Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Location:
A previous release mis-spelt the name of the girl missing from her Glen Innes home.
Her name is spelled Teyha, not Tyrha as previously stated.
We apologise for the error and any confusion caused.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Labour Party
The National Government is oblivious to the impact cuts to services will have on New Zealanders who are doing the hard yards caring for mentally ill family members.
Labour mental health spokesperson Ingrid Leary said that the fact Health Minister Shane Reti and Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey weren’t aware respite services for 120 families of mentally ill kids were being cut was an example of this Government being missing in action.
“They put downward pressure on services to do more with less, then wash their hands of it and walk away.
“This is a failure by Matt Doocey to advocate around cuts impacting frontline mental health services. He needs to step up and fight to stop cuts that are impacting the frontline in his portfolio area.
“This Mental Health Awareness week, what we’re seeing from the Government is penny pinching and meanness. Parents and other family members need support and an occasional day off when they are caring for mentally unwell children.
“Matt Doocey is missing in action when it comes to sweeping cuts across social services that are impacting mental health and he should stop blaming his officials. It’s his job to know this stuff,” said Ingrid Leary.
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Source: Reserve Bank of India
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Source: ASEAN
ASEAN alongside Australia, China, Japan, Korea, and New Zealand gathered in Vientiane on 22 September 2024 for the Third RCEP Ministers’ Meeting. The Meeting was co-chaired by Mr. Djatmiko Bris Witjaksono, Director General of International Trade Negotiations, Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia and H.E. Li Fei, Vice Minister of Commerce of China.The Meeting reaffirmed their commitment to actively promote the RCEP Agreement so it can be effectively utilised by businesses in the region and contribute to further deepening regional economic integration.
Download the full statement here.
The post Joint Media Statement of the 3rd RCEP Ministers’ Meeting appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
Source: ASEAN
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, along with other Ministers or representatives from the ASEAN Member States, China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea attended the 27th AEM-Plus Three (APT) Consultation, held in Vientiane, Lao PDR.
The Meeting reviewed the progress made in the implementation of the APT Economic Cooperation Work Plan 2023-2024 and welcomed the forthcoming APT Economic Cooperation Work Plan 2025-2026. The APT countries reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the APT cooperation framework, promoting regional cooperation and addressing emerging issues and challenges.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN attends the 27th AEM-Plus Three Consultation in Vientiane, Lao PDR appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
Source: Australian Ministers for Education
The Albanese Government will increase the number of postgraduate psychology places at universities and provide more psychology internships and supervisors so Australians can access a psychologist when needed.
This will help remove barriers to studying and working in mental health, which is sorely needed while Australia faces a critical shortage of mental health workers.
The Albanese Government will support Australia’s leading universities to provide up to an additional 500 student places and grow postgraduate psychology courses over a four-year period.
Despite strong demand and interest from students, currently only 10 per cent will complete the required postgraduate course to become a registered psychologist due to the limited number of university places.
The following universities successfully applied for funding through the 2023–24 Postgraduate Psychology Incentive Program Grant Round and will provide 146 additional student places this year:
• Australian National University
• Central Queensland University
• Charles Darwin University
• Curtin University
• Deakin University
• Federation University
• La Trobe University
• Murdoch University
• Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology
• University of Adelaide
• University of Canberra
• University of Melbourne
• University of New England
• University of Queensland
• University of South Australia
• University of Southern Queensland
• University of Sydney
• University of Tasmania
• University of the Sunshine Coast
• University of Western Australia
• University of Wollongong
• Western Sydney University
To address bottlenecks in the psychology training pipeline, the Albanese Government will also provide Supporting Provisional Psychologists to Practice grants to increase the availability of psychology internships and supervisor training.
This initiative will support provisional psychologists by funding 681 one-year internships over a four-year period and up to 2860 Psychology Board of Australia endorsed supervisor training places.
To prioritise areas of greatest need, half the internships and supervisor training will be offered to people in First Nations communities, culturally and linguistically diverse communities and people living in regional, rural and remote areas of Australia.
The following organisations will deliver the internships and supervisor training:
• Stream 1 – psychology internships:
o Western Sydney University (NSW) – 84 places
o Grand Pacific Health (NSW and ACT) – 30 places
o Marathon Health (NSW) – 36 places
o Therapy Pro (QLD) – 85 places
o Flinders University (SA and NT) – 100 places
o CatholicCare Victoria Tasmania (VIC and TAS) – 98 places
o Autism Association of Western Australia (WA) – 48 places
o The Cairnmillar Institute (National) – 200 places
• Stream 2 – supervisor training:
o James Cook University – 380 places
o Deakin University – 480 places
o The Australian Psychological Society – 1000 places
o The Cairnmillar Institute – 1000 places
The Albanese Government has also committed to work with the Psychology Board of Australia to reform and redesign the psychology higher education and registration pathway to make it simpler for students to complete their studies and work in the mental health system.
The redesign will consider opportunities to streamline psychology training, embed a focus on practical learning, and address access and equity challenges with consultations due to commence early in 2025.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
“Many students want to become registered psychologists but are unable to due to a lack of internships, supervisors and university places. Given the significant community need for this workforce it critical we expand training pathways.
“We are committed to ensuring Australians can access the mental health services they need when they need it and this investment into the psychology workforce will be essential to improving access.
“Our commitment will address the shortage of registered psychologists and help develop the next generation of registered psychologists.”
Quotes attributable to Minister Clare:
“We need more young Australians studying and working in mental health services.
“This is an important investment which will help support more Australians study psychology.”
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride:
“The Albanese Labor Government is building the mental health workforce, so that everyone can access the mental health care they need close to home.
“We are providing even more opportunities for students to become registered psychologists by investing in additional psychology internships, supervisors and postgraduate places.
“This investment will support people in regional, rural and remote communities to get the care and support they need from registered psychologists.”
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government wants to see more public servants come into their place of work each day and is taking steps to make this expectation clear to chief executives, Public Service Minister Nicola Willis says.
“Updated guidance for the public service will make clear that working from home is not an entitlement and must be agreed and monitored,” Nicola Willis says.
“While carefully defined working from home arrangements can benefit workers and employers, if the pendulum swings too far in favour of working from home, there are downsides for employers and employees. That’s even before we consider the effects for the CBD retailers, restaurants and cafes.
“There are good reasons why employees have traditionally been physically brought together for work. It allows for face-to-face conversation, the sharing of skills and experience and relationship building. It supports younger and newer employees to observe, learn from and form connections with their more experienced colleagues.
“Many good employers have been taking active steps to ensure their working from home policies are fit for purpose. It’s time the Government did the same.
“I have asked the Public Service Commissioner to immediately communicate the Government’s expectations to public service chief executives and to issue revised guidance about working from home arrangements.
“These guidelines will reinforce our expectation that:
“Data is not currently being centrally collected by the Public Service Commission regarding the prevalence of working from home arrangements.
“I have asked the Public Service Commission to support agencies to implement the Government’s expectations, including ensuring information about working from home arrangements is captured in a way that allows for easy comparison between agencies.
“I intend to then make this information public in a user-friendly way early next year,” Nicola Willis says.
Source: ASEAN
Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr. Kao Kim Hourn today delivered pre-recorded remarks at the Opening Session of the Forum on China-ASEAN Technology Transfer and Collaborative Innovation (FCATTCI). The Forum is held in Nanning, China, on 23-24 September 2024, and is organised by the China-ASEAN Technology Transfer Center, Department of Science and Technology of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China.
Source: ASEAN
Together with the Chair of the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ (AEM) Meeting 2024 and Minister of Industry and Commerce of Lao PDR, H.E. Malaithong Kommasith, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this afternoon concluded his engagements in a series of meetings in Vientiane, Lao PDR, by attending the Press Conference of the 56th AEM Meeting and Related Meetings.
During the Press Conference, Minister Malaithong Kommasith and SG Dr. Kao provided key takeaway points on the discussions at the various meetings, which saw many constructive exchanges by both ASEAN Ministers and that of its Dialogue Partners, on how to strengthen economic integration in the region and beyond.
Download the full remarks here.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN joins Chair of the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting 2024 in a Press Conference appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
Source: ASEAN
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this afternoon attended the 3rd Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Ministers’ Meeting, held in Vientiane, Lao PDR.
The Meeting discussed the implementation of the RCEP Agreement and the RCEP Accession Procedures. The Meeting also welcomed the establishment of the RCEP Support Unit, which will provide institutional support for the implementation of the RCEP Agreement.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN attends the 3rd RCEP Ministers’ Meeting in Vientiane, Lao PDR appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
Source: New South Wales Premiere
Safer and more reliable journeys are on the way for motorists and freight operators in the Glen Innes region, with road upgrade works starting soon thanks to $13.5 million from the Albanese and Minns Governments.
Glen Innes Severn Council has been approved to receive 2 packages of disaster funding under the jointly funded Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package.
The DRFA will allow Glen Innes Severn Council to complete improvement works on 9 local roads across the region including sections of Strathbogie Road, Rangers Valley Road, Furracabad Road, Glen Leigh Road, Pinkett Road, Shannon Vale Road, Haymarket Road, Maybole Road and Golf Links Road. The Shannon Vale Road upgrade was completed in February 2024.
The Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package will help Glen Innes Severn Council carry out improvement work on regional roads including sections of Emmaville Road and Wellington Vale Road.
The work includes strengthening through cement stabilisation of the base pavement and resealing to make the roads better able to withstand prolonged periods of wet weather and flooding.
Geotechnical and design investigations are underway for both packages, with work expected to start later this year.
Quotes attributed to Senator Jenny McAllister, Minister for Emergency Management:
“The Albanese Government is working with the NSW Government and local councils to ensure communities have resilient infrastructure they can rely on every day. We are working to ensure all road users are connected and make it home safely to their loved ones every day.
“The Albanese Government is delivering reliable infrastructure and assets that keep regional communities in NSW connected and safe, especially during times of severe weather.”
Quotes attributed to Jenny Aitchison, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads:
“This is great news for Glen Innes, in particular, for the villages of Emmaville and Deepwater.
“Emmaville Road and Wellington Vale Road provide a critical link for residents and businesses to the major centre of Glen Innes.
“These improvements being funded by the Australian and NSW Governments, will improve safety significantly while also ensuring reliable roads for residents in all types of weather.”
Quotes attributed to NSW Labor’s spokesperson for Northern Tablelands, Peter Primrose MLC:
“It’s great to see all levels of government working collaboratively to improve regional roads across NSW.
“This important work is ensuring our rural and regional communities remain connected throughout natural disasters and can bounce back quicker.”
Quotes attributed to Bernard Smith, Glen Innes Severn General Manager:
“We’re assessing all our local roads and preparing to start major repairs on Pinkett Road, Rangers Valley Road, Glen Legh Road, and Emmaville Road segments by September. Construction will begin in summer 2024/2025, with additional roadworks on Maybole Road, Golf Links Road, and others continuing through early 2026. These improvements are essential for better travel and safety in our region.
“The design phase for our regional roads is progressing well, with Emmaville Road set for delivery in December 2024. These upgrades, including the remaining segments of Emmaville Road and Wellington Vale Road planned for the 2025/26 financial year, are crucial for enhancing transport links and supporting regional development across our towns.
“This grant allows our council to fortify essential infrastructure, making it more disaster resilient. By upgrading our roads and transport networks, we’re ensuring they serve our community effectively, now and in the future.
“The support and resources provided by Transport for NSW are invaluable. Their expertise and commitment to enhancing regional transport infrastructure align perfectly with our goals for Glen Innes Severn.”
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hongkong Post to issue “The 150th Anniversary of Universal Postal Union” commemorative stamp (with photos)
Hongkong Post to issue “The 150th Anniversary of Universal Postal Union” commemorative stamp (with photos)
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Hongkong Post announced today (September 23) that a stamp sheetlet and associated philatelic products on the theme of “The 150th Anniversary of Universal Postal Union” will be released for sale on October 9 (Wednesday). In 1874, 22 countries gathered to sign the Treaty of Bern, establishing the General Postal Union, which was renamed as the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1878. This initiative realised the vision of establishing a single postal territory to serve people everywhere. Today, the UPU has evolved into a postal network of 192 member countries that fosters co-operation and communication among postal administrations worldwide, and provides latest updates to ensure a universal network of postal products and services. It also fulfils a number of other functions, such as providing advisories, mediation services and liaisons. The year 2024 marks the 150th anniversary of the establishment of the UPU. Hongkong Post, as a member of the China Delegation, will issue a stamp sheetlet and associated philatelic products with the theme of “The 150th Anniversary of Universal Postal Union” to commemorate this occasion. The stamp sheetlet features a carrier pigeon, composed of various triangular shapes, delivering mail around the world. This represents the UPU’s efforts to strengthen connections, communication and co-operation among postal administrations worldwide. The stamp sheetlet also displays the theme logo for the 150th anniversary of the UPU. Official first day covers for “The 150th Anniversary of Universal Postal Union” will be on sale at all post offices and on Hongkong Post’s online shopping mall ShopThruPost (shopthrupost.hongkongpost.hk) from September 24 (Tuesday). The stamp sheetlet and associated philatelic products will be on sale at all post offices and on ShopThruPost from October 9, while serviced first day covers affixed with the stamp sheetlet will be available at philatelic offices only. A hand-back date-stamping service will be provided on October 9 at all post offices for official first day covers/souvenir covers/privately made covers bearing the first day of issue indication and a local address. Information about the stamp sheetlet and associated philatelic products is available on the Hongkong Post Stamps website (stamps.hongkongpost.hk).
Ends/Monday, September 23, 2024Issued at HKT 12:00
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Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jeannie Marie Paterson, Professor of Law, The University of Melbourne
At a time most people are trying to cut their weekly grocery bills, Australia’s supermarket giants have been hit with legal action for allegedly misleading shoppers over the price of hundreds of products.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) on Monday announced it was launching separate actions in the Federal Court against the largest and second-largest grocery chains, Woolworths and Coles.
The ACCC alleges the two have systematically misled consumers over price discounts on hundreds of everyday products. The ACCC chair, Gina Cass-Gottlieb, said the alleged wrongdoing involved the sales of “tens of millions” of products, reaping “significant” extra revenue for the businesses.
Woolworths’ list of 266 items included Arnott’s Tim Tams, Dolmio sauces, Doritos salsa, Friskies cat food, Kellogg’s cereal and Stayfree pads, while the 245 products allegedly targeted by Coles included Arnott’s Shapes biscuits, Band-Aids, Bega cheese, Cadbury chocolates and Libra tampons.
These were not one-off pricing errors. The ACCC alleges the misleading conduct took place over 20 months as part of the Woolworths “Prices Dropped” and the Coles “Down, Down” promotional campaigns.
The ACCC alleges on repeated occasions the supermarkets’ strategy was to temporarily raise the price of goods before applying the so-called discount.
The approach meant that although the boldly placed, coloured discount tickets showed a reduction from the previous “regular” price of the products, the discounted price was still higher than the price before the temporary price rise.
The ACCC gave the example of how consumers were allegedly misled over savings on a 370-gram family pack of Oreo original biscuits.
From at least January 1 2021 until November 27 2022, Woolworths offered the Oreos for sale at a regular price of $3.50 on a pre-existing “Prices Dropped” promotion. Then, on November 28 2022, the price was increased to $5.00 for 22 days.
On December 20 2022, the product was placed on a “Prices Dropped” promotion with the tickets showing a “Prices Dropped” price of $4.50 and a “was” price of $5.00. The “Prices Dropped” price of $4.50 was in fact 29% higher than the product’s previous regular price of $3.50.
The ACCC does not regulate prices. Instead, it acts on breaches of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, including making false or misleading claims about the prices of goods and services.
While it was true that Woolworths and Coles reduced the shelf price of the products, the ACCC alleges they didn’t reveal that the starting price had recently been increased. It is this conduct of promoting a discount from a recently inflated price that the ACCC says would mislead consumers.
The ACCC’s argument is the “ordinary and reasonable” consumer expects a discount to be genuine, not coming off a recently inflated price. The net effect of that strategy is just an increased price.
This is not the first time the ACCC has pursued such a claim. In 2020, the commission successfully went after online retailer Kogan for engaging in a similar strategy.
Kogan ran an online promotion advertising to consumers that they could use the code TAXTIME to reduce prices by 10% at the checkout. The court found the ads conveyed false or misleading representations because Kogan had increased the prices of more than 600 of its products immediately before the promotion by at least 10% per cent.
A similar strategy of offering discounts that were not genuinely delivered has also been raised against insurer IAG. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) alleges IAG did not deliver promised loyalty discounts to customers because their premiums were increased before the discount was applied by more than the amount of the discount.
IAG is now facing action for civil penalties from the regulator (ASIC) and a class action by affected customers.
The ACCC is seeking fines (civil penalties) which could be significant. In the Kogan case, the Federal Court awarded penalties of $350,000.
But since November 2022, potential penalties have risen. These increases are designed to ensure companies do not treat the possibility of being penalised as a cost of doing business that is outweighed (and disregarded) by the benefits that might come from contraventions of the law.
These new penalty amounts work on a sliding scale: they start at $50 million but can go up to potentially 30% of a company’s turnover during the period of the contravening conduct.
This amount is per contravention. This means, if the ACCC’s allegations of misleading conduct are established, each time the supermarkets misled consumers, they would technically be liable to pay the full penalty amount.
That said, in such a case, a court would likely take a more holistic approach in setting the penalty, taking several matters into account including: the extent of the conduct, its impact on consumers, the gain to the business and whether the conduct was deliberate.
Fittingly, the ACCC is also asking the supermarkets to make a contribution to charities that provide food to people in need.
Notably, in May Qantas agreed with the ACCC to pay a penalty of $100 million, subject to court approval and in addition to compensating customers, for misleading conduct in selling tickets for flights it had already cancelled.
Jeannie Marie Paterson receives funding from the Australian Research Council and DFAT.
– ref. Woolworths and Coles sued by ACCC for allegedly misleading shoppers over the price of more than 500 products – https://theconversation.com/woolworths-and-coles-sued-by-accc-for-allegedly-misleading-shoppers-over-the-price-of-more-than-500-products-239585
Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory
On 13 September 2024, the ACT Government assumed a caretaker role, with an election to be held 19 October 2024. Information on this website will be published in accordance with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions until after the election and conclusion of the caretaker period.
Released 23/09/2024
A prescribed hazard reduction burn in Nicholls will commence this evening, and another hazard reduction burn will commence at Hill Reserve in Ngunnawal tomorrow, subject to suitable weather and fuel moisture conditions.
The prescribed hazard reduction burns are being conducted to reduce the ground cover of exotic grasses and reduce the fire hazard in the area.
See the location map of the burn sites.
Experienced ACT Parks and Conservation Service fire managers will conduct and oversee the burning operations alongside the Ginninderry Conservation Trust and local First Nations community members.
Every effort is made to conduct burns in weather conditions that will minimise the impact of smoke, but temporary smoke cover is possible and may be visible across parts of Canberra.
Fire crews will be on the ground monitoring and patrolling the prescribed burn to its conclusion.
Smoke, flame, and glowing embers may be seen at these sites, which is normal for these types of operations. The public are asked not to call emergency triple-zero unless they see any unattended fire.
Prescribed burns are an important part of the ACT’s annual Bushfire Operations Plan to enhance ecological quality, reduce the risk of bushfires and help keep Canberrans safe.
More information about prescribed hazard reduction burns is available on the ACT Environment website.
– Statement ends –
ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate | Media Releases
«ACT Government Media Releases | «Directorate Media Releases
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs attends kick-off ceremony of entrepreneurship event for Hong Kong and Macao youths in Hengqin, Zhuhai (with photos)
Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs attends kick-off ceremony of entrepreneurship event for Hong Kong and Macao youths in Hengqin, Zhuhai (with photos)
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The Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, arrived in Hengqin, Zhuhai, this morning (September 23) to attend the kick-off ceremony of an entrepreneurship event for Hong Kong and Macao youths. With the theme of “New Quality Productive Forces Strive for High-quality Development”, the event aims to help Hong Kong and Macao youths who are developing their careers in Guangdong to engage in exchanges and gain further understanding of the industry development of Guangdong Province through visits, research and discussions. This will enable them to deepen their knowledge of new productivity, thereby facilitating their active integration into the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). Speaking at the ceremony, Miss Mak said that young people are an important driving force for the country’s high-quality development. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government aims to provide more comprehensive support for Hong Kong youths through new rounds of the Funding Scheme for Youth Entrepreneurship in the GBA and the Funding Scheme for Experiential Programmes at Innovation and Entrepreneurial Bases, helping them pursue innovation and entrepreneurship in the GBA. Miss Mak said that the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) jointly established the Alliance of Hong Kong Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurial Bases in the Greater Bay Area with the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the People’s Government of Guangdong Province and the Human Resources and Social Security Department of Guangdong Province last year, gathering around 60 member organisations. Around 100 activities have been planned or held in Hong Kong and Guangdong by member organisations of the Alliance, which demonstrated the Alliance’s full support in helping Hong Kong youths to start their businesses in the GBA and enhancing their confidence in developing their careers in the GBA. The event is organised by the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the People’s Government of Guangdong Province, the executive committee of Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperate Zone in Hengqin, the HYAB of the HKSAR Government and the Education and Youth Development Bureau of the Government of the Macao Special Administrative Region. Miss Mak finished the visit and returned to Hong Kong on the same day.
Ends/Monday, September 23, 2024Issued at HKT 12:55
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04)
WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert B. Aderholt (R-AL) unanimously passed House Resolution 5464 on the House floor today to name the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Guntersville, Alabama, as the “Colonel Ola Lee Mize Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic.”
The bill needs to pass through the United States Senate where Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) will carry it through the Senate process. After Senate passage, the bill will await the President’s signature.
Ola Lee Mize is a native of Alabama’s Fourth Congressional District, born and raised in Albertville, Alabama. Colonel Mize was awarded the Medal of Honor, two Legion of Merits, the Silver Star, five Bronze Stars, and the Purple Heart for his actions across multiple tours in Vietnam as a Green Beret.
Congressman Aderholt released the following statement:
”It is truly an honor to be able to recognize Colonel Ola Lee Mize, an American hero, by renaming a VA clinic that will help so many other American heroes. Colonel Mize’s life and military career exhibited what it means to live a life of service to something greater than yourself.
“I hope that naming the VA clinic in Guntersville, Alabama, after Colonel Mize will serve his memory well and inspire future generations of Alabamians to lead lives of service.
Find a clip of Congressman Aderholt speaking on this bill here.
Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development
The Australian and Queensland governments will be progressing further planning work to protect the future rail corridor between Salisbury and Beaudesert.
The Salisbury to Beaudesert Passenger Rail study explored the long-term passenger and freight needs in the corridor and has recommended heavy rail as the best way to address forecast passenger demand.
Both Governments committed $10 million each to undertake the study as part of the Inland Rail Bilateral Agreement.
The Salisbury to Beaudesert corridor runs through some of the fastest growing areas in South East Queensland and forms part of the Queensland Government’s vision for the region’s rail network.
Growth areas such as the Greater Flagstone Priority Development Area will play a critical role in the future shape of the region and need to be supported by a high quality, safe and reliable public transport network.
Heavy rail was identified as the optimal transport mode to address forecast demand in the corridor.
It would provide a high capacity, attractive public transport journey with competitive travel times, keeping people and goods moving efficiently.
The current phase of the study has now been finalised.
The next phase will involve protecting the corridor, including conducting a corridor protection study.
This will refine the project’s design and land requirements and will also see community consultation begin on the identified corridor in 2025.
The outcomes of community consultation will help to preserve a corridor and inform future planning.
Quotes attributable to the Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“Passenger transport helps make our cities and regions run more efficiently.
“The Australian Government partnered with the Queensland Government to explore opportunities for passenger and freight needs in the corridor between Salisbury and Beaudesert.
“The Australian Government is committed to working with the Queensland Government to explore the next stage of investigations to ensure this important passenger and freight corridor is protected in a timely manner.”
Quotes attributable to the Federal Treasurer, Jim Chalmers:
“We’re doing the detailed planning work required for this project because we know it has the potential to deliver substantial benefits for people in our area.
“New transport infrastructure is crucial to creating new jobs and opportunities and making it quicker and easier to get around our community.
“This is what happens when you get state and federal governments working together and investing in our community in the best interests of local people.”
Quotes attributable to the Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish:
“The south-west corridor of South East Queensland is one of the fastest growing areas in the region.
“High quality public transport infrastructure will play an important role in servicing these new and growing communities.
“This planning demonstrates our commitment to finding the right transport solutions to ease congestion and address future community needs.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Algester Leeanne Enoch:
“This is an incredibly important project that will make a huge difference to residents of the Algester Electorate, which is why I have been advocating for this passenger rail project for many years.
“As our government progresses the planning for this significant public transport infrastructure, community consultation will play an important role.
“I look forward to working with our community to achieve the best results.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The event celebrated 40 years of the London Fashion Show, one of the “Big Four” fashion weeks, alongside Paris, Milan, and New York.
Winner of the Great London Fashion Show Mrs Hahe Alatala of Ahe Designs. Photo credit: Courtesy of Jay Gagame Photography.
The British High Commission in Honiara hosted its second edition of the popular London Fashion Week Show Blo Iumi on Tuesday 17 September 2024, with fantastic local designers and incredible models showcasing the best in Solomon Design.
The event celebrated 40 years of the London Fashion Show, one of the “Big Four” fashion weeks, alongside Paris, Milan, and New York. It showcases the work of leading British designers and attracts international buyers, media, and fashion enthusiasts. Burberry, present their collections here.
The 40th celebration focuses on uniting creative communities, honouring the diversity of cultures and creativity of the city and positioning London at the forefront of the cultural zeitgeist. It is an occasion to celebrate not just the event itself but everyone that makes it possible.
The Great funded Fashion Show Blo Iumi attracted 7 designers, 55 models including 5 Miss Solomon Islands Pageants 2024 contestants, and over one hundred excited guests.
Speaking at the Fashion Show’s opening ceremony, Deputy High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Emma Jane David said:
Like in Solomon Islands, London’s fashion is deeply intertwined with its diversity. The city’s fashion reflects its multicultural population, drawing on a wide range of influences to create unique and eclectic styles. British fashion is at the forefront of sustainable and ethical fashion movements.
This year’s Fashion Show Blo Iumi included 4 categories featuring a Lavalava wear, Evening wear, Lotu wear and a Contemporary traditional wear. Four judges made the tough decision selecting the best designs and models.
Mrs Hahe Alatala of Hahe Designs emerged the winner, picking up a trophy and a mentoring session with a UK designer. Rosemary Boe of Rosie’s Couture and Wendy Gwaena of WG Designs took second and third places.
Sonia’s Rochenberg of Sons and Daughters Designs, Prudence Beck of Threads Investment, Lava Grossmith of Lava’s Original and Luke Gegeu of EL Designs all received commendations.
The show also featured body art by artists Hamid Ramokasa, Fred Oge, Wilson Kabe, Cassey Hairiu and Emmanuel Manu on five body building athletes, and a performance from Blad P2A and Khazin.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jennifer Tieman, Matthew Flinders Professor and Director of the Research Centre for Palliative Care, Death and Dying, Flinders University
Earlier this month, the government announced major changes to aged care in Australia, including a A$4.3 billion investment in home care.
Alongside a shake up of home care packages, the Support at Home program will include an important addition – an end of life pathway for older Australians.
This pathway will allow access to a higher level of in-home aged care services to help Australians stay at home as they come to the end of their life. Specifically, it will provide an extra A$25,000 for palliative support when a person has three months or less left to live.
This is a positive change. But there may be some challenges to implementing it.
Older people have made clear their preference to remain in their homes as they age. For most people, home is where they would like to be during their last months of life. The space is personal, familiar and comforting.
However, data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows most people who die between the ages of 65 and 84 die in hospital, while most people aged 85 and older die in residential aged care.
This apparent gap may reflect a lack of appropriate services. Both palliative care services and GPs have an important role in providing medical care to people living at home with a terminal illness. However, being able to die at home relies on the availability of ongoing support including hands-on care and assistance with daily living.
Family members and friends often provide this support, but this is not always possible. Even when it is, carers may lack confidence and skills to provide the necessary care, and may not have enough support for and respite from their carer role.
The palliative care funding offered within Support at Home should help an older person to remain at home and die at home, if that is their preference.
Unless someone dies suddenly, care needs are likely to increase at the end of a person’s life. Supports at home may involve help with showering and toileting, assessing and addressing symptoms, developing care plans, managing medications, wound dressing, domestic tasks, preparing meals, and communicating with the person’s family.
Occupational therapists and physiotherapists can assist with equipment requirements and suggest home modifications.
End of life supports may also involve clarifying goals of care, contacting services such as pharmacists for medications or equipment, liaising with organisations about financial matters, respite care or funeral planning, as well as acknowledging grief and offering spiritual care.
But we don’t know yet exactly what services the $25,000 will go towards.
The Support at Home program, including the end of life pathway, is scheduled to start from July 1 2025.
We know the funding is linked to a prognosis of three months or less to live, which will be determined by a doctor.
Further information has indicated that an older person can be referred to a high-priority assessment to access the end of life pathway. We don’t know yet what this means, however they don’t need to be an existing Support at Home participant to be eligible.
The pathway will allow 16 weeks to use the funds, possibly to provide some leeway around the three-month timeline.
Although more details are coming to light, there are still some things which remain unclear.
Home care providers will be looking for details on what can be covered by this funding and how they will work alongside primary care providers and health-care services.
Older people and their families will want to know the processes to apply for this funding and how long applications will take to be reviewed.
Everyone will want to know what happens if the person doesn’t die within three months.
Ready availability of appropriate supports and services will be crucial for older people accessing this pathway. Home care providers will therefore need to assess how an end of life pathway fits into their operational activities and how they can build the necessary skills and capacity.
Demand for nurses with palliative care skills and allied health professionals is likely to increase. Providing end of life care can be especially taxing so strategies will be needed to prevent staff burnout and encourage self-care.
How pathways are implemented in rural and remote areas and in different cultural and community groups will need to be monitored to ensure all older people benefit.
Effective coordination and communication between home care, primary care and specialist palliative providers care will be key. Digital health systems that connect the sectors could be helpful. Family engagement will also be very important.
Escalation pathways and referral pathways should be established to enable appropriate responses to emergencies, unexpected deterioration, and family distress.
Finally, accurately determining when someone will die can be difficult. Knowing when the last three months of life starts may not be easy, particularly where frailty, cognitive issues and multiple health concerns may be present.
This might mean some people are not seen as being ready for this pathway. Others may not be willing to accept this prognosis. An older person may also be expected to live with a terminal illness for many months or years. Their palliative care needs would not be met under this pathway.
Despite these challenges, the announcement of an end of life pathway within the home care program is timely and welcome. As a population we are living longer and dying older. More details will help us be better prepared to implement this scheme.
Jennifer Tieman receives grant funding from Department of Health and Aged Care and from SA Health. She is affiliated with Palliative Care SA, Palliative Care Australia and the Australian Institute for Digital Health.
– ref. Offering end of life support as part of home care is important – but may face some challenges – https://theconversation.com/offering-end-of-life-support-as-part-of-home-care-is-important-but-may-face-some-challenges-239296
Source: New Zealand Government
Trade Minister Todd McClay hosted Fijian Deputy Prime Minister and Trade Minister Hon Manoa Kamikamica and Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell for trilateral trade talks in Rotorua over the weekend.
“The meeting was an opportunity to understand how we can all best support each other. As friends and partners, we want to increase the benefits of trade for the people of Fiji and the broader region,” Mr McClay says.
“This is especially important given Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon have set an ambitious goal to hit NZ$2 billion of two-way trade by 2030.”
The trilateral talks included discussion of the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus and how it could support investment and jobs, improve living standards, and deepen Pacific trade connections.
Ministers also addressed Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji’s collaborative efforts to encourage World Trade Organisation members to ratify the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, which encourages ethical fishing practices.
The trade ministers released a trilateral joint statement following the meeting.
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 23 SEP 2024 11:01AM by PIB Delhi
Department of Sports launched Swachhta Hi Seva (SHS) Campaign, 2024 on 17th September, 2024, which will culminate on 2nd October, 2024. The Campaign is in line with the Government of India’s vision of a Swachh Bharat. The theme for SHS 2024, “Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskar Swachhata” (स्वभाव स्वछता, संस्कार स्वछता ) entails collective responsibility and active participation from all the citizens of the country. Three key pillars of this campaign are-
In SHS-2024 campaign, the Department of Sports and organizations under it, namely, Sports Authority of India (SAI), National Sports University (NSU), National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) and Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education (LNIPE) are working hand in hand to ensure widespread engagement and participation from every citizen, community, and organization during the fortnight to achieve the objective of SHS-2024.
The Department and its organizations are organizing various awareness and swacchata activities from 14th September 2024 onwards which include mass shramdaan all across the country, plantation drives under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, holding various competitions etc throughout the duration of Campaign.
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Himanshu Pathak
(Release ID: 2057724) Visitor Counter : 77
Source: Statistics New Zealand
Kiwifruit exports having golden season – 23 September 2024 – Kiwifruit exports were valued at $3.1 billion in the year ended August 2024, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.
This is an increase of $524 million (20 percent) when compared with the year ended August 2023.
“Kiwifruit export values for the season so far are the highest they have ever been,” international trade manager Viki Ward said.
“The kiwifruit export season is typically from March to November.”
Gold kiwifruit exports were $2.4 billion, up $457 million (24 percent) from year ended August 2023. This increase was driven by an increase in quantity (up 23 percent).
Visit Statistics NZ’s website to read this news story and information release:
MIL OSI –
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 22 SEP 2024 2:00PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment (SJE), Dr. Virendra Kumar will be the Chief Guest for the Sign Language Day-2024 celebrations tomorrow, at Bhim Hall, Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, Janpath, New Delhi. MoS (SJE), Shri B.L.Verma, will be the Guest of Honour on the occasion.
The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), New Delhi, under the aegis of Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) [DEPwD], Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, will be organising the event.
The theme of this year Sign Language Day-2024 is ‘Sign up for Sign Language Rights’. The world will once again highlight the unity generated by sign languages. World leaders and other government officials are invited to strive towards a better implementation of the Rights of Person with Disabilities at the national level through the linguistic human rights of deaf people; And, to Sign up for sign language rights by working with our local and national associations to announce the achievement of a concrete goal for deaf communities on Sign Language day.
During the event, the following Indian Sign Language (ISL) terms and Videos will be launched:
The ISLRTC celebrates the occasion every year ever since the United Nations declared 23rd September as the International Day of Sign Languages. DEPwD and ISLRTC are making all the possible efforts to bring more citizens, stakeholders, service-providing agencies, schools for deaf, NGOs, activists, deaf leaders, educators, researchers etc. together into the fold of Sign Language Day, in order to create positive awareness about ISL among all sections of our society.
The Day also reminds us of the need and importance of preserving sign languages as a part of linguistic and cultural diversity. All the professionals, parents of deaf, deaf students and institutions working in the field of Indian Sign Language, deaf education and differently-abled people from all walks of life are important target groups to rope into the Sign Language Day celebration.
Dignitaries gracing the occasion would include Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, DEPwD; Dr. Sharanjeet Kaur, Chairperson, RCI; Shri Rajeev Sharma, Joint Secretary, DEPwD; and, Dr. Jitendra Sharma, Director, ISLRTC. Representatives from National Association of Deaf, All India Federation of Deaf Women and Indore Deaf Bilingual Academy and other representatives of the Deaf Community will also present on the occasion.
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VM
(Release ID: 2057529) Visitor Counter : 553
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 22 SEP 2024 11:36PM by PIB Delhi
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met with His Highness Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, Crown Prince of the State of Kuwait, on the sidelines of the 79th session of the UNGA in New York today. This was the first meeting between the Prime Minister and the Crown Prince of Kuwa
Prime Minister conveyed that India attaches utmost importance to its bilateral relations with Kuwait. Both leaders recalled the strong historical ties and people-to-people linkages between the two countries. They noted with satisfaction that the two countries were supporting each other with energy and food security requirements. They expressed their firm commitment to deepen and diversify bilateral ties for the mutual benefit of both countries. Prime Minister thanked the Crown Prince for ensuring the well-being of the Indian community in Kuwait, which is the largest diaspora group in the country.
The meeting between the leadership of the two countries is expected to impart a fresh momentum to bilateral ties between India and Kuwait.
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MJPS/SR
(Release ID: 2057697) Visitor Counter : 34
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 22 SEP 2024 11:45PM by PIB Delhi
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met the President of Palestine, H.E. Mahmoud Abbas on 22 September 2024, on the sidelines of the Summit of the Future in New York.
Prime Minister expressed deep concern at the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza and the deteriorating security situation in the region and reaffirmed India’s unwavering support to the people of Palestine, including continued humanitarian assistance. Prime Minister reiterated India’s time-tested principled position on the Israel-Palestine issue, and called for ceasefire, release of hostages and return to the path of dialogue and diplomacy. He stressed that only a two State solution will deliver enduring peace and stability in the region. Recalling that India was one of the first countries to recognize Palestine, he conveyed India’s continued support to Palestine membership of the UN.
The two leaders held constructive discussion on various facets of India-Palestine bilateral relations, including India’s support to Palestine at the United Nations and ongoing assistance and support to Palestine in the field of education, health, and other capacity building efforts. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen India-Palestine bilateral relations.
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MJPS/SR
(Release ID: 2057698) Visitor Counter : 26
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 23 SEP 2024 7:08AM by PIB Delhi
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met H.E. Mr. K.P. Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Nepal, on the sidelines of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly today.
The two leaders reviewed the unique and close bilateral relationship between India and Nepal, and expressed satisfaction at the progress made in diverse sectors including development partnership, hydropower cooperation, people-to-people ties, and enhancing connectivity – physical, digital and in the domain of energy.
Prime Minister congratulated Nepal on becoming the 101st country to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as a full member, and underlined the importance of a regional response to the challenge of climate change.
Nepal is a priority partner of India under its Neighbourhood First Policy. This meeting continues the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between India and Nepal in furtherance of our Neighbourhood First policy.
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MJPS/SR
(Release ID: 2057696) Visitor Counter : 19
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 23 SEP 2024 7:01AM by PIB Delhi
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi interacted with technology industry leaders in New York in a Roundtable anchored by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), School of Engineering. The tech-roundtable focused on Artificial Intelligence and Quantum; Biotechnology and Life Sciences; Computing, IT and Communication; and Semiconductor technologies.
The CEOs participated in a deep dive with Prime Minister on the evolving technology landscape at a global level and how these cutting-edge technologies are contributing to the well-being of people around the world including in India. They touched upon how technology is being leveraged for innovations, which have the potential to revolutionize the global economy and human development.
Prime Minister appreciated the efforts of the MIT School of Engineering and its Dean for bringing the technology leaders together. He noted that technology collaboration and efforts such as the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies [ICET] lie at the core of the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. He stressed that in his third term, India will make every effort to become the third largest economy in the world. He encouraged the companies to take advantage of India’s growth story for collaboration and innovation. They can co-develop, co-design, and co-produce in India for the world, harnessing the opportunities from India’s economic and technological growth. He assured the business leaders of India’s deep commitment to protection of intellectual property and to fostering tech-innovation.
Prime Minister highlighted the economic transformation happening in India, particularly in electronics and information technology manufacturing, semiconductors, biotech and green development. He stated that his government was committed to making India a global hub of semiconductor manufacturing. He also dwelt on India’s BIO E3 policy to develop India into a biotech powerhouse. On AI, he noted that India’s policy is to promote AI for All, underpinned by its ethical and responsible use.
The CEOs expressed their strong interest in investing and collaborating with India. India’s growing prominence as a global technology hub, driven by its innovation-friendly policies and flourishing market opportunities, got much appreciation from the tech-leaders. They also agreed that investing in startups would be a synergistic opportunity to innovate and develop newer technologies in India.
MIT Professor Anantha Chandrakasan, Chief Innovation and Strategy Officer at the Institute and Dean of the MIT School of Engineering, who chaired the roundtable, thanked Prime Minister and CEOs for their participation, affirming MIT’s commitment to advancing technology and making it accessible for global good.
List of CEOs who attended the Roundtable:
|
Serial Number |
Name of the company |
Name of the CEO |
|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Accenture |
Ms. Julie Sweet, CEO |
|
2 |
Adobe |
Mr. Shantanu Narayen, Chairman, President, and CEO |
|
3 |
AMD |
Ms. Lisa Su, CEO |
|
4 |
Biogen Inc |
Mr. Chris Viehbacher, CEO |
|
5 |
Bristol Myers Squibb |
Mr. Chris Boerner, CEO |
|
6 |
Eli Lilly and Company |
Mr. David A. Ricks, CEO |
|
7 |
|
Mr. Sundar Pichai , CEO |
|
8 |
HP Inc. |
Mr. Enrique Lores, CEO & President |
|
9 |
IBM |
Mr. Arvind Krishna, CEO |
|
10 |
LAM Research |
Mr. Tim Archer, CEO |
|
11 |
Moderna |
Dr. Noubar Afeyan, Chairman |
|
12 |
Verizon |
Mr. Hans Vestberg, Chairman and CEO |
|
13 |
Global Foundaries |
Mr. Thomas Caulfield, CEO |
|
14 |
NVIDIA |
Mr. Jensen Huang, Founder, President and CEO |
|
15 |
Kyndryl |
Mr. Martin Schroeter, CEO |
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MJPS/BM
(Release ID: 2057695) Visitor Counter : 64