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Category: Canada

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Nearly 230 transition housing spaces open for women, children leaving violence

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Julia (Boyle) Davidson, executive director, Ishtar Women’s Resources Society –

    “We at Ishtar Women’s Resource Society are grateful to be moving our Ishtar Transition House to a bright and welcoming new home. The new house will enable us to support more women and their children, including a second-stage housing unit.”

    Makenna Rielly, executive director, Victoria Women’s Housing Society –

    “Transitional housing provides women and children fleeing intimate-partner violence time to determine their next steps. It allows them space to create safety plans, address trauma and remain within their community, minimizing disruption in their lives. In partnership with BC Housing and the community, we work to rebuild lives.”

    Daylene Jones, executive director, Haven Society –

    “The addition of second-stage housing to our community will make a huge difference for women and children impacted by violence. The ability to take the time needed to process, heal, and prepare for their future in a safe, supportive, and affordable living environment is essential for those leaving violence.”

    Liza Scott, interim executive director, Cowichan Women Against Violence Society –

    “We are pleased to announce the opening of Kw’i Lelum (‘Rise House’), providing safe, transitional housing for women, children, and families escaping violence. Rooted in cultural connection and community support, Kw’i Lelum offers a secure environment and resources to empower survivors on their path to independence.”

    Kristy Rogge, executive director, Cythera Transition House Society –

    “The opening of the Bernice Gehring Building is an incredible milestone and opportunity for our community. This space will be home to our second-stage program and longer-term housing for women and children. This first-of-its-kind housing project will provide a safe, stable environment, empowering families to rebuild, heal, and thrive in their community.”

    Syma Nehal, program director, Nisa Foundation –

    “Nisa Homes was born out of a need to support the most vulnerable and marginalized members of our community. As such, we work hard to provide a place for women to live comfortably and feel safe in a supportive home environment, explore their cultural identity, and directly connect with their community.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Christian nationalism in the U.S. is eerily reminiscent of ‘dominionist’ reformers in history

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Gary K. Waite, Professor Emeritus, Early Modern European History, University of New Brunswick

    In this etching from Dutch theologian Lambertus Hortensius’ 1614 book ‘Van den oproer der weder-dooperen,’ Anabaptists warn the residents of Amsterdam of the coming vengeance of Christ in 1535. (Lambertus Hortensius)

    Far-right politics and Christian nationalism are on the rise in North America and Europe, leading to growing concerns about what it means for human rights and democracy.

    As an historian of the demonizing language of the 16th century, I have been watching current events, around QAnon and Christian nationalist support for United States President Donald Trump with considerable trepidation.

    Why? Because we’ve seen before what happens when religious groups use government to force their beliefs and morality upon society.

    Religion scholar Bradley Onishi writes that the Christian nationalist movement known as the “New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) is one of the most influential and dangerous Christian nationalist movements in the United States” and has become “a global phenomenon.”



    Read more:
    New Apostolic Reformation evangelicals see Trump as God’s warrior in their battle to win America from satanic forces and Christianize it

    This movement has reshaped its theology in ways eerily reminiscent of the prophets of the Anabaptist kingdom of Münster of the 1530s in present-day Germany. As my scholarship has examined, those religious dissenters faced polemical demonizing by religious authorities and faced violent oppression, via torture and execution.

    Today’s Christian nationalists, however, have faced no such maltreatment. Yet, like persecuted dissenters of the 1530s, they claim divine authority to remake society.

    The Anabaptists of Münster

    A portrait of Jan van Leiden, a leader of the Münster Anabaptists, by Dutch artist Jan Muller circa 1615.
    (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

    The 16th-century Reformation had originally broken down the religious state of medieval Europe. However, Protestant leaders like Martin Luther and John Calvin quickly saw the advantage of having civic governments force conformity to their reforms, and punish dissent.

    Among those targeted were the small groups of dissenters whose Biblical interpretation, congruent with the life and teaching of Jesus, led them to follow the Gospel’s command to preach and baptize “on confession of faith” and a person’s commitment to discipleship.“ By contrast, reformers, and the church they sought to reform, “practised and required infant baptism for the entire population (usually required by law).”

    Derisively called Anabaptists, the small group of dissenters also refused to participate in government. For these practices they were persecuted, with hundreds horrifically tortured and executed.

    Driven to desperation, some Anabaptists in northwestern Europe and northern Germany looked for hope to the Westphalian city of Münster in present-day Germany.

    Here the city’s major preacher, Bernhard Rothmann, was moving the city into the Reformed Protestant camp, rather than that of their Lutheran neighbours. When large numbers of Anabaptist refugees arrived in 1533, they won the civic election and Münster became an Anabaptist city.

    The Catholic bishop of Münster had other ideas. Hiring Catholic and Lutheran troops, he laid siege to the city and things became desperate. Enraged by persecution, the Münsterite Anabaptists changed their image of Jesus from the peacemaker of the Gospels to the apocalyptic Jesus of Revelation.

    The Jesus of Anabaptist Münster

    Rothmann’s original theology was like what Calvin would develop for Geneva. What made the two cities distinct was the charismatic leadership of the Dutch Anabaptist prophet Jan Matthijs, who predicted that Christ would return on Easter Day, 1534, adding both urgency and confidence in applying God’s directives.

    Now besieged, Matthijs and Rothmann took their reform movement in a more “dominionist” direction, meaning they believed their movement should take moral, spiritual and religious control over society. They expelled anyone who refused to co-operate.

    When Christ did not return on Easter 1534 and Matthijs was killed by the besiegers, his successor, Jan van Leiden, simply postponed Christ’s return to the following Easter and declared himself a semi-divine king.

    He also abandoned the message of the Jesus of the Sermon on the Mount in favour of the vengeful Jesus of the Book of Revelation. Rothmann justified this in a tract which I translated as:

    “It was … the intention of our hearts in our baptism, that we would suffer for Christ, whatever men did to us. But it has pleased the Lord … that now we and all Christians at this time may not only ward off the violence of the godless with the sword, but also, that he has put the sword into our hands to avenge all injustice and evil over the entire world.”

    King van Leiden sent people out to spread this revolutionary message and take over other cities. This led to several militant episodes, including in Amsterdam, where in February 1535, 11 Anabaptists paraded naked through the streets proclaiming the “naked truth” of God’s anger.

    Others delivered the message while waving swords. Finally, in May, 1535 about 40 Anabaptists captured Amsterdam’s city hall. All were arrested and executed. These were the actions of desperate people inspired by their prophets’ assurances of divine authority. When, however, Münster fell at the end of June 1535, the result was massive disillusionment, a return to non-violence and increased persecution.

    This etching (circa 1629-1652) by Dutch artist Pieter de Hooch depicts Anabaptists walking naked through the streets of Amsterdam after being inspired to remove and burn their clothes in February 1535.
    (Rijksmuseum)

    Divine authority to remake society?

    This transformation of the Münster Anabaptists into vengeful militants reminds me of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). As Matthew D. Taylor has revealed, this movement sees itself as fighting a “spiritual battle” against the demonic forces opposing Trump; some participated (non-violently) in the Jan. 6, 2020 riot.

    Taylor concludes with a warning that the NAR act as “spiritual warmongers, constantly expanding the arena of spiritual warfare, mapping it onto geographical territory and divisive politics in a deeply destabilizing and antidemocratic manner.” It is as if we are listening to Rothmann’s fiery sermons again.

    One difference, of course, is that the NAR folk are not under persecution, despite what they might claim. Taylor describes this as “the Evangelical Persecution Neurosis.”

    Three of the NAR’s principle components are:

    1. A charismatic approach to Christian life that affirms God speaks directly to them. They see themselves as biblical prophets who speak God’s commands which must be implemented regardless of social impact.

    2. The Evangelical Christian belief of living in the end-times on the eve of Jesus Christ’s return for judgment. NAR preachers proclaim that while Jesus in the Gospels taught to “turn the other cheek,” they now follow the judgmental Jesus of the apocalyptical Book of Revelation and mobilize a struggle with Satan to rely on scapegoat ideology.

    3. Derived from a group of Reformed or Calvinist theologians called “Christian Reconstructionists,” and building on Calvin’s theology of the “godly city,” they pursue a broader “dominionist” rationale to take over all of society for Christ. Believing one is living in the end-times means that society must be taken over and cleansed immediately, adding to urgency.



    Read more:
    I went to CPAC as an anthropologist to see how Trump supporters are feeling − for them, a ‘golden age’ has begun

    Believers, drawing on these three beliefs, derive an assurance they speak with God’s voice. This was the case for the Münster Anabaptists, and now similarly, for the NAR. As the example of the Münster Anabaptists suggests, we’ve seen this many times before throughout history, and it doesn’t end well.

    A 1685 engraving by Dutch poet and engraver Jan Luyken depicting the 1571 burning of Anabaptist woman Anneken Hendriks from Thieleman van Braght’s 1660 book ‘The Bloody Theatre or Martyrs Mirror.’
    (Allard Pierson Museum)

    There have been many more recent episodes of Christian groups claiming divine authority to remake society. Like Jan van Leiden, those in the NAR or who concur with its theology have recast the Jesus of the Gospels, and U.S. President Donald Trump, in apocalyptic terms.

    U.S. congresswoman Lauren Boebert, for example, who has been described as a Christian nationalist and is a strong gun advocate, is among those who say God anointed Trump to the presidency.

    This gives a gloss of divine approval for Trump’s autocratic goals. As authoritarianism and Christian nationalism rises, the fusion of charismatic authority with Reformed Protestant certitude and end-times fervour continues to attract followers.

    Gary K. Waite has received funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. Christian nationalism in the U.S. is eerily reminiscent of ‘dominionist’ reformers in history – https://theconversation.com/christian-nationalism-in-the-u-s-is-eerily-reminiscent-of-dominionist-reformers-in-history-250600

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Fungi are among the planet’s most important organisms — yet they continue to be overlooked in conservation strategies

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Jonathan Cazabonne, Doctorant en mycologie et écologie des vieilles forêts, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT)

    Fungi are among the most important organisms on Earth. Even though most of the world’s described 157,000 fungal species are only visible with a microscope, these organisms are essential to our ecosystems, our societies and economies.

    They break down organic matter and interact with all groups of organisms — including other fungi. They’re key actors in forest carbon storage, nutrient cycling, as well as plant growth and resistance to environmental stress.

    Fungi are also important to human cultures — including as a source of food, medicine and art. Economically, fungi also support a growing economy centred around mycotourism — with a growing number of travellers visiting Canada and Spain each year to forage for wild mushrooms.



    Read more:
    Rural communities in Québec are embracing ‘mushroom tourism’ to boost local economies

    All the benefits fungi provide to humans are estimated to be worth the equivalent of US$54.57 trillion. This is why it’s an understatement to say that the world’s ecosystems and human societies are shaped by fungi.

    And yet fungi continue to be an important but overlooked element of conservation strategies.

    Why fungi are forgotten

    Conservation efforts have long focused on protecting well-studied animals and plants. This is reflected in the number of species that have been assigned a conservation status by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

    Around 84 per cent of known species of vertebrates have received an IUCN conservation status. But just 0.5 per cent of all described fungi — 818 fungal species — are currently present on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Considering scientists estimate that there could be around 2.5 million fungal species in the world — of which we currently only know about six per cent of them — this means just 0.03 per cent of all fungi have been assigned a conservation status.

    Several factors explain this alarming reality.

    Fungi are difficult to study in both nature and under experimental conditions. This is because of many species’ microscopic size, their short lifespan and the hidden habitats they call home — such as soils, the tissues of other organisms and dung deposits.

    Many species of fungi are difficult to study because of their microscopic size.
    (Shutterstock)

    Fungi are also considered “uncharismatic” — meaning they don’t have the level of human appeal that some other species have. Much of their diversity is cryptic, as well. This means that while many fungi were once considered to be a single species, in reality they’re made up of multiple species that may look similar but are genetically distinct from one another. Because of this, conservation projects for fungi are poorly funded and do not easily capture public interest.

    Protecting the unknown

    In recent years, there’s been momentum within the scientific community to recognise fungi as a distinct kingdom within conservation strategies — one that’s on equal footing with animals and plants.

    A significant milestone in this movement has been the adoption of the term “funga,” which mirrors “fauna” and “flora”. This designates the fungal diversity within a given environment or habitat.

    Another important advancement was the recent pledge for fungal conservation that was presented at the 2024 Conference of Parties (COP16) in Colombia. This pledge urged parties to make fungal conservation a priority given fungi are central to achieving the biodiversity targets set out by the Kunming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework.

    More local initiatives are also emerging. In Québec, over 70 mycologists and biologists signed an opinion letter encouraging the government to integrate fungi into its legislative framework.

    Such progress is not trivial and may help correct misconceptions about fungi that continue to be present among the public, economic sectors and policymakers. For example, the misconception that fungi are plants is something that still persists to this day. Allowing this misconception to continue being perpetuated is harmful to the field of mycology, and may be preventing it from becoming a standalone discipline that deserves dedicated funding and specialists.

    Still, there’s much we don’t know about these unique, important organisms. And in order for us to be able to protect and preserve the planet’s fungi, we need to begin by formally identifying areas where knowledge is lacking and close these gaps.

    Last year, researchers used Laboulbeniomycetes — a class of poorly understood microfungi — as a case study to understand what biodiversity and conservation shortfalls continue to affect funga. This group of fungi includes species that rely on arthropods to disperse their spores or act as hosts for them. Many of these fungi live as minute parasites on the surface of insects such as cockroaches and ladybirds.

    The case study uncovered four major biodiversity shortfalls that are undermining the conservation of funga. These include knowledge gaps in species diversity, distribution, conservation assessments and species persistence.

    Part of conservation

    Failing to protect fungi means, by extension, failing to protect the roles they play in our ecosystems and daily lives.

    This is especially timely, as fungi, like animals and plants, are also facing numerous threats. Habitat degradation, pollution, invasive species and climate change may all increase their risks of extinction.

    And, as recently exemplified in vertebrates, many undescribed species of fungi may be even more at peril than we might know. This is because they’re most likely to be found in remote geographical regions — such as tropical rainforests — and thus heavily susceptible to human-induced changes.

    A key priority to better integrate fungi into conservation biology is to accumulate data on species diversity. But in order to accumulate data and understand how we can better protect fungal species worldwide, we need to fund research on fungi and make mycology a more attractive field for young scientists.

    One thing remains certain: the more we explore, the more we realise just how little we know.

    Jonathan Cazabonne is financially supported by a B2X doctoral research fellowship from the Fonds de Recherche du Québec – Nature et technologies (FRQNT).

    Danny Haelewaters receives funding from the Czech Academy of Sciences (Lumina Quaeruntur Fellowship LQ200962501).

    – ref. Fungi are among the planet’s most important organisms — yet they continue to be overlooked in conservation strategies – https://theconversation.com/fungi-are-among-the-planets-most-important-organisms-yet-they-continue-to-be-overlooked-in-conservation-strategies-250483

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Youth are charting new freshwater futures by learning from the water on the water

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Andrea Reid, Assistant Professor, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia

    The future of freshwater is increasingly in jeopardy across Canada and around the world.

    Lakes, rivers and wetlands face numerous threats, from climate change to a range of harmful pollutants. Today, one-quarter of freshwater fauna are at risk of extinction.

    As climate change and other stressors worsen, ecological grief is increasingly recognized as a legitimate response to the losses of valued species and ecosystems.

    This grief poses a serious threat to mental health and well-being for many, with young people often feeling an outsized burden. While young people have contributed little to these challenges over their lifetimes, they face bearing the brunt of intensifying climate change impacts.

    Similarly, this existential angst is reportedly heightened among marginalized groups. This is often true for Indigenous Peoples, who are frequently the least responsible for greenhouse gas emissions that warm the planet yet face higher climate risk or vulnerability to the direct consequences of climate change.

    What we need are adaptive approaches that address this grief and reconnect people with the natural world at this time of profound disconnection. Research about ecological grief points to approaches that centre social support, deep listening and sensitivity, as well as valuing an ethic of care as key elements. This is ultimately about fostering community and interconnectedness in relationships.

    As freshwater scientists, we are committed to contributing toward a better future for fresh waters. This is what led us to create a registered charity, Riparia, where we work to unite these concerns and approaches by facilitating free land-based learning programs for young people, especially Indigenous young women.

    These programs are geared towards facing this climate-uncertain future together and the profound need for improved stewardship of freshwater ecosystems.

    Why land-based learning

    Land-based learning is, by definition, experiential and rooted in local culture and history. It is a mode of education that arises from connecting learners with the land, by spending time on the land, in ways that engage minds, bodies, hearts and spirits.

    This approach has always been at the core of Indigenous learning. While conventional classrooms are often a far cry from these lived experiences, there is growing interest in breaking out of these confines and engaging in active land-based learning across the continent.

    In our time contributing towards land-based learning initiatives over the last decade, we have observed numerous benefits. There’s a saying that numbers numb and stories stick; we find that the voices of youth who participated in land-based learning best convey its meaning and impact.

    Among other benefits, land-based learning has fostered a heightened sense of connection to the land and water, spurred a deep drive to steward and care for these systems and built a community of practice to achieve that. In the words of youth aged 13-18 who participated in Riparia programs between 2019-2024:

    “I could feel my point of view of the world changing. In every way. I felt as though I had become closer to the land.”

    “This experience changed my view on how we should be more active in the environment and protect our water.”

    “Being with these girls reassured me that our environment’s future isn’t something we have to take on alone and it will be much easier if we do it together.”

    Together, our experiences with Riparia and the growing body of literature highlighting beneficial outcomes of land-based learning, tell us that these approaches can play an important role in fostering the community of care required to chart new freshwater futures.

    Learning that centres Indigenous perspectives

    Throughout the history of outdoor education — as an organized approach to learning in western systems — harmful stereotypes have been reproduced and Indigenous knowledge systems have been appropriated.

    How many recall attending youth camps bearing the names of Indigenous Peoples or places? Were they involved in any way? Was there regard for whose land this is?

    How many have participated in journey “wilderness”-based experiences? Many such experiences have often perpetuated western ideas of a “pristine” or “wild” “nature,” free from human influence. This point of view is in line with the doctrines of terra nullius (Latin for “nobody’s land”) and aqua nullius (“nobody’s water”) used to justify European colonization of Indigenous lands and waters.



    Read more:
    Terra nullius has been overturned. Now we must reverse aqua nullius and return water rights to First Nations people

    What we need is learning that recognizes that Indigenous Peoples, languages and cultures are alive and evolve in close relationship with the land.

    We also need learning to be accessible so it can play a foundational role building the community of care that humans and fresh waters now require.

    Little programming — from youth outdoor education through university — is built with Indigenous learners in mind. Few initiatives are offered at no cost to participating youth and their families. Women remain underrepresented in existing outdoor education initiatives because of cultural and social inequalities.

    What we can do

    As scientists supporting youth engagement through Riparia, we join the growing movement to break down these specific barriers to access.

    You can also contribute to this movement by helping connect young people in your life to existing youth engagement programs and offering support through relevant local ways or donations.

    But youth are not the only ones who need connection to land and water. We all deal with eco-grief. We all need water. And we all need to work together to chart new futures. Spending time in and on the water together is an important step in this direction. This video offers an opportunity to dive into what land-based learning with, in, and for fresh waters can look like and feel like.

    As a 15-year-old Kanien’kehá:ka participant in a Riparia 2019 program shared with us: “Water is the most important thing, it’s the thing we all have in common.”

    Dr. Andrea Reid co-directs Riparia from her role as an Assistant Professor at The University of British Columbia. She is a Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Indigenous Fisheries Science.

    Dr. Dalal Hanna co-directs Riparia from her position as an assistant professor at Carleton University, where she leads the Watershed Stewardship Research Collaborative.

    – ref. Youth are charting new freshwater futures by learning from the water on the water – https://theconversation.com/youth-are-charting-new-freshwater-futures-by-learning-from-the-water-on-the-water-250987

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canada’s local food system faces major roadblocks without urgent policy changes

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Rosie Kerr, Research Associate, Sustainable Food Systems Lab, Lakehead University

    As Canada’s trade conflict with the United States escalates, governments are encouraging Canadians to buy local to support the country’s economic, social and environmental stability and independence.

    But while enthusiasm in purchasing locally made food is growing, actually identifying Canadian products in grocery stores is often confusing. Decades of free trade have deeply integrated Canada’s food supply chains with the U.S., making it difficult to determine what is actually local.



    Read more:
    Trump tariffs have sparked a ‘Buy Canadian’ surge, but keeping the trend alive faces hurdles

    Even for Canadian-owned companies, most food products are enmeshed in global supply chains and often contain a mix of Canadian and foreign ingredients.

    Canada’s beef industry is a striking example of this. Two multinational corporations — American-owned Cargill and Brazilian-owned JBS — process more than 95 per cent of beef produced in Canada. This means that even if some of the food consumers purchase is labelled as Canadian-owned, the economic benefit may be flowing outside the country

    As food systems researchers and practitioners who have explored ways for Canadians to feed themselves in equitable and sustainable ways, it has become clear that local food systems lack the infrastructure and supply to meet increasing demand.

    What’s holding local food systems back?

    In collaboration with Sustain, an Ontario-wide network that promotes healthy, just and sustainable food and farming, we conducted a study to understand the policy priorities of organizations and businesses working to build local food economies in regions across the province.

    Ontario already has a vibrant network of farmers, organizations and food entrepreneurs ready to meet local food demand. However, systemic challenges continue to hinder their ability to scale up production and distribution.

    To better understand how to support Ontario’s food system, we surveyed over 90 organizations working in different food-related sectors.

    Through this research, we developed a series of policy reports focused on supporting aspiring farmers, protecting land for food production and strengthening local food systems.

    Our findings show that regulatory changes to support small- and medium-sized enterprises and key investments could remove barriers and allow local food economies to flourish.

    Smaller farms struggling to survive

    Our study identified several barriers holding back Ontario’s local food economy. The first set of barriers are on the supply side. A strong local food system depends on a strong network of farmers. However, many small- and medium-sized farms that supply local markets face disproportionate barriers that threaten their survival.

    Many current government policies favour large-scale food production, making it difficult for smaller farmers to flourish.

    Compounding the issue is Canada’s looming farm succession crisis. More than 40 per cent of farmers in Canada are expected to retire by 2033, yet many aspiring farmers cannot afford to purchase farms or access start-up capital. When farmers can’t afford land, it’s often sold for non-agriculture uses.

    To tackle these barriers, our study calls for provincially supported low-interest loan programs to finance down-payments, construction and equipment. Strengthening policies to protect farmland from urban sprawl, among other strategies, is also essential, as is expanding access to public land for local, ecological food production.

    Processing, distribution bottlenecks

    The second set of barriers we identified affect the farm-to-plate process. Small- and medium- sized farmers need better access to retail opportunities to sell fresh produce, along with the infrastructure to process raw foods into products like flour, packaged meats, jams, sauces and pickles.

    This is especially evident in Ontario’s meat-processing sector, where a shortage of local abattoirs has led to long wait times.

    To address these issues, our study recommends increased investment in regional food hubs. Food hubs are shared-use facilities that manage the aggregation, processing and distribution of food products from local and regional producers, giving them better access to markets.

    These hubs are essential to meeting the growing demand coming for sustainable, local food from businesses, public institutions and school food programs. But they are only part of the picture.

    We also identified funding opportunities that could bolster local food economies. These include expanding Ontario’s Fair Finance Fund to provide more financing options for regional food enterprises and supporting new abattoirs through the expansion of the Meat Processors Capacity Improvement Initiative.

    A co-ordinated strategy is needed

    Ontario manufacturers, retailers and farmers have all shown a willingness to expand local food production, but they need better support from policymakers to make it viable. There must be policies in place to support local food production and processing, remove key barriers and prioritize much-needed investments.

    Across Canada, other provinces and territories face similar challenges in building strong local food networks. Most of the recommendations we heard are similarly outlined across different regions.

    With consumer interest in local food on the rise, this is a critical moment for governments at all levels to improve avenues for new farmers, invest in processing and storage facilities and build local distribution networks — all essential to building a robust local food system.

    Moe Garahan, a board member of Sustain Ontario, co-authored this article.

    Rosie Kerr receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    Charles Z. Levkoe receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the Government of Ontario.

    Leigh Potvin receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, the Ontario Council for Articulation and Transfer, the Government of Nova Scotia, and the University of the Arctic.

    – ref. Canada’s local food system faces major roadblocks without urgent policy changes – https://theconversation.com/canadas-local-food-system-faces-major-roadblocks-without-urgent-policy-changes-251578

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Minister Thomas-Symonds speech at the UK-EU Parliamentary Partnership Assembly

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Minister Thomas-Symonds speech at the UK-EU Parliamentary Partnership Assembly

    Minister Thomas-Symonds speech at the UK-EU Parliamentary Partnership Assembly

    It really is a pleasure to be here with you all today.

    But I do want to just begin, by joining Maros in wishing all our Irish friends a very happy St Patricks Day. 

    I’d also like to thank the Assembly…

    …especially the Chairs, Sandro and Marsha…

    …for giving Maros and I this opportunity to speak to you all today.

    And it is that idea of opportunity that I want to talk about…

    …because we have a chance to strengthen the strategic alliance between the UK and the EU…

    …and I want to talk about how – by being ruthlessly pragmatic – we can harness this opportunity, for the benefit of the people that we are all elected to serve.  

    Now this is the very first meeting of the reconstituted Assembly…

    … and I know that you are welcoming members, both new and old.

    Since this Government came into power, we have worked tirelessly to change the UK’s approach. 

     In the recent past, we have been too focused on what divides us…

    …and it’s those differences that have too often defined the agenda.

    But I believe these groups and these meetings must be used for our collective good.

    This Assembly was set up under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement…

    …to ensure the voices of parliamentarians – and, in turn, our citizens – can be heard. 

    You’re all serving the interests of the people who voted for you…

    …and we must use every opportunity available to us to build trust…

    …and improve cooperation.

    And all of you here today – through your membership in the Assembly – are essential to that work.

    Now, I have already met members of both delegations – and I am committed to maintaining that engagement.

    The UK and EU’s future will be defined by how we both tackle our shared challenges together.

    We are living through a period of generational challenge…

    …and I know as political leaders – we all feel the scale of this moment. 

    War in Ukraine…

    …people smuggled in treacherous conditions by treacherous criminals…

    …the price of energy and the cost of inflation…

    …achieving growth and prosperity to boost living standards for our citizens… 

    …all of these challenges are exacerbated by a mindset of division.

    They are problems across our continent…

    …and they require a coordinated response.

    Just look at the actions of our Prime Minister this year.

    He was delighted to be a part of the European Leaders retreat last month…

     …where he made the case for greater cooperation between the EU and the UK.

    On 2 March, he hosted European leaders, as well as the NATO Secretary General and the Presidents of the EU Commission, EU Council and indeed welcomed Canada… 

    …for a summit focused on Ukraine.

    The importance of these meetings cannot be overstated.

    They are emblematic of how seriously this Government takes European security.

    And there is no greater imperative to this than supporting Ukraine.

    In the face of Russia’s illegal and barbaric invasion, we must be resilient.

    It is why we recently announced an increase in UK defence spending to 2.5% of GDP.

    We are stepping up, and we know that the EU is stepping up, too.

    It was heartening to see – on the anniversary of the invasion – that the EU reaffirmed its unwavering support.

    And at the European Council meeting earlier this month, where EU leaders agreed a significant increase in defence spending. 

    I know that, together, we are determined to help Ukraine prevail…

    …and rebuild.

    We must keep pushing – together – to find new ways to achieve this.

    At a time of such intense global change, I believe it is vital to recognise what unites the UK and the EU…

    …and understand how our mutual priorities can be realised through teamwork.

    We saw that in action this January…

    …where, on the same day, the UK Chancellor and the President of the European Commission gave speeches about the challenges facing them.

    Both spoke about their desire for growth…

    …both spoke about how their potential had been held back…

    …and both spoke too about the importance of trade openness.

    In fact, both our Prime Minister’s ‘Plan for Change’ and the President’s ‘Competitiveness Compass’ focused on the same priorities…

    …like reducing red tape, improving skills and a more resilient economy.

    The UK government was elected on a mandate to increase our security, keep our citizens safe and to encourage growth.

    Europe is a crucial partner in these priorities…

    …and, indeed, Europe shares those concerns.

    That is why we are living up to the obligations we have in existing Agreements and Frameworks…

    …that is how trust is earned. 

    No more threats to break international law in ‘limited and specific ways’… 

    …and no more undermining of the ECHR.

    So we are respectful of the TCA and the Windsor Framework… 

    …and we want to build on that structure to address emerging challenges and opportunities.

    The Prime Minister has tasked me with leading these discussions with Maros…

    …supported by our new EU Sherpa Micheal Ellam. 

    And I want to thank Maros – not only for the way he has been so constructive in his relationship with me…

    …but for the many years – and no doubt late nights – that he has dedicated to the EU – UK relationship…

    …but also the pragmatism he is known and respected for.  

    And in our discussions I have always been clear about our desire to strengthen our alliance – and I focus on the three priorities I mentioned…

    …on security, safety and prosperity…

    …where I believe there is much benefit to be gained.

    And it’s these priorities I would like to focus on.

    First, security.

    Now, I’ve already spoken about how seriously we’re taking this…

    …and I know that it is a topic you will be discussing later today.

    But it bears repeating: to keep Europe secure, we need to support allies like Ukraine…

    …and work with NATO on security and defence.

    As the Prime Minister said in the UK Parliament recently, we have: 

    “A recognition of the fact that once again, we live in an era where peace in Europe depends upon strength and deterrence.”

    So, we are seeking a broad UK-EU cooperation on security and defence matters…

    …and we’re ready to negotiate a Security and Defence Partnership.

    This has been central to the Prime Minister’s approach with European leaders.

    When he visited the informal European Leaders’ Summit, he discussed what this partnership could include…

    …and what it could address.

    He suggested a focus on R&D…

    …improved military mobility across Europe …

    …greater co-operation on missions and operations…

    …and building on our industrial collaboration.

    Building on that commitment, let me turn to the next pillar: safety.

    I am clear that if we want to protect our respective borders…

    …and keep our citizens safe…

    …then we need to work together.

    The criminals that we all try and combat pay no respect to our borders…

    …whether they’re taking part in the vile global trade in human trafficking…

    …or planning a terrorist attack to push their agenda and terrify our citizens.

    These challenges plague us all…

    …and I believe that it is only through greater cooperation that we can remain safe.

    It’s why we have already increased the UK’s presence at Europol…

    …but I believe we should be going further.

    We need to think of new ways to coordinate our security…

    …and ensure we have the intelligence and skills to combat cross-Europe criminal enterprises.

    And finally, prosperity.

    The European Union is the UK’s biggest trading partner…

    …with trade totalling over £800bn in 2023.

    And while that figure is still impressive, we know it is not as good as it could be.

    A study published last year by Aston University Business School showed that between 2021 and 2023, the goods EU businesses export to the UK were down by 32%…

    …while UK goods exports to the EU were down by 27%.

    What I’m hearing from businesses that I speak to is that this drop is down to them facing more barriers and more costs.

    They’re frustrated, and I can understand why.

    As ‘Businesseurope’ set out in a report this Autumn, and I quote: “There remain many unnecessary barriers to trade and investment. Following the elections of new governments in the EU and UK, there is a clear opportunity to upgrade the relationship to deliver for businesses and citizens.”

    And that is why we want to build on the structures we have – the TCA and the Windsor Framework…

    …to tear down trade barriers and make Brexit work better for the British and European people.

    We have already said that we will seek to negotiate a sanitary and phytosanitary agreement…

    …to help boost trade… 

    and deliver benefits to businesses and consumers in both the UK and the EU. 

    Now, all these issues have been at the forefront of our Government’s discussions with the EU.

    In fact, since the UK election, there have been over 70 direct engagements between UK ministers and their EU Counterparts.

    We have agreed to hold regular UK-EU Summits…

    …with the very first one, as Maros has said, being hosted in London on 19th May…

    …which will be a great opportunity to strengthen this work further.

    But ultimately, this is all about building trust…

    …and this Government wants to keep its word…

    …and become a trusted and stable partner.

    Our discussions continue on the full implementation of the TCA and the Withdrawal Agreement …

    …with almost all of our Specialised Committees meeting last year…

    …and there are plans in place to meet again in the coming months.

    The co-chairs continually update each other on their progress…

    …whilst monitoring and reporting on their passage to full and faithful implementation.

    We fully believe in these structures…

    …but we also fully believe in the opportunities to improve the status quo.

    So, ladies and gentlemen, the time for ideologies is over.

    The time for ruthless pragmatism is now.

    And it is the only way we can seek a closer, more cooperative relationship.

    After all, a stronger UK-EU relationship means a stronger Europe.

    This Assembly will be a vital part of that journey…

    …where that mutual interest will be demonstrated and discussed.

    I also know that many of you have deep expertise, insights and passion for this agenda…

    … and I am sure that this forum will be a fantastic way to bring these to bear. 

    I want to thank you for the time you have given me to discuss my work. To say how much that I am looking forward together. 

    This forum, this Assembly is such an important part of hat shared future and what a pleasure it is to discuss this with you today. 

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNECE ModernStats World Workshop 2024

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

     

    Abstracts and papers for the different topics of this workshop can be found below.

    Background:

    Modern statistical production systems require standardization of the processes, information and architectures that are involved in producing statistics, so that those processes can be automated, and information (including data) can be seamlessly passed between different systems, perhaps using software components that have been developed by another organization for the same purpose.

    The need to do this has never been more pressing, due to the multiplicity of different sources of data, different outputs required, and different technologies that may be used to choreograph all of the required elements required to produce statistics.

    This workshop is organized by the Supporting Standards Group, which maintains a set of standards and models for processes, information, architectures and other activities needed to produce statistics, and supports collaboration activities for their implementation, to provide a foundation for modern production.

    This year’s workshop is focused on the objectives of interoperability, governance, and of transparency, traceability and provenance in production, discussing the role of various models and standards for achieving those objectives. There will also be sessions showcasing the use of models and the future of production.

    Abstracts:

    Title Document
    Information Note 1 pdf
    Information Note 2 pdf
    Timetable pdf
    Title Abstract Paper Slides

    Session: Interoperability using Standards and Models

    		      
    The DDI Cross-Domain Integration (DDI-CDI) Specification: Overview and Implementations, CODATA and DDI pdf   pdf
    The statistical production LEGO set: using standard models and tools to build metadata-driven pipelines at StatCan, Statistics Canada pdf   pdf
    Using standards to develop a system for coherent metadata for production and dissemination in Denmark, Statistics Denmark pdf   pdf
    Enhancing Interoperability and Transparency through Linked Open Data Standards: Lessons Learned from the ESS LOD Community of Practice, Eurostat pdf   pdf

    Session: Transparency, traceability and provenance

    		      
    From micro to macro data: ModernStats models for the conceptual modelling of statistical metadata in an interoperability perspective, Italian National Institute of Statistics (Istat) pdf   ppsx
    Unlocking data transparency: how improved metadata empowers IMF data users., International Monetary Fund pdf   pdf
    Describing and Querying Data Transformation Scripts: SDTL and SDTH, University of Michigan pdf   pdf

    Session: Governance

    		      
    Streamlining statistical and data production, Statistics Finland pdf   pdf
    The designed governance for a central metadata system, Istat pdf pdf pdf
    A reference framework for structural metadata governance, OECD pdf   pdf
    Simplifying the Reuse of Concepts Across Organisations, Federal Statistical Office (FSO) pdf   pdf

    Session: Using ModernStats models

    		      
    Tau-Argus: Lessons learned of sharing an IT-tool in Official Statistics, Statistisches Bundesamt (Destatis) pdf   pdf
    Applying GSBPM to processes based on new data sources, Istat pdf   pdf
    Using standards to direct the flow of data: Modernizing production processes at Statistics Iceland, Statistics Iceland pdf   pdf
    Adopting GSBPM in a national statistical institute, Statistics Denmark pdf   pdf
    Modeling of Business Process Activities and Data: GSBPM, GSIM, and BPMN, National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI, México) pdf   pdf

    Session: Modern production in 2025 and beyond

    		      
    Incorporating AI into statistical standards: Enhancing GSBPM with (generative) AI, Statistics Finland pdf pdf pdf
    Modernizing the BIS Data Bank: A Metadata-Driven Approach to Statistical Business Processes and SDMX Integration, Bank for International Settlements pdf   pdf
    A dataset catalogue as a tool for automated and metadata driven statistical production, Statistics Sweden          pdf pdf pdf
    Modernization and agility powered by Communities of Practice, Statistics Netherlands pdf   pdf
    Capabilities and Metadata Standards, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics pdf   pdf
    Tools For Automating Metadata-Driven Processes In Statistics Poland, Statistics Poland pdf   pdf

    Other presentations

    		      

    Updates on the activities and plans of the Supporting Standards Group, Flavio Rizzolo, chair of SSG

    		   pdf pdf

    Update on the HLG Open-Source project, Carlo Vaccari, Project Manager

    		     pdf
    Soapbox presentation on Units of Measurement, OECD     pdf

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Recognizes Pharmacy Appreciation Month

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on March 17, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed March as Pharmacy Appreciation Month to celebrate the many contributions of pharmacists across the province. 

    “This is an opportunity for us to recognize the important work pharmacists do every day – and the role pharmacy technicians and assistants play – in helping care for the people of Saskatchewan,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “We recognize that pharmacists are highly trained and trusted professionals and in many communities, the pharmacy is the first point of contact to access health care.”

    The province has collaborated with pharmacists on initiatives in recent years to improve patient care in the province, including the expansion of pharmacists’ ability to prescribe for certain conditions.

    Pharmacists were first granted the authority to prescribe for three minor ailments in 2012. Currently, Saskatchewan pharmacists can prescribe for 34 conditions such as, cold sores, sinus infections, nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, bladder infections and shingles. The full list of conditions is available at the Government of Saskatchewan website.

    Regulated pharmacy technicians and pharmacy assistants support pharmacists by performing a variety of technical and dispensary functions, which allow pharmacists to focus on working to their highest scope of practice. Expanding pharmacists’ scope of practice optimizes their skills, builds capacity within the health care system and brings care closer to home, allowing patients to have greater access to health services. 

    There are more than 2,200 practising pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in more than 430 licensed community pharmacies, hospitals and clinics across Saskatchewan.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Supports Farm Safety During Agricultural Safety Week

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on March 17, 2025

    Agricultural Safety Week Proclaimed in Saskatchewan

    To reinforce its commitment to farm safety, the Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed March 16 – 22, 2025, as Agricultural Safety Week, with a focus on protecting agricultural workers and strengthening safety practices across the province.

    As a leader in the Canadian agricultural sector, Saskatchewan recognizes that farm safety is essential for the wellbeing of workers and families and the long-term success of the industry. The province is proud to support Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW), a national initiative led by the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) in partnership with the Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health (CCRAH). Held every March, this initiative reminds producers to make safety a daily priority, as reflected in the week’s hashtag, #FarmSafetyEveryday.

    “Farm safety goes beyond everyday routines,” Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison said. “It is also about being ready for the unexpected. This week is a great opportunity for producers to review their emergency plans and make sure their workers and families know how to respond to a crisis.”

    This year’s Agricultural Safety Week focuses on the key themes of health hazards on the farm, emergency preparedness, grain safety, mental health, road and rail safety and women in agriculture. These themes stress the importance of proactive safety measures, proper training, safety resources and an inclusive workplace culture that recognizes the critical role women play in advancing farm safety.

    Farming comes with unique risks, from working with heavy machinery to handling hazardous materials. Keeping farms safe requires ongoing education and access to essential safety tools to prevent accidents before they happen. To support this, the Government of Saskatchewan continues to invest in farm safety, offering training programs, and educational resources and tools like the Farm Safety Guide to help reduce workplace injuries and create a culture of safety across the sector.

    “The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association is grateful for the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture’s support in promoting the importance of safety on the farm during Canadian Agricultural Safety Week,” CASA Executive Director Sandy Miller said. “This commitment helps raise awareness, reduce risks and ensure safer farms, ranches and agricultural communities. We sincerely thank the ministry for their continued efforts in advancing agricultural safety and for their dedication to the wellbeing of those who grow our food.”

    Saskatchewan residents can show their support for farm safety by wearing an AgSafe ribbon, available at the ministry’s regional offices. A digital version can also be downloaded from CASA’s website.     
    For more information on farm safety resources, including the Farm Safety Guide, visit: saskatchewan.ca/farmsafety. To learn more about Canadian Agricultural Safety Week, visit: www.casa-asca.ca.
                                                                                    

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada to invest in green training

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Minister of Jobs and Families, Steven MacKinnon, will be in Ottawa to announce funding to help equip tradespeople across Canada with high-demand green skills.

    The Minister will be accompanied by local members of Parliament.

    A media availability and photo opportunity will follow the announcement.

    Please note that all details are subject to change. All times are local.

    Date:       Tuesday, March 18, 2025
    Time:       10:00 a.m. EDT
    Place:      SMART 47
                     765 Green Creek Drive
                     Ottawa, Ontario

    To register, contact media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca with your name and media outlet. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canadian Agricultural Safety Week: Minister Sigurdson

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Saskatchewan Extends 4R Nutrient Stewardship Agreement with Fertilizer Canada

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on March 17, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan has renewed its ongoing collaboration with Fertilizer Canada to support education, training and expansion regarding 4R Nutrient Stewardship in the province through the signing of a new three-year Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC).

    Extending the joint effort based on previous agreements, the Ministry of Agriculture will work with Fertilizer Canada to continue advancing the implementation of 4R Nutrient Stewardship in Saskatchewan. This approach to crop nutrient management and environmental stewardship follows the four “Rs” of fertilizer use: Right Source @ Right Rate, Right Time, Right Place.

    “Healthy soil means healthy crops, and that is part of the reason Saskatchewan enjoys a reputation as a major global producer of quality agri-food products,” Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison said. “The 4R approach is fundamental to a responsible, sustainable agriculture industry driven by producers who set the bar for best practices, and we are very pleased to continue working with Fertilizer Canada to enhance 4R Nutrient Stewardship in our province.”

    “Saskatchewan is a cornerstone of Canadian agriculture, demonstrating industry leadership through its commitment to responsible nutrient management and science-based farming practices,” Fertilizer Canada Interim President and CEO Catherine King said. “With 40 per cent of Canada’s cropland, the province is a key driver of the national economy. The Government of Saskatchewan’s commitment to the 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework reflects its dedication to balancing environmental responsibility with economic growth in agriculture, strengthening Canada’s global competitiveness. Fertilizer Canada values this strong partnership and the province’s ongoing efforts to promote best practices on the farm, ensuring the long-term success of the agricultural sector.”

    Areas of collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and Fertilizer Canada outlined in the new agreement focus on progress toward achieving shared objectives, including data and information sharing and knowledge transfer activities. The ministry has promoted 4R practices to a broad audience of producers and industry through events such as the Crop Diagnostic School and the Agronomy Research Update, as well as publications, webinars and research and demonstration initiatives. The percentage of agricultural land in Saskatchewan under a 4R stewardship plan has experienced steady growth, increasing by over 20 per cent from 2022 to 2023.

    Pursuant to the agreement, the ministry and Fertilizer Canada have co-chair roles on the 4R Nutrient Stewardship Steering Committee, which includes representation from industry partners – the Canadian Association of Agri-Retailers, Canola Council of Canada, Ducks Unlimited Canada, the Prairie Certified Crop Adviser Board, and Agriculture-Applied Research Management (Agri-ARM) sites -and the University of Saskatchewan.

    More information on 4R Nutrient Stewardship and sustainable farming practices in Saskatchewan is available at https://fertilizercanada.ca/our-focus/stewardship/4rs-across-canada/saskatchewan/. 

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The NFB at the 2025 Annecy International Animation Film Festival. Three short films selected for official competition.

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    March 17, 2025 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada (NFB)

    The National Film Board of Canada will be well represented at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival (June 8–14) with a diverse selection of works, including the eagerly awaited return of filmmakers Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski. Three NFB shorts are featured in this year’s prestigious official competition:

    Quick Facts

    Short Films – Official Competition

    The Girl Who Cried Pearls (La jeune fille qui pleurait des perles) by Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski (16 min)
    An NFB production (Julie Roy, Marc Bertrand and Christine Noël)
    Press kit: mediaspace.nfb.ca/epk/the-girl-who-cried-pearls

    • The Girl Who Cried Pearls is a handmade, stop-motion animated short by the Oscar-nominated duo of Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski. It was previously featured at Annecy in a Work in Progress session in 2023.
    • This breathtaking modern fable explores greed, wonder and the power of fiction, and features a stellar creative team: Patrick Watson (original score), Olivier Calvert (sound design), Colm Feore (voice, English version) and James Hyndman (voice, French version).

    Bread Will Walk by Alex Boya (11 min 17 s)
    An NFB production (Jelena Popović)
    Press kit: mediaspace.nfb.ca/epk/bread-will-walk

    • A devoted sister flees with her brother, a benevolent, bread-turned zombie. A mob pursues, mouths agape. Streets twist into mazes, reason dissolves, hunger reigns. Can love defy appetite? Bread Will Walk features paper and 2D hand-drawn animation with digital collage.
    • In the original English version of this social satire and timely, absurd dark comedy, every single character is brilliantly voiced by actor Jay Baruchel. The sound design is by Olivier Calvert and the score was composed by Martin Floyd Cesar.

    Hairy Legs (Poil aux jambes) by Andrea Dorfman (17 min)
    An NFB production (Liz Cowie and Rohan Fernando)
    Press kit: mediaspace.nfb.ca/epk/hairy-legs

    • Deciding not to shave her legs at 13 led a young Andrea Dorfman to question and ultimately defy society’s expectations.
    • Blending 2D animation (ink, gouache and watercolour on paper) and stop-motion, Hairy Legs captures with charm, warmth and humour the universality of girls exploring gender, curiosity and freedom.

    – 30 –

    Stay Connected

    Online Screening Room: NFB.ca
    NFB Facebook | NFB Twitter | NFB Instagram | NFB Blog | NFB YouTube | NFB Vimeo
    Curator’s perspective | Director’s notes

    About the NFB

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Recognizing Social Workers: Celebrating Their Impact and Contributions

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on March 17, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan has officially declared March 17-22, 2025, as Social Work Week in Saskatchewan. This annual recognition aligns with National Social Work Month and recognizes the significant contributions social workers make in supporting and strengthening our communities. 

    “Social workers provide critical support to individuals, families and communities across Saskatchewan, helping people navigate challenges and improve their quality of life,” Social Services Minister Terry Jenson said. “We are grateful for the dedication and expertise of registered social workers who make a meaningful difference in the lives of so many.” 

    There are over 3,000 registered social workers in Saskatchewan, making contributions across various sectors, including health care, education, justice, child welfare, disability services, community-based organizations and private practice. Their work addresses complex social issues such as mental health challenges, family crises and community development. 

    The Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers (SASW) regulates and promotes the profession of social work in the province. The association establishes registration requirements, upholds a code of ethics and standards of practice, provides professional development opportunities, and ensures a robust complaints and discipline process to maintain accountability and public trust. 

    “I would like to thank all Registered Social Workers in Saskatchewan for your dedicated work to enhance the lives of individuals, families and communities,” SASW President Amanda Knievel said. “Registered Social Workers also address broad social issues that impact the lives of Saskatchewan residents and are committed to competent and ethical practice.” 

    For more information on Social Work Week in Saskatchewan, please visit the Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers’ website at www.sasw.ca or the SASW Facebook page.                                                                            

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Nova Scotia’s First Accessibility Standard Addresses Outdoor Spaces, Recreation Buildings

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province has taken another important step on the way to an accessible Nova Scotia by 2030 – adopting the first of six accessibility standards.

    The government has approved the Built Environment Accessibility Standard. It focuses on rules for outdoor and recreational spaces that will be required in the design and planning of new infrastructure starting April 1, 2026.

    “Every Nova Scotian deserves equal access to buildings and outdoor spaces. This milestone is crucial in our efforts to create a more accessible province and represents a significant step toward ensuring that all Nova Scotians can participate and thrive,” said Justice Minister Becky Druhan, Minister responsible for the Accessibility Act.

    The built environment includes the spaces where people live, work, learn and play across Nova Scotia. The Nova Scotia Building Code Regulations will be amended to address the accessibility of buildings. Together, the building code and the Built Environment Accessibility Standard will enable a more accessible built environment.

    The standard will help ensure things like better parking options, easier access to eating areas and benches in parks, and accessible lockers and pools in new recreation facilities for people with disabilities.

    In addition to the built environment, other areas with standards under development include education, employment, goods and services, public transportation and information and communication.

    Quotes:

    “Nova Scotia has always been an early adopter of new codes and standards. The adoption of the Built Environment Accessibility Standard is no exception and will improve accessibility for all Nova Scotians where they live, work, learn and play, now and in the future.”
    — George Cotaras, President, Nova Scotia Association of Architects

    Quick Facts:

    • Nova Scotians have been extensively involved in developing the built environment standard and others through committees and providing input on recommendations
    • raising awareness of the new built environment standard and educating people about it will continue through 2026
    • almost two in five Nova Scotians over the age of 15 identify as having a disability; this number is expected to grow as the population ages
    • almost 59 per cent of Nova Scotians with disabilities report experiencing barriers in the built environment
    • the accessibility standards will be enacted as regulations under the Accessibility Act

    Additional Resources:

    The Built Environment Accessibility Standard Regulations are available at: https://novascotia.ca/accessibility/built-environment/

    Accessibility Act: https://nslegislature.ca/sites/default/files/legc/statutes/accessibility.pdf

    More information on accessibility standards in development is at: https://accessible.novascotia.ca/creating-accessibility-standards

    Access By Design 2030, Nova Scotia’s road map for an equitable, inclusive and accessible province where everyone has opportunities to thrive: https://novascotia.ca/accessibility/access-by-design/access-by-design-2030.pdf

    News release – Province to Adopt 2020 National Building Codes: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2024/09/20/province-adopt-2020-national-building-codes

    Other than cropping, Province of Nova Scotia photos are not to be altered in any way

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Corner Brook — RCMP Major Crimes Unit West arrests man in Port au Port West, attempt murder charge laid

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP NL’s Major Crime Unit (MCU) West arrested 66-year-old Wayne Harold Hynes of Port au Port West on March 16, 2025, as part of an ongoing investigation that left a snowmobiler with life-threatening injuries.

    At approximately 4:30 p.m. on February 21, 2025, Bay St. George RCMP responded to the report of an injured snowmobiler on Gravel’s Pond in Port au Port. The operator of the snowmobile fell from the machine after it came to a stop and sustained serious injuries that did not appear to be consistent with the fall from the snowmobile. The RCMP MCU was engaged to continue the investigation.

    As part of the investigation, police determined the level of injury to the snowmobiler was not as a result of the fall from the snowmobile.

    On February 25, 2025, with a search warrant authorized under the Criminal Code, RCMP MCU searched Hynes’s residence and seized a number of items as part of this investigation.

    In continuing the investigation, Hynes was arrested yesterday at his home without incident and was held in police custody overnight. He appeared in provincial court today, via teleconference, was charged with attempted murder and was remanded into custody. His next court appearance takes place on March 18, 2025.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Background:

    https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/news/2025/rcmp-nls-mcu-searches-home-port-au-port-part-injured-snowmobiler-investigation

    MIL Security OSI –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Energy Systems Group Appoints Jeff Blum as CEO

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEWBURGH, Ind., March 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Energy Systems Group (ESG), a leading provider of energy and infrastructure solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jeff Blum as Chief Executive Officer. The addition of this strategic position to ESG’s leadership team reflects the business’s continued commitment to growth and delivering best-in-class energy efficiency and infrastructure solutions to its customers nationwide.

    Blum brings over 30 years of experience in commercial and public facility construction, modernization, and service. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President, U.S. West and Canada, at KONE, a global leader in elevator and escalator solutions. With deep expertise in strategic growth, operational excellence, and building high-performing leadership teams, Blum is well-positioned to drive the company’s next phase of expansion and market leadership.

    “I am honored and excited to take the helm at Energy Systems Group during this exciting chapter of growth,” said Blum. “Energy Systems Group is an incredible company known for transforming facilities and infrastructure through our brilliant people, with a strong track record of delighting our customers and creating a great work environment for all our team members. With the recent integration of Yearout Energy and PacificWest Energy Solutions, ESG is now a larger and more robust energy and infrastructure solutions provider, uniquely positioned to serve customers across an expanded geographic footprint. I look forward to working alongside ESG’s talented team to build on this strong foundation and accelerate the company’s positive impact to our customers and the communities we serve.”

    Now with an expanded portfolio of solutions and services, Energy Systems Group is focused on helping customers improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and create long-term success. As the company continues to grow, the entire team is committed to delivering proven, practical, and reliable solutions across a wide range of industries.

    About Energy Systems Group

    Energy Systems Group (ESG) is a leading provider of performance-driven energy and infrastructure solutions nationwide. We design, build, and guarantee solutions that improve the reliability, efficiency, and lifespan of critical facilities in the education, government, healthcare, commercial, and industrial sectors. With a commitment to delivering reliable and proven solutions, Energy Systems Group takes a comprehensive approach to facility transformation. Visit energysystemsgroup.com to learn more.

    The MIL Network –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Special Peacekeeping Committee Concludes Session, Fails to Adopt Substantive Report

    Source: United Nations 4

    (Note:  Due to the financial liquidity crisis affecting the United Nations and the resulting constraints, this meeting was not covered.)

    The Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations met this afternoon to complete the work of its 2025 Session, failing to adopt a substantive report.

    Michael Gort (Canada), Chair of the Committee’s Working Group of the Whole, expressed regret that the Group was unable to produce draft recommendations for this session despite the efforts of facilitators and coordinators. It was therefore proposed that intersessional discussions be held later in 2025 to examine the Committee’s working methods, a suggestion welcomed by many delegations.

    The Special Committee, also known as the Committee of 34, opened its 2025 Session on 18 February.  (See Press Release GA/PK/250.)

    __________

    * The 282nd Meeting was not covered.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Launches No KYC Crypto Trading, 100x Leverage, Double Deposit Bonus, and $50 Welcome Bonus

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, March 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With Bitcoin’s price fluctuating below $100,000, many analysts predict a prolonged period of high volatility in the crypto market. Holding spot positions may struggle to generate short-term profits in such conditions. As a result, 100x leverage futures trading has become the preferred tool for seasoned investors looking to maximize potential gains in this volatile market. BexBack Exchange is ramping up its efforts to offer traders unmatched promotional packages. The platform now features a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading, providing exceptional opportunities for investors.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, and XRP futures contracts. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

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    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/10236152-e825-4140-a50e-905d3662534c

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b9cae213-db9e-4c95-8002-7097dcd1482f

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e70bf520-5a33-4d9f-a206-a74f16ca7796

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d93f5293-fead-4a7c-ae3e-7d16e5ee083d

    The MIL Network –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Birchtree Investments Ltd. Announces Proposed Offering of Convertible Debt

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Birchtree Investments Ltd. (“Birchtree” or the “Company”) ‎‎(CSE: BRCH), an investment company with the long-term goal of divesting its investment assets at a profit, announces a proposed loan by an arm’s length lender (the “Offering”) for ‎‎$200,000 through the issuance of a subordinated unsecured convertible debenture (the ‎‎‎“Debenture”) of the Company. ‎The Debenture shall have a term of six months and shall bear interest at a rate of 1.0% per month, payable on maturity (the “Maturity Date”). ‎The Debentures will be convertible into ‎common shares in the capital of the Company (the ‎‎“Common Shares”) at the market price of the ‎Common ‎Shares at the time of conversion, subject to the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange ‎‎(the “CSE”) in the event such price is below $0.05, ‎determined by the most recent closing ‎price of the ‎Common Shares on the day of conversion, at the option of the holder at any time prior to the close of ‎business ‎on the earlier of: (i) the last business day immediately preceding the Maturity Date, and (ii) the ‎date fixed for redemption. The securities issuable pursuant to the Offering, including Common Shares issuable upon conversion, if applicable, are subject to a hold period of four months and a day from the date of closing of the Offering. No finders fees are payable in connection with the Offering. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering for potential new investments, working capital and general corporate purposes.

    About Birchtree

    Birchtree is an investment company with the long-term goal of divesting its investment assets at a profit. For more information, please see Birchtree’s continuous disclosure documents available under the Company’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    For more information, please contact:

    Vitali Savitski
    Chief Executive Officer
    Birchtree Investments Ltd.
    Tel: (416) 300-0625
    Email: birchtreeinvestmentsltd@gmail.com

    Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its regulation services provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy of accuracy of this release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contain herein.

    There can be no assurance that any new potential investments by the Company will be completed. Completion of any transaction will be subject to applicable director, shareholder, and regulatory approvals.

    This news release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information ‎within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information relates to future events ‎or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future ‎events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking ‎terminology such as “intends”, “expects” or “anticipates”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements ‎that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “should”, “would” or will “potentially” or “likely” occur. ‎This information and these statements, referred to herein as “forward-looking statements”, are not historical facts, ‎are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding discussions of ‎future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management’s expectations and intentions with respect ‎to, among other things: closing of the Offering, the use of proceeds of the Offering and new investments.‎ These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ ‎materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among ‎other things, negotiation and receipt of definitive transaction documents with the lender; risks related to the failure of the Company to receive the required corporate and regulatory ‎approvals, as well as those risk factors discussed or referred to in the Company’s ‎disclosure documents filed with the securities regulatory authorities in certain provinces of Canada and available ‎at www.sedarplus.com. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results ‎to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause ‎results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove ‎to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such ‎statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Readers are ‎cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Any such forward-looking ‎statements are expressly qualified ‎in its entirety by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements ‎included in this ‎news release is made as of the date of this news release. The Company does not undertake to ‎update any forward-looking statement referred to herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

    The MIL Network –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: District 19 Wins Restoration of Shift Breaks for CPKC Members in Minnesota

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    When IAM Local 112 (District 19) members suddenly lost their long-standing shift breaks, they knew they needed to get their union involved.

    Members at the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railway (CPKC) diesel maintenance shop in St. Paul, Minn., had for decades received a 20-minute shift break, in addition to their lunch break. Suddenly, management ended the long-standing practice.

    “We immediately did a full investigation to gather to facts and defend our membership,” said IAM District 19 Assistant President and Directing General Chair John Denny. “We’d like to especially thank former local chairman Allen Qusick and retired Local 112 President George Greniger for their help getting statements from our current and former members to support our claim.”

    While the breaks were not included in contract language, member testimony built a strong case. The IAM also obtained posters in the facility showing the 20-minute breaks.

    “When a carrier changes workplace rules, we are going to be there to defend our membership,” said IAM District 19 President and Directing General Chair Reece Murtagh. “I commend our membership, staff and retirees for joining together to protect our members’ rights on the job.”

    An independent arbitrator recently ruled in favor of the IAM, saying that “the hallmark qualities of a recognized past practice are well settled.”

    “Congratulations to our Local 112 membership and all of District 19 for again showing the value of the IAM,” said Josh Hartford, IAM Special Assistant to the International President for the IAM Rail Division. “We will continue to defend and protect the safety, security and comfort of every IAM Rail Division member.”

    Share and Follow:

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM District 98 Plant Hosts Pennsylvania Governor for Clean, Affordable Energy Initiative Roll-Out

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro recently announced his “Lightning Plan” at an IAM-represented facility in York, Pa., calling for tax incentives and regulation streamlining to keep Pennsylvania at the forefront of electrical production in North America.

    Using an “all of the above” approach to energy production, from fossil fuels, fracking, solar, wind, and hydro electric, the governor hopes to keep and create jobs in the Commonwealth. He chose to announce his plan at this Voith Hydro plant because it dates back to 1877, when it started as S. Morgan Smith, possibly the first hydro electric power manufacturing factory in America.

    “Pennsylvania’s energy industry created good jobs and lifted people out of poverty,” said Shapiro. “It powered the middle class, and allowed folks like you to put food on the table of your families, earn a great wage, and has helped lead to the creation of the modern day American labor movement.”

    IAM Local 1400 (District 98) represents a large segment of the more than 1,000 workers at this sprawling factory. A Voith Hydro executive credited the “robust, highly skilled workforce” that has made the modern-day facility successful.

    Voith has invested more than $20 million in upgrades to the factory in recent years.  With the help of the IAM, Voight was able to secure a nearly $6 million grant for upgrades from the Inflation Reduction Act.

    “Local 1400 has a strong history of respect from management here because this workforce always delivers,” said IAM District 98 Assistant Directing Business Representing Kermit Forbes, Jr. “These members know that union jobs here are key to manufacturing in America, and they want to keep those strong middle class jobs here and create more”.

    “The demand for energy generation and storage is growing. Computer data centers, artificial intelligence, and other energy intensive industries are challenging our energy generation capacity,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “Dedicated, skilled workers like our members at IAM Local 1400 are critical to staying ahead of America’s growing need for energy.”

    Voith Hydro manufactures turbines used in electricity generation. The company’s legacy turbines are used in the Hoover Dam and the Sir Adam Beck Plants along the Niagara River in Canada.

    See photos from the event here.

    Share and Follow:

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Ensuring long-term predictable public transit funding for Cape Breton Regional Municipality with over $8 million through the Canada Public Transit Fund

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Sydney, Nova Scotia, March 17, 2025 — By working closely with its partners across Canada, the federal government is ensuring that more Canadians will be able to live near public transit, connecting them to jobs, services, and their communities.

    Today, Jaime Battiste, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and Member of Parliament for Sydney–Victoria; Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton–Canso; and Mayor Cecil Clarke announced a federal investment of more than $8 million in transit funding for Cape Breton Regional Municipality, providing predictable and long-term funding.

    Through the new Canada Public Transit Fund’s Baseline Funding stream, the Cape Breton Regional Municipality will receive an annual funding allocation amounting to over $8 million over 10 years. Funding will upgrade, replace, or modernize the Cape Breton Regional Municipality’s public transit infrastructure, and maintain it in a state of good repair.

    This investment, beginning in 2026 until 2036, will help increase the housing supply and affordability as part of complete, transit-oriented communities, while helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change.  

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: ADRF Launches UL 2524 Certified Public Safety Remote Units for its ADXV Series DAS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, March 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. (ADRF), the largest pure-play distributed antenna system (DAS) and repeater provider for 25 years, today announced two new remote units (RU) for its flagship ADXV Series DAS, certified to UL 2524, the Standard for in-building two-way emergency radio communication enhancement systems (ERCES). The solutions will debut at the International Wireless Communication Expo (IWCE) in Las Vegas, NV from March 17-20, 2025 at booth #1139.

    The ADXV-R-25VU-U2 offers dual-band support for VHF/UHF frequency bands and includes space for either one multiplexer or two band-pass filters within the unit. This design eliminates the need for third-party enclosures, streamlining installation and reducing total cost of ownership. The ADXV-R-3378P-U2 offers dual-band support for PS 700/800 bands and allows users to disable unused bands to minimize unwanted noise. ADRF is also introducing the enhanced point of interface card, ADXV-H-POIL-78P-U2, designed to support the new 700/800 MHz remote units.

    The UL 2524 establishes the most stringent standards to ensure reliable communication for emergency responders within and around commercial buildings. It applies to various equipment, including repeaters, transmitters, receivers, signal boosters, remote annunciators, operational consoles, power supply, and battery charging system components. These products are designed for use in compliance with key Model Building and Installation Codes, such as NFPA 1/72/1221/1225, the International Fire Code (IFC) 2015/2018/2021, and FirstNet.

    “We are thrilled to round out our UL 2524 public safety offerings with these new remote units for our flagship ADXV Series DAS,” said Sun Kim, director of engineering at ADRF. “As a public safety communications leader for over a quarter century, we are dedicated to providing the most effective solutions to ensure first responders maintain seamless connectivity throughout every area of a building, safeguarding tenants and occupants during emergencies.”

    The ADXV-R-25VU-U2 includes:

    • Support of 138-174MHz and 380-512 MHz frequencies
    • 25 dBm Composite Output Power
    • Detachable AC/BATT/ANN/AAI wiring terminal blocks for easy installation
    • Support of up to 2 ADRF-BPF-V/U-1 Bandpass Filters or 1 ADRF-MPLX-V/U multiplexer
    • Programmable 3-pin AAI alarm which can be physically cabled as NO or NC
    • An optional 47K Ohm end-of-line resistor board cartridge

    The ADXV-R-3378P-U2 includes:

    • Support of 758-775 MHz and 851-869 MHz
    • Support of Canadian public safety frequencies (768 – 776 MHz and 851-869 MHz)
    • 33 dBm Composite Output Power
    • Detachable AC/BATT/ANN/AAI wiring terminal blocks for easy installation
    • Separate 700/800 MHz downlink (DL) amplifiers to prevent noise from the unused band
    • Programmable 3-pin AAI alarm which can be physically cabled as NO or NC
    • An optional 47K Ohm end-of-line resistor board cartridge

    Additionally, ADRF will debut the new version of its long-range annunciator, the PSR-ANN-U2, for its public safety repeaters, capable of extending the range of visual and audible alarms up to 1,000 feet to allow for more network design flexibility. It also can act as a bridge between the repeater and the fire alarm control panel (FACP) by offering full programmable dry contact outputs to an FACP for enhanced system monitoring and reliability.

    The new remote units and the PSR-ANN-U2 will be commercially available in Spring 2025. Learn more about ADRF’s public safety products by visiting www.adrftech.com.

    About ADRF
    Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. (“ADRF”) is the leading provider of in-building wireless solutions that ensure reliable commercial and public cellular connectivity in venues of any size, shape, and location. Established in 1999 in Burbank, CA, ADRF prides itself on having a customer-centric focus, designing solutions that meet each customer’s unique needs, while providing a pathway to scale for the future. Today, we serve some of the world’s leading enterprises, system integrators, public safety entities, neutral host operators, and wireless service providers. ADRF’s product portfolio of in-building wireless solutions includes Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS), repeaters, Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES), antennas, and passive components. ADRF is certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE), has achieved TL 9000 and ISO 9001 certifications, and is a member of the Anterix Active Ecosystem, Forbes Technology Council, IFC, NFPA, Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA), and Safer Buildings Coalition. www.adrftech.com.

    The MIL Network –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 17 March 2025 Statement Third meeting of the International Health Regulations (2005) Emergency Committee regarding the upsurge of mpox 2024

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) is hereby transmitting the report of the third meeting of the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR) Emergency Committee (Committee) regarding the upsurge of mpox 2024, held on Tuesday, 25 February 2025, from 12:00 to 17:00 CET.

    Concurring with the advice unanimously expressed by the Committee during the meeting, the WHO Director-General determined that the upsurge of mpox 2024 continues to meet the criteria of a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) and, accordingly, on 27 February 2025, issued temporary recommendations to States Parties.

    The WHO Director-General expresses his most sincere gratitude to the Chair, Members, and Advisors of the Committee.

    Proceedings of the meeting

    Sixteen (16) Members of, and two Advisors to, the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR) Emergency Committee (Committee) were convened by teleconference, via Zoom, on Tuesday, 25 February 2025, from 12:00 to 17:00 CET. Fourteen (14) of the 16 Committee Members, and one of the two Advisors to the Committee participated in the meeting.

    On behalf of the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), the Deputy Director-General welcomed Members of and Advisors to the Committee, as well as Government Officials designated to present their views to the Committee on behalf of the ten invited States Parties – Burundi, Canada, China, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Nepal, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Uganda, United Arab Emirates and United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (United Kingdom).

    In his opening remarks, the WHO Deputy Director-General recalled that, on 14 August 2024, the upsurge of mpox was determined to constitute a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). He noted that, over the three years from 1 January 2022 through 31 January 2025, almost 130 000 confirmed cases of mpox, including over 280 deaths, were reported to WHO from 130 countries and territories in all six WHO Regions, including seven countries and territories that had reported their first mpox cases since the previous meeting of the Committee on 22 November 2024. The WHO African Region, where some States Parties are continuing to experience sustained community transmission, accounts for 61% of the cases and 72% of the deaths reported globally over the past 12 months.

    The WHO Deputy Director-General highlighted that, since the last meeting of the Committee, the epidemiological situation continues to be volatile. Despite observed improvements pertaining to several aspects of the response – emergency coordination, surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, empowerment of communities, furthering equitable access to medical countermeasures and tools – several critical challenges had emerged, including: (a) rising geopolitical instability in the DRC due to escalating conflict affecting mpox response operations resulting in temporary pauses in operation, relocation of staff and restricted access to affected populations; (b) concurrent health emergencies requiring States Parties and partners to respond (e.g. Sudan virus disease outbreak in Uganda); and (c) uncertainties related to the pause in financial support from the United States of America (United States) occurring in the broader landscape of declining foreign assistance. To date, globally, one-third of the funds supporting the response to mpox had been pledged by the United States. Without sufficient funds, the ability of States Parties, WHO and partners to maintain, sustain, and expand the response to mpox would be compromised.

    The Representative of the Office of Legal Counsel then briefed the Members and Advisors on their roles and responsibilities and identified the mandate of the Committee under the relevant articles of the IHR. The Ethics Officer from the Department of Compliance, Risk Management, and Ethics provided the Members and Advisors with an overview of the WHO Declaration of Interests process. The Members and Advisors were made aware of their individual responsibility to disclose to WHO, in a timely manner, any interests of a personal, professional, financial, intellectual or commercial nature that may give rise to a perceived or actual conflict of interest. They were additionally reminded of their duty to maintain the confidentiality of the meeting discussions and the work of the Committee. Each Member and Advisor was surveyed, with no conflicts of interest identified.

    The meeting was handed over to the Chair who introduced the objectives of the meeting, which were to provide views to the WHO Director-General on whether the event continues to constitute a PHEIC, and if so, to provide views on the potential proposed temporary recommendations.

    Session open to representatives of States Parties invited to present their views

    The WHO Secretariat presented an overview of the global epidemiological situation of mpox, including all circulating clades of monkeypox virus (MPXV). Outside the WHO African Region, cases of mpox reported to WHO are associated with the spread of MPXV clade IIb, with a decline in the number of cases reported in recent months. In the WHO African Region, amid the circulation of multiple MPXV clades, the still growing number of cases reported monthly is driven by the spread of MPXV clade Ib. Since the Committee last met, on 22 November 2024, exported travel-related cases of confirmed MPXV clade Ib infection have been detected in eight additional countries outside the WHO African Region.

    The WHO Secretariat then focused on the three countries reporting most cases of MPXV clade Ib since January 2024 – the DRC (over 15 000 cases, including cases in areas where MPXV clade Ia is circulating); Burundi (over 3000 cases, with a sustained decrease reported weekly and a geographic shift to the administrative capital Gitega since the Committee last met); and Uganda (nearly 3000 cases, with an exponential increase in and around the capital Kampala since the Committee last met). Notwithstanding changes in the case definition of mpox cases, uneven surveillance coverage (including due to the conflict in the eastern provinces of the country), and limited laboratory testing capacity in the DRC introducing some challenges in the interpretation of data , the number of mpox cases reported weekly is plateauing and the geographic distribution of cases, in all provinces in the country, remained very similar to the situation presented at the previous meeting of the Committee. Mathematical modelling work suggests that, since the PHEIC was determined in mid-August 2024 in the DRC, the transmission rate has decreased in certain health zones of the North Kivu and South Kivu Provinces, as well as in some health zones of the capital Kinshasa where vaccination efforts are underway.

    The spread of MPXV clade Ia and Ib, in North Kivu, South Kivu, and Kinshasa Provinces of the DRC, as well as in Burundi and Uganda, appears to have started among adults, including through sexual networks involving commercial sex workers and their clients, disproportionately affecting the 20–39 years age group. Since then, in North Kivu and South Kivu Provinces of the DRC, more age group became affected reflecting community transmission through close contact, including household, whereas, in the capital Kinshasa, the spread has remained within the adult population. In Burundi and Uganda, the age distribution of mpox cases shows a bimodal pattern, with high incidence observed among young adults and younger children. This pattern reflects both ongoing sexual transmission and close contact transmission in household settings. The strikingly high proportion of cases among younger children (0-9 age group) observed in Burundi is possibly attributable to transmission occurring within health care facilities settings.

    In addition to the three aforementioned countries, community transmission of MPXV clade Ib is also observed in Kenya, Rwanda, and Zambia, while travel-related imported cases have been reported both, by countries in the WHO African Region (Angola, Zimbabwe, with cases in Tanzania being under investigation), and by 14 countries in the five remaining WHO Regions. Most travel-related imported cases are male and, in instances where limited secondary transmission in the country of importation has occurred, a few children have been infected through household contact, including child-to-child transmission on one occasion. The five imported cases with sole travel history to the United Arab Emirates may signal wider mpox transmission in that country.

    Mortality associated with the different MPXV clades in the WHO African Region, and notwithstanding the limitation of surveillance and laboratory diagnostics in the DRC, clade Ia accounts for the majority of fatal cases (1345), corresponding to an average case fatality rate (CFR%) of 2.5-3%, being highest in children under 1 year of age (4–5%). The CFR attributed with clade Ib infection remains very low at around 0.2%, and similar to the that attributed to clade IIb, with recorded deaths associated with specific risk factors such as uncontrolled HIV and other comorbidities.

    The WHO Secretariat also noted an increase in mpox cases reported in West African countries since the PHEIC was determined in mid-August 2024, including the first cases of mpox, due to MPXV clade IIa, reported by Sierra Leone.

    The WHO Secretariat presented the assessed risk by MPXV clades and further expressed in terms of overall public health risk where any given clade/s is/are circulating, as: Clade Ib – high public health risk in the DRC and neighbouring countries; Clade Ia – moderate public health risk in the DRC; Clade II – moderate public health risk in Nigeria and countries of West and Central Africa where mpox is endemic; and lade IIb – moderate public health risk globally.

    The WHO Secretariat subsequently provided an update on response actions taken together with States Parties and partners since the Committee last met. In addition to the overview provided by the WHO Deputy Director-General, and in the epidemiological overview, the WHO Secretariat provided details on progress and challenges focusing on the aspects of the response outlined below.

    The coordination of emergency operations by the WHO Secretariat was readjusted – including based on action reviews and leveraging the comparative advantages of WHO, State Parties, and partners –prioritizing a flexible, agile, and delivery-focused response. However, while decentralized field operations have intensified, such shifts take time, particularly in specific settings in the DRC and amid changes in geopolitical partnerships. The operational decentralization continues to emphasize increased laboratory diagnostic support, increased dissemination of standards and guidance to deliver safe clinical care, and empowering communities to enhance their efforts to protect themselves from risks associated with mpox.

    Additionally, through the Access and Allocation Mechanism (AAM), WHO and partners (Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance (Gavi), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)) are continuing coordinated and multifaceted efforts to prioritize access to and roll out mpox vaccines in an equitable manner.

    With the WHO Mpox global strategic preparedness and response plan, September 2024-February 2025 (SPRP) reaching the end of its initial timeframe, and considering the response strategy it outlines as still fit for purpose, the WHO Secretariat is planning to release an extension of the plan in the coming weeks.

    In September 2024, the WHO Secretariat launched an appeal for US$ 87.4 million to support mpox response efforts WHO appeal: mpox public health emergency 2024 with US$ 65.5 million raised by the time of this meeting. The contribution from the United States had accounted for 33% of the funds raised, of which US$ 7.5 million is currently inaccessible due to the freeze of funds from the United States. As part of planning for the extension of the SPRP, the WHO Secretariat is conducting a review of available resources to address priority needs and mitigate potential future gaps in the delivery of the response. While the above-mentioned freeze is expected to primarily impact operations in Burundi, the Central African Republic, the DRC, the Republic of the Congo, and Rwanda, broader challenges are anticipated for the second and third quarters of 2025. Given the evolving epidemiological situation and challenges noted above, the reduction in predictable and flexible funding throughout 2025 will put at risk the progress of the mpox response to date.

    Representatives of Burundi, the DRC, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Uganda updated the Committee on the mpox epidemiological situation in their countries and their current control and response efforts, needs and challenges, including those related to the freeze of the funds from the United States. The use of mpox vaccine is contemplated in the response plans of the DRC, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Uganda. In Burundi, following action review, community-based interventions that are being strengthened in areas experiencing high incident of mpox include risk communication and awareness raising.

    Members of, and the Advisor to, the Committee then engaged in questions and answers, revolving around the issues and challenges enumerated below, with the presenters from States Parties and the WHO Secretariat, as well as with representatives of States Parties invited to submit a written statement to the Committee ahead of the meeting – Canada, China, Nepal, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.

    Funding – The Committee reiterated the importance of efforts to mobilize domestic financial resources to support mpox response activities. Burundi and the DRC indicated the funds allocated to the response by their respective Governments, also providing details of specific activities supported. The DRC indicated that, at present, the freeze of the funds from the United States is impacting the transportation of clinical specimens and laboratory diagnostics, with a decline in the testing rate, and that the Government is exploring solutions with other partners. The WHO Secretariat added that alternative funding sources are being explored with non-traditional donors.

    Age distribution of mpox cases – The WHO Secretariat indicated that (a) there are studies ongoing to determine the secondary attack rate by age group and type of exposure; (b) at least in Burundi, there is no evidence of large outbreaks in settings where children are congregating and, hence, supporting evidence of child-to-child transmission; and (c) in the South Kivu Proving of the DRC, it remains unknown the extent to which transmission to children is occurring beyond the household setting.

    Impact of vaccination on transmission – The DRC indicated that, at present, there is no information about whether the use of the limited amount of mpox vaccine available is being effective in interrupting mpox transmission.

    The DRC – The DRC indicated that, due to insecurity and to decrease in laboratory testing rate, any apparent decrease of the number of reported mpox cases may represent an artifact and should be interpreted with caution. The WHO Secretariat highlighted that, being mpox a relatively mild illness, the rate of underreporting is unknown and that the trends of mpox surveillance data are critical to monitor the evolution of the situation. With respect to detection of a new MPXV clade Ia lineage in Kinshasa, the WHO Secretariat indicated that the strain, similarly to clade Ib, has increased human-to-human transmission potential.

    Uganda – Uganda elaborated on the shift of the dynamics of mpox transmission from lower to higher income groups. The initial spread of MPXV clade Ib initiated long-distance truck drivers, it continued in fishing communities, and then within commercial sex networks in the capital Kampala. The fact that more affluent individuals are now affected poses a public health risk both, nationally and internationally. Therefore, the use of mpox vaccine is focused among sex workers in Kampala.

    Nigeria – Nigeria indicated that, in the context of the mpox response, the human health and animal health sectors are working very closely and that, despite the numerous research initiatives, to date, there is no evidence of animal involvement in sustaining the mpox outbreak in the human population. Nigeria, with a population of 200 million persons, indicated that 20 000 doses of mpox vaccine have been used in the country, targeting health care workers, female sex workers, and men who have sex with men.

    The United Arab Emirates – Considering that, in five instances, travel-related imported cases of MPXV clade Ib infection had sole travel history to the United Arab Emirates, the representative of the country (a) indicated that the National IHR Focal Point reported to WHO the first case of MPXV clade Ib infection; (b) briefly described the surveillance, laboratory diagnostic, case management, and risk communication approaches in place; (c) indicated that mpox vaccine is available to health care workers and as a post-exposure measure; and (d) recalled that the country is bilaterally supporting the response efforts of some African countries.

    The United Kingdom – The United Kingdom (a) described the detection, investigation, and clinical and public health management of the travel-related imported mpox cases; and (b) highlighted that the countries of origin of the imported cases are systematically informed about the occurrences.

    Deliberative session

    Following the session open to invited States Parties, the Committee reconvened in a closed session to examine the questions in relation to whether the event constitutes a PHEIC or not, and if so, to consider the temporary recommendations drafted by the WHO Secretariat in accordance with IHR provisions.

    The Chair reminded the Committee Members of their mandate and recalled that a PHEIC is defined in the IHR as an “extraordinary event, which constitutes a public health risk to other States through the international spread of disease, and potentially requires a coordinated international response”.

    The Committee was unanimous in expressing the views that the ongoing upsurge of mpox still meets the criteria of a PHEIC and that the Director-General be advised accordingly

    The overarching considerations underpinning the advice of the Committee are (a) the insecurity in the eastern provinces and in the capital of the DRC – the State Party epicenter of the MPXV clade Ib outbreak –, hampering mpox response field operations and with the potential to morph into a larger scale humanitarian response; (b) the freeze of funding by the United States both, of specific mpox response activities as well as of other, directly or indirectly related, aid interventions; and (c) the continuing detection of travel-related imported mpox cases in States Parties within and outside the WHO African Region.

    On that basis, the Committee considered that:

    The event is “extraordinary” because of (a) the persistent, if not increasing, challenges in gauging the actual magnitude and trend of the MPXV clade Ib outbreak, especially in the DRC. This is thwarting the ability to assess progress, if any, towards controlling the spread of mpox and to adjust response interventions. The Committee’s reading is that, overall, the epidemiological situation is worryingly similar to that observed in November 2024; (b) the unfolding dynamics of MPXV clade Ib transmission, resulting in the shift in age groups affected and, hence, posing challenges in timely targeting response interventions; (c) the co-circulation and the risk of mutations of MPXV clades in the context of sustained community transmission; and (d) the possibility of change in the severity of disease resulting from food insecurity and interruption in the delivery of HIV-related care due to the freeze of aid.

    The event “constitutes a public health risk to other States through the international spread of disease” because of (a) the doubling of the number of States Parties having detected travel-related imported cases of MPXV clade Ib infection since the Committee last met, both in the WHO African Region and in all five other WHO Regions; (b) the possible influx of refugees from the eastern provinces of the DRC into neighbouring countries.

    The event “requires a coordinated international response” because of the needs (a) to mobilize, and optimize the use, of financial and other resources to sustain response efforts, at the required level, in the medium term, following the freeze of funding by the United States; and (b) to continue facilitating and increasing equitable access to mpox vaccines and diagnostics.

    The Committee subsequently considered the draft of the temporary recommendations proposed by the WHO Secretariat

    Anticipating the possibility that the WHO Director-General may determine that the event continues to constitute a PHEIC, the Committee had received a proposed set of revised temporary recommendations ahead of the meeting. This reflected the proposal to extend most of the temporary recommendations issued on 27 November 2024. The Committee indicated that it would be giving them further consideration with a view to share its advice in that regard with the WHO Director-General as soon as possible. In such a way, should the WHO Director-General determine that the event continues to constitute a PHEIC, he could proceed, without delay, with issuing such communication together with a prospective revised set of temporary recommendations.

    The Committee agreed to finalize the report of its third meeting during the week of 3 March 2025.

    Conclusions

    The Committee reiterated its concern regarding the continuing spread of MPXV in and beyond Africa, considering global geopolitical developments, the humanitarian situation in the DRC, as well as the foreseeable options and opportunities to secure sustainable funding to support response efforts. The Committee considered that the determination by the WHO Director-General that the upsurge of mpox still constitutes a PHEIC would be warranted. However, the Committee cautioned about the possible unintended consequences of determining an event to constitute a PHEIC for extended periods of time, since this could undermine the global public health alert function intrinsic to such a determination and reduce the leverage of a PHEIC in boosting domestic and international response efforts for future events. To that effect, the Committee reiterated the need to elaborate on considerations, related to the three criteria defining a PHEIC, that would inform its future advice to the WHO Director-General as to the termination of this PHEIC.

    The Incident Manager for mpox at WHO headquarters, on behalf of the WHO Deputy Director-General, expressed his gratitude to the Committee’s Officers, its Members and Advisor and closed the meeting.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Champagne calls on Canada’s five largest grocery chains to take action to stabilize retail prices for consumers

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    September 18, 2023 – Ottawa, Ontario

    Today, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, met with the leaders of Canada’s five largest grocery chains, who have committed to supporting efforts to stabilize food prices.

    During the meeting, the Minister stressed that the cost of groceries has risen drastically. Minister Champagne also said that for millions of Canadians, the price of food has become a real concern, affecting their quality of life and forcing them to make tough decisions.

    Minister Champagne acknowledged that the grocery sector faces numerous challenges, but he emphasized the particularly key role that the largest grocery chains play in the Canadian retail grocery sector.

    Minister Champagne reiterated that the government expects concrete actions from the largest grocers by Thanksgiving. Such actions must not negatively impact small suppliers or the price that farmers receive for their products, nor should they impact pricing mechanisms as determined by supply-managed industries.

    Stressing the need for a wide-ranging approach, the Minister said he looks forward to his continued work with the largest grocery chains and other industry actors—both domestic and foreign—in the coming weeks to bring relief to Canadians.

    Associated link

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Bank of Canada announces the Governor’s Award recipient of the 2025 Fellowship Program

    Source: Bank of Canada

    Governor’s Award

    Reka Juhasz
    Assistant Professor of Economics, Vancouver School of Economics
    University of British Columbia

    Professor Reka Juhasz’s primary research focus is on the effects of industrial policy and how governments can improve the efficacy of these policies to foster economic growth. As global trade shifts, understanding how industrial policy can drive costs and inflation has implications for monetary policy, one of the Bank’s core functions. More broadly, her research also considers international trade, economic history, growth and development. Dr. Juhasz is published in top economic journals and has had a meaningful impact as a mentor in her department. She is also the co-founder of The Industrial Policy Group and was awarded the Alexander Gerschenkron Prize in 2016.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: AGNICO EAGLE ANNOUNCES INVESTMENT IN COLLECTIVE MINING LTD.

    Source: Agnico Eagle Mines

    Stock Symbol:  AEM (NYSE and TSX)

    TORONTO, March 17, 2025 /CNW/ – Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE: AEM) (TSX: AEM) (“Agnico Eagle”) announced today that it has agreed to subscribe for 4,741,984 common shares (“Common Shares”) of Collective Mining Ltd. (“Collective”) in a non-brokered private placement at a price of C$11.00 per Common Share for aggregate consideration of C$52,161,824 (the “Private Placement”). Concurrently with the closing of the Private Placement, Agnico Eagle will exercise all of the common share purchase warrants of Collective (each, a “Warrant”) it currently holds to acquire an additional 2,250,000 Common Shares at a price of C$5.01 per Common Share for aggregate consideration of C$11,272,500. Closing of the Private Placement is expected to occur on or about March 20, 2025 and is subject to certain conditions.

    Agnico Eagle continues to focus on its portfolio of high-quality internal growth projects, and complements its pipeline of projects with a strategy of acquiring strategic toehold positions in projects with high geological potential. The investment in Collective provides Agnico Eagle with exposure to an early stage gold exploration project in Colombia, led by a team with a proven track record, in a region with a long history of mining. With this investment, Agnico Eagle continues to assess the project’s strong geological potential, as well as the jurisdiction.

    Agnico Eagle currently owns 5,726,235 Common Shares and 2,250,000 Warrants. On closing of the Private Placement and following the exercise of the Warrants held by Agnico Eagle, Agnico Eagle will own 12,718,219 Common Shares and nil Warrants, representing approximately 14.99% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis.

    In connection with its initial investment in Collective on February 24, 2024, Agnico Eagle and Collective entered into an investor rights agreement (the “Investor Rights Agreement”), pursuant to which Agnico Eagle was granted certain rights, provided Agnico Eagle maintains certain ownership thresholds in Collective, including: (a) the right to participate in equity financings and top-up its holdings in relation to dilutive issuances in order to maintain its pro rata ownership in Collective at the time of such financing or acquire up to a 9.99% ownership interest, on a partially-diluted basis, in Collective; and (b) the right (which Agnico Eagle has no present intention of exercising) to nominate one person (and in the case of an increase in the size of the board of directors of Collective to eight or more directors, two persons) to the board of directors of Collective. On closing of the Private Placement, the Investor Rights Agreement will be amended to increase the ownership interest ceiling in the participation right and top-up right described in (a) above from 9.99% to 14.99% on a partially-diluted basis to match Agnico Eagle’s ownership level at closing.

    Agnico Eagle is acquiring the Common Shares for investment purposes. Depending on market conditions and other factors, Agnico Eagle may, from time to time, acquire additional Common Shares or other securities of Collective or dispose of some or all of the Common Shares or other securities of Collective that it owns at such time.

    An early warning report will be filed by Agnico Eagle in accordance with applicable securities laws. To obtain a copy of the early warning report, please contact:

    Agnico Eagle Mines Limited
    c/o Investor Relations
    145 King Street East, Suite 400
    Toronto, Ontario M5C 2Y7
    Telephone: 416-947-1212
    Email: investor.relations@agnicoeagle.com

    Agnico Eagle’s head office is located at 145 King Street East, Suite 400, Toronto, Ontario M5C 2Y7. Collective’s head office is located at 82 Richmond Street East, 4th Floor, Toronto, Ontario  M5C 1P1.

    About Agnico Eagle

    Agnico Eagle is a Canadian based and led senior gold mining company and the third largest gold producer in the world, producing precious metals from operations in Canada, Australia, Finland and Mexico, with a pipeline of high-quality exploration and development projects. Agnico Eagle is a partner of choice within the mining industry, recognized globally for its leading sustainability practices. Agnico Eagle was founded in 1957 and has consistently created value for its shareholders, declaring a cash dividend every year since 1983.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    The information in this news release has been prepared as at March 17, 2025. Certain statements in this news release, referred to herein as “forward-looking statements”, constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and “forward-looking information” under the provisions of Canadian provincial securities laws. These statements can be identified by the use of words such as “may”, “will” or similar terms.

    Forward-looking statements in this news release include, without limitation, statements relating to the expected closing of the Private Placement, the exercise of the Warrants held by Agnico Eagle, Agnico Eagle’s ownership interest in Collective upon closing of the Private Placement and the exercise of the Warrants and Agnico Eagle’s acquisition or disposition of securities of Collective in the future.

    Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Agnico Eagle as of the date of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, known and unknown, could cause actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Other than as required by law, Agnico Eagle does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements.

    View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/agnico-eagle-announces-investment-in-collective-mining-ltd-302402611.html

    SOURCE Agnico Eagle Mines Limited

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: With a federal election looming, America’s democratic decline has critical lessons for Canadian voters

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Matthew Lebo, Professor, Department of Political Science, Western University

    Prime Minister Mark Carney and his cabinet have been sworn in, ending Justin Trudeau’s time in office and paving the way for a spring election. Canadians are soon heading to the polls as they watch American democracy crumble.

    United States President Donald Trump recently argued “he who saves his country does not violate any Law” as he ignores Congress and the courts, governs by executive order and threatens international laws and treaties.



    Read more:
    Is Donald Trump on a constitutional collision course over NATO?

    Once stable democratic institutions are failing to hold an authoritarian president in check.

    What lessons are there to protect Canadian democracy as the federal election approaches?

    Elites lead the way

    First, it’s important to delve into how so many Americans have become tolerant of undemocratic actions and politics in the first place. It’s not that Republican voters first became more extreme and then chose a representative leader. Rather, public opinion and polarization are led by elites.

    Republican leaders moved dramatically to the right, and the primary system allowed the choice of an extremist. Republican voters then aligned their opinions with his. Trump’s disdain for democratic fundamentals spread quickly. Partisans defending their team slid away from democratic values.

    Canada’s more centrist ideological spectrum is not foolproof against this type of extremism. Public opinion can be moved when our leaders take us there.

    Decline can start slowly and then accelerate. America’s democratic backsliding in the first weeks of Trump’s second presidency follows the erosion of democratic norms over decades. Republican attacks on institutions, the opposition, the media and higher education corrosively undermined public faith in the truth, including election results.

    Trust in government is holding steady in Canada, however. That provides an important guardrail for Canadian democracy.

    The dangers of courting the far right

    There are also lessons for our political parties. To maximize their seats, Republicans accepted extremists like Marjorie Taylor Greene, but soon needed those types of politicians for key votes.

    The so-called Freedom Caucus, made up of MAGA adherents, forced the choice of a new, more extreme, leader of the House of Representatives. This provides a clear lesson that history has shown many times: it is dangerous for the party on the political right to accommodate the far right, which can quickly take control.

    Once established within the ruling party, extremists can hold their party hostage.

    At a recent meeting of the Munich Security Conference, Vice-President JD Vance pushed European parties to include far-right parties, and Elon Musk outright endorsed the far-right Alternative for Germany party.

    Austria recently avoided the inclusion of the far right in its new coalition, and now Germany is working to do the same. As Canada’s Conservatives look for every vote, courting far-right voters and candidates risks destabilizing the system.

    Can it happen in Canada?

    How safe is Canada’s Westminster-style parliamentary democracy?

    The fusion of legislative and executive power in parliamentary systems like Canada’s seems prone to tyranny. America’s Constitutional framers thought so when they designed a system with separate legislative, executive and judicial branches that could check each other’s power.

    They clearly did not imagine party loyalty negating the safeguards that protect democracy from an authoritarian-minded president. The Constitution gives Congress the power to legislate and impeach, limits the executive’s power to spend and make appointments, gives the judiciary power to hold an executive accountable and contains the 25th amendment allowing cabinet to remove a president.

    But when one party controls the legislative and executive branches during a time of hyper-partisanship, these mechanisms may not constrain an authoritarian. Today, Republican loyalty has eroded these checks and balances and American courts are struggling to step up to their heightened role.

    Although counter-intuitive, parliamentary systems like Canada’s are usually less susceptible to authoritarianism than presidential ones because the cabinet or the House of Commons can turn against a lawless leader.

    Still, if popular, authoritarian leaders can still retain their party’s support — and then things can slide quickly. The rightward pull of extremists seen in the U.S. House would be more dangerous here since the Canadian House of Commons includes our executive.

    Guarding against xenophobia

    Lastly, Canada should be wary of xenophobic rhetoric.

    “America First” is not simply shopping advice. It began as an isolationist slogan during the First World War but was soon adopted by pro-fascists, American Nazis and the Ku Klux Klan. These entities questioned who is really American and wanted not only isolationism, but racist policies, immigration restrictions and eugenics.

    Trump did not revive the phrase accidentally. It’s a call to America’s fringes. Alienating domestic groups is a sure sign of democratic decline.

    “Canada First” mimics that century-long dark theme in America. In combination with contempt for the opposition, it questions the right of other parties to legitimately hold power if used as a message by one party.

    Also, asserting that “Canada is broken” — as Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre often does — mimics Trump’s talk of American carnage, language and imagery he uses to justify extraordinary presidential authority.

    Such language erodes citizens’ trust in democratic institutions and primes voters to support undemocratic practices in the name of patriotism. Canadian parties and politicians should exit that road.

    Ultimately, institutions alone do not protect a country from the rise of authoritarianism. Democracy can be fragile. As a federal election approaches in Canada, it’s important to know the warning signs of extremism and anti-democratic practices that are creeping into our politics.

    Matthew Lebo 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. With a federal election looming, America’s democratic decline has critical lessons for Canadian voters – https://theconversation.com/with-a-federal-election-looming-americas-democratic-decline-has-critical-lessons-for-canadian-voters-251544

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 18, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s potential embrace of ‘continentalist geopolitics’ poses grave risks to Canada

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Michael Williams, Professor of International Politics, L’Université d’Ottawa/University of Ottawa

    In the few weeks since United States President Donald Trump returned to the White House, world leaders and commentators have struggled to make sense of his approach to foreign policy, including tariffs, alliance renegotiations and threats of territorial appropriation.

    No one is sure how much is bluff or negotiating tactics, nor how much is deadly serious.

    For some, Trump’s foreign policy is simply incoherent, but most try to fit his approach into the familiar choice between isolationism and internationalism.

    But there’s a third possibility: Trump’s second presidency marks a contemporary twist on an older form of continentalist geopolitics with important implications for Canada and the world.

    ‘Great Powers’

    Although it has been largely missing from foreign policy debates in the post-Second World War era, continentalist geopolitics has a long and often controversial history.

    In the 19th century and the first half of the 20th, it envisioned a world divided into “great spaces,” each dominated by a different “Great Power.” According to this perspective, not all regions are equally important, and continentalist geopolitics does not require a choice between internationalism and isolationism.

    Instead, continentalism recommends that Great Powers like the U.S. — with its massive financial, natural and industrial resources — concentrate on controlling territory, the regions surrounding it and the crucial transportation routes on its continental fringes.

    Pressure is placed on countries whose importance is determined by their geopolitical proximity, and those that are least able to resist due to their dense connections and relative dependence on the U.S.

    The objective is not just to gain specific advantages; it’s to force neighbours into even tighter economic and infrastructural connections and dependence. The obvious countries in this scenario are Canada and Mexico, and it’s therefore unsurprising that both have been the targets of Trump’s significant tariff threats and other coercive measures.

    When Ontario Premier Doug Ford talks about the need for tighter continental ties through a continental AmCan arrangement, he provides exactly the desired reaction.

    Pressuring neighbours

    Beyond geographically contiguous states, continentalist geopolitics also focuses on areas that command key strategic passages and trade routes, especially those currently controlled by weaker powers.

    For the U.S., Panama, with its canal, fits the bill. Danish-administered Greenland, with its natural resources and geographic importance in a rapidly thawing Arctic region, is another. It’s unsurprising that these countries, along with Canada, were a Trump focus in the first weeks of his second administration.

    Today, continentalist geopolitics recognizes the multi-polarity and “multi-alignment” in world politics.

    It’s not isolationist, but it recognizes that waning American power in an inter-connected world gives more distant states the ability to resist U.S. pressure by making deals with a wide range of other countries. In this setting, an interventionist global role is neither possible nor desirable, and the U.S. should refrain from global commitments.

    As U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated in one of his first interviews after taking office:

    “It’s not normal for the world to simply have a unipolar power… that was an anomaly. It was a product of the end of the Cold War, but eventually you were going to reach back to a point where you had a multi-polar world, multi-great powers in different parts of the planet. We face that now with China and to some extent Russia.”

    No commitment to global stability

    The continentalist perspective does not require a complete separation from the world economic or security order. Trade, financial and technology flows can be encouraged, but their basis would be a re-industrialized and more self-sufficient core, well-insulated from economic and security threats.

    Extended interests, such as European stability, could be minimized by increasing the cost burden to allies and minimizing fixed commitments. A powerful global capacity with a “light” geographic footprint is the preferred posture.

    Calls for increased defence spending by NATO allies and for European responsibility in enforcing a post-war settlement in Ukraine logically follow.

    The continentalist playbook is content to leave the management of distant regions to other powers, each pre-eminent in their part of the world. That means participation in international organizations is minimized.

    Foreign aid should reflect American interests, with involvement depending on the costs and benefits, not any automatic commitment to global stability. Feeding the world’s most extensive development agency, USAID, “into the wood-chipper” — to quote Elon Musk — is a page taken straight from this kind of geopolitician’s handbook.

    Unsavoury history

    The possibility that a continentalist geopolitics underpins recent U.S. foreign policy initiatives has received too little attention in Canada.

    It’s not yet clear that the actions of America’s new administration represent the rise, much less the triumph, of Trumpian geopolitics. Nor is there any guarantee that such a vision would or will succeed.

    But there is enough evidence to suggest we should take the possibility seriously. Since 1945, America’s foreign policy options have resided somewhere between internationalism and isolationism. But a geopolitical vision of world politics as a diverse canvas of large territory dominated by different Great Powers have a long, if often unsavoury, history in foreign policy.

    A southern neighbour pursuing a such a geopolitical approach would mark a radical transformation in world order and pose huge challenges for Canada. Canadians should at least be prepared for the possibility.

    Michael Williams receives funding from the Social Science Research Council of Canada

    – ref. Trump’s potential embrace of ‘continentalist geopolitics’ poses grave risks to Canada – https://theconversation.com/trumps-potential-embrace-of-continentalist-geopolitics-poses-grave-risks-to-canada-251545

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 18, 2025
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