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Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women Opens Eighty-Ninth Session

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women this morning opened its eighty-ninth session, hearing a statement from the Representative of the Secretary-General, and adopting its agenda for the session, during which it will review the reports of Benin, Canada, Chile, Cuba, Japan, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, New Zealand and Saudi Arabia.

    Opening the session, Mahamane Cissé-Gouro, Director of the Human Rights Council and Treaty Mechanisms Division at the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and Representative of the Secretary-General, extended his congratulations to the Committee members who had been re-elected to serve on the Committee for another term from January 2025. 

    Mr. Cissé-Gouro said that at the Summit of the Future, the Heads of State and Government adopted an action-oriented Pact for the Future, including a Global Digital Compact and a Declaration on Future Generations, which noted that none of the goals could be achieved without the full participation and representation of all women in political and economic life.  These principles were reflected in the Committee’s draft general recommendation no. 40 on the equal and inclusive representation of women in decision-making systems, which would be adopted and made public at the end of the session. Mr. Cissé-Gouro wished the Committee a successful and productive session. 

    Ana Peláez Narváez, Chairperson of the Committee, said that since the last session, the number of States parties that had ratified the Convention had remained at 189. The number of States parties that had accepted the amendment to article 20, paragraph 1 of the Convention concerning the meeting time of the Committee remained at 81.  Kazakhstan, Paraguay, Republic of Moldova and Syria had submitted their periodic reports and San Marino had submitted its combined initial to fifth periodic report to the Committee.

    The Committee adopted the agenda and programme of work of the session, and the Chair and Committee Experts then discussed the inter-sessional activities they had undertaken since the last session.

    Leticia Bonifaz Alfonzo, Committee Rapporteur, introduced the report of the pre-sessional working group for the eighty-ninth session, and Natasha Stott Despoja, Committee Rapporteur on follow-up to concluding observations, briefed the Committee on the status of the follow-up reports received in response to the Committee’s concluding observations.

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s eighty-ninth session is being held from 7 October to 25 October.  All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet at 3 p.m. this afternoon, Monday, 7 October, with representatives of national human rights institutions and non-governmental organizations who will brief about the situation of women in Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Saudi Arabia and New Zealand, whose reports will be reviewed this week.

    Opening Statement by the Representative of the Secretary-General

    MAHAMANE CISSÉ-GOURO, Director, Human Rights Council and Treaty Mechanisms Division, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and Representative of the Secretary-General, said he was encouraged by the fact that all the annual sessions of the treaty bodies could take place despite the current liquidity situation facing the United Nations.  He then extended congratulations to Committee members who had been re-elected to serve on the Committee for another term from January 2025, namely Corinne Dettmeijer-Vermeulen, Nahla Haidar, Bandana Rana and Natasha Stott Despoja.  The multiple challenges of today’s world, in particular conflicts and pushback against women’s rights, highlighted the importance of having a strong, productive and independent Committee. 

    The Summit of the Future, the major event of the year at the United Nations, took place on 22 and 23 September at the United Nations headquarters in New York.  At the Summit, the Heads of State and Government adopted an action-oriented Pact for the Future, including a Global Digital Compact and a Declaration on Future Generations, which noted that none of the goals could be achieved without the full participation and representation of all women in political and economic life.  These principles were reflected in the Committee’s draft general recommendation no. 40 on the equal and inclusive representation of women in decision-making systems, which would be adopted and made public at the end of the session. 

    Mr. Cissé-Gouro congratulated the Committee on this innovative roadmap.  He was encouraged that the Committee took the opportunity to present the future general recommendation no. 40 and promote its synergies with the Pact for the Future at the annual meeting of the United Nations General Assembly’s Women Leaders Platform, in New York. 

    On 25 September, to mark the thirtieth anniversary of the International Year of the Family, the Human Rights Council held a panel discussion on the implementation of States’ obligations under relevant provisions of international human rights law on the role of the family in supporting the protection and promotion of human rights of its members.  This year’s annual discussion on the integration of a gender perspective throughout the work of the Human Rights Council and its mechanisms, held on 30 September, focused on the theme of enhancing gender integration in human rights investigations: a victim-centred perspective.  The outcome of the panel discussion could also inform the important work of the Committee on inquiries.  The Council would also adopt resolutions on the thirtieth anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform of Action, and on domestic violence.

    The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights continued to actively support efforts to strengthen the treaty body system, which was the key topic at the thirty-sixth annual meeting of the treaty body Chairpersons in New York in June 2024. The Chairs reiterated the call for resources in their recent statement welcoming the adoption of the Pact for the Future. 

    In that regard, the upcoming General Assembly resolution on the human rights treaty body system would be an important opportunity for Member States to reiterate their commitment to strengthening the treaty bodies by addressing the remaining challenges, including those related to resources.  Mr. Cissé-Gouro said this was the last session for seven Committee members, whose terms would come to an end at the end of the year, namely Nicole Ameline, Marion Bethel, Leticia Bonifaz Alfonzo, Hilary Gbedemah, Dalia Leinarte, Rosario Manalo and Jie Xia.  He thanked them for their dedicated service, and concluded by wishing the Committee a successful and productive session.

    Statements by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert thanked Mr. Cissé-Gouro for his speech, congratulating the new members and those who were finishing their terms.  Technology, innovation and a gender equality strategy were vital and many organizations were already doing this.  As an international organization, the United Nations needed to adopt an internal general equality strategy. 

    The Committee then adopted its agenda and programme of work for the session.

    ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chairperson, paid homage to three experts who were absent due to health reasons and new responsibilities.  She congratulated the new experts and wished them every success. Since the last session, the number of States parties that had ratified the Convention remained at 189.  The number of States parties that had accepted the amendment to article 20, paragraph 1 of the Convention concerning the meeting time of the Committee, remained at 81.  Since the last session, Kazakhstan, Paraguay, Republic of Moldova and Syria had submitted their periodic reports and San Marino submitted its combined initial to fifth periodic report to the Committee.  Since making the simplified reporting procedure the default procedure for States parties’ reporting to the Committee, the number of States parties that had indicated they wished to opt out and maintain the traditional procedure remained at 13. 

    Ms. Peláez Narváez and Committee Experts then discussed inter-sessional activities they had undertaken since the last session, which included attending the award of the Legion of Honour Medal to Committee Member Nicole Ameline, by President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace in Paris. 

    LETICIA BONIFAZ ALFONZO, Committee Rapporteur, introduced the report of the pre-sessional working group for the eighty-ninth session, which met from 19 to 23 February 2024 in Geneva.  The working group prepared lists of issues and questions in relation to the reports of Belize, Chad, Republic of Congo, Nepal and Viet Nam, in addition to lists of issues and questions prior to the submission of the reports of Cyprus and Saint Lucia under the simplified reporting procedure. 

    ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chairperson, said that, in light of the backlog of State party reports pending consideration by the Committee accumulated during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Committee had decided to postpone the consideration of the States parties referred to in the report of the pre-sessional working group to future sessions. 

    NATASHA STOTT DESPOJA, Committee Rapporteur on follow-up to concluding observations, briefed the Committee on the status of the follow-up reports received in response to the Committee’s concluding observations.  She said that at the end of the eighty-eighth session, follow-up letters outlining the outcome of assessments of follow-up reports were sent to the Russian Federation and Uzbekistan.  Reminder letters were sent to the Dominican Republic, Gabon, Lebanon, Panama, Peru, Senegal and Uganda.  A shortened version of the follow-up report of Sweden was received in mid-August 2024, with more than an eight-month delay.  The Committee had received follow-up reports from Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Morocco and Türkiye, all received on time; from Peru, with more than five months’ delay; and from South Africa, with an eight-month delay.  Reminders regarding follow-up reports should be sent to Mongolia, Namibia, Portugal and the United Arab Emirates. 

     

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

    CEDAW24.022E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Civil Society Organizations Brief the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women on the Situation of Women in Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Saudi Arabia and New Zealand

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women was this afternoon briefed by representatives of civil society organizations on the situation of women’s rights in Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Saudi Arabia and New Zealand, whose reports the Committee will review this week.

    In relation to Lao People’s Democratic Republic, speakers raised concerns regarding gender-based violence, human trafficking, and the experiences of Hmong women and girls. 

    Non-governmental organizations speaking on Saudi Arabia raised topics on the imprisonment of women human rights defenders, women on death row, and the treatment of female domestic workers. 

    On New Zealand, speakers addressed the situation of Māori women and girls, the treatment of transgender and intersex persons, and the gender pay gap.

    The following non-governmental organizations spoke on Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Association for Development of Women and Legal Education; Gender Development Association; the Alliance for Democracy in Laos; Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization in affiliation with its member the Congress of World Hmong People; and Hawai’i Centre for Human Rights Research and Action and on behalf of the Advocates for Human Rights, the World Coalition against the Death Penalty, and Harm Reduction International.

    The following non-governmental organizations spoke on Saudi Arabia: Amnesty International; MENA Rights Group and ALQST; the Advocates for Human Rights, the World Coalition against the Death Penalty, and the European Saudi Organization for Human Rights; Migrants Rights and Global Detention Project; and Sema Nami, Global Alliance against Traffic in Women, Solidarity Centre, IZWI Domestic Worker Alliance, and Africa End Sexual Harassment Initiative. 

    The New Zealand Human Rights Commission spoke on New Zealand, as did the following non-governmental organizations: Te Whare Tiaki Wahine Refuge, Homeless Women’s Coalition and Maori Women’s Welfare League; Pacific Allied Council (of women) Inspires Faith Ideals Concerning All; Shakti; Pacific Women’s Watch; and the National Council of Women.

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s eighty-ninth session is being held from 7 October to 25 October. All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, 8 October to consider the tenth periodic report of Lao People’s Democratic Republic (CEDAW/C/LAO/10).

    Opening Remarks by the Committee Chair

    ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chairperson, said this was the first opportunity during the session for non-governmental organizations to provide information on States parties that were having their reports reviewed during the first week, namely Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Saudi Arabia and New Zealand.  A second meeting would be held on Monday, 14 October, where civil society would provide information on the countries under consideration in the second week of the session.

    Statements by Non-Governmental Organizations from Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Saudi Arabia and New Zealand

    Lao People’s Democratic Republic

    On Lao People’s Democratic Republic, speakers, among other things, said the percentage of women and girls who experienced gender-based violence was high.  Authorities had misconceptions about what violence against women looked like. It was recommended that the Government develop an appropriate platform to raise awareness and expand shelter services, to ensure women and girls had access to protection and legal mechanisms. There were also limitations for women’s access to the justice system, especially in the context of violence against women.  Customary law was often applied to violence against women cases, without women representatives.  It was recommended that the Government enhance the capacity of law enforcement and mediation units, and review relevant laws for ensuring the full protection of women and girls. 

    There was a great difference in the rates of young births between the rural and urban areas; 23.5 per cent of girls aged 15 to 19 were married or in a relationship.  It was recommended that the Government develop communication tools for ethnic women and provide community hospitals and resources. Around 32 per cent of young females between 15 and 17 years of age did not go to school, primarily due to financial reasons.  It was recommended that the Government enhance the monitoring and data collection system.  Many young women and girls were often offered for sale to men in China on the internet. The internet trade continued unabated, and perpetrators roamed free.  Many women human rights defenders were murdered or disappeared.  The Government had announced that it would do everything to improve the situation, but there were many laws which only existed on paper and had not truly been implemented. 

    The systemic discrimination faced by the Hmong had been underlined but was not present in the list of issues. The Hmong were the third largest ethnic group in the country, and their women and girls endured poverty, deprivation and a lack of health care services.  The Hmong were targeted for extrajudicial killings.  Women and girls were strategically targeted when searching for food, particularly for trafficking, sex slavery and rape.  Lao People’s Democratic Republic must address gender-based violence against this group.  It was strongly requested that the Committee raise these concerns with the State party.  Women faced greater oppression when standing up for those who had been disappeared. Many people were waiting for their loved ones bodies to be returned or for more information on their whereabouts. Women often received unfair trials with mandatory death sentences, particularly when it came to drug-related crimes.  There should be a moratorium on the death penalty. 

    Saudi Arabia

    Concerning Saudi Arabia, speakers acknowledged some positive reforms on the male guardianship system since the last review.  However, authorities had pursued a ruthless crackdown on human rights defenders, unfairly trialling women human rights defenders and subjecting them to torture and imprisonment.  The family law, which entered into force in 2022, showed that newly enacted legislation entrenched a system of discrimination in all aspects of family life and did not adequately protect women from domestic violence or rape. 

    The Government was called on to release all women rights activists in prison and repeal discriminatory legislation. Many women human rights activists were placed under illegal travel bans and were being subjected to arbitrary arrests for being vocal about human rights issues.  The authorities used anti-terrorism laws to target women human rights defenders, who were often placed in secret detention centres and denied contact with their families.  Saudi Arabia needed to ensure women human rights defenders were protected and included in shaping society. 

    Between 2020 and 2024, at least 11 women were executed for drug-related crimes, all of whom were migrant women. Several women had been convicted without legal counsel.  Increased transparency was needed in the judicial process, particularly for women on death row.  There needed to be a moratorium on the death penalty. 

    Speakers highlighted the plight of domestic and migrant workers within the country, and said Saudi Arabia should improve its treatment of migrant women and their families during the immigration process.  Saudi Arabia should rescind its regime which punished women seeking to escape exploitation. Immigration detention for women who became pregnant at their place of work should be ended.  Saudi Arabia should ratify International Labour Organization Convention 198 and incorporate domestic workers into their labour legislation. Domestic workers in Saudi Arabia were subjected to lower pay and forced to live in inhumane conditions which diminished their dignity.  Some were subject to extreme abuse, including physical violence, starvation and sexual harassment.  Justice remained out of reach for most of these women. 

    New Zealand

    Among other things, speakers urged the New Zealand Government to focus on gender equality.  Too many indigenous women were unhoused and unsafe.  The New Zealand Government was a serial perpetrator of colonial violence.  Māori women and girls were profiled as a minority group and were othered.  They were in urgent need of a global, indigenous women’s forum and needed the Government to develop a national action plan on their behalf.  The Committee had the power to recommend that the Government affirm its commitment to the Convention.  The New Zealand Government should endorse and recognise Pacific women’s leadership and aspirations. 

    The issue of forced marriage remained unequally addressed despite recommendations by the Committee.  Women on non-permanent residence visas faced immense barriers in accessing justice and social security.  Religious abuse was unrecognised; women were kept in limbo about their marital status in the name of religion.  The Committee should call for stronger reforms for migrant women living in an increasingly ethnically diverse New Zealand. 

    The Government should adhere to its commitments to establish stalking as a criminal act.  The Government should evaluate legal and court processes to ensure victims were not prohibited from seeking justice.  The Government ought to establish an enquiry into non-consensual surgeries on intersex persons and provide redress.  Transgender and intersex persons needed to be protected. In rural areas, internet coverage was limited, which impacted outcomes for rural families.  The Government should invest in mobile communications and infrastructure for these communities.  Pay gaps for women, including Māori women, needed to be closed. The State was urged to implement national machinery which ensured disaggregated data was available to inform policy. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert asked what the Government of New Zealand should do to release women from religious marriages? What should be done to combat forced marriage? 

    Another Expert asked if there were situations of statelessness among Māori women and girls in New Zealand? Were there issues relating to women, nationality and citizenship? 

    An Expert asked about the internet trade in Lao People’s Democratic Republic which saw young girls being trafficked.  Did the Government recognise this as a great problem?  What was the view on increasing family violence?

    A Committee Expert said given the Government of New Zealand had established an intersex clinical reference group, were there any positive recommendations or movements coming out?

    Another Expert asked New Zealand if there were any specific challenges affecting education?  What could be done to address these challenges? 

    An Expert asked about the situation of education in Lao People’s Democratic Republic? 

    A Committee Expert said information provided claimed that there was a genuine change in Saudi Arabia; women could obtain drivers’ license and travel with their own passport, among other things. Could more information on these reforms be provided?  How many women human rights defenders were in jail? 

    An Expert asked about data sovereignty in New Zealand?  There had been an important climate case decided in New Zealand, regarding the extractive industry being sued for alleged contribution to climate change. Could more information on this be shared with the Committee? 

    A Committee Expert asked non-governmental organizations from Saudi Arabia what were the main issues when it came to the limitations of legislation on trafficking? 

    Responses by Non-Governmental Organizations

    Lao People’s Democratic Republic

    Responding to questions, speakers said the Government did not take any effective actions against human trafficking, especially for young girls.  Internet control for criminals was not effective in Lao People’s Democratic Republic. People in the country were very poor and their income was very low.  Around 30 per cent of young people did not have any employment. 

    Saudi Arabia

    Answering questions on Saudi Arabia, speakers said since 2018, Saudi Arabia had implemented reforms to its male guardianship system, including allowing women to obtain passports and be legal heads of households, among others.  However, there were still issues under the Personal Status Code, including that women needed permission from males to marry, and that women were considered as custodians of their children rather than guardians.  There was also a disobedience law still in place. Families feared speaking about women in prison so there were no official statistics.  There were dozens of cases of women who had been jailed for expressing their views on women’s rights in Saudi Arabia, but without open and fair trials, there were no exact numbers. 

    New Zealand

    Speakers answering questions on New Zealand said women’s connection to culture empowered them to navigate diverse environments.  It was essential that the Government recognised this to empower women and communities.  The reference group had been established in New Zealand for intersex persons which sought to establish medical guidelines.  As this was quite recent, it was hard to say its impact.  Even if it was successful, it would not help those who had already been through the system.  Further answers would be provided in writing. 

    Statement by the National Human Rights Institution of New Zealand

    SAUNOAMAALI’I DR KARANINA SUMEO, Acting Chief Commissioner of the New Zealand Human Rights Commission, said Māori women’s rights in New Zealand were at serious risk due to a lack of constitutional protection and regressive policy and legislative measures.  Today, Māori women and girls continued to experience inequities across health, justice, state care, employment, income and housing.  Despite this, the Government was currently working through a reform programme that looked to further undermine Māori rights.  The programme included disestablishing the body created to advance Māori health equity and self-determination; introducing a bill to reinterpret treaty principles to omit reference to Māori self-determination and recognition of Māori as indigenous peoples; and reviewing the role of the Waitangi Tribunal, the primary avenue for Māori to raise claims regarding Crown breaches of Te Tiriti. 

    The Government had already overridden Māori rights recognised by the Tribunal and courts, and stopped all work to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.  The Acting Chief Commissioner urged the Committee to recommend that the Government strengthen legal and constitutional protection of Te Tiriti; take meaningful action to implement the Declaration; and ensure all law and policy reforms met obligations under Te Tiriti and general recommendation 39. 

    New Zealand unfortunately had one of the highest rates of family and sexual violence.  Women were more at risk of sexual violence and family violence than men, particularly Māori, Pacific, ethnic and disabled women.  In 2022, the Government launched Te Aorerekura – the National Strategy and Action Plan to Eliminate Family Violence and Sexual Violence. However, there had been a recent reduction in funding to prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence, further impacting access to justice for women. 

    In September 2024, the report from the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Historical Abuse in State and Faith-based Care (2018-2024) was publicly released, revealing the grave extent of physical, psychological and sexual abuse that took place, in some cases amounting to torture.  Gender-based abuse of women and girls included regular intrusive genital exams and ‘health checks’ providing cover for abuse.  The Government had committed to designing a new redress system, but survivors still had no immediate prospect of full redress, including compensation and rehabilitation.  The Committee was urged to recommend that the Government develop and implement an updated Te Aorerekura action plan and mainstream gender-specific issues; resume the regulatory review of online services and platforms; and implement all the recommendations of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care.

    In 2019, the Welfare Expert Advisory Group made 42 recommendations to restore dignity to the social security system. Some recommendations were progressed but some had recently been reversed, which would disproportionately affect the incomes of women, particularly older, disabled, and Māori and Pacific women.  The social security system still did not allow people to retain their individual income if they were viewed to be in a relationship ‘in the nature marriage’.  This created risks for women, including social isolation, financial entrapment, and difficulties leaving violent or abusive relationships. 

    The previous Government had announced its intention to introduce mandatory gender and ethnic pay gap reporting. The current Government announced in July 2024 that it would not progress mandatory reporting but develop another voluntary tool.  This decision neglected the role factors, including racism, ableism and violence and harassment in the workplace, playing a role in affecting pay, progression, income security and preparation for a dignified life in retirement for women. The Committee was urged to recommend that the Government adjust income support rates to those recommended by the Welfare Expert Advisory Group adjusted for inflation; individualise income support entitlements; and introduce appropriate temporary special measures to ensure equal employment opportunity by gender, ethnicity and disability. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert said that at the last dialogue with New Zealand, the outlook for Māori women and girls had been positive; what was the reason behind the setback?

    Another Expert asked if there were specific references within the proposed framework which dealt with the rights of women and girls? 

    An Expert asked about the situation of abortion in rural areas? 

    A Committee Expert asked if there were cases where temporary special measures had a negative effect? 

    Responses by the National Human Rights Institution

    In response, Ms. Sumeo said New Zealand did not have a formal constitution which was one of their weak areas, leaving indigenous women vulnerable.  If there was a law which weakened women’s rights, it was difficult to push against targeted policy.  There was now a different Government, which was why there was a different view from the previously positive position.  The previous Government’s policies assumed everyone was equal to begin with, which was not the case now. 

    New Zealand was far away from having equal pay despite having an Equal Pay Act since 1972.  Many women were facing situations of homelessness.  Under the Human Rights Act, there was the ability for organizations to develop measures which ensured equality. Unfortunately, those measures were seen as somehow violating human rights and were seen as discriminatory in some parts of New Zealand.  The ability to address inequity had become more difficult under the current climate. It was difficult to address issues such as the gender-pay gap if there was a reluctance to use temporary special measures. 

    BRITTANY PECK, Legal Advisor, said the Government was not providing an adequate response to gender-based violence, including police attending fewer family-based callouts. These compounded the existing high rates of violence in New Zealand.  Because of this retrogression, it was expected this would be reflected in the cases of Māori women over time.  It was expected that over 90 per cent of sexual violence was not reported to police. New Zealand was experiencing a workforce health crisis and there was a gap in the availability of abortion services in rural areas. 

     

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

    CEDAW24.023E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Altus Group to Announce Q3 2024 Financial Results on November 7, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Oct. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Altus Group Limited (ʺAltus” or “the Company”) (TSX: AIF), a leading provider of asset and fund intelligence for commercial real estate (“CRE”), announced today that it plans to release its third quarter financial results for the period ended September 30, 2024 after market close on Thursday, November 7, 2024. Altus executives Jim Hannon, Chief Executive Officer, and Pawan Chhabra, Chief Financial Officer, will host a conference call and webcast at 5:00 p.m. (ET) the same day to review the financial results and discuss corporate developments.

    About Altus Group

    Altus Group is a leading provider of asset and fund intelligence for commercial real estate. We deliver intelligence as a service to our global client base through a connected platform of industry-leading technology, advanced analytics, and advisory services. Trusted by the largest CRE leaders, our capabilities help commercial real estate investors, developers, proprietors, lenders, and advisors manage risks and improve performance returns throughout the asset and fund lifecycle. Altus Group is a global company headquartered in Toronto with approximately 2,900 employees across North America, EMEA and Asia Pacific. For more information about Altus (TSX: AIF) please visit altusgroup.com.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

    Camilla Bartosiewicz
    Chief Communications Officer, Altus Group
    (416) 641-9773
    camilla.bartosiewicz@altusgroup.com  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: East Coast students get a taste of the future at successful careers day | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

    3 mins ago

    School students from the East Coast were given a taste of the future at a successful discovery day organised by EIT’s Education 2 Employment team.

    School students from the East Coast were given a taste of the future at a successful discovery day held at Ngata College in Ruatoria recently.

    The event, organised by EIT’s Education 2 Employment team, saw hundreds of students from the region get a chance to engage with tertiary institutes, pathway providers and employers.

    Education 2 Employment (e2e) encourages the coordination and support of employers and the local business community to be involved in vocational education, employment and development opportunities for young people. The primary goal of the e2e programme is to help connect industry with schools so that students can identify possible career pathways.

    Twenty-seven organisations were represented at the event in Ruatoria last month. While the event was aimed at senior school students, year seven and eight and even younger students also attended.

    Among the companies and organisations attending to connect with the students were local and regional businesses, Government agencies like IRD, and educational institutes including EIT and others from outside the region.

    Adrianna Wilson, Education 2 Employment Advisor for EIT Tairāwhiti, says that the aim of the event was to expose students to what opportunities were out there.

    “We wanted them to see that there are local employers and ones further afield who can offer them a pathway to a career of their choice.”

    “For an example, we had Mātai Medical Research Institute there, so if a student was interested in going into that career, what’s the pathway for them?”

    School students from the East Coast were given a taste of the future at a successful discovery day organised by EIT’s Education 2 Employment team.

    Adrianna says the event was staged in a way that engaged the students and got them interested in potential careers.

    “Every employer or business had an interactive activity. Some had honey pots representing apiculture, civil infrastructure had roading games, the police services had drug goggles and were in their police cars. We also had a Media House there which did portraits of the students, STEM were there doing science activities, and we had the Department of Conservation discussing survival, trapping and other outdoor skills.”

    “We also had a game where they were given a bingo card with symbols that represented each employer or industry. And they had to go and either ask questions or do the interactive activity and get it ticked off by the employer. At the end, they all got a prize if they filled their bingo card. They had to ask questions and engage.”

    Adrianna says the aim is to make the event an annual occurrence.

    “It is a rewarding time for both students and participating organisations as the students get to see what career opportunities there are and employers are exposed to the talent coming through.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DoD Announces Health Care Supplement Program Pilot for DOD Civilian Employees in Japan

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    The Department of Defense (DoD) today announced a one-year pilot program to provide no-cost supplemental health support services to DoD civilian employees serving in Japan after a yearlong effort to identify and address concerns regarding access to medical care.

    “The Department recognizes the significant contributions of our DoD civilian workforce around the world,” said Ashish Vazirani, who is performing the duties of the Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. “In keeping with Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III’s commitment to taking care of all our people, we owe it to our civilians to facilitate access to health care no matter where they are. The support from this pilot program will help enhance the patient experience for the approximately 11,000 civilians stationed in Japan through the new pilot.”

    This pilot is called the Pilot Health Insurance Enhancement for DoD Civilian Employees in Japan and will assist eligible civilian employees with health care navigation and upfront costs associated with accessing Japan’s healthcare system.

    To be eligible, the employee must be enrolled in a participating health plan through the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program. The enrollment window for eligible employees will be the Federal Benefits Open Season, which runs this year Nov. 11 through Dec. 9. Federal Benefits Open Season allows federal civilians to enroll in or change health care options.

    The services provided under this pilot will begin Jan. 1, 2025, when participants can use the services and access support through a call center. The call center will be open 24/7 and staffed with bilingual service representatives who will assist callers with identifying their needs, make appointments with provider offices, and issue payment guarantees up front. Dependents are not eligible for services during the pilot, which runs through Sept. 29, 2025.

    Employees working in Japan with the following military departments, defense agencies and DoD field activities are eligible for this supplemental coverage:

    • Department of the Air Force
    • Department of the Army
    • Department of the Navy
    • Defense Information Systems Agency
    • Defense Logistics Agency
    • Department of Defense Education Activity
    • Defense Commissary Agency
    • Defense Contract Management Agency
    • Defense Finance and Accounting Service
    • Defense Health Agency
    • Defense Media Activity
    • Defense Threat Reduction Agency
    • National Security Agency
    • Defense Intelligence Agency
    • National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency

    “We are excited to offer this program,” said Seileen Mullen, who is the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs. “This is a no-cost supplemental service, and we encourage civilian employees in Japan to use it.”

    The Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs will oversee the pilot program and has awarded a $4.2 million contract to International SOS Government Services Inc., which is also the prime contractor for the TRICARE Overseas Program. The contract for this pilot is being funded by the military departments, defense agencies and DoD field activities that have civilian employees working in Japan.

    Active-duty service members and TRICARE Prime beneficiaries have prioritized access to health care in military hospitals and clinics based on current federal law and DoD policy. DoD civilians who are not TRICARE beneficiaries may use military health facilities on a space-available basis.

    Agreements with FEHB insurance carriers who currently provide coverage for DoD civilian employees in Japan will be established to provide direct billing agreements. Non-appropriated Fund (NAF) employees are eligible for this program if enrolled in an Aetna International plan.

    Additional details dedicated to this pilot program will be announced before Federal Benefits Open Season begins. This information will also be posted to web sites for military hospitals and clinics in Japan in their “Getting Care” section.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: CNO Remarks at Hampton Roads Navy Birthday Ball

    Source: United States Navy

    Thank you. Thank you. Thank you Admiral Caudle. Thank you everyone. Thank you so much for such an incredible welcome. And let me just echo what Admiral Caudle just said. Happy birthday, Navy.

    Honorable Kiggans, Mary Dyer, Mayor Alexander Admiral Caudle, lieutenant general Shea, flag general, officers Senior enlisted leaders, distinguished guests, industry partners, allies and partners. All of our active and reserve sailors, Navy civilians, and all of our families that are here. It is truly an honor for me to be here with you tonight and celebrate the Navy’s 249th birthday, 249 years.

    As you saw in the video, Warfighting Strength and Readiness. I do want to start tonight by also echoing a few thank yous. So let me say first, thank you to the Sea Cadets who are our color guard our tonight. You are the future of our Navy. Great to see you all. And I also want to say thank you to the Fleet Forces Command Band.

    I hope you’re getting a chance to eat now, because we know we’re looking forward to that great concert later on tonight. So how about fleet forces command band.

    And also to echo Admiral Caudle to Lou and Mary Ellen and many of our teammates here from the Navy League and all the sponsors, but to the Navy League in particular. Thank you for putting together another spectacular birthday celebration. And thank you for your continued support, commitment and advocacy for our sailors and our Navy families every day, not just on our birthday.

    How about a big round of applause for the Navy League and everything you all do, Thank you.

    Of course, the most special guests here tonight are all of our sailors, our Marines, our midshipmen, our Navy, civilians, and other teammates. Thank you for answering our nation’s call to service. Every single one of you has a choice in what you decide to do in your life. And you all have chosen to serve something greater than yourself. And I am grateful for each and every one of you.

    And to all of our families and our big support networks out there, whether you’re here tonight or you’re at home. I also want to extend my thanks to you. Thank you for your own service and your sacrifice. Those of us in the uniform, we cannot do what we do every day without your encouragement, without your love, and without your incredible support.

    So how about a big round of applause for all our families out there tonight.

    Ladies and gentlemen, the birth of our navy came nearly a year before our nation’s independence. And on October 13th, 1775. In the early months of the Revolutionary War, our navy embarked on what would eventually become an congressionally mandated mission to man, train, and equip our forces for prompt and sustained combat incident to operations at sea. With a fleet of just two armed vessels and 80 sailors each.

    Our Navy moved forward with a strong sense of purpose and urgency, protecting American trade, seizing enemy supplies, and attacking British vessels at sea. Equally inexperienced, but driven by their patriotism, these bold and courageous sailors delivered our nation its very first dose of warfighting advantage. Effectively cutting the redcoats off from their supply lines at sea and challenging the British fleet’s superiority, our newly established Continental Navy found immediate success.

    And from that point on, there was no turning back. The great American experiment was truly underway, and with it, the legacy of America’s warfighting Navy over the many centuries, battles, and wars since then, our Navy sailors have continued to deliver warfighting advantage, operating far forward and always ready. As you saw in the video and you’ve lived it yourselves.

    To preserve the peace, respond in crisis, and win decisively in war when called. They did it in the Great War when our convoys of battleships, submarines and auxiliaries crossed the U-boat infested waters of the Atlantic, escorting soldiers and supplies to the Western Front, they did it during World War Two, when our massive fleet of aircraft carriers, battleships, cruisers, destroyers and submarines delivered decisive combat power in consequential campaigns like the Battle of Midway, Operation Overlord, and the Battle of Leyte Gulf.

    And they did it again in the Cold War, when our team of sailors, civilians and industry partners created the most lethal and combat credible force the world had ever seen. When you fast forward to today. This year has been no different. We have continued that great legacy of our Navy and demonstrated another year of warfighting strength and readiness, as you’ve all seen, and maybe you’ve been there.

    Our Navy and Marine Corps team is in high demand in the Middle East under Operation Prosperity Guardian. Our sailors worked tirelessly with over 20 nations to save lives, to defend the rules based international order and ensure the free flow of commerce, knocking down hundreds of missiles and drones at a level of intensity not seen since World War two.

    So tonight I’d like to recognize a few groups, and you’ll see there’s a lot of thanks in here and a lot of applause in here, but we can’t say thank you enough. So I want to recognize our sailors and our teammates here tonight. Both those who deployed all around the world this year, as well as those who got them ready for that deployment and supported them from here ashore.

    So there were many commands that deployed. I’ll just name a few. The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, Carrier Air Wing three and its nine squadrons, the Philippine Sea. You can clap if you’re from there. The Destroyer Squadron 22, USS Gravely Mason, Laboon, Carney, the Florida, military Sealift Command, the supply of the Kanawa and the Alan Shepard who delivered munitions, supplies and goods to sustain our people in our fleet and many other forces.

    So if you deployed in the past year, you are year 249 leading up to year 250. Stand up so we can give you a round of applause for your warfighting prowess. Thank you.

    But there’s also that second group, those commands that we don’t always ask to stand up. They play an incredibly important role ashore, preparing our fleet to deploy and supporting them while they are deployed, like afloat training group Atlantic, Carrier Strike Group four. You can clap if you’re from their Nordic Semitic, the regional maintenance center. All of our fleet readiness centers and all of our medical folks that got our people, ready and out the door.

    Your efforts ensured the readiness of our fighting forces. And let me tell you, their successes would not happen without you. So if you had a hand in making these deployments so successful, please stand up so we can thank you.

    The story of these sailors, civilians and teammates that we just talked about over the last year and we saw in the video really the story of all the war fighters here tonight. Those are just a small sampling of the many stories that are being told all across America’s war fighting Navy and it’s a Navy that works around the globe and around the clock.

    And as we celebrate tonight, thousands more of our sailors and Marines continue to operate far forward, at risk and in challenging environments all around the world, from the eastern Mediterranean to the Red sea to the Indo-Pacific and the Atlantic Ocean everywhere in between. Our team is standing the watch in every domain on, under and above the sea. So let’s all send a quick thought to them.

    A thought of thanks to all the sailors and Marines for standing the watch and keeping us safe so we can enjoy this wonderful evening together. I could not be more proud of this amazing Navy team, active, reserve sailors, our civilians, our families. There is no other Navy in the world, no other joint force in the world who can train, deploy and sustain such a lethal combat.

    Credible force at the pace, scale and tempo that we do. So that’s why I’m so happy to be back here in Norfolk to celebrate our Navy’s birthday with all of you, with the fleet, with the warfighting fleet who have been operating far forward at that point of friction with our adversaries and at the point of friendship with our allies and partners in every corner of the globe.

    You are America’s warfighting Navy in action. And as we look to the future and to the decisive decade ahead, I am confident that our team will continue to serve with honor, courage and commitment. Building on the proud legacy of our heroic sailors and working tirelessly to raise our baseline level of readiness for potential conflict anytime and anywhere. Tonight, like every night for the last 249 years, our Navy is standing the watch deterring aggression, defending our nation’s security and preserving our way of life.

    And this year, like every year in our storied history, we celebrate the birth of our service and take pride in being part of the world’s preeminent fighting force. So as we gather tonight in the company of family and friends sharing a bunch of sea stories and lots of memories from our time in the fleet. Let us also remember that we are here to honor all of our sailors past, present, and future who answer our nation’s call to serve a cause greater than themselves.

    To wear the uniform that symbolizes freedom all around the world, and to ensure that America remains that beacon of freedom and democracy for all to see. We will continue to build on their contributions and share the story of our Navy. The story of 249 years about warfighting strength and readiness. So let me again wrap up by saying thank you.

    Thank you for what you do. Thank you for your support, your service and your sacrifice. Each of you plays a vital role in our Navy and what you do every single day matters to our Navy and to our nation. As your 33rd CNO, I could not be more proud to serve alongside you. And as we head into our 250th birthday next year, I can’t wait to see what this year brings.

    Thank you very much. Have a wonderful evening. Get to that rock concert. I’m excited about that. And all ahead, flank. Thank you very much.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ball Corp. subsidiary to pay $309K to settle hiring discrimination of Black applicants at Georgia facility

    Source: US Department of Labor

    ROME, GA – The U.S. Department of Labor has announced Ball Container LLC, a subsidiary of Ball Corp., has entered into a conciliation agreement in which the employer will pay $309,000 in back wages and interest to resolve alleged race-based hiring discrimination at the company’s beverage manufacturing facility in Rome. 

    A routine compliance review by the department’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs found that, from Feb. 1, 2020, through Jan. 31, 2021, the employer discriminated against 192 Black applicants for production technician positions at the facility. The agency determined Ball Container’s actions violated Executive Order 11246, which prohibits federal contractors from discriminating in employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.

    In addition to paying back wages and interest, Ball Container agreed to provide four job offers to eligible class members when positions become available, review and revise its hiring process and provide training to all managers, supervisors and other company officials involved in the hiring process. 

    “Discrimination is preventable when employers have nondiscriminatory hiring procedures in place and see to it that they are followed,” said Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs Acting Director Michele Hodge. “OFCCP will use every action available by law to ensure workers and job seekers are treated fairly, and that everyone has access to good paying jobs.”

    “Federal contractors that fail to give equal consideration to all applicants – regardless of gender, race or ethnicity – violate the law,” said Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs Acting Southeast Regional Director Diana Sen in Atlanta. “There is no gray area for federal contractors, as regulations require them to ensure equal opportunity for all workers and compliance with federal employment laws.” 

    Headquartered in Westminster, Colorado, Ball Corp. is a federal contractor that supplies aluminum packaging for beverage, personal care and household products, as well as aerospace and other technologies and services primarily for the U.S. government. Since 2020, Ball Corp. has received more than $1.1 billion in contracts with the Department of the Air Force, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and Space Development Agency.   

    OFCCP launched the Class Member Locator to identify applicants or workers who may be entitled to monetary relief and/or consideration for job placement as a result of OFCCP’s compliance evaluations and complaint investigations. If you think you may be a class member, someone who applied for a production technician position with Ball Container LLC at its Rome facility during the investigative period, please use OFCCP’s Class Member Locator to learn more about this and other settlements.

    In addition to Executive Order 11246, OFCCP enforces Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974. Together, these laws prohibit employment discrimination.

    Learn more about OFCCP.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Apprenticeship Boost targets key occupations

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Investment in Apprenticeship Boost will prioritise critical industries and targeted occupations that are essential to addressing New Zealand’s skills shortages and rebuilding the economy, Tertiary Education and Skills Minister Penny Simmonds and Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston say.

    “By focusing Apprenticeship Boost on first-year apprentices in targeted occupations, we are providing employers in critical industries with the certainty to hire and retain first-year apprentices, and confidently hire new ones,” Ms Simmonds says.

    “Having the confidence to build and strengthen your team is important, especially when many businesses are doing it tough right now.”

    The National-NZ First Coalition Agreement includes a commitment to continue Apprenticeship Boost, with $64 million allocated to initiative in Budget 2024.

    “The previous government had set time-limited funding until the end of 2024.  

    “Our investment in Apprenticeship Boost, reinforces this Government’s commitment to fostering a skilled workforce in sectors that are critical to economic growth. First-year apprentices in key industries and occupations will continue to benefit,” Ms Simmonds says. 

    From 1 January 2025, Apprenticeship Boost will prioritise key sectors and targeted occupations that are crucial to New Zealand’s growth and sustainability. They are:

    • Building
    • Agriculture
    • Horticulture and Viticulture 
    • Forestry Studies 
    • Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology 
    • Process and Resources Engineering 
    • Automotive Engineering and Technology 
    • Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Technology
    • Aerospace Engineering and Technology 
    • Maritime Engineering and Technology
    • Other Engineering and Technology 
    • Human Welfare Studies and Services 
    • Food and Hospitality

    The targeted occupations are defined by the New Zealand Standard Classification of Education (NZSCED) code, ensuring that the initiative addresses the most pressing skill gaps and supports the long-term success of the economy.

    Employers can continue to claim funding for eligible apprentices under the current settings until 31 December 2024. Employers receiving funding for second-year apprentices will continue to receive $500 monthly payments until the same date.

    From 1 January 2025, only employers of first-year apprentices in targeted industry areas will be eligible for the $500 monthly subsidy.

    These improvements to Apprenticeship Boost reflect the Government’s commitment to deliver a strong economy and support more New Zealanders into jobs.

    “Our economy is stronger when more people are in work,” Ms Upston says.

    “Industry training plays an important part in making sure our young people have more opportunities to get ahead through work, but we need to make sure the skills and qualifications they are gaining are also in sync with what our country needs.

    “Targeting Apprenticeship Boost makes sense as it will strengthen the long-term success of our key industries as we grow a more skilled workforce.”

    The Ministry of Education will review the targeted sectors every two years to ensure the programme continues to address skills shortages and aligns with New Zealand’s evolving economic priorities. The first review is scheduled for July 2027.

    Notes to editors:

    Find out more information: Apprenticeship Boost – Work and Income

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Applications open to deliver historic pay rise for early childcare workers

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    From today, early learning providers can apply for Commonwealth Government funding to deliver early childhood education and care workers a historic 15 per cent pay rise.

    To be eligible to receive the Albanese Government’s funding for the wage increase, early childhood education and care services must agree not to increase their fees by more than 4.4 per cent between 8 August 2024 and 7 August 2025.

    This is good for early childhood educators and good for families.

    There will also be a limit on fee growth in the second year of the wage subsidy. The  percentage limit on fee growth that will apply from August 2025 will be determined by a new ECEC cost index being developed by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

    This is an important condition that will keep downward pressure on out-of-pocket costs for families.

    Services must also pass on funding in full to employees through increased wages.

    The 15 per cent pay rise will be phased in over two years, starting with a 10 per cent increase from December 2024, with a further 5 per cent increase from December 2025.

    This means a typical early childhood educator who is paid at the award rate will receive a pay rise of more than $100 per week this year, increasing to more than an additional $150 per week from December 2025.

    This significant wage increase is an important next step in the Government’s reforms to the sector, building on the successful Cheaper Child Care policy.

    Latest data shows that Cheaper Child Care has seen the average out-of-pocket costs for families decrease by more than 13 per cent from the June quarter 2023 to the June quarter 2024.

    The Government’s Cheaper Child Care policy increased the base subsidy rates from July 2023 for all families earning up to $530,000, and set the maximum subsidy to 90 per cent for families earning $80,000 or less.

    Thanks to the increased subsidy, a family earning $120,000, with one child in care three days a week, paid around $2,140 less last financial year than they otherwise would have.

    The Government is currently considering the Productivity Commission’s report handed down earlier this month.

    For further information on the 15 per cent wage increase, grant eligibility and how to apply visit education.gov.au/early-childhood/workforce/wages/how-apply-worker-retention-payment.

    Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese: 

    “Early educators shape lives and change lives. They deserve more than our thanks – they deserve to be paid fairly.  

    “Parents want their children to be safe, happy and to have the very best start in life. This funding is about fair pay for the people who make this possible.

    “Importantly, we’re making sure that our early educators are getting fair wages without putting cost of living pressure on families.

    “This is part of our Government’s agenda to make sure that Australians are making more and keeping more of what they earn, while providing that vital cost of living relief.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:

    “The child care debate is over. It’s not babysitting. It’s early education and it’s critical to preparing children for school.

    “They lift our kids up and now we are lifting their pay.

    “This means wages up for workers and keeping prices down for families.

    “A pay rise for every early childhood educator is good for our workforce, good for families and good our economy.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Early Childhood Education and Minister for Youth Anne Aly:

    “We’re boosting the wages of early childhood education workers, while relieving cost of living pressures on Australian families.

    “Properly valuing the early childhood education and care workforce is crucial to attracting and retaining workers and vital to achieving the quality universal early learning sector Australian families deserve.

    “A quality early childhood education sector is necessary to support children’s learning and development as well as workforce participation in the broader economy – particularly for women.

    “I urge all eligible early learning services to sign up to this important initiative, so their hardworking staff get the full benefit of this wage increase.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Funding boost to reduce wait times at Palmerston North ED

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Health Minister Dr Shane Reti has announced a funding boost for Palmerston North ED to reduce wait times and improve patient safety and care, as well as new national standards for moving acute patients through hospitals.

    “Wait times in emergency departments have deteriorated over the past six years and Palmerston North Hospital, despite the best efforts of management and staff, has some of the longest emergency department wait times in the country,” says Dr Reti. 

    “That’s why the Government is investing an extra $6 million in a package of initiatives that will provide extra clinical staff, a more efficient process when patients are discharged from hospital, and a more child-friendly experience for children in ED.” 

    The initiatives funded by this package include:

    • Establishing a discharge lounge to help patient flow and timely discharge from the hospital, so there is capacity for acute admission from ED
    • Additional resources to expand ED capacity, by using the fracture clinic to treat and discharge low acuity ED patients after hours, which will reduce waiting times for these patients
    • Staffing for the newly created children’s area of the ED 
    • Creating an early supported discharge team for older patients 
    • A system flow coordinator to ensure patients are admitted, transferred or discharged more efficiently.

    Dr Reti says that on average, patients are also staying longer at Palmerston North Hospital than any other hospital across the country. 

    “Patients are often staying longer in hospital than they need to, which reduces the number of beds that can be used for other acute cases and contributes to long waits in ED for patients to be admitted. 

    “While it’s a long-standing issue in Palmerston North, it’s not unique to this hospital. That’s why Health New Zealand is establishing new, national standards to improve acute patients’ experience in hospitals, from when they present to when they are discharged.” 

    Health New Zealand’s new Acute Flow Operational Standards will set a baseline for quality care across the country and help clinicians and hospital managers put the right systems and processes in place to manage acute patients. 

    The standards include:

    • Improving use of the discharge or transit lounges to support inpatients who are being discharged that day, which allows ward beds to be made available earlier in the day for acute patients from ED.  
    • Ensuring there is an ED coordinator on each shift responsible for making sure patients being admitted are transferred to a ward as soon as possible, freeing up the ED beds, including for new ambulance arrivals. 
    • Active monitoring and management of patient flow across the hospital to reduce unnecessary delays in hospital and the ED. 

    Dr Reti says these standards will have a positive impact for patients in hospitals across the country and help Health New Zealand improve both ED wait times and wait times for elective surgery by getting the basics right. 

    “These standards are part of the work needed to make progress on our health targets, so that we don’t have to cancel elective surgeries to accommodate acute cases and make sure patients presenting to EDs can be more efficiently admitted, transferred or discharged. 

    “If every hospital across the country is getting these basics right, we can make sure patients are moving through the hospital at the right time, with the right support. 

    “All these initiatives will further our goal of providing timely access to quality healthcare and ensuring New Zealanders get the public services they need.”

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Joint Wood Energy Enquiry: capacity building webinar Module 2

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The joint UNECE/FAO Forestry and Timber Section, with the financial support from Canada, organized three webinars for national correspondents on the data collection for the Joint Wood Energy Enquiry with a focus on countries in the Western Balkan and Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia.

    This second module offered national correspondents to discuss in detail the possible national data sources, strategies and resources needed to collect relevant data.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Joint Wood Energy Enquiry: capacity building webinar Module 3

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The joint UNECE/FAO Forestry and Timber Section, with the financial support from Canada, organized three webinars for national correspondents on the data collection for the Joint Wood Energy Enquiry with a focus on countries in the Western Balkan and Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia.

    The third module will offer  national correspondents the opportunity to discuss with the secretariat particular structural or data issues that require clarifications before submitting of the dataset. National correspondents are also encouraged to bring to the attention of the secretariat possible improvements of the enquiry.   

    The first module can be found here

    The second module can be found here

    For further information and please contact: [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Globalink Investment Inc. Announces Extension of the Deadline to Complete a Business Combination to November 9, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, Oct. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Globalink Investment Inc. (Nasdaq: GLLI, GLLIW, GLLIR, GLLIU) (“Globalink” or the “Company”), a special purpose acquisition company, announced today that on October 3, 2024, it caused to be deposited $60,000 (the “Extension Payment”) into its trust account (the “Trust Account”) with Continental Stock Transfer and Trust Company (“Continental”) to extend the deadline to complete its initial business combination from October 9, 2024 to November 9, 2024. The extension is the sixteenth extension since the consummation of the Company’s initial public offering on December 9, 2021, and the eleventh of twelve extensions permitted under the Company’s governing documents currently in effect.

    About Globalink Investment Inc.

    Globalink is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. Although there is no restriction or limitation on what industry or geographic region, Globalink intends to pursue targets in North America, Europe, South East Asia, and Asia (excluding China, Hong Kong and Macau) in the medical technology and green energy industry.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this press release are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and are subject to the safe harbor created thereby. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “outlook,” “guidance” or the negative of those terms or other comparable terminology. These statements are based on the current beliefs and expectations of the Company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause future events to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, many of which are outside of the Company’s control. These factors include, but are not limited to, a variety of risk factors affecting the Company’s business and prospects, see the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on April 2, 2024 and the prospectus filed with the SEC on December 6, 2021 and subsequent reports filed with the SEC, as amended from time to time. Any forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof, and unless otherwise required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Globalink Contact:

    Say Leong Lim
    Globalink Investment Inc.
    Telephone: +6012 405 0015
    Email: sllim@globalinkinvestment.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Shotgun found in stolen vehicle

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police have recovered a firearm after a stolen ute was stopped in rural South Auckland in the early hours of this morning.

    Information was received after midnight that a stolen commercial ute was travelling south through the Wiri area.

    Counties Manukau South Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Clive Wood, says the Police Eagle helicopter was deployed as a result.

    “Eagle quickly picked up the vehicle’s movements and relayed this information to staff on the ground,” he says.

    “The vehicle carried on south until arriving at an address in Ararimu.”

    A Police unit quickly moved in behind the ute.

    “The driver was taken into custody without incident and a further search was invoked of the stolen vehicle,” Senior Sergeant Wood says.

    Inside, Police located a 12-gauge shotgun, ammunition, cannabis and methamphetamine.

    Senior Sergeant Wood says the 32-year-old male driver’s night took a turn, with additional charges being laid on top of being in possession of a stolen vehicle.

    The man has also been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, ammunition, as well as drugs offences.

    He will appear in the Pukekohe District Court today.

    Senior Sergeant Wood says: “Investigations are still ongoing into the original incident where several commercial vehicles were stolen from an Ōtara business last week and have been recovered.

    “This is another great result from our team working overnight, with a firearm taken out of circulation in our community and an offender to face up to the courts.”

    ENDS. 

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SPEECH BY MR ONG YE KUNG, MINISTER FOR HEALTH, AT THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF REDEVELOPED PASIR RIS POLYCLINIC, 7 OCTOBER 2024, 2.30PM, AT PASIR RIS POLYCLINIC

    Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

    Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean

    SMS Dr Janil Puthucheary

    SMS Desmond Tan

    Advisors Ms Yeo Wan Ling and Mr Sharael Taha

    Mr Cheng Wai Keung, Chairman, SingHealth

    Professor Ng Wai Hoe, Group CEO, SingHealth

    Colleagues and friends

    1.     It is my pleasure to join you today at the official opening of the redeveloped Pasir Ris Polyclinic. A couple of years ago, we started a new practice in the Ministry of Health (MOH), which is that we will officially open a polyclinic on its first day of operations, instead of waiting months later when you are operationally ready. We thought to have a smaller event to open on the first day of operations. 

    2.     I was told we cannot roll pineapples in a Polyclinic, even if it is on the first day, but I am very happy to be able to share this day with everyone. But just for the record, at a Polyclinic, we wish for health, not wealth. 

    Primary Care in Singapore

    3.     Pasir Ris Polyclinic is one of our 26 polyclinics in Singapore. Together with the private General Practitioner (GP) clinics, they form the primary care system of our healthcare system. 

    4.     Primary care is probably the most critical part of any healthcare system. It provides universal access to healthcare for everyone. It ensures efficiency because through primary care, we can treat an illness before it becomes serious. In an ageing society like Singapore, primary care moves further upstream, to deliver preventive care and build health in our community and the population. 

    5.     Many countries recognise that. I have been visiting healthcare and primary care systems in many parts of the world. In China, for example, over the last 10 years, they have been building the equivalent of polyclinics – what they call Community Health Centres – in their cities. I have visited a few of them. In Beijing, there is one centre for every 50,000 residents. 

    6.     Indonesia is also expanding its network of community health centres, called “Pusat Kesihatan Masyarakat”, throughout the archipelago of 18,000 islands. 

    7.     The Philippines is actively building community primary care centres, called BUCAS (Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Service) centres. Their Health Minister told me their system is in fact modelled on our polyclinics system. 

    8.     In Singapore, we have always placed strong emphasis and invested significantly in primary care. This includes upgrading the competencies of our family doctors, organising doctors, nurses and care coordinators into teams to deliver more holistic and effective care, and building new polyclinics, facilities and infrastructure. 

    9.     Today, our polyclinics manage almost seven million outpatient visits every year, including 40% of all chronic care patient load. Primary care accounts for about 15% to 20% of total healthcare spending. It is a reasonable and healthy level, which reflects its importance, and we should try to maintain this even as overall healthcare expenditure increases. 

    10.     We will focus on a few key areas of primary care in the coming years. The first is infrastructure, namely the expansion of the polyclinics network. The number of polyclinics will grow from 26 today to 32 by 2030. 

    11.     Second, in preventive care, through the Healthier SG strategy. This is a long journey. But we have an encouraging start, judging by the number of enrollees in the programme. More importantly, I think there is a palpable shift in health habits amongst Singaporeans. We always say Healthier SG depends on three up’s – sign up, turn up and follow up. We have achieved signing up and turning up, and now, we need to follow up. We need to continue to put resources in incentives, outreach, community programmes, new care protocols, technology and IT systems, to make Healthier SG successful in building health for the long term. 

    12.     Third, we also need to upgrade the private family doctor clinics. Excluding aesthetics clinics, we have about 1,600 private clinics. They are an integral part of the national healthcare system. They deliver subsidised primary care through the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS), help manage patients with chronic diseases, and coordinate care with polyclinics, hospitals, as well as social agencies. During pandemics like COVID-19, they stepped forward and became our first line of defence, directly attending to infected patients. 

    13.     We are looking into ways to enhance the professional competencies of private family doctors, improve their premises to encourage multi-disciplinary practice, and strengthen their partnerships with community organisations and other healthcare providers. 

    Uniqueness of Pasir Ris Polyclinic

    14.     This newly redeveloped Pasir Ris Polyclinic is a good example of our commitment to improving primary care in Singapore. Our planning team had put in extra effort to create a polyclinic that is community- and patient-centric

    15.     It is an impressive polyclinic. There will be a wide range of services, including physiotherapy and dental services. In the coming months, the Grace Memory Clinic and Health Wellness Clinic will be opened to support residents with dementia and mental health needs. 

    16.     This polyclinic will be a training site for family doctors. It will also feature an Academic Family Medicine Centre, dedicated to training doctors under the Family Medicine residency programme. 

    17.     It will also enhance service delivery through the use of technology such as telemonitoring, electronic registration, appointment making and payment options for a more seamless patient experience. Teleconsultation services will not only cover traditional areas like preventive care and chronic disease management, but also dietician and physiotherapy services. 

    Closing

    18.     I thank everyone who has put in so much effort to plan, design and execute this newly redeveloped Polyclinic. I also want to thank the Grassroots Advisers who have paid a lot of attention to this redeveloped Polyclinic, and helped MOH ensure that it will serve the needs of the community and its residents. 

    19.     As an Adviser in Sembawang who is heavily involved in the development of our community hub called Bukit Canberra, I can fully appreciate what it is like for other Advisers to oversee such a major integrated development like the Pasir Ris Mall. 

    20.     It doesn’t open with a big bang, but facilities are added in phases. Each addition makes the destination even more attractive, evolving into a hub for residents. I am glad that MOH gets to contribute to this key community project in Pasir Ris town. On that note, let me now invite Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean, the lead Adviser of this area, to deliver his remarks. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Better protections for telco customers experiencing domestic and family violence

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Government has taken an important step to strengthen protections for telecommunications customers experiencing domestic and family violence, by ensuring they can access timely support when they need it most.
     
    The Minister for Communications will direct the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to make an enforceable industry standard to ensure appropriate support is provided to telecommunications customers experiencing domestic and family violence.
     
    Violence against women and children is a problem of epidemic proportions in Australia. One in three women has experienced physical violence since the age of 15, and one in five has experienced sexual violence.
     
    Telecommunication services need to be a safe, secure and reliable avenue for victim-survivors to access information, conduct critical safety planning and seek the support they need to leave a violent situation, as well as remain connected with family members, friends and important social support networks.
     
    Communications Alliance’s May 2023 Guideline, Assisting Consumers Affected by Domestic and Family Violence, has provided practical, operational-level guidance about the policies, training, and supporting materials telcos should have in place to identify and provide support in domestic and family violence situations. However, a voluntary guideline is unable to provide sufficient levels of consistent protections for victim-survivors and this needs to be developed into an enforceable industry standard.   
     
    A current review of the Telecommunications Consumer Protections Code has also shown the Code to be an ineffective solution to establish necessary protections in an appropriate timeframe, and there is a need to act quickly and directly on an issue of utmost importance.
     
    Directly regulated safeguards on domestic and family violence will address the serious issues being faced by victim-survivors in accessing support from their telcos when they need it most.
     
    Examples of safeguards include: 

    • Minimum requirements for policies and staff training, with compliance reporting
    • Prohibiting alleged perpetrator involvement in discussions with a victim-survivor
    • Obligations relating to the privacy, safety and security of accounts
    • Removing requirements for victim-survivors to provide evidence or tell their story multiple times
    • Requirements for telcos to recognise domestic and family violence as a potential cause of payment difficulties and to consider the impact of any service suspension or disconnection

    The Government encourages all stakeholders to work constructively with the ACMA on the development of the Domestic and Family Violence Industry Standard to ensure that it is effective, robust and able to respond adequately to the needs of telco customers experiencing domestic and family violence.   
     
    Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
     
    “Whilst I acknowledge the best efforts of many telcos to improve their services and establish higher standards in the industry, it is clear to me that more needs to be done, and quickly.
     
    “An enforceable industry standard, developed by the ACMA in consultation with industry and other stakeholders, will provide the best opportunity to deliver effective, important and necessary protections for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence.
     
    “Victim-survivors should not be forced to contact alleged perpetrators when making necessary changes to their telco accounts and services, provide evidence of abuse or tell their often harrowing stories multiple times. We also need to ensure that frontline staff are educated and supported to provide appropriate services to victim-survivors of domestic and family violence, with a clear priority to keep them connected.”
     
    Quotes attributable to Minister for Social Services, the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP:
     
    “Family, domestic and sexual violence destroys lives and one life lost is one too many – it must end.
     
    “Since the day we were elected, our Government has made the safety of women and children experiencing family, domestic and sexual violence a national priority.
     
    “We’ve invested more than $3.4 billion to support efforts under the National Plan, in addition to our recent investment of $4.4 billion to prevent violence and support legal service. This change with relation to Telecommunications will add to our efforts to keep women and children safe.” 
     
    If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family, or sexual violence, call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit http://www.1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
     
    If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit http://www.ntv.org.au.
     
    Feeling worried or no good? Connect with 13YARN Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporters on 13 92 76, available 24/7 from any mobile or pay phone, or visit http://www.13yarn.org.au. No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview, Triple M Hobart

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    ANDY ‘TUBES’ TAYLOR, HOST: The Federal Communications Minister is Michelle Rowland, and she joins us live on the show right now. Good morning to you, Minister.
    ​
    MICHELLE ROWLAND, MINISTER FOR COMMUNICATIONS: Good morning, Kaz and Tubes.

    Telstra, Optus and TPG Telecom, including Vodafone, are switching off their 3G mobile networks at the end of this month. What does that mean for Tasmanians, Michelle?

    ROWLAND: Well that’s right. There’s three weeks to go. So it means a couple of things for the good people of Tasmania. The first is it’s important to check that your mobile device is compatible when the switchover happens. Your listeners can do that by texting the numeral ‘3’ to the number ‘3498’. That’s just the number ‘3’ to ‘3498’, and immediately they will be told whether their device is compatible after the switchover. So that’s really important.

    The second thing is, this is the first switchover of mobile technology that’s been done in the era of the Internet of Things. We’ve got medical devices, smartwatches, so many things that rely on mobile connectivity. My key message to all your listeners is to check your tech. There’s a national public awareness campaign that’s being run right now. Your listeners can go to http://www.3Gclosure.com.au.

    Please make sure that you check the compatibility of all these devices after the switchover, especially with medical alarms, and especially if you’ve got family, friends and loved ones who rely on them.

    And, I should say, it is a good thing that this is happening in three weeks. It does need to be done in a safer way, and the operators have put off the switchover and deferred that so that we could get this public education campaign done. They’ve been working closely with the Government and with industry overall.

    What it will mean is better quality mobile in the regions, because it’s using the radio communications spectrum in a better way, better performance, better signals and less interference. But we need to make sure that it’s done in the safest way possible.

    KAZ MCMULLEN, HOST: So, Minister, can you tell me what 3G actually is?

    ROWLAND: So, the 3G network is really a generation. It started off obviously with 1G. We had 2G networks that utilised spectrum in a certain way. 3G gets a little bit better. G just refers to the evolution of the different generations of technology.

    TUBES: Technology, yeah.

    ROWLAND: Now, what they go to, it’s things like- how people actually notice it in real life- better data capacity, better speeds, more reliability. So these are actually good things to be developing, and Australians have always been early adopters. I don’t know if you’ve seen in the media today, smartphone sales are really increasing, both because of the switchover but because people want better AI-enable devices. Australians have always been interested in getting the best handsets, the best underlying tech.

    And of course governments need to support that as well by having the best quality underlying networks. And of course, the mobile operators need to do that too. So, we’re looking for a better experience overall.

    But with three weeks to go, my key message is for everyone to check their tech, make sure that they’ve got devices that are compatible when 3G gets switched over to 4G and 5G.

    TUBES: Now, this question comes through on our text line from Annie in Murdunna: ‘For decades now we’ve had average, at best, mobile service in Murdunna. What’s the Government doing for our community here to improve the services? We are literally 50 kilometres as the crow flies from Hobart.

    ROWLAND: Well, it’s a really good question. And Annie, I think, is asking what a lot of Tasmanians are asking, and that’s why aren’t mobile operators investing more in these areas, and what can governments do to support that? One of the key things we’re doing here is our National Audit of Mobile Coverage that’s happening right now. It’s happening in Tasmania, and it’s the first time that this has actually been done, because we don’t have a good sense and a really overall experience of how people are consuming mobile coverage. We’ve got maps and the carriers put out their maps, but, as I’m sure Annie and your listeners will tell you, they’re not based on real life. You’ll be in areas where your mobile operator will say, yes, you’ve got a signal here, but in real life, it’s not sufficient to be able to use data to upload and do sometimes even just basic voice and text. So this is happening right now.

    We’re also utilising Australia Post. We’ve got Australia Post long-haul vehicles, their delivery vans, and also Australia Post retail outlets right around Tasmania in places from Bicheno to Port Arthur, Queenstown, Strahan, that are measuring, in real time, what that coverage is. So this is really going to be a step change. It’s going to be able to inform the carriers about where they need to invest. And importantly, for governments where we need to target investments as well, because governments have a role to play here, but also the mobile carriers.

    We need to ensure that we get that really good map of coverage, that’s something that- you know, is living, this is running until 2027. And your listeners can actually go right now and check it out. If you just search up the mobile audit visualisation tool, it’s pretty cool. You can actually search by carrier, by different roads, by areas, and you can see how that coverage is right now. This is going to be a really important tool going forward to fix exactly what’s been a long-standing problem.

    And I’ll just end by saying, Annie, I totally hear you. So many Australians rely on mobile connectivity not just for their day-to-day usage, but how they transact with government, how they conduct their businesses. So, we understand how important it is, including in natural disasters and emergencies.

    TUBES: Absolutely. And I know this technology advances so quickly. Michelle Rowland, it’s been a pleasure to talk to you. The Federal Communications Minister, thank you so much for taking the time to chat to us. For those that need more information, as the Minister said, you can text the numeral ‘3’ to the number ‘3498’ to find out whether your device is ready for the 3G network to be switched off.

    Michelle Rowland, the Federal Communications Minister, we really appreciate your time on Triple M.
     

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: New path to home ownership on Māori land: BNZ expands innovative funding framework

    Source: BNZ statements

    More Māori and whānau across Aotearoa will benefit from home ownership opportunities, thanks to an expanded funding framework that enables lending for housing on Māori freehold land.

    Under the expanded model, individuals and whānau who meet BNZ’s standard home lending criteria can secure a home loan for housing on Māori land managed by land trusts or incorporations, at standard home loan interest rates.

    This is an extension to Bank of New Zealand’s (BNZ) innovative funding model, initially developed in collaboration with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, to support more Māori to achieve home ownership on their whenua (land).

    Whetu Rangi, BNZ Head of Māori Business, says the initiative is step forward in addressing the unique challenges Māori face when seeking finance to build homes on their whenua.

    “It’s about more than just providing loans; it’s about empowering our people to create sustainable, thriving communities on their whenua.”

    About Māori land trusts and incorporations

    Māori land trusts and incorporations play a crucial role in the management of Māori freehold land, which covers approximately 1.4 million hectares—about 5% of New Zealand’s land area. This differs from iwi-owned land, which is typically held by an iwi post settlement entity as a result of Treaty of Waitangi settlements.

    A significant portion of Māori freehold land is held in trusts and incorporations, which manage the land on behalf of multiple owners. These owners are generally connected through whakapapa (genealogy) and can number in the hundreds or even thousands for a single land block.

    The collective ownership structure of Māori land has historically posed challenges for lending. This, combined with restrictions on land transferability, including those in Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993, has created barriers to using Māori land as security for loans. As a result, whānau have faced significant obstacles in obtaining individual home loans on collectively owned land, impeding housing development on ancestral lands for generations.

    Overcoming barriers to lending

    To address this, the BNZ framework uses leasehold mortgage lending practices that align with Māori land ownership legislation and enshrines agreements that ensure property is controlled by the Māori land trust, incorporations and owners, which would take over in the event of a distressed mortgage.

    This approach balances the bank’s security requirements with the land rights of shareholders and beneficiaries of Māori land.

    BNZ CEO Dan Huggins says extending the framework is about supporting Māori aspirations.

    “Developing this framework has taken several years, requiring a significant amount of legal work, and a full understanding of the unique aspects of Māori land ownership. This model respects the collective ownership structures of Māori land and ensures that the land remains a taonga tuku iho—a treasure passed down through generations,” he says.

    “We’re proud that we’ve managed to develop a solution that not only can facilitate home ownership on whenua Māori but also acknowledges and protects the deep connection Māori have with their whenua. We hope this approach is the first of many innovative solutions enabling Māori home ownership.”

    The post New path to home ownership on Māori land: BNZ expands innovative funding framework appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: VCNO Visits Hawaii, Focus on Readiness and Warfighters

    Source: United States Navy

    The U.S. Pacific Fleet is the world’s largest fleet with approximately 200 ships, 1,500 aircraft, and 150,000 military and civilian personnel operating across 100 million square miles of land, air and sea.

    Kilby began the visit discussing Pacific Fleet’s essential role deterring conflict, upholding international law and assuring access to the seas with Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet Adm. Steve Koehler.

    “The United States is a Pacific nation and the Sailors and civilians serving in the Pacific Fleet have an immense responsibility,” said Kilby. “The Chairman of the People’s Republic of China has charged PRC forces to be ready for war by 2027 and it is critical we remain postured to deter, defend and if necessary, defeat provocative actions and unsafe behavior across the Indo-Pacific.”

    Kilby also observed how the Navy executes fleet-level warfare and facilitates lower-echelon mission command at Pacific Fleet’s Maritime Operations Center. Pacific Fleet’s MOC has the lead for achieving certified and proficient teams in command and control, information, intelligence, fires, movement and maneuver, protection, and sustainment functions in accordance with the Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti’s Navigation Plan for America’s Warfighting Navy 2024.

    Kilby also met with Commander, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Adm. Sam Paparo, responsible for joint U.S. military operations throughout the DoD’s priority theater, which encompasses more than 380,000 U.S. troops across all services, as well as 38 nations, 14 time zones, more than 50% of the world’s population, seven of the ten world’s largest militaries, and five nations allied with the U.S. through mutual defense treaties.

    “I cannot overstate the importance of this theater at this critical time in our nation’s history,” said Kilby. “The partnerships, presence and military readiness these warfighters provide is vital to our global economy, deter aggression, and when necessary, enables us to fight to win.”

    The USINDOPACOM AOR shares borders with each of the other five geographic combatant commands and covers the largest amount of the globe.

    Additionally, Kilby met with Commander, Navy Region Hawaii / Navy Closure Task Force – Red Hill Rear Adm. Stephen Barnett and discussed the Navy’s long-term commitment to closing the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility (RHBFSF) and protecting the environment, the aquifer and the entire Hawaii. Kilby also toured RHBFSF during his visit.

    Navy Region Hawaii is a fleet concentration area for more than 25,000 Sailors and 10,000 civilian employees, including more than 60 commands.

    In September, NCTF-RH launched two new communication features to provide the public more options to stay informed on closure activities. One feature is a decommissioning dashboard function on the NCTF-RH mobile app that provides a visual depiction of the RHBFSF tank cleaning progress. The second is the “Let’s Talk Red Hill” podcast series featuring NCTF-RH Deputy Commander Rear Adm. Marc Williams with guest co-hosts and subject matter experts.

    Kilby also toured shore infrastructure during his visit, including the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Airfield, West Loch Annex, Wastewater Treatment Plant and unaccompanied housing.

    “Shore readiness is Navy readiness,” said Kilby. “The CNO has directed by 2027, we will assess, prioritize and program resources to repair infrastructure directly supporting Navy Task Critical Assets to improve operational readiness in the Pacific.”

    Kilby also stressed the importance on stable and predictable funding for continued support of the Navy investments.

    “The Navy must continue our momentum of our efforts to invest in our infrastructure and the quality of service of our people,” said Kilby. “Passing legislation on time and avoiding a continued resolution ensures we can continue to support our Nation’s security interests, ready our platforms and weapons, and take care of our Sailors and civilians.”

    Kilby also met with Navy leadership to discuss NAVPLAN 2024. This strategic guidance focuses on two strategic ends: readiness for conflict with the PRC by 2027 and enhancing long-term advantage. It aims to achieve these ends through two central ways: implementing seven “Project 33 Targets” and expanding the warfighting ecosystem.

    “CNO’s NAVPLAN gives strategic guidance to our Navy regarding where we are now and where we need to go faster to achieve our goals. It’s about thinking, acting and operating differently in a dynamic and changing security environment,” said Kilby. “It’s about raising our baseline level of readiness, putting more players on the field and taking care of our people. We must move forward with purpose and urgency to ensure we remain ready to fight and win should deterrence fail.”

    Continuing Kilby’s emphasis on readiness, he spent time at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility talking with leadership, Sailors and civilians assigned to the shipyard about the vital role the shipyard provides for our national security and our fleet.

    “CNO has given her guidance – by 2027, we will achieve and sustain an 80 percent combat surge ready posture for ships, submarines, and aircraft,” said Kilby. “The team at PHNSY & IMF are essential to achieving that goal for our ships and submarines. Achieving this is an all-hands efforts and I am incredibly proud of what this shipyard is able to accomplish to keep our Fleet fit to fight.”

    Kilby saw the progress made on Dry Dock 5, the first dry dock built in Pearl Harbor since 1943. It’s designed for a projected service life of 150 years and to accommodate the maintenance needs of Virginia-class submarines.

    The U.S. Navy operates four public shipyards; PHNSY & IMF is located in the heart of the Pacific and hosts the only U.S.-owned dry docks located outside the continental United States. The upgrades at PHNSY & IMF are in line with upgrades happening across all four public shipyards as part of the Navy’s Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program.

    For more information on CNO’s Navigation Plan for America’s Warfighting Navy 2024 visit: https://www.navy.mil/Leadership/Chief-of-Naval-Operations/CNO-NAVPLAN-2024/

    This was Kilby’s first visit to Hawaii as the Vice Chief of Naval Operations.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Waldencast plc Announces Board Appointments and Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Waldencast plc (NASDAQ: WALD) (“Waldencast” or the “Company”), a global multi-brand beauty and wellness platform, announced today that Hind Sebti, Kelly Brookie and Roberto Thompson have been appointed to its board of Directors (the “Board”), effective September 26, 2024. These executives bring extensive professional experience further enhancing the breadth of talent and expertise possessed by the Board. Ms. Brookie will replace Sarah Brown who has informed the Board of her intention to not renew her mandate ahead of the Company’s Annual General Meeting. The Company also announced that its Annual General Meeting is scheduled for October 28, 2024 during which the Company’s shareholders will be asked to vote on the renewal of Class I and Class II directors. Following this announcement, the Board will include 11 members, each of whom possesses significant expertise, particularly in the beauty, financial and consumer products sectors.

    Hind Sebti is the co-founder and Chief Growth Officer of Waldencast. Ms. Sebti has more than 20 years of experience leading and managing beauty brands across multiple categories and stages during her tenures at L’Oréal and Procter & Gamble. Ms. Sebti co-founded Waldencast Ventures alongside Mr. Brousset in 2019. Ms. Sebti brings in-depth knowledge and understanding of the beauty industry as well as consumer insights to identify and invest in the next-generation beauty brands. Importantly, Ms. Sebti plays a key role in helping portfolio brands scale, leveraging her extensive multi-category and brand management experience. Previously, Ms. Sebti also served as Chief Executive Officer of Waldencast Brands, a subsidiary of Waldencast Ventures, to incubate and commercialize new brands, where she led the brand creation process, with a focus on creative and operational optimization, through all stages from conception and product development to go-to-market strategy.

    Kelly Brookie retired from Deloitte in 2020 with over 25 years of experience in financial accounting and reporting, internal controls and governance matters. As an Audit Partner, Ms. Brookie worked with companies on accounting and auditing matters, transactions, transformation and strategic risks. At Deloitte, Ms. Brookie served consumer products, manufacturing, distribution, and retail companies. Throughout her career, she has performed audit services for public and private companies as well as gained experience with audit committees in performing the required communications and procedures. She is active in supporting multiple non-profit organizations, including serving on Boards and committees. Ms. Brookie is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Washington and a Master of Accounting from University of Southern California. Ms. Brookie will be serving as a member of the Audit and Governance Committee.

    Roberto Thompson Motta received a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro and an MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Mr. Thompson was a co-founder and board member of 3G Capital, a global investment firm headquartered in New York. Mr. Thompson is currently a strategic advisor to the Board of Directors of AB InBev and has served as board member since 2004. Mr. Thompson has also served on the Board of Directors of AmBev S.A., Restaurant Brands International, Lojas Americanas S.A., São Carlos Empreendimentos e Participações S.A. and StoneCo Ltd. He was one of the founding partners of GP Investments Ltd. and a member of its Board of Directors until 2010. Mr. Thompson is a member of The Graduate Executive Board of The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and of The International Council of The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. He is also a Patron of the Museum of Modern Art of São Paulo. Mr. Thompson will be serving as a member of the Finance Committee.

    Felipe Dutra, Chairman of the Board stated: “We are pleased to announce that Hind, Kelly and Roberto are joining our Board of Directors. Each bring distinct and diverse skill sets that we believe will be highly valuable to us as we execute our long-term vision. These appointments reflect the Company’s commitment to maintaining a strong and diverse Board and we look forward to their collective contributions as we execute the strategy that maximizes the power, performance and growth of our brands.”

    The Company extends its sincere thanks to Ms. Brown for her dedicated service and valuable contributions during her tenure, including in her role as chair of the Company’s Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee as well as member of the Audit Committee.

    Annual General Meeting

    The Company will hold its 2024 annual meeting of shareholders (the “Annual General Meeting”) on October 28, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. BST, at Michelin House, 81 Fulham Rd., London SW3 6RD, United Kingdom. Only those persons entered on the register of members of the Company as at September 24, 2024 (the “Record Date”) shall be entitled to attend or vote at the Annual General Meeting in respect of the number of shares registered in their name at that time. As of the Record Date, the Company had 122,584,658 ordinary shares outstanding, consisting of 111,518,130 Class A ordinary shares outstanding and 11,066,528 Class B ordinary shares outstanding.

    Materials made available in connection with the Annual General Meeting are available on the Company’s website at https://ir.waldencast.com/financial-information/annual-meeting.

    About Waldencast plc

    Founded by Michel Brousset and Hind Sebti, Waldencast’s ambition is to build a global best-in-class beauty and wellness operating platform by developing, acquiring, accelerating, and scaling conscious, high-growth purpose-driven brands. Waldencast’s vision is fundamentally underpinned by its brand-led business model that ensures proximity to its customers, business agility, and market responsiveness, while maintaining each brand’s distinct DNA. The first step in realizing its vision was the business combination with Obagi Medical and Milk Makeup. As part of the Waldencast platform, its brands will benefit from the operational scale of a multi-brand platform; the expertise in managing global beauty brands at scale; a balanced portfolio to mitigate category fluctuations; asset light efficiency; and the market responsiveness and speed of entrepreneurial indie brands. For more information please visit: https://ir.waldencast.com/.

    Obagi Medical is an industry-leading, advanced skin care line rooted in research and skin biology, refined with a legacy of 35 years’ experience. First known as leaders in the treatment of hyperpigmentation with the Obagi Medical Nu-Derm® System, Obagi Medical products are designed to diminish the appearance of premature aging, photodamage, skin discoloration, acne, and sun damage. More information about Obagi Medical is available on the brand’s website at http://www.obagi.com.

    Founded in 2016, Milk Makeup quickly became a cult-favorite among the beauty community for its values of self-expression and inclusion, captured by its signature Live Your Look, its innovative formulas and clean ingredients. The brand creates vegan, cruelty-free, clean formulas from its Milk Makeup HQ in Downtown NYC. Currently, Milk Makeup offers over 300 products through its US website http://www.MilkMakeup.com, and its retail partners including Sephora in North America, Europe, the Middle East and Australia and Cult Beauty and Selfridges in the UK.

    Contacts:

    Investors
    ICR
    Allison Malkin
    waldencastir@icrinc.com

    Media
    ICR
    Brittney Fraser/Alecia Pulman
    waldencast@icrinc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Dunedin’s Port Chalmers highway: more material than expected, large boulders to be broken up, ongoing delays SH88

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is advising drivers to expect ongoing delays this week getting to and from Port Chalmers as contractors continue to make SH88 safe for two-way traffic. To make the most of the workday, hours have been extended to start at 7 am and finish at 6 pm.

    Investigations to date after last week’s downpour have shown much more material needing to be removed than initially assessed and some huge boulders have to be broken up first, says NZTA Journey Manager Nicole Felts.

    • There will be up to 30-minute delays between 7am and 6pm for the next four days (including Tuesday) on SH88 at the Parry Street rockfall site (near Forsyth Barr Stadium). Traffic control is in place keeping the road single lane at that point so contractors can remove rocks safely.
    • Investigations are continuing at the Burkes slip site on SH88 to understand the extent of the damage to this section of highway. The road is currently under traffic lights – Stop/Go traffic management, with minor delays.
    • Other geotechnical investigations are continuing at various sites on SH88.

    “We appreciate these delays at more than one site could add up to 30 minutes to the trip between Port Chalmers and Forsyth Barr Stadium,” says Miss Felts. “Thanks to all road users for building in the time.”

    Highway conditions for Otago | NZTA Journey Planner (external link)

    Local road closures Dunedin and Portobello peninsula(external link)

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Capital Gains Tax… Again

    Source: ACT Party

    The Haps

    Devastation in Dunedin and the loss of HMNZS Manawanui are hurting New Zealanders in different ways. They also underline what Free Press argued last week, that the Government needs to think hard about its capital assets. It holds over half a trillion in assets, but does it own the right things, do core infrastructure and defence need more commitment? Meanwhile we’ve received voluminous praise for David Seymour’s performance Q+A with Jack Tame last week.

    Capital Gains Tax… Again

    ANZ CEO Antonia Watson revived the unending debate about a capital gains tax for New Zealand. Free Press welcomes business leaders talking about public policy. We’d all benefit if they did it more. Too often we hear business leaders say things privately that we wish they’d say publicly but they’re usually too afraid of criticism.

    We just don’t agree with Watson about the capital gains tax. It always seems to be a band-aid for concerns about housing, but it won’t fix that, and what New Zealanders really need is more capital. This week, once more with feeling, Free Press goes through the usual arguments for a capital gains tax and sets out why they’re wrong.

    Perhaps the worst argument for a capital gains tax is ‘everyone else has one.’ Practically every other Government imposes a capital gains tax on its citizens, except the Swiss Federal Government. Being like Switzerland can’t be the worst thing for the New Zealand economy.

    Even if ours was the only Government not levying a capital gains tax on its citizens, the argument still doesn’t work. Governments do silly things all over the world, and we don’t need to copy every one of them.

    Others say the Government needs the money. We’d argue that it needs to spend better, and it is improving, but there is better evidence the Government doesn’t need more money, at least not from a capital gains tax.

    The New Zealand Government is the second biggest taxer in the Asia Pacific region (behind Japan) with total revenues of 33.8 per cent of GDP. Every Asia-Pacific Government has a Capital Gains Tax. It’s difficult to argue a Government raising more revenue than dozens of Governments with capital gains taxes needs a capital gains tax for lack of money.

    Then there’s the fairness argument. People who make money from capital should pay tax like people who work for their money. Sounds fair, but the reality is capital gains are already caught by income tax.

    Anyone who buys a farm, a business, or a property is really buying a stream of income in the future. That income is taxed. A company with future income worth $10 million before tax is not worth $10 million though. It is only worth the after-tax income. You’ll be lucky to get $7 million. You’ll already lose $3 million-odd, that’s the tax that whoever buys it will pay.

    Putting a tax on the price of the asset each time it’s sold is just nasty. The argument with housing is that house prices go up regardless of how much rental income they produce.

    People even claim a capital gains tax would make housing more affordable. Any realistic capital gains tax would apply to all businesses, but only to houses you don’t live in. Nobody who wants a capital gains tax wants one ‘on the family home.’ On balance it would be more of a tax on businesses than on houses, so much for shifting investment away from housing.

    Maybe it would at least stop ‘speculators’ from pushing up house prices by buying ‘more houses than they need to live in’? Unlikely when the new tax has gone on every other kind of investment, too.

    Just like L.A., London, Sydney, Hong Kong, and Vancouver have all had outrageous house prices with a capital gains tax, a capital gains tax won’t make housing affordable in Auckland. Prices are set by supply and demand, and so long as supply doesn’t keep up with demand, prices will rise.

    A capital gains tax really just makes the Government a silent partner in property investment, it doesn’t change the underlying fundamentals of the housing market. It certainly doesn’t comfort a first home buyer to know that the Government took a share of their eye-watering purchase price.

    We hope these arguments are helpful for repelling demands for a capital gains tax. They’re technical though. The real question is whether the goal is to grow the pie, or divide the pie?

    If you think New Zealand can’t get any richer, and it’s just a matter of pulling the ‘rich’ down a peg or two and dividing up the wealth, maybe it’s time to talk about a new tax. On the other hand, maybe it’s time to shelve the distraction, acknowledge our lack of a CGT is a strength, and get back to making New Zealand wealthier overall.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Interaction with Startups from India and EU- An outcome of the Matchmaking Event on EV Battery Recycling under the India-EU Trade and Technology Council WG2

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 7:53PM by PIB Delhi

    The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India hosted a delegation from the European Union with representatives from startups in the space of battery recycling technologies from EU Member States, officials from the Delegation of EU to India along with members from select Indian startups.  This important interaction was focused on the experiential learning gained by the startups through their immersion visits as an outcome of the Electric vehicle (EV) battery recycling matchmaking event held on 20th June 2024, under the aegis of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council’s Working Group 2 (WG2) on Green & Clean Energy Technologies.

    The discussion was chaired by Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. Dr. Parvinder Maini, Scientific Secretary at the Office of the PSA, also joined Prof. Sood to underscore the significance of the collaboration between India and the EU in clean and green energy technologies. Distinguished guests included Dr. Ewa Suwara, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to India; and D.Ing. Pierrick Fillon-Ashida, Head of Research & Innovation, EU Delegation to India. Dr. Monoranjan Mohanty, Adviser/Scientist ‘G’, and Dr. Hafsa Ahmad, Scientist ‘D’, from the Office of the PSA, also participated in the discussion.

    The interaction highlighted the significant progress made in fostering collaboration between Indian and European startups in the critical area of EV battery recycling technologies. Key speakers emphasized the shared commitment of India and the EU to innovation, sustainability, and the transition to a circular economy.

    Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood remarked on the importance of such partnerships for achieving environmental sustainability and economic resilience, stating, “This collaboration opens up new opportunities for technology transfer, market access, and co-development. It is essential for fostering economic resilience and sustainable development.”

    Dr. Ewa Suwara, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to India, reinforced this sentiment by noting, “Recycling EV batteries is a geopolitical and climate imperative, as every ounce recovered enhances energy security and fuels green growth. I am delighted to see that through the support of Trade and Technology Council, we are able to support the EU and Indian startups to join forces, pioneer innovation, foster business collaboration, and drive market uptake of cutting-edge technologies. This is a shining example of partnership in action, shaping a more sustainable tomorrow.”

    During the event, Indian startups, recognized as winners in the matchmaking event held on June 20, 2024, shared their experiences from the immersion trips in the EU (held in Sep 2024), providing valuable insights into their learnings and market opportunities. In parallel, EU startups currently in India for their immersion visits also shared their expectations and vision, contributing to a deeper understanding of cross-regional collaboration. The participating startups from India included BatX Energies, Evergreen Lithium Recycling Pvt Ltd., LW3 Pvt Ltd. and Lohum while startups from EU included Ecomet Refining, and Eneris.

    About the Trade and Technology Council set up by India and the EU

    The India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) was first announced by the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, and India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, in April 2022. Established on February 6, 2023, this strategic coordination mechanism allows both sides to tackle challenges at the nexus of trade, trusted technology, and security, and deepens cooperation in these fields. Establishing India-EU TTC is a key step towards a strengthened strategic partnership for the benefit of all people in India and the EU.

    The TTC is a key forum to deepen the strategic partnership on trade and technology between the two partners. Geostrategic challenges have reinforced the EU and India’s common interest in ensuring security, prosperity, and sustainable development based on shared values.

    The TTC consists of three Working Groups:

    1. Working Group 1 on Strategic Technologies, Digital Governance and Digital Connectivity
    2. Working Group 2 on Green and Clean Energy Technologies; and
    3. Working Group 3 on Trade, Investment and Resilient Value Chains.

    Working Groups are now jointly working to advance identified objectives and key actions. The matchmaking event was one of the key agreed short-term actions under Working Group 2 on Green and Clean Energy Technologies. The India-EU TTC Working Group 2 on Green and Clean Energy Technologies is being led by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India from the Indian side and the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation of the European Commission from the EU side.

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    MJPS/ST

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Interacts with Chief Loco Inspectors at Nashik, Maharashtra

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 8:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Railways, Information & broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, today interacted with Chief Loco Inspectors (CLIs) undergoing training at the Indian Railways Institute of Electrical Engineering (IRIEEN) , Nashik today. During his visit, the Minister discussed various key issues related to modernizing locomotive operations and enhancing safety measures on Indian Railways.

    Shri Vaishnaw engaged with the CLIs about their training experience, particularly in the use of Kavach, the indigenous Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system. The CLIs shared their insights on how the Kavach system boosts their confidence in maintaining speed and improving both safety and punctuality during train operations. Discussions also focused on modern braking systems, new technology in locomotives, and effective crew management practices.

    The Union Minister commended the efforts of the Railways in improving working conditions for the crew, including the introduction of 100% air-conditioned Running Rooms and improved facilities for loco inspectors. He also acknowledged ongoing efforts to reduce duty hours by splitting duty rosters and enhancing the comfort and safety of locomotives by equipping them with air-conditioning,  toilets and comfort seats.

    During his interaction to CLIs, Shri Vaishnaw underlined the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols and reiterated on training modules which includes simulators, suggestions from field staff etc.  Shri S K Rathi, CLI/Bhopal division while sharing the experiences said that “ interlocking helps Station Master for safe operation, PSC Sleepers track for Trackman and Kavach is a revolutionary step as it helps Loco Pilots for safe train operation “. In continuation with this one of the CLIs said that Kavach has not only helped for safe train operations but also to keep their family happy as LP duty has become safe due to Kavach. Kavach is helping to prevent SPAD (Signal Passing at Danger) incidents and ensures safety at level crossing gates said one of the CLI while sharing his experiences.The Union Minister urged the CLIs to take full advantage of the modern technologies being introduced and emphasized the importance of continuous learning, dedication, and commitment in maintaining the high standards of Indian Railways.

    As part of his visit to Nashik, the Union Minister also paid respects at the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, seeking blessings for the continued progress and safety of Indian Railways and its dedicated workforce.

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    DT/SK

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special Campaign 4.0 launched in the Akashvani Stations/Offices on 2nd October, 2024

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Special Campaign 4.0 launched in the Akashvani Stations/Offices  on 2nd October, 2024

    DG Akashvani, launches special campaign with Swachh Bharat Abhiyan at Akashvani Bhawan; Pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and promotes cleanliness drive

    Nationwide special cleanliness drive in all Prasar Bharati offices from 2nd to 31st October 2024

    Sanitation drive launched at over 300 Akashvani Kendras, targeting 1000+ cleaning locations, focusing on green energy adoption

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 7:56PM by PIB Delhi

    Special Campaign in Akashvani was launched today by Dr. Pragya Paliwal Gaur, DG, Akashvani in Akashvani Bhawan Complex, New Delhi. During this event senior officers of Akashvani were present and a pledge/oath was undertaken. After paying floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, DG led the employees of Akashvani and visited various identified spots in the Campus for cleaning as part of Swatchh Bharat Abhiyan. ADG (News), NSD ; DDG(Admn), Akashvani ; DDG (Policy) Akashvani , Director (News) , and other officials of the Akashvani Directorate, Akashvani Delhi and News Service Division were also present.

    Special cleanliness drive from 2nd to 31st October in all offices of Prasar Bharati

    DG, Akashvani emphasized the importance of Swachhata and sanitation drive initiated by Hon’ble Prime Minister on 2nd October, 2014 throughout the country. She urged the officials to conduct special cleanliness drive from 2nd October, 2024 to 31st October, 2024 in all offices of Prasar Bharati throughout the country. She desired that the activities like – cleanliness of building/premises; disposal of waste, garbage, condemned furniture, e-waste and weeding out of old records as per prescribed procedure should be done during this period. As part of safety in cleaning, Personal Hygienic Kits, Safety Caps and Snacks were distributed to Sanitation and Security Workers.

    Sanitation drive launched at 300+ Akashvani Kendras as part of special campaign 4.0

    Sanitation drive at 300+ Kendras of Akashvani also started simultaneously and cleaning activities undertaken as part of Special Campaign 4.0. More than 1000 spots have been identified at field offices/ stations for undertaking cleaning activities.  This year emphasis will be made for Energy Audit ,  up-gradation of records room,  Identification of old redundant e-waste, old electrical installations , old AC plants and their  disposal and moving towards use of green energy across all major Akashvani stations.

    Photo Glimpse: Dr. Pragya Paliwal Gaur inspects Akashvani campus in New Delhi as special Swachhata Campaign 4.0 launches

     

     

     

    Photo Glimpse: Swachhata Abhiyan at various Akashvani offices

    The Swachhata Abhiyan, a significant initiative promoting cleanliness, was actively observed across different Akashvani offices. Employees participated enthusiastically in various cleaning activities, ensuring that their workspaces reflect the spirit of cleanliness and hygiene. From organizing waste disposal to tidying up the surroundings, the commitment to maintaining a clean environment was evident. The photo glimpses captured the dedication and teamwork of Akashvani staff, showcasing their efforts to contribute to the larger goal of a cleaner and healthier community

     

    Akashvani, Raikot

                               Akashvani, Odisha

                        Akashvani, Karnataka

    Akashvani, Santiniketan

                               Akashvani, Rajsthan

    Akashvani, Berhampur

    Akashvani, Gangtok

                     Akashvani, Guwahati

    Akashvani, Kolkata

     

     

    Social media links

       https://x.com/AkashvaniAIR/status/1841377155650928658?t=-PAf224Bd-3awNMqk59A_Q&s=08

       https://x.com/AkashvaniAIR/status/1841378326239215849?t=BaH-8eA3ZisJV_JfToICUQ&s=08   

       https://x.com/AkashvaniAIR/status/1841371411119571266?t=L6NHijKvWrl8jMo3e86XBA&s=08  

       https://x.com/AkashvaniAIR/status/1841368840095084895?t=ONqXj8TM9s67vVosofBuhQ&s=08

    *****

    Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2062189) Visitor Counter : 49

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Swachhata Hi Sewa (SHS-2024) Campaign – ‘Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata’

    Source: Government of India (2)

    “Swachhata Hi Sewa (SHS-2024) Campaign – ‘Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata’

    Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) drives Nationwide cleanliness and social welfare initiatives under leadership of Shri S Krishnan

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 8:00PM by PIB Delhi

    The Swachhata Hi Sewa (SHS 2024) Campaign was organized in MeitY from 17th   Sept 2024 to 2nd Oct 2024 with great energy and enthusiasm and a large number of activities ranging from pledge ceremony, lectures, tree plantation, cleanliness drives, health & social welfare Shivirs & slogan competitions were organized by MeitY and all associated organizations under the guidance of Shri S Krishnan Secretary MeitY and Shri Bhuvnesh Kumar, Additional Secretary MeitY.

     

    32 competitions, 21 health camps, and 15 welfare camps for SafaiMitras

    Along with the MeitY organizations 127 pledge taking ceremonies were held, 32 slogan/waste to Art competitions were held, 45 Walkathons/Cyclothons were held, 571 tree plantation activities were undertaken, 39 CTU were cleansed, 21 Health Camps & 15 welfare camps for Safai Mitras were organized. Photographs and videos of the events were uploaded on the SHS-2024 portal.  The MeitY has also issued messages on X social media.

     

    Pledge Taking Ceremony

     

     

     

    CTU

     

     

          ShramDaan

     
         

     

     Lecture on Plastic waste, solid

    waste and liquid waste at MeitY

     

    ‘Cleanliness is Next to Godliness’

     

    On the culmination of the SHS 2024 on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhiji’s Birth Anniversary, a cultural programme was organized under chairmanship of Secretary MeitY with participation of Shri Akash Tripathi, MD & CEO MyGov, Shri Sushil Kumar, JS, Shri Shobhendra Bahadur, Dir Pers. and other senior officers of the level of Sr Directors, DGs, CEOs and SafaiMitras. The cultural event brought out the message of “Cleanliness is next to Godliness” as envisioned by our father of the Nation.

     

     

     

    Cultural Event

     

     

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    Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2062192) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DELIVERY OF AMMUNITION CUM TORPEDO CUM MISSILE BARGE, LSAM 21 (YARD 131)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 9:39PM by PIB Delhi

    The delivery of ‘Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 21’, 7th Barge of 11 x ACTCM Barge Project, built by MSME Shipyard, M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane for Indian Navy, was undertaken on 04 Oct 24 at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai for NAD(Karanja). The Induction Ceremony was presided over by Cmde SV Shidore, AGM (PR), ND (Mbi). 

    The contract for building 11 X ACTCM Barge was signed between MoD and M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane on 05 Mar 21. Induction of these Barges would provide impetus to operational commitments of IN by facilitating Transportation, Embarkation and Disembarkation of articles/ ammunition to IN Platforms both alongside jetties and at outer harbours.

    These Barges are indigenously designed and built under relevant Naval Rules and Regulation of Indian Register of Shipping. The model testing of the Barge during design stage was undertaken at Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam. These Barges are proud flag bearers of Make in India initiative of Government of India.

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    VM/SKY              

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of various development works worth Rs. 329 crore in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, today

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of various development works worth Rs. 329 crore in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, today

    For the first time in India, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has started medical science education in local languages

    The 425-bedded hospital being built with an outlay of Rs244 core will fulfill the health related needs of the people of Mansa for the next 25 years

    Recently, Delhi Police has seized drugs worth Rs 5600 crore and destroyed the international drug syndicate involved in it

    After Modi government came into power, it destroyed the drugs trade which was growing rapidly in the entire North India including Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi

    Only Narendra Modi government can achieve the resolve for a Nasha-Mukt Bharat

    Gujarat government has seized drugs worth Rs.8500 crores in just 3 years

    Modi ji has started a campaign to make people healthy with a holistic approach

    Medical education will be started in Gujarati in Mansa Medical College

    Children of Gujarat will become doctors after getting medical education in their own language and it will begin from Mansa

    In 10 years from 2004 to 2014, 1,52,000 kg of drugs worth Rs 768 crore were seized, while in the 10 years of Modi government from 2014 to 2024, 5,43,600 kg of drugs worth Rs 27,600 crore have been seized

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 9:36PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for various development projects worth Rs.329 crore in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Several dignitaries, including Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, were present on this occasion.

    In his address, Shri Amit Shah highlighted that the Gujarat government is working on the construction of a 425-bed hospital at a cost of ₹244 crores for the residents of Mansa. He mentioned that this 425-bed hospital will cater to the health needs of the people of Mansa for the next 25 years. He also noted that today, the inauguration, foundation laying, and e-inauguration of 10 development projects of the Mansa Municipality are taking place, along with the foundation laying and inauguration of other development projects costing ₹329 crores.

    Union Home Minister said that a beautiful Chandrasar Lake has been developed in Mansa, and efforts have been made to supply water from the Narmada River to this lake. He mentioned that the work of connecting a total of 16 lakes, including Chandradu, Malan, Malai, including previously built 13 lakes in the state, and supplying of Narmada water to them has been completed this monsoon season. He added that this will raise the water level in all surrounding areas and improve agricultural yield, leading to the prosperity of farmers.

    Shri Amit Shah mentioned that the foundation-laying projects include the civil hospital, beautification of Malan Lake, programs for Sasni and Malan lakes, a community hall in Ranyapur, double-laning of the Pilvai-Mahudi road, and a dry waste segregation plant. Moreover, the new hospital will provide all facilities, such as a critical care trauma center, orthopedic surgery, pediatric department, medicine, gynecology, physiotherapy, dialysis, X-ray, CT scan, and MRI, all available in a single building for everyone.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation stated that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has initiated the teaching of medical science in local languages for the first time in India. He mentioned that medical courses

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fourteen Indicted in Multi-State Drug Trafficking Conspiracy Linked to Deadly Fentanyl Distributed to Members of the Lummi Nation

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

    Seattle – Law enforcement fanned out across the country and in western Washington yesterday arresting 17 people on indictments and criminal complaints for a multi- state drug trafficking conspiracy. The two-year investigation alleges that the trafficking ring has been linked to a fatal fentanyl overdose on the Lummi Nation reservation in Whatcom County. Law enforcement in Georgia, Missouri, Texas, and Arizona executed search warrants and some arrests.  Ten of 13 defendants arrested in Washington remain detained at the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac, pending hearings later this week and next week. Three defendants were released on bond.

    “This investigation revealed that the trafficking organization was a supplier to a community that was rocked by four fentanyl overdose deaths in just four days,” said U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. “Fentanyl continues to claim lives in our community – especially in our Tribal communities. We will do all we can to stop the flow of this deadly drug.”

    “The significance of this case is that a family drug trafficking organization expanded from Seattle beyond Washington state to locations across the country,” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “This group distributed more than 800,000 fentanyl pills throughout the United States, including in Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Montana, and Georgia. Together with our partners, this demonstrates the national impact of today’s operations by disrupting this source of supply.”

    The drug ring was led by Marquis Jackson, 31, who splits time between Atlanta and the Renton, Washington home of his parents, defendants Mandel Jackson, 50, and Matelita (Marty) Jackson, 49. Also linked to the Renton family home were defendants Markell Jackson, 21, and Miracle Patu-Jackson, 22. Members of the Jackson family are indicted for various conspiracy counts including drug trafficking and money laundering conspiracies. Records filed in the case link some of the Jacksons to a Seattle area street gang.

    Markell Jackson is a fugitive still being sought by law enforcement. Matelita (Marty) Jackson, Miracle Patu-Jackson and Adean Batinga were released on bond.

    The other defendants indicted for drug trafficking include:

    Edgar Valdez, 26, of Phoenix

    Keondre Jackson, 29, Wichita, Kansas

    Michael Young Jr., 43, Tacoma, Washington

    Sir-Terrique Devon Milam, 20, Federal Way, Washington

    Tyrell Lewis, 32, Federal Way, Washington – a fugitive

    Robert Johnson, 20, Renton, Washington

    Diyana Abraha, 22, Seattle – a fugitive

    Adean Batinga, 20, Burien, Washington

    Tianna Karastan, 21, Seattle -a fugitive

    Diallo Redd, 34, Tacoma, arrested in Montana on a Montana indictment.

    Two additional defendants were arrested in the Seattle area in connection with the serving of yesterday’s search warrants:

    Chad Conti, 47, Covington, Washington

    Phillip Lamont Alexander, 48, Des Moines, Washington

    Over the course of the investigation law enforcement seized more than 846,000 fentanyl pills, nearly 7 kilograms of fentanyl powder, 7 kilograms of cocaine and 29 firearms. They also seized more than $116,000 in cash.

    In Whatcom County, teams led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) arrested four people on criminal complaints for fentanyl distribution. According to the complaints, the Whatcom drug traffickers were linked by phone communication and surveillance to the Jackson drug trafficking organization.

    In September 2023, four tribal citizens died of fentanyl overdose within a period of just four days, prompting the Lummi Indian Business Council to declare a state of emergency in response to the escalating fentanyl crisis.

    Tribal and federal partners examined the phone of one of the overdose victims and found connections to the Jackson Drug Trafficking Organization.  DEA, the Whatcom Gang and Drug Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Bureau of Indian Affairs have continued to work closely with the Lummi Nation Police to identify additional members of this drug trafficking organization with the goal of stopping the flow of fentanyl into Indian Country and elsewhere.

    Those arrested on complaints this week include:

    Robert Bellair, 41, Ferndale, Washington

    Thomas J. Morris, 42, Bellingham, Washington

    Patrick James, 40, Bellingham, Washington

    Ronald Finkbonner, 50, Bellingham, Washington

    All four are charged with possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute.

    “The Drug Enforcement Administration’s top priority is to combat fentanyl traffickers responsible for deaths and misery in our communities,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division.  “This case highlights the lengths to which DEA and our partners will go to ensure people trafficking fentanyl are held accountable for the suffering they cause.”

    “The Seattle Police Department appreciates the collaboration with our federal partners in combatting the scourge of the fentanyl crisis and the proliferation of guns from drug trafficking organizations,” said Deputy Chief Eric Barden of the Seattle Police Department. “Fentanyl caused over 1,000 overdose deaths in King County last year. Seattle Police are delighted to partner with the FBI, DEA, USAO and other state and local jurisdictions to dismantle a drug distribution network undoubtedly responsible for deaths in our community.”

    The charges contained in the indictment and criminal complaints are only allegations.  A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    This case is being investigated by the FBI, (Seattle, Phoenix, Atlanta, Kansas City, Dallas, Las Vegas, Montana), DEA (Seattle, Kansas City, Wichita, Montana), the Seattle Police Department, King County Sheriff’s Office, Whatcom Gang and Drug Task Force, the Lummi Police Department, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and United States Border Patrol Blaine Sector Targeting and Intelligence Division.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Zach Dillon, Crystal Correa, and Michael Harder.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: B-1s commemorate ROK Armed Forces Day with flyover, CAS training event

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SEOUL, South Korea  –  

    A U.S. B-1B Lancer participated in a combined flyover with two Republic of Korea Air Force F-16K Slam Eagles as part of the ROK Armed Forces Day celebration over Seongnam’s Seoul Air Base in the Gyeonggi Province, Oct. 1, 2024. The event commemorated the 76th anniversary of the founding of the ROK’s armed forces, honoring the veterans and service members of the nation’s military, and demonstrated the United States’ ironclad commitment to the ROK-U.S. Alliance.

    Earlier in the day, two B-1s also participated in simulated combined close air support training with the two ROK F-15Ks and U.S. 607th Air Support Operations Group personnel at Pilsung Range, ROK.

    The B-1 carries the largest conventional payload of both guided and unguided weapons in the U.S. military’s aircraft inventory, with the ability to employ several variations of munitions, including general purpose bombs, naval mines, cluster munitions, laser-guided missiles, and long-range strike munitions, among others.

    The event marked the second time B-1s have conducted close air support training in South Korea in 2024, following training in early June, and further enhanced the ability of U.S. and ROK fighters to integrate with U.S. bombers — maintaining the defensive readiness of both air forces.

    MIL Security OSI –