NewzIntel.com

Category: Canada

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada creating thousands more job opportunities for youth this summer

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    June 6, 2025                  Thunder Bay, Ontario               Employment and Social Development Canada

    The Government of Canada is creating up to 6,000 more Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) opportunities to help build a strong Canadian economy and secure good jobs for youth. CSJ provides a first job experience for Canadian youth that can help shape their future education, training, and career choices.

    While CSJ was on track to create 70,000 jobs for youth this summer, Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, today announced up to 6,000 more Canada Summer Jobs opportunities. This will unlock new opportunities for Canadian youth and help our country build the strongest economy in the G7.

    The Minister made the announcement during a visit to Wataynikaneyap Power’s head office on Fort William First Nation in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Wataynikaneyap Power is leading the Wataynikaneyap Transmission Project, which is a partnership of 24 First Nations working together to connect 17 remote communities currently powered by diesel. The organization has already hired an electrical engineering technologist thanks to funding from the Canada Summer Jobs program.

    The 2025 Canada Summer Jobs hiring period is well underway in communities across Canada. From now until July 21, 2025, young job seekers between the ages of 15 and 30 can find local job opportunities on the Job Bank website and mobile app. Youth can apply for summer jobs in fields that interest them, such as the recreation sector, the food industry and marketing and tourism. Jobs are also available in a variety of high-demand and growing fields, including housing construction and environmental protection. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Backgrounder: Canada Summer Jobs 2025     

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Program overview

    The Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) program is part of the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS), a horizontal Government of Canada initiative delivered in partnership by 12 federal departments, agencies and Crown corporations. The YESS supports youth (aged 15 to 30), especially those facing barriers to employment, to receive the employment supports, skills training and work experience they need to successfully transition into the labour market.

    The CSJ program, delivered by Employment and Social Development Canada, provides wage subsidies to support employers from not-for-profit organizations and the public sector, as well as private sector organizations with 50 or fewer full-time employees, to offer quality summer work experiences for youth aged 15 to 30. CSJ provides youth with opportunities to develop and improve new and existing skills. For some young people, CSJ is a first job experience that will help inform their future education, training and career choices. The program is responsive to national and local priorities as well as labour market needs.  

    Through CSJ, projects that support youth who face barriers to employment are a priority. This includes youth with disabilities, Indigenous youth, Black and racialized youth, 2SLGBTQI+ youth, and youth in rural, remote, or official language minority communities. By providing young people with equitable opportunities to develop their skills, CSJ can help them succeed in the job market.

    CSJ-funded jobs are full-time (30 to 40 hours per week), with a duration of 6 to 16 weeks, with the average job duration being 8 weeks and 35 hours per week.

    CSJ 2025 youth hiring period

    The hiring period for CSJ 2025 runs from April 21, 2025, until July 21, 2025, with jobs running until August 30, 2025. Up to 76,000 jobs that matter to young people and to our communities will be posted on the Job Bank website and mobile app, and will be updated on a regular basis. Young people are encouraged to keep checking for updates on jobs available in their communities.

    Eligibility criteria

    Youth participants

    Eligible participants must:

    • be between 15 and 30 years of age (inclusive) at the start of employment;
    • be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or persons to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act; and
    • have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work according to the relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations.

    International students are not eligible for the CSJ program.

    The employer application period is now closed for CSJ 2025. Employers interested in applying for CSJ funding next year are encouraged to open an account on the secure Grants and Contributions Online Services portal so they are prepared for next year’s call for applications.

    Ineligible employers, projects and job activities

    Ineligible Canadian employers include members of the House of Commons and the Senate or members of their immediate family, federal government departments and agencies and provincial departments and agencies.

    Projects and job activities are ineligible if they:

    • have activities that take place outside of Canada, including youth teleworking outside of Canada;
    • include activities that contribute to the provision of a personal service to the employer;
    • involve partisan political activities;
    • involve fundraising activities to cover salary costs for the youth participant;
    • restrict access to programs, services or employment, or otherwise discriminate, contrary to applicable laws, on the basis of prohibited grounds, including sex, genetic characteristics, religion, race, national or ethnic origin, colour, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation or gender identity or expression;
    • advocate intolerance, discrimination or prejudice; or
    • actively work to undermine or restrict a woman’s access to sexual and reproductive health services.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada introduces legislation to build One Canadian Economy

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Ottawa, Ontario, (June 6, 2025) – Today, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy, introduced new legislation to build a stronger, more competitive, and more resilient Canadian economy.

    One Canadian Economy: An Act to enact the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act, will remove federal barriers to internal trade and labour mobility, and advance nation-building projects crucial for driving Canadian productivity growth, energy security, and economic competitiveness.

    Advancing Major Projects

    The proposed legislation will accelerate the realization of major, nation-building projects that will help Canada become the strongest economy in the G7, deepen our trade relationships with reliable partners, and create good Canadian jobs. The federal government will determine whether a major project is in the national interest based on consultations with provinces, territories and Indigenous Peoples.

    Projects will be evaluated in accordance with the following criteria:

    • Strengthen Canada’s autonomy, resilience and security;
    • Provide economic or other benefits to Canada;
    • Have a high likelihood of successful execution;
    • Advance the interests of Indigenous Peoples; and
    • Contribute to clean growth and to Canada’s objectives with respect to climate change.

    Projects will only be designated following full consultation with affected Indigenous Peoples.

    When a project is designated, it is conditionally approved upfront. The project will go through existing review processes, with a focus on “how” the project will be built as opposed to “whether” it can be. The federal major projects office will coordinate and expedite these reviews.

    The results, along with consultation with Indigenous Peoples, will inform a single set of binding federal conditions for the project. These conditions would include mitigation and accommodation measures to protect the environment and to respect the rights of Indigenous Peoples. The federal major projects office will include an Indigenous Advisory Council with First Nation, Inuit, and Métis representatives. The federal government will also allocate capacity funding to strengthen Indigenous Peoples’ participation in this process.

    This legislation aligns with the Government of Canada’s commitment to a ‘one project, one review’ approach, which means realizing a single assessment for projects and better coordination of permitting processes with the provinces and territories. The ultimate objective is to reduce decision timelines on major projects from five years down to two years.

    Canada will uphold its constitutional obligations to consult Indigenous groups to ensure projects proceed in ways that respect and protect Indigenous rights. We are committed to working in a way that respects our commitments to the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and the principles of reconciliation, including economic reconciliation.

    Removing Internal Trade and Labour Mobility Barriers

    This new legislation builds one economy out of thirteen. It removes federal barriers to free trade within our borders while protecting workers, the environment and the health and safety of all Canadians.

    In cases where there is a federal barrier, the legislation will allow a good or service that meets comparable provincial or territorial rules to be considered to have met federal requirements for internal trade. For Canadian businesses, this will make it easier to buy, sell and transport goods and services across the country.

    On labour mobility, the new legislation will provide a framework to recognize provincial and territorial licenses and certifications for workers. This means that a worker authorized in provincial or territorial jurisdiction can more quickly and easily work in the same occupation in federal jurisdiction.

    This new legislation will make it easier to do business across Canada by removing regulatory duplication and cutting federal red tape. It will also reduce costs or delays for Canadian businesses who follow comparable provincial and territorial rules.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Visualizing the Collections: United States Treaties and Other International Agreements

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    If you are interested in international law and have browsed our foreign legal collections, you may have encountered our United States Treaties and Other International Agreements collection. These digitized documents, encompassing American history from 1776 to 1984, are split into two multi-volume categories.

    The first and earliest documents in the collection were compiled by Charles I. Bevans, and span the years 1776 through 1949. The bilateral treaties (volumes 5-12) comprise 2,312 individual agreements over 125 individual jurisdictions. While those numbers sound overwhelming, I wanted a visual understanding of the scope of the collection. Each graphic will have a caption explaining the sizing and color choices, as well as what they represent.

    The first model:

    One example of a network graph depicting the Bevans treaty collection; dark blue, thick edges and larger nodes indicate a higher amount of treaties with the United States, and lighter colored, thinner edges with smaller nodes indicate fewer treaties.

    And the second:

    An alternative depiction of the network graph, where all the labels are the same size. This graph uses three colors – thin blue edges representing few treaties, medium purple edges representing a fair number of treaties, and thick red lines representing the largest amount of treaties.

    Though these two graphics are quite different in nature, they help us draw a few important conclusions: the United States and the United Kingdom share the largest number of treaties, with Canada, France, and Mexico following behind. The first graphic helps us to focus on the jurisdictions with the most treaties, while the second draws our attention to the instances of fewer treaties.

    Looking closely, we can see how the different nodes (the jurisdictions) reflect changes to political entities over time. For example, there are multiple, older treaties with present-day cities and provinces of Germany (ex. “Germany (Hanover)”), each represented as an individual jurisdiction. While we may associate these names with modern political boundaries, they represent former states with which the United States signed treaties. Others show supranational entities (“Central America Federation”; Belgium-Luxembourg Economic Union) while the individual jurisdictions might have their own node.

    These models would certainly look different had Bevans compiled these treaties differently. In any case, we see an incredible variety in the United States’ international agreements over nearly 200 years from these graphics. This also gives us a helpful place to start – should you be interested in what the United States and the Two Sicilies agreed upon in the past, you can browse the volumes of Bevans’s treaties, arranged in alphabetical order by jurisdiction, and follow your curiosity.

    Which graphic do you find more engaging? What visual elements inspire you the most?

    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Copilot Actions now available in Labs + Copilot with Instacart

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Copilot Actions now available in Labs + Copilot with Instacart

    Welcome to Microsoft’s Copilot Release Notes. Here we’ll provide regular updates on what’s happening with Copilot, from new features to firmware updates and more. Try Copilot Actions — Now in Copilot Labs  Let Copilot lend you a hand with everyday web tasks. Copilot Actions is a new experimental feature available to Copilot Pro users in

    Welcome to Microsoft’s Copilot Release Notes. Here we’ll provide regular updates on what’s happening with Copilot, from new features to firmware updates and more.

    Try Copilot Actions — Now in Copilot Labs 

    Let Copilot lend you a hand with everyday web tasks. Copilot Actions is a new experimental feature available to Copilot Pro users in the U.S., designed to help you get things done — not just find answers. 

    With simple chat prompts, you can ask Copilot to: 

    • Book a hotel 
    • Make a dinner reservation 
    • Order flowers 
    • Find a flight 
    • Schedule a tour 

    …and much more — all from your browser. 

    Copilot works behind the scenes to complete tasks on your behalf, and you stay in control every step of the way. You can pause, stop, edit, or take over at any time. 

    Available now in Copilot Labs on any modern browser. 

    Example prompts to try: 

    • “Order me a bouquet of flowers using 1800Flowers.com” 
    • “Book me a hotel room on Hotels.com for this weekend” 
    • “Make a dinner reservation for two at an Italian restaurant on OpenTable.com” 

    Recipes and Instacart  

    Getting all your ingredients ready just got even easier on Copilot with Instacart. With Recipe cards, you can now directly purchase ingredients in Copilot. Simply select “Shop Ingredients on Instacart” while using Copilot on iOS, Android, the Mac app, or Copilot.com. 

    The Recipe feature is enabled for all users — no sign-in required — and is available across all Copilot markets, making it effortless to find inspiration and shop for ingredients seamlessly. Currently, the Instacart Buy option is only available in the U.S., but it will be extending to Canada soon! 

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province makes progress in international credential recognition

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Office for International Credential Recognition’s first annual report is showing progress creating more opportunities for internationally trained professionals in B.C.

    The International Credentials Recognition Act, which took effect on July 1, 2024, helps remove barriers for qualified professionals in 29 regulated fields. The legislation is making it fairer, faster and easier for people to use their skills to work in B.C., no matter where they were trained.

    Over the past year, the office has made progress by continually engaging with regulatory authorities and helping them transition to the new law. This includes ensuring regulators understand the requirements, have the right information on their websites and update their rules and policies to comply with the new legislation. The office has also made progress explaining and clarifying the new legislation with internationally trained professionals who want to work in B.C.

    The removal of Canadian work experience requirements for regulators comes into effect on July 1, 2025. By then, regulatory authorities will need to replace Canadian work experience requirements with alternative assessment frameworks, or apply for an exemption. This change will enable more applicants to demonstrate their competence in applied knowledge and skills, regardless of their Canadian work experience.

    The Office for International Credential Recognition oversees the process for regulatory authorities included under the International Credentials Recognition Act, with a goal to ensure fair, efficient and transparent recognition of international credentials and help professionals join B.C.’s workforce.

    The superintendent of the office is required by law to submit an annual report to the Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills by May 31 each year.

    Learn More:

    For the full report, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/organizational-structure/ministries-organizations/regulatory-authorities/oicr/policies#annual-report

    To read about the introduction of the International Credentials Recognition Act, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024PSFS0022-000907

    To learn more about international credential recognition, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/organizational-structure/ministries-organizations/regulatory-authorities/oicr

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Agriculture Industry Benefits from Funding for Research Demonstration Projects

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 6, 2025

    The Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan announced that 32 Agriculture Demonstration of Practices and Technologies (ADOPT) projects and six Strategic Field Program (SFP) projects received more than $1.4 million in funding for fiscal 2024-25 under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP).

    “Research is at the root of how we grow the sector and strengthen Canada’s position as a world leader when it comes to agriculture,” Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald said. “These projects will help get best practices directly into the hands of farmers and processors in Saskatchewan and keep them on the cutting edge.”

    “Saskatchewan is a global leader in agriculture technology and sustainability practices thanks to initiatives like ADOPT,” Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison said. “By investing in demonstration and knowledge transfer projects, we are ensuring the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of Canada’s agricultural sector.” 

    The ADOPT program provides funding to assist producer groups and First Nations communities to evaluate and demonstrate new agricultural practices and technologies at the local level. ADOPT focuses on practical, short-term research projects that can be applied by producers soon after completion.

    The SFP provides funding for relevant and timely field-level studies to support agriculture producers and processors in Saskatchewan and helps to develop new best practices that reinforce Saskatchewan’s global leadership in sustainable agriculture production and expertise. 

    Several projects will be demonstrated at Agriculture-Applied Research Management (Agri-ARM) sites throughout the province this year for producers to take part in learning first-hand about the new technologies and production practices. 

    Sustainable CAP is a  five year, $3.5 billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of Canada’s agriculture, agri-food, and agri-based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5 billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories. 

    Sustainable CAP has committed $10 million over five years to demonstration projects through ADOPT and SFP.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    Agriculture
    Regina
    Phone: 306-787-5155
    Email: ag.media@gov.sk.ca

    Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
    Media Relations
    Ottawa, ON
    Phone: 1-866-345-7972
    Email: aafc.mediarelations-relationsmedias.aac@agr.gc.ca 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • PM Modi receives call from Canadian PM Mark Carney, invited to G7 Summit in Kananaskis

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a congratulatory call from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Friday, during which the leaders discussed strengthening bilateral ties and confirmed India’s participation in the upcoming G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada.

    In their first direct interaction since Carney’s recent electoral victory, Prime Minister Modi congratulated his Canadian counterpart and expressed appreciation for the formal invitation to attend the G7 Summit scheduled for later this month. The conversation marked a key step in revitalizing high-level engagement between the two nations.

    The two leaders acknowledged the strong people-to-people bonds that connect India and Canada, emphasizing their shared democratic values and longstanding cultural and economic linkages. Both reaffirmed their commitment to work together with renewed energy, guided by mutual respect and shared strategic interests.

    PM Modi expressed optimism about deepening cooperation across various sectors and said he looked forward to meeting Prime Minister Carney at the Kananaskis Summit.

    PM Modi wrote in a post on X, “Glad to receive a call from Prime Minister @MarkJCarney of Canada. Congratulated him on his recent election victory and thanked him for the invitation to the G7 Summit in Kananaskis later this month. As vibrant democracies bound by deep people-to-people ties, India and Canada will work together with renewed vigour, guided by mutual respect and shared interests. Look forward to our meeting at the Summit.”

    The upcoming G7 Summit is expected to focus on pressing global challenges including climate action, economic resilience, and geopolitical security.

  • MIL-OSI Security: Devon — Missing boater on Cousins Lake located deceased

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The remains of the missing boater on Cousins Lake have been found.

    On April 10, RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment, fire and EHS responded to a report of a capsized boat on Cousins Lake. Of the two people in the boat, one man made it to shore.

    An extensive search was conducted over several weeks, but they were unsuccessful in locating the missing boater.

    On May 4, the man’s loved ones attended the lake in Devon and located human remains that were then recovered by ground search and rescue (GSAR) and fire services.

    The Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service has confirmed that the remains are those of the 58-year-old boater from Truro. His death is not believed to be suspicious.

    The man’s family, and the Nova Scotia RCMP, wishes to thank everyone involved, GSAR volunteers, fire services, the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association and Department of Natural Resources Air Services for their efforts in trying to locate the man.

    Our thoughts are with the man’s loved ones at this difficult time.

    File #: 25-49243

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province supports emergency operations centres to keep communities safe

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund supports projects that help local governments and First Nations to better prepare for emergencies. This funding is provided by the Province and administered through the Union of British Columbia Municipalities.

    Local governments and First Nations throughout British Columbia will receive nearly $7 million from the emergency operations centre (EOC) equipment and training funding stream as follows:

    ?Esdilagh First Nation – Cargo trailer for mobile EOC, foundational training and tabletop exercise for staff.
    Amount: $39,720

    Abbotsford – Training and hands‑on mock event exercises to practice essential procedures.
    Amount: $39,587

    Adams Lake Indian Band – Comprehensive EOC training, tabletop exercise and supplies for EOC.
    Amount: $40,000

    Regional: Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District – This project provides EOC training and a multi-jurisdictional simulation exercise, and supplies IT equipment, communications equipment and office supplies.
    Amount: $117,790
    Sub-applicants: Port Alberni, Tofino

    Regional: Alert Bay – Cormorant Island’s EOC will receive EOC training and IT, operational and communications equipment, including solar power system.
    Amount: $80,000
    Sub-applicant: ‘Namgis First Nation

    Anspayaxw Band– The project boosts EOC capacity by supplying essential IT equipment and conducting a functional exercise.
    Amount: $40,000

    Armstrong – This project delivers EOC essentials and radio training, and supplies office equipment and drones to bolster EOC readiness.
    Amount: $30,083

    Ashcroft – Equips emergency operations centre with portable EOC kits, delivers Level 1 EOC training and runs exercises to practice essential emergency procedures.
    Amount: $40,000

    Barriere – This project provides EOC with office supplies, provides introductory EOC training and conducts tabletop exercises to practice critical procedures.
    Amount: $37,944

    Belcarra – This project provides a mobile trailer for storing and relocating EOC equipment.
    Amount: $33,150

    Blueberry River First Nations – Communications equipment, office supplies and training to manage emergency situations.
    Amount: $39,984

    Bowen Island – This project supplies mobile EOC equipment, distributes Rapid Damage Assessment kits and delivers a one-day EOC refresher course.
    Amount: $40,000

    Bulkley-Nechako Regional District – Facilitates EOC exercises and evacuation workshops to rehearse response co-ordination and safe evacuation procedures.
    Amount: $36,863

    Capital Regional District – This project provides EOC training and exercise to rehearse procedures and strengthen co-ordinated response.
    Amount: $40,000

    Cariboo Regional District – Mobile EOC and foundational training for staff.
    Amount: $21,966

    Central Coast Regional District – This project provides foundational EOC training, IT equipment and internet connectivity.
    Amount: $39,999

    Regional: Central Okanagan Regional District – This project provides staff development and training to enhance EOC capabilities.
    Amount: $240,000
    Sub-applicants: Kelowna, Lake Country, Peachland, West Kelowna, Westbank First Nation

    Central Saanich – This project provides EOC training, exercises and IT equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Chawathil First Nation – This project provides portable/deployable EOC kits.
    Amount: $39,102

    Clearwater – This project provides EOC training, office supplies and IT, operational and communications equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Coldstream – This project provides EOC training, tabletop exercise and IT, operational and communications equipment.
    Amount: $39,979

    Columbia Shuswap Regional District – This project provides a workflow-management system and EOC staff training.
    Amount: $39,350

    Colwood – This project provides EOC training and supplies office, IT and operational equipment.
    Amount: $24,184

    Regional: Comox Valley Regional District – This project provides multi‑jurisdictional EOC training and supplies IT and operational equipment.
    Amount: $195,000
    Sub-applicants: Comox, Courtenay, Cumberland, K’ómoks First Nation

    Cook’s Ferry Indian Band – This project provides EOC training and IT equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Coquitlam – This project provides Incident Command System 200 training and exercises.
    Amount: $40,000

    Cowichan Tribes – This project provides IT, communications and office supplies.
    Amount: $40,000

    Regional: Cowichan Valley Regional District – This project provides EOC position training and supplies office, IT and operational equipment.
    Amount: $200,000
    Sub-applicants: Duncan, Ladysmith, Lake Cowichan, North Cowichan

    Creston – This project provides EOC training, exercises and IT equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Doig River First Nation – Radio equipment and evacuation-operation supplies.
    Amount: $29,328

    Regional: East Kootenay Regional District – This project provides full‑scale EOC training and exercises and supplies operational, communications and IT equipment.
    Amount: $320,000
    Sub-applicants: ʔaq’am, Canal Flats, Cranbrook, Fernie, Invermere, Kimberley, Radium Hot Springs, Shuswap Band

    Elkford – This project provides drone training and EOC training (Introduction, Essentials and Incident Command System courses).
    Amount: $40,000

    Enderby – This project provides IT equipment, office supplies and operational-equipment upgrades.
    Amount: $23,435

    Esk’etemc First Nation – This project provides communications equipment and operational supplies.
    Amount: $31,818

    Regional: Fort St. James – This project provides EOC training and supplies IT, communications and operational equipment.
    Amount: $79,198
    Sub-applicant: Nak’azdli Whut’en

    Fraser Valley Regional District – Simulation exercise and emergency operations centre supplies.
    Amount: $40,000

    Fraser-Fort George Regional District – Operation supplies and EOC essentials training.
    Amount: $40,000

    Gibsons – Operations training and supplies to create and maintain an EOC in an existing facility.
    Amount: $40,000

    Gitga’at First Nation – This project provides training and supplies IT and communications equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Golden – This project provides operational supplies and first-aid kits.
    Amount: $38,490

    Granisle – This project provides EOC training and supplies IT and communications equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Haisla Nation – This project provides IT equipment, electrical upgrades for sea can storage radios and tabletop exercises.
    Amount: $39,755

    Harrison Hot Springs – This project provides section training and operational equipment.
    Amount: $34,835

    Hope – This project provides foundational training and operational equipment, including a generator.
    Amount: $40,000

    Houston – This project provides EOC training through the emergency-management program.
    Amount: $40,000

    Hudson’s Hope – Portable/deployable emergency operations centre kit and sections training.
    Amount: $40,000

    Huu-ay-aht First Nations – This project provides IT and operational equipment, training and tabletop exercises.
    Amount: $39,830

    Iskut First Nation – This project provides IT and communications equipment, including drone for communications and supplies a backup generator for reliable power and situational awareness.
    Amount: $40,000

    Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k’tles7et’h’ First Nations – EOC capacity expanded with a mobile trailer for on‑site emergency co-ordination.
    Amount: $40,000

    Kamloops – This project provides IT equipment, EOC materials and staff training.
    Amount: $40,000

    Kanaka Bar Indian Band – This project provides EOC kits and staff grab-and-go bags.
    Amount: $37,240

    Kent – Foundational training and functional exercise.
    Amount: $39,911

    Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation – IT, communications and operational equipment, including generator and trailer.
    Amount: $40,000

    Kitimat – Communication equipment and training enhancements.
    Amount: $21,549

    Kitselas First Nation – This project provides training and exercises and supplies IT, communications and operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Kwakiutl Band Council – This project provides IT and communications equipment, orientation and exercises.
    Amount: $40,000

    Kwikwetlem First Nation – Tabletop exercise and operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Langley City – This project provides section‑specific and foundational training.
    Amount: $39,870

    Langley Township – Operational equipment and foundational training.
    Amount: $40,000

    Lheidli-T’enneh First Nation (Northside) – This project provides tabletop walkthrough and foundational training.
    Amount: $34,794

    Lheidli-T’enneh First Nation (Southside) – This project provides tabletop walkthrough and foundational training.
    Amount: $34,794

    Lhtako Dene Nation – Radio equipment, generator and operation supplies.
    Amount: $30,000

    Lillooet – This project provides refresher training and IT equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Lytton First Nation – This project provides office and communications equipment.
    Amount: $38,947

    Mackenzie – This project provides communications equipment and training.
    Amount: $39,890

    Maple Ridge – Functional exercise and operational equipment.
    Amount: $39,538

    McLeod Lake Indian Band – Operations supplies and EOC training.
    Amount: $39,190

    Merritt – EOC capacity building through training and new equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Metchosin – Mobile EOC and power-supply project, includes office supplies, operational and communications equipment, and training and exercises.
    Amount: $39,700

    Mission – Functional exercise and operation supplies.
    Amount: $32,776

    Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nations – Enhancements to the emergency-management program, including EOC training.
    Amount: $39,765

    Nanaimo – This project provides IT equipment, communications equipment and operational supplies.
    Amount: $34,000

    Regional: Nanaimo Regional District – This project provides section training, mock exercises, operational equipment and office supplies, including rapid damage assessment kits.
    Amount: $80,000
    Sub-applicant: District of Lantzville

    Nelson – EOC improvements through IT and communications equipment and staff-training exercise.
    Amount: $40,000

    North Okanagan Regional District – This project provides IT and communications equipment and EOC training.
    Amount: $40,000

    North Saanich – This project provides operational equipment, including a generator to operate during power outage.
    Amount: $40,000

    Regional: North Vancouver District – Functional exercise to test municipal evacuation plan and section-specific training.
    Amount: $120,000
    Sub-applicants: North Vancouver City, West Vancouver

    Northern Rockies Regional Municipality – Mobile EOC and operation supplies.
    Amount: $39,000

    Nuxalk Nation – This project provides operational equipment, including a generator.
    Amount: $40,000

    Oak Bay – This project provides EOC training and supplies office and operational equipment.
    Amount: $39,800

    Regional: Okanagan-Similkameen Regional District – This project provides EOC section training and supplies grab‑and‑go kits, communication and mapping tools, identification equipment and operational supplies.
    Amount: $199,600
    Sub-applicants: Keremeos, Oliver, Osoyoos, Summerland

    Pacheedaht First Nation – This project provides training, exercises and supplies sea can storage, IT equipment and first-aid supplies.
    Amount: $38,655

    Peace River Regional District – This project provides office, IT and operational equipment, including 72-hour kits.
    Amount: $39,853

    Pemberton – Conferencing equipment and foundational training.
    Amount: $40,000

    Penticton – This project provides EOC training and tabletop exercises and supplies IT and communications equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Pitt Meadows – Mobile emergency operations centre equipment and functional exercise.
    Amount: $40,000

    Port Coquitlam – Tabletop exercise and section training.
    Amount: $40,000

    Port Edward – This project provides emergency support services training and supplies office, IT and communications equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Port Hardy – This project provides EOC exercises and supplies operational equipment, including solar backup power.
    Amount: $37,200

    Port Moody – Functional tabletop exercise and operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Princeton – This project provides first-aid supplies, incident command vests, communications equipment and EOC training.
    Amount: $40,000

    qathet Regional District – This project provides operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Regional: Qualicum Beach – This project provides training, exercises and IT equipment.
    Amount: $80,000
    Sub-applicant: Parksville

    Quatsino First Nation – This project provides training and supplies operational and communications equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Saanich – This project provides EOC with conferencing equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Saik’uz First Nation – This project provides a mobile EOC trailer, IT, communications and operational equipment.
    Amount: $38,425

    Seabird Island Band – Functional exercise, foundational training and operation supplies.
    Amount: $33,660

    Sékw’elw’as – This project provides communications equipment and tabletop exercises.
    Amount: $40,000

    Sidney – EOC training for staff.
    Amount: $35,500

    Regional: Siska Band – This project enhances the operation of EOC through communications equipment.
    Amount: $159,043
    Sub-applicants: Nicomen Indian Band, Oregon Jack Creek Band, Shackan Indian Band

    Skeetchestn Indian Band – This project provides operational equipment, including an auxiliary power generator.
    Amount: $39,128

    Skowkale First Nation – This project provides foundational and section training.
    Amount: $30,173

    Skwláx te Secwepemcúl̓ecw – This project provides EOC with IT, communications equipment and activation exercises.
    Amount: $39,904

    Smithers – Joint training operations and communications equipment.
    Amount: $39,900

    SnPink’tn – Implementing technology into the EOC through IT equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Songhees Nation – This project provides training and supplies operational and office equipment, including storage and a generator.
    Amount: $39,935

    Sooke – This project provides EOC training, exercises and operational equipment, including a drone.
    Amount: $40,000

    Spuzzum First Nation – Section training and functional exercise.
    Amount: $40,000

    Squamish – This project provides a functional exercise and Incident Command System training.
    Amount: $35,000

    Sqwá First Nation – This project provides IT and operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    SȾÁUTW̱ First Nation – This project provides EOC training and IT, communications and operational equipment.
    Amount: $31,395

    Stewart – This project provides communications equipment updates.
    Amount: $10,116

    Regional: Strathcona Regional District – This project provides EOC training and supplies IT equipment, communications equipment, operational equipment and office supplies.
    Amount: $360,000
    Sub-applicants: Campbell River, Ehattesaht First Nation, Gold River, Nuchatlaht First Nation, Port McNeill, Sayward, Tahsis, Zeballos

    Takla Nation – This project provides training and supplies IT equipment, communications equipment and operational equipment.
    Amount: $39,774

    Taylor – Tabletop exercise and foundational training.
    Amount: $23,919

    Telkwa – This project provides EOC training and supplies IT equipment, communications equipment and office supplies.
    Amount: $39,994

    Thompson-Nicola Regional District – EOC equipment and training improvements.
    Amount: $40,000

    Tl’azt’en Nation – Emergency operations centre enhancement through training and generator purchase.
    Amount: $40,000

    Ts’il kaz koh – EOC project includes mobile trailer, training and operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Tsal’alh – Portable/deployable EOC kit and sections training.
    Amount: $39,197

    Tsartlip First Nation – This project provides EOC exercises and supplies IT, communications and operational equipment.
    Amount: $29,895

    Tseshaht First Nation – This project provides EOC training, office supplies and portable operational and communications equipment.
    Amount: $39,991

    Tsilhqot’in National Government – Tabletop exercise and foundational training.
    Amount: $37,500

    Tsleil-waututh Nation – Section training and tabletop exercise.
    Amount: $39,958

    Ucluelet – This project revitalizes the tsunami siren warning system.
    Amount: $34,549

    Valemount – Operation supplies and sections training.
    Amount: $35,159

    Vancouver – Incident Command Systems and section training for staff.
    Amount: $36,621

    Vanderhoof – This project provides IT, communications, operational and office equipment.
    Amount: $27,066

    Vernon – Rapid damage assessment kits and EOC training courses.
    Amount: $40,000

    Victoria – EOC update through IT supplies and earthquake exercise.
    Amount: $39,055

    We Wai Kai Nation – This project provides communications equipment and training.
    Amount: $39,425

    Wells – This project provides IT, office and operational equipment.
    Amount: $33,165

    West Moberly First Nations – This project provides functional tabletop exercise.
    Amount: $32,612

    Whistler – Essentials training and IT equipment.
    Amount: $24,650

    Williams Lake First Nation – Mock activation exercise and operational equipment.
    Amount: $39,265

    Witset First Nation – This project provides EOC training, communications and operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Xaxli’p First Nation (fountain) – Mobile EOC centre operation supplies.
    Amount: $39,688

    Yakweakwioose First Nation – Foundational training and operation supplies.
    Amount: $26,245

    Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ‘it (tobacco plains) – This project provides a mobile EOC trailer, training and communications equipment.
    Amount: $39,928

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Adds Over 15,000 Full Time Jobs in May and Unemployment Rate Remains Lowest in the Nation

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 6, 2025

    Statistics Canada latest labour force numbers show that Saskatchewan has maintained a strong labour market and steady growth throughout the year. Saskatchewan has the lowest unemployment rate in the nation at 4.2 per cent. This is well below the national average which has now increased to 7.0 per cent.  

    “There are more people working in Saskatchewan than ever before,” Deputy Premier and Minister of Immigration and Career Training Jim Reiter said. “We are experiencing record job growth and our province continues to be an economic leader in Canada. Our government is working to ensure this growth continues and that our province remains attractive for businesses to invest while continuing to be the best place to live and work in Canada.”  

    The province led the nation in year-over-year job growth, adding 16,300 jobs year-over-year in May, ranking first among provinces in terms of percentage change at 2.7 per cent.  

    May 2025 saw all-time historical highs (aged 15 and over), with:

    • Saskatchewan’s labour force reaching 653,900;
    • Saskatchewan’s full-time employment reaching 518,800; and
    • Saskatchewan’s women employment reaching 294,300.

    Year-over-year, full-time employment increased by 15,300, an increase of 3.0 per cent. Employment for women  is up 10,900 which is an increase of 3.8 per cent, and employment for men is up 5,300 an increase of 1.6 per cent.  

    Saskatchewan’s two biggest cities also saw year-over-year growth. Compared to May 2024, Saskatoon’s employment was up 7,900, an increase of 4.1 per cent, and Regina’s employment was up 5,100, an increase of 3.5 per cent.

    Major year-over-year gains were reported for health care and social assistance up 11,400, an increase of 12.4 per cent. Construction is up 7,000 an increase of 16.3 per cent and public administration is up 6,100 an increase of 16.8 per cent.  

    The province continues to see economic growth in other areas. Saskatchewan GDP reached 80.5 billion in 2024 and increase of 3.4 per cent from 2023. In March 2025, Saskatchewan also ranked highest amongst provinces for year-over-year growth in building construction investment (27.8 per cent) and second in retail trade value (8.2 per cent).  

    This economic growth is backed by the Government of Saskatchewan’s recently released Building the Workforce for a Growing Economy: The Saskatchewan Labour Market Strategy, a roadmap to build the workforce needed to support Saskatchewan’s strong and growing economy, and Securing the Next Decade of Growth: Saskatchewan’s Investment Attraction Strategy, a plan to increase investment in the province and to furth advancing Saskatchewan’s Growth plan goal of $16 billion in private capital investment annually.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province Addressing Issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 6, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan is honouring its ongoing commitment to respond to the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. 

    The Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls was released on June 3, 2019. In the six years since the Report was released, the province has made significant progress in developing responses to and raising awareness about the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.

    “Our government is committed to addressing the critical issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls and creating safe communities for all Saskatchewan residents,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod, K.C. said. “This includes targeted investments in programs and services to prevent and respond to missing persons and gender-based violence, and collaborating with Indigenous and community partners to build a future free from exploitation and abuse.”

    Earlier this spring, Saskatchewan commemorated Missing Persons Week and Red Dress Day to honour those who have gone missing and show support for their families and loved ones.

    In November of 2022, Saskatchewan endorsed the National Action Plan to End Gender Based Violence. The province was among the first in Canada to sign on to the federal National Action Plan to End Gender-Based violence (NAP), which provides $20.3 million over four years to enhance programs and services that address interpersonal violence and abuse.

    “Indigenous women and girls embody strength, resilience and wisdom, yet they are disproportionately impacted by violence and abuse,” Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Alana Ross said. “Saskatchewan remains committed to preventing and ending this violence by expanding education and awareness, increasing Indigenous-led initiatives, and enhancing supports for survivors, families and communities.”

    The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls+ (MMIWG+) Community Response Fund continues to provide $800,000 to Indigenous community-based projects that promote and enhance prevention and safety, with half of the funding provided by Women and Gender Equality Canada. Since 2022-23, 59 projects have received up to $40,000 in funding from the fund. 

    “The Government of Saskatchewan is committed to working alongside Indigenous communities to prevent gender-based violence and to support its victims,” Minister Responsible for First Nations, Métis, and Northern Affairs Eric Schmalz said. “From the very beginning, Indigenous knowledge, tradition and lived experience have guided the development and administration of the MMIWG+ Community Response Fund. The projects supported through the fund are often created and led by Indigenous communities, organizations and grassroots initiatives. Together, we work to support safety, healing and resilience across Saskatchewan.”

    In addition, the Family Information Liaison Unit helps families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls navigate government processes to ensure that they can access support and information about their loved ones. Currently, the Unit supports over 170 families across the province. 

    The province’s Face the Issue campaign, designed to raise awareness and start conversations about the reality of interpersonal violence, continues to run across social media platforms. In 2024-25, the Government of Saskatchewan released a new public awareness campaign that focused on raising awareness of human trafficking in the province. Posters were placed in public sites across the province to connect with individuals who are most at risk of being trafficked. 

    Government also collaborates with and provides funding to 211 Saskatchewan to support its role as a 24/7 service referral platform for situations involving interpersonal violence and abuse, including sexual violence and human trafficking.  

    For additional information about Saskatchewan’s response to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, visit:

    May 5 is Red Dress Day in Saskatchewan | News and Media | Government of Saskatchewan.

    Government of Saskatchewan Proclaims Missing Persons Week | News and Media | Government of Saskatchewan.

    Applications Open for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls+ Community Response Fund | News and Media | Government of Saskatchewan.

    Government of Saskatchewan Releases Cross-Government Progress Report on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls+ | News and Media | Government of Saskatchewan.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on May Labour Force Survey results

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, has issued the following statement on the release of Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey for May 2025:

    “Now, more than ever, it’s critical for B.C. to focus on diversifying our economy and protecting jobs for British Columbians, and we are doing that work.

    “This week, we announced the launch of our ease-of-doing-business review, to continue the work to cut red tape, modernize our regulatory and permitting systems, and foster innovation, as we secure B.C.’s position as the engine of Canada’s new economy. Businesses are invited to share their ideas, challenges and suggestions through an online website portal until fall 2025. Information gathered will help us to make it easier for companies and organizations of all sizes and sectors to do business in B.C., and to create more jobs so people can find stable full-time work in their home communities.

    “Today’s Labour Force Survey data shows that despite the economic challenges posed by the U.S., in May, B.C. led across the country with a gain of 13,000 jobs compared to last month. So far this year, B.C. has gained 67,000 full-time jobs, the highest increase among provinces.

    “In May, private-sector employment has increased by 8,900 jobs compared to last month. Since July 2017, B.C. has gained 183,300 private-sector jobs. So far this year, we have the second-highest increase in private-sector employment among provinces at 14,700 jobs.

    “B.C. leads in women’s employment, an increase of 11,000 this month. So far this year, B.C. has the highest increase in women’s full-time employment among provinces at 32,900. Youth employment also increased in May by 1,400 jobs.  

    “Our unemployment rate is 6.4%, below the national average of 7.0%. And B.C. continues to lead the country with an average hourly wage of $38.07, with our average wage increased by 2.9% compared to this time last year, the fourth-highest growth among provinces.

    “The data this morning shows that in May, B.C. had employment increases in the construction sector at 23,800 jobs compared to this time last year. Professional, scientific and technical services continue to show strong and steady growth overall with gains of 11,100 in May.

    “Next week, I will be leading a B.C. delegation to Europe to meet with investors, key government officials and stakeholders to build connections and showcase our world-class, made-in-B.C. technology. This mission will build on the work underway on Premier David Eby’s trade mission focused on key markets in Asia, as we work to create trade opportunities for businesses in the province and good-paying jobs for British Columbians.

    “Growing a stronger and more diverse economy will help protect people in B.C. from instability outside our borders, with investments that will bring good-paying jobs to the province as part of robust and sustainable industries.”

    Learn More:

    To learn more about B.C.’s Response to Tariffs, visit:
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/tariffs

    To learn more about the European Union Trade Mission, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/32442

    To learn more about the Ease-of-doing-business Review, visit:
    https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025JEDI0022-000544

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Funding to Support Francophone Artists and Promote French Language in Saskatchewan Continues

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 6, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan is providing $60,000 to support professional development of Francophone artists and strengthen French-language arts and culture across the province. 

    The Conseil culturel fransaskois (CCF) will receive the funds to deliver seven workshops to singers, musicians, writers and visual artists. This is the second year of the funding with more than 55 artists benefitting from the program in 2024-25.

    “These workshops provide valuable opportunities for Francophone artists to hone their craft, share ideas and grow professionally,” Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs Alana Ross said. “The Conseil culturel fransaskois plays a vital role in preserving and promoting our province’s rich cultural heritage. This investment supports artists while delivering for our Francophone communities.” 

    The workshops will focus on a variety of areas for professional development such as marketing, promotion and mentorship. 

    This funding is part of the Canada-Saskatchewan Agreement on French-language Services, a five-year initiative that enhances the delivery of French-language programs and services across the province. 

    Like last year, the 2025-26 Provincial Budget includes several initiatives focused on Saskatchewan’s Francophone communities and French language in the province, including:

    • Two key health programs for Saskatchewan’s French speaking citizens: a patient accompaniment program operated by the Réseau santé en français de la Saskatchewan and a French-language mental health support telephone line offered through TAO Tel-Aide.
    • Improving the provision of French language services to Saskatchewan residents, by developing interactive government services in French and improving the availability of bilingual services for residents when doing business with government.

    “Access to services in French, whether for health care, culture or business support, is essential to building an inclusive and equitable Canada,” Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister Responsible for Official Languages Steven Guilbeault said. “Through strong collaboration between the Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan, these important investments will help meet the needs of the Fransaskois community. Thanks to the Conseil culturel fransaskois for continuing to make a real difference in the lives of French-speaking communities in Saskatchewan by strengthening their cultural and social vitality.”

    The CCF has been the province’s leading organization for the development and promotion of Francophone culture for over 50 years. 

    “The biggest impact of this renewed and increased funding will be felt in the continuation of initiatives launched last year,” CCF President Anne Brochu Lambert said. “It is a recognition of both the value of these initiatives and the importance of thoughtful long term professional development for our artists.”

    To learn more about the CCF’s programs and events, visit: www.culturel.ca. 

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    Maintien du financement visant à soutenir les artistes francophones et à promouvoir la langue française en Saskatchewan

    Le gouvernement de la Saskatchewan offre un appui financier de 60 000 $ afin de soutenir le développement professionnel des artistes francophones et de renforcer la présence des arts et de la culture en langue française dans toute la province.

    Le Conseil culturel fransaskois (CCF) recevra les fonds à distribuer aux chanteuses et chanteurs, aux musiciennes et musiciens, aux écrivaines et écrivains ainsi qu’aux artistes visuels. Ce financement est offert pour une deuxième année consécutive, permettant ainsi à plus de 55 artistes de bénéficier du programme pour l’année 2024-2025.

    « Ces ateliers offrent aux artistes francophones de précieuses occasions de perfectionner leur art, d’échanger des idées et d’évoluer sur le plan professionnel, déclare Alana Ross, la ministre responsable des Affaires francophones. Le Conseil culturel fransaskois joue un rôle essentiel dans la préservation et la promotion du riche héritage culturel de notre province. Cet investissement soutient les artistes tout en répondant aux attentes de la communauté francophone. »

    Les ateliers s’attarderont sur plusieurs domaines du perfectionnement professionnel tels que le marketing, la promotion et le mentorat.

    Le financement est prévu dans l’Entente Canada-Saskatchewan pour les services en français, une initiative de cinq ans qui permet de fournir plus de prestations de programmes et de services en langue française dans toute la province.

    Comme l’année dernière, le budget provincial 2025-2026 comprend plusieurs initiatives axées sur les communautés francophones de la Saskatchewan et sur la langue française dans la province, y compris :

    • Deux programmes importants en matière de santé pour les citoyennes et citoyens francophones en Saskatchewan : un programme d’accompagnement pour patients géré par le Réseau santé en français de la Saskatchewan et une ligne d’écoute téléphonique de soutien en santé mentale en français offerte par TAO Tel-Aide.
    • L’amélioration de prestations de services en français aux résidants de la Saskatchewan grâce au développement de services gouvernementaux interactifs en français et l’amélioration de l’accès aux services bilingues pour les résidants lors des discussions d’affaires avec le gouvernement.

    « Accéder à des services en français, que ce soit en matière de santé, de culture ou de soutien aux entreprises, est essentiel à l’édification d’un Canada inclusif et équitable. Grâce à une collaboration étroite entre les gouvernements du Canada et de la Saskatchewan, ces investissements importants contribuent à répondre aux besoins de la communauté fransaskoise. Je remercie le Conseil culturel fransaskois de continuer à faire une réelle différence dans la vie des communautés francophones de la Saskatchewan en renforçant leur vitalité culturelle et sociale. »

    – L’honorable Steven Guilbeault, ministre de l’Identité et de la Culture canadiennes et ministre responsable des Langues officielles

    Depuis plus de 50 ans, le CCF est l’organisme phare de la province en ce qui concerne le développement et la promotion de la culture francophone.

    « Nous saluons le renouvellement de ce financement ainsi que l’augmentation accordée, affirme Anne Brochu Lambert, présidente du CCF. Cet appui s’inscrit dans la continuité. C’est une reconnaissance de la valeur des jalons posés l’an dernier et de l’importance de soutenir le développement professionnel de nos artistes sur le long terme. »

    Pour en apprendre davantage sur les programmes et les événements du CCF, visitez le www.culturel.ca.

    -30-

    Pour plus d’information, contactez :

    PCS Media
    Ministère des Parcs, de la Culture et du Sport
    Regina
    Téléphone : 306-798-1020
    Courriel : pcsmedia@gov.sk.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Maine Department of Environmental Protection Issues Air Quality Alert for June 6

    Source: US State of Maine

    June 6, 2025

    CONTACT:

    Ground-level particle pollution concentrations are expected to reach the ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups’ (USG) level according to air quality meteorologists at the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.

    Smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to move into the Northern Maine region with hourly monitored values of particle pollution in the USG range on Friday morning. With light winds forecasted, these higher values are expected to linger throughout the day. The remainder of Maine is projected to remain in the Moderate range. Meanwhile, ozone is expected to reach the Moderate range for the Southwest and Mid-Coastal regions and Good for the remainder of the state.

    On Saturday, weather conditions are expected to remain consistent, and currently, air quality forecasters are not expecting wildfire smoke to move out of the Maine area. The entire state of Maine is expected to remain in the Moderate range for particle pollution since smoke can be slow to clean out. Ozone is expected to be in the Good range statewide. However, please check the website Saturday morning for the finalized forecast.

    At elevated levels of particle pollution, children, the elderly, and individuals suffering from respiratory or heart diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, or COPD can experience reduced lung function and irritation. In addition, healthy adults who exert themselves outdoors may also notice these health effects. Affected individuals may notice symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, throat irritation, and/or experience mild chest pain.

    Some actions you can take to protect your health during periods of elevated particle pollution levels include:

    • Avoid strenuous outdoor activity
    • Close windows and circulate indoor air with a fan or air conditioner
    • If you have asthma, keep your quick-relief medications and action plan handy

    Additional health information may be found on the following websites:

    In addition to those in a sensitive group, others who are responsible for the welfare of people impacted by poor air quality are urged to use one of the listed tools to follow the Air Quality Forecast:

    For more information go to Maine DEPs air quality web site.

    For additional information, contact: David R. Madore, Deputy Commissioner david.madore@maine.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: June Oil and Gas Public Offering Generates $9 Million in Revenue

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 6, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan’s Crown oil and natural gas public offering, held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, raised $9,128,114.78 for the province, with the Estevan area generating the bulk of the bids and revenue.

    Seventy-one parcels received acceptable bids, covering a total area of 12,586.646 hectares.

    The Estevan area in the southeast brought in $6,533,373.21 for 34 leases totalling 3,631.861 hectares.

    In the northwest, the Lloydminster area generated $1,983,553.17 in revenue for 17 leases and one exploration licence totalling 4,830.780 hectares.

    Bids in the Kindersley area brought in $547,467.36, while offers in the Swift Current area brought in $63,721.04.

    Elk Run Resources Ltd. made the highest bid and dollars-per-hectare bid, offering $2,361,846.93 for a 291.486 hectare lease southeast of Lampman in the Estevan area. The bid works out to an average of $8,102.78 per hectare. 

    This is the second of six oil and gas public offerings for the 2025-26 fiscal year, over which time the Government of Saskatchewan has raised $21,111,246.03

    Several factors affect public offering activity, including changes in oil and gas prices, land availability, geological and technological constraints and various market conditions.

    For more information about oil and gas public offerings in Saskatchewan, please visit: Schedule of Public Offerings webpage on saskatchewan.ca.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What the UK’s ‘Nato-first’ defence approach tells us about Britain’s place in a volatile world

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nick Whittaker, Subject Lead in Social Sciences & Law, University of Sussex

    Since the end of the cold war, the relevance of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato) has regularly been questioned, even by its most prominent leaders. Its members, therefore, find it necessary to remind each other and the world of its value from time to time.

    The latest example of this is the UK government’s new strategic defence review, which announces a “Nato-first” posture.

    Nato has long been a cornerstone of UK foreign, defence and security policies. But this marks a particularly strident prioritisation of the organisation. It comes just a few years after Boris Johnson’s government began moving the country’s foreign and defence policy priorities towards the Indo-Pacific.

    It tells us much about how Keir Starmer’s administration sees the UK’s place in the world in an unsettled era: as both an influential ally of the US and a reliable partner to European powers, eager to maintain regional and global influence.

    Signed in 1949, the North Atlantic treaty committed its original 12 members to collective security: an attack on one would be an attack on all. In the shadow of the second world war, Nato went further than the nascent United Nations in its defence and security commitments. It brought together a somewhat eclectic mix of states straddling the Atlantic, from the North American behemoths of the US and Canada to tiny Iceland and Luxembourg, the dictatorship of Salazar’s Portugal and the democracies of Norway and Belgium.

    The UK’s participation was largely heralded across an enthusiastic parliament. Winston Churchill, then leader of the opposition, praised this new “fraternal association”. The foreign secretary, Ernest Bevin, celebrated the community of interest [and] cooperation with like-minded people”. UK politicians saw Nato as a means to connect with the US and Canada in particular.

    Want more politics coverage from academic experts? Every week, we bring you informed analysis of developments in government and fact check the claims being made.

    Sign up for our weekly politics newsletter, delivered every Friday.

    The language at the time also reflected the casting of the Soviet Union as a threat to European security. Although the UK welcomed Nato as a liberal democratic organisation dominated by English-speaking peoples, its primary purpose was always to act as a strategic counterweight to the influence and encroachment of the Soviet Union in Europe. Hence the claimed irrelevance of Nato in the 1990s after the cold war, and its renewed importance today in the face of Russian aggression.

    As always with UK foreign and defence policies, the relationship with the US is paramount. The UK’s Nato-first position is no exception. Starmer clearly believes he can forge a working relationship with the US president. Although seemingly far from natural bedfellows (although neither were John F. Kennedy and Harold Macmillan or even, politics aside, Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher), Donald Trump appears unthreatened by the sober, understated Starmer.

    The thought within Starmer’s foreign policy circle may well be that a loud and unequivocal statement of the UK’s commitment to Nato could help persuade Trump to stay the course with an organisation that he has often threatened to pull the US out of.

    If, on the other hand, Starmer et al are more pessimistic and fear Trump making good on his threats, Nato clearly remains an attractive proposition in terms of the UK’s defence policy. While it does commit the UK to the defence of, say, the Baltic States and Finland, by the same token, Nato puts the UK in lockstep with fellow nuclear power, France, as well as the growing military power of Germany and significant others such as Turkey. In uncertain times, such allies are to be valued.

    Global influence

    Even before Brexit, a fear of losing global and regional influence has stalked every British government since 1945.

    Questioning the wisdom of the departure from the EU remains a Westminster taboo. Yet one might forgive the incoming Labour government for feeling the chill of isolation while Trump occupies the White House and Russia threatens the continent. Nato thus also represents a valuable opportunity to retain regional and global influence. Note the language in Starmer’s introduction to the report when he refers to a desire to “lead in Nato”.

    Can Starmer’s ‘Nato-first’ pivot convince Trump to stay?
    Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street, CC BY-NC-ND

    While the other defenestrated European colonial powers found post-1945 influence through the Francophonie or becoming leading civilian forces in what became the EU, the UK had the Commonwealth and Nato. These were the prime proxies for the lost colonial influence, even during the long EU interregnum.

    Without the EU and with a more restive Commonwealth, Nato is of even greater importance. Although France’s president Emmanuel Macron is generally enthusiastic about Nato, there is a history of French ambivalence. The UK could well make the claim to be the most steadfastly committed of all the larger European members.

    This renewed commitment to Nato from the UK government is consistent with the historic prioritisation of the organisation by successive administrations. The difference here is the urgency of the context: Europe faces an unprecedented military threat, while the US president is unpredictable and dubious in his attitude towards continental defence.

    The Nato-first stance is a recognition of grim, strategic realities and also a “Hail Mary”, both pragmatic and hopeful. The UK is not alone in desperately hoping to keep the US commitment to European security alive. The strategic review’s commitment to a Nato-first policy may help – at the very least, it signals a UK administration keen to maximise its influence and retain robust ties with European allies.

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

    – ref. What the UK’s ‘Nato-first’ defence approach tells us about Britain’s place in a volatile world – https://theconversation.com/what-the-uks-nato-first-defence-approach-tells-us-about-britains-place-in-a-volatile-world-258336

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Premier’s statement on Eid al-Adha

    Premier David Eby has issued the following statement marking Eid al-Adha:

    “Today, Muslims in British Columbia and around the world will gather to celebrate the holiest days in the Muslim calendar.

    “Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of the Sacrifice, commemorates the devotion of the Prophet Ibrahim.

    “Muslims will gather to pray at their local mosque, to share meals with loved ones and to provide food to people in need. The values of charity and kindliness are central to the celebration of Eid al-Adha.

    “Eid al-Adha also marks the conclusion of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage made by Muslims to the Holy City of Mecca in Saudi Arabia.

    “This joyous and sacred celebration offers an opportunity for all of us to reflect on how fortunate we are in British Columbia to have diverse and vibrant Muslim communities with connections to every corner of the world. Those communities make tremendous contributions in making our province a better place.

    “To all who celebrate – Eid Mubarak!”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: CBSA intercepts 577 kg of cannabis at the Montreal Marine and Rail Service

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Montreal, Quebec, June 6th, 2025 – Canada Border Services Agency

    On May 23, 2025, Canadian border services officers at Montreal’s Marine and Rail Service intercepted and seized 577.43 kg of suspected cannabis from a container in the process of being exported to the Netherlands. 

    During inspection of the container, border services officers detected the contraband concealed in 1,023 vacuum-sealed packages hidden in custom-built crates and surrounded by bundles of engineered wood. The cannabis is valued at over CA $4.2 million.

    The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is committed to protecting our communities from contraband and organized crime. CBSA reiterates that although cannabis has been legalized and regulated in Canada, importing or exporting cannabis in any form without a permit or exception authorized by Health Canada is a serious criminal offence, punishable by arrest and prosecution. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada reaffirms international collaboration with the European Space Agency

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    June 6, 2025 – Longueuil, Quebec

    Today, Sherry Romanado, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), joined CSA President Lisa Campbell and the Director General of the European Space Agency (ESA), Dr. Josef Aschbacher, at the John H. Chapman Space Centre (the CSA‘s headquarters in Longueuil). The two heads of space agencies signed a joint statement reaffirming Canada and ESA‘s unique, proven and productive partnership. This signature marks a key milestone in the mid-term review of the Canada–ESA Cooperation Agreement.

    For nearly 50 years, the Canada–ESA Cooperation Agreement has advanced Canadian innovation and expertise on the world stage. Canada’s unique status as ESA‘s only non-European cooperating state gives Canadian companies privileged access to the European space market. Every dollar awarded to Canadian companies through ESA contracts generates nearly three dollars in return, benefitting Canadian businesses and injecting value into the Canadian economy. 

    This collaboration helps Canada’s space sector build long-term relationships with the European space community and contributes to strengthening innovation, competitiveness, and technological capabilities. It has propelled numerous Canadian organizations to the forefront of their fields, positioning Canadian expertise at the heart of bold international space missions. 

    Dr. Aschbacher‘s visit to Canada was a unique and timely opportunity to underscore the deep ties between the space programs of Canada and Europe and to emphasize the shared commitment to fortifying their alliance in order to accelerate and grow their respective space sectors. As Canada looks to strengthen its ties with like-minded countries, including those in Europe, this longstanding partnership provides an opportunity and a proven path for Canada to bolster diversification of the space sector for the benefit of Canadians.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney speaks with Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, spoke with the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. 

    The two leaders discussed the longstanding relationship between Canada and India, including deep people-to-people ties and significant commercial links. Importantly, there was agreement to continued law enforcement dialogue and discussions addressing security concerns.

    Prime Minister Carney extended an invitation to Prime Minister Modi to attend Canada’s 2025 G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.

    Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Modi agreed to remain in contact and looked forward to meeting at the G7 Leaders’ Summit later this month.

    Associated Link

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by Minister Guilbeault on Eid al-Adha

    Source: Government of Canada News

    OTTAWA, June 6, 2025

    Today, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, issued the following statement:

    Today, Muslim communities in Canada and around the world are marking Eid al-Adha.

    This sacred day in the Islamic calendar celebrates the conclusion of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, known as the Hajj. It is observed with morning prayers, social and family gatherings, festive meals and charitable donations to the most vulnerable people in our society.

    The spirit of Eid al-Adha—meaning the Feast of Sacrifice or Greater Eid—is one of happiness and gratitude. Yet it comes at a time of ongoing war and conflict, bringing fear and anxiety to Canadians with loved ones in Gaza, the West Bank, Sudan and many other regions. Canada remains committed to supporting ceasefire efforts in Gaza, as well as the urgent safe and unimpeded access to humanitarian aid for civilians.

    This year, the holiday also coincides with the fourth anniversary of the tragic terrorist attack on a Canadian Muslim family killed in London, Ontario on June 6, 2021. Fondly remembered as “Our London Family,” their lives were taken simply because they were Muslim, in a horrifying act of Islamophobia.

    Our government stands with the community in London, with all those affected by this tragedy, and with all victims of Islamophobia and every form of hatred. We are committed to ensuring that all Canadians feel safe and protected in their communities. This includes providing at-risk communities with access to financial support to protect their gathering spaces and to launch local initiatives that bring Canadians together and combat racism. We also continue to work with Canada’s Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia, Amira Elghawaby, to fight Islamophobia, including with The Canadian Guide on Understanding and Combatting Islamophobia: For a more inclusive Canada.

    The Canadian identity is rooted in our diversity. Canada is stronger because of its people, their different backgrounds, and the stories that make our mosaic one of the most vibrant and unique in the world.

    On behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish all Muslims in Canada a happy Eid al-Adha, celebrated in unity, solidarity and peace.

    Eid Mubarak!

    “!عيد مبارك

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by Prime Minister Carney on the National Day Against Gun Violence

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    “Canada’s new government has a mandate to keep communities safe. On National Day Against Gun Violence, we affirm our commitment to deliver on that mandate with purpose and full force.

    “Earlier this week, we tabled the Strong Borders Act – giving law enforcement additional tools to secure the border, combat organized crime, stop the flow of illegal fentanyl, and crack down on money laundering.

    “We are also increasing our capacity to intercept illegal guns coming into our country with the deployment of scanners, drones and helicopters, additional personnel, and K-9 teams to the border. We will also be moving forward to revoke firearms licences for those convicted of intimate partner violence and those subject to protection orders.

    “Canadians voted for change, and we will be delivering that change with decisive action over the coming months. Working with law enforcement and partners at all orders of government, we will keep communities safe, get guns off our streets, and make bail harder to get for repeat offenders charged with car theft, home invasions, human trafficking, and drug smuggling.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China ready to work with Canada to promote sustainable improvement of bilateral relations: Chinese Premier

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, June 6 (Xinhua) — China is willing to work with Canada in the spirit of looking to the future to push forward the steady improvement of bilateral relations, lead them to the track of healthy and sustainable development, and pursue win-win cooperation, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said Friday.

    In a telephone conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, initiated by the latter, Li Qiang noted that Canada was one of the first Western countries to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. For a long time, these bilateral relations were at the forefront of China’s relations with Western countries, but in recent years they have encountered serious difficulties, he added.

    The development of China and Canada presents opportunities rather than threats to each other, Li Qiang said, noting that there is no fundamental conflict of interest between the countries, only a tradition of friendship and mutual benefit.

    The Premier expressed hope that the Canadian side will make joint efforts with China, objectively and rationally assess China’s development, and work together to achieve common success and prosperity.

    According to Li Qiang, China-Canada cooperation has great potential as the two countries’ economies complement each other to a great extent. He called on both sides to deepen cooperation in traditional areas, expand cooperation in new areas such as green energy, climate change and scientific and technological innovation, and strengthen people-to-people, economic and trade exchanges.

    The Chinese Premier called on the governments of both countries to listen to the opinions of their peoples, respond to their concerns and do more to strengthen bilateral friendly cooperation, mutual understanding and trust.

    China is willing to cooperate with Canada on the basis of equality and mutual respect, seek and expand common ground while eliminating and narrowing differences, strengthen exchanges and dialogue in various fields, and give due consideration to each other’s concerns, Li Qiang said.

    He also noted that China is willing to work with Canada to jointly safeguard multilateralism and free trade, promote economic globalization and the development of the multilateral trading system in the right direction, and bring greater stability to the world and development of the planet.

    In turn, M. Carney said that Canada and China are linked by deep traditional friendship, and China is Canada’s second largest trading partner. According to him, although bilateral relations have experienced some difficulties in recent years, Canada is ready to resume ties with China.

    The Canadian side looks forward to resuming high-level exchanges and dialogue mechanisms in areas such as diplomacy, economics and trade, as well as strengthening pragmatic cooperation in trade, agriculture, energy and environmental protection, the Canadian prime minister added.

    In light of the current international situation, Canada stands ready to strengthen ties and coordination with China, jointly safeguard the international financial and trading system, and contribute to global sustainable development, said M. Carney. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Funding Available for Shoreline Cleanup, Debris Recycling, Litter Prevention

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Seafood industry and sportfishing associations, community groups and other organizations can once again access funding to support ocean and shoreline cleanup projects throughout Nova Scotia.

    “Clean coastlines benefit local communities and enhance the reputation of our seafood industry as a provider of top-quality products,” said Kent Smith, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. “Our goal is to limit the amount of debris that reaches the shore and increase recycling from cleanup initiatives.”

    Funding is available through the Marine Debris Clean-up Program for:

    • shoreline cleanups – up to a maximum of $2,000 per event; applications will be accepted until February 1, 2026, or until all available funds are allocated
    • litter prevention projects – up to 50 per cent of eligible costs, to a maximum of $3,000 per project; applications are open until June 30, as part of a competitive selection process
    • marine debris recycling – up to 50 per cent of eligible costs, to a maximum of $5,000 per project; applications are open until June 30, as part of a competitive selection process.

    More information about the program and applying is at: https://novascotia.ca/fish/marine-clean-up/.

    Quotes:

    “Through continued support from the Marine Debris Clean-up Program, Coastal Action has been able to continue a range of projects that not only target persistent marine debris on Nova Scotia’s shorelines, but also strengthen our relationships with local partners. The program has been supportive in helping us work towards solutions on the ground and inspire more collaboration toward cleaner coastlines and responsible disposal.”
    — Kelly Mackarous, Coastal and Marine Program Manager, Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation

    Quick Facts:

    • Sunday, June 8, is World Ocean Day
    • Nova Scotia has 13,000 kilometres of coastline
    • the Marine Debris Clean-up Program supports efforts, in partnership with seafood industry associations, to clean Nova Scotia’s shorelines of debris and help protect the environment
    Other than cropping, Province of Nova Scotia photos are not to be altered in any way.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by Prime Minister Carney on Eid al-Adha

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    “Today, Muslims in Canada and around the world mark Eid al-Adha. This day holds profound significance for Muslim communities, marking the end of the Hajj pilgrimage. 

    “Eid is a celebration of service and a time of faith, family, and charity. Eid reminds us that we are bound by a common humanity and a sacred obligation to take care of ourselves and of each other. 

    “This year, that message carries a heavy weight as Eid falls on the fourth anniversary of the terrorist attack against the Afzaal family in London, Ontario. As we honour Salman, Madiha, Yumna, and Talat, we affirm our work to protect against hate and defend Canadians’ ability to freely practise their faith. 

    “I hope Canadians celebrating Eid gather with their loved ones on this blessed day. From my family to yours, Eid Mubarak.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: US health care is rife with high costs and deep inequities, and that’s no accident – a public health historian explains how the system was shaped to serve profit and politicians

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Zachary W. Schulz, Senior Lecturer of History, Auburn University

    Concessions to the private sector are one reason why health care is so costly. FS Productions/Tetra images via Getty Images

    A few years ago, a student in my history of public health course asked why her mother couldn’t afford insulin without insurance, despite having a full-time job. I told her what I’ve come to believe: The U.S. health care system was deliberately built this way.

    People often hear that health care in America is dysfunctional – too expensive, too complex and too inequitable. But dysfunction implies failure. What if the real problem is that the system is functioning exactly as it was designed to? Understanding this legacy is key to explaining not only why reform has failed repeatedly, but why change remains so difficult.

    I am a historian of public health with experience researching oral health access and health care disparities in the Deep South. My work focuses on how historical policy choices continue to shape the systems we rely on today.

    By tracing the roots of today’s system and all its problems, it’s easier to understand why American health care looks the way it does and what it will take to reform it into a system that provides high-quality, affordable care for all. Only by confronting how profit, politics and prejudice have shaped the current system can Americans imagine and demand something different.

    Decades of compromise

    My research and that of many others show that today’s high costs, deep inequities and fragmented care are predictable features developed from decades of policy choices that prioritized profit over people, entrenched racial and regional hierarchies, and treated health care as a commodity rather than a public good.

    Over the past century, U.S. health care developed not from a shared vision of universal care, but from compromises that prioritized private markets, protected racial hierarchies and elevated individual responsibility over collective well-being.

    Employer-based insurance emerged in the 1940s, not from a commitment to worker health but from a tax policy workaround during wartime wage freezes. The federal government allowed employers to offer health benefits tax-free, incentivizing coverage while sidestepping nationalized care. This decision bound health access to employment status, a structure that is still dominant today. In contrast, many other countries with employer-provided insurance pair it with robust public options, ensuring that access is not tied solely to a job.

    In 1965, Medicare and Medicaid programs greatly expanded public health infrastructure. Unfortunately, they also reinforced and deepened existing inequalities. Medicare, a federally administered program for people over 64, primarily benefited wealthier Americans who had access to stable, formal employment and employer-based insurance during their working years. Medicaid, designed by Congress as a joint federal-state program, is aimed at the poor, including many people with disabilities. The combination of federal and state oversight resulted in 50 different programs with widely variable eligibility, coverage and quality.

    Southern lawmakers, in particular, fought for this decentralization. Fearing federal oversight of public health spending and civil rights enforcement, they sought to maintain control over who received benefits. Historians have shown that these efforts were primarily designed to restrict access to health care benefits along racial lines during the Jim Crow period of time.

    Bloated bureaucracies, ‘creeping socialism’

    Today, that legacy is painfully visible.

    States that chose not to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act are overwhelmingly located in the South and include several with large Black populations. Nearly 1 in 4 uninsured Black adults are uninsured because they fall into the coverage gap – unable to access affordable health insurance – they earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but not enough to receive subsidies through the Affordable Care Act’s marketplace.

    The system’s architecture also discourages care aimed at prevention. Because Medicaid’s scope is limited and inconsistent, preventive care screenings, dental cleanings and chronic disease management often fall through the cracks. That leads to costlier, later-stage care that further burdens hospitals and patients alike.

    Meanwhile, cultural attitudes around concepts like “rugged individualism” and “freedom of choice” have long been deployed to resist public solutions. In the postwar decades, while European nations built national health care systems, the U.S. reinforced a market-driven approach.

    Publicly funded systems were increasingly portrayed by American politicians and industry leaders as threats to individual freedom – often dismissed as “socialized medicine” or signs of creeping socialism. In 1961, for example, Ronald Reagan recorded a 10-minute LP titled “Ronald Reagan Speaks Out Against Socialized Medicine,” which was distributed by the American Medical Association as part of a national effort to block Medicare.

    The health care system’s administrative complexity ballooned beginning in the 1960s, driven by the rise of state-run Medicaid programs, private insurers and increasingly fragmented billing systems. Patients were expected to navigate opaque billing codes, networks and formularies, all while trying to treat, manage and prevent illness. In my view, and that of other scholars, this isn’t accidental but rather a form of profitable confusion built into the system to benefit insurers and intermediaries.

    President Donald Trump’s proposed cuts would reduce Medicaid spending by about US$700 billion.

    Coverage gaps, chronic disinvestment

    Even well-meaning reforms have been built atop this structure. The Affordable Care Act, passed in 2010, expanded access to health insurance but preserved many of the system’s underlying inequities. And by subsidizing private insurers rather than creating a public option, the law reinforced the central role of private companies in the health care system.

    The public option – a government-run insurance plan intended to compete with private insurers and expand coverage – was ultimately stripped from the Affordable Care Act during negotiations due to political opposition from both Republicans and moderate Democrats.

    When the U.S. Supreme Court made it optional in 2012 for states to offer expanded Medicaid coverage to low-income adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level, it amplified the very inequalities that the ACA sought to reduce.

    These decisions have consequences. In states like Alabama, an estimated 220,000 adults remain uninsured due to the Medicaid coverage gap – the most recent year for which reliable data is available – highlighting the ongoing impact of the state’s refusal to expand Medicaid.

    In addition, rural hospitals have closed, patients forgo care, and entire counties lack practicing OB/GYNs or dentists. And when people do get care – especially in states where many remain uninsured – they can amass medical debt that can upend their lives.

    All of this is compounded by chronic disinvestment in public health. Federal funding for emergency preparedness has declined for years, and local health departments are underfunded and understaffed.

    The COVID-19 pandemic revealed just how brittle the infrastructure is – especially in low-income and rural communities, where overwhelmed clinics, delayed testing, limited hospital capacity, and higher mortality rates exposed the deadly consequences of neglect.

    A system by design

    Change is hard not because reformers haven’t tried before, but because the system serves the very interests it was designed to serve. Insurers profit from obscurity – networks that shift, formularies that confuse, billing codes that few can decipher. Providers profit from a fee-for-service model that rewards quantity over quality, procedure over prevention. Politicians reap campaign contributions and avoid blame through delegation, diffusion and plausible deniability.

    This is not an accidental web of dysfunction. It is a system that transforms complexity into capital, bureaucracy into barriers.

    Patients – especially the uninsured and underinsured – are left to make impossible choices: delay treatment or take on debt, ration medication or skip checkups, trust the health care system or go without. Meanwhile, I believe the rhetoric of choice and freedom disguises how constrained most people’s options really are.

    Other countries show us that alternatives are possible. Systems in Germany, France and Canada vary widely in structure, but all prioritize universal access and transparency.

    Understanding what the U.S. health care system is designed to do – rather than assuming it is failing unintentionally – is a necessary first step toward considering meaningful change.

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

    – ref. US health care is rife with high costs and deep inequities, and that’s no accident – a public health historian explains how the system was shaped to serve profit and politicians – https://theconversation.com/us-health-care-is-rife-with-high-costs-and-deep-inequities-and-thats-no-accident-a-public-health-historian-explains-how-the-system-was-shaped-to-serve-profit-and-politicians-256393

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: 21Shares welcomes FCA’s decision to open retail access to Crypto ETNs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The decision paves the way for broader digital asset adoption in the UK

    London, 6 June 2025 – 21Shares, one of the world’s leading issuers of cryptocurrency exchange-traded products (ETPs) and the first to list crypto ETNs on the London Stock Exchange (LSE), welcomes the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) announcement today proposing to lift the ban on offering crypto exchange-traded notes (cETNs) to UK retail investors.

    The proposal aims to support innovation and competitiveness in the UK’s digital asset sector while ensuring robust investor protection. Crypto ETNs are already widely accessible to retail investors in other major jurisdictions across Europe, and this change would bring the UK into alignment with global best practice.

    “This is a landmark moment for the UK digital asset market,” said Russell Barlow, CEO of 21Shares. “We fully support the FCA’s move to provide regulated access to crypto ETNs for retail investors. Retail investors in the UK deserve cost effective, efficient and regulated access to the digital asset economy. This consultation represents real progress towards that goal and affirms the FCA’s commitment to balancing innovation with investor protection as well as the UK’s position as a leading global financial centre.”

    In 2024, 21Shares listed the first physically-backed crypto ETNs on the London Stock Exchange, providing professional investors in the UK with regulated access to digital assets. Today’s announcement, which marks a reversal of the FCA’s initial 2021 ban on retail access to crypto derivatives and ETNs, paves the way for retail investors to participate via the same trusted, transparent instruments.

    21Shares looks forward to engaging constructively with the FCA and market stakeholders throughout the consultation process. The firm stands ready to support the expansion of regulated crypto access to retail investors with its comprehensive suite of physically backed ETPs, which includes exposure to Bitcoin and Ethereum.

    Notes to editors

    About 21Shares

    21Shares is one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange traded product providers and offers the largest suite of crypto ETPs in the market. The company was founded to make cryptocurrency more accessible to investors, and to bridge the gap between traditional finance and decentralized finance. 21Shares listed the world’s first physically-backed crypto ETP in 2018, building a seven-year track record of creating crypto exchange-traded funds that are listed on some of the biggest, most liquid securities exchanges globally. Backed by a specialized research team, proprietary technology, and deep capital markets expertise, 21Shares delivers innovative, simple and cost-efficient investment solutions.

    21Shares is a member of 21.co, a global leader in decentralized finance. For more information, please visit www.21Shares.com

    Media Contact
    Matteo Valli
    matteo.valli@21shares.com

    DISCLAIMER

    This document is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe for securities of 21Shares AG in any jurisdiction. Neither this document nor anything contained herein shall form the basis of, or be relied upon in connection with, any offer or commitment whatsoever or for any other purpose in any jurisdiction. Nothing in this document should be considered investment advice.

    This document and the information contained herein are not for distribution in or into (directly or indirectly) the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which the distribution or release would be unlawful.

    This document does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in or into the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan. The securities of 21Shares AG to which these materials relate have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act. There will not be a public offering of securities in the United States. Neither the US Securities and Exchange Commission nor any securities regulatory authority of any state or other jurisdiction of the United States has approved or disapproved of an investment in the securities or passed on the accuracy or adequacy of the contents of this presentation. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offence in the United States.

    Within the United Kingdom, this document is only being distributed to and is only directed at: (i) to investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”); or (ii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”); or (iii) persons who fall within Article 43(2) of the Order, including existing members and creditors of the Company or (iv) any other persons to whom this document can be lawfully distributed in circumstances where section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply. The securities are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents.

    Exclusively for potential investors in any EEA Member State that has implemented the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) is made available on the Issuer’s website under www.21Shares.com.

    The approval of the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) should not be understood as an endorsement by the SFSA of the securities offered or admitted to trading on a regulated market. Eligible potential investors should read the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) and the relevant Final Terms before making an investment decision in order to understand the potential risks associated with the decision to invest in the securities. You are about to purchase a product that is not simple and may be difficult to understand.

    This document constitutes advertisement within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 and the Swiss Financial Services Act (the “FinSA”) and not a prospectus. The 2024 Base Prospectus of 21Shares AG has been deposited pursuant to article 54(2) FinSA with BX Swiss AG in its function as Swiss prospectus review body within the meaning of article 52 FinSA. The 2024 Base Prospectus and the key information document for any products may be obtained at 21Shares AG’s website (https://21shares.com/ir/prospectus or https://21shares.com/ir/kids).

    ###

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Jeremy Rose: Mister Netanyahu have you no sense of decency?

    Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. –

    COMMENTARY: By Jeremy Rose

    The word antisemitism has become so debased that depending on who is using it I might well take it as a sign that the accused is worth listening to.

    When the World Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu’s arrest, he responded by saying the court was being antisemitic. One of the court’s legal advisers was Theodor Meron, a former Israeli ambassador and legal adviser who spent a chunk of his childhood in a Nazi concentration camp.

    Last month, Netanyahu declared the leaders of France, the UK and Canada of fuelling antisemitism.

    Their “crime”? Threatening “concrete action” against Israel if it continues its “egregious” blockade of aid entering Gaza.

    Egregious not genocidal. And the concrete action referred to wasn’t sanctions or a full arms embargo but stalling free trade talks.

    The bitter irony is that with none of those countries having yet imposed a complete ban on arms exports to Israel they are all in a sense fuelling a genocide.

    The Army-McCarthy hearings
    We’re coming up to the 71st anniversary of the Army-McCarthy hearings where an army lawyer, Joseph Welch, rebuked Senator Joseph McCarthy with the famous line: “Have you no sense of decency, sir, at long last?”

    We’ll be waiting a long time for the wanted war criminal Netanyahu to show any decency, but could we be approaching a tipping point where the establishment finally calls off a witch hunt after realising no one is safe from false accusations.

    The McCarthyite red scare, which began in the late 1940s, saw more than 2000 federal workers sacked, thousands of academics, teachers, and union members pressured or forced to resign due to anti-communist policies, and up to 500 Hollywood directors and actors blacklisted for being leftwing or refusing to name names.

    Welch’s rebuke was triggered by none of that. It was McCarthy turning his metaphorical guns onto the military implying he would expose high ranking army personnel that saw the army lawyer return fire.

    The conflating of criticism of Israel with antisemitism has been spectacularly successful in making any criticism of Israel a potentially career ending move. Three Ivy League presidents have been pushed out of their jobs for failing to crack down hard enough on students protesting the brutality of Israel’s ongoing genocide.

    UK Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, whose popularity had seen the party become the biggest political movement in Europe, was toppled in 2016 after bogus accusations of antisemitism.

    In the purge of the Labour Party that followed Jews were five times more likely to be investigated for antisemitism than goys.

    It’s the same story in Germany where Jews feature prominently among those cancelled for alleged antisemitism. Renowned professor of Jewish studies Peter Schäfe was forced to resign as the director of Berlin’s Jewish Museum after it retweeted a post critical of Germany’s anti-Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) resolutions.

    Greece’s former Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis — not a Jew — has been banned from Germany or even appearing via Zoom for this response, on 8 October 2023, to being asked if he condemned Hamas:

    “I condemn every single atrocity, whomever is the perpetrator or the victim. What I do not condemn is armed resistance to an apartheid system designed as part of a slow-burning, but inexorable, ethnic cleansing programme.
    As a European, it is important to refrain from condemning either the Israelis or the Palestinians when it is us, Europeans, who have caused this never-ending tragedy: after practising rabid anti-Semitism for centuries, leading up to the uniquely vile Holocaust, we have been complicit for decades with the slow genocide of Palestinians, as if two wrongs make one right.”

    That nuanced response, with its acknowledgement of the dreadful legacy of real antisemitism, has not only seen him banned from speaking — in person or virtually — but dropped by his German publisher.

    Antisemitism is often referred to as the oldest hatred — with good reason — but the word itself is relatively recent.

    A ‘scientific’ word for an old hatred
    Nineteenth century German journalist, Wilhelm Marr, popularised the term in a pamphlet the title of which translates as: The way to victory of Germanism over Judaism.

    What distinguished antisemitism from the commonly used Judenhass — or Jewish hate — was the idea that it was a Jew’s race not their religion that was deserving of hate.

    Antisemitism was a prejudice proud to speak its name. It was respectable in a way that religious intolerance wasn’t. Prominent professors and politicians happily declared themselves antisemites and adherents of “scientific racism”.

    It was an old idea dressed up in new clothing. Fifteenth century Spain passed Limpieza de Sangre (cleanliness of blood) statutes to allow discrimination against Jewish and Muslim converts to Christianity.

    The Judeo-Christian civilisational conflict with Islam, often referred to by right-wing supporters of Israel, is a relatively new construct. When the Jews were expelled from Spain, the Ottomans sent ships to take them to new homes in Istanbul, Thessaloniki and Izmer.

    Times change and while it was once possible — even common — to be a respectable antisemite and scientific racist but frowned upon to discriminate based on religious belief, now the reverse is true.

    So-called new atheists like Sam Harris and Richard Dawkins declare all religions bad but Islam worse.

    “Listening to the lovely bells of Winchester, one of our great mediaeval cathedrals. So much nicer than the aggressive sounding “Allahu Akhbar.” Or is that just my cultural upbringing?” Dawkins once tweeted.

    The cultures of Europe have indeed cultivated racist ideas for centuries. And just as half a millennia ago conversion offered you no protection from the racism of the Spanish court, embracing Buddhism didn’t protect Columbia University student Moshen Mahdawi from being snatched from a naturalisation interview by balaclava-clad ICE agents.

    His crime? Being Palestinian and telling his story.

    It’s a topsy-turvy world where life-long anti-fascists like Jeremy Corbyn and Yanis Varoufakis are sanctioned on bogus claims of antisemitism while the likes of Elon Musk and Hungarian PM Victor Orban — both peddlers of old-style antisemitic conspiracies — are welcomed to Israel as friends and allies in a contrived battle of civilisations.

    One thing that differentiates antisemitism from the Judeophobia, which has been a European disease since the early days of Christianity, is that it places Jews among the victims of the continent’s white supremacist legacy.

    It’s perhaps no coincidence the Christopher Columbus set sail for the Americas in the same year, 1492, that Spain expelled its Jews and Muslims.

    The settler colonisation of the Americas has been estimated by historian David Stannard to have resulted in the death of 100 million indigenous people — many from introduced diseases but tens of millions also died in genocides only recently making their way into history books.

    Last month, when Netanyahu declared Israel’s attacks on Gaza “a war against human beasts” he was echoing the words of settler colonialists from Alaska to Aotearoa and the dehumanising language of the Nazis against the Jews.

    So, back to that question about whether we’ve reached a tipping point where unfair accusations of antisemitism will be seen in a similar light to McCarthy’s red scare.

    With Netanyahu accusing the leader of the Democrats party, Yair Golan, an IDF reserve major-general, of promoting a blood libel for speaking out against the starving of babies in Gaza, it’s hard not to draw parallels with the Army-McCarthy hearings.

    It’s worth quoting the words that saw Israel’s PM accuse Golan of a blood libel — a reference to the lie that Jews used the blood of non-Jewish children in the baking of matzos, and a trigger for centuries of pogroms.

    “A sane country does not wage war against civilians, does not kill babies as a hobby, and does not set goals for itself like the expulsion of a population.”

    The idea that an IDF general speaking out against the killing of babies is propagating racist hatred of Jews is surely a leap too far even for many fervent Zionists.

    Another sign that the tide might be turning is Kenneth Stern, the lead drafter of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism, saying the US administration’s weaponisation of the IHRA definition is making academics and students (including Jews) less safe.

    The self-described Zionist said the definition was being distorted and used to silence anti-Israel critics.

    The IHRA working definition has been widely adopted internationally — including by institutions in New Zealand and Australia.

    Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have both criticised the definition claiming it has seen those documenting Israel’s human rights abuses being falsely accused of antisemitism.

    It’s a tragedy that weaponised accusations of antisemitism aimed at protecting Israel from criticism are obscuring a rise in Judeophobic conspiracy theories and attacks on Jewish community centres and synagogues around the world.

    And even more tragically that those accusations are blunting criticisms of Israel that could help bring the ongoing genocide in Gaza to an end.

    Jeremy Rose is a Wellington-based journalist. He has a Substack: Towards democracy

    This article was first published on Café Pacific.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Neo Performance Materials Inc to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Neo Performance Materials Inc (TSX: NEO; OTCQX: NOPMF), a manufacturer of the building blocks of many modern technologies that enhance efficiency and sustainability, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Neo Performance Materials Inc upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink® market.

    Neo Performance Materials Inc begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “NOPMF.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is an important step for companies seeking to provide transparent trading for their U.S. investors. For companies listed on a qualified international exchange, streamlined market standards enable them to utilize their home market reporting to make their information available in the U.S. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

    Neo’s CEO, Rahim Suleman, said: “We are pleased to begin trading on OTCQX, which enhances Neo’s visibility and accessibility for U.S. investors. As a global leader in advanced rare earth materials, with a strong balance sheet and a growing magnetics business in Europe, we are well-positioned to support the accelerating demand for critical materials in electrification and other modern technologies. Trading on OTCQX provides an additional platform to broaden our shareholder base as we continue to execute on our strategic priorities and drive long-term value.”

    About Neo Performance Materials Inc
    Neo manufactures the building blocks of many modern technologies that enhance efficiency and sustainability. Neo’s advanced industrial materials – magnetic powders, rare earth magnets, magnetic assemblies, specialty chemicals, metals, and alloys – are critical to the performance of many everyday products and emerging technologies. Neo’s products fast-forward technologies for the net-zero transition. The business of Neo is organized along three segments: Magnequench, Chemicals & Oxides and Rare Metals. Neo is headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada; with corporate offices in Greenwood Village, Colorado, United States; Singapore; and Beijing, China. Neo has a global platform that includes manufacturing facilities located in China, Germany, Canada, Estonia, Thailand and the United Kingdom, as well as one dedicated research and development centre in Singapore.

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.

    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market, and Pink® Open Market.

    Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN, OTC Link NQB, and MOON ATS™ are each an SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC.

    To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –