NewzIntel.com

Category: Canada

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Alberta’s commitment to border security: Minister Ellis

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Middlefield Announces Approval of Proposed Changes to Reduce ESG Limitations for Two ETFs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Middlefield Limited (the “Manager”), the manager of Middlefield Sustainable Global Dividend ETF (TSX:MDIV) and Middlefield Sustainable Infrastructure Dividend ETF (TSX:MINF) (collectively, the “Funds”), is pleased to announce that at the Special Meetings held on January 30, 2025, unitholders voted unanimously in favour of the proposed changes to the Funds. These changes include revising the names, investment objectives, and strategies of the Funds to de-emphasize the environmental, sustainability, and governance (“ESG”) factors associated with the Funds. While the Funds will continue to consider ESG criteria when selecting issuers for their portfolios, they will no longer prioritize these factors over others such as valuation, growth projections, and the quality and track record of the management team. The Manager believes these changes will broaden the investment universe of the Funds, potentially leading to better returns for investors. The Funds will file a Prospectus by April 10, 2025, at which point each of the Funds will revise their name as shown below. There will be no change to the ticker symbols of the Funds.

    Ticker
    Symbol    		 Current Name Revised Name
    MDIV Middlefield Sustainable Global Dividend ETF Middlefield Global Dividend Growers ETF
    MINF Middlefield Sustainable Infrastructure Dividend ETF Middlefield Global Infrastructure Dividend ETF
         

    The Manager notes that similar efforts to de-emphasize ESG factors have been undertaken by many asset management companies, including BlackRock, State Street, JPMorgan, and Pimco. Recent research from Morningstar has shown that more funds are removing rather than adding ESG mandates from their investment practices. On March 7, 2024, the Canadian Securities Administrators introduced three categories of ESG-Related Funds: ESG Objective Funds, ESG Strategy Funds, and ESG Limited Consideration Funds. Each category has distinct expectations regarding the emphasis on ESG factors in investment decisions. The Manager believes that the proposed changes will result in the Funds moving from the ESG Objective Funds category to the ESG Limited Consideration category.

    About Middlefield
    Founded in 1979, Middlefield is a specialist equity income asset manager with offices in Toronto, Canada and London, England. Our investment team utilizes active management to select high-quality, global companies across a variety of sectors and themes. Our product offerings include proven dividend-focused strategies that span real estate, healthcare, innovation, infrastructure, energy, diversified income and more. We offer these solutions in a variety of product types including ETFs, Mutual Funds, Split-Share Funds, Closed-End Funds and Flow-through LPs.

    For further information, please visit our website at www.middlefield.com or contact Nancy Tham in our Sales and Marketing Department at 1.888.890.1868.

    This press release contains forward-looking information. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, intentions, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “expects”, “is expected”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “estimates” or “intends” (or negative or grammatical variations thereof), or stating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Statements which may constitute forward-looking statements relate to: the proposed timing of the name, objectives and strategies changes and completion thereof; the potential benefits of such changes; and the holding of the unitholder meeting. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements including as a result of changes in the general economic and political environment, changes in applicable legislation, and the performance of each fund. Additional risks, uncertainties and other factors that could influence actual results are described under “Risk Factors” in the ETFs’ prospectus and other documents filed by the ETFs with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities. The forward-looking information contained in this press release constitutes the ETFs’ current estimate, as of the date of this press release, with respect to the matters covered hereby. Investors and others should not assume that any forward-looking statement contained in this press release represents the ETFs’ estimate as of any date other than the date of this press release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Edmonton — Alberta RCMP completes another year of Operation Cold Start

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    From Jan. 20 -24, 2025, your Alberta RCMP, along with law enforcement agencies across the province, participated in Operation Cold Start. Operation Cold Start is designed to work with the public to reduce theft of idling vehicles during colder conditions.

    Law enforcement agencies checked unattended, idling vehicles to see if keys were in them, and whether or not they were properly secured. This gave the opportunity to educate vehicle owners on how to keep their vehicles safe during winter months.

    “This campaign was a great chance to meet with community members and remind them that as temperatures dip, leaving a vehicle unattended can lead to it being stolen by opportunistic thieves who can then travel to commit additional crimes,” says Cpl. Mike Black of the Alberta RCMP’s Auto Theft Unit. “By following simple tips, such as using a remote starter, remaining in the vehicle as it warms up, and remembering that vehicles with push starts can be driven without a key present, theft of vehicles can be reduced.”

    During the campaign, the Alberta RCMP noted there were 504 unlocked vehicles left idling with keys in the ignition and 1,277 locked vehicles left idling with keys in the ignition. Officers interacted with 625 vehicle owners and provided 1,128 information pamphlets.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Phoenix Woman Sentenced to 87 Months in Prison for Possession of a Machinegun and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – Cynthia Solano, 40, of Phoenix, was sentenced this week by United States District Judge G. Murray Snow to 87 months in prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release, for her involvement in a transnational firearm smuggling organization. On August 14, 2024, Solano pleaded guilty to Possession of a Machinegun and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.

    Between February 2022 and January 2023, Solano conspired with others to conduct financial transactions which were designed to conceal proceeds generated from the sale of firearms trafficked from the United States into Canada. After the proceeds were received, Solano used the proceeds to purchase additional firearms.

    Beginning in late December 2022, Solano gathered 87 firearms in Phoenix which she intended to deliver to other members of the organization in Michigan.  

    On January 3, 2023, Solano was driving near Springfield, Illinois when she was contacted by the Illinois State Police. The Illinois State Police troopers searched her vehicle and found 87 firearms, individually wrapped in Christmas wrapping paper. One of the firearms was equipped with a machinegun conversion device (also known as a “Switch”) attached. A machinegun conversion device converts a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic firearm.

    After Solano was arraigned in Arizona, she was placed on pretrial release. She later removed her electronic monitoring device and fled to Mexico. Through the efforts of the United States Marshals’ Office, she was captured by law enforcement in Mexico and removed to the United States to face prosecution.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations.

    The OCDETF Arizona Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, the United States Marshals Service, the United States Postal Service, United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Arizona Army National Guard, the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, Pima County Sheriff’s Office, and the Scottsdale Police Department. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
     

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-23-00408-PHX-GMS
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-012_Solano

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Deputy Sentenced For Falsifying Records To Obstruct A Federal Investigation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Wesley Wayne Hunter Jr., age 29, of Yukon, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 70 months in prison for one count of Destruction, Alteration, or Falsification of Records to Obstruct a Federal Investigation.

    The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.

    On June 5, 2024, Hunter pleaded guilty to the charge.  According to investigators, on July 20, 2023, in his official capacity as a Canadian County Deputy, Hunter purposefully deactivated the mobile tracking system on his work phone while transporting a pretrial detainee from Bryan County to Canadian County before pulling his patrol car off the transport route.  Hunter admitted during the June plea hearing he did this to conceal and impede any future investigation into his subsequent criminal misconduct.

    “The FBI will not stand by when a law enforcement official abuses the authority entrusted to them,” said FBI Oklahoma City Acting Special Agent in Charge Sonia Garcia.  “We will continue to hold accountable any public servant who fails the community they were sworn to protect.”

    “Wesley Wayne Hunter Jr. betrayed his employer, his community, and his oath by engaging in misconduct against a detainee and attempting to conceal his acts,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson.  “Today, thanks to the diligent work of the FBI, the OSBI, the DOJ Civil Rights Division, and Eastern District prosecutors, Hunter is being held accountable for his crime.”

    The Honorable John D. Russell, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Muskogee.  Hunter will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicole Paladino and Richard Lorenz, in consultation with Trial Attorney Laura Gilson of the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice, represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Province welcomes new Lieutenant Governor

    Premier David Eby offered his congratulations to Wendy Cocchia, CM, OBC, LLD (Hon), on being sworn in on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, as British Columbia’s 31st Lieutenant Governor.

    “It is my honour to welcome Wendy Cocchia as the new Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia,” Premier David Eby said. “Her lifelong leadership and exemplary dedication to community service are examples for us all. I wish her the greatest success in fulfilling her important role as vice-regal representative.”

    Her Honour swore the Oath of Allegiance and the Oaths of Office at an installation ceremony at the Parliament Buildings. The oaths were administered by Chief Justice Leonard Marchand before an audience including family, friends, First Nations leaders, dignitaries and members of the legislative assembly.

    The lieutenant governor’s standard was raised atop the flagpole at the Parliament Buildings as part of a venerable tradition.

    One of the Lieutenant Governor’s first acts was to inspect a 50-person Guard of Honour provided by Maritime Forces Pacific and Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt. Her Honour was accompanied by Lt.-Cmdr Marjorie Gaulin-Riffou.

    The Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy played The Vice-Regal Salute, which consists of the six opening bars of God Save the King, followed by the four opening and four closing bars of O Canada.

    A 15-gun salute was fired by troopers of the 5th (British Columbia) Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery.

    The lieutenant governor is appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister, usually serving a term of at least five years.

    Her Honour succeeds Janet Austin, OBC, who was sworn in on April 24, 2018, as the monarch’s representative in British Columbia.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Amplifying Alberta’s call for U.S. partnership

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Expanding Connect Care access for paramedics

    Alberta’s government is committed to making sure front-line health care workers have the tools necessary to deliver the highest quality of care, especially in emergencies where every second counts. By improving access to critical patient information, this initiative will strengthen the efficiency and quality of emergency care for all Albertans.

    Starting Jan. 30, paramedics providing front-line care will have view-only access to Connect Care. They will be able to look up the most up-to-date health information, including medication lists, lab results, electrocardiograms and medical imaging. Allowing paramedics to view patient records on site will empower them to make informed clinical decisions and improve patient outcomes during critical moments.

    “The introduction of Connect Care view-only access is a crucial advancement for our emergency medical services. This initiative reflects our commitment to equipping our paramedics with the necessary tools to deliver timely and informed care, ensuring the safety and well-being of Albertans in their most vulnerable moments.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    From June to August 2024, Alberta Health Services (AHS) piloted Connect Care view-only access with fixed-wing air ambulance paramedics stationed in Calgary and Medicine Hat. The pilot assessed the training, access and use of Connect Care, with paramedics providing positive feedback. The trial demonstrated improvements in clinical decision-making and patient safety, leading to the decision for a provincewide rollout.

    “Paramedics have a multitude of abilities that make them a valuable part of the health care system. Having swift access to additional tools/data will notably assist them in providing enhanced care to all Albertans.”

    Len Stelmaschuk, president, Alberta Paramedic Association

    Connect Care operates with rigorous oversight, including a 24-hour Smart Audit system, which flags any unusual activities for immediate review by the AHS privacy breach team. Comprehensive training and support will be provided to ensure a smooth transition, including user guides and other resources to help paramedics access the system.

    “Paramedics are highly skilled health professionals who deliver exceptional care, relying both on their clinical expertise and information gathered from patients and bystanders. The expansion of Connect Care view-only access represents a transformative advancement in emergency medical services, enhancing their ability to deliver even higher levels of care.”

    Anne MacDonald, acting senior program officer, EMS, Alberta Health Services

    Alberta’s government recognizes the essential role a fully integrated clinical documentation system plays in promoting collaboration among health care providers. This expansion of Connect Care access is a significant step forward in ensuring paramedics have timely access to patient health information when it’s most crucial for Albertans.  

    Quick facts

    • Connect Care view-only access will be provided to both AHS emergency medical services paramedics as well as contract service providers delivering front-line care.

    Related information

    • Connect Care

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Battleford — Battlefords RCMP seek public assistance locating missing 14-year-old female

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On January 27, Battlefords RCMP received a report of a missing 14-year-old female, Hailey Night.

    Hailey was last seen January 26 on 19th Avenue in North Battleford.

    Since she was reported missing, Battlefords RCMP have been checking places Hailey is known to visit and following up on information received. They are now asking members of the public to report information on Hailey’s whereabouts.

    Hailey is described as:

    • Height: 5’4″
    • Weight: Average build
    • Eye colour: Brown and wears glasses
    • Hair colour and style: Black and orange
    • Last seen wearing: A black hoodie, grey pants, brown and white shoes

    Hailey is known to travel to the following areas, but this has not been confirmed.

    • Calgary
    • Edmonton

    If you have seen Hailey or know where she is, contact Battlefords RCMP at 310-RCMP. 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 USA: Tillis Introduces Kash Patel at Nomination Hearing to be Director of the FBI

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, introduced Kash Patel at his nomination hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee to be the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

    Watch the introduction here.

    Read Senator Tillis’ statement below:

    Chairman Grassley, Ranking Member Durbin and my colleagues on the Senate Judiciary Committee, it’s my honor to introduce Kash Patel, President Trump’s nominee to be FBI Director. I’ve completed due diligence on his life and career, and I’m convinced Kash possesses significant expertise and an ironclad commitment to justice. I have concluded he’s an outstanding choice to lead the FBI. 

    Kash’s parents are Indian immigrants of Gujarati ancestry. The Gujarat state is a melting pot of religions, including Hinduism, Islam, and Jainism, with temples, mosques, and other religious sites scattered across the state.  His father was raised in Uganda, but his family fled the country to escape repression under Idi Amin. His mother was born and raised in Tanzania. They met and married in India and ultimately made their way to New York City by way of Canada, where his parents along with 7 brothers and sisters, their spouses, and at least a half dozen kids lived under the same roof. His parents raised Kash in the Hindu faith, and they instilled in him the values of hard work and education.  Kash is a devout Hindu, and consistent with his faith, he has shown respect to people of all faiths.

    Kash attended the University of Richmond, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and history. He went to Pace University School of Law, where he earned his JD and an International Law Certificate from the University College of London, Faculty of Laws.

    Kash began his career as a public defender in Florida where he led or co-led more than 60 jury trials to verdict in state and federal courts. Kash has clearly demonstrated devotion to upholding the rule of law and defending the rights of individuals.

    Kash led the defense of Jose Buitrago in United States v. Buitrago, a high-profile drug case in Florida in 2015.  Buitrago was one of the Colombian nationals arrested in a major drug bust involving Operation BACRIM. Kash and his co-counsel successfully argued that key evidence was withheld by the prosecution, leading to Buitrago’s release. I suspect some of Kash’s disdain for prosecutorial misconduct stems from this firsthand experience. 

    Kash was hired as senior counsel on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence in 2017. He told me he distinctly remembers my friend Trey Gowdy’s comment shortly after they were introduced. He said, “Kash, Congress is where righteous investigations go to die, I hope you’re ready.” Kash wasready and he went on to establish a solid reputation for pursuing the facts. From there, he held senior posts at the NSC, DoD, and DNI.

    Since leaving the administration after 2020, Kash has written articles and books on national security, law, and governance. Through his work as an author, Kash continues to advocate for justice and transparency and to be ever vigilant in defending our great democracy and the rule of law.

    Colleagues, I’ve created a Kash BINGO that is available to any of my colleagues who would like on the other side of the aisle. Some may view this as an unserious caricature and not appropriate for this committee, but sadly I consider it a serious caricature of what I expect to be witnessed today. I think we will have words like “enemies list” and “deep state”, but the fact of the matter is some people will be here to substantiate a false narrative. At worst, they may just be going through an unfounded litany of quote and half quote and half-truths, some that have already been dispelled in the Chairman’s opening statement. 

    In my 10 years in the Senate, I hope I have established a reputation for being fair, doing my homework, and taking tough positions that have been met with harsh criticism. Heck, I’ve been censured by my party for taking tough positions, and I stand by those positions today and my position to support Kash Patel. 

    When President Trump announced his intent to nominate Kash, I contacted Trey Gowdy and others who’ve worked with Kash, and they gave glowing recommendations. So, I called Kash on December 2nd and offered to help with his nomination. Since then, we’ve spent hours together in person and on the phone.

    I’ve asked him difficult questions and I’ve urged him to reach out to members across the aisle. He’s met with 60 members of the U.S. Senate, including several members of this committee.

    Chair Grassley, Ranking Member Durbin, friends, and colleagues on the committee. I’ve completed my due diligence on Kash Patel, and I am honored to provide my strongest recommendation for his confirmation.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Refocusing continuing care for the future

    [. As their needs evolve, it is important that older adults and vulnerable populations have access to the support they need to maintain their quality of life and independence so they can age with dignity. Over the next 10 years, the demand for continuing care in Alberta is projected to grow by 80 per cent, increasing even faster as people live longer and with more complex needs.

    Alberta’s government is establishing Assisted Living Alberta – the new provincial continuing care agency – as part of the province’s health refocusing. This will ensure the province is well-positioned to meet the future needs that are anticipated with Alberta’s both growing and aging population. Assisted Living Alberta will provide Albertans access to a comprehensive system of continuing care with a full range of wraparound services, including medical and non-medical supports, home care, community care and social services. This transition will allow the province to place a holistic social service lens on assisted living services to deliver care more effectively and consistently throughout the province. By taking this approach, individuals and families will have more options when they need care and as their needs evolve, helping older adults and vulnerable populations maintain their quality of life and independence.

    “As the need for continuing care services in Alberta grows, I am committed to working with health, social services and continuing care professionals to transform the system and ensure the new provincial agency, Assisted Living Alberta, meets all Albertans’ needs. This change ensures Albertans have access to a full range of wraparound supports to meet their evolving needs and maintain their independence and quality of life as they age or require more support.”

    Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

    Assisted Living Alberta is on track to be established and become an entity by April 1, and will be fully operational by fall 2025. The new agency will align medical and non-medical supports and services, increase continuing care spaces, reduce wait times, and provide comprehensive wraparound supports for Albertans who require different levels and types of care. This includes both seniors in long-term care and those who want to continue aging at home but need supports to do so, as well as people with disabilities, individuals experiencing homelessness and other vulnerable Albertans who require temporary or long-term care. Refocusing Alberta’s health care system ensures all Albertans have access to the services and support they need, when and where they need it.

    “Improving health care services is a top priority for our government. We are committed to addressing the urgent need for enhanced assisted living services across our growing province. I look forward to working alongside the Ministry of Seniors, Community and Social Services to bring Albertans more options and the high quality of care they need close to home.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    Albertans currently receiving care, and those who need care, will continue to have access to the services they need. A transition committee led by Dr. Sayeh Zielke, author, cardiologist and medical director of Chinook Cardiology, along with leaders from health care, continuing care, social services and other local organizations, will provide the minister with advice to support this transformation. Committee members were chosen based on their experience, diverse perspectives, leadership and background in the continuing care and social services space. The committee’s work will be essential to ensuring a smooth and seamless transition with no disruptions.

    “It is an honour to be playing a role in helping transform Alberta’s continuing care system. Our goal is to put patients and clients first and give our front-line workers the support they need, which is why it is so important that we are taking the time to gets things right and consulting directly with Albertans.” 

    Dr. Zielke, cardiologist and medical director of Chinook Cardiology and chair of the Assisted Living Transition Committee

    Albertans are invited to share their feedback, support the stand up of Assisted Living Alberta and help shape the future of continuing care through online engagement that will be open from Jan. 30 to March 3 at Alberta.ca/lead-the-way. Continuing care providers and health care and continuing care workers will also have an opportunity to provide feedback through targeted engagement that will be open at the same time. Albertans’ insights and perspectives will help lead the way in improving the system to ensure it meets Alberta’s needs today and for generations to come.  

    Alberta’s government is making significant strides in its efforts to refocus the health care system. Assisted Living Alberta will be the fourth and final new provincial health agency to be established and operational. Recovery Alberta officially began operations on Sept. 1, 2024, with Primary Care Alberta ready to follow suit and become operational on Feb. 1, 2025. On the same date, Acute Care Alberta is set to become a legal entity. By creating four provincial health agencies to oversee the priority sectors of primary care, acute care, continuing care, and mental health and addiction, the province is putting patients first in every health care decision and giving front-line experts the support they need to properly care for Albertans.

    “The Alberta Continuing Care Association welcomes this transformational move by the Alberta government. By bringing social services, medical and non-medical supports, and continuing care together under one health agency, patients will be able to access wraparound supports for the care and services they need.”

    Feisal Keshavjee, chair, Alberta Continuing Care Association

    “Integrated health and social care enhances outcomes, aligns with the preferences of older adults, caregivers and practitioners, and underpins leading continuing care models. Healthy Aging Alberta and the United Way of Calgary congratulate the ministry on this exciting transition and look forward to supporting an integrated wraparound model of continuing care in Alberta.”

    Karen McDonald, provincial director, Healthy Aging Alberta 

    Transition committee members

    • Dr. Sayeh Zielke, committee chair – cardiologist and medical director of Chinook Cardiology
    • MLA Brandon Lunty, deputy chair – MLA for Leduc-Beaumont
    • Dr. David Stewart, member – physician, Family Medical Centre
    • David Weyant, member – president and CEO, Alberta Lawyers Indemnity Association
    • Robin James, member – chief administrative officer, Lethbridge Housing Authority
    • Feisal Keshavjee, member – board chair, Alberta Continuing Care Association
    • Karen McDonald, member – director, Healthy Aging Alberta (and executive director, Sage)
    • Andrea Hesse, member – executive director, Alberta Council for Disability Services
    • Joyce Wicks, member – former nurse and seniors advocate
    • Ruben Breaker, member – councillor, Siksika First Nation
    • Arlene Adamson, member – former CEO, Silvera for Seniors
    • Salimah Walji-Shivji, member – CEO, AgeCare
    • Irene Martin-Lindsay – member, executive director, Alberta Seniors and Community Housing Association

    Related news

    • Continuing care: Ministers LaGrange and Nixon (Oct 16, 2024)

    Related information

    • Refocusing health care in Alberta
    • Continuing Care Transformation
    • Online survey for feedback on Alberta’s continuing care system

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: International students’ housing challenges call for policy action

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Edward R. Howe, Professor, School of Education, Thompson Rivers University

    Canada is a top destination for international students, with over one million studying at various levels in 2023. International students contribute billions of dollars to the Canadian economy and much more to our social fabric.

    But recent policy changes and increased public scrutiny have created a challenging environment for these students and the higher education institutions that host them.

    After a decade of rapid growth, the federal government has implemented a two-year cap on international student permits, reducing undergraduate admissions by 35 per cent in 2024 and an additional 10 per cent in 2025.

    This controversial decision aims to address growing concerns about the impact of international students and unchecked immigration on Canada’s economy, housing and public services.

    An ongoing longitudinal research study at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) , which engages international students’ views and experiences through both surveys and interviews, sheds light on the lived experiences of international students amid these dramatic policy shifts. I have led this research with international graduate student research assistants.

    Shifts from 2016 to 2024: housing

    The first round of our study drew on a 2016 survey of more than 100 international students at TRU, and interviews with 14 from the same pool. We recently surveyed a further 215 international TRU students and conducted in-depth interviews with 14 more participants from various nations including India and China, across a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

    Our newest research findings revealed major challenges faced by international students, particularly in housing and finances. This echoes other findings that indicate the housing situation for international students has worsened over the past decade.

    Over 55 per cent of students reported difficulties finding suitable accommodations, with many experiencing systemic racial discrimination in the rental market. Financial struggles were also prevalent, with about one-third of participants indicating insufficient financial support or uncertainty about their financial situation.



    Read more:
    International students are not to blame for Canada’s housing crisis

    Racism, concern for post-graduate work

    On a positive note, fewer students reported experiencing racism on campus in 2024 than in 2016.

    In 2016, when students were asked to say to what extent they agreed with the statement “I encountered racism at university,” there were a wide range of statements: 14 per cent strongly agreed and 21 per cent agreed; 25 per cent strongly disagreed; 16 per cent disagreed and 23 per cent were undecided.

    This was the only question that had such a pattern of responses spread evenly across the five-point scale. In 2024, only 13.5 per cent agreed or strongly agreed with this statement.

    But in interviews, many students commented upon encountering racism and exploitation when job hunting or searching for housing accommodations. For example, one student reported that when seeking to renegotiate a lease due to problems with a roommate, the landlord threatened to take action to revoke their student visa.



    Read more:
    International university grads speak about aspirations and barriers

    In surveys and interviews, students lamented the dearth of co-op programs, work-integrated learning and experiential opportunities for their future success in Canada. This aligns with recent data from the Canadian Bureau for International Education, which found that 70 per cent of international students plan to apply for post-graduate work permits, and 57 per cent intend to seek permanent residency.

    Students’ thoughts on ‘internationalization’

    Our recent study also asked students their thoughts on “internationalization,” as universities and government policy have used this term to promote Canada as an international, global and multicultural society with globally focused curricula and opportunities for international study abroad.

    Students’ responses fell into three main themes: cross-cultural exchange, mutual learning and community building, and personal growth through international experiences. These findings were consistent across different nationalities and genders, suggesting a shared understanding of internationalization among diverse student groups.

    A student carrying a backpack walks on campus at Trinity Western University in Langley, B.C., in 2017.

    To address these challenges and support international students, our research recommends that universities continue to diversify their pools of international students by increasing scholarships for students from marginalized regions.

    This matters in the wake of the recent announcement to reduce immigration targets from 485,000 in 2024 to 365,000 by 2027. This policy direction creates uncertainty for many international students hoping to build their futures in Canada.

    This shift comes as public support for immigration has dramatically decreased, reaching an all-time low. Fifty-eight per cent of Canadians now believe the country accepts too many immigrants — a 31-point increase since 2022.

    We also suggest fostering deeper cross-cultural understanding among university staff and domestic students, establishing program-specific student support centres with peer mentoring. The fragile school-to-work transition needs to be better facilitated through co-op education and other work-integrated learning opportunities. Action from policymakers to address systemic barriers in housing and employment is also needed.

    Welcoming destination for global talent

    International students contribute significantly to Canada’s economy, cultural diversity and multicultural society.

    Government, educators, universities and employers have roles to play in reframing the “internationalization” of higher education. There is a need to balance economic rationales with social and academic outcomes, including a focus on global citizenship education for all students.

    In the shadow of Donald Trump’s second presidency in the United States, which is amplifying xenophobic rhetoric and action against migrants, and amid major shifts in Canada’s federal landscape, it is important to take inventory of how changing government immigration policies can have a profound impact on Canada.

    It is crucial to consider the perspectives of international students. Their insights matter for helping to shape policies and practices that affect their educational experiences, future opportunities in Canada and the very social fabric of Canada.

    By addressing students’ challenges and the barriers they encounter, and by supporting their successes, we can ensure that Canada remains a welcoming destination for global talent.

    Surbhi Sagar and Athira Pushpamgathan contributed to this research and co-authored this story.

    Edward R. Howe 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. International students’ housing challenges call for policy action – https://theconversation.com/international-students-housing-challenges-call-for-policy-action-230833

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Understanding the backlash against corporate DEI — and how to move forward

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Camellia Bryan, Assistant Professor, Organizational Behaviour and Human Resources Division, Sauder School of Business, University of British Columbia

    United States President Donald Trump recently issued an executive order to end federal diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs. In the days since, Trump has even tried to blame a deadly Washington, D.C., plane crash on DEI hiring practices, without citing any evidence. He was swiftly criticized for his statement.

    In the corporate world, DEI programs aimed at addressing systemic barriers that have historically disadvantaged marginalized groups are facing growing resistance, with backlash becoming increasingly visible in workplaces and in public discourse.

    High-profile companies like Amazon, Meta, McDonalds and Target have been cancelling their DEI programs since last year. Although others, like Costco and Apple, have said they’re retaining theirs.

    The backlash against DEI isn’t just about individuals rejecting change; it reveals deeper tensions in how people see themselves and their place in society.

    Our research explores these tensions. We find that while social identity threat — the discomfort people feel when their identity is challenged — can lead to backlash, it can also present an unexpected opportunity for learning and growth. Understanding this dynamic offers a path forward for organizations struggling to balance DEI efforts with employee buy-in.

    What drives DEI backlash?

    Backlash often emerges from employees who belong to dominant social identity groups that hold disproportionate access to power and resources. Examples include white people in North America, men in patriarchal societies or heterosexual individuals in hetero-normative cultures.

    For these employees, DEI initiatives can sometimes feel threatening. Why? Because such efforts highlight inequalities and challenge assumptions about fairness, merit and the status quo. When someone identifies strongly with their group — whether as a white person, a man or a member of another dominant identity — they may see DEI initiatives as attacks on their assumptions. This discomfort is known as social identity threat.

    For instance, when a company introduces a gender equity policy aimed at addressing women’s under-representation in leadership, some men might perceive this as unfair. Their response — whether it’s skepticism, defensiveness or outright resistance — reflects a defensive reaction to that threat.

    Beyond defensiveness: A path to learning

    Traditional approaches to managing DEI backlash often focus on mitigating threat: providing reassurance, avoiding confrontation or encouraging self-affirmation (“DEI isn’t about you; it’s about everyone”). Yet these approaches miss an important point: social identity threat doesn’t have to result in defensiveness or backlash. It can also inspire reflection, learning and growth.

    Our research draws on transformational learning theory, which explains how adults change their understanding of the world in response to disorienting experiences.

    According to this theory, when people encounter information that challenges their assumptions, they can engage in a process of deep reflection. By questioning their beliefs and seeking out new perspectives, individuals can develop more accurate, inclusive interpretations of themselves and others.



    Read more:
    Businesses must stop caving to political pressure and abandoning their EDI commitments

    Real-world examples of transformation

    Consider the story of Caolan Robertson, a former alt-right filmmaker in the United Kingdom.

    For years, Robertson worked with extremist figures to produce anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim content that garnered millions of views online. Then, in 2019, Robertson saw media coverage of mosque shootings, where 51 people were killed by a white supremacist. The tragedy rattled him.

    In Robertson’s own words, the event forced him to confront his assumptions about white identity and how it can be involved in violence and extremism. What began as an overwhelming sense of disorientation turned into a period of deep reflection. Robertson eventually rejected his old beliefs, began speaking out against extremism, and co-founded an organization to help others de-radicalize.

    Similar learning occurs on smaller scales in workplaces every day. For example, a male manager who initially feels threatened by gender equity policies might, over time, come to recognize the barriers women face at work and become an advocate for change. Or a white employee who feels uncomfortable during discussions about racism might come to see how privilege has shaped their experiences.

    Creating conditions for growth

    So how can organizations turn social identity threat into an opportunity for learning rather than backlash? We propose three strategies:

    1. Foster a “learning-oriented” DEI climate
    Organizations must shift how they frame DEI initiatives. Instead of treating these efforts as compliance-driven checkboxes, companies should position DEI as a chance for employees to learn, grow and contribute to a more inclusive workplace. A strong diversity climate — where differences are valued, and conversations about identity are encouraged — creates a safe space for reflection. Our research shows that when employees feel that diversity is part of their organization’s mission, they’re more likely to approach identity threats as a learning opportunity.

    2. Encourage dialogue across perspectives
    One of the most effective ways to challenge harmful assumptions is through dialogue across perspectives — open conversations where employees with different lived experiences share their perspectives and provide feedback. This kind of dialogue requires psychological safety: employees need to feel secure enough to express their views, even when those views are incomplete or flawed. Importantly, these conversations don’t always have to occur between dominant and marginalized group members. Dialogue with other dominant-group colleagues who have already reflected on their identities can also provide valuable insights.

    3. Support incremental progress
    Transformational learning doesn’t happen overnight. Employees may initially engage in surface-level reflection, revising specific assumptions without challenging deeper systems of inequality. Over time, they may progress to deep-level reflection, critically analyzing the foundational beliefs that shape their identity. Organizations can support this incremental progress by recognizing small steps and encouraging continued learning.

    Discomfort: A powerful motivator for change

    The backlash to DEI efforts is often framed as evidence that the initiative is failing, but it can also be understood as a natural part of the learning process.

    Social identity threat is uncomfortable, but it can serve as a powerful motivator for change when organizations provide the right tools and support.

    Companies that ignore backlash risk deepening resistance and undermining their DEI goals. However, organizations that embrace discomfort as an opportunity for growth can transform their workplaces into spaces where employees are not only more inclusive but also more reflective, empathetic and engaged.

    Backlash isn’t the end of the story — it’s the beginning of a conversation.

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

    – ref. Understanding the backlash against corporate DEI — and how to move forward – https://theconversation.com/understanding-the-backlash-against-corporate-dei-and-how-to-move-forward-246117

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DBEDT NEWS RELEASE: VISITOR INDUSTRY CONTINUED IMPROVEMENT IN DECEMBER 2024

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DBEDT NEWS RELEASE: VISITOR INDUSTRY CONTINUED IMPROVEMENT IN DECEMBER 2024

    Posted on Jan 30, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM

    KA ʻOIHANA HOʻOMOHALA PĀʻOIHANA, ʻIMI WAIWAI A HOʻOMĀKAʻIKAʻI

     

    RESEARCH AND ECONOMIC ANALYSIS DIVISION

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    JAMES KUNANE TOKIOKA

    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

     

    1. EUGENE TIAN

    CHIEF STATE ECONOMIST

     

    VISITOR INDUSTRY CONTINUED IMPROVEMENT IN DECEMBER 2024

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    January 30, 2025

     

    HONOLULU – According to preliminary statistics from the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), there were 910,055 visitors to the Hawaiian Islands in December 2024, a 5.5 percent growth compared to the same month last year. Total visitor spending measured in nominal dollars was $2.04 billion, up 4.7 percent from December 2023. December marked the fifth straight month with year-over-year growth in both visitor arrivals and expenditures. Total visitor arrivals in December 2024 represent a 95.5 percent recovery rate from pre-pandemic December 2019 (952,441, -4.5%) and total nominal visitor spending increased compared to December 2019 ($1.75 billion, +16.6%).

    In December 2024, 892,000 visitors arrived by air service, mainly from the U.S. West and U.S. East. Additionally, 18,055 visitors arrived via out-of-state cruise ships. In comparison, 847,257 visitors (+5.3%) arrived by air and 15,191 visitors (+18.9%) came by cruise ships in December 2023, and 941,128 visitors (-5.2%) came by air and 11,313 visitors (+59.6%) came by cruise ships in December 2019.

    The average length of stay by all visitors in December 2024 was 9.10 days, which was shorter than December 2023 (9.34 days, -2.7%) and December 2019 (9.27 days, -1.9%). The statewide average daily census was 267,000 visitors in December 2024, compared to 259,938 visitors (+2.7%) in December 2023 and 284,924 visitors (-6.3%) in December 2019.

    In December 2024, 452,023 visitors arrived from the U.S. West, an increase from December 2023 (424,808 visitors, +6.4%) and December 2019 (418,520 visitors, +8.0%). U.S. West visitor spending of $922.4 million grew compared to December 2023 ($856.3 million, +7.7%) and was much higher than December 2019 ($697.6 million, +32.2%). Daily spending by U.S. West visitors in December 2024 ($230 per person) increased compared to December 2023 ($226 per person, +1.9%) and was considerably more than December 2019 ($180 per person, +27.7%).

    In December 2024, 228,169 visitors arrived from the U.S. East, up from December 2023 (209,574 visitors, +8.9%) and from December 2019 (215,358 visitors, +5.9%). U.S. East visitor spending of $609.4 million increased from December 2023 ($557.6 million, +9.3%) and December 2019 ($488.3 million, +24.8%). Daily spending by U.S. East visitors in December 2024 ($264 per person) was higher than December 2023 ($259 per person, +2.1%) and December 2019 ($217 per person, +21.5%).

    There were 70,825 visitors from Japan in December 2024, a slight growth from December 2023 (70,348 visitors, +0.7%), but significantly fewer than December 2019 (136,635 visitors,
    -48.2%). Although there were slightly more visitors in December 2024, their shorter length of stay (6.19 days, -5.5%) and lower daily spending ($238 per person, -4.0%) resulted in decreased total Japanese visitor spending ($104.4 million, -8.7%) compared to December 2023. Total Japanese visitor spending ($210.9 million, -50.5%) was down considerably and daily spending ($260 per person, -8.5%) was less compared to December 2019.

    In December 2024, 53,203 visitors arrived from Canada, a decrease from December 2023 (57,885 visitors, -8.1%) and December 2019 (64,182 visitors, -17.1%). Visitors from Canada spent $129.9 million in December 2024, compared to $158.6 million (-18.1%) in December 2023 and $129.6 million (+0.2%) in December 2019. Daily spending by Canadian visitors in December 2024 ($225 per person) was slightly lower compared to December 2023 ($227 per person, -0.8%), but significantly more than December 2019 ($159 per person, +41.7%).

    There were 87,779 visitors from all other international markets in December 2024, comprising visitors from Oceania, Other Asia, Europe, Latin America, Guam, the Philippines, the Pacific Islands and other regions. In comparison, there were 84,643 visitors (+3.7%) from all other international markets in December 2023 and 106,434 visitors (-17.5%) in December 2019.

    Air capacity to the Hawaiian Islands in December 2024 (5,366 transpacific flights with 1,194,302 seats) increased compared to December 2023 (5,121 flights, +4.8% with 1,127,084 seats, +6.0%), but declined from December 2019 (5,676 flights, -5.5% with 1,252,958 seats,
    -4.7%).

    Calendar Year 2024

     

    A total of 9,689,113 visitors arrived in calendar year 2024, a slight growth from 9,657,607 visitors (+0.3%) in 2023. Total arrivals decreased 6.7 percent when compared to 10,386,673 visitors in 2019.

    In 2024, total visitor spending was $20.68 billion, down slightly from $20.73 billion (-0.2%) in 2023, but higher than $17.72 billion(+16.7%) in 2019.

    VIEW FULL NEWS RELEASE AND TABLES

     

    Statement by DBEDT Director James Kunane Tokioka

     

    Hawai‘i’s tourism industry in 2024 continued to recover from the August 2023 Maui wildfires. Data from August to December 2024, which shows year-over-year growth in both arrivals and visitor spending, is encouraging. For calendar year 2024, total arrivals (9,689,113 visitors, +0.3%) rose slightly while total visitor expenditures ($20.68 billion, -0.2%) were just shy by 0.3 percent of the 2023 level.

    The cruise industry performed exceptionally well in 2024 with 168,035 visitor arrivals to Hawai‘i by cruise ships, surpassing 2023 (157,612 visitors, +6.6%) and pre-pandemic 2019 (143,508 visitors, +17.1%) and became the second-highest annual arrivals by cruise ship since the cruise visitor data were recorded in 1999 (the highest cruise visitor arrivals occurred in 2013 when 170,987 visitors came).

    Looking forward into 2025, we expect visitor arrivals to be impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires. Los Angeles is Hawai‘i’s largest source market, accounting for 9.1 percent of all visitor arrivals in 2024 and 30.2 percent of all visitors from California. Our hearts go out to everyone who lost a loved one, home or place of business in the fires. Governor Green has reached out in support and aloha to California Governor Newsom to offer relief for Los Angeles wildfire survivors and first responders.

    # # #

     

     

    Media Contacts:

     

    Laci Goshi 

    Communications Officer

    Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism

    Cell: 808-518-5480

    Email: [email protected]

     

    Jennifer Chun

    Director of Tourism Research

    Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism

    Phone: 808-973-9446

    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Sierra Leone: Authorities must release and guarantee fair trial for TV personality detained under accusations of insulting the President and First Lady

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Reacting to the ongoing detention of Hawa Hunt, a Sierra Leonean-Canadian artist and reality television personality who was arrested on live television in December and charged with insulting the President and First Lady in a social media video, Michèle Eken, senior researcher at Amnesty International’s West and Central Africa office, said:

    “Hawa Hunt has now been detained for over a month. Her multiple requests for bail have been refused while her mental health is being affected, according to her lawyer. We call on the Sierra Leonean authorities to release Hawa Hunt and observe all due process guarantees for her in line with international standards, including her right to be brought in front of a court promptly. A criminal defendant may be detained pending trial only when necessary and proportionate to their offences, and non-custodial arrangements such as bail, should be preferred.  

    “Amnesty International has already expressed its concern about the law used to prosecute Hawa Hunt – the Cyber Security and Crime Act 2021. Several cases of possible violations of the right to freedom of expression under the Cyber Security and Crime Act have previously been reported. Offences such as libel and defamation should be decriminalized. Sierra Leonean law should be brought into line with the country’s international human rights obligations.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Canada: Temporary visa programme enables abuse migrant workers, treating them as disposable, report finds

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Programme (TFWP) is designed in a way that facilitates shocking abuse and discrimination of migrant workers, Amnesty International said in a new report today.

    The report, ‘Canada has destroyed me’: Labour exploitation of migrant workers in Canada, exposes the impact of the TFWP, which allows employers to hire migrant workers, primarily for low-paid jobs, across various sectors, including agriculture, food processing, the care system, construction and hospitality. TFWP visas tie workers to a single employer who controls both their migration status and labour conditions.

    People who currently employed or have worked under the programme told Amnesty International that, after arriving in Canada, they were forced to work long hours without rest and received lower pay than agreed. they were often assigned tasks not included in their contract and suffered physical, sexual and psychological abuse. Many of them worked in unsafe conditions, lacked access to adequate housing and healthcare, and faced discrimination in the workplace. Most of them were unable to access effective remedies for the abuses they endured.

    “The abuse experienced by migrant workers in Canada is deeply troubling, especially for a country that claims to be a leader when it comes to protecting human rights,” said Erika Guevara-Rosas, Senior Director for Research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns at Amnesty International. “Many migrant workers have told us they came to Canada hoping to secure a better future, yet instead, they felt they were treated like slaves. These workers are vital for putting food on the country’s tables and caring for the elderly. They deserve much better.”

    Many migrant workers have told us they came to Canada hoping to secure a better future, yet instead, they felt they were treated like slaves. These workers are vital for putting food on the country’s tables and caring for the elderly. They deserve much better.

    Erika Guevara-Rosas, Senior Director for Research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns at Amnesty International.

    Many migrant workers under the TFWP work and live in remote locations and therefore depend on their employer for accommodation and access to health insurance or transportation to get medical care. They face termination of their contracts and a swift repatriation if they fall sick, suffer injuries or are no longer considered fit for the job.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Official trustee appointed to replace School District 61 board of education

    Minister of Education and Child Care Lisa Beare has announced that government has appointed an official trustee to School District No. 61 (Greater Victoria) and relieved the trustees of their duties.

    The appointment is effective immediately, clearing the way for the completion and implementation of a safety plan for the district.

    “Students are at the centre of every decision I make, and ultimately their safety in this school district is at risk. Our government has given this board multiple opportunities to act, and they have not delivered,” Beare said. “The decision to remove an elected board is a difficult one, but it is necessary to bring our collective focus in School District 61 back to where it belongs – supporting students.”

    Sherri Bell, former president of Camosun College and superintendent of schools with School District 61, has been appointed as an official trustee to replace the board and carry out its duties and authorities. The official trustee’s appointment takes effect immediately and is expected to continue until the next scheduled elections in fall 2026.

    In early December 2024, Kevin Godden was appointed as a special adviser to assist the board with developing a revised safety and implementation plan. Godden has been reappointed in his role with School District 61, working with the official trustee to collaborate with community partners to finalize the safety and implementation plans for the school district.

    Under Section 172(1) of the School Act, the Lieutenant Governor in Council may appoint an official trustee to conduct the affairs of a school district and replace the current board in specific circumstances. In the case of School District 61, there is evidence that the board did not assist the special adviser, demonstrated significant governance issues and failed to collaborate with partners in the development of a safety plan. 

    Learn More:

    To view the Order in Council appointing the official trustee, visit:
    https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/oic/oic_cur/0040_2025

    To view the special adviser report, visit:
    https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Special_Advisor_Report.pdf

    To view the ministerial order appointing the special adviser, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/SD61_Special_Advisor_DEC2024.pdf

    To view the ministerial order issuing the September 2024 administrative directive, visit: https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/mo/mo/m0339_2024

    To read the School Act, visit: https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/96412_00_multi#division_d2e25504

    Two backgrounders follow.

    Sherri Bell was the president of Camosun College from 2015 until her retirement in early 2022. Prior to that, she worked in the Greater Victoria School District for 20 years, serving in various senior administrative capacities, including superintendent of schools/chief executive officer. Success and support for all students has been the primary focus in every aspect of her educational career.

    Bell was appointed chair of the BC Transit Board of Directors in April 2023. She is also the chair of board for Whitecliffe College Canada. She has also served as the board chair of the British Columbia Council for International Education and chair of British Columbia Colleges. Recently, Bell was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her service to public education and the community.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Deer Lake — RCMP Traffic Services West stops ATV in Deer Lake operated by suspended driver

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 62-year-old suspended driver was stopped by RCMP Traffic Services West while operating an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) in Deer Lake on January 29, 2025.

    Shortly after 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, a police officer with RCMP Traffic Services West observed the man driving an ATV on Chapel Hill in Deer Lake. A traffic stop was conducted and the officer determined that the ATV was uninsured. The man was ticketed under the Highway Traffic Act for operating a vehicle while suspended and for operating an uninsured vehicle. The ATV was seized and impounded.

    Operating an off-road vehicle on a road is a violation of the Off-Road Vehicles Act. If an off-road vehicle is used on the roadway, it is susceptible to the same legislation as a vehicle under the Highway Traffic Act.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Swift Current — Officers seize eight kilograms – potentially millions of doses – of fentanyl during traffic stop

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On January 28, 2025, officers from Saskatchewan RCMP’s Roving Traffic Unit (RTU) and the Province of Saskatchewan’s Saskatchewan Highway Patrol (SHP) were working together doing proactive patrols in the Swift Current area.

    An RTU officer conducted a traffic stop on Highway #1. As a result of continued investigation, the two occupants of the vehicle were detained for a drug trafficking investigation.

    During a search of the vehicle, officers located eight kilograms of fentanyl hidden under the spare tire. A photo of the fentanyl is attached.

    The vehicle’s occupants were arrested.

    SHP, Swift Current RCMP and Saskatchewan RCMP’s Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team provided RTU valuable assistance during the traffic stop and subsequent investigation.

    As a result of that continued investigation, 26-year-old Swati Narula and 28-year-old Kunwardeep Singh, both from Calgary, are each charged with one count, trafficking, Section 5(1), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and one count, possession for the purpose of trafficking, Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. They appeared in Swift Current Provincial Court on January 29, 2025.

    The accused told investigators that they were travelling to Regina.

    “This is a significant fentanyl seizure. Keep in mind that only a few grains of fentanyl is enough to potentially cause a fatal overdose. We have prevented potentially millions of doses of this dangerous drug from entering our communities,” says Supt. Grant St. Germaine, Officer in Charge of Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic Services. “I hope this is a message to others who choose to transport illicit goods in our province. Our officers are watching out for you.”

    Here are just a few highlights of recent RTU work:

    January 23, 2025: RTU officers stopped a vehicle on Highway #16 near Lloydminster. A RTU police dog alerted the officer to the odour of narcotics in the vehicle. Further investigation led officers to seize approximately $400,000 from the vehicle. The driver is charged with possession of the proceeds of crime over $5,000. The investigation continues.

    January 22, 2025: RTU officers stopped a vehicle on Highway #13 near Ponteix. It was determined the vehicle was commercial and the driver was unable to provide a bill of lading, as required by law. As a result of continued investigation, officers located and seized approximately nine kilograms of illicit cannabis and a large sum of cash from the vehicle. The driver was charged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 and possessing illicit cannabis for the purpose of trafficking, which is a charge under the Cannabis Act. The investigation continues.

    January 9, 2025: RTU officers stopped a vehicle on Highway #1 near Swift Current. Further investigation led to officers locating and seizing approximately 700 kilograms of illicit cannabis and a sum of cash in the vehicle. Further details are available here.

    November 19, 2024: RTU officers conducted a traffic stop on Highway #16 near Maidstone. A RTU police dog alerted the officer to the odour of narcotics in the vehicle. Further investigation led to officers locating and seizing approximately 50 kilograms of cocaine and a sum of cash from the vehicle. Further details are available here.

    “Based on investigation and intelligence, we know illicit drugs are being transported across provincial borders into Saskatchewan,” Supt. St. Germaine says. “That’s why we have dedicated Saskatchewan RCMP officers – who work in tandem with partner agencies – who make it their mission to disrupt the flow of illegal activity. Our communities are safer because of their action.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: DIAGNOS Announces Financial Contribution of $400,000 from the Government of Canada

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BROSSARD, Quebec, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diagnos Inc. (“DIAGNOS” or the “Corporation”) (TSX Venture: ADK, OTCQB: DGNOF, FWB: 4D4A), a pioneer in early detection of critical health issues through the use of its FLAIRE platform based on Artificial Intelligence (AI), announces today that it was granted a financial contribution of up to CA$400,000 from the Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions organization (CED) to implement an international marketing strategy for CARA (the “Project”).

    As per the terms of the financial assistance agreement signed between DIAGNOS and CED, CED has committed to making a refundable contribution up to $400,000 to DIAGNOS, calculated at 50% of eligible expenses related to the Project, for the period of June 7, 2024 to June 30, 2026. Repayment of the contribution by DIAGNOS will begin 24 months after the end of the Project and span over 60 months, no interest bearing.

    Mr. André Larente, President and CEO of DIAGNOS, said “We would like to thank CED for its support and trust in DIAGNOS. We are proud to be recognized by the Government of Canada as being a key asset in the Canadian economy.”

    More details are available in the press release from CED, dated January 29, 2025, which can be found at this address: link

    About CED
    CED is the key economic development player for Quebec’s regions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In order to accomplish its core responsibility, which is economic development in Quebec, CED fosters business start-ups and growth. It helps them become more innovative, productive and competitive. It supports efforts to engage the regions of Quebec and attract investments that will help boost the economic well-being of Quebec and Canada.

    Additional information is available at CED | About DEC

    About DIAGNOS
    DIAGNOS is a publicly traded Canadian corporation dedicated to early detection of critical health problems based on its FLAIRE Artificial Intelligence (AI) platform. FLAIRE allows for quick modifying and developing of applications such as CARA (Computer Assisted Retina Analysis). CARA’s image enhancement algorithms provide sharper, clearer and easier-to-analyze retinal images. CARA is a cost-effective tool for real-time screening of large volumes of patients.

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

    For further information, please contact:

    Mr. André Larente, President
    DIAGNOS Inc.
    Tel: 450-678-8882 ext. 224
    alarente@diagnos.ca

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Mitsubishi HC Capital America Shares Predictions for 2025 in the Equipment Finance Industry

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With the start of a year that is expected to have less inflation, monetary easing and more economic growth, Mitsubishi HC Capital America, the largest non-bank, non-captive finance provider in North America, has outlined six key predictions that are likely to play a significant role in shaping the equipment finance industry in 2025.

    “The convergence of economic shifts and technological advancements in 2024 has created a unique financing landscape for 2025,” said Brian Rosa, President of Commercial Finance for Mitsubishi HC Capital America. “While many organizations may take a measured approach initially, we’re seeing that those who strategically leverage financing solutions – particularly for technology and sustainability initiatives – are positioning themselves for significant growth.”

    1. Banks pull back on small business lending

    Recent Federal Reserve data shows bank lending to small businesses dropped by 18% in 2024. However, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports 60% of small businesses plan to make significant capital investments in 2025, up from 42% two years ago.

    This divergence creates both challenges and opportunities for small businesses looking to secure financing in 2025. Small business owners should partner with independent lenders for creative and flexible financing options to stay competitive and thrive in the new year.

    2. AI and supercomputing needs will need financing support

    Much like the infinite nature of the scale that supercomputing projects offer the world, financing these projects feels equally as infinite. Large scale computing projects involving AI or cloud computing will become more frequent and larger in 2025 and in the years to come. Driven by hyperscalers and other large companies, these projects require a significant amount of time, capital and energy to complete. “Financing models that can support project completion and scale as the project grows will be a necessary lever for tech companies to support these projects,” adds Rosa.

    3. Technology enables new financing models and competitive advantage

    “Advancements in technology are revolutionizing equipment financing through enhanced usage analytics and “as-a-service” models,” explains Rosa. “Advanced IoT and telematics now provide real-time analytics and insights, enabling both financing providers and customers to make faster, more informed decisions about equipment utilization.”

    This technology allows lenders to develop more competitive rates based on actual usage patterns, while creating new opportunities for usage-based financing structures. Beyond basic implementation, organizations that can creatively apply these technological capabilities to develop innovative financing solutions will gain a competitive edge. The winners, he says, will be those who can leverage these tools to identify market trends faster and develop flexible financing arrangements that align with true operational needs.

    4. High inventory levels will make rentals attractive

    The flexibility of short-term leases and equipment rental opportunities are helping organizations take advantage of higher inventory levels and use new technology without a large payment or significant operating expense.

    Rosa explains, “Short-term leases provide organizations with more flexibility, and the financing landscape is evolving to support this trend.” He further says that the increasing popularity of these financing models will help organizations more accurately budget for a project, allowing them to buy the equipment they need without restricting their up-front cash flow. With an increase in demand for projects and an influx of equipment that is available, Rosa projects it will be less expensive and more flexible for companies to rent equipment.

    5. Business case for sustainability remains strong

    In recent years, both U.S. and Canadian governments and corporations have pulled back on sustainability initiatives. However, the business case for sustainability remains strong and we expect corporations to continue to fund sustainability programs, says Rosa.

    He adds, “Prioritizing sustainability initiatives that have a direct business case will aid organizations in making an impact not just on the world, but also their bottom line. From financing electric vehicle projects to supporting more sustainable manufacturing in supply chains, environmentally friendly investments will drive shareholder returns on clean energy targets.”

    6. Shifting Political Dynamics in the U.S. and Canada
    New leadership in the U.S. with talks of international tariffs, along with a very fluid political environment in Canada, will impact both countries in 2025, predicts Rosa. He expects governments in both countries to take a cautious approach to determine the next steps with rate cuts as economic data is released.

    “Organizations that position themselves to take advantage of new regulations or seize new opportunities quickly will be well suited in 2025,” Rosa anticipates.

    About Mitsubishi HC Capital America

    Mitsubishi HC Capital America is a commercial finance company that has extensive capabilities throughout North America with its affiliate, Mitsubishi HC Capital Canada, combining a consultative approach and expansive digital platform to help organizations of all sizes accelerate growth. With $7.5 billion in assets and more than 800 employees, the company is the largest non-captive, non-bank commercial finance company in North America. Mitsubishi HC Capital America partners with equipment manufacturers, dealers, and distributors, as well as end customers, in providing customized financial solutions, including transportation and commercial finance. Dedicated to improving the communities where it operates, the company is committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Visit Mitsubishi HC Capital America for more information.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ASUS Named One of Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies for the 10th Time in 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ASUS today announced it has been listed among Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies for 2025, marking the 10th time the company has earned this prestigious accolade. ASUS was recognized for its use of corporate assets, social responsibility, and long-term investment — core values that drive the company’s global competitiveness and have established it as an industry leader.

    “We are honored to be recognized by Fortune for the tenth time,” said Jonney Shih, Chairman of ASUS. “This achievement reaffirms the success of our Design Thinking approach, which prioritizes customer satisfaction as the key to driving sustainable growth. At the heart of this success is our unwavering commitment to a culture of radical truth and transparency, which empowers our teams to innovate, overcome challenges, and fully embrace revolutionary technologies like AI.”

    The World’s Most Admired Companies list is one of the most comprehensive rankings of corporate reputations compiled annually by Fortune magazine with Korn Ferry, a global organizational consulting firm. The consistent placement of ASUS on this list reflects its unwavering commitment to technological advancement and its ability to deliver products and services that meet the highest standards of quality and performance.

    ASUS has long been a leader in the tech industry, known for its relentless pursuit of user-centricity and innovation in areas like AI, gaming, and sustainability. ASUS continues to push the boundaries of innovation, as demonstrated by the launch of the new sub-1kg Zenbook A14 in Canada today. This commitment to cutting-edge technology is also reflected in its latest lineup of groundbreaking devices, including the Zenbook DUO, ROG Strix SCAR 18, and ROG Flow Z13—along with many more innovations unveiled at CES 2025. By consistently delivering industry-leading advancements, ASUS reinforces its position as a global technology pioneer.

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    Fortune Ranking: https://fortune.com/ranking/worlds-most-admired-companies/
    Zenbook A14: https://asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-home/zenbook/asus-zenbook-a14-ux3407/
    ASUS Zenbook A14 ASUS Store Where to Buy Link: https://shop.asus.com/ca-en/zenbook-a14-ux3407-copilot-pc.html
    Zenbook DUO: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-home/zenbook/asus-zenbook-duo-2024-ux8406/
    ROG Strix SCAR 18: https://rog.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/rog-strix/rog-strix-scar-18-2025/
    ROG Flow Z13: https://rog.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/rog-flow/rog-flow-z13-2025/
    ASUS LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asus/posts/
    ASUS Pressroom: http://press.asus.com
    ASUS Canada Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asuscanada/
    ASUS Canada Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asus_ca
    ASUS Canada YouTube: https://ca.asus.click/youtube
    ASUS Global X (Twitter): https://www.x.com/asus

    About ASUS

    ASUS is a global technology leader that provides the world’s most innovative and intuitive devices, components, and solutions to deliver incredible experiences that enhance the lives of people everywhere. With its team of 5,000 in-house R&D experts, the company is world-renowned for continuously reimagining today’s technologies. Consistently ranked as one of Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies, ASUS is also committed to sustaining an incredible future. The goal is to create a net zero enterprise that helps drive the shift towards a circular economy, with a responsible supply chain creating shared value for every one of us.

    An image accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c1b7e066-031d-4bab-9d95-fd8f2fd37804

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Bird flu cases surging in UK but risk to humans remains low

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ed Hutchinson, Professor, MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow

    Avian influenza control zones have been put in place in England, Scotland and Wales to control the virus’s spread among birds. AlanMorris/ Shutterstock

    A human case of bird flu has recently been detected in England. This news comes just days after restrictions were put in place to curb the virus’s spread among wild birds and poultry in England and Scotland.

    Although cases of bird flu are surging among birds in the UK, the risk of the virus spreading to humans still remains extremely low. A bit of context about influenza explains why health protection agencies think this is the case.

    There are many different influenza viruses out there. They’re all related, but each specialises in infecting different types of animals.

    Each winter, humans have to deal with three different types of seasonal influenza virus – H1N1, H3N2 and influenza B viruses. Meanwhile, birds, particularly shore birds and waterfowl, contend with a huge number of their own influenza viruses.

    Most of these avian influenza viruses only afflict birds with minor infections of the airway or gut. But a small set cause more serious illness. These are called highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs).

    Among the HPAIVs, the H5N1 strains stand out. H5N1 bird flu, which is largely a disease of wild birds, has been notorious since the late 1990s for causing major die-offs of poultry worldwide – and for occasionally causing serious illness in humans. Viruses evolve rapidly, and in 2020 H5N1 evolved so it could spread more aggressively in wild birds.

    The resulting outbreak tore through bird populations globally, including devastating die-offs in seabird colonies when the virus arrived in the UK in 2021. As it spread, the virus also caused outbreaks in farmed birds.

    All outbreaks ebb and flow. After mid-2023, cases of H5N1 subsided in the UK. However, the virus never fully disappeared – and in autumn 2024, cases in wild birds started increasing again. It’s very hard to keep wild birds and farmed birds apart, and infections in poultry farms soon followed.

    In the UK, the threat of H5N1 to birds is tracked through ongoing surveillance. In response to these rising cases, avian influenza prevention zones have recently been declared for England, Scotland and now Wales. These restrictions aim to reduce the risk of farmed birds getting infected. Anyone keeping birds in England, Scotland and Wales will be required to take additional measures to prevent their birds being infected – including keeping birds under cover in regions facing the greatest risk.

    Wild birds spread the virus to domestic poultry.
    Andrew M. Allport/ Shutterstock

    These prevention zones are an important intervention. But given the current outbreak’s scale in wild birds, these measures will at best only reduce the ongoing risk to farmed birds, rather than eliminating it.

    What does this outbreak mean for humans?

    Despite the serious problems H5N1 is causing for birds, the risk to humans is still very low. Because each virus is closely adapted to a particular host species, it’s really hard for bird flu to infect a human.

    When infections do occur, this is normally only in people who have close contact with birds – and even then it’s an unusual event. The recent case of bird flu in a poultry worker in England is almost certainly an example of this sort of “spillover” infection.

    It’s good to hear the affected person is currently well and that antiviral drugs – which work against these viruses – have been offered to others who may have been exposed. The control measures announced over the weekend will help reduce the risk of other people who work with poultry getting infected.

    If you don’t have close contact with either wild or farmed birds, your chances of being infected are very low indeed. Still, if you come across any dead birds (particularly waterfowl), it’s important to avoid handling them. Try to prevent pets from scavenging bird carcasses and avoid feeding pets raw bird meat from non-commercial sources. Sightings of dead or sick birds can be reported to health protection agencies.

    Because influenza viruses are killed quickly by heat, there should be no risk to the public from eating properly-cooked eggs or poultry. The UK outbreak may also cause temporary difficulties in accessing free-range eggs and an increase in egg prices – things that have already been seen in the US, which is also experiencing a major H5N1 outbreak.

    Is bird flu a problem anywhere else?

    What’s happening in the UK is just one part of an ongoing global H5N1 outbreak.

    In some regions, strains of the virus have managed to spread beyond wild birds and infect mammals as well. In South America, H5N1 is causing devastating outbreaks in seals and sea lions. In the US, it has managed to adapt to dairy cattle and is being shed in their milk.

    There have also been reported human infections. In the US, numerous farm workers have caught H5N1 from cattle, so far with relatively mild symptoms. There have also been two cases of severe illness in the US and Canada in people who caught a slightly different strain of H5N1 from birds, one of which sadly led to the patient’s death.

    These cases underscore the potential risks of H5N1 infections. But because human infections are so rare, how likely each strain of H5N1 is to cause severe disease in humans is still unclear. We also need to be on the lookout for any signs that any H5N1 strain anywhere might gain the ability to spread between humans. This would be an exceptionally unusual event – but to minimise the risk of future influenza pandemics, it’s crucial situations like this are carefully monitored.

    Nothing has been reported which suggests human-to-human transmission has occurred anywhere during the current outbreak. In the UK we have good surveillance for detecting any signs of this if it did. If wider spread did occur, the reserves of vaccines and antiviral drugs that we have in the UK would give us opportunities to intervene.

    For now, bird flu remains a very real problem, but is primarily a problem for birds. By intervening now to protect farmed birds, we hope that we can keep it that way.

    Ed Hutchinson receives funding from the Wellcome Trust and UKRI, including through the Flu:TrailMap-One Health consortium which is working to respond to the H5N1 outbreak. He has unpaid positions on the board of the European Scientific Working group on Influenza and other respiratory viruses (ESWI) and as a scientific adviser to PinPoint Medical.

    – ref. Bird flu cases surging in UK but risk to humans remains low – https://theconversation.com/bird-flu-cases-surging-in-uk-but-risk-to-humans-remains-low-248350

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Funding helps build resilient communities through stronger climate adaptation

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund is administered through the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM), and funds projects that support local governments and First Nations to better prepare for disasters and reduce risks from hazards in a changing climate.

    Communities throughout British Columbia will receive more than $19 million from the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund as follows.

    Funding is divided into three categories:

    • Category 1 (C1): Foundational activities (risk mapping, risk assessments, planning)
    • Category 2 (C2): Non-structural activities (land-use planning, community education, purchase of eligible equipment)
    • Category 3 (C3): Small-scale structural activities

    Canal Flats – C3: Phase 1 dike improvement project
    Amount: $400,000

    Clearwater – C2: Improvements for stormwater management
    Amount: $138,000

    Comox Valley Regional District – C2: Extreme-weather equipment
    Regional partners: Comox, Courtenay, Cumberland, K’ómoks First Nation
    Amount: $100,000

    Coquitlam – C1: Disaster-risk reduction planning
    Amount: $150,000

    Cranbrook – C3: Gold Creek dam replacement
    Amount: $5 million

    Creston – C1: Hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment
    Amount: $150,000

    Delta – C1: Mason drainage pump station design
    Amount: $150,000

    Fraser-Fort George Regional District – C1: Regional heat and drought threat assessment/mapping; C2: Partner engagement to improve hazard-resilient development
    Regional partners: Prince George, McBride, Mackenzie, Valemount, Lheidli-T’enneh First Nation, McLeod Lake Indian Band
    Amount: $716,876

    Hope – C1: Hazard identification and risk mapping
    Amount: $150,000

    Invermere – C3: Toby Dike upgrades
    Amount: $810,000

    Kamloops – C1: Watershed climate change adaptation planning
    Amount: $150,000

    Keremeos – C1: Hazard, risk and vulnerability analysis
    Amount: $49,800

    Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation – C1: Climate adaptation planning
    Amount: $77,200

    Kwikwetlem First Nation – C1: Flood-mitigation project design
    Amount: $145,190

    Lake Country – C1: Climate change hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment
    Amount: $150,000

    Lower Similkameen Indian Band – C1: Hazard risk and vulnerability planning
    Amount: $49,800

    Lumby – C1: Lumby industrial area dike planning
    Amount: $150,000

    Merritt – C2: Bulk bags for flood response; C3: Voght Street overland water pumping station
    Amount: $4.8 million

    Nelson – C1: Community preparation for extreme temperatures
    Amount: $95,280.00

    Okanagan-Similkameen Regional District – C2: Tiger Dam trailers for emergency flood response
    Regional Partners: Osoyoos, Keremeos, Lower Similkameen Indian Band
    Amount: $600,000

    Oliver – C1: Hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment
    Amount: $50,000

    Osoyoos – C1: Hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment
    Amount: $49,150

    Osoyoos Indian Band – C1: Hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment
    Amount: $50,000

    Peace River Regional District – C1: Hazard assessment, mapping and risk management
    Regional Partners: Blueberry River First Nations, Chetwynd, Dawson Creek, Doig River First Nation, Pouce Coupe, Tumbler Ridge, Hudson’s Hope, Saulteau First Nations, Taylor, Halfway River First Nation, West Moberly First Nations
    Amount: $1.35 million

    Pemberton – C1: Arn Canal pumping station design
    Amount: $60,000

    Richmond – C2: Flood protection and rain gauge monitoring stations
    Amount: $150,000

    Sema:th First Nation (Sumas) – C3: Floodwater conveyance project
    Amount: $195,440

    Skeetchestn Indian Band – C1: Flood-mitigation planning
    Amount: $89,500

    Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) – C1: Assessment for tree planting to reduce extreme-heat hazards
    Amount: $148,722

    SnPink’tn (Penticton Indian Band) – C1: Hazard, risk and vulnerability planning
    Amount: $60,650

    Sooke – C1: Climate adaptation and natural hazard-risk assessment
    Amount: 150,000

    Strathcona Regional District – C1: Port McNeill climate change infrastructure impact assessment; Gold River Road to Tsa’xana Road slope stability assessment; C2 Tsunami and flood-mitigation public information and education; C3: Cortes Kw’as Park and Road flood mitigation
    Regional partners: Mount Waddington Regional District, Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation, Nuchatlaht First Nation, Port McNeill, Tahsis, Zeballos
    Amount: $354,960

    Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek) – C1: Extreme-weather planning
    Amount: $105,000

    Tlowitsis Nation – C1: Risk mapping, assessment and planning; C2: sub-regional road map, public engagement and workshops
    Amount: $296,700

    Vancouver – C1: Streets network seismic and flooding risk assessment – Phase 1; C2: Extreme-weather mitigation equipment
    Amount: $300,000

    Vanderhoof – C3: Riverbank erosion mitigation
    Amount: $59,410

    West Kelowna – C1: Pike and Capri roads diking design
    Amount: $150,000

    Whispering Pines/Clinton Indian Band – C1: Heat-impact mitigation planning
    Amount: $36,700

    Xwémalhkwu (Homalco) – C1: Wetland restoration design; C2: Public education project; C3: Willow Creek watershed resilience, culvert replacement
    Amount: $1.54 million

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: NEWS RELEASE: CanREA marks fifth anniversary with special industry data report

    Source: – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: NEWS RELEASE: CanREA marks fifth anniversary with special industry data report

    Canada’s installed capacity of wind energy, solar energy & energy storage is now more than 24 GW, up by 46% in the last five years.

    Ottawa, January 30, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is pleased to release a new, five-year industry data report announcing that Canada’s wind, solar and energy-storage sectors have grown by 46% in the last five years, with a new installed capacity of more than 24 GW at the end of 2024.

    CanREA released the report today as part of its five-year anniversary celebrations. Since the Association was launched in 2020, the industry increased its installed capacity by nearly 7.6 GW. This total includes more than 4.7 GW of new utility-scale wind, nearly 2 GW of new utility-scale solar, more than 600 MW of new on-site solar, and more than 200 MW of new energy storage.

    “Canada’s wind, solar and energy storage industry grew impressively over the past five years—and we expect to see significantly more growth in the next five years,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. “But this is not nearly enough. Canada has massive, untapped wind and solar resources that can and should be harnessed to provide the affordable, clean, scalable electricity needed in all jurisdictions.”

    In total, Canadian jurisdictions can expect to connect at least 10,000 MW of new wind, solar and storage by the start of 2030, according to CanREA’s Clean Energy Procurement Calendar.

    CanREA is also tracking another 5,000 MW that will come into service beyond that time frame, for a grand total of more than 15,000 MW of procurements that are either currently underway or being planned across the country. This represents more than $30B in investment.

    “This investment is crucial in establishing resilient, sustainable infrastructure that can support Canada’s economic and environmental ambitions,” said Bellissimo.

    “We have been calling on all provinces and territories to increase the pace of buildout in their jurisdictions, and we are pleased to see that many have answered the call. That said, we can do so much more. Every new wind, solar, and energy storage project brings us closer to a cleaner energy mix and a decarbonized grid,” said Bellissimo.

    Facts at a glance

    Canada’s total wind, solar and storage installed capacity grew 46% in the past 5 years (2019-2024), including nearly 5 GW of new wind, 2 GW of new utility-scale solar, 600 MW of new on-site solar, and 200 MW of new energy storage.

    Canada’s solar energy capacity (utility-scale and onsite) grew 92% in the past 5 years (2019-2024).

    Canada’s wind energy capacity grew 35% in the past 5 years (2019-2024).

    Canada’s energy storage capacity grew 192% in the past 5 years (2019-2024).

    Canada’s total wind, solar and storage installed capacity is now more than 24 GW, including over 18 GW of wind, more than 4 GW of utility-scale solar, 1+ GW on-site solar, and 330 MW energy storage.

    Canada now has 341 wind energy projects producing power across the country.

    Canada now has 217 major solar energy projects producing power across the country.

    There are now nearly 96,000 onsite solar energy installations across Canada.
    For more facts at a glance, see CanREA’s “By the Numbers” webpage.

    For more information

    To download a summary of CanREA’s latest industry data, visit CanREA’s “By the Numbers” webpage. CanREA members have access to a more detailed report on the members-only side of the website.

    Quotes

    “Canada’s wind, solar and energy storage industry grew impressively over the past five years—and we expect to see significantly more growth in the next five years—but this is not nearly enough. Canada has massive, untapped wind and solar resources that can and should be harnessed to provide the affordable, clean, scalable electricity needed in all jurisdictions.” 

    “This investment is crucial in establishing resilient, sustainable infrastructure that can support Canada’s economic and environmental ambitions, driving progress toward a net-zero future.”

     “We have been calling on all provinces and territories to increase the pace of buildout in their jurisdictions, and we are pleased to see that many have answered the call. That said, we can do so much more. Every new wind, solar, and energy storage project brings us closer to a cleaner energy mix and a decarbonized grid.”
    —Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association

    For media interview opportunities, please contact:

    Bridget Wayland, Senior Director of CommunicationsCanadian Renewable Energy Associationcommunications@renewablesassociation.ca

    About CanREA

    The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on X and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter here. Become a member here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.
    The post NEWS RELEASE: CanREA marks fifth anniversary with special industry data report appeared first on Canadian Renewable Energy Association.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canada’s electric vehicle industry is facing existential threats — here’s how it can still flourish

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Charles Conteh, Professor of Public Policy and Administration, Department of Political Science, Brock University

    The electric vehicle (EV) industry has been one of the most defining technological trends of the past decade, transforming the automotive sector while fuelling advancements in manufacturing.

    Yet after billions of taxpayer dollars have been invested, the EV industry in Canada is facing headwinds. Chief among these are the trade tariff threats from U.S. President Donald Trump.

    For a country with an automotive sector that exports 91 per cent of its parts to the U.S., the threats feel existential. They may also be seen as a betrayal of the centuries-long economic and cultural partnership between two neighbours sharing one of the world’s longest and most porous borders.

    Adding to these international headwinds are three other obstacles within the EV industry: high costs, limited battery range and sparse battery charging infrastructure. These concerns continue to affect firms here in Canada, with the likes of Stellantis juggling high inventory, slow sales and falling revenue.

    These challenges have sparked skepticism about the future of EVs in Canada and whether the federal and provincial governments’ multi-billion-dollar investments in the industry are wise.

    As researchers who study Canada and other countries’ innovation policy initiatives amid breakneck changes in technologies and markets, we argue that Canada has every reason to ratchet up its commitments in the months and years ahead.

    Along with artificial intelligence, EV represents the emergent frontier of advanced manufacturing in the digital age. Winners of this innovation race will stand to dominate the global market for the foreseeable future.

    The case for staying the course

    Despite current challenges, EVs remain the future of the automotive sector. Even conservative estimates suggest that by 2040, around three-quarters of new car sales will be fully electric globally.

    Canada’s position in the EV industry is stronger than recent news coverage indicates. The country ranked first among 30 countries in a 2024 EV battery supply chain report, outperforming even China.

    This ranking reflects Canada’s vast reserves of critical minerals essential for EV battery production and its burgeoning battery manufacturing sector.

    Over the past few years, Canada has attracted significant investments from manufacturers like Umicore, Northvolt and Volkswagen-owned PowerCo.

    Canada has reasons to be optimistic about EV and energy storage demand. While concerns about U.S. protectionism loom, Canada’s commitment to zero-emission vehicles ensures fiscal incentives and policies that will likely boost short-term demand.

    On the environmental, social and governance front, Canada outperforms many of its global competitors in battery manufacturing. Though by no means perfect, the country’s climate change policy ambitions, clean electricity grid and commitment to sustainable mining position it as a global leader in the EV space.

    Advanced manufacturing

    Canada’s robust innovation ecosystem for advanced manufacturing is another key strength. A prime example is the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN).

    OVIN commercializes advanced automotive technologies and manages the development, testing, piloting and uptake of transportation and infrastructure technologies. It operates seven regional technology development sites across Ontario, including in Waterloo, Hamilton, Windsor-Essex, Durham and Toronto.

    By serving as a bridge between government, industry and researchers, OVIN has become a model for multi-level governance, with projects jointly funded by the federal and provincial governments and close working relationships with municipalities.

    As the EV industry navigates economic and policy challenges, initiatives like OVIN are crucial for driving long-term growth and competitiveness.

    The road ahead

    While Canada’s automotive innovation ecosystem is generally robust, it requires some calibration to overcome current challenges and claim the next frontier of the global EV race.

    In particular, Canada needs to consolidate its EV innovation ecosystem by integrating the upstream of its domestic supply chain assets with the downstream of its technology commercialization and adoption.

    In other words, this means getting more critical minerals to market and making sure a substantial portion of the materials mined in Canada are processed and used domestically to build batteries and vehicles, so the entire EV production cycle benefits Canada’s economy.

    Such an endeavour will require Canada to establish the right policies, regulations and financial support to tap into its vast reserves of critical minerals to supply the country’s battery plants.

    It is the presence of these reserves that made Canada attractive to the automakers in the first place. Leveraging them wisely will be critical for the country’s long-term success in the EV industry.

    Charles Conteh receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    Tia Henstra 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. Canada’s electric vehicle industry is facing existential threats — here’s how it can still flourish – https://theconversation.com/canadas-electric-vehicle-industry-is-facing-existential-threats-heres-how-it-can-still-flourish-248103

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: ASUS Announces the Ultra-Light Zenbook A14, Now Available for Pre-Order in Canada

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KEY POINTS

    • Unload: Sub-1kg minimalist tone-on-tone all-Ceraluminum™ chassis for the ultimate on-the-go experience
    • Unplugged: Energy-efficient Snapdragon® X AI-enabled processor can deliver multi-working-day battery life
    • Unlimited: Optimum Copilot+ performance, user-centric design and seamless cross-device experiences

    TORONTO, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ASUS today announced that the Zenbook A14 (UX3407QA-DS52-CA) — the lightest 14-inch Copilot+ PC on the market1, and also the first all-Ceraluminum™ ASUS laptop, is now available for pre-order online on the ASUS Store, with shipments beginning on February 14th. It will also be available at select retailers starting February 14th, with additional configurations available later in the year. In addition to being the lightest 14-inch Copilot+ PC on the market2, the Zenbook A14 is also the first ASUS laptop boasting the new Qualcomm Snapdragon X® AI-enabled processor, offering extreme efficiency and up to 32 hours of battery life3.

    Unload: Redefining thin and light

    Weighing in at 990g (2.18lbs) – which is around 450g (1lb) less than most thin and light laptops4 – Zenbook A14 sets the new benchmark for ultraportable Copilot+ PCs. Its elegant, lightweight design is ideal for frequent travelers, allowing them to move effortlessly without being weighed down by their tech.

    The chassis is crafted entirely from our innovative Ceraluminum™, a sumptuously tactile material that’s 30% lighter and three times stronger than anodized aluminum. This advanced material ensures durability and portability, making it ideal for everyday use. The nature-inspired Iceland Gray colorway adds a sophisticated touch to the minimalist look, aligning with the Zenbook tradition of timeless design.

    Unplugged: Multi-day battery life

    Zenbook A14 delivers outstanding multi-day battery life, enabled by the power-efficient Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ X Series processor and a high-capacity 70Wh battery. It can provide up to 32 hours of continuous video playback on a single charge, ensuring no interruption over the course of multiple working days.

    The innovative thermal solution, featuring dual lightweight fans and a heat pipe, optimizes key component placement for quiet, effective cooling. With performance reaching up to 45W chipset power and a 0dB Whisper Mode for silent operation, the laptop offers exceptional power efficiency. Even when unplugged, Zenbook A14 delivers consistent performance with no drop in capabilities, making it the perfect travel companion for long flights, road trips, or meeting-packed days.

    Unlimited: A Copilot+ PC driven by the Qualcomm®Snapdragon™ X Series

    With a Qualcomm® Hexagon NPU (up to 45 TOPS) for AI tasks, Zenbook A14 offers advanced Copilot+ PC experiences, offering real-time insights, performance optimization, and enhanced responsiveness for multi-tasking and productivity. Users can expect seamless video playback, efficient app loading, and rapid task switching.

    Zenbook A14 comes with Microsoft Phone Link to allow users to connect their Android or iOS mobile phone to Windows. Additionally, it also comes with Qualcomm Snapdragon™ Seamless™ integration, which creates a cross-device ecosystem that allows users to switch between compatible Qualcomm® Snapdragon™-powered devices without interruption. It enhances productivity by enabling easy file sharing, screen mirroring, and synchronization between mobile devices and the laptop.

    Security is a top priority with smart privacy features, including Adaptive Lock and Adaptive Dimming to secure sensitive information when users step away from the laptop, and a Microsoft Pluton security chip for an additional layer of hardware protection. The Windows passkey feature offers an added layer of login security.

    Zenbook A14 also offers a refined user experience with an enlarged touchpad featuring Smart Gesture support for comfortable navigation, smudge-free keycaps on the well-spaced keys that have a comfortable 1.3mm travel, and a full suite of I/O ports that allows users to connect devices and peripherals without the need for adapters or dongles. The user-centric design also includes a precision-designed ASUS EasyLift™ hinge for stable, wobble-free screen opening and balanced weight distribution.

    For an immersive multimedia experience, the Zenbook A14 boasts a 14-inch WUXGA Lumina OLED NanoEdge display that delivers vibrant colors and deep contrasts, supported by two powerful speakers for rich audio output. Snapdragon Sound™ features High-Resolution Audio for rich, detailed 24-bit / 192kHz sound, ultra-low latency to ensure audio syncs seamlessly with visuals, and advanced noise cancelation to reduce background noise for clear voice calls and immersive audio.

    AVAILABILITY & PRICING

    The Zenbook A14 (UX3407QA-DS52-CA) powered by the Snapdragon™ X processor is available for pre-order now on the ASUS Store, with deliveries starting from February 14, 2025. More configurations will be available later in Q1.

    • Zenbook A14 (UX3407QA-DS52-CA), (beige) with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage for CA$1,299 at selected retailers and the ASUS Store, available for pre-order starting from today.
    • Zenbook A14 (UX3407QA-BS51-CB), grey version with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage for CA$1,449 in exclusivity on Best Buy and the ASUS Store, available starting from end of February 2025.
    • Zenbook A14 (UX3407QA-DS51-CA), grey version with 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage for CA$1,649 at selected retailers and the ASUS Store, available later in Q1 2025.

    Please contact your local ASUS representative for further information.

    SPECIFICATIONS

    ASUS Zenbook A14 (UX3407) 

    Model UX3407QA-DS52-CA UX3407QA-BS51-CB UX3407QA-DS51-CA
    Marketing Name Zenbook A14
    Operating System Windows 11 Home
    Color Zabriskie Beige Iceland Gray Iceland Gray
    Material Magnesium Aluminum
    Weight 990g (2.18lbs)
    Dimensions 31.07 x 21.39 x 1.34 ~ 1.59 cm (12.23″ x 8.42″ x 0.53″ ~ 0.63″)
    Display OLED, 14″, 60Hz, 1920×1200, 100% DCI-P3
    Processor Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ X
    Graphics Qualcomm® Adreno™ GPU
    Memory 16GB LPDDR5X (on board) 16GB LPDDR5X (on board) 32GB LPDDR5X (on board)
    Storage 512 Gb PCIe 4.0 SSD (1 x M.2 2280 slot) 1 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD (1 x M.2 2280 slot) 1 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD (1 x M.2 2280 slot)
    Keyboard English Bilingual French English
    Webcam 1080 FHD IR Camera
    Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth 5.3
    IO Ports 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
    2 x USB 4.0 Gen 3 Type-C (DP, PD support) 
    1 x HDMI 2.1 (TMDS) 
    1 x 3.5 Audio Combo Jack
    Battery 70Whr
    AC Adapter Type-C, 65W AC Adapter, Output: 20V DC, 3.25A, 65W, Input: 100-240V AC 50/60GHz universal
    Availability ASUS Store and selected retailers, pre-order now ASUS Store and Best Buy, late February ASUS Store and selected retailers later in Q1
    MSRP C$1,299 C$1,449 C$1,649


    NOTES TO EDITORS

    ASUS Zenbook A14 (UX3407) Product Page: https://asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-home/zenbook/asus-zenbook-a14-ux3407/

    ASUS Zenbook A14 ASUS Store Where to Buy Link: https://shop.asus.com/ca-en/zenbook-a14-ux3407-copilot-pc.html

    ASUS Zenbook Page: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/site/zenbook/

    ASUS LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asus/posts/

    ASUS Pressroom: http://press.asus.com

    ASUS Canada Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asuscanada/

    ASUS Canada Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asus_ca

    ASUS Canada YouTube: https://ca.asus.click/youtube

    ASUS Global X (Twitter): https://www.x.com/asus

    About ASUS

    ASUS is a global technology leader that provides the world’s most innovative and intuitive devices, components, and solutions to deliver incredible experiences that enhance the lives of people everywhere. With its team of 5,000 in-house R&D experts, the company is world-renowned for continuously reimagining today’s technologies. Consistently ranked as one of Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies, ASUS is also committed to sustaining an incredible future. The goal is to create a net zero enterprise that helps drive the shift towards a circular economy, with a responsible supply chain creating shared value for every one of us.

    _____________________________________
    ¹ According to overall laptop weight, as of December 31, 2024 based on internal ASUS market analysis comparing Zenbook A14 (UX3407) with competing products in its class (laptops certified by Microsoft as Copilot+ PCs) from multiple vendors.
    ² According to overall laptop weight, as of December 31, 2024, based on internal ASUS market analysis comparing Zenbook A14 (UX3407) with competing products in its class (laptops certified by Microsoft as Copilot+ PCs) from vendors including Acer, Apple, HP, Huawei, Lenovo, Microsoft and Samsung.
    ³ Battery tests conducted by ASUS on August 7, 2024, using the 1080p Video Playback scenario. Test configuration: Zenbook A14 (UX3407), FHD OLED panel, Qualcomm Snapdragon X CPU, 1TB SSD, 32GB RAM. Test settings: WiFi enabled but disconnected (not connected to any access point), Windows Power Plan set to Balanced, display brightness set to 150cd/m2. Actual battery life may vary depending on product configuration, usage, operational conditions and power management settings. Battery life will decrease over the lifetime of the battery.
    ⁴ The 15-inch Apple Macbook Air (M3 chip) is 3.3 lbs. The 14-inch Lenovo Slim 7i Aura Edition is 2.84 lbs. The 13.8-inch Microsoft Surface 7th Edition is 2.96 lbs.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/93149c0f-c652-42c7-a4ac-03d1b2c752fe

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Twillingate and Marystown — Uninsured drivers ticketed in Virgin Arm and Marystown by RCMP NL

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Two uninsured drivers were stopped and ticketed by RCMP NL on January 29, 2025, in the communities of Virgin Arm and Marystown.

    Shortly before 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Twillingate RCMP stopped a vehicle on Main Street in Virgin Arm. The driver, a 26-year-old man who held a novice driver’s licence, was operating a vehicle without insurance.

    Shortly before 3:30 p.m., on Columbia Drive in Marystown, Burin Peninsula RCMP conducted a traffic stop and found that the driver, a 44-year-old man, was operating without insurance.

    Both drivers were ticketed and the vehicles were seized and impounded.

    RCMP NL has the ability to confirm a vehicle’s current registration and insurance status by checking a vehicle’s licence plate. The information is electronically readily available. Although a driver is required to provide proof of insurance, police do not rely solely upon the information contained within the “pink slip” as proof of insurance.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: From chatbot to sexbot: What lawmakers can learn from South Korea’s AI hate-speech disaster

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Jul Parke, PhD Candidate in Media, Technology & Culture, University of Toronto

    The chatbot Iruda began expressing hateful views after some users “trained” it with toxic language. Here a newer version of Iruda is shown. (Scatter Lab)

    As artificial intelligence technologies develop at accelerated rates, the methods of governing companies and platforms continue to raise ethical and legal concerns.

    In Canada, many view proposed laws to regulate AI offerings as attacks on free speech and as overreaching government control on tech companies. This backlash has come from free speech advocates, right-wing figures and libertarian thought leaders.

    However, these critics should pay attention to a harrowing case from South Korea that offers important lessons about the risks of public-facing AI technologies and the critical need for user data protection.

    In late 2020, Iruda (or “Lee Luda”), an AI chatbot, quickly became a sensation in South Korea. AI chatbots are computer programs that simulate conversation with humans. In this case, the chatbot was designed as a 21-year-old female college student with a cheerful personality. Marketed as an exciting “AI friend,” Iruda attracted more than 750,000 users in under a month.

    But within weeks, Iruda became an ethics case study and a catalyst for addressing a lack of data governance in South Korea. She soon started to say troubling things and express hateful views. The situation was accelerated and exacerbated by the growing culture of digital sexism and sexual harassment online.

    Making a sexist, hateful chatbot

    Scatter Lab, the tech startup that created Iruda, had already developed popular apps that analyzed emotions in text messages and offered dating advice. The company then used data from these apps to train Iruda’s abilities in intimate conversations. But it failed to fully disclose to users that their intimate messages would be used to train the chatbot.

    The problems began when users noticed Iruda repeating private conversations verbatim from the company’s dating advice apps. These responses included suspiciously real names, credit card information and home addresses, leading to an investigation.

    The chatbot also began expressing discriminatory and hateful views. Investigations by media outlets found this occurred after some users deliberately “trained” it with toxic language. Some users even created user guides on how to make Iruda a “sex slave” on popular online men’s forums. Consequently, Iruda began answering user prompts with sexist, homophobic and sexualized hate speech.

    This raised serious concerns about how AI and tech companies operate. The Iruda incident also raises concerns beyond policy and law for AI and tech companies. What happened with Iruda needs to be examined within a broader context of online sexual harassment in South Korea.

    A pattern of digital harassment

    South Korean feminist scholars have documented how digital platforms have become battlegrounds for gender-based conflicts, with co-ordinated campaigns targeting women who speak out on feminist issues. Social media amplifies these dynamics, creating what Korean American researcher Jiyeon Kim calls “networked misogyny.”

    South Korea, home to the radical feminist 4B movement (which stands for four types of refusal against men: no dating, marriage, sex or children), provides an early example of the intensified gender-based conversations that are commonly seen online worldwide. As journalist Hawon Jung points out, the corruption and abuse exposed by Iruda stemmed from existing social tensions and legal frameworks that refused to address online misogyny. Jung has written extensively on the decades-long struggle to prosecute hidden cameras and revenge porn.

    Beyond privacy: The human cost

    Of course, Iruda was just one incident. The world has seen numerous other cases that demonstrate how seemingly harmless applications like AI chatbots can become vehicles for harassment and abuse without proper oversight.

    These include Microsoft’s Tay.ai in 2016, which was manipulated by users to spout antisemitic and misogynistic tweets. More recently, a custom chatbot on Character.AI was linked to a teen’s suicide.

    Chatbots — that appear as likeable characters that feel increasingly human with rapid technology advancements — are uniquely equipped to extract deeply personal information from their users.

    These attractive and friendly AI figures exemplify what technology scholars Neda Atanasoski and Kalindi Vora describe as the logic of “surrogate humanity” — where AI systems are designed to stand in for human interaction but end up amplifying existing social inequalities.

    AI ethics

    In South Korea, Iruda’s shutdown sparked a national conversation about AI ethics and data rights. The government responded by creating new AI guidelines and fining Scatter Lab 103 million won ($110,000 CAD).

    However, Korean legal scholars Chea Yun Jung and Kyun Kyong Joo note these measures primarily emphasized self-regulation within the tech industry rather than addressing deeper structural issues. It did not address how Iruda became a mechanism through which predatory male users disseminated misogynist beliefs and gender-based rage through deep learning technology.

    Ultimately, looking at AI regulation as a corporate issue is simply not enough. The way these chatbots extract private data and build relationships with human users means that feminist and community-based perspectives are essential for holding tech companies accountable.

    Since this incident, Scatter Lab has been working with researchers to demonstrate the benefits of chatbots.

    Canada needs strong AI policy

    In Canada, the proposed Artificial Intelligence and Data Act and Online Harms Act are still being shaped, and the boundaries of what constitutes a “high-impact” AI system remain undefined.

    The challenge for Canadian policymakers is to create frameworks that protect innovation while preventing systemic abuse by developers and malicious users. This means developing clear guidelines about data consent, implementing systems to prevent abuse, and establishing meaningful accountability measures.

    As AI becomes more integrated into our daily lives, these considerations will only become more critical. The Iruda case shows that when it comes to AI regulation, we need to think beyond technical specifications and consider the very real human implications of these technologies.

    Join us for a live ‘Don’t Call Me Resilient’ podcast recording with Jul Parke on Wednesday, February 5 from 5-6 p.m. at Massey College in Toronto. Free to attend. RSVP here.

    Jul Parke receives funding from the Department of Canadian Heritage and the Social Sciences and Humanities Council of Canada.

    – ref. From chatbot to sexbot: What lawmakers can learn from South Korea’s AI hate-speech disaster – https://theconversation.com/from-chatbot-to-sexbot-what-lawmakers-can-learn-from-south-koreas-ai-hate-speech-disaster-247152

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: B.C. helps fruit growers prepare for extreme weather

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    New funding is available to help tree-fruit growers prepare their orchards for extreme weather so people can continue to enjoy the B.C. peaches, cherries and apples that so many farming families and communities depend on.

    “Last summer, British Columbians saw almost no local cherries available and missed out on having delicious Okanagan peaches to enjoy,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “We know these climate impacts will continue, which is why we’re helping growers with a new program so their crops and businesses become more resilient in the face of increasingly challenging growing conditions.”

    The new $5-million Tree Fruit Climate Resiliency program will help fund things such as protective covers, energy-efficient heaters and wind machines to help during periods of extreme cold, as well as canopy sprinklers and shade protection to help ward off the effects of extreme heat. The program also is open to applications for innovative projects to support industry resiliency.

    “The Okanagan is home to B.C.’s iconic tree-fruit sector and through my conversations with growers, I know how hard it has been for them to deal with the effects of extreme heat and extreme cold,” said Harwinder Sandhu, parliamentary secretary for agriculture and MLA for Vernon-Lumby. “Climate change is a real challenge for our farming communities and this new program will help growers with projects and equipment that support their farms’ profitability, resiliency and sustainable food production for the years ahead.”

    Multiple growers may also jointly apply for a project that benefits more than one producer, such as a wind machine that could be used on multiple properties.

    “As one of B.C.’s largest cherry producers, we are seeing an increasingly volatile climate stretching the ability of growers to adapt,” said David Geen, CEO of Jealous Fruits Ltd. “Climate mitigation strategies, such as frost-control materials, installation of wind machines, and researching and developing hardier genetics and varieties can all contribute to a more stable cherry industry. It is great that the B.C. government is listening to grower concerns and providing funding for these industry endeavours.” 

    The program was developed with input from the B.C.Fruit Growers Association and the B.C. Cherry Association. The program was announced in August 2024 as one part of government’s efforts to help tree-fruit growers through challenges faced by their industry.

    “We greatly appreciate the B.C. government’s commitment to supporting tree-fruit growers with the new $5-million Tree Fruit Climate Resiliency program. This funding is a significant step toward helping us prepare our orchards for the challenges posed by extreme weather, ensuring that families and communities can continue to enjoy our locally grown peaches, cherries, and apples,” said Deep Brar, vice-president, B.C. Fruit Growers’ Association, and a tree-fruit grower. “The climate has been exceptionally tough on our growers for the past few years, with devastating impacts from heat domes and cold snaps. We look forward to working closely with the government and other stakeholders to ensure the tree fruit industry in British Columbia remains strong and sustainable for generations to come.”

    Quick Facts:

    • The $5-million program will provide 80% cost-share funding for eligible projects up to a maximum of $100,000 per farm business.
    • Applications are being accepted and will continue until funds are fully committed.
    • Ministry of Agriculture and Food staff are available to answer questions regarding eligible activities, costs and/or the application process.
    • Applicants can contact AgriServiceBC@gov.bc.ca with questions about the program or to receive support in developing their applications.
    • The program builds on the extreme-weather-preparedness program and offers specific support to tree-fruit producers following several years of extreme weather that severely affected peach, pear, plum, cherry and apple producers.

    Learn More:

    Program and application information are available here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/programs/tree-fruit-climate-resiliency-program

    Additional support for B.C. Fruit growers was announced in August: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024AF0035-001295

    MIL OSI Canada News –