NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government turns back clock on pay equity for teachers

    Source: Post Primary Teachers Association (PPTA)

    “This claim has followed a robust and agreed process between all parties,” said PPTA Te Wehengarua President Chris Abercrombie.

    “We’ve conducted more than 300 interviews with teachers and comparator roles across the sector, using a consistent, agreed-upon tool to gather data. That evidence has been through consultation with both teachers and principals. To have the Government now walk away from that work is nothing short of disgraceful.”

    The Government’s announcement comes with no attempt to engage in a fair public process. “The Minister’s decision to bypass the select committee stage shows a lack of confidence in the public’s response. This Government knows New Zealanders value fairness—and it’s clearly afraid to face the backlash.”
    Chris Abercrombie said the move sends a disturbing signal in the lead-up to teacher collective negotiations. “This Government has made a choice—a deliberate choice not to value work that is predominantly done by women. It’s a message to teachers, many of whom engaged in the claim process in good faith, that their contribution doesn’t count. It feels like we’ve been sent back to the 1950s.
    “The integrity of the pay equity process is now being undermined by political interference. Every step in this process has met legal and procedural standards, and was conducted in good faith under an agreement with previous governments.
    “This isn’t just about teachers. This is about whether Aotearoa New Zealand is committed to addressing the historical undervaluation of women’s work. This decision breaks faith with that commitment.”
    Chris Abercrombie said the implications would be felt beyond the pay equity process. “At a time of ongoing teacher shortages, this sends the worst possible message about how we treat and retain our workforce. It’s also a blow to the trust teachers have in a process that was supposed to deliver justice and fairness. Our members are rightly angry.
    “When delivering last year’s budget and its completely unaffordable tax cuts, the Finance Minister said that her coalition government represented ‘the parties of the worker.’ 

    “No Government that was for the worker would treat this pay equity process – a process which goes to the heart of treating workers fairly – with such contempt. It’s mean-spirited, unfair and just plain wrong.”

    Last modified on Tuesday, 6 May 2025 12:43

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Post-Cabinet Press Conference: Monday 5 May 2025

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    POST-CABINET PRESS CONFERENCE: Monday, 5 May 2025

    EPIQ TRANSCRIPT

    PM:           Well, look, good afternoon, everyone. It’s great to be joined this afternoon by our awesome Trade Minister, Todd McClay, who’s doing some incredible work. As you know, it’s a big sitting block with the Budget at the end of it, and that Budget will then be there to underline this Government’s clear focus on economic growth and, as you know, growth is the primary focus of us and our Government and will continue to be at the core of everything we do. We know that these are challenging times and not easy. New Zealand is still recovering from the economic damage inflicted by Labour and further global instability has made things tough for Kiwis. But despite these challenges, we are overseeing a steady economic recovery with export-led growth and business confidence increasing, and we have started to turn the corner. 

    So this will be a growth Budget because economic growth means Kiwis have money in their pockets and we can fund better public services, and this will also be a responsible Budget, a predictable, steady approach to economic and fiscal management so that we can support economic growth. It is ultimately businesses that grow the economy through their decisions to expand, invest and create jobs, and the Government’s role is to create the conditions for them to do that, and this includes getting the basics right, such as low and stable inflation, manageable interest rates and credible fiscal management. 

    Promoting global growth and trade and investment is one of the five pillars to our Going for Growth plan, and it’s absolutely essential for New Zealand to maximise its potential and New Zealanders to enjoy higher incomes and better public services. As we so often say, we can’t get rich selling to ourselves, so the Government has a clear target to double the value of New Zealand’s exports in 10 years by 2034. And in 2023, to give you a feel for it, one in four of our jobs in New Zealand—around 680,000 New Zealanders—derive their livelihoods from producing goods and services for export. And in addition to bringing in additional revenue, businesses that export also boost New Zealand’s productivity by having more exposure to more diverse competition, connecting to new markets and consumers, and also investing in research and development and innovation. 

    I cannot overstate how important trade and investment is to this country, and that is why both Todd as Trade Minister and myself as Prime Minister are throwing our all into doing business with the world. My recent trip to the UK is actually a prime example. It was incredibly productive and the UK relationship, I think, has new vigour. We’ve always had very strong historical ties with a similar set of values and outlook on the world, but as Prime Minister Starmer and I noted, we now have new things to propel the relationship going forward in the years ahead, in the areas of defence and security, of course, but excitingly in our bilateral trade and investment too. Our free trade agreement with the UK provides New Zealand businesses with certainty of access to this high-value market and we have enjoyed export growth of more than 20 percent in the last 12 months. 

    But it’s not just the UK. The EU FTA, which we implemented earlier, has just reached its first anniversary and is already showing dividends since it was put into place, having generated an additional $1.2 billion and having grown exports up 28 percent. We’re opening up new markets as well, as you know, with our signed agreements in the UAE and the GCC recently, thanks to Todd’s relentless focus on closing those deals for the betterment of our exporters, and the launch of negotiations on an Indian FTA are an important step forward too. 

    So trade and growth will be critical to improving our economic prospects in the coming years and so our businesses can create those jobs and lift incomes for Kiwis. I’ll now pass over to Todd to talk a little bit more about our trade agenda and prospects ahead. 

    Hon Todd McClay:    Well, thank you, Prime Minister and good afternoon, everybody. It’s been a busy and important period of time for New Zealand trade and today I want to give an update on three key areas where we’re seeing growth and development: our trade growth with the EU one year after early entry into force of the free trade agreement, the first in-person free trade agreement negotiations with India, and our growing trade ties with the Gulf region. 

    Last week marked one year since the early entry into force of the New Zealand‒European Union free trade agreement, and the results speak for themselves. As the Prime Minister said, just in 12 months, total goods exports to the European Union from New Zealand surged by 28 percent, from $3.77 billion to $4.81 billion, and this is delivering real benefit for New Zealand exporters, particularly sheep meat exports, which grew 29 percent, worth an additional $216 million. Kiwifruit exports increased by 69 percent, worth an additional $316 million, and machinery exports were by 104 percent, which are worth an additional $173 million. 

    Importantly, the agreement delivers better market access, lower costs, and reduced barriers for New Zealand businesses. It’s also a strong example of our broader trade strategy, working to open up high-quality and high-value markets to double the value of exports in 10 years. We worked across the House last year to see the agreement entry into force many months earlier than had been forecast, and as an example, that meant that kiwifruit growers could take advantage of a full harvest season, adding an additional $18,000 on average for every kiwifruit grower in New Zealand. 

    I’m pleased to also confirm that the first in-person FTA negotiations between New Zealand and India will begin this week in India. This follows the Deputy Prime Minister’s successful visit to India last year, and the formal launch of negotiations by my counterpart, Minister Piyush Goyal, and myself during the Prime Minister’s very large and successful trade mission in April. India is one of the world’s fastest growing economies, with a current GDP of US$4.3 trillion, expected or forecast to grow to US$5.2 trillion by 2030. With a population of 1.4 billion people and current two-way trade of NZ$3.14 billion, there’s huge untapped potential for New Zealand exporters. These negotiations in person mark an important milestone and signal the intent of both governments to pursue a high-quality, comprehensive agreement that benefits both countries. The comprehensive FTA with India is also part of our strategy to diversify trade, expand export markets and deliver for all New Zealanders, and we’re focused on backing our exporters and attracting investment and growing the economy. 

    Finally, in the Middle East, following the conclusion of the GCC trade deal at the end of last year, momentum around trade and investment opportunities in that part of the world is growing. Last week I hosted Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Minister Al-Fadley, for the 9th New Zealand‒Saudi Arabian Joint Ministerial Commission in Auckland. This is an opportunity to showcase what New Zealand has to offer from food security, agritech, clean technology and education. The Saudi Arabian delegation included 37 officials and business leaders, and a strong signal of the interest in what New Zealand brings to the table. We’re preparing to sign the New Zealand‒GCC free trade agreement, which will deliver duty-free access for 99 percent of our exports to that market over time. And Saudi Arabia is already our largest trading partner in the Gulf and this agreement will help us grow exports in agriculture, food innovation, fintech, and much more. 

    So, to recap, the EU deal is delivering 12 months into the agreement, India in-person negotiations are beginning, and the Middle East holds great potential for New Zealand exporters. We’re working across the Government hard for Kiwis, securing deals and backing New Zealand exporters to succeed on the world stage.

    PM:           Well, thank you, Todd, and can I just say also thank you for the work that you’re doing because I know you’re on the plane a lot and, as I say, you are Trade McClay and we really appreciate what you’re doing. With that, happy to take any questions you may have. 

    Media:      Sticking on trade for a minute, have you seen Donald Trump’s latest social media post relating to the film industry and are you concerned about the impact it could have on New Zealand’s film industry? 

    PM:           I have seen it. Obviously, we need to see what the detail is, but what I’d just say to you is, having been at Weta Unleashed recently with Sir Richard Taylor, we’ve got an absolutely world-class industry. This is the best place to make movies in, period, in the world. That’s why I spent a lot of time with Bollywood actors and directors, actually, when I was in India, making the case for making more movies here, and we’ll continue to do so. So we’ll have to see the detail of what actually ultimately emerges, but obviously I’m a great advocate, great champion of that sector and that industry, and I think, you know, we want to keep making, you know, strong moves on it. 

    Media:      Does the threat of a 100 percent tariff on imported movies make you reconsider the film subsidies that the Government offers at all? 

    PM:           Look, again, you know, we’ve seen a post on social media. We need to understand what any details are. 

    Media:      [Inaudible] quite a lot of them.

    PM:           Yeah, yeah, sure. We’ll have to see what the details are. I’m just saying to you it’s a fantastic industry. It’s got amazing people. It’s got incredible technology associated with it, great jobs, and we’re going to continue to advocate very strongly for the sector. 

    Media:      What about the language that he’s using, that it’s a national security threat, it’s propaganda, all the movies coming—

    PM:           Well, I don’t comment on every utterance of the US President. I’m focused on New Zealand and maximising the opportunities for New Zealand. And all I’m saying is that’s what I’ve been doing is, you know, in that sector, which I just think is truly world-class. You know, I’ve been advocating for it in India for that exact same reason. What would it take to get more Bollywood productions here in New Zealand, and other places as well? 

    Media:      How damaging would that be to your goal of economic growth? I think US productions account for about $1.5 billion to the New Zealand screen industry every single year. How would that affect our economy if he went through with those tariffs? 

    PM:           Well, look, I mean, as we’ve been quite upfront about, you know, it’s a pretty—you know, there’s a lot of volatility in the global economic space and the global economy at the moment. You know, we’ve advocated strongly, you know, that we don’t believe tariffs is the way to go forward. We’ll continue to do that. But importantly, there are also swings and roundabouts and opportunities that come in that environment as well. And so, you know, it’s not possible for me to say what the exact effect of that would be; I just think it’s way too early. Let’s see the detail and see what’s being proposed and what actually does get implemented. 

    Media:      Can you rule out any changes to the rebate? 

    PM:           Look, again, I’ve just seen the post on the way through, on the way down here. It’s not something that we’ve given a lot of thought to yet. All I’m focused on is making sure we grow that sector and grow that great industry. 

    Media:      Have you given any consideration to increasing the rebate to try and incentivise productions to still come to New Zealand? 

    PM:           Again, way too soon. We haven’t given any thought to it. We’ve just seen a post from the US President. As I said, I don’t get into the habit of commenting on everything the President says. I’m focused on New Zealand growing all sectors with as many countries as I can, expanding trade and investment, as you’ve seen us do over the last 18 months, and we’ll continue to do so. 

    Media:      Just on that pivot to Bollywood that you were talking about, what sort of reaction did you get over in India when you were talking about potentially New Zealand being a bit more of a hub for those sort of movies? 

    PM:           Really positive. I mean, they have made movies here in New Zealand in the last 20 years or so, and my question to them was: what else would it take for you to do more productions here in New Zealand? And they’re very, very open to it. I mean, there’s a—

    Media:      What did they say to that? What would it take for them to do more? 

    PM:           Well, there are—there are things that we can—you know, obviously connectivity between India and New Zealand so that you can actually move kit and people in and out of the country in a much more seamless way, which is why air connectivity and air services become so important into the future as well. But no, they’re very open to it and it’s about us actually, often, in many cases, just making the case to the influencers and to the people. And that’s why I do these meetings is because, you know, they’ve got every other country in the world telling them why they’re a great place to come and do it. 

    You know, they know they get well supported here. They have really talented people to be able to work with in the productions here. Many New Zealanders in that sector are very much generalists—they are able to do many things, not just have the specialists—and therefore you often end up with smaller but much more efficient crews working on those productions. So, you know, I think there’s just a lot of opportunity for New Zealand. It is an amazing sector, as you all know, and a very important sector here for this city as well. 

    Media:      Prime Minister, is it appropriate for a Minister to frequently use their private e-mail accounts for ministerial business, including discussing policy ideas with members of the public? 

    PM:           Well, look, there’ll be times under the Cabinet Manual where, you know, people—Ministers will use personal e-mail or personal phone numbers, and that may be for a number of reasons. They may have received unsolicited emails. In many cases, I’m aware Ministers in the past have had technical issues around IT and printing materials. But what’s super important is that any materials are fully retained so that under an official information request, they’re actually available. 

    Media:      Are you comfortable with how often Erica Stanford is using her personal e-mail to conduct ministerial business? 

    PM:           Well, again, my office has spoken with her. I understand it’s been very few occasions. What I’d say is that she has had tech issues with printing. That’s a good example. I’m aware Ministers in the previous Government had the same—used personal emails in the same way. I’m very relaxed with the fact—

    Media:      One News has two folders with hundreds of pages that includes documents and emails that she has been sending and receiving from her private e-mail. Does that sound like very limited instances? 

    PM:           Well, again, as I said, I’m very relaxed about it. The reality is, you know, she has—you know, she’s received unsolicited emails, she’s had printing issues, she’s had tech issues. She’s made changes subsequently, she’s got the IT support that she needs in place and I’m very comfortable with it. I think she’s doing a great job. 

    Media:      She also sent sensitive Budget documents, ahead of them being announced publicly, to her Gmail account. Is that appropriate? 

    PM:           Well, again, I just say to you there will be moments under the Cabinet Manual where it’s quite acceptable for Ministers to use their personal—

    Media:      Is that [Inaudible] Budget documents before they’re released publicly?

    PM:            Well, there may well be if it’s printing purposes, if it’s—if there’s—because there’s technical reasons. As I understand it, in her case it’s actually been about printing challenges. She’s actually made the changes in the settings that she needed to, which has been good and really advisable, and I think that’s a really good thing. But I’m very relaxed about it. 

    Media:      Do you trust Gmail as a secure platform when people, Ministers, are sending Budget details? 

    PM:           Well, I’ll just say to you I think, you know, there are moments when you may well use your personal accounts for—in order for printing and for receiving unsolicited emails, right? 

    Media:      But it’s not as secure, [Inaudible].

    Media:      Is there no tech support in the building to sort out a printer problem?

    PM:           She’s made—she’s made subsequent changes to her processes of how to do that. She’s got the right IT support in place now. I’m really comfortable about it. 

    Media:      She’s a Minister of the Crown. How was there not tech support available for that? This is the Beehive. 

    PM:           Sorry? 

    Media:      How was there not tech support available for printing? It’s the Beehive. 

    PM:           I think if you go back and look at the last administration, Chris Hipkins was an example of a Minister who used his personal accounts for printing materials that he might need as well. So that’s what I’m saying, there’s been a—there’s a history of where, occasionally—

    Media:      So you think it’s OK?

    PM:           No, on—occasionally, under the Cabinet Manual, it’s quite OK and quite acceptable that there will be moments in time where people might need to use their personal phones and emails in order for things like printing materials or IT tech support. In her case, she’s subsequently gone on and made changes which I think are advisable and are really appropriate that she’s done that, and made sure that she’s put in place some processes and changes around that.

    Media:      Every instance was for printing? If it’s hundreds of pages—

    PM:           Well, I’m saying that as an example of how you may end up using your personal accounts for those purposes. 

    Media:      The main directive of the Cabinet Manual is that Ministers don’t use their personal emails or mobile phone numbers, and Erica Stanford is frequently using her personal e-mail. Have you looked into it? Are you keen to look into that further? Is that appropriate? 

    PM:           Look, I’m super relaxed about it. I have to be honest about it. I’ve looked at the issue. Erica’s office has spoken to my office about it. She’s made the changes that she needed to make about the processes of which she engaged with unsolicited emails or—she did have printing issues, you know. That is a common thing that I’ve seen with other Ministers in previous administrations as well. Having said that, it’s advisable what she has done to put in place checks to make sure that she’s managing it better going forward. And at the end of the day, you know, this is a Minister doing a brilliant job and a great job and, you know, I’m proud of the work she did just on this weekend doing the parental portal. 

    Media:      Prime Minister, just a couple of questions around Corrections. Do you support Mark Mitchell and his comments around wanting longer sentences as a way of trying to reduce re-offending? 

    PM:           Well, I think there’s two things going on there. One is I would say we definitely support longer sentences. That’s why we’ve, you know, had the sentencing discount legislation come through. That’s why we’ve got three strikes coming through and the work of Paul Goldsmith in that area. But once someone is in the Corrections facility it’s important that we do everything we can to get rehabilitation services to them, and all Mark’s doing is actually trying to understand where does the rehabilitation services work, and does term of service actually, you know, play into that or not, and how would we make sure we take the opportunity to actually make sure that we get the right rehabilitation services to the prisoners involved. 

    Media:      Have you seen or has Mark Mitchell put forward any evidence that supports that those two things—

    PM:           That’s the work that he’s kicked off, to have a look at what are the impacts of rehabilitation and does term of—length of time in the facility actually lead to better rehabilitation outcomes with longer run services or not. So that’s all he’s doing. All he’s doing is just looking at making sure our rehabilitation services—we want them to be deployed as much as possible to remand Corrections facilities, as you’ve seen, prisoners, and also those that have been sentenced. We want to get rehabilitation services out to as much as we can. 

    Media:      The end result in there, if you play it out, is potentially a lot more prisoners in prison for a longer amount of time, so how much money are you prepared to throw at more prison beds and more prison expenses? 

    PM:           Well, we’re interested in lowering crime. So the point, as you know, is that we’re quite comfortable with longer prison sentences. We have made changes with our legislation recently to do exactly that, on the sentencing discounts that we’ve stopped. But this is about—this is a separate piece of work. 

    Media:      It’s a blank cheque around prison beds and prison expansion, for the greater good and all that?

    PM:           Well, you don’t—you drive it through a principle and a value, which is that if people have offended, they need to make sure they’ve got a penalty that fits their offence. And the old model of just saying the only target we’ve got on crime is reducing prisoners—we actually want to reduce crime and we’re making some good progress on that. So how many prisoners we have and how long they’re in there will be a consequence of what happens with respect to crime in New Zealand. Sorry, last question for Jo here. 

    Media:      RNZ has been talking to staff at Palmerston North Hospital who don’t feel safe at work. There are reports of health workers getting abused and assaulted, including a nurse being held at gunpoint and another health worker knocked unconscious. They’d like hospital security guards to be given the same powers as those in Parliament and court, in order to be able to physically restrain people. Do you support that? 

    PM:           Well, look, we have supported an increase of security in emergency departments, as you know. It’s one of the first actions we took when we came to Government, and Dr Shane Reti implemented that. I’m very open to considering what more we can do to make sure our workers are safe. I’m not aware of that particular issue, but feel free to raise that with Simeon Brown. 

    Media:      Minister McClay, just on the—

    PM:           Jack, welcome back. I saw you on TV covering some electorates over the weekend. Well done. 

    Media:      Thank you. We’ll get to that later. But Minister McClay, just on the Trump tariffs, New Zealand had one of the best deals under the previous tariffs. That might not be the case anymore with this 100 percent on film production. What do you say to that, that New Zealand’s sort of getting a raw deal now as the tariff situation progresses? 

    Hon Todd McClay:    Well, New Zealand’s not being treated worse than other countries, as we see it at the moment. It seems that the new bottom tariff rate out of the US will be 10 percent. There’s no evidence yet—although we’ll see whether or not they, through negotiation, will fall below that. There’s some early anecdotal evidence from our exporters that they are seeing increased interest from the US in products from New Zealand. Some of that could be because, you know, tariff rates elsewhere in the world have been fluctuated so US importers haven’t got the certainty that they need. But I think, as the Prime Minister has said, in everything we do, we’ve got to get as much information as we can. So, for instance, the announcement over films that you have just asked about, we’re not yet sure exactly how it will be put in place—whether it’s complete films, parts of films, just technology to add to films and so on. So once we get more information following the social media posts, we’ll be in a better position to provide that. 

    Media:      When the US first announced tariffs, they got the figure wrong on the reciprocal number. Have you had strengthened communication with the United States? I know you’ve been doing deals around the world, but have you been focusing on the US? 

    Hon Todd McClay:    So we’ve had a lot of engagement. I expect to meet my counterpart, Jamieson Greer, in about two weeks’ time at the APEC Trade Ministers’ meeting in Korea. it will be my first opportunity to meet in person, although we have had a long Zoom call with each other. In effect, the way it has been clarified is it wasn’t the tariff rate they were speaking of, they’d just taken the imbalance in trade and applied that to the equivalent of a tariff. Irrespective of that, the lowest tariff rate put on any country was 10 percent, which is where we are. I actually think Australia had a better trade deal than we did because we haven’t got a trade deal, and they faced 10 percent as well. 

    Media:      Just on [Inaudible], Prime Minister, sorry, Anthony Albanese was asked at a press conference today about the world leaders that had congratulated him. He unfortunately left New Zealand off the list initially. In that conversation, were you not speaking slowly enough and simply enough for the Prime Minister to understand?

    PM:           Can I just tell you, in that conversation I reckon he was still in his pyjamas, as I said to him, and I reckon he had a very hoarse voice so it was very early in the morning of the night after, the day after. But, look, he’s a good friend. I mean, obviously you know he and I knew each other before I came to politics as well and we’ve got a good personal relationship and chemistry, and we talked about, you know, a little bit about the election and then into how we can continue to do the good work of Australia and New Zealand out there on the world stage together. 

    Media:      On Lake Alice, there’s court action at the moment saying that the redress system is breaching international law and also that $150,000 isn’t enough. Have you got a response to those survivors? 

    PM:           Look, what I’ll just say to you, I acknowledge Mr Richards’ decision to seek a judicial review. I’m in a position where it’s inappropriate for me to comment on those individual circumstances or cases. 

    Media:      [Inaudible] haven’t signed on to the redress system so far? 

    PM:           We are working through improving the redress system, as you know, and we’ll have—Erica Stanford will have something to say about that very soon. 

    Media:      Just for a colleague, on the international investigation last week revealing how Chinese authorities targeted families of Chinese dissidents and Uyghur advocates in New Zealand after they spoke out, were you briefed on that situation and do you have any concerns following that? 

    PM:           It’s not something that I’ve been specifically briefed on at this point, but I’ll follow up after this. 

    Media:      Sorry, just going back to those Budget documents that were sent to a Gmail, are you comfortable that it was only that one case? Are there any other ones that you are concerned about? 

    PM:           Look, all I’m just saying to you is that the Cabinet Manual says there—you know, we want Ministers to be able to use their work devices and obviously e-mail and phones, but there will be on occasion reasons for why they need to use their personal ones. As I said, in the past it’s been because of printing issues. In Erica’s position that’s largely been, as I understand, what it’s been about. There’s also unsolicited emails that we get through personal e-mail accounts, and that’s—she’s put in place now processes to make sure that actually that’s all handled properly and everything’s directed through her account. 

    Media:      [Inaudible] sensitive Budget documents. Are you comfortable with that being sent to Gmail?

    PM:           Yeah, look, I’m really comfortable with where—what—the changes that Erica’s made. Completely advisable. But I’m just saying to you, you know, I’m very relaxed about it, yeah.

    Media:      On the CPTPP and EU kind of idea, what’s the latest on that? Have you had any further talks with leaders and how much of this is firming up into a real plan, versus sort of at a blue sky thinking stage? 

    PM:           Well, look, I mean, I’ve spoken to many different leaders. I spoke to Mark Carney again yesterday as well, and I spoke to Lawrence Wong, obviously around their elections, but on this issue in general. All we’re—all I was saying there was that, you know, in a world where what we’ve got—you know, you think about the US trade bloc. It’s about 13 percent of global trade, from memory. You know, you’ve got the CPTPP and you’ve got EU, probably 30 percent plus of global trade. You know, what we want to make sure is that we have people reaffirm the trading rules so that when there are disputes between countries, we want to make sure that they are following and compliant with those rules, you know. We don’t need tit-for-tat tariffs between different trading blocs, for example, emerging. 

    So that’s the nature of the conversation that we’ve been having with leaders. And, you know, I think—you know, and whether it’s been ASEAN leaders or whether it’s been CPTPP leaders or EU leaders, it’s just been making sure that we all understand that we want to maintain the trading system and we want to make sure that we continue to operate within it, and that where there are disputes and mechanisms, that they’re used properly. 

    Media:      So in terms of the outcomes that you’re looking for here, is it just—on those leader-to-leader conversations—making sure everyone’s still on the same page, or is there something more that you had expected or are expecting to come out of this in terms of some sort of formal understanding?  

    PM:           My immediate focus is to make sure that everyone’s staying cool, calm and collected through it, everybody’s making sure that we reaffirm the trading-based system so that we actually don’t get blocs going to war with each other as a consequence of the instability in the tariff situation globally, and just reassuring and making sure that everyone’s reassured around that. I spoke, as I said, to the Irish Prime Minister. I spoke to Keir Starmer about it. I spoke to Ursula von der Leyen and other leaders as well about it, and I think there’s very good alignment across the system to make sure that that doesn’t break down. 

    Media:      Prime Minister, do you believe that one of the factors in the Canadian and the Australian election wins was a backlash against Trump’s policies?

    PM:           No, what I believe it was about was—as I think about the Singaporean election, where the popular vote went up, when I think about the Australian election and the Canadian election, there were some different dynamics in each of those elections, obviously, but for me what it really is about is people wanting to endorse incumbent governments that actually have strong economic management in very uncertain times, and actually that’s what I think our Government’s done very well. We’ve been very focused from day one. You’ve heard me say it. Rebuild the economy to lower the cost of living. That’s what our task has been about, and actually we’ve got commercially literate, economically literate leadership in place in New Zealand in a very difficult and challenging time. So I think that’s really about strong economic management. Now, when you see the parties that have lost, it’s because they’ve been focused on things that actually haven’t mattered to the population. You’ve got to be able to be focused, you know, ruthlessly on lowering the cost of living. That’s what people care about. 

    Media:      Can you break that down in the Australian example? Are you saying that the left-leaning Labour Party are the strong economic managers, and the right-leaning, broad-church Liberal Party are not? 

    PM:           Well, I’m not commenting on the individual elections. I’m just saying to you when I look at, you could argue, a centre-right Government in Singapore that increased its vote because it’s got strong economic management in very uncertain times, which you heard Prime Minister Wong talk to—likewise, you see what’s happened in the UK, where a Conservative Government didn’t focus on the economics and manage the economy well. I think of Liz Truss and the damage that was done to the Conservative Party there. So I’m just saying it’s too simplistic to go, “It’s a centre-left or centre-right argument”. It’s actually about incumbent governments that have strong economic management. When the public’s feeling anxiety about global uncertainty, they want to know that there’s great leadership in place that can navigate them through that. 

    Media:      [Inaudible] the losers in those election results had been distracted by other things, so is it fair to say that the Libs in Australia were distracted by other things—

    PM:           Well, I’m not—

    Media:      —and would you categorise some of that as being about some of the Trump-like policies they were driving? 

    PM:           Well, no, all I’m saying to you is, as a leader of a political party in a coalition Government here in New Zealand, it’s very important that we are focused on the things that New Zealanders care about, and we are. And the number one thing that they care about, and you hear all the time, is about the economy and cost of living. That is the number one concern. That’s why it’s been—you know, you get sick of me talking about it, I know you guys do, but that’s why I’ve been banging on about the economy from day one, because that’s the thing that makes the single biggest difference to the people out there. That’s what they care about. And so all you’re seeing with those election results and those three over the last week is essentially, you know, the public, quite rightly, want their politicians focused on delivering for them and making their life better. And we do that by focusing on the economy, getting more money into their back pocket. 

    Media:      Prime Minister, Toitū Te Tiriti rōpū have been granted an urgent hearing in front of the Waitangi Tribunal on the Regulations Standards Bill. How concerned are you that the claimants—there’s 12,000 claimants to be heard in that claim. 

    PM:           Well, we’ll have more to say about the Regulatory Standards Bill. As you know, it’s on our quarterly action plan and we’ll talk about that in due course, but it would be premature for me to talk about that. 

    Media:      How concerned are you, though, that this could be as big as the hīkoi on the Treaty Principles Bill? 

    PM:           Well, again, we’ll go through a process about—you know, the objective of that Bill is to make sure we make better regulation in New Zealand. That’s what that’s about. And so, you know, let’s let that play out and go through the normal process, where I’m sure there’ll be submissions and feedback on the Bill as it goes through a select committee process. But it’s a bit too premature to jump to that conclusion. 

    Media:      Going through the process then, will you be voting it down at second reading? 

    PM:           Well, no, we’re going through a process. A Bill will get produced and go to a first reading. 

    Media:      I thought it was the same process as the Treaty Principles Bill. No? 

    PM:           Sorry, I don’t understand your question. 

    Media:      The Government’s support, the National Party’s support of the Regulatory Standards Bill. 

    PM:           No, we’re committed to delivering a Regulatory Standards Bill into law here in New Zealand, but we’ve got a process to work through. The Bill is about making sure this is—you know, that Governments make good regulation and that we make better rules and better laws and better—and do that policy development in a much better way. And so, you know, we need to let that Bill go through the process as it normally would, exactly as Fast Track did, as other Bills that we’ve gone through as a Government. We’ve worked our way through it. 

    Media:      Prime Minister, just back to Mark’s questions around chatting to world leaders around trade and stability there, have you had a chance to talk to Winston Peters further about this and your Government’s strategy, how you’re going to— 

    PM:           I think what you’re all misunderstanding is that there are four Ministers that have been working really closely together from day one, and we come together as a small group—in fact, we’re meeting again this week—and that is myself, obviously, as Prime Minister, Winston, obviously, as Foreign Minister, Judith as Defence Minister and Todd as Trade Minister. And in all of these conversations, which obviously have overlapping areas, we work really, really closely together. So we have conversations all the time on all of these issues and we’ll continue to do so. So we’re very aligned on what we’re trying to achieve. We’re trying to lift the intensity, the urgency and the relevancy of New Zealand with our partners, with the benefit of expanding defence and security, making sure that we can drive trade and investment, and making sure we have good standing with—and good reputation with all partners. 

    Media:      Sorry, just to follow up, I understand that you obviously meet regularly and that you’re on the same page there at a high level, but it was the Foreign Minister or the Deputy Prime Minister who raised specifically how you were doing that and whether the steps were being discussed.

    PM:           Look, I think I spoke about that ad nauseum several weeks ago when you first raised it. 

    Media:      Sure. 

    PM:           I’m just saying to you we know exactly what we’re doing and we’re very much in sync and lined up on all of this stuff. 

    Media:      On Lake Alice, the Attorney-General is named as a defendant on that case. I understand you can’t speak about the substance of the case, but has Judith Collins either recused herself or have you asked her to put in place any kind of management around response to the state abuse— 

    PM:           Look, I’m not going to get into the case and I—

    Media:      I’m sorry, I’m not asking you to get into the case.  

    PM:           Yeah, no, I get that. I understand. 

    Media:      Yeah. In terms of managing her conflict there, as she is now named as a—

    PM:           Any conflicts are well managed within our Government, yeah.

    Media:      And how is that being managed in this case?

    PM:           Again, I’m not going to go into detail with that now. Suffice to say that there’s an issue before the courts. We’ll let that complainant go through that process and we will manage any conflicts that are a result of that. 

    Media:      Prime Minister, with the respect to the CCCFA reform, the Government’s making the choice to retrospectively legislate, which is unusual. Aren’t you running the risk of looking as if the Government is favouring the Australian banks over New Zealand borrowers by doing so? What’s the rationale? 

    PM:           Look, again, I would encourage you to talk to Scott Simpson about the CCCFA because it’s quite a technical question and I think in fairness, as the Minister—

    Media:      You’re not aware of the Cabinet position? 

    PM:           No, I’m well aware of the Cabinet position, but what I’m saying to you is I also hold my Ministers accountable and I expect them to answer technical questions. If you want—

    Media:      [Inaudible] so unusual, I would have thought that you would have a view. 

    PM:           Well, no, we’re quite comfortable with it in this process. As I said, we passed this through the Cabinet. We discussed it. The CCCFA was a total dog’s breakfast from the previous administration, designed to clamp down on predatory lending and ended up actually squeezing a whole bunch of liquidity for people trying to access funding for mortgages. Getting asked how much you’re spending on Netflix, how much coffee you’re having, what sort of pet food you use; all of that stuff is not what it’s about. 

    Media:      [Inaudible] is retrospective legislation which would effectively kill off a piece of class action which has been underway for six years or so, and which starts with legislation which was effectively put in place by [Inaudible]—

    PM:           Yeah, again, I’ll just direct you to Scott Simpson if you want to talk about that. 

    Media:      The only benefactors of what Peter is talking about are the two Australian banks. Why, in the climate and given all of the rhetoric that has been going on around clamping down on banks, would the Government want to put themselves in a position where the banks get off scot-free? 

    PM:           Well, again, you know, we’re fixing the CCCFA, given the mess that it created, and we’ve made that decision as a Cabinet. If you want to direct technical questions, can I just suggest you talk to Scott Simpson about it? 

    Media:      It’s a very simple question. From a Government that has taken a very strong position on things like supermarkets, banks—you’ve made these inquiries and investigations—you have a situation in front of you where two Australian-owned banks who make significant, billion-dollar profits are the only people that are going to benefit from this retrospective legislation. Why would your Government want to take that position?

    PM:           No, we’re fixing legislation because of liquidity challenges, where regular people couldn’t get mortgages for their housing because something that was designed to deal with predatory lending has ended up creating, you know, an unintended or intended consequence or unintended consequence. So there’s a lot more going on in the legislation reset than just what you’re talking about. 

    Media:      The people who brought this class action might be facing their own liquidity challenges, and your retrospective legislation is effectively allowing hundreds of millions of dollars of money that they’re owed to go to Australian—

    PM:           Sorry guys, I’m not going to get into it. I’ll let you talk to Scott Simpson and he can go through the details with you. 

    Media:      But as a principle of natural justice and the rule of law, shouldn’t Cabinet have a position on the rightness of retrospectively legislating hundreds of millions of dollars away that people are owed in New Zealand? 

    PM:           Look, we’ve had our Cabinet conversation, this decision we’ve made and we’re comfortable with it. If you want to ask technical questions, go to Scott Simpson. OK, team—

    Media:      Did you have all the information when you made that decision—

    PM:           Yes. 

    Media:      —and are you going to go back and look at it at all? 

    PM:           We had all the decisions, and again, direct the questions to Scott. Right, last question. 

    Media:      Just back to Erica Stanford again, you’ve dismissed most of it as a printing issue, but if she was discussing policy ideas with members of the public from a personal e-mail account, do you not see that as problematic? 

    PM:           What is problematic is when materials from personal e-mail accounts are not retained for official information purposes. That is the problem. And so, in this case, as I—you know, all those materials—I’m not aware of any materials not having been retained and any official information requests that actually ask for those emails, they’ve been provided, as I understand it. 

    Media:      Is it a fact that she has been discussing policy issues with members of the public, and does that extend to budget-sensitive information? 

    PM:           Well, there is unsolicited e-mail correspondence that happens from, you know, relationships that she will have through—that come through a private e-mail account. Again, she’s now put in place mechanisms to make sure that actually that is managed more appropriately going forward. I think that is appropriate. She’s got technical fixes that actually help support that. That’s a good thing. OK. 

    Media:      On Sir Brian Roche—

    PM:           On Sir Brian Roche, yeah. 

    Media:      On Sir Brian Roche taking over the teachers’ negotiations, do you think he’ll do a better job than the Ministry would, and do you want to see him do collective negotiations more throughout the public service? 

    PM:           I’m a big supporter of more centralised bargaining, yeah, done through the PSC.

    Media:      Has she discussed budget-sensitive information with members of the public before it’s public? 

    PM:           Again—

    Media:      Stuart Nash got sacked for that. 

    PM:           Yeah, I’m just saying to you—no, I’m just saying to you it’s quite appropriate through the Cabinet Manual that actually people may use their personal e-mail accounts and phone numbers for conversations, but those materials have to be retained. They have been retained. They are available for official information requests. That’s the important thing here. OK. All right, guys. Thanks so much. 

    conclusion of press conference

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Negotiations on the abolition of tariffs on imports of fisheries products from the Maldives – E-001612/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001612/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tomáš Zdechovský (PPE)

    Negotiations between the EU and the Maldives on the possible abolition of tariffs on imports of fisheries products have been ongoing for seven years, with no resolution in sight. Last year, the Maldives ratified the Samoa Agreement, taking a further step towards closer cooperation with the EU and joining the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). After years of negotiations, it is crucial that significant progress is made on this issue.

    • 1.What is the current state of play of negotiations between the EU and the Maldives?
    • 2.What are the obstacles currently preventing the conclusion of a mutual agreement?
    • 3.Within what timeframe does the Commission envisage the possible resolution of the outstanding issues?

    Submitted: 23.4.2025

    Last updated: 5 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Nominations now open for the 2025 WIN DRR Leadership Awards

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    The nominations for the 2025 Women’s International Network for Disaster Risk Reduction (WIN DRR) Leadership Awards are now open! Nominate yourself or others by 20 June 2025 for:

    • The Rising Star Award (US$ 7,500): Granted to an individual woman who has demonstrated leadership potential early in her disaster risk reduction career.
    • The Excellence Award (US$ 10,000): Granted to an individual woman who has achieved exceptional professional success in disaster risk reduction. This award is sponsored by SM Prime Holdings.

    About

    The WIN DRR Leadership Awards celebrate and recognize women’s achievements in disaster risk reduction across the Asia-Pacific region. The awards are part of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) flagship women’s leadership initiative, WIN DRR, supported by the Government of Australia.

    WIN DRR is a professional network to support women working in disaster risk reduction and is open to all. To join, please complete this form.

    The 2025 WIN DRR Leadership Awards will be presented as part of the UNDRR celebrations of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction in October 2025.

    Eligibility for the awards

    Nominations for the 2025 WIN DRR Leadership Awards are encouraged from across the WIN DRR network and the broader disaster risk reduction community. Individuals can nominate themselves or others by completing the nomination form (see link below) by 20 June 2025. Nominees must identify as women and be citizens or permanent residents of Asia-Pacific countries, who are working on disaster risk reduction across the Asia-Pacific region. For the purposes of the awards, those countries include: Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Japan, Kiribati, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Micronesia (Federated States of), Mongolia, Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Viet Nam.

    People who are currently or who have previously worked as staff for UNDRR or the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) are not eligible for the awards, though they are able to nominate others. People who are currently contracted with UNDRR in any capacity (e.g. as an intern, consultant or UNV), and people who are working for organizations that are currently contracted or receiving a grant from UNDRR are also ineligible.

    Make your nominations here.

    If you have any questions regarding the awards, please contact [email protected].

    Another big congratulations to the 2024 WIN DRR Leadership Awards winners Maria Linibi and Robyn Mijares! You can read more on all the 2024 Excellence Award finalists here and the Rising Star Award finalists here.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview with Natalie Barr, Sunrise

    Source: Australia’s climate in 2024: 2nd warmest and 8th wettest year on record

    Natalie Barr, Host: For more, we’re joined by Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs in Adelaide. Good morning to you.

    Penny Wong, Foreign Minister: Good morning, Nat. Great to be with you.

    Barr: Let’s talk about these tariffs on the film industry. 100 per cent on films produced outside the US, that would be huge for films made in Australia. What can you do about it?

    Foreign Minister: Look, I heard President Trump made some comments overnight about talking to the industry about the effect of it. We all know how many films we see made in Australia, made between Australian and American filmmakers. We know how many Australian actors are beloved by American audiences. So, we obviously will be pressing our view about this to the US Administration. But I do welcome the fact that the President has indicated he’s going to engage with the studios about it. You know, we want to be able to see films where you get both Aussie actors and American studios working together.

    Barr: Yeah, because this is a $5 billion industry in Australia. We’ve seen pictures just yesterday of Owen Wilson, the Hollywood star, in Brisbane shooting a movie. It injects millions into this country and the flow on effect is huge. Thousands of jobs are tied to it. But he seemed pretty set on 100 per cent. That would wipe out films being made here.

    Foreign Minister: And I think the issue is audiences in the US as well as in Australia like to see Australian actors. We know American films are also filmed here in Australia. You know, the Fall Guy, the Elvis film. So, the reality is that the industry is set up where we do cooperate together. So, we certainly will be engaging not just for the economic opportunity, which you point out it’s a big, it’s a big earner for Australia, but also because it’s a good thing for us to be working together on films, and on entertainment.

    Barr: Okay, well, look, keep us posted and let us know how you go with Donald Trump.

    Foreign Minister: I’ll do that, I’ll do that.

    Barr: Thank you, Penny.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ABC News Breakfast with Bridget Brennan

    Source: Australia’s climate in 2024: 2nd warmest and 8th wettest year on record

    Bridget Brennan, Host: We’re joined now by the Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, who’s in Adelaide. Good morning to you, Penny Wong, and congratulations.

    Penny Wong, Foreign Minister: Good morning, good to be with you and thank you. And I want to start by thanking your viewers for the opportunity and responsibility that’s been entrusted to us and we’re really conscious of what a privilege that is and we will work every day to repay the trust that Australians have shown in us.

    Brennan: Seeing you up on the stage on Saturday night, there seemed to be an even more jubilant mood than 2022. Did the election result take you by surprise and what was the mood on Saturday night?

    Foreign Minister: Well, it was pretty electric in the room and my family was there, which was lovely, and my daughters did say how loud it was. So, I don’t know whether you got a sense of that on the camera, but it was pretty loud when I got up on stage. It’s been a long time since, you know, a Prime Minister was re-elected. And it’s certainly been a long time, you know, since we’ve seen that kind of, that kind of emphatic decision. And it really showed, I think, that the Liberal Party doesn’t represent middle Australia. That’s really the clear message of the election result.

    Brennan: Were you expecting seats into the 80s in the lower house?

    Foreign Minister: Can I just say it’s at the upper end of my expectations, but I think if you look at the metropolitan electorates around the country, overwhelmingly, Australians who live in cities and suburbs looked at the Liberal Party and said, ‘you don’t represent my aspirations, you don’t reflect the things I’m worried about, you don’t reflect where I want to go.’ And you know that is the clear message from the election. As I said, we’re really humbled by and grateful for the opportunity and we understand what it means.

    Brennan: Why do you think it appears Chinese-Australian voters swung towards the Labor Party again at this election? And what impact do you think your messaging had on WeChat, for example, in seats like Menzies?

    Foreign Minister: I’ll leave others to the commentary about me, but I was out expressing the same thing I’ve been saying for a long time, which is that the Liberal Party’s approach to a whole range of issues are of concern to the Australian-Chinese community. I thought Jane Hume saying, asserting that Labor volunteers, Chinese volunteers were spies was an extraordinary thing to say. And it continued a pattern of comments and behaviour by the Liberal Party that Chinese Australians were rightly concerned by. And we did see in many seats in Bennelong, in Chisholm, in Menzies, in Reid and beyond, Chinese Australians being really clear about their views about the Liberal Party.

    Brennan: You made the step of acknowledging country as you stepped onto the stage on Saturday night, which I’ve heard meant a lot to Aboriginal Australians after what had happened in the previous week. This is not a gotcha question about your comments on the Voice at all. I just would ask you to reflect on the media’s response to those comments where you had looked at a social issue that may take many decades to progress on reconciliation and acknowledgement of Aboriginal people and yet it was sort of used as a sort of gotcha moment in those final days of the campaign. Did that disappoint you?

    Foreign Minister: Of course, look, it was an inaccurate beat up. But I think more importantly, what it did show Australians is that the reflex for the Liberal Party was to have a culture war and get very aggro, let’s be frank. Whereas most Australians weren’t there, most Australians wanted to talk about Medicare and schools and cost of living and tax cuts and fee-free TAFE and childcare and 20 per cent off their HECS debt. That’s where most Australians were. But the Coalition, yet again, their reflex is to have a culture war, which is often very hurtful to First Nations Australians, but more generally to people who care about reconciliation. So, I think it was a demonstration of why the Liberal Party has done so badly in Australia’s cities and suburbs.

    Brennan: Overnight we’ve heard of tariffs on incoming films made outside of the United States into America. This could have a damaging effect on our industry here in Australia. What will be your message to the Trump administration on this decision?

    Foreign Minister: Well, our message is we make great films together. We collaborate together. We’ve got Australian actors who work on American films. We have films, American films, which are filmed here in Australia. We have collaboration between our artists in the creative industries. The collaboration is a good thing. So, let’s not get in the way of that.

    Brennan: And will you serve another term as Foreign Minister, Penny Wong?

    Foreign Minister: I absolutely will. And I’m really looking forward to not only doing good things this term, but working in a government that has the capacity to be a really long-term Labor Government and change this country for the better.

    Brennan: Alright, thanks for your time this morning.

    Foreign Minister: Great to speak with you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Late-Autumn Storm Lashes New Zealand

    Source: NASA

    Severe weather battered New Zealand’s east coast in late April and early May, bringing damaging winds and heavy rain to low-lying areas and late-autumn snowfall to the mountains. A state of emergency was declared for parts of the South Island, including its largest city, Christchurch, after a low-pressure system caused flooding, landslides, power outages, and travel disruptions, according to news reports.
    The image above (right) shows the central portion of New Zealand’s South Island on May 5, several days after the storm moved through. Higher elevations are blanketed in snow, and coastal waters are brightened by suspended sediment, likely from a combination of river discharge and material stirred up from the seafloor. In comparison, the mountains are mostly snow-free and coastal waters are clearer in an image from March 6 (left). Both were acquired with the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Terra satellite.
    Ground stations recorded 52.4 millimeters (2.1 inches) of rainfall in Christchurch on April 30, followed by 62.4 millimeters (2.5 inches) on May 1, according to New Zealand’s MetService. Both days exceeded the average monthly rain totals for their respective months, and even higher totals were reported elsewhere in the region. Some Christchurch residents evacuated as rivers rose and water inundated homes, submerged roads, and triggered landslides, The New Zealand Herald reported.
    Snowfall was significant in some mountainous regions. The Mount Hutt ski area west of Christchurch saw estimated accumulations of up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) from the storm. Over 10 centimeters (4 inches) fell along the shore of Lake Tekapo, according to news reports, and ski areas farther south received a dusting.
    Strong southerly winds amplified the storm’s effects on the North Island, with speeds exceeding 150 kilometers (93 miles) per hour in Wellington. The gales ripped roofs off of homes, caused power outages, and led to canceled flights in and out of the city on May 1. Meteorologists warned of coastal flooding at high tide due to strong swells.
    NASA Earth Observatory images by Wanmei Liang, using MODIS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE and GIBS/Worldview. Story by Lindsey Doermann.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – ENISA agreement with the Republic of Korea – E-001002/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Close cooperation with like-minded countries is essential in order to enhance preparedness and resilience in cybersecurity. As explained in Recital 54 of Regulation (EU) 2019/881[1], cyber threats are a global problem, and therefore close international cooperation is necessary to improve cybersecurity standards, and to promote swifter response to network and information security issues.

    In this context, Article 12 of that regulation states that the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) should support the EU involvement and cooperation with third countries and international organisations.

    ENISA’s International strategy[2] from November 2021 sets out that international cooperation should focus on partners with which the EU has strategic economic relationships, and which share EU values.

    The EU has regular exchanges on cybersecurity with South Korea framed under the ongoing Cyber Dialogue, which is co-chaired by Commission services and the European External Action Service.

    It is in that context that further discussions on inter-agencies cooperation on cybersecurity could be considered, taking into account the overall priorities of international engagements of both parties as well as the mandate of the respective agencies.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2019/881/oj/eng
    • [2] https://www.enisa.europa.eu/sites/default/files/all_files/2022-02-16 ENISA International Strategy.pdf
    Last updated: 5 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kim, Connolly Bill to Support Taiwan Passes House

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

    Washington, DC – Today, the House passed the Taiwan International Solidarity Act (H.R. 2416), a bipartisan bill led by Reps. Young Kim (CA-40) and Gerry Connolly (VA-11) to counter Beijing’s attempts to exclude Taiwan from participating in international organizations. 

    “Beijing continues to do all it can to isolate Taiwan from the outside world and silence Taiwan’s voice on the world stage. Taiwan has a track record of success in democracy and global health security, and its perspective deserves to be heard,” said Kim, who serves as chairwoman of the House Foreign Affairs East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee. “The Taiwan International Solidarity Act helps the United States demonstrate through meaningful action our support for Taiwan’s status in international organizations. I’m glad the House could show our bipartisan support for Taiwan today. Taiwan’s participation in global conversation is the world’s gain.”  

    “For too long, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has distorted policies and procedures at international organizations to assert its sovereignty claims over Taiwan, often to the detriment of global health, governance, and security efforts,” said Connolly. “This bipartisan legislation ensures that we stand against Beijing’s weaponization of international organizations and in solidarity with the wishes and best interests of the people of Taiwan. I am thrilled it has passed the House today.” 

    The Taiwan International Solidarity Act builds on the Taiwan Allies International Protection and Enhancement Initiative (TAIPEI) Act, which was signed into law in March 2020, to further counter the People Republic of China’s attempts to weaponize international organizations to claim that Taiwan is part of China by distorting the language, policies, and procedures of international organizations by: 

    • Clarifying that U.N. General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not preclude the United States from using its vote, voice, and influence to resist the reckless campaign against Taiwan’s place on the world stage. 
    • Encouraging the U.S. to work with allies and partners to oppose the People’s Republic of China’s efforts to undermine Taiwan’s diplomatic relationships and partnerships globally.  
    • Expanding reporting requirements to include information relating to any prior or ongoing attempts by the People’s Republic of China to undermine Taiwan’s participation in international organizations as well as its ties and relationships with other countries.  

    Read the bill here.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of projected “Trump Slump,” Governor Newsom announces record-high tourism — again

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 5, 2025

    What you need to know: California remains the #1 state for tourism, with record-high tourism spending reaching $157.3 billion in 2024. However, the Trump administration’s policies and rhetoric are driving away tourists, killing tourism and hospitality jobs, and already leading to decreased tourism projections.

    SACRAMENTO — Governor Newsom and Visit California today announced that California’s tourism spending continued to grow in 2024, reaching a record-high of $157.3 billion in tourism spending throughout the state — an increase of 3% from 2023, another record-spending year.  This comes after recent news that California’s economy is now the fourth-largest economy in the world and experienced a population increase for the second year in a row.

    “California dominates as a premier destination for travelers throughout the nation, and around the globe. With diverse landscapes, top-rate attractions, and welcoming communities, California welcomes millions of visitors every year. We also recognize that our state’s progress is threatened by the economic impacts of this federal administration, and are committed to working to protect jobs and ensure all Californians benefit from a thriving tourism industry.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    The announcement comes with the release of Visit California’s 2024 Economic Impact Report and revised 2025 forecast released today. According to Visit California’s report, in 2024:

    • Visitors spent $157.3 billion at businesses across the state.
    • Tourism spending supported 1.2 million jobs and created 24,000 new jobs.
    • $12.6 billion in state and local tax revenues was generated from tourism.

    Economic progress at risk of Trump Slump

    However, the forecast also anticipates a 1% dip in overall visitation and a 9.2% decline in international visitation in 2025, in direct response to federal economic policy and an impending “Trump Slump.” Looking ahead, 2025 is projected to be more challenging, particularly due to global economic pressures and a slowdown in international tourism, the direct result of declining global sentiment about travel to the United States. California is already seeing the impact, with a sharp year-over-year decline in March of this year.

    In anticipation of the slump caused by the Trump administration, Governor Newsom and Visit California are encouraging Californians to continue to travel within the state to help support the booming tourism industry. The Governor has also launched a new campaign encouraging Canadian consumers to continue to travel to the Golden State.

    More people moving to California 

    In addition to record-breaking tourism, California is welcoming more new residents. Governor Newsom recently announced California’s population increased for the second year in a row. The announcement also noted that previous reports that California’s population had declined by hundreds of thousands of people in 2021 and 2023 were found inaccurate, and since 2021, California’s population has increased by nearly 275,000 people. 

    California’s economic leadership

    With a nation-leading GDP and more Fortune 500 companies than any other state, California’s economy remains a global powerhouse driven by diversity, creativity, and opportunity.

    • 4th largest economy in the world: California’s $4.1 trillion GDP recently surpassed Japan.
    • #1 in the nation: Leads the U.S. in Fortune 500 companies, new business starts, venture capital access, manufacturing output, high-tech industries and agriculture.
    • Major trade powerhouse: Over $675 billion in two-way trade, making California the largest importer among U.S. states and a key driver of job creation.
    • Manufacturing hub: Home to 36,000+ manufacturing firms, employing over 1.1 million workers, with strengths in aerospace, electronics, and zero-emission vehicles.
    • AI & innovation leader: California hosts 32 of the world’s top 50 AI companies and produces 25% of global AI patents and conference papers.

    Recent news

    May 2, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement today after the University of California Board of Regents named James Milliken the new president of the University of California: “California’s future depends on the strength of our institutions,…

    May 2, 2025

    News What you need to know: As part of the California Jobs First initiative, the state is awarding $30.5 million in tax credits to seven companies committed to creating new jobs and investing over $2.1 billion across key industries like clean energy, advanced…

    May 1, 2025

    News LOS ANGELES — California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom today joined students, mental health professionals, and athletes at two schools in Pasadena and the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula’s East Palo Alto Clubhouse to celebrate Move Your Body, Calm…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: PPTA calls on Minister Stanford to come clean on Kāhui Ako

    Source: Post Primary Teachers Association (PPTA)

    Kāhui Ako, or Communities of Learning, bring together schools with the aim of helping students to achieve their full potential. They give highly skilled and experienced teachers the opportunity to lead projects in and across schools, providing support and advice to teachers on agreed priorities such as attendance, transitions and implementation of new government initiatives.

    “Kāhui Ako provide an alternative and greatly valued career path for about 4000 teachers around the motu and they need clarity about their future,” says Chris Abercrombie PPTA Te Wehengarua president.

    “At the moment the Minister seems to be making unilateral decisions about the programme without any consultation.

    “There has also not been any consultation on where the funding could be reallocated for learning support especially in the secondary sector where students’ learning needs are quite different from primary school students’.” 

    Last modified on Tuesday, 6 May 2025 11:23

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Politics and Health – Mental health workforce crisis exposed – urgent action needed now – PSA

    Source: PSA

    The Government must take urgent action on the acute shortage of mental health workers after revelations of the scale of problem.
    The PSA is demanding the Government:
    1. Immediately fill all vacancies
    2. Lift the hiring ban across the country
    3. Reinstate police support for all mental health call outs
    3 News has obtained a draft report showing the scale of the workforce crisis, but the official report to the Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey removed the numbers. The draft report said 1,485 more frontline mental health and addiction workers were needed right now, including 470 specialist nurses, 145 psychiatrists and 145 clinical psychologists.
    “This is stark evidence of the Government failing to get on top off the workforce crisis and the public will be rightly shocked at the scale of the problem exposed by the media,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association for Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “This not news to us. The PSA has been well aware of the scale of the problem for a long time. That’s why we have been repeatedly demanding that Health NZ Te Whatu Ora accelerate recruitment, but these numbers show that it’s not solving the problem fast enough.”
    The PSA represents most mental health workers including mental health nurses, community mental health workers, psychologists, social workers, and child and adolescent specialists.
    “There is a crisis in ever hospital where mental health workers are under more pressure than ever. The phased withdrawal of police support is compounding the problem.
    “But recruitment is happening at a snail’s pace. It can often take months for Health NZ to sign off on hiring even one worker, who is often lost to the private sector or to higher paying jobs overseas because of these long delays.
    “It’s just not good enough. We have a dedicated Minister for Mental Health for the first time and the Government promised New Zealanders it would get on top of the problem.
    “The buck stops with the Minister. But unless the Government properly funds and resources mental health, patient care will suffer. This is a critical frontline service and New Zealanders deserve better.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: WTO report highlights improved impact of technical assistance activities in 2024

    Source: WTO

    Headline: WTO report highlights improved impact of technical assistance activities in 2024

    The report reveals that the WTO delivered more than 300 technical assistance activities in 2024, the highest number in the past decade. Over 19,000 government officials were trained in various trade-related areas, including more than 5,000 from least-developed countries (LDCs).
    This represents a 19 per cent rise in the number of technical assistance activities compared to 2023. The increase was largely driven by a significant shift towards e-Learning, which saw the number of participants soar by 45 per cent, accounting for nearly three-quarters of all participants.
    The report notes the sustained effectiveness of the activities in assisting beneficiaries in expanding their knowledge and skills. This is reflected by the three percentage point increase in fully or partially met performance targets compared to 2023.
    The year was also marked by the successful completion of the WTO accession processes of Comoros and Timor-Leste, both of which benefited from extensive technical assistance throughout their negotiations.
    “This support was instrumental in strengthening their capacity to navigate the complexities of WTO accession, which took 17 years for Comoros and nearly eight years for Timor-Leste,” WTO Deputy Director-General Xiangchen Zhang notes in the foreword to the report. “Their successful accession highlights the critical role of technical assistance in building the expertise and institutional frameworks necessary for developing economies to fully participate in global trade.”
    WTO technical assistance continued to combine virtual, in-person and e-Learning formats in 2024 in order to provide targeted support aligned with beneficiaries’ evolving priorities. Standards, agriculture, market access for goods (including trade facilitation), trade in services, trade remedies and fisheries subsidies were among the top ten topics covered by technical assistance activities. Meanwhile, existing offerings exploring other WTO topics or responding to emerging challenges and opportunities, such as digital trade and trade and environment, continued to be developed.
    However, the report struck a note of caution with regard to increasing financial constraints, as 2024 saw voluntary contributions to WTO technical assistance reach their lowest level in 25 years, with unearmarked funds falling to below CHF 3 million. While the cost-saving measures implemented by the WTO Secretariat have so far ensured that technical assistance delivery levels and quality are preserved, cash reserves are nearing exhaustion. Should the current low level of voluntary contributions persist, activities will inevitably suffer in volume and quality, leading to reduced impact over time.
    The full report is available here.
    Background
    A core function of the WTO, technical assistance and capacity-building activities aim to enhance professional and institutional trade capacities in developing and least-developed WTO members and observers. These activities equip beneficiaries with the know-how to take full advantage of the opportunities offered by the rules-based multilateral trading system, and to address related challenges. Within the WTO Secretariat, the Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation (ITTC) oversees these activities.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Trade agreements and respect of social and environmental standards – E-001653/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001653/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Benoit Cassart (Renew)

    The European Union is the most important trading power in the world. It accounts for 16.5 % of world trade and 48 % of global gross domestic product, thanks to its vast network of trade agreements.

    While the free trade agreement with New Zealand makes free trade conditional on the respect of social and environmental standards, this new approach is not reflected in the EU’s trade agreements with Chile and Kenya, which do not include a sanction mechanism in the sustainable development chapter.

    • 1.This tailored approach risks creating legal uncertainty. Would it not be more consistent for the Commission to adopt a systematic approach to imposing such standards, including a sanction mechanism?
    • 2.Rather than serving the Sustainable Development Goals, are agreements that do not incorporate this new approach not a barrier to development?

    Submitted: 24.4.2025

    Last updated: 5 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Transparency remains a central focus at subsidies committee discussions

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Transparency remains a central focus at subsidies committee discussions

    The Chair referred to the most recent WTO Secretariat update, noting that 82 members have yet to submit their 2023 and 2021 subsidy notifications, and that  72 members have still not submitted their 2019 notifications. He reiterated his call for members to submit their notifications promptly, emphasizing that all members benefit from the collective effort of timely and complete notifications. Eight members echoed these calls and commended the Secretariat’s continued efforts to support members in preparing and submitting their notifications, including through targeted technical assistance.
    Review of members’ subsidy notifications
    During the special meeting, the Committee examined 2023 new and full subsidy notifications submitted by Albania, Bahrain, Ecuador, India, Kazakhstan and Montenegro. Additionally, it reviewed outstanding notifications from earlier cycles, notably from Madagascar (2019). The Committee also continued its review of 2023 subsidy notifications from Australia, Brazil, China, Eswatini, Nepal, Norway, Türkiye, the United States and Vanuatu. It also continued its review of a 2019 notification from the Russian Federation.
    National legislation
    The Committee reviewed legislative notifications submitted by Armenia, Cambodia, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States. It also continued its review of the legislative notifications of the European Union, Ghana, the Kyrgyz Republic, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and the Solomon Islands.
    Reports of members on countervailing duty actions
    Members reviewed semi-annual reports on countervailing duty actions submitted by Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, the European Union, India, Mexico, Peru, Chinese Taipei, Türkiye,  the United States and Viet Nam for the period July to December 2024.
    The Committee also considered notifications on preliminary and final countervailing duty actions from members including Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, the European Union, Mexico, the United Kingdom and the United States.
    The Chair emphasized the need for regular and timely submissions of these reports to ensure ongoing transparency and effective oversight by the Committee.
    Other matters
    The Chair recalled the 31 December 2015 deadline for the elimination of export subsidies by members that received “fast track” extensions under Article 27.4 of the SCM Agreement. He noted that only 15 of the 19 members that had received extensions have provided the final required notifications. He called on the remaining members to comply without delay.
    The Committee reviewed the updated GNI per capita calculations for members listed in Annex VII(b) of the SCM Agreement. According to the latest figures, Senegal graduated from Annex VII(b) while the following members did not: Congo, Ghana, Honduras, Kenya, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Pakistan and Zimbabwe. They therefore remain on the list until their GNP per capita exceeds US$ 1,000 (in constant 1990 dollars) for three consecutive years.
    The Committee also discussed, and members exchanged views on, a range of issues under the following separate agenda items: “discriminatory subsidies policies and measures of the United States” (item sponsored by China); “France’s electric vehicle subsidies programme” (sponsored by the Republic of Korea); and “subsidies and overcapacity” (sponsored by the European Union, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States).
    The Committee elected Mr Kazumochi Kometani from Japan as the new member of the Permanent Group of Experts replacing Ms Tomoko Ota, also from Japan. 
    The Committee conducted a scheduled review of its trial use of the e-Agenda platform, originally agreed in October 2023, to streamline meeting procedures by enabling the upload of delegations’ statements. The Committee agreed to extend the current trial arrangement for an additional two years. A formal review will take place at the Committee’s spring 2027 meeting.
    Next meeting
    The Chair reminded members that the autumn 2025 meetings of the SCM Committee are scheduled to take place in the week of 27 October 2025.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Anti-white racism and Christianophobia: the forgotten victims of the EU’s strategy against racism – E-001643/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001643/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Fabrice Leggeri (PfE), André Rougé (PfE), Julien Leonardelli (PfE), Pierre Pimpie (PfE), Tom Vandendriessche (PfE), Marieke Ehlers (PfE), Petra Steger (PfE), Jorge Buxadé Villalba (PfE), Kinga Gál (PfE), András László (PfE), Mathilde Androuët (PfE), Marie Dauchy (PfE), Matthieu Valet (PfE), Gilles Pennelle (PfE), Mélanie Disdier (PfE)

    On 15 April 2025, the Commission launched a call for evidence[1] to contribute to the development of the ‘2026-2030 EU anti-racism strategy’.

    The strategy was announced by the President of the Commission Ursula von der Leyen and follows on from the ‘EU Anti-racism Action Plan 2020-2025’[2], which aimed to combat ‘structural racism’. Despite this plan, the Commission believes that ‘more effective protection from racial discrimination and the systematic prevention of racism against all racialised groups[3] is needed’.

    The Commission, entirely driven by woke ideology, plans to rely on controversial reports by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights entitled ‘Being Black in the EU[4]’ and ‘Being Muslim in the EU[5]’.

    Having initially called for a fight against racism ‘in all its forms’, which would be reasonable, Brussels finally hurried to clarify exactly which forms: ‘anti-Black racism, anti-Asian racism, anti-Muslim racism…’, then states that it will ‘adopt an intersectional approach’.

    Meanwhile, there is no mention of anti-white racism or Christianophobia.

    • 1.Why is the Commission ignoring anti-white racism and Christianophobia in this context?
    • 2.Do the ‘stakeholders’ and key international partners who were consulted receive EU funding?
    • 3.What is the cost of this strategy?

    Supporter[6]

    Submitted: 23.4.2025

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/14552-Anti-racism-Strategy_en.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52020DC0565.
    • [3] https://rm.coe.int/ecri-opinion-on-the-concept-of-racialisation/1680a4dcc2.
    • [4] https://fra.europa.eu/sites/default/files/fra_uploads/fra-2023-being-black_in_the_eu_en.pdf.
    • [5] https://fra.europa.eu/sites/default/files/fra_uploads/fra-2024-being-muslim-in-the-eu_en.pdf
    • [6] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain (PfE)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The situation of detainees in the DPRK in the draft annual resolution on human rights in the DPRK at the UN Human Rights Council – E-000762/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The general objective for United Nations (UN) resolutions remains to address the overall human rights situation, and in the case of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) to address the systemic, gross and widespread human rights violations.

    While the outcome and final text of such resolutions always depends on negotiations in Geneva and New York with the wider UN membership, it remains the EU’s policy to maintain the emphasis on the overall human rights situation, including recent developments and systemic violations. It does not preclude that on rare occasions, such as the ones referred to by the Honourable Member, there can be exceptions.

    The EU calls attention to individual cases in its statements, notably during general debates or interactive dialogues at the UN. In addition, there is also a constraint in the sense that referring to an individual case requires having reliable sources of information.

    Due consideration is given to applying the ‘do no harm’ principle, sought through contacts with civil society and representatives of victims and their families.

    Following the Honourable Member’s written question (E-002674/2024) and input received from other stakeholders, the EU in 2025 has made a particular effort to strengthen the UN Human Rights Council resolution on the situation of human rights in the DPRK with additional language on the topic of arbitrary detention of foreigners in the DPRK.

    Last updated: 5 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Digital Trade Agreement with Singapore – E-000906/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Negotiations on the EU-Singapore Digital Trade Agreement (DTA) were concluded in July 2024[1]. When ratified, the DTA w ill complement the existing EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (FTA)[2] that was concluded at a time when the EU had not yet developed a modern digital trade chapter for its FTAs.

    The DTA contains state-of-the-art digital trade rules and builds on the EU-Singapore Digital Partnership[3], which focuses on regulatory cooperation on digital policies, including artificial intelligence (AI).

    The DTA’s rules on the protection of software source code follow the EU’s approach that carefully balances, on the one hand, the need to uphold EU’s competitiveness by ensuring protection against forced technology transfers by means of mandating source code disclosure as a condition for market access, and, on the other hand, the need to ensure space for legitimate and effective regulatory oversight, in line with EU’s competition and digital acquis.

    These rules focus on eradicating market distortive practices that threaten to erode the EU’s industrial base and that cannot be effectively addressed solely by the rules on the protection of intellectual property.

    The Commission considers this approach consistent with EU law, including the AI Act[4]. In this regard, the text agreed with Singapore specifically references the need to ensure safe and trustworthy AI as a legitimate public policy objective, ensuring the possibility for competent authorities to require access to source code where justified and subject to safeguards against unauthorised disclosure.

    This includes inter alia requirements to access source code for conformity assessment procedures for AI systems.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/statement_24_3983
    • [2]  OJ L 294, 14.11.2019; https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ%3AL%3A2019%3A294%3ATOC
    • [3] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/library/eu-singapore-digital-partnership
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2024/1689; https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1689/oj/eng
    Last updated: 5 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Funding, payments and learner fees – Youth Guarantee

    Source:

    For the full requirements, see the Youth Guarantee funding conditions for the relevant year.
    Funding mechanism
    The Minister responsible for tertiary education issues the YG funding mechanism. The funding mechanism outlines the general form and essential components of the fund. It provides the mandate for the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) to allocate the funding and what the funding can be used for, and details how we administer the fund.
    Funding is agreed through a tertiary education organisation’s (TEO’s) Investment Plan. For more information see Plan guidance and toolkit.
    A TEO that receives YG funding is required to:

    The overall amount of YG funding available is set through the Government’s annual budget process. We determine the appropriate amount of YG funding for a TEO through the annual investment process and in-year additional funding requests (if available). 
    Funding allocation and payments
    Funding allocations, including any amendments, are available through the My Allocations and Payments app on Ngā Kete.
    YG funding is paid in equal monthly instalments.
    After each Single Data Return (SDR) submission we pay (and recover) Youth Guarantee Exceptional Circumstances Travel Assistance funding.
    For the calculation of indicative allocations see the methodology from the relevant year. The most recent information is at the top.
    For more details regarding your specific allocation, please contact customerservice@tec.govt.nz or your Relationship Manager.
    Funding rates
    There are two funding rates for all YG provision – the trades and non-trades rates per EFTS.
    The trades funding rate applies to trades provision at Levels 2 and 3 on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF).
    The non-trades rate applies to all other provision at Levels 1 to 3 on the NZQCF.
    This page provides information on the YG funding rates.
    Funding wash-ups
    For the calculation of funding wash-ups see the methodology and technical specifications from the relevant year.
    Premium allocation
    We will allocate the 50% funding premium for the Level 1 and 2 programmes in your Level 1 and 2 commitment
    We will allocate the YG premium based on your Level 1 and 2 commitments in your YG Mix of Provision (MoP).
    We will calculate your final delivery against your total YG allocation, including the Level 1 and 2 premium and recovery if you were overpaid.
    We will adjust your premium allocation, if required, due to other significant Plan changes
    Significant Plan changes during the year may affect the amount of Level 1 and 2 premium required, for example if we have agreed a change in the total allocated, or there is a change in the distribution of your commitments within the allocation. If necessary, we will recalculate and adjust your premium allocation.
    We will carefully review your submitted MoP to ensure we allocate the correct amount
    We will monitor closely to ensure you allocate accurately as agreed with TEC in your MoP. This includes any changes agreed within the year. We will only accept and approve the MoP if the commitment is within the MoP tolerance (tolerance value identified in MoP instructions tab), and the distribution of the funding is in line with what was agreed and approved by the TEC. MoPs must be submitted in a timely matter.
    We will take into account previous delivery patterns, and any specific agreements you have with us regarding changes to your MoP.
    Wellbeing and pathways support subsidy
    The wellbeing and pathways support subsidy is intended to fund a range of services tailored to the needs of individual learners. This may include:

    career planning and advice
    specific cultural and learning support that is easy for the learner to access
    an orientation programme that informs learners about access to financial assistance
    extra-curricular activities
    regular activities with other YG learners
    building workplace connections, and/or

    From 2023, TEOs are expected to work with learners and their whānau to develop a pathway plan to map “where to from here”. The plan should support each learner’s needs to move to further study and/or employment. For more information on what should be included in the pathway plan refer to the YG funding conditions
    We will allocate the wellbeing and pathways support allocation based on your total EFTS commitment in your MoP
    We will calculate and pay the subsidy separately to your other YG funding.
    We will not recover any of the subsidy where under-delivery occurs.
    We will pay the subsidy on all eligible Flexible Funding over-delivery (up to 102% of your allocation) based on your December SDR reporting.
    We will adjust your wellbeing and pathways support allocation, if required, due to other significant Plan changes
    Significant Plan changes during the year may affect the amount of wellbeing and pathways support allocation you are entitled to, for example if we have agreed a change in the total allocated. If necessary, we will recalculate and adjust your wellbeing and pathways support allocation.
    Travel assistance funding
    For the full travel assistance funding requirements, see the Youth Guarantee funding conditions for the relevant year.
    Travel assistance funding must only be used to pay for the actual cost of transport. We expect TEOs to take an “actual and reasonable” approach to the reimbursement of learner travel costs. This means if a learner uses:

    public transport, the reimbursement of the student must be based on the appropriate concession rate, or
    private transport, where suitable public transport is not available, a reasonable reimbursement rate should be established by the TEO on a case-by-case basis.

    If the TEO supplies the transport, the cost of the travel must not exceed 80 cents per kilometre travelled.
    Travel assistance funding that is paid directly to a learner must only be used to cover or reimburse costs associated with travel to and from the YG course.
    Records
    The TEO must keep records of all learner travel expenses and TEO reimbursements to learners.
    If the TEO supplies transport to learners, it must keep records of travel expenses. All travel records are to be made available to us on request. Records must include:

    a daily travel logbook that sets out the kilometres travelled in relation to each learner, and
    the source of funding for each learner’s enrolment at the TEO (for example, whether the learner is enrolled in a YG funded programme or otherwise).

    Inland Revenue
    If the TEO supplies transport, the TEO must keep records of travel expenses in line with Inland Revenue requirements.
    There may be tax implications in the way that travel reimbursements are administered. Contact Inland Revenue directly for further information.
    When reimbursing learners for travel, in general, TEOs are not able to claim GST input tax on this cost because the payments are made to individuals who are not registered for GST. GST input tax can only be claimed if the TEO has incurred the cost itself and can produce a GST invoice in support of the claim.
    Travel subsidy
    The travel assistance subsidy is expected to adequately meet the costs associated with normal learner travel needs.
    As the travel subsidy is allocated per EFTS, the TEO may cross-subsidise by using more than the per EFTS rate for some learners (ie, where they have particularly high travel expenses), and less than the per EFTS rate for others (where they do not require the full amount).
    The TEO must reimburse each learner within a reasonable time after they have incurred the cost.
    Exceptional Circumstances Transport Assistance funding
    Exceptional Circumstances Transport Assistance (ECTA) funding is to provide additional transport assistance to learners who live in relatively isolated areas who may have higher transport needs.
    For the full exceptional circumstances transport assistance funding requirements, see the Youth Guarantee funding conditions for the relevant year.
    ECTA funding is based on EFTS delivered, and the rural isolation of the site where the delivery took place. The rural isolation of TEOs’ delivery sites uses a classification system developed by Statistics New Zealand. 
    Based on the urban/rural classification we provide a “top-up” payment per YG EFTS at each delivery site as reported in each SDR submission.
    Funding calculation
    Disaggregated courses must add up to the total credit value of the qualification, but unlike Delivery Qualification (DQ) funding, Youth Guarantee is not funded at the course level.
    For a trades programme at Levels 2 and 3 the funding calculation is: trades rate per EFTS x programme EFTS value. Trades programmes include NCEA where at least 50% of the courses are classified under Delivery at Levels 7 (degree) and above on the NZQCF delivery classification codes – alphabetic and numeric – as C1, L1, or P1. 
    For a non-trades programmes the funding calculation is: non-trades rate per EFTS x programme EFTS value. Non-trade programmes include NCEA where less than 50% of the courses are classified as trades courses.
    Specifically, we calculate a TEO’s consumed funding using:

    the number of valid domestic student enrolments, measured by equivalent full-time students (EFTS), and
    the programmes, and their component courses, in which a valid domestic student is enrolled.

    To calculate a TEO’s consumed Youth Guarantee funding, we use the following elements:

    the metric (EFTS value)
    delivery classification
    funding category (trades/non-trades, which may also depend on level on the NZQCF), and
    funding rate. 

    Example only (rates may differ depending on year):

    Step

    Funding calculation 

    Example

    1

    Assign the programme an EFTS value

    A TEO’s NZ2104 New Zealand Certificate in Food and Beverage (Level 3) obtained through half a year of academic year study has a value of 0.5 EFTS.
    Note: We use 120 credits per EFTS for all programmes in STEO.

    2

    Assign the programme a funding rate

    This is determined in conjunction with us. The rate will be trade or non-trade, depending on whether the majority of course EFTS are trades or non-trades.

    3

    Disaggregate the programme into courses
    Calculate the EFTS factor of each course (Note: We use 120 credits per EFTS for all courses in STEO)
    Classify the courses

    The programme is disaggregated into three courses.
    Each course has an EFTS factor of 0.1667 EFTS.
    The subject matter of these courses is classified as #22 (Trades) in the Delivery Classification Guide.

    4

    Apply the funding category

    Refer to Funding category (CATEGORY) under information about courses:
    The funding category alphabetic code is used to determine the category of the course as P (Trades #22).
    The funding category numeric code is used to determine the category of the course as 1 (non-degree course with no research requirement, including certificates and diplomas). 

    5

    Apply funding rates

    The funding rate for provision towards a trade programme, including transport subsidy, is $14,981 per EFTS, plus $2,000 per EFTS wellbeing and pathways support subsidy.

    6

    Multiply the funding rate by the number of valid enrolments

    For 10 students on each of the 3 courses, each course attracts Youth Guarantee funding of $28,307.33 (excl. GST) calculated as (0.1667 x $14,981 x 10 = $24,973.33) + (0.1667 x $2,000 x 10 = $3,334.00).
    This means the programme attracts $84,921.99 funding if 10 students enrol in each of the 3 programme courses.
    Note: From 2023, for Level 1 and 2 programmes, we pay a 50% premium in addition to each EFTS reported in your Single Data Return (SDR). This is to acknowledge our YG definition of an EFTS being 80 credits for Level 1 and 2 programme delivery.

    Calculating funding for Level 1 and 2 provision
    From 2023 onwards, we recognise that 80 credits is a full-time, full-year workload for a learner enrolled in a Level 1 or 2 Youth Guarantee programme (or programmes) (one EFTS).
    As a result TEOs will receive 50% more funding for delivery of EFTS towards Level 1 and 2 programmes.
    The amount paid will be determined by the volume of Levels 1–3 course enrolment EFTS that lead towards Level 1 and 2 Youth Guarantee qualifications, as reported in the SDR.
    We will fund up to 120 credits worth of delivery per learner in a calendar year.
    You must not enrol a learner in more than:

    1.5 EFTS (120 credits) for programmes leading to Level 1 and/or 2 Youth Guarantee qualifications; and
    1.0 EFTS (120 credits) for programmes leading to Level 3 Youth Guarantee qualifications.

    We will continue to fund up to 120 credits worth of delivery per learner in a calendar year.

    Student’s 2023 enrolments

    Credits

    2023 EFTS

    Credits ‘funded’

    Definition

    Delivered

    Reported in the SDR

    Funded (includes premium payment)

    New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 2)

    60

    80 credits

    0.7500

    0.5000

    0.7500*

    60

    New Zealand Certificate in Apiculture (Level 3)

    65

    120 credits

    0.5417

    0.5417

    0.5417

    65

    Total

    125

    N/A

    1.2917

    1.0417

    1.2917

    125

    *  0.500 Level 2 EFTS reported in the SDR plus the 50% premium = 0.750 Level 2 EFTS funded.
    Re-enrolling a Youth Guarantee student
    Where a YG learner requires further study to complete their programme, their study can only be to complete courses that they have not yet passed. This can include content not yet studied or content studied and assessed, but requiring a re-sit. 
    Note: A learner who turns 25 years old while enrolled is not eligible to re-enrol.
    For example:
    A TEO enrols a learner in all courses linked to a 60-credit (0.5 EFTS) Level 3 programme. The sum of the course EFTS factors is 0.5 EFTS.
    The learner passes/achieves 30 credits from the 60-credit course enrolments. The TEO is funded 0.5 EFTS, for the 60 credits of courses the learner was enrolled in.
    The TEO re-enrols the learner in a second period of study for the remaining 30 credits not yet achieved. The TEO is funded 0.25 EFTS for the 30 credits of courses the learner was re-enrolled in.
    The learner successfully completes the courses and is awarded the qualification.
    The learner will have received 0.75 EFTS worth of provision (90 credits), and the TEO will be funded for 0.75 EFTS delivery (0.5 + 0.25 EFTS) (assuming funding conditions are met for each course enrolment). 
    Note: The TEO will report 0.25 EFTS (30 credits) unsuccessful course completions, and 0.5 EFTS (60 credits) successful course completions.
    Calculating EFTS remaining vs consumed
    To determine the exact value of the EFTS remaining for a returning learner, the following formula should be used:

    Qual EFTS value – (credits completed/total qual credits x qual EFTS value) = remaining EFTS

    For example:
    0.5 – (30/60 x 0.5)
    = 0.5 – 0.25
    = 0.25 remaining EFTS

    Notes: 
    You will need to ensure that when a learner needs more time to complete their programme, other learners are enrolled to ensure you deliver fully on your Mix of Provision (MoP) EFTS commitment and consume all funding for the year. 
    Consider a learner’s course re-enrolments before you enrol them in a further programme. Where a learner does not complete a course successfully and you re-enrol them and claim funding, the learner is consuming additional EFTS towards their entitlements.
    Flexible funding
    We fund eligible TEOs for eligible Youth Guarantee provision above the amount the TEO has been approved to deliver. This is to provide TEOs with flexibility to meet additional learner demand. 
    For further information about flexible funding, please see the Youth Guarantee funding conditions for the relevant year.
    Flexible funding:

    is payable for provision towards qualifications that we have agreed to fund in your Mix of Provision (MoP)
    does not mean we have changed your approved funding allocation, and
    is subject to the conditions that we have imposed on your funding.

    The external evaluation and review (EER) category referred to in the funding conditions will be the highest published EER category for the TEO during the funding year to which flexible funding is being applied.
    Flexible funding is calculated using the December Single Data Return (SDR). Payments are made in March of the following year.
    Suspending or revoking funding
    Under clause 16 of Schedule 18 of the Education and Training Act 2020 (the Act), we may suspend or revoke some or all funding given under section 425 of the Act if we are satisfied on reasonable grounds that:

    when measured against performance indicators, the TEO has not achieved, or is not achieving, an outcome anticipated in its Investment Plan for a tertiary education programme or activity in relation to which funding has been given under section 425 of the Act, or
    the TEO has not complied, or is not complying, with a condition on which funding has been given under section 425 of the Act, or
    the TEO has not provided, or is not providing, adequate and timely information required by the TEC or Ministry of Education under section 425 of the Act.

    If a TEO has its funding approval revoked in accordance with clause 16 of Schedule 18 of the Act, the unspent portion of funding is repayable to us on demand (see the Youth Guarantee funding conditions for the relevant year). We may offset the amount against any funding payable to the TEO. 
    Subcontracting
    Subcontracting refers to a situation in which a TEO uses TEC funding to pay another organisation to deliver teaching or assessment on its behalf. This excludes:

    teaching and learning activities contracted to individuals or organisations that are not TEOs (for example, an employee on a fixed-term contract, an honorary staff member, or a contract for teaching and learning services with a subject-matter expert for part of the programme such as for First Aid provision)
    research activities or postgraduate research supervision, and
    learning that occurs within vocational placements such a workplace placement or practicum.

    A TEO must not subcontract delivery of any YG funded programme without the prior written approval of NZQA and without prior written consent from us.
    Note: To gain approval, you must demonstrate how the subcontracting arrangement would benefit the YG programme.
    If we approve a subcontract arrangement
    Subcontracting can be agreed in two ways
    If we approve a subcontract arrangement, the subcontracting can be agreed to within a TEO’s Investment Plan (Plan). The subcontracting specified in the Plan will be permitted for the period of the Plan. If the Plan expires then approval will need to be obtained from us again.
    Subcontracting can also be agreed outside of a Plan. Again, the subcontracting specified will be permitted for the period agreed with us.
    At any time, TEOs can contact us to discuss proposed subcontracting.
    Subcontracting TEO obligations
    As specified in section 425 of the Education and Training Act 2020, it is a condition of a TEO receiving funding under section 425 that the TEO will supply to us, from time to time as required by us, and in a form specified by us, any financial, statistical, or other information that we require the TEO to supply.
    Therefore, at any time, we can request information regarding subcontracted activities from the TEO (that has subcontracted another party to carry out the activities).
    In addition, a TEO that has subcontracted another party to carry out its activities:

    must comply with any conditions imposed by us within a consent to subcontract; and
    must ensure that the subcontracted party does not further subcontract any functions; and
    will be accountable to us for the use of the YG funding, including in respect to legislative and funding condition requirements.

    Student Allowance and Student Loan Scheme payments
    A programme must be approved for TEC funding before a learner can access the Student Allowance and Student Loan Schemes. YG learners are only eligible for some aspects of the Student Loan Scheme. For further information on eligibility visit StudyLink.
    Programmes delivered full-time
    We will only approve a YG funded programmes for learner access to Student Allowance Student Loan Schemes if the programme:

    is delivered full-time
    runs for a minimum of 12 weeks, and
    has an EFTS value of at least 0.3.

    A full-time YG programme must be made up of at least 0.5 EFTS, comprising one or more qualifications. Where there is recognition of prior learning (RPL) for some of the programme, the learner’s individual programme following RPL must be at least 0.5 EFTS.
    Programmes delivered part-time
    A programme of less than 0.3 EFTS is classified as part-time regardless of the number of weeks over which it is delivered. A part-time programme is not eligible for learner access to the Student Allowance Scheme.
    For a YG funded part-time programme leading to a qualification, we will only approve learner access to the Student Loan Scheme if the programme meets one of the following criteria:

    it runs for 32 weeks or more and has an EFTS value of at least 0.3 EFTS, or
    it runs for fewer than 32 weeks with an EFTS value of between 0.25 and 0.3 EFTS.

    Loan entry threshold
    The loan entry threshold (LET) is used to identify the minimum EFTS value required for a learner’s individual study programme to be deemed full-time. This affects learner eligibility for the Student Allowance and Student Loan Schemes. A programme that is not deemed to be full-time (ie, not approved for access to the Student Allowance and Student Loan Schemes) can nevertheless be funded through YG. 
    The LET is determined by matching a range of gross weeks to a range of EFTS values. A gross week is the total length of enrolment in a programme, including holiday weeks.
    The table below shows this relationship. Programmes of less than 0.3 EFTS may still be eligible for learner access to the Student Loan Scheme.

    Loan entry threshold table

    Length of enrolment(Gross weeks)

    Loan entry threshold(EFTS)

    12

    0.3

    13

    0.3

    14

    0.3

    15

    0.3

    16

    0.4

    17

    0.4

    18

    0.4

    19

    0.4

    20

    0.5

    21

    0.525

    22

    0.55

    23

    0.575

    24

    0.6

    25

    0.625

    26

    0.65

    27

    0.675

    28

    0.7

    29

    0.725

    30

    0.75

    31

    0.775

    32–52

    0.8

    53 or more

    1.0

    Student allowances – paid practical work
    Learners that undertake paid practical work as part of their course of study are not entitled to any student allowance payments for the week(s) they undertake that work. It is important that you discuss this with your learners.
    For more information on student allowance entitlements and paid practical work please see StudyLink.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland Transport seeks feedback on unclogging Dominion Road congestion

    Source: Secondary teachers question rationale for changes to relationship education guidelines

    Auckland Transport (AT) is asking for feedback to change the operating hours of Dominion Road’s southbound bus lane by one hour, to help improve congestion and keep your city moving.

    AT is also proposing to install a peak time right hand turn ban at certain bottleneck intersections to improve traffic flow.

    “Dominion Road is long, but quite narrow, and we simply can’t fit any more vehicles down it – it’s reached its peak,” Chris Martin, AT’s Road Network Optimisation Manager says.

    “More Aucklanders are on the move earlier in the afternoon, and this, combined with school traffic, means the peak travel time home on Dominion Road now starts at 3pm rather than 4pm. We need to keep pace with this, and make the appropriate amendments to keep it moving,” Mr Martin says.

    “The only things we can do to speed up travel is to make the most of the space already on the road, and this means using the existing bus lane more, and to restrict right hand turns at key intersections.

    “We believe this change will save the average bus passenger up to three minutes in travel time between 3pm-4pm along Dominion Road. That’s up to 15 minutes every week,” he says.

    People who travel along Dominion Road will know all too well that it is often congested in peak times.

    It’s been this way for more than a decade. While Auckland’s population has grown rapidly since, the number of vehicles that can fit down the road, around 25,000, has remained the same.

    “Making better use of the existing bus lane is one of our most effective ways of beating congestion, helping more Aucklanders travel to and along the road,” Mr Martin says.

    “By increasing the operating hours of the bus lane, we can increase the number of people who are able to travel down Dominion Road by bus.

    “One double-decker bus can hold up to 100 people. If more people experience a faster bus journey, that’s potentially up to 100 fewer vehicles squeezing their way down this road.”

    Feedback on intersection changes

    AT wants to make other changes to Dominion Road to improve congestion, including restricting right hand turns at two specific intersections in peak time traffic.

    “Balmoral is especially prone to congestion on Dominion Road in peak times, and part of the problem is the number of motorists turning right down Wiremu Street looking for a park,” Mr Martin says.

    “This turning traffic must wait a while for northbound traffic to clear and means other southbound vehicles on Dominion Road back up behind causing big delays down through to the intersection with Balmoral Road, and beyond.”

    AT is proposing to restrict right-hand turns from Dominion Road onto Wiremu Street and also Memorial Drive in peak hour traffic between 7am–10am and 3pm-7pm on weekdays.

    We are also proposing to implement a permanent no right turn ban onto George Street.

    “Restricting right turns at these bottlenecks during the peak period will help to unclog the busy through traffic approaching major intersections and reduce delays, as well as reducing turning crash risks,” Mr Martin says.

    AT invites you to provide feedback on the proposed changes for Dominion Road at haveyoursay.at.govt.nz. Feedback is open until 25 May 2025. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey released

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Headline: New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey released

    The latest New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey (NZCVS) shows that around a third of adults were victims of a crime in 2024.

    Published by the Ministry of Justice today, the latest survey is based on interviews with more than 7,000 New Zealanders between October 2023 and October 2024.

    It found that 30 percent of adults (1.3m) were the victim of a personal or household crime in 2024.

    “This finding is consistent with previous years since the survey began in 2018,” says Ministry of Justice General Manager Sector Insights Rebecca Parish.

    “The NZCVS helps define the true rate of crime in New Zealand by asking participants about both reported and unreported experiences of crime. Each year only around a quarter of crime incidents are reported to Police.”

    In 2024, there was a significant increase in the number of victims of sexual assault reporting to Police.

    In the most recent survey, 32 percent of victims (28,000) reported at least one sexual assault offence to Police, compared to 7 percent (5,000) in 2018.

    “When the reporting rate increases, it does not necessarily mean that the prevalence rate has also increased.

    “In the case of sexual assault, rates of sexual assault remain broadly steady but more victims are reporting those assaults,” Ms Parish says.

    “We are working to understand what is driving these findings. This will be further explored in the NZCVS Key Stories report which will be published at the end of May. This will contain further analysis and context for some of the trends in this report.”

    In other key findings, 17 percent of adults were victims of personal offences (interpersonal violence, fraud and cybercrime, and threats and damages) in 2024, compared to 15 percent in 2018.

    “This is mostly driven by an increase in fraud and cybercrime over the last two years,” Ms Parish says.

    The NZCVS is shared with government agencies, NGOs and researchers who use it to understand the full picture of crime in New Zealand, both reported and unreported.

    “The findings are used to help target investment at the people and communities that need it most, and to measure the performance of the justice system.”

    The Government has set a target of less violent crime – with 20,000 fewer people the victims of assaults, robberies and sexual assaults by 2029.

    The NZCVS is being used to monitor progress towards this target.

    Other key findings

    • Since the survey began there has been a slight decrease in both the proportion of households who were victims of household offences, and the number of incidents of household offences – 26 incidents per 100 households in 2024 compared to 33 incidents per 100 households in 2018. A decrease in burglary is driving this trend.
    • The number of incidents of personal offences (interpersonal violence, fraud and cybercrime, and threats and damages) has remained around 30 incidents per 100 adults for every year of the survey. In 2024, it was 32 incidents per 100 adults.
    • Victimisation rates for violent offences (physical and sexual assault, and robbery) have mostly remained steady compared to previous years.
    • The survey consistently finds that adults aged 65+ are less likely than the New Zealand average to be the victim of at least one offence – 21 percent compared to 30 percent.

    Quarterly violent crime updates

    • The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet publishes a quarterly update on the Government’s Target 4 – Reduced violent crime using NZCVS data. The annual NZCVS year to October data provides the most robust measure of violence and is what we recommend for making comparisons over time, but the quarterly update provides a more regular snapshot.
    • Using NZCVS year ending October 2024 data, there were 24,000 fewer victims of violent offending, compared to the year ending June 2024.
    • The Government’s violent crime target aims to reduce the number of victims of violent crime (assault, sexual assault, and robbery) by 20,000 people from the October 2023 baseline of 185,000. Since the target was set, the number of victims has varied, including an increase to 215,000 for the year to June 2024. The year to October 2024 data indicates a decrease of 24,000 victims since the year to June 2024.

    About the NZCVS

    • The NZCVS is an annual national survey about New Zealanders’ experiences of crime that has been running for seven years.
    • The NZCVS is the most comprehensive source of data on adult victims of crime in New Zealand.
    • Only around a quarter of crime is reported to the Police, so the NZCVS provides a key source of data on the nature and volume of crime.
    • There are now seven years of data, representing almost 50,000 interviews since data was first collected in March 2018.
    • Over the next few months, the Ministry will be publishing two more NZCVS reports. The Public Perceptions report will be published at the end of April. This will summarise data from a new set of survey questions designed to measure New Zealanders’ levels of trust and confidence in the law and criminal justice system.
    • The Key Stories report will provide further analysis and context for some trends in both Key Results and the Public Perceptions report, and will be published at the end of May.

    High resolution infographics from the NZCVS are available on request.

    NZCVS Cycle 7 resources and results

    Public Perceptions report – NZCVS

    ← Back to the news

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Solomon Islands – Ministry of Rural Development completes review of the first ‘draft CDF regulations’

    Source: Government of the Solomon Islands – Ministry of Rural Development (MRD)

    The Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) senior management has successfully concluded a two-day review of the first draft regulations for the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) Act 2023 last week, Thursday.

    The first draft was produced by the Attorney General’s Chamber (AGC) based on the ‘Drafting Instructions’ prepared and submitted by the MRD.

    The regulations drafting instructions were developed following extensive consultations the ministry held with integrity institutions, provincial governments, and community stakeholders, which concluded in October 2024.

    The regulations, which will be cited as the CDF Regulations 2025 once adopted and gazetted by the Minister of MRD, will further support the Ministry to implement the CDF Act 2023 and strengthen the governance and administration of the CDF programme.

    The CDF regulations, including other reforms undertaken by the MRD, are the ongoing mandatory and legislative reforms the ministry is undertaking to improve and strengthen the delivery mechanisms of the Constituency Development (CD) programme and its governance.

    Work on reforming the CD programme commenced by MRD in August 2022 with the formulation of the first ever Solomon Islands Constituency Development Policy (SICDP), which was followed by the CDF Act 2023

    The CDF Act 2023 was passed by Parliament in December 2023. It came into force on January 5, 2024.

    Meanwhile, the two-day session provided an opportunity for the MRD senior management to review and refine the draft, provide feedback, and respond to questions from the AGC. The inputs will be used by the AGC drafters for the second round of drafting.

    Permanent Secretary John Misite’e thanked his management team for their invaluable insights and contributions to the draft during the review process.

    “This is a crucial process as it gives the ministry and the AGC a space for exchange of drafts and further instructions until we are satisfied that the draft legislation reflects the policy in a legally implementable form.

    “Our team is committed to complete this task and will have the final draft in place before the end of this second quarter.”

    PS Misite’e also acknowledged the AGC for its support toward this legislative procedure, which will slowly but surely lead to greater transparency and accountability in the administration of CDF, ensuring better outcomes are achieved for community development in Solomon Islands.

    PS Misite’e also expressed his appreciation to the GNUT government for its ongoing commitment to the CDF programme and support for this legislative reform to improve and strengthen the delivery of services to rural communities across the country.

    The Constituency Development Programme (CDP) is a national programme of the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) administered by the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD).

    It is implemented by the 50 constituencies in the country to improve the socio-economic livelihoods of Solomon Islanders.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: India/Pakistan & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:

    – India/Pakistan
    – Secretary-General/Trip Announcement
    – Sudan
    – Sudan/Humanitarian
    – South Sudan
    – Gaza
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – Lebanon
    – Ukraine
    – Senior Personnel Appointment – Cyprus
    – Cyprus
    – Portuguese Language Day

    INDIA/PAKISTAN 
    The Secretary-General spoke to reporters just an hour ago to say that, with tensions between India and Pakistan at their highest in years, he once again strongly condemns the attack in Pahalgam on 22 April and extends his condolences to the families of the victims. He said that those responsible must be brought to justice through transparent, credible, and lawful means. 
    The Secretary-General said that it is also essential – especially at this critical hour — to avoid a military confrontation that could easily spin out of control. Now is the time for maximum restraint and stepping back from the brink. 
    He once more offered his good offices to both governments in the service of peace.  

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/ TRIP ANNOUNCEMENT 
    The Secretary-General will be travelling to Copenhagen, in Denmark, tonight, where he will chair the biannual session of the UN System Chief Executives Board for Coordination, also known as the CEB, which brings together the heads of the UN system organizations. 
    The Secretary-General is scheduled to meet the Prime Minister of Denmark, Mette Frederiksen. He will also take part in a dinner, hosted by Their Majesties, the King and Queen of Denmark, in honour of the gathered leaders of the Chief Executives Board for Coordination.  
    The Secretary-General will also engage with UN staff based in Copenhagen, as well as with Danish media and he will have a number of meetings with UN senior officials, ahead of the CEB session.  
    During their biannual session, the Chief Executives Board Members will reflect on current world affairs as they affect and are related to the UN system. They will also engage in deliberations on ‘Adapting to New Realities: Leveraging the UN80 Initiative’ and ‘Upholding Respect for International Law’. 
    The Secretary-General will be back in New York on Friday evening. 

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=05%20May%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=irQjqaS5q20

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UN Chief on the situation between India and Pakistan

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, briefs reporters on the situation between India and Pakistan.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3S-Nd2eHSo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Rebirth of the Portuguese Language in Timor-Leste | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    The United Nations document the rebirth of the Portuguese language in Timor-Leste.

    In Dili, the country’s capital, UN News spoke to Timorese who have learned the language over the past 20 years, lawmakers, authorities and linguists; the former rector of the National University says that Portuguese is now recognized as the language of Timorese youth.

    A legacy that contributed to the fight for independence. A strategic choice in the geopolitical scenario. A source of connection with the national soul. This is how several Timorese people described the role of the Portuguese language in Timor-Leste, the nation in Southeast Asia.

    A former colony of Portugal, East Timor was annexed by Indonesia in the 1970s. In 2002, the country restored its independence and decided to make Portuguese its official language. The preservation and expansion of the language on this remote island reinforces the message of Mother Language Day 2025, which emphasizes linguistic diversity.

    The power of language through generations
    Within the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP), one of the most active areas of cooperation is education. During a visit to the National University of Timor-Leste in Dili, UN News spoke to the institution’s former rector, Benjamin Corte Real, who highlighted the rejuvenation of Portuguese through the education system.

    “The language has been rejuvenated a lot in Timor. There is an older generation that reaffirmed the language after our independence. A generation that had to reclaim the language because it stopped practicing and learning the language. A generation that started learning from the roots. And that is the generation that is now arriving at universities. Therefore, the language is constantly rejuvenating itself. Today, it is already the language of the youth.”

    The language that returned to the nation as an official language had to be learned from scratch by an entire generation that spoke Bahasa Indonesia, after the annexation of the neighboring nation, in addition to Tetum and other Timorese languages. But when it returned to the school curriculum, the learning of Portuguese gained momentum.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0YVKhKhbZ8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Caucasus and Central Asia Regional Economic Outlook: Three Key Messages

    Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)

    Jihad Azour, IMF’s Director of the Middle East and Central Asia Department, shares three key messages from the latest economic outlook for the Caucasus and Central Asia. Learn how the region exceeded expectations in 2024 and is expected to moderate in 2025, what’s ahead, and why building economic resilience is more important than ever.

    Read the full report: https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/REO/MECA/Issues/2025/04/24/regional-economic-outlook-middle-east-central-asia-april-2025?cid=sm-com-ig-SM2025-REOMCDEA2025001

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfPdeGgV1dA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash: South-Western Motorway

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can confirm one person has died following a crash on the South-Western Motorway this morning.

    The single vehicle crash was reported just before 5am, on northbound lanes near Onehunga.

    Sadly, the sole occupant of this vehicle died at the scene.

    Earlier closures of northbound lanes have now lifted, and Police advise motorists to continue to expect delays as earlier backlogs clear.

    We appreciate motorists’ understanding this morning while emergency services carried out their work.

    The Serious Crash Unit examined the scene this morning, and an investigation is underway into this morning’s crash on behalf of the Coroner.

    ENDS

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Investigation launched into fire

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding a fire at McDonalds in Pakuranga.

    Emergency services attended the fire on Pakuranga Road just before 3pm on 5 May.

    The fast food restaurant has sustained significant fire damage as a result.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Michele Gillespie, of Counties Manukau CIB, says a scene guard has been in place at the restaurant overnight.

    “At this point in time we are treating this fire as a suspected arson,” she says.

    “A scene examination is being conducted this morning and Police will work alongside a fire investigator.

    “As part of these enquiries we will be working to understand how the fire originated.”

    Detective Senior Sergeant Gillespie says Police would like to hear from anyone who saw suspicious activity prior to the fire.

    If you have information to assist enquiries, please contact Police on 105 using the reference number 250505/2106.

    Information can be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police and Health NZ continue to implement mental health response changes

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Phase Two of the Police Mental Health Response Change Programme is set to be extended with a second group of districts implementing Phase Two from 19 May.

    The tranche two districts have been jointly assessed for their readiness and the multi-agency Mental Health Response Change Programme Governance Group has endorsed their implementation.

    Included in this second tranche will be:

    • Police districts Auckland City, Canterbury, Kaikōura as part of Tasman, Wellington, Bay of Plenty (excluding Tokoroa and Taupo), Eastern (excluding Wairoa), and Southern (excluding Waitaki and Central Lakes), and
    • Health NZ districts Auckland, Canterbury, South Canterbury, Capital Coast & Hutt Vally, Wairarapa, Bay of Plenty, Lakes (excluding Taupo), Hawke’s Bay (excluding Wairoa), Tairāwhiti, and Southern (excluding Waitaki and Southern Lakes).

    Police and Health NZ will continue to work closely with these teams and districts to support their preparation and implementation for the changes and will continue work with remaining districts to get them ready to start Phase Two.

    The agencies anticipate tranche three districts will implement Phase Two changes on 16 June, pending final readiness assessments and governance group endorsement.

    Police Assistant Commissioner Mike Johnson says we remain committed to our joint efforts towards a system that supports mental wellbeing and gives people access to the best help that works for them.

    “Safety is always Police’s number one priority.  Police have always, and will always, respond when there is an immediate risk to life or safety.  This will not change.

    Outside of an emergency, Police have a threshold for what mental health related work sits with police and what doesn’t.

    “This supports us all to clarify roles and responses, ensuring Police are only involved where it’s appropriate. That means where there is an offence identified (that we would attend through normal prioritisation) or where there is an immediate risk to life or safety,” says Assistant Commissioner Johnson.”

    Health NZ Director of Specialist Mental Health and Addiction Karla Bergquist says agencies are committed to getting it right and have been working together to ensure the changes are well implemented.

    “The safety and well-being of patients and our staff is paramount as we work to ensure people requiring mental health support receive the right care at the right time.

    “We have adopted a staged approach and extended our timeframes for Phase Two, introducing it in a planned and safe way. As part of this planning work, we have developed new procedures with clinical input and created training materials for staff to support them through this change.

    “We are focussed on continuous improvement and will keep listening to feedback from our teams and stakeholders and take a joint approach to review learnings as we go.”

    “We’d like to assure the public that as always, there is a range of services to help people in serious mental distress or those who are concerned about whānau. You can free call or text 1737 , contact your local crisis assessment team or in a life-threatening situation, call 111.”

    Phase One of the joint agency approach commenced on 4 November 2024, and Phase Two roll-out commenced in some districts on 14 April 2025. The changes will see an increased health-led response, enabling Police more time to do the work that only Police can, which the community expects them to do.

    ENDS

    Notes to media:

    Contact numbers for local crisis assessment teams are available online at: https://www.health.govt.nz/your-health/services-and-support/health-care-…

    Phase Two of the mental health response changes began on 14 April in Police districts Waitematā, Counties Manukau, Waikato, and Tasman (excluding Kaikoura) and Health NZ districts Waitematā, Counties Manukau, Waikato (excluding Tokoroa and Taumarunui), Nelson-Marlborough, and West Coast.

    The Phase Two changes remain the same and include:

    • 60-minute handover detained persons in EDs – Police who have detained a person under the MH Act and transported them for an assessment will remain in the ED for a maximum one hour before departing, unless they consider there is an immediate risk to life or safety.
    • Changes to mental health assessments in custody – If someone is placed under the MH Act while in a Police custody suite, they will need to be taken to a health facility within 30 minutes. Custody rules will ensure people in distress are assessed appropriately, preferably in a health setting.

    NZ Police and Health NZ districts are not the same (Police has 12, Health has 20), so there are some parts of a Police district which are not included in the comparable Health NZ district or vice versa.

    Police media contact: media@police.govt.nz

    Health NZ media contact: hnzmedia@tewhatuora.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Get ready to book your Great Walk

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  06 May 2025

    “The most-loved experiences during peak times such as the holidays tend to book up quickly, but there’s plenty to choose from across the network,” DOC Heritage and Visitor Director Catherine Wilson says.

    DOC has upgraded its booking system ready for Great Walks 2025/26 bookings, which open from 15 May 2025.

    Catherine Wilson says people booking Great Walks will notice some changes this year.

    “We’ve introduced a new industry-leading lobby system, similar to those used by concert-booking companies, so customers have a smoother experience, and we can better manage the very high demand when bookings first open.”

    Catherine Wilson says opening dates are staggered – ten Great Walks 15 to 28 May, huts campsites and lodges 13 May to 4 June – to give people making multiple bookings a better chance of securing their preferred slot.

    “We’ve re-shuffled the booking schedule* to balance demand across the weeks so the Kepler, Heaphy and Rakiura Great Walks open first on Wednesday 15 May, and the exceptionally popular Milford Track will open last on Wednesday 28 May.

    “While the most popular Great Walks such as Milford and Routeburn book out very fast on the day, there are often cancellations so it’s worth keeping an eye on the booking website. Other experiences, such as Abel Tasman and Heaphy have more capacity and don’t generally book out on opening day.” 

    On opening morning, users logging into their DOC account will be redirected to the lobby and assigned a number. At 9.30 am the queue will start to move steadily into the booking system. 

    “We continue to ask users to be patient when booking. New Zealand’s Great Walks face massive demand with close to 100,000 people booking a Great Walk annually, 35% of whom are international visitors,” says Catherine Wilson.

    “We’re lucky to have stunning mountains, forests, beaches, parks, lakes and rivers on our doorstep, and incredible tracks, huts and campsites for people to enjoy them.” 

    The Great Walks vary in their length, challenge, and the necessary skills and fitness required. Walkers are encouraged to read about the options on DOC’s website and pick the Great Walk best suited to their skills and experience.

    As part of regular price reviews, customers may notice price increases at some facilities next season.

    Price increases range between 5-15% for the Milford, Routeburn, Kepler, Abel Tasman Coast Track, and Paparoa Great Walks and several high-demand huts and cottages. Some of DOC’s standard and serviced campsites have increased by $3-$5 per person per night.

    User charges contribute to the running costs of DOC’s recreation network, Catherine Wilson says.

    “User fees are an increasingly important tool for improving the financial sustainability of the visitor network.

    “New Zealand has a huge variety of DOC facilities with price points for all budgets. Just make sure you book huts, campsites, and cottages early to secure popular dates and times,” says Catherine Wilson.

    For information on DOC’s pricing changes and to book, visit DOC huts, campsites and cottages.

    Bookings for Tongariro Northern Circuit are on hold while DOC assesses plans for replacing Oturere Hut.

    To book the Hump Ridge Track visit . Bookings can be made anytime. The Hump Ridge Track’s walking season is 25 October 2024 to 21 April 2025.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –