NewzIntel.com

Category: Canada

  • MIL-OSI Canada: More sand and gravel, less red tape

    Sand, gravel and crushed stone are the backbone of Alberta’s construction economy – essential for building the roads we drive on, the homes we live in and the infrastructure that supports our communities. These critical aggregates, often sourced from private land, play a foundational role across multiple industries. While these materials are heavily regulated to protect Alberta’s environment, landowners and operators have consistently voiced frustration that excessive red tape is creating unnecessary barriers to development and slowing down the delivery of sand and gravel to market.

    To dig into these concerns and build a more efficient path forward, Alberta’s government is launching the Sand and Gravel Task Force. This dedicated group will work to streamline regulations related to sand and gravel pits located on private lands, ensuring faster project timelines while continuing to uphold Alberta’s high environmental standards.

    Led by Glenn van Dijken, MLA for Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock, and Brandon Lunty, MLA for Leduc-Beaumont, the task force will include representatives from industry and municipalities who understand the importance of timely access to sand and gravel resources. Over the next six months, the Sand and Gravel Task Force will deliver actionable recommendations focused on reducing bureaucratic delays, supporting landowners and strengthening Alberta’s aggregate supply chain.

    By clearing away unnecessary red tape, Alberta is preparing the ground for a more responsive regulatory system – one that delivers more sand and gravel, faster and smarter.

    “With the launch of the Sand and Gravel Task Force, we’re paving the way for a faster, smoother process. It’s time to stop graveling under bureaucracy and start building Alberta’s future. MLA van Dijken and MLA Lunty will leave no stone unturned as they dig into this important work.”

    Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas

    “Sand and gravel are foundational for building and maintaining a strong economy. From road infrastructure to industrial uses or residential housing, these resources are essential. Our government is determined to ensure the regulatory process around sand and gravel pits recognizes the need for efficiency and clarity.”

    Glenn van Dijken, Task Force Co-chair and MLA for Athabasca-Barrhead-Westlock

    “This new task force will reduce red tape and answer the call to build more when Albertans need it most. With more than 1,000 sand and gravel pit registrations on private land, streamlining the applications and approvals will bring significant development benefits.”

    Brandon Lunty, Task Force Co-chair and MLA for Leduc-Beaumont

    “Rural municipalities are on the front lines of balancing the economic value of aggregate extraction with the need to protect farmland, infrastructure and the environment. I’m honoured to represent the Rural Municipalities of Alberta on this Task Force and committed to advancing a more transparent, consistent and practical regulatory process. This is an important step toward ensuring that the voices of rural communities are not only heard but meaningfully integrated into decision-making.”

    Amber Link, representative, Rural Municipalities Association

    “I’m pleased to represent the interests of our association’s 264 member communities on this task force. I look forward to finding ways to streamline and accelerate the regulatory process for sand and gravel extraction, while upholding Alberta’s commitment to environmental excellence.”

    Tara Elwood, representative, Alberta Municipalities Association

    Aggregate Pits Task Force Members:

    • Brandon Lunty, Co-Chair and MLA for Leduc-Beaumont
    • Glenn van Dijken, Co-Chair and MLA for Athabasca-Barrhead-Westlock  
    • Brock Helm, Alberta Sand and Gravel Association
    • Ken Kozakewich, Consulting Engineers of Alberta
    • Amber Link, Rural Municipalities Association
    • Tara Elwood, Alberta Municipalities Association

    Quick facts

    • There are currently more than 1,000 active sand and gravel pit registrations on private land across the province.
    • Sand and gravel pits on private land are regulated under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act’s Code of Practice for Pits and the Water Act.
    • The task force will focus exclusively on sand and gravel pits located on private lands and provincial regulatory processes.

    Related information

    • Guidelines for pits and surface materials

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province Enhances Summer Respite Camps For Adults With Intellectual Disabilities

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

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    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Exports Continue to Reach New Markets in 2024

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on May 20, 2025

    Provincial Exports Achieved the Third Highest Year on Record, Valued at $45.4 Billion in 2024

    Today, the Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership (STEP) released the province’s annual State of Trade report. The report, which outlines provincial trade highlights for 2024, reveals that it was the third-highest export year for Saskatchewan, with the total value of exports reaching $45.4 billion.

    “Saskatchewan is providing much needed certainty as we move through a time of global trade shifts,” Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said. “Our exporters, manufacturers, and producers remain suppliers of choice as we bring food and energy security to countries around the world. This creates jobs, economic opportunities and a high standard of living for all who call our province home.”

    Uranium saw impressive growth, with the value of exports increasing by 50 per cent. Total uranium exports reached $2.8 billion, surpassing the Saskatchewan Growth Plan target of $2 billion. Potash also reached a record volume of exports, totaling 22,807,489 metric tonnes.

    Saskatchewan continues to be an exporter of choice internationally. Goods from the province reached 161 countries in 2024. India became the province’s third-largest export market behind the U.S. and China, with the value of exports to the country increasing by 12.2 per cent in 2024.

    “Amid the unprecedented trade uncertainties in 2024, Saskatchewan demonstrated resilience and growth across key sectors, with many major commodities maintaining or increasing their volumes,” STEP Interim CEO Angela Krauss said. “The province’s export foundation remains strong, and we are committed to diversifying our markets and strengthening essential trade relationships.”

    According to the report, the volumes of most major exports maintained or increased from 2023 levels. In terms of volume, exports of canola seed increased 25 per cent from 2023 to 2024. Canola meal exports increased 14 per cent in volume from 2023 to 2024. The top export products for the province include crude petroleum oil, potash, canola seeds and oil, wheat, uranium, lentils and dried peas. 

    The provincial economy continues to see substantial growth. In 2007, the value of Saskatchewan exports was $19.8 billion, which has since climbed to nearly $50 billion on average over the past three years. 

    STEP is a membership driven, government/industry partnership, designed to promote the growth of Saskatchewan’s export industry.

    Statistics Canada’s latest GDP numbers indicate that Saskatchewan’s 2024 real GDP reached an all-time high of $80.5 billion, increasing by $2.6 billion, or 3.4 per cent from 2023. This places Saskatchewan second in the nation for real GDP growth and above the national average of 1.6 per cent.

    For more information on opportunities in Saskatchewan, visit: investSK.ca.

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Harbour Grace — Harbour Grace RCMP arrests two vehicle occupants after responding to call for service in Carbonear

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Two occupants of a vehicle were arrested by Harbour Grace RCMP after police responded to a call for service in Carbonear on May 16, 2025.

    Shortly before 9:00 a.m. on Friday, Harbour Grace RCMP received a request to assist paramedics who were responding to reports of an unresponsive man and woman, both found in a vehicle on Lemarchant Street in Carbonear. Police attended the scene and observed the unresponsive occupants inside the vehicle. A man was in the driver seat with the engine running and the vehicle still in gear. An officer put the vehicle in park and turned off the engine.

    The driver, a 36-year-old Carbonear man, became responsive and displayed signs of drug impairment. He was arrested and was transported to Carbonear General Hospital where blood samples were obtained as part of a drug impaired driving investigation. Officers await the results of the testing to determine if charges of drug impaired driving are appropriate.

    The passenger, a 33-year-old Bell Island woman, was found in breach of conditions of a release order and she was arrested.

    Various illicit and prescription drugs, drug paraphernalia and other items consistent with drug trafficking were seized from the vehicle, along with a number of weapons. The vehicle was seized and impounded.

    Both individuals were held in police custody and later released.

    The investigation is continuing. A number of charges under the Criminal Code and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act are expected.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Community-led service supports people in crisis in Comox Valley

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    People experiencing a mental-health or substance-use crisis in the Comox Valley now have access to more services to help them stabilize and connect to the support they need.

    “This service in the Comox Valley is helping people in crisis get timely, compassionate support from those who truly understand their experience,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “By combining clinical expertise with the knowledge of people who have lived through similar challenges, this community-led approach offers a more empathetic and effective response that can make a real difference in someone’s path to recovery.”

    Crisis Response, Community-Led (CRCL, pronounced “circle”), formerly known as Peer Assisted Care Teams, is a mobile, community-led crisis service that serves people 13 and older experiencing a mental-health or substance-use crisis, which might include thoughts of suicide or self-harm, feelings of grief, panic or anxiety, and/or acting or feeling in ways that are distressing.

    “In the Comox Valley, we have witnessed CRCL represent a transformative approach to mental-health crisis response, centred around compassion and lived experience,” said Sarah Delaney-Spindler, senior director, AVI Health and Community Services. “By meeting individuals where they are, CRCL has provided immediate, person-centred support that fosters healing and connection within our communities. We have seen in action the impacts of CRCL and its low-barrier, compassionate approach connecting individuals in community with resources and support.” 

    A person in crisis may contact CRCL for support directly, or friends, family members or bystanders may reach out if concerned about the well-being of someone else. The team is made up of responders with a combination of mental-health professionals and people with lived experience who are trained in providing trauma-informed, culturally safe crisis support.

    “We’ve lost too many of our people to trauma, addiction and a system that wasn’t built for us,” said Nicole Rempel, Elected Chief Councillor, K’ómoks First Nation. “Our communities are grieving and asking for help, but what we’re met with is silence, delay or criminalization. The CRCL program is a step toward something different: a trauma-informed, culturally safe approach that recognizes the strength and wisdom already in our communities. We are not just piloting a program, we are decolonizing a system that has failed our people. This is how we reclaim care: by building something our communities can trust, and that other Nations can build upon too. This is not just a pilot, it’s a path forward.”

    The CRCL team helps de-escalate the situation, ensures and plans for the safety of the person in crisis, and connects them to services to support their long-term needs. This service also helps free up policing resources to focus on crime and prevents demand on hospital emergency departments by supporting people in the community.

    The Comox Valley CRCL is operated by AVI Health and Community Services in partnership with K’ómoks First Nation, with oversight and support from the Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division. The service soft-launched in October 2024, focusing on providing care to the K’ómoks First Nation. In December 2024, it expanded to serve people in Cumberland, Courtenay and Comox. Since the service launched, more than 100 people have been supported.

    In addition to the Comox Valley service, there are four CRCLs in operation in Victoria, North and West Vancouver, New Westminster and Prince George.

    Expanding CRCL is part of the Province’s Safer Communities Action Plan and supports the plan’s goal of creating safe, healthy communities for everyone. Enhancing supports for people living with mental-health and addiction challenges is an integral part of government’s work to build a full continuum of mental-health and substance-use care that works for everyone.

    Quotes:

    Amna Shah, parliamentary secretary for mental health and addictions –

    “Everyone deserves to feel supported and safe during a mental-health or substance-use crisis. CRCL offers a person-centred approach that meets people where they are, providing care that is rooted in compassion, understanding and community. This model helps reduce stigma and ensures people get the help they need, when they need it most.”

    Jonny Morris, CEO, Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division –

    “By providing a mental-health response to a mental-health crisis, CRCL teams are changing and saving lives in the communities they serve. Collectively, teams have responded to more than 10,000 calls since January 2023, resolving almost 99% of calls without the need for police involvement. We are grateful to the Province of B.C. and CRCL teams for helping to create this network of support.”

    Quick Facts:

    • CRCL launched in North and West Vancouver in 2021 and expanded to Victoria and New Westminster in January 2023.
    • In July 2023, government announced the expansion of CRCL to Comox Valley, Prince George, where it launched in August 2024, and to Kamloops, where it is in development.
    • CRCL teams have responded to more than 10,000 calls since January 2023.
    • In 2024, teams responded to almost 6,000 calls, 99% of which did not require police involvement.
    • CRCL is creating a growing, specialized workforce of crisis responders in B.C., employing more than 100 people in six communities in B.C.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about CRCL, visit: https://crcl.ca/

    To learn more about mental-health and substance-use supports in B.C., visit: https://helpstartshere.gov.bc.ca/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Supporting survivors of gender-based violence

    Everyone deserves to live their lives in safety, free from fear and violence. Gender-based violence is a crime that is happening every day, in every community, and it is everyone’s responsibility to end it. As part of the province’s comprehensive made-in-Alberta strategy to address all forms of gender-based violence, Alberta’s government invests more than $188 million annually in programs and services designed to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.

    “For those facing abuse, know that you are not alone and that help is available 24-7 through Alberta Supports. Our government continues to invest in these critical programs to ensure that survivors of gender-based violence have the resources they need to find safety and stability as they work to rebuild their lives and heal.”

    Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services

    Often, survivors of gender-based violence who are living in an abusive situation may not have the resource to leave, or if they’ve already left, they may not have the means to start over. To help those experiencing abuse get to safety and rebuild their lives, Alberta’s government provides emergency funding through the Escaping Abuse Benefit. The benefit provides supports such as transportation to a safe place and helps cover expenses for basic needs like food, clothing and shelter. The benefit also can help cover the costs of telephone calls and transportation to access counselling or legal advice, and help provide emergency access to items not available through shelters, like prescription drugs, extended health coverage, childcare, and dental and eye care services.

    “With our launch of Alberta’s 10-year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence, our government is taking decisive, coordinated action to support survivors and prevent abuse in all its forms. We are backing our commitment with meaningful investments in supports that give survivors the safety, stability and resources they need to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.”

    Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women

    In addition, the province is investing $8.5 million this year, an increase of $2.3 million, into the Housing Benefit for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence. This housing benefit helps survivors find a safe, stable home while they work to rebuild their lives by helping pay for housing expenses, such as down payments, rent, utilities and mortgage payments. Each survivor can receive up to $7,200 per year through flexible monthly payments. The Housing Benefit for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence is expected to support more than 1,100 Albertans escaping abuse over the next year.

    “Ending gender-based violence takes action, investment and a long-term vision. Investments like this are a crucial and commendable step forward to ensuring safety and dignity for all by supporting survivors with compassion.”

    Kim Ruse, CEO, Fear Is Not Love

    Alberta’s government recently launched Building on our Strengths: Alberta’s 10-year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence, which is a bold, provincewide plan to address all forms of gender-based violence. As the most comprehensive strategy of its kind in Canada, Alberta’s strategy outlines more than 100 concrete initiatives to ensure efforts across government and community partners are coordinated so Alberta can put an end to gender-based violence. Alberta’s 10-year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence complements and enhances existing initiatives to address the root causes of gender-based violence and prevent it before it occurs.

    “Survivors of gender-based violence deserve more than safety – they deserve dignity, support and the opportunity to thrive. These investments are a critical step forward, offering real, tangible help to those rebuilding their lives after abuse. We commend the government’s commitment to long-term, survivor-centered solutions that recognize the complexity of gender-based violence and the importance of coordinated community response.”

    Catherine Champagne, executive director, Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters

    Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on the economy.

    Quick facts

    • Gender-based violence refers to harmful acts directed at an individual based on their gender. It can take many forms, including physical assault, sexual assault, murder, femicide, family violence, intimate partner violence, human trafficking, stalking, financial control, threats, hate speech, cyber-bullying, cyber-stalking, pornography and coercive control.
    • Albertans can connect with Alberta Supports for more information about the benefits available and how to apply by visiting alberta.ca/alberta-supports, emailing [email protected], calling 1-877-644-9992 toll free, or visiting your local Alberta Supports Office for in-person services.
      • For after-hours support, the Emergency Income Support Contact Centre is available 24-7 at 1-866-644-5135.

    Related information

    • Alberta Supports
    • Escaping Abuse Benefit
    • Housing supports for survivors of gender-based violence
    • Gender-based violence prevention
    • Alberta’s 10-year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence

    Related news

    • Alberta takes action: Ending gender-based violence (May 13, 2025)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is Donald Trump doing the world a favour by isolating the United States?

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Shaun Narine, Professor of International Relations and Political Science, St. Thomas University (Canada)

    United States President Donald Trump’s tariffs against most of the world tanked stock markets, disrupted the U.S. bond market and destabilized the global economy.

    Trump has economically and politically threatened American allies, shattering the unity of the western world. But Trump’s chaos may have inadvertently produced an opportunity to create a better world.

    Some western commentators argue that the U.S. has been a benevolent superpower.

    That may have been true for a small group of mostly western states that have benefitted from American domination. But much of the Global South was victimized by American military, economic and political interventions.

    Losing dominance?

    The West could be in the midst of losing its dominant position in the global order. This is probably inevitable, but it may not be the tragedy some western commentators assume it to be.

    In most of the world, there is a desire for a more equitable world order that doesn’t feature the moral, racial and cultural double standards of the western-dominated system. A world where American and western power is limited and contained could not only end up being more peaceful but, over time, more prosperous.

    Without the co-operation of the allies alienated by Trump, it may be harder for the U.S. to initiate conflict around the world as it often has since the end of the Cold War.

    In a recent Foreign Affairs article, American political scientist Stacie Goddard argues the emerging multipolar, post-American world will be one in which great powers — primarily the U.S., Russia and China — will divide the globe into “spheres of influence.”

    The U.S. is seeking to maintain disproportionate power in Asia. Closer to home, neighbours of the U.S. have reason to fear American expansionism.

    By contrast, even if it has imperialist ambitions, Russia doesn’t have the military might to dominate Europe. It’s a country of 144 million people with one-sixth the GDP of the European Union. Russia can cause trouble within countries with sizable Russian minorities, but its ability to project power is limited, as demonstrated by its grinding war in Ukraine.



    Read more:
    After another call with Putin, it looks like Trump has abandoned efforts to mediate peace in Ukraine

    China’s stance

    The Chinese have scored a win against Trump’s tariffs with a 90-day tariff pause that’s being hailed as vindication of China’s defiant negotiating strategy. China called Trump’s bluff and won as global stocks soared.



    Read more:
    China-US trade war: the next 90 days are a big deal for Beijing as it seeks long-term solutions

    This has bolstered China’s goal to have a sphere of influence. However, Chinese foreign policy is largely non-interventionist and, compared to the U.S., remarkably restrained.

    China may intimidate its rivals in the South China Sea, Senkaku Islands, and Taiwan, but it does not easily resort to military force. China has not resorted to military force since its war with Vietnam in 1979.

    China is committed to most of the guiding structures of the current international system and values a stable and mutually beneficial global economic order that enables it to focus on and improve its domestic development.

    Its export-oriented economic sectors need customers abroad. Unlike the West, China has a vested interest in helping the Global South develop and prosper in order to create those customers.

    Asian trade alliance?

    The Chinese are using their resources to promote economic and technological development in the Global South.

    As China spreads its renewable energy technologies globally, some of the poorest countries may leapfrog carbon-based fuels and go directly to renewable energy to make development affordable and attainable, and to mitigate climate change.



    Read more:
    What Canada can learn from China on effectively engaging with Africa

    In response to Trump’s tariffs, China, South Korea and Japan have discussed a renewed free-trade arrangement. President Xi Jinping has toured Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia to encourage a common front against American actions.

    Asian states are wary of China, but they remain committed to global trade. The U.S. may be retreating from globalization, but the rest of the world is not, though China’s manufacturing dominance concerns many states.

    Emerging international order

    New institutions may help to manage the evolving world order. The BRICS countries — Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates — have created the New Development Bank (NDB). China has created the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

    The United Nations remains the favoured instrument of global diplomacy, even if western states have been accused of undermining its authority and efficacy.

    The European Union will continue as a major global power in the emerging international order, but on a more even footing with the rest of the world.

    Europe is reconsidering its trade war with China. In the words of Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission: “The West as we knew it no longer exists.”

    Western states will undoubtedly continue to try to exercise disproportionate global influence. Canada has suggested that “like-minded states” form an alliance to promote international trade and institutions that remain dominated by western interests. This idea seems designed to continue marginalizing the Global South in the international decision-making process.

    Most Global South states are not high-functioning liberal democracies. Many struggle with the legacies of colonialism while managing an international system dominated by the West that keeps them subservient. Others have created governments that fit their particular circumstances, cultures and levels of development.

    But many weaker countries generally share a commitment to international law that is seemingly stronger than the West. They need a stable, predictable, fairly applied set of global rules more than stronger nations. Ironically, the decline of the U.S. may facilitate a much more genuine and legitimate rules-based international order.

    America’s loosening grip

    Readjusting the world economy away from the U.S. to a more diverse, evenly distributed economic model will be difficult and disruptive.

    Nonetheless, loosening the American grip on global power is an essential first step towards achieving a more just and balanced international order.

    For putting this process in motion, the world may owe Trump a measure of thanks.

    Shaun Narine is affiliated with Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East and Jewish Voice for Peace.

    – ref. Is Donald Trump doing the world a favour by isolating the United States? – https://theconversation.com/is-donald-trump-doing-the-world-a-favour-by-isolating-the-united-states-252671

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Financial firms are driving up rent in Toronto — and targeting the most vulnerable tenants

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Cloé St-Hilaire, PhD Candidate in Planning, University of Waterloo

    In recent years, Canadians have increasingly seen financial firms — such as private equity firms and real estate investment trusts (REITs) — buying up apartment buildings. The largest 25 financial landlords in Canada hold nearly 20 per cent of the country’s private, purpose-built rental stock.

    At the same time, Canada’s housing affordability crisis has exploded. A 2022 report found that in 93 per cent of Canadian neighbourhoods, a full-time minimum wage worker cannot afford a one-bedroom apartment.

    Many observers have connected this financialization of housing to rising unaffordability. But until recently, a lack of data has made it challenging to prove it.

    Our recent study, based on building-level rent and ownership data in the Greater Toronto Area, is the first to decisively show that financial firms charge higher rents and raise them more quickly than other landlords. We also found that financial firms raise rents most aggressively in lower-income areas with more racialized residents.

    Why does financialization raise rents?

    Financialization refers to the growing role of the finance sector in various parts of the economy. In the rental housing market, it involves the purchase of rental buildings by financial firms like asset managers, REITs and pension funds.

    These “financial landlords” treat housing as an investment product, not as a basic human need.



    Read more:
    Housing is both a human right and a profitable asset, and that’s the problem

    Financial landlords act differently from other landlords. Unlike smaller landlords, they are guided by the “shareholder value maximization” principle, which means their primary goal is to maximize returns for their shareholders.

    While smaller landlords are most likely also motivated by profit, they do not have a duty to external investors like financial firms do and they do not have access to the same strategies to manage their properties. Financial landlords have the scale and sophistication to pursue these profits in ways that smaller-scale landlords cannot.

    Research shows that financial landlords in Canada are associated with increased cost burdens for renters, higher eviction filing rates and higher rates of building disrepair. Our study adds to this evidence by showing they also charge higher rents.

    Financial firms openly promote higher rents

    Even before conducting our analysis, we had reason to believe financial firms would charge higher rents, in part because many of them have publicly said so.

    In a 2018 investor presentation, Minto REIT wrote that they charged “the highest in-place rent” among their public peers.

    Similarly, Centurion REIT published a report in 2020 featuring a graph demonstrating that its rent increases were outpacing both inflation and average rents.

    In a 2019 white paper, Canada’s largest private landlord, Starlight Investments, wrote about how their “value add strategy” for upgrading apartments sets them apart from other types of landlords. In the same publication, they reported increasing the monthly rent in one property by $411 — a 31 per cent increase.

    Financial firms charge the highest rent premiums

    Our analysis reveals that financial firms do indeed charge more.

    Our study compared building-level quarterly rent data to average rents from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation for 1,602 buildings between 2022 and 2024.

    We found that when landlords advertise a unit to rent, they typically charge more than the average neighbourhood rent. We call this upcharge a rent “premium” — the dollar or percentage difference between the rent posted for an available unit and the average neighbourhood rent for a unit of the same size.

    We found that financial firms charged the highest premiums across the GTA, posting 44 per cent higher rents — or $670 more — than local averages. By comparison, non-financial chain landlords — those with multiple buildings but not classified as financial firms — charged a 30 per cent, or $477, premium.

    Meanwhile, smaller-scale owners owners of just a few buildings charged a smaller rent premium of 15-22 per cent. We found financial firms charged the highest premiums regardless of whether the building was brand new or in need of repairs.

    Algorithmic pricing and rent inflation

    One of the landlords with the highest rent premiums is private equity firm Woodbourne, which said they used RealPage’s YieldStar platform, an algorithmic pricing software.

    This software is at the centre of a lawsuit alleging more than a dozen landlords and property managers conspired to artificially inflate rents across Canada.

    The use of AI-driven pricing tools in Canada’s rental market is now under investigation by the Competition Bureau.

    Our study also found that, over time, financial firms raised rents more aggressively than other landlords. On average, they increased asking rents by five per cent — or $96 — every quarter. By comparison, smaller-scale landlords owning just one property raised asking rents by 3.6 per cent, or $59.

    Using a regression model, we demonstrated that out of all ownership types, financial ownership was the strongest predictor for higher rents and higher rent premiums. Using our model, we estimated that a tenant would pay 13 per cent more for their unit if it was owned by a financial firm instead of a single property owner.

    Low-income, marginalized tenants are exposed

    Our study also found that the highest rent premiums were being charged in Toronto’s “neighbourhood improvement areas.” These are areas the city has identified as having inequitable social and economic outcomes.

    While we found that all landlords charge higher premiums in these neighbourhoods, financial landlords were the most aggressive, charging a 49 per cent premium compared to 41 per cent elsewhere.

    We also identified a spatial connection between high rent premiums and the number of racialized residents in a neighbourhood: areas with higher rent premiums often had a greater percentage of racialized residents.

    These findings suggest that financial firms are complicit in driving gentrification in marginalized neighbourhoods, targeting areas with lower-income and racialized renters for the most aggressive rent increases.

    Reining in financial landlords

    While financial firms report on record breaking annual returns and “rental uplifts” of 15 per cent, Canada faces a dire housing affordability crisis.

    Financialization is detrimental to the right to adequate housing. We show that financialization is worsening affordability in Toronto: a trend that will continue, especially since financial landlords are the largest acquirers of suites in the city and the country’s largest landlords.

    To address this issue, we support recent policy recommendations aimed at reining in the power of financial landlords. These include better tracking of who landlords are, stricter tenant protections and more social housing.

    If left unchecked, financialization will continue to deepen the affordability crisis, with the greatest harms falling on those who can least afford it.

    Cloé St-Hilaire receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship). She previously received funding from the Fonds de Recherche du Québec.

    Martine August receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the Government of Ontario Early Researcher Award.

    – ref. Financial firms are driving up rent in Toronto — and targeting the most vulnerable tenants – https://theconversation.com/financial-firms-are-driving-up-rent-in-toronto-and-targeting-the-most-vulnerable-tenants-255935

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canadian Coast Guard Inshore Rescue Boat Stations Open In British Columbia

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    May 20, 2025

    Victoria, British Columbia – The Canadian Coast Guard’s seasonal Inshore Rescue Boat stations in British Columbia are now open. These seasonally-operated stations are open from May 18 until September 1, 2025, and include:        

    • Coast Guard 509 Cortes Bay, Cortes Island
    • Coast Guard 508 Sointula, Malcolm Island
    • Coast Guard 507 Nootka Sound
    • Coast Guard 504 Kelsey Bay  

    In British Columbia, Inshore Rescue Boat stations are crewed by Coast Guard Rescue Specialists as coxswain and post-secondary students hired and trained by the Canadian Coast Guard’s Search and Rescue Program. These stations provide additional maritime search and rescue service during the busy summer recreational boating season.

    Waterways remain very cold at this time of year and take much longer to warm up compared to the air. Transport Canada’s Safe Boating Guide is an excellent source of information in preparation for the recreational boating season.

    On water emergencies can be reported 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, toll-free (within Canada) at 1-800-567-5111, or via marine VHF radio – channel 16.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: SIRT Concludes Investigation into in Custody Death in Regina

    Source: Government of Canada regional news



  • MIL-OSI Canada: Leave Baby Wildlife Alone

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on May 20, 2025

    Helping Can Hurt More Than You Think

    As the weather warms up and more people spend time outdoors, it is common to spot young animals on their own in the wild. While they may look like they need your help, often the best thing you can do is appreciate them from a distance and leave them alone.

    Many animals leave their young alone for long periods of time while they forage for food or to protect them from predators. The mother is often nearby, sometimes even watching. In fact, interference from humans can be harmful or even fatal to the young animal.

    No matter how cute and small, young wildlife are not pets, and it is illegal to take them home. Wild animals may carry infectious diseases, such as rabies and West Nile virus, that can be transmitted to people.

    If a young animal has been in the same spot for several hours, is vocal, wet or covered in insects, or the mother is found dead nearby, it’s time to ask for advice. If you can see obvious signs of injury or believe the animal has been orphaned, please contact your local conservation officer or the Turn in Poachers and Polluters (TIPP) line at 1-800-667-7561.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Honours Treaties During Recognition Week

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on May 20, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed May 18 to 24 as Treaties Recognition Week. Treaties in Saskatchewan represent formal agreements between the Crown and First Nations, defining mutual expectations and responsibilities.

    “Treaties form the foundation for lasting partnerships in our province,” Government Relations Minister and Minister Responsible for First Nations, Métis and Northern Affairs Eric Schmalz said. “By acknowledging that we are all treaty people, we strengthen our commitment to understanding, respect and collaboration between First Nations and non-First Nation communities across Saskatchewan.”

    Treaties Recognition Week promotes awareness of treaties and encourages educational opportunities about treaty rights and relationships. Learning about these collective responsibilities builds stronger, informed relationships between First Nations and non-First Nation peoples, contributing meaningfully to ongoing reconciliation efforts.

    There are six treaties and one significant treaty adhesion in Saskatchewan. In 2024, Treaty 4 marked its 150th commemoration with gatherings held to honour this milestone and reflect on its enduring importance. In 2026, Treaty 6 will reach the same milestone. These anniversaries serve as meaningful opportunities for residents to learn more about the treaty history of our province and how these foundational agreements continue to shape relationships and responsibilities in Saskatchewan today.

    To learn more about Treaties, visit the Office of the Treaty Commissioner’s webpage at otc.ca. 

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Competition Bureau publishes new guidance for market studies

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    May 20, 2025 – GATINEAU (Québec), Competition Bureau

    Today, the Competition Bureau published the final version of its Market Studies Information Bulletin. This follows a public consultation on a draft Bulletin.

    During its market studies, the Bureau closely looks at a market or industry to examine competition issues and propose solutions. Market studies help the Bureau and policymakers understand competition dynamics in important sectors of the Canadian economy. They also allow us to make recommendations that support competition.

    The Market Studies Information Bulletin answers five broad questions:

    • What steps do we take before launching a market study?
    • How do we launch market studies and decide how long they will take?
    • How do we obtain and use information, including confidential information?
    • What are the outcomes of a market study?
    • How do we follow up and monitor the impact of our market study?

    In December 2023, amendments to the Competition Act created a new framework for undertaking market studies with information-gathering powers. These changes are reflected in the new Market Studies Information Bulletin.

    The Bureau thanks all those who participated in the consultation. Their comments were carefully considered as we finalized the Bulletin.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Itinerary unveiled for the 2025 Royal Visit of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    OTTAWA, May 20, 2025

    Today, the Government of Canada announced the official itinerary for the upcoming Royal Visit of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla in Ottawa on May 26 and 27, 2025.

    While the primary focus of the visit is His Majesty King Charles III delivering the Speech from the Throne, Their Majesties will also engage with a variety of individuals and groups that reflect the geographic and cultural richness of the country.

    His Majesty King Charles III has a deep, longstanding connection to Canada and shares many values that resonate with Canadians, including environmental stewardship, youth empowerment, and the celebration of Canada’s vibrant and diverse heritage.

    This first visit as King of Canada marks a momentous and historic occasion, highlighting Canada’s identity and sovereignty as a constitutional monarchy.

    The Royal Visit also strengthens the bond between Canada and the monarchy, offering an opportunity to better understand the unique role of the Crown in our democracy.

    Itinerary

    May 26

    Their Majesties will arrive in Ottawa on the afternoon of May 26 and will be welcomed at the Canada Reception Centre by the Governor General, the Prime Minister, Indigenous leaders and the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. An arrival guard from the Royal Canadian Dragoons, a senior armoured regiment of the Canadian Armed Forces, will also be present.

    Following their arrival, The King and Queen will travel to Lansdowne Park to meet with members of community organizations and the public.

    Later, Their Majesties will make their way to Rideau Hall, the official residence of the Governor General of Canada and the official residence of The King and The Queen while in Canada.

    They will participate in a ceremonial tree planting surrounded by the Viceregal representatives and community members.

    His Majesty will then hold audiences with the Governor General of Canada and with the Prime Minister of Canada.

    May 27

    On the morning of May 27, Their Majesties will travel on Wellington Street from the Bank of Canada to the Senate of Canada using Canada’s State Landau, drawn by horses of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Musical Ride.

    Upon arriving at the Senate of Canada, The King will receive full military honours which will include a Royal Salute, a 100-person guard of honour from the 3rd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment, an inspection of the guard and the band, and a 21-gun salute.

    His Majesty King Charles III will then deliver the Speech from the Throne to open the first session of the 45th Parliament of Canada. Having the speech delivered by the Sovereign is a rare moment where we witness Canadian democracy in all its depth: a balance between heritage and responsibility, tradition and action. Before concluding their visit, Their Majesties will pay their respects and lay a wreath and flowers at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the National War Memorial.

    The complete itinerary is available on the 2025 Royal Visit web page. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Deer Lake — Join us in welcoming one of RCMP NL’s newest police officers, Constable Aidan Payne!

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Join us in welcoming one of RCMP NL’s newest police officers, Constable Aidan Payne!

    Aidan is originally from Fogo Island, NL, and is currently working at the Deer Lake detachment.

    “I grew up around the police and I saw everything they did for my small community. It made me want to help others like they did,” he says. “I’m excited to start a great career with the RCMP and look forward to what it can bring.”

    His goal for his RCMP career is to become part of the Police Dog Service.

    Welcome to the RCMP, Aidan!

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Government of Canada recognizes the national historic significance of the establishment of the High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    May 20, 2025                            London, United Kingdom                                 Parks Canada

    At a plaque unveiling ceremony yesterday in London, United Kingdom (UK), Ron Hallman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Parks Canada, along with Bernard Thériault, Chair of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, attended an event hosted by the Honourable Ralph Goodale, High Commissioner of Canada in the UK. The event commemorated the national historic significance of the establishment of the High Commission of Canada in the UK.

    The unveiling of the commemorative plaque and announcement of the national historic designation were made on behalf of the Minister responsible for Parks Canada through Parks Canada’s National Program of Historical Commemoration.

    The establishment of the High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom (UK) was an important chapter in Canada’s diplomatic history. Canada was the first country in what became the Commonwealth to establish a high commission. The role of the High Commission, Canada’s oldest diplomatic posting, evolved as Canada gained more legal and diplomatic autonomy. Since its informal beginnings in the late 19th century, the office has promoted Canadian interests in trade and immigration.

    On 29 June 1925, King George V and Queen Mary opened the newly renovated Canada House on Trafalgar Square, which became the new home of the High Commission of Canada. Its stature and proximity to the centres of British decision-making reflected Canada’s growing independence and significant role within the Commonwealth.

    The Government of Canada, through the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada and Parks Canada, recognizes significant persons, places, and events that have shaped our country as one way of helping Canadians connect with their past. By sharing these stories with Canadians, we hope to foster understanding and reflection on the diverse histories, cultures, legacies, and realities of Canada’s past and present.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories: Foreign Secretary statement, 20 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Oral statement to Parliament

    Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories: Foreign Secretary statement, 20 May 2025

    Statement by Foreign Secretary David Lammy to the House of Commons on the situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories

    With permission, Madam Deputy Speaker, I will make a statement on Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

    This weekend, the Israeli Defence Force started a new, extensive ground operation throughout Gaza, Operation Gideon’s Chariot. Five Israeli divisions are now operating there.

    Prime Minister Netanyahu says that they are going to take control of the Strip letting only minimal amounts of food reach Gazans. Madam Deputy Speaker I quote Prime Minister Netanyahu – “just enough to prevent hunger.”

    Fewer than ten trucks entered Gaza yesterday. The UN and WHO have issued stark warnings of the threat of starvation hanging over hundreds of thousands of civilians. Madam Deputy Speaker, this is abominable.

    Civilians in Gaza facing starvation, homelessness, trauma, desperate for this war to end, now confront renewed bombardment, new displacement and new suffering. And the remaining hostages kept apart from their loved ones by Hamas for almost six hundred days are now at heightened risk from the war around them.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, two months ago the ceasefire collapsed. Since then, the humanitarian catastrophe has rapidly intensified.

    For eleven weeks, Israeli forces have blockaded Gaza, leaving the World Food Programme without any any remaining stocks. Israel has repeatedly struck hospitals, with three more hospitals in northern Gaza ceasing operations this weekend.

    Yet more aid workers and medical workers have been killed. After last year proved the deadliest year on record for humanitarian personnel.

    The diplomatic deadlock between Israel and Hamas has sadly also hardened. Despite the efforts of the United States, Qatar and Egypt – which we of course support – no ceasefire has emerged.

    We repeat our demand that Hamas release all the hostages immediately and unconditionally and reiterate that they cannot continue to run Gaza.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, we are now entering a dark new phase in this conflict. Netanyahu’s government is planning to drive Gazans from their homes into a corner of the Strip to the south and permit them a fraction of the aid that they need.

    Yesterday, Minister Smotrich even spoke of Israeli forces “cleansing” Gaza, “destroying what’s left”, of resident Palestinians “being relocated to third countries”.

    We must call this what it is. It is extremism. It is dangerous. It is repellent. It is monstrous. And I condemn it in the strongest possible terms.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, Israel suffered a heinous attack on October 7th and the Government has always backed Israel’s right to defend itself. We have condemned Hamas and its abhorrent treatment of the hostages. And we have stood with families and demanded their loved ones be released.

    But the planned displacement of so many Gazans is morally unjustifiable, wholly disproportionate and utterly counter-productive. Whatever Israeli ministers claim, this is not the way to bring the hostages safely home.

    Nearly all the hostages have been freed through negotiations, not military force. And that is why hostage families themselves – and many other Israelis – oppose this plan so strongly.

    Nor will this plan eliminate Hamas or make Israel secure. This war has left a generation orphaned and traumatised, ready for Hamas to recruit. As we learned in Northern Ireland to defeat terrorists and their warped ideology you cannot just rely on military might. You have to offer a viable political alternative. Opposing the expansion of a war that’s killed thousands of children is not rewarding Hamas.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, since entering office, we have taken concerted action on Gaza.

    We restored funding to UNRWA. We supported the independence of international courts. We suspended arms export licences. We provided food and medical care to hundreds of thousands of Gazans. We’ve worked with Arab partners on a plan to ensure a reconstructed Gaza no longer run by Hamas.

    And since Israel restarted strikes on Gaza, this Government has demanded Israel change course. Privately, in my conversations with Foreign Minister Sa’ar and Strategic Affairs Minister Dermer, and publicly, in repeated joint statements with my French and German counterparts, we have made clear that Israel’s actions are intolerable.

    We have raised our concerns in the UN Security Council and before the International Court of Justice. Yesterday, my Right Honourable Friend the Prime Minister joined leaders from France and Canada strongly opposing the expansion of Israel’s military operations. And the UK led a further statement with twenty-seven partners criticising Israel’s proposed new aid delivery mechanism and defending the essential humanitarian principles of the international system that the UK did so much to establish in the first place.

    Our message is clear. There is a UN plan ready to deliver aid at scale, needed with mitigations against aid diversion. There are brave humanitarians ready to do their jobs. There are 9,000 trucks at the border. Prime Minister Netanyahu: end this blockade now and let the aid in.

    Regrettably, Madam Deputy Speaker, despite our efforts, this Israeli government’s egregious actions and rhetoric have continued. They are isolating Israel from its friends and partners around the world. Undermining the interests of the Israeli people. And damaging the image of the state of Israel in the eyes of the world.

    I find this deeply painful, as a lifelong friend of Israel and a believer in the values expressed in its declaration of independence.

    As the Prime Minister and fellow leaders said yesterday, we cannot stand by in the face of this new deterioration. It is incompatible with the principles that underpin our bilateral relationship. Rejected by Members across this House and frankly it’s an affront to the values of the British people.

    Therefore today, I am announcing that we have suspended negotiations with this Israeli government on a new free trade agreement. We will be reviewing cooperation with them under the 2030 Bilateral Roadmap.

    The Netanyahu government’s actions have made this necessary. Madam Deputy Speaker, today, my Honourable Friend the Minister for the Middle East is summoning the Israeli Ambassador to the Foreign Office to convey this message.

    I say now to the people of Israel: we want, I want a strong friendship with you based on our shared values with flourishing ties between our people and societies. We are unwavering in our commitment to your security and to your future, to countering the very real threat from Iran, the scourge of terrorism and the evils of antisemitism.

    But the conduct of the war in Gaza is damaging our relationship with your government. And, as the Prime Minister has said, if Israel pursues this military offensive as it has threatened, failing to ensure the unhindered provision of aid, we will take further actions in response.

    The UK, Madam Deputy Speaker, will not give up on a two-state solution. Israelis living in secure borders, recognised and at peace with their neighbours, free from the threat of terrorism. Palestinians living in their own state, in dignity and security, free of occupation.

    The two-state solution remains the ideal framework, indeed, the only framework, for a just and lasting peace. But as the House knows, its very viability is in peril.

    Endangered not only by the war in Gaza, but by the spread of illegal Israeli settlements and outposts across the Occupied West Bank, with the explicit support of this Israeli government.

    There are now weekly meetings to approve new settlement construction. Settlement approval has accelerated while settler violence has soared. Here too, we have acted, repeatedly pressing for a change in this course and direction, sanctioning seven entities last October, and signing a landmark agreement to bolster support for the Palestinian Authority, when Prime Minister Mustafa visited London just last month.

    But here too, we must do more. Today, we are therefore imposing sanctions on a further three individuals and four entities involved in the settler movement.

    I have seen for myself the consequences of settler violence. The fear of its victims. The impunity of its perpetrators. Today, we are demonstrating again that we will continue to act against those who are carrying out heinous abuses of human rights.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, despite the glimmer of hope from January’s ceasefire, the suffering from this conflict has worsened. But January showed another path was possible.

    We urge Netanyahu’s government to choose this path. The world is judging. History will judge them. Blocking aid, expanding the war, dismissing the concerns of your friends and partners. This is indefensible and it must stop.

    I commend this statement to the House.

    Updates to this page

    Published 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Invitation: Boralex to hold Investor Day and present its 2030 Strategy on June 17, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONTREAL, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Boralex inc. (“Boralex” or the “Company”) (TSX: BLX) announces that its 2030 Strategy will be presented at an Investor Day on June 17, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., in Toronto.

    Financial analysts, investors and the media are invited to attend the conference in person in Toronto or via a live video webcast during which members of Boralex’s senior management will present the various aspects of the 2030 Strategy and financial targets.

    Date and time

            Tuesday, June 17, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (ET)

    To attend the live conference

    Webcast link: https://meetings.lumiconnect.com/400-747-683-475

    In person in Toronto (analysts, investors and media): please contact Dominique Hamelin (dominique.hamelin@boralex.com) to reserve your place.

    Anyone interested in this conference are invited to attend the webcast, which will be broadcast live and available for replay on Boralex’s website at www.boralex.com until July 17, 2026.

    Media availability

    Members of Boralex’s Executive Committee will be available for media interviews on the afternoon of June 17, 2025, either by telephone or videoconference, to discuss the company’s 2030 Strategy. For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact Camille Laventure, Senior Advisor, Public Affairs and Communications. Her contact details are provided at the end of this press release.

    About Boralex

    At Boralex, we have been providing affordable renewable energy accessible to everyone for over 30 years. As a leader in the Canadian market and France’s largest independent producer of onshore wind power, we also have facilities in the United States and development projects in the United Kingdom. Over the past five years, our installed capacity has increased by more than 50% to 3.2 GW. We are developing a portfolio of projects in development and construction of more than 8 GW in wind, solar and storage projects, guided by our values and our corporate social responsibility (CSR) approach. Through profitable and sustainable growth, Boralex is actively participating in the fight against global warming. Thanks to our fearlessness, discipline, expertise and diversity, we continue to be an industry leader. Boralex’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BLX.

    For more information, visit boralex.com or sedarplus.com. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

    For more information

    MEDIA INVESTOR RELATIONS
    Camille Laventure
    Senior Advisor, Public Affairs and External Communications
    Boralex Inc.
    438 883-8580
    camille.laventure@boralex.com    		 Stéphane Milot
    Vice President, Investor Relations and Financial Planning and Analysis
    Boralex Inc.
    514 213-1045
    stephane.milot@boralex.com
       

    Source: Boralex inc.        

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: In ‘Paying For It,’ ex-lovers reimagine friendship, family and the meaning of sex work

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ummni Khan, Associate Professor, Department of Law and Legal Studies, Carleton University

    Emily Lê and Daniel Beirne star in the film that sees director and multidisciplinary artist Sook-Lin Yee adapt the graphic memoir of her ex-lover, Chester Brown, for the screen. (Wilding Pictures & Hawkeye Pictures)

    The film Paying For It, Sook-Yin Lee’s live-action adaptation of cartoonist Chester Brown’s 2011 graphic memoir, reveals unexpected overlaps between paid sexual encounters and romantic relationships.

    Lee, a boundary-shattering artist working across film, music, acting and broadcast, has never shied away from taboo. With Paying For It, she takes on sex work, romance and the messy labour of chosen family by adapting her ex-lover’s memoir for the screen.

    ‘Paying For It,’ graphic memoir by Chester Brown.
    (Drawn & Quarterly)

    In my 2019 article “Chester Brown and the Queerness of Johns,” I analyze Brown’s original book, which traces his pivot from monogamy with Lee to regularly seeing sex workers in the late 1990s.

    Both a memoir and a manifesto, the book pairs accounts of paid sex with arguments for decriminalizing sex work, voiced through debates with friends and a detailed appendix. In my analysis, I frame Brown’s memoir as a queer intervention, one that disrupts heteronormative ideals of romantic relations, intimate exchanges and sexual propriety.

    Lee’s cinematic version of Paying For It affirms Brown’s stance, but filters the story through her own perceptions and snapshots of her love life. In doing so, she traces how she and Brown reinvented their relationship, while portraying his encounters with sex workers with nuance and care.

    Drawing on my research in sexuality — including scholarship on sex work, client surveillance and client regulation — I see the film as a defiant celebration of unconventional bonds between exes who remain best friends, and between clients and sex workers, where even purchased orgasms can carry moments of tenderness and mutual respect.

    Radical relationship honesty

    The film opens with Sonny (Lee’s fictional persona, played by Emily Lê) confessing to live-in boyfriend Chester (Daniel Beirne) that she’s falling in love with someone else.

    Rather than erupting in rage or jealousy, Chester remains composed. Together, they choose to see what might come next. As Sonny begins seeing other people, Chester continues living in the house and becomes privy to her romantic sagas, from the steamy beginnings to the bitter blowouts. To the bewilderment of his friends, he remains content with the arrangement.

    Eventually, Chester decides to pay for sex, a decision he shares with Sonny.
    What emerges is a portrait of creative kinship where two people refuse the usual scripts and choose radical openness instead.

    Unconventional bond

    Decades after the events depicted in the film, Lee has described Brown as her “best friend” and “as family.”

    Lee and Brown shape personal histories into overlapping narratives. That they’ve promoted the film together, and appeared in joint interviews and public discussions, suggests a sense of mutual trust at the heart of their collaboration.

    Probing the meanings of sex and intimacy

    Chester moves — and sometimes stumbles — through criminalized terrain, figuring out how to find sex workers, engage respectfully and follow the unspoken rules of the exchange. The film suggests sometimes it’s just sex for Chester, and at other times, the exchange carries an emotional connection for him.

    With one sex worker, Chester shares his real name and gifts a book he wrote about Louis Riel.

    Sociologist Elizabeth Bernstein has analyzed how sex workers are sometimes paid to offer their clients an erotic experience “premised upon the performance of authentic interpersonal connection.”

    In the film, a potential for emotional reciprocity between Chester and a sex worker becomes evident. Without giving too much away, by the film’s end we see how a casual and transactional beginning transforms into something more enduring for both parties.

    ‘Paying For It,’ trailer.

    Risks in both romance and sex work

    The film also highlights the risks running through both sex work and romance.

    Sex workers face threats of abuse, arrest, disrespect and boundary violations. The film gestures to these realities in a scene following a police raid on a sex work venue.

    But the film also shows Sonny’s relationships aren’t immune to danger either. One boyfriend’s rage nearly results in harm to her pet.

    Just as navigating risk is part of both romance and sex work, so too is grappling with the social forces that shape desire. In one pointed exchange, Sonny calls out Chester for only paying young, conventionally attractive women. He counters by asking why she doesn’t date Asian men, forcing them both to confront their own biases.

    Sex worker rights

    While Paying For It is deeply personal, it is also unmistakably political, especially in its implicit advocacy for sex worker rights.

    To navigate the ethical complexities of depicting sex work, Lee consulted with performer, activist and author Andrea Werhurn, who wrote a memoir about being a former escort; Werhurn stars in the film as the sex worker Denise.

    Lee also interviewed Valerie Scott — one of the applicants who challenged Canada’s prostitution laws in the Bedford case.

    The film presents sex work as legitimate labour, highlighting the skills and emotional intelligence it demands. At the same time, it underscores how sex workers remain vulnerable to police harassment, violence and social stigma.

    Canada’s perverse laws on sex work

    The marginalized status of sex work, as dramatized in the film, is shaped by a legal system structured by moralism and hypocrisy.

    Set in the 1990s, Paying For It takes place at a time when Canada didn’t criminalize the sale of sex directly but prohibited nearly everything around it, including soliciting, working indoors and operating brothels.

    These contradictions pushed the industry underground, exposing sex workers to abuse, police harassment, sting operations and heightened health risks, while often branding them with criminal records.

    Sex work kept in the shadows

    In 2013, the Supreme Court’s Bedford decision struck down these provisions, ruling that they violated sex workers’ constitutional rights, most importantly, the right to security of the person.

    But the legal victory was short-lived. In 2014, the Conservative government introduced the Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act, which criminalized the purchase of sexual services while ostensibly decriminalizing its sale.

    In practice, the model keeps paid sex in the shadows, where workers face ongoing risks, limited negotiating power and barriers to reporting abuse or working in safer indoor settings. What’s being protected isn’t sex workers, but a puritanical social order.



    Read more:
    Sex workers are left out in the cold by Ottawa’s unjust conviction amendments

    This puritanical approach also underpins the newly criminalized status of clients. In my chapter “From Average Joe to Deviant John,” I trace how western attitudes toward men who pay for sex evolved from a “boys will be boys” tolerance to a framework that pathologizes and vilifies them.

    Paying For It resists this framing. The film presents Chester as awkward but principled: a considerate client navigating desire in a criminalized and judgmental culture.

    The price of choosing love freely

    Paying For It offers an alternative kind of love story. It spotlights a relationship where former lovers honour the heart (their continued commitment to one another), the body (respecting each other’s sexual autonomy) and the mind (their willingness to question social norms).

    In this way, the film redefines “paying for it” not as a burden but as a conscious and liberating investment in diverse forms of love and intimacy.

    Ummni Khan 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. In ‘Paying For It,’ ex-lovers reimagine friendship, family and the meaning of sex work – https://theconversation.com/in-paying-for-it-ex-lovers-reimagine-friendship-family-and-the-meaning-of-sex-work-255294

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Meta’s Community Notes program is promising, but needs to prioritize transparency

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Sameer Borwankar, Assistant Professor of Information Systems, McGill University

    Meta has changed its approach to fact-checking, moving away from platform-controlled moderation. (Shutterstock)

    Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, has more than 3.35 billion combined monthly active users. Recently, Meta has changed its approach to fact-checking in response to criticisms of its role in circulating fake news and disinformation. The company frames its Community Notes program as a way to uphold free expression.

    Although Meta has not officially announced a launch date for Community Notes in Canada, interested users can join the waitlist via Meta’s Community Notes page.



    Read more:
    Meta shift from fact-checking to crowdsourcing spotlights competing approaches in fight against misinformation and hate speech

    The initiative was first launched in the United States, and will be expanding globally. Meanwhile, X (formerly Twitter) has already experimented with a similar program, with mixed results. The experience of X’s Community Notes (previously known as Birdwatch) underscores that both platforms and regulators must take an active role in refining these programs.

    Meta has the opportunity to learn from four years of Community Notes evolution at X and improve upon its shortcomings. This involves adjusting features, addressing algorithmic biases and ensuring that they function as effective tools rather than mere symbolic gestures.

    CBC reports on Meta ending its fact-checking program.

    Community-driven moderation

    X launched Birdwatch in January 2021 when it was known as Twitter. Marketed as a way to broaden the range of voices beyond platform-based and centralized fact-checking efforts, the program aimed to curb the spread of misinformation through community-driven moderation.

    Over time, the team refined many of its features based on feedback from pilot participants and internal research. When Elon Musk acquired Twitter in 2022, he implemented major changes, including a rebranding of the program’s name.

    Community Notes operates on the principles of crowdsourcing, a method proven effective in various domains. Research has shown that groups of users can collectively identify low-quality news sources and misleading content.

    On X, users participating in the Community Notes program contribute additional context to posts in the form of notes. They can also rate others’ contributions. Notes that receive supportive ratings from a diverse group of users become publicly visible. Once approved, they appear directly beneath the original post, providing added context for the broader audience.

    However, even if a post is widely deemed misleading by Community Notes contributors, the platform does not take action against the post itself or the individuals who spread misinformation. Instead, the program relies solely on surfacing user-generated context rather than the company moderating content.

    Positive impact?

    Preliminary research suggests that the Community Notes program has had a positive impact on curbing the spread of misinformation on the platform. Recent work shows that when a note is attached to a post, authors often voluntarily retract their posts by deleting them.

    On the content creation aspect, participation in the program appears to influence user behaviour: contributors tend to adopt a more measured tone, reducing extreme sentiment in their writing after engaging with the system.

    One of the most notable strengths of X’s Community Notes is its transparency. Since the program’s inception, X has provided public access to both the data and the algorithms that determine which fact-checks are displayed.

    This open-source approach has allowed researchers — both within and outside the company — to study the program and propose improvements. This stands in contrast to the recent trend of social media platforms rolling back data-sharing partnerships.

    Prior to Musk’s acquisition, X also had a dedicated team researching the impact of the program. Early changes to the program were shaped by feedback from participants and internal research.

    For example, in November 2021, X introduced anonymity for fact-checkers to prevent trolling and harassment. This decoupling of roles between content creators and fact-checkers has had a positive effect, reducing the risk of retaliation and fostering a more positive content creation by the participants of the program.

    Groups of users can collectively identify low-quality news sources and misleading content.
    (Shutterstock)

    Challenges and limitations

    Despite its potential, X’s Community Notes program faces several significant challenges, including its low popularity among users. Meta now has an opportunity to address these shortcomings from the outset.

    One of the biggest concerns is manipulation by co-ordination. Given the presence of organized troll networks on social media, there is a high risk that co-ordinated groups could misuse the program to flag legitimate content as misinformation.

    To counteract this, X implemented a consensus-based approach, where a note is only made visible if users with diverse viewpoints agree on its accuracy.

    While this system appears sound in theory, in practice it has led to a severe lack of approved notes as less than nine per cent of submitted notes reach the general audience. Many contributions never gain visibility, often due to insufficient ratings from diverse users.

    Another limitation of the consensus approach is that the algorithm must first recognize diverse viewpoints, which are not always straightforward. Social media platforms operate across hundreds of countries, where political, cultural and social divisions can be complex and nuanced. In such cases, enforcing consensus among a diverse audience may be highly unreliable and require reassessment.

    Shifting responsibility

    There is also the risk that Community Notes serve as a smokescreen, allowing platforms to shift responsibility away from active misinformation management. Since taking over X, Musk has laid off more than 80 per cent of the company’s Trust and Safety team.

    This included members of the Community Notes team, leaving critical gaps in oversight and research. Meta’s recent move to distance itself from third-party fact-checkers suggests a similar retreat from proactive intervention.

    Legal frameworks across different countries add further complications. Although Community Notes contributors remain anonymous to the public, it is unclear how platforms will respond if governments demand access to contributor identities.

    The Wikipedia legal case in India serves as a cautionary example of how platforms may be pressured into compliance. In September 2024, the Delhi High Court issued a contempt-of-court notice to Wikipedia over the site’s delay in providing identifying information about edits.

    No real consequences

    Finally, these programs are further weakened by the platforms’ explicit assurance that they will not take enforcement action based on Community Notes outcomes. Without real consequences for those spreading misinformation, the program risks being a symbolic effort rather than an effective tool for content moderation.

    Overall, there is hope that Meta’s Community Notes program can be effective, but its success will depend on continuous experimentation and improvement. The company must prioritize transparency to rebuild public trust and ensure the program does not become another performative gesture.

    Regulators also have a crucial role in holding platforms accountable, ensuring that data from these programs remains accessible to independent researchers and that the algorithms determining which notes are displayed are fair and unbiased.

    Without these safeguards, Community Notes risks becoming yet another tool that platforms use to shift responsibility rather than a meaningful solution to misinformation.

    Sameer Borwankar receives funding from SSHRC.

    – ref. Meta’s Community Notes program is promising, but needs to prioritize transparency – https://theconversation.com/metas-community-notes-program-is-promising-but-needs-to-prioritize-transparency-248324

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK sanctions hit West Bank violence network

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK sanctions hit West Bank violence network

    UK sanctions individuals, illegal settler outposts and organisations supporting violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank, as Foreign Secretary pauses Free Trade Agreement negotiations with Israel

    • New sanctions target 3 individuals, 2 illegal settler outposts and 2 organisations supporting violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank. 
    • Today’s measures include financial restrictions and travel bans, including on high-profile extremist settler leader Daniella Weiss
    • In a statement to the House, the Foreign Secretary is set to announce a formal pause of Free Trade Agreement negotiations with Israel, effective immediately.
    • He will make clear the UK’s complete opposition to the IDF’s new, extensive ground operation through Gaza, repeat UK demands that Hamas release all the hostages immediately and unconditionally, and reiterate that Hamas cannot continue to run Gaza.

    In response to the persistent cycle of serious violence undertaken by extremist Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, the Foreign Secretary has announced new sanctions today.

    Today’s measures target 3 individuals, including prominent settler leader Daniella Weiss, as well as 2 illegal outposts and 2 organisations that have supported, incited and promoted violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank.

    These individuals and entities are now subject to measures including financial restrictions, travel bans, and director disqualifications, and will follow 18 other individuals, entities, and companies already sanctioned relating to serious violence against communities in the West Bank.

    The measures follow a dramatic surge in settler violence in the West Bank, with the UN recording over 1,800 attacks by settlers against Palestinian communities since 1 January 2024.

    In a statement to Parliament, the Foreign Secretary is also set to announce the formal pause of Free Trade Agreement negotiations with Israel, effective immediately. While the UK government remains committed to the existing trade agreement in force, it is not possible to advance discussions on a new, upgraded FTA with a Netanyahu government that is pursuing egregious policies in the West Bank and Gaza.

    His statement will address latest developments on the ground in Gaza, making clear the UK’s complete opposition to the IDF’s new, extensive ground operation through Gaza, the threat of starvation for the Gazan population, and the UK’s condemnation of the Israeli government’s plans to drive Gazans from their homes into a corner of the Strip. The Foreign Secretary will also repeat UK demands that Hamas release all the hostages immediately and unconditionally and reiterate that Hamas cannot continue to run Gaza.

    The new steps follow a joint statement issued by the Prime Minister along with the leaders of France and Canada, setting out their strong opposition to the expansion of Israel’s military operations in Gaza and to illegal settlements in the West Bank. They also made clear that if Israel does not cease this action, further action will be taken in response.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

    I have seen for myself the consequences of settler violence. The fear of its victims. The impunity of its perpetrators.

    The sanctioning of Daniella Weiss and others today demonstrates our determination to hold extremist settlers to account as Palestinian communities suffer violence and intimidation at the hands of extremist settlers.

    The Israeli government has a responsibility to intervene and halt these aggressive actions. Their consistent failure to act is putting Palestinian communities and the two-state solution in peril.

    The announcement comes as Minister for the Middle East Hamish Falconer summons Israel’s Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office over the expansion of military operations in Gaza.

    Minister for the Middle East Hamish Falconer said:

    Today I will set out to Ambassador Hotovely the government’s opposition to the wholly disproportionate escalation of military activity in Gaza and emphasise that the 11-week block on aid to Gaza has been cruel and indefensible. I will urge Israel to halt settlement expansion and settler violence in the West Bank.

    Israel must abide by its obligations under International Humanitarian Law and ensure full, rapid, safe and unhindered provision of humanitarian assistance to the population in Gaza. The limited amount of aid entering is simply not enough.

    We must get an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages and a path to a two-state solution is the only way to ensure the long-term peace and security of both Palestinians and Israelis.

    Background

    Individuals and entities sanctioned today:

    • Daniella Weiss – has been involved in threatening, perpetrating, promoting and supporting, acts of aggression and violence against Palestinian individuals. Weiss is now subject to an asset freeze, travel ban, and director disqualification.

    • Harel Libi – Owner of Libi Construction and Infrastructure. Libi has been involved in threatening and perpetuating acts of aggression and violence against Palestinian individuals. Libi is now subject to an asset freeze, travel ban, and director disqualification.

    • Zohar Sabah – has been involved in threatening, perpetrating, promoting and supporting, acts of aggression and violence against Palestinian individuals. Sabah is now subject to an asset freeze, travel ban, and director disqualification.

    • Coco’s Farm – is associated with a person who is or has been involved in activity which amounts to facilitating, inciting, promoting or providing support for activity which amounts to a serious abuse of the right of individuals not to be subjected to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.  Coco’s Farm is now subject to an asset freeze.

    • Libi Construction and Infrastructure –has provided logistical and financial support for the establishment of illegal outposts resulting in the forced displacement of Palestinians in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, activities which cause the psychological suffering of Palestinians, and activities which often leads to violence perpetrated against Palestinians. Libi Construction and Infrastructure is now subject to an asset freeze and director disqualification.

    • Nachala – has been involved in facilitating, inciting, promoting and providing logistical and financial support for the establishment of illegal outposts and forced displacement of Palestinians in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, activities which cause the psychological suffering of Palestinians, and which often lead to violence perpetrated against Palestinians. Nachala is now subject to an asset freeze.

    • Neria’s Farm – is associated with a person who is or has been involved in activity which amounts to facilitating, inciting, promoting or providing support for activity which amounts to a serious abuse of the right of individuals not to be subjected to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. Neria’s Farm is now subject to an asset freeze.

    Definitions

    • Asset freeze: where an asset freeze applies, in summary, it is generally prohibited within the UK, and for UK persons outside the UK, to: (1) deal with funds or economic resources, owned, held or controlled by a designated person; (2) make funds or economic resources available, directly or indirectly, to, or for the benefit of, a designated person; and (3) engage in actions that, directly or indirectly, circumvent the financial sanctions prohibitions. 
    • Director Disqualification Sanctions: Where director disqualification sanctions apply, it will be an offence for a person designated for the purpose of those sanctions to act as a director of a company or to take part in the management, formation or promotion of a UK company. 
    • Travel ban: an individual subject to a travel ban will be an excluded person under section 8B of the Immigration Act 1971, meaning that they must be refused leave to enter or to remain in the United Kingdom.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Free Shingles Vaccine Available This Month

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Starting today, May 20, Nova Scotians aged 65 and older can book their free shingles vaccine appointment. The first appointments will be May 28.

    “Across Canada, nearly one in three people develop shingles, despite the availability of the vaccine,” said Premier Tim Houston. “That’s why we are delivering on our promise of removing barriers to access and making the shingles vaccine free.”

    The vaccine costs about $400 but will be free for seniors starting May 28. People can book an appointment by calling their primary health care provider or at https://novascotia.ca/routinevaccine

    Shingles is a viral infection that causes an extremely painful, burning skin rash and nerve pain that can last 90 days or more. For many people, it is debilitating. Anyone who has had chickenpox or has been exposed to the virus is at risk of developing shingles later in life.

    Quotes:

    “We are committed to investing in things that matter and that make a real impact on the day-to-day lives of Nova Scotians. We know how severe the symptoms of shingles are, and the good news is that it can be easily prevented.”
    — Michelle Thompson, Minister of Health and Wellness

    “The free shingles vaccine is life changing for older Nova Scotians. For many people, the high cost made the vaccine out of reach. By breaking down barriers to care, we are protecting more older Nova Scotians from the needless suffering that comes with this awful virus.”
    — Barbara Adams, Minister of Seniors and Long-Term Care

    “CARP is extremely pleased to hear this announcement. The free shingles vaccine is great news for older Nova Scotians, who are at risk for developing this awful life-impacting disease. By removing the cost, this will open the door for more seniors to have access to the vaccine.”
    — Bill VanGorder, Advocacy and Education Officer, Canadian Association of Retired Persons

    “Seniors of Nova Scotia welcome the announcement of free shingles vaccine available to all people over 65. We recognize the impact of this debilitating and disabling virus, the effects of which can last weeks, months and can cause lifelong nerve pain. This vaccine will enable seniors to protect themselves from such serious life-altering effects and decrease their vulnerability to chronic problems, enabling seniors to enjoy a higher quality of life.”
    — Alyson Hillier, co-Chair, Seniors Advisory Council of Nova Scotia

    Quick Facts:

    • the government is investing more than $26 million in fiscal 2025-2026 in the rollout of the free shingles vaccine
    • people aged 65 and older are at highest risk for severe disease, and that age group has the highest hospitalization rates
    • the vaccine, called Shingrix, prevents shingles complications, which can ease pressure on emergency departments, primary care and the overall health system
    • two doses are needed for full protection

    Additional Resources:

    Information on shingles vaccine eligibility is available at: https://www.nshealth.ca/public-health/immunizations

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort McMurray — Alberta RCMP Major Crimes Unit investigates homicide in Fort McMurray – Update

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Alberta RCMP have laid charges in connection with the Feb. 7, 2025, fatal shooting on 600 Signal Road in Fort McMurray. The deceased has been identified at 24-year-old Edmonton resident Junior Ashu.

    On May 15, 2025, the Alberta RCMP Major Crimes Unit with the assistance of the St. Albert RCMP Detachment arrested a 26-year-old individual, a resident of Edmonton. The individual has been charged with first-degree murder.

    The individual has been taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody with a next court date set for May 28, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Assault of an inmate at Mountain Institution

    Source: Government of Canada News

    May 16, 2025 – Agassiz, British Columbia – Correctional Service Canada

    On May 13, 2025, an inmate was the victim of an assault at Mountain Institution, a medium-security federal institution.

    The injured inmate was evaluated by staff members and transported to an outside hospital to receive treatment.

    The Agassiz detachment of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police have been notified and the institution is presently investigating the incident.

    The assailant has been identified and the appropriate actions have been taken.

    No staff members or other inmates were injured during this incident.

    The safety and security of institutions, their staff, and the public remains the highest priority in the operations of the federal correctional system.

    In order to improve practices aimed at preventing this type of incident, the Correctional Service of Canada will review the circumstances of the incident and take the appropriate measures.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Evansburg — Search Warrant executed after joint project between RCMP, Alberta SPCA and Parkland County Enforcement Services

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On April 14, 2025, Evansburg RCMP executed a search warrant on a rural property in Parkland County, Alta., in regards to stolen property and animals in distress. The RCMP, with assistance from the Alberta SPCA and Parkland County Enforcement Services, attended the property and located several horses that were deemed to be in distress. The horses were seized by Alberta SPCA Peace Officers and transported to a caretaking facility for further examination and treatment.

    As a result of the investigation, a 54-year-old individual, a resident of Parkland County who is already subject to a court ordered lifetime ban from owning, caring for or being in possession of, any equine animals, was arrested and charged with:

    • Breaching a court order;
    • Possession of stolen property under $5000;
    • Breaching prohibition order; and
    • Causing unnecessary pain and suffering or injury to an animal (x2).

    The individual was brought before a justice of the peace and released on conditions, including one to make alternate housing arrangements for any remaining horses on the property. The individual’s next court date is set for April 28, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Evansburg.

    “I would like to thank those who are willing to come forward and provide information that helps protect vulnerable animals,” said Sgt Sutherland, Detachment Commander of the Evansburg RCMP. “It is thanks to the public that we were able to work with the Alberta SPCA and Parkland County Enforcement Services to seize these animals and protect them from further harm”.

    “Prohibition orders against owning or caring for animals can be an effective tool in preventing animal distress,” added Alberta SPCA Executive Director Leanne Niblock. “We want to thank the RCMP for their diligent work to enforce this order and ultimately help protect animals and will continue to work to make protections for all animals even stronger.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Simpliigence Expands Its Footprint with a New Office Opening in Indiranagar, Bangalore

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BANGALORE, India, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Simpliigence, a leading Salesforce consulting firm focused on digital transformations, is proud to announce the opening of its new office in the vibrant business district of Indiranagar, Bangalore (often referred to as the Silicon Valley of India). This marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth journey, strengthening its commitment to delivering world-class digital solutions globally.

    With a strong presence already established in New York and Bangalore, Simpliigence is experiencing rapid growth, driven by its success in helping clients streamline sales, service, and operations, enhance customer experiences, and maximize their Salesforce investment. The new office further solidifies the company’s expansion plans and reinforces its dedication to supporting businesses of all sizes & industries in adopting innovative technology solutions that drive measurable results.

    The Bangalore office will serve as a hub for Simpliigence’s growing team of certified Salesforce experts, providing a collaborative space designed for innovation, strategy development, and ensuring client success. It will support Simpliigence’s mission of delivering personalized, flexible, and fast Salesforce implementations, while fostering an employee-first culture that values innovation, creativity, and excellence.

    “We are excited to open our new office in one of Bangalore’s most dynamic districts,” said Raghu Seetharam, CEO at Simpliigence. “Bangalore is truly the heartbeat of IT ecosystem and this expansion not only highlights our commitment to providing tailored Salesforce solutions to businesses but also positions us for continued growth as we partner with more businesses looking to unlock the full potential of Salesforce.”

    The expansion into Indiranagar enhances Simpliigence’s capacity to serve clients across various industries, offering a comprehensive suite of services including Salesforce advisory, integration, concierge support, custom development, strategic positioning, and capacity building. This move aligns with Simpliigence’s vision to transform the way businesses manage their customer relationships and business operations using Salesforce ecosystem and other CRMs.

    Simpliigence’s Bangalore office is now open and ready to support businesses looking to optimize their Salesforce capabilities.

    About Simpliigence:
    Founded in 2020, Simpliigence is a Salesforce consulting firm focused on helping businesses implement, optimize, and manage the Salesforce platform. With a team of certified Salesforce professionals based in the USA, Canada, and India, Simpliigence specializes in delivering flexible, scalable, and cost-effective solutions that empower 150+ businesses to leverage the full potential of Salesforce.

    Media Contact:
    Subhasmita
    Marketing Lead
    subhasmita@simpliigence.com
    https://simpliigence.com/

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5ad3ad5d-ef4e-45c2-bee6-55cca1584e5b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Trio enters into Letter of Intent to acquire 2000 acres in P.R. Spring Utah, one of largest tar-sand deposits in North America outside of Canada.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    California, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trio Petroleum Corp (NYSE American: TPET) (“Trio” or the “Company”), a California-based oil and gas company, is pleased to announce it has entered into a Letter of Intent to acquire 2000 acres at P.R. Spring, Unita Basin, Utah from Heavy Sweet Oil LLC. (HSO). According to a report provided by Dr. Douglas S. Hamilton, who holds Bachelor’s (HONs) and Ph.D. degrees in Geology from the University of Sydney, Australia, P.R. Spring area contains an estimated 6.75 billion barrels of OOIP within its basin boundary limits. This information was ascertained through detailed mapping of bitumen outcrops by various authors*, analysis of historical core hole and petroleum exploration wells, and examination of laboratory-derived measurements of porosity and oil saturation from 100’s of cores.

    An Optimization Study conducted by Dr Amanda Bustin, President of Bustin Earth Science Consultants, indicated a typical project well has an estimated ultimate recovery (“EUR”) of 300,000 barrels of oil with stable production rate exceeding approximately 40 barrels of oil per day. The 2000-acre parcel will support up to 1000 wells in seven well pods. Once complete Trio believes that the project, fully developed, could provide upwards of 50,000 barrels a day with an approximate 20-year life. With an expected initial total drilling and completion cost of less than $800,000 per well and declining with scale, we believe the economics and size of the opportunity are superlative and transformative for a company like Trio.

    The initial product from these wells will be commercial grade asphalt directly from the site for 90% of the production with an estimated 10% balance being a diesel range product. Both products are low sulfur and are expected to demonstrate a very low carbon footprint. This may enable our project to sell both spec commercial grade asphalt binder, which is expected to sell locally at a premium to WTI, as well as green diesel that is expected to sell at an even higher margin to WTI (per Valkor Oil and Gas LLC project developer and operator).

    Samples of produced oil from Heavy Sweet’s Asphalt Ridge project, which is located next to the P.R. Spring in the Unita Basin, confirm oil composition and above-ground facilities have been designed allowing for the separation of the two products, asphalt and diesel, providing the ability to capture product prices superior to WTI.

    The Operator is Heavy Sweet Oil, LLC, in partnerships with Valkor Oil and Gas LLC, a vertically integrated project development company with expertise in shallow heavy oil and in green and socially beneficial hydrocarbon projects.

    According to J. Wallace Gwynn of Energy News, the P.R. Spring Project is known to be one of the largest tar-sand deposits in North America outside of Canada, making it a potential giant oilfield, and is distinctive given its low wax and negligible sulfur content, which is expected to make the oil very desirable for many industries, including shipping. The project has the potential to be both large and highly profitable.

    As a result of this new opportunity, Trio allowed its option for an additional 77.75% in Asphalt Ridge to expire.

    Terms of Acquisition

    Upon the execution of the LOI by the Parties, Trio paid HSO a non-refundable payment of $150,000 for the option to acquire 2,000 acres of Trio’s choice and develop the P.R. Spring Project.

    Upon Trio entering into a Definitive Agreement with HSO for the P.R. Spring Project, at the closing of the Proposed Transaction (“Closing”) it is expected that Trio shall (i) issue to HSO 1,492,272 restricted shares of Trio’s common stock and (ii) pay to HSO $850,000, in cash, which shall be applied toward the acquisition and development of the P.R. Spring Project.

    It is also expected that Trio will provide 100% of the required capital expenditures for the development of the P.R. Spring Project, and Trio and HSO will each be entitled to 50% of the net profits derived from the P.R. Spring Project.

    Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Definitive Agreement, it is intended that Trio will construct a minimum of seven production wells in connection with the P.R. Spring Project, during the two-year period after the Closing.

    It is also expected that the Definitive Agreement will contain such other terms and conditions as are customary in an acquisition of this nature including, without limitation, representations and warranties, conditions for Closing and applicable indemnifications.

    Trio’s obligation to enter into the Definitive Agreement shall be subject to delivery of evidence of a minimum sustained production rate of 40 barrels per day for a continuous 30-day period from each of the two wells at the Asphalt Ridge site.

    *Gwynn published a Utah Geological Survey Open-File Report (no. 527) in 2008 that exhaustively compiled tar sand data for the P.R. Spring area from numerous resource-characterization and hydrocarbon reserve investigations. This compilation defines the area of the tar sand deposit at P.R. Spring (figure 4). Geological maps and measured sections of the tar sand deposits are presented in Whittier and Becker (1962) and Byrd (1967), and Gwynn (1971) and Clem (1984) attempted correlation of the bitumen-bearing sandstone units. Properties of the tar sand deposits are published in Johnson and others (1975a, b, c), Dana and Sinks (1984a, b), and Sinks (1985). Analysis of oil extracted from the tar sands is documented in Wood and Ritzma (1972). Reserves and economic potential are discussed in Dahm (1980) and Clem (1984).

    About Trio Petroleum Corp
    Trio Petroleum Corp is an oil and gas exploration and development company in California, Saskatchewan and Utah.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    All statements in this press release of Trio Petroleum Corp (“Trio”) and its representatives and partners that are not based on historical fact are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Acts”). In particular, when used in the preceding discussion, the words “estimates,” “believes,” “hopes,” “expects,” “intends,” “on-track”, “plans,” “anticipates,” or “may,” and similar conditional expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Acts and are subject to the safe harbor created by the Acts. Any statements made in this news release other than those of historical fact, about an action, event or development, are forward-looking statements. While management has based any forward-looking statements contained herein on its current expectations, the information on which such expectations were based may change. These forward-looking statements rely on a number of assumptions concerning future events and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are outside of the Trio’s control, that could cause actual results to materially and adversely differ from such statements. Such risks, uncertainties, and other factors include, but are not necessarily limited to, those set forth in the Risk Factors sections of the Trio reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Copies of such documents are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. Trio undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Redwood Empire Financial Communications
    Michael Bayes
    (404) 809 4172
    michael@redwoodefc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Thrive Launches Compliance Center Offering Unrivaled Expertise

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Thrive, a global technology outsourcing provider for cybersecurity, Cloud, and IT managed services, today announced its new Compliance Center. The Compliance Center provides mid-market businesses and public sector organizations with valuable content that aligns with industry-specific needs and international regulations, delivering comprehensive support for diverse industries.

    As technology continues to advance, global regulatory expansion continues to advance protections around personal data from cyberattacks or other misuse. With new and evolving standards appearing on the international stage, such as DORA, the EU AI Act, and data privacy laws that differ region to region, maintaining compliance and seamless operations is becoming increasingly complex. With streamlined, compliance-friendly processes and technology in place, mid-market businesses and public sector organizations can focus on growth and innovation. Thrive’s tailored, scalable solutions align with industry-specific needs and international regulations.

    “Whether it’s industry-specific or government-enforced, organizations are facing stricter and ever-changing regulations to ensure they are protecting their users’ data,” said Bill McLaughlin, CEO of Thrive. “Thrive empowers mid-market organizations across the globe to meet regulatory requirements, improve operations, and achieve business goals. By leveraging robust guidelines, best practices, and automation, Thrive optimizes security and mitigates potential fines.”

    Thrive currently supports organizations across various industries – including financial services, healthcare, and government operations – that want to maintain compliance in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Thrive services can effectively help modernize IT infrastructure, managing risk in data protection, business continuity planning, strategic consulting, vCISO services, and secure Cloud operations.

    The Compliance Center builds on Thrive’s teams of subject matter experts, including supporting organizations with DORA regulations, CMMC, CJIS, and more. Thrive experts are also trained to address specific regulatory requirements and policy areas, including HIPAA and SEC. For more information on our newest service, Cyber Essentials (CE) and Cyber Essentials Plus (CE+) consulting, auditing, and certification, see here. To learn more about these offerings, visit Thrive’s website here.

    About Thrive

    Thrive delivers global technology outsourcing for cybersecurity, Cloud, networking, and other complex IT requirements. Thrive’s NextGen platform enables customers to increase business efficiencies through standardization, scalability, and automation, delivering oversized technology returns on investment (ROI). They accomplish this with advisory services, vCISO, vCIO, consulting, project implementation, solution architects, and a best-in-class subscription-based technology platform. Thrive delivers exceptional high-touch service through its POD approach of subject matter experts and global 24x7x365 SOC, NOC, and centralized services teams. Learn more at www.thrivenextgen.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

    Contacts

    Hannah Johnston

    thrive@v2comms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ambiq and CardioMedive Deliver Unified Medical Cardiac Care Solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ambiq®, a technology leader in ultra-low-power solutions for edge AI, announced a strategic partnership with CardioMedive, an award-winning health technology innovator, to revolutionize cardiovascular care with the Medive – an advanced modular health monitoring platform powered by the Apollo510.

    Breakthrough Technical Innovations

    • Ultra-low power Apollo510 MCU employs the Subthreshold Power Optimized Technology (SPOT®) platform to deliver unparalleled energy efficiency for high-performance edge AI
    • Modular plug-and-play scalable architecture tailored to patient needs, no more managing separate devices. It integrates clinical-grade 1 lead multi-parameter patch, 3/5/12-lead ECGs, blood pressure, SpO2, temperature, respiration, digital stethoscope, and comprehensive remote examination capabilities
    • Multi-week battery life ensures continuous health data capture in a lightweight, unobtrusive design
    • Dual SDIO interfaces handle high-throughput Wi-Fi and eMMC storage simultaneously, enabling seamless connectivity without performance comprises

    Transforming Healthcare Access Through Edge AI
    The Medive uses AI-driven analytics to deliver hospital-grade cardiovascular insights in diverse settings, from clinics to patients’ homes. By leveraging the Apollo510’s powerful edge computing capabilities for on-device inferencing, Medive enables immediate anomaly detection, real-time patient alerts, and predictive insights, drastically reducing the latency issues associated with cloud-based communications. The Apollo510 dual SDIO architecture enables Medive to run high-throughput Wi-Fi and eMMC Storage simultaneously, delivering fast performance and seamless connectivity with zero trade-offs. The Medive was selected as the “Medical Innovation of the Year” winner by the Romanian Healthcare Awards for advancing remote cardiovascular patient monitoring.

    “CardioMedive is transforming all phases of the patient’s journey for both in-home and hospital care,” says Fumihide Esaka, CEO of Ambiq. “We are proud to power such an important digital health innovation that makes effective prevention, diagnosis, and disease management more accessible using our ultra-low power solutions.”

    Ion Mocanu, CEO & Co-founder of CardioMedive, added, “Our partnership with Ambiq has been instrumental in creating a truly groundbreaking platform that addresses critical healthcare challenges. The Apollo510’s exceptional processing power, peripherals and energy efficiency have enabled us to design a solution that not only meets today’s needs but is future proofed for tomorrow’s healthcare innovations.”

    Comprehensive Health Monitoring
    Patients using Medive can monitor a wide range of vital health metrics, including ECG, blood pressure, and SpO₂, while also conducting specialized examinations using modules for stethoscope exams, spirometry, otoscopy, thermal imaging for diabetes-related complications, breast cancer screening, and more.

    Availability
    CardioMedive is on track for commercial launch in Q3 2026, beginning in Europe and the U.K., with phased expansion to the U.S., Canada, and Asia-Pacific markets in 2027. Learn more about the Medive here.

    About Ambiq

    Our mission is to enable intelligence (artificial intelligence (AI) and beyond) everywhere by delivering the lowest power semiconductor solutions. We enable our customers to deliver artificial intelligence compute at the edge where power consumption challenges are the most profound. Our technology innovations, built on the patented and proprietary subthreshold power optimized technology (SPOT), fundamentally deliver a multi-fold improvement in power consumption over traditional semiconductor designs. We’ve powered over 270 million devices today. For more information, visit www.ambiq.com.

    About CardioMedive

    CardioMedive is a health technology company redefining how cardiovascular care is delivered — through a modular, AI-enabled monitoring platform that adapts to patients’ needs at home, in clinics, or anywhere in between. Combining medical-grade accuracy with user-friendly design, CardioMedive empowers providers, patients, and digital health platforms to detect, manage, and respond to heart health anomalies. Visit www.cardiomedive.eu to learn more or inquire about global partnerships.

    Contact
    Charlene Wan 
    VP of Marketing, and Investor Relations 
    cwan@ambiq.com 
    +1.512.879.2850

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/795afc79-ce72-41fc-8b22-537b49141328

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Grant Williamson appointed as Canada Leader for Willis

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Willis, a WTW business (Nasdaq: WTW), today announced the appointment of Grant Williamson as Canada leader within the Corporate Risk and Broking (CRB) business.

    In this role, Williamson will partner with the Canadian leadership team and leaders across North America and global specialty lines to drive the Canadian growth strategy through targeted go-to-market initiatives and strengthened local execution. Williamson’s appointment reflects the company’s commitment to deepening its leadership presence in Canada and driving continued growth in this key market.

    With 20 years of experience spanning enterprise risk management, property and casualty insurance, and employment practices liability, Williamson has built a strong track record of delivering client-focused risk solutions. He joined WTW in October 2024 as Deputy Regional Leader, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Strategy & Execution for Willis in Canada. Prior to joining the company, he held key senior roles in the insurance industry, including National Corporate Segment & Central Zone Leader at Marsh and Managing Director of the Toronto Branch at JLT Canada.

    Based in Toronto, he will report to Ionel Rizea, Chief Commercial Officer, CRB North America.

    Pat Donnelly, Head of Risk & Broking North America commented, “Grant brings a clear strategic lens, and his expertise in the Canadian market makes him exceptionally well-suited for this role. His collaborative approach, combined with a client-first mindset, will be key as we expand our Canadian presence.”

    Ionel Rizea added, “We are thrilled to have Grant step into this critical role. His deep understanding of the industry and his innovative approach to risk management will drive significant client value and growth for our Canadian business.”

    About WTW

    At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk, and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce, and maximize performance.

    Working shoulder to shoulder with our clients, we uncover opportunities for sustainable success—and provide perspective that moves you.

    Learn more at wtwco.com.

    Media Contact

    Douglas Menelly
    Douglas.Menelly@wtwco.com +1 (516) 972 0380

    Arnelle Sullivan
    Arnelle.Sullivan@wtwco.com +1 (718) 208 0474

    The MIL Network –