Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SITI to visit Canada

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SITI to visit Canada
    SITI to visit Canada
    ********************

         The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, will depart for a visit to Canada this evening (November 3). He will be going to Toronto, Ottawa and Waterloo to strengthen ties and co-operation between Hong Kong and Canada in areas such as innovation and technology (I&T).     During his visit to Canada, Professor Sun will meet with leaders of the local I&T industry and technology enterprises, and engage in exchanges with Hong Kong young people studying there. He will also deliver a keynote speech at the Seminar on Life Science and Global Health co-organised by the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association (Ottawa Chapter) and Invest Hong Kong. Moreover, he will visit local universities, research institutes and I&T parks.     Professor Sun will return to Hong Kong in the morning of November 8. During his absence, the Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Ms Lillian Cheong, will be the Acting Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry.

     
    Ends/Sunday, November 3, 2024Issued at HKT 11:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sun Dong to visit Canada

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Prof Sun Dong will depart today on a visit to Canada, where he will stop in Toronto, Ottawa and Waterloo and seek to strengthen co-operation between Hong Kong and Canada in areas such as innovation and technology (I&T).

    Prof Sun will meet leaders of I&T enterprises in the country, and engage with Hong Kong youngsters studying there.

    He will also deliver a keynote speech at the Seminar on Life Science & Global Health, co-organised by the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association (Ottawa Chapter) and Invest Hong Kong, and visit universities, research institutes and I&T parks.

    Prof Sun will return to Hong Kong on November 8. During his absence, Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Lillian Cheong will be Acting Secretary.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 700

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL0

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 700
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    140 AM CST Sun Nov 3 2024

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Central and eastern Oklahoma
    A small part of northwest Texas

    * Effective this Sunday morning from 140 AM until 900 AM CST.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes possible
    Isolated very large hail events to 2 inches in diameter possible
    Isolated damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Previously and potentially tornadic supercells over parts
    of central and southern OK ultimately will be absorbed by a squall
    line, which itself will pose a tornado and severe-gust threat as it
    moves into a favorable shear/buoyancy environment this morning.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 65 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 40 miles southwest of Ardmore OK to 15
    miles east northeast of Tulsa OK. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU0).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 699…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 24035.

    …Edwards

    SEL0

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 700
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    140 AM CST Sun Nov 3 2024

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Central and eastern Oklahoma
    A small part of northwest Texas

    * Effective this Sunday morning from 140 AM until 900 AM CST.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes possible
    Isolated very large hail events to 2 inches in diameter possible
    Isolated damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Previously and potentially tornadic supercells over parts
    of central and southern OK ultimately will be absorbed by a squall
    line, which itself will pose a tornado and severe-gust threat as it
    moves into a favorable shear/buoyancy environment this morning.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 65 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 40 miles southwest of Ardmore OK to 15
    miles east northeast of Tulsa OK. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU0).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 699…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 24035.

    …Edwards

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW0
    WW 700 TORNADO OK TX 030740Z – 031500Z
    AXIS..65 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    40SW ADM/ARDMORE OK/ – 15ENE TUL/TULSA OK/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 55NM E/W /26SW ADM – 9ENE TUL/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24035.

    LAT…LON 33879865 36289680 36289446 33879638

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU0.

    Watch 700 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (50%)

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

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (30%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (30%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (30%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    Mod (60%)

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

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Louisville, Kentucky, Metro Police Officer Found Guilty of Federal Civil Rights Crimes Related to the Breonna Taylor Case

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A federal jury in Louisville, Kentucky, today convicted a former Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) officer for violating the civil rights of Breonna Taylor during the execution of a search warrant in March 2020 that led to the tragic death of Taylor in her home.

    Brett Hankison, 46, was convicted on one count of civil rights abuse. Count one charged him with depriving Taylor of her constitutional rights when he fired five shots through a bedroom window that was covered with blinds and a blackout curtain. The jury found that Hankison used a dangerous weapon in the commission of the offense, and that his conduct involved an attempt to kill, although his shots did not strike Taylor. Hankison was found not guilty on count two, which charged him with depriving three of Taylor’s neighbors of their constitutional rights by firing five more shots through a sliding glass door that was also covered with blinds and a curtain.

    “Today, Brett Hankison was found guilty by a jury of his peers for willfully depriving Breonna Taylor of her constitutional rights,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “His use of deadly force was unlawful and put Ms. Taylor in harm’s way. This verdict is an important step toward accountability for the violation of Breonna Taylor’s civil rights, but justice for the loss of Ms. Taylor is a task that exceeds human capacity.”

    “This defendant is being held accountable for his willful and heinous use of deadly force that endangered the life of Breonna Taylor,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Breonna Taylor’s life mattered. We hope the jury’s verdict recognizing this violation of Ms. Taylor’s civil and constitutional rights brings some small measure of comfort to her family and loved ones who have suffered so deeply from the tragic events of March 2020. We hope that communities use this moment to say her name and to engrave on their hearts and minds Breonna Taylor’s life and enduring legacy. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously defend the civil rights of every person in this country to be free from unlawful police violence.”

    According to evidence at trial, during the execution of the warrant at Taylor’s home, officers knocked on Taylor’s door and announced themselves as police at approximately 12:45 a.m. No one answered the door, and the officers saw no indication that anyone in the home was awake or had heard their announcement. The police then rammed the door open and Taylor’s boyfriend, believing that intruders were breaking in, fired his handgun one time at officers, two of whom fired back, hitting and killing Taylor.

    Hankison was not one of the officers who fired from the doorway. He fired separately, from the side of the building, through a sliding glass door and a bedroom window, both of which were covered with closed blinds and curtains. Evidence showed that several of Hankison’s shots passed through Taylor’s apartment, pierced the interior walls and narrowly missed a young couple with a five-year-old child living next door to Taylor. Other shots flew over Taylor’s head as she lay on the floor of her apartment.

    At trial, numerous law enforcement witnesses testified that officers are trained never to fire their weapons at a target they cannot see. Officers who were on the scene for the execution of the warrant, and others who responded later, testified that Hankison violated LMPD training and the principles of law enforcement when he fired blindly into a crowded apartment complex. The Commander of LMPD’s SWAT unit, who responded to the scene shortly after the shooting, testified that he was in “shock and disbelief” when he learned that Hankison had fired into the covered windows in Ms. Taylor’s home. The jury also heard from her neighbors, who were nearly hit by Hankison’s bullets.

    Hankison will be sentenced on March 12, 2025. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Two other LMPD officers remain charged in connection with the search warrant executed at Taylor’s home. Former Detective Joshua Jaynes, 40, and LMPD Sergeant Kyle Meany, 35, are charged with federal civil rights and obstruction offenses for their roles in preparing and approving a falsified search warrant affidavit that resulted in the warrant that led to Taylor’s death. A trial will be set for a later date, and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

    Another former LMPD officer, Detective Kelly Goodlett, previously pleaded guilty to conspiring with Jaynes to falsify the affidavit used to obtain a search warrant for Taylor’s home and to cover up their actions after Taylor’s death. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 29, 2025.

    The FBI Louisville Field Office investigated the case.

    Special Litigation Counsel Michael J. Songer and Trial Attorney Anna Gotfryd of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ICC calls for continued dialogue on biodiversity benefit sharing mechanism

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: ICC calls for continued dialogue on biodiversity benefit sharing mechanism

    ICC has issued the following statement upon the conclusion of the United Nations’ Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP16) underscoring the commitment of business to support future efforts to secure a robust and workable multilateral benefit sharing mechanism.

    ICC appreciates the efforts of Parties and the Colombian Presidency at CBD COP16 to progress on the operationalisation of the multilateral mechanism on benefit sharing from the use of digital sequence information, including the COP16 Decision’s recognition that further work is needed to refine several of its elements .  

    Businesses are committed to supporting biodiversity goals and engaged constructively in the discussion – viewing the multilateral mechanism as an opportunity to increase benefits shared for biodiversity through a simpler system that provides more legal certainty for companies and supports research and innovation.

    As several countries have recognised, the decision provides a starting basis for moving forward but many important aspects require further evidence-based work to ensure that the mechanism has the necessary enabling conditions and incentives to engage broad business participation. A system that is broad in scope makes it easy to contribute, sets fees at realistic levels, provides legal certainty for research and innovation, and has the potential to incentivise more funding for biodiversity. Business will strengthen its engagement as an integral part of the solution and will need to play a role in further refining the mechanism to ensure its success.”

    Further work could continue along several tracks, through formal CBD workstreams, informal dialogues, or a pilot phase to test the modalities in the decision and obtain evidence for consideration at COP17.  ICC will be working with companies, countries and other stakeholders along all these tracks to optimise the potential of the mechanism to attract broad participation from businesses to further biodiversity goals.      

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Video: GhillieWash! | U.S. Army

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    About the U.S. Army:

    The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

    Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
    Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

    Connect with the U.S. Army online:
    Web: https://www.army.mil
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
    X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #Shorts #GhillieSuit

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfTYwEBP3kA

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Nov 3, 2024 Day 4-8 Severe Weather Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Day 4-8 Severe Weather Outlook Issued on Nov 3, 2024

    Updated: Sun Nov 3 09:41:03 UTC 2024

     .

    D4
    Wed, Nov 06, 2024 – Thu, Nov 07, 2024
    D7
    Sat, Nov 09, 2024 – Sun, Nov 10, 2024

    D5
    Thu, Nov 07, 2024 – Fri, Nov 08, 2024
    D8
    Sun, Nov 10, 2024 – Mon, Nov 11, 2024

    D6
    Fri, Nov 08, 2024 – Sat, Nov 09, 2024
    (All days are valid from 12 UTC – 12 UTC the following day)

    Note: A severe weather area depicted in the Day 4-8 period indicates 15%, 30% or higher probability for severe thunderstorms within 25 miles of any point.

    PREDICTABILITY TOO LOW is used to indicate severe storms may be possible based on some model scenarios. However, the location or occurrence of severe storms are in doubt due to: 1) large differences in the deterministic model solutions, 2) large spread in the ensemble guidance, and/or 3) minimal run-to-run continuity.

    POTENTIAL TOO LOW means the threat for a regional area of organized severe storms appears unlikely (i.e., less than 15%) for the forecast day.

     Forecast Discussion

    ZCZC SPCSWOD48 ALL
    ACUS48 KWNS 030939
    SPC AC 030939

    Day 4-8 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0339 AM CST Sun Nov 03 2024

    Valid 061200Z – 111200Z

    …DISCUSSION…
    NHC is forecasting a high probability of TC formation in the
    Caribbean by D2. Predictability is low along the FL Gulf Coast
    vicinity regarding downstream tornado potential during D4-5, with
    large spread in guidance at this time frame and beyond.

    Meanwhile, modified moisture return will ensue on D4-5 over the
    southern High Plains, in advance of a shortwave trough evolving into
    a cutoff low across the Southwest. Given an initially inverted
    surface trough, severe potential should be limited/mesoscale-focused
    on D5/Thursday. With an emerging consensus of ensemble guidance
    suggesting acceleration of the upper low onto the Great Plains,
    severe potential may increase next weekend with broadening of the
    warm-moist sector in the central states. Predictability is far too
    low to warrant consideration of greater than 15 percent areas yet.

    ..Grams.. 11/03/2024

    CLICK TO GET WUUS48 PTSD48 PRODUCT

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Nov 3, 2024 1300 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 031249

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0649 AM CST Sun Nov 03 2024

    Valid 031300Z – 041200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS OVER PARTS OF THE
    SOUTHERN PLAINS…

    …SUMMARY…
    Multiple rounds of strong-severe thunderstorms are possible today
    through tonight over parts of the southern Plains. Tornadoes,
    damaging winds and large hail are possible.

    …Synopsis…
    A full-latitude, mid/upper-level trough will move slowly eastward
    across the western CONUS, while evolving into a split-flow regime.
    The more-influential southern section of the trough is expected to
    amplify considerably as a shortwave perturbation and associated
    speed max — now located over the southern Great Basin — pivot
    through the base of the synoptic trough. By 00Z, the shortwave
    trough should dig southeastward to southern AZ and adjoining
    portions of Sonora. A leading vorticity lobe should eject to
    eastern NM by the end of the period, within a broader area of
    enhanced cyclonic flow extending across AZ, northern Chihuahua, and
    west TX. A 500-mb low may form by 12Z tomorrow near the center of
    that curvature, across central NM. In response to these
    developments, strengthening/difluent flow and height falls will
    spread eastward ahead of the synoptic trough — across the southern
    Plains and west TX.

    At the surface, 11Z analysis showed an outflow boundary fronting an
    MCS from the western Ozarks southwestward to northwest TX. The
    boundary should shift into AR and southeastern OK through the
    remainder of the morning before stalling, while the segment from the
    Red River region southwestward across the Big Country and northern
    Permian Basin already has become very slow-moving to stationary.
    The boundary should retreat northward through the period, with
    uncertainty remaining as to how far and with what specific timing,
    given a substantial cold pool evident across central/western OK and
    the South Plains/Panhandle region. A dryline — initially analyzed
    over southeastern NM and far west TX — should shift eastward to the
    southern Panhandle/south Plains and across the Permian Basin through
    the afternoon. A surface low initially near the central CO/KS
    border should move northeastward to central/north-central NE by 00Z,
    with cold front southwestward to another low in southeastern CO. A
    lee trough and more diffuse dryline will take shape and move
    eastward across the central High Plains into western KS, before
    being overtaken by the cold front.

    …Southern/central Plains…
    A QLCS began the period arching from the western Ozarks across
    southeastern OK and parts of north-central/northwest TX. The
    central/northern part of this complex is outrunning favorably
    unstable inflow and should continue a broader weakening trend
    through the remainder of the morning. Meanwhile the southern part
    — over southern OK and north TX — has more buoyancy and still-
    favorable vertical shear to its east and southeast. However, that
    segment of convection is decelerating and non-severe. It also is
    located behind the associated outflow boundary, which is exhibiting
    anafrontal characteristics.

    As it retreats northward across the Red River Valley today into this
    evening, the outflow boundary should become more diffuse, with a
    loosening baroclinic gradient. This will occur amidst broader,
    synoptically driven theta-e advection. Meanwhile this feature and
    the dryline to its southwest should focus additional widely
    scattered to scattered thunderstorm development. Convection also
    may form in the warm/moist sector east of the dryline and south of
    the outflow boundary, given the lack of a substantial EML and
    typically accompanying capping. With favorable low-level and deep-
    layer shear expected, supercells and bowing QLCS configurations are
    possible, offering all severe hazards (hail, gusts, tornadoes). The
    greatest potential for relatively discrete/sustained supercells
    appears to be near the retreating boundary in northwest TX and parts
    of southern/central OK, and significant-severe hail may occur with
    some of that convection.

    Multiple convective episodes are expected from the afternoon’s
    greatest boundary-layer heating through late overnight, when
    large-scale ascent will increase again due to both warm advection/
    LLJ processes and DCVA/cooling aloft ahead of the approaching
    trough. These will overlap rich low-level moisture (surface
    dewpoints near and south of the boundary in the mid 60s to low 70s
    F). By late overnight, airmass recovery may extend into much of
    western/central OK, supporting another round of severe potential
    there. A more-concentrated mesoscale-focused severe threat
    (especially for tornadoes and/or severe gusts) may develop today
    into this evening near the residual boundary, but uncertainty on
    convective mode/coverage remains too large to assign greater
    unconditional probabilities at this cycle.

    Farther north, diurnally destabilized but convectively processed
    trajectories will temper the overall threat into the central Plains,
    along/ahead of the dryline and cold front. However, a few strong-
    severe thunderstorms are possible, mainly this afternoon into early
    evening.

    ..Edwards/Mosier.. 11/03/2024

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1630Z

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No MDs are in effect as of Sun Nov 3 13:13:02 UTC 2024

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Mesoscale DiscussionsUpdated:  Sun Nov 3 13:20:04 UTC 2024 No Mesoscale Discussions are currently in effect.

    Notice:  The responsibility for Heavy Rain Mesoscale Discussions has been transferred to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) on April 9, 2013. Click here for the Service Change Notice.
    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No watches are valid as of Sun Nov 3 13:13:02 UTC 2024

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Convective Watches (View What is a Watch? clip)Updated:  Sun Nov 3 13:20:07 UTC 2024 No watches are currently valid

    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK increases support for Anguilla’s health, security and infrastructure as Minister for Overseas Territories visits islands

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK Minister for the Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty, will announce new support for Anguilla’s health and security infrastructure as he makes his first visit to the Overseas Territories this week (2-4 November).

    • UK Overseas Territories Minister will open Anguilla’s new emergency 911 control room and announce funding for new ambulances to be provided by February 2025
    • Further funding will finance an additional search and rescue vessel for Anguilla’s maritime search and rescue service
    • Visit to UK-funded high school and airport to take place as minister assesses impact and progress

    The UK Minister for the Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty, will announce new support for Anguilla’s health and security infrastructure as he makes his first visit to the Overseas Territories this week (2-4 November).

    The minister will be opening Anguilla’s new emergency 911 control room, partly funded by the UK government, and a facility that will be vital asset in helping to improve public safety. He will also formally announce the UK government’s provision of two new ambulances to Anguilla, and a new boat for assisting with coastal search and rescue operations.

    UK Overseas Territories Minister, Stephen Doughty said:

    “UK funding for Anguilla is helping islanders live healthier, safer, and more prosperous lives.

    “The new support I will announce is just the latest chapter in the UK’s close relationship with Anguilla, with sustainable investment and close partnership at its heart.”

    The minister will make a stop at the Royal Anguilla Police and National Emergency Operating Centre, where he will commend the force for their efforts in reducing gang violence in recent months. The UK has funded seven UK officers to help the Royal Anguilla Police Force tackle gang violence and conduct investigations on the island.

    The Minister will also visit the Princess Alexandra Hospital, where he will hear about the challenges faced by those working in Anguilla’s healthcare sector. UK funding has already provided a dialysis unit, reconstruction lab, isolation ward, and a new morgue, which will significantly improve coronial and post-mortem processes.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Ministers of Veterans Affairs and National Defence mark 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Belgium

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, issued a statement to mark the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Belgium.

    Ottawa, ON Today, the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement to mark the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Belgium:

    “The fall of 1944 was a defining period for the First Canadian Army. After clearing coastal areas in northern France following the successful D-Day landings and the Battle of Normandy, tens of thousands of Canadian troops played a leading role in opening the Scheldt Estuary toward the Belgian port of Antwerp.

    “Not only did maintaining such a vital supply line allow the Allied armies to continue their push toward Germany, it also helped to ultimately free Western Europe from more than four years of Nazi occupation.

    “Eighty years ago today, the people of Belgium were finally liberated. For weeks, Canadian soldiers fought their way across flat, muddy and flooded terrain that offered them little cover as they advanced. Undeterred by the challenges they faced, they succeeded in clearing the Breskens Pocket and liberate the last portions of Belgian territory held by enemy troops, on 3 November 1944.

    “The victory was costly, with the Canadian army accruing thousands of casualties including more than 800 Canadian soldiers making the ultimate sacrifice in battle in Belgium. To this day, we remain grateful that our friends and allies in Belgium continue to honour the memory of the hundreds of Canadian service members who were laid to rest at in cemeteries like Adegem Canadian War Cemetery and Schoonselhof Cemetery.

    “The lasting bond between our countries was forged by thousands of Canadians and Belgians who bravely fought for freedom during the Second World War. Canadians like Edna Beattie who enlisted in 1940, and served as a nurse in England, France and later Belgium where she treated Allied wounded, and Joseph Ross who served with the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada helping liberate the Breskens Pocket.

    “Today, we remember them and their families, and all they endured to liberate Belgium and Europe.”

    Associated Links:

    Liberation of Belgium – Veterans Affairs Canada

    Media Relations
    Department of National Defence
    Phone: 613-904-3333
    mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca

    Simon Lafortune
    Press Secretary and Communications Advisor
    Office of the Minister of National Defence
    simon.lafortune2@forces.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: First Lady Tammy Murphy Honors Día de Muertos at Drumthwacket

    Source: US State of New Jersey

    PRINCETON – First Lady Tammy Murphy on Tuesday hosted an intimate Día de Muertos commemoration at Drumthwacket, marking the first time this holiday has been celebrated at The People’s House. The First Lady was joined by Mariana Díaz Nagore, the Head Consul of the Consulate of Mexico in New Brunswick, and prominent leaders from New Jersey’s Mexican and Latino communities.

    “New Jersey is home to an incredibly strong and vibrant Mexican American community, which is why I wanted to open Drumthwacket – the People’s House – to both celebrate Día de Muertos and acknowledge the rich contributions of our state’s Mexican and Latino residents,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “Día de Muertos is a special time to come together with friends and family to reflect, connect with our ancestors, and remember loved ones who have passed. We were honored to mark this beautiful holiday and, when we looked at the altar, Phil and I truly felt the presence of our loved ones.”

    On Día de Muertos, families welcome back the souls of their deceased relatives for a brief reunion that includes food, drink and celebration. The living family members treat the deceased as honored guests in their celebrations and leave the deceased’s favorite foods and other offerings at gravesites or on altars built in their homes.

    As part of the event, Drumthwacket’s Music Room was transformed into an altar honoring the Governor and First Lady’s departed loved ones, including their late parents, siblings, additional family members and friends. 

    The altar was decorated by Lilia Rios and Francisco Del Toro, Co-Founders of La Providencia, and was adorned with photos, candles and bright marigolds called cempasuchil alongside food for the deceased.

    “The altar for the Dia de Muertos at Drumtwacket is a recognition of the Mexican community in New Jersey and a celebration of its rich culture and values. I am grateful to First Lady Tammy Murphy for opening the doors of Drumthwacket for the first time to Mexico’s Day of the Dead traditions and allowing us to share them with the community as a whole with this beautiful altar,” said Mariana Díaz Nagore, the Head Consul of the Consulate of Mexico in New Brunswick.

    “For us at La Providencia, it has been a true honor, pride, and privilege that the Governor and the First Lady have chosen our company to carry out the first celebration of Día de Muertos in the history of the Governor’s Mansion. This celebration is undoubtedly a great source of pride for Mexico and Mexicans, as it represents the inclusion and diversity that this government emphasizes, especially promoting Mexican traditions to an unprecedented level. We are immensely grateful for the opportunity to have participated in this wonderful event and hope that it will be the first of many celebrations in this historic mansion,” said Lilia Rios, Co-Founder of La Providencia and altar designer.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Primera Dama Tammy Murphy Honra el Día de Muertos en Drumthwacket

    Source: US State of New Jersey

    PRINCETON – El martes, la Primera Dama Tammy Murphy organizó una conmemoración íntima del Día de Muertos en Drumthwacket, también conocida como la Casa del Pueblo, marcando la primera vez que esta festividad se celebra allí. La Primera Dama estuvo acompañada por Mariana Díaz Nagore, Cónsul Titular del Consulado de México en New Brunswick, y destacados líderes de las comunidades Mexicanas y Latinas de Nueva Jersey.

    “Nueva Jersey es hogar de una comunidad mexicana-americana fuerte y vibrante, por lo que quise abrir Drumthwacket—también conocida como la Casa del Pueblo—para celebrar el Día de Muertos y reconocer las valiosas contribuciones de los residentes Mexicanos y Latinos de nuestro estado,” dijo la Primera Dama Tammy Murphy. “El Día de Muertos es un momento especial para reunirse con amigos y familiares, reflexionar, conectarse con nuestros ancestros y recordar a nuestros seres queridos que han fallecido. Fue un honor conmemorar esta hermosa festividad y, al mirar el altar, Phil y yo realmente sentimos la presencia de nuestros seres queridos.”

    En el Día de Muertos, las familias reciben las almas de sus familiares fallecidos para una breve reunión que incluye comida, bebida y celebración. Los miembros vivos de la familia tratan a los fallecidos como invitados de honor en sus celebraciones y dejan las comidas favoritas de los difuntos y otras ofrendas en las tumbas o en altares construidos en sus hogares.

    Como parte del evento, la Sala de Música de Drumthwacket se transformó en un altar en honor a los seres queridos fallecidos del Gobernador y la Primera Dama, incluidos sus padres, hermanos, otros familiares y amigos.

    La ofrenda fue decorada por Lilia Ríos y Francisco Del Toro, cofundadores de La Providencia, y estaba adornada con fotos, velas y cempasúchiles junto con comida para los difuntos.

    “El altar de Día de Muertos en Drumthwacket es un reconocimiento a la comunidad mexicana de Nueva Jersey y una celebración de su rica cultura y valores. Agradezco a la Primera Dama Tammy Murphy por abrir las puertas de Drumthwacket por primera vez a la tradición mexicana de Día de Muertos y por permitirnos compartir con toda la comunidad este hermoso altar,” dijo Mariana Díaz Nagore, Cónsul Titular del Consulado de México en New Brunswick.

    “Para nosotros en La Providencia ha sido un verdadero honor, orgullo y privilegio que el Gobernador y la primera dama hayan seleccionado nuestra empresa para llevar a cabo la primera celebración del Día de Muertos en la historia de la mansión del Gobernador. Esta conmemoración es, sin duda, un motivo de gran orgullo para México y los mexicanos, ya que simboliza la inclusión y la diversidad que este gobierno promueve, resaltando las tradiciones mexicanas a un nivel nunca antes alcanzado. Estamos profundamente agradecidos por la oportunidad de haber participado en este maravilloso evento y esperamos que sea el inicio de una larga serie de celebraciones en esta emblemática mansión,” dijo Lilia Ríos, cofundadora de La Providencia.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is Donald Trump preying on his supporters’ death fears? What terror management theory offers us

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Sarah Elizabeth Wolfe, Professor, School of Environment and Sustainability, Royal Roads University

    Death and destruction from climate crisesflooding, fires, hurricanes and heat.

    Then there’s the multimedia firehose of tragic accidents, gruesome images from devastating wars, seemingly random local street violence, warnings of a Third World War and grim distress signals about the dangers of rising authoritarianism on the eve of the United States presidential election and the possible return to power of climate-change skeptic Donald Trump.




    Read more:
    ‘Each bears his own ghosts’: How the classics speak to these days of fear, anger and presidential candidates stalking the land


    Combine these stressors with our own personal mortality reminders: that new grey hair, an unexpected medical diagnosis, the COVID-19 related deaths of our friends or colleagues, and we’re left grappling with surprising and unwelcome fear.

    But trying to get through our days as mostly functional, civilized adults while paralyzed with fear about our unavoidable death isn’t optimal or sustainable. Thankfully, our brains have a hardwired, helpful strategy that’s explained by “terror management theory.”

    Defence mechanisms

    Terror management researchers have shown that we all have predictable defences aimed at repressing our death awareness. Unfortunately, those defences can also contribute to destructive social forces.

    Recognizing and understanding how these defences work is essential to making them less dangerous. These defences depend a lot on our pre-existing identities and whether death awareness operates within our conscious or subconscious mind.

    When death fears are conscious, our defences include denial, rationalization, distraction and self-esteem-building , often via consumption or consumerism. We build ourselves up by gathering or protecting our resources — think negotiating higher incomes or trying to avoid paying taxes — and shopping for necessities to keep our families safe.




    Read more:
    Joe Biden’s refusal to step aside illustrates the political dangers of ‘death denial’


    Death fears also trigger conspicuous consumption to signal our social status and bolster our self-esteem. In terror management theory, money is valued because money buys safety, and safety means the avoidance of death, at least for a little while longer.

    When death fears are unconscious or just “background noise,” the situation gets more complex and problematic. Some of us will harden our identities and ideas about what we believe is right or just, what we are entitled to and with whom we’ll share resources, opportunities and power.

    Sometimes we’ll show greater antagonism towards groups who are unlike us in looks or practice: immigrants, religious minorities or even international students. As these defences emerge and coalesce, we’ll blame “others” for both the big and small troubles we experience or perceive.

    The result is increased social fragmentation and polarization rather than capitalizing on people’s diverse ideas, perspectives and experiences.

    Authoritarian playbook

    When mortality awareness is infused throughout a society — say, during a deadly pandemic or climate disasters — manipulating people’s death fears becomes a seductive route to power for authoritarians or would-be authoritarians like Trump.

    Some people will become receptive to a charismatic figure’s promises of safety, rules, and a return to a better time.

    German psychology professor Immo Fritsche and colleagues have identified clear evidence that climate change has increased authoritarian attitudes and support for authoritarian leadership styles.




    Read more:
    Time to freak out? How the existential terror of hurricanes can fuel climate change denial


    Other researchers found that individuals who did not have prior authoritarian tendencies — after controlling for their political affiliation and ideology — expressed greater support for authoritarian leadership when they experienced mortality awareness.

    In a subsequent study, Fritsche’s results were more dire: death awareness defences created “prejudice, stereotyping, aggression, and racism, which, in turn, can lead to the escalation of violent intergroup conflict and, thus, the escalation of war.”

    While this trajectory isn’t guaranteed, ignoring the influence of mortality defences on social dynamics seems both short-sighted and foolish.

    Be a hero

    So, what can we do to avoid the worst outcomes of polarization, antagonism against marginalized and racialized communities, authoritarianism and potential violence?

    Some good news: first, positive world views and identities can be strengthened even when we feel threatened by death. People who see the world as a collective, are willing to welcome others and work to maintain civil society may intensify their efforts when their mortality is salient. These people need to be supported and celebrated.

    Second, a final defence against mortality fears is to build up our self-esteem through positive “hero projects.” Through these activities — philanthropy, raising children, works of art or literature, teaching, protest or activism for social change — we commit to an action that may not be in our immediate self-interest but we persist despite difficulties, discomfort and often daunting odds.




    Read more:
    How the altruistic response to far right riots reveals the innate goodness in human beings


    In our hero projects, we may take less but give more, and direct our energy to outcomes that will, hopefully, benefit our communities long after we’re gone.

    The authoritarians among us are already adept at manipulating our mortality fears for their own benefit. We can accept their preferred power trajectory, or we can recognize the influence of mortality fears and create alternatives in the days, weeks, months and years to come.

    Sarah Elizabeth Wolfe gratefully acknowledges two decades of funding from Canada’s Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council. The author does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond her academic appointment.

    ref. Is Donald Trump preying on his supporters’ death fears? What terror management theory offers us – https://theconversation.com/is-donald-trump-preying-on-his-supporters-death-fears-what-terror-management-theory-offers-us-242568

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: How some South Asian countries are embracing colonialism by moving citizens to disputed areas

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Hari Har Jnawali, Instructor, Global Governance, Wilfrid Laurier University

    South Asian countries Bangladesh and India are using settler colonial policies as they resettle citizens in contested territories.

    The intention is to reduce the demographic strength of ethnic minorities, minimize their influence over their ancestral lands and eliminate their demands for internal autonomy.

    Population resettlement is the practice of relocating members of the ethnic-majority population to disputed ethnic territories to undermine ethnic solidarity and obtain territorial control over those regions.

    Population resettlement was an integral part of European colonialism. European colonizers settled their people in countries like India, bought up large swaths of land, established institutions that served their interests and achieved the territorial domination of the countries they colonized.

    But even following the decline of European colonialism, the inclination towards colonial policy has not decreased in South Asia. My preliminary research is finding that population resettlement has become a part of the region’s post-colonial playbook.

    The scene in South Asia

    Over the years, South Asian countries have advanced population resettlement projects in their contested ethnic territories.

    Nepal, for instance, launched its organized population resettlement program in 1961, relocating the Pahadi people from the hilly areas of the country to the Tarai lowlands, the contested homeland of the Madheshi, Tharu and Indigenous Peoples.

    In the 1990s, nearby Bhutan evicted around a million Nepali-speaking ethnic Lhotsampas from its southern region and offered incentives to the majority Bhutanese people to settle in the area.

    In 2019, the Indian government amended the country’s constitution to allow non-Kashmiri people from elsewhere in India to settle in India-administered Kashmir. The Muslim majority region has been divided into Indian, Pakistani and Chinese controlled areas for decades.




    Read more:
    India is using the G20 summit to further its settler-colonial ambitions in Kashmir


    Kashmiris fear India is seeking more territorial control over the disputed region by changing its demographic makeup. Since 2019, it’s issued more than four million domicile certificates allowing outsiders to settle in Kashmir in an effort to expedite the settlement of the majority Hindu people in the region.

    Pakistan hasn’t embarked on population resettlement to this scale, but its treatment of ethnic minorities is also troubling. The extreme oppression of ethnic groups in East Pakistan prompted Bengali minorities to fight for independence, leading to the formation of modern Bangladesh in 1971.

    Bangladesh, in turn, continued Pakistan’s oppressive policies against its Indigenous minorities. Not only did it refuse to recognize Indigenous Peoples in its constitution, it also advanced the military-assisted population transfer programs in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, a region inhabited by Indigenous Peoples.

    It provided the settlers with money, land, grain and arms to facilitate their settlements in Indigenous territory.

    Currently, Sri Lanka has been resettling Sinhalese people to Tamil areas 14 years after the end of a devastating and prolonged civil war between Tamil separatists and the Sri Lankan state.

    Timing of population resettlement

    South Asian countries pursued these settlement policies as ethnic minorities — the Madheshis in Nepal, the Lhotshampas in Bhutan, the Kashmiris in Kashmir, the Paharis in Bangladesh and the Tamils in Sri Lanka — were demanding autonomy and self-determination in their ancestral territories.

    The governments in these countries fear autonomy will eventually lead to secession. They’ve pursued settler colonial policies to resettle citizens in these regions to prevent that from happening.




    Read more:
    Canada-India crisis: India’s post-colonial era explains why it’s on edge about Sikh separatism


    Despite official claims that resettlements foster greater economic development and inter-ethnic harmony, population relocation causes real harms to ethnic cohesion, solidarity and collective rights.

    It suggests these South Asian governments have internalized colonialism, although they didn’t all share the same experiences with European colonialism.

    Choosing a questionable path

    India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka experienced direct British colonial occupation. While Nepal and Bhutan were not under direct colonial rule, they had indirect encounters with the British.

    Nepal faced threats to its territorial integrity from the British government and fought against the potential encroachment during the Anglo-Nepal War of 1814-1816. It signed a humiliating treaty with the British government and ceded its sovereign rights over some of its territories.

    Bhutan signed a treaty in 1910, allowing the British government to oversee its external affairs.

    South Asian countries emulated the settler colonial mentalities of their former colonizers and are resorting to practices that hurt the marginalized communities living within their national borders.

    Governments often insist they’ve adopted resettlement projects to enhance economic growth, development and inter-ethnic harmony. However, it is often ethnic minorities who are displaced and face threats to their cultures, traditions and languages. The displacement of Indigenous Paharis in Bangladesh is a glaring example.

    Tarnishing reputations

    Granting autonomy to ethnic minorities that would allow them to exercise their right to self-determination internally could prevent these human rights violations, but some South Asian governments have not taken this route.

    Instead, they’re opting to move non-ethnic minority citizens into ethnic territories.

    In an era when inclusion has become something aspirational in many countries, this colonial population resettlement practice is likely to hurt the credibility and reputations of South Asian states — and probably won’t end well. The nationalist dreams and aspirations of ethnic minorities don’t vanish in the face of adversity; quite the contrary.

    Hari Har Jnawali receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada to work on the project “Population Resettlements in Ethnic Territories of South Asia: Why and How States Pursue Internal Colonialism?”

    ref. How some South Asian countries are embracing colonialism by moving citizens to disputed areas – https://theconversation.com/how-some-south-asian-countries-are-embracing-colonialism-by-moving-citizens-to-disputed-areas-242361

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: Without a One Health plan, Canada is vulnerable to future pandemics

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Dominique Charron, Visiting Scholar in One Health, University of Guelph

    One Health is based on an understanding that our health and that of animals, plants and ecosystems are interdependent.
    (Shutterstock)

    November 3 is World One Health Day. One Health brings all parts of society and governments together to tackle joint problems of human, animal, plant and ecosystem health.

    Canada needs a One Health plan now to better face worsening climate change, accelerating biodiversity loss, pandemic threats, and threats from superbugs resistant to antibiotics. Canada’s actions on these issues are reactive rather than preventive, and aren’t well co-ordinated or funded. This undermines our readiness and response.

    One Health is based on an understanding that our health and that of animals, plants and ecosystems are interdependent. It presents a way to promote the health of all and to navigate the inevitable trade-offs.

    The current avian flu threat

    A look to our southern border highlights the urgency for action. On March 25, a strain of Avian Influenza A:H5N1 virus that had caused outbreaks in wild birds and poultry in Canada and the United States since 2021, suddenly infected dairy cows in Texas.

    The virus had never been reported in cows before. Its detection was slow and too little was done to stop the spread. As of Nov. 1, H5N1 had spread quickly to 404 dairy farms across 14 states, costing millions in lost milk production and spilling back into poultry and wildlife, killing millions more birds.

    It is concerning that H5N1 has also infected at least 39 people, primarily farm workers, fortunately causing only mild symptoms.

    Canada’s response to the outbreak ramped up after H5N1 reports in U.S. dairy cows. No cases of H5N1 have yet been detected in Canadian cows, but there is need for vigilance because of ongoing H5N1 outbreaks across North America. Authorities in both countries have confirmed that pasteurized milk products are safe.




    Read more:
    U.S. has found H5N1 flu virus in milk — here’s why the risk to humans is likely low


    H5N1 is a growing threat because it infects many species, including seals, mink, bears, foxes, coyotes, dogs and cats. Influenza viruses that jump species pose a greater pandemic threat because of the mixing that may occur when different influenza viruses infect the same animal or person. This can produce new, more severe strains of human flu.

    No one wants to face another pandemic. Canada’s actions to keep ahead of this threat would be enhanced by national One Health planning and co-ordination.

    One Health around the world

    National One Health plans of other countries, like Rwanda, Thailand and Bangladesh, have been shown to help prevent human and animal disease outbreaks. Global Affairs Canada and the International Development Research Centre have invested $40 million since 2021 to support One Health internationally, including in hotspots of disease emergence.

    The U.S. has a One Health Act and recently launched its national co-ordination platform. However, Canada has just begun this work at home. Canada created a high level steering committee to oversee the Pan-Canadian Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). Time and effort were taken to involve federal, provincial and territorial agencies, Indigenous people, civil society and researchers to arrive at an inclusive framework with the right objectives, responsibilities and outputs. It’s an ideal model for a new Canadian One Health action plan.

    Canada has a mixed track record of working across sectors, whether to fight past outbreaks of Mad Cow Disease, avian or swine flu, or co-ordinating actions by people from different departments and agencies on H5N1 or COVID-19 today. There are problems: nationally, collaboration is informal and focused on single issues, more reactive than preventive, and not supported by any overarching plan, decision-making structure or resources to ensure consistent, ongoing co-operation across threats and issues.

    The risks of not putting these measures in place include information not reaching decision-makers, resources and expertise not being used optimally, trade-offs being misread by other agencies or partners, duplication and gaps, and too little getting done to prevent health threats.

    Implementing One Health

    Without a national One Health plan, Canada risks being vulnerable to new threats, including pandemics.
    (Shutterstock)

    There is guidance. In 2021, the World Health Organization, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, UN Environment, and the World Organisation for Animal Health agreed to work together on a One Health Joint Plan of Action and implementation guidance.

    With gender equality, inclusiveness and equity, and the importance of local and traditional knowledge at the fore, countries should start implementing One Health by assessing capacities and programs already in place, setting up and funding national co-ordination, setting priorities for action, then producing and putting into action their national plan.

    Canada should mirror what it has done to manage antibiotic-resistant microbes by developing and governing our own national One Health action plan, similar to the Pan-Canadian Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance.

    It needs to engage Indigenous perspectives and knowledge to strengthen One Health prevention, readiness and response capabilities. A national One Health action plan, and the co-ordination and resources to go with it, could help Canada achieve other goals — such as the National Climate Adaptation Strategy, biodiversity commitments under the Kunming-Montreal Protocol, and the Pan-Canadian Action Plan on Anti-Microbial Resistance — and to collaborate more effectively with other countries on shared issues.

    Without a national One Health plan, Canada risks being vulnerable to new threats (including pandemics), investing too little in prevention and having a suboptimal response. It’s time for Canada’s One Health action plan.

    This article was co-authored by Andrea Ellis, DVM, MSc., a consultant currently supporting One Health work with the World Organisation for Animal Health. She is the former Senior Veterinary Advisor to the Chief Veterinary Officer and World Organisation for Animal Health Delegate for Canada.

    Dominique Charron is affiliated with the McEachran Institute and START.org. She is a member of the One Health High Level Expert Panel that advises the World Health Organization, UN Food and Agriculture Organization, UN Environment, and World Organisation for Animal Health. She is a former Vice-President, Programs and Partnerships, of the International Development Research Centre.

    Cate Dewey is currently working on a community One Health project in Rwanda. The project is managed by Veterinarians without Borders, North America and is funded by Global Affairs Canada

    ref. Without a One Health plan, Canada is vulnerable to future pandemics – https://theconversation.com/without-a-one-health-plan-canada-is-vulnerable-to-future-pandemics-242378

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: SOUTH BAY REPS ANNOUNCE NEW SUNNYVALE R&D FACILITY FUNDED BY THE CHIPS AND SCIENCE ACT

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Santa Clara, CA —Today, Representatives Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Ro Khanna (CA-17), co-author of the CHIPS and Science Act, Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Ranking Member of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, and Anna Eshoo (CA-16) announced that the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC), a public-private consortium operated by the Department of Commerce and Natcast, will open a new CHIPS for America Collaboration and Design Facility in Sunnyvale to support research and design innovation and efforts to expand the semiconductor workforce. 

    “As a hub for innovation, cutting-edge technology, and a thriving semiconductor ecosystem, Silicon Valley is the ideal location for the National Semiconductor Technology Center’s CHIPS for America Collaboration and Design Facility. The facility will serve as an institution for advancing new technologies and building a workforce that helps America lead in the 21st century economy. This facility was made possible by the CHIPS and Science Act that we proudly worked on and voted to pass in Congress. We will continue to support investments in technologies and manufacturing that benefit our communities and our country’s economy,” said Representatives Panetta, Khanna, Lofgren, and Eshoo. 

    The Sunnyvale based facility will support: 

    • Conducting advanced semiconductor research in chip design and hardware security
    • Hosting the NSTC Workforce Center of Excellence, Design Enablement Gateway, and a future Investment Fund
    • Convening NSTC members and stakeholders from across the semiconductor ecosystem
    • Housing various administration functions

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Did Hurricane Helene Affect Your Well Furnace or Septic System

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Did Hurricane Helene Affect Your Well Furnace or Septic System

    Did Hurricane Helene Affect Your Well Furnace or Septic System

    COLUMBIA, S.C. – If your private well, furnace or septic system was damaged by Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for financial assistance from FEMA. For disaster-damaged private wells, heating systems, furnaces and septic systems, FEMA may pay for the cost of a professional, licensed technician to visit your home and prepare an estimate detailing the necessary repairs or replacement expenses. FEMA may also pay for the actual repair or replacement cost of your private well, furnace or septic system, which may not be covered by homeowner’s insurance. Be sure to keep any receipts or estimates because you may be eligible for assistance even if the work has already been completed.At the time of your home inspection, let the FEMA inspector know which essential appliances and systems may have been damaged by the storm. If you already had an inspection and these damages were not reported, contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or visit any Disaster Recovery Center to update your application. To find the nearest center, visit fema.gov/DRC or text “DRC” along with your Zip Code to 43362. How To ApplyIf you have not applied for FEMA assistance yet, there is still time to submit your application. Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation who were affected by Hurricane Helene are eligible to apply for FEMA assistance. You can apply in several ways: online at DisasterAssistance.gov, in person at any Disaster Recovery Center, on your phone using the FEMA mobile app or by calling the FEMA Helpline. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.
    gerard.hammink
    Sun, 11/03/2024 – 15:42

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Barnwell County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Barnwell County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Barnwell County

    COLUMBIA, S.C. – A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Barnwell County to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  Barnwell CountyBarnwell Regional Airport 155 State Road S-6-398 Barnwell, SC 29812Open Nov. 4-7, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open in other South Carolina counties. Click here to find centers that are already open in South Carolina. You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 
    gerard.hammink
    Sun, 11/03/2024 – 15:58

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Global: The racist ‘one-drop rule’ lives on in how Trump talks about Black politicians and whiteness in America

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Marya T. Mtshali, Lecturer in Studies in Women, Gender, and Sexuality, Harvard University

    Donald Trump watches a video of Vice President Kamala Harris during a campaign rally in Las Vegas on Sept. 13, 2024. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

    Americans who heard former President Donald Trump claim that Vice President Kamala Harris previously identified as “not Black” in a July 2024 interview may wonder why he continuously emphasized former President Barack Obama’s blackness during his first presidential campaign.

    As a scholar focused on race and gender issues, I recognize that these seemingly inconsistent definitions of blackness are not inconsistent at all. They demonstrate a consistent position on whiteness.

    In both cases, Trump implies that the race of his opponent is all voters need to know to determine their characters. It is an ideology that normalizes the dominance and privilege of white Americans within a racial hierarchy.

    Making whiteness great again

    In the American imagination, white people are often perceived as being more authentically American than other racial groups.

    Additionally, Trump and some of his followers see many of America’s strides on civil rights as detrimental to white people. Trump has said that “anti-white feeling” is a significant problem in America. And Republican voters, who are overwhelmingly white, are more likely than the general population to view racism as a bigger problem for white people.

    Trump has said he believes America was at its best in the 1940s and 1950s. However, Trump’s long-standing inflammatory rhetoric around race — including his recent racist comments degrading Haitian refugees in Springfield, Ohio — do not simply glorify a time immediately before the civil rights era. They recall an older era.

    Calls to “Make America Great Again” hearken back to colonialism, when whiteness — particularly white, male power — was at its peak. The period from 1500 to the 1960s was a time when white men could exercise control over people of color by racially classifying their bodies. And they protected whiteness by passing laws that declared “one drop” of Black blood as enough to declare someone Black.

    Whiteness is property, as the legal scholar Cheryl Hines has argued. It’s an asset for those who possess it. It offers benefits like white privilege and the idea of being white as moral and superior.

    One-drop statutes, such as the Virginia Racial Integrity Act of 1924, attempted to scientifically define who was Black based on how much African ancestry a person had. Passed in dozens of states in the 20th century, these laws were about maintaining white purity.

    More specifically, one-drop statutes reflected a fear that people who were considered white in terms of their appearance but had Black ancestry could reproduce with other white people. This, in turn, would result in the supposed degeneration of the white race.

    These laws attempted to legally define Blackness.

    Power and dominance

    Harris and Obama, the children of immigrants, both have mixed-race backgrounds. Harris is the child of a Black Jamaican father and an Indian mother. Obama is the son of a Black Kenyan father and a white American mother.

    However, Trump insists that Harris was “Indian all the way,” while Obama was a “Black president.” For me, this perspective reveals another aspect of Trump’s racial thinking: He appears to believe in the impenetrability and power of whiteness.

    Trump sees Harris as capable of dancing back and forth between being Indian and being Black. Yet he has never implied that Obama can dance between being Black and being white.

    In a society that often ties physical characteristics to racial identity, many people might find it difficult to imagine Obama as identifying as white. That’s because our society associates his skin tone and hair texture with Blackness.

    However, I argue that the inability to view this hypothetical racial dance as possible for Harris and not for Obama is tied to white supremacist beliefs.

    These beliefs defend whiteness as being imbued with dominance over other racial groups. This power is reflected in the ability to define the race of others, regardless of how they may identify themselves. And it is reflected in the desire to also limit who can count as white.

    Trump does both of those things.

    Donald Trump answers questions at the National Association of Black Journalists’ annual convention in Chicago on July 31, 2024.
    Kamil Krzaczynski/AFP via Getty Images

    A foil to white identity

    “She was always of Indian heritage, and she was only promoting Indian heritage. I didn’t know she was Black until a number of years ago, when she happened to turn Black, and now she wants to be known as Black,” Trump said in July at a gathering of Black journalists.

    He added: “So I don’t know, is she Indian or is she Black? I respect either one, but she obviously doesn’t, because she was Indian all the way, and then all of a sudden she made a turn and she went – she became a Black person.”

    By suggesting that Harris has strategically identified as Black for political gain, Trump implies that there’s a political advantage to being Black in America.

    This notion aligns with the racist belief, fueled by white racial resentment, that Black Americans are afforded privileges over whites and Asian Americans.

    The sociologist Arlie Hochschild has shown that many white Trump supporters believe circumstances in America have gotten worse for whites in recent decades. They believe many of the gains for people of color — affirmative action and other diversity policies — have been at the expense of the rights of white people.

    Simultaneously, Trump’s comments emphasize his own whiteness by using Harris’ and Obama’s race as a foil to his white identity. Research on the construction of race in America shows that whiteness is devoid of meaning without something to define itself against.

    For white people who feel many things have been taken away from them in an increasingly multiracial America, Trump is their warrior. He campaigns to protect the white population and culture of America.

    Marya T. Mtshali does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. The racist ‘one-drop rule’ lives on in how Trump talks about Black politicians and whiteness in America – https://theconversation.com/the-racist-one-drop-rule-lives-on-in-how-trump-talks-about-black-politicians-and-whiteness-in-america-236467

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada to announce proposed approach to tackle greenhouse gas pollution and drive innovation in the oil and gas sector

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Media representatives are advised that the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, and the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, joined by colleagues, will announce the Government of Canada’s proposed approach to limiting greenhouse gas pollution, driving innovation, and creating jobs in the oil and gas sector. Canada’s climate plan is working by driving down emissions, while creating a stronger, cleaner economy.

    Ottawa, Ontario – November 3, 2024 – Media representatives are advised that the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, and the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, joined by colleagues, will announce the Government of Canada’s proposed approach to limiting greenhouse gas pollution, driving innovation, and creating jobs in the oil and gas sector. Canada’s climate plan is working by driving down emissions, while creating a stronger, cleaner economy.

    Prior to the announcement, senior government officials from Environment and Climate Change Canada and Natural Resources Canada will hold a bilingual technical briefing, which will be on background and not for attribution.

    Event: Media technical briefing
    Date: Monday, November 4, 2024
    Time: 11:15 a.m. (EST)
    Location: The National Press Theatre
    180 Wellington Street
    Room 325
    Ottawa, Ontario

    Media representatives are asked to register by contacting the Press Gallery to obtain more information.

    Note to media: Participation in the question-and-answer portion of this technical briefing 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.

    Event: Hybrid announcement and media availability
    Date: Monday, November 4, 2024
    Time: 1:00 p.m. (EST)
    Location: The Wellington Building
    180 Wellington Street
    Lobby (in front of the green wall)
    Ottawa, Ontario

    Media representatives are asked to register by contacting Media Relations at Environment and Climate Change Canada to obtain more information.

    Note to media: Media representatives may participate in the question-and-answer portion via teleconference.

    Hermine Landry
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
    873-455-3714
    Hermine.Landry@ec.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Environment and Climate Change Canada
    819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll-free)
    media@ec.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville: “Daylight Saving Time should be a thing of the past.”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – As Alabamians changed their clocks today, U.S. Senator Tuberville (R-AL) continued his push for Congress to pass the bipartisan Sunshine Protection Act to make Daylight Saving Time (DST) permanent and end the outdated practice of adjusting our clocks twice a year. Senator Tuberville released a video today emphasizing the need to move forward with this legislation and advocating for the many health benefits of “locking the clock.”
    “Alabamians have made it clear that springing forward and falling back should be a thing of the past,” said Senator Tuberville. “Centuries ago, a time change might have made sense, but it doesn’t today. An additional hour of sunshine in the evenings during cold winter months would be welcome news for folks on their way to work and kids on their way home from school. It just makes sense to pass the Sunshine Protection Act, and I will keep fighting to get it across the goal line.”
    Senator Tuberville has helped introduce the Sunshine Protection Act in both Congresses since taking office at the urging of countless Alabamians who are tired of changing their clocks twice a year.  The U.S. Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act on March 15, 2022, by unanimous consent, but then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi did not bring it up for a vote in the House of Representatives before the 117th Congress ended, requiring it to be reintroduced again in the 118th Congress.
    The Alabama Legislature passed a bill to permanently implement DST year-round in 2021, but legislation must first be passed at the federal level in order for the state law to take effect.
    Watch the full video here.
    WATCH:
    Tuberville: Let’s Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent
    Tuberville Urges Congress to Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent
    Tuberville: Daylight Saving Time Bill Passes Senate 
    Tuberville Pushes to Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent 
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 702

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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

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

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

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

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

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

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

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

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 701…

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

    …Hart

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

    LAT…LON 35729850 35299522 33559522 33989850

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

    Watch 702 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    High (70%)

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

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (80%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (30%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Low (20%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

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

    MIL OSI USA News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Read the full bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister unveils game changing investment to tackle national security threat from people smuggling gangs

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    The Prime Minister is set to announce an additional £75 million to boost border security, bringing the investment in the Border Security Command over the next two years to £150 million.

    • PM to outline major investments to smash criminal smuggling gangs at INTERPOL General Assembly in Glasgow
    • New capabilities for Border Security Command from £150 million funding pot to drive down Organised Immigration Crime both at home and overseas 
    • New additional funding will cover state-of-the-art tech and information centres, boosts to enforcement and intelligence resourcing and expanding CPS capacity

    The Prime Minister is set to announce an additional £75 million to boost border security, bringing the investment in the Border Security Command over the next two years to £150 million. 

    Marking the first time the INTERPOL General Assembly has been hosted in the UK in over 50 years, Keir Starmer will today (4 November) open the Assembly in Glasgow by setting out his personal mission to smash the people smuggling gangs by resetting the UK’s whole approach to this challenge and intensifying international collaboration to meet the global scale of the threat.

    The General Assembly is INTERPOL’s supreme governing body and comprises senior ministerial and policing leads from the organisation’s 196 member states. 

    In his speech, the Prime Minister will set out his plans to draw on his experience of bringing together agencies to tackle international terrorist and drug smuggling gangs during his time as Director of Public Prosecutions to dismantle the people smuggling gangs who drive illegal migration, profit from human misery and represent a serious threat to global security. 

    He will also set out how the £150 million will provide additional specialist investigators and state of the art surveillance equipment to ensure those behind this criminal activity are stopped and brought to justice. 

    This major funding boost for the government’s new Border Security Command will initially be directed towards a range of enforcement and intelligence activity, including:

    • Investing heavily in NCA technology and capabilities, delivering advanced data exploitation and improvements to technologies to boost collaboration with European partners to investigate and break people smuggling networks.
    • 300 staff for the new Border Security Command, who will strengthen global partnerships, deliver new legislation and lead the system through investment and strategy.
    • 100 specialist investigators and intelligence officers for the NCA, dedicated to tackling criminals who facilitate people smuggling. 
    • Creating a new specialist OIC Intelligence Source Unit which will cohere intelligence flows from key police forces. 

    • Boosting the Crown Prosecution Service’s ability to deliver charging decisions more quickly on international organised crime cases. 

    The Border Security Command, led by Martin Hewitt CBE QPM, will be provided with enhanced powers – through a new Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill – to tackle organised immigration crime whilst providing for strong and effective border security. 

    New measures will make it easier to detect, disrupt and deter those seeking to engage in and benefit from organised immigration crime. The Command will also coordinate the work of intelligence agencies and law enforcement, who lead joint investigations with European counterparts to ensure we can bring those responsible to justice.

    Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to say:

    “The world needs to wake up to the severity of this challenge.  I was elected to deliver security for the British people. And strong borders are a part of that. But security doesn’t stop at our borders.  

    “There’s nothing progressive about turning a blind eye as men, women and children die in the Channel.

    “This is a vile trade that must be stamped out – wherever it thrives. So we’re taking our approach to counter-terrorism – which we know works, and applying it to the gangs, with our new Border Security Command. 

    “We’re ending the fragmentation between policing, Border Force and our intelligence agencies.”

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: 

    “Criminal smuggler gangs profit from undermining our border security and putting lives at risk and they have been getting away with it for far too long.

    “Our new Border Security Command, with the investment set out today, will mean a huge step change in the way we target these criminal gangs. People smugglers and traffickers operate in networks across borders, that’s why we have launched a major boost to our cooperation with international partners including other European countries, the G7 and Europol, and why we are so pleased to be hosting the INTERPOL conference on tackling international crime in Glasgow today.”

    The Prime Minister will also announce that the UK Government has increased its in-year support for INTERPOL’s global operations through a £6 million investment which harnesses the organisation’s unique capabilities to tackle serious organised crime affecting the UK. 

    Addressing the General Assembly, the Prime Minister will say that closer cooperation with international partners is key as he details how the gangs’ operations span from the money markets in Kabul through to the Kurdish region of Iraq and right across Europe and into the UK. 

    He will stress the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening security agreements to facilitate greater sharing of intelligence and more joint operational work, in particular through Europol. 

    The Home Office will also invest £24m in the new financial year to tackle international serious organised crime affecting the UK including drugs and firearms, fraud, trafficking and exploitation. Funds will in part be used to bolster work done by special prosecutors and operational partners in the Western Balkans.

    There were more than 5,000 drug related deaths in 2023, with most of the illegal drugs causing these coming from overseas or facilitated by transnational gangs. ISOC funding will also be used to tackle drug smuggling upstream and at the UK border, building on recent successes, such as the effective collaboration with the US and Ecuador, which has resulted in the seizure of 19 tonnes of cocaine.

    National Crime Agency Director General Graeme Biggar said:

    “Serious and organised crime causes more harm, to more people, more often than any other national security threat. And almost all of serious and organised crime now has an international nexus. Distance, borders and languages are meaningless to criminals. This is why collaborations with INTERPOL have never been as important as they are today.

    “Tackling organised crime, and especially immigration crime, remains a top priority for the NCA. We are currently leading around 70 investigations into the gangs or individuals involved in the highest echelons of this type of criminality, and we are devoting more resources to it than ever before.

    “We have built up our intelligence sharing effort with law enforcement partners across Europe and beyond, including having more NCA officers based overseas, sharing intelligence and working side by side on joint investigations. This approach is bringing operational results with arrests and prosecutions, but we are also we are seeking to disrupt the people smugglers’ business model, through targeting their social media offering, their supply routes for equipment, and their financial flows.

    “We are determined to do all we can to disrupt and dismantle these networks, wherever they operate.”

    The announcement comes just a month after Britain joined up to a new G7 anti migrant smuggling action plan which included pledges to bolster border security, combat transnational organised crime, and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation by smugglers. 

    The plan includes new, intelligence-led joint investigative actions to target criminal smuggling routes, working with social media platforms and internet providers to remove harmful content promoting illegal migration services or advertising fake job opportunities, and strengthening capabilities to monitor and anticipate irregular migration flows at both global and regional levels.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: Prime Minister unveils game changing investment to tackle national security threat from people smuggling gangs

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

    The Prime Minister is set to announce an additional £75 million to boost border security, bringing the investment in the Border Security Command over the next two years to £150 million.

    • PM to outline major investments to smash criminal smuggling gangs at INTERPOL General Assembly in Glasgow
    • New capabilities for Border Security Command from £150 million funding pot to drive down Organised Immigration Crime both at home and overseas 
    • New additional funding will cover state-of-the-art tech and information centres, boosts to enforcement and intelligence resourcing and expanding CPS capacity

    The Prime Minister is set to announce an additional £75 million to boost border security, bringing the investment in the Border Security Command over the next two years to £150 million. 

    Marking the first time the INTERPOL General Assembly has been hosted in the UK in over 50 years, Keir Starmer will today (4 November) open the Assembly in Glasgow by setting out his personal mission to smash the people smuggling gangs by resetting the UK’s whole approach to this challenge and intensifying international collaboration to meet the global scale of the threat.

    The General Assembly is INTERPOL’s supreme governing body and comprises senior ministerial and policing leads from the organisation’s 196 member states. 

    In his speech, the Prime Minister will set out his plans to draw on his experience of bringing together agencies to tackle international terrorist and drug smuggling gangs during his time as Director of Public Prosecutions to dismantle the people smuggling gangs who drive illegal migration, profit from human misery and represent a serious threat to global security. 

    He will also set out how the £150 million will provide additional specialist investigators and state of the art surveillance equipment to ensure those behind this criminal activity are stopped and brought to justice. 

    This major funding boost for the government’s new Border Security Command will initially be directed towards a range of enforcement and intelligence activity, including:

    • Investing heavily in NCA technology and capabilities, delivering advanced data exploitation and improvements to technologies to boost collaboration with European partners to investigate and break people smuggling networks.
    • 300 staff for the new Border Security Command, who will strengthen global partnerships, deliver new legislation and lead the system through investment and strategy.
    • 100 specialist investigators and intelligence officers for the NCA, dedicated to tackling criminals who facilitate people smuggling. 
    • Creating a new specialist OIC Intelligence Source Unit which will cohere intelligence flows from key police forces. 

    • Boosting the Crown Prosecution Service’s ability to deliver charging decisions more quickly on international organised crime cases. 

    The Border Security Command, led by Martin Hewitt CBE QPM, will be provided with enhanced powers – through a new Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill – to tackle organised immigration crime whilst providing for strong and effective border security. 

    New measures will make it easier to detect, disrupt and deter those seeking to engage in and benefit from organised immigration crime. The Command will also coordinate the work of intelligence agencies and law enforcement, who lead joint investigations with European counterparts to ensure we can bring those responsible to justice.

    Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to say:

    “The world needs to wake up to the severity of this challenge.  I was elected to deliver security for the British people. And strong borders are a part of that. But security doesn’t stop at our borders.  

    “There’s nothing progressive about turning a blind eye as men, women and children die in the Channel.

    “This is a vile trade that must be stamped out – wherever it thrives. So we’re taking our approach to counter-terrorism – which we know works, and applying it to the gangs, with our new Border Security Command. 

    “We’re ending the fragmentation between policing, Border Force and our intelligence agencies.”

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: 

    “Criminal smuggler gangs profit from undermining our border security and putting lives at risk and they have been getting away with it for far too long.

    “Our new Border Security Command, with the investment set out today, will mean a huge step change in the way we target these criminal gangs. People smugglers and traffickers operate in networks across borders, that’s why we have launched a major boost to our cooperation with international partners including other European countries, the G7 and Europol, and why we are so pleased to be hosting the INTERPOL conference on tackling international crime in Glasgow today.”

    The Prime Minister will also announce that the UK Government has increased its in-year support for INTERPOL’s global operations through a £6 million investment which harnesses the organisation’s unique capabilities to tackle serious organised crime affecting the UK. 

    Addressing the General Assembly, the Prime Minister will say that closer cooperation with international partners is key as he details how the gangs’ operations span from the money markets in Kabul through to the Kurdish region of Iraq and right across Europe and into the UK. 

    He will stress the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening security agreements to facilitate greater sharing of intelligence and more joint operational work, in particular through Europol. 

    The Home Office will also invest £24m in the new financial year to tackle international serious organised crime affecting the UK including drugs and firearms, fraud, trafficking and exploitation. Funds will in part be used to bolster work done by special prosecutors and operational partners in the Western Balkans.

    There were more than 5,000 drug related deaths in 2023, with most of the illegal drugs causing these coming from overseas or facilitated by transnational gangs. ISOC funding will also be used to tackle drug smuggling upstream and at the UK border, building on recent successes, such as the effective collaboration with the US and Ecuador, which has resulted in the seizure of 19 tonnes of cocaine.

    National Crime Agency Director General Graeme Biggar said:

    “Serious and organised crime causes more harm, to more people, more often than any other national security threat. And almost all of serious and organised crime now has an international nexus. Distance, borders and languages are meaningless to criminals. This is why collaborations with INTERPOL have never been as important as they are today.

    “Tackling organised crime, and especially immigration crime, remains a top priority for the NCA. We are currently leading around 70 investigations into the gangs or individuals involved in the highest echelons of this type of criminality, and we are devoting more resources to it than ever before.

    “We have built up our intelligence sharing effort with law enforcement partners across Europe and beyond, including having more NCA officers based overseas, sharing intelligence and working side by side on joint investigations. This approach is bringing operational results with arrests and prosecutions, but we are also we are seeking to disrupt the people smugglers’ business model, through targeting their social media offering, their supply routes for equipment, and their financial flows.

    “We are determined to do all we can to disrupt and dismantle these networks, wherever they operate.”

    The announcement comes just a month after Britain joined up to a new G7 anti migrant smuggling action plan which included pledges to bolster border security, combat transnational organised crime, and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation by smugglers. 

    The plan includes new, intelligence-led joint investigative actions to target criminal smuggling routes, working with social media platforms and internet providers to remove harmful content promoting illegal migration services or advertising fake job opportunities, and strengthening capabilities to monitor and anticipate irregular migration flows at both global and regional levels.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Take off for extra tourism and trade capacity

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    The Albanese Government is boosting aviation competition, trade and tourism opportunities for Australians, securing new or updated air services arrangements with seven international markets following months of negotiations.

    These arrangements will allow Australian airlines to expand their international networks and international airlines to increase operations into Australia, a boost for Australian travellers and diaspora communities.

    This includes unrestricted capacity with Canada and Malaysia – the first arrangements of this type since a deal struck with India in 2018.

    Along with Canada and Malaysia, arrangements have landed with Hong Kong, Chile, Mongolia, Latvia, and Rwanda.

    Australia now has more than 110 bilateral air services arrangements in place with other countries or economies, with today’s announcement following recent enhanced arrangements secured in the past 12 months with Türkiye, Vietnam and Sri Lanka. 

    Each arrangement is negotiated to serve Australia’s national interest, with the Australian Government signing with some of our larger tourism markets, including:

    • Immediate increase in available capacity for airlines to 50,000 weekly passenger seats with Malaysia, and unrestricted capacity for passenger services from 2026
    • Immediate increase in available capacity for airlines to 50 weekly passenger services with Canada, and unrestricted capacity for passenger services from 2026
    • Immediate increase in available capacity for airlines to 84 passenger services per week, and unlimited cargo services with Hong Kong 
    • A doubling of available capacity for airlines to and from Chile by 2025

    Inaugural arrangements were signed between the Australian Government and the governments of Latvia, Mongolia and Rwanda, each allowing 14 passenger services per week to and from Australia along with unrestricted dedicated cargo services. 

    These arrangements deliver on our commitment in the Aviation White Paper to expand capacity under our bilateral air services arrangements ahead of demand, ensuring airlines have adequate time to plan for additional future services and add new routes to their schedules. It also aligns with our commitments to prioritise negotiations within our region.

    These arrangements have already resulted in significant additional capacity being added into the Australian market, supporting growth in visitor numbers. For example, ABS data for the 12 months to August shows arrivals from Vietnam were 49 per cent higher than pre-pandemic, making it Australia’s fastest growing inbound visitor market.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

    “We’re expanding our international aviation network to increase competition and deliver a better experience for Australian travellers. 

    “Whether travelling to these countries or using them as stepping stones to the rest of the world, each of these arrangements represents a stronger connection with our global market – for travel, trade and tourism. 

    “We committed to this in our Aviation White Paper and today we are delivering on that commitment – landing additional capacity in the international sector.” 

    Quotes attributable to Senator Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism:

    “Increased flights means we can welcome more visitors to Australia, boosting our tourism industry and supporting jobs and local economies, particularly in regional Australia.

    “It also means we can get more cargo in the bellies of outbound flights, giving our exporters more opportunities for growth and to expand into new markets.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Remarks by Vice President Harris in Press Gaggle | Milwaukee,  WI

    Source: The White House

    Pfister Hotel
    Milwaukee, Wisconsin

    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Hi.  Good morning, everyone.

         Q    Good morning.

    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Okay.  Well, it’s good to be back in Milwaukee.  We had a wonderful evening last night.  People are enthusiastic, and the road to the White House definitely runs through Milwaukee, and I’m honored to have the support of people here. 

    I’m going to continue to remind people: Go to IWillVote.com to know where you vote and — and how you can vote, in terms of in-person and all of those other details that are very important to exercising the power of your vote in this very critical and important election. 

    I also want to speak to the comments that have been recently made by the speaker of the House.  It is just further evidence of everything that I’ve actually been talking about for months now, about Trump’s intention to implement Project 2025.

    We have talked repeatedly — and the American people know what’s in it.  We’ve talked repeatedly about their intention to get rid of the Affordable Care Act; now to get rid of the CHIPS Act. 

    And let’s talk about manufacturing, which is a critical issue for many of the states that will make the difference in this election.  Donald Trump, when he was president, lost 200,000 manufacturing jobs.  We have created over 700[,000] new manufacturing jobs. 

    It is my plan and intention to continue to invest in American manufacturing, the work being done by American workers, upholding and lifting up good union jobs, which are good-paying jobs, and doing the work of investing in American industries, including our industries of the future. 

    That is the way we are going to win the competition with China for the 21st century, and that is the kind of leadership that America deserves in their president. 

         Q    Madam President, one on — Madam President —

         AIDE:  Mary.  Mary.

         Q    Oh, sorry.

         Q    What’s your message to Milwaukee voters who are saying, you know, Trump might be better for the economy, and we’re hearing that from — including Black men voters who are skeptical that things are just too expensive for them?

    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Well, first of all, let me make it very clear that I intend to earn the vote of everyone, and I don’t take anyone’s vote for granted, and my highest priority as president will be to bring down the cost because, to that point, look, I know the cost of groceries is too high still, everyone knows it.  And so, my plan includes what we’re going to do in terms of taking on corporate price gouging and having the first-ever national ban on corporate price gouging on groceries. 

    My plan includes addressing the issue of affordable housing, including for first-time homebuyers, giving them a $25,000 down payment assistance so they can just get their foot in the door. 

    My plan includes addressing the needs of parents — in particular, young parents — which is why I will expand the Child Tax Credit to $6,000 for the first year of their child’s life, which helps pay for everything from child care to a crib and a car seat. 

    My plan includes what we’re going to do to invest in our small businesses, including increasing tax breaks for small businesses. 

    And overall, my plan, which is about building an opportunity economy, has been reviewed by leading economists in our country, from Goldman Sachs to 32 Nobel laureates, all whom have said that my economic plan actually will strengthen America’s economy.  They’ve reviewed Donald Trump’s plan and have determined he will weaken America’s economy, he will ignite inflation, and he will bring on a recession by the middle of next year. 

         AIDE:  Akayla.

    Q    Hi, Madam Vice President.  On the comments from the speaker, he walked back initially saying that they would repeal the CHIPS Act, but he still wants to impose changes to the bill.  Are you concerned about Republicans seeking any changes to the CHIPS Act?

    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Well, let’s be clear why he walked it back: Because it’s not popular, and their agenda is not popular. 

    And that’s why people are showing up by the thousands — tens of thousands to talk about an agenda that actually is focused on lifting them up.  That’s why I have the support of, yes, Democrats and independents and Republicans, because they want a president of the United States who stops playing politics with their lives. 

    They want a president of the United States who invest in affordable health care regardless of who they vote for. 

    They want a president of the United States who invests in American manufacturing and American workers. 

    And that’s the work I will do, and that is the work I’m committed to do, and I’m very proud to have the support of many leaders from every party who understand that that’s the kind of leadership that we need moving forward.

    AIDE:  Asma.

    Q    Thank you.  Madam Vice President, I wanted to ask you about your day-one agenda.  I know you said the other day — you talked about having an executive order that would eliminate college degrees for certain federal jobs. 

    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Yes.

    Q    Can you tell us about some other day-one priorities?

     THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Absolutely.  Well, it — obviously —

    Q    (Inaudible.)

    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — there’s more than one.

     Q    Yes.

    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And one of them is going to be to submit, basically, a package of proposals that are about bringing down costs. 

    So, for example, housing.  What we need to do in terms of creating a tax benefit for folks who want homeownership, what we’re going to do to create a $25,000 down payment assistance plan, what we’re going to do for small businesses.  All of that will require a lot of work. 

    And day one is also me getting on the phone with members of the Republican Party, with leaders, with the private sector.  A lot of my plan includes working with the private sector. 

    My plan includes cutting through red tape on the issue of housing.  Again, that includes working with local and state leaders to cut through the red tape, as well as creating incentives for the private-sector builders and developers to actually build new housing so we can increase supply and bring down the cost. 

         AIDE:  Charles.

         Q    Madam President, thank you —

         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Vice President.

         Q    — for making this —

         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Three days.

         Q    Vice President.

         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  But I appreciate that.

         Q    That will go viral, I’m sure.

         Tomorrow, faith leaders in Milwaukee and across the state will be praying about this election —

         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Yes.

         Q    — and encouraging people to get out and vote. 

         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Yes.

         Q    I think, last week, I heard you say, “God’s power works through us.” 

         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Yes.

         Q    What does your faith tell you about who God wants to win this election and lead our divided country?

    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  My faith and my belief in God tells me that we all must think about our lives through our ability to do good works, and through those works, to lift people up, to help the needy, to help the poor, to help the elderly.  And my plan for my presidency is informed with that spirit and that approach.  And I do believe that people understand that that really is the sign of a real leader, which is not defining one’s strength based on who you beat down, but defining the strength of a leader based on who you lift up. 

         AIDE:  Thank you.

         THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  Thank you.

                                   END

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Premier Pillai on Hindu Heritage Month

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

    “As we celebrate the beginning of the third annual Hindu Heritage Month, I want to take a moment to honour the culture, traditions and contributions that the Hindu community has brought to the Yukon and all of Canada. This month serves as an opportunity to recognize the impact of Hindu philosophy, art and spirituality on our shared values of diversity and inclusion.

    MIL OSI Canada News