NewzIntel.com

Category: Canada

  • MIL-OSI: Partners Value Investments Inc. Announces 2024 Annual Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Partners Value Investments Inc. (the “Company”, TSX: PVF.WT, PVF.PR.V) announced today its financial results for the year ended December 31, 2024. All amounts are stated in U.S. dollars.

    The Company recorded net loss of $3.8 billion for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $333 million in the prior year. The decrease in income was primarily attributable to the current year remeasurement losses associated with the retractable shares and warrant liabilities, partially offset by higher investment income and valuation gains as well as foreign currency gains compared to the prior year. The Company’s retractable common shares are classified as liabilities due to their cash retraction feature. The remeasurement gains or losses in a given period are driven by the respective appreciation or depreciation of the Partners Value Investments L.P. (the “Partnership”) unit price as the exchangeable shares are recognized at fair value based on the quoted price of the Partnership’s Equity LP units. During the year, the Partnership unit price increased by $51.79 compared to $4.96 in the prior year.

    Excluding retractable share and warrant liability remeasurement gains and dividends paid on retractable shares, Adjusted Earnings for the Company was $122 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $27 million in the prior year. Adjusted Earnings were higher in the current year as a result of higher investment income and valuation gains as well as foreign currency gains.

    As at December 31, 2024, the market prices of a Brookfield Corporation (the “Corporation”, NYSE/TSX: BN) and Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (the “Manager”, NYSE/TSX: BAM) share were $57.45 and $54.19, respectively. As at March 28, 2025, the market prices of a BN and BAM share were $51.85 and $48.50, respectively.

    Consolidated Statements of Operations

    For the years ended December 31
    (Thousands, US dollars)    		      
                2024       2023    
    Investment income                      
    Dividends           $ 108,428     $ 96,269    
    Other investment income             18,607       11,802    
                  127,035       108,071    
    Expenses                      
    Operating expenses             (5,553 )     (5,843 )  
    Financing costs             (38,777 )     (35,210 )  
    Retractable preferred share dividends             (33,399 )     (35,456 )  
                  (77,729 )     (76,509 )  
    Other items                      
    Investment valuation gains (losses)             5,703       (6,237 )  
    Retractable share remeasurement losses             (3,575,080 )     (281,451 )  
    Warrant liability remeasurement losses             (306,473 )     (52,694 )  
    Amortization of deferred financing costs             (3,506 )     (3,380 )  
    Foreign currency gain (loss)             53,280       (15,983 )  
    Current tax expense             (3,514 )     (1,270 )  
    Deferred tax expense             (7,489 )     (3,280 )  
    Net loss           $ (3,787,773 )   $ (332,733 )  


    Financial Profile

    The Company’s principal investments are its interest in 121 million Class A Limited Voting Shares of the Corporation and approximately 31 million Class A Limited Voting Shares of the Manager. This represents approximately an 8% interest in the Corporation and a 7% interest in the Manager as at December 31, 2024. In addition, the Company owns a diversified investment portfolio of marketable securities and private fund interests.

    The information in the following table has been extracted from the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Financial Position:

    Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

    As at
    (Thousands, US dollars)    		       December 31,
    2024    		       December 31,
    2023    		  
    Assets              
    Cash and cash equivalents     $ 156,952     $ 199,856  
    Accounts receivable and other assets       69,776       31,456  
    Deferred tax assets       —       4,309  
    Investment in Brookfield Corporation1       6,949,656       4,853,261  
    Investment in Brookfield Asset Management Ltd.2       1,669,488       1,237,554  
    Other investments carried at fair value       1,141,048       889,398  
          $ 9,986,920     $ 7,215,834  
    Liabilities and Equity              
    Accounts payable and other liabilities     $ 42,824     $ 34,916  
    Corporate borrowings       208,168       225,789  
    Preferred shares3       703,044       757,254  
    Retractable common shares       7,312,467       3,718,510  
    Warrant liability       494,710       218,051  
    Deferred tax liabilities       7,933       —  
            8,769,146       4,954,520  
    Equity              
    Accumulated deficit       (6,821,786 )     (3,034,013 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive income       8,027,580       5,283,347  
    Non-controlling interest       11,980       11,980  
          $ 9,986,920     $ 7,215,834  
    1. The investment in Brookfield Corporation consists of 121 million Corporation shares with a quoted market value of $57.45 per share as at December 31, 2024 (December 31, 2023 – $40.12).
    2. The investment in Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. consists of 31 million Manager shares with a quoted market value of $54.19 per share as at December 31, 2024 (December 31, 2023 – $40.17).
    3. Represents $712 million of retractable preferred shares less $9 million of unamortized issue costs as at December 31, 2024 (December 31, 2023 – $767 million less $10 million).

    For further information, contact Investor Relations at ir@pvii.ca or 416-643-7621.

    Note: This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities regulations. The words “potential” and “estimated” and other expressions which are predictions of or indicate future events, trends or prospects and which do not relate to historical matters, identify forward-looking information.

    Although the Company believes that its anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and information are based upon reasonable assumptions and expectations, the reader should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond its control, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievement expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and information.

    Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward‐looking statements and information include, but are not limited to: the financial performance of Brookfield Corporation, the impact or unanticipated impact of general economic, political and market factors; the behavior of financial markets, including fluctuations in interest and foreign exchanges rates; limitations on the liquidity of our investments; global equity and capital markets and the availability of equity and debt financing and refinancing within these markets; strategic actions including dispositions; changes in accounting policies and methods used to report financial condition (including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates); the effect of applying future accounting changes; business competition; operational and reputational risks; technological change; changes in government regulation and legislation; changes in tax laws; risks associated with the use of financial leverage; catastrophic events, such as earthquakes and hurricanes; the possible impact of international conflicts and other developments including terrorist acts; and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in the Company’s documents filed with the securities regulators in Canada.

    The Company cautions that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on the Company’s forward-looking statements and information, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Partners Value Investments L.P. Announces 2024 Annual Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Partners Value Investments L.P. (the “Partnership”, TSX: PVF.UN TSX:PVF.PR.U) announced today its financial results for the year ended December 31, 2024. All amounts are stated in U.S. dollars.

    The Partnership recorded net income of $74 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $15 million in the prior year. The increase in income was primarily driven by higher investment income and valuation gains as well as foreign currency gains. Income of $65 million was attributable to the Equity Limited Partners, and $9 million was attributable to Preferred Limited Partners.

    As at December 31, 2024, the market prices of a Brookfield Corporation (the “Corporation”, NYSE/TSX: BN) and Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (the “Manager”, NYSE/TSX: BAM) share were $57.45 and $54.19, respectively. As at March 28, 2025, the market prices of a BN and BAM share were $51.85 and $48.50, respectively.

    Consolidated Statements of Operations

    For the years ended December 31      
    (Thousands, US dollars)       2024       2023  
    Investment income              
    Dividends     $ 95,071     $ 85,114  
    Other investment income       18,609       11,802  
            113,680       96,916  
    Expenses              
    Operating expenses       (6,552 )     (6,156 )
    Financing costs       (10,136 )     (9,484 )
    Retractable preferred share dividends       (39,879 )     (41,954 )
            (56,567 )     (57,594 )
                   
    Other items              
    Investment valuation gains (losses)       5,703       (6,237 )
    Amortization of deferred financing costs       (3,506 )     (3,380 )
    Foreign currency gains (losses)       25,519       (10,435 )
    Current taxes expense       (3,514 )     (1,270 )
    Deferred taxes expense       (7,489 )     (3,280 )
    Net income     $ 73,826     $ 14,720  
     

    The information in the following table shows the changes in net book value:

    For the years ended December 31 2024   2023
    (Thousands, except per unit amounts)   Total        Per Unit      Total       Per Unit
    Net book value, beginning of year1 $ 5,783,620     $ 70.74   $ 4,656,824     $ 57.60
    Net income2   65,054             5,368        
    Other comprehensive income2   2,690,274             1,443,806        
    Adjustment for impact of warrants1   (148,510 )           (89,755 )      
    Re-organization3   —             98,318        
    Distribution3   —             (327,850 )      
    Equity LP repurchases   (14,756 )           (3,091 )      
    Net book value, end of year4 $ 8,375,682     $ 102.80   $ 5,783,620     $ 70.74
    1. Calculated on a fully diluted basis. Net book value is a non‐IFRS measure used by management to measure the value of an Equity Limited Partnership (“Equity LP”) unit on a fully diluted basis. It is equal to total equity less General Partner equity, Preferred Limited Partners’ equity,
      non-controlling interests’ equity plus the value of consideration to be received on exercising of warrants, which as at December 31, 2024, was
      $114 million (December 31, 2023 – $263 million).
    2. Attributable to Equity Limited Partners.
    3. As a result of the 2023 re-organization, the Partnership issued net equity of $98 million and a distribution-in-kind of $328 million of net assets to Equity Limited Partners.
    4. At the end of the year, the diluted Equity LP units outstanding were 81,474,610 (December 31, 2023 – 81,760,920); this includes 5,640,600 (December 31, 2023 – nil) Equity LP units exchangeable on a one-for-one basis with shares held by a non-wholly owned subsidiary, and units issued through the exercise of all outstanding warrants; including 585,938 (December 31, 2023 – 26,085,938) warrants held by partially-owned subsidiaries of the Partnership.

    Financial Profile

    The Partnership’s principal investments are its interest in approximately 121 million Class A Limited Voting Shares of the Corporation and approximately 31 million Class A Limited Voting Shares of the Manager. This represents approximately an 8% interest in the Corporation and a 7% interest in the Manager as at December 31, 2024. In addition, the Partnership owns a diversified investment portfolio of marketable securities and private fund interests.

    The information in the following table has been extracted from the Partnership’s Consolidated Statements of Financial Position:

    Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

    As at
    (Thousands, US dollars)    		     December 31, 2024       December 31, 2023
    Assets              
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 156,977     $ 199,856
    Accounts receivable and other assets     48,924       31,416
    Deferred tax asset     —       4,309
    Investment in Brookfield Corporation1     6,949,656       4,853,261
    Investment in Brookfield Asset Management Ltd.2     1,669,488       1,237,554
    Other investments carried at fair value     814,877       612,009
        $ 9,639,922     $ 6,938,405
    Liabilities and equity              
    Accounts payable and other liabilities   $ 42,055     $ 34,150
    Corporate borrowings     208,168       225,789
    Preferred shares3     939,057       993,267
    Deferred tax liability     7,933       —
          1,197,213       1,253,206
    Equity              
    Equity Limited Partners     8,261,639       5,521,067
    General Partner4     —       —
    Preferred Limited Partners     152,040       152,152
    Non-controlling interests     29,030       11,980
          8,442,709       5,685,199
        $ 9,639,922     $ 6,938,405
    1. The investment in the Corporation consists of 121 million Corporation shares with a quoted market value of $57.45 per share as
      at December 31, 2024 (December 31, 2023 – $40.12).
    2. The investment in the Manager consists of 31 million Manager shares with a quoted market value of $54.19 per share as at December 31, 2024 (December 31, 2023 – $40.17).
    3. Represents $712 million of retractable preferred shares less $9 million of unamortized issue costs as at December 31, 2024
      (December 31, 2023 – $767 million less $10 million) and $236 million of three series of preferred shares (December 31, 2023 – $236 million).
    4. In connection with the 2023 re‐organization of Partners Value Investments LP on November 24, 2023, the General Partner’s interest was reduced to $1 from $1 thousand in the prior year.

    For further information, contact Investor Relations at ir@pvii.ca or 416-643-7621.

    Note: This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities regulations. The words “potential” and “estimated” and other expressions which are predictions of or indicate future events, trends or prospects and which do not relate to historical matters, identify forward-looking information.

    Although the Partnership believes that its anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and information are based upon reasonable assumptions and expectations, the reader should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond its control, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Partnership to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievement expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and information.

    Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward‐looking statements and information include, but are not limited to: the financial performance of Brookfield Corporation, the impact or unanticipated impact of general economic, political and market factors; the behavior of financial markets, including fluctuations in interest and foreign exchanges rates; limitations on the liquidity of our investments; global equity and capital markets and the availability of equity and debt financing and refinancing within these markets; strategic actions including dispositions; changes in accounting policies and methods used to report financial condition (including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates); the effect of applying future accounting changes; business competition; operational and reputational risks; technological change; changes in government regulation and legislation; changes in tax laws; risks associated with the use of financial leverage; catastrophic events, such as earthquakes and hurricanes; the possible impact of international conflicts and other developments including terrorist acts; and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in the Partnership’s documents filed with the securities regulators in Canada.

    The Partnership cautions that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on the Partnership’s forward-looking statements and information, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Except as required by law, the Partnership undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Partners Value Split Corp. Announces 2024 Annual Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Partners Value Split Corp. (the “Company”, TSX: PVS.PR.G, PVS.PR.H, PVS.PR.I, PVS.PR.J, PVS.PR.K, PVS.PR.L) announced today that the net asset value per unit was $171.41 at December 31, 2024 (December 31, 2023 – $124.10). All amounts are in U.S. dollars.

    Income available for distribution for the year ended December 31, 2024, was $85 million, compared to $73 million in the prior year. The increase in income was primarily attributable to the increase in dividend rate per share by Brookfield Corporation (the “Corporation”) and Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (the “Manager”). During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company declared and paid dividends in the amount of $79 million
    (December 31, 2023 – $50 million) to the holders of its capital shares.

    The net comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2024, of $2.6 billion was primarily driven by unrealized mark-to-market movement on the share prices of the Corporation and the Manager shares. The Corporation share price was $57.45 as at December 31, 2024 (December 31, 2023 – $40.12) and the Manager share price was $54.19 as at December 31, 2024 (December 31, 2023 – $40.17).

    The Company’s capital shares, and preferred shares are referred to collectively as units, with each unit consisting of one capital share and one preferred share (“unit”). The net asset value per unit is posted monthly on our website at www.partnersvaluesplit.com.

    STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

    For the years ended December 31
    (Thousands of US dollars, except per unit amounts)    		     2024       2023  
    Income            
    Dividend income   $ 83,728     $ 71,767  
    Other investment income     1,265       1,817  
          84,993       73,584  
    Expenses            
    Management fees     (18)       (19)  
    Audit fees     (25)       (21)  
    Administrative and other     (327)       (278)  
          (370)       (318)  
    Income available for distribution     84,623       73,266  
    Distributions paid on senior preferred shares and debentures     (31,011)       (31,859)  
    Income available for distribution to junior preferred and capital shares     53,612       41,407  
    Change in unrealized and realized value of investment     2,491,751       1,379,718  
    Amortization of share issuance costs     (3,211)       (3,233)  
    Unrealized foreign exchange gain (loss)     72,344       (19,872)  
    Net comprehensive income   $ 2,614,496     $ 1,398,020  
    Comprehensive income per unit   $ 53.64     $ 28.71  
    Quarterly distribution rate per senior preferred share (C$)              
      –         Class AA, Series 9     0.3063       0.3063
      –         Class AA, Series 10     0.2938       0.2938
      –         Class AA, Series 11     0.2969       0.2969
      –         Class AA, Series 12     0.2750       0.2750
      –         Class AA, Series 13     0.2781       0.2781
      –         Class AA, Series 14     0.3438       N/A

    As at December 31, 2024, the Company owned 120 million Class A Limited Voting shares of the Corporation, and 30 million Class A Limited Voting Shares of the Manager, which together generate cash flow through dividend payments that fund quarterly fixed cumulative preferential dividends for the holders of the Company’s preferred shares and provide the holders of the Company’s capital shares the opportunity to participate in any capital appreciation of the Brookfield shares.

    Brookfield Corporation is a leading global investment firm focused on building long‐term wealth for institutions and individuals around the world. This capital is allocated across three core businesses: asset management, wealth solutions and operating businesses. The Corporation is listed on the New York and Toronto Stock Exchanges under the symbol BN and BN.TO respectively. The Company’s investment in Corporation represents approximately an
    8% interest in the Corporation.

    Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. is a leading global alternative asset manager with over $1 trillion of assets under management across real estate, infrastructure, renewable power and transition, private equity and credit as of December 31, 2024. The Manager is listed on the New York and Toronto Stock Exchanges under the symbol BAM and BAM.TO respectively. The Company’s investment in Manager represents approximately a 7% interest in the Manager.

    For further information, contact Investor Relations at 416-643-7621.

    Note: This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws and regulations. The words “generate” and “enable” and other expressions which are predictions of or indicate future events, trends or prospects and which do not relate to historical matters identify forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this news release includes statements with regard to the generation of cumulative preferential dividends for the holders of the Company’s preferred shares and potential participation by the holders of the Company’s capital shares in the capital appreciation of Brookfield Shares.

    Although the Company believes that the anticipated future results or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information and statements are based upon reasonable assumptions and expectations, the reader should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information and statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievement expressed or implied by such forward-looking information and statements.

    Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward‐looking statements and information include, but are not limited to: the financial performance of Brookfield Corporation, the impact or unanticipated impact of general economic, political and market factors; the behavior of financial markets, including fluctuations in interest and foreign exchanges rates; limitations on the liquidity of our investments; global equity and capital markets and the availability of equity and debt financing and refinancing within these markets; strategic actions including dispositions; changes in accounting policies and methods used to report financial condition (including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates); the effect of applying future accounting changes; business competition; operational and reputational risks; technological change; changes in government regulation and legislation; changes in tax laws; risks associated with the use of financial leverage; catastrophic events, such as earthquakes and hurricanes; the possible impact of international conflicts and other developments including terrorist acts; and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in the Company’s documents filed with the securities regulators in Canada.

    We caution that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on our forward-looking information to make decisions with respect to the Company, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Except as may be required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information or statements, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Reference should be made to the Company’s most recent Annual Information Form for a description of the major risk factors.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Mulvihill Enhanced Split Preferred Share ETF Announces Year End Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — (TSX: SPFD) Mulvihill Enhanced Split Preferred Share ETF (the “Fund”) (formerly Mulvihill U.S. Health Care Enhanced Yield ETF) announces results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2024. Decrease in net assets attributable to holders of units amounted to $0.13 million or $0.16 per unit. As at December 31, 2024, net assets attributable to holders of units were $7.41 million or $9.85 per unit. Cash distributions to unitholders totaling $0.58 million or $0.72 per unit were paid during the year.

    The Fund is a mutual fund investment trust that seeks to provide unitholders with (a) monthly distributions and (b) the opportunity for capital preservation through exposure to a portfolio consisting primarily preferred shares offered by Canadian split share corporations listed on a Canadian exchange. The Fund may also seek to acquire preferred shares of split share corporations in their initial public or follow on offerings. The Fund may also hold Class A shares of Canadian split share corporations listed on a Canadian exchange at the discretion of the Manager.

    The Fund may also write call and put options on a portion of its portfolio, from time to time, to seek to generate investment returns and, in the case of put options, acquire securities at predetermined prices in a manner that reduces acquisition costs.   The Fund seeks to achieve a 10.0 percent yield, with additional capital growth potential beyond such yield target.

    The Fund’s investment portfolio is managed by its investment manager, Mulvihill Capital Management Inc. The Fund’s Units are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol SPFD.

    Selected Financial Information: ($ Millions)
    Statement of Financial Position as at December 31st   2024  
    Assets $ 7.58  
    Liabilities   (0.17 )
    Net Assets Attributable to Holders of Units $ 7.41  
    Statement of Comprehensive Income for the year ended December 31st    
    Income (including Net Gain / Loss on Investments) $ 0.29  
    Expenses   (0.42 )
    Decrease in Net Assets Attributable to Holders of Units $ (0.13 )
       
       

    For further information, please contact Investor Relations at 416.681.3966, toll free at 1.800.725.7172, email at info@mulvihill.com or visit Mulvihill www.mulvihill.com.

    John Germain, Senior Vice-President & CFO Mulvihill Capital Management Inc.
    121 King Street West Suite 2600
    Toronto, Ontario, M5H 3T9
    416.681.3966; 1.800.725.7172
       

    Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investment funds. Please read the prospectus before investing. Investment funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Purpose Investments Inc. Announces 2025 First-Quarter Distributions for Purpose Specialty Lending Trust

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Purpose Investments Inc. is pleased to announce the 2025 first-quarter distributions for Purpose Specialty Lending Trust.

      Ticker
    Symbol    		 Distribution
    per
    share/unit    		 Ex
    Distribution
    Date    		 Record
    Date    		 Payable
    Date
    Purpose Specialty Lending Trust – Class A Unlisted $0.1215 03/31/2025 03/31/2025 04/22/2025
    Purpose Specialty Lending Trust – Class F Unlisted $0.1255 03/31/2025 03/31/2025 04/22/2025
    Purpose Specialty Lending Trust – Class U Unlisted US $0.1665 03/31/2025 03/31/2025 04/22/2025
    Purpose Specialty Lending Trust – Class A1, Series 2 Unlisted $0.1405 03/31/2025 03/31/2025 04/22/2025
    Purpose Specialty Lending Trust – Class F, Series 3 Unlisted $0.1455 03/31/2025 03/31/2025 04/22/2025

    About Purpose Investments Inc.

    Purpose Investments Inc. is an asset management company with more than $23 billion in assets under management. Purpose Investments has an unrelenting focus on client-centric innovation, and offers a range of managed and quantitative investment products. Purpose Investments is led by well-known entrepreneur Som Seif and is a division of Purpose Unlimited, an independent technology-driven financial services company.

    For further information please contact:
    Keera Hart
    Keera.Hart@kaiserpartners.com
    905-580-1257

    Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investment fund investments. Please read the prospectus and other disclosure documents before investing. Investment funds are not covered by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government deposit insurer. There can be no assurance that the full amount of your investment in a fund will be returned to you. If the securities are purchased or sold on a stock exchange, you may pay more or receive less than the current net asset value. Investment funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Premium Global Income Split Corp. Announces Year End Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — (TSX: PGIC; PGIC.PR.A) Premium Global Income Split Corp. (the “Fund”) announces results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2024.  Increase in net assets from operations attributable to holders of Class A shares amounted to $0.30 million or $0.36 per Class A share.  As at December 31, 2024, net assets attributable to holders of Class A shares were $7.52 million or $7.31 per Class A share.  Cash distributions of $0.64 per Preferred share and $0.48 per Class A share were paid during the year.

    The Fund is a mutual fund corporation which invests in a diversified portfolio that includes primarily large capitalization global equity securities (the “Portfolio Universe”). The Fund may also invest up to 100% of its net assets in other public investment funds including investment funds managed by the Manager.  In addition, the Fund will be exposed to securities traded in foreign currencies and may, in the Manager’s discretion, enter into currency hedging transactions to reduce the effects of changes in the
    value of foreign currencies relative to the value of the Canadian dollar.

    The Fund employs an active covered call writing strategy to enhance the income generated by the portfolio and to reduce volatility.  In addition, the Fund may write cash covered put options in respect of securities in which it is permitted to invest.

    The Fund’s investment portfolio is managed by its investment manager, Mulvihill Capital Management Inc. The Fund’s Preferred and Class A shares are listed on Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbols PGIC.PR.A and PGIC respectively.

    Selected Financial Information: ($ Millions)    
    Statement of Financial Position as at December 31st   2024  
    Assets $ 17.88  
    Liabilities (including Redeemable Preferred Shares)    (10.36 )
    Net Assets Attributable to Holders of Class A Shares $ 7.52  
    Statement of Comprehensive Income for the year ended December 31st    
    Income (including Net Gain on Investments) $    1.46  
    Expenses    (0.62 )
    Operating Profit      0.84  
    Preferred Share Distributions   (0.54 )
    Increase in Net Assets Attributable to Holders of Class A Shares $   0.30  
         
     

    For further information, please contact Investor Relations at 416.681.3966, toll free at 1.800.725.7172, email at info@mulvihill.com or visit www.mulvihill.com.

    John Germain, Senior Vice-President & CFO Mulvihill Capital Management Inc.
    121 King Street West
    Suite 2600
    Toronto, Ontario, M5H 3T9
    416.681.3966; 1.800.725.7172
    www.mulvihill.com
       

    Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investment funds. Please read the prospectus before investing. Investment funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Evome Medical Technologies Provides Market Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Evome Medical Technologies Inc. (the “Company” or “Evome”) (TSXV: EVMT) is providing an update to shareholders today.

    As important background:

    Evome generates revenue from three main revenue lines:

    1. “DaMar”. This a business-to-business revenue line. Located in California, DaMar Plastics Manufacturing, Inc. (“DaMar”) offers contract manufacturing to a highly concentrated group of customers that then sell those products under their own brand name.
    2. “Biodex”. Biodex Medical Systems, Inc. (“Biodex”) is a branded medical device business with approximately 50% of revenue originating from international distributors and the other 50% from domestic dealers.
    3. “The Tables Business”. This a business-to-business revenue line of Biodex. This business unit is co-located in Biodex’s factory in New York. It offers contract manufacturing to only one customer that then sells those products under their own brand name.

    Business Update:

    1. Input costs expected to rise: As for input costs, each business line may be subject to increases in raw material costs caused by potential tariffs. Additionally, Biodex expects to be subject to retaliatory tariffs on the sale of its products outside the United States. Therefore, Biodex is working to understand the effect on prices to both domestic and international customers. Biodex plans to work with customers given the impacts of these potential price increases and their effect upon demand, cash flow and the value of each business line.
    2. Asset-based loan lender exits: The Company’s asset-based loan (“ABL”) provider has notified Evome that it will no longer continue lending to Evome’s subsidiaries. The total ABL debt has been reduced from $6,537,209 on March 31, 2024 to the current ABL debt level of $2,9049,634 as of March 27, 2025. As a result, the total balance has fallen below the minimum debt level requirement. While the ABL lender is working with the Company and its subsidiaries to ensure a smooth transition as it retires the ABL debt, all business units are expected to face a cash flow challenge through this period. The Company has negligible working capital currently.
    3. New management: The Company has entrusted a new management team to navigate through these challenges. Michael Seckler (CEO and a director of the Company), Wanye Anderson (a director of the Company), Lana Newishy (a director of the Company) and Bill Garbarini (COO) have resigned, and Chris Heath, a recently appointed director of the Company, has been appointed Interim CEO through this transition period. Kenneth Kashkin, MD, will remain on the Board of Directors as Vice-Chairman.
    4. No funds for audit: Given the current financial condition of the Company, including its current cash position, the reduction of the ABL and the potential of negative impacts of possible tariff policy, the Company does not currently have excess funds to pay for the year end audit as it will use all funds to continue manufacturing and shipping products to customers. It therefore expects to miss the deadline of April 30, 2025 (the “Filing Deadline”) to file the Company’s audited annual financial statements and management discussion & analysis for the financial year ended December 31, 2024, and the CEO and CFO certificates, all as required by National Instrument 51-102 – Continuous Disclosure Obligations and National Instrument 52-109 – Certification of Disclosure in Issuers’ Annual and Interim Filings (collectively, the “Documents”). As a consequence, the Company anticipates the imposition by the British Columbia Securities Commission of a Failure-to-File Cease Trade Order (“FFCTO”). There is no other reason known to management preventing the completion of the audit other than a lack of available funds. Accordingly, the Company is making efforts to complete an audit and file the Documents as soon as is financially feasible.
    5. Customers: Biodex has a back log of orders of over $6,228,854 as of May 27, 2025 from existing customers that Biodex intends to fulfill. DaMar and “The Tables” business continue to operate and ship products to their respective customers.
    6. DaMar Sale: As announced on May 30, 2024, DaMar is actively being marketed for sale.

    The Company is currently finalizing a plan to navigate these challenges and will provide updates to shareholders through future press releases. The Company is committed to delivering high quality products to its customers and continues to make deliveries as it works with suppliers and customers to adjust to the current conditions.

    “I was asked by the outgoing management and board members to come into a challenging situation, where I am a large shareholder and, with all other shareholders, at the bottom of the capital/debt stack,” said Mr. Michael Dalsin, Chairman. “With the reduction of operating debt, as well as acquisition debt, the company now faces a cash flow issue that will need to be navigated. The fact that there is currently negligible working capital makes this process very challenging. Additionally, the impact of tariffs remains uncertain at the moment. But we do anticipate that our raw material costs, largely made up of aluminum and steel, may increase and the effect on revenues is difficult to predict. As we have a large stock of inventory on hand, I feel confident we can continue to deliver products to customers and generate revenue as we look for solutions to this challenge.”

    “Chris Heath and I will work to overcome the challenges,” continued Mr. Dalsin. “There is substantial debt at the operating subsidiary level, the Company’s sole assets, that ultimately stands in front of shareholders equity. Simply put, we hope to have sufficient cash flow and value in the three businesses to pay off the debt in full with additional cash left over, preserving some measure of equity value if possible.”

    The Company will update the market by press release as the plan unfolds, and will not conduct one-on-one calls with any investors or market participants to avoid the perception of selective disclosure.

    Michael Dalsin
    Chairman
    Tel: 1 (800) 760-6826 ‎
    Email: info@salonaglobal.com‎

    Additional Information

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

    Unless otherwise specified, all financial information is presented in Canadian dollars (“$”, “dollars” and “C$”).

    There can be no assurance that the disposition of DaMar will ‎be completed or the sale price or timing of any ‎disposition. Completion of any transaction will be subject to, amongst other things, ‎negotiation and execution of definitive agreements, and applicable ‎director, shareholder ‎and ‎regulatory approvals.‎

    Certain statements contained in this press release constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. These statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “expects” “believes”, “estimates”, “may”, “would”, “could”, ‎‎”should”, “potential”, ‎‎‎‎‎”will”, “seek”, “intend”, “plan”, and “anticipate”, and similar expressions as they relate ‎‎‎‎to the Company, including, without limitation: the impact of tariffs on the costs of raw materials; Biodex being subject to retaliatory tariffs on the sale of its products outside the United States; Biodex having to increase prices to both domestic and international customers; statements with respect to the issuance and timing of an FFCTO; and the filing of the Documents; the Company successfully disposing of DaMar and the use of such proceeds; and the amount of acquisition debt the Company would be able to eliminate upon the sale of DaMar. All ‎statements ‎other than statements of ‎historical fact may be forward-looking‎ information. Such statements reflect the Company’s current views and intentions with respect to future ‎events, and current information available to the Company, and are subject to certain risks, ‎uncertainties and assumptions. The Company cautions that the forward-looking statements contained herein are qualified by important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected by such statements. Such factors include but are not limited to the ‎‎general business and ‎‎economic ‎conditions in the regions in ‎which the Company operates; the ability of the Company to execute on key ‎‎priorities, ‎including the successful completion of acquisitions, business‎ retention, and‎‎ strategic plans and to‎‎ attract, develop ‎and retain key executives; difficulty integrating newly acquired businesses; ‎‎ongoing or new disruptions in the supply chain, the extent and scope of such supply chain disruptions, and the timing or extent of the resolution or improvement of such disruptions; the ability to‎‎‎ implement business strategies and pursue business opportunities; ‎‎disruptions in or attacks (including ‎cyber-attacks) on the Company’s information technology, internet, network access or other ‎‎voice or data ‎communications systems or services; the evolution of various types of fraud or other ‎‎‎criminal behavior to which ‎ the Company is exposed; the failure of third parties to comply with their obligations to ‎‎ the Company or its ‎affiliates; the‎ impact of new and changes to, or application of, current laws and regulations; ‎granting of permits and licenses in a highly regulated business; the ‎overall difficult ‎‎‎‎‎litigation environment, including in the United States; increased competition; changes in foreign currency rates; ‎increased ‎‎‎‎funding ‎costs and market volatility due to market illiquidity and competition for funding; the ‎availability of funds ‎‎‎‎and resources to pursue operations; critical ‎accounting estimates and changes to accounting standards, policies,‎‎‎‎ and methods used by the Company; the occurrence of natural and unnatural‎‎ catastrophic ‎events ‎and claims ‎‎‎‎resulting from such events; as well as those risk factors discussed or ‎referred to ‎in the ‎Company’s disclosure ‎documents filed with United States Securities and Exchange Commission ‎and ‎available at ‎www.sec.gov, and with ‎the securities regulatory authorities in certain provinces of Canada and ‎‎available at ‎www.sedarplus.com. Should any ‎factor affect the Company in an unexpected manner, or should ‎‎assumptions underlying ‎the forward-looking ‎information prove incorrect, the actual results or events may differ ‎‎materially from the results ‎or events predicted. ‎Any such forward-looking information is expressly qualified in its ‎‎entirety by this cautionary ‎statement. Moreover, ‎the Company does not assume responsibility for the accuracy or ‎‎completeness of such ‎forward-looking ‎information. The forward-looking information included in this press release ‎‎is made as of the ‎date of this press ‎release and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise ‎‎any forward-‎looking information, ‎other than as required by applicable law‎.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ninepoint Partners Announces Final March 2025 Cash Distribution for Ninepoint Cash Management Fund – ETF Series

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ninepoint Partners LP (“Ninepoint Partners”) today announced the final March 2025 cash distribution for the Ninepoint Cash Management Fund – ETF Series. The record date for the distribution is March 31, 2025. This distribution is payable on April 7, 2025.

    The per-unit final March 2025 distribution is detailed below:

    Ninepoint ETF Series Ticker Cash Distribution per
    unit    		 Notional Distribution per
    unit    		 CUSIP
    Ninepoint Cash
    Management Fund    		 NSAV $0.12697 $0.00000 65443X105

    About Ninepoint Partners

    Based in Toronto, Ninepoint Partners LP is one of Canada’s leading alternative investment management firms overseeing approximately $7 billion in assets under management and institutional contracts. Committed to helping investors explore innovative investment solutions that have the potential to enhance returns and manage portfolio risk, Ninepoint offers a diverse set of alternative strategies spanning Equities, Fixed Income, Alternative Income, Real Assets, F/X and Digital Assets.

    For more information on Ninepoint Partners LP, please visit www.ninepoint.com or for inquiries regarding the offering, please contact us at (416) 943-6707 or (866) 299-9906 or invest@ninepoint.com.

    Ninepoint Partners LP is the investment manager to the Ninepoint Funds (collectively, the “Funds”). Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, performance fees (if any), and other expenses all may be associated with investing in the Funds. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer or solicitation by anyone in the United States or in any other jurisdiction in which such an offer or solicitation is not authorized or to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation. Prospective investors who are not resident in Canada should contact their financial advisor to determine whether securities of the Fund may be lawfully sold in their jurisdiction.

    Please note that distribution factors (breakdown between income, capital gains and return of capital) can only be calculated when a fund has reached its year-end. Distribution information should not be relied upon for income tax reporting purposes as this is only a component of total distributions for the year. For accurate distribution amounts for the purpose of filing an income tax return, please refer to the appropriate T3/T5 slips for that particular taxation year. Please refer to the prospectus or offering memorandum of each Fund for details of the Fund’s distribution policy.

    The payment of distributions and distribution breakdown, if applicable, is not guaranteed and may fluctuate. The payment of distributions should not be confused with a Fund’s performance, rate of return, or yield. If distributions paid by the Fund are greater than the performance of the Fund, then an investor’s original investment will shrink. Distributions paid as a result of capital gains realized by a Fund and income and dividends earned by a Fund are taxable in the year they are paid. An investor’s adjusted cost base will be reduced by the amount of any returns of capital. If an investor’s adjusted cost base goes below zero, then capital gains tax will have to be paid on the amount below zero.

    Sales Inquiries:

    Ninepoint Partners LP
    Neil Ross
    416-945-6227
    nross@ninepoint.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Expect delays due to Keating off-ramp closure, Highway 17 repairs

    Drivers should expect delays on Highway 17 northbound as the right lane of the highway near Keating Cross Road requires emergency repairs.

    To facilitate the repairs, the Keating off-ramp will be fully closed until at least 3 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025.

    The highway remains open and the Keating off-ramp (Exit 18) is closed, so northbound traffic can utilize the left-turn lane until work is complete in the afternoon. Drivers can take an alternative route via Island View Road.

    Work is ongoing as crews repair a steel plate on Highway 17 northbound.

    Drivers should expect delays of at least 20 minutes and are encouraged to choose alternative routes where possible.

    People are asked to take extra care while travelling in the area with workers present and obey all safety signage. For the most up-to-date information, check https://www.drivebc.ca.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney meets with premiers to discuss Canada’s response to U.S. tariffs

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, Prime Minister Mark Carney met virtually with provincial and territorial premiers to discuss Canada’s co-ordinated response to the United States’ unjustified tariffs against Canadian goods, including the recently announced U.S. tariffs on imported automobiles and auto-parts. The Prime Minister was joined by the Minister of International Trade and Intergovernmental Affairs and President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada, Dominic LeBlanc.

    Canada’s First Ministers stand united against this unjustified U.S. trade action and are committed to defending Canadian businesses, workers, and families affected by this threat.

    Prime Minister Carney updated the premiers on his conversation with the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, earlier today. The Prime Minister and the premiers discussed the path forward to respond to the evolving tariff threat by strengthening the Canadian economy, including through work to unlock economic projects and remove interprovincial trade barriers. Prime Minister Carney underscored the Government of Canada’s resolve to continue fighting against the unjust tariffs and protect Canadians.

    Prime Minister Carney committed to continuing to convene with the premiers in the weeks ahead.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Tax Systems Must Be Aligned with Sustainable Development, Economic and Social Council Told

    Source: United Nations 4

    While Technology Optimizes Collections, Globalization, Digitization Also Open Loopholes to Evasion

    (Note:  Full coverage of today’s Economic and Social Council meetings will be made available after their conclusion.)

    Speakers stressed the need for stronger global action to harness the power of taxation as a catalyst for sustainable development at today’s Economic and Social Council special meeting on international cooperation in tax matters.

    As the United Nations framework convention on this topic moves into the negotiating stage, the special meeting brings together Member States, members of the UN Committee of Experts on International Tax Cooperation (UN Tax Committee) and other stakeholders.  This year’s meeting addressed two themes:  inclusive and effective international tax cooperation and gender inclusivity through tax policy.

    In his opening remarks, Robert Rae (Canada), President of the Economic and Social Council, highlighted the 20 years of dialogue between the Council and the UN Tax Committee — comprising 25 members nominated by Governments and appointed by the UN Secretary-General — as “an effective model of how the United Nations system can mainstream specialized policy areas” across the broader development agenda.  “Fair tax systems and effective fiscal policies are powerful tools to mobilize resources [and] reduce inequalities,” he said. 

    Echoing that, Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, noted that developing countries continue to lose significant resources through tax avoidance and evasion.  Stronger domestic tax administration and effective international engagement are necessary to address this.  It is further important to address systemic gender disparities by revealing hidden biases in tax policies, he added.

    Liselott Kana, Co-Chairperson of the UN Tax Committee, outlined the work of the expert body, including its updates to the UN Model Tax Convention and the Manual for the Negotiation of Bilateral Tax Treaties.  These updates “have significantly increased the UN Model’s profile and its influence in bilateral tax treaty negotiations”, she said.  The Committee’s work has expanded beyond traditional international tax issues to address domestic resource mobilization, she said, adding:  “This is the real world in which tax policymakers and decision makers have to operate.”

    Maria José Garde, Director-General of Taxation at the Ministry of Finance of Spain, highlighted that country’s experience with a highly digitalized tax administration.  Digitalization makes it possible for tax administration to become more efficient, facilitate compliance and simplify processes.  It also facilitates the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data to fight fraud and tax evasion.  However, it has also opened the door for tax evasion and avoidance, she pointed out.  Taxation does not only mean collecting taxes — “it’s also a powerful instrument to make progress and against inequality” through progressive policies that tax major fortunes or corporations, she pointed out.

    In a panel discussion moderated by Mathew Gbonjubola, Co-Chairperson of the UN Tax Committee, speakers examined challenges and opportunities to strengthen domestic resource mobilization.

    Ramesh Narain Parbat, Head of Tax Policy Division, Central Board of Direct Taxes at the Ministry of Finance of India, shared lessons from his country’s pathway towards a double-digit growth rate in direct tax collection.  He highlighted two financial social-welfare schemes — both linked to a unique identification number, enabling digitalization and obliteration of leakages.  The Government has also encouraged mobile-based digital payment platforms, which vegetable vendors now use to deposit and save money more efficiently, he said.

    The global tax system today reflects old economic realities, he said, noting that taxing rights have historically been tied to physical presence, which is outdated in today’s digital economy.  Digital businesses can make a lot of money in different countries, but pay little or no taxes.  Further, a fair allocation of tax rights must recognize the interconnected global supply chain value creation, he stressed.

    Africa Loses $100 Billion Yearly to Illicit Financial Flows

    Chenai Mukumba, Executive Director of Tax Justice Network Africa, noted that Africa loses $88.6 billion to $100 billion annually due to illicit financial flows — “resources that should be funding public services”.  Multinational corporations exploit gaps in transfer pricing rules, tax treaties and secrecy jurisdictions, reducing the continent’s tax base.  This has caused many African Governments to revert to regressive tax systems.  Kenya’s July 2024 protests over tax hikes illustrate this, she pointed out, adding:  “Overreliance on consumption taxes disproportionately affects lower-income populations, while high-net-worth individuals and large corporations remain undertaxed.”  “The current international tax system is fragmented,” and dominated by exclusive decision-making bodies, she said.  A UN tax convention could establish binding rules on corporate taxation, transparency and exchange of information, ensuring all countries have equal decision-making power.  African countries need a greater share of taxing rights to reflect the economic activities occurring within their borders.  “This looks like redesigning tax treaties to prevent excessive revenue losses and ensuring a fair allocation of profits,” she said. 

    “Tax is a jealously guarded sovereign right,” said Ben Dickinson, Deputy Director of Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Centre for Tax Policy and Administration.  Countries choose to collaborate on taxation only where international collaboration is important for their domestic policy goals.  Also drawing attention to United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) partnership with Tax Inspectors Without Borders, he said it has helped countries realize over $2.4 billion in additional revenues.

    While there has been important progress in international corporate taxation, “no one area of tax policy will suffice to mobilize the scale of revenues required”, he warned.  Therefore, it is crucial to look at all policy areas, including value added tax, personal income tax, social security contributions and property taxation.

    The second part of the same panel discussion focused on “Taxation of Cross-Border Services — a multi-faceted approach” and featured the following panellists:  Thulani Shongwe, Head, African Multilateral Cooperation, African Tax Administration Forum; Marcio Ferreira Verdi, Executive Secretary of the Inter-American Center of Tax Administrations; and John Connors, Chair, Global Tax Commission, International Chamber of Commerce.

    …

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Expanding urgent care across Alberta

    [. In response, the government is making significant investments to ensure every Albertan has access to high-quality care close to home. Currently, more than 35 per cent of emergency department visits are for non-life-threatening conditions that could be treated at urgent care centres. By expanding these centres, Alberta’s government is enhancing the health care system and improving access to timely care.

    If passed, Budget 2025 includes $15 million to support plans for eight new urgent care centres and an additional $2 million in planning funds for an integrated primary and urgent care facility in Airdrie. These investments will help redirect up to 200,000 lower-acuity emergency department visits annually, freeing up capacity for life-threatening cases, reducing wait times and improving access to care for Albertans.

    “More people are choosing to call Alberta home, which is why we are taking action to build capacity across the health care system. Urgent care centres help bridge the gap between primary care and emergency departments, providing timely care for non-life-threatening conditions.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    “Our team at Infrastructure is fully committed to leading the important task of planning these eight new urgent care facilities across the province. Investments into facilities like these help strengthen our communities by alleviating strains on emergency departments and enhance access to care. I am looking forward to the important work ahead.”

    Martin Long, Minister of Infrastructure

    The locations for the eight new urgent care centres were selected based on current and projected increases in demand for lower-acuity care at emergency departments. The new facilities will be in west Edmonton, south Edmonton, Westview (Stony Plain/Spruce Grove), east Calgary, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Cold Lake and Fort McMurray.

    “Too many Albertans, especially those living in rural communities, are travelling significant distances to receive care. Advancing plans for new urgent care centres will build capacity across the health care system.”

    Justin Wright, parliamentary secretary for rural health (south)

    “Additional urgent care centres across Alberta will give Albertans more options for accessing the right level of care when it’s needed. This is a necessary and substantial investment that will eventually ease some of the pressures on our emergency departments.”

    Dr. Chris Eagle, chief executive officer, Acute Care Alberta

    The remaining $2 million will support planning for One Health Airdrie’s integrated primary and urgent care facility. The operating model, approved last fall, will see One Health Airdrie as the primary care operator, while urgent care services will be publicly funded and operated by a provider selected through a competitive process.

    “Our new Airdrie facility, offering integrated primary and urgent care, will provide same-day access to approximately 30,000 primary care patients and increase urgent care capacity by around 200 per cent, benefiting the entire community and surrounding areas. We are very excited.”

    Dr. Julian Kyne, physician, One Health Airdrie

    Alberta’s government will continue to make smart, strategic investments in health facilities to support the delivery of publicly funded health programs and services to ensure Albertans have access to the care they need, when and where they need it. 

    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

    • The $2 million in planning funds for One Health Airdrie are part of a total $24-million investment to advance planning on several health capital initiatives across the province through Budget 2025.
    • Alberta’s population is growing, and visits to emergency departments are projected to increase by 27 per cent by 2038.
    • Last year, Alberta’s government provided $8.4 million for renovations to the existing Airdrie Community Health Centre.

    Related information

    • Regional health corridors

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Overnight closures on Highway 1 near 264th Street may cause delays

    Drivers should plan ahead for nighttime closures on Highway 1 eastbound near the 264th Street interchange, late tonight, March 28, 2025, while the contractor removes an overhead sign.

    As part of the highway-widening project, the highway closures will take place overnight from Friday night until early Saturday morning, with the closure of the eastbound lanes on Highway 1 at 264th Street.

    Between midnight and 4:30 a.m., full closures of Highway 1 eastbound will be in effect for 20 minutes at a time to allow for the safe removal of the overhead sign. During this time, emergency vehicle access will be maintained. Traffic will be routed through between the 20-minute closure periods.

    Traffic-control signs will be in place to alert drivers of the upcoming lane closures. To avoid stoppages, eastbound Highway 1 traffic can exit the highway and detour between 232nd Street and 264th Street or travel at other times.

    Drivers are reminded to obey all signage and be aware that roadside workers are present. Updates will be available at https://www.drivebc.ca/.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Barrington Passage — Man wanted on province-wide arrest warrant

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Barrington RCMP Detachment is seeking information on the whereabouts of a man currently wanted on a province-wide arrest warrant.

    Graham James Nickerson, 43, of Barrington Passage, is wanted and facing charges of:

    • Sexual Assault
    • Sexual Interference
    • Operation while Impaired
    • Refusal to Comply with Demand
    • Failure to Comply with Order (two counts)

    Nickerson, also known as “Bear,” is described as 5-foot-11, 190 pounds. He has dark brown hair and blue eyes.

    Police have made several attempts to locate Nickerson, and are requesting assistance from the public.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Graham Nickerson is asked to refrain from approaching him and to call Barrington RCMP at 902-637-2325 or the police of jurisdiction. To remain anonymous, contact Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Unseals Charges for Theft of Texas Republican Party Data

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    AUSTIN, Texas – The Department of Justice announced the unsealing of charges against Canadian national Aubrey Cottle, 37, of Oshawa, Ontario, in connection with the theft of data relating to the Texas Republican Party in 2021. Canadian authorities arrested Cottle on Wednesday and are pursuing charges under Canadian law.

    A criminal complaint filed in the Western District of Texas alleges Cottle gained unauthorized access to a third-party hosting company’s computer system to deface and download a backup of Texas Republican Party’s web server, which contained personal identifying information. The information was distributed and made available for download online. Cottle allegedly claimed responsibility for the attack on social media. A search of Cottle’s electronic devices revealed he was in possession of the data stolen from the Texas Republican Party.

    Cottle has been charged with unlawfully transferring, possessing, or using a means of identification with the intent to commit, or aid or abet, or in connection with, unlawful activity under state or federal law. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.

    The FBI Austin Cyber Task Force is investigating the case, with valuable assistance from the Ontario Provincial Police and the Durham Regional Police Service.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney G. Karthik Srinivasan is prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided significant assistance.

    A complaint is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Adjusting Imports of Automobiles and Automobile Parts into the United States

    Source: The White House

    class=”has-text-align-center”>BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    A PROCLAMATION

    1.  On February 17, 2019, the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) transmitted to me a report on his investigation into the effects of imports of passenger vehicles (sedans, sport utility vehicles, crossover utility vehicles, minivans, and cargo vans) and light trucks (collectively, automobiles) and certain automobile parts (engines and engine parts, transmissions and powertrain parts, and electrical components) (collectively, automobile parts) on the national security of the United States under section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1862) (section 232).  Based on the facts considered in that investigation, the Secretary found and advised me of his opinion that automobiles and certain automobile parts are being imported into the United States in such quantities and under such circumstances as to threaten to impair the national security of the United States. 

    2.  In Proclamation 9888 of May 17, 2019 (Adjusting Imports of Automobiles and Automobile Parts Into the United States), I concurred with the Secretary’s finding in the February 17, 2019, report that automobiles and certain automobile parts are being imported into the United States in such quantities and under such circumstances as to threaten to impair the national security of the United States.  I also directed the United States Trade Representative (Trade Representative), in consultation with other executive branch officials, to pursue negotiation of agreements to address the threatened impairment of the national security of the United States with respect to imported automobiles and certain automobile parts from the European Union, Japan, and any other country the Trade Representative deems appropriate.

    3.  The Trade Representative’s negotiations did not lead to any agreements of the type contemplated by section 232.

    4.  In Proclamation 9888, I also directed the Secretary to monitor imports of automobiles and certain automobile parts and inform me of any circumstances that, in the Secretary’s opinion, might indicate the need for further action under section 232 with respect to such imports.

    5. The Secretary has informed me that, since the February 17, 2019, report, the national security concerns remain and have escalated.  The COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical vulnerabilities and choke points in global supply chains, undermining our ability to maintain a resilient domestic industrial base.  In recent years, American-owned automotive manufacturers have experienced numerous supply chain challenges, including material and parts input shortages, labor shortages and strikes, and electrical-component shortages.  Meanwhile, foreign automotive industries, propelled by unfair subsidies and aggressive industrial policies, have grown substantially.  Today, only about half of the vehicles sold in the United States are manufactured domestically, a decline that jeopardizes our domestic industrial base and national security, and the United States’ share of worldwide automobile production has remained stagnant since the February 17, 2019, report.  The number of employees in the domestic automotive industry has also not improved since the February 17, 2019, report. 

    6.  I am also advised that agreements entered into before the issuance of Proclamation 9888, such as the revisions to the United States-Korea Free Trade Agreement and the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), have not yielded sufficient positive outcomes.  The threat to national security posed by imports of automobiles and certain automobile parts remains and has increased.  Investments resulting from other efforts, such as legislation, have also not yielded sufficient positive outcomes to eliminate the threat to national security from such imports.

    7.  After considering the current information newly provided by the Secretary, among other things, I find that imports of automobiles and certain automobile parts continue to threaten to impair the national security of the United States and deem it necessary and appropriate to impose tariffs, as defined below, to adjust imports of automobiles and certain automobile parts so that such imports will not threaten to impair national security.

    8.  To ensure that the imposition of tariffs on automobiles and certain automobile parts in this proclamation are not circumvented and that the purpose of this action to eliminate the threat to the national security of the United States by imports of automobiles and certain automobile parts is not undermined, I also deem it necessary and appropriate to establish processes to identify and impose tariffs on additional automobile parts, as further described below.

    9.  Section 232 provides that, in this situation, the President shall take such other actions as the President deems necessary to adjust the imports of the relevant article so that such imports will not threaten to impair national security.  

    10.  Section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2483), authorizes the President to embody in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) the substance of statutes affecting import treatment, and actions thereunder, including the removal, modification, continuance, or imposition of any rate of duty or other import restriction.

    NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 301 of title 3, United States Code; section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended; and section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended, do hereby proclaim as follows:
    (1)  Except as otherwise provided in this proclamation, all imports of articles specified in Annex I to this proclamation or in any subsequent annex to this proclamation, as set out in a subsequent notice in the Federal Register, shall be subject to a 25 percent tariff with respect to goods entered for consumption or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on April 3, 2025, for automobiles, and on the date specified in the Federal Register for automobile parts, but no later than May 3, 2025, and shall continue in effect, unless such actions are expressly reduced, modified, or terminated.  The above ad valorem tariff is in addition to any other duties, fees, exactions, and charges applicable to such imported automobiles and certain automobile parts articles.
    (2)  For automobiles that qualify for preferential tariff treatment under the USMCA, importers of such automobiles may submit documentation to the Secretary identifying the amount of U.S. content in each model imported into the United States.  “U.S. content” refers to the value of the automobile attributable to parts wholly obtained, produced entirely, or substantially transformed in the United States.  Thereafter, the Secretary may approve imports of such automobiles to be eligible to apply the ad valorem tariff of 25 percent in clause (1) of this proclamation exclusively to the value of the non-U.S. content of the automobile.  The non-U.S. content of the automobile shall be calculated by subtracting the value of the U.S. content in an automobile from the total value of the automobile.
    (3)  If U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) determines that the declared value of non-U.S. content of an automobile, as described in clause (2) of this proclamation, is inaccurate due to an overstatement of U.S. content, the 25 percent tariff shall apply to the full value of the automobile, regardless of the actual U.S. content of the automobile.  In addition, the 25 percent tariff shall be applied retroactively (from April 3, 2025, to the date of the inaccurate overstatement) and prospectively (from the date of the inaccurate overstatement to the date the importer corrects the overstatement, as verified by CBP) to the full value of all automobiles of the same model imported by the same importer.  This clause does not apply to or otherwise affect any other applicable fees or penalties.
    (4)  The ad valorem tariff of 25 percent described in clause (1) of this proclamation shall not apply to automobile parts that qualify for preferential treatment under the USMCA until such time that the Secretary, in consultation with CBP, establishes a process to apply the tariff exclusively to the value of the non-U.S. content of such automobile parts and publishes notice in the Federal Register.
    (5)  For avoidance of doubt, clause (4) of this proclamation does not apply to automobile knock-down kits or parts compilations.  Clause (4) of this proclamation applies only to individual automobile parts as defined by Annex I to this proclamation that otherwise meet the requirements of clause (4) of this proclamation.
    (6)  The Secretary, in consultation with the United States International Trade Commission and CBP, shall determine the modifications necessary to the HTSUS to effectuate this proclamation and shall make such modifications to the HTSUS through notice in the Federal Register.  
    (7)  Within 90 days of the date of this proclamation, the Secretary shall establish a process for including additional automobile parts articles within the scope of the tariffs described in clause (1) of this proclamation. In addition to inclusions made by the Secretary, this process shall provide for including additional automobile parts articles at the request of a domestic producer of an automobile or automobile parts article, or an industry association representing one or more such producers, where the request establishes that imports of additional automobile parts articles have increased in a manner that threatens to impair the national security or otherwise undermines the objectives set forth in any proclamation issued on the basis of the Secretary’s February 17, 2019, report or any additional information submitted to the President under clause (3) of Proclamation 9888 or clause (9) of this proclamation. When the Secretary receives such a request from a domestic producer or industry association, the Secretary, after consultation with the United States International Trade Commission and CBP, shall issue a determination regarding whether to include the articles within 60 days of receiving the request.  Any additional automobile parts articles that the Secretary has determined to be included within the scope of the tariffs described in clause (1) of this proclamation shall be so included on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time the day after a notice in the Federal Register describing the determination of the Secretary.  The notice in the Federal Register shall be made as soon as practicable but no later than 14 days after the Secretary’s determination.
    (8) Any automobile or automobile part, except those eligible for admission under “domestic status” as defined in 19 CFR 146.43, that is subject to the duty imposed by this proclamation and that is admitted into a United States foreign trade zone on or after the effective date of this proclamation, in accordance with clause (1) of this proclamation, must be admitted as “privileged foreign status” as defined in 19 CFR 146.41, and will be subject upon entry for consumption to any ad valorem rates of duty related to the classification under the applicable HTSUS subheading.
    (9)  The Secretary shall continue to monitor imports of automobiles and automobile parts.  The Secretary also shall, from time to time, in consultation with any senior executive branch officials the Secretary deems appropriate, review the status of such imports with respect to national security.  The Secretary shall inform the President of any circumstances that, in the Secretary’s opinion, might indicate the need for further action by the President under section 232.  The Secretary shall also inform the President of any circumstance that, in the Secretary’s opinion, might indicate that the increase in duty rate provided for in this proclamation is no longer necessary.
    (10)  No drawback shall be available with respect to the duties imposed pursuant to this proclamation.
    (11)  The Secretary may issue regulations and guidance consistent with this proclamation, including to address operational necessity.
    (12)  CBP may take any necessary or appropriate measures to administer the tariffs imposed by this proclamation.
    (13)  Any provision of previous proclamations and Executive Orders that is inconsistent with the actions taken in this proclamation is superseded to the extent of such inconsistency.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-sixth day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Three companies sentenced under OHS law

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province continues to ensure people are protected from COVID-19, measles

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Starting Tuesday, April 8, 2025, free additional COVID-19 vaccines will be available to people in B.C., with a focus on those who are at higher risk of severe illness.

    “While the peak of respiratory illnesses has passed, influenza, COVID-19 and RSV are still here, and we must continue to practise healthy habits to keep illnesses from spreading,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer for British Columbia. “This is particularly important as spring break ends, a period when many people have been travelling. This is a reminder to stay home if you are sick, and if you need medical care, to call ahead so you can be seen safely.”

    The spring COVID-19 vaccine will be available throughout the province at approximately 400 pharmacies, as well as regional health-authority clinics, some primary-care offices, community health centres, long-term care homes and First Nations communities. Public health units will also have vaccine available for children under 12.

    “For people at the highest risk of serious illness, an extra dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can boost their immunity through the spring and summer,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “That’s why notifications to priority populations will go out starting April 8.”

    Based on guidance from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization, B.C. health officials recommend that the following people receive an additional dose of COVID-19 vaccine this spring:

    • adults 65 years and older, with a particular focus on people over 80 years;
    • Indigenous adults 55 years and older;
    • adult residents of long-term care homes and assisted-living facilities (including those awaiting placement); and
    • individuals six months and older who have been diagnosed as clinically extremely vulnerable (a CEV 1 or CEV 2).

    Notifications to book appointments will be sent out to priority populations beginning April 8, 2025. The spring vaccine program will end on June 30, 2025. Anyone else who feels they would benefit from an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can consult with their health-care provider, contact the call centre at 1 833 838-2323 to book an appointment or call a pharmacy for availability.

    With an increasing number of measles cases reported in B.C. and the resurgence of measles cases worldwide, public health officials are encouraging people in B.C. to check their immunization records to ensure they are up to date with their measles immunization by going on Health Gateway or connecting with their health-care provider, and if needed, to book an appointment to get a free measles vaccine.

    Officials are also reminding people to monitor for symptoms if they have recently travelled. To date, five cases of measles have been reported in the province, all in the Lower Mainland and all related to travel to areas in the world where measles outbreaks are occurring.

    “Increasingly, we’re seeing cases of measles in parts of Canada, with outbreaks in Ontario and cases here in B.C., and around the world,” said Dr. Henry. “Measles can cause serious illness, particularly for young people who are not vaccinated. And we have tragically had one death in Canada last year.”

    Measles is an extremely contagious virus that can cause severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death. People who are most at risk from measles are those who are completely unvaccinated against the disease and who have no immunity from past exposures.

    “As we’re seeing an increase in cases of measles in B.C. and around the world, people need to make sure their measles immunizations are up to date and that they follow healthy habits,” said Osborne. “It is easy and free to get the measles vaccine, to protect yourself and your loved ones from this serious virus.”

    Adults born in 1970 or later should ensure they have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine as one dose is not enough to ensure adequate protection. Adults born before 1970 are generally assumed to have acquired immunity to measles from exposure to measles before immunization was widely available.

    In B.C., children are routinely provided with two doses of a measles-containing vaccine with the first dose of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine given at 12 months and the second dose of measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine given at four to six years.

    Children from six months of age travelling to parts of the world where measles is more common can receive MMR vaccine prior to departure. They will then require two doses of vaccine after they reach 12 months to be fully protected. Children between one and four years can also get their second dose early if travelling to areas where measles is spreading.

    People can get free measles vaccines from their local health unit or health centre. Some doctors and nurse practitioners also offer vaccines to infants, children and adults. Children 4 years and older, as well as adults, can be vaccinated at a pharmacy. In First Nations communities, people can also be immunized by their community health nurse at their community health centre or nursing station.

    Two backgrounders follow.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Construction begins on new family student housing project in Merritt

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Students studying at Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) Merritt campus will have access to more on-campus housing and child care, with construction to begin soon on a new family housing complex.

    “I know that secure and affordable housing is crucial for students who have families and want to pursue post-secondary studies,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “By creating dedicated housing for families on campus, more students will be able to fully engage in their educational journey with their loved ones there to support them. This project is part of the Province’s historic investment in student housing, with over 10,700 beds built or underway since 2017.”

    NVIT is B.C.’s only public Indigenous post-secondary institution. The new student housing project will include 12 townhouses for primarily Indigenous families, with a mix of two- and three-bedroom units to accommodate students and family members. This will bring the total number of student beds on the NVIT Merritt campus to 110. Spaces for 80 single students are already on campus.

    “I’ve been a student at NVIT for two years and it’s been a truly rewarding experience,” said Keisha Munro, president, Student Society at NVIT. “With the new housing building and expanded child care services under construction, I’m really looking forward to the future for students and their families. This new facility will provide much-needed support for students facing housing difficulties, helping them focus on their studies and achieve success.”

    The new housing complex will provide stable homes for children and families, fostering growth and support. Set to open by fall 2027, it aligns with the Eagle’s Perch concept, emphasizing Indigenous knowledge. Inspired by expanding circles, the complex aims to include students, families and the community, while promoting holistic learning. With culturally grounded design, it reinforces NVIT’s commitment to creating a space where Indigenous learners can thrive, while staying connected to their families, traditions and the land.

    The Province provided $19.6 million toward this project. The project will feature an expanded child care facility, which will include 36 child care spaces and program spaces to train early childhood educators, as well as a secured parking compound for NVIT’s mobile technology, health and general classroom training trailers.

    These training trailers, also located at Coast Mountain College in Terrace for trades training, provide Indigenous communities with hands-on training vital to meeting the demand for Indigenous people working in technology and health care throughout the province. 

    “A positive and encouraging atmosphere, including access to family-friendly student housing on campus, goes a long way to supporting students and their families as they pursue their studies and explore future job opportunities,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure. “We are continuing to build the public infrastructure, including student housing, that people living throughout B.C. need now and for many decades to come.”

    In addition to the new student housing and child care, since 2017, the Province has provided approximately $20 million to support NVIT, including funding for a new green heating and cooling system ($4.9 million), a Centre of Excellence in Sustainability of Green Technology ($10.2 million) and two mobile training trailers ($3.9 million). The centre, which opened in fall 2018, includes a green lab, roof training area, greenhouse, culinary kitchen, classrooms, office space, gymnasium and flexible event space.

    Quote:

    John Chenoweth, president and CEO, Nicola Valley Institute of Technology –

    “At NVIT, we recognize that student success is deeply connected to the well-being of their families and communities. This new family housing complex and daycare will provide Indigenous learners with a safe and supportive environment, allowing them to focus on their education while ensuring their families are cared for. We are grateful for this investment in expanding our student housing and child care space, which will have a lasting impact on our learners and future generations.”

    Learn More:

    For more information about the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology, visit: https://nvit.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What users need to know about privacy and data after 23andMe’s bankruptcy filing

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Aileen Editha, PhD Candidate in Law, Queen’s University, Ontario

    News of 23andMe’s bankruptcy has reignited concerns about data privacy, particularly what happens to customers’ personal and genetic information. (Shutterstock)

    23andMe, one of the first companies to provide direct-to-consumer genetic testing kits, has filed for bankruptcy. Since its founding in 2006, it has sold over 12 million DNA kits, with high-profile users including Oprah Winfrey and Warren Buffett.

    The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on March 23 under the United States Bankruptcy Code. This means 23andMe — now considered a debtor-in-possession — will start restructuring its finances and operations under court supervision.

    Despite the bankruptcy filing, 23andMe said it’s not shutting down. Having secured US$35 million in financing for the restructure, 23andMe has stated in an open letter that it will continue operating. Customers still have full access to their accounts, reports and data.

    News of the bankruptcy has reignited concerns about data privacy, particularly what happens to customers’ personal and genetic information. Considering 23andMe’s past challenges and controversies, these concerns are understandable.



    Read more:
    The 23andMe data breach reveals the vulnerabilities of our interconnected data

    In 2023, hackers exploited old passwords to gain access to the personal information of 6.9 million people. While 23andMe said no genetic data was compromised, information like family trees, birth years and geographic locations were. Some of the stolen data was later put up for sale on a hacking forum.

    In addition to the breach and resulting legal suits, the company has been in financial trouble since 2021. In 2024, 23andMe laid off 40 per cent of its workforce and saw all its independent directors resign unanimously in response to CEO Anne Wojcicki’s decision to take the company private. Wojcicki has since stepped down.

    Data as assets

    A key concern now is what will happen to customer data during the bankruptcy process. The possibility of new ownership has some customers concerned about how their sensitive genetic information will be handled in the future.

    23andMe’s privacy policies say the following:

    “If we are involved in a bankruptcy, merger, acquisition, reorganization, or sale of assets, your Personal Information may be accessed, sold or transferred as part of that transaction and this Privacy Statement will apply to your Personal Information as transferred to the new entity.”

    This means 23andMe could technically sell customer information as part and parcel of the company to ensure competitive bids. This information includes both individual-level data, such as genotypes, diseases and traits, as well as de-identified data that doesn’t include names or addresses.

    23andMe is one of the first companies to provide direct-to-consumer genetic testing kits.
    (Shutterstock)

    The company could also expand licensing agreements with pharmaceutical companies, which would allow them to use customer information for research. For instance, 23andMe’s “discovery collaboration” with GlaxoSmithKline allows consumer data to be used for research on novel drugs.

    23andMe has stated customer data will remain protected during the bankruptcy process, since any buyer “will be required to comply with applicable law with respect to treatment of customer data.”

    It is also important to note, however, that 23andMe may emerge successful from its restructuring. Filing for bankruptcy doesn’t mean a company will necessarily cease to operate. Many companies, including rental car company Hertz, General Motors and Red Lobster, all filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy but eventually recovered and continued business operations. 23andMe could follow a similar path.

    How privacy laws affect consumer data

    In commercial spheres, an individual’s genetic information is treated the same as their personal information under privacy laws. The extent to which customers should be concerned also depends on where they are located.

    For instance, the European Union and United Kingdom’s General Data Protection Regulation will provide additional protections to customers.

    Customers in Canada have some protection under the Personal Information and Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), as they are legally permitted to withdraw consent to the use of their personal information so long as they provide reasonable notice. However, this may still be limited by legal or contractual agreements.

    A 23andMe user’s ancestry results are displayed beside a saliva collection kit in Wilmington, Del. in 2018.
    (Shutterstock)

    In the U.S., however, the situation is much more complicated as there continues to be a lack of a harmonized legal approach to consumer privacy. Some U.S. states have enacted laws to better protect consumer privacy, like California’s Consumer Privacy Act and the Illinois Genetic Information Privacy Act.

    However, U.S. federal legislation like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, better known as HIPAA, doesn’t apply because 23andMe isn’t classified as a health-care agency or an associate of a health-care organization.

    What should consumers do?

    There are numerous uncertainties surrounding the situation, like whether or not 23andMe will eventually cease to operate and who it might sell to. Additionally, regardless of whether or not 23andMe is sold, its privacy policies can change anytime.

    In light of these uncertainties, concerned customers should err on the side of caution and delete their accounts. It is, however, important to note that 23andMe and its laboratory partners may still retain some consumers’ personal and genetic information, even after accounts are deleted.

    Concerned customers should make sure to withdraw their consent and request the deletion of both their individual-level and de-identifed data from the database. California’s Attorney General Rob Bonta and Ontario’s Privacy Commissioner Patricia Kosseim have also given this advice.



    Read more:
    With 23andMe filing for bankruptcy, what happens to consumers’ genetic data?

    The anxiety and concern surrounding 23andMe’s future is an indicator that a harmonized and effective framework is needed to regulate consumer privacy.

    As legal scholars Sara Gerke, Melissa B. Jacoby and I. Glenn Cohen aptly stated in their recent research article, “a legal system that relies heavily on privacy statements to protect customer data leaves customers vulnerable to unexpected uses of their data, with limited remedies.”

    Without clear regulations, consumers are forced to rely on the word of companies. With genetic data at stake, it’s imperative that policymakers take action to protect consumer privacy in the face of uncertainty.

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

    – ref. What users need to know about privacy and data after 23andMe’s bankruptcy filing – https://theconversation.com/what-users-need-to-know-about-privacy-and-data-after-23andmes-bankruptcy-filing-253012

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Over 10,000 people connected to life-changing supports

    Alberta’s government has been focussed on helping the most vulnerable get off the streets and into much safer environments where they can focus on building their futures. As a part of these efforts, the province continues to make it easier for vulnerable Albertans to meet their housing and recovery needs through the Navigation and Support Centres.

    The Navigation and Support Centres provide a one-stop shop where people can access a wide range of supports in one place, including financial aid, health services, housing supports and more. Since the first centre opened just over a year ago, more than 10,000 unique individuals have been connected to life-changing services at the Navigation and Support Centres.

    “We won’t turn our backs on the most vulnerable. Our goal is to get vulnerable people into much safer environments where they can access a range of supports and that’s why we created the Navigation and Support Centres. By offering a centralized place for vulnerable Albertans to access numerous services and supports, we have helped thousands of vulnerable Albertans receive the help they need, more easily.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta

    In January 2024, Alberta’s government opened Edmonton’s Navigation and Support Centre to provide targeted support for vulnerable Albertans. As the province worked with its partners to remove high-risk encampments, the centre helped connect those leaving encampments with the various supports they needed under one roof, and quickly expanded to serving all homeless individuals looking for help.

    This new approach made it much easier for vulnerable people to access supports, as they no longer were forced to travel to multiple locations to get connected with the help they need. This proved to be incredibly successful, leading to Edmonton’s centre becoming a permanent fixture and the province expanding these efforts by opening a second centre in Calgary.

    “I am pleased to see that so many lives have been positively affected by the navigation and support centres. This approach is clearly working, proving to be an effective way of connecting vulnerable people with the help they need. Alberta’s innovative approach to addressing homelessness has raised the bar across Canada, and other jurisdictions are taking note of our success.”

    Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

    To date, the two centres have provided over 45,000 connections or referrals to services, assisting more than 10,000 people as of March 27. This includes:

    • More than 4,460 connections to emergency shelter spaces and housing programs such as transitional and supportive housing, affordable housing, and rent supplements.
    • Almost 9,700 identification cards issued by Service Alberta.
    • More than 8,950 connections to employment and financial services, including Income Support and AISH.
    • More than 2,090 connections to cultural supports provided by local Indigenous organizations.
    • More than 3,450 connections to health and medical supports.
    • More than 4,038 connections to mental health and addiction services.

    “The Navigation and Support Centre has provided a vast range of supports to thousands of people experiencing homelessness in Edmonton and throughout Alberta. The centre represents Alberta’s commitment and innovative approach to supporting vulnerable people in our communities.”

    Tim Pasma, director of programs, Homelessness, Hope Mission

    Alberta’s government has made unprecedented investments into supporting thousands of shelter spaces across the province and local programs for stable housing with wraparound supports, and the Navigation and Support Centres continue help connect vulnerable individuals with these valuable services.

    In many cases, people have found the centres so useful that they are returning multiple times to access services and are bringing people they know are in need along with them. Alberta’s government remains committed to working closely with its partners, including front-line service providers, Indigenous leaders and other levels of government, to ensure the continued success of the Navigation and Support Centres.

    “As a sober living service provider in Edmonton, we are very appreciative of the Navigation and Support Centre for being the innovative response to our community’s most vulnerable. The spectrum of supports and services available to be accessed in one location was something our community really needed.”

    Stephen Syskakis, executive director, 8 Pillars Recovery Foundation

    Related information

    • Navigation and Support Centres

    Related news

    • New supports for vulnerable people in Edmonton (Jan. 17, 2024)
    • Helping Calgary’s most vulnerable navigate supports (July 2, 2024)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Provincial health officer’s statement on end of respiratory illness season

    Dr. Bonnie Henry, British Columbia’s provincial health officer, has issued the following statement about the end of respiratory illness season:

    “Based on the most recently released data from public-health partners at the provincial and federal level, including yesterday’s respiratory illness season update from the BC Centre for Disease Control, I am officially declaring an end to the 2024-25 respiratory illness season. This means additional measures implemented in health-care settings are no longer required. The standard that requires use of personal protective equipment and additional precautions based on point-of-care risk assessment remains in place.

    “This decision is informed by low and decreasing levels of respiratory illness seen in the most recent data for influenza, RSV and COVID-19 in B.C.

    “Data published on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from the BC Centre for Disease Control shows that respiratory illnesses in B.C. continue to decrease. Currently, there are approximately 40 people in hospital with COVID, a number that has been trending down in recent weeks, and influenza and RSV test positivity have decreased in recent weeks, with decreasing detection of both in wastewater samples.

    “We must continue to practise healthy habits to prevent illnesses from spreading, keeping our families and communities safe. That includes cleaning your hands, staying home when sick, covering your coughs and sneezes, wearing a mask when appropriate and getting the latest vaccines by booking immunization appointments across B.C.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine, Klobuchar, and Warner Announce Expected Vote Timing on their Bill to Undo Canada Tariffs that will Raise Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Next Tuesday, April 1, the U.S. Senate is expected to vote on legislation led by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Mark R. Warner (D-VA) to undo President Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods, which amount to a 25 percent tax on goods imported from one of America’s top trading partners and closest allies. Since President Trump announced tariffs on Canada, there has been strong pushback from Americans, businesses, trade groups, and industry leaders.

    “President Trump’s taxes on Canadian goods have sent our economy into chaos, and Americans aren’t buying what he’s selling. They know they will pay the price with higher costs for everyday items, and their confidence in the economy is the lowest it has been in recent years,” said Kaine. “Many of my Republican colleagues in Congress have already expressed concerns about these tariffs, so the Senate’s upcoming vote on our legislation provides senators with the perfect opportunity to show Americans that they will stand up for their constituents and reverse the President’s disastrous economic policies.”

    “This Administration is igniting a reckless trade war and regular Americans are paying the price,” said Klobuchar. “Costs for everyone will go up and our farmers and businesses will suffer. Canada is Minnesota’s top trading partner and is a key U.S. ally. We must reverse these damaging tariffs before it’s too late.”

    “Trump’s tariffs on Canada are a self-inflicted wound—raising prices for American consumers, hurting workers, and straining one of our closest trade partnerships,” said Warner. “Now my Republican colleagues have an opportunity to weigh in—will they stand up for the American people or continue us down this damaging path?”

    In total, the tariffs President Trump announced on February 1 would cost the average American household up to $2,000 a year, with the Canada tariffs making up a significant portion of that. These tariffs represent the largest tax increase on American families in recent history. Polls have overwhelmingly demonstrated that the American people do not support Trump’s trade wars. According to a survey by Public First, just 28 percent of American adults supported specifically applying tariffs to Canada, while 43 percent opposed.

    In Virginia in 2024, Canada was the largest export market and accounted for 15 percent of Virginia exports. In Virginia in 2022, top goods exports to Canada included motor vehicles and transportation equipment, such as medium- and heavy-duty trucks. 56.1 percent of Southwest Virginia’s economic output is dependent on trade.

    Below is what Americans are saying about Trump’s tariffs on Canada:

    AFL-CIO Director of Government Affairs Jody Calemine: “On behalf of the AFL-CIO, I urge you to support S.J. Res. 37, a resolution introduced by Senator Tim Kaine to terminate the national emergency that was declared to justify tariffs on imports from Canada under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)… However, imposing large, across the board tariffs on Canada aimed at non-trade objectives will only cause unnecessary economic pain for workers and businesses on both sides of the border.”

    International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) International President Brian Bryant: “On behalf of the 600,000 active and retired members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), I write today in strong support of S.J. Res. 37… These new tariffs on Canada, one of our closest allies and largest trading partners, are unjust and will have lasting negative impacts on American and Canadian workers… The Trump administration’s erratic approach to tariffs is wreaking havoc on workers and businesses in the United States and Canada. Punishing one of our nation’s closest trading partners based on a false pretense is wrong and the action needs to be reversed.”

    International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) President Matthew S. Biggs and Secretary-Treasurer Gay Henson: “As the Executive Officers of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), representing 90,000 workers in the private, public, and federal sectors across North America, we are writing in support of S.J. Res. 37… Canada is America’s closest ally and number one trading partner. Our trading relationship uplifts American and Canadian working families alike. Imposing reckless tariffs on Canadian imports will harm both the U.S. and Canadian economies and do even greater harm to working families on both sides of the border. Congress must step in now to block this reckless and destructive policy.”

    National Taxpayers Union: “Canada is an important supplier of goods that strengthen U.S. security, including crude oil, natural gas, steel, and aluminum. Tariffs that restrict our access to these supplies and increase their cost will weaken our industrial base and undermine our ability to sustain our defense in the event of a national emergency.”

    Taxpayers Protection Alliance President David Williams: “TPA enthusiastically supports Sens. Tim Kaine and Rand Paul’s CRA to overturn President Trump’s February 1, 2025, national emergency declaration. This use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) is fraught with issues. The ensuing trade war will inevitably raise costs for consumers. Placing a 25 percent tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico will harm consumers and the vast majority of American businesses.”

    United Steelworkers (USW) International President David McCall: “On behalf of the 850,000 active members of the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union (USW), I urge you to support S.J. Res. 37, a resolution introduced by Senator Tim Kaine to terminate the national emergency that was declared to impose duties on imports from Canada, under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)… These new tariffs are misdirected, unsubstantiated by facts, and harmful to the very workers we represent.”

    The Wall Street Journal Editorial Board: “None of this is supposed to happen under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement that Mr. Trump negotiated and signed in his first term. The U.S. willingness to ignore its treaty obligations, even with friends, won’t make other countries eager to do deals. Maybe Mr. Trump will claim victory and pull back if he wins some token concessions. But if a North American trade war persists, it will qualify as one of the dumbest in history.”

    The Washington Post Editorial Board: “Markets have plummeted since Trump announced new levies on Canada, Mexico and China, erasing nearly all gains since his election… The tariffs are still likely to be economically destructive: They will snarl global supply chains, raise costs to consumers and cause layoffs in industries that depend on imported inputs like steel… This means more than just additional pain for consumers whipsawed by inflation, higher prices on imports and, now, the possibility of a recession.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: End of lockdown and search at Mountain Institution 

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    March 27, 2025 – Agassiz, British Columbia – Correctional Service Canada

    The lockdown put in place at Mountain Institution on March 21, 2025, has ended and the exceptional search has been completed. The institution has resumed its normal operations and visits have resumed.

    During the exceptional search, contraband and unauthorized items were seized which included cell phones, phone chargers, and methamphetamines.

    The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) is strengthening measures to prevent the entry of contraband into its institutions in order to ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone. CSC also works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to have contraband brought into correctional institutions.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Tourists are cancelling trips to the US – here’s how this could affect its economy

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ross Bennett-Cook, PhD Researcher, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University

    The United States is one of the top three most visited countries in the world. The big draw cards – cities such as San Francisco, New York and Chicago and national parks such as Yosemite – have attracted international tourists for decades. This combined with its role as a global business powerhouse meant it had 66.5 million visitors in 2023 – and the 2024 figure is expected to be higher still.

    But a lot has changed in recent months, and 2025’s figures may not be as strong. The 2024 reelection of Donald Trump as the president of the United States and the consequential changes in foreign diplomacy and relations, alongside internal cultural shifts, are starting to change global attitudes towards the US – attitudes that appear to be affecting tourists’ desire to visit the US.

    In a recent report by research firm Tourism Economics, inbound travel to the US is now projected to decline by 5.5% this year, instead of growing by nearly 9% as had previously been forecast. A further escalation in tariff and trade wars could result in further reductions in international tourism, which could amount to a US$18 billion (£13.8 billion) annual reduction in tourist spending in 2025.

    There is already some evidence of travel cancellations. Since Trump announced 25% tariffs on many Canadian goods, the number of Canadians driving across the border at some crossings has fallen by up to 45%, on some days, when compared to last year. Canada is the biggest source of international tourists to the US. Air Canada has announced it is reducing flights to some US holiday destinations, including Las Vegas, from March, as demand reduces.

    According to a March poll by Canadian market researcher Leger, 36% of Canadians who had planned trips to the United States had already cancelled them. According to data from the aviation analytics company OAG, passenger bookings on Canada to US routes are down by over 70% compared to the same period last year. This comes after the U.S. Travel Association warned that even a 10% reduction in Canadian inbound travel could result in a US$2.1 billion (£1.6 billion) loss in spending, putting 140,000 hospitality jobs at risk.

    An unwelcoming environment?

    Some would-be visitors have cited an unwelcoming political climate as part of a concern about visiting the US – including angry rhetoric about foreigners, migrants and the LGBTQ+ community. The Tourism Economics report also cited “polarizing Trump Administration policies and rhetoric” as a factor in travel cancellations.

    There are other factors that may influence travellers from, for instance, western Europe, which represented 37% of overseas travel to the US last year. These include US tariffs pushing prices up at home and the US administration’s perceived alignment with Russia in the war in Ukraine.

    Canadian trips to the US are going down.

    Research by YouGov in March found that western European attitudes towards the US have become more negative since Trump’s reelection last November. More than half of people in Britain (53%), Germany (56%), Sweden (63%) and Denmark (74%) now have an unfavourable opinion of the US. In five of the seven countries polled, figures for US favourability are at the lowest since polling began in November 2016.

    Border issues

    Some high-profile cases at the US border could also be putting off tourists. In March, a British woman was handcuffed and detained for more than ten days by US Customs Enforcement after a visa problem. In the same month, a Canadian tourist was detained after attempting to renew her visa at the US-Mexico border. During the 12-day detention, she was held in crowded jail cells and even put in chains.

    Mexico is the US’s second largest inbound travel market. Tourism Economics suggests that issues around new border enforcement rules will raise concerns with potential Mexican tourists. During Trump’s first term in office, Mexican visits to the US fell by 3%. In February this year, air travel from Mexico had already fallen 6% when compared to 2024.

    Many countries including Canada have been updating their travel advice for the US. For instance, on March 15 the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office updated its advice for the US, warning visitors that “you may be liable to arrest or detention if you break the rules”. The previous version of advice, from February, had no mention of arrest or detention. Germany has made similar updates to its travel advisory, after several Germans were recently detained for weeks by US border officials.

    Multiple European countries, including France, Germany, Denmark and Norway have also issued specific travel warnings to transgender and non-binary citizens, as US authorities demand tourists declare their biological sex at birth on visa applications. This comes as the US has stopped issuing of passports with a X marker – commonly used by those identifying as non-binary – for its own citizens.

    Alternative destinations

    As thousands of travellers cancel their trips to the US, other destinations are seeing a spike in interest. Hotels in Bermuda have reported a surge in enquiries as Canadians relocate business and leisure trips away from the US, with some predicting a 20% increase in revenue from Canadian visits.

    Europe too has reported increased bookings from Canada, with rental properties experiencing a 32% jump in summer reservations when compared to last year, according to some reports.

    There are already growing concerns that visa and entry restrictions will disrupt fans and athletes from enjoying 2026 men’s Fifa World Cup, held on sites in the US, Canada and Mexico. Visitors from some countries, such as Brazil, Turkey and Colombia, could wait up to 700 days to obtain visas. The International Olympic Committee has also raised concerns over the 2028 Olympics Games in Los Angeles, although US officials have insisted that “America will be open”.

    With mounting visa delays, stricter border enforcement and growing concerns over human rights and anti-minority rhetoric, the United States risks losing its appeal as a top holiday destination. The long-term impact on its tourism industry may prove difficult to reverse.

    Ross Bennett-Cook 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. Tourists are cancelling trips to the US – here’s how this could affect its economy – https://theconversation.com/tourists-are-cancelling-trips-to-the-us-heres-how-this-could-affect-its-economy-252858

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Eid al-Fitr: Premier Smith

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan’s Health Human Resources Action Plan Delivers for Patients and Health Care Teams

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on March 28, 2025

    Innovative Saskatchewan-Based Solutions to Recruit, Train, Incentivize, Retain and Enhance Competitiveness

    The 2025-26 Budget invests $156.1 million in the Health Human Resources (HHR) Action Plan to deliver on government commitments to strengthen Saskatchewan’s health care system.

    Since the launch of the HHR Action Plan in September 2022, more than $460 million has now been invested in initiatives guided by the plan’s four pillars to accelerate the hiring and growth of health care professionals in Saskatchewan. 

    The HHR Action Plan is the result of ongoing support, collaboration, and partnerships between multiple ministries, health employers, health partner agencies, post-secondary institutions, and professional regulators. 

    More information on the 2025-26 Budget, including HHR Action Plan initiatives, is available at saskatchewan.ca/budget. 

    Recruit

    The Ministry of Health will receive $88.6 million in 2025-26 as part of the $156.1 million overall government investment to continue building on the success of HHR Action Plan initiatives. 

    This includes previously committed funding of $10.7 million to support ongoing work on established recruitment initiatives such as the Saskatchewan International Physician Practice Assessment (SIPPA) program, and recruitment of internationally educated health care workers. These funds will also advance hiring of physician assistants and clinical assistants, and support the Saskatchewan Healthcare Recruitment Agency.

     “Continued investment into our ambitious HHR Action Plan ensures Saskatchewan remains an attractive place for health care professionals to live, work and build a career,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “I am pleased to see steady progress being made on multiple initiatives to recruit, train, incentivize and retain more health professionals, strengthen health care teams and deliver improved patient care to residents in communities across the province.”

    Since September 2022, Saskatchewan has seen impressive recruitment results, with 488 physicians establishing practice in the province, which includes 38 from outside the country. These efforts resulted in 243 family physicians and 245 specialists establishing their practices in the province.

    Nearly 1,880 nursing graduates from in-and out-of-province were hired between April 2023 and December 2024, and more than 400 internationally educated healthcare professionals from the Philippines are working in communities across the province.

    Train

    Training plays a pivotal role in shaping a dynamic health care workforce and is integral to realizing the goals of the HHR Action Plan. Since December 2022, Saskatchewan has invested approximately $170 million to support over 900 new health care training seats in 33 programs. 

     “A rewarding health care career begins with high-quality education and training,” Advanced Education Minister Ken Cheveldayoff said. “This significant investment in training supports our post-secondary institutions in helping build a capable, compassionate workforce that is ready to meet the needs of Saskatchewan citizens.”

    In 2025-26, the Government of Saskatchewan is delivering $81.3 million in operating, programming and capital funding to support health care training in areas of critical need to the province. 

    Approximately $35.3 million will support the continued expansion of health care training seats and add 60 new seats for registered nursing, nurse practitioner, registered psychiatric nursing and medical radiologic technology programs.

    Over $17 million will continue the development of four new training programs that will accept students in fall 2025 (physician assistant) and fall 2026 (speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, respiratory therapy). 

    An investment of $17.1 million will enable the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Medicine to expand family medicine and specialty residency seats, add more full-time academic physician positions, expand family medicine enhanced skills programs to regional sites and support operations. Medical residency seats have been increased to 150 seats. The province continues to fund eight undergraduate medical education seats that were part of previous expansions over the last two years, for a total of 108 undergraduate seats each year. 

    This year’s budget also delivers $1.5 million for clinical placement coordination and clinical oversight to support health training seat expansion in the post-secondary sector. 

    Incentives

    A range of attractive incentive programs, such as the Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive has directly benefited over 50 communities across the province with more than 400 hard-to-recruit positions successfully filled. 

    The 2025-26 Health budget provides a total of $13 million for incentive programs, including the Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive, Rural Physician Incentive Program and incentives for specialists. This includes new funding of $1 million to support recruitment of specialist physicians in high demand for recruitment areas experiencing shortages, such as anesthesia, psychiatry, breast and interventional radiology, emergency medicine and targeted pediatric subspecialists. 

    “The incentive program has demonstrated real progress in attracting new in-demand health care workers to our warm and welcoming communities,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Lori Carr said. “Ongoing investments in this area will continue attracting specialists, physicians, registered nurses and other highly sought health care workers to provide high-quality health care services and improve patient access across the province.”

    Since the launch of the HHR Action Plan, the province has also disbursed over $2.5 million in bursaries, such as over 600 Final Clinical Placement Bursaries, nearly 150 paramedic bursaries and other scholarships and available grants to encourage students to pursue a health care career. For 2025-26, there will be additional Final Clinical Placement bursaries available, for a total of 300 bursaries. In addition, many graduates are eligible for the Graduate Retention Tax Credits and student loan forgiveness programs.

    Retain

    Retention of health care staff has been a key area of focus, with the goal of promoting the rewarding benefits of a career in health care. 

    The 2025-26 Health budget provides a total investment of $44.7 million for retention initiatives. This includes $33.8 million to continue supporting 250 new and enhanced permanent full-time positions in high-priority occupations to stabilize staffing in rural and northern areas. New funding of $4.9 million will support 65 new and enhanced permanent full-time registered nurse positions to stabilize nursing in 30 rural and northern locations.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. John’s — RCMP NL warn of scammers sharing missing persons posts on Facebook to gain personal information

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP NL is warning residents of a type of scam currently in circulation where scammers are using Facebook to share fake missing persons posts in the hopes of gaining access to personal information.

    These posts are commonly circulated through various buy and sell Facebook pages and often say that there is a missing person, specifically a child or a police officer, in the area where the buy and sell group is located. These types of fake posts are very common around North America and have been appearing in many buy and sell groups in the province. An image of a recent such post is attached.

    These fake posts are often used to collect Facebook users’ information. Every time you share the post or comment on it the scammer may gain access to your Facebook account information, including your friends list. This information can then be used for other ill-intended purposes such as cloning an account and attempting to scam your friends.

    These types of posts can be reported to Facebook. The three small ‘…’ up in the right-hand corner of the post will provide this opportunity. Do not even comment on it that it is fake!

    Valid missing persons investigations will be posted on legitimate law enforcement social media platforms by your local police.

    Please help us spread the word on by speaking with family and friends, especially seniors, who may not be aware of these types of scams.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: $33.7 Million Highway 2 Over Trans Canada Highway 1 Project Underway at Moose Jaw

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on March 28, 2025

    Today, Highways Minister David Marit and the Moose Jaw community celebrated the recent start of an estimated $33.7 million project to raise the height of Highway 2 over Trans-Canada Highway 1 in Canada’s Most Notorious City.

    “Once completed the project will improve safety and trucking efficiency over the long term on Trans-Canada Highway 1 in Saskatchewan, which connects the province’s export-based economy to the rest of the country – and the world,” Marit said.

    The overpass project involves demolishing the existing pair of nearly 60-year-old Highway 2 over Highway 1 bridges, which have a clearance height of 4.5 metres and have been hit multiple times over the years by oversized traffic. The new structures will have a clearance height of 5.3 metres.

    “On behalf of City Council, we thank the Ministry of Highways for undertaking this critical overpass project,” Moose Jaw Mayor James Murdock said. “This improvement not only benefits the trucking industry, which is a cornerstone of our local economy, but also enhances the overall safety and well-being of our community, and the thousands of tourists that use Highways 1 and 2 to visit us in Canada’s Most Notorious City.”

    The existing classic cloverleaf shaped on- and off-ramps will also be replaced with modern diamond-shaped on- and off-ramps.

    “The Saskatchewan Trucking Association welcomes the investment in the Highway 2 overpasses at Moose Jaw,” Saskatchewan Trucking Association Executive Director Susan Ewart said. “This project is a critical improvement that will enhance safety and efficiency for trucking operations on this key transportation corridor, while demonstrating the provincial government’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure.” 

    A Ministry of Highways contractor began staging in the area in mid March and is expected to begin demolishing the northbound bridge the week of April 1.

    During construction this year, Highway 2 will have two-way traffic on the southbound bridge while the new northbound bridge is being built. Next year, Highway 2 will have two-way traffic on the new northbound bridge while the new southbound bridge is being built. 

    Highway 1 underneath the bridges will be reduced to two-way traffic throughout the project. Traffic from the exit ramps will be detoured as needed.

    All motorists are reminded to obey all signage and flag persons in the area and to check the Highway Hotline at https://hotline.gov.sk.ca/ for construction updates before heading out.

    The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, pending weather.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: More money for hands-on learning

    [.

    “We are working to set students up for success by strengthening job-focused education. This money is helping schools partner with businesses, universities and colleges to create programs that will help students hit the ground running after they graduate.”

    Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education

    Career education helps students gain credits towards graduation while earning hands-on experience in fields like the trades, computer programming, health care, agriculture, culinary arts and more. These career education programs support a strong economy by helping students learn the skills they need to get in-demand jobs.

    Collegiate schools

    Collegiate schools work with businesses, universities and colleges to offer classes that give students pathways to education and careers in the job of their choice. There are 12 collegiate schools in Alberta, offering many different types of programming for grades 7-12, including aviation, graphic design, trades and more.

    If passed, Budget 2025 provides more than $21 million to school boards to help fund special classrooms like carpentry workshops, film and media rooms, science laboratories, heavy equipment simulators and aircraft hangars. Another $6 million is being invested to support the start-up costs for new collegiate schools.

    Dual-credit programs

    Budget 2025, if passed, also provides $4.6 million in 2025/26 to start new or improve existing dual-credit programs. In partnership with universities and colleges, dual-credit programs give students a head start on rewarding careers by allowing them to earn high-school and post-secondary credits at the same time. Of the $4.6 million, $550,000 is being provided by Alberta Seniors, Community and Social Services for new and improved dual-credit health care aide programs.

    “Health care aides play a critical role in ensuring Albertans receive the continuing care services they need to maintain their health, independence and quality of life. Our investments into career pathways for health care aides will provide opportunities for young Albertans to develop the skills they need to build a rewarding career in Alberta’s continuing care workforce.”

    Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

    Another $1.4 million is being invested to support students participating in off-campus career education programs through CAREERS. This non-profit connects students to jobs in high-demand fields, such as the trades, technology, health, forestry and agriculture.

    “Investments in collegiate and dual-credit programming are significant for Calgary Catholic as they further strengthen our collegiate and dual-credit programming. This programming will open opportunities for our students and help them to realize their full potential.”

    Shannon Cook, chair, Calgary Catholic School District

    “Before Fusion Collegiate, I felt lost and wasn’t really sure what to do after high school. Thanks to its career-focused learning and the opportunities through Fusion and The Educational Partnership Foundation, I’m now working as a first-year apprentice plumber with Mr. Rooter. The hands-on trades training, high school credits, safety certifications, and real-world skills I picked up completely changed my life. I’m excited about where my career is headed and really thankful for the support that helped me get here.”

    Francis Mazieta, student, Fusion Collegiate

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

    Quick facts

    • If passed, Budget 2025 invests $102.4 million over three years to provide sustainable, predictable career education funding, and to increase access to career education for Alberta students.
      • This includes $8.4 million over 2026-27 and 2027-28 to raise awareness among students and families of career education programs and pathways available to Alberta students.
    • Career education in Alberta includes career and technology courses, Career and Life Management (CALM), dual-credit courses, collegiate schools, apprenticeships and off-campus education programming.
    • Since 2013, more than 95,000 high school students participated in at least one dual–credit course.
    • In spring 2025, Alberta Education will engage with education partners on best practices to bring more career education opportunities to students.
      • Since 2022, education partners and almost 5,000 Albertans have provided their feedback on career education and workforce needs.

    Related information

    • Dual credit – Start-up funding for school authorities
    • Dual credit – Enhancement funding for school authorities
    • Dual Credit Review Advisory Group
    • Collegiate schools

    Related news

    • Career education empowers students’ futures (Nov. 20, 2024)
    • Giving students a head start in Alberta’s job market (June 5, 2024)
    • Exploring Germany’s career education model (June 6, 2024)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –