NewzIntel.com

Category: Canada

  • MIL-OSI: Hampton Debentures Redeemed and Reinvested

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

    TORONTO, Feb. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hampton Financial Corporation (“Hampton” or the “Company”, TSXV: HFC) announces that Hampton debentures in the aggregate principal amount of $2,175,000 have been redeemed and that the holders of the debentures have reinvested the redemption proceeds into new non-convertible debentures of Hampton in the aggregate principal amount of $2,000,000, bearing interest at 10% per annum and maturing on December 29, 2025, and separately in the case of debentures held by its CEO, Peter Deeb, in the issuance of 255,050 subordinate voting shares of Hampton at $0.70 per share.

    The Company received conditional approval from the TSX Venture Exchange for the issuance of the subordinate voting shares, which are subject to a four month hold period expiring on June 21, 2025.

    About Hampton Financial Corporation

    Hampton is a unique private equity firm that seeks to build shareholder value through long-term strategic investments.

    Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Hampton Securities Limited (“HSL”), Hampton is actively engaged in family office, wealth management, institutional services and capital markets activities. HSL is a full-service investment dealer, regulated by CIRO and registered in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, Ontario, and Quebec. In addition, the Company, through HSL, provides investment banking services, which include assisting companies with raising capital, advising on mergers and acquisitions, and aiding issuers in obtaining a listing on recognized securities exchanges in Canada and abroad and HSL’s Corporate Finance Group provides early stage, growing companies the capital they need to create value for investors. HSL continues to develop its Wealth Management, Advisory Team and Principal-Agent programs which offers to the industry’s most experienced wealth managers a unique and flexible operating platform that provides additional freedom, financial support, and tax effectiveness as they build and manage their professional practice.

    Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Oxygen Working Capital (“OWC”) the company offers factoring and other commercial financing services to clients across Canada.

    The Company is exploring opportunities to diversify its sources of revenue by way of strategic investments in both complimentary business and non-core sectors that can leverage the expertise of its Board and the diverse experience of its management team.

    For more information, please contact:

    Olga Juravlev
    Chief Financial Officer
    Hampton Financial Corporation
    (416) 862-8701

    Or

    Peter M. Deeb
    Executive Chairman & CEO
    Hampton Financial Corporation
    (416) 862-8651

    The TSXV has in no way approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

    No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this press release. This press release does not constitute or form a part of any offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction outside of Canada. The securities being offered have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”), or the securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to a U.S. person absent registration or pursuant to an available exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. There will be no public offering of securities in the United States.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively referred to herein as “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, which may include, but are not limited to, information and statements regarding or inferring the future business, operations, financial performance, prospects, and other plans, intentions, expectations, estimates, and beliefs of the Company. All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as “should”, “hopeful”, “recovery”, “anticipate”, “achieve”, “could”, “believe”, “plan”, “intend”, “objective”, “continuous”, “ongoing”, “estimate”, “outlook”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “project” or similar words, including negatives thereof, suggesting future outcomes.

    Forward-looking statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors beyond the Company’s ability to predict or control which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements herein. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking statements herein are reasonable, in light of the use of assumptions and the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in such statements, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Actual results may vary, and vary materially, from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements herein. Accordingly, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of the risks and uncertainties inherent in forward-looking statements herein and should not place undue reliance upon such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. Any forward-looking statements herein are made only as of the date hereof, and except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation and disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking statements herein or to update the reasons that actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Issues Directive to Prevent the Unfair Exploitation of American Innovation

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    SAFEGUARDING AMERICA’S SOVEREIGNTY OVER ITS ECONOMY: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed a memorandum to defend American companies and innovators from overseas extortion.
    This Administration will consider responsive actions like tariffs to combat the digital service taxes (DSTs), fines, practices, and policies that foreign governments levy on American companies.
    DSTs allow foreign governments to collect tax revenue from American companies simply because they operate in foreign markets, even though those companies are generally not otherwise subject to foreign jurisdiction.

    President Trump will not allow foreign governments to appropriate America’s tax base for their own benefit.
    This memorandum directs the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to renew the DST investigations under Section 301 that were initiated during President Trump’s first term, and investigate any additional countries that use a DST to discriminate against U.S. companies. 
    The Administration will review whether any act, policy, or practice in the European Union or United Kingdom incentivizes U.S. companies to develop or use products and technology in ways that undermine free speech or foster censorship.
    Foreign governments will invite responsive actions from the Administration if they take steps to coerce U.S. businesses to hand over their intellectual property.
    Regulations that dictate how American companies interact with consumers in the European Union, like the Digital Markets Act and the Digital Services Act, will face scrutiny from the Administration.
    DEFENDING AMERICAN COMPANIES FROM EXTORTION: President Trump’s memorandum unveils a comprehensive approach to ensuring that U.S. products and services are governed by the United States of America, not foreign governments.
    Rather than position their own companies and workers for success, foreign governments have been taxing the success of America’s companies and workers.
    America’s economy will not be a source of revenue for countries that have failed to cultivate economic success of their own.  

    To the detriment of America’s economy, in recent years, a number of our trading partners began enacting DSTs to raise revenue for their own government spending.
    Foreign governments could collect billions in DSTs from U.S. companies annually.

    This exploitation goes beyond DSTs to other forms of unfair fines, practices, and penalties that undermine the ability of American companies to operate as intended and force them to incur additional compliance costs, lowering U.S. global economic competitiveness.
    In terms of GDP, the United States digital economy has been larger than most countries’ entire economy in recent years, including Australia, Canada, and most members of the European Union.
    America’s digital economic dominance is driven by cutting-edge American tech companies, and the American innovation and workers behind them.
    RESTORING THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT OF AMERICA: President Donald J. Trump has a track record of protecting American manufacturers and empowering American innovators and workers.
    During his first administration, President Trump initiated Section 301 cases against DSTs and negotiated platinum-standard rules for digital trade with Japan and separately through the USMCA.  
    President Trump demonstrated in his first term that punitive measures like tariffs strengthened the U.S. economy and brought back American industry.
    Just last week, President Trump announced the “Fair and Reciprocal Plan” on trade to restore fairness in U.S. trade relationships and counter non-reciprocal trade agreements.    
    On Day One, President Trump initiated his America First Trade Policy to make America’s economy great again.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Defending American Companies and Innovators From Overseas Extortion and Unfair Fines and Penalties

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-left”>MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY
         THE SECRETARY OF COMMERCE
         THE UNITED STATES TRADE REPRESENTATIVE
         THE SENIOR COUNSELOR TO THE PRESIDENT FOR TRADE
         AND MANUFACTURING
    SUBJECT:       Defending American Companies and Innovators From               Overseas Extortion and Unfair Fines and Penalties      Section 1.  Purpose.  In recent years, the gross domestic product of the United States’ digital economy alone, driven by cutting-edge American technology companies, has been bigger than the entire economy of Australia, Canada, or most members of the European Union.  Instead of empowering their own workers and economies, foreign governments have increasingly exerted extraterritorial authority over American companies, particularly in the technology sector, hindering these companies’ success and appropriating revenues that should contribute to our Nation’s well-being, not theirs.        Beginning in 2019, several trading partners enacted digital services taxes (DSTs) that could cost American companies billions of dollars and that foreign government officials openly admit are designed to plunder American companies.  Foreign countries have additionally adopted regulations governing digital services that are more burdensome and restrictive on United States companies than their own domestic companies.  Additional foreign legal regimes limit cross-border data flows, require American streaming services to fund local productions, and charge network usage and Internet termination fees.  All of these measures violate American sovereignty and offshore American jobs, limit American companies’ global competitiveness, and increase American operational costs while exposing our sensitive information to potentially hostile foreign regulators.      My Administration will not allow American companies and workers and American economic and national security interests to be compromised by one-sided, anti-competitive policies and practices of foreign governments.  American businesses will no longer prop up failed foreign economies through extortive fines and taxes.      Sec. 2.  Policy.  It is the policy of my Administration that where a foreign government, through its tax or regulatory structure, imposes a fine, penalty, tax, or other burden that is discriminatory, disproportionate, or designed to transfer significant funds or intellectual property from American companies to the foreign government or the foreign government’s favored domestic entities, my Administration will act, imposing tariffs and taking such other responsive actions necessary to mitigate the harm to the United States and to repair any resulting imbalance.      In taking such responsive action, my Administration shall consider:      (a)  taxes imposed on United States companies by foreign governments, including those that may discriminate against United States companies;      (b)  regulations imposed on United States companies by foreign governments that could inhibit the growth or intended operation of United States companies;      (c)  any act, policy, or practice of a foreign government that could require a United States company to jeopardize its intellectual property; and      (d)  Any other act, policy, or practice of a foreign government that serves to undermine the global competitiveness of United States companies.   
         Sec. 3.  Agency Responsibilities.  (a)  The United States Trade Representative shall determine, in accordance with applicable law, whether to renew investigations under section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2411) of the DSTs of France, Austria, Italy, Spain, Turkey, and the United Kingdom, which were initiated under my Administration on July 16, 2019, and June 5, 2020.  If the United States Trade Representative determines to renew such investigations, he shall take all appropriate and feasible action in response to those DSTs.
         (b)  The United States Trade Representative shall determine, consistent with section 302(b) of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2412(b)) (section 302(b)), whether to investigate the DST of any other country that may discriminate against United States companies or burden or restrict United States commerce.  He shall further determine whether to pursue a panel under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement on the DST imposed by Canada and whether to investigate Canada’s DST under section 302(b).  In making these determinations, the United States Trade Representative shall consult with the Secretary of the Treasury, as appropriate.      (c)  The Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Commerce, and the United States Trade Representative shall jointly identify trade and other regulatory practices by other countries, including, without limitation, those described in section 2 of this memorandum, that discriminate against, disproportionately affect, or otherwise undermine the global competitiveness or intended operation of United States companies, in the digital economy and more generally, and recommend to me appropriate actions to counter such practices under applicable authorities.  The United States Trade Representative shall include the results of this review as part of the report required in section 5(c) of the Presidential Memorandum of January 20, 2025 (America First Trade Policy) (America First Trade Policy Memorandum).      (d)  The Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Commerce, and the United States Trade Representative shall investigate whether any act, policy, or practice of any country in the European Union or the United Kingdom has the effect of requiring or incentivizing the use or development of United States companies’ products or services in ways that undermine freedom of speech and political engagement or otherwise moderate content, and recommend appropriate actions to counter such practices under applicable authorities.  The United States Trade Representative shall include the results of this review as part of the report required in section 5(c) of the America First Trade Policy Memorandum.      (e)  The Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce and the United States Trade Representative, shall determine whether any foreign country subjects United States citizens or companies, including, without limitation, in the digital economy, to discriminatory or extraterritorial taxes, or has any tax measure in place that otherwise undermines the global competitiveness of United States companies, is inconsistent with any tax treaty of the United States, or is otherwise actionable under section 891 of title 26, United States Code, or other tax-related legal authority.  The Secretary of the Treasury shall include the results of this determination as part of the report required in section 2 of the Presidential Memorandum of January 20, 2025 (The Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) Global Tax Deal).      (f)  The United States Trade Representative shall identify tools the United States can use to secure among trading partners a permanent moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions.  The United States Trade Representative shall include the results of this review as part of the report required in section 5(c) of the America First Trade Policy Memorandum.      (g)  The United States Trade Representative, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce and the Senior Counselor to the President for Trade and Manufacturing, shall establish a process that allows American businesses to report to the United States Trade Representative foreign tax or regulatory practices that disproportionately harm United States companies.      Sec. 4.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this memorandum shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:           (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or           (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.      (b)  This memorandum shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.      (c)  This memorandum is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
         (d)  The United States Trade Representative is authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis, Colleagues Seek Clarification from SEC on Digital Asset ETP Staking Restrictions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Chair of the Senate Banking Subcommittee on Digital Assets, joined by U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Steve Daines (R-MT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), and Bernie Moreno (R-OH), sent a bipartisan letter to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requesting clarification of the agency’s position regarding protocol staking in digital asset exchange traded products (ETPs).

    “The current lack of availability of protocol staking for these issuers significantly impacts the investment potential of digital asset ETPs in the U.S. and challenges the competitive positioning of U.S. asset managers in the global market,” the senators wrote. “ETPs in Canada and Europe do not prohibit protocol staking. By not permitting certain digital asset ETP issuers to include protocol staking in their S-1 filings, the SEC is undermining the consensus mechanisms underpinning certain digital assets, weakening the resilience and integrity of the data stored on certain distributed ledgers.”

    The letter requests specific answers from the SEC regarding:

    • The analysis used to restrict protocol staking from certain S-1 filings 
    • Identified opportunities and risks associated with protocol staking 
    • The rationale for prohibiting staking within securities instruments 

    The letter requests a response from the SEC by March 21, 2025.

    The full text of the letter is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Ninepoint Partners Announces February 2025 Cash Distributions for ETF Series Securities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Feb. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ninepoint Partners LP (“Ninepoint Partners”) today announced the February 2025 cash distributions for its ETF Series securities. The record date for the distributions is February 28, 2025. All distributions are payable on March 7, 2025.

    The per-unit February 2025 distributions are detailed below:

    About Ninepoint Partners

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

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

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

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

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

    capital. If an investor’s adjusted cost base goes below zero, then capital gains tax will have to be paid on the amount below zero.

    Sales Inquiries:

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ninepoint Partners Announces Estimated February 2025 Cash Distributions for Ninepoint Cash Management Fund – ETF Series

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Feb. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ninepoint Partners LP (“Ninepoint Partners”) today announced the estimated February 2025 cash distribution for the ETF Series of Ninepoint Cash Management Fund (the “Fund”). Ninepoint Partners expects to issue a press release on or about February 27, 2025, which will provide the final distribution rate. The record date for the cash distribution is February 28, 2025, payable on March 7, 2025.

    All estimates in this document are based on the accounting data as of February 21, 2025. Due to subscriptions and/or redemptions and/or other factors, the final February 2025 distribution may differ from these estimates and the difference could be material. The information included in this letter is for reference purposes only. Please reconcile all information against your official client statements. This is not intended to be a statement for official tax reporting purposes or any form of tax advice.

    The actual taxable amounts of distributions for 2025, including the tax characteristics of the distributions, will be reported to CDS Clearing and Depository Services Inc. in early 2026. Securityholders can contact their brokerage firm for this information.

    The per-unit estimated February 2025 distribution is detailed below:

    Ninepoint ETF Series Ticker Cash Distribution per
    unit    		 Notional Distribution
    per unit    		 CUSIP
    Ninepoint Cash Management Fund NSAV $0.11942 $0.00000 65443X105
             

    About Ninepoint Partners

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

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

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

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

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

    Sales Inquiries:

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Saskatchewan — Saskatchewan RCMP: Recognizing and reporting human trafficking key to holding perpetrators accountable

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Human trafficking isn’t a crime that only happens in big urban centres – it happens in cities and small communities across Saskatchewan.

    National Human Trafficking Day in Canada is February 22. It’s important for everyone to recognize the signs of human trafficking and report suspected trafficking to police immediately.

    Saskatchewan RCMP’s Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERT) Human Trafficking and Counter Exploitation Unit (HTCEU) is dedicated to targeting offenders and criminal groups engaged in human trafficking.

    HTCEU has a partnership with the Regina Police Service (RPS). This collaborative approach provides specialized support to both RCMP detachments and municipal police agencies across the province.

    “Ensuring the safety and security of the victim is always the main goal in investigations, that’s why the Saskatchewan RCMP takes a victim-centered, trauma-informed response to human trafficking,” says S/Sgt. Danny Donison, the Saskatchewan RCMP SERT south region manager and head of the HTCEU.

    “Saskatchewan residents know their communities better than anyone else. Recognizing and reporting suspected trafficking is essential when it comes to holding perpetrators accountable.”

    How to recognize and report human trafficking

    Saskatchewan RCMP reminds the public that anyone can be a target for human trafficking. Victims may be trafficked by someone they know: a former or current partner, family member, friend, or trustworthy person. Recruiting tactics can be subtle; often victims don’t even know they’re being trafficked.

    A victim of human trafficking may display one or more of the following signs:

    • They don’t have access to their ID, passport or cell phone;
    • are under the age of 18 and travelling with an adult who is not their parent or legal guardian;
    • aren’t familiar with their surroundings or aware of what city or town they’re in;
    • appear to be in a controlling or abusive relationship;
    • exhibit signs of trauma, such as burns, bruises or cuts; or
    • show signs of malnourishment or fatigue.

    Traffickers may approach potential victims by:

    • pretending to be a potential love interest, friend or support person;
    • connecting over social media or in person;
    • offering gifts or money;
    • introducing drugs or alcohol; or
    • threatening potential victims’ loved ones if they don’t comply.

    Additional information on recognizing human trafficking can be found here.

    If you suspect someone is a victim of human trafficking, call 310-RCMP or your local police immediately to report it.

    In addition to contacting the RCMP, the public can also contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010. This hotline is confidential, available 24/7 and offers services in more than 200 languages. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Prince Albert — Prince Albert RCMP: do you recognize this suspect?

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Prince Albert RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect in a suspicious fire.

    On December 16, 2024 at approximately noon, Prince Albert RCMP received a report of a structure fire at a permanently-closed service station on Highway #3, west of Prince Albert.

    Buckland Fire and Rescue responded to the fire, which caused significant damage to the building. Prince Albert RCMP assisted at the scene.

    Investigation determined the fire had been deliberately set. Prince Albert RCMP obtained video surveillance of a suspect and are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying and locating them. Photos of the suspect are attached.

    Prince Albert RCMP continue to investigate with the assistance of fire investigators from the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency.

    Anyone with information about this incident should contact Prince Albert RCMP at 310-RCMP. Information can be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Monroe Capital Corporation Schedules Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Earnings Release and Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Feb. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monroe Capital Corporation (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: MRCC) announced today that it will file its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 on Friday, February 28, 2025, after the close of the financial markets.

    The Company will announce its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2024 in a press release prior to the market open on Monday, March 3, 2025 and will host a webcast and conference call to discuss these financial results on Monday, March 3, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The webcast will be hosted on a webcast link located in the Investor Relations section of our website at http://ir.monroebdc.com/events.cfm. To participate in the conference call, please dial (800) 715-9871 approximately 10 minutes prior to the call. Please reference conference ID # 7817000. For those unable to listen to the live broadcast, the webcast will be available for replay on the Company’s website approximately two hours after the event.

    About Monroe Capital Corporation

    Monroe Capital Corporation is a publicly-traded specialty finance company that principally invests in senior, unitranche and junior secured debt and, to a lesser extent, unsecured debt and equity investments in middle-market companies. The Company’s investment objective is to maximize the total return to its stockholders in the form of current income and capital appreciation. The Company’s investment activities are managed by its investment adviser, Monroe Capital BDC Advisors, LLC, which is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended, and an affiliate of Monroe Capital LLC. To learn more about Monroe Capital Corporation, visit www.monroebdc.com.

    About Monroe Capital LLC

    Monroe Capital LLC (including its subsidiaries and affiliates, together “Monroe”) is a premier asset management firm specializing in private credit markets across various strategies, including direct lending, technology finance, venture debt, alternative credit, structured credit, real estate and equity. Since 2004, the firm has been successfully providing capital solutions to clients in the U.S. and Canada. Monroe prides itself on being a value-added and user-friendly partner to business owners, management, and both private equity and independent sponsors. Monroe’s platform offers a wide variety of investment products for both institutional and high net worth investors with a focus on generating high quality “alpha” returns irrespective of business or economic cycles. The firm is headquartered in Chicago and maintains eleven offices throughout the United States, Asia and Australia.

    Monroe has been recognized by both its peers and investors with various awards including Inc.’s 2024 Founder-Friendly Investors List; Private Debt Investor as the 2023 Lower Mid-Market Lender of the Decade, 2023 Lower Mid-Market Lender of the Year, 2023 CLO Manager of the Year, Americas; Global M&A Network as the 2023 Lower Mid-Markets Lender of the Year, U.S.A.; DealCatalyst as the 2022 Best CLO Manager of the Year; Korean Economic Daily as the 2022 Best Performance in Private Debt – Mid Cap; Creditflux as the 2021 Best U.S. Direct Lending Fund; and Pension Bridge as the 2020 Private Credit Strategy of the Year. For more information and important disclaimers, please visit www.monroecap.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements. Any such statements, other than statements of historical fact, are likely to be affected by other unknowable future events and conditions, including elements of the future that are or are not under the Company’s control, and that the Company may or may not have considered; accordingly, such statements cannot be guarantees or assurances of any aspect of future performance. Actual developments and results are highly likely to vary materially from these estimates and projections of the future. Such statements speak only as of the time when made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any such statement now or in the future.

    SOURCE:          Monroe Capital Corporation

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Readout of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr.’s Video Teleconference with Chiefs of Defence from Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom

    Source: US Defense Joint Chiefs of Staff

    February 21, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Joint Staff Spokesperson Navy Capt. Jereal Dorsey provided the following readout:

    Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., spoke with Chiefs of Defence from the Five Eyes nations (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the U.S.) Feb. 19 by video teleconference.

    Gen. Brown, Australia Chief of the Defence Force Adm. David Johnston, Canada Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Jennie Carignan, New Zealand Defence Force Chief of Defence Air Marshal Tony Davies, and United Kingdom Chief of the Defence Staff Adm. Sir Tony Radakin discussed current global crises, national priorities, and opportunities to maximize collective capability and capacity.

    The Five Eyes defense partnership is undergirded by shared values of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law.

    For more Joint Staff news, visit: www.jcs.mil.
    Connect with the Joint Staff on social media: 
    Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube,
    LinkedIn and Flickr.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Marks Artemis Progress With Gateway Lunar Space Station

    Source: NASA

    NASA and its international partners are making progress on Gateway – the lunar space station that will orbit the Moon as a centerpiece of the agency’s Moon to Mars architecture.

    Through the Artemis campaign, NASA will send astronauts on missions to and around the Moon. The agency and its international partners report progress continues on Gateway, the first space station that will permanently orbit the Moon, after visiting the Thales Alenia Space facility in Turin, Italy, where initial fabrication for one of two Gateway habitation modules is nearing completion.
    Leaders from NASA, ESA (European Space Agency), and the Italian Space Agency, as well as industry representatives from Northrop Grumman and Thales Alenia Space, were in Turin to assess Gateway’s HALO (Habitation and Logistics Outpost) module before its primary structure is shipped from Italy to Northrop Grumman’s Gilbert, Arizona site in March. Following final outfitting and verification testing, the module will be integrated with the Power and Propulsion Element at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
    “Building and testing hardware for Gateway is truly an international collaboration,” said Jon Olansen, manager, Gateway Program, at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. “We’re excited to celebrate this major flight hardware milestone, and this is just the beginning – there’s impressive and important progress taking shape with our partners around the globe, united by our shared desire to expand human exploration of our solar system while advancing scientific discovery.”

    To ensure all flight hardware is ready to support Artemis IV — the first crewed mission to Gateway – NASA is targeting the launch of HALO and the Power and Propulsion Element no later than December 2027. These integrated modules will launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket and spend about a year traveling uncrewed to lunar orbit, while providing scientific data on solar and deep space radiation during transit.
    Launching atop HALO will be ESA’s Lunar Link communication system, which will provide high-speed communication between the Moon and Gateway. The system is undergoing testing at another Thales Alenia Space facility in Cannes, France.
    Once in lunar orbit, Gateway will continue scientific observations while awaiting the arrival of Artemis IV astronauts aboard an Orion spacecraft which will deliver and dock Gateway’s second pressurized habitable module, the ESA-led Lunar I-Hab. Thales Alenia Space, ESA’s primary contractor for the Lunar I-Hab and Lunar View refueling module, has begun production of the Lunar I-Hab, and design of Lunar View in Turin.

    Northrop Grumman and its subcontractor, Thales Alenia Space, completed welding of HALO in 2024, and the module successfully progressed through pressure and stress tests to ensure its suitability for the harsh environment of deep space.
    Maxar Space Systems is assembling the Power and Propulsion Element, which will make Gateway the most powerful solar electric propulsion spacecraft ever flown. Major progress in 2024 included installation of Xenon and chemical propulsion fuel tanks, and qualification of the largest roll-out solar arrays ever built. NASA and its partners will complete propulsion element assembly, and acceptance and verification testing of next-generation electric propulsion thrusters this year.

    SpaceX will provide both the Starship human landing system that will land astronauts on the lunar surface during NASA’s Artemis III mission and ferry astronauts from Gateway to the lunar South Pole region during Artemis IV, as well as provide logistics spacecraft to support crewed missions.
    NASA also has selected Blue Origin to develop Blue Moon, the human landing system for Artemis V, as well as logistics spacecraft for future Artemis missions. Having two distinct lunar landing designs provides flexibility and supports a regular cadence of Moon landings in preparation for future missions to Mars.
    CSA (Canadian Space Agency) is developing Canadarm3, an advanced robotics system, and JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) is designing and testing Lunar I-Hab’s vital life support systems, batteries, and a resupply and logistics vehicle called HTV-XG.
    NASA’s newest Gateway partner, the Mohammad Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) of the United Arab Emirates, kicked off early design for the Gateway Crew and Science Airlock that will be delivered on Artemis VI. The selection of Thales Alenia Space as its airlock prime contractor was announced by MBRSC on Feb. 4.
    Development continues to advance on three radiation-focused initial science investigations aboard Gateway. These payloads will help scientists better understand unpredictable space weather from the Sun and galactic cosmic rays that will affect astronauts and equipment during Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond.
    The Gateway lunar space station is a multi-purpose platform that offers capabilities for long-term exploration in deep space in support of NASA’s Artemis campaign and Moon to Mars objectives. Gateway will feature docking ports for a variety of visiting spacecraft, as well as space for crew to live, work, and prepare for lunar surface missions. As a testbed for future journeys to Mars, continuous investigations aboard Gateway will occur with and without crew to better understand the long-term effects of deep space radiation on vehicle systems and the human body as well as test and operate next generation spacecraft systems that will be necessary to send humans to Mars.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Upgrade to iPhone 16e and save with incredible offers from Verizon

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Upgrade to iPhone 16e and save with incredible offers from Verizon

    NEW YORK – Verizon will offer iPhone 16e, a new addition to the iPhone 16 lineup, featuring breakthrough battery life, the fast performance of the A18 chip, Apple Intelligence1, and a 48MP 2-in-1 camera system — all at an incredible value. Customers can pre-order the new iPhone 16e starting Friday, February 21, with availability beginning Friday, February 28. Visit verizon.com for complete pricing and availability details,

    Major savings and value on iPhone 16e at Verizon

    Starting February 21, Verizon customers can get:

    • Switch to Verizon or add a new line and can get iPhone 16e for $5 a month for 36 months on myPlan2.
    • Want to trade in your phone? Get iPhone 16e on us when you trade-in your current iPhone, Samsung or Google phone — in any condition — and sign up for a new line on myPlan3.
    • Verizon Business customers: For a limited time, get iPhone 16e on us with a new activation on either the Business Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Pro plan with a Verizon Device Payment agreement4. And, eligible Public Sector customers can get a new 128GB iPhone 16e on us on a qualifying two year agreement5.

    Verizon myPlan gives you ultimate access to Apple One

    Supercharge your iPhone 16e with Verizon myPlan, built to give you more flexibility, more perks and more value. Whether you’re upgrading to the latest iPhone for yourself or keeping your business running smoothly with a Verizon Business Unlimited Plan, you’ll stay connected with Verizon’s ultra-fast 5G network—built for whatever life throws your way.

    With myPlan, you’re in control. Pick the perks that matter to you, like Apple One for just $10/month (Individual Plan) or $20/month (Family Plan), plus get deals on entertainment, shopping and more. It’s your phone, your plan, your way — only with Verizon.

    Everything you need to know about the iPhone 16e

    iPhone 16e offers powerful capabilities at a more affordable price. It delivers fast, smooth performance and the best battery life ever on a 6.1-inch iPhone, thanks to the industry-leading efficiency of the A18 chip and the new Apple C1, the first cellular modem designed by Apple. iPhone 16e is also built for Apple Intelligence, the intuitive personal intelligence system that delivers helpful and relevant intelligence while taking an extraordinary step forward for privacy in AI. The 48MP Fusion camera takes gorgeous photos and videos, and with an integrated 2x Telephoto, it is like having two cameras in one, so users can zoom in with optical quality. When outside of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage, iPhone 16e can use Apple’s groundbreaking satellite features — including Emergency SOS, Roadside Assistance, Messages, and Find My via satellite.

    With custom-designed components and deeply integrated software, iPhone 16e users can stay connected and get help when it matters most6. iPhone 16e will be available in two elegant matte finishes — black and white — with colorful cases available to accessorize.

    iPhone 16e can be activated with an eSIM, a more secure alternative to a physical SIM card. With eSIM, users can quickly activate their cellular plan, store multiple cellular plans on the same device, and stay connected. Verizon supports eSIM Quick Transfer which allows users to transfer their existing plan to their new iPhone.

    Visit verizon.com on February 28 to order your new iPhone 16e.

    For more details on Apple products, please visit www.apple.com.

    1 Apple Intelligence is available in localized English for Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, the U.K., and the U.S. Additional languages, including French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese (simplified), English (Singapore), and English (India) will be available in April. Some features, applications, and services may not be available in all regions or all languages.

    2 $599.99 (128 GB only) purchase w/new smartphone line on Unlimited Ultimate, postpaid Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Welcome plan req’d. Less $419.99 promo credit applied over 36 mos.; promo credit ends if eligibility req’s are no longer met; 0% APR. Offer may not be combined with other offers. Apple Intelligence requires iOS 18.1 or later.

    3 $599.99 (128 GB only) purchase w/new smartphone line on Unlimited Ultimate, postpaid Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Welcome plan (min. $65/mo w/Auto Pay (+taxes/fees) for 36 mos) req’d. Less $600 trade-in/promo credit applied over 36 mos.; promo credit ends if eligibility req’s are no longer met; 0% APR. Trade-in must be from Apple, Google or Samsung; trade-in terms apply. Apple Intelligence requires iOS 18.1 or later.

    4 Taxes & fees apply. New line w/device payment purchase agmt & Business Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Pro plan req’d. $599.99 credit applied to acct. over the term of your agmt (up to 36 mos, 0% APR); promo credit ends when eligibility requirements are no longer met. Credits begin in 2-3 bills & will include appropriate credit amounts from order date. Cannot be combined with other device offers. This device supports only 5G Ultra Wideband mid-band (C-band), 5G and 4G LTE. iPhone 16e 128GB monthly fee after credit: $0. Offer ends 3.31.2025.

    5 iPhone 16e offer only. Plan Requirements: Fed – $15+ with data feature; State & Local – $19.99+ with data feature; State of TN – flat rate plan with data feature (must meet PP requirement). Available to government-liable subscribers only and subject to the terms, provisions and conditions of Verizon Wireless-approved government contracting vehicles. An Offer Recovery Fee (ORF) will be assigned to NASPO MA 152 customer lines that take advantage of select quarterly offers and will be charged on the customer’s bill if the line is disconnected before the end of the line term. 5G and 5G UWB may not be available to all government customers. See terms and conditions of your contract. Pricing excludes taxes and fees and is subject to change without notice. Offer ends 3.31.2025.

    6 Apple’s satellite features are included for free for two years starting at the time of activation of a new iPhone 16e . For Emergency SOS via satellite availability, visit support.apple.com/en-us/HT213426. Messages via satellite will be available in the U.S. and Canada in iOS 18 or later. SMS availability will depend on carrier. Carrier fees may apply. Users should check with their carrier for details. Roadside Assistance via satellite is currently available in the U.S. with AAA and Verizon Roadside Assistance, and in the U.K. with Green Flag. Participating roadside assistance providers may charge for services, and iPhone users who are not members can take advantage of their roadside assistance services on a pay-per-use basis. Apple’s satellite features were designed for use in open spaces with a clear line of sight to the sky. Performance may be impacted by obstructions such as trees or surrounding buildings.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stephenville — Arrest warrant issued for Paul Torraville

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Bay St. George RCMP is looking to arrest 54-year-old Paul Torraville who is actively evading police.

    Torraville is wanted for assault, assault by choking, and four counts of failure to comply with a release order.

    A picture of Paul Torraville is attached.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Paul Torraville are asked to contact Bay St. George RCMP at 709-643-2118. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or us the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Importing Suicide Drug Into the United States From Mexico

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHICAGO — A man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge for illegally importing the drug Pentobarbital into the United States from Mexico for use in committing suicide.

    DANIEL GONZALEZ-MUNGUIA, also known as “Alejandro Vasquez,” 41, of Puebla, Mexico, pleaded guilty in federal court in Chicago to one count of importing a controlled substance into the United States.  The charge is punishable by a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.  U.S. District Judge Sara L. Ellis set sentencing for Sept. 9, 2025.

    Pentobarbital, also known as Nembutal, is a drug sold in Mexico for the purpose of euthanizing animals.  In the U.S., Pentobarbital is a controlled substance and has been used in state-sponsored executions.  Gonzalez-Munguia admitted in a plea agreement that from 2012 to 2021, he operated an online drug business that sold and distributed bottles of Pentobarbital to hundreds of individuals in the U.S. and throughout the world, including individuals in Illinois.  Many of the buyers consumed the product and died, the plea agreement states.

    The investigation by Homeland Security Investigations began in 2016 after a parcel of the drug was intercepted in a Chicago suburb.  Authorities in the U.S. and several foreign countries conducted well-being checks and recovered Pentobarbital from numerous individuals who admitted to being despondent and ordering the suicide drug online from Gonzalez-Munguia.  Law enforcement provided assistance to those individuals.

    Gonzalez-Munguia admitted that he initially shipped bottles of the drug directly from Mexico and in the manufacturer’s packaging, but thereafter disguised it as a cosmetic product and used intermediaries to transport it into the U.S. before shipping to customers around the world.

    The guilty plea was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Daniel Johnsen, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of Homeland Security Investigations, and Ruth Mendonça, Inspector-in-Charge of the Chicago Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.  Valuable assistance was provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Illinois Army National Guard Counterdrug Program, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas, and law enforcement agencies in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Ireland, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kartik K. Raman is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Bolstering efforts to combat human trafficking

    [. 22 is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, and Alberta’s government is reaffirming its commitment to combatting this unthinkable crime. Human trafficking is a violation of fundamental human rights that takes advantage of vulnerable people, subjecting victims to forced labour, sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse. It perpetuates cycles of poverty and trauma, affecting individuals and communities across the province.

    Alberta’s government recognizes the urgent need to address human trafficking and provide comprehensive supports for survivors. Introduced in December 2024, the Combatting Trafficking in Persons grant helps organizations prevent human trafficking, protect at-risk people and empower survivors. Since being introduced, organizations that play a critical role in ending human trafficking and supporting survivors have applied for the grant and 19 will receive funding to support their critical work.

    “Human trafficking leaves lasting scars on victims, survivors and communities. We are taking a strong stance against traffickers and bolstering support networks for survivors. This funding will empower community-based organizations to provide specialized services that protect vulnerable individuals and disrupt the cycle of exploitation. With these community grants, we are ensuring traffickers are held accountable and survivors have the support they need from organizations such as The Alberta Centre to rebuild their lives.”

    Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services

    Collaboration and community partnerships are vital to combatting human trafficking. These grants strengthen the capacity of organizations to work with law enforcement, non-profits and Indigenous communities to deliver critical supports where they are needed most. These grants provide resources to empower survivors with the tools and services they need to recover and thrive. By investing in prevention, we are addressing the root causes of trafficking and reducing exploitation in our communities.

    The Combatting Trafficking in Persons grants focus on three areas: prevention, protection and empowerment. Funded projects aim to prevent human trafficking by increasing public awareness of its signs and risk factors, supporting community engagement and fostering collaboration. Protection efforts will provide emergency support and help victims navigate legal and health care systems, while empowerment initiatives will assist survivors through peer support networks, skill-building programs and advocacy efforts.

    “With the Alberta Centre leading the way, we now have a dedicated, community-led organization working in partnership with the Government of Alberta and focused on disrupting trafficking networks and empowering survivors. This centre brings hope for vulnerable individuals and a safer future for all Albertans. Our work is focused on empowering those affected by trafficking, disrupting networks of exploitation, and fostering safer, more resilient communities.”

    Paul Brandt, founder and CEO, #NotInMyCity, and co-chair, Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons

    “With the funding from the Government of Alberta, RESET Society of Calgary will increase the capacity within our program and decrease our waitlist to support survivors as they transition from situations of sex trafficking to healing, empowerment and sustaining stable lives for themselves and their children. Proactive initiatives like this from the Alberta government will bring agencies and partners together to provide critical trauma-informed programs and supports.”

    Theresa Jenkins, executive director, RESET Society of Calgary

    “Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association (ANFCA) is thankful to the Alberta government for its ongoing commitment to address human trafficking in Alberta and for support to continue our work to prevent human trafficking in friendship centre communities across the province. ANFCA looks forward to working in partnership with our member friendship centres, the Alberta government and other stakeholders in the fight against human trafficking in the province.”

    Jeannette MacInnis, director of partnerships, Alberta Native Friendship Centres

    Priority consideration was given to initiatives that meaningfully include persons with lived experience of human trafficking, as well as Indigenous-led programs. This approach ensures that funding supports culturally relevant, survivor-centered services with the greatest impact on vulnerable populations.

    Quick facts

    • The 19 organizations receiving provincial funding include:
      • Alberta Native Friendship Centres
      • ALERT
      • Buckspring Foundation
      • Catholic Social Services
      • CEASE
      • Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre
      • Chiniki First Nation
      • Goodstoney First Nation
      • HER Victory
      • Hull Services
      • Kainai Transition Centre Society
      • Métis Nation of Alberta
      • Narrow Road Society
      • REACH
      • RESET Society
      • Salvation Army
      • The Alberta Centre for Human Trafficking
      • Tsuut’ina Nation
      • Waypoints
    • Recipients of the Combatting Trafficking in Persons Grant must be located in Alberta. To be eligible to apply, applicants must be one of the following:
      • A registered not-for-profit/charitable organization in Alberta.
      • A community-based coalition or network (with a designated fiscal agent).
      • An Indigenous community, including Tribal Councils, First Nations and Metis Settlements.

    Related information

    • Combatting Trafficking in Persons Grant

    Related news

    • Empowering survivors of human trafficking (Dec. 13, 2024)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister announces changes to the parliamentary secretary team

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced changes to the parliamentary secretary team.

    In their new roles, the parliamentary secretaries will support their respective cabinet ministers to make progress on the priorities that matter most to Canadians. They will engage directly with Canadians on key initiatives and represent the government at home and abroad. Their appointments are effective immediately.

    The changes to the parliamentary secretary team are as follows:

    • Vance Badawey becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade
    • Jaime Battiste becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
    • Chris Bittle becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development
    • Mike Kelloway becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
    • Irek Kusmierczyk becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Seniors
    • Bryan May becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister
    • Yasir Naqvi becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health
    • Taleeb Noormohamed becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs (Canada-U.S.)
    • Jennifer O’Connell becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety (Cybersecurity)
    • Marc G. Serré becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    • Terry Sheehan becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
    • Ryan Turnbull becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
    • Adam van Koeverden becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada

    The Prime Minister also welcomed the following new members to the parliamentary secretary team:

    • Kody Blois becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
    • Julie Dzerowicz becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs (Consular Affairs and Latin America)
    • Arielle Kayabaga becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Small Business
    • Viviane Lapointe becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages and Associate Minister of Public Safety
    • Tim Louis becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage
    • Francesco Sorbara becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs

    These new parliamentary secretaries will work to deliver real, positive change for Canadians. They join the following parliamentary secretaries remaining in their portfolio:

    • Paul Chiang, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
    • Julie Dabrusin, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    • Peter Fragiskatos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
    • Lisa Hepfner, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth
    • Anthony Housefather, Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the Treasury Board
    • Iqra Khalid, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Revenue
    • Annie Koutrakis, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
    • Marie-France Lalonde, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence
    • Kevin Lamoureux, Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons
    • Stéphane Lauzon, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Citizens’ Services
    • James Maloney, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada
    • Rob Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs
    • Sherry Romanado, Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness 
    • Randeep Sarai, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
    • Maninder Sidhu, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development
    • Charles Sousa, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Services and Procurement 
    • Anita Vandenbeld, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development
    • Sameer Zuberi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities

    Quote

    “Our government is laser-focused on the issues that matter most to you and your family. With these additions to our strong team, we will create and protect Canadian jobs, build more homes, reduce emissions, make life cost less, and defend Canadian interests.”

    Quick Facts

    • Parliamentary secretaries are chosen by the Prime Minister to assist ministers.
    • The responsibilities of parliamentary secretaries generally fall into two broad categories: House of Commons business and department-related duties.
    • Parliamentary secretaries are not members of Cabinet and do not play a formal role in the Cabinet decision-making process. They support their ministers, but overall responsibility and accountability remains with the minister.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Prime Minister welcoming the new Premier of Prince Edward Island

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement to welcome the new Premier of Prince Edward Island:

    “I congratulate Rob Lantz on becoming interim leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Prince Edward Island and being sworn in as the province’s new Premier.

    “We will work together to protect our workers, create good-paying jobs, grow the economy, and put Canadians at the forefront of every opportunity. This includes breaking down barriers between provinces and territories and making progress on other priorities of Islanders and all Canadians – from health care, to affordability, to climate action.

    “I thank Dennis King for his service to Prince Edward Island as Premier and for his valuable partnership over the last six years.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple Intelligence comes to Apple Vision Pro in April

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple Intelligence comes to Apple Vision Pro in April

    February 21, 2025

    UPDATE

    Apple Intelligence comes to Apple Vision Pro in April

    visionOS 2.4 advances spatial computing with a powerful set of Apple Intelligence features — including Writing Tools, Image Playground, and Genmoji — and introduces Spatial Gallery, the Apple Vision Pro app for iPhone, and more

    Today, Apple announced Apple Intelligence is coming to Apple Vision Pro in April. With Apple Intelligence for Vision Pro, users will be able to proofread, rewrite, and summarize text using Writing Tools; compose text from scratch using ChatGPT in Writing Tools; explore new ways to express themselves visually with Image Playground; create the perfect emoji for any conversation with Genmoji; and much more. Apple Intelligence will be available in beta on visionOS 2.4 with support for U.S. English. More features and support for additional languages will roll out throughout the year.

    visionOS 2.4 also introduces new apps and features to help users discover and share the magic of spatial computing. Spatial Gallery — a new app for Vision Pro — features a curated collection of spatial photos, spatial videos, and panoramas from artists, filmmakers, photographers, and more. The Apple Vision Pro app for iPhone offers users a new way to download apps and games from the App Store; discover experiences from Apple TV, Spatial Gallery, and more; easily find helpful tips; and quickly access information for their Vision Pro. Enhancements to Guest User make it easier than ever for users to share apps and experiences with family, friends, and colleagues using a nearby iPhone or iPad.

    “Apple Vision Pro is helping users communicate, collaborate, and experience entertainment in entirely new ways — and we’re continuing to push the boundaries of what’s possible in spatial computing with visionOS 2.4,” said Mike Rockwell, Apple’s vice president of the Vision Products Group. “With Apple Intelligence, Vision Pro users will be able to take their productivity and creativity to new heights using features like Writing Tools, Image Playground, and Genmoji. And we’re excited for users to discover and share incredible new experiences with Spatial Gallery.”

    Apple Intelligence on Apple Vision Pro

    Apple Intelligence offers new ways for Apple Vision Pro users to express themselves visually, simplify everyday tasks, and get things done effortlessly — all with groundbreaking privacy protections. An initial set of Apple Intelligence features will be available in April with visionOS 2.4 for users with their device and Siri language set to U.S. English. Support for more Apple Intelligence features and additional languages will roll out throughout the year.

    With Writing Tools, users can refine their words by rewriting, proofreading, and summarizing text nearly everywhere they write, including Mail, Notes, and third-party apps. With Rewrite, users can adjust the tone of their text to make it more friendly, professional, or concise, or specify the change they’d like to make using Describe Your Change. Proofread checks grammar, word choice, and sentence structure with suggested edits. Users can also select text and have it recapped in several formats with Summarize. And with Compose, users can ask ChatGPT to generate content for anything they’re writing about.

    Image Playground allows users to easily create fun and unique images from themes, costumes, accessories, and places. Users can add their own text descriptions, and can even create images in the likeness of a family member or friend using photos from their photo library. The experience is integrated directly into apps like Messages and Freeform, and is also available as a dedicated app for Apple Vision Pro.

    Users will be able to create Genmoji by simply typing or speaking a description into the emoji keyboard. Genmoji can be added inline to messages, shared as a sticker, or sent as a Tapback.

    Smart Reply in Messages and Mail identifies questions and suggests relevant replies, so Apple Vision Pro users can easily respond to texts and emails with just a few taps.

    With Create a Memory Movie in Photos, users can simply type a description, and Apple Intelligence will pick out the best photos and videos, craft a storyline with chapters based on themes identified from the photos, and arrange them into a movie with its own narrative arc and a soundtrack. As with all Apple Intelligence features, user photos and videos are kept private, and are not shared with Apple or anyone else.

    Natural language search in Photos makes it even easier for users to find a specific photo, album, or a moment in a video just by describing it.

    visionOS 2.4 also includes support for Priority Messages in Mail, Mail Summaries, Image Wand in Notes, Priority Notifications in Notification Center, and Notification Summaries. Apple Intelligence uses on-device processing to protect users’ privacy whenever possible. For requests that require even larger models, Private Cloud Compute extends the privacy and security of Apple products into the cloud to unlock even more intelligence. When using Private Cloud Compute, users’ data is never stored or shared with Apple; it is used only to fulfill the request. Independent experts can inspect the code that runs on Apple silicon servers to continuously verify this privacy promise, and are already doing so.

    Introducing Spatial Gallery

    visionOS 2.4 introduces Spatial Gallery, a new app that features a selection of spatial photos, spatial videos, and panoramas curated by Apple for Apple Vision Pro. With Spatial Gallery, users will enjoy breathtaking and intimate moments spanning art, culture, entertainment, lifestyle, nature, sports, and travel, with new content released regularly. At launch, users can discover remarkable perspectives from photographers like Jonpaul Douglass and Samba Diop; new stories and experiences from iconic brands including Cirque du Soleil, Red Bull, and Porsche; behind-the-scenes moments from Apple Originals like Disclaimer, Severance, and Shrinking; and special moments from top artists.

    The Apple Vision Pro App for iPhone

    Starting in April, Apple Vision Pro users will be able to queue apps and games to download, discover new spatial content and experiences, easily find helpful tips, and quickly access information about their device from their iPhone with the new Apple Vision Pro app. The app will appear for Vision Pro users when they update their iPhone to iOS 18.4, and it can also be downloaded from the App Store.

    The Discover page offers curated recommendations for new and noteworthy experiences available on Apple Vision Pro. Users can quickly see popular apps and games on the App Store; nearly 300 3D movies, Apple Immersive titles, and more video content on the Apple TV app; and the latest spatial photos, spatial videos, and panoramas featured in the Spatial Gallery.1 New Apple Immersive titles include “Ice Dive” from the Adventure series; “Sharks” from the Wild Life series; and Man vs. Beast. “Arctic Surfing” — the latest episode of Boundless — debuts worldwide today, while the next episode of Adventure, “Deep Water Solo,” debuts next Friday, February 28.

    On the My Vision Pro page, users will find tips for getting the most out of Apple Vision Pro; can easily access information such as their current visionOS version and device serial number; and set up Personalized Spatial Audio. Users with vision correction needs will be able to store and view the App Clip code for their ZEISS Optical Inserts in the Apple Vision Pro app.

    Guest User with iPhone and iPad

    Apple Vision Pro users around the world have loved sharing the magic of spatial computing with family, friends, and colleagues through Guest User. From Control Center, users can choose which apps their guest can see, and guests can save their eye and hand setup for up to 30 days after their last use.

    With new enhancements to Guest User in visionOS 2.4, users can start a Guest User session with their nearby iPhone or iPad. When their device is unlocked, they can choose which apps are accessible to their guest and start View Mirroring with AirPlay, making it easy to guide a guest through their Vision Pro experience.

    Availability

    • Apple Vision Pro is available in Australia, Canada, China mainland, Hong Kong, France, Germany, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, the U.A.E., the UK, and the U.S.
    • Apple Intelligence will be available in beta on Apple Vision Pro with visionOS 2.4. The first set of features will be available for Vision Pro users with their device and Siri language set to U.S. English. Feature availability varies by region. More features and support for additional languages will roll out throughout the year.
    • Spatial Gallery will be available with visionOS 2.4 for users in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, the U.A.E., the UK, and the U.S. It can be redownloaded from the App Store for Vision Pro.
    • The Apple Vision Pro app for iPhone will be available with iOS 18.4. The app will be available to download from the App Store, and will automatically appear on a user’s iPhone once they update to iOS 18.4 and have both devices associated with the same Apple Account.
    • Customers can book a demo for free online. Demos are hosted at all Apple Store locations where Apple Vision Pro is available.
    1. 3D movie availability varies by country or region.

    Press Contacts

    Zach Kahn

    Apple

    zkahn@apple.com

    Andrea Schubert

    Apple

    a_schubert@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Expanding recovery support services in Medicine Hat

    Alberta’s government is building the Alberta Recovery Model to increase access to supports focused on prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery. Everyone deserves an opportunity to pursue recovery from addiction or mental health challenges. Alberta’s government partners with organizations such as the Alberta Division of the Canadian Mental Health Association to ensure recovery-oriented services are accessible to Albertans in need.  

    With support from Alberta’s government, the Canadian Mental Health Association (Alberta Division) and Centre for Suicide Prevention have partnered with Medicine Hat Family Service to operate the recovery college, which will officially open on March 4. For more than a year, recovery college courses have been available in the Medicine Hat region online; this partnership will increase accessibility with both in-person and online options offered within the community. Recovery colleges use an innovative group support model where people in recovery help others build the skills needed to thrive.

    The province has invested $3.6 million over three years to support recovery colleges in Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, Edmonton, Calgary, Grande Prairie, Camrose, Red Deer and Wood Buffalo. Over the past three years alone, Alberta recovery colleges have provided about 2,000 courses to approximately 10,000 participants in 40 communities.

    “I’m so glad Medicine Hat will soon be home to its own fully operational recovery college. Recovery colleges are an excellent resource to support Albertans in their pursuit of recovery as they provide free, recovery-focused mental health services. I want to thank all our partners, professionals and those with lived experiences that have made this project possible. Alberta’s government is proud to continue our work in ensuring Albertans from all across the province can access crucial recovery services.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier and MLA for Brooks-Medicine Hat

    “Establishing meaningful connection with others is an important part of recovery. Our government is grateful for the work done by those across the province to support recovery colleges, establishing connection and providing education to those in need. With this kind of support, Albertans will have the tools they need to live in long-term recovery from addiction or mental health challenges.”

    Dan Williams, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction

    “As a strong advocate for mental health, I am pleased to see expanded support in Medicine Hat for those seeking resources for recovery. Nobody who is dealing with mental illness or addiction should be left wondering how to get help, and I am confident the recovery college will play an important role in many peoples lives.”

    Justin Wright, MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat

    Recovery colleges offer short-term courses and discussion groups on a variety of mental health topics. Delivered online and in-person, courses are facilitated by two trainers: a professional and a person with lived experience. Any Albertan aged 16 and over is welcome to participate. No referral is necessary, and the courses are free.

    The recovery college model in Alberta is based on successful recovery colleges in the United Kingdom, United States and Australia to provide access to mental health supports through a range of courses that help develop resiliency, wellness, connection, belonging and hope.

    “Recovery colleges help people make healing connections by sharing mutual life experiences. Courses embody hope, belonging, meaning and purpose and encourage participants to actively engage their mental health recovery journeys. This partnership with Alberta’s government and Medicine Hat Family Service restores this welcoming program for people in Medicine Hat, delivered by local partners.”

    Mara Grunau, CEO, CMHA Alberta and Centre for Suicide Prevention

    “I came from a dark place in life. They just brought me into the light a little bit – and that’s all it took. That’s what I needed to strive and to be confident within myself.”

    Recovery college participant

    In the 2023-24 recovery college evaluation survey:

    • 92 per cent of respondents said they felt more hopeful about the future after attending recovery college.
    • 62 per cent of respondents said they learned how to address challenges before they became a crisis with learnings from recovery college.
    • 80 per cent of respondents who attended multiple sessions said they were more able to engage in their community, for example, by volunteering, working or doing leisure activities.
    • 88 per cent of respondents said they felt a greater sense of belonging as a result of participating in recovery college.

    Alberta’s government is making record investments in mental health services to support Albertans of all ages in their pursuit of wellness and recovery. This includes investing in digital supports like 211 Alberta and Kids Help Phone; investing in affordable online and in-person counselling; and supporting early intervention initiatives such as in-school mental health services.

    Quick facts

    • Alberta’s government is investing $3.6 million over three years (2024-25 to 2026-27) to support the operation of recovery colleges.
    • Medicine Hat’s recovery college will be fully operational on March 4.  
    • Albertans can call 211 Alberta for information on mental health and addiction supports and services.

    Related information

    • Recovery Colleges in Alberta
    • 211 Alberta
    • Recovery College Medicine Hat

    Related news

    • Supporting mental health and addiction recovery (June 21, 2019)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Carbeeza Inc. Announces Private Placement Financing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Carbeeza Inc. (“Carbeeza” or the “Company“) (TSXV:AUTO) (OTCQB: CRBAF) today announced that it intends to complete a non-brokered private placement of up to 25,000,000 units (each, a “Unit”) at a price of $0.05 per Unit for gross proceeds of up to $1,250,000 (the “Offering”). Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a “Warrant”). Each Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one additional common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.15 for a period of 24 months from issuance.

    All securities issued in connection with the Offering will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day. Completion of the Offering is subject to a number of conditions, including without limitation, receipt of TSX Venture Exchange approval. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering for working capital and general corporate purposes.

    It is anticipated that insiders of the Company will subscribe to the Offering. Participation by insiders of the Company in the Offering constitutes a related-party transaction as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (“MI 61-101“). The issuance of securities is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 on the basis that the fair market value of the insiders’ participation in the Offering, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101, shall not exceed 25% of the Company’s market capitalization.

    Carbeeza Inc.

    Carbeeza is a Canadian-based software company whose platform is targeted to the automotive marketplace. It is the first application to harness the power of Artificial Intelligence to accurately predict the best financing scenario for consumers, all while keeping the consumer anonymous. Using state-of-the-art technology, Carbeeza brings the process of buying a car right to the phone, tailor-made for the consumer. Carbeeza is highly beneficial to both consumers and auto dealers.

    ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF CARBEEZA INC.

    Sandro Torrieri, Chief Executive Officer

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    For further information please contact:

    Sandro Torrieri, Chief Executive Officer

    Email: Investorrelations@carbeeza.com

    Telephone: 1-855-216-8802

    Website: www.carbeeza.com

    Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Information:

    This news release contains forward-looking statements including but not limited to statements regarding the Company’s business, assets or investments, as well other statements that are not historical facts. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are based will occur. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not occur, which may cause actual performance and results in future periods to differ materially from any estimates or projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These assumptions, risks and uncertainties include, among other things, the state of the economy in general and capital markets in particular, investor interest in the business and prospects of the Company.

    The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities law. Additionally, the Company undertakes no obligation to comment on the expectations of, or statements made, by third parties in respect of the matters discussed above.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Trade conflict: What can the Bank of Canada do?

    Source: Bank of Canada

    We are starting our framework renewal

    Since 1995, the Bank’s framework for monetary policy has been to target 2% inflation, the midpoint of a range between 1% and 3%. The post-pandemic inflation shock tested this framework like never before. But monetary policy worked, and inflation returned to 2%.

    Canada’s economy is now facing a future rife with more frequent shocks and more structural change. That’s why we’ll be asking a few key questions as we begin the review of our framework—a process that happens every five years:

    • With more supply shocks ahead, do we need a richer playbook for how we achieve the inflation target?
    • How do we best measure underlying inflation in a more volatile world?
    • How do monetary policy and housing interact?

    The monetary policy framework has worked well for decades, so the bar for change is high. But the world economy is shifting, and the Bank must be as ready as possible for what lies ahead.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Tariffs, structural change and monetary policy

    Source: Bank of Canada

    What monetary policy can and cannot do

    If the economy is on a lower path and there’s upward pressure on inflation, what’s the response from monetary policy and the Bank of Canada?

    What the Bank can do is help the economy adjust. With inflation now back around the 2% target, we are better positioned to contribute to economic stability. However, with a single instrument—our policy interest rate—we can’t lean against weaker output and higher inflation at the same time. As we consider our monetary policy response, we will need to carefully assess the downward pressure on inflation from weakness in the economy and weigh that against the upward pressure on inflation from higher import prices and supply chain disruptions.

    Unlike the pandemic, if tariffs persist there will be no economic bounce-back. Long-lasting tariffs mean lower potential output because our economy works less efficiently. Monetary policy cannot restore the lost supply. At most, it can smooth the decline in demand.

    The sharp fall in exports and investment when tariffs are imposed, combined with weaker consumption, means that initially demand would fall more than potential output, creating excess supply in the economy. Provided the inflationary impact of tariffs is not too big, monetary policy can help smooth the adjustment by supporting demand so it doesn’t weaken too much more than supply. But how much support monetary policy can provide is constrained by the need to control inflation.

    The initial impact of tariffs is a one-time rise in the level of consumer prices. Monetary policy cannot change that. What monetary policy can—and must—do is ensure that higher prices do not become ongoing inflation. This means making sure that households and businesses continue to expect inflation to remain well anchored on the 2% target. Simply put, monetary policy needs to ensure the increase in inflation is temporary.

    Strengthening Canada’s economic union

    I hope—we all hope—Canada can continue open trade with the United States. A trusted open trade relationship benefits both countries. But if we are faced with a prolonged trade conflict, the only way to offset this negative structural change is with a positive structural change.

    Structural policies are appropriately the responsibility of elected governments and parliaments—not the Bank of Canada. So I will tread lightly here.

    The Bank has previously highlighted Canada’s productivity challenge. And it’s good to see more focus by federal and provincial governments on structural reforms to increase productivity and investment by strengthening our economic union.

    Removing rules that restrict interprovincial trade and harmonizing or mutually recognizing provincial regulations could provide some offset to increased trade friction with the United States. Provinces could also make it easier for workers to move within Canada by mutually recognizing different labour accreditations. There is also scope for all levels of government to reduce the timelines and uncertainty related to regulatory approvals. And better east-west transportation links would make trade within Canada less expensive—and help get Canadian products to overseas markets.

    Again, it is not for the Bank of Canada to prescribe these policies or investments. But higher productivity means higher potential output and more capacity for growth without inflation. As Canada confronts the reality of increased trade friction with the United States, a concerted focus on productivity has rarely been more important.

    Renewing our monetary policy framework

    In some ways, the US tariff threat is part of a broader global economic shift. The structural tailwinds of peace, globalization and demographics that helped keep inflation low are turning into headwinds—and the world looks increasingly shock prone. Higher long-term interest rates, elevated sovereign debt and slower economic growth have made the global economy more vulnerable. Compounding these vulnerabilities are war, rising trade protectionism and economic fragmentation. Canada also has a structural supply challenge in its housing market. For years, the supply of housing has not kept up with demand, and housing affordability has deteriorated.

    These shifts all have implications for inflation. They may put more upward pressure on prices, and a more shock-prone world means more volatility in inflation. And that brings me to my original topic: the Bank’s flexible inflation-targeting framework.

    Since 1995, the 2% target has been jointly agreed with the Government of Canada. This gives it political legitimacy and gives the Bank the operational independence to conduct monetary policy.

    For 25 years leading up to the pandemic, inflation was low and stable. But the pandemic tested the framework like never before. We faced huge shocks to both demand and supply, a deep recession and a rapid rebound. As the economy reopened, inflation rose sharply, hitting 8%. Guided by the framework, the Bank raised the policy rate forcefully to bring inflation down. Since last summer, inflation has been close to 2%, and we’ve cut our policy rate to keep it there. In short, the framework was tested—and it proved resilient.

    The measure of the framework’s success is not only whether inflation is close to 2%. It’s also how the framework performs in the face of shocks, especially big ones.

    The next renewal of the framework is set for 2026, and the review begins now. Our focus in this review will be how we can improve the framework and its implementation to best address structural changes. We will consider several questions.

    With more supply shocks, do we need a richer playbook for monetary policy? The usual response to supply shocks is to look through their temporary impact on inflation. But we saw in the pandemic that supply shocks can be persistent, and they can accumulate. The best response will depend on the situation.

    In a world with more volatility, how should we measure underlying inflation? No single measure of core inflation works for all circumstances. What measures are most robust in a shock-prone world? Should we focus on two or three preferred measures, or is a broader approach better?

    We also want to consider the interaction of monetary policy and housing. Housing affordability is a major concern for Canadians, and rising housing costs feed inflation. But monetary policy cannot directly increase housing supply—that’s an issue for elected governments at all levels. Still, we must consider how monetary policy affects housing demand and supply and how the imbalance between them feeds into inflation in shelter prices.

    The question of housing market imbalances also matters for the measurement of underlying inflation. Does persistently high inflation in shelter prices distort our measures of core inflation?

    Finally, each time we’ve reviewed our framework we’ve asked about the inflation target itself. In our five reviews since 1995, we’ve considered whether 2% is the right target and we’ve weighed alternatives, including price-level targeting and nominal GDP targeting, among others. Each time, we’ve concluded that 2% inflation is the right target. Canadians have told us they don’t want higher inflation. They have also told us that the 2% target is well known and well understood. That has helped anchor inflation expectations through thick and thin, including through the pandemic crisis. With trade conflict on our doorstep, we need to focus our resources on the most pressing and important issues for our framework review. In my view, now is not the time to question the anchor that has proven so effective in achieving price stability.

    Conclusion

    We have covered a lot of ground, and it’s time for me to conclude.

    Canada’s economy is on a better footing. Inflation has returned to target, interest rates have come down substantially, and household spending has strengthened. But a new crisis is on the horizon. If US tariffs play out as threatened, the economic impact would be severe. A protracted trade conflict would sharply reduce exports and investment. It will cost jobs and boost inflation in the next few years and lower our standard of living in the long run. The uncertainty alone is already causing harm.

    Central banks can do little to mitigate the damage caused by a trade war. Our role will be to balance the upside risks to inflation from higher costs with the downside risks from weaker demand. Our focus will be to help smooth the painful adjustment to a lower path for the economy while preventing price increases from becoming higher ongoing inflation.

    The inflation-targeting framework has proven both flexible and durable. Its review every five years is an opportunity to reflect on what’s working well and what could be improved. The framework proved itself time and again, and the bar for change is high.

    But the world economy is shifting. At the Bank of Canada, we are committed to ensuring we are as prepared as possible for the changes to come.

    Thank you.

    I would like to thank Daniel de Munnik, Mikael Khan, Oleksiy Kryvtsov and Stephen Murchison for their help in preparing this speech.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Advancing the fight against racism

    Alberta Immigration and Multiculturalism has released its second annual report, highlighting numerous government actions taken over the past year to combat racism, celebrate diversity and advance the implementation of recommendations outlined in Alberta’s Anti-Racism Action Plan.

    Launched in 2022, Alberta’s Anti-Racism Action Plan included 28 recommendations to be undertaken over a three-year period. Although the plan identifies 28 distinct actions, the scope of work under each continues to expand. To date, 28 specific recommendations have been worked on and of those, 27 have been completed.

    “This report showcases the steps our government is taking to implement measures that tackle systemic barriers and discrimination. I am proud of the significant progress we’ve made so far. Together, government’s actions are helping to foster a more welcoming province.”

    Muhammad Yaseen, Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism

    Achievements outlined in the report include creating Alberta’s first Black Advisory Council to support the ongoing work of the Alberta Anti-Racism Advisory Council and the Premier’s Council on Multiculturalism. These councils engage with communities on an ongoing basis to garner feedback and insight that inform efforts on anti-racism and cultural collaboration.

    In addition to the work of the councils, in 2024 the Ethnocultural Grant program provided $5.1 million in funding to 182 projects to increase cross-cultural awareness, while the Anti-Racism Grant program provided $424,000 in funding to 49 anti-racism initiatives.

    “The Council is so pleased to see the progress on the Action Plan and the government’s commitment to combatting racism through public education, empowering communities, data and measurement, systems change and taking action on hate incidents. There is much more work needed to be done, still, as racism and inclusion remain integral issues in our province. The Council is working hard on further recommendations in line with the Action Plan and is grateful for the opportunity to do so”. 

    Sania Chaudhry, co-chair, Alberta Anti-Racism Advisory Council

    Working to address racism requires cross-government action. Since the Action Plan was implanted, all departments have been tackling the issue. In Seniors, Community and Social Services, actions undertaken in the past year support First Nations and Métis groups in identifying and addressing systemic and social barriers, and in developing affordable housing supports.

    “We know Indigenous peoples can face discrimination when trying to access affordable housing and available housing options may not always suit their needs. That’s why we have continued to work with Indigenous governments and organizations through our Indigenous Housing Capital Program to ensure housing meets communities’ needs and provides culturally appropriate supports.”

    Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

    Indigenous Relations is committed to reducing disparities through implementing programs and initiatives that support Indigenous education, employment, emergency shelters, healthcare improvements and fostering cultural awareness.

    “Alberta’s government is committed to honouring the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action by addressing systemic bias and racism across the province. We continue to work with Indigenous leaders to ensure policies and programs include Indigenous perspectives so that our work remains culturally appropriate and effective.”

    Rick Wilson, Minister of Indigenous Relations

    The Alberta Security Infrastructure Program (ASIP) supports faith-based and community groups at risk of hate or bias-motivated violence by funding security assessments, security infrastructure improvements, training, equipment and immediate security response measures. In response to hate sentiment, the government has expanded eligibility for this program to include Islamic and Jewish faith-based alternative schools, as well as Arabic bilingual programs in Alberta, until the end of 2025. In addition, Alberta’s Hate Crimes Coordination Unit continues to work with law enforcement groups across the province to help reduce and respond to hate-driven occurrences by facilitating training opportunities, inter-agency intelligence gathering and investigative supports.

    “It doesn’t matter where you are from – in Alberta, everyone deserves to feel safe and respected in their community. Acts of harassment and vandalism have no place on our streets, schools or places of worship. Alberta’s government will do whatever it takes to end these types of crimes and to build safer communities for everyone.”

    Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services

    In addition, Alberta Education is updating curriculum to ensure opportunities to address anti-racism, pluralism and related topics are available across all subjects and grades, including English language arts and literature, social studies and physical education and wellness.

    “Every student deserves to feel welcomed, respected and seen at school. That’s why our curriculum provides opportunities for students to explore and learn about diversity across Canada and the world. For example, our new K-6 social studies curriculum includes knowledge to help address racism, Islamophobia and antisemitism.” 

    Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education

    Alberta’s government strongly condemns all forms of racism. Work continues across government ministries to address discrimination through many actions and initiatives to foster a more welcoming province.

    Quick facts

    • Alberta’s Anti-Racism Annual Report covers government actions under five themes:
      • public education/cultural awareness
      • government as a catalyst for system improvements
      • empowering communities
      • responding to hate incidents and crimes
      • data and measurement
    • Alberta’s Anti-Racism Action Plan’s first annual report, published in December 2023, highlighted the 26 actions taken across 25 ministries. 
    • The Alberta Anti-Racism Advisory Council was created in 2019 to provide insight and advice on addressing racism. Its 48 recommendations helped inform Alberta’s Anti-Racism Action Plan.

    Related information

    • Taking Action on Racism: Building Momentum
    • Ethnocultural Grant Program
    • Anti-Racism Grant Program
    • Alberta Security Infrastructure Grant

    Related news

    • A new road map for combating racism Alberta’s Anti-Racism Plan (July 18, 2022)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Fast furniture is terrible for the environment – here are five ways to spot it

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Katryn Furmston, PhD candidate in sustainable furniture, Nottingham Trent University

    The UK spent more than £20 million on furniture in 2024, predominantly for bedrooms and living rooms. Many of us are aware of the problems with fast fashion, including the problems caused by dumping this cheap, low-quality clothing in landfills. But there’s a similar issue with furniture, with more than 22 million pieces sent to landfill every year. Unfortunately, most of this will be fast furniture, as it can’t be recycled or reused.

    Fast furniture is classed as being made, bought, consumed and disposed of quickly and cheaply. Its flimsiness is due to the materials used and how it is made. The companies making it are often chasing fast-changing trends in interior design.

    Unlike fast fashion, though – which lasts up to a year, sometimes only being worn once – fast furniture will last a maximum of five to seven years, if you’re lucky. This makes it a burden on our waste systems, especially when furniture should ideally last ten to 20 years at least.

    Ready to make a change? The Quarter Life Glow-up is a new, six-week newsletter course from The Conversation’s UK and Canada editions.
    Every week, we’ll bring you research-backed advice and tools to help improve your relationships, your career, your free time and your mental health – no supplements or skincare required.
    Sign up here to start your glow-up at any time.

    Of course, it can be enticing to kit out your house quickly and on the cheap, especially if you’re moving into somewhere unfurnished. But if you have the time and the money, you really should avoid fast furniture as much as possible.

    So, if you want good furniture that lasts long, looks good and isn’t going clog up the planet, here are five simple ways to help you spot fast furniture.

    1. If the price seems too good to be true …

    The biggest giveaway of fast furniture is the price. It tends to be pretty inexpensive and very accessible. Unfortunately, the low cost is often thanks to poor materials or build quality, which means the piece is unlikely to last you very long.

    For example, an £89 sofa from a fast furniture company might seem like a good deal when you consider that a good quality sofa will cost you in the region of £800 to £1,500. But while £89 might seem great now, it probably won’t last long and will end up costing the environment and you more as you’ll have to replace it sooner rather than later.

    2 . Always check the materials

    Companies are supposed to list all the materials in the furniture. If you see a mix of MDF (medium density fibreboard), plastic and chipboard, this is often a signifier that the piece is fast.

    For cabinets, shelves, wardrobes and items with a backboard, a key signifier that it’s fast furniture will be that the backboard is made of taped-together sheets of hardboard that you have to nail in place. You will often find that this backboard starts to come away after a while and sometimes separates at the joins.

    3. Does it require an Allen key?

    If the answer is yes, it’s probably fast. What are the fittings like when you put it together? Do they come in a little bag all jumbled together? If you are using standardised fittings like dowels and bolts with pre-cut holes, known as knockdown fittings, to put the piece together, it will likely be a fast furniture piece.

    These fittings are cheap and easy to use, plus companies can easily provide you with an Allen key or small screwdriver in the kit. Unfortunately, these fittings don’t last very long, either separating from the material they are fixed to or snapping from too much load.

    4. There’s only one image online

    Don’t you just hate it when a company only gives you one view of an item and no way to see any of the details? It’s often not available to view in real life, and the item is either set in a room and looks like a sticker, or is just on a white background.

    Similarly, is the image a photograph or a 3D render? You will likely know because renders either look too perfect or just a bit strange.These things can mean that the company hasn’t had the time or money to do a proper photoshoot. It can also mean that the product you receive may not look exactly like the image, or that the parts might not fit together properly.

    5. Look at the piece’s finish

    Does it have plastic edging strips? Are the finish choices white, black or wood effects? Is it easy to wipe clean? All of these are signifiers of a fast furniture item.

    In short, go and look at the piece before purchase, and also look after whatever you choose as this will also make a big difference to how long it lasts.

    With the rise of television programmes like BBC’s Repair Shop, we are seeing an increase in furniture repair and upcycling. However, this hasn’t stopped us Brits from continuing to buy new.

    While these are a few ways to spot fast furniture, at the end of the day, the decision to buy is yours. Not everyone can spend a lot of money on new pieces but if your budget is smaller and you really don’t want to contribute to fast furniture, consider looking at second-hand items on Facebook Marketplace and in charity shops. Also see if you can repurpose something you already own. The planet will thank you and you will have pieces which will live with you for a long time.

    Katryn Furmston receives funding from AHRC via a university scholarship through NTU. She is affiliated with the British Sociological Association and is a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers.

    – ref. Fast furniture is terrible for the environment – here are five ways to spot it – https://theconversation.com/fast-furniture-is-terrible-for-the-environment-here-are-five-ways-to-spot-it-245965

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: TeleMiracle Week Recognized Ahead of Annual Telethon

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on February 21, 2025

    Soon the familiar sounds of phones ringing and people shouting “higher” will be heard from Saskatoon’s Prairieland Park as TeleMiracle Week begins Sunday, February 23. The week culminates Saturday, March 1 when the 49th edition of the telethon gets underway.

    “TeleMiracle is a testament to the Saskatchewan spirit,” Minister Responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission Eric Schmalz said. “The people of this province continue to show up for one another year after year by making contributions to this cause.”

    The countdown show, leading up to the telethon, will start at 6:15 p.m. on Saturday, March 1. The telethon will start at 9 p.m. that night, and wrap up at 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 2. The telethon can be watched on both CTV Saskatchewan channels and online at www.telemiracle.com. 

    Over the last 48 years, TeleMiracle has raised more than $165 million. All funds raised stay in Saskatchewan and help Saskatchewan residents. 

    “These funds have made it possible for Saskatchewanians to get the treatments and equipment they need to live healthier, better lives,” Kinsmen Foundation Board Chair Jordan Kammer said. “We could not do this without the incredible support from our communities. Every donation, big or small, makes a difference.” 

    “We invite everyone to tune in to TeleMiracle 49 and help us make miracles for another year,” TeleMiracle Chair Terri Troupe-Logue said. “Thank you to the residents of Saskatchewan for their continued support.”  

    Under provincial legislation, TeleMiracle Week in Saskatchewan is the week immediately before the annual telethon. The Recognition of TeleMiracle Week Act is overseen by the Minister Responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Devin Dreeshen: Economic Corridors – Call for action

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Joins Bipartisan Legislation to Import Lower-Cost Prescription Drugs from Canada 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) this week joined Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) to introduce the Safe and Affordable Drugs from Canada Act, bipartisan legislation which would allow Americans to safely import prescription drugs from Canada, lowering costs, increasing access for consumers, and creating more competition in the pharmaceutical market. 
    “Skyrocketing drug prices are hammering patients in Vermont and across America,” said Senator Welch. “Lifesaving drugs that help treat cancers, blood clots, asthma, and multiple sclerosis aren’t helpful if Americans can’t afford them. Meanwhile, those same drugs are hundreds of dollars cheaper just a few miles north in Canada. American patients are getting ripped off by Big Pharma—enough is enough. Our bipartisan legislation will allow patients to import prescription drugs from Canada and help folks get the lifesaving medication they need.” 
    “Americans pay the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs,” said Senator Klobuchar. “Our bipartisan legislation would save Americans money by allowing them to import their medications from pharmacies in Canada. Brand-name prescription drugs that we invent here in America cost more than twice as much in the United States as in Canada. Americans deserve better. Building on my legislation to allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug costs, I will continue to work to increase competition in the pharmaceutical market so Americans no longer get ripped off by Big Pharma.” 
    “Congress must take an all-of-the-above approach to lowering the price of prescription drugs. Our commonsense, bipartisan bill would provide Americans increased access to safe, affordable prescription drugs available in Canada, while boosting much-needed competition in the pharmaceutical industry,” said Senator Grassley. 
    In addition to Sens. Welch, Klobuchar, and Grassley, the Safe and Affordable Drugs from Canada Act is cosponsored by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Angus King (I-Maine), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.). 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: China: Xi Jinping has learned from Trump’s first trade war and is ready to fight back

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Tom Harper, Lecturer in International Relations, University of East London

    The start of 2025 has been good for China and its reputation as a high-tech innovator. The unveiling of the Chinese-made artificial intelligence (AI) tool, DeepSeek, caused consternation on the US stock exchange and from potential competitors in Silicon Valley.

    Chinese firms are increasingly at the forefront of key high-level technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs) and AI, as reflected by the success of China’s electric vehicles, BYD, and now DeepSeek.

    These moves have made the Chinese economy more self sufficient than it was during Trump’s first term, and has made Beijing more confident about pushing back politically against Trump.

    This is all underlined by a high-level meeting hosted by President Xi Jinping at China’s Great Hall of the People this week. He told the heads of China’s leading tech firms it was time for them “to give full play to their capabilities” and spoke of it as a patriotic duty, according to official accounts.

    This comes as China starts being hit by US tariffs of an additional 10% on its goods, as well as a slew of anti-China rhetoric from the Trump government.

    But China’s high tech industries are on the up, and this is a significant boost for Xi. For instance, in January this year, sales of the Chinese EVs exceeded those of Tesla in the UK for the first time.

    Part of the Chinese EV’s success could be attributed to a backlash against Tesla’s co-founder Elon Musk, after he started backing far-right parties around the world.

    Another factor that Chinese high-tech goods have in their favour are lower prices. Prices for Chinese EVs start at £7,697 in the UK, for example – much lower than Tesla’s Model 3 at £25,490.

    This price difference will be significant in the latest phase of the Sino-US trade war, particularly in countries struggling with a cost-of-living crisis. China is also hoping its cheap prices and tech innovations will help it find new trading allies to counteract Washington’s proposed tariffs.

    What China has to offer

    China is a fast-growing economic and political power and is expected to account for nearly a quarter of the global economy by 2030.

    The success of BYD and DeepSeek comes at a time where Beijing feels more prepared for Trump’s tough tariffs and tension with Washington, than it did in his previous term. China has responded to Trump’s threats with reciprocal tariffs on US coal and liquefied gas, as well as a ban on the export of critical minerals. These are a key component for many US military technologies varying from communications equipment to missiles.

    China accounts for 72% of all rare earth imports for the US. Such measures contrast with the cautious approach taken by Beijing in 2017, when US tariffs during Trump’s first term met little retaliation from Beijing.

    The changes in China’s tactics can partly be attributed to what Beijing learned from the previous trade war. In 2017 there were weaknesses in the supply chains of many Chinese firms, most notably ZTE and Huawei.

    They struggled when Washington pressurised its own chipmakers and those of allied states, such as Britain’s Arm, to stop sales of semiconductor technology to China. As a result, finding long-term alternatives to US technology in the supply chain has become a key priority for Beijing.

    What is Deep Seek?

    Xi has recognised the value of firms such as Huawei and BYD in aiding China’s wider technological (and geopolitical) ambitions, most notably as part of the Made in China 2025 strategy, a national strategy to make China a leader in high-tech technology.



    Read more:
    DeepSeek: how China’s embrace of open-source AI caused a geopolitical earthquake

    Traditionally, China was seen as the home of cheap, low-quality goods, which had been central to its development in the 1980s and 1990s. But many of companies producing these products are increasingly moving to south-east Asia to take advantage of lower labour costs.

    However, Chinese industries are now gaining ground in fields that have traditionally been the preserve of developed nations. For instance, Huawei has developed a spin off, Honor, which has gone from producing cheap, simple smartphones and into AI technology.

    Meanwhile, the success of BYD and DeepSeek have demonstrated that China is, in some ways at least, far better placed for a prolonged trade war. Beijing is feeling more confident, which explains its willingness to push back against Washington this time.

    So the White House will have to deal with higher prices for US goods going into China, as well as additional trade spats with the EU, Canada and the UK. It might be a bumpy ride for US consumers.

    How Beijing responds and its new-found clout may determine the course of this new trade war, and potentially add to its long-term standing in the world.

    Tom Harper 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. China: Xi Jinping has learned from Trump’s first trade war and is ready to fight back – https://theconversation.com/china-xi-jinping-has-learned-from-trumps-first-trade-war-and-is-ready-to-fight-back-250101

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Middlefield Canadian Income PCC – Withdrawal of General Meeting Requisition

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    21 February 2025

    Middlefield Canadian Income PCC (the “Company”)
    including Middlefield Canadian Income – GBP PC (the “Fund”), a cell of the Company
    Registered No:  93546
    Legal Entity Identifier: 2138007ENW3JEJXC8658

    Withdrawal of General Meeting Requisition

    As announced on 13 February 2025, Middlefield Canadian Income PCC (the “Company”) and Middlefield Canadian Income – GBP PC (the “Fund”) received a letter from a nominee account acting on behalf of the custodian and prime broker for Saba Capital Management, L.P. (“Saba”) requisitioning the Board of the Company and Fund (the “Board”) to convene a general meeting of shareholders (the “Requisition”).

    Since the receipt of the Requisition, the Board has consulted with a number of the Company’s largest shareholders, including Saba. Following constructive discussions, Saba has agreed to withdraw the Requisition for a period of 60 days to enable the Company and its advisers to formulate proposals that are in the best interests of all shareholders.

    The Board will provide a further update in due course.

    For further information, please contact:

    Middlefield Canadian Income – GBP PC                                        via Investec Bank plc
    Michael Phair (Chairman)

    Investec Bank plc                                                                             020 7597 4000
    Corporate Broker
    Helen Goldsmith/David Yovichic
                                                                    

    JTC Fund Solutions (Jersey) Limited                                             01534 700 000
    Secretary
    Matt Tostevin/Hilary Jones/Jade Livesey
                                                                    

    Burson Buchanan                                                                             020 7466 5000
    PR Advisers
    Charles Ryland/Henry Wilson

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Placentia — Arrest Warrant issued for Scott Deering

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Placentia RCMP is looking to arrest 43-year-old Scott Deering who is actively evading police.

    Deering is wanted for three counts of uttering threats and six counts of failure to comply with a release order.

    A picture of Scott Deering is attached.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Scott Deering are asked to contact Placentia RCMP at 709-227-2000. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or us the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –