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Category: Canada

  • MIL-OSI Economics: WTO members review latest notifications of anti-dumping actions

    Source: WTO

    Headline: WTO members review latest notifications of anti-dumping actions

    The Committee reviewed new notifications of legislation submitted by Brazil, Cabo Verde, Solomon Islands and the United States. It continued its review of the legislative notifications of the European Union, Ghana, Liberia, and Saint Kitts and Nevis.
    In reviewing semi-annual notifications on anti-dumping actions, delegations questioned and discussed the practices of other members including in relation to the initiation of investigations, the imposition of provisional and final anti-dumping measures, and the review of existing anti-dumping measures. Delegations questioned and discussed actions contained in the semi-annual reports submitted by Brazil, China, the European Union, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, South Africa, Türkiye, the United Kingdom and the United States. In presenting its semi-annual report, Ukraine expressed concerns over the war in Ukraine and the effects on its domestic industry.
    In respect of the semi-annual reports covering the period 1 January – 30 June 2024, 45 members notified the Committee of anti-dumping actions taken in this period, while 15 reported no new anti-dumping actions in the same period. In addition, 51 members submitted one-time notifications indicating they have not established an authority competent to initiate and conduct an investigation and have not, to date, taken any anti-dumping actions.
    In addition to the semi-annual reports, the WTO’s Anti-Dumping Agreement requires members to submit without delay – on an ad hoc basis – notifications of all preliminary and final anti-dumping actions taken. Ad hoc notifications reviewed during the meeting were received from Argentina; Armenia; Australia; Brazil; Canada; Chile; China; the European Union; Georgia; India; Israel; Japan; Kazakhstan; the Republic of Korea; the Kyrgyz Republic; Mexico; Morocco; Pakistan; the Russian Federation; South Africa; Chinese Taipei; Türkiye; Ukraine; the United Kingdom; and the United States. Members raised questions and discussed actions taken by Australia, China and Morocco. Canada encouraged members to submit timely ad hoc notifications and raised concerns about the conduct of investigations it considered to be politically motivated which are not based on sufficient evidence or justification. 
    In the absence of the Chair of the Committee Mr Mohamed Zuhair Taous (Tunisia), the interim Chair Mr Wolfram Spelten (Germany), who was elected to preside over the October 2024 meetings of the Committee and of its subsidiary bodies, urged members that had not submitted semi-annual reports and ad hoc notifications of actions taken to do so promptly. The interim Chair welcomed members’ continued extensive use of the anti-dumping portal to submit their semi-annual reports. 
    The Committee adopted its 2024 annual report to the Council for Trade in Goods.
    Next meetings
    The Committee decided that its spring and autumn meetings for 2025 would be held in the weeks of 28 April and 27 October 2025, respectively.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: PEI RCMP Headquarters  — RCMP analyze fatal crashes and find 3 leading contributors

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    November 4, 2024, RCMP HQ -PEI RCMP recently conducted an analysis of the leading contributing factor of fatal collisions on PEI in RCMP Jurisdiction. Between January 1st 2019 and October 31st, 2024 there have been 68 fatal collisions resulting in 80 lives lost.

    The leading contributing factors of the PEI fatal collision are:

    1. Not wearing a seatbelt (35% of fatal collisions)
    2. Impaired driving (34% of fatal collisions)
    3. Speed (26% of fatal collisions)

    Note that these are cases when causation could be determined. It is possible that the actual percentages could be higher.

    Impaired driving is attributed to 23 of the 80 lives lost.

    The PEI RCMP work closely with the PEI Justice and Public Safety who have recognized that impaired driving, speeding and lack of seatbelt use has continued to be a problem on the Island. In the last 4 years, Justice and Public Safety has funded 4 additional Traffic Services positions for the RCMP, bringing our team up to 6 Traffic officers.

    RCMP stopped 16 impaired drivers in October; this includes impaired drivers by alcohol (9), drug (5), and those who refuse a police test demand (2). Note that many of these cases are awaiting blood sample results prior to charges being laid. The total arrests by RCMP so far in 2024 now stands at 212, last year RCMP in PEI made over 230 impaired driving arrests.

    “Recent data on fatal collisions in PEI underscores the reality that many of these fatalities are preventable. This report highlights the importance of slowing down, reporting impaired drivers and wearing your seatbelt. Through education and enforcement, we hope to reduce these tragedies,” says Chief Superintendent Kevin Lewis, Commanding Officer of the Prince Edward Island RCMP.

    Note to Media:

    • The RCMP Report on Road Fatalities is available upon request.
    • There has been one additional road fatality since this report was authored.
    • All data is for PEI RCMP Jurisdiction ONLY.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Harbour Grace — RCMP Traffic Services East arrests prohibited driver for impaired operation in Carbonear

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 58-year-old man, who has a lifetime driving prohibition, was arrested by RCMP Traffic Services East for impaired driving on November 1, 2024, in Carbonear.

    Shortly after 10:00 a.m. on Friday, police attempted to stop a vehicle on Adelaide Street. The driver fled from police and was located a short time later after he got his vehicle stuck in a field on Mahaney’s Lane.

    The driver showed signs of impairment and was arrested. At the detachment, he refused to provide breath samples.

    He will appear in court at a later date to answer to charges of prohibited driving, impaired operation and refusing a breath demand. The driver was also ticketed for having no registration or insurance. The vehicle was seized and impounded.

    RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lower Sackville — RCMP charge a man involved in home invasion

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment has charged a man involved in a home invasion that occurred in Lower Sackville.

    On November 3, at approximately 5:45 p.m., RCMP officers responded to a report of a disturbance at a residence on Balsam Circle.

    Investigators learned that a man armed with a knife had gained entry into the home through the front door and proceeded to assault a male resident located in a bedroom. The victim, a 73-year-old Lower Sackville man, suffered serious injuries and was transported to hospital by EHS.

    No other injuries were reported by the three other adult occupants of the home.

    At the scene, RCMP officers located and safely arrested an 18-year-old man involved in the incident.

    The two men are known to one another and investigators believe the incident was targeted in nature.

    Devon Rafuse, of Halifax, has been charged with Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose, Breaking and Entering with Intent and Aggravated Assault. He was held in custody and will appear in Dartmouth Provincial Court today.

    File #: 24-151248

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Clarenville — Clarenville RCMP investigates fatal collision on TCH west of Clarenville

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 53-year-old man is deceased following a collision that occurred on the Trans-Canada Highway (TCH) near Clarenville on November 1, 2024.

    Shortly before 1:45 p.m. on Friday, Clarenville RCMP received and responded to the report of a head-on collision involving a car and a commercial gravel truck that occurred on the TCH approximately six kilometers west of Clarenville. Upon arrival, officers located the lone occupant of the car, who had been ejected from the vehicle and died at the scene. The driver of the gravel truck was transported to Dr. G.B Cross Memorial Hospital in Clarenville for treatment of minor injuries.

    A Collision Analyst with RCMP Traffic Services attended the scene, along with RCMP officers from Clarenville detachment, Traffic Services and Police Dog Services.

    The TCH was impassable for a number of hours. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is engaged and the investigation is continuing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: CarGurus’ Latest Digital Retail Solution Connects Canadian Dealers with Purchase-Ready Shoppers More Efficiently

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CarGurus (Nasdaq: CARG), the fastest-growing automotive shopping site in Canada1, today introduced a new digital retail solution that powers more seamless and efficient connections between dealers and purchase-ready shoppers in Canada. CarGurus Digital Deal enables consumers to start their financing application online for eligible new and used vehicles, book an appointment, and start a trade-in before completing the process at the dealership.

    “By allowing car shoppers to handle more steps from the comfort of home, CarGurus Digital Deal helps facilitate a more seamless online to in-store experience that benefits both sides of the transaction,” said Seamus Cassidy, Principal Product Manager with CarGurus. “Dealers can access ready-to-buy shoppers while continuing to work with their preferred technology systems and lending partners. At the same time, consumers can shop with greater confidence by understanding their financing eligibility up front, and save time in the dealership by completing more of the transaction ahead of time.”

    CarGurus’ Digital Deal solution launches in Canada after experiencing strong demand in the U.S., where it is one of the company’s fastest-growing innovations. Active listings are easy to find with badging on CarGurus.ca search results and vehicle detail pages. From eligible vehicle pages, shoppers can complete a simple three-step process to build a personalized vehicle and dealership-specific finance application that is submitted directly to the participating dealership. Shoppers can also schedule an appointment at the dealership and share details about a trade-in. At the dealership, shoppers can then finalize their financing and complete the transaction.

    The solution is built in partnership with dealer finance portal platform CreditApp and can be configured to work with a dealer’s preferred lender networks. As part of the initial rollout, CarGurus Digital Deal is active across over 15,000 vehicle listings, helping participating dealers throughout Canada connect with higher-converting leads for faster, more efficient sales.

    “Digital Deal leads have significantly assisted our sales and finance teams in simplifying the buying process. By having this information upfront, our team can better prepare and creatively engage with our shoppers,” said Casey Pilip, Director of Marketing at Klas Auto Group, a dealer of new and used cars in British Columbia. “Successfully converting additional leads each month at a high closing percentage truly makes a significant impact in today’s market.”

    Dealers can sign up for CarGurus Digital Deal today. Dealerships interested in learning more can either contact their rep, call 1-800-CARGURUS or email camarketing@cargurus.com for more information.

    About CarGurus, Inc.

    CarGurus (Nasdaq: CARG) is a multinational, online automotive platform for buying and selling vehicles that is building upon its industry-leading listings marketplace with digital retail solutions. The CarGurus platform gives consumers the confidence to purchase and/or sell a vehicle either online or in-person, and it gives dealerships the power to accurately price, effectively market, and quickly sell vehicles, all with a nationwide reach. The company uses proprietary technology, search algorithms, and data analytics to bring trust, transparency, and competitive pricing to the automotive shopping experience. CarGurus is the fastest growing automotive shopping site in Canada. 1

    CarGurus operates online marketplaces under the CarGurus brand in the U.K., Canada, and U.S., where it is the most visited automotive shopping site2. The CarGurus network of brands also includes PistonHeads, the largest online motoring community in the U.K.3; Autolist, a U.S.-based online marketplace; and CarOffer, a digital wholesale marketplace serving the U.S.

    To learn more about CarGurus, visit www.cargurus.ca.

    CarGurus® is a registered trademark of CarGurus, Inc., and CarOffer® is a registered trademark of CarOffer, LLC. All other product names, trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    1Similarweb: Traffic Insights, Q2 2024, Canada
    2 Similarweb: Traffic Insights (Cars.com, Autotrader.com, TrueCar.com), Q2 2024, U.S.
    3Similarweb: Traffic Insights, Q2 2024, U.K.

    Media Contact:
    Maggie Meluzio
    Director, Public Relations & External Communications
    pr@cargurus.com

    Investor Contact:
    Kirndeep Singh
    Vice President, Investor Relations
    investors@cargurus.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: NICHI announces Alberta recipients of funding to advance critical Indigenous housing projects in urban, rural and northern areas and address urgent and unmet needs

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    November 4, 2024 — Edmonton, Treaty 6 Territory, Alberta — Indigenous Services Canada

    Today, National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated (NICHI) Chief Executive Officer John Gordon and Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, Patty Hajdu, announced the recipients of NICHI’s expression of need process to address the critical need for safe and affordable urban, rural and northern Indigenous housing projects in Alberta.

    Today’s announcement includes more than $22.3 million in funding for 5 projects in Alberta led by:

    • Aboriginal Housing Society
    • Buffalo Keeper Nehiyaw Centre
    • NiGiNan Housing Ventures (2 projects)
    • Wood Buffalo Wellness Society

    Through the national process, $277.8 million out of a total funding amount of $281.5 million is being distributed to 75 projects across the country aimed at building more than 3800 units. This funding was provided to Indigenous Services Canada through Budget 2022 and distributed by NICHI, applying its “For Indigenous, By Indigenous” approach. NICHI brings together Indigenous-led housing, homelessness, and housing-related service delivery organizations to provide lasting solutions that address diverse housing inadequacies including homelessness for Indigenous Peoples living in urban, rural and northern areas.

    Over 171,000 Indigenous Peoples in urban, rural and northern areas off reserve are in core housing need according to the 2021 Census. Indigenous Peoples continue to experience core housing needs at a significantly higher rate than non-Indigenous people – with the gap between them being exacerbated by the housing and homelessness crisis and by inadequacies in distinctions-based funding. Through a For Indigenous, By Indigenous approach to Indigenous housing that recognizes Indigenous organizations are best placed to understand the needs of their communities, Indigenous Services Canada is striving to close this gap by 2030.

    Access to safe and affordable housing is critical to improving health and social outcomes, and to ensure a better future for Indigenous communities. This funding initiative is part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to address the social determinants of health and advance self-determination in alignment with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People Articles 21 and 23.

    Quotes

    “Indigenous housing providers deserve Indigenous advocacy at the national level. By securing this investment and developing a For Indigenous, By Indigenous funding process, NICHI is putting Indigenous people back in charge of housing policy for our people and communities. The overwhelming expression of need we received in our application process—totalling $2 billion across 447 applications—demonstrates that the work is far from over—but today, we’re excited to announce funding that will make a positive impact on the lives of Indigenous peoples in Alberta.”

    John Gordon
    Chief Executive Officer, National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated

    “In true partnership with Indigenous peoples, we are accelerating the construction of housing. Indigenous communities are best positioned to assess their needs, which is why these projects are based on the For Indigenous, By Indigenous approach. We will stand by the communities that take the initiative to build homes, as it is a matter of fairness and equity.”

    The Honourable Patty Hajdu
    Minister of Indigenous Services

    “NICHI’s ‘For Indigenous, By Indigenous’ approach to housing is helping build more than 3800 safe and affordable housing units across Canada. In our home province of Alberta, our government is supporting their work by investing $22.3 million in 5 projects. This is strengthening our communities, promoting sustainable solutions, and giving Indigenous people the housing they deserve.”

    Randy Boissonnault
    Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages

    “NICHI’s remarkable achievement in swiftly delivering $277.8 million underscores its unwavering commitment to advancing Indigenous housing nationwide. As a new organization, NICHI’s expedient action demonstrates unparalleled dedication and catalytic impact on transforming community housing landscapes. We commend NICHI for its pivotal role in driving forward this transformative initiative.”

    Lisa Ker
    Acting Executive Director for the Community Housing Transformation Centre

    “With thousands of years of collective experience, urban, rural, and northern Indigenous housing providers have the capacity, know-how, and shovel-ready projects to address the challenge. NICHI has shown that it can deliver funding programs swiftly, fairly, and responsibly.”

    Margaret Pfoh
    President, Canadian Housing and Renewal Association

    Quick facts

    • On June 8, 2023, the Government of Canada announced that the National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Inc. (NICHI) would deliver $281.5 million in immediate funding over two years to address the urgent, unmet needs of Indigenous Peoples living in urban, rural and northern areas.

    • NICHI held its expression of need process from late November 2023 to January 12, 2024, and funding was allocated to 75 non-profit, Indigenous-led housing organizations by an objective, unbiased Project Selection Advisory Council, which prioritized urgent and unmet housing needs in Indigenous communities across the country. $3.7 million of the total funding amount remains to be allocated.

    • The National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Inc. (NICHI) is an Indigenous-led national housing organization working to ensure that all Indigenous people across Canada have access to supports and services that provide safe, affordable, secure and dignified housing.

    • Support for projects will include funding for acquisitions of new properties and buildings, construction of new facilities, repairs and renovations, housing-related training, growing organizational capacity and administration costs.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information, media may contact:

    Jennifer Kozelj
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Honourable Patty Hajdu
    Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor
    jennifer.kozelj@sac-isc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Indigenous Services Canada
    media@sac-isc.gc.ca
    819-953-1160

    Justin Prest
    Manager, Communications, Public Relations, and Policy
    National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated (NICHI)
    jprest@nichihousing.com
    1-873-455-5557

    Stay connected

    Join the conversation about Indigenous Peoples in Canada:

    X: @GCIndigenous
    Facebook: @GCIndigenous
    Instagram: @gcindigenous
    Facebook: @GCIndigenousHealth

    You can subscribe to receive our news releases and speeches via RSS feeds. For more information or to subscribe, visit www.isc.gc.ca/RSS.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: MP Chahal announces federal investments to grow Alberta’s aerospace and aviation industry

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    Over $4.3 million through PrairiesCan to manufacture and commercialize new technologies, connect small- and medium-sized firms with procurement opportunities, and create new career paths for underrepresented groups

    November 4, 2024 – Edmonton, Alberta – PrairiesCan

    With more than 500 small- and medium-sized businesses that employ thousands of workers, Alberta’s aerospace and aviation industry is playing a key role in diversifying local economies and creating good-paying jobs in communities across the province. The Government of Canada is collaborating with partners like post-secondary institutions, industry associations, municipalities and businesses to strengthen this important industry’s competitiveness.

    Today, George Chahal, Member of Parliament for Calgary Skyview, on behalf of the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan, highlighted five projects receiving more than $4.3 million in PrairiesCan funding that are contributing to Alberta’s leadership in aerospace and aviation innovation. The projects include:

    • Over $186,000 for the Alberta Aviation & Aerospace Council to develop and deliver the Alberta Aerospace and Defence Conference in 2025 in Calgary and 2026 in Edmonton. This newly established in-person event will help connect Alberta’s small- and medium-sized firms with procurement and investment opportunities with global defence contractors.
    • Over $100,000 for Elevate Aviation to develop and launch a mentorship initiative that provides access to personalized mentorship connections, networking opportunities and professional development courses—ultimately leading to job placement opportunities for underrepresented groups while addressing the demand for skilled workers in in the aerospace and aviation industry.
    • Over $1.4 million for the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) to create an aerospace composite materials laboratory. Innovations that use advanced composite materials have the potential to enhance aircraft performance while reducing the environmental impact of the aviation sector. This new lab includes leading-edge manufacturing and testing equipment, as well as a team of expert researchers and engineers to support cutting-edge research in the aerospace manufacturing sector.
    • Over $50,000 for Sturgeon County to develop a report and ecosystem map on the Alberta’s aerospace and defence sector value chain. This project is better enabling the County and sector partners to identify and connect local small business suppliers to larger companies.
    • $2.6 million for UVAD Technologies Inc. for developing, demonstrating and commercializing an electric fixed-wing uncrewed aerial vehicle.  

    In total, today’s investments are expected to benefit over 330 small- and medium sized businesses and support more than 360 jobs.

    In line with the principles of the Government of Canada’s Framework to Build a Green Prairie Economy, these investments are about collaborating on local priorities and building on local strengths to seize opportunities for prosperity in a sustainable net-zero Prairie economy.

    Quotes

    “Municipalities, the private sector and post-secondary institutions are all part of the vital ecosystem for Alberta’s growing aerospace and aviation sector. Our government’s investments in these projects are helping empower cutting-edge research and commercialization, connecting local businesses to new markets, and breaking down barriers for underrepresented people seeking careers in this growing sector.”
    –The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan

    “Alberta has a global reputation for excellence in aerospace and aviation thanks to the ingenuity, innovation and hard work of our small- and medium-sized businesses, innovators and talented workforce. Calgary Skyview is home to some of the best aerospace and aviation companies in Canada and are benefiting greatly from our government’s investments in the growing sector.”
    –George Chahal, Member of Parliament for Calgary Skyview

    “Alberta’s aviation and aerospace industries have incredible potential, and the addition of defence to our conference will create critical connections and opportunities for businesses to grow within the global aerospace and defence market. Bringing industry stakeholders together under one roof will accelerate Alberta’s role in these sectors, driving innovation and investment in our province.”
    –Kendra Kincade, Chair, Alberta Aviation & Aerospace Council

    “This investment enables us to expand our mentorship initiatives, opening doors for individuals who bring diverse perspectives, drive innovation, and strengthen the industry. By connecting participants with mentorship, networking, and professional development, we are setting the stage for a stronger, more inclusive future for aviation.”
    –Laura Sinclair, Chief Operating Officer / Chief Financial Officer, Elevate Aviation 

    “This significant investment in SAIT’s aerospace composite materials laboratory within our Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS) area positions Alberta at the forefront of sustainable aerospace innovation. Equipped with advanced technology and a skilled research team, this lab will drive new levels of performance and environmental responsibility across the aerospace sector. This project also aligns with SAIT’s plans to expand CIRAMM’s newly established Alberta Aerospace Research Centre (AARC), advancing Alberta’s aerospace capabilities and elevating Canada’s standing in this critical industry.”
    –Dr. Hamid Rajani, Chair of CIRAMM – Centre for Innovation and Research in Advanced Manufacturing and Materials at ARIS

    “Sturgeon County is ideally situated near three army and two Royal Canadian Air Force bases, the epicenter of Alberta’s aerospace and defence sectors. Defining the skills, knowledge and expertise within the aerospace and defence ecosystem will help us attract further investment into our region. We’re thankful for PrairiesCan support, and are already seeing the benefits from this work as we engage in conversations with potential investors.”
    –Alanna Hnatiw, Mayor of Sturgeon County

    “Funding received by UVAD Technologies Inc. through PrairiesCan and the Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative is critically important to our efforts in developing and commercializing an industry leading Uncrewed Aircraft Vehicle (UAV) on a global scale.  The Alpine Swift, UVAD’s all-electric UAV, has progressed significantly through the support of this program. Government support has also enabled Southern Alberta to attract world leading experts in the UAV field, and UVAD is strategically positioned to build on this expertise. UVAD has grown exponentially since establishing our facility in Medicine Hat, Alberta.”
    –David Birkett, President and CEO, UVAD Technologies Inc.

    Quick facts

    • Federal funding for these projects is being provided through PrairiesCan, the federal department that supports economic growth in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

    • The total federal investment of $4,350,160 announced today is allocated through three programs administered by PrairiesCan: the Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative (ARRI), the Community Economic Development and Diversification (CEDD) program, and the Regional Innovation Ecosystems (RIE) program.

      • ARRI is a national program that is providing $250 million over three years to help the Canadian aerospace sector emerge from the pandemic and continue to compete on the global stage and the intake period is now closed.
      • CEDD supports economic development initiatives that contribute to the economic growth and diversification of communities across the Prairie provinces. Through this program, PrairiesCan enables communities to leverage their capacity and strengths to respond to economic development opportunities and adjust to changing and challenging economic circumstances.
      • RIE creates, grows and nurtures inclusive regional ecosystems that support what businesses need to innovate from start to finish and an environment where companies can innovate, grow and compete.

    • The Framework to Build a Green Prairie Economy is a long-term commitment to work differently, through stronger coordination among federal departments on investments for the Prairies and closer collaboration with Prairie partners on their priorities for a prosperous and sustainable Prairie economy.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Carson Debert
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for PrairiesCan and CanNor
    Carson.Debert@rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca

    Rohit Sandhu
    Communications Manager
    Prairies Economic Development Canada
    rohit.sandhu@prairiescan.gc.ca

    Stay connected

    Follow PrairiesCan on X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn

    Toll-Free Number: 1-888-338-9378
    TTY (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired):     1-877-303-3388

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Employment and Social Development Canada launches a new life event hub to better support Canadians experiencing loss

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    November 4, 2024              Ottawa, Ontario              Employment and Social Development Canada

    It is a priority for the Government of Canada to help Canadians deal with major life events. Navigating a death and knowing what to do when someone dies can be one of the hardest things we’ll ever experience.  Today, Employment and Social Development Canada introduced a new portal to help Canadians deal with the difficult circumstances surrounding death.

    Instead of having to navigate countless web pages, Canadians will now have all the information they need in one place. The “What to do when someone dies” Hub is designed to provide Canadians with a simple and improved experience that will help them better understand their next steps, available services, benefits, and programs.

    The Hub will direct Canadians to the services they need, whether they are a family member, a funeral home representative or an executor or liquidator. A key feature of the Hub is its personalized questionnaire. After Canadians answer a few simple questions, the tool will provide them with a personalized checklist and information on the benefits and services that apply to their situation.

    This new life event hub builds on the previous success of the Retirement Hub launched in October 2023, which has served more than 450,000 visitors in understanding their retirement options.

    Quotes

    “Experiencing the loss of a loved one is undoubtedly one of life’s most challenging moments. That’s why our government is dedicated to enhancing your access to essential benefits and services during significant life events such as death, birth, retirement, and marriage. This new life event hub is an innovative online tool designed to guide Canadians through the process after a loved one’s passing. It offers a straightforward, compassionate, and comprehensive experience to support you during this time. This initiative is a meaningful step toward simplifying government services, ensuring they are easier to navigate for those facing the heartache of losing someone special. We’re here for you every step of the way.”

    – Minister of Citizens’ Services, Terry Beech

    Quick facts

    • Survivors may be entitled to the following benefits:

      • Canada Pension Plan (CPP) survivor’s pension
      • CPP Allowance for the Survivor
      • CPP death benefit
      • Canadian Benefit for Parents of Young Victims of Crime
      • Canada student loan forgiveness

    • Benefit amounts will vary according to the survivor’s unique situation. Please note, there may be additional benefits available if the deceased was member of a specific group such as the Canadian Armed Forces, RCMP, Public Service, First Nations, Métis, Inuit, or Students.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For media inquiries, please contact:

    Teodor Gaspar
    Acting Director of Communications
    Office of the Minister of Citizens’ Services
    teodor.gaspar@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

    Media Relations Office
    Employment and Social Development Canada
    819-994-5559
    media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
    Follow us on X (Twitter)
    Follow us on Facebook

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Oil and gas greenhouse gas pollution cap – Backgrounder to CGI Regulations

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Backgrounder

    November 4, 2024

    Context

    The proposed oil and gas greenhouse gas (GHG) pollution cap will incentivize the sector to invest in technically achievable decarbonization to attain significant emission reductions by 2030-2032. The policy will put the sector on a pathway to carbon neutrality by 2050, while enabling it to continue to respond to global demand.

    Oil and gas companies in Canada have proven repeatedly that they can innovate and develop new technologies to produce more competitive oil and gas with less pollution.

    While it continues to be a major supplier to global markets, Canada’s oil and gas sector has the opportunity to reinvest in its own competitiveness ahead of the anticipated future decline in global demand for oil and gas in a low-carbon future. Reinvesting in cleaner oil and gas production ensures that the sector contributes its fair share to GHG reductions in Canada and positions Canada for a stronger future for its workers and economy.

    The oil and gas sector is experiencing record profits within Canada. Coming out of the pandemic, operating profits in the oil and gas sector increased tenfold from $6.6 billion in 2019 to $66.6 billion in 2022. Despite that, there has been limited and declining overall investment in the sector in Canada over the last several years.

    The proposed Regulations would establish a cap-and-trade system that is designed to recognize producers with better emission performance and motivate higher-polluting facilities to reinvest record profits into more pollution-reducing projects.

    The oil and gas sector is a major contributor to Canada’s economy. In 2023, the sector generated $209 billion in gross domestic product (GDP) (PDF) and accounted for 25% of Canada’s exports (valued at $177 billion). It is also a major employer across the country, directly employing 181,800 people in 2023.

    The oil and gas sector is also Canada’s largest source of GHG pollution, responsible for 31% of Canada’s GHG emissions in 2022. Decreasing emissions in the oil and gas sector by introducing a cap on GHG pollution is necessary to ensure that the sector contributes its fair share to Canada’s ongoing efforts to tackle climate change and reach our GHG emission reduction targets and international commitments under the Paris Agreement.

    Strengthening emission performance and carbon management technologies in Canada’s oil and gas sector

    Canada’s oil and gas sector has the potential to be a supplier of choice as the demand for oil and gas for combustion declines in a low-carbon future. This would enable the sector to continue to be a major employer and source of economic activity across Canada, particularly in oil- and gas-producing regions.

    The proposed Regulations put a limit on pollution, not production. The proposed Regulations are carefully designed around what is technically achievable within the sector, while enabling continued production growth in response to global demand. In fact, modelling shows that Canadian oil and gas production is projected to increase 16% between 2019 and the 2030-2032 period with the proposed Regulations in place.

    Major emissions-reduction opportunities are available, and oil and gas producers are already investing in them. Methane is a particularly potent greenhouse gas, and most methane emissions represent a wasted resource because they are from leaks and other unintended sources. Preventing methane emissions is one of the lowest-cost ways to reduce GHG emissions, and the sector’s efforts have resulted in a steady decline in these emissions. New regulations to be finalized later this fall will ensure that the sector continues to cut methane emissions by at least 75% from 2012 levels by 2030. 

    Carbon capture is also going to play an increasingly important role in reducing emissions from oil and gas production, and Canada is well placed to cement its position as a global leader in this critical technology. According to both the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the International Energy Agency (IEA), there is no credible path to carbon neutrality without carbon management technologies, such as carbon capture and storage, and their deployment must be rapid and immense, scaling up by nearly 200 times by 2050.

    The shift toward a low-carbon economy has created a rush of capital toward carbon management technologies worldwide. In the United States, there are many new carbon capture projects being deployed, with 150 currently under review at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

    Canada has already established itself as a first mover and leader in the global carbon management sector, with some of the world’s first large-scale projects; favourable geology; cutting-edge innovators and start-ups; early investments in research, development, and demonstration; deep technical expertise; a robust policy and regulatory environment at the federal and provincial levels; and active international collaboration. The Government of Canada has launched a suite of policies with a mix of financial supports and regulatory measures to better position Canada’s economy for success.

    Approximately one-sixth of the world’s active large-scale carbon management projects, which use a range of approaches to capture carbon dioxide from point sources or directly from the atmosphere to be reused or durably stored, can be found in Canada, with a growing number in the construction, design and development phase across multiple sectors and regions.

    The continued development and deployment of carbon management technologies to help achieve Canada’s climate objectives will form the basis of a world-leading, multi-billion-dollar carbon management sector in Canada that supports inclusive, high-value employment, significant export opportunities and a more sustainable economy.

    Point-source carbon capture is a leading option for deep emissions reductions from the upstream oil and gas sector. Given the long lifespan of many existing heavy industrial facilities and the value of these industries to the Canadian economy, public-private collaboration is critical to advance strategic, economical, and regionally appropriate decarbonization pathways.

    The GHG oil and gas pollution cap adds to a suite of policy measures, which are designed to shift the oil and gas industry increasingly toward cleaner production through the use of carbon management systems and other technologies, including to reduce methane emissions and to switch to cleaner fuels. Those include other successful regulatory measures, such as federal, provincial, and territorial carbon pricing systems for industry, including Alberta’s TIER system, the federal Output-Based Pricing System, federal and provincial methane regulations, and the Clean Fuel Regulations.

    They also include a wide range of financial supports to support deployment and help develop the innovation ecosystem for carbon reduction technologies in Canada, including:

    • $319 million over 7 years for RD&D to advance the commercial viability of emerging carbon management technologies.
    • Refundable CCUS Investment Tax Credit (ITC), expected to provide $12.5 billion between 2022-2023 and 2034-2035, for eligible projects that enable permanent CO2 storage.
    • The Canada Growth Fund, totalling $15 billion, offers investment tools such as contracts for differences designed to address risk and accelerate private sector investment to grow Canada’s clean economy, including in the carbon management sector.
    • Strategic Innovation Fund, with $8 billion in funding to help companies reduce emissions and grow their business sustainably.
    • The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) invests in CCUS infrastructure projects, including through its Project Acceleration funding for front-end engineering and design (FEED) capital expenditures.

    Increasingly, large-scale carbon capture projects are being built in both the oil and gas sector and other sectors. Recent projects include:

    • Strathcona Resources, an oilsands company with assets in Saskatchewan and Alberta and Canada’s fifth-largest oil producer, is launching a $2 billion project to store up to two million tonnes of CO2 per year, while creating hundreds of new jobs. The project has received support from the Canada Growth Fund.
    • Entropy, an Alberta-based company, is working on a project that will enable emissions reductions of approximately 2.8 million tonnes over 15 years and support more than 1,200 good jobs for Albertans.
    • Shell announced two new projects in Alberta: the Polaris Carbon Capture project and the Atlas Carbon Storage Hub. These projects aim to reduce industrial emissions by transitioning to cleaner technology. The Polaris project will capture approximately 650,000 tonnes of carbon a year while the Atlas project will store the captured carbon from Polaris and potentially other industrial facilities in the future. Once complete in 2028, these projects are expected to generate up to 2,000 jobs for Albertans.
    • The North West Redwater (NWR) Sturgeon Refinery, also operating in the Alberta Industrial Heartland, is the world’s first bitumen refinery built with carbon capture. 
    • The Alberta Carbon Trunk Line (ACTL), which transports captured carbon from facilities for storage in oil fields, will be used by new carbon capture projects throughout the province to transport captured CO2 to final storage sites.  
    • Linde announced an investment of more than $2 billion to build a clean hydrogen facility that will supply Dow’s Path2Zero production complex in Alberta. The facility will capture more than 2 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year for sequestration.

    Extensive consultation to date on the oil and gas GHG pollution cap

    The Government of Canada has engaged a broad range of partners and stakeholders on the oil and gas GHG pollution cap, including provinces and territories, Indigenous partners, industry, environmental groups, and Canadians. The government has held webinars, convened meetings, and published discussion papers to seek input and feedback. Since November 2021, the government has received over 250 written submissions from organizations, held over 100 meetings, and hosted seven public webinars.  

    The government published a Regulatory Framework to Cap Oil and Gas Sector GHG Emissions in December 2023. This Framework confirmed the government’s intent to implement the oil and gas GHG pollution cap through a new cap-and-trade system, and proposed various regulatory design features, including which subsectors would be covered by the oil and gas GHG pollution cap, the level of the GHG pollution cap, and rules about flexible compliance options.

    The proposed Regulations are carefully designed based on what is technically achievable in the sector, setting a limit on pollution, not production. Technically achievable emissions reductions were estimated based on an assessment of the abatement technologies that could feasibly be deployed within the upstream and LNG activities in the oil and gas sector by 2030-2032, considering the status of available technologies, projected levels of production, the availability of equipment and labour, and timelines for permitting and approvals.

    Estimates of technically achievable reductions included reductions related to compliance with the strengthened methane regulations, installation of carbon capture and storage technology, and electrification. The risk that not all technically achievable reductions would be implemented in time for the first compliance period was also taken into consideration.

    The government has now published proposed Regulations (PDF) to implement the oil and gas GHG pollution cap, and invites input from November 9, 2024, to January 8, 2025. The government will continue to engage with partners and stakeholders in the development of final regulations.

    Key components of the proposed national cap-and-trade system for oil and gas greenhouse gas pollution

    The proposed Oil and Gas Sector Greenhouse Gas Emissions Cap Regulations (proposed Regulations) would establish a national cap-and-trade system that would apply to upstream oil and gas activities including onshore and offshore oil and gas production; oil sands production and upgrading; natural gas production and processing; and the production of LNG.

    The proposed Regulations have been developed under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA). Since 1988, CEPA has been used to address a wide range of environmental issues, including air pollution, chemicals, plastics and GHG emissions.

    • The cap-and-trade system will freely allocate emissions allowances to facilities covered by the system. At the end of each year, each facility will need to remit to the government one allowance for each tonne of carbon pollution it has emitted. Over time, the government will give out fewer allowances, corresponding to the declining emissions cap.
    • Operators will face an ongoing incentive to reduce their emissions. If an operator does not have enough allowances to cover their emissions, they will be able to buy allowances from other operators that have invested in pollution reduction. Operators can also contribute to a decarbonization program or use GHG offset credits to cover a small portion of their emissions (up to 10% for the decarbonization program and up to 20% for offsets, for a maximum of 20% for both options). The decarbonization program would fund projects that support the reduction of emissions from the sector. The total of all allowances and the overall 20% limit on compliance flexibility creates a legal upper bound on emissions from the sector.
    • The oil and gas GHG pollution cap will limit emissions, not production, and will encourage industry to reinvest into projects that lower pollution while providing flexibility to respond to changes in the global market.  
    • To make sure the oil and gas GHG pollution cap accounts for current activity levels, the proposed Regulations would use data reported by operators for 2026 to set the first oil and gas GHG pollution cap level. The oil and gas GHG pollution cap for the first compliance period, 2030-2032, would be set at 27% below emissions reported for 2026, which is estimated to be equivalent to 35% below 2019 emissions.
    • Using 2026 for reported data means the oil and gas GHG pollution cap would be based on real-world conditions. The final oil and gas GHG pollution cap level would be published before the end of 2027.
    • The proposed Regulations allocate allowances to covered operators using specified distribution rates—defined in allowances per unit of production—for each type of covered activity. Allowances will be distributed before the start of each year (starting in 2029 for 2030, the first compliance year). To ensure that allowances are distributed to the level of the emissions cap for each year, the allowances distributed would be pro-rated across all facilities receiving them.

    The system would be phased in for the first four years (2026-2029). During that period, operators would be required to register and report their emissions and production. Large emitters will start reporting in 2027 for their 2026 emissions and production levels. Reporting for small operators would start in 2029 for their 2028 levels. Operators would need to submit verified annual reports to Environment and Climate Change Canada for their facilities for every calendar year. Reports would be due on June 1 of the following year. The reports would be used to identify which operators will be subject to the pollution cap and have remittance obligations.

    Annual reports would include the GHG emissions attributed to the facility and the production amount by industrial activity. The Quantification Methods for the Oil and Gas Sector Greenhouse Gas Emissions Cap Regulations (the Quantification Methods) would define methods to calculate each source of emissions and would provide certain default values. In addition to the draft regulations, the government is seeking feedback on the Quantification Methods.

    All operators would be required to register and report, but only large operators (producing above an annual threshold of 365,000 barrels of oil equivalent) would have to remit allowances to cover their emissions. Large operators account for approximately 99% of the upstream sector’s emissions. The government would distribute emissions allowances to covered operators annually, before the start of each compliance year. Allowances would be pro-rated across all covered operators’ facilities based on historical production volumes. Allowances would not be able to be used for compliance under other carbon pricing systems, such as the federal Output-Based Pricing System (OBPS). There would be no limits to the number of allowances operators covered under the oil and gas GHG pollution cap could hold, and allowances could be traded among operators.

    Emissions allowances and offsets could be banked for use in a limited number of future years. Decarbonization units would not be tradable or bankable.

    Economic impacts of the proposed Regulations

    Environment and Climate Change Canada undertook an economic cost-benefit analysis of the proposed Regulations. Costs and benefits have been evaluated relative to a baseline that assumes production in the oil and gas sector grows, existing federal and provincial GHG measures remain in place, and the sector achieves the 75% reduction in methane emissions relative to 2012 levels, as a result of the forthcoming oil and gas methane regulations.

    The proposed pollution cap Regulations are estimated to result in net cumulative GHG emission reductions of 13.4 Mt above the baseline of reductions between 2025 and 2030-2032 that will be achieved by existing measures. That incremental reduction is valued at almost $4 billion in avoided global climate change damages. When compared to the costs, modelling showed that the proposed Regulations are estimated to have net benefits of $428 million for Canada.

    Importantly, this multi-million-dollar benefit does not account for a wide range of additional benefits likely to be associated with the proposed Regulations, including:

    • the additional economic activity and jobs associated with post-2032 investments in carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) and other major decarbonization activities;
    • the stimulation of innovation and new low-carbon industries, such as clean hydrogen;
    • the economic and health benefits of reducing air pollution, which will improve the quality of life for many people and reduce the strain on our healthcare systems; and
    • the longer-term competitiveness benefits of a decarbonized Canadian oil and gas sector in a world that continues to take action to fight climate change and adhere to existing international and domestic climate commitments.

    The oil and gas sector directly and indirectly supports a significant workforce, especially in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador. Modelling for the 2019 to 2030-2032 period shows that labour expenditure in the sectors covered by the proposed Regulations is expected to grow by 53%, which is only slightly below the 55 % growth in the baseline scenario.

    Additionally, jobs in clean energy will continue to grow. A 2023 Clean Energy Canada report found that Canada will see 700,000 more energy jobs in a carbon-neutral 2050 scenario than we have today. 419,000 of these jobs will be in Alberta, representing three jobs for every individual worker employed in Alberta’s upstream energy sector as of 2022.

    Oil and gas prices correspond to global market demand, and they do not typically reflect the cost of production. As such, the risk of compliance costs passed through from the oil and gas sector to Canadians is very low, and the proposed Regulations are not expected to affect the cost of everyday items such as fuel or groceries.

    Provincial leadership

    British Columbia previously announced it will put in place an oil and gas emissions cap to serve as a backstop to the federal policy. The goal will be to meet BC’s greenhouse gas emission reduction targets and avoid regulatory duplication and administrative burden for the oil and gas sector.

    Alberta, in its Emissions Reduction and Energy Development Plan (2023), communicated its goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and signalled it would explore options to achieve a 75-80% reduction in methane emissions from conventional oil and gas by 2030. Alberta has had a price on carbon emissions since 2007, making it the first jurisdiction in North America to price carbon. The province’s industrial carbon pricing system, implemented as set out in the Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) Regulation, recycles its proceeds to invest in emissions reduction projects including in the oil and gas sector, such as methane emissions abatement.

    Saskatchewan is a leader in carbon capture and sequestration technology, with several projects aimed at capturing CO2 emissions from oil and gas production. In 2014, the Boundary Dam project became the first power station in the world to successfully use carbon capture and storage technology. The province is also addressing methane emissions, including improving leak detection and repair practices and implementing best practices for gas flaring and venting.

    Newfoundland and Labrador’s offshore oil sector is already one of the lowest-emitting in the country. The newest planned production project—Bay du Nord—was approved with the historic requirement for the project to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. Like all other oil- and gas-producing provinces, NL implements a price on industrial carbon emissions via its provincial output-based pricing system.

    Note on third party reports

    The Government of Canada is aware of third-party reports conducted by Conference Board of Canada, Deloitte and S&P.

    These reports are based on a broad range of assumptions including elements of the previously published Regulatory Framework or, in some cases, other assumptions made by the authors. A common assumption found in the reports was that the oil and gas sector would take limited to no additional action to reduce emissions without the regulations.

    These reports do not reflect an accurate analysis of the current draft regulations. The Government of Canada welcomes continued sharing of analysis to help refine the proposed Regulations.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Scott Moe won in Saskatchewan promising economic prosperity, but does that truly help citizens?

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Iryna Khovrenkov, Associate Professor, Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, University of Regina

    After winning the recent provincial election, the Saskatchewan Party’s Scott Moe promised a “strong economy, bright future.”

    But does a strong economy necessarily guarantee a bright future?

    Between 1998 and 2018, Saskatchewan’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 45 per cent, making it the fourth largest in Canada.

    Even after the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Saskatchewan led the nation in economic growth, registering a hike of six per cent.

    Over the same 20 years, however, Saskatchewan’s well-being increased by only 13 per cent, according to the Saskatchewan Index of Wellbeing.

    This lag in well-being has only amplified the struggles of the province’s citizens in terms of drug use, youth mental health, homelessness and hate crimes.

    Evidently, and despite its impressive magnitude, Saskatchewan’s economic growth alone does not fully reflect the province’s progress in terms of citizen well-being.

    What is well-being?

    Well-being is a multi-dimensional concept that goes beyond the level or rate of growth of GDP and can illuminate ongoing major policy challenges. GDP, on the other hand, is one-dimensional, developed prior to the Second World War and well before today’s significant policy concerns.

    As defined by the Saskatchewan Index of Wellbeing, it’s achieved when people are physically, emotionally and spiritually healthy; economically secure; have a strong sense of identity, belonging and place; and have the confidence and capacity to engage as citizens.

    Well-being encompasses many aspects that make our lives good — happiness and wellness at the personal level, strong social capital and belonging at the community level. These aspects can then form a strong foundation to tackle larger issues at the societal level such as social justice and environmental sustainability.

    International well-being initiatives

    Many countries, including Canada with its Canadian Index of Wellbeing, have not only developed well-being frameworks but many now routinely collect and publish well-being indicators.

    A handful of jurisdictions — like France, Italy and Sweden — have also begun including quality-of-life measures as benchmarks of their progress.

    New Zealand even formally budgets for well-being and released its first Wellbeing Budget in 2019.

    Regardless of geography or political structure, one common motivation for developing these well-being frameworks is a recognition that economic metrics such as GDP are insufficient to measure a country’s human and environmental progress.



    Read more:
    Australia’s wellbeing budget: what we can – and can’t – learn from NZ

    A well-being approach to policy

    For an effective path forward, citizen well-being should be a guiding principle for government leaders. Community Initiatives Fund and Heritage Saskatchewan, joint forces behind the Saskatchewan Index of Wellbeing, have long called on decision-makers to incorporate well-being into policy.

    The federal government has recently introduced the Quality-of-Life Framework as its first step towards integrating well-being into policymaking. But are these efforts reaching local governments, which carry a regulatory duty of fostering citizen well-being?

    I partnered with the Community Initiatives Fund and Heritage Saskatchewan to survey more than 25 per cent of rural and urban municipalities in Saskatchewan on what’s facilitated or hindered the adoption of well-being into policy in their communities.

    We learned that only 17 per cent of our participating municipalities adopted a well-being approach in their official community plans, although 55 per cent of them consider community well-being elements when developing policies and budgets.

    Additionally, 46 per cent are interested in adopting a well-being approach but have cited lack of financial and human resources, time, community and team support as key challenges in shifting to a well-being approach.

    Finally, we learned that arts, culture and sports amenities were identified as a pressing community need by 36 per cent of our respondents, compared to only six per cent referencing economic sustainability and growth.

    Our findings also support existing evidence that rural communities become stronger when they value well-being more than economic growth.

    The five elements of a well-being economy. (ICLEI Europe YouTube Channel)

    Municipal action required

    As the government level closest to the people, municipalities matter. Services provided by local authorities define citizens’ well-being and their quality of life. Also, local efforts have the potential to inspire province-wide change.

    With urban municipalities in Saskatchewan gearing up for their own elections on Nov. 13, it’s a good time to consider prioritizing community well-being.

    In the words of Jacinda Ardern, the former prime minister of New Zealand: “Growth alone does not lead to a great country …. so it’s time to focus on those things that do.”

    For real change to occur, well-being should lie at the heart of policymaking.

    The research project about well-being in municipal policy is a product of a partnership between Iryna Khovrenkov at the University of Regina, Tracey Mann at Community Initiatives Fund and Ingrid Cazakoff at Heritage Saskatchewan. The financial support of Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council Partnership Engage Grant number 892-2021-3028 is gratefully acknowledged.

    – ref. Scott Moe won in Saskatchewan promising economic prosperity, but does that truly help citizens? – https://theconversation.com/scott-moe-won-in-saskatchewan-promising-economic-prosperity-but-does-that-truly-help-citizens-242574

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How scenario planning could help Canadian policymakers deal with American political chaos

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Kevin Quigley, Scholarly Director of the MacEachen Institute for Public Policy and Governance, Dalhousie University

    One of the most bizarre aspects of the United States presidential election has been how difficult it’s been to determine the truth — particularly due to Republican Donald Trump’s candidacy — and if the truth even matters.

    As former Trump advisor Anthony Scaramucci once noted about the former president: “Don’t take him literally, take him symbolically.” This advice wasn’t very helpful.

    The difficulty in determining what is true is symptomatic of the high levels of uncertainty that Canadian policymakers are confronted with regularly in their dealings with their American counterparts.

    Voters in the most powerful nation on Earth — and Canada’s neighbour and largest trading partner — are choosing between two starkly different choices on the ballot, and Canada must be attentive and adaptive across a number of policy areas.

    Three-part process

    Scenario planning provides an effective way to address such high levels of uncertainty. The method can generate difficult and radically different descriptions of the future by way of challenging participants, requiring imaginative interventions and overcoming stability and optimism biases.

    At the MacEachen Institute for Public Policy and Governance at Dalhousie University, our team used this method extensively throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including with members of the tourism industry in early 2021. The method proved to be an effective tool for these organizations in planning for the 2021 tourism season in light of the uncertainty posed by COVID-19.

    There are typically three parts to the approach, divided by sessions. The first session establishes the goals the participants wish to achieve in light of their unique challenges and timelines. Goals vary but usually address some aspect of the medium-term success of the organization. Timelines can be anything from a few months down the road to decades from now.

    Motivating factors

    The group then discusses drivers, which are highly impactful forces beyond their immediate control that will shape the scenarios. Two drivers are selected, often based on supply-and-demand concepts.

    During the second session, participants describe four scenarios based on the two drivers, answering questions that include:

    1. What does this scenario look like?

    2. How would we arrive at this scenario?

    3. What are the underlying causes of the scenario?

    4. What are the critical failures and opportunities in this scenario?

    Finally, the group names the scenario. The four scenarios are deliberately intended to be different and extreme in order to push people beyond their comfort zones.

    At the third session, participants establish how they’re going to judge policies and operational changes knowing that any one of the four scenarios could materialize.

    Trade, economy

    In terms of scenario planning for the Canada-U.S. relationship, Canadian policymakers could consider U.S. trade policies as the first driver (liberal trade policies vs. protectionist policies) and the state of the American economy as the second driver (it either booms or it sinks into a deep recession).

    Organized as a two-by-two matrix, policymakers can explore four plausible future scenarios: either liberal or protectionist trade policies, during either an economic boom or a recession.

    Within these four scenarios, policymakers can develop criteria by which to evaluate Canadian policies knowing that any one of these four scenarios could materialize.

    There are important things to consider at the design stage.

    To start, it can be time-consuming to organize and execute the sessions. You can run remarkably simple and helpful sessions in a day, or extremely involved ones over several months.

    The number of participants is flexible. Usually it involves a small to medium-sized group, but individuals can use the two-by-two matrix to think through problems over lunch.

    Who’s there matters. We tend to invite people who represent different parts of an organization or sector. That provides legitimacy to the process and satisfies a sense of fair play, and this approach can also help participants accept the conclusions and communicate them broadly.

    At the same time, having representatives from each part of the organization can lead to turf wars. It can serve to reinforce existing institutional arrangements rather than challenge, change and in some cases abolish them. Bringing in guest speakers to share best practices from other jurisdictions can help to discuss difficult issues.

    The Ambassador Bridge, spanning the Detroit River between Windsor and Detroit, in December 2021. The trade and economic relationship between the U.S. and Canada provides lots of material for scenario planning for Canadian policymakers.
    THE CANADIAN PRESS/Fred Thornhill

    Embracing diversity

    Scenario planning exercises also favour elite groups — experts, company executives and clever high flyers who are skilled at imaginative thinking. Turning to these elite groups can be at odds with equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility principles.

    Diverse sources of information can challenge participants to think differently and also help participants to understand the impacts of scenarios to different communities.

    Participants also need to be able to speak frankly. Values may differ, and attempts by participants to avoid saying anything controversial can crowd out more nuanced thoughts.

    Generally, egalitarian dynamics lead to consensus-seeking solutions. But this doesn’t always result in more radical transformations. In some respects, the four possible scenarios compel participants to consider quite different views, which can be helpful.

    Diverse participants in scenario planning sessions can challenge people to think differently.
    (Shutterstock)

    All of this makes discussing how to judge new programs at the third session more challenging and important.

    One way to address these challenges is to have a broad way to discuss and evaluate each strategy. Typically, we examine different parts of the strategy — how an organization gathers information, sets standards and changes behaviour internally — and different criteria by which to judge the strategies (efficiency, fairness and accountability and stability and learning).

    An experienced moderator with some professional distance from the group can help to keep the conversation on time, on subject and challenge participants when conventional wisdom starts to creep in.

    Public agencies are premised on a command-and-control dynamic, but policymakers increasingly need tools and skills that allow them to anticipate, address and communicate risks over which they have limited control.

    The U.S. election and its aftermath in the weeks and months to come are a salient and consequential example. Scenario planning allows policymakers to challenge their assumptions and have difficult conversations in light of quickly changing events in order to seize opportunities and reduce vulnerabilities.

    Kevin Quigley received funding from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Change Lab Action Research Network, and SSHRC for the work discussed in this article.

    – ref. How scenario planning could help Canadian policymakers deal with American political chaos – https://theconversation.com/how-scenario-planning-could-help-canadian-policymakers-deal-with-american-political-chaos-242335

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Bigstack Opportunities I Inc. Enters Into Non-Binding Letter of Intent for Qualifying Transaction

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

    TORONTO, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bigstack Opportunities I Inc. (“Bigstack”) (TSXV: STAK.P) is pleased to announce it has entered into a non-binding letter of intent dated November 3, 2024 (the “Letter of Intent”) with Reeflex Coil Solutions Inc. (“Reeflex”), pursuant to which Bigstack and Reeflex intend to complete a business combination, which will constitute a reverse take-over of Bigstack (the “Business Combination”). In connection with the Business Combination, Reeflex intends to acquire all of the issued and outstanding securities of Coil Solutions Inc. (“Coil”) (the “Acquisition” and together with the Business Combination, the “Transaction”).

    Overview of Bigstack

    Bigstack is a “capital pool company” under the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “Exchange”) and it is intended that the Transaction will constitute the “Qualifying Transaction” of Bigstack, as such term is defined in Exchange Policy 2.4 – Capital Pool Companies. The common shares of Bigstack (the “Bigstack Shares”) are currently listed on the Exchange and Bigstack is a reporting issuer in the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario. Bigstack was incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) on November 25, 2020.

    Overview of Reeflex

    Reeflex is a privately-held corporation incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta) on June 14, 2024. Reeflex currently has no business operations or assets other than cash. Reeflex prioritizes developing partnerships between management and capital with the intention to create compelling value creation opportunities in the resource industry.

    Overview of Coil

    Coil is a privately-held corporation incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta). Coil is an industry leader and innovator in coil tubing solutions and downhole tools, including stimulation technology, and offers custom solutions to meet the diverse needs of its clients in both local and international markets.

    The Transaction

    There are no relationships between any non-arm’s length party of Bigstack, Reeflex and Coil or its assets and the Transaction will be an arm’s length transaction.

    Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Letter of Intent, Bigstack and Reeflex intend to negotiate and enter into a definitive agreement (the “Definitive Agreement”) that is expected to supersede the Letter of Intent. Trading in the Bigstack Shares has been halted and is not expected to resume until the Transaction is completed or until the Exchange receives the requisite documentation to resume trading.

    A more comprehensive news release will be issued by Bigstack in due course disclosing details of the Transaction, including financial information respecting Reeflex and Coil, the names and backgrounds of all persons who will constitute insiders of Bigstack upon completion of the Transaction, the issued and outstanding securities of each of Bigstack and Reeflex, the terms of the exchange of securities of Bigstack and Reeflex, the applicable security exchange ratios, the details of any concurrent financing by the parties (as applicable), the details of any meeting of the shareholders of Bigstack required to approve the Transaction and matters related thereto (as applicable) and information respecting sponsorship.

    Forward Looking Information

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking information” (“forward-looking information”) within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this press release. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information.

    More particularly and without limitation, this press release contains forward-looking statements concerning the Transaction (including the structure, terms and timing thereof), the Definitive Agreement, the issuance of additional news releases describing the Transaction, the trading of the Bigstack Shares on the Exchange and the holding of shareholder meetings in connection with the Transaction. Although Bigstack believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations of any forward-looking information will prove to be correct. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, but are not limited to: delay or failure to receive board, shareholder or regulatory approvals; and general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties. There can be no certainty that the Transaction will be completed on the terms set out in the Letter of Intent or at all. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information contained in this press release. Except as required by law, Bigstack disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking information or otherwise.

    Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, execution of a binding definitive agreement relating to the Business Combination, execution of a binding definitive agreement relating to the Acquisition, Exchange acceptance and, if applicable pursuant to Exchange requirements, majority of the minority shareholder approval. Where applicable, the Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

    Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative.

    The TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the proposed Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

    Bigstack Opportunities I Inc.

    For further information, please contact Eric Szustak, the President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary and a director of Bigstack.

    Eric Szustak
    President, CEO, CFO, Corporate Secretary and Director
    Email: eszustak@jbrlimited.com 
    Telephone: (905) 330-7948

    Neither 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 securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirement. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Aviva Canada encourages municipalities to apply for funding for Level 2 EV charging stations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aviva Canada is pleased to announce it has opened the application period for the third year of its Charged for Change program. With installations in 15 municipalities already completed or underway, this year’s funding will support public electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure projects in even more communities that currently lack sufficient access.

    Presented in partnership with Earth Day Canada, Aviva’s $3M Charged for Change program allows municipalities and Indigenous communities to apply for funding to install Level 2 electric vehicle chargers for their residents and visitors. Municipalities across Canada can submit applications via the Charged for Change homepage until February 20, 2025.

    “We are thrilled to open applications for the third year of our Charged for Change program and are looking forward to helping even more Canadian communities install public EV infrastructure for their residents. We know that a lack of publicly available EV charging infrastructure can be a barrier to EV adoption and want to support Canadians, particularly those in communities with little to no access, in making the switch to an EV,” said Aviva Canada’s Chief Public Affairs, Marketing and Communications Officer, Pascal Dessureault.

    In its first year, the Charged for Change program funded Level 2 charging stations for seven Ontario municipalities and is expected to deliver 37 charging heads across 16 sites in the Town of Pelham, Township of Selwyn, The County of Prince Edward, Town of Thessalon, Municipality of East Ferris, Township of Manitouwadge, and Township of Essa. As of September 15, this year, the charging stations installed in these communities have delivered 2,600 charging sessions and 8,300 charging hours.

    The program expanded across Canada in its second year, where eight municipalities received funding; Town of Okotoks, AB, Town of Grand Bay-Westfield, NB, Municipality of Lakeshore, ON, Municipalité des Hautes-Terres, NB, Municipalité de Chertsey, QC, Village de Bois-Joli, NB, Communauté rurale de Kedgwick, NB, and Ville régionale de Cap-Acadie, NB. Those projects are either underway or completed and in use.

    “We know that access to public charging infrastructure is a key deciding factor for consumers considering the purchase of an EV. We also know that there is a disparity between levels of infrastructure in larger, urban centres versus smaller, often rural communities. Charged for Change hopes to level that playing field so that Canadians who want to make the climate-conscious decision to switch to an EV feel confident that it can meet their needs,” said Valérie Mallamo, Executive Director, Earth Day Canada.

    Aviva’s partnership with Earth Day Canada supports municipalities in working with utility suppliers directly to install the charging station infrastructure in selected communities. Communities across Canada are encouraged to apply for year three funding now via the Charged for Change homepage.

    To help more Canadians transition to EVs, Aviva’s EV insurance solution offers customers up to 10 per cent off their premium when they insure an EV.1

    Testimonials from year one Charged for Change recipient municipalities:

    Municipality of East Ferris:
    “The installation of charging stations provided by the Charged for Change Program allowed the Municipality of East Ferris to install our first public EV charging stations in the community. It also allowed us to start the transition of our vehicle fleet to electric vehicles with the purchase of our first EV municipal vehicle taking place in early 2024. We are fortunate to have been selected for the program and the infrastructure that we installed will have lasting impacts on municipal operations for years to come.” – Greg Kirton, Director of Community Services, Municipality of East Ferris

    Town of Thessalon:
    “Our first EV station users stopped in on their road trip from Whistler, British Columbia. They told us that they would have by-passed Thessalon if it weren’t for these charging stations. Since they were able to charge their vehicle in Thessalon they stayed at local accommodations and spent time exploring other town amenities.” – Lindsay MacFarlane, Deputy Clerk, Town of Thessalon

    The County of Prince Edward:
    “Working with Earth Day Canada and Aviva on this project helped me gain an understanding of the world of electric vehicles and helped me come to the conclusion that yes, EV ownership in a rural community is very possible! After doing a test drive with Plug n Drive at our inauguration event and speaking firsthand to EV drivers and suppliers of EV charging equipment through this project, I felt really confident in my choice to make my next car an EV. I ditched the ICE and signed a leased an EV this spring. I wouldn’t have felt so sure of my decision without the experience working with Earth Day Canada and Aviva.” – Julianne Snepts, Programs Supervisor, The County of Prince Edward

    About Aviva Canada

    Aviva Canada is one of the leading property and casualty insurance groups in the country, providing home, automobile, lifestyle, and business insurance to 2.4 million customers. As a subsidiary of UK-based Aviva plc, Aviva Canada has more than 4,000 employees focused on creating a sustainable future for our people, our customers, our communities and our planet. In 2021, Aviva plc announced Aviva’s global ambition to become a net zero carbon emissions company by 2040.

    For more information, visit aviva.ca or Aviva Canada’s blog, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn pages.

    *Note: Media may arrange interviews by contacting:

    Media Contact: Kelsie Ludlow, Communications Specialist, Aviva
    Email: kelsie.ludlow@aviva.com
    Tel: 437-331-7209

    1 Terms and conditions apply. Please visit www.aviva.ca for more details.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Alpine Credits Ltd. Expands Philanthropic Efforts with $200,000 Initiative for Local Charities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SURREY, British Columbia, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alpine Credits Ltd., a leader in alternative home equity financing, is proud to announce its 2024 philanthropy initiative, committing up to $200,000 to charitable organizations through parent company Amur Financial Group.

    This initiative underscores the company’s dedication to making a meaningful impact in local communities across B.C.

    In its continuous effort to support those in need, Alpine Credits has chosen to collaborate with Mom2Mom Vancouver this year. This organization bridges the gap for mothers and children facing economic hardships by providing essential resources and fostering vital connections.

    “We pride ourselves on trying to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families within our community,” said the VP of Sales for Alpine Credits. “Our employees are passionate about giving back, and this initiative allows us to support causes that matter to them while helping organizations like Mom2Mom fulfill their mission.”

    The partnership with Mom2Mom Vancouver holds special significance, reflecting Alpine Credits’ commitment to social responsibility and enhancing community well-being. By assisting in the provision of essential resources, Alpine Credits aims to improve the lives of vulnerable families and ensure they receive the support needed during challenging times.

    Alpine Credits has a long-standing tradition of philanthropy, having previously raised over $80,000 for various organizations, including the Children’s Wish Foundation and Family Services of Greater Vancouver.

    In addition to Mom2Mom, Amur Financial Group, Alpine Credits’ parent company, is supporting three other charities that were selected by different teams across the organization.

    Since its inception in 1969, Alpine Credits has facilitated over $5 billion in home equity financing, establishing itself as Canada’s leading alternative lender.

    By unlocking the value of their homes, Canadians can meet financial obligations, fund renovations, and invest in new home repair projects.

    About Alpine Credits

    Alpine Credits is a leading provider of home equity financing solutions in Canada. With over 50 years of experience, the company focuses on providing quick support and flexible lending products, helping Canadians unlock the value of their homes.

    For more information, please visit Alpine Credits.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f0d483ff-6574-4cca-8093-219fa05a4970

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Digital Media Solutions, Inc. Receives Court Approval for Asset Sales

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CLEARWATER, Fla., Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Digital Media Solutions, Inc., (“DMS” or the “Company”), a leading provider of technology-enabled digital performance advertising solutions connecting consumers and advertisers, today announced that, following a competitive auction process, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas (the “Court”) has approved the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company’s core business to its existing lenders, including a consortium of leading financial institutions. The Court also approved the sale of the Company’s ClickDealer subsidiaries to iMonMedia, a leading global performance marketing company.

    “We are pleased to have received the Court’s approval of these value-maximizing transactions, which pave the way for us to complete the court-supervised sale process and execute our ownership transition,” said Joe Marinucci, Co-Founder and CEO of DMS. “With a stronger financial foundation and new owners who share our conviction in our go-forward prospects, our core business is well positioned to continue its growth trajectory and capitalize on the significant opportunities we see ahead. We are also glad to have found a new home for our ClickDealer business and the team that supports it with iMonMedia, a leading player in the digital marketing and advertising space who will take ClickDealer to new heights.”

    Marinucci continued, “The progress we have made in this process is a true testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees, and I thank them all for their unwavering commitment to DMS. We look forward to closing the transactions in the coming weeks and continuing to innovate and serve our loyal clients.”

    The transactions are expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2024. DMS is continuing to operate in the ordinary course across its businesses, including its ClickDealer subsidiaries, providing innovative solutions, vertical expertise and outstanding support to its clients and vendors.

    Additional Information

    Additional information is available at AdvancingDMS.com. Court filings and other information related to the sale process are available on a separate website administered by the Company’s claims agent, Omni Agent Solutions, at https://omniagentsolutions.com/DMS; by calling Omni representatives toll-free at (866) 680-8083, or (818) 574-6886 for calls originating outside of the U.S. or Canada; or by emailing DMS@OmniAgnt.com.

    Advisors

    Kirkland & Ellis LLP and Porter Hedges LLP are serving as legal counsel to DMS, Portage Point Partners is serving as restructuring advisor and Houlihan Lokey Capital, Inc. is serving as investment banker.

    About DMS

    Digital Media Solutions, Inc. (DMS) drives better business results by connecting high-intent consumers with advertisers across our core verticals; Insurance (auto, home, health), Education and Consumer/E-Commerce. Our innovative solutions help consumers shop and save, while helping our advertisers achieve above average return on ad spend. Learn more at https://digitalmediasolutions.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and business of the Company and its subsidiaries and certain plans and objectives with respect thereto. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate only to historical or current facts. Forward-looking statements often use words such as “initiate,” “anticipate,” “target,” “expect,” “enable,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “believe,” “hope,” “aims,” “continue,” “will,” “may,” “should,” “would,” “could” or other words of similar meaning. These statements are based on assumptions and assessments made by the Company and its perception of historical trends, current conditions, future developments and other factors. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty, because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future and the factors described in the context of such forward-looking statements in this press release could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements, including related to any sale process and the Chapter 11 process. Although it is believed that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct and you are therefore cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as at the date of this press release. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or correct the information contained in this press release (whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise), except as may be required by applicable law.

    There are several factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements are changes in the global, political, economic, business, competitive, market, supply chain and regulatory forces, future exchange and interest rates, changes in tax rates and any future business combinations or dispositions, our ability to negotiate and confirm a sale of substantially all of our assets under Section 363 of the Bankruptcy Code (or any other plan of reorganization), uncertainties and costs related to the completion of any sale process (implemented through the Chapter 11 process) and the Chapter 11 process more generally, including, among others, potential adverse effects of the Chapter 11 process on the Company’s liquidity and results of operations, including with respect to its relationships with its customers, vendors and partners, suppliers and other third parties; employee attrition and the Company’s ability to retain senior management and other key personnel due to the distractions and uncertainties inherent in the Chapter 11 process; the impact of any cost reduction initiatives; any other legal or regulatory proceedings; the Company’s ability to obtain operating capital, including complying with the restrictions imposed by the terms and conditions of any debtor-in-possession financing, such as the financing mentioned herein; the length of time that the Company will operate under Chapter 11 protection; the timing of any emergence from the Chapter 11 process; and the risk that any plan of reorganization resulting therefrom may not be confirmed or implemented at all. Please see the plan of reorganization and related disclosure statement (as may be amended, modified or supplemented) that may be filed with the Court for additional considerations and risk factors associated with the Company’s Chapter 11 process.

    Nothing in this press release is intended as a profit forecast or estimate for any period and no statement in this press release should be interpreted to mean that the financial performance for the Company, including after the completion of any sale process, for the current or future financial years would necessarily match or exceed its historical results.

    Further, this press release is not intended to and does not constitute and should not be construed as, considered a part of, or relied on in connection with any information or offering memorandum, security purchase agreement, or offer, invitation or recommendation to underwrite, buy, subscribe for, otherwise acquire, or sell any securities or other financial instruments or interests or any other transaction.

    Contacts

    Investor Relations
    investors@dmsgroup.com

    Media
    Aaron Palash / Aura Reinhard / Maeve Barbour / Jenna Shinderman
    Joele Frank Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher
    212-355-4449

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Annual Candlelight Tribute to commemorate Canada’s fallen heroes and Veterans

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Randeep Sarai, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, will attend the annual Candlelight Tribute to honour our country’s fallen heroes and Veterans, and pass the torch of remembrance from Veterans to youth.

    Ottawa, ON – Randeep Sarai, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, will attend the annual Candlelight Tribute to honour our country’s fallen heroes and Veterans, and pass the torch of remembrance from Veterans to youth.

    Parliamentary Secretary Sarai and other event participants will be available to media following the event.

    Location:   LeBreton Gallery
                       Canadian War Museum
                       1 Vimy Place
                       Ottawa, Ontario

    Date:          Tuesday, 5 November 2024

    Time:          19:00 EST

    Media who want to participate are asked to register in advance by contacting media@veterans.gc.ca with the name(s) of their attendee(s) and media outlet.

    If you anticipate any accessibility barriers, please let us know and we will work with you to enable your participation.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: G7 foreign ministers’ statement on the Launch of an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea

    Source: Government of Canada News

    “We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, condemn in the strongest terms the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s (DPRK) October 31 (local time) launch of an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), following other launches using ballistic missile technology.

    November 4, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    “We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, condemn in the strongest terms the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s (DPRK) October 31 (local time) launch of an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), following other launches using ballistic missile technology. We deplore that the DPRK once again chose to prioritize its unlawful weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and ballistic missile programs over the welfare of the people in the DPRK.

    ” The DPRK continues to advance its unlawful nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities and to escalate its destabilizing activities. We reiterate our call for the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and demand that the DPRK abandon all its nuclear weapons, existing nuclear programs, and any other weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and ballistic missile programs in a complete, verifiable, and irreversible manner in accordance with all relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs). We urge UNSC Members to follow through on their commitments and call on all UN Member States to fully and effectively implement relevant UNSCRs.

    ” The G7 remains committed to working with all relevant partners toward the goal of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and to upholding the free and open rules-based international order.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Indoor shelter spaces opening for winter

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province, through BC Housing, is funding 6,118 shelter spaces in 59 communities throughout British Columbia, including permanent, temporary and extreme-weather response (EWR) shelters, as well as Homeless Encampment Action Response Temporary Housing (HEARTH) shelter spaces.

    Listed below are shelters that opened in six major cities as of Nov. 1, 2024. For a full list of shelters throughout B.C., visit: https://smap.bchousing.org/

    Shelter information, including the openings of EWR and other shelters, is updated daily. For shelter bed availability, people are encouraged to reach out to their local shelter.

    Additional shelter spaces are expected to open in the coming months.

    Kamloops

    Total shelter spaces: 230

    • Temporary shelters
      • Stuart Wood, 245 St. Paul St., 35 spaces (including 10 accessible spaces for seniors)
      • Yacht Club, 1140 River St., 20 spaces
      • Olive Branch, 245 St. Paul St., 10 spaces
    • Permanent year-round shelters
      • Emerald Centre, 259 Victoria St., 40 spaces
      • Harbour Shelter (women only), 181 Victoria St. W., 12 spaces
      • Merit Place, 715 Notre Dame Dr., 50 spaces
      • Moira House, 600 Kingston Ave., 41 spaces
      • Mustard Seed Shelter, 181 Victoria St. W., 22 spaces

    Kelowna

    Total shelter spaces: 305

    • Temporary shelters
      • Bay Avenue Shelter, 858 Ellis St., 72 spaces
      • Kelowna Motel shelter, 25 spaces (referral only)
    • Permanent year-round shelters
      • Alexandra Gardner Safe Centre, 1069 Gordon Dr., 20 spaces
      • Cornerstone Shelter, 425 Leon Ave., 80 spaces
      • Kelowna Gospel Mission, 251 Leon Ave., 60 spaces
      • Richter Street Shelter, 1083 Richter St., 48 spaces

    Prince George

    Total shelter spaces: 161

    • Permanent year-round shelters
      • Bridget Moran Place, 1188 6th Ave., 45 spaces
      • AWAC Women’s Shelter, 144 George St., 40 spaces
      • Ketso Yoh Centre Men’s Hostel, 140 Quebec St., 36 spaces
      • Prince George Native Friendship Centre (youth shelter), 171 George St., 10 spaces
      • Second Ave Shelter, 1151 2nd Ave., 30 spaces

    Surrey

    Total shelter spaces: 566

    • Temporary shelters
      • Nourish, 13539 King George Blvd., 16 spaces (an additional 15 spaces to open later this season).
      • Cloverdale, 5337 180 St., 25 spaces
    • Extreme weather response shelters (open only during EWR alerts)
      • PCRS, 10453 Whalley Blvd., 10 spaces
      • SUMs NightShift, 10635 King George Blvd., 15 spaces
      • Shimai House, 13327 100A Ave., six spaces
      • Lookout Surrey Alliance, 13474 96 Ave., 30 spaces
      • South Surrey, 14601 20 Ave., 45 spaces
    • Permanent year-round shelters
      • Bill Reid Place, 17910 Colebrook Rd., 16 spaces
      • Cynthia’s Place, 14337/14347 108 Ave., 18 spaces
      • Foxglove Shelter, 9810 Foxglove Dr., 27 spaces
      • Lookout Gateway, 10667 135A St., 40 spaces
      • Lookout Guildford, 14716 104 Ave., 46 spaces
      • Lookout Parkway, 10667 135A St., 40 spaces
      • Hyland House, 6595 King George Blvd., 45 spaces
      • Rosewood Shelter, 9683 137 St., 60 spaces
      • Surrey Urban Mission, 10776 King George Blvd., 40 spaces
      • The Cove, 10607 King George Blvd., 42 spaces
      • The Olive Branch, 10731 City Parkway, 45 spaces

    Vancouver

    Total shelter spaces: 1,838

    • Temporary shelters
      • Directions Youth Services Centre, 1138 Burrard St., 12 spaces
      • Klahowya,  875 Terminal Ave., 20 spaces
      • 1660 East Hastings St., 100 spaces
      • Lookout Commercial Hastings, 1738 E. Hastings St., 20 spaces
      • Gathering Place,  609 Helmcken St., 34 spaces
      • Lookout 325 Main, 325 Main St., 20 spaces
      • Harbour Light, 119 E. Cordova St.,  40 spaces
      • Evelyne Saller, 404 Alexander St., 42 spaces
      • Lookout Tenth Church, 11 10th Ave. West, 25 spaces
      • Lookout Jubilee,  239 Main St., 13 spaces
      • UGM Women’s Shelter, 616 Cordova St. E., 20 spaces
      • CSS Mat Program, 1302 Seymour St., 10 spaces
    • Extreme weather response shelters (open only during EWR alerts)
      • Aboriginal Front Door, 205 E. Hastings, 34 spaces
      • Directions Youth Resource Centre, 1138 Burrard St., 10 spaces
      • The Nest, 320 Alexander St., 20 spaces
      • Lookout Hastings Commercial, 1726 E. Hastings, 15 spaces
      • Lookout Kiwassa, 2425 Oxford St., 20 spaces
      • Lookout Marpole, 8585 Hudson St., 30 spaces
      • PCRS Vancouver, 2455 Fraser St., 20 spaces 
      • Belkin House, 555 Homer St., 25 spaces
    • Permanent year-round shelters
      • 1401 Hornby St., 52 spaces
      • Metson, 1060 Howe St., 38 spaces
      • Sisters Shelter, 131 Dunlevy Ave., 16 spaces
      • Sisterhood, 342 Alexander St., 21 spaces
      • Kye7e, 172 Cordova St. E., 10 spaces
      • 398 Powell St., 11 spaces
      • WISH, 340 Alexander St., 23 spaces
      • 265 Hastings St. E., 31 spaces
      • Osborn, 15 Hastings St. W., 80 spaces
      • Klahowya at Terminal, 875 Terminal Ave., 60 spaces
      • The Haven, 108 E. Hastings St., 34 spaces
      • The Beacon, 108 E. Hastings St., 66 spaces
      • Crosswalk, 108 E. Hastings St., 36 spaces
      • Lookout Walton Hotel , 261 Hastings St. E., 15 spaces
      • The Lark, 103 Hastings St. E., 14 spaces
      • Covenant House, 1280 Seymour St., 60 spaces
      • Catholic Charities Men’s Hostel, 1056 Comox St., 108 spaces
      • First United Church Shelter, 467 Alexander St., 51 spaces
      • Lookout Yukon St. Shelter, 2088 Yukon St., 71 spaces
      • Lookout Al Mitchell Shelter, 346 Alexander St., 46 spaces
      • New Fountain Shelter, 356 E. Hastings, 60 spaces
      • RainCity HPP and Triage Emergency Shelter, 707 Powell St., 28 spaces
      • Springhouse Shelter, 333 E. 16th Ave., 32 spaces
      • Powell Place Emergency Shelter, 329 Powell St., 52 spaces
      • Downtown Eastside Women’s Shelter, 412 E. Cordova St., 57 spaces
      • Belkin House, 555 Homer St., 81 spaces
      • Vi Fineday Family Shelter, 1906 15th Ave. W., 18 spaces
      • Aboriginal Shelter, 201 Central St., 55 spaces
      • Union Gospel (Heatley) Housing Society, 601 Hastings St. E., 82 spaces

    Victoria

    Total shelter spaces: 400

    • Extreme weather response shelters (open only during EWR alerts)
      • Rock Bay Landing, 535 Ellice St., 20 spaces
      • Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre, 525 Johnson St., 30 spaces
    • Permanent year-round shelters
      • Douglas Community Shelter, 2915 Douglas St., 29 spaces
      • 919 Pandora Ave., 54 spaces
        • Includes 20 HEARTH-funded spaces
      • Out of the Rain Victoria, 1450 Elford St., 15 spaces
      • My Place, 1240 Yates St., 56 spaces
        • Includes two HEARTH-funded spaces
      • Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre, 525 Johnson St., 42 spaces
        • Includes 21 HEARTH-funded spaces
      • Sandy Merriman House, 809 Burdett Ave., 25 spaces
      • Next Steps, 2317 Dowler Pl., 15 spaces
      • Rock Bay Landing, 535 Ellice St., 84 spaces
      • St. John the Divine Shelter, 1611 Quadra St., 30 spaces (HEARTH-funded)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Grow your career with Alberta’s public service

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Alberta called and the world answered. Hundreds of thousands of people are choosing Alberta as the place to find meaningful and well-paying work to support their families and their futures. Alberta’s public sector salaries are some of the strongest in Canada and with less tax, workers have more take-home pay. The cost of living is also lower than in many other jurisdictions, allowing for a better quality of life. New health care facilities will provide thousands of health care positions, and the 90 new schools that will be kick-started over the next three years will all need educators and support staff.

    To support Alberta’s growth, health and safety, there are many other occupations available, including corrections officers, sheriffs and paramedics. These roles, and many others, are available in the province’s big cities and rural areas.

    “Opportunity abounds in Alberta in both the private and public sectors. Working in the public sector provides individuals opportunities that span numerous sectors and skill levels while also being financially rewarding and providing an opportunity to have a positive impact in the daily lives of Albertans. We’re inviting everyone to see the full breadth of meaningful and impactful job opportunities available in our beautiful province.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier

    As the government continues its work to provide high-quality services to Albertans across the province, it is promoting its efficient and effective workforce. To inform people about the great career options in the public service, a provincial advertising campaign will run for the next six weeks. Print, radio, television and social media advertisements will share with Albertans that life, and work, are better here and to ask them to consider a career in the provincial public sector.

    Quick facts

    • Between July 1, 2023, and July 1, 2024, the province’s population expanded by more than 204,000 people, which is an annual growth rate of 4.4 per cent.
    • Alberta’s annual growth is comparable to the population in two new cities the size of Lethbridge or Red Deer.  
    • In the third quarter of 2024, Alberta’s population reached 4.9 million people.

    Related information

    • alberta.ca/BetterHere

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lagniappe for November 2024

    Source: NASA

    Explore Lagniappe for November 2024 featuring:

    NASA Stennis Takes Key Step in Expanding its Range Operations Work
    NASA Stennis Plants Artemis Moon Tree
    NASA Employees Complete Agency Leadership Program

    The month of October is known for becoming cooler in these parts, and there sure were plenty of recent cool moments for NASA Stennis that set the tone for the future.
    Last month, the center marked a milestone for testing a new SLS (Space Launch System) rocket stage to fly on future Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond.
    Crews safely lifted and installed the interstage simulator component that will be used for future testing of NASA’s exploration upper stage on the B-2 side of the Thad Cochran Test Stand.
    Why does this matter?
    When the new upper stage is ready to fly following testing at NASA Stennis, it will allow NASA to send astronauts and larger payloads to the Moon on a single mission.
    It is expected to fly on Artemis IV when astronauts will live and work in humanity’s first lunar space station, Gateway.
    How exciting! This mission will make possible new opportunities for science and preparation for human missions to Mars.
    The massive interstage simulator component lifted and installed at NASA Stennis is 103 tons, or 206,000 pounds. When you learn about the exploration upper stage, and how it functions, it makes sense. The upper stage is powered by four engines and provides more than 97,000 pounds of thrust.
    Speaking of missions to the Moon, have you ever asked yourself why are we returning to the Moon?
    A few goals NASA has set for Artemis missions include: preparing for future exploration missions deeper into space – including Mars – by developing and proving new technologies and capabilities, while learning how to live and operate on the lunar surface; finding and using water and other critical resources needed for long-term exploration; and investigating the Moon’s mysteries to learn more about Earth and the universe for the benefit of all.
    These long-term plans build on more than 50 years of NASA’s experience and are reigniting everyone’s passion for discovery.
    I believe it because the grandgators have been talking NASA nonstop lately.
    All of this culminates with inspiring the Artemis Generation and encouraging young people to pursue studies and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
    Throughout the month of October, NASA Stennis representatives have been doing just that, sharing the cool ways NASA explores, innovates, and inspires all of humanity and the Artemis Generation.
    Such stops have included Congressman Bennie Thompson’s College and Career Fair in Greenville, Mississippi, located in the Yazoo-Mississippi Delta area, bordering the state of Arkansas; Cruisin’ the Coast, where car enthusiasts from over 37 states and Canada drive to the Mississippi Gulf Coast annually; and various college and career fairs throughout Pearl River County and Hancock County, areas where many NASA Stennis employees live.
    October indeed was a cool month, and November has started off that way, too. NASA Stennis representatives participated in the NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show Nov. 1-2, one of Pensacola’s largest events with more than 150,000 in attendance.
    It marked just the fifth time in history that the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and U.S. Navy Blue Angels have flown together. This event also celebrated the 55th anniversary of NASA’s lunar landing.
    Pretty cool, huh?
    > Back to Top

    NASA Stennis Achieves Milestone in Preparation for Future Artemis Testing
    NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, achieved a key milestone this week for testing a new SLS (Space Launch System) rocket stage to fly on future Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond.

    NASA Stennis Takes Key Step in Expanding its Range Operations Work
    NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, has entered into an agreement with Skydweller Aero Inc. for the company to operate its solar-powered autonomous aircraft in the site’s restricted airspace, a key step towards achieving a strategic center goal.

    NASA Stennis Conducts Water Flush at Fred Haise Test Stand

    NASA Employees Complete Agency Leadership Program

    NASA Stennis Plants Artemis Moon Tree

    NASA Stennis Crews Continue Exploration Upper Stage Preparations

    > Back to Top

    LSU Engineering Students Visit NASA Stennis

    U.S. Ambassador Visits NASA Stennis

    NASA Stennis Highlights Return to the Moon in Louisiana

    NASA Stennis Hosts Office of the Chief Information Officer Teams

    Start Your Engines: NASA Stennis Cruises on the Coast

    Stennis Hosts Family Day at INFINITY

    Java with John: Brewing Conversations and Connection with NASA Stennis Employees

    NASA Attends Blue Angels Airshow

    NASA Attends Picayune Street Fair

    > Back to Top

    > Back to Top

    Every task at NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, is not simply work for Tessa Keating – it is a meaningful step toward a part of something great.

    > Back to Top

    Lagniappe is published monthly by the Office of Communications at NASA’s Stennis Space Center. The NASA Stennis office may be contacted by at 228-688-3333 (phone); ssc-office-of-communications@mail.nasa.gov (email); or NASA OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS, Attn: LAGNIAPPE, Mail code IA00, Building 1111 Room 173, Stennis Space Center, MS 39529 (mail).
    The Lagniappe staff includes: Managing Editor Lacy Thompson, Editor Bo Black, and photographer Danny Nowlin.
    To subscribe to the monthly publication, please email the following to ssc-office-of-communications@mail.nasa.gov – name, location (city/state), email address.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: West Coast ports work stoppage: Joint statement

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    “Alberta’s government is disappointed and dismayed that yet another work stoppage is occurring in Canada’s transportation sector that has the potential to create widespread damage to Canadians, our country’s economy and our reputation as a reliable trading partner.

    “Alberta is a landlocked province that relies on the safe, dependable movement of goods to and from West Coast ports. These ports export about $50 million worth of Alberta’s key commodities every day including agricultural, energy and manufacturing-related products. A prolonged work stoppage will disrupt the movement of these products, backlog other transportation networks such as rail and trucking and damage the economies of Alberta and Canada.

    “Our government respects the collective bargaining process and encourages the employers and the ship and dock forepersons union to continue working with federal mediators towards an agreement to ensure there are minimal disruptions at West Coast ports.

    “We also call on the federal government to take whatever steps are necessary to maintain critical port operations. Going forward, we encourage the federal government to respond proactively and more effectively to labour disputes affecting essential components of our transportation and supply chain networks, especially those with a limited number of service providers wherein disruptions lead to severe and widespread consequences due to the lack of alternative options.

    “We are calling on the federal government to urgently intervene with binding arbitration, and improve its strategy for managing labour relations, especially within federally regulated transportation sectors. The work stoppages we are seeing every year are a clear indication of the breakdown in these relations and require immediate attention to re-establish stability in our supply chains.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Strongly Condemns Attack on Hindu Temple in Canada

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Strongly Condemns Attack on Hindu Temple in Canada

    Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law: PM

    Posted On: 04 NOV 2024 8:33PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has strongly condemned the recent attack on a Hindu temple in Canada, along with reported attempts to intimidate Indian diplomats. Emphasizing India’s steadfast resolve, he called for justice and the upholding of the rule of law by the Canadian government.

    In his statement posted on X, Prime Minister Modi said:
    “I strongly condemn the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada. Equally appalling are the cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats. Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/SS

    (Release ID: 2070706) Visitor Counter : 11

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Edmonton — Corrections to Comments Made by Premier Smith

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Yesterday, Premier Smith addressed delegates at the Alberta Municipalities Convention being held in Red Deer. During her address, the Premier made some remarks about the Alberta RCMP and its current state that are inaccurate.

    Despite continuous communications with our provincial partners, the current strength of Alberta RCMP officers is regularly miscommunicated, as is our current vacancy rate in Provincial Policing (this excludes municipal policing contracts which are contracts in place with municipalities for their policing services).

    In the interest of clarity, the Alberta RCMP has a total of 1,772 police officer positions within the provincial policing contract. Our current vacancy rate within provincial policing is 17.3% or 306 positions. Of those positions, 124 are currently unfilled. The other 182 are officers who are not currently at work for a variety of reasons, including illness, maternity-related leave, and other special leave. These are statistics that are shared with our provincial partners every month.

    We recognize that vacancy rates, recruiting and retention are substantial concerns for citizens. We’re not alone in this challenge. Police services across the province are struggling to hire. The Alberta RCMP has undertaken a massive recruiting campaign and have already received over 1,400 Alberta applicants and are on track to double this by year’s end. This includes some of the highest numbers of diverse applicants ever seen. This is an increase of applicants by 77% over the last five years, and the number continues to grow.

    We know that recruiting can’t be the only solution we focus on. We are continually analyzing our service delivery models to ensure they are as efficient and effective as they can be. In consultation with the communities we serve, we regularly review our policing models and explore new service delivery models that answer to the specific needs of citizens in those communities. We know that staffing challenges will not be solved by recruiting alone.

    “The employees of the Alberta RCMP are fiercely proud of the policing services they provide to Albertans,” said Deputy Commissioner Rob Hill, Commanding Officer of the Alberta RCMP. “We are here to serve and protect Albertans, and we will continue to do so with dedication and integrity.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Coast Guard, Canadian forces, international partners wrap-up Operation North Pacific Guard 2024 

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 11/04/2024 01:15 PM EST

    News Release

    		  

    U.S. Coast Guard 17th District Alaska
    Contact: 17th District Public Affairs
    Office: (907) 463-2065
    After Hours: (907) 463-2065
    17th District online newsroom

     

    10/29/2024 04:55 PM EDT

    U.S. Coast Guard, Canadian forces, international partners wrap-up Operation North Pacific Guard 2024 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Petrus Resources Declares Monthly Dividend for November 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Petrus Resources Ltd. (“Petrus” or the “Company”) (TSX: PRQ) is pleased to confirm that its Board of Directors has declared a monthly dividend in the amount of $0.01 per share payable November 29, 2024, to shareholders of record on November 15, 2024. The dividend is designated as an eligible dividend for Canadian income tax purposes.

    ABOUT PETRUS
    Petrus is a public Canadian oil and gas company focused on property exploitation, strategic acquisitions and risk-managed exploration in Alberta.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
    Ken Gray
    President and Chief Executive Officer
    T: 403-930-0889
    E: kgray@petrusresources.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Diversified Royalty Corp. Announces November 2024 Cash Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diversified Royalty Corp. (TSX: DIV and DIV.DB.A) (the “Corporation” or “DIV”) is pleased to announce that its board of directors has approved a cash dividend of $0.02083 per common share for the period of November 1, 2024 to November 30, 2024, which is equal to $0.25 per common share on an annualized basis. The dividend will be paid on November 29, 2024 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on November 15, 2024.

    About Diversified Royalty Corp.

    DIV is a multi-royalty corporation, engaged in the business of acquiring top-line royalties from well-managed multi-location businesses and franchisors in North America. DIV’s objective is to acquire predictable, growing royalty streams from a diverse group of multi-location businesses and franchisors.

    DIV currently owns the Mr. Lube + Tires, AIR MILES®, Sutton, Mr. Mikes, Nurse Next Door, Oxford Learning Centres, Stratus Building Solutions and BarBurrito trademarks. Mr. Lube + Tires is the leading quick lube service business in Canada, with locations across Canada. AIR MILES® is Canada’s largest coalition loyalty program. Sutton is among the leading residential real estate brokerage franchisor businesses in Canada. Mr. Mikes operates casual steakhouse restaurants primarily in western Canadian communities. Nurse Next Door is a home care provider with locations across Canada and the United States as well as in Australia. Oxford Learning Centres is one of Canada’s leading franchisee supplemental education services. Stratus Building Solutions is a leading commercial cleaning service franchise company providing comprehensive janitorial, building cleaning, and office cleaning services primarily in the United States. BarBurrito is the largest quick service Mexican restaurant food chain in Canada.

    DIV’s objective is to increase cash flow per share by making accretive royalty purchases and through the growth of purchased royalties. DIV intends to continue to pay a predictable and stable monthly dividend to shareholders and increase the dividend over time, in each case as cash flow per share allows.

    Forward Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The use of any of the words “anticipate,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” ”project,” “should,” “believe,” “confident,” “plan” and “intends” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information, although not all forward-looking information contains these identifying words. Specifically, forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements made in relation to: the amount and timing of the November 2024 dividend to be paid to DIV’s shareholders; DIV’s objective to continue to pay predictable and stable monthly dividends to shareholders; and DIV’s corporate objectives. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events, performance, or achievements of DIV to differ materially from those anticipated or implied by such forward-looking information. DIV believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information included in this news release are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. In particular there can be no assurance that: DIV will be able to make monthly dividend payments to the holders of its common shares; or DIV will achieve any of its corporate objectives. Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned that forward-looking information included in this news release are not guarantees of future performance, and such forward-looking information should not be unduly relied upon. More information about the risks and uncertainties affecting DIV’s business and the businesses of its royalty partners can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of its Annual Information Form dated March 21, 2024 and in its most recent Management’s Discussion and Analysis, copies of each of which are available under DIV’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    In formulating the forward-looking information contained herein, management has assumed that, among other things, DIV will generate sufficient cash flows from its royalties to service its debt and pay dividends to shareholders; the business and economic conditions affecting DIV and its royalty partners will continue substantially in the ordinary course, including without limitation with respect to general industry conditions, general levels of economic activity and regulations. These assumptions, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect.

    All of the forward-looking statements made in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements and other cautionary statements or factors contained herein, and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, DIV. The forward-looking information included in this news release is presented as of the date of this news release and DIV assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.

    THE TORONTO STOCK EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR THE ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

    Additional Information

    Additional information relating to the Corporation and other public filings, is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    Contact:
    Sean Morrison, President and Chief Executive Officer
    Diversified Royalty Corp.
    (236) 521-8470

    Greg Gutmanis, Chief Financial Officer and VP Acquisitions
    Diversified Royalty Corp.
    (236) 521-8471

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence Itinerary for Veterans’ Week – Tuesday, 5 November 2024

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Media advisory

    Tuesday, 5 November 2024

    Ottawa, Ontario

    15:30 EST – Minister Petitpas Taylor will join Marie-France Lalonde, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence and MP for Orleans, Yasir Naqvi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health and MP for Ottawa—Centre, and Mona Fortier, MP for Ottawa—Vanier to make an announcement regarding support Veterans and their families.

    Note for media: Please arrive no later than 15:15 EST. Media interested in participating must register and can obtain additional information at media@veterans.gc.ca.

    Associated Links:

    Remembrance Day & Veterans’ Week

    Contacts

    Media Relations
    Veterans Affairs Canada
    613-992-7468
    media@veterans.gc.ca

    Isabelle Arseneau
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
    isabelle.arseneau@veterans.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Supporting the condominium and construction sectors

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    [embedded content]

    The Service Alberta Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, proposes changes to the Condominium Property Act, the Prompt Payment and Construction Lien Act (PPCLA), and the Public Works Act that will make life easier for Albertans.

    If passed, the bill would make amendments to the Condominium Property Act to provide the framework for establishing the long-anticipated Condominium Dispute Resolution Tribunal. The tribunal will make it easier and more affordable for condominium owners and corporations to resolve common disputes outside the court system.  

    “Our work with condominium owners, board members, managers and others in the sector has reinforced the need for changes that will meet the needs of condominium owners and residents. This legislation will improve condominium governance, provide additional measures for consumer protection and establish a mechanism for easy access to dispute resolution.”

    Dale Nally, Minister for Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction

    The bill would also establish that chargebacks to owners for damage they have caused will be treated as contributions (condominium fees), which will better protect the overall financial health and well-being of the condominium community.

    Other amendments include the provision of a simple form of voting for simple matters, such as approving a meeting agenda. Additionally, the bill will establish the basis for technical requirements for newly built condominiums to protect consumers against structural or other defects in the construction of condominiums.

    “CCI North Alberta is pleased to support the introduction of these legislative changes. These amendments will increase consumer protection and will improve the lives of condominium owners, boards and the industry. Our organization applauds the legislative protection for volunteer condominium board members acting in good faith, similar to protections offered to other volunteers in the non-profit community. We thank the ministry for its efforts in bringing these amendments forward.”

    Hugh Willis, co-chair Government Advocacy, CCI North Alberta

    Additional amendments would result in all construction projects following the same set of prompt payment rules, which were established in legislation in 2021. Before now, Alberta’s government always prioritized prompt payment for government contracts, but the rules in the PPCLA only applied to private sector projects.

    “On behalf of the Electrical Contractors Association of Alberta, and the entire construction sector, we extend our sincere thanks to the Alberta government for listening to industry concerns and taking decisive action by subjecting itself to Alberta’s Prompt Payment Legislation. This critical step demonstrates the government’s commitment to fairness and transparency in our sector.”

    Jason Kuziw, president, Electrical Contractors Association of Alberta

    The amendments proposed in the Service Alberta Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, bring forward changes and recommendations commonly heard from Albertans in the respective sectors.    

    Quick facts

    Prompt Payment and Construction Lien Act and Public Works Act amendments

    • The Public Works Act (PWA) governs projects administered by the Crown.
    • Amendments to the PWA would:
      • Extend a prompt payment and adjudication framework to Alberta government projects under the PWA.
        • This includes mandated payment timelines and invoicing provisions including a 31-day billing cycle from prime to owner unless testing or commissioning is required.
      • Utilize the nominating authority as established in Part 5 of the PPCLA and associated regulations.
      • Mirror the PPCLA amendments for adjudication, arbitration and an action in court to proceed in parallel.
      • Apply to public construction projects through legislation but exclude maintenance projects related to upkeep of capital assets and special scope contracts which are projects delivered using a public-private partnership method.
      • Not introduce statutory requirements for holdback or liens on any government project.
    • The PPCLA creates rules for the timing of payments in Alberta’s construction industry and sets out a streamlined adjudication process for disputes related to payment or work performed as an alternative to the courts. The PPCLA came into force in August 2022.
    • Amendments to the PPCLA would:
    • Clarify the adjudication process to ensure an efficient option for dispute resolution.
    • Address the act’s rigidity of including consulting professions like engineers and architects in the PPCLA, allowing them to opt out of holdback requirements and lien rights on a project-by-project basis.
    • Remove ambiguity around when a construction contract is complete. It would clarify when final payment under a contract or subcontract is considered to have been made and make adjudication available for 30 days after that date.
    • Amendments to the PPCLA will come into force upon proclamation while changes to the Public Works Act come into effect in Spring 2025.

    Related information

    • Improving the condominium and construction sectors
    • Condominium Rules Consultation
    • Bill 30: Service Alberta Statutes Amendment Act, 2024

    Multimedia

    • Listen to the news conference
    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Grand Digue — Missing 77-year-old woman

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Shediac RCMP is asking for the public’s help to locate a missing 77-year-old woman from Grand Digue, N.B.

    Theresa Jones was last seen walking on Beaverbrook Road in Grand Digue in early October. She was reported missing to police on November 1, 2024. Police have followed up on several leads to try and locate her, but have so far been unsuccessful. Police and her family are concerned for her wellbeing.

    Theresa Jones is described as having hazel eyes and short grey hair.

    Anyone who has seen Theresa Jones recently or has any information on her whereabouts is asked to contact the Shediac RCMP at 506-533-5151.

    MIL Security OSI –