Category: Canada

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Announces Industrial Manufacturer Will Create More Than 325 Jobs in Charlotte

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Announces Industrial Manufacturer Will Create More Than 325 Jobs in Charlotte

    Governor Stein Announces Industrial Manufacturer Will Create More Than 325 Jobs in Charlotte
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today Governor Josh Stein announced that AVL Manufacturing (AVL USA, Inc.) will establish a new production facility in Charlotte to build enclosures for industrial power generators, creating more than 325 jobs. The company will invest $56 million in Mecklenburg County.

    “North Carolina’s reputation for advanced manufacturing continues to attract great companies like AVL Manufacturing to our state,” said Governor Josh Stein. “With the largest manufacturing workforce in the southeast and excellent community colleges, North Carolina is home to the resources that world-class companies depend on.” 

    AVL USA, Inc. is a new company established by AVL Manufacturing, a Canadian company with headquarters in Hamilton, Ontario. AVL specializes in the manufacture of custom industrial enclosures for large format standby power generators. The company’s products find use in a wide variety of applications, such as supplying backup power to large and hyper-scale data centers. The company’s project in Charlotte will establish a manufacturing operation in the United States to produce and assemble generator enclosures for power redundancy. The large metal casings include electric inputs, switchgear, and enclosures required for data center servers and equipment. In addition to data center power generation, AVL’s products find use in several other industries, such as the automotive, automation, construction, and emergency management sectors.

    “After considering many markets, we are thrilled that AVL’s entrance into the U.S. market is in Charlotte, a vibrant, tech-forward city perfect for us to lay down roots,” said Vince Dicristofaro, president, AVL. “We didn’t just choose a location; we chose a community. Charlotte’s spirit of collaboration and its talented workforce made it the clear choice for our American-based home. We are excited to tap into this talent pool as we establish our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and create meaningful careers for the residents of this city and deliver unparalleled products to our customers.” 

    “Investments from international companies are an important part of the state’s economy,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “It’s great to see the confidence AVL and its parent company have placed in North Carolina by establishing their first U.S.-based location in Charlotte. Our team will work hard to help them succeed in our state.”

    A performance-based grant of $100,000 from the One North Carolina Fund to AVL USA, Inc. will help facilitate the company’s project into Mecklenburg County, based on the creation of 122 jobs tied to the grant. The OneNC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All OneNC grants require a matching grant from local governments, and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.

    Although wages for the 122 grant-tied jobs will vary depending on the position, the average salary for those new jobs will be $90,088. The current average wage in Mecklenburg County is $86,830.                      

    “We welcome AVL to Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, where they will join a growing list of businesses moving to the area that have found the key ingredients to reach the next level of growth and success for their companies,” said Representative Terry Brown, Jr. “These new jobs and the company’s capital investment will also bring greater economic success to our community. AVL’s decision only highlights the fact that Steele Creek is becoming the economic engine for our region.” 

    “Economic development takes a collaborative effort from state, regional, and local partners,” said Senator DeAndrea Salvador. “I applaud the behind-the-scenes work from the many groups that supported AVL during its search for a U.S. location. Companies recognize and reward North Carolina’s collaborative approach, as today’s news demonstrates.”

    Partnering with the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina on this project were the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, the Commerce Department’s Division of Workforce Solutions, Mecklenburg County, and the City of Charlotte. 

    May 22, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Reeflex Solutions Iinc. Announces Completion of Qualifying Transaction

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Reeflex Solutions Inc. (TSXV: RFX) (formerly Bigstack Opportunities I Inc., a capital pool company) (“Reeflex”) is pleased to announce that it has successfully completed its previously announced “Qualifying Transaction” pursuant to TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV”) Policy 2.4 – Capital Pool Companies (the “Qualifying Transaction”). Reeflex received conditional approval from the TSXV for the Qualifying Transaction and a filing statement dated April 14, 2025 (the “Filing Statement”) with respect to the Qualifying Transaction can be found on Reeflex’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Trading in the common shares of Reeflex (“Reeflex Shares”) was previously halted at the request of Reeflex in connection with the initial announcement of the Qualifying Transaction and is expected to resume under the new ticker symbol “RFX” on the TSXV in two business days following the date of issuance of the bulletin by the TSXV evidencing final acceptance of the Qualifying Transaction. The new CUSIP number is 75846K105 and the new ISIN is CA75846K1057 for the Reeflex Shares.

    “Completing this Qualifying Transaction marks a significant milestone for Reeflex Solutions Inc.,” said John Babic, President and CEO of Reeflex. “Our vision to transform and expand the capabilities of Coil Solutions Inc. is now supported by the resources and opportunities of a public company. We are excited to leverage this new platform to continue driving innovation and delivering value to our stakeholders.”

    Summary of the Qualifying Transaction

    In connection with the Qualifying Transaction, Reeflex changed its name from “Bigstack Opportunities I Inc.” to “Reeflex Solutions Inc.”.

    Pursuant to the Qualifying Transaction:

    • Reeflex Coil Solutions Inc. (the “Target”) completed an acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding shares in the capital of Coil Solutions Inc. (“Coil”) from all of the shareholders of Coil for aggregate consideration of $5.8 million, subject to a post-closing working capital adjustment;
    • the Target completed a non-brokered private placement of 4,139,500 subscription receipts (each, a “Subscription Receipt”) at a price of $0.20 per Subscription Receipt for aggregate gross proceeds of $827,900. Each Subscription Receipt converted into one common share in the capital of the Target (the “Target Share”) prior to a three-cornered amalgamation (the “Amalgamation”) described below resulting in each holder of a Subscription Receipt receiving one Reeflex Share for each Subscription Receipt held; and
    • Reeflex completed the Amalgamation pursuant to which (i) the Target amalgamated with 2704122 Alberta Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Reeflex, under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta), (ii) all of the issued and outstanding Target Shares immediately prior to the Amalgamation were cancelled and, in consideration therefor, the holders thereof received one Reeflex Share on the basis of one Target Share for one Reeflex Share and (iii) the amalgamated corporation, named Reeflex Coil Solutions Inc. (“Reeflex Coil”), is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Reeflex and Coil is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Reeflex Coil.

    Following completion of the Qualifying Transaction, the directors and officers of Reeflex are:

    • John Babic, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director;
    • Eric Szustak, Director;
    • Derrek Dobko, Director;
    • Shawn Szydlowski, Director; and
    • Trevor Conway, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary.

    In addition, Cecil Hassard and George Wu are Directors of Reeflex Coil and Bryan Hassard is Chief Operating Officer of Coil.

    As of the date hereof, there are 46,401,500 Reeflex Shares issued and outstanding, of which 36,239,500 Reeflex Shares, representing approximately 78.10% of the currently issued and outstanding Reeflex Shares, are held by the former shareholders of the Target as a result of the Qualifying Transaction. In addition, stock options to acquire 3,050,000 Reeflex Shares were issued to the board and management of Reeflex and Reeflex Coil following the completion of the Qualifying Transaction and agent’s warrants that were previously issued and outstanding to purchase up to 500,000 Reeflex Shares remain outstanding. All stock options of Reeflex held by Eric Szustak and the former directors and officers of Reeflex prior to the Qualifying Transaction were exercised pursuant to the terms of the Qualifying Transaction.

    For further information regarding the Qualifying Transaction, Reeflex, the Target and Coil, please see the Filing Statement and prior press releases related to the Qualifying Transaction, which can be found on Reeflex’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Early Warning Disclosure

    Upon the completion of the Qualifying Transaction, John Babic, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Reeflex, holds, directly or indirectly, or exercises control or direction over an aggregate of 11,500,000 Reeflex Shares and stock options to acquire 1,750,000 Reeflex Shares, representing 24.78% of the issued and outstanding Reeflex Shares on a non-diluted basis and 27.52% on a partially-diluted basis (assuming the exercise of Mr. Babic’s convertible securities). Prior to the completion of the Qualifying Transaction, Mr. Babic did not beneficially own, or exercise control or direction over, any securities of Reeflex. Mr. Babic acquired these securities for investment purposes and may, from time to time, acquire additional securities of Reeflex or dispose of such securities as he may deem appropriate.

    Upon the completion of the Qualifying Transaction, Cecil Hassard, Director of Reeflex Coil, holds, directly or indirectly, or exercises control or direction over an aggregate of 5,553,710 Reeflex Shares and stock options to acquire 100,000 Reeflex Shares, representing 11.97% of the issued and outstanding Reeflex Shares on a non-diluted basis and 12.16% on a partially-diluted basis (assuming the exercise of Mr. Hassard’s convertible securities). Prior to the completion of the Qualifying Transaction, Mr. Hassard did not beneficially own, or exercise control or direction over, any securities of Reeflex. Mr. Hassard acquired these securities for investment purposes and may, from time to time, acquire additional securities of Reeflex or dispose of such securities as he may deem appropriate.

    The foregoing disclosure is being disseminated pursuant to National Instrument 62-103 – The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues. Copies of the early warning reports with respect to the foregoing will appear on Reeflex’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca and may also be obtained by contacting Reeflex as set forth below.

    Change of Auditor

    In connection with the completion of the Qualifying Transaction, Clearhouse LLP will resign as auditor of Reeflex and MNP LLP will be appointed as auditor of Reeflex. In the opinion of Reeflex, no “reportable event” (as such term is defined in National Instrument 51-102 – Continuous Disclosure Obligations (“NI 51-102”)) has occurred. Reeflex is relying on section 4.11(3)(a) of NI 51-102 for an exemption from the change of auditor requirements within section 4.11 of NI 51-102.

    About Reeflex

    Reeflex is a public company delivering advanced engineering and manufacturing solutions across various industry sectors. Through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Coil Solutions Inc., we provide coil tubing injectors and downhole tools for the oil & gas sector. Our manufacturing division, Ranglar Manufacturing, specializes in custom-designed mobile equipment for a wide range of industrial applications. See www.coilsolutions.com and www.ranglar.com.

    Reeflex Contact

    For further information, please contact:

    John Babic
    President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
    Email: john.babic@reeflex.ca
    Telephone: 780-909-4220

    Cautionary Note Regarding ForwardLooking Information

    This press release contains “forward-looking information” or “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, including statements included in the “About Reeflex” section of this press release, are forward-looking. Generally, the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “anticipate”, “believes”, “estimates”, “expects”, “intends”, “may”, “should”, “will” or variations of such words or similar expressions. More particularly, and without limitation, this press release contains forward-looking information or forward-looking statements concerning the resumption of trading of the Reeflex Shares on the TSXV and Reeflex capitalizing on opportunities for growth in its industry. Reeflex cautions that all forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, assumptions and expectations, many of which are beyond the control of Reeflex, including expectations and assumptions concerning Reeflex, as well as other risks and uncertainties, including those described in Reeflex’s filings available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information or forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Reeflex. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information or forward-looking statements. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and Reeflex does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking information or forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by law.

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirement. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Reeflex Solutions Inc. Announces Completion of Qualifying Transaction

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Reeflex Solutions Inc. (TSXV: RFX) (formerly Bigstack Opportunities I Inc., a capital pool company) (“Reeflex”) is pleased to announce that it has successfully completed its previously announced “Qualifying Transaction” pursuant to TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV”) Policy 2.4 – Capital Pool Companies (the “Qualifying Transaction”). Reeflex received conditional approval from the TSXV for the Qualifying Transaction and a filing statement dated April 14, 2025 (the “Filing Statement”) with respect to the Qualifying Transaction can be found on Reeflex’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Trading in the common shares of Reeflex (“Reeflex Shares”) was previously halted at the request of Reeflex in connection with the initial announcement of the Qualifying Transaction and is expected to resume under the new ticker symbol “RFX” on the TSXV in two business days following the date of issuance of the bulletin by the TSXV evidencing final acceptance of the Qualifying Transaction. The new CUSIP number is 75846K105 and the new ISIN is CA75846K1057 for the Reeflex Shares.

    “Completing this Qualifying Transaction marks a significant milestone for Reeflex Solutions Inc.,” said John Babic, President and CEO of Reeflex. “Our vision to transform and expand the capabilities of Coil Solutions Inc. is now supported by the resources and opportunities of a public company. We are excited to leverage this new platform to continue driving innovation and delivering value to our stakeholders.”

    Summary of the Qualifying Transaction

    In connection with the Qualifying Transaction, Reeflex changed its name from “Bigstack Opportunities I Inc.” to “Reeflex Solutions Inc.”.

    Pursuant to the Qualifying Transaction:

    • Reeflex Coil Solutions Inc. (the “Target”) completed an acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding shares in the capital of Coil Solutions Inc. (“Coil”) from all of the shareholders of Coil for aggregate consideration of $5.8 million, subject to a post-closing working capital adjustment;
    • the Target completed a non-brokered private placement of 4,139,500 subscription receipts (each, a “Subscription Receipt”) at a price of $0.20 per Subscription Receipt for aggregate gross proceeds of $827,900. Each Subscription Receipt converted into one common share in the capital of the Target (the “Target Share”) prior to a three-cornered amalgamation (the “Amalgamation”) described below resulting in each holder of a Subscription Receipt receiving one Reeflex Share for each Subscription Receipt held; and
    • Reeflex completed the Amalgamation pursuant to which (i) the Target amalgamated with 2704122 Alberta Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Reeflex, under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta), (ii) all of the issued and outstanding Target Shares immediately prior to the Amalgamation were cancelled and, in consideration therefor, the holders thereof received one Reeflex Share on the basis of one Target Share for one Reeflex Share and (iii) the amalgamated corporation, named Reeflex Coil Solutions Inc. (“Reeflex Coil”), is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Reeflex and Coil is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Reeflex Coil.

    Following completion of the Qualifying Transaction, the directors and officers of Reeflex are:

    • John Babic, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director;
    • Eric Szustak, Director;
    • Derrek Dobko, Director;
    • Shawn Szydlowski, Director; and
    • Trevor Conway, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary.

    In addition, Cecil Hassard and George Wu are Directors of Reeflex Coil and Bryan Hassard is Chief Operating Officer of Coil.

    As of the date hereof, there are 46,401,500 Reeflex Shares issued and outstanding, of which 36,239,500 Reeflex Shares, representing approximately 78.10% of the currently issued and outstanding Reeflex Shares, are held by the former shareholders of the Target as a result of the Qualifying Transaction. In addition, stock options to acquire 3,050,000 Reeflex Shares were issued to the board and management of Reeflex and Reeflex Coil following the completion of the Qualifying Transaction and agent’s warrants that were previously issued and outstanding to purchase up to 500,000 Reeflex Shares remain outstanding. All stock options of Reeflex held by Eric Szustak and the former directors and officers of Reeflex prior to the Qualifying Transaction were exercised pursuant to the terms of the Qualifying Transaction.

    For further information regarding the Qualifying Transaction, Reeflex, the Target and Coil, please see the Filing Statement and prior press releases related to the Qualifying Transaction, which can be found on Reeflex’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Early Warning Disclosure

    Upon the completion of the Qualifying Transaction, John Babic, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Reeflex, holds, directly or indirectly, or exercises control or direction over an aggregate of 11,500,000 Reeflex Shares and stock options to acquire 1,750,000 Reeflex Shares, representing 24.78% of the issued and outstanding Reeflex Shares on a non-diluted basis and 27.52% on a partially-diluted basis (assuming the exercise of Mr. Babic’s convertible securities). Prior to the completion of the Qualifying Transaction, Mr. Babic did not beneficially own, or exercise control or direction over, any securities of Reeflex. Mr. Babic acquired these securities for investment purposes and may, from time to time, acquire additional securities of Reeflex or dispose of such securities as he may deem appropriate.

    Upon the completion of the Qualifying Transaction, Cecil Hassard, Director of Reeflex Coil, holds, directly or indirectly, or exercises control or direction over an aggregate of 5,553,710 Reeflex Shares and stock options to acquire 100,000 Reeflex Shares, representing 11.97% of the issued and outstanding Reeflex Shares on a non-diluted basis and 12.16% on a partially-diluted basis (assuming the exercise of Mr. Hassard’s convertible securities). Prior to the completion of the Qualifying Transaction, Mr. Hassard did not beneficially own, or exercise control or direction over, any securities of Reeflex. Mr. Hassard acquired these securities for investment purposes and may, from time to time, acquire additional securities of Reeflex or dispose of such securities as he may deem appropriate.

    The foregoing disclosure is being disseminated pursuant to National Instrument 62-103 – The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues. Copies of the early warning reports with respect to the foregoing will appear on Reeflex’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca and may also be obtained by contacting Reeflex as set forth below.

    Change of Auditor

    In connection with the completion of the Qualifying Transaction, Clearhouse LLP will resign as auditor of Reeflex and MNP LLP will be appointed as auditor of Reeflex. In the opinion of Reeflex, no “reportable event” (as such term is defined in National Instrument 51-102 – Continuous Disclosure Obligations (“NI 51-102”)) has occurred. Reeflex is relying on section 4.11(3)(a) of NI 51-102 for an exemption from the change of auditor requirements within section 4.11 of NI 51-102.

    About Reeflex

    Reeflex is a public company delivering advanced engineering and manufacturing solutions across various industry sectors. Through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Coil Solutions Inc., we provide coil tubing injectors and downhole tools for the oil & gas sector. Our manufacturing division, Ranglar Manufacturing, specializes in custom-designed mobile equipment for a wide range of industrial applications. See www.coilsolutions.com and www.ranglar.com.

    Reeflex Contact

    For further information, please contact:

    John Babic
    President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
    Email: john.babic@reeflex.ca
    Telephone: 780-909-4220

    Cautionary Note Regarding ForwardLooking Information

    This press release contains “forward-looking information” or “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, including statements included in the “About Reeflex” section of this press release, are forward-looking. Generally, the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “anticipate”, “believes”, “estimates”, “expects”, “intends”, “may”, “should”, “will” or variations of such words or similar expressions. More particularly, and without limitation, this press release contains forward-looking information or forward-looking statements concerning the resumption of trading of the Reeflex Shares on the TSXV and Reeflex capitalizing on opportunities for growth in its industry. Reeflex cautions that all forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, assumptions and expectations, many of which are beyond the control of Reeflex, including expectations and assumptions concerning Reeflex, as well as other risks and uncertainties, including those described in Reeflex’s filings available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information or forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Reeflex. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information or forward-looking statements. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and Reeflex does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking information or forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by law.

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirement. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Brompton Split Banc Corp. Renews At-the-Market Equity Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Not for distribution to U.S. newswire services or for dissemination in the United States.

    TORONTO, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — (TSX: SBC, SBC.PR.A) Brompton Split Banc Corp. (the “Fund”) is pleased to announce it has renewed its at-the-market equity program (“ATM Program”) so that the Fund can issue class A and preferred shares (the “Class A Shares” and “Preferred Shares”, respectively) to the public from time to time, at the Fund’s discretion. This ATM Program replaces the prior program established in April 2023 that has terminated. Any Class A Shares or Preferred Shares sold under the ATM Program will be sold through the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) or any other marketplace in Canada on which the Class A Shares and Preferred Shares are listed, quoted or otherwise traded at the prevailing market price at the time of sale. Sales of Class A Shares and Preferred Shares through the ATM Program will be made pursuant to the terms of an equity distribution agreement dated May 22, 2025 (the “Equity Distribution Agreement”) with RBC Capital Markets (the “Agent”).

    Sales of Class A Shares and Preferred Shares will be made by way of “at-the-market distributions” as defined in National Instrument 44-102 Shelf Distributions on the TSX or on any marketplace for the Class A Shares and Preferred Shares in Canada. Since the Class A Shares and Preferred Shares will be distributed at the prevailing market prices at the time of the sale, prices may vary among purchasers during the period of distribution. The ATM Program is being offered pursuant to a prospectus supplement dated May 22, 2025 to the Fund’s short form base shelf prospectus dated May 22, 2025. The maximum gross proceeds from the issuance of the shares will be $75 million for each of the Class A and Preferred Shares. Copies of the prospectus supplement and the short form base shelf prospectus may be obtained from your registered financial advisor or from representatives of the Agent and are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    The volume and timing of distributions under the ATM Program, if any, will be determined at the Fund’s sole discretion. The ATM Program will be effective until June 22, 2027, unless terminated prior to such date by the Fund. The Fund intends to use the proceeds from the ATM Program in accordance with the investment objectives and investment strategies of the Fund, subject to the investment restrictions of the Fund.

    The Fund invests in a portfolio (the “Portfolio”) consisting of common shares of the six largest Canadian banks: Royal Bank of Canada, The Bank of Nova Scotia, National Bank of Canada, The Toronto-Dominion Bank, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and Bank of Montreal. In addition, the Fund may hold up to 10% of the total assets of the Portfolio in investments in global financial companies for the purpose of enhanced diversification and return potential.

    The investment objectives for the Class A Shares are to provide holders with regular monthly cash distributions targeted to be at least $0.10 per Class A Share and to provide the opportunity for growth in the net asset value per Class A Share.

    The investment objectives for the Preferred Shares are to provide holders with fixed cumulative preferential quarterly cash distributions, in the amount of $0.15625 per Preferred Share (6.25% per annum on the original $10.00 issue price), and to return the original issue price to holders of Preferred Shares on November 29, 2027.

    Over the last 10 years, the Class A Shares have delivered a 12.0% per annum total return based on NAV, outperforming the S&P/TSX Composite Total Return Index by 3.7% per annum.(1) The Preferred Shares have returned 5.3% per annum over the last 10 years, outperforming the S&P/TSX Preferred Share Total Return Index by 1.7% per annum.(1)

    About Brompton Funds

    Founded in 2000, Brompton is an experienced investment fund manager with income and growth focused investment solutions including exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and other TSX traded investment funds. For further information, please contact your investment advisor, call Brompton’s investor relations line at 416-642-6000 (toll-free at 1-866-642-6001), email info@bromptongroup.com or visit our website at www.bromptongroup.com.

    (1) See Performance table below.

      Brompton Split Banc Corp.
    Compound Annual Returns to April 30, 2025
    1-Yr 3-Yr 5-Yr 10-Yr Since Inception
      Class A Shares (TSX: SBC) 33.1% 7.8% 26.4% 12.0% 11.2%
      S&P/TSX Composite Total Return Index 17.9% 9.6% 14.4% 8.3% 7.6%
      Preferred Shares (TSX: SBC.PR.A) 6.4% 6.1% 5.7% 5.3% 5.2%
      S&P/TSX Preferred Share Total Return Index 11.7% 5.9% 9.4% 3.5% 2.9%
                 

    Returns are for the periods ended April 30, 2025, and are unaudited. Inception date November 16, 2005. The table shows the compound return on a Class A Share and Preferred Share for each period indicated compared to the S&P/TSX Composite Total Return Index (“Composite Index”), and the S&P/TSX Preferred Share Total Return Index (“Preferred Share Index”) (together the “Indices”). The Composite Index tracks the performance, on a market weight basis and total return basis, of a broad index of large-capitalization issuers listed on the TSX. The Preferred Share Index tracks the performance, on a market‑weight basis and total return basis, of a broad index of preferred shares trading on the TSX that meet the criteria relating to size, liquidity and issuer rating. The Fund is actively managed; therefore, its performance is not expected to mirror that of the Indices, which have more diversified portfolios and include a substantially larger number of companies. Furthermore, the Indices’ performance is calculated without the deduction of management fees, fund expenses and trading commissions, whereas the performance of the Fund is calculated after deducting such fees and expenses. Additionally, the performance of the Class A Shares is impacted by the leverage provided by the Preferred Shares. The performance information shown is based on the net asset value per Class A Share and the redemption price per Preferred Share and assumes that cash distributions made by the Fund during the periods shown were reinvested at net asset value per Class A Share and redemption price per Preferred Share in additional Class A Shares or Preferred Shares of the Fund. Past performance does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future.

    You will usually pay brokerage fees to your dealer if you purchase or sell shares of the Fund on the TSX or other alternative Canadian trading system (an “exchange”). If the shares are purchased or sold on an exchange, investors may pay more than the current net asset value when buying shares of the Fund and may receive less than the current net asset value when selling them.

    There are ongoing fees and expenses associated with owning shares of an investment fund. An investment fund must prepare disclosure documents that contain key information about the fund. You can find more detailed information about the Fund in its public filings available at www.sedarplus.ca. The indicated rates of return are the historical annual compounded total returns including changes in share value and reinvestment of all distributions and does not take into account sales, redemption, distribution or optional charges or income tax payable by any securityholder that would have reduced returns. Investment funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.

    Certain statements contained in this document constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information may relate to matters disclosed in this document and to other matters identified in public filings relating to the Fund, to the future outlook of the Fund and anticipated events or results and may include statements regarding the future financial performance of the Fund. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by terms such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “intend”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “continue” or other similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. Actual results may vary from such forward-looking information. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and we assume no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances.

    The securities offered have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities nor will there be any sale of such securities in any state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Global: Please don’t tape your mouth at night, whatever TikTok says. A new study shows why this viral trend can be risky

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Moira Junge, Adjunct Clincal Associate Professor (Psychologist), Monash University

    K.IvanS/Shutterstock

    You might have heard of people using tape to literally keep their mouths shut while they sleep. Mouth taping has become a popular trend on social media, with many fans claiming it helps improve sleep and overall health.

    The purported benefits of mouth taping during sleep are largely anecdotal, and include claims of better airflow, less snoring, improved asthma symptoms, less of a dry mouth, being less likely to have bad breath, and better sleep quality.

    As the trend has gained momentum in recent years the claims have also come to include improved skin, mood and digestion – and even a sharper jawline.

    The rationale for mouth taping during sleep is to encourage breathing through the nose rather than through the mouth. When a person’s nasal passages are blocked, breathing switches from the nose to the mouth. Mouth breathing has been linked to conditions such as obstructive sleep apnoea.

    But is mouth taping an effective way to address these issues, and is it safe? A new review suggests taping your mouth shut while you sleep offers limited benefits – and could pose risks.

    What did the review find?

    In a new paper, Canadian researchers reviewed the scientific literature on mouth taping, searching for studies that mentioned terms such as “mouth breathing”, “mouth taping” and “sleep”.

    They searched specifically for studies looking at people with known mouth breathing and breathing-related sleeping problems such as obstructive sleep apnoea to understand the potential benefits and harms of mouth taping for this group.

    Obstructive sleep apnoea is a condition where your airway is partly or completely blocked at times while you’re asleep. This can cause you to stop breathing for short periods, called “apnoeas”. Apnoeas can happen many times a night, resulting in lowered oxygen levels in the blood as well as sleep disruption.

    The researchers found ten eligible studies published between 1999 and 2024, with a total of 213 participants. Eight studies looked at mouth taping, and two studies involved using a chin strap to keep the mouth shut.

    Only two studies identified any benefits of mouth taping for mild obstructive sleep apnoea. The observed improvements – to measures such as oxygen levels in the blood and number of apnoeas per hour – were modest.

    And although they were statistically significant, they were probably not clinically significant. This means these changes likely wouldn’t make much difference to symptoms or treatment decisions.

    The remainder of studies found no evidence mouth taping helps to treat mouth breathing or related conditions.

    Mouth taping has become a popular social media trend.
    K.IvanS/Shutterstock

    What’s more, four studies warned about potential serious harms. In particular, covering the mouth could pose a risk of asphyxiation (lack of oxygen that can lead to unconsciousness or death) for people whose mouth breathing is caused by significant blockage of the nasal airways. This kind of nasal obstruction could be a result of conditions such as hay fever, deviated septum, or enlarged tonsils.

    In other words, mouth taping is definitely not a good idea if you have a blocked nose, as it’s unsafe to have both the nose and the mouth obstructed at the same time during sleep.

    What’s the take-home message?

    The authors concluded there are very few benefits and some potential serious risks associated with mouth taping in people who are mouth breathers or have obstructive sleep apnoea.

    They did however note we need further high-quality evidence to better understand if mouth taping is safe and works.

    This review didn’t focus on any research relating to mouth taping for proposed improvements to mood, skin, digestion, sharper jaw lines and other things, so the researchers could not draw conclusions about the efficacy and safety of mouth taping for those purposes.

    Snoring is one of the problems mouth taping has been suggested to help with.
    Kleber Cordeiro/Shutterstock

    Internationally, qualified sleep health professionals do not recommend mouth taping.

    If you have concerns about your sleep, the best thing to do is to consult trusted scientific sources or a health-care professional who will be able to guide you to address the underlying causes of your sleep challenges.

    Trying social media trends such as mouth taping before you seek expert advice could lead to delays in diagnosing serious conditions for which there are evidence-based treatments available.

    Mouth taping should definitely not be attempted in children.

    It’s possible that in some healthy adults, without respiratory conditions, without significant sleep disorders, and who don’t have tape allergies, that mouth taping could pose little harm and produce some modest benefits. But we don’t have enough evidence yet to know one way or the other.

    Moira Junge is CEO of The Sleep Health Foundation. She is also affiliated with the Healthylife Health Advisory Board and is a psychologist and clinic director at Yarraville Health Group.

    ref. Please don’t tape your mouth at night, whatever TikTok says. A new study shows why this viral trend can be risky – https://theconversation.com/please-dont-tape-your-mouth-at-night-whatever-tiktok-says-a-new-study-shows-why-this-viral-trend-can-be-risky-256901

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI China: Trump’s conversation with European leaders triggers controversy

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

    What U.S. President Donald Trump told European leaders after his two-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin has triggered controversy.

    Three days after the high-stake talks for Trump, The Wall Street Journal reported Thursday, citing senior European officials familiar with the conversation, that Trump told European leaders that Putin “isn’t ready to end the Ukraine war because he thinks he is winning.”

    The White House denied this account immediately. Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said that Trump “did say he believes Putin is winning the war, but he never said ‘Putin isn’t ready to end the war’.”

    During the call, Trump said several times that “he believes Putin wants peace and wants the war to be over,” Leavitt noted.

    Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also dismissed the WSJ report, saying Russia was only aware of what was said during the phone call between the two leaders on Monday.

    “Look, we know what Trump told Putin. We don’t know what Trump told the Europeans after that phone call. We know the official statement by President Trump,” Peskov said.

    According to Trump, the afterward call’s participants included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

    The controversy came as European officials accused Trump of handing Putin a win after their phone call since he suggested abandoning being a mediator in ending the war and refused to impose fresh sanctions on Russia.

    “Several European officials said the message they took from the call was that they should not expect the United States to join them any time soon in piling additional financial pressure onto Mr. Putin,” The New York Times said in a analysis published Thursday.

    “The disagreement between the Americans and the Europeans over support for Ukraine will likely come to a head over two nearly back-to-back summits: the Group of 7 in Canada in mid-June and the NATO summit a week later in The Hague,” the report added. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Guide to functional currency rules

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    How to use the functional currency rules guide

    The electronic version of this document is the only authorised version. Printed copies may be out of date.

    Read this guide to find out more about the functional currency rules, including:

    • eligibility requirements
    • the implications for tax accounting and tax reporting.

    You can use this guide if you are:

    • an Australian resident or a non-resident with a permanent establishment in Australia and both of the following apply
      • you keep your accounts solely or predominantly in a particular foreign currency
      • you wish to work out your taxable income (or tax loss) using that foreign currency – that is, using your ‘applicable functional currency’
    • a non-resident disposing of indirect interests in real property in Australia and the sole or predominant currency in which you keep your accounts at the time of disposal is a foreign currency. The application of functional currency rules is mandatory in this situation.

    This guide does not cover income from overseas permanent establishments of resident taxpayers.

    Functional currency translation rules

    The functional currency translation rules are an exception to the core foreign currency translation rules.

    Under the core foreign currency translation rules, amounts in a foreign currency must be translated into Australian dollars (A$). There are also rules about when and at what exchange rate a translation is to take place for a given type of transaction.

    Under the functional currency rules, you can use a currency other than A$ as the unit of account to work out your taxable income or tax loss. The core foreign currency translation rules continue to apply to amounts and transactions not covered by the functional currency rules.

    If you are an eligible taxpayer who keeps your accounts solely or predominantly in a particular foreign currency, you can choose to use that foreign currency as the unit of account to work out your taxable income or tax loss.

    If you have made such a choice (that is, an effective functional currency choice), you do not translate transactions you undertake in either a foreign currency or in your applicable functional currency into A$. Rather, you translate only your net amount of taxable income or tax loss calculated in your applicable functional currency into A$.

    The core foreign currency translation rules are contained in section 960-50 of Subdivision 960-C of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (ITAA 1997).

    The functional currency translation rules are contained in section 960-80 of Subdivision 960-D of the ITAA 1997.

    How the functional currency rules work

    Once you choose to use a non-Australian dollar applicable functional currency, you must use that currency as the unit of account in your day-to-day tax accounting. After working out your taxable income or tax loss in the applicable functional currency, you must translate that amount into A$ to report on your tax return.

    You must also carry out your instalment income calculations in your applicable functional currency and translate that amount into A$ for reporting purposes.

    Eligibility to account in a functional currency

    Only certain taxpayers can choose to work out their taxable income or tax loss using a non-Australian dollar applicable functional currency. This guide is relevant only if you are either of the following:

    • a resident who must prepare financial reports under section 292 of the Corporations Act 2001
    • a non-resident carrying on business through a permanent establishment in Australia.

    Your applicable functional currency is the sole or predominant currency in which you keep your ‘accounts’ at the time you choose to use functional currency.

    ‘Accounts’ means ledgers, journals, statements of financial performance, profit and loss accounts, balance sheets and statements of financial position and includes statements, reports and notes attached to, or intended to be read, with such items.

    Find out more in subsection 960-70(4) of the ITAA 1997.

    The following taxpayers using a non-A$ applicable functional currency are not covered in this guide:

    • Australian residents carrying on business through overseas permanent establishments, using a non-A$ applicable functional currency to work out their taxable income or loss
    • attributable taxpayers in respect of controlled foreign companies (CFC) and transferor trusts, using a non-A$ applicable functional currency to work out the ‘attributable income’ of the CFC or transferor trust.

    When to make a functional currency choice

    The functional currency rules started to apply on 1 July 2003.

    Ordinarily, if you choose to use a foreign currency as your applicable functional currency to work out your taxable income or tax loss, your choice will take effect after the end of the tax year during which you made it.

    You must make your functional currency choice in writing.

    In some circumstances, you can make your functional currency choice after the start of the tax year in which you intend it to take effect. This is referred to as a ‘backdated start up choice’. You must make a ‘backdated start up choice within 90 days of either of the following:

    • the start of the tax year, if your entity existed at that time
    • the day your entity came into existence, if it did not exist at the start of the tax year.

    See details on:

    Withdrawing an existing functional currency choice and substituting a new choice

    You can withdraw your existing functional currency choice if the functional currency you are using ceases to be the sole or predominant currency in which you keep your ‘accounts’. Your functional currency choice withdrawal will take effect from the end of the tax year in which you withdraw it.

    Your withdrawal:

    • cannot be backdated
    • must be made in writing
    • should be available as part of the business’s tax records.

    After your previous functional currency choice is withdrawn, you can make a choice to use the new sole or predominant currency in which you keep your accounts to work out your taxable income or tax loss. You must make this choice in writing. If you don’t make a new functional currency choice, the core foreign currency translation rules will apply, which means that all amounts must be translated into A$.

    See details on:

    Documenting your choice to use a non-Australian dollar applicable functional currency

    When making your written choice to use a non-Australian dollar currency as your applicable functional currency, include all the following:

    • the name and tax file number of the entity making the choice
    • the use to which the functional currency is being put – for example, to work out taxable income or tax loss
    • the date the choice takes effect
    • the unit of account that the entity intends to use as its functional currency
    • the signature of the entity’s public officer and the date the written functional currency choice was signed.

    You do not need to send your written functional currency choice to us. However, it should be available as part of your business’ tax records.

    Non-functional currency amounts you receive or pay

    All amounts included in working out your taxable income or tax loss must be in the applicable functional currency. This means you must translate all amounts you receive or pay in another currency, including A$ amounts, into the applicable functional currency.

    The functional currency translation rules, including applicable exchange rates, follow the principles in the core foreign currency translation rules for translating foreign currency amounts to A$. This is covered in subsection 960-50(6) of Subdivision 960-C and also subsection 960-80(6) of Subdivision 960-D of the ITAA 1997.

    However, the A$ is treated as a foreign currency while your applicable functional currency is not a foreign currency for the purposes of working out your taxable income or tax loss in the applicable functional currency. This is covered in subsection 960-80(1) of the ITAA 1997.

    A foreign exchange (forex) realisation gain or loss may arise for certain amounts if there is a difference in prevailing exchange rates at the relevant times. For example, the exchange rate applicable at the time you incur an amount may be different from the exchange rate applicable when you pay it. In this situation, changes in the value of the A$ against the applicable functional currency can bring about a forex gain or loss – an example follows.

    Example 1: trigger of foreign currency loss

    Stellar Rex Incorporated (Stellar Rex), a USA company with a branch (permanent establishment) in Australia, chooses to account for their Australian branch’s taxable income in a functional currency. For Stellar Rex’s purposes, US dollars (US$) is the applicable functional currency and A$ is a foreign currency.

    Stellar Rex contracts to purchase a depreciating asset from an Australian company in A$ as follows:

    Year 1

    Stellar Rex contracts to purchase the asset for A$10,000. Stellar Rex holds the asset from the date of contract.

    At the contract time, A$1.00 = US$0.50.

    Therefore, the cost of the asset in the applicable functional currency is US$5,000.

    Year 2

    Thirteen months after beginning to hold the asset, Stellar Rex pays A$10,000 for the asset.

    At this time A$1.00 = US$0.55, so the A$10,000 Stellar Rex pays is equivalent to US$5,500.

    A forex realisation loss of US$500 is made under Forex realisation event (FRE) 4 when Stellar Rex pays A$10,000 for the asset in year 2. As the payment was made more than 12 months after first holding the asset, the loss is not a short-term forex realisation loss – refer to section 775-75 of the ITAA 1997.

    Therefore, Stellar Rex will take this loss into account as an allowable deduction when calculating the taxable income or tax loss of its Australian branch for year 2. The taxable income of the Australian branch is calculated in US$ and translated into A$ at the end of the tax year for the purpose of working out the amount of A$ income tax it is liable to pay.

    End of example

    Find out more about foreign currency translation (conversion) rules.

    Pre-choice amounts

    Special translation rules apply to amounts that are attributable to transactions or events that happened before your current functional currency choice took effect (‘pre-choice’ amounts). Pre-choice amounts that are relevant for working out your taxable income or tax loss for a year after your functional currency choice takes effect must be translated into your applicable functional currency in accordance with these special rules. This includes pre-choice amounts that are denominated in the same non-A$ currency as your applicable functional currency.

    See details on:

    If you haven’t previously made a functional currency choice, you should translate a relevant pre-choice amount as follows:

    • firstly, into A$ at the exchange rate applicable at the time of the transaction or event
    • secondly, into the applicable functional currency at the exchange rate at the time your functional currency choice took effect.

    If you have previously made a choice to use a non-A$ currency as your applicable functional currency, you should translate a relevant pre-choice amount:

    • firstly, into the previous applicable functional currency at the exchange rate applicable at the time of the transaction or event
    • secondly, into the new applicable functional currency at the exchange rate at the time your new functional currency choice took effect.

    Example 2: sale of assets acquired before making a functional currency choice

    Fion Incorporated (FION), a non-resident corporation, operates through a permanent establishment in Australia. FION conducts most of its business in Yen (¥).

    In the year ended 30 June (year 1) FION chooses to use ¥ as its applicable functional currency. The choice applies for the year commencing 1 July (year 2).

    In the year ended 30 June (year 3) FION sells a tourist resort for ¥600 million, which it had purchased before year 1 for ¥500 million.

    As FION’s applicable functional currency is ¥, the capital gain or capital loss on the disposal of the tourist resort will be calculated in ¥. However, FION had not made a choice to use ¥ as its applicable functional currency at the time it purchased the tourist resort – that is, it was still using A$ for tax purposes. Therefore, the ¥ cost of the resort is translated to A$ at the exchange rate prevailing at the time of the purchase. This A$ amount is then translated to ¥ at the exchange rate prevailing at the time FION’s choice to use ¥ as its applicable functional currency took effect.

    For the purposes of this example, the exchange rates were:

    • A$1.00 = ¥68.50 at the time FION purchased the resort
    • A$1.00 = ¥62.00 at the time FION’s functional currency choice took effect.

    This means the cost base for the purpose of calculating the capital gain or loss on the disposal of the tourist resort is:

    • (¥500,000,000 ÷ 68.50) × 62.00
    • = A$7,299,270 × 62.00
    • = ¥452,554,745.

    The capital gain calculated in FION’s applicable functional currency is:

    • sale proceeds = ¥600,000,000
    • less ¥452,554,745
    • capital gain = ¥147,445,255.

    End of example

    Tax reporting and functional currency

    The functional currency rules allow you to work out your taxable income or tax loss in your applicable functional currency. However, all tax reporting must still be expressed in A$. When reporting on your tax return or activity statement, work out the reported amounts in your applicable functional currency and then translate these amounts into A$.

    For tax reporting purposes, when a translation is needed for label amounts (other than the taxable income amount), use the same translation rate as the taxable income translation rate. If you don’t have a taxable income amount in a given income year (that is, you have a tax loss), you should use the same rate you would have used to translate a taxable income amount into A$.

    How to treat different amounts

    Amount type

    Treatment

    Amounts used in working out taxable income or tax loss in the applicable functional currency (FC).

    Note sections 6AB and 6AC of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936 (ITAA 1936) with regard to foreign income and foreign tax and the ‘grossing-up’ of foreign income to include foreign tax paid.

    Include the amount in the taxable income calculation in the FC before translating taxable income from the FC into A$.

    Amounts used to work out taxable income or a tax loss that are in a foreign currency. For example:

    • A$ amounts, including the ‘gross-up’ amount for a franked dividend
    • amounts of foreign income, including the ‘gross-up’ amount for foreign tax paid in respect of that income.

    Section 6AC of the ITAA 1936 requires the amount of foreign income included in your assessable income to be ‘grossed-up’ to include any foreign tax you paid in relation to the foreign income. If you receive a franked dividend, section 207-20 of the ITAA 1997 requires you to ‘gross-up’ your assessable income by the amount of the franking credit – and also entitles you to a tax offset equal to the amount of the franking credit.

    Translate into the FC using the applicable exchange rate for that amount.

    As ‘gross-up’ amounts contribute to the calculation of your taxable income or tax loss, you must translate them into the FC. Include the FC value in the taxable income calculation before translating taxable income from FC into A$ – see Example 3 and Example 4.

    Carry-forward losses

    Carry-forward losses are allowable deductions that reduce taxable income.

    Identify the carry forward loss amount in the FC from the previous income year.

    Include these amounts in the taxable income calculation in the FC before translating taxable income from FC into A$.

    When reporting the value of a tax loss, translate it from FC into A$.

    Tax exempt amounts that reduce carry-forward losses

    Tax exempt amounts that reduce carry-forward losses are translated into the FC generally upon being derived. They are then used to absorb the loss to the extent of their value.

    When reporting the value of a tax exempt amount, translate it into A$.

    Foreign income tax offsets (FITO)

    Subsection 770-10(1) of the ITAA 1997 provides that you are entitled to a foreign income tax offset for foreign income tax you paid in respect of an amount of foreign income that is included in your assessable income in a year of income. (FITO in relation to the ‘attributable income’ of a CFC is not dealt with in this guide.)

    The value of foreign income tax offset amounts is not used in working out taxable income, except for when calculating the ‘attributable income’ of a controlled foreign company (CFC) or transferor trust.

    The core foreign currency translation rules apply, and the value of foreign tax paid used to calculate foreign income tax offsets is translated into A$ when the foreign tax is paid – see Example 3.

    Franking credits

    A credit that arises in the franking account of an entity (a franking credit) is a tax offset.

    The amount of the tax offset you are entitled to as a result of receiving a franked dividend is not translated into your FC. Your tax offset amount will equal the A$ amount of the franking credit attached to the dividend you received before it was translated into functional currency.

    Add the A$ value of franking credits to your franking account without translation into FC – see Example 4.

    You must keep your franking account in A$.

    Tax offsets and rebates

    Tax offsets and rebates are not used to work out taxable income or a tax loss.

    The core foreign currency translation rules apply.

    If the amount is already in A$, then no translation takes place.

    If the amount is in a non-A$ currency, translate the amount into A$.

    Do not translate into FC first.

    Values expressed in law

    Paragraph 960-80(2)(i) of the ITAA 1997 covers this.

    Translate these amounts to FC at the applicable rate – see Example 5.

    Example 4: franking credits

    US$1.00 = A$2.00

    XYZ Corporation (XYZ) is an Australian resident company, which chooses to use US$ as its applicable functional currency.

    XYZ derives a fully franked dividend as follows:

    • A$70 cash.
    • A$30 gross-up amount (franking credit value).

    To find out more, refer to subsection 207-20(1) of the ITAA 1997.

    Assessable income calculation

    XYZ translates A$100 ($70 + $30) into US$ as follows:

    • A$100 × 0.5 = US$50.

    At the end of the tax year, US$50 (and other taxable income values) are translated into A$ at regulation rate.

    Franking account balance

    Add A$30 to franking account balance. No translation takes place.

    End of example

    Mandatory application of functional currency for indirect Australian real property interests

    If:

    • you are a foreign resident
    • a CGT event happens in relation to a CGT asset that is an indirect Australian real property interest for you, and
    • at the time of the CGT event, the sole or predominant currency in which you keep your accounts is a currency other than Australian currency

    you must use the applicable functional currency to work out the amount of any capital gain or capital loss. Subsection 960-61(2) of the ITAA 1997 covers this.

    This requirement applies to CGT events that happen on or after 12 December 2006.

    Capital gains and losses

    There are 2 steps to work out a capital gain or capital loss.

    Step 1 translate an amount that is not in the applicable functional currency into the applicable functional currency.

    Step 2 translate the amount of any capital gain or capital loss into Australian currency.

    See more details at table item 6 of subsection 960-80(1) of the ITAA 1997.

    Exchange rates to apply

    Different exchange rates apply to the translation of amounts that are elements in the calculation of capital gain or loss.

    See more details at subsection 960-80(4) of the ITAA 1997.

    The exchange rate to be used when translating amounts will be either the:

    • rate at the time the costs are incurred
    • rate at the time of the CGT event.

    Exchange rate applicable at the time the costs are incurred

    Amounts relating to the payments made and costs incurred that form part of the cost base of a CGT asset, are translated into your functional currency at the exchange rate applicable at the time the costs are incurred.

    See details in:

    • table item 5 of subsection 960-50(6) of the ITAA 1997
    • TR 2007/5 Income tax: functional currency – when is an amount not in the ‘applicable functional currency’? paragraphs 110 and 153.

    Exchange rate applicable at the time of the CGT event

    Amounts which are relevant for working out the capital gain or capital loss (capital proceeds or market value of other property) on the happening of a CGT event, are translated into the applicable functional currency at the exchange rate applicable at the time of the CGT event.

    See details in:

    Amount of capital gain or capital loss calculated in the applicable functional currency

    This amount is translated into the Australian currency at the exchange rate applicable at the time of CGT event.

    See details in:

    • table item 5 in subsection 960-50(6) of the ITAA 1997
    • TR 2007/5 Income tax: functional currency – when is an amount not in the ‘applicable functional currency’?

    Reporting during the year

    Business activity statements

    When completing a business activity statement (BAS):

    1. calculate your instalment income in the applicable functional currency
    2. translate your instalment income into Australian dollars at the appropriate rate
    3. complete label T1 of the BAS accordingly.

    Company tax return

    The functional currency rules allow some taxpayers to choose to work out their taxable income or tax loss by using a non-A$ currency as their applicable functional currency (FC).

    All amounts disclosed on the company tax return must be disclosed in A$.

    When a label amount is accounted for in a non-A$ FC, that sum should be translated into A$ using the same functional currency translation rate (shown at label 8N Functional currency translation rate of the company tax return) used to translate the taxable income or tax loss figure.

    The following amounts are always accounted for in A$, and not in the FC:

    • Label 7 J Franking credits
    • Label 7 C Australian franking credits from a New Zealand Company.

    The following amounts do not need to be translated into A$ before completion of the return:

    • Label 7 R Tax losses deducted
    • Label 7 S Tax losses transferred in.

    Tax losses are allowable deductions from taxable income. If you carry forward losses, you should account for and claim them in your FC. Report any losses used during the income year at label 7R by translating the value of the loss used into A$ at the FC translation rate.

    As mentioned above, label 8N is where you show the exchange rate used to translate the FC taxable income figure (and many other figures on the company tax return) into A$.

    At label 8N, show the translation rate the company used to translate the taxable income figure from the FC into A$. The translation rate is the amount the FC amount is divided by to get an equivalent amount of A$. That is, the number of non-A$ currency units that equal one A$ rounded to 4 significant figures – see Examples for labels 8N and 8O.

    Label 😯 – functional currency chosen

    Label 😯 is where you show your chosen FC using the 3-letter code from the international standard ISO 4217 – ‘Currency codes’. See the list of Currency codes for label 😯.

    Labels 8N and 😯 must be completed by:

    • Australian resident taxpayers who use FC to work out their taxable income or tax loss
    • foreign residents carrying on an activity or business at, or through, an Australian permanent establishment, who use FC to work out their taxable income or tax loss.

    You should not complete labels 8N and 😯 if you are an Australian resident taxpayer using FC only to work out the attributable income of a controlled foreign company (CFC) or transferor trust.

    The following are examples of correctly completed labels 8N and 8O. The exchange rates used are from 26 September 2003.

    Examples for labels 8N and 😯

    Applicable FC

    Label N

    Label O

    US Dollar

    .6695

    USD

    Yen

    77.18

    JPY

    New Zealand Dollar

    1.1385

    NZD

    Won

    785.8

    KRW

    Rupiah

    5679

    IDR

    As mentioned previously, if you choose to use FC, you should account for the value of any carry-forward losses using that FC.

    The value of those tax losses and net capital losses carried forward to later income years should be reported in A$ at ‘Losses information’ – labels 13U and 13V – on the company tax return.

    Calculation statement

    The calculation statement on the company tax return shows you how to work out the amount of tax payable or refundable. It starts with the ‘Taxable income’ figure at label A. This figure should have been worked out earlier, using the applicable FC and then translated into A$.

    Other figures in the calculation statement are either of the following:

    • A$ amounts, such as pay as you go (PAYG) instalments raised
    • amounts translated into A$ previously, such as any foreign income tax offset.

    Currency codes for label 😯

    These currency codes are from international standard ISO 4217 – Currency codes.

    A–F, G–K, L–P, Q–U, V–Z

    A

    • Afghan Afghani – AFN
    • Albanian Lek – ALL
    • Algerian Dinar – DZD
    • Angolan Kwanza – AOA
    • Argentine Peso – ARS
    • Armenian Dram – AMD
    • Aruban Guilder – AWG
    • Azerbaijani Manat – AZN

    B

    • Bahamian Dollar – BSD
    • Bahraini Dinar – BHD
    • Bangladeshi Taka – BDT
    • Barbados Dollar – BBD
    • Belarusian Ruble – BYN
    • Belize Dollar – BZD
    • Bermudian Dollar – BMD
    • Bhutanese Ngultrum – BTN
    • Bolivian Boliviano – BOB
    • Bosnia & Herzegovina Convertible Marks – BAM
    • Botswanan Pula – BWP
    • Brazilian Real – BRL
    • British Pound – GBP
    • Brunei Dollar – BND
    • Bulgarian Lev – BGN
    • Burundi Franc – BIF

    C

    • Cambodian Riel – KHR
    • Canadian Dollar – CAD
    • Cabo Verde Escudo – CVE
    • Cayman Islands Dollar – KYD
    • CFA Franc BCEAO – XOF
    • CFA Franc BEAC – XAF
    • CFP Franc – XPF
    • Chilean Peso – CLP
    • Chinese Yuan Renminbi – CNY
    • Colombian Peso – COP
    • Comorian Franc – KMF
    • Congolese Franc – CDF
    • Costa Rican Colon – CRC
    • Cuban Peso – CUP
    • Czech Koruna – CZK

    D

    • Danish Krone – DKK
    • Djibouti Franc – DJF
    • Dominican Peso – DOP

    E

    • East Caribbean Dollar – XCD
    • Egyptian Pound – EGP
    • El Salvador Colon – SVC
    • Eritrean Nakfa – ERN
    • Ethiopian Birr – ETB
    • Euro – EUR

    F

    • Falkland Islands Pound – FKP
    • Fijian Dollar – FJD

    G

    • Gambian Dalasi – GMD
    • Georgian Lari – GEL
    • Ghanaian Cedi – GHS
    • Gibraltar Pound – GIP
    • Guatemalan Quetzal – GTQ
    • Guernsey Pound Sterling – GBP
    • Guinean Franc – GNF
    • Guyanese Dollar – GYD

    H

    • Haitian Gourde – HTG
    • Honduran Lempira – HNL
    • Hong Kong Dollar – HKD
    • Hungarian Forint – HUF

    I

    • Icelandic Krona – ISK
    • Indian Rupee – INR
    • Indonesian Rupiah – IDR
    • Iranian Rial – IRR
    • Iraqi Dinar – IQD
    • Isle of Man Pound Sterling – GBP
    • Israeli New Sheqel – ILS

    J

    • Jamaican Dollar – JMD
    • Japanese Yen – JPY
    • Jersey Pound Sterling – GBP
    • Jordanian Dinar – JOD

    K

    • Kazakhstani Tenge – KZT
    • Kenyan Shilling – KES
    • Kuwaiti Dinar – KWD
    • Kyrgystani Som – KGS

    L

    • Laotian Kip – LAK
    • Latvia Euro – EUR
    • Lebanese Pound – LBP
    • Lesotho Loti – LSL
    • Liberian Dollar – LRD
    • Libyan Dinar – LYD
    • Lithuania Euro – EUR

    M

    • Macanese Pataca – MOP
    • Macedonia Denar – MKD
    • Malagasy Ariary – MGA
    • Malawian Kwacha – MWK
    • Malaysian Ringgit – MYR
    • Maldivian Rufiyaa – MVR
    • Mauritanian Ouguiya – MRU
    • Mauritius Rupee – MUR
    • Mexican Peso – MXN
    • Moldovan Leu – MDL
    • Mongolian Tugrik – MNT
    • Moroccan Dirham – MAD
    • Mozambique Metical – MZN
    • Myanmar Kyat – MMK

    N

    • Namibia Dollar – NAD
    • Nepalese Rupee – NPR
    • Netherlands Antillean Guilder – ANG
    • New Zealand Dollar – NZD
    • Nicaraguan Cordoba Oro – NIO
    • Nigerian Naira – NGN
    • North Korean Won – KPW
    • Norwegian Krone – NOK

    O

    • Omani Rial – OMR
    • Other – OTH

    P

    • Pakistani Rupee – PKR
    • Panamanian Balboa – PAB
    • Papuan Kina – PGK
    • Paraguayan Guarani – PYG
    • Peruvian Nuevo Sol – PEN
    • Philippine Peso – PHP
    • Polish Zloty – PLN
    • Pound Sterling – GBP

    Q

    • Qatari Rial – QAR

    R

    • Romanian New Leu – RON
    • Russian Ruble – RUB
    • Rwandan Franc – RWF

    S

    • Saint Helena Pound – SHP
    • Samoan Tala – WST
    • Sao Tome and Principe Dobra – STN
    • Saudi Riyal – SAR
    • Serbian Dinar – RSD
    • Seychelles Rupee – SCR
    • Sierra Leonean Leone – SLE
    • Singapore Dollar – SGD
    • Solomon Islands Dollar – SBD
    • Somali Shilling – SOS
    • South African Rand – ZAR
    • South Korean Won – KRW
    • South Sudanese Pound – SSP
    • Sri Lankan Rupee – LKR
    • Sudanese Pound – SDG
    • Surinam Dollar – SRD
    • Eswatini Lilangeni – SZL
    • Swedish Krona – SEK
    • Swiss Franc – CHF
    • Syrian Pound – SYP

    T

    • Taiwanese New Dollar – TWD
    • Tajikistani Somoni – TJS
    • Tanzanian Shilling – TZS
    • Thai Baht – THB
    • Tongan Pa’anga – TOP
    • Trinidad and Tobago Dollar – TTD
    • Tunisian Dinar – TND
    • Turkish Lira – TRY
    • Turkmenistan New Manat – TMT
    • Tuvalu Australian Dollar – AUD

    U

    • UAE Dirham – AED
    • Ugandan Shilling – UGX
    • Ukrainian Hryvnia – UAH
    • Uruguayan Peso – UYU
    • US Dollar – USD
    • Uzbekistan Sum – UZS

    V

    • Vanuatuan Vatu – VUV
    • Venezuelan Bolivar Soberano – VES
    • Vietnamese Dong – VND

    Y

    • Yemeni Rial – YER

    Z

    • Zambian Kwacha – ZMW
    • Zimbabwe Gold – ZWG

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Cantwell, Padilla, Schiff Slam Trump’s Outrageous, Partisan Decision to Slash Flood Prevention Funding for Blue States

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Work plan released by Army Corps zeroes out hundreds of millions of dollars for key WA, CA waterway construction projects, among others—steering hundreds of millions to red states
    ***WATCH: WA, CA Senators hold press conference calling out Trump’s decision*** 
    Washington, D.C. — Today, the Senate delegations from Washington state and California joined together to call out President Trump’s outrageous, nakedly-political decision to zero out critical funding for Army Corps of Engineers construction projects in blue states like Washington and California while steering hundreds of millions more to red states.
    U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) blasted the Trump administration’s plans, released late last week, detailing how the Army Corps intends to zero out all Army Corps construction funding for the state of California, as well as $500 million for the Howard Hanson Dam in Washington state. California was set to receive well over $100 million in funding for projects, and the Howard Hanson Dam in Washington state was set to receive $500 million—in the Corps’ fiscal year 2025 budget request, in the Senate’s bipartisan draft fiscal year 2025 funding bill, and even in House Republicans’ draft fiscal year 2025 funding bill. But the Trump administration—using the new discretion afforded by the yearlong CR House Republicans drafted that was signed into law—ignored the draft bills and instead apportioned funding on a nakedly political basis.
    On Tuesday, a top Army Corps official testifying before the House failed to provide any justification for the decision and noted that the ultimate decision rested with Trump’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB), headed by Russ Vought.
    “We are here for a simple reason: Trump is robbing our states in broad daylight, and we are not going to be quiet about this,” said Senator Murray. “Last year, we worked across the aisle to hammer out a bipartisan understanding about what projects needed Army Corps construction funding. But President Trump is ripping up the roadmap we all agreed on—even House Republicans— and turning the Army Corps construction fund into his personal political slush fund. I don’t know how you get more obviously partisan than cutting California, the most populous state in the country, out of Army Corps construction funding entirely, and I just don’t know how you get more blatantly corrupt than zeroing out half a billion dollars for Washington state and completely shafting major work at the Howard Hanson Dam—work to address dam safety, water supply issues, and more.”
    “The Ports of Seattle and Tacoma received $45.4 million less in this budget,” said Senator Cantwell. “This is a huge problem for the next five years. We want to stabilize our ports. We want the Army Corps to do their investment on important waterway issues. We want to grow economic opportunity at an age when the Pacific economy is continuing to grow. We want to be on the doorstep of that access and to be efficient about delivering it, not giving those jobs away to Canada and Mexico.”
    “When anyone takes the oath of office, even Donald Trump as President of the United States, you become the president for all Americans — not just for red states or for blue states, but for every state and every community equally,” said Senator Padilla. “Yet, since the minute Donald Trump returned to office, he’s set out to politicize the office he holds, now trying to take hundreds of millions of dollars in flood prevention funding away from the states that happened to not vote for him and redirect them to projects in states that supported his election. It’s absolutely wrong. In California, that means cutting every last dollar of funding that was allocated for certain flood control projects. For a president so obsessed with fighting waste, fraud, and abuse, I know where he can find it. He just has to look in the mirror. Communities up and down California — including farmers and farm workers in the Central Valley and Pajaro — will now be at a higher risk of flooding because Donald Trump’s playing politics with federal funding.”
    “Natural disasters don’t discriminate based on whether a state is red or blue, and the administration and Congress shouldn’t either when it comes to protecting communities from natural disasters. This puts us on a very dangerous path, a path where anything can be on the chopping block for a partisan reason,” said Senator Schiff. “Today, it’s funding for these projects. Tomorrow, it could be another form of funding meant to save lives. There will be a domino effect of threats aimed at blue states. When you’re elected to be president of the United States, you’re not a half president. You’re not president for only half of the country, not if you do the job right. These baseless attacks threaten millions of people from both parties whose lives are endangered by floods.”
    Overall, the Army Corps’ plan would steer roughly $258 million dollars more in construction funding to red states while ripping away roughly $437 million dollars in construction funding for blue states, relative to the fiscal year 2025 request—which, historically, has been fully funded and was fully funded in the draft fiscal year 2025 bills produced on a bipartisan basis in the Senate and by House Republicans in the House. Trump’s work plan steers two-thirds of all Army Corps construction funding to red states while the budget request and House and Senate bills would have split that funding roughly evenly to red and blue states.
    Supporting the Howard Hanson Dam has been a longtime priority for Senator Murray, and she has pressed the Army Corps to prioritize funding for the Dam for years. Under the last administration, Senator Murray was able to secure critical funding boosts for Howard Hanson Dam, including $220 million in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and $50 million to begin construction of a new facility in the funding bills for fiscal year 2024 that Murray wrote as then-Chair of the Appropriations Committee. Back in 2010, Murray secured $44 million in badly needed emergency funds for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to repair the Howard Hanson Dam. In the draft fiscal year 2025 appropriations bill she cleared unanimously out of Committee last year, Senator Murray secured $500 million for the dam, which would support fish passage and address dam safety and water supply issues for cities like Tacoma and Covington. $500 million was also included in the House’s draft fiscal year 2025 appropriations bill. The funding is needed to execute a construction option on the contract for the project, which would have allowed construction to begin in 2026 as scheduled.
    Congress typically provides specific, detailed instructions in its annual appropriations bills on how the Army Corps (and so many other agencies) must spend funding provided by Congress. Annual appropriations bills note exactly what Army Corps projects must be funded and at what levels. But instead of working with Democrats to pass full-year appropriations bills that deliver for communities across America, Republicans in Congress put forth a yearlong continuing resolution (CR) that failed to include hundreds of specific directives on how funding must be spent. For months, Senator Murray warned of the dangers of passing Republicans’ slush fund CR, noting, for example, that it would allow the administration to zero out funding for Army Corps projects. 
    Senator Murray’s remarks, as delivered, are below:
    “We are here for a simple reason: Trump is robbing our states in broad daylight, and we are not going to be quiet about this.
    “We are not going to stop fighting for our communities, and we are going to make every single person understand what is happening—and what it means for our states, for our communities, and for this democracy.
    “Last year, we worked across the aisle to hammer out a bipartisan understanding about what projects needed Army Corps construction funding. And ‘we’—isn’t just the four of us here. It includes our Republican counterparts and even our House colleagues.
    “But President Trump is ripping up the roadmap we all agreed on—even the House Republicans—and turning the Army Corps construction funds into his personal political slush fund.
    “To give you a sense of how blatantly political this is, consider the fact that the Corps’ budget request last year, the bipartisan Senate bill my committee passed unanimously, and the House bill—yes the Republican House bill—all split this funding just about evenly—every one of them split it just about 50-50 between red and blue states.
    “Now compare that to Trump’s partisan takeover. This thing is totally lopsided—roughly two-thirds goes to red states and one-third for blue states.
    “This is not how it should work—an out-of-control Republican president punishing blue states and rewarding his friends instead.
    “I don’t know how you get more obviously partisan than cutting California, the most populous state in the country, out of Army Corps construction funding entirely. Trump slashed over $100 million for projects that reduce flooding for crying out loud! I mean who is pro-flooding?
    “And I just don’t know how you get more blatantly corrupt than zeroing out half a billion dollars for Washington state and completely shifting major work at the Howard Hanson Dam—work to address dam safety, water supply issues, and more. 
    “This is a project years in the making, and it is being slashed at the stroke of one careless pen, at the will of one corrupt President alone.
    “So why does President Trump think our constituents don’t need a safe water supply?
    “Why does President Trump think our constituents don’t need to be protected from floods?
    “It’s clear he simply doesn’t care.
    “But it’s actually worse than what I just laid out—because Trump is not just taking hundreds of millions of dollars from blue states for projects that we all agreed on. He is actually shoveling this money to projects that were not funded by either bill in either chambers—and that is nakedly political.
    “Suddenly, projects in or near his allies’ districts are funded.
    “So we need answers. And more than that, we need accountability.
    “Yesterday, a top Army Corps official testified before the House, and let me tell you: she had absolutely no acceptable—or even half-convincing—justification for these decisions.
    “In fact, she very explicitly stated that OMB—not the experts at the Corps—called the final shots.
    “That should raise everyone’s eyebrows—Russ Vought calling the shots for your constituents.
    “So we’re here to call this out—and we are going to fight tooth and nail to make this right, and make these critical projects whole.
    “I will tell you right now: I will not let defunding Howard Hanson Dam stand in any future bipartisan spending bill.
    “And, I will continue warning my colleagues about passing another partisan CR, which gave this administration that power to pick winners and losers like this in the first place.
    “I warned about exactly this before I voted against the CR—I warned that Trump could, and would, abuse the discretion in a slush fund
    CR to rob our communities. And now, here we are.
    “So every single member needs to pay close attention to what is happening here—and needs to speak out.
    “Because it may not be your state today but what happens when your governor disagrees with the President? What happens when you vote against him and your state loses out on funding?
    “Take my word—you don’t want to find out. We have to put a stop to this, and push back now.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • Trump administration blocks Harvard from enrolling international students, threatens broader crackdown

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration revoked Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students on Thursday, and is forcing current foreign students to transfer to other schools or lose their legal status, while also threatening to expand the crackdown to other colleges.

    Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem ordered the department to terminate Harvard University’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification effective for the 2025-2026 school year, the department said in a statement.

    Noem accused the university of “fostering violence, antisemitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party.”

    Harvard said the move by the Trump administration – which affects thousands of students – was illegal and amounted to retaliation.

    The decision marked a significant escalation of the Trump administration’s campaign against the elite Ivy League university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, which has emerged as one of Trump’s most prominent institutional targets. The move came after Harvard refused to provide information that Noem demanded about some foreign student visa holders at Harvard, the department said.

    Harvard enrolled nearly 6,800 international students in the 2024-2025 school year, amounting to 27% of its total enrollment, according to university statistics.

    In 2022, Chinese nationals were the biggest group of foreign students at 1,016, university figures showed. After that were students from Canada, India, South Korea, Britain, Germany, Australia, Singapore and Japan.

    The Chinese Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

    “It is a privilege, not a right, for universities to enroll foreign students and benefit from their higher tuition payments to help pad their multibillion-dollar endowments,” Noem said in a statement.

    In a letter to the university, Noem gave Harvard “the opportunity” to regain its certification by turning over within 72 hours a raft of records about foreign students, including any video or audio of their protest activity in the past five years.

    Harvard called the government’s action “unlawful” and said it was “fully committed” to educating foreign students.

    “This retaliatory action threatens serious harm to the Harvard community and our country, and undermines Harvard’s academic and research mission,” the university said in a statement.

    Congressional Democrats denounced the revocation, with U.S. Representative Jaime Raskin calling it an “intolerable attack on Harvard’s independence and academic freedom” and saying it was government retaliation for Harvard’s previous resistance to Trump.

    Trump has already frozen some $3 billion in federal grants to Harvard in recent weeks, leading the university to sue to restore the funding.

    In a separate lawsuit related to Trump’s efforts to terminate the legal status of hundreds of foreign students across the U.S., a federal judge ruled on Thursday that the administration could not end their status without following proper regulatory procedures. It was not immediately clear how that ruling would affect the action against Harvard.

    During an interview with Fox News’ “The Story with Martha MacCallum,” Noem was asked if she was considering similar moves at other universities, including Columbia University in New York.

    “Absolutely, we are,” Noem said. “This should be a warning to every other university to get your act together.”

    TRUMP TARGETS UNIVERSITIES

    Trump, a Republican, took office in January pledging a wide-ranging immigration crackdown. His administration has tried to revoke student visas and green cards of foreign students who participated in pro-Palestinian protests.

    He has undertaken an extraordinary effort to revamp private colleges and schools across the U.S., claiming they foster anti-American, Marxist and “radical left” ideologies. He has criticized Harvard for hiring prominent Democrats for teaching or leadership positions.

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said on Monday that it was terminating a further $60 million in federal grants to Harvard because it failed to address antisemitic harassment and ethnic discrimination.

    In a legal complaint filed earlier this month, Harvard said it was committed to combating antisemitism and had taken steps to ensure its campus is safe and welcoming to Jewish and Israeli students.

    Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, a senior fellow with the American Immigration Council, a pro-immigration advocacy group, said the action against Harvard’s student visa program “needlessly punishes thousands of innocent students.”

    “None of them have done anything wrong, they’re just collateral damage to Trump,” he said on the social media site Bluesky.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Security: Shohini Sinha Named Assistant Director of the Victim Services Division

    Source: US FBI

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation has named Shohini Sinha as the assistant director of the Victim Services Division. Ms. Sinha most recently served as the special agent in charge of the Salt Lake City Field Office.

    Ms. Sinha joined the FBI as a special agent in 2001. She was first assigned to the Milwaukee Field Office, where she worked in counterterrorism investigations. She also served temporary assignments at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, the FBI Legal Attaché Office in London, and the Baghdad Operations Center.

    Ms. Sinha was promoted in 2009 to supervisory special agent and transferred to the Counterterrorism Division in Washington, D.C. She served as program manager of Canada-based extraterritorial investigations and facilitated liaison efforts with Washington-based Canadian liaison officers.

    In 2012, Ms. Sinha was promoted to assistant legal attaché in Ottawa, Canada, working counterterrorism matters in collaboration with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service. In 2015, she was promoted to field supervisor in the Detroit Field Office, where she led squads responsible for investigating international terrorism matters.

    In early 2020, Ms. Sinha transferred to the Cyber Intrusion squad, which worked both national security and criminal cyber intrusion matters. Later in 2020, she was promoted to assistant special agent in charge for national security matters, and later criminal matters, in the Portland Field Office.

    Ms. Sinha was selected to serve as the executive special assistant to the director in 2021. She has been serving as the special agent in charge of the Salt Lake City Field Office since July of 2023.

    Prior to her employment with the FBI, Ms. Sinha worked as a therapist and later as an administrator for a private, not-for-profit clinic. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in mental health counseling from Purdue University in Indiana.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Canadian Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Destruction of Energy Facilities in North and South Dakota

    Source: US FBI

    Cameron Monte Smith, 50, a Canadian citizen, was sentenced today to 150 months in prison per count, to be served consecutively, for two counts of destroying an energy facility — one incident in the District of North Dakota and another in the District of South Dakota.Smith was also ordered to pay $2.1 million in restitution.

    According to court documents, on Sept. 11, 2024, Smith pleaded guilty to the two offenses where he admitted to damaging the Wheelock Substation, located near Ray, North Dakota, in an amount exceeding $100,000, in May 2023. The Wheelock substation is operated by Mountrail-Williams Electric Cooperative and Basin Electric Power Cooperative.

    Smith also admitted to damaging a transformer and pumpstation of the Keystone Pipeline located near Carpenter, South Dakota, in an amount exceeding $100,000, in July 2022. Smith damaged the Wheelock substation and the Keystone Pipeline equipment by firing multiple rounds from a high-power rifle into the equipment resulting in disruption of electric services to the North Dakota customers and resulting in disruption of the Keystone Pipeline in South Dakota.

    Sue Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl for the District of North Dakota; U.S. Attorney Alison Ramsdell for the District of South Dakota; and Assistant Director David J. Scott of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division made the announcement.

    The FBI investigated the case with valuable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Williams County (North Dakota) Sheriff’s Office, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Clark County (South Dakota) Sheriff’s Department, and the Beadle County (South Dakota) Sheriff’s Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys David D. Hagler and Jonathan J. O’Konek for the District of South Dakota, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Jehangiri for the District of North Dakota, and Trial Attorneys Jacob Warren and Justin Sher of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Court-Authorized Operation Disrupts Worldwide Botnet Used by People’s Republic of China State-Sponsored Hackers

    Source: US FBI

    Note: View the affidavit here.

    The Justice Department today announced a court-authorized law enforcement operation that disrupted a botnet consisting of more than 200,000 consumer devices in the United States and worldwide. As described in court documents unsealed in the Western District of Pennsylvania, the botnet devices were infected by People’s Republic of China (PRC) state-sponsored hackers working for Integrity Technology Group, a company based in Beijing, and known to the private sector as “Flax Typhoon.”

    The botnet malware infected numerous types of consumer devices, including small-office/home-office (SOHO) routers, internet protocol (IP) cameras, digital video recorders (DVRs), and network-attached storage (NAS) devices. The malware connected these thousands of infected devices into a botnet, controlled by Integrity Technology Group, which was used to conduct malicious cyber activity disguised as routine internet traffic from the infected consumer devices. The court-authorized operation took control of the hackers’ computer infrastructure and, among other steps, sent disabling commands through that infrastructure to the malware on the infected devices. During the course of the operation, there was an attempt to interfere with the FBI’s remediation efforts through a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack targeting the operational infrastructure that the FBI was utilizing to effectuate the court’s orders. That attack was ultimately unsuccessful in preventing the FBI’s disruption of the botnet.

    “The Justice Department is zeroing in on the Chinese government backed hacking groups that target the devices of innocent Americans and pose a serious threat to our national security,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “As we did earlier this year, the Justice Department has again destroyed a botnet used by PRC-backed hackers to infiltrate consumer devices here in the United States and around the world. We will continue to aggressively counter the threat that China’s state- sponsored hacking groups pose to the American people.”

    “Our takedown of this state-sponsored botnet reflects the Department’s all-tools approach to disrupting cyber criminals. This network, managed by a PRC government contractor, hijacked hundreds of thousands of private routers, cameras, and other consumer devices to create a malicious system for the PRC to exploit,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “Today should serve as a warning to cybercriminals preying on Americans – if you continue to come for us, we will come for you.”

    “This dynamic operation demonstrates, once again, the Justice Department’s resolve in countering the threats posed by PRC state-sponsored hackers,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the National Security Division. “For the second time this year, we have disrupted a botnet used by PRC proxies to conceal their efforts to hack into networks in the U.S. and around the world to steal information and hold our infrastructure at risk. Our message to these hackers is clear: if you build it, we will bust it.”

    “The disruption of this worldwide botnet is part of the FBI’s commitment to using technical operations to help protect victims, expose publicly the scope of these criminal hacking campaigns, and to use the adversary’s tools against them to remove malicious infrastructure from the virtual battlefield,” said FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate. “The FBI’s unique legal authorities allowed it to lead an international operation with partners that collectively disconnected this botnet from its China-based hackers at Integrity Technology Group.”

    “The targeted hacking of hundreds of thousands of innocent victims in the United States and around the world shows the breadth and aggressiveness of PRC state-sponsored hackers,” said U.S. Attorney Eric G. Olshan for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “This court-authorized operation disrupted a sophisticated botnet designed to steal sensitive information and launch disruptive cyber attacks. We will continue to work with our partners inside and outside government, using every tool at our disposal, to defend and maintain global cybersecurity.”

    “The FBI’s investigation revealed that a publicly-traded, China-based company is openly selling its customers the ability to hack into and control thousands of consumer devices worldwide. This operation sends a clear message to the PRC that the United States will not tolerate this shameless criminal conduct,” said Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy of the FBI San Diego Field Office.

    According to the court documents, the botnet was developed and controlled by Integrity Technology Group, a publicly-traded company headquartered in Beijing. The company built an online application allowing its customers to log in and control specified infected victim devices, including with a menu of malicious cyber commands using a tool called “vulnerability-arsenal.” The online application was prominently labelled “KRLab,” one of the main public brands used by Integrity Technology Group.

    The FBI assesses that Integrity Technology Group, in addition to developing and controlling the botnet, is responsible for computer intrusion activities attributed to China-based hackers known by the private sector as “Flax Typhoon.” Microsoft Threat Intelligence described Flax Typhoon as nation-state actors based out of China, active since 2021, who have targeted government agencies and education, critical manufacturing, and information technology organizations in Taiwan, and elsewhere. The FBI’s investigation has corroborated Microsoft’s conclusions, finding that Flax Typhoon has successfully attacked multiple U.S. and foreign corporations, universities, government agencies, telecommunications providers, and media organizations.

    A cybersecurity advisory describing Integrity Technology Group tactics, techniques and procedures was also published today by the FBI, the National Security Agency, U.S. Cyber Command’s Cyber National Mission Force, and partner agencies in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. 

    The government’s malware disabling commands, which interacted with the malware’s native functionality, were extensively tested prior to the operation. As expected, the operation did not affect the legitimate functions of, or collect content information from, the infected devices. The FBI is providing notice to U.S. owners of devices that were affected by this court-authorized operation. The FBI is contacting those victims through their internet service provider, who will provide notice to their customers.

    The FBI’s San Diego Field Office and Cyber Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and the National Security Cyber Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division led the domestic disruption effort. Assistance was also provided by the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section. These efforts would not have been successful without the collaboration of partners, including French authorities, and Lumen Technologies’ threat intelligence group, Black Lotus Labs, which first identified and described this botnet, which it named Raptor Train, in July 2023.

    If you believe you have a compromised computer or device, please visit the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or report online to CISA. You may also contact your local FBI field office directly.

    The FBI continues to investigate Integrity Technology Group’s and Flax Typhoon’s computer intrusion activities.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Seizures of contraband and unauthorized items at Collins Bay Institution 

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    May 21, 2025 – Kingston, Ontario – Correctional Service Canada

    Between May 10 and 20, 2025, as a result of the vigilance of staff members, multiple packages containing contraband and unauthorized items were seized at Collins Bay Institution, a multi-level security federal institution.

    The items seized included marijuana, tobacco, fentanyl, ecstasy, “shatter” (cannabis concentrate), hashish, edged weapons, as well as cell phones and cell phone accessories. The total estimated institutional value of these seizures is approximately $528,381.

    The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) uses a number of tools to prevent drugs from entering its institutions. These tools include ion scanners and detector dogs to search buildings, personal property, inmates, and visitors.

    CSC has heightened measures to prevent contraband and unauthorized items from entering its institutions in order to help ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone. CSC also works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to introduce contraband or unauthorized items into correctional institutions.

    CSC has set up a telephone tip line for all federal institutions so that it may receive additional information about activities relating to security at CSC institutions. These activities may be related to drug use or trafficking that may threaten the safety and security of visitors, inmates, and staff members working at CSC institutions.

    The toll-free number, 1‑866‑780‑3784, helps ensure that the information shared is protected and that callers remain anonymous.

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Colchester County / Fall River — RCMP Southeast Traffic Services and Colchester County District RCMP investigations lead to arrest

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Multiple RCMP investigations from two regions of the province have led to charges against a Dartmouth man.

    On May 5, Colchester County District RCMP responded to a report of a theft from a business in Onslow. Investigators learned that a lawn tractor had been stolen from the yard in the early morning of May 4. Review of surveillance video showed a vehicle of interest, believed to be a black Ford Ranger, accessing the yard.

    On May 10, Colchester County District RCMP responded to a report of a theft from a business in Stewiacke where a lawn tractor was stolen from an enclosed yard overnight.

    On May 15, a third similar incident was reported to Colchester County District RCMP from a business in Brookfield. In this third incident there was damage to gates and locks in the business’s enclosed yard, but no items taken. Based on items left behind at the scene and surveillance video, officers identified a person of interest from Dartmouth.

    Later that day at approximately 10:30 a.m., officers with RCMP Southeast Traffic Services in Fall River were approached by a member of the public who reported a suspected impaired driver. Officers located the vehicle, a black Ford Ranger, on Hwy. 2 at Fletchers Lake and attempted a traffic stop. Due to significant safety concerns, officers used their police vehicles to direct the truck into the ditch when the driver attempted to flee the traffic stop.

    The driver, Ryan Fleet, 40, of Dartmouth, was safely arrested at the scene and is facing nine charges related to the Colchester County investigations, including Theft Over $5000 (two counts) and Break and Enter (two counts). He is charged with Flight from Peace Officer, Dangerous Operation, Failure to Comply with Probation Order, and Forcible Confinement associated to his arrest in Fletchers Lake. In addition, he was issued summary offence tickets for offences under the Nova Scotia Motor Vehicle Act and Revenue Act. Fleet had a first court appearance on May 16 at Dartmouth Provincial Court and remains in custody.

    Fleet was assessed for impairment and passed the tests for alcohol and drugs administered by officers.

    A passenger who was in the vehicle at the time of the traffic stop was arrested and released without charges.

    Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to contact Colchester County District RCMP at 902-893-6820 or police of jurisdiction in your area. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: King Cosponsors Bill to Help Lower Drug Costs for Maine People

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) is cosponsoring legislation to expand Medicare’s ability to negotiate drug prices and lower the costs of prescription medication nationwide. The Strengthening Medicare and Reducing Taxpayer (SMART) Prices Act would also reduce federal spending by reaching lower-price agreements, and give the Department of Health and Human Services stronger tools to negotiate lower drug prices in Medicare Part B and Part D. 
    According to preliminary estimates from a model by West Health and Verdant Research, if the SMART Prices Act was enacted in 2026, it would save 33 percent more by 2030 than current law. It would also allow Medicare to begin negotiations earlier and bring down the price of more expensive drugs. 
    “Lifesaving prescription medications shouldn’t break the bank,” said Senator King. “Expanding Medicare’s ability to negotiate drug prices will go a long way toward helping Maine people get the medication they need at a price they can afford. The SMART Prices Act is a commonsense step that will help Maine people save money and stay healthy, and I thank my colleagues for putting Maine people first.”
    In addition to Senator King, this legislation is cosponsored by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Peter Welch (D-VT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ben Ray Luján, Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).
    Senator King has been a leader in working to reduce prescription drug costs throughout his time in the United States Senate. He also recently cosponsored bipartisan legislation which would require price disclosures on advertisements for prescription drugs in order to inform patients who are considering certain medications after seeing television commercials. He previously introduced legislation to prohibit pharmaceutical drug manufacturers from claiming tax deductions for consumer advertising expenses. Most recently, Senator King cosponsored the Safe and Affordable Drugs From Canada Act would give Maine people the ability to purchase their prescriptions directly from pharmacies across the northern border at the market rate of a less expensive marketplace. Additionally, Senator King introduced the Responsibility in Drug Advertising Act, which would prohibit direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising of a new drug in the first three years after the drug receives Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approval.
    He has also supported a number of commonsense bills to drive down the costs of prescription medication in the United States including the historic Inflation Reduction Act. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, insulin fees are capped at $35 per month, Medicare is able to negotiate drug prices, and a $2,000 yearly cap on out-of-pocket expenses has been instituted for Medicare recipients.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Marathon runners rely on family and experts to succeed, while races rely on passionate volunteers

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Julia Yarkoni, Fellow in Global Journalism, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto

    This past April, the Boston Marathon attracted more than 32,000 runners and approximately half a million spectators. With such a huge crowd on hand, it’s easy to think that the athletes’ major source of support comes from fans of the sport. More than a million people annually run marathon races, and most of them have a team of people behind them.

    Marathoners rely on the strengths of a community of people. Families, coaches, marathon volunteers, race directors and health professionals dedicate time and energy to the runners’ dreams. And each group protects the health of the athletes in a different way. These unsung heroes make the impossible possible and they do it because the sport of long-distance running is a community endeavour.

    Families lay the foundation; research found that partners are “strikingly co-operative” as the non-running partner often picks up chores and child care uncomplainingly because they believe in the end goal. And a [2023 New York Times] article reported that athletes reciprocate by giving their partner recreational time.

    Running is a lifestyle

    When a family member is training to complete a marathon, families recognize there is safety in sticking together. Registered dietitian Kristy Baumann, owner of Marathon Nutritionist in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minn., has run 13 marathons. She describes how her mother would accompany her when she trained for hours.

    “My mom would bike with me on my long runs,” she says.

    In a 2015 article for Runner’s World, runner Courtney Crandell described how her family made sure she ate, maintained her health insurance and had a ride home after the race.

    Long-distance running draws people together who are not family. Coaches get to know their runners intimately and can prevent racers from ending up in dangerous situations. For example, Molly Monk, an athlete with unpredictable blood pressure, relied on her coach to help her train so that she avoided passing out during the marathon.

    Preparing physically and mentally

    Andy Jones-Wilkins, an American endurance running coach and writer, takes pride in being able to train marathon racers for four to six months because he values his relationships with runners. Jones-Wilkins, 57, is currently coaching 24 athletes scattered across the U.S.

    “My job as a coach is to give them not just the physical but also the mental and emotional tools to not just prepare for the race but to execute and to finish,” he says.

    Jones-Wilkins stays in contact with his athletes to debrief and to discuss with them the next step forward, particularly if they were disappointed on race day.

    Thirty-four years of long-distance running has taught Jones-Wilkins who the true unsung heroes are: “The people who put on these events (race directors) are the heart and soul of this sport.”

    Supporting runners

    Jones-Wilkins’ admiration for race directors led him to write “The Race Director Chronicles,” an online series profiling different race directors. He says they are often unpaid, deal with thousands of race details and invariably face negative feedback. He particularly admires the talent these individuals have for networking.

    Long-distance running brings together introverts and extroverts. Tim Bradley is one of those extroverts. A volunteer co-ordinator specializing in running events in Los Angeles, he works 11 races a year and also created a volunteer registration platform to help other volunteer co-ordinators: “I can’t think of other sports that recruit so many volunteers and are so dependent on them.”

    He typically starts recruitment four months before a race and registers 4,000 volunteers in preparation for race day. Volunteer responsibilities include raising funds, registering runners, building spectator stands, operating refreshment stations, regulating traffic, offering first aid, tracking and publishing results and cleaning up.

    Volunteers at major races go beyond first aid, and prepare volunteers to treat dehydration, heat stroke, low sodium levels and orthopedic injuries. They also provide a sweep medical bus to pick up runners who cannot finish the race.

    More than the run

    Sometimes the most important role a person can play in a marathon runner’s life is to tell them when there’s a higher priority requiring attention than the marathon itself. As a dietitian, Baumann says she encounters young women who struggle with nutrition issues that come to light when they start to train.

    “My job is twofold: helping people fuel for performance, feel their best and finish their race strong but also a lot that comes with it for many people is healing their relationship with food,” she says.

    Marathons get their name from the Greek legend of the messenger Pheidippides, who ran 40 kilometres from the town of Marathon to Athens to announce Greece’s victory over Persia in a battle on the plain of Marathon.

    Today a marathon runner’s successful finish is celebrated by many people who love the sport of long-distance running because its message is that solidarity wins.

    Julia Yarkoni 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. Marathon runners rely on family and experts to succeed, while races rely on passionate volunteers – https://theconversation.com/marathon-runners-rely-on-family-and-experts-to-succeed-while-races-rely-on-passionate-volunteers-252581

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK secures future of vital Diego Garcia Military Base to protect national security

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK secures future of vital Diego Garcia Military Base to protect national security

    The long-term agreement secures future of joint UK-US military base at Diego Garcia.

    • Long-term agreement secures future of joint UK-US military base at Diego Garcia
    • Vital capabilities protected to counter growing global threats, keeping us secure at home and strong abroad
    • Deal is backed by strong support from the US and key international allies

    The UK has today (22 May) signed a landmark agreement with Mauritius to secure the future of the strategically critical UK-US military base on Diego Garcia, one of our most significant contributions to the transatlantic defence and security partnership.

    The base has played a vital role in defending the UK and its allies for over 50 years. This new deal ensures its continued operation for at least the next century, protecting capabilities essential to UK intelligence and counter-terrorism.

    The base plays a key role in operations that support UK forces and our allies across the Middle East, East Africa and South Asia.

    Its deep-water port, airfield, and advanced communications and surveillance capabilities give the UK and its allies crucial strategic capabilities, which have played a key role in missions to disrupt high-value terrorists, including Islamic State threats to the UK.

    The legal necessity of this deal has been recognised by successive governments. The previous government started these negotiations over two years ago, and they held 11 out of the 13 rounds of talks that underpin the deal, that this government has concluded.

    Crucially, all Five Eyes partners – the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand – back the agreement, along with India, recognising the critical role Diego Garcia plays in upholding global stability and deterring adversaries.

    The base is a cornerstone of the Government’s Plan for Change, with operations there deterring threats to our nation and protecting our economic security.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said: 

    As the world becomes more dangerous, our military base on Diego Garcia becomes more important. Today’s Treaty secures full operational control, strengthens our UK-US defence partnership and keeps British people safe at home for the next 99 years and beyond. 

    Without this base, our ability to deter terrorists, defend our interests and protect our troops around the world would be at risk. This agreement will safeguard our national and economic security for generations to come. 

    Critically, the deal ensures the UK retains full operational control of Diego Garcia, including management of the electromagnetic spectrum satellite used for communications – vital for countering hostile interference.

    There will also be robust provisions to keep adversaries out, including:

    • A 24 nautical mile buffer zone where nothing can be built or placed without UK consent – meaning we can protect UK interests.

    • A rigorous process, including joint decision-making, to prevent any activities on the wider islands – some over 100 nautical miles away – from disrupting base operations. Joint decision-making means there can be no development unless we agree. 

    • A strict ban on foreign security forces on the outer islands, whether civilian or military.

    • A binding obligation to ensure the base is never undermined.

    Both countries have also agreed to a ban on the presence of foreign forces across the wider territory and a binding guarantee that base operations cannot be undermined.

    Without this deal, international legal proceedings could have rendered the base inoperable, affecting UK national security in the process with our adversaries being allowed to capitalise on this – building outposts near the base.

    Within a matter of weeks, with no deal, the UK could face legally-binding provisional measures through an Arbitral Tribunal under the Law of the Sea Convention – affecting the ability of the Armed Forces to patrol the waters around the base.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy MP said: 

    This treaty secures the Diego Garcia military base for generations to come, protecting national and global security. 

    Without this deal, the land, sea and air operations of the base would become inoperable – doing nothing was not an option. 

    The US, Australia, Canada and India all back this deal because they understand its importance for global security. This government has always been clear that we will act in the national interest, not gamble with our national security like those who oppose this deal.

    It was clear that this agreement was the only route to securing the future of the base and preventing the UK’s adversaries from establishing a presence in the region.

    It is a clear demonstration of the UK’s commitment to act decisively in defence of its interests and ensure that the base continues to support operations that keep British citizens safe, now and in the decades to come.

    Notes to editors:

    • The cost per year is £101 million and the net present value of payments under the treaty is £3.4 billion. All costs have been verified by the Government Actuary’s Department. 
    • Further details will be laid out in Parliament.

    Diego Garcia Capabilities

    Diego Garcia is the largest island of the Chagos Archipelago, located in the central Indian Ocean. The joint UK-US military base on Diego Garcia has a strategic location which makes it vital to UK and US power projection in the Indian Ocean and beyond. The base provides a unique shared platform with irreplaceable security capabilities that enable a UK and US military presence across the Middle East, Indo-Pacific and Africa.

    Strategic and operational importance:

    • Diego Garcia’s strategic location allows it to support a wide array of operational activity in a number of theatres, helping to combat some of the most challenging threats, including terrorism, and hostile states.
    • Diego Garcia is the only UK base in the region with guaranteed freedom of use. It is central to current UK and US emergency planning and operations, just as it was with Afghanistan and Iraq.
    • The base offers the UK and its Allies unique and vital capabilities that help us understand and anticipate those who would do us harm. This includes capabilities which have been used to support counter terrorism operations against high value Islamic State targets. 
    • The base is a critical logistics hub at a strategic location, with a full range of facilities that acts as a key refuelling and resupply station for naval and air operations. This enables power projection and global reach, allowing for rapid and flexible deployment of our forces across the Middle East, East Africa and South Asia.
    • The base helps protect some of the most important shipping lanes in the world, while also remaining isolated enough to be protected from attack by adversaries.
    • The close collaboration between UK and US delivers shared real-world operational outcomes, in the Indo-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East. The base has also hosted visits from Allies and partners such as Japan, France, Republic of Korea and Australia.

    Base capabilities

    • Airfield: Location and infrastructure accommodate a broad range of military aircraft, with capability to support military requirements from strike operations, as seen through the Afghanistan and Iraq campaigns, to humanitarian response.
    • Port: A multitude of berthing options for the UK and US navies to support various missions including Carrier Strike Group deployment. The UK maintains a Nuclear Emergency Response Organisation to permit nuclear powered submarines to safely berth at the port. The US uses Diego Garcia to strategically position equipment and supplies at sea for rapid deployment in various global theatres, including for humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions over the years, across the Indo-Pacific.
    • Seismic monitoring: Permanent location of three pieces of critical Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty monitoring equipment, a network constantly monitoring for indicators of nuclear testing, vital in preventing nuclear proliferation.
    • Space capabilities: Hosts one of the monitoring stations and one of the four ground antennas for the Global Positioning System (GPS). Also hosts part of the Ground-Base Electro-Optical Deep Space Surveillance (GEODSS) System. This provides situational awareness of objects in Earth’s orbit, helping to track space debris that pose a risk to space systems.

    Mauritius’s legal claim of sovereignty over the island of Diego Garcia is supported by a number of international institutions, including the UN General Assembly.

    The International Court of Justice considered this issue in an Advisory Opinion delivered on 25 February 2019. An Advisory Opinion of the ICJ carries significant weight; in particular it is likely to be highly influential on any subsequent court/tribunal considering the issues arising out of disputed sovereignty, and whose judgment would be binding in international law. The ICJ concluded that “the United Kingdom is under an obligation to bring to an end its administration of the Chagos Archipelago as rapidly as possible”.

    The 2019 Advisory Opinion was followed in 2021 by a Special Chamber of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (in a case about delimitation of the boundary between Mauritius and The Maldives) which ruled that Mauritius’ sovereignty was inferred from the ICJ’s determinations.

    If a long-term deal is not reached between the UK and Mauritius, it is highly likely that further wide-ranging litigation would be brought quickly by Mauritius against the UK. This might, for example, include further arbitral proceedings against the UK under Annex VII of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (“UNCLOS”). A judgment from such a tribunal would be legally binding on the UK.

    The longstanding legal view of the United Kingdom is that the UK would not have a realistic prospect of successfully defending its legal position on sovereignty in such litigation. Even if the United Kingdom chose to ignore binding judgments made against it, their legal effect on third countries and international organisations would give rise to real impacts to the operation of the Base and the delivery of all its national security functions. International organisations have already adopted decisions based on Mauritian Sovereignty, and others would follow suit following such litigation.  

    These impacts could include: our ability to protect the electromagnetic spectrum from interference, to ensure access to the Base by air and by sea, effectively to patrol the maritime area around the Base, and to support the Base’s critical national security functions.

    Further, the UK would likely face a Provisional Measures Order within a matter of weeks of Mauritius commencing proceedings, which would also be legally binding. That would mean facing the sorts of detrimental impacts set out above, with the effect of substantially disrupting the operation of the military Base, in very short order.

    This deal is thus the only way to secure unfettered access to the Base for the long-term and to ensure its full contribution to national security.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Funding supports new projects to promote recycling, prevent plastic waste

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    More businesses and organizations in B.C. will receive funding to foster innovation in plastic recycling and waste prevention while creating good, clean jobs for people throughout the province.

    In 2025, the B.C. government is providing more than $8 million through the CleanBC Plastics Action Fund to local businesses, foundations and First Nations to develop creative and effective ways to repair, reuse and recycle plastics into new products to reduce waste.

    “People in B.C. want to live in clean, healthy communities free from waste,” said Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks. “These projects are finding new and creative ways to make this a reality, while bringing more jobs to communities and supporting local economies throughout the province.”

    The CleanBC Plastics Action Fund supports projects that prevent and reduce plastic waste in B.C. Launched in 2020, the fund has invested more than $35 million into projects that find creative solutions to help reduce plastic waste in communities. In 2025, B.C. is funding 34 new projects, with 63 projects receiving funding in previous years. The first two phases of the Plastics Action Fund created more than 240 direct long-term, full-time jobs, with more on the way in Phase 3.

    “The CleanBC Plastics Action Fund has helped us develop a high-capacity washing facility for reusable foodware, creating new ways to support cities in moving away from single-use packaging,” said Cody Irwin, founder and CEO of ShareWares. “We’ve also been able to serve major clients, such as festivals, stadiums and event venues — key anchors in the shift toward low-waste communities. This funding has empowered us to lead the transition to sustainable reuse programs across Metro Vancouver and beyond.”

    Of the projects funded in this round, 14 of 34 are Indigenous-led, with recipients from the Indigenous Projects category receiving more than $1.5 million. This brings the total funding for Indigenous Projects from the CleanBC Plastics Action Fund to more than $3.7 million across 31 projects.

    Projects receiving funding this year include expanding the use of reusable cups at large events, textile and medical-supply recycling, installation of industrial dishwashers in community spaces to reduce single-use dinnerware, zero-waste cleaning supplies, refill and zero-waste store expansions, and construction-waste sorting services, as well as other innovative and unique projects.

    The CleanBC Plastics Action Fund has been an important part of the Province’s goal to reduce plastic waste for a cleaner, healthier future. It builds on other initiatives within the CleanBC Plastics Action Plan, including efforts to reduce single-use plastics and expanding producer-funded recycling programs.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the recipients, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/PAF_Recipients.pdf

    To learn more about CleanBC Plastics Action Plan, visit: https://cleanbc.gov.bc.ca/

    To learn more about the prevention of plastic waste, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/reuse

    For more information about the fund, visit: https://www.alacritycanada.com/plasticsactionfund/

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Parliament Hill escarpment stairway and Summer Pavilion to reopen for pedestrians

    Source: Government of Canada News

    For immediate release

    Ottawa, Ontario, May 22, 2025 – Public Services and Procurement Canada wishes to advise pedestrians that the stairway on the west escarpment of Parliament Hill as well as the Summer Pavilion behind Centre Block, which were closed for repairs, will reopen on Friday, May 23

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI: Regimen Equity Partners Closes $24 Million Fundraising Round and Surpasses $200 Million in AUM

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Regimen Equity Partners (“Regimen”), a private equity firm specializing in acquiring and growing small to mid-sized Canadian businesses, today announced the successful completion of its latest fundraising round, raising $24 million— significantly surpassing its original $10 million target. This oversubscription reflects the strong demand for investment in Regimen’s long-hold strategy and innovative investment structure, which focuses on transforming profitable businesses into industry leaders over decades. The closing of this round brings assets under management to over $200 million.

    Given the high level of investor interest and the investment opportunities currently being pursued, Regimen will be reopening the fund in June 2025.

    The fundraising round, which took place over the first quarter of 2025, closed well ahead of schedule. The amount raised in the quarter represents the highest amount Regimen has raised in a single fundraising round, further building on the firm’s track record of securing capital. Regimen’s prior annual fundraising record was $15 million.

    “We are thrilled by the response from investors,” said Cooper Seeman, Managing Director at Regimen Equity Partners. “We had been planning on six months of fundraising and met our needs in just two months. This is a clear signal of the confidence investors have in our ability to execute our strategy and deliver long-term value. The success of this raise, especially in the face of potential economic headwinds like U.S. tariff uncertainty, underscores the quality and resilience of our portfolio, the strength of our team and our demonstrated investment discipline.”

    Regimen has a history of generating strong returns for its investors: its most recent 1-year performance ranged from 15.1% to 21.7%, and its 3-year average performance was 14.5% to 24.3%, depending on the class of limited partnership unit. Regimen’s unique model offers flexibility, diversification, and the potential for long-term capital appreciation, positioning it as an attractive option for accredited investors seeking exposure to private equity.

    About Regimen

    Regimen Equity Partners is a private equity firm specializing in the ownership transition of small to mid-size Canadian businesses. By partnering with skilled executives, Regimen transforms profitable companies into industry leaders through strategic acquisitions and operational best practices. With offices in Vancouver and Toronto, Regimen focuses on long-term, sustainable growth. For more information, please visit www.regimenpartners.com.

    Contact:

    Nancy Brown,
    Regimen Equity Partners
    Email: info@regimenpartners.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Defence Secretary and General Hockenhull opening remarks

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Defence Secretary and General Hockenhull opening remarks

    Defence Secretary John Healey and General Sir Jim Hockenhull remarks on the Chagos Islands deal signed by the Prime Minister today.

    Defence Secretary John Healey

    Thank you, Prime Minister. 

    As the world becomes more dangerous, the Diego Garcia military base becomes more important.  

    But I want to underline the urgency and uncertainty over the future control of this UK base. 

    Within weeks, we faced new legal rulings which would weaken the UK’s full operational sovereignty over this base, and within just a few years, this irreplaceable military and intelligence base would become inoperable. 

    That’s why we have taken action today.  

    That is why the Prime Minister has signed this treaty today, securing this base for the next 99 years and beyond.  

    Our allied nations are right behind us and behind this deal – the US, Australia, New Zealand, India, Canada.  

    Others want to see this base closed. They want to see this deal collapse – China, Russia, Iran.  

    The value of this deal is beyond doubt.  

    Full control of Diego Garcia for the next 99 years and beyond. 

    Full control and protection of the electromagnetic spectrum that priceless intelligence; communications, sensors; radar; a strengthened buffer zone so we can control the seas and the skies immediately around Diego Garcia and wider islands up to 100 miles – an effective veto over any developments or hostile activities. 

    And with the base in jeopardy, no action was no option, and anyone who would argue to abandon this deal would abandon this base.  So let me be clear, the British people and our British forces are safer today and into the future because of this deal.  

    Thank you.

    General Sir Jim Hockenhull

    Thank you. 

    I think it’s useful to add a military perspective here. 

    The way we see this is very simple: 

    Diego Garcia provides a vital capability to our Armed Forces, to our US allies and for our shared contribution to global security.  

    The geography offers immense and irreplaceable global reach, enabling us to pivot forces westward toward Africa and the Middle East, or eastward towards Southeast Asia and the Pacific. 

    Added to that are the facilities on the base. It has a deep water port for nuclear submarines and aircraft carriers; a runway capable of operating every type of military aircraft, with the logistical support required for modern operations and the satellite and communications infrastructure that the Prime Minister mentioned, it is an unique asset for Britain’s defence and security. 

    It gives us the ability to deploy a wide range of capabilities over a huge geography. 

    Now Diego Garcia provides its worth through the long years of counter terrorism operations and proves its value today by supporting our ability to protect maritime trade, it will be of even greater strategic significance in the future.  

    It helps keeps the United Kingdom safe and prosperous, and it allows us to work closely with our international partners.  The use of Diego Garcia by US forces is a unique contribution to the military relationship between our two countries, and one that underlines the UK’s commitment to burden sharing.  Both our militaries will continue to benefit from our investment in these facilities for the years to come.  Britain projects military power through Such alliances and through assets like this base, which give us a global reach.  I welcome the long term certainty that this treaty brings it will help the British armed forces in our efforts to support stability abroad and security at home.  

    Thank you. Thank you very much.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on housing progress in Oak Bay, West Vancouver

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, has released the following statement regarding advisor reports on housing progress in Oak Bay and West Vancouver:

    “Every community and every local government has a role to play as we work together to solve the housing crisis, and make sure that our children and grandchildren can build a good life in B.C. in homes they can afford.

    “That’s why we have been working closely with municipal councils throughout the province to set housing targets that will strengthen communities for the people who live in them for generations to come.

    “I’ve been encouraged by the work of the majority of councils and the positive changes they have made, which are allowing them to meet or exceed their targets. The housing targets program is working, with more than 16,000 net new homes created in the 30 communities that have housing targets since this work started.

    “In other communities, there is more work to do. Earlier this year, I appointed advisors to review a lack of progress toward issued housing targets in the districts of Oak Bay and West Vancouver. The advisors conducted a two-month review assessing each district’s steps to increasing housing supply, including development approval processes, land-use planning, and housing policies and practices.

    “I have now received and reviewed the advisors’ reports, which have identified recommendations for how these councils can act to streamline processes and deliver homes for people in their communities. I have sent a letter to each district outlining the advisors’ recommendations.

    “In addition, I have notified the councils that I intend to issue the following directives as permitted under the Housing Supply Act, which provides both councils 30 days to submit written comments regarding the directives before they are issued:

    “For Oak Bay, the district must:

    • amend its Development Application Procedures bylaw to delegate minor variances to municipal staff by Jan. 31, 2026, which is consistent with past municipal staff reports and is a practice used in many other jurisdictions; and
    • amend its Parking Facilities bylaw to better align multi-unit residential parking requirements with best practices, to a minimum of one parking stall per unit where the bylaw currently requires a minimum of more than one parking stall per unit, by Jan. 31, 2026.

    “Further, I agree with the advisor’s conclusion that there is no requirement to pursue residential development in Carnarvon Park. In terms of alternative options, I will not be making a directive to pursue specific alternate sites for residential development. I do encourage Oak Bay council to consider these proposed options for their potential to provide much-needed housing, while keeping in mind environmental and other considerations related to these sites.

    “For West Vancouver, the district must:

    • by Dec. 31, 2026, amend its Official Community Plan and zoning bylaws to create a local area plan for the Park Royal-Taylor Way area, with additional, sufficient density to support its housing target order. The plan should enable housing that aligns with best practices for transit-adjacent housing as set out for transit-oriented development areas (TOAs) in the province; and
    • by Sept. 30, 2026, amend its Official Community Plan Bylaw and Zoning Bylaw to modify Local Area Plans to increase density in Ambleside and Dundarave Village.

    “Furthermore, I encourage both districts to review all of the remaining advisor-report recommendations and provide required updates on future progress towards those recommendations.

    “Let me be clear: This is not about punishing communities or removing authority from locally elected municipal councils.

    “The goal of local housing targets is centred around working with municipalities to remove unnecessary barriers to affordability and get more homes built for people faster, and ensuring we are building healthy and economically vibrant neighbourhoods for people. 

    “I look forward to continuing to work with the leaders of all communities to keep making progress, together.”

    Quick Facts:

    • West Vancouver delivered 58 of its 220 net-new units Year 1 housing target.
    • Oak Bay delivered 16 of its 56 net-new units Year 1 housing target.

    Learn More:

    To view the Provincial Advisor Report and Recommendations for the District of Oak Bay, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/OakBayAdvisorsReport.pdf

    To view Kahlon’s letter to the District of Oak Bay, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/OakBayLetter.pdf

    To view Kahlon’s notice to the District of Oak Bay about the appointment of an advisor, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/OakBayNoticeLetter.pdf

    To view the provincial advisor report and recommendations for the District of West Vancouver, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/WestVancouverAdvisorsReport.pdf

    To view Kahlon’s letter to the District of West Vancouver, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/WestVancouverLetter.pdf

    To view Kahlon’s notice to the District of West Vancouver about the appointment of an advisor, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/WestVancouverNoticeLetter.pdf (can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com)

    Note: Portions of the reports have been redacted to meet requirements under Section 10 (3) of the act and Division 2 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Middle Sackville — RCMP investigating suspicious incident in Middle Sackville

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment is asking for the public’s help in identifying a person of interest following a suspicious incident that occurred in Middle Sackville.

    On May 20, RCMP officers received a report of a suspicious incident that had occurred the previous day at approximately 1 p.m. on Rafting Dr. Investigators learned that a man wearing a ski mask and ski goggles had been taking photos of children playing at the playground.

    The man fled on foot when one of the children asked him what he was doing.

    The person of interest is described as a white male, approximately 5-foot-10. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a black hoodie, blue jeans and white and blue sneakers.

    As the investigation continues, officers are looking to speak with the man involved.

    Anyone with information about this incident, or with security camera footage of the area, is asked to contact police at 902-490-5020. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activity immediately. In an emergency, call 911.

    File # 25-70607

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Crop Report for the Period May 13 to May 19, 2025

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on May 22, 2025

    Seeding in Saskatchewan is nearly three-quarters complete with 72 per cent of crops now planted, which is an increase of 23 per cent from last week. This is a smaller increase than the week prior, which is largely due to rain delays in parts of the south and east regions of the province. Seeding progress remains notably higher than the five-year average of 60 per cent and 10-year average of 64 per cent.

    Producers in the southwest are in the home stretch of seeding with 89 per cent of crops currently seeded in this region. Progress in the northwest and west-central follow closely with 81 per cent of crops now seeded in these regions. Producers in the northeast made good progress this week as seeding progress in this region sits at 74 per cent. Seeding progress in the southeast and east-central are below the provincial average. Seeding in the southeast is 63 per cent complete, while the east-central region has the smallest percentage of current seeded acres with progress currently sitting at 58 per cent.

    Most of the pulse crops in the province have been seeded. Field peas lead seeding progress by crop type at 92 per cent, followed closely by lentils and chickpeas at 90 per cent and 83 per cent, respectively. Large portions of many spring cereal crops have also been seeded. Triticale and durum lead cereal seeding progress at 87 per cent, followed by spring wheat at 80 per cent and barley at 71 per cent. Canary seed and oat crops lag further behind other cereal crops with 56 per cent and 55 per cent of crops seeded, respectively. Seeding progress for all oilseed crops has now reached the halfway point. Mustard continues to lead seeding progress for oilseed crops at 84 per cent, followed by canola at 58 per cent and flax at 50 per cent. Seeding of soybean and perennial forage crops has made the least progress so far as 31 per cent of these crops have been seeded.

    There was more rainfall in the province this past week compared to the week before, with the southeast corner of the province receiving the most precipitation. The highest recorded rainfall was in the Lampman area, which received 139 millimeters (mm). The Oxbow and Frobisher areas followed with 104 mm and 100 mm, respectively. The Carnduff area also received notable rainfall with 93 mm. Despite the abundant rainfall in certain areas, other parts of the province remain dry and producers there are hoping for rainfall soon.

    The rainfall helped replenish topsoil moisture in certain areas, while dry conditions in other areas continue to deplete topsoil moisture reserves. Provincially, cropland topsoil moisture is rated as six per cent surplus, 69 per cent adequate, 22 per cent short and three per cent very short. Hayland topsoil moisture is rated as three per cent surplus, 64 per cent adequate, 27 per cent short and six per cent very short. Topsoil moisture levels in pastures are slightly drier as conditions are rated as two per cent surplus, 60 per cent adequate, 31 per cent short and seven per cent very short.

    Seeding remains the primary focus for most producers in the province, but many are busy spraying, land rolling and picking rocks. Livestock producers are also working to move their animals to the pasture for the season. While producers remain busy with fieldwork, they are reminded to be aware of powerlines and other hazards when transporting large equipment. Drivers are reminded to take extra precautions when encountering farm machinery on roadways.

    A complete, printable version of the Crop Report is available, online, download Crop Report.

    Follow the 2025 Crop Report on Twitter at @SKAgriculture.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Environment and Climate Change Canada presents the 2025 hurricane season outlook

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Dartmouth, Nova Scotia – May 22, 2025 Media representatives are advised that Bob Robichaud, Warning Preparedness Meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada’s (ECCC) Canadian Hurricane Centre, will present the outlook for the upcoming 2025 hurricane season.

    Please note this event will be the primary opportunity for journalists to connect with meteorologists from ECCC on this topic.

    The media availability will be held via Zoom. Following the briefing, media will have the opportunity to ask questions. This availability is for attribution and may be recorded.

    Event: Briefing and media availability (bilingual)
    Date: Friday, May 23, 2025
    Time: 10:00 a.m. (Atlantic Time)
    Location: Via Zoom

    Note to media: When joining the media availability on Zoom, media representatives interested in asking a question are asked to change their screen names to include their full name and media outlet. Unidentified participants will not be called upon.  

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI: Euronext announces the success of its offering of bonds due 2032 convertible into new shares and/or exchangeable for existing shares (“OCEANEs”) for a nominal amount of €425 million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Euronext announces the success of its offering of bonds due 2032 convertible into new shares and/or exchangeable for existing shares (“OCEANEs”) for a nominal amount of €425 million

    Amsterdam, Brussels, Dublin, Lisbon, Milan, Oslo and Paris – 22 May 2025 – Euronext (ISIN Code: NL0006294274) (the “Company”), the leading European capital market infrastructure, announces today the success of its offering of senior unsecured bonds due 2032 convertible into new shares and/or exchangeable for existing shares of the Company (“OCEANEs”) (the “Bonds”), by way of a placement to qualified investors only (within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation (as defined below)), for a nominal amount of €425 million (the “Offering”).

    On 17 April 2025, the Company entered into a bridge loan facility with, among others, affiliates of the joint bookrunners appointed in the context of the Offering, to finance the acquisition of Admincontrol. The net proceeds from the Offering will be used by the Company for the repayment of a portion of the bridge financing and general corporate purposes.

    Main terms of the Bonds

    The Bonds will be issued with a denomination of €100,000 each (the “Principal Amount”), will be convertible and/or exchangeable into new and/or existing shares of Euronext (the “Shares”) and will pay a fixed coupon at a rate of 1.50% per annum, payable semi-annually in arrear on 30 May and 30 November of each year (or on the following business day if this date is not a business day), and for the first time on 30 November 2025.

    The initial conversion price of the Bonds is set at €191.1654, representing a conversion premium of 35% above the Company’s reference share price on the regulated market of Euronext in Paris (“Euronext Paris”). The reference share price is €141.6040, being equal to the volume-weighted average price (VWAP) of the Shares recorded on Euronext Paris from the launch of the Offering today until the determination of the final terms (pricing) of the Bonds. Settlement and delivery of the Bonds is expected to take place in the Euronext Securities Milan system on 30 May 2025 (the “Issue Date”).

    Unless previously converted, exchanged, redeemed or purchased and cancelled, the Bonds will be redeemed at par on 30 May 2032 (or on the following business day if such date is not a business day) (the “Maturity Date”).

    The Bonds may be redeemed prior to the Maturity Date at the option of the Company, under certain conditions.

    In particular, the Bonds may be fully redeemed early at par plus any accrued interest at the Company’s option, subject to a prior notice of at least 30 (but not more than 60) calendar days, (i) at any time from 20 June 2030 (inclusive), if the arithmetic average, calculated over a period of 10 consecutive trading days chosen by the Company from among the 20 consecutive trading days preceding the day of the publication of the early redemption notice, of the daily products on each of such 10 consecutive trading days of the volume weighted average price of the Shares on Euronext Paris over the applicable conversion price on each such trading day, exceeds 130%; or (ii) at any time if 80% or more in principal amount of the Bonds issued (which shall, for the avoidance of doubt, include any tap issues of the Bonds) have been converted/exchanged and/or redeemed and/or purchased by the Company and cancelled.
    Bondholders will be granted the right to convert or exchange the Bonds into new and/or existing Shares (the “Conversion/Exchange Right”) which they may exercise at any time from the 41st day (inclusive) following the Issue Date up to the 7th business day (inclusive) preceding the Maturity Date or, as the case may be, the relevant early redemption date.

    The conversion ratio of the Bonds is set at the Principal Amount divided by the prevailing initial conversion price, i.e. 523.1072 Shares per Bond, subject to standard adjustments, including anti-dilution and dividend protections, as described in the terms and conditions of the Bonds. Upon exercise of their Conversion/Exchange Right, holders of the Bonds will receive at the option of the Company new and/or existing Shares, carrying in all cases all rights attached to existing Shares as from the date of delivery.

    Application will be made for the admission of the Bonds to trading on Euronext AccessTM in Paris to occur within 30 calendar days from the Issue Date.

    Legal framework of the Offering and placement

    The Bonds will be issued by way of a placement to qualified investors only (within the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (as amended, the “Prospectus Regulation”)) (excluding the United States of America, Australia, Japan, Canada or South Africa), pursuant to the authorization granted by the Company’s annual general meeting held on 15 May 2025 (15th and 16th resolution), without an offer to the public (other than to qualified investors) in any country.

    Existing shareholders of the Company shall have no preferential subscription rights, and there will be no priority subscription period in connection with the issuance of the Bonds or any underlying new Shares to be issued upon conversion.

    Lock-up undertaking

    In the context of the Offering, the Company has agreed to a lock-up undertaking with respect to its Shares and securities giving access to share capital of the Company for a period starting from the announcement of the final terms of the Bonds and ending 90 calendar days after the Issue Date, subject to certain customary exceptions or waiver from the joint global coordinators appointed in the context of the Offering.

    Dilution

    As a result of the Offering of a €425 million principal amount of Bonds and the initial conversion price of €191.1654, the potential dilution would represent approximately 2.1% of the Company’s outstanding share capital, if the Conversion/Exchange Right was exercised for all the Bonds and the Company decided to deliver new Shares only upon exercise of the Conversion/Exchange Right.

    Available information

    Neither the offering of the Bonds, nor the admission of the Bonds to trading on Euronext AccessTM is subject to a prospectus approved by the Stichting Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM) in Netherlands or the Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) in France. No key information document required by the PRIIPs Regulation or the UK PRIIPs Regulation (as defined below) has been or will be prepared. Detailed information about Company, including its business, results, prospects and the risk factors to which the Company is exposed are described in the Company’s universal registration document for the financial year ended 31 December 2024, filed with the AFM on 28 March 2025 and the Company’s first quarter 2025 results press release which includes the unaudited financial statements of the Company as at and for the three months ended 31 March 2025, which are all available on the Company’s website (https://www.euronext.com/en/investor-relations).

    Important information

    This press release does not constitute or form part of any offer or solicitation to purchase or subscribe for or to sell securities to any U.S. person or to any person in the United States, Australia, Japan, Canada or South Africa or in any jurisdiction to whom or in which such offer is unlawful, and the Offering of the Bonds is not an offer to the public in any jurisdiction (other than to qualified investors within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation) or an offer to retail investors as such term is defined below.

    CONTACTS  

    ANALYSTS & INVESTORS ir@euronext.com

    Investor Relations        Aurélie Cohen                 

            Judith Stein        +33 6 15 23 91 97          

    MEDIA – mediateam@euronext.com 

    Europe        Aurélie Cohen         +33 1 70 48 24 45   

            Andrea Monzani         +39 02 72 42 62 13 

    Belgium        Marianne Aalders         +32 26 20 15 01                 

    France, Corporate        Flavio Bornancin-Tomasella        +33 1 70 48 24 45                 

    Ireland        Catalina Augspach        +33 6 82 09 99 70                

    Italy         Ester Russom         +39 02 72 42 67 56                 

    The Netherlands        Marianne Aalders         +31 20 721 41 33                 

    Norway         Cathrine Lorvik Segerlund        +47 41 69 59 10                 

    Portugal         Sandra Machado        +351 91 777 68 97                                 

    About Euronext  

    Euronext is the leading European capital market infrastructure, covering the entire capital markets value chain, from listing, trading, clearing, settlement and custody, to solutions for issuers and investors. Euronext runs MTS, one of Europe’s leading electronic fixed income trading markets, and Nord Pool, the European power market. Euronext also provides clearing and settlement services through Euronext Clearing and its Euronext Securities CSDs in Denmark, Italy, Norway and Portugal.

    As of March 2025, Euronext’s regulated exchanges in Belgium, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and Portugal host nearly 1,800 listed issuers with €6.3 trillion in market capitalisation, a strong blue-chip franchise and the largest global centre for debt and fund listings. With a diverse domestic and international client base, Euronext handles 25% of European lit equity trading. Its products include equities, FX, ETFs, bonds, derivatives, commodities and indices.

    For the latest news, go to euronext.com or follow us on X and LinkedIn.

    Disclaimer

    This press release is for information purposes only: it is not a recommendation to engage in investment activities and is provided “as is”, without representation or warranty of any kind. While all reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the content, Euronext does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness. Euronext will not be held liable for any loss or damages of any nature ensuing from using, trusting or acting on information provided. No information set out or referred to in this publication may be regarded as creating any right or obligation. The creation of rights and obligations in respect of financial products that are traded on the exchanges operated by Euronext’s subsidiaries shall depend solely on the applicable rules of the market operator. All proprietary rights and interest in or connected with this publication shall vest in Euronext. This press release speaks only as of this date. Euronext refers to Euronext N.V. and its affiliates. Information regarding trademarks and intellectual property rights of Euronext is available at www.euronext.com/terms-use.

    © 2025, Euronext N.V. – All rights reserved. 

    The Euronext Group processes your personal data in order to provide you with information about Euronext (the “Purpose”). With regard to the processing of this personal data, Euronext will comply with its obligations under Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and Council of 27 April 2016 (General Data Protection Regulation, “GDPR”), and any applicable national laws, rules and regulations implementing the GDPR, as provided in its privacy statement available at: www.euronext.com/privacy-policy. In accordance with the applicable legislation you have rights with regard to the processing of your personal data: for more information on your rights, please refer to: www.euronext.com/data_subjects_rights_request_information. To make a request regarding the processing of your data or to unsubscribe from this press release service, please use our data subject request form at connect2.euronext.com/form/data-subjects-rights-request or email our Data Protection Officer at dpo@euronext.com.

    Disclaimer

    The contents of this announcement have been prepared by and are the sole responsibility of the Company.

    The information contained in this announcement is for information purposes only and does not purport to be full or complete. No reliance may be placed by any person for any purpose on the information contained in this announcement or its accuracy, fairness or completeness.

    This announcement is not for publication or distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States. The distribution of this announcement may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions and persons into whose possession any document or other information referred to herein comes should inform themselves about and observe any such restriction. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

    This announcement is an advertisement and not a prospectus within the meaning of Prospectus Regulation.

    This announcement does not contain or constitute an offer of, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, Bonds to any U.S. person or to any person in the United States, Australia, Canada, South Africa or Japan or in any jurisdiction to whom or in which such offer or solicitation is unlawful. The Bonds and the Shares, if any, to be issued upon exercise of the Conversion/Exercise Right (together, the “Securities”) referred to herein may not be offered or sold in the United States, or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons unless registered under the US Securities Act of 1933 (the “Securities Act”) or offered in a transaction exempt from, or not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

    In addition, until 40 days after the commencement of the Offering, an offer or sale of Bonds within the United States by a dealer (whether or not it is participating in the Offering) may violate the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

    The offer and sale of Securities referred to herein has not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act or under the applicable securities laws of Australia, Canada, South Africa or Japan. Subject to certain exceptions, the Bonds referred to herein may not be offered or sold in Australia, Canada, South Africa or Japan or to, or for the account or benefit of, any national, resident or citizen of Australia, Canada, South Africa or Japan. There will be no public offer of the Securities in the United States, Australia, Canada, South Africa or Japan or elsewhere.

    In member states of the European Economic Area (the “EEA”), this announcement and any offer is directed exclusively at persons who are “qualified investors” within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation (“Qualified Investors”). In the United Kingdom this announcement and any offer is directed exclusively at persons who are “qualified investors” within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation as it forms part of UK domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (“EUWA”) (i) who have professional experience in matters relating to investments falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the “Order”), (ii) who fall within Article 49(2)(A) to (D) of the Order, or (iii) to whom it may otherwise lawfully be communicated (all such persons together with Qualified Investors in the EEA being referred to herein as “Relevant Persons”). This document is directed only at Relevant Persons and must not be acted on or relied on by persons who are not Relevant Persons. Any investment or investment activity to which this document relates is available only to Relevant Persons and will be engaged in only with Relevant Persons.

    This announcement may include statements that are, or may be deemed to be, “forward-looking statements”. These forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “believes”, “estimates”, “plans”, “projects”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “intends”, “may”, “will” or “should” or, in each case, their negative or other variations or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy, plans, objectives, goals, future events or intentions. Forward-looking statements may and often do differ materially from actual results. Any forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current view with respect to future events and are subject to risks relating to future events and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to the Company’s and its group’s business, results of operations, financial position, liquidity, prospects, growth or strategies. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made.

    Each of the Company, the joint bookrunners appointed in the context of the Offering and their respective affiliates expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update, review or revise any forward-looking statement contained in this announcement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    Each of the joint bookrunners appointed in the context of the Offering is acting exclusively for the Company and no-one else in connection with the Offering. They will not regard any other person as their respective client in relation to the Offering and will not be responsible to anyone other than the Company for providing the protections afforded to their respective clients, nor for providing advice in relation to the Offering, the contents of this announcement or any transaction, arrangement or other matter referred to herein.

    In connection with the Offering, the joint bookrunners appointed in the context of the Offering and any of their affiliates may take up a portion of the Bonds in the Offering as a principal position and in that capacity may retain, purchase, sell, offer to sell for their own accounts such Bonds and other securities of the Company or related investments in connection with the Offering or otherwise. Accordingly, references to the Bonds being issued, offered, subscribed, acquired, placed or otherwise dealt in should be read as including any issue or offer to, or subscription, acquisition, placing or dealing by, the joint bookrunners appointed in the context of the Offering and any of their affiliates acting in such capacity. In addition, the joint bookrunners appointed in the context of the Offering and any of their affiliates may enter into financing arrangements (including swaps, warrants or contracts for differences) with investors in connection with which the joint bookrunners appointed in the context of the Offering and any of their affiliates may from time to time acquire, hold or dispose of Bonds and/or Shares. The joint bookrunners appointed in the context of the Offering do not intend to disclose the extent of any such investment or transactions otherwise than in accordance with any legal or regulatory obligations to do so.

    None of the joint bookrunners appointed in the context of the Offering or any of their respective directors, officers, employees, advisers or agents accepts any responsibility or liability whatsoever for or makes any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the truth, accuracy or completeness of the information in this announcement (or whether any information has been omitted from the announcement) or any other information relating to the Company, its subsidiaries or associated companies, whether written, oral or in a visual or electronic form, and howsoever transmitted or made available, or for any loss howsoever arising from any use of this announcement or its contents or otherwise arising in connection therewith.

    Information to Distributors: Solely for the purposes of the product governance requirements of Directive 2014/65/EU on markets in financial instruments, as amended and supplemented (“MiFID II”) and local implementing measures (together, the “Product Governance Requirements”), and disclaiming all and any liability, whether arising in tort, contract or otherwise, which any “manufacturer” (for the purposes of the Product Governance Requirements) may otherwise have with respect thereto, the Bonds have been subject to a product approval process, which has determined that: (i) the target market for the Bonds is eligible counterparties and professional clients only, each as defined in MiFID II; and (ii) all channels for distribution of the Bonds to eligible counterparties and professional clients are appropriate. Any person subsequently offering, selling or recommending the Bonds (a “distributor”) should take into consideration the manufacturers’ target market assessment; however, a distributor (for the purposes of the Product Governance Requirements) is responsible for undertaking its own target market assessment in respect of the Bonds (by either adopting or refining the manufacturers’ target market assessment) and determining appropriate distribution channels.

    The target market assessment is without prejudice to the requirements of any contractual or legal selling restrictions in relation to any offering of the Bonds.

    For the avoidance of doubt, the target market assessment does not constitute: (a) an assessment of suitability or appropriateness for the purposes of MiFID II; or (b) a recommendation to any investor or group of investors to invest in, or purchase, or take any other action whatsoever with respect to the Bonds.

    PRIIPs Regulation / Prospectus Regulation / Prohibition of sales to EEA and UK retail investors – The Bonds are not intended to be offered, sold or otherwise made available to and should not be offered, sold or otherwise made available to any retail investor in the EEA or the UK. For these purposes, a “retail investor” means (a) in the EEA, a person who is one (or more) of: (i) a retail client as defined in point (11) of Article 4(1) of MiFID II; or (ii) a customer within the meaning of Directive (EU) 2016/97 as amended or superseded (the “Insurance Distribution Directive”), where that customer would not qualify as a professional client as defined in point (10) of Article 4(1) of MiFID II; or (iii) not a Qualified Investor as defined in Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation and (b) in the UK, a person who is one (or more) of (i) a retail client within the meaning of Regulation (EU) No. 2017/565 as it forms part of UK domestic law by virtue of the EUWA or (ii) a customer within the meaning of the provisions of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 of the UK (the “FSMA”) and any rules or regulations made under the FSMA to implement Directive (EU) 2016/97, where that customer would not qualify as a professional client, as defined in point (8) of Article 2(1) of Regulation (EU) No. 600/2014 as it forms part of UK domestic law by virtue of the EUWA or (iii) not a Qualified Investor as defined in Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation as it forms part of UK domestic law by virtue of the EUWA. Consequently, no key information document required by Regulation (EU) No 1286/2014 (as amended, the “EU PRIIPs Regulation”) or the EU PRIIPS Regulation as it forms part of UK domestic law by virtue of the EUWA (the “UK PRIIPS Regulation”) for offering or selling the Bonds or otherwise making them available to retail investors in the EEA or UK has been prepared and therefore offering or selling the Bonds or otherwise making them available to any retail investor in the EEA or the UK may be unlawful under the EU PRIIPs Regulation and/or the UK PRIIPs Regulation.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Sparkle Revolution Expands Internationally, Bringing Mindfulness to English-Speaking Markets

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Denver, CO , May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sparkle Revolution, the innovative app designed to promote daily mindfulness and gratitude, has announced its expansion into international markets. Previously available only in the United States, the app will now be accessible in English-speaking countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

    Carri Norton and Ron Butterworth

    The expansion comes in response to growing demand for accessible, digital tools that foster positive mental habits and well-being. “We’ve seen how transformative mindfulness can be for our users in the U.S., and we’re thrilled to extend that opportunity to users across the globe,” said Carri Norton, CEO of Sparkle Revolution. “This expansion is a crucial step in fulfilling our mission of spreading gratitude, awareness, and positivity worldwide.”

    Sparkle Revolution’s unique approach is rooted in the concept of “micro-mindfulness,” where users engage in short, intentional moments of reflection and gratitude. The app delivers daily prompts and activities designed to cultivate mindfulness habits that fit seamlessly into even the busiest of schedules. “Our goal is to make mindfulness accessible to everyone, regardless of location or lifestyle,” added Ron Butterworth, Co-Founder of Sparkle Revolution. “Expanding into new markets allows us to bring these powerful practices to more people, helping them live with greater intention and positivity.”

    “The idea for Sparkle Revolution came from our personal journey of integrating gratitude and mindfulness into everyday life,” Carri shared during a recent interview on the Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur Podcast. “We wanted to create something that would remind people, even in the chaos of daily life, to stop, breathe, and appreciate what they have.” 

    Ron, Carri’s co-founder and husband, echoed this sentiment: “We are incredibly excited to see Sparkle Revolution reach more hands, more hearts, and more lives around the world.”

    Global Expansion Focuses on Community and Connection

    With its international rollout, Sparkle Revolution aims to build communities centered around mindfulness and personal growth. Users in new markets will have access to the same features that have resonated with American users: daily gratitude prompts, mindful journaling exercises, and positive affirmations.

    “We want Sparkle Revolution to be more than just an app – it’s a movement towards collective mindfulness and connection,” said Carri. “The expansion marks the beginning of that global journey.”

    To support its future growth, Sparkle Revolution plans to integrate deeper with industry professionals and end users alike. “We envision Sparkle Revolution as a catalyst for mindfulness communities across the globe,” Ron shared. “By collaborating with local wellness centers, meditation guides, and mindfulness coaches, we can tailor experiences that resonate deeply for each individual.”

    Sparkle Revolution’s commitment to accessibility is reflected in its pricing model, which remains competitive and inclusive. The app offers a generous 14-day full-featured free trial, and affordable monthly or annual subscription options. “We believe mindfulness should be available to everyone,” Carri added. “That’s why we’ve designed Sparkle Revolution to be both affordable and impactful.”

    About Sparkle Revolution

    Founded by tech entrepreneurs Carri Norton and Ron Butterworth, Sparkle Revolution is dedicated to integrating mindfulness and gratitude into everyday life. Through its mobile app, Sparkle Revolution empowers users to engage in daily practices that enhance mental clarity and foster a more positive outlook. For more information, visit Sparkle Revolution.

    Press inquiries

    Sparkle Revolution
    https://sparklerevolution.com/
    Carri Norton
    carri@sparklerevolution.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: REPS. KHANNA, LUNA, KAPTUR, AND BIGGS INTRODUCE BILL TO CODIFY TRUMP’S EXECUTIVE ORDER TO LOWER PRESCRIPTION DRUG COSTS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    Washington, DC —Representatives Ro Khanna (CA-17), Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), and Andy Biggs (AZ-05) introduced the bipartisan Global Fairness in Drug Pricing Act to codify the core provisions of President Trump’s Executive Order into law—ensuring lasting, enforceable reform that permanently delivers lower prices to Americans.  

    Americans pay the highest prescription drug prices in the world — in some cases, up to ten times more than patients in other comparably developed nations for the same exact medications. President Trump’s executive order, while a step forward, could be tied up in the courts and delayed indefinitely without action from Congress. 

    “Americans are getting ripped off. It’s deeply unfair that we’re paying significantly more for the same prescription drugs than people in other countries. Pharmaceutical companies are raking in billions while patients are rationing their medications or going into crushing debt to get the prescriptions they need. There is bipartisan outrage, and Congress must come together to act. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill with Reps. Luna, Kaptur, and Biggs to lower prices for Americans,” said Rep. Ro Khanna. 

    “For decades, Big Pharma has lined its pockets by ripping off American consumers. Their extraordinarily profitable racket overcharged desperate Americans for life-saving medicine, while charging foreign consumers more reasonable prices. I’m proud to reach across the aisle to codify President Trump’s executive order, which put an end to this disgusting practice. Congress must make sure that pharmaceutical companies are never allowed to extort the sick and needy again,” said Rep. Anna Paulina Luna.

    “It’s time to stand up to drug companies who are more worried about bolstering profits for their Wall Street investors, than making sure people can afford life-saving medication. The predatory pricing practices of giant, largely faceless, pharmaceutical corporations causes undue burden on Americans just trying their best just to get by. There is no reason my constituents should pay more for their medicine than our Canadian neighbors 59 miles away across our northern border. Our effort to guarantee lowest possible pricing will benefit the well-being of tens of millions of Americans. I’m grateful to Congressman Khanna, Congresswoman Luna, and Congressman Biggs for helping lead this bipartisan effort for the American people who need all the help they can get in lowering their prescription drug costs,” said Rep. Marcy Kaptur (OH-09).  

    The Global Fairness in Drug Pricing Act legislation would:

    1. Direct HHS to propose rulemaking that imposes most-favored-nation price targets, aligning U.S. drug prices with those in peer countries;
    2. Authorize the FDA to consistently grant importation waivers for prescription drugs from countries with strong safety records and lower costs;
    3. Empower the FTC and DOJ to investigate and act on anti-competitive practices in the pharmaceutical industry using existing antitrust laws;
    4. Facilitate direct-to-consumer access to low-cost drugs at international benchmark prices;
    5. Require the Department of Commerce and USTR to assess policies that force Americans to subsidize global R&D or suppress fair pricing abroad.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Investigation into death in Fort McMurray RCMP custody continues

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Lyackson First Nation, Cowichan Tribes, B.C. complete land transfer

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Culturally significant land in the Cowichan Valley has been returned to Lyackson First Nation and Cowichan Tribes communities, a reconciliation landmark between the Nations and B.C.

    The lands that are now in possession of the Nations are near an existing Cowichan Tribes Indian Reserve known as Skutz Falls IR8 and adds to an area that has historically been used by the Nations for gathering, harvesting and other activities of cultural importance for their communities.

    “The aquisition of this parcel of land could not have been made possible without the commitment of British Columbia, our kinship ties with Cowichan Tribes and willing seller Mosaic,” said Hereditary Chief Laxele’wuts’aat Chief Shana Thomas of Lyackson First Nation. “This village site will forever change the trajectory of the Leey’qsun Mustimuhw for our community today and future generations. When Laxele’wuts’aat took up the hereditary chieftainship, the Lyackson leadership released an action plan in November 2024. This plan outlines key priorities that Lyackson will undertake in preparation for the re-establishment of the Lyackson village site on Vancouver Island. Our community has been fighting for the re-establishment of our village site on Vancouver Island for over four generations, and now that it is here, we have a lot of work to do to prepare, but our community is ready to take on that work.”

    An Incremental Treaty Agreement (ITA) reached by Lyackson, B.C. and the Cowichan Tribes in May 2024 was a milestone in treaty negotiations with the Hul’qumi’num Treaty Group and was celebrated by all parties at Skutz Falls with a ceremonial signing event.

    With the transfer now complete, Lyackson is adopting its first official community plan to map out a new community village for its members. In addition, the two member Nations of the Quw’utsun Nation are continuing plans to move forward with Cowichan Tribes’ priorities as guided by an inter-community memorandum of understanding (MOU).

    “I recognize the Province of B.C. for completing the transfer of this land in the Skutz region to Cowichan Tribes and Lyackson First Nation,” said Chief Cindy Daniels (Sulsulxumaat) of Cowichan Tribes. “The westward region of our traditional territory by Lake Cowichan has always been a significant contributor to the well-being of Quw’utsun Mustimuhw, culturally and as part of our traditionally abundant food systems. Working in a good way alongside Lyackson Chief Pahaluktun initially, and now Chief Shana Thomas, to make this unique arrangement for both our communities possible is an important demonstration of our shared Quw’utsun values and the snuw’uy’ulh (teachings) from our Sul-hween (Elders). We look forward to continuing the work ahead over the coming years as outlined in our MOU with Lyackson First Nation, including the equitable division of the land, additions to reserve, as well as the community planning and development processes.”

    As part of this ITA, Lyackson First Nation and Cowichan Tribes have entered into the MOU and  will hold the lands in partnership until a plan is put in place to divide the lands and work with the Government of Canada to add the lands to each Nation’s reserve holdings.

    “This is an incredible achievement for Lyackson First Nation and the Cowichan Tribes that will bring real change for their communities,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. “The collaborative approach taken to identify the lands for transfer is an example of perseverance and partnership in the Province’s reconciliation journey with both Lyackson First Nation and Cowichan Tribes.” 

    Lyackson First Nation and Cowichan Tribes are seeking to add the land to their respective reserves through the Federal Addition to Reserve process. This Vancouver Island-situated village creation for Lyackson First Nation has long been supported by Cowichan Tribes, guided by the shared teachings of nuts’a’maat shqwaluwun (working together with one mind, one heart, one spirit) and ts’its’uw’atul (helping one another).

    Quotes:

    Randene Neill, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship

    “Together, we’re committed to removing barriers and speeding up the return of land to First Nations. The completion of this transfer was made possible by working closely with Lyackson First Nation and Cowichan Tribes, and shows how strong partnerships can support the goals and plans of the Nations.”

    Debra Toporowski, MLA for Cowichan Valley

    “The success of this agreement with members of the Cowichan Tribes and B.C. ensures that Lyackson will have a place to call home. I am grateful for the collaborative approach to reconciliation in the valley and for what it means for these communities going forward.”

    Kate Segall, board chair, Cowichan Valley Regional District

    “We are beginning to more fully recognize and respect the long-standing cultural connection that First Nations have with the lands of Vancouver Island, recognition that is long overdue. We’re happy to celebrate this work by the Province of B.C., and we look forward to working with the Lyackson Nation and Cowichan Tribes as they continue their path toward reconciliation.”

    Quick Facts:

    • The 312-hectare land parcel is valued at approximately $8.6 million.
    • B.C. purchased the private forestry land parcel from Mosiac Forest Management.
    • Lyackson First Nation and Cowichan Tribes are part of the Hul’qumi’num Treaty Group, which has been negotiating a treaty with B.C. and Canada since 1996 and are in stage five (final) negotiations.
    • An Incremental Treaty Agreement is a legally binding pre-treaty agreement negotiated by the Province and First Nations.
    • ITAs advance treaty-related benefits prior to a final treaty agreement. 

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the Lyackson First Nation, visit: https://lyackson.bc.ca/    
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/consulting-with-first-nations/first-nations-negotiations/first-nations-a-z-listing/lyackson-first-nation

    To learn more about Cowichan Tribes, visit: https://cowichantribes.com/ 
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/consulting-with-first-nations/first-nations-negotiations/first-nations-a-z-listing/cowichan-tribes

    To learn more about the signed incremental treaty agreement, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/consulting-with-first-nations/first-nations-negotiations/first-nations-a-z-listing/lyackson-first-nation

    MIL OSI Canada News