Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development
Sarah Proudfoot has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the ACCC following an extensive external recruitment process.
Ms Proudfoot started with the ACCC/AER in 2005 when she joined the agency’s Infocentre.
She has since held a range of senior roles in the agency, including executive general manager of the ACCC Infrastructure Division between 2020 and 2024 with oversight of the ACCC’s work across telecommunications, rail, ports, airports, electricity and gas as well as the 2023 Childcare Inquiry.
Ms Proudfoot was appointed executive general manager of the ACCC’s National Anti-Scam Centre in August 2024 and has been acting chief executive since February 2025.
“During her career Sarah has consistently demonstrated her ability as an outstanding strategic leader with personal drive, credibility and integrity, and a strong commitment to public service,” ACCC Chair Gina-Cass Gottlieb said.
“I am confident that with Sarah’s contribution as CEO leading our capable people, our agency will continue to deliver important outcomes for the Australian economy and community.”
Ms Proudfoot said: “One of the many things I’ve loved in my time at the ACCC is the fact our work makes a difference to people’s lives every day. It is a significant responsibility and privilege to take on the role of CEO and to work with Commissioners and our talented, dedicated team in the interests of consumers and protecting competition across our economy.”
Ms Proudfoot holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Yemen’s Houthi group on Sunday claimed responsibility for a missile attack near Ben Gurion Airport in central Israel in the morning.
“We targeted Ben Gurion Airport, using a hypersonic ballistic missile that successfully hit its target,” Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said in a statement aired live on Houthi-run al-Masirah TV.
“American and Israeli defense systems failed to intercept the missile,” he said.
Sarea warned international airlines against sending flights to the Israeli airport, declaring it “no longer safe for air navigation.”
In the statement, Sarea noted the group also launched a drone attack Saturday night aimed at a “vital target” in the city of Ashkelon, southern Israel.
He stressed that the Houthi group would launch more attacks against Israel until “the war against the Gaza Strip stops, and the humanitarian aid is allowed back into the Palestinian enclave.”
On Sunday, the Israel Defense Forces said on the social media platform X that sirens sounded across central Israel after a projectile was fired from Yemen. The attack prompted millions of residents to flee to shelters and safe rooms in the morning hours.
Israel’s Magen David Adom emergency service reported that a man sustained moderate-to-light injuries in his limbs during the incident, while two women and another man suffered light injuries.
According to a video released by the Israeli police, the explosion caused by the Houthi missile left a crater measuring several meters in depth and width in the vicinity of Ben Gurion Airport. Israel’s Airports Authority said takeoffs and landings were suspended for about an hour before operations resumed.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz threatened to retaliate strongly shortly after the attack, warning in a statement, “Whoever strikes us will be struck sevenfold,” without elaborating.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to convene a security assessment meeting to discuss the attack, his office said.
Senior security officials told Israel’s state-owned Kan TV News that following the Houthi strike near Tel Aviv, Israel intends to respond with force, adding that Israel had refrained from attacking the Houthis at the request of its ally, the United States, which has been leading intense airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen since mid-March. “After the strike on Ben Gurion Airport, we no longer consider ourselves under any limitations,” an unnamed Israeli official said.
Yemen has conducted a series of missile and drone launches toward Israel over the weekend, most of them intercepted. However, Israeli and American missile defense systems failed to intercept the missile fired at Ben Gurion, the busiest airport in the country.
Several international airlines canceled or diverted flights following the incident. Air Europa, SWISS, Lufthansa, ITA Airways, and Brussels Airlines have canceled all inbound and outbound flights to and from Israel.
The Houthis have intensified missile and drone launches toward Israel in recent weeks, amid renewed U.S. airstrikes on their positions in Yemen.
The Houthi forces, who control much of northern Yemen, have been targeting Israel since November 2023 in what they describe as an act of solidarity with Palestinians amid the war in Gaza. The group has repeatedly said it would halt its attacks if the U.S. hostilities cease and Israel ends its military campaign and blockade against Gaza.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
A Chinese defense spokesperson on Sunday condemned the illegal entry of a Japanese civilian aircraft into the airspace over Diaoyu Dao, reiterating that this territory is an inherent part of China and warning Japan to stop provocative actions that could destabilize bilateral relations.
In response to questions from the media, Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, rejected claims by the Japanese side that a Chinese ship-borne helicopter had violated Japanese airspace, calling the accusation “irresponsible” and a distortion of facts.
“Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands are China’s inherent territory,” Zhang said. “The Japanese civilian aircraft’s unauthorized entry into Chinese airspace over Diaoyu Dao constituted a serious infringement of China’s territorial sovereignty.”
According to Zhang, the China Coast Guard took necessary control measures to warn and expel the Japanese aircraft — actions which he said were entirely legitimate and lawful.
Zhang urged Japan to strictly restrain its nationals and avoid further complicating the situation in the airspace and waters around these islands. He also called on Japan to refrain from actions that could “create instability and insecurity, and harm the broader development of China-Japan relations.”
“China will continue to take effective measures to firmly safeguard national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” he added.
Nauru’s ambition to commercially mine the seabed is likely at risk following President Donald Trump’s executive order last month aimed at fast-tracking ocean mining, anti-deep sea mining advocates warn.
The order also increases instability in the Pacific region because it effectively circumvents long-standing international sea laws and processes by providing an alternative path to mine the seabed, advocates say.
Titled Unleashing America’s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources, the order was signed by Trump on April 25. It directs the US science and environmental agency to expedite permits for companies to mine the ocean floor in US and international waters.
It has been condemned by legal and environmental experts around the world, particularly after Canadian mining group The Metals Company announced last Tuesday it had applied to commercially mine in international waters through the US process.
The Metals Company has so far been unsuccessful in gaining a commercial mining licence through the International Seabed Authority (ISA).
Currently, the largest area in international waters being explored for commercial deep sea mining is the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, located in the central Pacific Ocean. The vast area sits between Hawai’i, Kiribati and Mexico, and spans 4.5 million sq km.
The area is of high commercial interest because it has an abundance of polymetallic nodules that contain valuable metals like cobalt, nickel, manganese and copper, which are used to make products such as smartphones and electric batteries. The minerals are also used in weapons manufacturing.
Benefits ‘for humankind as a whole’ Under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the Clarion-Clipperton Zone falls under the jurisdiction of the ISA, which was established in 1994. That legislation states that any benefits from minerals extracted in its jurisdiction must be for “humankind as a whole”.
Nauru — alongside Tonga, Kiribati and the Cook Islands — has interests in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone after being allocated blocks of the area through UNCLOS. They are known as sponsor states.
In total, there are 19 sponsor states in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone.
Nauru is leading the charge for deep sea mining in international waters. Image: RNZ Pacific/Caleb Fotheringham
Nauru and The Metals Company Since 2011, Nauru has partnered with The Metals Company to explore and assess its block in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone for commercial mining activity.
It has done this through an ISA exploration licence.
At the same time, the ISA, which counts all Pacific nations among its 169-strong membership, has also been developing a commercial mining code. That process began in 2014 and is ongoing.
The process has been criticised by The Metals Company as effectively blocking it and Nauru’s commercial mining interests.
Both have sought to advance their respective interests in different ways.
In 2021, Nauru took the unprecedented step of utilising a “two-year” notification period to initiate an exploitation licencing process under the ISA, even though a commercial seabed mining code was still being developed.
An ISA commercial mining code, once finalised, is expected to provide the legal and technical regulations for exploitation of the seabed.
In the absence of a code However, according to international law, in the absence of a code, should a plan for exploitation be submitted to the ISA, the body is required to provisionally accept it within two years of its submission.
While Nauru ultimately delayed enforcing the two-year rule, it remains the only state to ever invoke it under the ISA. It has also stated that it is “comfortable with being a leader on these issues”.
To date, the ISA has not issued a licence for exploitation of the seabed.
Meanwhile, The Metals Company has emphasised the economic potential of deep sea mining and its readiness to begin commercial activities. It has also highlighted the potential value of minerals sitting on the seabed in Nauru’s block in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone.
“[The block represents] 22 percent of The Metals Company’s estimated resource in the [Clarion-Clipperton Zone and] . . . is ranked as having the largest underdeveloped nickel deposit in the world,” the company states on its website.
Its announcement on Tuesday revealed it had filed three applications for mining activity in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone under the US pathway. One application is for a commercial mining permit. Two are for exploration permits.
The announcement added further fuel to warnings from anti-deep sea mining advocates that The Metals Company is pivoting away from Nauru and arrangements under the ISA.
Last year, the company stated it intended to submit a plan for commercial mining to the ISA on June 27 so it could begin exploitation operations by 2026.
This date appears to have been usurped by developments under Trump, with the company saying on Tuesday that its US permit application “advances [the company’s] timeline ahead” of that date.
The Trump factor Trump’s recent executive order is critical to this because it specifically directs relevant US government agencies to reactivate the country’s own deep sea mining licence process that had largely been unused over the past 40 years.
President Donald Trump signs a proclamation in the Oval Office at the White House last month expanding fishing rights in the Pacific Islands to an area he described as three times the size of California. Image: RNZ screenshot APR
That legislation, the Deep Sea Hard Mineral Resources Act, states the US can grant mining permits in international waters. It was implemented in 1980 as a temporary framework while the US worked towards ratifying the UNCLOS Treaty. Since then, only four exploration licences have been issued under the legislation.
To date, the US is yet to ratify UNCLOS.
At face value, the Deep Sea Hard Mineral Resources Act offers an alternative licensing route to commercial seabed activity in the high seas to the ISA. However, any cross-over between jurisdictions and authorities remains untested.
Now, The Metals Company appears to be operating under both in the same area of international waters — the Clarion-Clipperton Zone.
Deep Sea Conservation Coalition’s Pacific regional coordinator Phil McCabe said it was unclear what would happen to Nauru.
“This announcement really appears to put Nauru as a partner of the company out in the cold,” McCabe said.
No Pacific benefit mechanism “If The Metals Company moves through the US process, it appears that there is no mechanism or no need for any benefit to go to the Pacific Island sponsoring states because they sponsor through the ISA, not the US,” he said.
McCabe, who is based in Aotearoa New Zealand, highlighted extensive investment The Metals Company had poured into the Nauru block over more than 10 years.
He said it was in the company’s financial interests to begin commercial mining as soon as possible.
“If The Metals Company was going to submit an application through the US law, it would have to have a good measure of environmental data on the area that it wants to mine, and the only area that it has that data [for] is the Nauru block,” McCabe said.
He also pointed out that the size of the Nauru block The Metals Company had worked on in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone was the same as a block it wanted to commercially mine through US legislation.
Both are exactly 25,160 sq km, McCabe said.
RNZ Pacific asked The Metals Company to clarify whether its US application applied to Nauru and Tonga’s blocks. The company said it would “be able to confirm details of the blocks in the coming weeks”.
It also said it intended to retain its exploration contracts through the ISA that were sponsored by Nauru and Tonga, respectively.
Cook Islands nodule field – photo taken within Cook Islands EEZ. Image: Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority
Pacific Ocean a ‘new frontier’ Pacific Network on Globalisation (PANG) associate Maureen Penjueli had similar observations to McCabe regarding the potential impacts of Trump’s executive order.
Trump’s order, and The Metals Company ongoing insistence to commercially mine the ocean, was directly related to escalating geopolitical competition, she told RNZ Pacific.
“There are a handful of minerals that are quite critical for all kinds of weapons development, from tankers to armour like nuclear weapons, submarines, aircraft,” she said.
Currently, the supply and processing of minerals in that market, which includes iron, lithium, copper, cobalt and graphite, is dominated by China.
Between 40 and 90 percent of the world’s rare earth minerals are processed by China, Penjueli said. The variation is due to differences between individual minerals.
As a result, both Europe and the US are heavily dependent on China for these minerals, which according to Penjueli, has massive implications.
“On land, you will see the US Department of Defense really trying to seek alternative [mineral] sources,” Penjueli said.
“Now, it’s extended to minerals in the seabed, both within [a country’s exclusive economic zone], but also in areas beyond national jurisdictions, such as the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, which is here in the Pacific. That is around the geopolitical [competition] . . . and the US versus China positioning.”
Notably, Trump’s executive order on the US seabed mining licence process highlights the country’s reliance on overseas mineral supply, particularly regarding security and defence implications.
He said the US wanted to advance its leadership in seabed mineral development by “strengthening partnerships with allies and industry to counter China’s growing influence over seabed mineral resources”.
The Metals Company and the US She believed The Metals Company had become increasingly focused on security and defence needs.
Initially, the company had framed commercial deep sea mining as essential for the world’s transition to green energies, she said. It had used that language when referring to its relationships with Pacific states like Nauru, Penjueli said.
However, the company had also begun pitching US policy makers under the Biden administration over the need to acquire critical minerals from the seabed to meet US security and defence needs, she said.
Since Trump’s re-election, it had also made a series of public announcements praising US government decisions that prioritised deep sea mining development for defence and security purposes.
In a press release on Trump’s executive order, The Metals Company chief executive Gerard Barron said the company had enough knowledge to manage the environmental risks of deep sea mining.
“Over the last decade, we’ve invested over half a billion dollars to understand and responsibly develop the nodule resource in our contract areas,” Barron said.
“We built the world’s largest environmental dataset on the [Clarion-Clipperton Zone], carefully designed and tested an off-shore collection system that minimises the environmental impacts and followed every step required by the International Seabed Authority.
“What we need is a regulator with a robust regulatory regime, and who is willing to give our application a fair hearing. That’s why we’ve formally initiated the process of applying for licenses and permits under the existing US seabed mining code,” Barron said.
ISA influenced by opposition faction The Metals Company directed RNZ Pacific to a statement on its website in response to an interview request.
The statement, signed by Barron, said the ISA was being influenced by a faction of states aligned with environmental NGOs that opposed the deep sea mining industry.
Barron also disputed any contraventions of international law under the US regime, and said the country has had “a fully developed regulatory regime” for commercial seabed mining since 1989.
“The ISA has neither the mining code nor the willingness to engage with their commercial contractors,” Barron said. “In full compliance with international law, we are committed to delivering benefits to our developing state partners.”
President Trump’s executive order marks America’s return to “leadership in this exciting industry”, claims The Metals Company. Note the name “Gulf of America” on this map was introduced by President Trump in a controversial move, but the rest of the world regards it as the Gulf of Mexico, as recognised by officially recognised by the International Hydrographic Organisation. Image: Facebook/The Metals Company
‘It’s an America-first move’ Despite Barron’s observations, Penjueli and McCabe believed The Metals Company and the US were side-stepping international law, placing Pacific nations at risk.
McCabe said Pacific nations benefitted from UNCLOS, which gives rights over vast oceanic territories.
“It’s an America-first move,” said McCabe who believes the actions of The Minerals Company and the US are also a contravention of international law.
There are also significant concerns that Trump’s executive order has effectively triggered a race to mine the Pacific seabed for minerals that will be destined for military purposes like weapons systems manufacturing, Penjueli said.
Unlike UNCLOS, the US deep sea mining legislation does not stipulate that minerals from international waters must be used for peaceful purposes.
Deep Sea Conservation Coalition’s Duncan Currie believes this is another tricky legal point for Nauru and other sponsor states in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone.
Potentially contravene international law For example, should Nauru enter a commercial mining arrangement with The Metals Company and the US under US mining legislation, any royalties that may eventuate could potentially contravene international law, Currie said.
First, the process would be outside the ISA framework, he said.
Second, UNCLOS states that any benefits from seabed mining in international waters must benefit all of “humankind”.
Therefore, Currie said, royalties earned in a process that cannot be scrutinised by the ISA likely did not meet that stipulation.
Third, he said, if the extracted minerals were used for military purposes — which was a focus of Trump’s executive order — then it likely violates the principle that the seabed should only be exploited for peaceful purposes.
“There really are a host of very difficult legal issues that arise,” he added.
The Metals Company says ISA is being influenced by a faction of states aligned with environmental NGOs that oppose the deep sea mining industry. Image: Facebook/The Metals Company/RNZ
The road ahead Now more than ever, anti-deep sea mining advocates believe a moratorium on the practice is necessary.
Penjueli, echoing Currie’s concerns, said there was too much uncertainty with two potential avenues to commercial mining.
“The moratorium call is quite urgent at this point,” she said.
“We simply don’t know what [these developments] mean right now. What are the implications if The Metals Company decides to dump its Pacific state sponsored partners? What does it mean for the legal tenements that they hold in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone?”
In that instance, Nauru, which has spearheaded the push for commercial seabed mining alongside The Metals Company, may be particularly exposed.
Currently, more than 30 countries have declared support for a moratorium on deep sea mining. Among them are Fiji, Federated States of Micronesia, New Caledonia, Palau, Samoa, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and Tuvalu.
On the other hand, Nauru, Kiribati, Tonga, and the Cook Islands all support deep sea mining.
Australia has not explicitly called for a moratorium on the practice, but it has also refrained from supporting it.
New Zealand supported a moratorium on deep sea mining under the previous Labour government. The current government is reportedly reconsidering this stance.
RNZ Pacific contacted the Nauru government for comment but did not receive a response.
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
BEIJING, May 4 — “China urges the Japanese side to strictly restrain its citizens’ activities and stop provocative acts that complicate the situation in the sea and airspace of China’s Diaoyu Dao,” said a Chinese defense spokesperson on Sunday.
It is reported that China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels recently drove away the Japanese civilian aircraft that illegally entered the airspace of China’s Diaoyu Dao. The Japanese Defense Ministry claimed that the CCG ship-borne helicopters violated the Japan’s “airspace”.
In response to that, Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, said that the relevant remarks made by the Japanese side distort right and wrong and are irresponsible. The Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands are China’s inherent territory.
“The Japanese civilian aircraft illegally entered the airspace of China’s Diaoyu Dao, seriously infringing upon China’s territorial sovereignty,” said the spokesperson, adding that it is completely legitimate and legal for the CCG to take necessary measures to issue warnings to the Japanese aircraft and drive it away.
“We urge the Japanese side to strictly restrain the activities of its citizens, stop provocative acts that complicate the situation in the sea and airspace of China’s Diaoyu Dao, so as to avoid bringing unstable and unsafe factors and affecting the overall development of China-Japan relations,” said the spokesperson.
The spokesperson also stressed that China will continue to take effective measures to firmly safeguard China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.
Source: Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington
Robinson Research Institute, a pioneer in high-temperature superconductivity (HTS) research, has received funding of $71million towards setting up and hosting an advanced technology platform in Future Magnetic and Materials Technologies.
The funding for the advanced technology platform was announced by Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Shane Reti at Robinson Research Institute’s facility in Lower Hutt, and will operate through the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment-administered Strategic Science Investment Fund (SSIF) portfolio over a period of seven years.
In line with the objective to grow New Zealand’s hi-tech exports, the advanced technology platform will apply materials and engineering expertise across a range of sectoral themes including space, electric aviation, critical minerals and technologies for fusion energy. The platform will play a crucial role in lifting New Zealand’s innovation capacity, enabling companies to take technology to market, and in accelerating the growth of the domestic manufacturing sector.
Professor Nick Long, director, Robinson Research Institute, said “It is an honour for the Institute to receive this strategic funding. At Robinson, our focus has always been on how applications of HTS can be leveraged to address real-world issues, ranging from propulsion in space to more accessible Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners. With proven capabilities in emerging areas like space and advanced aviation, Robinson is well-placed to drive growth in this area. Initially leveraging our capability in magnetics, the Institute has also developed processing methods for critical minerals from New Zealand resources. This funding will enable us to solve some problems with scaling these methods to commercial levels.”
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Professor Magaret Hyland is excited by the possibilities that the funding offers. “Te Herenga Waka has a strong culture of research excellence and the work that our staff undertake has impact on national and international scales.
“A valued part of the University community, Robinson Research Institute has a strong track record of projects evolving into pilot projects or commercial enterprises. This new platform is a significant opportunity for Robinson to strengthen collaborations with the wider research community, in a way that delivers stronger outcomes for Aotearoa New Zealand. With an established network of research and commercialisation partnerships, within New Zealand and abroad, I can see Robinson now playing an even bigger role in enhancing New Zealand’s capabilities in advanced technology.”
The objectives of the platform will include developing workforce capability through internships and postgraduate study, and encouraging early career researchers to take their research beyond the laboratory. Projects from the platform will also enhance local and international research and commercial partnerships, and encourage inward investment into the New Zealand research and development sector.
Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)
—————
@U.S.CoastGuardAncient Albatross Award honorees talk about the importance of Coast Guard aviation crews and their critical role at Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City, N.C.
#DYK the Coast Guard Ancient Albatross Award was instituted in 1966 and honors active-duty aviators, both officers and enlisted personnel, who have served the longest in the aviation field. #military #usa
For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov
—————
Keep up with the Department of Defense on social media!
Like the DoD on Facebook: http://facebook.com/DeptofDefense
Follow the DoD on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DeptofDefense
Follow the DoD on Instagram: http://instagram.com/DeptofDefense
Follow the DoD on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/DeptofDefense
class=”has-text-align-left”>Today, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the people of Australia as we commemorate the 83rd anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea—a pivotal moment in the fight against tyranny and a defining chapter in the enduring alliance between our two nations.
At the height of World War II, American and Australian forces fought for 4 grueling days against enemy naval and air forces at the Coral Sea. Through their heroic bravery, their unwavering resolve, and the grace of Almighty God, our Allied forces halted at great cost a major enemy advancement for the first time in the Pacific Theatre, and sank an enemy aircraft carrier for the first time—marking a significant turning point in the war and paving the way for the enemy’s eventual defeat.
As we commemorate this historic battle, we also remember the 656 Allied service members who gave their lives for our liberty. The courage of those fallen heroes not only changed the course of the war but also forged a glorious bond between the United States and Australia that endures to this day—a friendship that remains foundational to Indo-Pacific security and prosperity.
Today, we honor the fearless determination of those who fought at the Coral Sea, and we solemnly remember those who laid down their lives to secure the future of freedom. Their sacrifice will forever be etched in our hearts, and our nations remain eternally grateful.
The CFS is responding to a grass and stubble fire at Kalangadoo near Penola in the Limestone Coast region, South Australia.
Approximately 33 CFS volunteers on 8 trucks, supported by Forestry SA, are currently on the fireground working to extinguish the fire. Firefighters are also being supported by observational aircraft.
The fire is currently burning in slashed blue gum plantations. Slashed refers to areas where the undergrowth or grass between the trees has been cut back.
Smoke is impacting roads in the area, and visibility may be reduced. To ensure your safety and that of firefighters and other emergency personnel who are working in the area, please do not enter the area unless necessary.
CFS crews will remain on the scene throughout the day to actively monitor conditions. Extreme Fire Danger is forecast for the Lower South East today and a Total Fire Ban is in place for the area.
A new air ambulance helicopter commissioned today will significantly enhance emergency medical response capabilities across Auckland and Northland, Associate Health Minister Hon Casey Costello and ACC Minister Scott Simpson announced today. “This state-of-the-art helicopter represents a major advancement in aeromedical service delivery, and we are pleased to see it become operational in this part of the country,” Ms Costello said during a visit to Northern Rescue’s Ardmore base where the aircraft is stationed. “It’s great news that this helicopter will support people living in these regions as part of the Government’s investment to upgrade some of New Zealand’s air ambulance fleet. “The Leonardo AW169 aircraft incorporates modern design features and capabilities that improve flight performance, increase safety and reliability, and enhance patient care during transport — especially in challenging weather conditions or remote environments.” The helicopter is one of nine new or near-new aircraft being introduced across the national Emergency Air Ambulance Helicopter Service fleet throughout 2024/25, jointly funded by Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora and the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC). “Ageing helicopters are being replaced in Auckland, Northland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, Taranaki and Wellington,” Ms Costello says. The Auckland/Northland helicopter is the third in this fleet renewal programme and the first AW169 to enter service under this investment. “Our Emergency Air Ambulance Helicopter Service plays a critical role in enabling time-sensitive care for people in urgent need, particularly in regional and rural communities,” Mr Simpson says. “Notably, this is the first helicopter purchased using ACC Investment debt financing, which has enabled the ageing helicopter replacement programme to progress at a faster pace. This financing arrangement has contributed to savings of around $500,000 per year.” The regions next in line for improved aircraft capabilities include Northland, which will also receive two additional leased near-new aircraft ready for use from July and Wellington, which will get a brand new replacement aircraft in August. The Government’s broader investment into fleet renewal is aimed at replacing ageing helicopters with more capable, efficient, and future-ready alternatives. “Our air ambulance services do great work and it’s important that the helicopter fleet is upgraded,” Ms Costello says. “Health NZ and ACC are also redesigning the aeromedical operating model to make the best use of air ambulance resources, and the $128 million of rotary wing air ambulance funding provided by the Government.”
Source: Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment MBIE (2)
The multidisciplinary Paihau—Robinson Research Institute will host the platform, leveraging its world-leading expertise in superconductors, magnets and materials technologies. The platform will increase jobs in advanced tech in New Zealand, and create innovations that will benefit many sectors from space to fusion energy, quantum computing, aviation, medical devices and sensors.
The science platform brings together the expertise needed to turn innovative ideas into real-world products and services. It will support our scientists and innovators to achieve technological breakthroughs and take their ideas to market.
Funding is being provided through the MBIE-administered Strategic Science Investment Fund. Details on the platform plan, outlining the goals, scope and approach to achieving these are being worked through alongside contracting with MBIE.
This investment marks the first step towards establishing an advanced technology Research Organisation (PRO) in New Zealand. Details about what the advanced technology PRO will look like, its structure, form and function are to come.
Distinguished audience, this conference, BRONCOCON 2025, has come not a day too soon because it addresses issues that are writing on the wall. Issues of huge contemporaneous relevance. It gives me immense pleasure. I take it as an absolute honour to inaugurate the 27th Annual Conference of the Indian Association for Bronchology. The Institute is known for its hallmark excellence in respiratory medicine and innovation.
I’m sure the deliberations will be extremely fruitful. There will be ideation, exchange of ideas and interaction amongst people who are dealing with this menace to humanity that is ballooning by the day. BRONCOCON, according to me, is bound to be a crucible of ideas, redefining the future of pulmonary care in India and beyond, and this is gaining urgency, this is gaining paramountcy, this is gaining absolute attention.
With over hundreds of brilliant minds dedicated to respiratory care, I’m reminded that each breath, that fundamental act of living that defines that we are living, is what your profession protects. You are protecting our lives. Your theme, very well thought out. Beyond the scope, evolving frontiers in pulmonary procedures. This demonstrates remarkable foresight because the issues are known to one and all.
Everyone is concerned and we live in a city where this dominates our mindset for months together. We know the evil consequences of this issue not being addressed. It is cancerous for society. Much beyond COVID, if we analyse the loss for our children, for our elderly citizens and for our youth, apart from those far before me.
The future of pulmonary care lies at the intersections of medicine, technology, environmental science, public policy and community engagement. All are vital to address this problem. Gone are the days when either education or solutions could be by stand-alone institutions. There has to be concerted effort. There has to be convergence of all stakeholders. They have to be on the same page to find resolution of a problem which is diagnosed by everyone in a city like Delhi and beyond. Pulmonologists and bronchologists have been silent sentinels of public health, moving to the frontline during, and who knows better than me, as Governor of the State of West Bengal. COVID-19, what a challenge it was.
I salute your tireless efforts across clinics, ICUs, labs, classrooms and policy-making arenas. When the challenge was so huge, humanity in a non-discriminatory fashion came to face this menace, home to one-sixth of humanity in the land of Atharva Ved, showed the way. We could easily find light at the end of a tunnel and also show light to about hundred other countries that are ever beholden to us. Indian pulmonology has transformed through growing clinical expertise, public awareness and technological adoption.
India, distinguished audience is a land which is witnessing at the moment accessibility to technology, adaptability to technology and technology delivering for the people at large, but in this field also much has to be negotiated. As I just indicated a while ago, our ancient texts, particularly Atharva Ved and envisions, health as a perfect balance of body, mind and spirit. It recognises breath as ‘pran’. If it goes, ‘pran’ doesn’t exist in us.
The vital life force connecting individual wellness with environmental harmony. The importance of health can be visualised. A talented person, a person with passion, mission, ability for execution, for public causes, can be severely handicapped on account of health not being in order.
So such a well-meaning person whose commitment is not in doubt, passion is on the right path, mission is for people at large, execution ability is recognised, he himself becomes a person in need and therefore health is all-important. Our traditional wisdom teaches that respiratory health is inseparable from nature’s equilibrium, reckless exploitation of nature. We are its trustees and we have become its owners and we are exploiting not for optimal need but for our greed.
A time for all of us to think. Our physical prowess, our financial power cannot determine how we use these resources which are meant not only for individual serving having means but have to be utilised equitably for one and all. It is time for us to go back to our wisdom and knowledge that is our treasure recognised by the globe. We have to see indigenous practices of seasonal living. Our elderly people always say to use vegetables which are being grown around the same time. Use fruits which are there around the same time.
Forest conservation and dietary wisdom align remarkably with modern preventive medicine. We therefore have to go back to our roots. No time is better than this because the might of Bharat is being realised, reckoned and recognised by the global powers, by the global fraternity. And it is in this context I remind the distinguished audience the time-tested science of ‘Yoga and Pranayama’. These offer profound solutions but imagine the Indian Prime Minister takes this vision to the global community, makes an appeal to the United Nations. The shortest time the largest number of nations converge to support it and we are now celebrating International Yoga Day.
The population on the planet is uniformly benefiting thereby. Then we have techniques like Anulom Vilom, Bhastrika, Kapalbhati and when I see these being demonstrated on television. I find many people instantly want to take to these, but I will appeal particularly to our youth, impressionable minds to learn it once for all. If you learn the technique once your approach will be stable, sustained, not tentative. These afford not solutions but are recipes for longevity. They enhance immunity, they generate us stress-free, our vitality goes up, the quotient of happiness is enhanced. This will obviously lead to higher productivity.
Modern research has validated that our ancient practices are scientific. Our ancient practices are extremely potent. They afford precautionary, preventive solutions. The integration of traditional wisdom into modern scientific research is the need of the time and I am sure those dealing with contemporary medicine research will address this issue. The surge in interventional pulmonology enables targeted life enhancing interventions. Deploying these at district level health care centres could accelerate our national tuberculosis elimination programme. If metros are fully equipped that is not a solution. We have to reach out up to district level, both in terms of availability and affordability. While lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer mortality, early detection technologies not only offer hope but confidence that the problem can be addressed.
We must expand from the practice of medicine to the reach of medicine ensuring, as I said earlier, affordability and accessibility. Fortunately the government by affirmative policies has done much in this direction but it is the health and mindset of people of a nation that define the nation and health defines the mindset. If we believe and want everyone to believe that our mindset must be nationalistic, we must always keep nation first. No interest whatsoever personal, partisan or fiscal can have overriding impact or national interest but then that requires the first aspect.
Consider the lived realities and now I seek your attention. Look at the plight of children who are close to industrial areas. Look at those tender souls. The elderly exposed to biomass smoke. The farmer faces parali or crop burning issues. The factory worker inhales chemicals, dust. Invisible citizens whose lives are shaped by the air we breathe.
I still recall a person in another country handling the health department in another country saying a sick child is an assurance to the doctors for their work and pharmaceutical companies for survival. We don’t want that scenario. It will be too much for us to go for air purifiers. Selective solutions in democracy do not reflect well on democracy. Solutions have to be for one and all because equality is the hallmark of democracy and we have equality when iniquitous situations are contained in a systemic manner.
As indicated in one report just a year ago in February 2024, respiratory diseases continue India’s largest disease category and account for one-sixth of our population. Just imagine what a staggering figure it is. Asthma arises among children. COPD robs adults of productivity. Tuberculosis persists and tuberculosis is a situation that affects the entire family. Fortunately now the treatment is there. There was a time when there was no treatment. So what is more fundamental is diagnosis. Early diagnosis your treatments emanate easily. The psychological toll, just imagine someone suffering from TB, someone suffering from cancer, the psychological toll not on the only patient but on the family’s huge.
Fortunately now there is hand-holding for the physical part of it but then also much needs to be done. Then there is stigmatisation. Rather than hand-holding we keep to distance ourselves out of ignorance. Environmental factors include and who doesn’t know it, air pollution.
Just reflect today. Air pollution index in this city, you’ll be amazed. When you look at the desirable index and we’re getting away from it. But what is concerning is we are not serious about it. Like climate change, existential challenges, we don’t have another planet to live, but everyone thinks it is anybody else’s job. The job is of one and all. We are cliff hanging. We need to be awake. Then apart from air pollution, vehicular emissions. We don’t pool our resources. We would like to show our wealth by having as many cars as we can have. We have to find a systemic solution. Thankfully our public transport system is being strengthened. We are falling back on alternative automobile culture, but let’s do it while there is time.
Human behaviour, what we use, our level of nutrition and suddenly a new term has emerged in last few decades. Lifestyle disease is something which is correctionable at the level of an individual, at the level of the family, at the level of the society. The problems are compounded because they get in a stream making life of individuals difficult. But I am not in despair. I am full of hope, optimism and confidence. That when there is convergence of mind like yours, the mind that will ideate, the mind that will engage in research.
Let me caution you, research has to be authentic, research must be connected with ground results. Research is not meant for oneself or self, research is not to be for the self. Research is not assimilation. Research has to be real research that not only the nation but countries beyond us can take benefit of it.
Fortunately in our country there is a revolution of green energy, redotting our rural landscape massively but we need to do more on this. We need accelerated phasing out of old vehicles. People have to understand that an old vehicle has to be discarded for reasons that concern our health. Merely because an old vehicle is functional on the road, does not reflect on its road worthiness, that has to be done.
I said public transportation. We must take pride in using public transportation. Our ego should not come in between. In many countries this is done and here also the safest, fastest, surest way to reach an airport is through a metro. But that is something we need to make a habit of.
Look at our urban lungs – water bodies, forests and tree cover. In our Vedic culture we reward them, we worship them. Now we are using it for our own gain. We are destroying our respiratory system that nature has given to us. People go for indoor plants, air purifiers out of necessity. Not recognising that this is indicative of a deep malice that is permeating in the society. Your miniscule solution is temporary for you. You have to find a systemic solution. Systemic solution is one that improves the world.
I deeply appreciate the medical community in our country. Your role transcends healing, encompassing innovation, advocacy, education and inspiration. When we faced pandemic, this was demonstrated. People came with their own ideas and they were safe from Covid.
I therefore appeal to all of you that we must bridge medicine with data science, environmental studies, engineering and artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence or let us put it in a broad term, disruptive technologies, these have entered our home, our way of life, our workplace, our research centres.
Disruptive technologies are much beyond the impact of industrial revolutions but the challenges have to be converted into opportunities. According to me, distinguished audience, it is a myth that this technology, when employed, will cut into human resource employability – No. You have to tame the technology, you have to use it for our advantage, and I’m sure you’ll work it out. You are working for a robust environment for us all. Your deliberations are bound to be absolutely wholesome for all of us.
Let us resolve on this day to build a future where every citizen breathes easily, breathes clean air, lives longer, and dreams bigger. Health is the first factor that deprives happiness. May your deliberations be fruitful and transformative.
‘सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः सर्वे सन्तु निरामयाः’ is something we have got from our scriptures to be practised.
I am grateful for the Vice-President here, who is also chairman of BRONCOCON 2025, Dr. Vivek Nangia, also Dr. R.P. Meena, the president, and the secretary, Dr. Amita Nene, for affording me this opportunity to interact with brilliant minds, minds that have passion without personal interest, a mission that is not selective, and execution that is uniform, that is helping one and all — ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.’
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Construction Industry Safety Award Scheme enhances awareness of occupational safety and health This year’s award scheme received an overwhelming response and achieved several breakthroughs. These included surpassing recent enrolment figures with participation from 259 construction sites. Among them, 101 sub-contractors and 172 safety teams competed for awards in two categories, namely “Construction Sites” and “Safety Teams”. Secondly, a new award, Lifting Operation Safety Innovation Award, was introduced in four sub-categories under the “Construction Sites” category, and additional marks were given to construction sites under the sub-category of “Building Sites (Private Sector)” who had joined the Smart Site Safety System Labelling Scheme, encouraging the construction industry to actively apply innovative technologies in OSH. Apart from the award presentation, a fun day was also held today, and a Parent-Child Safety Experience Zone was introduced for the first time, allowing children to operate child-friendly electric construction machinery in a small playground, planting the seeds of OSH in their minds and nurturing future guardians of workplace safety.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Acting Commissioner for Labour, Mr Vincent Fung, said that there was another breakthrough in promoting safety within the scaffolding industry in addition to the aforementioned breakthroughs. After more than a year of efforts, the LD successfully facilitated cross-sectoral collaboration among the scaffolding industry, the insurance industry, the Construction Industry Council (CIC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Council (OSHC). This collaboration led to the inclusion of the Truss-out Scaffolding trade as the 21st designated trade under the Registered Specialist Trade Contractors Scheme. Coupled with the support of the OSH Star Enterprise Scheme by the OSHC, scaffolding contractors can now obtain accreditations in their safety levels further, thereby reducing insurance premiums for scaffolding work. This accreditation will encourage property owners to select scaffolding contractors with recognised OSH standards and motivate scaffolding contractors to proactively enhance their safety standards.
In recent years, the construction industry has made significant strides in the application of innovative technologies in OSH. The LD has also been promoting the use of these innovative technologies. The revised and now-effective Code of Practice for Safety and Health at Work in Confined Spaces requires proprietors or contractors to adopt technology to record videos at the entrance and exit of confined spaces throughout the entire work period to monitor and ensure the implementation of safety control measures to prevent accidents.
The LD will also put the use of small unmanned aircraft (SUA) on trial this year, serving as “sky eyes” to safeguard occupational safety. These SUAs will provide comprehensive assistance in OSH inspection, accident investigation and evidence collection, ensuring that non-compliant operations are exposed. In future, the LD will also collaborate with the OSHC to organise the second OSH Innovation and Technology Expo, aiming to help the industry access the latest advancements in innovation technologies for OSH.
Inaugurated in 1999, the Construction Industry Safety Award Scheme is co-organised by the LD with 16 organisations, namely the OSHC, the Development Bureau, the Hong Kong Housing Authority, the Occupational Deafness Compensation Board, the CIC, the Pneumoconiosis Compensation Fund Board, the Hong Kong Housing Society, the Property Management Services Authority, the Hong Kong Construction Association, the Hong Kong General Building Contractors Association, the Hong Kong Construction Sub-Contractors Association, the Hong Kong Federation of Electrical and Mechanical Contractors Limited, the Minor Works Contractor Association, the Hong Kong Association of Property Management Companies, the Hong Kong Construction Industry Employees General Union, and the Federation of Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Industries Trade Unions. The results of the award scheme will be uploaded to the LD homepage later. Issued at HKT 18:15
Pune Railway Station to Undergo Major Transformation; World-class facilities including four new platforms are planned Inauguration of Hadapsar-Jodhpur Express; major relief for Rajasthani citizens in Pune
Moves underway for Pune-Nagpur Vande Bharat, new Pune-Nashik routes – Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 9:16PM by PIB Mumbai
Pune, 3 May 2025
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw today said, that considering the historic and industrial significance of Pune city, the government has decided to completely transform Pune railway station. He added that under this major initiative world class facilities will be provided on the railway station including four new platforms.
He was speaking after inaugurating two new express trains – Hadapsar–Jodhpur Express and MGR Chennai Central–Bhagat Ki Kothi Express – by flagging them off from Hadapsar near Pune in Maharashtra. Minister of State for Cooperation and Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, Minister for Higher and Technical Education and Parliamentary Affairs Chandrakant Patil, and Members of Parliament Shrirang Barne and Medha Kulkarni were present on the occasion. Union Ministers of State L. Murugan (from Chennai) and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (from Jodhpur) joined the event virtually.
Vaishnaw said that development plan for six railway stations – Pune, Hadapsar, Khadki, Shivajinagar, Uruli Kanchan, and Alandi – is in the final stage. He also stated that discussions have been held with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis regarding the introduction of a Pune–Nagpur Vande Bharat train. He added that trial runs are underway on new alignments for the Pune–Nashik railway corridor, which holds strategic importance due to the presence of a world-class testing laboratory at Khodad. Additionally, work on the third and fourth railway lines on the Pune–Lonavala route will be completed shortly.
Minister of State for Cooperation and Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol expressed confidence that the Hadapsar–Jodhpur Express will greatly benefit the Rajasthani community residing in Pune. Railway development projects worth ₹1 crore are underway in the state. Under the Amrit Bharat Scheme, development works are progressing at Pune, Hadapsar, Uruli, and Shivajinagar stations.
MP Medha Kulkarni demanded the launch of a new train between Pune and Nashik, especially in view of the upcoming Kumbh Mela.
Schedule for Hadapsar–Jodhpur Express:
The train will run regularly from May 5, 2025.
Departure from Hadapsar: 7:15 PM | Arrival at Jodhpur: 3:00 PM the next day
Departure from Jodhpur: 10:00 PM | Arrival at Hadapsar: 5:00 PM the next day
The first tracks have been laid on the Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport line, the public transport spine linking the new airport and the fast-growing area around it.
Only Labor will invest in the infrastructure that a growing Western Sydney needs, and we’re getting the job done while supporting local jobs and resources.
More than 6,400 tonnes of Australian-made rail steel will be laid along the 23-kilometre line between St Marys and Bradfield between now and mid-2026.
In total, 106.8 kilometres of rail line and 76,285 sleepers will be installed, including putting tracks down at the stabling and maintenance facility at Orchard Hills.
The new Metro line to Western Sydney International Airport is jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments and will create over 14,000 jobs during construction, including hundreds of apprenticeships.
The first portion of track was installed at Luddenham, north of a new metro rail bridge over the future M12 motorway, which is also being co-funded by the Australian and NSW Governments.
Track laying is now progressing north towards St Marys.
Work to build the six stations for the new line is in full swing, while plans detailing the design for each station are now finalised.
Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport is part of an integrated transport plan that includes massive infrastructure investment in surrounding roads.
In January, the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments committed $1 billion in joint funding to upgrade Fifteenth Avenue – a critical transit corridor from Liverpool to the Western Sydney International Airport, unlocking jobs and housing in key growth areas.
The investment in Fifteenth Avenue complements investments in Metro, the $2 billion M12 Motorway, $1 billion Mamre Road Stage 2 Upgrade and $800 million Elizabeth Drive – Priority Sections Upgrade.
The Albanese Government is investing $19 billion towards transport infrastructure projects in Western Sydney. The Minns Labor Government is investing over $21 billion for Western Sydney roads and public transport projects to accommodate population and employment growth.
This is yet another example of the Minns and Albanese Labor Governments building Australia’s future, and delivering the critical infrastructure communities need before families move in.
It’s a stark contrast to a decade of State and Federal Liberal Governments that allowed communities to grow without providing the infrastructure communities need.
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said:
“Every great airport needs a frequent and efficient rail link, and that’s what the Albanese and Minns Governments are delivering in Western Sydney.
“Once this track is laid and trains are running, this rail link will connect passengers from the new airport to St Marys in just 15 minutes.
“The Albanese Government has also invested $1 billion to start securing rail corridors in south west Sydney. These corridors will mean this Metro or the Sydney Trains network can be extended, connecting the airport and these growing parts of Sydney to the rest of the city.”
Minister for Transport John Graham said:
“The start of track laying is an exciting milestone for Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport. Each new metre of track is a step towards economic opportunity for Western Sydney and the economy of NSW.
“Sydney loves Metro and this line will deliver passengers between the wider train network and the new airport but also take workers to the new jobs created at the airport and the many businesses that will grow around it.
“Labor believes Western Sydney deserves the same standard of infrastructure and connectivity that areas closer to the CBD already enjoy – and we are getting on with job of building it. This project is providing 14,000 jobs right here in Western Sydney which is another great dividend.
Member for Werriwa, Anne Stanley said:
“With Western Sydney Airport flights starting within the next two years, it has taken a Federal and State Labor Government working together to deliver the infrastructure this part of Sydney needs.
“Liberal Governments at every level wasted a decade in preparing for Sydney’s new airport. We’re building Australia’s future and getting on top of the work this community needs.”
Member for Leppington Nathan Hagarty said:
“We’re making significant progress on the infrastructure that will shape the future of South West Sydney — with world-class Metro services, better roads, and an international airport on our doorstep.
“This means more local jobs and more opportunity for our growing community. “While the Liberals sat on their hands for a decade, Labor is getting on with the job and delivering the transport network we need and deserve.”
Source: Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority
The new Thornlie-Cockburn Link will open on Monday, June 9, marking the latest major milestone in METRONET’s transformation of Perth.
Perth’s first east-west cross line connection includes two new stations at Nicholson Road and Ranford Road, with upgrades to Thornlie, Cockburn Central, as well as Perth Stadium stations – providing a direct route from the Mandurah Line to Optus Stadium for the first time.
The opening of the line will connect tens of thousands of people to Perth’s world-class rail network for the first time and adds significant resilience to the broader network.
Commuters will have a 27-minute journey to Perth from Nicholson Road Station and a 31-minute journey from Ranford Road Station.
New and amended bus routes will support connections from surrounding suburbs to the new stations. The Public Transport Authority (PTA) is currently considering community feedback on the proposed routes, with final routes to be published in the lead up to the opening.
A total of 85,000 sleepers and 180,000 tonnes of gravel were used in the construction of the 35 km of new passenger rail and 22 km of new freight rail as part of the Thornlie-Cockburn Link.
The inner-section of the Armadale Line will reopen in conjunction with the Thornlie-Cockburn Link on June 9.
This will include the five new elevated stations at Carlisle, Oats Street, Queens Park, Cannington and Beckenham.
Six level crossings have been removed from the Victoria Park and Canning sections of the Armadale Line, while the elevated rail will significantly improve pedestrian safety, reduce traffic congestion and create Perth’s first 7 km long linear park, which will be named “Long Park”.
The remainder of the line will reopen when the new elevated Armadale Station and Byford Station reach completion in the next few months. This will include the reopening of stations at Sherwood, Challis, Kelmscott, Seaforth, Gosnells, Maddington and Kenwick.
The formal reopening date for the outer section of the Armadale Line will be announced soon.
The staged reopening has been necessitated by revised construction timelines on the METRONET Byford Rail Extension.
Progress on the Byford Rail Extension reached an important milestone in recent weeks, with the entire elevated rail structure completed, while the majority of rail and overhead line equipment has been installed.
Rail replacement bus services will continue until the entire Armadale Line has reopened, but these services will be amended from June 9. Under the changes, the majority of rail replacement bus services will conclude their journeys at Cannington Station, where commuters will be able to connect to the train line.
The amended rail replacement bus services will be published in the lead up to the June 9 reopening.
Any passengers receiving free public transport due to the Armadale Line closure will continue to receive the concession until their regular train station reopens.
The $1.3 billion METRONET Thornlie-Cockburn Link and the $1.6 billion Victoria Park -Canning Level Crossing Removal Projects are jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments.
A community event to celebrate the opening of the Thornlie-Cockburn Link will be held on Sunday June 8. Further details about the community event will be provided closer to opening.
A community event to celebrate the full reopening of the Armadale Line will be held later this year.
Quotes attributable to Western Australian Premier Roger Cook:
“We’ve seen in the past few years how METRONET has transformed our suburbs and the opening of the Thornlie-Cockburn Link will be one of the most important milestones to date.
“This is what METRONET is all about – affordable travel, better connecting communities and creating jobs for thousands of Western Australians.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“The Albanese Labor Government is building Australia’s future, delivering the infrastructure that makes our communities even better places to live.
“The Thornlie-Cockburn Link will transform Perth’s southern suburbs by connecting the Mandurah Line to the Armadale line for the first time.”
Quotes attributable to WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The Thornlie-Cockburn Link will be a complete game changer for our public transport network.
“We’re going to connect tens of thousands of people to our world class rail network for the first time and deliver a major boost to the capacity and resilience of our network by connecting the Armadale and Mandurah Lines for the first time.
“METRONET is transforming the face of Perth and making our city more connected than ever before. The opening of the Thornlie-Cockburn Link will be one of the biggest changes yet.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Defence Personnel and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh:
“The METRONET Thornlie-Cockburn Link is nearly here, thanks to joint funding from the Albanese and Cook Labor Governments.
“Thousands of people in Perth’s south will now, for the first time in decades, be able to travel east via rail, connecting them directly from Carousel in Cannington, Carlisle TAFE campus and Optus Stadium.
“People in Canning Vale,Harrisdale and Southern River will finally be close to a train station because of the partnership of the Albanese and Cook Labor Governments.
“It’s only Labor that’s building Western Australia’s future delivering on better public transport for our southern suburbs.”
Source: Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority
The toll-free M12 Motorway has passed a major construction milestone with 14 kilometres of the road now complete, on time and on budget and ready to provide direct access to Western Sydney Airport once open in 2026.
The road is now being landscaped, sign posted and having safety infrastructure installed. Once opened, it will link the new Western Sydney International Airport at Badgerys Creek to the wider Sydney motorway network, Elizabeth Drive and The Northern Road.
This last section connecting into the M7 Motorway and still in construction will add around 2 kilometres to the project.
Significantly, this marks the first time the public could technically drive the full length between The Northern Road and works near the Elizabeth Drive off ramp at Cecil Park. This will leave just connecting and finishing works to complete before the entire 16-kilometre road is opened to the public in 2026.
The $2.1 billion project, one of the largest transport projects in NSW, has seen:
around 117,000 cubic metres mainline road concrete used
8,223 people employed from which 5,472 local people were employed
2,320 bridge lineal metres
3,085,587 cubic metres of completed earthworks
461 bridge piles installed
637 bridge girders installed
867,509 trees, shrubs and grasses planted.
The central and western sections of the M12 Motorway have been completed by Transport for NSW construction partners Seymour Whyte and CPB Georgiou Group JV.
Meanwhile work to link the M12 to the M7 is progressing rapidly, with a new alignment of Wallgrove Road at Cecil Hills recently opening to motorists. This is necessary work to create room for the interchange ramps, with bridgework continuing as the M7 upgrade progresses.
The M12 forms part of a wider Western Sydney roads upgrade as the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments get on with the job of delivering Western Sydney road upgrades.
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said:
“We’re building Australia’s future by delivering the road and rail connections this new Airport needs to connect it to Western Sydney and beyond.
“With freight services due to start at the airport next year, this new road will ensure trucks can move quickly and easily from the Airport to sites like the new Moorebank intermodal terminal and the rest of the Sydney road network.”
NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:
“The M12 Motorway will be a game-changer for Western Sydney residents – a vital, toll-free link that will ease congestion, improve travel times, and connect our local community without adding to household costs.
“After years of the former government locking Western Sydney motorists into costly toll roads, this project proves that the Minns Labor Government is committed to building better roads and delivering world-class infrastructure for local families.”
NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said:
“We are a Government serious about targeted investment which will help drive employment and provide improved infrastructure for motorists.
“Just three years ago, around us were just fields. In that time a new airport has emerged from the cow paddocks, a new motorway nearing completion, works on The Northern Road have been undertaken, a new city of Bradfield is beginning to rise, a Metro is connecting the region and other important upgrades are all underway.
“Driving the M12 today gives the sense of scale as to the works being undertaken.”
NSW Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said:
“Once opened next year, this road is expected to carry up to 30,000 vehicles a day.
“These are vehicles we are taking off local roads by providing a quality free alternative.
“And while this is happening, we are getting on with the job of strengthening local roads around the precinct. That includes Mamre Road, Mulgoa Road and for the first time $800 million towards fixing Elizabeth Drive and $1 billion on Fifteenth Avenue.”
Member for Werriwa, Anne Stanley said:
“This is one of a number of new vital new road connections that the State and Federal Governments are delivering to ensure Western Sydney’s new airport is easily accessible.
“The M12 will provide a toll-free east to west connection from the M7 to the new Airport, and our investments in Elizabeth Drive and Fifteenth Avenue will ensure people from other parts of Western Sydney can easily access their new airport as well.”
Member for Leppington Nathan Hagarty said:
“I welcome this major milestone in connecting all of us to the new Western Sydney Airport, along with upgrades to Fifteenth Avenue, Elizabeth Drive and other key roads.
“This is all part of ensuring communities like Leppington have easier access to the jobs and opportunities the new airport will bring. These investments ensure everyday travel is easier and we’re building a stronger, more connected Western Sydney.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sam Graves (6th District of Missouri)
WASHINGTON, DC – The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, led by Chairman Sam Graves (MO-06), approved its budget reconciliation proposal to secure the border, support President Trump’s national security agenda, and modernize America’s air traffic control system. These investments will be more than offset by slashing funding for Green New Deal style programs, requiring electric vehicles (EVs) begin paying for their use of the highway system just like other highway users, and other deficit reduction measures. The T&I Committee will now send its proposal, which reduces the deficit by more than $10 billion, to the House Budget Committee.
“The Committee took decisive action in support of the President’s America First agenda,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (MO-06). “My proposal cuts wasteful Green New Deal spending and ensures that electric vehicles finally start paying for the maintenance of our roads and bridges. We also approved historic investments in the United States Coast Guard to strengthen our national and border security, and we took equally important strides towards finally modernizing the nation’s outdated air traffic control system. ”
Chairman Graves’ proposal would reduce federal spending and deficits by rescinding unobligated funds and eliminating seven unnecessary Green New Deal style programs created in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Those programs include the Neighborhood Access and Equity Grants, Environmental Review Implementation Funds, and Low-Carbon Transportation Materials Grants under the Federal Highway Administration, among others.
The proposal ensures that electric vehicles pay to fix our roads and bridges like other vehicles.The Highway Trust Fund (HTF) is funded by user-fees. However, since EVs do not use gas, they do not pay the user fee, and this inequity contributes to a growing shortfall in the funds to repair roads and bridges across the country.
Chairman Graves proposal provides additional investments in the U.S. Coast Guard to protect national security and secure our maritime borders. It gives the Coast Guard the tools it needs to better protect our borders, stopping illegal immigrants and drugs from entering the country, and protectour national and economic security in the Arctic, where competitors such as China and Russia are aggressively expanding their activities.
It also invests in the improved safety and reliability of America’s air traffic control (ATC) system,replacing outdated ATC technology, modernizing the ATC system, and enhancing the hiring of air traffic controllers following several aviation tragedies in recent months, which are priorities of the President and DOT Secretary Duffy.
More information from yesterday’s Committee markup of the proposal is available here.
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz today released the following joint statement regarding the Pratt and Whitney International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) vote to strike:
“Pratt and Whitney is a world leader in manufacturing aircraft engines because of their amazing workers, who are critical to the success of our nation’s manufacturing future. We strongly encourage the company’s leadership and the machinists union to come together to reach a fair deal that is negotiated in good faith.”
Over One Lakh Devotees Pay Homage to Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha at Thanh Tam Pagoda in Vietnam Three-Kilometer Devotee Queue Highlights Spiritual Fervor for India’s Sacred Relics in Vietnam
UN Vesak 2025 Celebrations Witness Unprecedented Turnout as India’s Buddhist Heritage Touches Hearts in Vietnam
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 9:24PM by PIB Delhi
More than one lakh devotees have paid their reverent homage to the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha, currently enshrined at Thanh Tam Pagoda, located within the Vietnam Buddhist Academy in Binh Chanh District, Ho Chi Minh City. The Holy Relics were brought from India by an official delegation led by Union Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju and Andhra Pradesh Minister Shri Kandula Durgesh, joined by senior monks and officials.
Since early morning, the stupa housing the relics—recognized as a National Treasure of India—has seen continuous inflow of devotees. A line stretching nearly three kilometers formed on Saturday, underscoring the profound spiritual resonance and devotion among the Vietnamese people.
The Sacred Relics, including a portion of the skull bone of Lord Buddha (Shakyamuni), were excavated in 1898 by British archaeologist William Claxton Peppe in Kapilavastu, near the India-Nepal border. These relics are enshrined in a gold-plated stupa crafted by Thai artisans in 1997, featuring 109 grams of gold at its pinnacle—a testimony of the global reverence for Buddha.
Transported aboard an Indian Airforce aircraft, the relics arrived at Tan Son Nhat International Airport on May 2, 2025, and were ceremonially escorted to Thanh Tam Pagoda. The public exposition of these relics is being conducted under stringent security arrangements, reflecting their sacred and diplomatic importance—equivalent to a state leader’s visit.
The Holy Relics will remain in Vietnam until May 21, 2025, as part of the UN Day of Vesak celebrations. They will travel to key Buddhist sites including Ba Den Mountain National Tourist Area (Tay Ninh), Quan Su Pagoda (Hanoi), and Tam Chuc Pagoda (Ha Nam), fostering stronger spiritual and cultural ties between India and Vietnam.
The United Nations Day of Vesak 2025, themed “Unity and Inclusivity for Human Dignity: Buddhist Insights for World Peace and Sustainable Development,” will be observed from May 6–8. The global event is expected to host over 1,200 delegates from 85 countries and territories, including heads of state, religious leaders, and scholars.
India’s participation and the hosting of these sacred relics represent the profound civilizational bond and shared Buddhist heritage between the two nations.
overnor Kathy Hochul today announced 15 State landmarks will be illuminated red on the evening of May 3 in honor of Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters.
“New York will never forget the sacrifice, bravery, and selfless commitment of the brave men and women we honor this Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend,” Governor Hochul said. “We stand with the families and loved ones of the fallen, and with all New Yorkers who put their lives on the line every day, running towards danger to keep our communities safe.”
Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters is recognized nationally to honor the fallen and their families and to recognize National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend.
Sunday, May 4th is International Firefighter’s Day, a day to recognize the dedication, bravery, and commitment of firefighters who work tirelessly to protect lives and property. It is also a time to remember and pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the line of duty. Coinciding with this significant day is the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony, held at the U.S. Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
Among those being honored this year is Chief Thomas Wutz from the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control, who succumbed to an illness related to his participation in the Office’s response to the attacks of September 11, 2001.
Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “We offer our heartfelt thanks to Chief Wutz for his service and his selfless dedication to his community as he is honored at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony. Those who choose a life of service in firefighting embody bravery and courage as they face the daily challenges of their profession. We are grateful to all of those who do this work and everything that they do to protect us.”
State Fire Administrator James Cable said, “New York State’s firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect their communities. We remember and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and were lost in the line of duty.”
The CFS is responding to a grass and scrub fire at Woodside in the Adelaide Hills, South Australia.
Approximately 60 CFS volunteers on 12 trucks, supported by 4 aircraft, have contained the fire to approximately 22 hectares.
CFS firefighters will remain on scene to make the area safe with additional crews coming from nearby brigades to support.
Emergency services may be working on and around roads in the area, and motorists are advised to stay away. If you need to travel on roads in the area, please take care and drive to the local conditions.
Turkey is deepening its energy ties across Africa, launching new projects in Libya, Somalia and Senegal as part of a broader strategy to strengthen its role in the continent’s evolving energy landscape.
CAPE TOWN, South Africa, May 2, 2025/ — Turkey is making bold strides in expanding its energy footprint, with a series of strategic moves aimed at securing long-term energy resources and boosting its global influence. The Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO), the country’s state-owned energy giant, is set to launch oil and gas exploration projects in Libya, aligning with Turkey’s broader strategy to diversify its energy supplies and tap into Africa’s vast resources. Turkey, which currently imports over 90% of its energy, is actively working to reduce its energy import bill by tapping into new domestic and international resources – making markets like Libya a key part of its long-term energy security agenda.
Turkey’s energy diplomacy is also gaining momentum in other parts of Africa, with recent agreements signed in Somalia and Senegal. As Africa continues to build stronger energy ties with G20 nations, Turkey is positioning itself as a reliable partner and growing pillar of energy security. The upcoming African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies, set to take place in Cape Town later this year, offers a key platform for Turkey to expand its engagement with African energy markets and foster collaboration on exploration, infrastructure and investment.
Turkey and Somalia Deepen Energy Cooperation
Earlier this month, Turkey and Somalia signed a new hydrocarbon exploration and production agreement covering 16,000 km² of onshore territory. Under the deal, TPAO will conduct 2D and 3D seismic studies across three blocks, followed by drilling activities based on the findings. Turkey’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Alparslan Bayraktar, has described the agreement as a strategic milestone in bilateral cooperation, building on a previous offshore production-sharing agreement signed last year.
In addition, seismic activities in Somalia’s maritime zones are underway, with Turkey’s Oruç Reis vessel having completed 78% of a 3D seismic survey over 15,000 km². The survey is expected to conclude by May 2025, after which drilling decisions will follow. Turkey is also eyeing cooperation in the mining sector, and further collaboration will be discussed at a Natural Resources Summit in Istanbul next month.
Energy Diplomacy Extends to West Africa
Last October, Turkey signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Senegal to cooperate on oil and gas exploration, production and trade. The agreement, signed during a meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, includes Turkish participation in both onshore and offshore seismic surveys and extends to renewable energy, critical minerals and rare earths. This deal follows similar agreements with Somalia and Niger, as Ankara strengthens its energy ties across the continent.
Ankara’s Growing Influence Across Africa
Through these initiatives, Turkey is positioning itself as a leading partner to Africa, distinguishing itself from traditional Western powers by prioritizing co-development and mutual benefit. Under President Erdoğan, Turkey has quadrupled its diplomatic presence on the continent, expanded defense cooperation with countries including Somalia, Libya, Nigeria and Ethiopia, and boosted trade through major infrastructure investments. In 2023 alone, Turkish contractors completed $85.5 billion worth of projects across Africa. Turkish Airlines now serves 62 destinations on the continent, including Mogadishu, where Turkey has played a pivotal role in rebuilding the capital’s airport.
AEW 2025: Invest in African Energies, taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town, will serve as a valuable platform for Turkey to strengthen its energy partnerships across the continent. The event convenes African producers, global investors and policymakers to drive new deals and shape Africa’s energy future. As Turkey expands its engagement with African energy markets, AEW 2025 is expected to be a pivotal venue for forging partnerships, launching projects and advancing long-term collaboration.
About AEW: Invest in African Energies: AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured $50 million for the Maine Air National Guard to construct a new hangar in Bangor. This funding was included in the Fiscal Year 2025 full-year continuing resolution.
“Home to the MAINEiacs, the Maine Air National Guard’s 101st Air Refueling Wing in Bangor plays an important role in our national defense,” said Senator Collins. “This funding will provide for the construction of a new hangar that will improve the capabilities of the Wing and enhance the Maine Guard’s readiness.”
“We are extremely appreciative of the news that the Maine Air National Guard will receive much-needed funding for a new aircraft hangar. This exciting development means that the MAINEiacs will be able to better maintain their current refueler aircraft, while ensuring they have the flexibility to house newer-generation tankers in the future,” said Brigadier General Diane Dunn, the Adjutant General of the Maine National Guard. “We’d like to thank Senator Collins for her help in ensuring that our tankers and their pilots will have the infrastructure they need in Bangor for years to come.”
The existing hangar in Bangor was designed and built to accommodate the Wing’s existing KC-135 aerial refueling tankers. This funding will support the construction of a universal fuel cell hangar that can accommodate the Wing’s existing aircraft as well as future generation tankers, ensuring the Wing can execute its mission well into the future.
In June, Senator Collins welcomed former Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall to the Bangor Air National Guard base to visit the 101st Air Refueling Wing, marking the first time that the Secretary of the Air Force has made a dedicated visit to the installation.
Shapiro Administration, Travel Partners Urge Pennsylvanians to be Prepared for Federal REAL ID Enforcement Next Week
With federal REAL ID enforcement just days away, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Secretary Mike Carroll, joined officials from the Williamsport Airport, and the American Automobile Association (AAA), to urge Pennsylvanians to make sure they’re prepared for upcoming air travel. These efforts reflect the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to ensuring residents have the information and opportunities they need to be ready for federal REAL ID enforcement.
Getting a REAL ID is optional in Pennsylvania, but beginning next Wednesday, May 7, travelers need to present a REAL ID driver’s license or ID card, or another form of federally-acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to board a domestic commercial flight, and enter a military base or other federal facilities that require ID at the door. More than 2.8 million Pennsylvanians have gotten a REAL ID driver’s license or ID card since they became available in the state in 2019.
“People look forward to traveling with friends and family on vacation or business,” said Carroll. “But after next Wednesday, if you don’t have a REAL ID or a passport, you won’t be permitted to board a domestic flight. We’re strongly encouraging everyone to plan ahead for your travel needs before you arrive at the airport, especially if you already have flights planned for the summer.”
Speakers Include: Eric B. McKitish, CEO, Williamsport Regional Airport Mike Carroll, Secretary, PennDOT Nina Waskevich, Vice President for Brands and Marketing, AAA North Penn
TORONTO, May 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Northfield Capital Corporation (TSX-V: NFD.A) (“Northfield” or the “Corporation”), a proudly Canadian investment company, announces that, subject to regulatory approval, it has engaged the services of Independent Trading Group (“ITG”) to provide market-making services in accordance with the rules and policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV”). ITG will trade shares of the Corporation on the TSXV and all other trading venues with the objective of maintaining a reasonable market and improving the liquidity of the Corporation’s shares.
Under the agreement, ITG will receive compensation of CAD$5,000 per month, payable monthly in advance. The agreement is for an initial term of six months and will renew for additional one-month terms unless terminated. The agreement may be terminated by either party with 30 days’ notice to the other party. There are no performance factors contained in the agreement and ITG will not receive shares, options or any other securities of the Corporation as compensation. ITG and the Corporation are at arm’s length and are unrelated and unaffiliated entities, and at the time of the agreement, neither ITG nor its principals have an interest, directly or indirectly, in the securities of the Corporation.
About Independent Trading Group
Independent Trading Group (ITG) Inc. is a Toronto based CIRO dealer-member that specializes in market making, liquidity provision, agency execution, ultra-low latency connectivity, and bespoke algorithmic trading solutions. Established in 1992, with a focus on market structure, execution and trading, ITG has leveraged its own proprietary technology to deliver high quality liquidity provision and execution services to a broad array of public issuers and institutional investors.
About Northfield Capital Corporation
Northfield Capital Corporation is a publicly traded, leading Canadian investment firm with deep roots in resources, mining, aviation, and premium alcoholic beverages. Founded in 1981 by Robert D. Cudney, Northfield combines decades of experience with forward-thinking strategies to unlock opportunities across its diverse portfolio. Northfield is dedicated to fostering growth and innovation in businesses that drive economic prosperity in Canada. For more information, visit northfieldcapital.com.
For further information, please contact:
Michael G. Leskovec, CPA, CA Chief Financial Officer Email: info@northfieldcapital.com Telephone: (416) 628-5940
Forward-Looking Information
Forward-looking information is included in this news release. Forward-looking information is identified by the use of terms such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “could”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “plan”, “predict”, “project”, “will”, “would”, and “should” and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions. Such forward-looking information may involve but are not limited to, statements with respect to the engagement of ITG, including the duration of such engagement. Forward-looking information, by their nature, are based on assumptions and are subject to important risks and uncertainties. Any forecasts, predictions or forward-looking information cannot be relied upon due to, among other things, changing external events and general uncertainties of the business and its corporate structure. Results indicated in forward-looking information may differ materially from actual results for a number of reasons. The forward-looking information contained herein are subject to change. However, Northfield disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
overnor Kathy Hochul today is reminding New Yorkers that beginning May 7, 2025, standard licenses will no longer be accepted to fly within the United States and is urging travelers to be prepared and plan ahead before arriving at the airport to help avoid delays. The Governor also sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security seeking additional Transportation Security Officers for New York’s busiest airports — John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport — to ensure efficient and safe travel during the transition to REAL ID.
“Ahead of the May 7 deadline for airline passengers to provide REAL ID compliant identification, it is critical that travelers in the nation’s busiest airports continue to experience safe and efficient service,” Governor Hochul said. “In addition to calling on the federal government to provide additional TSA officers during this transition and help minimize potential disruptions, I’m also encouraging all New Yorkers who plan to travel domestically in the near future to make arrangements to obtain an acceptable ID and make a plan to avoid delays during this adjustment period.”
On May 7, 2025, travelers flying within the United States will be required to present a REAL ID, Enhanced ID, U.S. Passport or passport card (both of which are REAL ID-compliant), or another form of federally compliant identification to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. In addition to a compliant state-issued ID, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will accept more than one dozen types of identification after the REAL ID Act becomes enforceable for all airline passengers 18 years and older.
Last year was the busiest year on record at both JFK and LaGuardia, with over 96 million passengers combined between the two airports. New York State, in partnership with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, has taken significant actions to prepare for the transition to REAL ID, including providing increased staff, educating customers, and developing a clear operational plan at security checkpoints. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has also undertaken an extensive public outreach campaign and made a number of accommodations, including expanded appointment availability to Saturdays and extended weekday hours, in an effort to create more opportunities for New Yorkers to transition to REAL ID. However, if someone does not have imminent travel plans or their license is set to expire, customers are asked to put off a DMV visit so that people who need a REAL or Enhanced ID to travel immediately can be accommodated.
Despite these efforts, delays are anticipated at major travel hubs as travelers across the nation adjust to the new requirement. To reduce delays, additional TSA screenings, and the possibility of not being allowed into the security checkpoint, all travelers should ensure they have a compliant form of identification prior to departure to an airport for either domestic or international travel. While TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States, proof of identification for underaged air travelers is subject to airline-specific policies.
The Port Authority recommends that all travelers should check current wait times for TSA security checkpoints at their departure airport terminal before leaving for the airport. Additional airport staff will be available to assist customers at terminals, but travelers should allow for extra travel time, especially during the first few days. Wait times can be viewed below:
New Yorkers who have not yet obtained a REAL ID are strongly encouraged to make an appointment online before their next flight. To avoid mistakes and help New Yorkers prepare, the DMV has implemented several online tools such as a document guide and an online application pre-screening process. New Yorkers applying for a REAL ID are required to provide appropriate proof of residency, and proof of full legal name. There is no additional cost beyond the renewal fee to get a REAL ID.
New Yorkers who have not yet obtained a REAL ID and plan to fly domestically in the near future should remember the following tips:
Show Up Early: You will be subject to an identity verification process, additional security screening and delays, so be sure to arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight.
Bring your Passport: A US Passport is an acceptable substitute for a REAL ID, so if you have one, bring it.
Don’t wait: Preparing for a trip is stressful enough, so don’t wait until the last minute to upgrade your ID. Make an appointment with DMV to get a REAL or Enhanced ID well in advance of your next flight.
For more information about REAL ID and Enhanced Driver Licenses, visit Enhanced or REAL ID and watch DMV’s REAL ID instructional video on YouTube.
Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Executive Director Rick Cotton said, “The Port Authority has been working closely with TSA, our terminal operators, and all airport stakeholders to ensure as smooth a transition as possible as the federal government begins requiring REAL ID at TSA checkpoints. We are committed to doing everything possible to support a smooth and efficient experience for all travelers.”
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “DMV is ready to help those who need a REAL ID get one, however, there is no need to rush into a DMV office if you aren’t traveling soon or your ID is not expiring soon. THE DMV will continue offering REAL IDs and Enhanced IDs after May 7. Before coming to a DMV office, everyone should first check their license or ID to make sure it does not have a star or flag on it already. If it does, then it is REAL ID-compliant. If it doesn’t, then we strongly encourage those who need a REAL ID to use our handy online tools to make sure they have what they need, before they visit one of our offices.”
Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “The REAL ID deadline is coming quickly, a reminder for travelers to secure their new IDs, or book an appointment if they have not done so already. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her leadership in preparing for this deadline and ensuring New Yorkers can travel with ease.”
Assemblymember Bill Magnarelli said, “I encourage all New Yorkers to act now in obtaining REAL ID or an Enhanced ID for domestic flights. Preparing for upcoming travel plans requires having the proper documentation for transportation. The NYS Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are being proactive and instituting measures to continue to increase security. If you have travel plans, be prepared and get a REAL ID prior to your trip.”
Source: The White House
Washington, D.C.–Today, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) sent President Trump’s topline discretionary Budget request for fiscal year 2026 to the U.S. Congress.
The Budget, which reduces non-defense discretionary by $163 billion or 23 percent from the 2025 enacted level, guts a weaponized deep state while providing historic increases for defense and border security. The Budget also provides support for air and rail safety as well as key infrastructure and our Nation’s veterans and law enforcement.
This is the lowest non-defense spending level since 2017. Savings come from eliminating radical diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and critical race theory programs, Green New Scam funding, large swaths of the Federal Government weaponized against the American people, and moving programs that are better suited for States and localities to provide.
Defense spending would increase by 13 percent, and appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security would increase by nearly 65 percent, to ensure that our military and other agencies repelling the invasion of our border have the resources they need to complete the mission. These increases will be made possible through the passage of President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, which will be enacted with a simple majority in the Congress, and not be held hostage by Democrats for wasteful spending increases that have been the status quo in Washington.
“For decades, the biggest complaint about the Federal Budget was wasteful spending and bloated bureaucracy. But over the last four years, Government spending aggressively turned against the American people and trillions of our dollars were used to fund cultural Marxism, radical Green New Scams, and even our own invasion. No agency was spared in the Left’s taxpayer-funded cultural revolution. At this critical moment, we need a historic Budget—one that ends the funding of our decline, puts Americans first, and delivers unprecedented support to our military and homeland security. The President’s Budget does all of that,” said Russ Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget.
Highlights of the President’s key priorities include the following:
End Weaponization and Reduce Violent Crime. The Budget ends the previous Administration’s weaponization of the Government by eliminating programs like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s disinformation offices that targeted and censored Americans, eliminating so-called Fair Housing programs that waged war on America’s suburbs, ending the Environmental Protection Agency’s unfair harassment of citizens over “environmental justice” directives, and halting the ATF’s criminalizing of gun-owning Americans and instead, focusing on stopping illegal firearms traffickers and violent gang members.
The Budget prioritizes Department of Justice (DOJ) key functions—restoring law and order to America’s communities, fighting crime, and supporting America’s men and women in Blue. To that end, the Budget proposes to eliminate more than 40 DOJ grant programs that fund things like a “feminist, culturally specific nonprofit” to address “structural racism and toxic masculinities” and training Fa’afafine advocates—an organization of biological men that describes themselves as a “third-gender” in Samoa. The Budget also reflects the President’s priority of reducing violent crime in American cities and protecting national security by getting Federal Bureau of Investigation agents into the field.
Defund the Harmful Woke, Marxist Agenda. Every single agency across the Federal Government was engaged in funding and advancing DEI and other radical, harmful ideologies such as: $315 million for grant programs to push “intersectionality,” “racial equity,” and LGBTQIA+ programming for preschoolers; housing grants that funded activities such as an “Equity Audit” to reverse “land use patterns that have roots in systemically racist policies in L.A. County; and “addressing White Supremacy in the STEM profession.” The Budget ends all of that.
Secure the Border. The Budget request empowers the Department of Homeland Security to implement the President’s mass removal campaign and secure the border. This funding is in addition to historic investments in border security the Administration proposes to provide through mandatory funding, as part of the congressional Budget reconciliation process. The discretionary request includes an additional $500 million for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to expedite the removal of illegal aliens through the support of 50,000 detention beds, $766 million to procure cutting-edge border security technology funding, and funding to maintain 22,000 Border Patrol Agents and hire additional Customs and Border Protection officers for a total of 26,383 officers. The Budget also cuts off the flow of taxpayer funds that have been abused to facilitate migrant caravan invasions. Departments whose task it was to prevent those invasions allocated billions in funding to non-governmental organizations running “border aid stations” and legal services to criminal aliens—all of which will be eliminated under this new budget.
Realign Foreign Aid. The Budget ensures that foreign aid spending is efficient and consistent with U.S. foreign policy under the America First agenda. The Budget reorganizes the U.S. Agency for International Development into the Department of State to meet current needs and eliminates non-essential staff that were hired based on DEI and preferencing practices. The Budget also expands the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to support U.S. national security and American interests—generating returns to the taxpayer and reducing reliance on foreign aid. This includes $3 billion for a new revolving fund to allow DFC to recycle any realized returns from its initial investments.
Rebuild our Nation’s Military. The Budget request for the Department of Defense builds on the President’s promise to achieve peace through strength by providing the resources to rebuild our military, re-establish deterrence, and revive the warrior ethos of our Armed Forces. In combination with $119 billion in mandatory funding, the Budget increases Defense spending by 13 percent, and prioritizes investments to strengthen the safety, security, and sovereignty of the homeland, deter Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific, and revitalize our defense industrial base.
Achieve American Energy Dominance. The Budget supports the President’s commitment to unleash America’s affordable and reliable energy and natural resources. The Budget cancels over $15 billion in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) Green New Scam funds provided to the Department of Energy for unreliable renewable energy, removing carbon dioxide from the air, and other costly technologies that burden ratepayers and consumers. The Budget reorients Department of Energy funding toward research and development of technologies that could produce an abundance of domestic fossil energy and critical minerals, innovative concepts for nuclear reactors and advanced nuclear fuels, and technologies that promote firm baseload power. The Budget also cancels an additional $5.7 billion in IIJA funding provided to the Department of Transportation for failed electric vehicle charger grant programs.
Make America Healthy Again (MAHA). The Budget request builds on the President’s MAHA Commission. The Budget provides resources to the Department of Health and Human Services that would allow the Secretary to tackle issues related to nutrition, physical activity, healthy lifestyles, over-reliance on medication and treatments, the effects of new technological habits, environmental impacts, and food and drug quality and safety. The Budget also supports the creation of MAHA food boxes, that would be filled with commodities sourced from domestic farmers and given directly to American households. The Budget includes resources to ensure food safety nationwide, including support for increased production and demand for services.
Support Our Veterans. The Budget provides increased funding for healthcare services tailored to U.S. veterans’ needs, both at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers and in the community. Combined with $50 billion in mandatory funding from the Toxic Exposures Fund, the Budget ensures that the Nation’s veterans are provided with the world-class healthcare that they deserve. In addition, veterans who qualify for access to care with local community providers would be empowered to make the choice to see them, rather than having to drive in some cases hours to access the nearest VA facility. The Budget includes $1.1 billion in new VA funding to make a down payment on President Trump’s commitment to eradicate veterans’ homelessness, the largest funding increase in the last decade.
Preserve Social Security. The Budget supports the President’s promise to not touch Social Security benefits. It also includes sufficient resources for the Social Security Administration (SSA) to improve customer service by expanding and improving online services, and reducing customer wait times in field offices and on the phone. The Budget also includes investments in program integrity, to reduce fraud and abuse in Social Security programs, and in investments in artificial intelligence to increase employee productivity and automate routine workloads. These efforts would help ensure that SSA delivers timely and accurate Social Security services to the public.
Streamline K-12 Education Funding and Promote Parental Choice. The Budget continues the process of shutting down the Department of Education. The Budget maintains full funding for Title I, that provides Federal financial assistance to school districts for children from low-income families, and special education funding under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). To limit the Federal role in education, and provide States with more flexibility, the Budget creates a new K-12 Simplified Funding Program that consolidates 18 competitive and formula grant programs into a new formula grant, and a Special Education Simplified Funding Program that consolidates seven IDEA programs into a single grant. The Budget also invests $500 million, a $60 million increase, to expand the number of high-quality charter schools, that have a proven track record of improving students’ academic achievement and giving parents more choice in the education of their children.
Make America Skilled Again (MASA). The Budget proposes to give States and localities the flexibility to spend Federal workforce dollars to best support their workers and economies, instead of funneling taxpayer dollars to progressive non-profits finding work for illegal immigrants or focusing on DEI. Under this proposal, States would now have more control and flexibility to coordinate with employers and would have to spend at least 10 percent of their MASA grant on apprenticeship, a proven model that trains workers while they earn a paycheck and offers a valuable alternative to college.
Support Space Flight. The Budget refocuses the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) funding on beating China back to the Moon and on putting the first human on Mars. By allocating over $7 billion for lunar exploration and introducing $1 billion in new investments for Mars-focused programs, it ensures that America’s human space exploration efforts remain unparalleled, innovative, and efficient. To achieve these objectives, the Budget would streamline the NASA workforce, IT services, NASA Center operations, facility maintenance, and construction and environmental compliance activities. The Budget also eliminates “green aviation” and other climate scam programs as well as failing space propulsion projects.
Maintain Support for Tribal Nations. The Budget preserves Federal funding for the Indian Health Service and supports core programs at the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau of Indian Education, sustaining the Federal Government’s support for core programs that benefit tribal communities. The Budget also weeds out radical woke grants and programs and streamlines other programs for tribal communities that were ineffective.
Address Drug Abuse. The Administration is committed to combatting the scourge of deadly drugs that have ravaged American communities. The Budget prioritizes Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) resources on traffickers of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs that are driving America’s overdose crisis. This includes redirecting DEA’s foreign spending to regions with criminal organizations that traffic significant quantities of deadly drugs into the United States—Mexico, Central America, South America, and China.
Support Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Research. The Budget amply funds research in artificial intelligence and quantum information science at key agencies to ensure the United States remains on the cutting edge of these critical technologies’ development and responsible use.
Improve Wildland Firefighting. Federal wildfire responsibilities currently are split across five agencies in two departments. The Budget would consolidate firefighting responsibilities into a new Federal Wildland Fire Service at the Department of the Interior that would coordinate with non-Federal partners to combat the wildfire crisis.
The Trump-Vance Administration released toplines of the President’s budget for Fiscal Year 2026 on Friday. The budget accelerates human space exploration of the Moon and Mars with a fiscally responsible portfolio of missions. “This proposal includes investments to simultaneously pursue exploration of the Moon and Mars while still prioritizing critical science and technology research,” said acting NASA Administrator Janet Petro. “I appreciate the President’s continued support for NASA’s mission and look forward to working closely with the administration and Congress to ensure we continue making progress toward achieving the impossible.”
Increased commitment to human space exploration in pursuit of exploration of both the Moon and Mars. By allocating more than $7 billion for lunar exploration and introducing $1 billion in new investments for Mars-focused programs, the budget ensures America’s human space exploration efforts remain unparalleled, innovative, and efficient. Refocus science and space technology resources to efficiently execute high priority research. Consistent with the administration’s priority of returning to the Moon before China and putting an American on Mars, the budget will advance priority science and research missions and projects, ending financially unsustainable programs including Mars Sample Return. It emphasizes investments in transformative space technologies while responsibly shifting projects better suited for private sector leadership. Transition the Artemis campaign to a more sustainable, cost-effective approach to lunar exploration. The SLS (Space Launch System) rocket and Orion capsule will be retired after Artemis III, paving the way for more cost-effective, next-generation commercial systems that will support subsequent NASA lunar missions. The budget also ends the Gateway Program, with the opportunity to repurpose already produced components for use in other missions. International partners will be invited to join these renewed efforts, expanding opportunities for meaningful collaboration on the Moon and Mars. Continue the process of transitioning the International Space Station to commercial replacements in 2030, focusing onboard research on efforts critical to the exploration of the Moon and Mars. The budget reflects the upcoming transition to a more cost-effective, open commercial approach to human activities in low Earth orbit by reducing the space station’s crew size and onboard research, preparing for the safe decommissioning of the station and its replacement by commercial space stations. Work to minimize duplication of efforts and most efficiently steward the allocation of American taxpayer dollars. This budget ensures NASA’s topline enables a financially sustainable trajectory to complete groundbreaking research and execute the agency’s bold mission. Focus NASA’s resources on its core mission of space exploration. This budget ends climate-focused “green aviation” spending while protecting the development of technologies with air traffic control and other U.S. government and commercial applications, producing savings. This budget also will ensure continued elimination any funding toward misaligned DEIA initiatives, instead designating that money to missions capable of advancing NASA’s core mission. NASA will continue to inspire the next generation of explorers through exciting, ambitious space missions that demonstrate American leadership in space.
NASA will coordinate closely with its partners to execute these priorities and investments as efficiently and effectively as possible. Building on the President’s promise to increase efficiency this budget pioneers a focused, innovative, and fiscally-responsible path to America’s next great era of human space exploration. Learn more about the President’s budget request for NASA:
Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari PVSM AVSM VM took charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, IAF on 02 May 25.
The Air Marshal completed his schooling at Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) in Dehradun before joining the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasala, He passed out from NDA in Jun 1985 with the President’s Gold Medal. He was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot in the Indian Air Force on 07 Jun 1986. The Air Marshal has over 3600 hours of flying experience on various types of aircraft. Besides being a Qualified Flying Instructor and an Experimental Test Pilot, the Air Marshal is a graduate of the Air Command and Staff College, USA. He has also served as Directing Staff at the IAF Test Pilots’ School and the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington. His extensive field experience encompasses operational testing of various weapons and systems, including a key role in operationalising the ‘Litening’ Laser Designation Pod during the Kargil Operations in 1999. He was actively involved in the flight testing of the LCA from 2006 to 2009 and later in 2018-19, wherein, as the Project Director (Flight Test) at the National Flight Test Centre, he was involved in the Final Operational Clearance of the aircraft. The Air Marshal served as the Air Attache at Paris from 2013 to 2016. He has also held appointment Deputy Chief of the Air Staff at Air HQ (VB).
Prior to assuming charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, he was the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief at South Western Air Command. In recognition of his distinguished service, the Air Marshal was awarded the Presidential Award of Param Vishisht Seva Medal in 2025, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2022, and Vayu Sena Medal in 2008.
He is married to Mrs. Richa Tiwari, a postgraduate in Cytology. The couple is blessed with two daughters.