Category: Canada

MIL-OSI Global: The urgent mental health needs of young people: Lessons for Canada from a global commission

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Tovah Cowan, Postdoctoral Fellow in Psychiatry, McGill University

Since 2015, youth mental health has noticeably declined. Currently, 1.25 million young people in Canada require mental health support. (Shutterstock)

Canada urgently needs to take action to support the well-being of young people and secure a healthier and more prosperous future for generations to come.

Since 2015, well before the COVID-19 pandemic began, self-reported mental health has notably declined among young people. Currently, 1.25 million young people require mental health support. According to Mental Health Research Canada, in 2024, 19 per cent of Canadians between 16 and 34 years old accessed mental health services in the previous year while another 12 per cent felt they needed services but did not receive them.

Megatrends

The recently published Lancet Psychiatry Commission on Youth Mental Health shows that this problem is global, and in part driven by megatrends — major and long-lasting societal changes such as climate change, insecure employment and growing intergenerational inequality. These issues are situated within decades of colonial and neoliberal political, social and economic policies.

Read more:
What exactly is neoliberalism?

In Canada, the effects of historic and ongoing colonialism on First Nations, Métis and Inuit youth are heartbreakingly clear in rates of suicide, which are six times higher in First Nations youth than non-Indigenous youth, and 33 times higher in young Inuit women than non-Indigenous young women. Additionally, there are gaps in services and barriers to access for Indigenous, 2SLGBTQ+, newcomer, Black and racialized young people, leading to disparities in care and support.

To support youth mental health, Canada must work towards reversing these megatrends while also investing in youth mental health services.

The youth mental health problem is global, and in part driven by ‘megatrends’ — major and long-lasting societal changes such as climate change, insecure employment and growing intergenerational inequality.
(Shutterstock)

As a team of mental health researchers and professionals, we are deeply committed to improving youth mental health. Without timely support, mental health challenges can disrupt education, relationships and career development, creating long-term effects for young people, their families and their communities. Unaddressed mental health issues can persist into adulthood, becoming more difficult to treat, adding preventable strain to health-care systems and hindering economic growth due to lost productivity.

We were inspired by The Lancet Psychiatry Commission on Youth Mental Health, which calls for global action to address this urgent mental health crisis affecting young people. This global initiative involved researchers from diverse fields, service providers and young people, and was co-led by Srividya Iyer (a co-author on this piece and Canada Research Chair in Youth, Mental Health, and Learning Health Systems). It advances a framework for improving youth mental health care, integrating all sectors providing services relevant to mental health (for example, community centres, stand-alone clinics, hospitals) and all types of interventions, ranging from prevention to specialized services for youth with long-term mental health problems.

The situation in Canada

Canada is a global leader in creating new mental health services for youth, which began with the creation of a network of programs for youth with psychosis. Lessons learned have inspired transformation in broader youth mental health services, called “Integrated Youth Services” (IYS).

Designed with input from youth and their families, IYS do not require transition from pediatric to adult care at age 18, which prevents youth from slipping through the cracks between the two systems. IYS integrate mental health, medical health and other social services; and create primary mental health care services.

Today, there are almost 80 IYS hubs in most jurisdictions across Canada, with approximately 50 more in development. In the 2024 federal budget, a $500 million investment in community-based youth mental health services was the most positively received item by the public.

These services and investments represent Canada’s critical commitment to youth mental health. However, there have been relatively fewer efforts to address other elements responding to factors contributing to worse youth mental health, such as the ongoing harms of colonization and the climate crisis.

To truly address the youth mental health crisis, we must move beyond just creating services and into creating a world that supports young people to thrive. In these areas, young people themselves have shown us the way through initiatives like the Indigenous Climate Action Youth Leadership, the Anti-Racist Youth Lab and EveryChildNow, which takes action on youth poverty.

What can we do

Society must embrace a strong cultural shift that prioritizes a duty to young people.
(Shutterstock)

To support young people, the Lancet report highlights that society must embrace a strong cultural shift that prioritizes a duty to young people, future generations and intergenerational equity, ensuring that present-day policies consider their long-term impacts. The influence of megatrends suggests that activism on any of these societal issues can benefit youth mental health.

For those who want to take action directly, advocating for increasing mental health and social service funding, supporting local organizations dedicated to young people, involving youth in decision-making processes, and fostering nurturing social communities are all important steps.

In light of the upcoming federal election, Canadians should demand that all political parties have a clear plan for youth mental health. Policymaking should prioritize youth, family and community needs. Policies should be evidence-based, especially since intuitively helpful but untested ideas may have unintended consequences (for example, negative effects of universal prevention efforts) or can be complicated (such as the relationship between social media use and youth mental health).

Continuous funding for mental health research can generate knowledge that can inform practice and policy, anticipate and respond to future priorities, test innovative interventions (like nature-based, social prescribing and intergenerational connection) and improve existing systems and interventions.

Young people are tomorrow’s leaders, innovators and contributors. Ignoring their mental health problems undermines their potential and jeopardizes Canada’s ability to build a prosperous, inclusive society. Prioritizing youth mental health is not just a strategic investment for the country’s resilience — it is an ethical imperative.

Tovah Cowan receives funding from CIHR for a Planning and Dissemination grant supporting a project related to improving learning health systems for youth mental health services. Her current salary is paid through a CIHR grant previously awarded to Dr. Iyer.

Camila Velez receives funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) through a Doctoral Scholarship and a Planning and Dissemination grant for an International Symposium on arts-based research in youth mental health. Her current research assistant salary is paid through a CIHR grant previously awarded to Dr. Iyer.

Nora Morrison’s current salary is paid through a CIHR grant previously awarded to Dr. Srividya Iyer.

Rubén Valle receives his salary from a CIHR grant previously awarded to Dr. Iyer.

Srividya N. Iyer is supported by the Canada Research Chairs Program (Tier 1) and has received peer-reviewed grants from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Fonds de Recherche du Québec – Santé and the International Development Research Centre.

– ref. The urgent mental health needs of young people: Lessons for Canada from a global commission – https://theconversation.com/the-urgent-mental-health-needs-of-young-people-lessons-for-canada-from-a-global-commission-245039

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

March 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Why bike lanes should remain on Ontario’s roads

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Mahtot Gebresselassie, Assistant Professor, Environmental and Urban Change, York University, Canada

In late 2024, the Ontario legislature passed Bill 212 giving the provincial government significant control over municipal bike lanes. The law requires municipalities to ask the province for its approval to install bike lanes if they would remove a lane for other vehicular traffic. The legislation also allows for the removal of three major bike lanes in Toronto.

Supporters of such moves argue that bike lanes worsen traffic congestion, negatively impact local businesses and delay emergency vehicles from getting where they need to go. However, research shows that bike lanes improve transportation infrastructure, including preventing injuries.

One of the main values of bike lanes is that they promote safety for all road users. Many cities around the world install bike lanes to wholly or partially separate cyclists from larger vehicles. This separation limits the interaction with cars and makes cycling safer.

Bike lanes can also be more efficient at moving more people per unit width of the road compared to car lanes. They are also much more inexpensive to build than roads for cars. Protected bike lanes cost an average of a few hundred thousand per mile compared to vehicular roads in millions of dollars per lane mile.

Reduced injuries

Bicycles are classified as vehicles under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, and cyclists are rightful users of all roads except controlled access highways.

When people cycle on infrastructure that supports biking (bike lanes, cycle tracks, low-speed zones, etc.), the risk of injury is reduced significantly. Bike lanes increase the visibility of cyclists to motorists and reduce interaction between cars and bikes.

A 2016 paper that looked at data on bike networks and injuries in 10 Canadian and U.S. cities between 2000 and 2015 showed that an increase in bike networks led to a decrease in fatal and serious injuries.

The safety associated with bike lanes can also encourage more people to take up cycling. A 2020 poll from the Canadian Automobile Association indicates that 40 per cent of Canadians reported they would feel encouraged to cycle on bike lanes physically separated from other vehicles.

More inclusive roads

Bike lanes can make cycling more inclusive for women, children, older adults, people with disabilities and those with limited transportation options.

For them, bike lanes can bridge the equity gap and affirm cycling as something “inherently democratic, inclusive, and affordable.”

Fewer women bike compared to men. A 2014 study that surveyed cyclists in five U.S. cities found that more women than men strongly agreed that protected bike lanes made them feel safe and new ones increased how often they cycled.

Child cyclists benefit a great deal from bike lanes. They are often smaller and less visible to people driving cars. They are also less able to assess risk and navigate shared roads, so a separate lane can reduce those risks.

Older adults and people with disabilities also benefit from bike lanes, as they provide a more suitable cycling environment for riding with limited physical acuity and slower speeds.

Low-income and racialized people are significant bike users and are more likely to rely on biking to get around due to their limited access to transportation options. Yet, without bike lanes, they may have no choice but to risk cycling in a dangerous environment. For them, bike lanes are crucial infrastructure.

Cycling is also much cheaper than having a car. Cycling costs about $0.06/km and driving a car $0.58/km, and switching from driving to cycling can reduce transportation spending from 30 per cent to 10 per cent of household income.

Consumer spending and congestion

Some argue that bike lanes reduce street parking, which can lead to lower economic activity. However, a 2012 study showed that people who cycle, walk and use transit frequent local businesses more and spend the same or more than those who use private cars.

In Toronto, when bike lanes were installed on Bloor Street West, there was an average increase in monthly consumer spending from $186 to $245. A similar trend was observed in New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Bern, Dublin and Copenhagen.

When it comes to congestion, a 2018 study on the impact of installing bike lanes on arterial roads in Toronto found that the most affected street segments would only result in an estimated one-minute delay.

A 2022 study from Melbourne showed a minor effect on traffic when bike lanes were added to residential streets with low speed limits. It also found the “selective inclusion” of safe cycling lanes, in the worst cases, leads to a delay of less than 10 seconds per kilometre for drivers.

In New York, a 2016 study found that adding bike lanes reduced the average time for car travel on major thoroughfares from an average of 4.5 minutes to 3 minutes.

Examples from elsewhere indicate that removing bike lanes would not bode well for Toronto. A well-used bike lane in London, England was removed in December 2020 following residents’ complaints that they caused traffic congestion. A study found that the removal resulted in longer travel time on the street compounded by cars illegally parking in the space previously reserved for the bike lane.

Emergency response

Immediately after the bike lanes were installed on Toronto’s Bloor Street West, paramedics response time within 500 metres of the bike lane corridor rose by 42 seconds compared to 45 seconds city-wide.

Toronto Fire Services (TFS) response time increased by 30 seconds within the same corridor compared to a two-second increase for the entire city. However, these evaluations were for two months in 2023. In October 2024, TFS Chief Jim Jessop said the Bloor Street West bike lanes did not lead to an increase in response time.

If these bike lanes are removed and replaced with others elsewhere, it could create a poorly connected bike network. The safety and convenience associated with connected bike networks will be lost as a result.

Based on what research tells us, Toronto’s bike lanes should stay. Bike lanes provide various benefits, including making our streets more inclusive of more people.

Bike lanes offer safety on the roads by reducing the risk of fatal or non-life-threatening injuries on roads, and are a tremendous gain for transportation infrastructure.

Even in cases where a bike lane causes a few seconds of delay, politicians and city planners must consider the trade-off — especially if it means saving a person’s life.

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Why bike lanes should remain on Ontario’s roads – https://theconversation.com/why-bike-lanes-should-remain-on-ontarios-roads-249150

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

March 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Wildfire season is changing in Canada — posing even greater risks to the nation’s communities and ecosystems

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Hossein Bonakdari, Associate professor, L’Université d’Ottawa/University of Ottawa

Wildfire season in Canada has historically spanned from late April to August — with the most damaging of these fires typically burning in June and July. But in recent years, we’ve seen a significant change in when wildfires burning; they are no longer a seasonal phenomenon.

For example, in 2024, Alberta’s wildfire season started in February due to the province’s warm and dry conditions. Québec recorded its forth earliest wildfire since 1973 in mid-march of the same year. British Columbia then reported their first wildfires of the season shortly after.

In 2023, Canada had one of its most catastrophic wildfire years — with over 18.4 hectares of forest burned. These wildfires caused approximately 232,000 people to be evacuated from their homes in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Québec.

The huge number of wildfires that burned in 2023 released more than three times the total CO2 emissions of Canada’s entire transportation sector produces in a year. This catastrophic wildfire season also started burning far earlier than normal.

Changing wildfire patterns represent a growing danger to Canadians and our nation’s communities, ecosystems and air quality.

Recipe for a wildfire

The recipe for wildfire is simple and needs only three ingredients: fuel (combustible vegetation), ignition (either from human or natural causes — such as lightning) and favourable weather conditions (hot, dry and windy weather).

But drought can act as a key accelerating factor. As a professor who specializes in sustainable land and water management, I have spent over 15 years researching the impacts of climate change on natural disasters. My most recent research has highlighted the role that droughts play in wildfire vulnerability in Canada.

Droughts not only dry vegetation — which gives wildfires more fuel — they also prolong hot, dry and windy weather. This further creates a high-risk environment for wildfires to ignite and spread.

Canada may appear to be a water-rich country, with vast networks of lakes, rivers and considerable amounts of annual precipitation. But these rich resources suffer from significant seasonal and regional variations.

For example, even British Columbia, where many towns average more than a 1,000mm of precipitation a year, experiences severe drought conditions — particularly during the summer months.

At the end of 2024, 43 per cent of Canada was classified as abnormally dry or in moderate to extreme drought. Around 35 per cent of the country’s agricultural land was directly impacted. These conditions highlight the growing vulnerability of even water-rich regions to long, dry seasons.

During 2023, there was a strong link between soil moisture levels measured between May and October and wildfire activity. Areas with the lowest soil moisture levels experienced heightened wildfire activity. This underscores the critical role of drought conditions in amplifying wildfire risks.

Wildland and urban development

In January 2025, California experienced one of the most catastrophic wildfire crises in the state’s history.

At least 29 people tragically lost their lives. Over 16,000 structures have been destroyed or severely damaged, and approximately 200,000 residents were forced to evacuate from their own homes.

The total economic damage and losses are estimated to be more than $250 billion. This catastrophic crisis has clearly highlighted the growing impacts of climate change on densely populated areas at the interface of wildland and urban zones.

Drought was a major factor that exacerbated these wildfires.

But another important factor that significantly contributed to the damage caused by these wildfires in California was the wildland-urban interface (WUI). These are areas where natural, undeveloped vegetation meets human development. This creates a high-risk zone where flammable plants and structures combine — increasing the chance of wildfires spreading from wildlands to communities.

In Canada, the WUI is rapidly expanding as large cities contend with population growth. But this is putting even more Canadians at risk from potentially detrimental wildfires. The recent, severe wildfires in California’s WUI areas offer a clear warning for Canada, highlighting an urgent need to address the risks associated with these rapidly growing zones.

Safeguarding strategies

One way of safeguarding Canada’s expanding WUI zones is by using the leaf area index (LAI). This is a measure of vegetation density.

The more dense the vegetation in a particular region (which means it has a higher LAI value), the greater that area’s risk of wildfire. This is because densely wooded areas contain significant fuel sources for wildfires, making them capable of sustaining and intensifying fire spread.

British Columbia’s coastline, Eastern Canada, Southern Ontario and parts of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick (including Halifax and Saint John) are all densely vegetated, highly populated areas that are highly susceptible to wildfire threats — especially during periods of drought and high temperatures.

By pinpointing Canada’s most vulnerable regions, targeted wildfire prevention strategies can be carried out to mitigate risks and enhance community resilience in the face of escalating wildfire threats. This might include reducing the amount of dry vegetation, carrying out controlled burns and building fire-resistant infrastructure.

Canada announced a new goal to build nearly 3.9 million houses by 2031. For these houses to be built, parts of WUI zones will need to be used. It will be important for planning and development policies to ensure resilience against wildfires.

Canada stands at a pivotal moment in wildfire risk management because of expanding WUI zones, prolonged drought conditions and intensifying fire weather converge. Without a multi-pronged strategy, wildfires will only continue to be a growing threat to ecosystems, infrastructure and public safety.

Hossein Bonakdari 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. Wildfire season is changing in Canada — posing even greater risks to the nation’s communities and ecosystems – https://theconversation.com/wildfire-season-is-changing-in-canada-posing-even-greater-risks-to-the-nations-communities-and-ecosystems-248323

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

March 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister Keir Starmer to host leaders summit on Ukraine
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Prime Minister Keir Starmer to host leaders summit on Ukraine

The Prime Minister will intensify his efforts in pursuit of a just and lasting peace in Ukraine by convening international leaders at a summit in London today [2 March 2025].
The Prime Minister will intensify his efforts in pursuit of a just and lasting peace in Ukraine by convening international leaders at a summit in London today.

The Prime Minister has this weekend reiterated his unwavering support for Ukraine and is determined to find a way forward that brings an end to Russia’s illegal war and guarantees Ukraine a lasting peace based on sovereignty and security.

The summit rounds off a week of intense diplomacy for the Prime Minister, which has seen him raise UK defence spending and travel to Washington D.C. for productive talks with President Trump in support of UK and European security. The Prime Minister spoke again with both President Trump and President Zelenskyy on Friday evening following the events of yesterday at the Presidents’ meeting in Washington D.C.

The Prime Minister will welcome Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to Downing Street this morning, before being joined at the summit in central London by the leaders of Ukraine, France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Canada, Finland, Sweden, Czechia and Romania. The Turkish Foreign Minister, NATO Secretary General and the Presidents of the European Commission and European Council will also attend.

The Prime Minister has been clear that there can be no negotiations about Ukraine without Ukraine, a determination he reiterated when he warmly welcomed President Zelenskyy to Downing Street on Saturday evening ahead of the summit.

Discussions at the summit will focus on:

Strengthening Ukraine’s position now – including ongoing military support and increased economic pressure on Russia.

The need for a strong lasting deal that delivers a permanent peace in Ukraine and ensures that Ukraine is able to deter and defend against future Russian attack.

Next steps on planning for strong security guarantees.

Following the announcement earlier this week that the UK will spend 2.5% of its GDP on defence by 2027, the Prime Minister will be clear on the need for Europe to play its part on defence and step up for the good of collective security.

The UK has already been clear it is willing to support Ukraine’s future security with troops on the ground.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

Three years on from Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, we are at a turning point. Today I will reaffirm my unwavering support for Ukraine and double down on my commitment to provide capacity, training and aid to Ukraine, putting it in the strongest possible position.

In partnership with our allies, we must intensify our preparations for the European element of security guarantees, alongside continued discussions with the United States.

We have an opportunity to come together to ensure a just and lasting peace in Ukraine that secures their sovereignty and security.

Now is the time for us to unite in order to guarantee the best outcome for Ukraine, protect European security, and secure our collective future.

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Published 1 March 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
March 2, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: It was risky for Ontario Premier Doug Ford to call an early election — but it paid off

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Sam Routley, PhD Candidate, Political Science, Western University

Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s election gamble has paid off. As a consequence of last night’s election results, the Progressive Conservatives are now set to form their third consecutive majority government.

By and large, last night’s election results were dull and uninspiring, looking very similar to the outcome of the province’s election in 2022. The Progressive Conservatives return (going from 79 to 80) with only one additional member of caucus, receiving a noticeable but modest two per cent bump in support.

And, while the Liberals saw even more of a recovery from 2018, the generally widespread distribution of that vote means that they were only able to gain five seats. Although tarnished, the New Democrats return as the official opposition party.

Unprepared rivals

These lacklustre results flow directly from lacklustre campaigns. The fact is that, regardless of Premier Ford’s legitimate calls for a renewed mandate amidst an aggressive American administration, the party had been looking for an excuse to call a premature election for quite some time. In doing so, they were able to — quite intentionally — catch their rivals unprepared, complete with incomplete candidate slates, unknown leaders and undercooked policy platforms.

It meant that, while Ford was able to run a safe and constrained front-runner’s campaign, his main opponents struggled to find the momentum necessary to move the dial and exploit enough backlash. This is alongside real policy vulnerabilities in health care and education, with enough voters expressing discontent with what they felt to be an unnecessary and self-serving election call.

Chaotic news cycle

There are good reasons to believe that voters were mostly apathetic towards the parties and their candidates. Alongside the reasons already stated, the dense, chaotic and ever-shifting news cycle of the last few months may have entailed that this election was able to slip by quietly.

But this does not seem to be the full story, as this year’s turnout — while still low — is slightly higher than that of 2022. Instead, voters also seemed to have wanted to maintain the status quo.

On the local level, siting members of the provincial legislature from all three parties generally performed quite well. Of the 111 ridings with party-nominated incumbents, for example, only four lost. So while many voters may have been unhappy with the election call, the unpredictable environment may have also had the reverse effect of leading them to support, if not fully endorse, the leaders they already have.

Regardless of the more limited dynamics of this election, however, we cannot overlook the fact that this has been a very real accomplishment for Doug Ford and the Progressive Conservatives. In a period of high executive turnover and anti-incumbent backlash, Doug Ford has, as the leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario, brought about a track record of secure, consecutive majorities — a feat that was last attained by Leslie Frost and John Robarts.

In many ways, it brings to mind the years of the traditional “big blue machine,” when the party controlled the government of Ontario for 40 consecutive years.

Durable persona

Here, Ford’s success is much deeper than a matter of suave electoral maneuvering, and it is more long-standing than the recent confrontation with the Trump administration. Instead, these results attest to the fact that, while the Premier is not without his detractors, he has nevertheless managed to secure a stable, solid and sufficient base of support through the combination of both a carefully balanced policy agenda and a durable leadership persona.

As with his successful conservative predecessors, Ford practices a form of the pragmatic and moderate governance that characterizes Ontario. A large part of what makes this successful is the fact that while it makes policy decisions flexible, it does not make them arbitrary.

Ford continues to emphasize a government oriented around continual economic growth and innovation as a means to accomplish raising living standards, fund the province’s social programs and — more recently — rival the United States. Combined with Ford’s aptitude in retail politics this has created a clear and accessible political project supported by big developers, small business owners and private-sector workers’ unions.

In a political environment shaped by personality, Ford continues to suck up the majority of the political oxygen in Ontario. Even while a good portion of Ontarians may dislike Ford — he is far from the most popular of Canada’s premiers — they have not experienced an overriding need to get rid of the incumbent, nor pursue another course of change.

While politics is impossible to predict, it suggests that this state of continuity will persist in Ontario, even amid a chaotic global environment.

Sam Routley 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. It was risky for Ontario Premier Doug Ford to call an early election — but it paid off – https://theconversation.com/it-was-risky-for-ontario-premier-doug-ford-to-call-an-early-election-but-it-paid-off-251142

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

March 2, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Alberta Francophonie Month: Ministers Fir and Glubish | Déclaration des ministres Fir et Glubish à l’occasion du Mois de la francophonie albertaine

“This month, we recognize the vital contributions of French-speaking Albertans to our communities, culture and economy. Raising the Franco-Albertan flag is a proud tribute to our shared heritage and bright future.

“French is the second-most spoken language in Alberta, with over 260,000 speakers who either speak it as their mother tongue or use it at home. Their role in enriching our culture, fostering economic development and strengthening diversity, is invaluable.

“Alberta’s government remains committed to enhancing French-language services to better serve French-speaking Albertans. Over the past year, we have made meaningful progress in justice, health, child care, and we will continue working to expand access and opportunities.

“We also recognize the invaluable efforts of our partners—community leaders, educators, non-profits and businesses—who drive the continued growth and vitality of Alberta’s Francophonie.

“Their dedication strengthens our province.

“To everyone who nurtures and preserves our francophone heritage, thank you.

“This month, I invite all Albertans to take part in the celebrations, explore the richness of our shared history and support the continued vibrancy of the Francophonie in Alberta.”

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

“One of the greatest gifts my parents ever gave me was sending me to a French immersion program when I was younger. Being immersed in French from an early age was transformative. It expanded my worldview, gave me access to diverse cultural experiences, and instilled in me a lifelong love for languages.

“Now, as a parent, I am thrilled to pass on this legacy to my son. Enrolling him in a French immersion kindergarten program was a decision rooted in the desire to give him the same opportunities I had. Watching him learn and speak French, I am filled with pride and optimism for his future. We practice French at home, making language learning a family affair.

“Francophonie Month is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the contributions of the francophone community in Alberta. It is a time to reflect on the importance of linguistic diversity and to honour the resilience and passion of those who keep the French language alive.

“Alberta’s francophones have made, and continue to make, invaluable contributions to our province. Let us celebrate their legacy and work towards a future that embraces and celebrates bilingualism.”

Nate Glubish, Minister of Technology and Innovation and Francophone Community Liaison

Madame Tanya Fir, ministre des Arts, de la Culture et de la Condition féminine, et monsieur Nate Glubish, ministre de la Technologie et de l’Innovation, ont fait la déclaration suivante à l’occasion du Mois de la francophonie albertaine :

« Ce mois-ci, nous reconnaissons les contributions fondamentales des Albertaines et des Albertains francophones à nos communautés, à notre culture et à notre économie. En levant le drapeau franco-albertain, nous rendons un fier hommage à notre patrimoine commun et à un avenir prometteur pour toutes et tous.

« Plus de 260 000 personnes ont le français comme langue maternelle ou l’utilisent à la maison, ce qui classe cette langue au deuxième rang des langues parlées en Alberta. Ces gens jouent un rôle inestimable dans l’enrichissement de notre culture, le développement de notre économie et le renforcement de notre diversité.

« Le gouvernement de l’Alberta reste déterminé à améliorer les services en français dans le but de mieux servir la francophonie albertaine. Au cours de la dernière année, nous avons réalisé des progrès importants dans les domaines de la justice, de la santé et de la garde d’enfants, et nous continuerons à travailler pour améliorer l’accès à ces services et multiplier les possibilités.

« Nous reconnaissons également les précieux efforts de nos partenaires ? dirigeants communautaires, éducateurs, organismes sans but lucratif et entreprises ? qui sont à l’origine de la croissance et de la vitalité continues de la francophonie albertaine.

« Leur dévouement renforce notre province.

« À toutes celles et tous ceux qui enrichissent et préservent notre patrimoine francophone, je dis merci.

« Ce mois-ci, j’invite toute la population albertaine à prendre part aux célébrations, à découvrir la richesse de notre histoire commune et à soutenir le dynamisme continu de la francophonie en Alberta. »

Tanya Fir, ministre des Arts, de la Culture et de la Condition féminine

« L’un des plus beaux cadeaux que mes parents m’ont offerts a été de m’inscrire dans un programme d’immersion française dès mon plus jeune âge. Cette éducation a profondément marqué mon parcours : elle a élargi ma vision du monde, m’a ouvert les portes à de nouvelles expériences culturelles et m’a transmis un amour des langues qui m’accompagnera toute ma vie.

« Aujourd’hui, en tant que parent, je suis heureux de transmettre cet héritage à mon fils. En l’inscrivant à un programme d’immersion française dès la maternelle, j’ai voulu lui donner des chances égales à celles que j’avais eues. Quand je le regarde apprendre le français et s’exprimer dans cette langue, je suis rempli de fierté et d’optimisme pour son avenir. À la maison, nous pratiquons le français au quotidien, ce qui nous permet de vivre notre apprentissage des langues en famille.

« Le Mois de la francophonie est une excellente occasion de célébrer les contributions de la communauté francophone de l’Alberta. Cette célébration nous invite à réfléchir à l’importance de la diversité linguistique et à honorer la résilience et la passion de celles et ceux qui se font un devoir de préserver la langue française.

« Les francophones de l’Alberta ont joué, et continuent de jouer, un rôle essentiel dans l’enrichissement de notre province. Célébrons leur héritage et œuvrons ensemble pour bâtir un avenir qui honore et valorise pleinement le bilinguisme. »

Nate Glubish, ministre de la Technologie et de l’Innovation et agent de liaison avec la communauté francophone

MIL OSI Canada News –

March 2, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Omar, Schakowsky Reintroduce Bill to Address Rising Islamophobia Worldwide

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) reintroduced the Combating International Islamophobia Act, legislation to address the rise in Islamophobic incidents worldwide. The bill requires the State Department to create a Special Envoy for Monitoring and Combating Islamophobia and develop a comprehensive strategy for establishing U.S. leadership in confronting anti-Muslim bigotry across the globe. U.S. Representatives Ilhan Omar (D-MN-05) and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09) reintroduced companion legislation in the House last month.

From the violent atrocities against the Uyghurs in China and the Rohingya in Burma to the crackdowns on Muslim communities in India and Sri Lanka, the scapegoating of Muslim refugees in Hungary and Poland, and the rise of white supremacist violence targeting Muslims in New Zealand and Canada, Islamophobia remains a global crisis. Minority Muslim communities in Muslim-majority countries, including Pakistan, Bahrain, and Iran, also continue to face systemic oppression and persecution.

Here in the United States, incidents of Islamophobic hate crimes and discrimination have surged. Mosques have been vandalized, Muslims have been harassed in public spaces, and anti-Muslim rhetoric continues to be normalized in political discourse. The urgent need for federal action to combat this growing threat cannot be overstated.

“Religious freedom is one of our nation’s most foundational values, and no one should ever have to live in fear of discrimination or violence for practicing their faith,” said Senator Booker. “Islamophobic attacks and rhetoric are on the rise in the United States and around the world, and this legislation would establish a Special Envoy at the State Department to monitor and combat Islamophobia in all its forms. We must dedicate resources to protecting people’s fundamental right to practice their faith and put an end to bigotry.”

“Islamophobia is not just a problem overseas—it is on the rise here at home. From the desecration of mosques to the violent attacks on Muslim Americans, we are witnessing a dangerous resurgence of anti-Muslim bigotry in our communities,” said Representative Omar. “We cannot turn a blind eye while Muslim communities face targeted violence and systemic discrimination worldwide. That is why I am proud to reintroduce the Combating International Islamophobia Act alongside Senator Booker and Representative Schakowsky. The United States must take a stand and lead in the fight against this global crisis.”

Anti-Muslim bigotry is on the rise in the U.S., and around the world, and we have a duty to stop it once and for all,” said Representative Schakowsky. “I’m joining my colleagues, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar and Senator Cory Booker, in reintroducing the Combating International Islamophobia Act. This critical legislation will create a Special Envoy for Monitoring and Combating Islamophobia and will ensure the United States has the resources necessary to safeguard human rights and religious and cultural freedom around the world. I hope all our colleagues join us in standing together against Islamophobia. We must promote peace and acceptance for all.”

During the 117th Congress, this bill was successfully passed in the House, marking a historic step forward in the fight against anti-Muslim hate.

To read the full text of the bill, click here.

MIL OSI USA News –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Whitehorse — Crime Reduction Unit arrests British Columbia man on warrants, locate drugs and a firearm

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

On February 27, 2025 police officers of the Yukon Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) arrested 48-year-old British Columbia resident, Christopher Munch, as he was wanted on warrants of arrest issued in the province of British Columbia. As a result of their investigation, CRU also seized drugs, cash, trafficking paraphernalia and a firearm.

On February 27 at approximately 5:30 pm, a member of the Crime Reduction Unit observed Mr. Munch exit a vehicle and enter a business in the Whitehorse downtown area; it was known to the officer that Mr. Munch was wanted on two warrants. Mr. Munch was arrested without incident, along with another male and female who were in the same vehicle. The vehicle was subsequently searched as part of the ongoing investigation and officers discovered a quantity of what is believed to be cocaine and methamphetamine along with money and other items known to be used in the trafficking of illegal drugs such as scales and cell phones. A prohibited firearm was also found inside the vehicle.

Mr. Munch, along with 37-year-old Robert Suffesick and 45-year-old Nadine Handel, both of Watson Lake, were charged with the following offences:

Three counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking (cocaine, codeine and methamphetamine);

Possess a loaded prohibited firearm;

Possession of property obtained by crime.

Additionally, Mr. Munch was charged with two counts of fail to comply with a release order.

Mr. Suffesick and Ms. Handel appeared in court on February 28 and were released on conditions, while Mr. Munch was held in custody and his next court appearance is March 5 in Whitehorse.

MIL Security OSI –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Premier’s statement on Ramadan

Premier David Eby has issued the following statement in honour of the month of Ramadan:

“Tonight at sundown, Muslim communities in British Columbia and around the world mark the beginning of Ramadan.

“Over the coming weeks, family and friends will gather to pray and give back to others through acts of generosity and kindness. A day of fasting from dawn to dusk concludes with iftar, the traditional meal shared at sundown.

“This year marks another painful time for the Muslim population in our province as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to unfold. As Muslim communities observe Ramadan, it is important we stand in solidarity against Islamophobia and all forms of hate. All of us in British Columbia should continue to build bridges with our neighbours of all faiths and backgrounds. Bringing people together to acknowledge our shared values helps make British Columbia a stronger and ever more welcoming place.

“I wish everyone observing this sacred month a blessed and peaceful time of reflection.

“Ramadan Mubarak!”

MIL OSI Canada News –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: FBI Announces Eight FBI Subjects from Mexico in U.S. Custody

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

he FBI is announcing eight men, including two former FBI Ten Most Wanted Fugitives, who were transferred into U.S. custody from Mexico this week. All are key subjects of FBI investigations spanning several states.

Rafael Caro Quintero is a former FBI Ten Most Wanted Fugitive wanted for his alleged involvement in the kidnapping and murder of Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent Enrique Camarena Salazar in 1985. Caro‐Quintero is widely regarded as one of the Mexican godfathers of drug trafficking and helped to form the Guadalajara Cartel in the late 1970s. Allegedly, he became one of the primary suppliers of heroin, cocaine, and marijuana to the U.S., and oversaw the cartel in Costa Rica and the U.S. and Mexico border. Quintero will face charges in the Eastern District of New York. This case was investigated by the FBI San Antonio Field Office.

Alder Marin Sotelo faces homicide charges related to the killing of law enforcement officer. On August 23, 2022, Marin-Sotelo was indicted on a charge of first-degree murder following the August 11, 2022, death of Deputy Ned Byrd of the Wake County, North Carolina, Sheriff’s Office. Sotelo will face federal weapons charges in the Middle District of North Carolina and state murder charges in the North Carolina State Court. This case was investigated by the FBI Charlotte Field Office.

Jose Rodolfo Villareal-Hernández, also known as “El Gato,” is a former FBI Ten Most Wanted Fugitive allegedly responsible for stalking and orchestrating the murder-for-hire of a 43-year-old male victim on May 22, 2013, in Southlake, Texas. Villarreal-Hernandez previously held a high-level position in the Beltran-Leyva Organization (BLO) Drug Cartel. He is believed to have overseen the importation of large quantities of cocaine into the United States as well as committing violent acts within the Republic of Mexico and the United States to maintain his organization’s power and status. He was arrested on January 7, 2023, in Atizapán de Zaragoza, Mexico and will face charges in the Northern District of Texas for interstate stalking and conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire. This case was investigated by the FBI Dallas Field Office.

Jose Angel Canobbio-Inzunza, also known as “Guerito,” was a key leader and the finance manager of the Sinaloa Cartel’s Los Chapitos faction. He allegedly trafficked narcotics, controlled an armed enforcement group, and managed corrupt relationships on the cartel’s behalf. He will face narcotrafficking charges out of the Northern District of Illinois. The subject was arrested last week in Sinaloa by the Mexican Army. This case was investigated by the FBI Washington and San Diego Field Offices.

Rodolfo Lopez Ibarra is facing drug-trafficking charges with up to life imprisonment out of the District of Columbia. This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office.

Andrew Clark, a Canadian citizen residing in Mexico, allegedly ran and participated in a transnational drug trafficking operation that routinely shipped hundreds of kilograms of cocaine from Colombia—through Mexico and Southern California—to Canada and other locations in the United States. Clark is being prosecuted for four murders and one attempted murder, and will face charges in the Central District of California. This case was investigated by the FBI Los Angeles Field Office.

Luis Geraldo Méndez Estevane is facing several federal charges, including murder, racketeering, and drug conspiracy in the Western District of Texas. Mendez was a high-ranking Barrio Azteca lieutenant and responsible for the March 13, 2010, murder of two U.S. consulate employees in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, and an El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Detention Officer. Mendez was indicted in the Western District of Texas. This case was investigated by the FBI El Paso Field Office.

Vicente Carrillo Fuentes, the former leader of the Juarez Cartel, faces narcotrafficking charges in the Eastern District of New York. Fuentes is responsible for the trafficking of narcotics into the United States. He also assisted in perpetrating significant violence throughout Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, and El Paso, Texas, area. The case was investigated by the FBI El Paso Field Office.

“The FBI and our partners will scour the ends of the earth to bring terrorists and cartel members to justice,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The era of harming Americans and walking free is over.”

Significant and vital assistance was provided by the FBI’s valued international, federal, state, and local law enforcement partners across the country.

MIL Security OSI –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Labour market forecast lands amid tariff threats, immigration cap

Source: Government of Canada regional news

VICTORIA – B.C.’s new 2024 Labour Market Outlook (LMO) estimates more than one million job openings in B.C. over the next decade.

The 2025 LMO will consider the impacts of U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods and federal changes to immigration levels.

The LMO delivers a comprehensive forecast of job-market trends over the coming decade. Its purpose is to help current and future post-secondary students, organizations, workers and employers make informed decisions about careers, skills training, education and hiring.

The 2024 edition uses data collected until April 2024, before changes in the federal immigration targets. Slower population growth will impact labour supply, the demand for some goods and services, and the demand for workers in certain sectors, all of which have implications for the provincial economy. The 2024 LMO was likewise created prior to the U.S. government’s threats to impose tariffs on Canadian goods.

The accuracy of any forecast depends on various assumptions about the future, some of which are difficult to anticipate. Due to this, labour market forecasts are updated annually to factor in changing circumstances. Work is underway on the next edition of B.C.’s LMO.

Compared to the 2023 edition, the 2024 LMO projected 122,000 more job openings for a total of 1.12 million over the next 10 years. Of these job openings, 449,000 are identified as the result of economic growth, with the remainder due to replacing retiring workers. By 2034, employment is projected to reach 3.3 million, up from 2.8 million today for average annual growth of 1.4%.

As government works with partners to safeguard B.C.’s economy and respond to the threat of tariffs, the Province will continue to make education and training more accessible, affordable and relevant, and will continue to prioritize sectors with labour shortages to ensure B.C. has a skilled workforce.

Learn More:

For the 2024 edition of the B.C. Labour Market Outlook, the online dashboard, and other links, visit: https://www.workbc.ca/research-labour-market/bc-labour-market-outlook-2024 (can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com)

A backgrounder follows.

MIL OSI Canada News –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI: North American Construction Group Ltd. Announces the Completion of Its Redemption of Its 5.5% Convertible Debentures Due June 30, 2028

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ACHESON, Alberta, Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — North American Construction Group Ltd. (“NACG” or “the Company”) (TSX:NOA/NYSE:NOA) is pleased to announce the completion of its redemption of its 5.5% Convertible Debentures due June 30, 2028 (the “Debentures”) on February 28, 2025 (the “Redemption Date”).

On January 29, 2025, the Company issued a notice of redemption to the holders of the Debentures to redeem all issued and outstanding Debentures at a redemption price equal to their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon up to, but excluding, the Redemption Date. Holders of the Debentures had the option to convert such Debentures into common shares of the Company (“Common Shares”) prior to the Redemption Date at a price of $24.23 per Common Share. $72,749,000 principal amount of Debentures were converted into Common Shares between January 29, 2025 and the Redemption Date. On the Redemption Date, Debentures in the principal amount of $1,357,000 were redeemed by the Company.

About the Company

NACG is one of Canada and Australia’s largest providers of heavy construction and mining services. For more than 70 years, NACG has provided services to the mining, resource, and infrastructure construction markets. For more information about North American Construction Group Ltd., visit www.nacg.ca.

For further information contact:
Jason Veenstra, CPA, CA
Chief Financial Officer
North American Construction Group Ltd.
(780) 948-2009
jveenstra@nacg.ca
www.nacg.ca

The MIL Network –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI: Purpose Investments Announces Temporary Absorption of Series F and Series A Management Fees of Purpose Premium Money Market Fund

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Purpose Investments Inc. (“Purpose”) announced today that it has temporarily absorbed a portion of the management fees on Series F and Series A shares of Purpose Premium Money Market Fund (the “Fund”). Until Purpose confirms otherwise, the annual management fee payable by investors in Series F shares of the Fund will be 0.20%; the annual management fee for Series A shares will be 0.45%.

There are no changes to the investment objective of the Fund. Current shareholders of the Fund are not required to take any actions as a result of this absorption.

About Purpose Investments Inc.

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

For further information, please email us at info@purposeinvest.com

Media inquiries:
Keera Hart
keera.hart@kaiserpartners.com
905-580-1257

Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the prospectus before investing. Mutual fund securities are not covered by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation or by any other government deposit insurer. There can be no assurances that the fund will be able to maintain its net asset value per security at a constant amount or that the full amount of your investment in the fund will be returned to you. Past performance may not be repeated.

Forward-looking information

Purpose cautions the reader not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements contained herein, which speak only as of the date they are made. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “on pace”, “anticipates”, or “does not anticipate”, “believes”, and similar expressions or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “should”, “might”, or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved.

Forward-looking statements are based on information available to management at the time they are made, management’s current plans, estimates, assumptions, judgments and expectations. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Purpose to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, geopolitical, technological and social uncertainties. Although the forward-looking information contained in this press release is based on assumptions that Purpose believes to be reasonable at the date such statements are made, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Purpose does not undertake to update or revise any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

The MIL Network –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Premier of Ontario Doug Ford

Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Premier of Ontario, Doug Ford, to congratulate him on his re-election and discuss shared priorities.

Prime Minister Trudeau commended Premier Ford’s commitment to contributing to a Team Canada approach to the Canada-U.S. relationship. The two leaders reiterated their desire to stand up for and protect Canadian interests. They discussed the ongoing threat of unjustified U.S. tariffs, and their commitment to continue working to prevent their imposition on Canadian goods. They agreed on the need for a firm response to any tariffs, including on aluminum and steel.

The Prime Minister and the Premier agreed to continue working together on these and other issues of importance to Ontarians and Canadians.

Associated Links

MIL OSI Canada News –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI: CalAmp Welcomes Thomas Polan as Product Director for Student Safety Business Unit

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CARLSBAD, Calif., Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CalAmp, a leading provider of telematics and connected intelligence solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Thomas Polan as Product Director for its Student Safety Business Unit. Polan, a co-founder of the Synovia K-12 solution acquired by CalAmp in 2019, brings extensive expertise in student transportation technology and a proven dedication to innovation.

Polan’s leadership in developing Synovia’s industry-leading solutions transformed school transportation by improving safety, efficiency, and transparency for school districts, contractors, and transportation consortiums. In his new role, he will spearhead product strategy, focusing on customer-centric solutions that enhance operational effectiveness and student safety.

“Thomas Polan is a recognized leader in student transportation technology, and we’re thrilled to welcome him back to drive our Student Safety product strategy,” said Mark Gaydos, General Manager of Student Safety at CalAmp. “His deep industry insight and passion for innovation align perfectly with our mission to deliver cutting-edge solutions to school districts, contractors, and consortiums.”

Polan’s appointment reflects CalAmp’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its education offerings through advanced telematics, fleet management, and safety technologies. His expertise will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of student transportation solutions and solidifying CalAmp’s market leadership.

“I’m excited to rejoin CalAmp and continue advancing solutions that matter to the student transportation industry,” said Polan. “School districts rely on dependable, innovative technology to ensure student safety and operational efficiency. I look forward to collaborating with CalAmp’s talented team to deliver exceptional value to our customers.”

About CalAmp

CalAmp provides flexible solutions to help organizations worldwide monitor, track, and protect their vital assets. Our unique device-enabled software and cloud platform enables commercial and government organizations worldwide to improve efficiency, safety, visibility, and compliance while accommodating the unique ways they do business. With over 10 million active edge devices and 220+ approved or pending patents, CalAmp is the telematics leader organizations turn to for innovation and dependability. For more information, visit calamp.com, or LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube or CalAmp Blog.

CalAmp, LoJack, TRACKER, Here Comes The Bus, Bus Guardian, CalAmp Vision, CrashBoxx and associated logos are among the trademarks of CalAmp and/or its affiliates in the United States, certain other countries and/or the EU. Spireon acquired the LoJack® U.S. Stolen Vehicle Recovery (SVR) business from CalAmp and holds an exclusive license to the LoJack mark in the United States and Canada. Any other trademarks or trade names mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

The MIL Network –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Co-Leader of Transnational Drug Trafficking Organization Arrives in the U.S. to Face Federal Narcotics and Murder Charges

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

LOS ANGELES – An alleged leader of a transnational drug trafficking enterprise co-helmed by former Canadian Olympic snowboarder Ryan Wedding has been sent to the United States from Mexico to face federal charges alleging that he ran a continuing criminal enterprise, committed murder and attempted murder, and conspired to possess, distribute, and export cocaine, the Justice Department announced today.

Andrew Clark, 34, a Canadian citizen who was residing in Mexico, was arrested by Mexican authorities in October 2024 and is scheduled to be arraigned on Monday in United States District Court in Phoenix on charges contained in a 16-count superseding indictment out of the Central District of California. Alongside Wedding, Clark allegedly controlled a billion-dollar drug enterprise with supply routes that transported ton-quantities of cocaine from Colombia to Canada by way of Mexico and Southern California.

From March to August 2024, Wedding and Clark allegedly conspired with others to export, possess, and distribute more than 1,800 kilograms of cocaine. In addition, using a network of virtual currency wallets, Wedding, Clark, and their co-conspirators transferred approximately a quarter of a billion dollars from April to September 2024. In one day, investigators seized more than $3 million dollars from one cryptocurrency wallet.

“The defendant, as described in the superseding indictment, played a key role in running a violent, international drug trafficking organization that was responsible for multiple murders,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph T. McNally. “We are grateful to have him in the United States where he will face justice. When law enforcement officials around the globe work together, there is nowhere criminals can hide.”

The superseding indictment alleges that Wedding and Clark, whose aliases include “The Dictator,” directed the November 20, 2023, murders of two individuals and the attempted murder of a third victim in Ontario, Canada. Wedding and Clark also allegedly ordered the murder of a fourth individual on May 18, 2024. Clark and another co-defendant are also charged with the April 1, 2024, murder of a fifth individual in Ontario, Canada.

Clark is the second-named defendant in the superseding indictment that charges a total of 16 defendants. With Clark’s expected court appearance, a total of eight defendants will have been arraigned in this case. Clark’s co-conspirators are scheduled to begin trial on May 6.

An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.

If convicted, Clark would face a mandatory minimum penalty of life in federal prison on the continuing criminal enterprise charge. The murder and attempted murder charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The drug trafficking charges carry mandatory minimum penalties of 10 years in prison.

The FBI investigated this matter with the Los Angeles Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Los Angeles Field Division, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police – Federal Policing. In addition, significant assistance was provided by U.S. law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations – Detroit and United States Customs and Border Protection – Buffalo; Canadian law enforcement partners, including Niagara Regional Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police, Toronto Police Service, and Peel Regional Police; Mexican law enforcement partners, including the Attorney General’s Office (Fiscalía General de la República) and the Criminal Investigation Agency (Agencia de Investigación Criminal); and Colombian law enforcement partners, including Colombian National Police – Directorate of Criminal Investigation and Interpol, Special Interagency Investigation Group (Policía Nacional de Colombia – Dirección de Investigación Criminal e Interpol, Grupo Especial de Investigación Interagenciales). This investigation was conducted with the support of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF).

Assistant United States Attorneys Lyndsi Allsop and Maria Jhai of the Violent and Organized Crime Section and Ryan Waters of the Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Section are prosecuting this case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance.

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

MIL Security OSI –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Ross River — Ross River RCMP recover stolen firearms
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Ross River RCMP investigators have recovered several stolen firearms and charged two adult males following separate and unrelated investigations.

On November 26, 2024, Ross River RCMP received a report of a break and enter at a residence where two rifles were stolen. Through the course of the investigation, police were able to recover the firearms and Robert Power, was arrested and charged with:
- Possession of a weapon obtained by crime;
- Unauthorized possession of a firearm;
- Weapons trafficking;
- Possession of property obtained by crime.
On November 30, 2024 police received a report of a rifle that was stolen. Police have since recovered this firearm and have charged Michael Bondarchuk with weapons trafficking and unauthorized possession of a firearm.

Mr. Bondarchuk and Mr. Power were arrested on February 19, 2025 and held in custody for court on February 20. They were both released on Release Orders with conditions including a court appearance for March 6, 2025 in Ross River.

Ross River RCMP request that anyone with information about these incidents to contact Ross River RCMP at 867-969-5555 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

MIL Security OSI –
March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Are unions really shifting toward Conservatives? Here’s a closer look at their Ontario election endorsements

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Steven Tufts, Associate Professor, Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change, York University, Canada

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has secured a third consecutive majority government for the Progressive Conservative Party.

Despite attacks on public sector unions through laws deemed unconstitutional and extensive privatization plans, Ford managed to increase endorsements from labour unions during his campaign.

Police and firefighter unions endorsed the Ontario PCs and Ford continued to build support in private sector unions. The Carpenters’ Regional Council, UNITE HERE! Local 75 representing hotel workers and some Unifor Local groups endorsed the party for the first time. Ford centred this union support in much of his media campaign material.

Conservatives now claim we are in the middle of a “movement” of workers away from the New Democratic Party, which has historically been seen as the party of labour, toward both federal and provincial conservative parties.

Former Conservative Party of Canada leader Erin O’Toole reached out to workers in the last federal election and current Conservative leader, Pierre Poilievre, continues to do so.

However, the actual extent of union support for Ford must be put into context. There is no evidence to suggest a major political re-alignment of unions with conservative parties. At the same time, the ability of Ford’s brand of populism to engage with a strategic transactionalism in some unions is a serious challenge to labour movement solidarity.

The truth behind union support

While researchers have observed a shifting relationship between unions and the NDP, it varies greatly by sector and region. Although some affiliates endorsed Ford, the Ontario Federation of Labour, representing 54 unions, publicly supported the NDP.

Local autonomy is part of a democratic labour movement, and many of the endorsements for Ford came from union locals, not the entirety of a union’s membership.

Some unions have policies of not endorsing any party, while others allow endorsements by union locals of individual candidates. More importantly, even if unions decide to endorse a candidate or party, individual members vote for whoever they want. Union members continue to vote in complex and contradictory ways, and they can be swayed by populist politicians as much as any other voter.

Right-wing populism presents a challenge to unions whose members are not isolated from populist politics. Ford’s brand of populism has proven effective in attracting and dividing organized labour, especially public versus private sector union members. He uses populist rhetoric to challenge public sector unions while making more moderate overatures to non-union and private sector workers.

This pivoting populism has proven effective. Promises of a “buck-a-beer” and allowing liquor into corner stores appeals to workers while potentially reducing unionized jobs at LCBO outlets and government revenue for health care and education.

Ford has also demonstrated the ability to shift his populist message when needed. He quickly positioned himself as a leading voice against tariffs proposed by United States President Donald Trump. He successfully engaged a nationalist economic populism defending workers, specifically in Ontario’s manufacturing sector.

Despite being caught saying he was “100 per cent” happy with Trump’s victory, he pivoted to a message that muzzled, at least temporarily, the racist, anti-immigrant, anti-transgender and anti-climate change sentiments of Trumpian populism.

Ford’s folksy rhetoric was flexible enough to maintain his appeal. Union leaders representing workers supportive of Ford, especially in the private sector, either felt pressure to reflect their members politics or were supportive themselves. As a result, some unions were more open to being transactional with the Ontario PCs than in the past.

Transactional approach to politics

In their recent book Shifting Gears, labour experts Stephanie Ross and Larry Savage document Unifor’s shift toward a more transactional approach when dealing with political parties. They argue the union abandoned its traditional party-union alliance with the NDP for more pragmatic relationships with those in power.

Transactional politics are increasingly practised by many unions, and Ford has used it to his advantage. Private sector unions in the building trades and hospitality industries that endorsed Ford have secured millions in training funds from the government.

For example, on Jan. 25, the Carpenter’s Regional Council announced it received $14 million from Ontario’s Skills Development Fund to train 1,500 workers. Less than a month later, the Ontario PCs announced it received the council’s endorsement.

Ford’s transactional relationships with unions are not without growing pains. Several unions that supported the Ontario PCs in the 2022 election condemned Bill 28, which would have removed the right to strike for 55,000 educational workers. After thousands walked off the job in response, the government withdrew the bill.

Here, we see a broader form of transactional politics in play. If Ford wanted to maintain even minimal union support, he had to recognize basic rights for unionized workers.

The current levels of union support for the Ontario PCs may have an exaggerated significance. After all, the Conservatives only slightly increased their popular vote and lost three seats, dropping to 80 from 83. Similarly, the NDP remains the official opposition, but had their seat count and popular vote diminished, while the Liberals increased both.

The future of labour

Shifting union support for political parties can have an impact, as unions have people and resources that can be allocated to campaigns. But there are limits to the union support conservative parties can build.

First, much of this support is driven by right-wing populism, which can fade over time. The traditional conservative business community can reinstate neoliberal policies that restricts unions and their power.

Second, transactional politics that use taxpayer money are expensive for governments. After all, not every union can be awarded a new training centre.

Perhaps the most significant implications are for the future of the labour movement itself. The politics between unions that collaborate with right-wing populists and those who are attacked by them remain divisive as labour leaders have publicly debated the issue. At what point will the fissures erupt and threaten overall solidarity?

It may be time for the labour movement to go on the offensive against support for right-wing populists among their own memberships — the unions giving endorsements in exchange for resources and the bare minimum, in terms of union recognition.

At this juncture, this will be a struggle. Union political education has always been a challenge, and it’s more difficult in the era of right-wing legacy and social media. Any attempt by central labour bodies, such as the Ontario Federation of Labour, to sanction or expel affiliates who support right-wing parties would have high political costs.

But accommodating, rather than confronting, right-wing populist sentiments among workers and maintaining inter-union solidarity may eventually lead to the movement and political realignment conservatives are hoping for.

Steven Tufts receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada. He also sits on the board of an organisation that has recevied past funding from the Ontario Skills Development Fund mentioned in the article.

– ref. Are unions really shifting toward Conservatives? Here’s a closer look at their Ontario election endorsements – https://theconversation.com/are-unions-really-shifting-toward-conservatives-heres-a-closer-look-at-their-ontario-election-endorsements-250988

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Collingwood Corner — Cumberland County District RCMP appeals for information as investigation continues

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Cumberland County District RCMP is appealing to the public for information in regards to a snowmobile crash as it continues its investigation.

On February 21, at approximately 10:20 p.m., RCMP, fire services and EHS responded to a report of a snowmobile crash on Wyvern Rd: RCMP investigates fatality following snowmobile crash | Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

The investigation into all aspects of the incident is continuing, and investigators are appealing to the public for information pertaining to the hours leading up to, and including, the time of the snowmobile crash.

Anyone with information who has not yet spoken with police is asked to contact Cumberland County District RCMP at 902-667-3859. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

Our thoughts continue to be with the victim’s loved ones at this difficult time.

File #: 2025-234808

MIL Security OSI –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: US inflation has increased since Trump took office – why prices are unlikely to come down soon

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Conor O’Kane, Senior Lecturer in Economics, Bournemouth University

The cost of living crisis, which saw inflation in the US peak at a four-decade high of 9.1% in 2022, played a significant role in determining the outcome of last November’s presidential election.

Exit polls across ten of the key battleground states showed 32% of voters considered the economy to be the most important election issue. Among that group of voters, a staggering 81% voted for Donald Trump.

Trump had spent most of his election campaign saying his administration would tackle high prices – even vowing to bring them down on day one. However, the latest figures suggest inflation in the US has increased since he took office, rising unexpectedly to a six-month high of 3% in January.

This rise is largely because of the economy Trump inherited. But some experts have expressed concerns that his stated economic strategy, including trade tariffs, major tax cuts and lower interest rates, will only add to inflation.

While tax cuts and interest rate changes are familiar policies, the use of tariffs has been less common in recent decades. These are used by governments to balance trade relationships or in retaliation to tariffs imposed by other countries. They generally make foreign imported goods more expensive while also raising tax revenues for governments.

The Trump administration has set tariffs of 25% on all steel and aluminium imports, and imposed 10% trade tariffs on a wide range of consumer imports from China. While proposed tariffs of 25% on imports from Mexico and Canada have been temporarily paused, the US has signalled its intention to introduce tariffs on imports from the European Union.

A General Motors car assembly facility in Ontario, Canada, where economists predict the proposed tariffs would have a catastrophic effect.
JHVEPhoto / Shutterstock

Will tariffs lead to inflation?

Trump’s aides insist the tariffs won’t have a negative impact on American consumers and businesses. On February 18, Peter Navarro, senior counsel for trade and manufacturing at the White House, told the New York Times: “It’s not going to be painful for America. It’s going to be a beautiful thing.”

Navarro argues that foreign exporters, concerned about losing market share, will reduce the pre-tariff price they charge US importers.

But economic theory suggests that tariffs generally do lead to higher prices. Peter Lavelle, a trade expert at the UK’s Institute for Fiscal Studies, says that evidence from Trump’s first term – when tariffs were imposed on solar panels, washing machines, steel and aluminium – shows these costs were “almost entirely passed on to domestic consumers”, thus adding to inflation.

A key reason for the tariffs is to make US domestic manufacturing more competitive on the international stage. This could bring manufacturing jobs back to the US. Manufacturing employment declined by 35% in the US from its peak of 19.6 million in 1979 to 12.8 million in 2020.

However, there was no evidence of tariffs bringing manufacturing jobs back to the US during Trump’s first term. In fact, manufacturing employment remained static between 2017 and 2021.

There are fears that tariffs could instead trigger a trade war, where countries retaliate with tariffs of their own. Canadian officials, for instance, have made it clear they will introduce retaliatory tariffs on the US – “selected in order to hit particularly red and purple [Trump-supporting] states”.

Economists analyse such scenarios using game theory. A trade war takes the form of what economics-speak calls a “non-cooperating Nash equilibrium”, where the economic outcome is negative for all countries involved.

Some recent modelling on the impact of Trump’s proposed tariffs on Canada and Mexico supports this view. Tariff retaliation is likely to raise inflation rates even further than otherwise in all three economies.

A trade war could also squeeze profit margins for exporting producers in the US, by making some US-produced goods relatively more expensive. This would show up in lower real income through reduced employment and wages. This outcome, like higher prices, is unlikely to be popular with US voters.

Given the evidence from Trump’s first term, it is difficult to see how tariffs will be anything but inflationary. Trump’s proposed tax cuts valued at US$5-11 trillion would also add to inflationary pressures, as would the lower interest rates he has called for.

Ana Swanson, a trade and international economist at the New York Times, believes the threat of tariffs is being used merely as a negotiating strategy. However, like many other economists, Swanson sees uncertainty as the biggest impact of Trump’s tariff policy.

In a podcast on February 4, she said: “If you, as the business, are watching out for the threat of tariffs, are you going to make an investment in a new factory or hire new workers?” Uncertainty leads to reduced investment and lower growth.

Realistically, Trump was never going to bring down prices for US consumers. To do that would be deflationary, and economists generally fear deflation even more than inflation. Falling prices lead to deferred spending and can be devastating for economic growth.

The best outcome for US consumers is that prices increase at a slower rate, close to the US Federal Reserve’s inflation target of 2%. However, given the recent uptick in inflation, as well as Trump’s strategy of tariffs, tax cuts and lower interest rates, the direction of travel all points towards higher price rises.

Recent evidence from elections in many advanced economies shows that voters do not like inflation, and will punish administrations who are in power during inflationary periods.

Since inflation peaked in many advanced economies in 2022, more than 70% of incumbent administrations have been voted out of government. Trump should keep this in mind as he embarks on his quest to make America’s economy great again.

Conor O’Kane 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. US inflation has increased since Trump took office – why prices are unlikely to come down soon – https://theconversation.com/us-inflation-has-increased-since-trump-took-office-why-prices-are-unlikely-to-come-down-soon-249956

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Supportive homes for youth, young adults open in Kamloops
Source: Government of Canada regional news

Youth and young adults experiencing homelessness in Kamloops now have access to 39 new homes with supports through the opening of Katherine’s Place.

“Many young people are facing uncertain times. We want to help with housing options, a main objective in our Belonging in BC plan,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “By connecting young adults with the housing and supports they need, we’re getting them on a path to stability. Through the life-skills training and supports offered at Katherine’s Place, youth will develop a better foundation to live full, healthy lives.”

The Province, through BC Housing, has partnered with A Way Home Kamloops to provide the new homes, located on 560 Tranquille Rd. A Way Home Kamloops will operate the building and provide support services to people between 19 and 27 years through a scaled support model. This model will tailor supports to each person’s needs and goals. The supports will progress to reduce support as needed, with the goal of transitioning to independent living or other housing that meets their needs.

Supports will include daily meals, life-skills training, peer guidance, mental-health resources, and employment and education supports. Three staff members will be on site 24/7 to ensure residents are supported. Security measures include camera monitoring and a controlled single point of entry.

“A Way Home Kamloops is excited to see the vision of their founder Katherine McParland come to life,” said Tangie Genshorek, executive director, A Way Home Kamloops (AWHK). “The project is the product of multiple partnerships and community collaboration. AWHK works to put youth first, to honour their stories, and to meet them where they are, with what they need.”

The building is named after the late Katherine McParland, founder and former executive director of A Way Home Kamloops, a BC Housing board member. This project aims to honour and acknowledge the impact she had on local youth, while continuing her legacy by providing services to young people who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness.

“Katherine was not just an incredible woman, but she made all those around her feel safe and heard. She saw value in every single young person,” said Kira Cheeseborough, youth adviser at A Way Home Kamloops. “Katherine’s Place will continue to create the safety and love we felt. With this space, we take a step toward ensuring no youth is left behind.”

Katherine’s Place includes a combination of 20 regular, five larger, six adaptable and two fully accessible bachelor suites, and six one-bedroom suites.

The project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by government. Since 2017, the Province has nearly 92,000 homes that have been delivered or are underway, including more than 2,100 homes in Kamloops.

Quick Facts:
- The Province, through BC Housing, provided approximately $13 million to the project and will provide an annual operating subsidy of approximately $1.6 million through the Building BC: Supportive Housing Fund.
- A Way Home Kamloops provided $473,990 in equity toward the project.
Learn More:

To learn more about government’s new Homes for People action plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HOUS0019-000436

To read the Belonging in BC plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BelongingStrategy.pdf

To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for British Columbians, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/

A map showing the location of all announced provincially funded housing projects in B.C. is available online: https://www.bchousing.org/projects-partners/Building-BC/homes-for-BC

MIL OSI Canada News –
March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Global biodiversity agreement mobilises $200 billion boost for nature
Source: United Nations 2

28 February 2025 Climate and Environment

Governments on Friday reached agreement on a strategy to raise an additional $200 billion each year to better protect the world’s flora and fauna by 2030.
Delegates met in Rome this week for the resumption of the UN Biodiversity Conference to hammer out an agreement at COP16.2 after attempts to reach a deal on financing at COP16 in Cali, Colombia, fell short last November.

It is hoped that the hard-won decisions made by parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity will shore up biodiversity and fragile ecosystems which are bearing the brunt of increased conflict, deforestation, mining, toxic waste dumping and other environmental impacts worldwide.

“We very much welcome this announcement,” the UN Secretary-General’s Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said on Friday. “We need to mobilise at least $200 billion dollars a year by 2030 to close the global biodiversity finance gap.”

However, discussions on who pays to protect the Earth’s biodiversity have long been a point of contention, while more than a million plant and animal species are now threatened with extinction.

© Gregoire Dubois

Hammering out an agreement

“These days of work in Rome have demonstrated the commitment of the parties to advance the implementation of the [Kunming-Montreal] Global Biodiversity Framework,” said COP16 president Susana Muhamad, referring to the landmark 2022 agreement and underscoring “the collective effort to reach consensus of key issues that were left pending in Cali”.

Why is biodiversity important? Read our explainer here.

Delegates worked through Friday morning following days of intense negotiation and reached decisions on outstanding issues including biodiversity finance, planning, monitoring, reporting and review.

Negotiators also agreed on a set of indicators to measure global and national progress towards implementing the Global Biodiversity Framework.

The framework was finalised a little over two years ago – a historic UN-driven agreement to guide global action on nature through to 2030, which was hashed out at meetings in Kunming, China, and Montreal, Canada, in 2022.

Keeping promises made in Canada and China

The Global Biodiversity Framework aims to address biodiversity loss, restore ecosystems and protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples, who suffer disproportionately from biodiversity loss and environmental degradation.

The global framework also contains concrete measures to halt and reverse nature loss, including protection measures covering 30 per cent of the planet and 30 per cent of degraded ecosystems by 2030.

Currently only 17 per cent of land and around eight per cent of marine areas are protected.

“Only by working together can we make peace with nature a reality,” said Ms. Muhamad.

‘Multilateralism works’

Astrid Schomaker, Executive Secretary of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, said the positive outcome in Rome shows that “multilateralism works” and is “the vehicle to build the partnerships needed to protect biodiversity and move us towards peace with nature”.

After intense negotiations, parties to the convention agreed on a way forward in terms of resource mobilisation with a view to close the global biodiversity finance gap and achieve the target of at least $200 billion a year by 2030.

This includes working to improve existing financial tools, especially to provide resources for developing countries, under the temporary leadership of UN agencies and partners.

“We now have a clear mandate” for implementation, Ms. Schomaker said. “As we do this and implement the other supporting elements for resource mobilisation, the world will have given itself the means to close the biodiversity finance gap.”

Call for pioneering investors

On the margins of COP16.2, the Cali Fund, which was created in Colombia in late 2024, was officially launched, ushering in a new era for biodiversity financing.

“Today’s launch is the culmination of multilateralism that delivers,” said Elizabeth Mrema, Deputy Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).

“The ball is now in the court of businesses around the world. Those who pay into the fund will go down in history as pioneers and will reap the benefits as the public increasingly recognises the importance of giving back to nature.”

Here’s how the Cali Fund will benefit biodiversity:
- Companies making commercial use of data from genetic resources in nature in a range of lucrative industries will be expected to contribute a portion of their revenue to the fund
- Contributions to the Cali Fund will be used to implement the UN Biodiversity Convention, including by supporting the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
- At least 50 per cent of the Cali Fund resources will be allocated to Indigenous Peoples and local communities, recognising their role as custodians of biodiversity
MIL OSI United Nations News –
March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: New urgent and primary care centre open in Williams Lake
Source: Government of Canada regional news

People living in Williams Lake and surrounding communities will have increased access to team-based primary health care at the new Williams Lake Urgent and Primary Care Centre (UPCC).

“Our government is committed to making sure everyone in our province has access to quality health care that’s close to home,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “This new UPCC means people living in Williams Lake, 100 Mile House, and East and West Cariboo regions will have increased access to same-day primary health care so they can receive the care they need, while also easing pressure on emergency rooms and hospitals.”

The new UPCC opened on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025. The 490 square-metre (5,300 square feet) clinic is located at 47 Cameron St. When fully operational, it will provide urgent and episodic primary care, in person and virtually, seven days a week, including statutory holidays, 9:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m.

The UPCC will offer same-day care for people who need access to health care within 12 to 24 hours, but do not require an emergency department. The UPCC is available to people who do not have a primary-care provider, as well as those who are unable to schedule an appointment with their primary-care provider within a convenient timeframe.

“This UPCC will make a real difference to the lives of people living in and around Williams Lake by providing timely primary health care,” said Debra Toporowski, parliamentary secretary for rural health. “We know how important it is to have access to health care close to home, especially in rural areas, and we will continue to strengthen our health-care system to accommodate the growing demand.”

As hiring progresses, people will be cared for by more than 18 full-time-equivalent health-care providers, including family doctors, nurse practitioners, nurses, social workers, physiotherapists, Indigenous patient navigators and administrative staff.

“We are excited to welcome patients to the new urgent and primary care centre in Williams Lake,” said Diane Shendruk, vice-president clinical operations, Interior Health. “This UPCC is the first in the Interior to have a dedicated smudging space, which reflects our commitment to reconciliation by bringing Indigenous wellness practices into health care.”

The project will have a total capital cost of more than $4 million, with the ministry funding $2.67 million and the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District funding $1.37 million.

This UPCC marks the 41st UPCC open in the province since 2018, which combined have had approximately three million patient visits. Planning for nine more UPCCs is underway, with the goal of establishing 50 UPCCs in communities throughout B.C. This work is part of B.C.’s Primary Care Strategy, which is bringing more team-based primary-care services to people in B.C.

Quotes:

Al Richmond, board chair, Thompson Regional Hospital District –

“This clinic is critical to easing the workload of the emergency room at the Cariboo Memorial Hospital, especially for those without a family doctor. Having separate spaces for emergency care and urgent care will produce the best outcomes for health-care staff and patients accessing these services.”

Chief Willie Sellars, Williams Lake First Nations, and board director, Interior Health –

“The opening of the Williams Lake Urgent and Primary Care Centre is a significant step toward improving health outcomes for Indigenous people and the broader community. Many of our community members are without family doctors and this facility will help fill that void by providing access to timely care. I’m proud to see this commitment to culturally safe health services that will make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Quick Facts:
- The Williams Lake UPCC is the 11th UPCC operating in the Interior Health region, including Ashcroft, Castlegar, Cranbrook, Kamloops, Kelowna, Penticton, Rutland, Vernon and West Kelowna.
- The Williams Lake UPCC is planning to facilitate more than 42,000 visits per year.
- Interior Health UPCCs have provided care to more than 754,000 visitors since 2018 when the first UPCC opened in the health authority.
Learn More:

To learn more about UPCCs in the Interior Health region, visit:
https://www.interiorhealth.ca/information-for/patients-and-visitors/urgent-and-primary-care-centres

To read about B.C.’s primary health strategy, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/accessing-health-care/bcs-primary-care-system
and
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2018PREM0034-001010

To learn more about the Province’s health human resource strategy, visit:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022HLTH0059-001464

MIL OSI Canada News –
March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Fall River — Man wanted on province-wide arrest warrant

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

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

Aleksandr Chabinevitch, 33, from Fall River, is wanted and facing charges of Uttering Threats and Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited or Restricted Weapon.

Chabinevitch is described as 5-foot-11, 165 pounds and has black hair.

At this time investigators believe he may be driving a grey 2005 Acura TL bearing Ontario licence plate CXDD060.

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

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Aleksandr Chabinevitch is asked to refrain from approaching him and to call police at 902-490-5020. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

File #: 23-117965

MIL Security OSI –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI: DIAGNOS Announces Amendment to Convertible Debentures
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BROSSARD, Quebec, Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diagnos Inc. (“DIAGNOS” or the “Corporation”) (TSX Venture: ADK, OTCQB: DGNOF, FWB: 4D4A), a leader in early detection of critical health issues using advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI), announces that it intends to amend the terms of an aggregate amount of $590,000 of unsecured convertible debentures (each a “Debenture”) issued as part of a private placement of units initially announced on March 1, 2022, as follows:
- The maturity date, initially set for March 1, 2025, is extended to March 1, 2026, and
- The yearly interest rate is increased from 8% to 10% for the extended period from March 1, 2025 to March 1, 2026.
All other provisions of the Debentures will remain unchanged and fully in effect during the extension period.

The amendment remains subject to the TSX Venture Exchange acceptance as well as execution of formal documentation.

All monies quoted in this press release shall be stated and paid in lawful money of Canada.

About DIAGNOS
DIAGNOS is a publicly-traded Canadian corporation with a mission of developing software tools for the early detection of critical health issues through the use of Artificial Intelligence.

Additional information is available at www.diagnos.com and www.sedar.com

This news release contains forward-looking information. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in these statements. DIAGNOS disclaims any intention or obligation to publically update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

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

The MIL Network –
March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Gulf Shore — Missing youth: Help the RCMP find Makenna Robichaud

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Cumberland County District RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 15-year-old Makenna Robichaud, who was last seen February 26 at 6:30 p.m. on Mathesons Cove Rd. in Gulf Shore.

Robichaud is described as 5-foot-3 and 110 pounds. She has black hair, blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a black coat, jeans, and black shoes.

When someone goes missing, it has deep and far-reaching impacts for the person and those who know them. We ask that people spread the word through social media respectfully.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Makenna Robichaud is asked to contact the Cumberland County District RCMP at 902-667-3859. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

MIL Security OSI –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Gulf Shore — Adolescente portée disparue : Aidez la GRC à retrouver Makenna Robichaud

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

La GRC dans le District du comté de Cumberland demande l’aide du public pour retrouver Makenna Robichaud, 15 ans, qui a été vue pour la dernière fois le 26 février à 18 h 30, sur le chemin Mathesons Cove, à Gulf Shore.

Makenna Robichaud mesure 5 pi 3 po et pèse 110 lb. Elle a les cheveux noirs et les yeux bleus. La dernière fois qu’on l’a vue, elle portait un manteau noir, un jean et des souliers noirs.

La disparition d’une personne a des conséquences profondes pour la personne concernée et pour ceux et celles qui la connaissent. Nous demandons à la population de diffuser l’avis de recherche dans les réseaux sociaux avec respect.

On demande à toute personne qui sait où pourrait se trouver Makenna Robichaud de communiquer avec la GRC dans le District du comté de Cumberland au 902-667-3859. Pour conserver l’anonymat, communiquez avec Échec au crime N.-É. en composant le 1-800-222-8477, en allant dans son site Web à www.crimestoppers.ns.ca ou en utilisant l’application mobile « P3 Tips ».

MIL Security OSI –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Digby — Digby RCMP assisting in fatal structure fire investigation

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Digby RCMP is assisting in the investigation of a fire that occurred at an apartment in Digby.

On February 28 at approximately 8:00 a.m., Digby RCMP, fire services, and EHS responded to a report of a fire on Birch St., at a home known to contain several apartments. Police officers on scene assisted in evacuating the building. Multiple occupants were able to leave the building safely.

When the fire was extinguished, police learned that firefighters located one person deceased at the scene. The fire is under investigation and investigators will remain on scene to continue to gather information and evidence.

The investigation is being assisted by the Office of the Fire Marshal and the Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service.

Our thoughts are with the loved ones of the deceased at this difficult time.

MIL Security OSI –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Surrey Langley SkyTrain station, guideway construction reaches milestone

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Sukh Dhaliwal, MP for Surrey-Newton –

“Expanding transportation south of the Fraser River with the Surrey Langley SkyTrain will offer faster and more reliable transit services, strengthening connections throughout Metro Vancouver for decades to come. Once complete, this project will reduce congestion, drive economic growth and support sustainable transit, while paving the way for a healthier, more connected and vibrant future.”

Kevin Quinn, CEO of TransLink –

“Once complete, the Surrey Langley SkyTrain extension will provide a fast, reliable and sustainable travel option for daily commuters. As our region prepares to welcome thousands of new residents in the coming decades, investments like this are critical to keeping our transportation network viable.”

Brenda Locke, mayor of Surrey –

“As construction of the Surrey Langley SkyTrain progresses, we are taking a crucial step toward addressing the long-standing transit challenges our city has faced. This project will help reduce the service gaps in Surrey, providing our residents with safer, more reliable and efficient transportation options they deserve. Together, we are building a more connected and vibrant future for our community.”

Eric Woodward, mayor of Township of Langley –

The Surrey Langley SkyTrain extension is a crucial and long-awaited step toward improving transportation in the region. For far too long, residents of the Township of Langley have endured limited commuting options. We are eager to see continued progress on the SkyTrain, and we welcome the recently announced Langley-Maple Ridge Bus Rapid Transit route, which will integrate seamlessly with the future Willowbrook SkyTrain station.

Nathan Pachal, mayor of Langley –

“We’re excited to see Langley city and the region becoming more connected as we grow. The SkyTrain expansion will make travel between communities easier, strengthen connections among residents, businesses and communities, and create new opportunities throughout the region.”

MIL OSI Canada News –

March 1, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Graham Introduce Legislation to Ban Horse Slaughter

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) announced the introduction of the Save America’s Forgotten Equines (SAFE) Act, legislation to permanently ban the slaughter of horses for human consumption. The bill would also prohibit the export of live horses to Mexican and Canadian slaughterhouses to be sold overseas. Congressman Vern Buchanan (R-FL) and Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) lead companion legislation in the House.
“I’m proud to join my colleagues to introduce bipartisan legislation to permanently ban the slaughter of horses for human consumption. Unlike cattle, horses aren’t raised as food animals in the United States,” said Senator Luján. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this bill to protect our nation’s horses while maintaining support for meat and poultry markets.”
“The slaughter of horses for human consumption is barbaric and has no place in America,” said Representative Buchanan. “As Co-Chairman of the Animal Protection Caucus, I look forward to continuing to lead this effort with Congresswoman Schakowsky to protect these beautiful creatures.”
“As a former horse owner, I have been a leader in efforts to ban horse slaughter in the United States for many years,” said Representative Schakowsky. “I am once again partnering with Congressman Vern Buchanan in introducing the SAFE Act to amend the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 to prohibit the slaughter of equines for human consumption, both domestically and abroad. It is beyond time to end this brutal and dangerous practice. Horses are not food. As a proud animal lover, we owe it to our horse companions to protect their welfare.”
The SAFE Act would make it illegal to slaughter, transport, possess, purchase, sell or donate horses, donkeys and burros for human consumption. Although the practice of slaughtering horses for human consumption is currently illegal in the United States, the ban is temporary and subject to annual congressional review and no federal law exists to prohibit the transport of horses across America’s borders for slaughter in Canada or Mexico.
The SAFE Act is cosponsored by over 100 bipartisan members of Congress. The SAFE Act has received the support of the Humane World Action Fund, the ASPCA, the Animal Welfare Institute, the U.S. Harness Racing Alumni Association, the Jockey Club and Return to Freedom Wild Horse Conservation.
“The pipeline to slaughter is a death sentence for horses, subjecting them to unimaginable suffering. These majestic animals, who have helped build this nation, are deserving of compassion and kindness, not cruelty. It’s time to end their horrifying journey to slaughter, where many suffer brutal abuse long before they arrive. Horse slaughter for human consumption is an industry that shows a complete disregard for these loyal and noble animals. We call on lawmakers to support Senators Graham and Luján and Representatives Buchanan and Schakowsky in their efforts to pass the Save America’s Forgotten Equines (SAFE) Act and put an end to this inhumane practice once and for all,” said Sara Amundson, President, Humane World Action Fund.
“Although the overall decline in American horses being exported for human consumption is a sign of progress, more than 19,000 horses are still being trucked across the border each year as part of the predatory horse slaughter pipeline. This industry needs to be shut down once and for all. We are immensely grateful to Congressman Buchanan, Congresswoman Schakowsky, Senator Graham, and Senator Luján for their outstanding leadership on the SAFE Act and we hope that Congress will move quickly to protect America’s horses from slaughter,” said Susan Millward, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, Animal Welfare Institute.
“Despite overwhelming public opposition to horse slaughter, a legal loophole still allows tens of thousands of American horses to be shipped to other countries for slaughter each year. Not only is horse slaughter cruel and unnecessary, but the existence of the slaughter pipeline itself stifles rescue and rehoming efforts, putting equine welfare at risk. Equine industry and animal welfare groups are working daily to solve equine welfare issues on the ground, but we cannot fully succeed while the slaughter pipeline remains open. We are so grateful to Senators Graham and Luján and Representatives Buchanan and Schakowsky for their dedication to starting a new chapter for America’s equines and championing the SAFE Act to secure an end to horse slaughter,” said Nancy Perry, Senior Vice President of Government Relations, ASPCA.

MIL OSI USA News –

March 1, 2025