a world divided into ideological borders or zones of influence.

    MIL OSI China News –