Category: Canada

MIL-OSI USA: Readout of Departments of Justice and Interior Roundtable on Media Coverage of Missing or Murdered Indigenous Peoples and Human Trafficking

Source: US State of California

Senior officials from the Justice Department and Department of the Interior yesterday convened a roundtable discussion with Tribal leaders, advocates, members of the media, and federal officials to discuss how media coverage can be channeled to help address the crisis of missing or murdered Indigenous peoples (MMIP) and human trafficking (HT).

The virtual roundtable was organized as part of the federal response to the recommendations of the Not Invisible Act Commission (NIAC) — a federal advisory committee established in November 2023 under the Not Invisible Act of 2019 to recommend strategies for combating violent crime on Indian lands and against American Indian and Alaska Native people. During seven field hearings across the country as well as a virtual national hearing that informed the Commission’s recommendations, people affected by the crisis of MMIP and HT shared their concerns about lack of media coverage and whether that may contribute to cases being ignored or going unsolved. The Commission in turn recommended the Justice Department and Department of the Interior hold a roundtable discussion as a step toward developing a set of best practices.

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland and delivered video remarks.

“Public communication, news stories, and social media can be crucial in finding and investigating cases of missing or murdered Indigenous persons,” said Attorney General Garland. “That is why, on the Not Invisible Act Commission’s recommendation, we convened this roundtable to develop best practices and guidelines to aid law enforcement, families, advocates, and journalists when a member of a Native community is reported missing. It is our hope that this convening will strengthen those partnerships, which are essential to advancing our shared goal of ending this crisis.”

“Since day one, the Biden-Harris administration has been committed to fulfilling our promises to Indian Country,” said Secretary Haaland, who authored the Not Invisible Act while in Congress. “This roundtable is part of that promise as we act on one of the Not Invisible Act Commission’s recommendations because a crisis that exists in silence will never be solved. Today is one step of many to ensure our missing relatives’ stories are told.”

Attorney General Garland also announced that this month, the Justice Department will award more than $210 million to American Indian and Alaska Native communities through three separate programs to support a wide range of public safety challenges. These funds will go directly to efforts to support Tribal safety. They include programs dedicated to reducing domestic violence and sexual violence, supporting victims of crime, and providing resources to law enforcement, Tribal youth programs, and treatment programs.

Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer delivered opening remarks at the roundtable, saying “it is critical now, more than ever,” to work together to draw attention to the MMIP and HT crises. “The potential for immediate, real-time alerts makes media, particularly social media, a powerful tool to get the word out fast when emergencies happen. And the widespread use of media facilitates information sharing and collaboration that can help resolve missing persons cases.”

Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland opened the roundtable and said, “The overarching principle that guides our work is to make life better for people in Tribal communities and making sure that Indian people have the opportunity to live safe, healthy, and fulfilling lives in their tribal communities. Public safety is a big part of this, and addressing the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples crisis and human trafficking are at the forefront of our public safety work.”

In August, Attorney General Garland and Secretary Haaland visited New Mexico to discuss efforts to confront the MMIP crisis and human trafficking with federal and Tribal leaders. Under Attorney General Garland and Secretary Haaland’s leadership, the Biden-Harris Administration has worked to address the high rates of violent crime in Indian Country. Read more about these efforts.

The Departments plan to publish best practices stemming from this discussion by the end of the year. To submit recommendations, email newsmedia@bia.gov no later than Friday, Oct. 4.

Additional Background on the Departments of Justice and Interior’s commitment to addressing MMIP and HT

Law Enforcement Collaboration: At the 2022 White House Tribal Nations Summit, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and FBI announced an agreement to provide for the effective and efficient administration of criminal investigations in Indian Country. The agreement specified that BIA’s Office of Justice Services (BIA-OJS) and the FBI would cooperate on investigations and share information and investigative reports as well as establish written guidelines outlining jurisdiction and investigative roles and responsibilities. The agreement also requires that all BIA, FBI and Tribal law enforcement officers receive training regarding trauma-informed, culturally responsive investigative approaches.

Missing and Murdered Unit (MMU): As one of her first acts as Secretary, Secretary Haaland created a new MMU within BIA-OJS to pursue justice for missing or murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives. The MMU, headquartered in Albuquerque, provides leadership and direction for cross-Departmental and interagency work involving missing and murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives. The MMU has enabled the Interior Department to expand its collaborative efforts with other agencies, such as working to enhance the Justice Department’s National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) and working through strategic partnerships with the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Units (BAUs), the FBI Forensic Laboratory, the USMS’ Missing Child Unit (MCU) and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).

MMIP Regional Outreach Program: Since the start of this Administration, the Justice Department has made strides in implementing systems aimed at preventing new instances of MMIP, locating individuals who are reported missing, and, where a crime has occurred, investigating and prosecuting those responsible. In Summer 2023, the Department launched an MMIP Regional Outreach Program. This program places attorneys and coordinators at U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the United States to help prevent and respond to cases of missing or murdered Indigenous people.

Not Invisible Act Commission: The Departments worked collaboratively to stand up the Not Invisible Act Commission, which was created by legislation the Secretary led in Congress, to develop recommendations on how the federal government can combat crimes against American Indian and Alaska Native people. The Commission included federal, state, and Tribal law enforcement, Tribal leaders, federal partners, service providers, family members of missing and murdered individuals, and survivors. In 2023, the Commission held seven field hearings across the country as well as a virtual national hearing to hear directly from individuals affected by the MMIP crisis. In March, the Departments released their response to the Commission’s recommendations, which they are in the process of implementing in collaboration with Congress.

Operation Not Forgotten: The FBI established this operation to focus resources on seeking justice for Tribal community members who have been victims of unresolved crimes. Operation Not Forgotten first surged resources to Tribal communities in 2023 with the mission of examining cases that have gone unresolved. The goal was to move those cases closer to resolution, provide services for victims, and to bring offenders to justice, who had so far escaped it. Due to the success of the 2023 operation, the FBI is currently partnering with the BIA-MMU to surge resources in 2024. BIA-MMU is providing significant intelligence and investigative support for the duration of the operation. Over 45 special agents and five intelligence personnel have deployed in support of the 2024 operation.

White House Council on Native American Affairs: At the 2021 White House Tribal Nations Summit, President Biden signed Executive Order 14053 on Improving Public Safety and Criminal Justice for Native Americans and Addressing the Crisis of Missing or Murdered Indigenous People directing the Departments of Justice, the Interior, and Health and Human Services to work with Tribal Nations and partners to build safe and healthy Tribal communities and to support comprehensive law enforcement, prevention, intervention and support services. President Biden signed the Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization Act of 2022 into law, which built on advancements from previous reauthorizations and included new provisions to address the crisis of MMIP across the country and re-enforced Tribal sovereignty by providing means for Tribes to address the epidemic of violence within their lands and communities. The White House Council on Native American Affairs is continuing to implement this work through its Public Safety and Justice committee, which is co-chaired by the Departments of Justice and the Interior, as part of an all of government approach to address public safety and the MMIP crisis.

International Collaboration: The United States is also working with its international counterparts from Canada and Mexico to address public safety issues on a larger scale. In September 2023, Canada chaired the Fifth Convening of the Trilateral Working Group on Violence against Indigenous Women and Girls in collaboration with Indigenous leaders and government officials from Canada, the United States and Mexico and global subject-matter experts. Discussions at this year’s convening focused on human trafficking and access to justice. Officials from the three countries agreed to continue to protect and uphold the rights of Indigenous women, learn from and implement Indigenous-led approaches, provide accessible and culturally safe services, and support the preservation of Indigenous cultures and languages. A sixth gathering is expected later this year.

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department and EPA Announce Settlement to Reduce Benzene and Volatile Organic Compounds from Wastewater at Lima Refining Company’s Refinery in Ohio

Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

The Justice Department and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced a settlement with the Lima Refining Company (LRC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Canadian-based Cenovus Energy, to address violations of the Clean Air Act at its refinery in Lima, Ohio.

Under the settlement, LRC must pay a civil penalty of $19 million and implement an estimated $150 million in capital investments, including control technology expected to reduce emissions of benzene by an estimated 4.34 tons per year, other hazardous air pollutants (HAP) by 16.26 tons per year, and other volatile organic compound emissions (VOC) by 219 tons per year. The Lima Refinery is surrounded by a community with environmental justice concerns.

“This settlement is part of an ongoing initiative to curtail illegal benzene and VOC emissions at refineries that have failed to allocate the necessary personnel and capital investments to ensure compliance with rules they have long been subject to,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Under the settlement, the refinery will implement controls that will greatly improve air quality and reduce health impacts on the overburdened community that surrounds the refinery.”

“Lima Refinery unlawfully exposed the surrounding community to toxic benzene emissions and other hazardous pollutants,” said Assistant Administrator David Uhlmann of the EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “Today’s settlement demonstrates how monitoring can help protect overburdened communities from harmful emissions from the oil and gas sector, including refineries. Lima will pay a substantial penalty for its violations and install $150 million in emissions controls that will provide cleaner air and healthier water to a community that deserves nothing less.” *

“Environmental justice is a core priority of our Office and of the Department. Through its illegal emissions of benzene, VOCs and other pollutants from its facility, the LRC impermissibly violated the Clean Air Act and jeopardized the health of Ohio’s residents,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “We will continue to be vigilant and strictly enforce environmental laws and regulations to protect our district’s residents from toxic pollutants. Ohioans should not have to worry about living and working in an area where air pollution from local industry could make them sick.”

As part of the settlement, LRC will install one or more flash columns to reduce benzene in wastewater streams leading to its wastewater treatment plant and will cease operating, replace or upgrade other units at the refinery. LRC will also install six air pollutant monitoring stations to monitor air quality outside of the refinery fence line and make the results publicly available.

The United States’ complaint, filed simultaneously with the settlement, alleges that LRC violated federal regulations limiting benzene in refinery wastewater streams, and HAP and VOC emissions at its Lima Refinery, as well as the general requirement to use good air pollution control practices.

Benzene is known to cause cancer in humans. Short-term inhalation exposure to benzene also may cause drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, as well as eye, skin and respiratory tract irritation, and, at high levels, unconsciousness. Long-term inhalation exposure can cause various disorders in the blood, including reduced numbers of red blood cells and anemia in occupational settings. Reproductive effects have been reported for women exposed by inhalation to high levels, and adverse effects on the developing fetus have been observed in animal tests.

VOCs, along with nitrous oxide, play a major role in the atmospheric reactions that produce ozone, which is the primary constituent of smog. Ground-level ozone exposure is linked to a variety of short- and long-term health problems, including difficulty breathing, aggravated asthma, reduced lung capacity and increased susceptibility to respiratory illnesses like pneumonia and bronchitis.

This settlement is part of EPA’s and the Justice Department’s ongoing focus to assist communities that have been historically marginalized and disproportionately exposed to pollution.

For more information about the settlement, please visit www.epa.gov/enforcement/2024-lima-refining-clean-air-act-benzene-waste-neshap-and-volatile-organic-compounds.

The proposed consent decree, lodged in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, is subject to a public comment period and final court approval. Information on submitting comment and access to the settlement agreement is available at: www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.

The EPA investigated the case.

Attorneys with the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Enforcement Section are handling the case.

*Editor’s note: this quote has been updated for accuracy to remove the words “fence line.”

MIL Security OSI –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Security: Readout of Departments of Justice and Interior Roundtable on Media Coverage of Missing or Murdered Indigenous Peoples and Human Trafficking

Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

Senior officials from the Justice Department and Department of the Interior yesterday convened a roundtable discussion with Tribal leaders, advocates, members of the media, and federal officials to discuss how media coverage can be channeled to help address the crisis of missing or murdered Indigenous peoples (MMIP) and human trafficking (HT).

The virtual roundtable was organized as part of the federal response to the recommendations of the Not Invisible Act Commission (NIAC) — a federal advisory committee established in November 2023 under the Not Invisible Act of 2019 to recommend strategies for combating violent crime on Indian lands and against American Indian and Alaska Native people. During seven field hearings across the country as well as a virtual national hearing that informed the Commission’s recommendations, people affected by the crisis of MMIP and HT shared their concerns about lack of media coverage and whether that may contribute to cases being ignored or going unsolved. The Commission in turn recommended the Justice Department and Department of the Interior hold a roundtable discussion as a step toward developing a set of best practices.

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland and delivered video remarks.

“Public communication, news stories, and social media can be crucial in finding and investigating cases of missing or murdered Indigenous persons,” said Attorney General Garland. “That is why, on the Not Invisible Act Commission’s recommendation, we convened this roundtable to develop best practices and guidelines to aid law enforcement, families, advocates, and journalists when a member of a Native community is reported missing. It is our hope that this convening will strengthen those partnerships, which are essential to advancing our shared goal of ending this crisis.”

“Since day one, the Biden-Harris administration has been committed to fulfilling our promises to Indian Country,” said Secretary Haaland, who authored the Not Invisible Act while in Congress. “This roundtable is part of that promise as we act on one of the Not Invisible Act Commission’s recommendations because a crisis that exists in silence will never be solved. Today is one step of many to ensure our missing relatives’ stories are told.”

Attorney General Garland also announced that this month, the Justice Department will award more than $210 million to American Indian and Alaska Native communities through three separate programs to support a wide range of public safety challenges. These funds will go directly to efforts to support Tribal safety. They include programs dedicated to reducing domestic violence and sexual violence, supporting victims of crime, and providing resources to law enforcement, Tribal youth programs, and treatment programs.

Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer delivered opening remarks at the roundtable, saying “it is critical now, more than ever,” to work together to draw attention to the MMIP and HT crises. “The potential for immediate, real-time alerts makes media, particularly social media, a powerful tool to get the word out fast when emergencies happen. And the widespread use of media facilitates information sharing and collaboration that can help resolve missing persons cases.”

Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland opened the roundtable and said, “The overarching principle that guides our work is to make life better for people in Tribal communities and making sure that Indian people have the opportunity to live safe, healthy, and fulfilling lives in their tribal communities. Public safety is a big part of this, and addressing the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples crisis and human trafficking are at the forefront of our public safety work.”

In August, Attorney General Garland and Secretary Haaland visited New Mexico to discuss efforts to confront the MMIP crisis and human trafficking with federal and Tribal leaders. Under Attorney General Garland and Secretary Haaland’s leadership, the Biden-Harris Administration has worked to address the high rates of violent crime in Indian Country. Read more about these efforts.

The Departments plan to publish best practices stemming from this discussion by the end of the year. To submit recommendations, email newsmedia@bia.gov no later than Friday, Oct. 4.

Additional Background on the Departments of Justice and Interior’s commitment to addressing MMIP and HT

Law Enforcement Collaboration: At the 2022 White House Tribal Nations Summit, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and FBI announced an agreement to provide for the effective and efficient administration of criminal investigations in Indian Country. The agreement specified that BIA’s Office of Justice Services (BIA-OJS) and the FBI would cooperate on investigations and share information and investigative reports as well as establish written guidelines outlining jurisdiction and investigative roles and responsibilities. The agreement also requires that all BIA, FBI and Tribal law enforcement officers receive training regarding trauma-informed, culturally responsive investigative approaches.

Missing and Murdered Unit (MMU): As one of her first acts as Secretary, Secretary Haaland created a new MMU within BIA-OJS to pursue justice for missing or murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives. The MMU, headquartered in Albuquerque, provides leadership and direction for cross-Departmental and interagency work involving missing and murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives. The MMU has enabled the Interior Department to expand its collaborative efforts with other agencies, such as working to enhance the Justice Department’s National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) and working through strategic partnerships with the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Units (BAUs), the FBI Forensic Laboratory, the USMS’ Missing Child Unit (MCU) and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).

MMIP Regional Outreach Program: Since the start of this Administration, the Justice Department has made strides in implementing systems aimed at preventing new instances of MMIP, locating individuals who are reported missing, and, where a crime has occurred, investigating and prosecuting those responsible. In Summer 2023, the Department launched an MMIP Regional Outreach Program. This program places attorneys and coordinators at U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the United States to help prevent and respond to cases of missing or murdered Indigenous people.

Not Invisible Act Commission: The Departments worked collaboratively to stand up the Not Invisible Act Commission, which was created by legislation the Secretary led in Congress, to develop recommendations on how the federal government can combat crimes against American Indian and Alaska Native people. The Commission included federal, state, and Tribal law enforcement, Tribal leaders, federal partners, service providers, family members of missing and murdered individuals, and survivors. In 2023, the Commission held seven field hearings across the country as well as a virtual national hearing to hear directly from individuals affected by the MMIP crisis. In March, the Departments released their response to the Commission’s recommendations, which they are in the process of implementing in collaboration with Congress.

Operation Not Forgotten: The FBI established this operation to focus resources on seeking justice for Tribal community members who have been victims of unresolved crimes. Operation Not Forgotten first surged resources to Tribal communities in 2023 with the mission of examining cases that have gone unresolved. The goal was to move those cases closer to resolution, provide services for victims, and to bring offenders to justice, who had so far escaped it. Due to the success of the 2023 operation, the FBI is currently partnering with the BIA-MMU to surge resources in 2024. BIA-MMU is providing significant intelligence and investigative support for the duration of the operation. Over 45 special agents and five intelligence personnel have deployed in support of the 2024 operation.

White House Council on Native American Affairs: At the 2021 White House Tribal Nations Summit, President Biden signed Executive Order 14053 on Improving Public Safety and Criminal Justice for Native Americans and Addressing the Crisis of Missing or Murdered Indigenous People directing the Departments of Justice, the Interior, and Health and Human Services to work with Tribal Nations and partners to build safe and healthy Tribal communities and to support comprehensive law enforcement, prevention, intervention and support services. President Biden signed the Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization Act of 2022 into law, which built on advancements from previous reauthorizations and included new provisions to address the crisis of MMIP across the country and re-enforced Tribal sovereignty by providing means for Tribes to address the epidemic of violence within their lands and communities. The White House Council on Native American Affairs is continuing to implement this work through its Public Safety and Justice committee, which is co-chaired by the Departments of Justice and the Interior, as part of an all of government approach to address public safety and the MMIP crisis.

International Collaboration: The United States is also working with its international counterparts from Canada and Mexico to address public safety issues on a larger scale. In September 2023, Canada chaired the Fifth Convening of the Trilateral Working Group on Violence against Indigenous Women and Girls in collaboration with Indigenous leaders and government officials from Canada, the United States and Mexico and global subject-matter experts. Discussions at this year’s convening focused on human trafficking and access to justice. Officials from the three countries agreed to continue to protect and uphold the rights of Indigenous women, learn from and implement Indigenous-led approaches, provide accessible and culturally safe services, and support the preservation of Indigenous cultures and languages. A sixth gathering is expected later this year.

MIL Security OSI –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Prime Minister on International Safe Abortion Day

Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on International Safe Abortion Day:

“Abortion is health care. Family planning is health care. It’s that simple.

“On International Safe Abortion Day, we unequivocally reaffirm every woman’s right to make decisions about their body, their life, and their future. We reflect on the freedoms won by women. We recommit to the progress we can’t risk losing. And we fight – tooth and nail – to protect a woman’s right to choose.

“Our government is proudly pro-choice and always will be. That’s why we’re taking action to expand sexual and reproductive health (SRH) care across the country. With the Sexual and Reproductive Health Fund, we are removing barriers, increasing access to these critical services, and supporting community organizations across Canada to help deliver this care. Funding includes projects to increase access to safe abortion services for women, youth, and Indigenous, racialized, and 2SLGBTQI+ communities.

“Being pro-choice doesn’t just mean we support the right to choose. It also means we increase the choices available for women. Earlier this year, our government announced Bill C-64, the first phase of our pharmacare plan, which includes universal coverage for a range of contraception. With $1.5 billion in federal investments, we’re making contraception medications and devices free – from birth control pills, to IUDs, to implants, to the morning-after pill – so women are free to choose if, when, and how they plan their family. With this coverage, nine million women will have more choices and, importantly, more affordable choices – so their right to reproductive freedom isn’t restricted by cost. Earlier this month, we jointly announced with the Government of British Columbia our intent to work together to improve contraception and diabetes coverage for residents of British Columbia. Once Bill C-64 is passed, we intend to enter formal negotiations, and we encourage all provinces and territories to sign on.

“Our commitment to increasing access to safe SRH services extends beyond our borders. As part of our 10-year commitment to global health and rights, we are making transformative investments to support comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights for women and girls around the world. In 2022-23 alone, our global investments to support safe abortions and post-abortion care increased by over 50 per cent. And with our Feminist International Assistance Policy, we’re playing a leadership role on the world stage to strengthen gender equality and share the message – through action and engagement – that sexual and reproductive care is health care.

“As threats to women’s rights increase around the world, some march in celebration. Some divest and defund health services. Some may say one thing, but their actions demonstrate another. And some choose to stay silent, almost ashamed to speak up for reproductive health.

“We will not. Because no government or politician should tell a woman what she can and cannot do with her body. On this International Safe Abortion Day, and every day, we move forward on our commitment to building a safer, fairer, and more prosperous future for everyone.”

The Government of Canada recently launched online resources on SRH-related topics, including abortion, gender affirming care, and other sexual health care information. These resources are intended to improve access to accurate SRH information for Canadians.

MIL OSI Canada News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: Statement by the Prime Minister on International Abortion Rights Day

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on International Abortion Rights Day:

“Abortion is health care. Family planning is health care. It’s that simple.”

“On this International Abortion Rights Day, we reaffirm unequivocally that every woman has the right to make decisions about her body, her life and her future. We reflect on the freedoms women have won. We renew our commitment to the progress we cannot risk losing. Finally, we fight hard to protect women’s freedom of choice.

“Our government is proudly pro-choice and always will be. That’s why we’re taking action to expand sexual and reproductive health care across the country. With theFund for Sexual and Reproductive Health, we are breaking down barriers, increasing access to these essential services, and supporting community organizations across Canada that help deliver this care. Funding is specifically targeted to projects that aim to improve access to safe abortion for women, youth, Indigenous people, racialized people, and 2SLGBTQI communities.

“Being pro-choice means more than just supporting women’s right to choose. It means increasing the choices available to them. Earlier this year, our government announced Bill C-64, the first phase of our pharmacare plan, which will provide universal coverage for a range of contraceptives. With $1.5 billion in federal investments, we are making medications and contraceptives free – from birth control pills to IUDs, implants and the morning-after pill – so women can decide whether, when and how to start a family. With this coverage, nine million women will benefit from greater choice and, most importantly, more affordable options. This will mean that cost will no longer be a barrier to their reproductive freedom. Earlier this month, we jointly announced with the Government of British Columbia that we intend to expand coverage for birth control and diabetes medications for residents of that province. Following the passage of Bill C-64, we plan to begin formal negotiations. We encourage each province and territory to do the same.

“Our commitment to expanding access to safe sexual and reproductive health services extends beyond our borders. As part of our 10-year commitment to global health and rights, we are making transformative investments to support the sexual and reproductive health and rights of women and girls around the world. From 2022 to 2023, we have increased our global investments in safe abortion and post-abortion care by more than 50%. As part of ourFeminist International Aid Policy, we play a leading role on the world stage in promoting greater gender equality. And through our action and commitment, our message is that sexual and reproductive care is health care.

“As threats to women increase around the world, some people march to celebrate. Others stand down and cut funding for health care. Some say one thing and do another. And others choose to remain silent and are almost ashamed to speak out in support of reproductive health.

“We will not do that. No government or politician should dictate to a woman what she can and cannot do with her body. On this International Abortion Rights Day, as on every other day, we are following through on our commitment to building a safer, fairer and more prosperous future for everyone.”

The Government of Canada recently published onlineresources on topics related to sexual and reproductive health, including abortion, gender-affirming care and other sexual health care information. These resources aim to improve Canadians’ access to accurate sexual and reproductive health information.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Security: Beaver Bank — RCMP charges man with multiple offences
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment has charged a man with multiple offences, including assaulting a peace officer with a weapon, following a disturbance in Beaver Bank.

On September 26, at approximately 8:15 p.m., RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment responded to a report of an unwanted person outside a home on Sherri Ln. Upon arrival, responding officers confirmed the identity of the man and determined that he was in breach of conditions. When officers advised the man he was under arrest, he fled inside his home, which was nearby, grabbed a bat and returned outside, threatening the officers.

The man was highly agitated and officers made several attempts to subdue and arrest him, including deploying their conducted energy weapons, before safely taking him into custody. The man and two officers sustained minor injuries during the incident. All three were treated and released by EHS.

Shawn Michael Deschenes, 51, of Beaver Bank, has been charged with:
- Assaulting a Peace Officer (two counts)
- Assaulting a Peace Officer with a Weapon (three counts)
- Uttering Threats
- Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
- Resist Arrest
- Mischief
- Criminal Harassment
- Causing Disturbance (two counts)
- Failure to Comply with a Release Order (two counts)
Deschenes appeared in Dartmouth Provincial Court on September 27 and was remanded into custody. He will return in court on October 1, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.

File # 24-132543

MIL Security OSI –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Premier Wab Kinew on Fallen Firefighter Ceremony

Source: Government of Canada regional news

September 28, 2024

Statement from Premier Wab Kinew on Fallen Firefighter Ceremony

As Manitobans gather to honour fallen firefighters, I encourage all of us to take time to reflect on the sacrifices of those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Six names are being added to the memorial this year and each name represents one of the brave Manitobans we lost this year that have left a legacy of service.

Each of them lived up to the belief we all have as Manitobans that we don’t leave anyone behind and we help those who need it most. We get up every day and work together to make this province a better place, no matter what walk of life you come from.

Firefighters show up for us on some of our worst days and show incredible bravery and courage each day in carrying out their duties.

As a government, we will continue to work to support those who keep our communities safe.

– 30 –

MIL OSI Canada News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Inspiring the next generation of Alberta hunters
Source: Government of Canada regional news

Minister Loewen with his father, Paul, and his son, Tyler.

Alberta’s expansive rural landscapes are cherished by more than 150,000 hunters annually, and hunting has enduring significance for families and communities across our province. It serves not only as a means of sustenance and recreation, but also plays a vital role in wildlife management, conservation and supporting local economies.

During Provincial Hunting Day, youth aged 10 to 17 have the opportunity to hunt upland game birds in designated Wildlife Management Units during open seasons without needing a provincial game bird licence. Those who have completed the Alberta Conservation and Hunter Education course can use a firearm under the direct supervision of a parent, legal guardian or, with written permission, another adult who possesses a valid firearms licence.

“Starting to develop hunting skills at a young age is key. Teaching our youth about hunting safety and conservation principles empowers them to confidently plan their own hunting adventures in the future.”

Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks

Provincial Hunting Day also emphasizes the role of mentors in the hunting community. Through the generations, mentoring has fostered a deep respect for wildlife and the land among Albertans, creating positive connections and ensuring sustainable hunting practices.

Alberta’s Forestry and Parks department carefully manages hunting opportunities through regulated seasons, game quotas and policies grounded in scientific research and conservation principles. This ensures that Alberta maintains its reputation for world-class hunting while preserving its natural heritage for future generations to enjoy.

“Hunting has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. It’s early mornings, freezing toes and some of my best memories. I love hunting with my dad and getting outside, connecting with nature and knowing where my food comes from. For me, hunting’s more than a sport—it’s about family, friends and keeping traditions alive.”

Owen, 15-year old from Didsbury, Alberta

Quick facts
- Hunting’s contribution to the Alberta economy is $1.1 billion annually, including licence sales, equipment and experiences directly related to hunting.
- Upland game birds available for hunting include ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse, blue grouse, spruce grouse, ptarmigan, pheasants and Hungarian partridge.
Related information
- 2024-25 Hunting Regulation Guide
- 2024 Game Bird Regulations
- AlbertaRELM Online Licensing
Multimedia
- Minister’s video – Provincial Hunting Day
MIL OSI Canada News –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Hurricane Helene update from Congressman Edwards
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11)

Dear Friend,

Yesterday morning around 8:30 a.m., Hurricane Helene hit our beautiful mountains with a ferocity unmatched by any storm in our district’s history. We have witnessed 1,000-year flooding, and with more rain expected this afternoon, we are not out of the woods.

But I have been encouraged by the number of neighbors I’ve seen helping neighbors, and I know our community will persist. Mountain folk are resilient. We will make it through this, together.

To keep you informed, I am committed to sending you a daily update on the steps being taken to respond and recover from Hurricane Helene. Today is update number one, with more information to follow in the coming days. Please make sure to read it through and share it with your friends and family.

Food and water
- Far and wide, the biggest need of every county in NC-11 is access to food and potable water.
- A total of 37 water systems are on a system-wide boil water advisory across North Carolina, with 31 systems awaiting results to hopefully allow for the water to be turned back on.
- Potable water and meals are actively en route from central North Carolina to Western North Carolina.
  - Air operations for food and water deliveries begin this afternoon in areas without roadway access.
Power and Gas
- Power outages are widespread but accessibility for repairs is limited.
  - Currently, there is no established timeline for restorations.
- More than 700,000 North Carolinians lost power due to the storm.
  - Power for 281,000 of the initial 700,000 has been restored, but Western North Carolina faces a unique challenge due to the high number of road closures throughout the district.
- Duke Energy warns that Western North Carolinians should be prepared for potential multi-day outages, though energy providers are doing everything they can to restore power quickly.
- Duke Energy has 11,000 workers working quickly and safely on repairs, including additional crews from 19 states and Canada.
- Fuel planning is ongoing for both rescue operations and communications resources.
  - Fuel contracts have been activated.
    
    A fuel contract provides a steady fuel reserve during an emergency.
- For local governments in need of fuel for their vehicles
  - Ensure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and gasoline delivered.
    
    Gasoline can also be delivered via air if road access is limited.
Roads
- North Carolina Department of Transportation has issued a “DO NOT DRIVE” message for Western North Carolina.
  - Unless it is an emergency, please do not try to travel.
- Roughly 400 roads are closed in Western North Carolina, with the majority being in Henderson (50), Buncombe (25) and Jackson (21) counties.
- 73 of these are primary routes including I-40, I-26, U.S. 74 at I-40 in Asheville, and dozens of U.S. and N.C. routes.
- Most of the current closures are due to high water where the roadway is impassable or flooded, land/rockslides, downed power lines, pipe failures, and fallen trees.
- More than 1,500 employees from across the state have deployed to Western North Carolina to address road closures related to the storm.
  - Crews are actively working to clear trees and rock/landslide debris throughout Western North Carolina to reestablish accessibility, including clearing efforts along the I-40 and I-26 corridors.
Asheville Regional Airport
- Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27 due to flooding.
- The airport is expected to reopen by mid-day today, Saturday, September 28.
Cell Service
- Western North Carolina has seen severe cell service outages due to the severe weather.
  - Madison County is worst affected, with less than 8 percent capacity available through Verizon.
- Service providers have deployed Compact Rapid Deployables throughout Western North Carolina, including to Hendersonville, Lake Junaluska, and Waynesville, with more en route.
  - Compact Rapid Deployables are a transportable cell tower and internet access point, that can generate wired internet and wi-fi coverage anytime and anywhere.
- Service providers have deployed SatCOLTs throughout Western North Carolina, including to Asheville and Hendersonville, with more en route.
  - SatCOLT stands for “Satellite Cells on Light Trucks” and are vehicles with mobile cell sites that connect via satellite and do not rely on commercial power supply.
North Carolina National Guard
- 410 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen have been deployed to provide support to Western North Carolina so far.
  - This includes the deployment of 146 vehicles and 12 aircraft.
- The Asheville National Guard armory has relocated to East Flat Rock due to lost power so they may continue operations and providing support to Western North Carolina.
Shelters

For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of September 28:
- Buncombe
  - A-B Technical Community College
    
    340 Victoria Rd, Asheville, NC 28801
  - First Baptist Church Swannanoa
    
    503 Park Street, Swannanoa, NC 28778
  - WNC Agricultural Center
    
    1301 Fanning Bridge Rd, Fletcher, NC 28732
- Haywood
  - Haywood County Government Armory
    
    285 Armory Drive, Clyde, NC 28781
- Henderson
  - Henderson County Recreation Center
    
    708 S. Grove St, Hendersonville, NC 28792
- Jackson
  - Cashiers Recreation Center
    
    355 Frank Allen Rd, Cashiers, NC 28717
  - Jackson County Department of Aging
    
    100 County Services Park, Sylva, NC 28779
- McDowell
  - First Baptist Church of Old Fort
    
    203 E Main St, Old Fort, NC 28762
  - Glenwood Baptist Church
    
    1550 Old US 221 South, Marion, NC 28752
- Polk
  - Polk County High School
    
    1681 NC 108 Highway East, Columbus, NC 28722
- Transylvania
  - Pisgah Forest Baptist Church
    
    494 Hendersonville Hwy, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
- Yancey
  - South Toe Elementary School
    
    139 South Toe School Rd, Burnsville, NC 28714
  - West Yancey Volunteer Fire Department
    
    6557 US Hwy 19, Burnsville, NC 28714
MIL OSI USA News –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: Canada provides humanitarian assistance to meet needs in Lebanon

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

Canada is extremely concerned about the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, a terrorist organization, in Lebanon, which has caused a rapid increase in humanitarian needs. More than 90,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon since the beginning of September.

September 28, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

Canada is extremely concerned about the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, a terrorist organization, in Lebanon, which has caused a rapid increase in humanitarian needs. More than 90,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon since the beginning of September.

Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, announced that Canada will provide $10 million in humanitarian assistance to address the urgent needs of the civilian population in Lebanon. This funding will provide food, water, emergency medical assistance (including sexual and reproductive health services), protection services and other life-saving assistance.

This funding is in addition to the US$10 million already allocated to this crisis by the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund, to which Canada is a major donor.

Together with our partners, we call for an immediate 21-day ceasefire on the Israeli-Lebanese border to allow diplomacy to work towards a diplomatic settlement consistent with UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and towards the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2735 regarding a ceasefire in Gaza.

Canada urges all parties to protect the civilian population from violence, including humanitarian workers, in accordance with international humanitarian law.

Canada continues to monitor the situation and remains in close communication with its humanitarian partners to assess and respond to evolving needs.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Canada provides funding for humanitarian needs in Lebanon

Source: Government of Canada News (2)

Canada is deeply concerned by the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, a terrorist organization, in Lebanon, which has caused a rapid increase of humanitarian needs. More than 90,000 people have been displaced within Lebanon since early September.

September 28, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

Canada is deeply concerned by the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, a terrorist organization, in Lebanon, which has caused a rapid increase of humanitarian needs. More than 90,000 people have been displaced within Lebanon since early September.

Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, announced that Canada is providing $10 million in funding for humanitarian assistance to address the urgent needs of civilians in Lebanon. This funding will help provide food, water, emergency healthcare (including sexual and reproductive healthcare), protection services and other life-saving assistance.

This funding is in addition to the US$10 million already allocated to the crisis in Lebanon by the UN Central Emergency Response Fund, to which Canada is a key donor.

Alongside our partners, we call for an immediate 21-day ceasefire across the Lebanon-Israel border to provide space for diplomacy towards the conclusion of a diplomatic settlement consistent with UNSCR 1701, and the implementation of UNSCR 2735 regarding a ceasefire in Gaza.

Canada urges all parties involved in the conflict to protect civilians, including humanitarian workers, from harm, in accordance with international humanitarian law.

Canada continues to monitor the situation and remains in close contact with humanitarian partners to assess and respond to evolving needs.

MIL OSI Canada News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI: Middlefield Canadian Income PCC – Half-year report
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

HALF-YEARLY FINANCIAL REPORT

The Company has today submitted its half-yearly financial report for the period ended 30 June 2024 (the “HYFR”) to the National Storage Mechanism and it will shortly be available for inspection at: https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism.

The HYFR is also available from the ‘Trust Documents’ section of the Company’s website:
https://middlefield.com/funds/uk-funds/middlefield-canadian-income-trust/.

Enquiries:

Hilary Jones
JTC Fund Solutions (Jersey) Limited
Secretary
Tel.: 01534 700 000

Dean Orrico
President
Middlefield International Limited
Tel.: 01203 7094016

END OF ANNOUNCEMENT

Attachment
- 177314 Middlefield Interim (WEB)
The MIL Network –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI: MOBIA Technology Innovations Proudly Earns a Place on The Globe and Mail’s Sixth Annual Ranking of Canada’s Top Growing Companies

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

DARTMOUTH, Nova Scotia, Sept. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MOBIA Technology Innovations is delighted to announce it has ranked No. 274 in the 2024 Report on Business magazine’s ranking of Canada’s Top Growing Companies.

Canada’s Top Growing Companies ranks Canadian companies on three-year revenue growth. MOBIA earned its place on the list for a fourth year in a row with three-year growth of 140%.

MOBIA’s passion for creating value for customers fuels innovation and drives the company to push the limits of what’s possible, creating custom technology solutions to solve complex business problems. Added to its deep technical bench, this focus on innovation has helped MOBIA achieve growth during a time of economic uncertainty. “The rise of new technologies, like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and automation, has opened a whole new world of opportunities for our customers,” said Mike Reeves, President at MOBIA. “But the evolution of these technologies creates its share of challenges, too. As a company, we’re committed to being the partner they can lean on to execute complex business transformations that create competitive advantage in shifting markets.”

Canada’s Top Growing Companies is an editorial ranking that was launched in 2019 to celebrate the achievements of innovative businesses in Canada. To qualify for this voluntary program, companies had to complete an in-depth application process and fulfill revenue requirements. In total, 416 companies earned a spot on this year’s ranking.

The full list of 2024 winners along with editorial coverage is published in the October issue of Report on Business magazine.

“Our annual ranking of Canada’s Top Growing Companies reflects the sector-spanning ingenuity of this country’s entrepreneurs and corporate leaders,” says Dawn Calleja, Editor of Report on Business magazine. “And we think it’s important to tell their stories, to help inspire the next generation of up-and-comers across the country.”

“The Globe and Mail congratulates this year’s Canada’s Top Growing Companies’ winners for achieving exceptional growth and resilience in facing business challenges,” says Andrew Saunders, CEO of The Globe and Mail. “It is a testament to dedication, strategic vision, and innovative drive.”

ABOUT THE GLOBE AND MAIL

The Globe and Mail is Canada’s foremost news media company, leading the national discussion and causing policy change through brave and independent journalism since 1844. With our award-winning coverage of business, politics and national affairs, The Globe and Mail newspaper reaches 6.2 million readers every week in our print or digital formats, and Report on Business magazine reaches 2.9 million readers in print and digital every issue. Our investment in innovative data science means that as the world continues to change, so does The Globe. The Globe and Mail is owned by Woodbridge, the investment arm of the Thomson family.

ABOUT MOBIA
MOBIA is a leading expert in business transformation and innovative enterprise technology systems. With hundreds of customers across North America, MOBIA partners with organizations of all sizes, across all verticals to transform the way they work. Focused on people, processes, technology, and culture, MOBIA helps businesses reach their full potential. MOBIA is proud to be recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies and Canada’s Top Growing Companies. To learn more, visit Mobia.io

To learn more about MOBIA contact Nicole Murphy at nicole.murphy@mobia.io.

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Europe: Piero Cipollone: Monetary sovereignty in the digital age: the case for a digital euro

Source: European Central Bank

Keynote speech by Piero Cipollone, Member of the Executive Board of the ECB, at the Economics of Payments XIII Conference organised by the Oesterreichische Nationalbank

Vienna, 27 September 2024

Money plays a fundamental role in society, driving economic activity and enabling daily transactions.^[1] Money in physical form, cash, remains the most frequently used means of payment in stores, especially for lower value transactions. But more and more people are using money in digital form. An average of 379 million retail transactions are made digitally in the euro area every day.^[2]

Given money’s importance for our material and social well-being, the regulation of money has long been considered a cornerstone of state sovereignty. As the influential French jurist and political philosopher Jean Bodin observed in the 16th century, “only he who has the power to make law can regulate the coinage.”^[3]

Today, legislators continue to regulate the use of money and they have entrusted central banks with issuing public money and maintaining confidence in the monetary system.

At the European Central Bank (ECB), we issue money that can be used to settle wholesale and retail transactions throughout the euro area, thereby guaranteeing the singleness of money across the monetary union. And we ensure that the euro remains a safe, stable and effective medium of exchange and store of value. This provides an essential anchor for the economy and the financial system.

The Eurosystem has made significant progress in integrating wholesale transactions, largely thanks to the robust payment infrastructure it provides. The Eurosystem’s real-time gross settlement system T2, for instance, processes a value close to the entire euro area GDP on a weekly basis, and it has established itself as a leading global payment system.

In parallel, euro banknotes are accepted for retail payments across the euro area. They have become a symbol of European integration and freedom^[4], uniting us and strengthening our collective identity as Europeans.

But while central banks have long offered digital settlement in central bank money for wholesale transactions, we do not yet have a digital form of cash.

This is becoming increasingly problematic because the use and acceptance of cash are declining. In the euro area, cash transactions have fallen below card transactions in value.^[5] And the share of companies reporting that they do not accept cash has tripled in the last three years to 12%.^[6] The European Commission has therefore put forward a legislative proposal to ensure the acceptance of cash^[7] and the ECB is committed to keeping euro cash widely available and accessible.^[8] Still, the trend towards less use of banknotes for daily transactions is likely to continue, reflecting the digitalisation of economic activity and mirroring patterns observed in many advanced economies.

Moreover, digital payments in the euro area remain fragmented, both along national lines and in terms of use cases. Current European digital payment solutions mainly cater to national markets and specific use cases. To pay across European countries, consumers have to rely on a few non-European providers, which now dominate most of these transactions. And even those providers’ payment solutions are not accepted everywhere and do not cover all key use cases (payments in shops, from person to person and online).

So a key objective of central bank money – to offer the public a means of payment backed by the sovereign authority that can be used for retail transactions across the jurisdiction – is not being fulfilled in the euro area’s digital space. This is all the more awkward given that some euro area countries have made it mandatory to accept digital means of payment, for instance in a bid to combat tax evasion.

In addition, European payments have become a prime example of the situation that Enrico Letta and Mario Draghi have described in their recent reports.^[9] The fragmentation of the market, the lack of European payment solutions available on a European scale and the difficulty faced by European payment service providers in keeping pace with technological advances^[10] means that Europe is not competitive within its own market, let alone on a global scale.

Moreover, in an unstable geopolitical environment, we are being left to rely on companies based in other countries. Today’s dependency on US companies could in future develop into reliance on companies from countries other than the United States. Platforms like Ant Group’s Alipay have demonstrated their ability to bridge geographical gaps: during major events like UEFA EURO 2024 they were able to boost their payment app usage among customers in Europe.^[11]

We must move swiftly to address the risks stemming from Europe’s current inability to secure the integration and autonomy of its retail payment system. This is a key motivation behind the digital euro project: bringing central bank money into the digital age would provide a digital equivalent to banknotes and strengthen our monetary sovereignty.

Today, I will outline the policy challenges we face as digitalisation reinforces the two-sided nature of the payments market. I will then discuss how the introduction of a digital euro could make a significant difference. By designing the digital euro to meet the diverse needs of consumers, merchants and payment service providers, we can ensure its widespread adoption. This, in turn, will empower us to pursue strategic goals such as innovation, integration and independence, ultimately enhancing our economic efficiency, resilience and sovereignty.

The retail payments market: a two-sided marketplace

To fully appreciate why we have been failing to overcome fragmentation and why the digital euro would be a game changer, we must first understand the structure of the retail payments market as a two-sided marketplace.

Retail payment systems act as vital intermediaries connecting two key participants – merchants and consumers – whose transactions are facilitated by payment service providers.^[12] The defining feature of this marketplace is that interactions between participants generate network effects, where the value for each group increases as more participants join the other side. Consider the telephone system: its utility grows with each new user. However, on the downside, this also creates a challenging chicken-and-egg dilemma. Platforms need a critical mass of users to attract additional participants, but they struggle to achieve scale without that initial user base.

That is why platforms with existing large user bases have an advantage in entering such markets. Indeed, the strength of network effects is amplified when platforms expand their range of activities, thereby broadening their user base.

Technological innovation and the rise of digital platforms managed by major tech companies are expected to further exacerbate these dynamics. Big techs conduct business in finance in a unique way, drawing on three mutually reinforcing components: data analytics, network effects and interconnected activities.^[13] Network effects help big techs gather more data, which enhances their analytics. Better analytics improve services and attract more users, allowing them to offer more services and gather even more data.

As a result, payment apps provided by big techs have become especially popular in emerging markets and developing economies.^[14] Take China, for example. Its financial system has largely disintermediated banks from payment transactions. Instead, big techs have leveraged the widespread use of mobile apps, integrating social interactions and shopping experiences to offer users seamless digital payment methods.^[15] What is even more problematic is that these companies operate closed-loop payment systems, in contrast to international card schemes’ open-loop systems. In a closed-loop system, consumers load money onto their Alipay account, for example, and pay by scanning the merchant’s Alipay QR code. As a result, funds are transferred directly from the consumer to the merchant, bypassing the traditional system of banks and network processors. Only the owner of the closed-loop system has access to the payment data. This challenges the traditional banking model, which relies on customer data and relationships to function effectively, and also has an impact on how credit is extended to the economy.^[16] There is a risk that the closed-loop systems developed by successful online platforms and big tech companies could, in future, create a parallel economy with their own currencies and distinct units of account.

At global level, big techs such as PayPal and Apple have developed highly successful ecosystems based on the closed-loop financial services model. By encouraging people to use their payment apps, these ecosystems effectively oblige them to use their payment rails. In parallel, payment platforms have tried to become more integrated in social media giants like WhatsApp and Meta^[17]. Platforms like X (formerly Twitter) are considering offering payment functions.^[18] And Amazon is now venturing into the credit card and payment app business too. These examples illustrate how these firms can exploit customer networks to create cross-subsidised links between various services.^[19]

However, while network effects can foster a virtuous cycle of economic growth, they also pose significant risks.

In particular, walled gardens or lack of interoperability between various solutions can result in market fragmentation. Technology can be used to exclude competitors – for example, by preferencing a platform’s own products or restricting competing services – and so can skew the competitive landscape in favour of a dominant player. And these dynamics could further raise the barriers to enter and grow in the two-sided payments market, stifling competition and making it even more difficult for European payment solutions to emerge on a pan-European scale.

There is thus a risk that the current dynamics, where big tech companies seek to exploit the power of their platforms to expand in payments, could exacerbate the challenges facing the European retail payments market in terms of integration and the ability of European solutions to compete and innovate at scale.

Addressing market failures through European policy actions

Since the creation of the monetary union, European policymakers have taken significant steps to foster the development of private European payment initiatives that span the euro area. The hope was that these initiatives could enhance competition within the European payments landscape, providing consumers and businesses with more choice and better services.

From the launch of the Single Euro Payments Area to the recent adoption of the Instant Payments Regulation, the European Commission^[20] and ECB^[21] have worked with the private sector to support integration, innovation and the creation of a pan-European retail payment solution.

Yet, despite these efforts, more than 30 years since the inception of the Single Market and 25 years since the launch of the single currency, most European retail payment solutions remain national in scope, addressing only limited use cases. Moreover, 13 out of 20 euro area countries rely entirely on non-European solutions in the absence of their own domestic payment scheme.

As a result, people who live, work, travel or shop online in other euro area countries find themselves effectively dependent on two international card schemes, which enjoy strong market power. This situation discourages small businesses from expanding across borders or even into their national online markets, ultimately hindering the deepening of the Single Market.^[22] And paradoxically, the benefits from the efforts we make to lower the barriers to trade in European product markets may not fully reach consumers, as they are absorbed in the form of higher profits by the few international players that currently enable payments in stores and online across Europe.

Rather than joining forces and sharing resources to develop successful pan-European solutions, national communities have often preferred to preserve the legacy of investments made in the past.^[23] This reluctance has allowed a few major global players not only to dominate cross-border European payment transactions, but also to steadily capture an even larger share of domestic transactions. The result is that international payment schemes operated by non-European operators today facilitate 64% of all electronically initiated transactions with cards issued in the euro area.^[24]

Merchants – and consumers, to whom costs are eventually passed on – are left to deal with the consequences of the international card schemes’ market dominance.

For instance, the average net merchant service charges in the EU nearly doubled from 0.27% in 2018 to 0.44% in 2022.^[25] This increase occurred despite regulatory efforts to contain it^[26], as international card schemes exploited their strong negotiating position to raise the non-regulated components of the merchant service charge, such as scheme fees.^[27] As a result, every year, European merchants collectively transfer large amounts to international card networks.^[28] The cost falls disproportionately on smaller retailers, who face charges that are three to four times higher than those paid by their larger counterparts.^[29]

This situation has raised concerns among European businesses of all sizes.^[30] While the EU competition authorities can take effective action, they usually do so after dominance has been established. Moreover, they have to deal with the complexities of regulating payment networks.^[31]

This trend highlights broader competitiveness issues that have emerged across various markets. In Canada, class action lawsuits alleging collusion to set higher interchange fees have been filed against certain banks as well as Visa and Mastercard.^[32] In the United Kingdom, the Payment Systems Regulator has provisionally concluded that there is insufficient competition in the card payments market. This lack of competition allows the two largest schemes to raise fees.^[33] Similarly, the United States Justice Department filed a civil antitrust lawsuit earlier this week against Visa, claiming that Visa’s exclusionary and anticompetitive conduct undermines choice and innovation in payments and imposes enormous costs on consumers, merchants and the American economy.^[34] It emphasised that Visa extracts fees that far exceed what it could charge in a competitive market and amount to a hidden toll adding up to billions of dollars imposed annually on American consumers and businesses. And because merchants and banks pass on those costs to consumers, Visa’s conduct affects not just the price of one thing, but the price of nearly everything.^[35]

The fact that these issues are not unique to Europe offers little comfort, particularly when considering that, unlike in the United States, this situation poses a risk to our monetary sovereignty.

The excessive dependence on foreign entities in the European payments sector threatens the autonomy and resilience of European payment services. Without decisive public action, this dependence is likely to worsen. New foreign players – including from China^[36], Brazil^[37] and India^[38] – are seeking to enter, or increase their footprint in, the European market.

While foreign competition is welcome, we cannot be satisfied that Europeans do not have their own digital payments solution allowing them to pay throughout the euro area. And we need to be careful that foreign central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) do not end up eroding the international role of the euro, especially as some jurisdictions are thinking about allowing their CBDCs to be used abroad.^[39]

European policymakers – and particularly the ECB – have recognised this challenge. In response, we have initiated the digital euro project, which is currently in the preparation phase.^[40]

Digital euro: addressing fragmentation and delivering tangible benefits

The digital euro project is a crucial step towards enhancing Europe’s payments landscape and safeguarding our monetary sovereignty.

By ensuring everyone across the euro area would have access to central bank money in digital form, the project aims to provide tangible benefits to consumers, merchants and payment service providers alike.

Benefits for consumers and merchants

Complementing banknotes, the digital euro would offer all European citizens and firms the freedom to make and receive digital payments seamlessly.

During my recent hearing before the European Parliament^[41], I extensively discussed the benefits of the digital euro for consumers, particularly in terms of the convenience it would offer. The digital euro would provide a single, easy, secure and universally accepted public solution for digital payments in stores, online and from person to person. It would be available both online and offline. And it would be free for basic use.

At the hearing, I also highlighted how the digital euro would provide merchants with seamless access to Europe’s consumer base. Moreover, it would offer an alternative that would increase competition, thereby lowering transaction costs in a more direct way than regulations and competition authorities can.^[42]

Fostering competition and innovation in a unified payments ecosystem

The digital euro would also generate broader benefits for the euro area economy by fostering competition and innovation.

European payment service providers are finding it increasingly difficult to compete with international card schemes and e-payment solutions. For example, Apple Pay has significantly expanded its reach in Europe, capturing a portion of interchange fees, which represents a “significant expense”^[43] for issuing banks. As a result, banks risk missing out on not only interchange fees but also client relationships and user data.

By contrast, the digital euro would ensure that distribution would remain with payment service providers, allowing them to maintain customer relationships and be compensated for their services, as is currently the case.^[44] It would also offer an alternative to co-branding with international card schemes for cross-border payments in – and potentially beyond – the euro area, thus promoting competition.

The digital euro would also expand opportunities for payment service providers while reducing the cost of rolling out solutions on a European scale. In addition, it would cultivate an environment conducive to the widespread adoption of payment innovations throughout Europe.

Currently, several innovations aimed at simplifying payments are emerging within specific national markets or across a few countries, driven by European payment service providers. Although these innovations are highly commendable and would enhance people’s lives, existing structural barriers mean they would encounter considerable obstacles in trying to achieve pan-European scale. This fragmentation along national lines further impedes private participants’ ability to achieve the scale required in a two-sided market like the payments market.

What is the end result? By failing to implement large-scale innovations accessible to everyone in the euro area, these companies are unable to achieve the optimal scale needed for continuous investment in new technology. This limits their ability to compete effectively with the large international players who can fully leverage economies of scale, even on a global level.

According to the European Commission’s legislative proposal^[45], the digital euro’s legal tender status – which would require merchants to accept the digital euro for electronic payments – and mandatory distribution would help overcome the challenges of achieving sufficient scale in a two-sided marketplace by ensuring widespread accessibility and acceptance across the euro area. This legal tender status, combined with the digital euro rulebook, would establish common standards, which are not in place today.

Let me use an example to explain this in simpler terms. At the moment, in-store payment terminals often use technology known as the “kernel”^[46], provided by Mastercard and Visa, to enable contactless (near field communication) transactions. Although domestic card schemes can currently access this technology for free, multi-country European card schemes cannot. Moreover, this free-of-charge policy could change at any time.

In the future, all stores would be required to accept the digital euro, meaning payment terminals would need to support its standard. According to the draft regulation, the standard would have to be made available for reuse by private parties, who could use it to develop their services. This would mean that all payment terminals in Europe that support digital euro transactions would be equipped with a scheme-agnostic kernel. This open system would be accessible to both regional and domestic European payment schemes, thereby allowing customers to make contactless payments throughout the euro area.

This would advance a more integrated European payments market. As private providers expand their geographical footprint and diversify their product portfolios, they will benefit from cost efficiencies and be better positioned to compete internationally.

In essence, the network effects generated by a digital euro would function as a public good, benefiting both public and private initiatives. This approach is akin to creating a unified European railway network or European energy grid, where various companies could competitively operate their own services and deliver added value to customers.

Instead of requiring significant investment to expand existing services across the euro area, the open digital euro standards would facilitate cost-effective standardisation, making it possible for private retail payment solution providers to launch new products and functionalities on a broader scale.

Ultimately, whether through the digital euro or private solutions, this standardised framework would unlock innovation, create new business opportunities and improve consumer access to a diverse range of goods and services.

Making this vision a shared reality

The design of the digital euro, as well as the key provision in the Regulation proposed by the European Commission, contains all the key elements required to make this vision a reality.

Over the past years, we have extensively engaged with a multitude of market stakeholders, including through the Rulebook Development Group^[47] and the Euro Retail Payments Board, to shape the digital euro value proposition and prepare its implementation. We have collected and discussed the input of the payments ecosystem at large, including from representatives of consumers, merchants, banks and other payment service providers.

In the coming months we will expand our cooperation with the private sector, focusing on three main themes: how to create a more competitive environment to encourage innovation and offer consumers more choice, how to best identify and leverage synergies to enhance efficiency and create mutually beneficial opportunities across the payments ecosystem, and how to strengthen the business models of all stakeholders, ensuring they can adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Each of these value drivers will be discussed in depth, taking into account the different roles in the payment chain, including those of issuing banks and third-party providers. By adopting this inclusive approach, we can ensure that everyone’s needs and perspectives are addressed, paving the way for a more robust and dynamic payments system.

Conclusion

Let me conclude. Money is key to sovereignty, a reality that resonates more than ever in the digital age.

Some 63 countries are now operating, piloting, developing or exploring retail CBDCs.^[48] Meanwhile, major private payment solutions are expanding globally and some nations may even seek to leverage crypto-assets, with figures such as US presidential candidate Donald Trump promising to make the United States a “Bitcoin superpower”.^[49]

In this fast-moving environment, Europe cannot stand still. And the role of the ECB in issuing money that is accepted throughout the euro area is particularly crucial in a monetary union where payments markets remain fragmented along national lines.

We are committed to ensuring that people in Europe can continue to use cash.^[50] However, we cannot stand by and watch as individuals are unable to use central bank money for their daily digital transactions.

Bringing central bank money into a digitalised world through the digital euro would safeguard our monetary sovereignty in the digital age. It would overcome fragmentation by offering money that can be used for any digital payments in the euro area, foster competition and innovation by facilitating the development of pan-European payments services and strengthen our autonomy and resilience by helping us avoid becoming over-reliant on foreign payment solutions.

Thank you for your attention.

MIL OSI Europe News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes G Mining Ventures Corp. to OTCQX

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Sept. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced G Mining Ventures Corp. (TSX: GMIN; OTCQX: GMINF), a precious metals mining company, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX^® Best Market. G Mining Ventures Corp. upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink^® market.

On April 22, 2024, G Mining TZ Corp. (formerly G Mining Ventures Corp.) (“Former GMIN”), Reunion Gold Corporation (“Reunion Gold”) and Greenheart Gold Inc. (“Greenheart”, and collectively with GMIN and Reunion Gold, the “Parties”), entered into an arrangement agreement under which the Parties agreed to complete a plan of arrangement under Section 192 of the Canada Business Corporations Act (the “Arrangement”). Pursuant to the Arrangement, which closed on July 15, 2024, a newly incorporated successor issuer, G Mining Ventures Corp. (“New GMIN”), now holds and manages the combined business of Former GMIN and Reunion Gold.

As a result, shares of Former GMIN ceased trading on the OTCQX on July 17, 2024, and New GMIN shares begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “GMINF,” in substitution for the Former GMIN shares. U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is an important step for companies seeking to provide transparent trading for their U.S. investors. For companies listed on a qualified international exchange, streamlined market standards enable them to utilize their home market reporting to make their information available in the U.S. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

“We have seen significant and growing investor interest as our flagship Tocantinzinho Gold Mine in Brazil commenced commercial production in September, the Oko West Project in Guyana delivered a positive Preliminary Economic Assessment, and the acquisition of the CentroGold Project from BHP is targeting completion by Q1 2025. We are very pleased that our graduation to the OTCQX^® Best Market will provide enhanced visibility to U.S. investors and help meet the significant interest from U.S. based investors,” commented Louis-Pierre Gignac, President and CEO of G Mining Ventures.

About G Mining Ventures Corp.
G Mining Ventures Corp. is a mining company engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of precious metal projects to capitalize on the value uplift from successful mine development. GMIN is well-positioned to grow into the next mid-tier precious metals producer by leveraging strong access to capital and proven development expertise. GMIN is currently anchored by the Tocantinzinho Gold Project in Brazil and Oko West Project in Guyana, both mining friendly and prospective jurisdictions.

About OTC Markets Group Inc.
OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX^® Best Market, OTCQB^® Venture Market and Pink^® Open Market.

Our OTC Link^® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN and OTC Link NQB are each an SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC.

To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

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Media Contact:
OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: MHRA approves first medicine for rare immune disease APDS
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has today approved leniolisib phosphate (Joenja) to treat a rare immune disease known as activated phosphoinositide 3-kinase delta syndrome or APDS in adults and adolescents aged 12-years-old and older who weigh 45kg or more.
APDS is an inherited disorder where the patient is unable to fight infections because the immune system (the body’s natural defences) does not work properly.

The main symptoms usually occur in the first two years of life and include repeated lung infections and a failure to grow and develop normally.

APDS is a long-term debilitating and life-threatening condition due to repeated lung infections that can lead to bronchiectasis (enlargement and inflammation of part of the airways). Patients with APDS are more prone to develop blood cell cancers, like lymphoma.

The recommended dose is 1 tablet twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart in adults and adolescents from 12 years weighing 45 kg or more.

This is also the first time the MHRA has approved a new medicine following an approval by the US Food and Drug Administration FDA. This is because the medicine was approved via a fast-track approval process for medicines, known as the International Recognition Procedure (IRP).

This allows the MHRA to consider the expertise and decision-making of trusted regulatory partners for the benefit of UK patients. In this case, the regulatory partner was the FDA. As a sovereign regulator, the MHRA retains ultimate authority to accept or reject applications submitted under the IRP, ensuring that all medicines meet safety, quality and effectiveness standards to be licensed in the UK.

The MHRA considered the assessment made by the US regulator as part of its own review, facilitating a rapid approval process.

Julian Beach, MHRA Interim Executive Director of Healthcare Quality and Access, said:

We are focused on providing UK patients access to safe and effective medicines in the shortest possible time.

Approval of leniolisib through the IRP means we have facilitated access for people suffering from this serious disease to an effective medicine to fight infections and reduce symptoms of the disease.

This approval means the appropriate regulatory standards of safety, quality and effectivenessof this new medicine have been met.

As with all medicines, we will keep its safety under close review.

The MHRA’s approval of the medicine is supported by evidence from a placebo-controlled study, carried out over 12-weeks. This study was blind and randomised. Thirty-one adult and paediatric patients participated.

During the study, 21 patients received 70 mg of leniolisib and 10 received placebo twice daily. The co‑primary efficacy endpoints were improvement in the reduction in the size of lymph nodes and the normalisation of immunophenotype.

By day 85 of the study, patients taking leniolisib saw a reduction in lymph node size and a correction of the underlying immune defect.

As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of leniolisib under close review.

A full list of all side effects reported with this medicine are available in the patient information leaflet or from the product information published on the MHRA website.

If a patient experiences any side effects, they should talk to their doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the product information leaflets.

Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this medicine is encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme.

ENDS

Notes to editors 

The marketing authorisation was granted for leniolisib (Joenja) on 26 September 2024 to Pharming Technologies B.V via the International Recognition Procedure.

The IRP is open to applicants that have already received an authorisation for the same product from one of MHRA’s specified trusted regulators. These are the regulatory authorities from Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan, Switzerland, Singapore and the United States.

Applications under the International Recognition Procedure (IRP) can be received via the MHRA website. Time horizons for authorisations are set at 60 to 110 days – considerably shorter than the current 150-day time horizon for applications. To further streamline the IRP application process, the MHRA launched an ‘Eligibility Checker’ tool on 20 November 2023.

More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval.

The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.

For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

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Published 27 September 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI: Calian collaborates with Microsoft to offer scalable cloud-native cybersecurity solutions

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

OTTAWA, Ontario, Sept. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With only days until Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Calian Group Ltd. (TSX: CGY) has announced a new collaboration with Microsoft. Through Calian’s adoption of Microsoft Sentinel, an intelligent, comprehensive security information and event management (SIEM) solution, Calian is strengthening its market position in Canada and the U.S. by providing customers access to a globally recognized cybersecurity platform that provides holistic threat protection with collection, detection, investigation and response capabilities.

This collaboration positions Calian to capture a growing share of the global cybersecurity market which continues to rise as organizations take more responsibility to protect their business. The 2023 Cybersecurity Ventures Cybercrime Report released this year predicts that global cybercrime damage will hit $10.5 trillion annually by 2025 and global cybersecurity spending will exceed $175 trillion.

“Adopting Microsoft Sentinel marks a major milestone in Calian’s strategic enhancement of our cybersecurity defences,” says Mike Tremblay, President of Calian’s IT & Cyber Solutions. “This collaboration allows us to use cutting-edge AI technologies to deliver security measures that are critical in protecting our customers’ operations against increasingly complex threats—representing our commitment to providing the best possible solutions because we recognize that our customers cannot afford to fail.”

The increasing sophistication and frequency of global cybersecurity attacks, especially using artificial intelligence, is leading organizations to modernize their security operations centres (SOC). The leading-edge, cloud-native Microsoft Sentinel platform not only optimizes operational efficiency, but also supports scalable deployments, ensuring that Calian can continue to grow and innovate to stay ahead of its customers’ evolving needs.

“This collaboration with Calian reflects our shared commitment to protect a company’s business by providing advanced security solutions that guard critical operations and foster innovation,” says Chris Barry, President of Microsoft Canada. “Together, we can protect a company’s cloud and multiplatform digital estate with a modern, comprehensive SIEM solution built on the cloud and enriched by AI to rapidly uncover sophisticated cyberthreats and respond at machine speed.”

Calian anticipates this collaboration will drive significant growth in its cybersecurity business over the next few years, attracting new customers and expanding its service offerings to existing clients in mission-critical industries such as healthcare, defence, and other critical infrastructure industries.

Learn more about Calian’s world-class cyber solutions.

About Calian
www.calian.com
We keep the world moving forward. Calian® helps people communicate, innovate, learn and lead safe and healthy lives. Every day, our employees live our values of customer commitment, integrity, innovation, respect and teamwork to engineer reliable solutions that solve complex challenges. That’s Confidence. Engineered. A stable and growing 40-year company, we are headquartered in Ottawa with offices and projects spanning North American, European and international markets. Visit calian.com to learn about innovative healthcare, communications, learning and cybersecurity solutions.

Product or service names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

Media inquiries:
media@calian.com
613-599-8600 x 2298

Investor Relations inquiries:
ir@calian.com

DISCLAIMER
Certain information included in this press release is forward-looking and is subject to important risks and uncertainties. The results or events predicted in these statements may differ materially from actual results or events. Such statements are generally accompanied by words such as “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect” or similar statements. Factors which could cause results or events to differ from current expectations include, among other things: the impact of price competition; scarce number of qualified professionals; the impact of rapid technological and market change; loss of business or credit risk with major customers; technical risks on fixed price projects; general industry and market conditions and growth rates; international growth and global economic conditions, and including currency exchange rate fluctuations; and the impact of consolidations in the business services industry. For additional information with respect to certain of these and other factors, please see the Company’s most recent annual report and other reports filed by Calian with the Ontario Securities Commission. Calian disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No assurance can be given that actual results, performance or achievement expressed in, or implied by, forward-looking statements within this disclosure will occur, or if they do, that any benefits may be derived from them.

Calian · Head Office · 770 Palladium Drive · Ottawa · Ontario · Canada · K2V 1C8
Tel: 613.599.8600 · Fax: 613-592-3664 · General info email: info@calian.com

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Khera to speak about Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate and Canada Community Security Program

Source: Government of Canada News

Minister Khera will explain the details on Canada’s first-ever Action Plan on Combatting Hate and Canada Community Security Program

BRAMPTON, Ontario – The Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, will be in Brampton to explain the details of Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate and Canada Community Security Program on Sunday.

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

The details are as follows:

DATE:
Sunday, September 29, 2024

TIME:
11:00 a.m.

Journalists wishing to attend the announcement in person must confirm their participation by submitting their full name and the name of their organization to media@pch.gc.ca by 9 a.m. on Saturday, September 28. Information on how to attend will be provided afterward.

Waleed Saleem
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Kamal Khera
Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities
waleed.saleem@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

Gabriel Brunet
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc
Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs
gabriel.brunet@iga-aig.gc.ca

MIL OSI Canada News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: Minister Khera to speak about Canada’s Action Plan to Combat Hate and Canada’s Community Safety Agenda

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

Minister Khera to unveil details of Canada’s first-ever Action Plan to Combat Hate and Canada’s Community Safety Agenda

BRAMPTON, ON – The Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, will be in Brampton on Sunday to unveil details of Canada’s Action Plan to Combat Hate and Canada’s Community Safety Agenda.

Please note that information is subject to change without notice and all times are local.

Here are the details:

DATE: Sunday, September 29, 2024

TIME: 11 a.m.

Journalists who wish to attend the announcement in person are requested to confirm their participation by submitting their full name and the name of the media outlet they represent to media@pch.gc.ca by 9 a.m. on Saturday, September 28. Information on how to attend will be provided at a later date.

Waleed SaleemPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilitieswaleed.saleem@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

Media RelationsCanadian Heritage819-994-91011-866-569-6155media@pch.gc.ca

Gabriel BrunetPress OfficerOffice of the Minister of Public Security, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairsgabriel.brunet@iga-aig.gc.ca

Media RelationsPublic Safety Canada613-991-0657media@ps-sp.gc.ca

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI USA: Budd Honors Heroic North Carolinians Who Risked Their Lives to Save Others

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
Raleigh, N.C. — This week, Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) met with the families of North Carolinians who were awarded the Carnegie Medal, an honor bestowed by the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission on “individuals in the United States and Canada who risk death or serious physical injury to an extraordinary degree saving or attempting to save the lives of others.”
Senator Budd said in a statement:
“The Carnegie Medal is inscribed with the Holy Words of John 15:13, ‘Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.’ Those words perfectly describe the North Carolina citizens I met. It was nothing short of inspiring to hear their stories, hear their love for others, and their act of courage that brought them this honor. North Carolina is a special state to have produced such heroes. It was my absolute honor to spend time with them and thank them on behalf of our state.”
Below are stories of the two honorees with photos of their meeting with Senator Budd:
Daniel L. Weiss – Stokesdale, NC
Daniel L. Weiss saved a woman from burning, Greensboro, North Carolina, May 17, 2022. The woman, 29, was unconscious in her two-door coupe after an accident in which the car left a rural road and continued down an embankment for about 25 feet, where it struck two trees and caught fire. Weiss, 59, facility technician, was working on a utility pole nearby and responded. He reached the driver’s door and saw the woman in the driver’s seat, unconscious and slumped over the steering wheel. He reached in through the window opening and shook her in an attempt to wake her, but she did not respond. Weiss felt for a pulse, then noticed flames burning at the hood and spreading inside through the dashboard and air vents. He called to his co-worker for a fire extinguisher, which the man provided. Weiss emptied the extinguisher, but the flames at the hood continued to burn. He pulled on the handle of the driver’s door, but the door would not open. He then ran to the passenger side and fully entered the car, knelt on the front passenger seat, and turned the woman so she faced away from him. From behind, Weiss reached his arms around her front, clasped his hands together, and lifted her over the center console onto the passenger seat. Flames again burned through the air vents and spread toward the passenger side, coming within a foot of them. Weiss backed through the passenger door opening and fell with the woman to the ground. Two men responded and, with Weiss, carried her to a point about 20 feet away after seeing fire envelop the front seats. Flames grew to engulf the vehicle’s entire cab. The woman was not burned but was taken to the hospital for injuries sustained in the accident. Weiss suffered minor smoke inhalation and recovered.
Antwaun M. Jackson – Jacksonville, NC
Antwaun M. Jackson died helping to save two women and two children from drowning, North Topsail Beach, North Carolina, July 9, 2022. In the afternoon, several relatives, including two women, 33 and 24, and two girls, 7 and 6, were in the New River Inlet near its confluence with the Atlantic Ocean as the group of four reached a location where they no longer could touch the bottom. Suddenly struggling in a strong current after helping the girls use a bodyboard in shallow water, the women called out for help, alarming their relatives at the nearby beach, including Jackson, 40, production worker. A cousin of the two women and two girls, Jackson waded into the water, first moving toward other children closer to shore, then he swam to the area of the women, along with another female cousin, who helped the girls onto a bodyboard. The women recalled Jackson, who had moved beyond them, trying to push them from behind toward shore. Seeing a cluster of distressed swimmers, including Jackson, other men from separate groups also entered the water and helped to aid the women, girls, and female cousin back to safety in wadable water. All recovered without injury. Jackson remained stranded in the rough current and beyond the reach of some men and responding police officers, who took a rescue disc attached to a rope into the water which was thrown in Jackson’s direction to no effect. Ultimately, Jackson submerged, did not resurface, and could not be found by rescue crews that afternoon or in the days afterward. Jackson’s body has yet to be recovered.

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Europe: Minister for Foreign Affairs takes part in strategic dialogue between Canada and Nordic countries

Source: Government of Sweden

Minister for Foreign Affairs takes part in strategic dialogue between Canada and Nordic countries – Government.se

Press release from Ministry for Foreign Affairs

Published 27 September 2024

On 27–29 September, Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard is taking part in a Canada-Nordic strategic dialogue.

Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Mélanie Joly will host a strategic dialogue between Canada and the Nordic countries (the Canada-Nordic Strategic Dialogue). The aim is to strengthen the dialogue between Canada and the five Nordic countries on issues of mutual interest in the new international situation.

“Relations between Sweden and Canada have become increasingly significant. Canada is an important strategic partner to Sweden with regard to NATO and Ukraine, security in our neighbourhood, and bilateral investment in green transition, new technologies, AI and innovation,” says Ms Malmer Stenergard.

Transatlantic security is one of the main items on the agenda as the meeting begins in New York on 27 September. The ministers will then undertake a joint visit to the city of Iqaluit on Baffin Island. Iqaluit is the capital of the Nunavut Territory, the easternmost part of the Canadian Arctic.

Sweden and Canada have long enjoyed excellent relations, which are now being further enhanced with Sweden as a NATO member. Canada is an important country for Sweden, the Nordic region and the EU, and one with which we share values with regard to democracy, human rights, gender equality, sustainability and the rules-based international order.

Press contact

MIL OSI Europe News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI: Partners Value Split Corp. Announces Completion of $150,000,000 Public Offering of Class AA Preferred Shares, Series 14

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

TORONTO, Sept. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Partners Value Split Corp. (the “Company”) announced today the completion of its previously announced offering of Class AA Preferred Shares, Series 14 (the “Series 14 Preferred Shares”). A total of 6,000,000 Series 14 Preferred Shares were issued at an offering price of $25.00 per Series 14 Preferred Share, raising gross proceeds of $150,000,000. The issuance included 1,000,000 Series 14 Preferred Shares issued pursuant to the exercise, in full, of the underwriters’ option granted by the Company to the underwriters in the offering. The Series 14 Preferred Shares carry quarterly fixed cumulative preferential dividends representing a 5.50% annualized yield on the offering price and have a final maturity of June 30, 2030. The Series 14 Preferred Shares have been listed and posted for trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol PVS.PR.L.

The net proceeds of the offering will be used by the Company in connection with the Company’s redemption of its outstanding Class AA Preferred Shares, Series 8 and to pay a special dividend on the Company’s capital shares.

Prior to the closing of the offering, the Company subdivided the existing capital shares held by Partners Value Investments Inc. so that there are an equal number of preferred shares and capital shares outstanding.

The Company owns a portfolio consisting of approximately 120 million Class A Limited Voting Shares of Brookfield Corporation and approximately 30 million Class A Limited Voting Shares of Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (collectively, the “Brookfield Securities”), which are expected to yield quarterly dividends that are sufficient to fund quarterly fixed cumulative preferential dividends for the holders of the Company’s preferred shares and to enable the holders of the Company’s capital shares to participate in any capital appreciation of the Brookfield Securities.

Brookfield Corporation is a leading global investment firm focused on building long term-wealth for institutions and individuals around the world. Brookfield Corporation has three core businesses: alternative asset management, wealth solutions, and its operating businesses which are in renewable power, infrastructure, business and industrial services, and real estate. Brookfield Corporation is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol BN.

Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (“BAM”) is a leading global alternative asset manager with approximately US$1 trillion of assets under management across renewable power & transition, infrastructure, private equity, real estate, and credit. BAM’s objective is to generate attractive, long-term risk-adjusted returns for the benefit of its clients and shareholders. BAM is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol BAM.

Jason Weckwerth, Chief Financial Officer, will be available at (416) 363-9491 to answer any questions regarding the offering.

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws and regulations. The words “expected”, “will”, “agreed” and “enable” and other expressions which are predictions of or indicate future events, trends or prospects and which do not relate to historical matters or identify forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this news release includes statements with regard to the use of proceeds of the offering and quarterly dividends from the Company’s portfolio of Brookfield Securities which are expected to fund quarterly fixed cumulative preferential dividends for holders of the Company’s preferred shares and to enable holders of its capital shares to participate in any capital appreciation of the Brookfield Securities. Although the Company believes that the anticipated future results or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information and statements are based upon reasonable assumptions and expectations, the reader should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information and statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievement expressed or implied by such forward-looking information and statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by the forward-looking information and statements include: the behaviour of financial markets, including fluctuations in interest and exchange rates, availability of equity and debt financing and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in the Company’s other documents filed with the Canadian securities regulators. We caution that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on our forward-looking information to make decisions with respect to the Company, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Except as may be required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information or statements, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Reference should be made to the Company’s short form base shelf prospectus dated September 19, 2024 and the prospectus supplement dated September 23, 2024 for a description of the major risk factors.

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada supports health sciences SMEs to create new health technologies
Source: Government of Canada News (2)

News release

Canada’s health sciences innovation sector continues to lead on developing innovative ideas and products that will lead to a better and healthier future. The Government of Canada is supporting businesses and organizations in this vital sector with the support they need to drive impactful health solutions for Canadians.

Government of Canada invests in specialized programming to benefit 75 SMEs in southern Ontario’s health sciences sector

September 27, 2024 – Hamilton, Ontario

Canada’s health sciences innovation sector continues to lead on developing innovative ideas and products that will lead to a better and healthier future. The Government of Canada is supporting businesses and organizations in this vital sector with the support they need to drive impactful health solutions for Canadians.

Yesterday, the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), attended the 14th annual LiONS LAIR hosted by Innovation Factory. More than 400 members of the Hamilton Life Sciences ecosystem gathered to celebrate innovation in the Hamilton-Halton region.

While at the event, Minister Tassi announced a Government of Canada investment of over $5 million for Innovation Factory in collaboration with the Synapse Life Sciences Consortium to support the continued delivery of the Southern Ontario Pharmaceutical and Health Innovation Ecosystem (SOPHIE) program, which opened for applications yesterday. The program will assist up to 75 health sciences SMEs in southern Ontario as they commercialize their products and scale their businesses. Participating businesses will have access to mentorship and advisory services, seed funding, and new partnerships. This critical work will help accelerate their product development, and anchor health sciences companies here in southern Ontario.

This project aligns with the Government of Canada’s priority to support emerging growth opportunities in this important sector. Innovators and organizations that create healthcare technologies are helping to keep Canadians healthy while strengthening Canada’s health sciences sector and creating new job opportunities for Canadians.

Quotes

“Innovation Factory is undertaking critical work that will support 75 SMEs expand and grow their businesses, all while helping to anchor health sciences companies here in Canada. The investment made today demonstrates the Government of Canada’s dedication to supporting innovators in health sciences and moving towards a healthier future for Canadians.”
– The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

“The renewal of funding for Innovation Factory’s SOPHIE program is a testament to the remarkable impact it has had on Ontario’s health sciences sector over the past few years. This continued support from the Government of Canada enables us to build on this success, driving further innovation, job creation, and global competitiveness in the health sciences industry. We are excited to see SOPHIE continue to transform the landscape for health science entrepreneurs and strengthen Ontario’s position as a leading hub for health innovation.”
– David Carter, CEO of Innovation Factory

Quick facts
- Innovation Factory is a not-for-profit business accelerator, serving as the catalyst for technology innovation in the Brant, Halton, Hamilton and Norfolk regions since 2010.
- Innovation Factory provides business services, training, mentorship, and strategic connections to drive market adoption, leverage intellectual property, and increase revenues, investment, and jobs. Innovators can also access sector-specific resources including exclusive smart transportation test environments and data; and a formal health science and health innovation ecosystem.
- FedDev Ontario previously provided Innovation Factory with an investment of $7 million to deliver the first intake of the SOPHIE program. To date, through SOPHIE, 166 innovative Ontario-based health science start-up and scaling companies in the health, medical device, and pharmaceutical sectors, received support to develop and commercialize new products and services.
- Since 2015, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has invested over $237 million in 58 life science projects, supporting over 7,700 jobs.
Associated links

Contacts

Edward Hutchinson
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
Edward.Hutchinson@feddevontario.gc.ca

FedDev Ontario Media Relations
media@feddevontario.gc.ca

Stay Connected:

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MIL OSI Canada News –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Funding for First Nations Guardians now managed by world’s first Indigenous-led national stewardship network
Source: Government of Canada News

News release

Today, Jaimee Gaunce, Executive Director of the First Nations National Guardians Network (NGN), joined the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change; the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario; and Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Rainy River, to announce the investment of up to $27.6 million to support 80 First Nations Guardians initiatives.

September 27, 2024 – Thunder Bay, Ontario

Indigenous peoples are at the forefront of the fight against biodiversity loss and climate change. Across the country, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis are on the ground managing land, water, and helping communities thrive while safeguarding the natural spaces we all depend on for current and future generations.

Today, Jaimee Gaunce, Executive Director of the First Nations National Guardians Network (NGN), joined the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change; the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario; and Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Rainy River, to announce the investment of up to $27.6 million to support 80 First Nations Guardians initiatives.

This investment will support 18 new and 62 existing initiatives to safeguard the land, water, and wildlife within First Nation territories while also creating meaningful employment opportunities in remote areas.

Executive Director Gaunce, Minister Guilbeault, Minister Hajdu, and Member of Parliament Powlowski were also joined by Valérie Courtois, Executive Director of the Indigenous Leadership Initiative; Bertha Sutherland of Constance Lake First Nation; and Dr. Robert Stewart of BZA-Rocky Bay First Nation. This announcement marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time First Nations Guardians’ funding has been independently managed by the National Guardians Network, the world’s first Indigenous-led national stewardship network.

Longstanding initiatives, such as the Matawa First Nations’ Four Rivers Regional Guardians Network are concrete examples of Guardians’ initiatives in action—acting as the “eyes and ears” on the ground by monitoring ecological health and working to preserve and pass on Indigenous knowledge and nature-based learning to inspire future Guardians.

For over a decade, Four Rivers Regional Guardians Network has led environmental stewardship and capacity-building for nine Matawa member First Nations in Northern Ontario. With this new investment, Four Rivers will strengthen its support for land, water, and wildlife stewardship within these communities; acquire vital monitoring equipment and other resources; deliver support and training; and standardize monitoring approaches, methods, and data collection and organization.

The Indigenous Guardians initiative is an important pathway for Indigenous peoples to continue to exercise their rights and responsibilities in stewardship of their traditional lands, and a key component of Canada’s commitment to and implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Quotes

“Indigenous-led stewardship offers profound and transformative benefits for communities and the environment and Guardians are a cornerstone of these efforts. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the First Nations National Guardians Network for their dedication and success in administering this year’s program. This achievement will ensure that future generations benefit from healthy land and water and stands as a powerful testament to self determination in action.”
– The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

“The Guardians are on the frontlines of conservation efforts, and by placing this responsibility in their hands, we affirm their knowledge, capacity, and connection to the land. Supporting the leadership and expertise of Indigenous peoples creates a more holistic and sustainable approach to conservation by considering ecosystem health, community well-being, and economic sustainability. Today’s investment not only strengthens environmental protection but also supports meaningful job creation in Indigenous and northern communities.”
– The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario

“Today marks a major milestone. This is the first round of Guardians’ funding fully administered by the First Nations National Guardians Network. We are proud to fulfill this responsibility. And we welcome the federal commitment to the National Guardians Network as a recognition that First Nations have the expertise, capacity, and knowledge to take the lead in the responsible management of stewardship investments.”
– Jaimee Gaunce, Executive Director, First Nations National Guardians Network

“We congratulate the First Nations National Guardians Network on ensuring more Guardians are caring for lands and waters across the country. And we welcome the example the relationship between the Government of Canada and the Network is setting. As countries prepare to attend COP16, the United Nations Biodiversity Conference in October, this approach in partnership with First Nations offers a successful model of how respecting Indigenous leadership and Nationhood creates on-the-ground benefits for lands and waters and communities.”
– Valérie Courtois, Executive Director, Indigenous Leadership Initiative

“With today’s announcement, we recognize the essential role of Indigenous leadership in protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainability. I am happy to see the incredible impact this investment will have on local communities and future generations.”
– Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Rainy River

Quick facts
- In December 2022, Minister Guilbeault jointly announced the launch of a new First Nations National Guardians Network with Valérie Courtois, the Founding Director of the Indigenous Leadership Initiative.
- Environment and Climate Change Canada has invested more than $91.6 million in over 240 First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Guardians initiatives since 2018.
- Combined, these investments have helped support the creation of almost 1,500 traditionally and culturally meaningful employment opportunities, while protecting nature and wildlife.
- The federal government expanded its support for Indigenous Guardians in 2021, committing up to $100 million to support new and existing Indigenous Guardians initiatives and the establishment of Indigenous Guardians networks.
- Funding and decision-making are implemented jointly with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis using a distinctions-based approach that respects and recognizes the unique perspectives, rights, responsibilities, and needs of Indigenous peoples.
- These types of Indigenous-led stewardship initiatives integrate ecosystem health, community well-being, and economic sustainability, creating a more holistic and sustainable approach to conservation.
- Canada has committed to conserving 30 percent of its land and water by 2030.
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Oliver Anderson
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
819-962-0686
Oliver.Anderson@ec.gc.ca

Media Relations
Environment and Climate Change Canada
819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll-free)
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MIL OSI Canada News –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Indigenous Guardians projects 2024–2025

Source: Government of Canada News

Today, Jaimee Gaunce, Executive Director of the First Nations National Guardians Network (NGN), joined the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change; the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario; and Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Rainy River, to announce the investment of up to $27.6 million to support 80 First Nations Guardians initiatives.

Alberta

Project title: Mikisew Cree First Nation Guardian Program
Recipient: Mikisew Cree First Nation – Government and Industry Relations
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year, ongoing initiative will study how oil sands development, particularly bitumen mining and hydroelectric projects, are affecting the health of the Peace-Athabasca Delta, the heart of Mikisew’s traditional territory. Guardians work year-round to monitor water quality, collect data, track flood events, and monitor the fish population.

Project title: Ni Ho Ghe Di – ACFN Guardian Program Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation
Recipient: Dene Lands and Resource Management
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will monitor and report on activities that may cause harm to the ecology, traditional lands, or traditional resources of Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (ACFN), such as poaching and illegally hunting on the traditional territory, especially to protect Ronald Lake Buffalos. The initiative will also support youth to strengthen their cultural pride and connection to the land and develop on-the-land skills.

Project title: Guardians of the Territory – Dene Tha’ First Nation
Recipient: Dene Tha’ First Nation
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will engage in diverse activities, such as ecological restoration, supporting resource management plans, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. Guardians will protect and recover species at risk, manage land use in the proposed Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area at M’behcholia (Bistcho Lake, Alberta), and conduct environmental and wildlife monitoring.

Project title: Alexis Nakota Sioux Nations Guardians Initiative
Recipient: Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation
Funding amount: $346,400
Project description: This two-year initiative will involve conducting and analyzing aerial surveys, creating a geographic information system (GIS) data management and visualization system using R-Studio and ArcPY, and continue to develop the Stoney Land and Water Course.

British Columbia

Project title: Kitasoo Xai’xais Guardian Watchmen Program Enhancement
Recipient: Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation
Funding amount: $604,925
Project description: This two-year initiative focuses on marine and terrestrial surveying, along with compliance and enforcement practices involving education, observation, and reporting. The Guardians also actively participate in the Coastal Nations Coast Guard Auxiliary and undertake training for emergency response in search and rescue and oil spills.

Project title: Coastal Stewardship Network
Recipient: Great Bear Initiative Society
Funding amount: $499,785
Project description: This two-year initiative provides programming to the Coastal First Nations – Great Bear Initiative’s eight member nations, who work directly with communities to support Guardians along the North and Central Coast and Haida Gwaii to track resource use and ecosystem health, provide training and professional development, raise awareness, and help establish a stewardship presence on the coast.

Project title: Songhees Nation Guardians Program
Recipient: Songhees Nation
Funding amount: $50,000
Project description: This one-year initiative continues work with community members, Band Council, and outside organizations to provide monitoring services, promote stewardship in the community, and restore habitat areas. This initiative helps establish stronger Indigenous presence on the water during fishing seasons, as it is critical in establishing more authority over fisheries and coastal resources on the land.

Project title: Lower Nicola Indian Band – Indigenous Guardians Program – Tier 1
Recipient: Lower Nicola Indian Band
Funding amount: $49,450
Project description: This one-year initiative aims to build capacity, skills, and knowledge for a new Guardians program in the community. This will involve mapping and indexing areas in the territory, engaging with Elders and knowledge keepers, engaging with the community, drafting a plan, and working with chief and council to ensure the vision aligns with the strategic plan.

Project title: Mamalilikulla First Nation Guardian Program
Recipient: Mamalilikulla First Nation
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative involves ongoing activities where Guardians spend time on the land to collect data, monitor cultural sites, manage Grizzly Bear populations, plant crab apple trees to provide food for the bears, and improve fisheries. This work helps the Chief and Council make informed decisions.

Project title: Wet’suwet’en First Nation Guardian Initiative: A Holistic Approach
Recipient: Wet’suwet’en First Nation
Funding amount: $75,745
Project description: This one-year initiative will monitor and collect data on moose population and mortality rates, assess wildlife habitats, setup wildlife cameras, and conduct riparian assessments. It will also explore starting a water-monitoring program in identified priority areas. These efforts will help the community observe and document activities or cumulative effects that impact their ability to practice traditional ways of life.

Project title: Saulteau First Nations Indigenous Guardian Proposal
Recipient: Saulteau First Nations
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will help the community take leadership in monitoring, protecting, and restoring the lands and waters, which is essential for the health and well-being of the community. Activities include supporting safe food harvesting and cultural activities, protecting Klinse-za Park, monitoring climate changes, and understanding how events like forest fires affect the community, fluctuations in weather patterns, and alterations in animal movements and water availability.

Project title: Saik’uz Guardian Program
Recipient: Saik’uz First Nation
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will build upon long-term monitoring efforts through a self-sustaining, community-based Saik’uz Guardians Initiative. The Guardians will be guided by the wisdom of both Indigenous Knowledge and western science, for the purposes of empowerment and self-determination of the Nation’s future connected to the water and land of the Territory.

Project title: P’egp’ig’lha Guardians
Recipient: P’egp’ig’lha Council / T’it’q’et First Nation
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will conduct patrols of the land to ensure territorial health and study wildlife and fisheries. Guardians play an essential role in protecting and restoring the Stein-Nahatlatch Grizzly Bear population, assisting with wildfire recovery, and strengthening collaboration with other nearby Guardian programs.

Project title: Pauquachin First Nation Marine Department – Stewardship Initiative
Recipient: Pauquachin First Nation
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative monitors one of the most heavily travelled and utilized waterways within British Columbia. Guardians review culturally sensitive archaeological sites, harvesting areas, recreational and commercial fisheries use, environmental threats (pollution sources, dumping, illegal activities, and poaching), and conduct restoration in specified areas of importance. This initiative represents the community’s interests, concerns, and objectives to ensure waterways, food, historical sites, and cultural practices continue for generations to come.

Project title: Takla Nation’s Tier 2 Guardians Initiative
Recipient: Takla Nation
Funding amount: $499,959
Project description: This ongoing initiative monitors more than 30 established sites across Takla’s lands and waters. This work is essential for Takla to implement environmental and cultural protections, including ensuring archaeological impact assessments are carried out by various proponents and government agencies align with Takla’s Archaeology Policy. Additionally, it builds capacity to monitor the caribou and moose populations and sustains the Guardians program by fostering engagement with youth in the community.

Project title: Tsilhqot’in Guardian Network
Recipient: Tsilhqot’in National Government
Funding amount: $500,000
Project description: This two-year initiative, led by the Tsilhqot’in National Government in collaboration with six Tsilhqot’in communities—Xeni Gwet’in, Tlesqox, Tletinqox, Tsi Del Del, ?Esdilagh, and Yunesit’in—aims to integrate and strengthen Tsilhqot’in values in the management of the region’s lands and waters. Working in partnership with provincial and federal land and water management agencies, the initiative will see Guardians will conducting patrols for hunting, fishing, and fire prevention, as well as wildlife- and water-monitoring research to ensure the sustainable stewardship of Tsilhqot’in territories.

Project title: Quatsino Axsilaxa Ahwheatnagwusn Guardians Program
Recipient: Quatsino First Nation
Funding amount: $342,765
Project description: This two-year initiative aims to support the implementation of the Quatsino Land Use Plan and the Marine Use Plan. This will be done through field-based work, such as data collection and monitoring. These efforts will be central to ecosystem restoration and establishing food security through the local harvesting of traditional foods.

Project title: nłeʔképmx Guardians
Recipient: Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will continue to establish presence on the land and provide public education and awareness about the nłeʔképmx territory, protocols, and cultural practices. Guardians will monitor and record activities on the land with a focus on priority areas determined by the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly. These priority areas include critical hunting, fishing, gathering, and other culturally important areas. nłeʔképmx Guardians will record, monitor, and manage for invasive species and will contribute to research regarding species at risk in the territory.

Project title: Supporting and Maintaining a Strong and Efficient Heiltsuk Guardian Watchmen Program
Recipient: Heiltsuk Integrated Resource Management Department of the Heiltsuk Tribal Council
Funding amount: $349,499
Project description: This two-year initiative will focus on capacity-building, monitoring local aquatics ecosystems and community fisheries for safe harvesting and to support and reestablish this life-sustaining relationship between the people and territory.

Project title: Haa Aaní Tulatín – Taku River Tlingit First Nation Land Guardian Program
Recipient: Taku River Tlingit First Nation
Funding amount: $349,600
Project description: This two-year initiative will respond to threats to the territory and monitor salmon populations. The Guardians will work to strengthen salmon stewardship by organizing multi-day camps that focus on traditional fishing, intergenerational knowledge transfer, and on-the-land monitoring.

Project title: Spuzzum Nation Land Guardians Initiative
Recipient: Spuzzum Indian Band
Funding amount: $50,020
Project description: This one-year initiative will focus on protecting important ecosystems by monitoring key territorial and cultural sites, collecting ecological data, and safeguarding species like the endangered Northern Spotted Owl. The Guardians will also help to develop a framework for stewardship policies.

Project title: Kwadacha Nation Tier 2 Guardian Proposal
Recipient: Kwadacha Nation
Funding amount: $348,734
Project description: This two-year initiative aims to provide long-term ecological and cultural monitoring to track changes on key wildlife habitats, traditional food sources, and water sources. This will aid in discussing how potential changes may impact the roles and responsibilities of being Dena on the land.

Project title: Doig River First Nation Guardian Program
Recipient: Doig River First Nation
Funding amount: $349,188
Project description: This two-year initiative will focus on improving monitoring of the lands and waters by combining cultural methods and western science. Doig River First Nation Guardians will continue to monitor the health of the land, guided by members, and will work collaboratively with the government to address any impacts.

Project title: Nahnéhé Gegenı́hı / Kakinawetakwow Uski / FNFN Land Guardian Initiative
Recipient: Fort Nelson First Nation
Funding amount: $375,000
Project description: This two-year initiative supports the Fort Nelson First Nation (FNFN) stewardship, land management, and on-the-land cultural activities. The Guardian is guided by western science monitoring and research while grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing and understanding the health and condition of the lands and waters.

Project title: Scianew Guardians Initiative
Recipient: Beecher Bay First Nation
Funding amount: $348,614
Project description: This two-year initiative will work toward environmental conservation, monitoring, training for Guardians, impact assessments, land sovereignty, and marine safety. This will be done through partnerships with neighbouring nations, Western Canada Marine Response Corporation (WCMRC) and Kotug Canada.

Project title: USIB Land Guardian Program
Recipient: Upper Similkameen Indian Band
Funding amount: $391,894
Project description: This two-year initiative aims to address critical environmental challenges while deeply integrating Indigenous Knowledge, community engagement, and sustainable practices. The Guardians initiative emphasizes land conservation, sustainable resource management, and fostering ecosystem resilience.

Project title: Establishing Boothroyd Guardians Program
Recipient: Boothroyd Indian Band
Funding amount: $50,000
Project description: This one-year initiative will monitor environmental indicators within the territory, support restoration work in areas damaged by wildfire, and the subsequent erosion. Boothroyd Guardians will engage with land-user groups to increase understanding and respect for the environment.

Project title: TTQ Guardians Program Initiation Project
Recipient: TTQ Economic Development Corporation
Funding amount: $62,533
Project description: This one-year initiative aims to collect and organize Xa’xtsa’s previously recorded cultural knowledge data, map priority areas, and develop a monitoring plan. The goal is to observe changes in the supply of traditional herbs and plants, the frequency and impacts of foraging on the land, vitality of salmon spawning, changes in unauthorized camping, and invasive plants and animals.

Project title: Wildfire Recovery Monitoring
Recipient: Okanagan Indian Band
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will assess the conditions of the White Rock Lake watershed before and after wildfires for the Okanagan Indian Band. The Guardians will conduct site assessments, inventory culturally significant resources, monitor wildlife, and assess the severity of burn damage to guide restoration efforts.

Project title: Nanwakolas – Stewarding Through Indigenous Scientific Knowledge
Recipient: Nanwakolas Council Society
Funding amount: $500,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will apply Kwakwaka’wakw values and Indigenous scientific knowledge on a variety of projects, including loxiwe (clam garden) restoration, canoe carving, hosting Guardian seasonal gathering events, as well as data collection on water, wildlife monitoring, climate change studies, and emergency response planning.

Project title: Continuing to Build the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) Guardians Programs Initiative
Recipient: Squamish Nation – Squamish Indian Band 555
Funding amount: $349,505
Project description: This two-year initiative will conduct stewardship activities, respond to climate events and emergencies, and increase public safety. The Guardians will continue to be on the land engaging and learning from Elders, knowledge keepers, and youth, as well as collaborating with other Nations to share information and build capacity across the National Guardians Network.

Project title: St’át’imc Land Guardians
Recipient: St’at’imc Government Services
Funding amount: $425,180
Project description: This two-year initiative will focus on the implementation of the St’át’imc Water Accord. This includes collecting baseline data of three intact watersheds and three impacted watersheds to assess water quality. Other activities include capacity-building and reviewing stories and legends through workshops/collaborative research with the Indigenous Law Research Unit.

Project title: Nak’azdli Whut’en Yinka Huwunline (Looking After/Taking Care) Guardians Program
Recipient: Nak’azdli Whut’en
Funding amount: $349,942
Project description: This two-year initiative will build geospatial mapping technology for Guardians to use in monitoring. It will create open portals for communication while protecting internal data and cultural information. The project will use remote sensing technology to create “living maps” that track seasonal phenology, quantify impacts, and present informed engagements on stewardship with industry, government, consultants, and academics.

Project title: Lake Babine Nation Yintah Guardians
Recipient: Lake Babine Nation
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will lead the collaborative stewardship of yintah Lake Babine Nation (LBN) territory and the resources of two cultural keystone species, talok (Sockeye Salmon) and khida (moose), to restore moose populations to culturally meaningful levels, and to support fish monitoring, habitat restoration, and collaborative management.

Manitoba

Project title: Seal River Watershed Alliance Land Guardians Network
Recipient: Seal River Watershed Alliance
Funding amount: $500,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will employ 14 youth and senior staff in Land Guardian positions across the four Nations of the Alliance. This initiative builds technical capacity and administers species and habitat identification, monitoring, and protection, and stewards the watershed.

Project title: Askiy Okanawaynichikaywuk (Keepers of the Land)
Recipient: York Factory First Nation
Funding amount: $349,860
Project description: This two-year initiative will maintain trails, monitor cultural and historic sites, observe changes in the land, and support respectful land use. Guardians will have a visible presence, doing community outreach, participating in land-based events, and helping to inform Council’s decisions about land use, stewardship, and protection.

Project title: Pimachiowin Aki First Nations Guardians Network
Recipient: Pimachiowin Aki Corporation
Funding amount: $499,615
Project description: This two-year initiative will focus on seasonal fishing monitoring of Pickerel (Walleye), all-season road alignment, wildfire management, and climate change adaptation and mitigation. Guardians provide professional capacity and presence in Pimachiowin Aki, expressing Anishinaabe nationhood, as well as filling gaps in the Information Management System and provincial patrols and monitoring activities throughout the year.

Project title: SCO First Nations Guardians Regional Network
Recipient: Southern Chiefs’ Organization Inc.
Funding amount: $500,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will focus on strengthening Indigenous jurisdiction over their traditional lands, capacity-building, training and skills development in environmental monitoring and management, and encouraging cooperation and collaboration between communities on stewardship and natural resource management issues.

Project title: SLFN Land-Water-Nature Indigenous Guardianship Stewardship Initiative
Recipient: Swan Lake First Nation
Funding amount: $349,285
Project description: This two-year initiative, together with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, will continue to evaluate the revegetation terraces and re-seed as necessary, monitor water quality from the tile drainage structure, and monitor wildlife and pollinator populations. The data collected will assist in understanding the success rate of this project in reducing nutrient pollution and enhancing ecosystems.

New Brunswick

Project title: Amlamgog Earth Keepers
Recipient: Fort Folly First Nation
Funding amount: $321,411
Project description: This two-year initiative will expand and enhance an existing salmon recovery initiative. This initiative will focus on flora and fauna monitoring, following the traditional guiding principle of Etuaptmumk (two-eyed seeing).

Project title: Wotstak First Nation Guardians Initiative – Tier 1
Recipient: Woodstock First Nation
Funding amount: $50,000
Project description: This one-year initiative will collect data and conduct ecosystem monitoring guided by Woodstock’s Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge for conservation, with the goal of developing a land use plan.

Project title: Elugweieg Toqwe’gig ugjit Ugs’tqamu aq ugjit Sapo’nug (We Work Together for Earth and for Tomorrow)
Recipient: Esgenoôpetitj Watershed Association
Funding amount: $349,923
Project description: This two-year initiative will expand Esgenoôpetitj aquatic monitoring and governance, led by Esgenoôpetitj First Nation (EFN) Fishery Guardians in collaboration with Fisheries and Oceans Canada enforcement personnel in the management, conservation, and protection of the fisheries in the areas most utilized by the community.

Newfoundland and Labrador

Project title: Innu Nation Guardian Program
Recipient: Innu Nation – Environment and Parks Offices
Funding amount: $700,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will integrate the Sheshatshiu and Mushuau Innu (Natuashish) communities through environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. The initiative will focus on five objectives: creating additional Guardian positions, providing technical and safety training, hosting youth workshops for knowledge transfer, purchasing necessary equipment, and developing cultural initiatives to uphold and promote Innu traditions and ecological knowledge.

Nova Scotia

Project title: Re-Connecting Our People with the Land
Recipient: Eskasoni Fish & Wildlife Commission Inc.
Funding amount: $375,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will help protect the Eskasoni Watershed and the bio-cultural diversity within the Nation for future generations, as well as reconnecting the people with the land by supporting community-led research and conducting surveys to monitor the changes in the fisheries and ecosystems. The Guardians will be responsible for monitoring activities within the watershed that could impact fish habitat, fish passage, and other species at risk or culturally significant species. This initiative will also support designation of an Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area.

Project title: Nova Scotia Earth Keepers / Nuji kelo’toqatijik Network
Recipient: Unama’ki Institute of Natural Resources Society
Funding amount: $500,000
Project description: This two-year initiative includes gathering and sharing of Indigenous Knowledge, promoting Netukulimk hunting practices, and monitoring and data collection, including identifying areas suitable for cultural activities, harvesting of medical plants, monitoring species at risk, and education and outreach about culturally important species.

Northwest Territories

Project title: Ni hat’ni Dene (Watchers of the Land)
Recipient: Lutsel K’e Dene First Nation
Funding amount: $349,600
Project description: This two-year initiative maintains a long-term mandate to promote stewardship of Thaidene Nene, working full-time as caretakers of the land, water, and animals, ambassadors of the Dene way of life, and hosting visitors. Initiatives include protecting the Bathurst Caribou, passing on cultural knowledge to youth, and ensuring food security.

Project title: DKFN Guardians
Recipient: Deninu Kue First Nation
Funding amount: $333,055
Project description: This two-year initiative will monitor the lands and water. Guardians will patrol the land to ensure it is kept clean and will conduct water-quality sampling and clean fish monitoring.

Project title: LKFN Guardians and Climate Change Monitoring Project
Recipient: Łı́ı́dlı̨́ı̨́ Kų́ę́ First Nation
Funding amount: $349,961
Project description: This two-year initiative aims to monitor the environmental impacts of climate change in the Dehcho Region of Northwest Territories. The initiative will include monitoring of various indicators, such as permafrost melt, riverbank slumping/erosion, and shifting species populations. Guardians will be equipped with specialized training to monitor erosion, permafrost conditions, observe melt patterns, and assess the depth of thaw. This crucial data collection is important to assess the changing landscape.

Project title: Sahtu K’aowe Guardians Project in Support of the Tsá Tué Biosphere Reserve
Recipient: Délįnę Got’įnę Government
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative supports monitoring of the Great Bear Lake and its watershed using two-eyed seeing methods (bridging western science and Indigenous Knowledge) for the conservation of biodiversity, ecological integrity, climate change adaptation, sustenance of local wildlife, and food security, as well as for cultural continuity and revitalization.

Ontario

Project title: Environmental Stewardship on Air Quality Issues for Aamjiwnaang First Nation
Recipient: Aamjiwnaang First Nation
Funding amount: $48,732
Project description: This one-year initiative will monitor the air, water, and land surrounding Aamjiwnaang First Nation (AFN) that has been impacted by industry development. Guardians will identify environmental monitoring gaps (for example, soil, water, air, fish, plants, and species at risk), develop plans for data collection, improve emergency notification, as well as community responses to petroleum refineries, chemical plants, and other industrial facilities in proximity to AFN.

Project title: Temagami First Nation Guardians
Recipient: Temagami First Nation
Funding amount: $451,000
Project description: This two-year initiative prioritizes water quality, species, and habitat protection; preservation of Indigenous wisdom; and data collection and monitoring. Guardians will be engaged in monitoring, recording, and reporting activities related to land use and environmental protection. Specific attention will be given to Lake Temagami, including monitoring ice huts, houseboats, shores, and more.

Project title: Atikameksheng Anishnawbek – Phase 2 – Monitoring of Atikameksheng Traditional Land
Recipient: Atikameksheng Anishnawbek
Funding amount: $347,263
Project description: This two-year initiative will help with the collection of maple sap during Sugar Moon and other food harvestings, which is provided to Elders and the Nations’ food bank. Guardians will monitor the lands, conduct field site inspections for proposed forestry cuts to ensure grandmother trees are protected, and complete daily field work sheets and site inspections that will provide important environmental information on spills, violations, and forestry cuts.

Project title: Anishinabek Traditional Ecological Guardians of Georgian Bay
Recipient: Magnetawan First Nation
Funding amount: $500,000
Project description: This two-year initiative supports land-based learning, knowledge transfer, and technical skills training on species at risk, species monitoring, data collections, and other land-management activities using the two-eyed seeing approach. The initiative will also help to strengthen capacity and sustainable management for other First Nation groups.

Project title: Charting the Path Ahead – Anishinaabe Aki Shkabewisag (Niiwin Wendaanimok Anishinaabe Guardians Network)
Recipient: Niiwin Wendaanimok Limited Partnership
Funding amount: $500,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will support four Anishinaabe Nations to mitigate and monitor compliance on development in the territory; increase capacity to care for lands, water, plants, and animals; and work collaboratively to identify individual needs and create personalized coaching and mentorship programs. The Anishinaabe Guardians will identify and protect areas of significance by interviewing Elders and knowledge keepers.

Project title: Ketegaunseebee Aki Guardians
Recipient: Garden River First Nation
Funding amount: $301,400
Project description: This two-year initiative will assist Garden River First Nation in monitoring and protecting the St. Marys River and the lands to uphold a treaty made with neighbouring Indigenous Nations. The initiative will focus on capacity-building, community engagement, and fieldwork including patrolling, monitoring species at risk and invasive species, and forestry.

Project title: Four Rivers Regional Guardians Network
Recipient: Matawa First Nations Management
Funding amount: $389,771
Project description: This two-year initiative focuses on environmental stewardship and capacity-building in nine Matawa First Nations. The Four Rivers Regional Guardian Network will engage in virtual and in-person networking to expand its knowledge and capacity, including cultural exchanges within the network.

Project title: Biinjitawaabik Zaaging Anishnaabek Community Guardians
Recipient: Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishnaabek Rocky Bay First Nation
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will implement sturgeon and mining site protocols, conduct environmental monitoring analysis, map the Lake Nipigon basin, and integrate the data into a geographic information system database.

Project title: The Height of Land Wakohtowin Guardian Program – Treaty No.9
Recipient: Wahkohtowin Development General Partnership Inc.
Funding amount: $499,300
Project description: This two-year initiative is designed to enhance traditional knowledge, practices, and way of life within the communities. Guardians will have first-hand experience in how ecosystem services and the conservation economy work.

Project title: The Neya Waban Guardian Program – Caretakers of the Land
Recipient: Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation
Funding amount: $349,650
Project description: This two-year initiative will gather crucial information that will support decision-making, identify quality habitat areas for wildlife, and develop management plans and protocols. The Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation will continue to conduct Algonquin knowledge-based data collection to further protect the lands, water, animals, and air for the eleven communities across Ontario and Quebec.

Project title: Mnisinoog (Warriors for the Bay): Shawanaga First Nation’s Guardians Program
Recipient: Shawanaga First Nation
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative focuses on improving aquatic life by using river monitors to sustain and protect the health of the river ecosystem. Aquatic stewardship takes precedence with creel surveys, wide-scale monitoring of waterbodies, and a detailed study on fish consumption.

Project title: Caldwell First Nation Land Guardian Program
Recipient: Caldwell First Nation
Funding amount: $345,840
Project description: This two-year initiative will focus on education, training, on-the-land learning with technical experts and knowledge holders, and listening sessions with the community. The Guardians will review class environmental assessments on behalf of Caldwell First Nation, monitor and participate in environmental projects in the Territory, and build multi-year capacity initiatives with emphasis on supporting the creation, development, and management of Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas within traditional territory.

Prince Edward Island

Project title: Lennox Island First Nation Guardians Program
Recipient: Lennox Island First Nation
Funding amount: $346,800
Project description: This two-year initiative will help better manage, protect, and utilize the marine resources the community relies on. It will allow the Lennox Island watershed conservation group to participate in coastal erosion studies, take part in fisheries workshops (lobster-handling practices), a Black Ash reforestation project, and the development of a modernized solid-waste management plan.

Project title: Abegweit Guardians
Recipient: Abegweit First Nation
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative embodies a cultural and traditional approach to natural resource management. The initiative also includes data collection and monitoring, and focusing on the use of lands, waters, and resources on traditional territories, including cultural sites.

Quebec

Project title: Gardiens du Ndakina
Recipient: W8banaki
Funding amount: $500,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will support the sustainability of traditional practices of members of the Nation, protect their rights to access ancestral territory, and preserve cultural heritage. This initiative will create conservation spaces, share and transfer Indigenous Knowledge, mentor youth, engage with the community, and promote food sovereignty, as well as many other activities.

Project title: Pushing Forth: Taking the Pessamit Land Guardians to the Next Level
Recipient: Conseil des Innus de Pessamit
Funding amount: $349,550
Project description: This two-year initiative includes a team of six territorial agents, specializing in data collection, surveillance of the lands, and comprehensive inventories of biodiversity and ecosystem processes. The initiative will focus on monitoring and assessments, conducting an inventory of cultural sites, developing expertise in sampling, and community engagement and visibility.

Project title: Gardiens de territoire Abitibiwinnik
Recipient: Première Nation Abitibiwinni
Funding amount: $195,931
Project description: This two-year initiative will continue to train community members to conduct land surveillance and acquire new skills and knowledge from field work, utilizing both Indigenous Knowledge and western science. The initiative aims to document information acquired from Guardians’ activities, community members, and Elders.

Project title: Cumulative Effects Assessment of Chisasibi’s Intertidal Zones: Integrating Science, Tradition, and Stewardship
Recipient: Cree Nation of Chisasibi
Funding amount: $348,468
Project description: This two-year initiative will focus on integrating western science, Indigenous Knowledge, and stewardship to address key challenges in the Chisasibi community. The initiative will study the impact of development by reviewing existing research, mapping the community, analyzing vegetation, and collecting environmental samples. Additionally, it will build capacity through workshops and a mentorship initiative involving Kinwhapmaakins (Trapline Managers/Guardians). All data will be collected and combined into a detailed report on cumulative effects.

Project title: Gardiens Atikamekw de Manawan
Recipient: Conseil des Atikamekw de Manawan
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative will enhance the role of the Guardians in working with non-Indigenous land users and partners within the heart of the Nation and the community. This next phase focuses on being active on the land, collecting data, establishing an official community-recognized mandate, and increasing capacity and training, as well as strengthening the role of the Guardians within the community.

Project title: Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Nagadjitòdjig Guardian Initiative
Recipient: Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation
Funding amount: $594,020
Project description: This two-year initiative will monitor and inventory cultural keystone species, wild foods, and trees. The Guardians will provide water quality studies, identify culturally significant sites, and record videos to document traditional practices and activities.

Project title: Protection et participation à la mise en valeur de l’héritage Pekuakamiulnuatsh sur Nitassinan
Recipient: Pekuakamiulnuatsh Takuhikan
Funding amount: $49,995
Project description: This one-year initiative aims to ensure the protection and preservation of the territory while maintaining the well-being of the Nation’s community members as they conduct their Nation’s traditional activities. The Guardians play a crucial role in supporting the Nation’s community, in land surveillance, and accompanying community members onto the Nation’s land.

Project title: Essipiu Assinu Nakatuenitamu (celui qui prend soin du territoire d’Essipit)
Recipient: Conseil de la Première Nation des Innus Essipit
Funding amount: $246,308
Project description: This two-year initiative supports responsible governance and occupation of the Nation’s territory, land surveillance, and participation in community events, as well as collaboration on a variety of projects that encourage learning and skill development for Guardians and community members.

Project title: Nutshimiunnuat d’ITUM (gardiens du Nitassinan d’ITUM)
Recipient: Innu Takuaikan Uashat mak Mani-Utenam
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative consists of monitoring, protecting, and carrying out stewardship activities in the traditional territory of the Nation. Its objective is to ensure surveillance on the land and protection of the Nation, as well as contribute to studies and inventories on the impacts of climate change and industrial development within the territory.

Project title: Iakwatonhontsanónhnha (We All Mind Her, the Earth)
Recipient: Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke
Funding amount: $256,416
Project description: This two-year initiative will develop an Environmental Charter for the community, helping to define roles and responsibilities of Conservation Officers. It will also consult on a Rights of Nature approach to protect the St. Lawrence River.

Saskatchewan

Project title: File Hills Qu’Appelle Guardian Initiative
Recipient: File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council
Funding amount: $354,180
Project description: This two-year initiative will monitor and document the health of waterways, including water quality, medicines, and the condition of riverbanks, focusing specifically on the Lower Qu’Appelle River and Chain of Lakes. It will also work to revitalize language and land stewardship practices.

Project title: Monitoring and Protection of Athabasca Denesųłiné Nuhenéné in Saskatchewan
Recipient: Ya’thi Néné Land and Resource Office
Funding amount: $498,916
Project description: This two-year initiative will monitor lands and waters in Nuhenéné including Indigenous Protected Areas, caribou harvest areas, mineral exploration, and extraction activities. Guided by Elders, a focus of the Ya’thi Néné Lands and Resources’ Guardians is to connect youth back to the land and build future leaders in sustainable management practices.

Project title: The Birch Narrows Dene Nation Nuh Nene Strategic Plan
Recipient: Birch Narrows Dene Nation
Funding amount: $49,917
Project description: This one-year initiative will monitor the land, combining ancestral wisdom with modern ecological approaches. Strategic partnerships with neighbouring First Nations and partners, such as Tamarack Environmental Associates, NexGen Energy Ltd., and Fission Uranium Corp. will amplify the impact of conservation efforts. Through training, mentorship, and community engagement, the initiative will help the Nuh Nene Department in its goal of safeguarding cultural identity and the natural environment.

Project title: Pheasant Rump Nakota First Nation Community-Based Guardians Initiative
Recipient: Pheasant Rump Nakota First Nation
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative aims to enhance capacity-building by training and employing youth to collect and analyze data about climate change and industrial impacts in the territory. Data will be used to draft a Land Use Management Plan to inform the Chief and Council’s decision-making on stewardship initiatives and habitat management to ensure sustainable sources of traditional food for the community.

Project title: Muskowekwan First Nation Community-Based Guardians Initiative
Recipient: Muskowekwan First Nation
Funding amount: $350,000
Project description: This two-year initiative aims to enhance capacity-building for community members to monitor and understand the impacts of climate change. This will provide youth with an opportunity to be trained in Indigenous Knowledge, western science, and climate and environmental monitoring practices, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing, participatory mapping, and knowledge gathering.

Yukon

Project title: Teechik Land Guardians: Nanh gwiinzii vik’ite’tri’giikhii (We Read the Land Well)
Recipient: Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation
Funding amount: $349,333
Project description: This two-year initiative will operate a network of camera traps to monitor predator–prey interactions on the Old Crow winter road and conduct baseline fish and water sampling at the headwaters of the Porcupine River. The Guardian Coordinator will be tasked with organizing patrols, analyzing monitoring data, and preparing communication material for community members and leaders. This capacity-building will strengthen monitoring efforts by enabling the initiative to process more samples, improve use of camera data, and allow Guardians to establish an annual trapping camp to expand into furbearer monitoring.

MIL OSI Canada News –

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI: Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. – Notice of Special Meeting of Shareholders and Management Information Circular

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.
(“Falcon”)

Notice of Special Meeting of Shareholders and Management Information Circular

27 September 2024 – Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. (TSXV: FO, AIM: FOG) will hold a special meeting of shareholders at the Conrad Hotel, Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2, Ireland on 29 October 2024 at 11:00 a.m. (Dublin time). A complete notice and related documents are now available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and Falcon’s website at www.falconoilandgas.com and are being sent to shareholders of record as at 19 September 2024.

Falcon will conduct a Q&A via the Investor Meet Company platform later that day for those unable to attend the meeting in person, details will be announced in due course.

Ends.

For further information, please contact:

CONTACT DETAILS:

Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.		+353 1 676 8702
Philip O’Quigley, CEO		+353 87 814 7042
Anne Flynn, CFO		+353 1 676 9162

Cavendish Capital Markets Limited (NOMAD & Joint Broker)
Neil McDonald / Adam Rae		+44 131 220 9771

Tennyson Securities (Joint Broker)
Peter Krens	+44 20 7186 9033

About Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.
Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. is an international oil & gas company engaged in the exploration and development of unconventional oil and gas assets, with the current portfolio focused in Australia, South Africa and Hungary. Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. is incorporated in British Columbia, Canada and headquartered in Dublin, Ireland with a technical team based in Budapest, Hungary.

For further information on Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. please visit www.falconoilandgas.com

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

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI Translation: Government of Canada supports health sciences SMEs to create new health technologies

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Government of Canada – in French

Press release

Canada’s health sciences innovation sector continues to play a leading role in developing innovative ideas and products that will support a better, healthier future. The Government of Canada is providing businesses and organizations in this vital sector with the support they need to deliver effective health solutions for Canadians.

Government of Canada invests in specialized program that will help 75 southern Ontario health sciences SMEs

September 27, 2024 – Hamilton, Ontario

Canada’s health sciences innovation sector continues to play a leading role in developing innovative ideas and products that will support a better, healthier future. The Government of Canada is providing businesses and organizations in this vital sector with the support they need to deliver effective health solutions for Canadians.

Yesterday, the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), attended the 14th edition of the LiONS LAIR presentation competition organized by Innovation Factory. More than 400 members of Hamilton’s life sciences ecosystem came together to celebrate innovation in the Hamilton-Halton region.

At the event, Minister Tassi announced a Government of Canada investment of over $5 million to enable Innovation Factory, in collaboration with the Synapse Life Sciences Consortium, to support the continued delivery of the Southern Ontario Pharmaceutical and Health Innovation Ecosystem (SOPHIE) program, the period for receiving applications launched yesterday. The program will help up to 75 southern Ontario SMEs commercialize their products and scale their operations. Participating companies will have access to mentoring and advisory services, seed funding and new partnerships. This critical work will help accelerate their product development and anchor health sciences companies in southern Ontario.

This project aligns with the Government of Canada’s priority to support new growth opportunities in this important sector. Innovators and organizations that create health care technologies help protect the health of Canadians, while strengthening Canada’s health sciences sector and creating new job opportunities in Canada.

Quotes

“Innovation Factory is undertaking important work that will support the expansion and development of 75 SMEs, while helping to anchor health sciences companies here in Canada. Today’s investment demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting health sciences innovators and ensuring a healthier future for Canadians.” – The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

“The renewal of funding for Innovation Factory’s SOPHIE program is a testament to the remarkable impact it has had on Ontario’s health sciences sector over the past several years. This continued support from the Government of Canada allows us to build on that success, fostering innovation, job creation and the global competitiveness of the health sciences industry. We look forward to seeing SOPHIE continue to transform the landscape for health sciences entrepreneurs and strengthen Ontario’s position as a hub for health innovation.” – David Carter, President and CEO, Innovation Factory

Quick Facts

Innovation Factory is a non-profit business accelerator that has been acting as a catalyst for technological innovation in the Brant, Halton, Hamilton and Norfolk regions since 2010.

Innovation Factory provides business services, training, mentoring and strategic relationships to drive market adoption, leverage intellectual property and increase revenue, investment and jobs. Innovators can also access sector-specific resources, including smart transportation data and testing environments, as well as a formal health and health sciences innovation ecosystem.

FedDev Ontario previously provided an investment of $7 million to Innovation Factory to implement the first call for applications for the SOPHIE program. To date, through SOPHIE, 166 innovative Ontario health sciences start-ups and scale-up companies in the health, medical device and pharmaceutical sectors have received support to develop and commercialize new products and services.

Applications for the SOPHIE program are currently being accepted. Additional details regarding the program and the application process are available on the SOPHIE website.Innovation Factory

Since 2015, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has invested more than $237 million in 58 projects in the life sciences sector, supporting more than 7,700 jobs.

Related links

Contact persons

Edward HutchinsonPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern OntarioEdward.hutchinson@feddevontario.gc.ca

FedDev Ontario Media Relationsmedia@feddevontario.gc.ca

Stay connected:

FedDev-Ontario.Canada.ca

Follow us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook

Subscribe to the FedDev Ontario newsletter, Southern Ontario Economic News, which features news and updates on economic development in the region.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: Indigenous Guardian Projects 2024-2025

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Government of Canada – in French 2

Today, Jaimee Gaunce, Executive Director of the First Nations National Guardians Network (FNGN), joined the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, and Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay–Rainy River, to announce an investment of up to $27.6 million to support 80 First Nations Guardians initiatives.

Alberta

Project Title: Mikisew Cree First Nation Guardians ProgramRecipient: Mikisew Cree First Nation – Government and Industry RelationsFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This ongoing, two-year initiative will study how oil sands development, specifically bitumen extraction and hydroelectric projects, is affecting the health of the Peace-Athabasca Delta, the heart of the Mikisew’s traditional territory. Guardians work throughout the year to monitor water quality, collect data, detect flooding and monitor fish populations.

Project Title: Ni Ho Ghe Di – Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation Guardians ProgramRecipient: Dene Land and Resource ManagementFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will monitor and report activities that may harm the ecology, traditional lands or traditional resources of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, such as poaching and illegal hunting on traditional territory, particularly to protect the Ronald Lake bison. The initiative will also help youth build cultural pride and connection to the land, as well as develop on-the-land skills.

Project Title: Guardians of the Land – Dene Tha’ First NationRecipient: Dene Tha’ First NationFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will include activities such as ecological restoration, support for resource management plans, and compliance with laws and regulations. Guardians will contribute to the protection and recovery of species at risk, manage land use in the proposed M’behcholia Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (Bistcho Lake, Alberta), and provide environmental and wildlife monitoring.

Project Title: Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation Guardians InitiativeRecipient: Alexis Nakota Sioux NationFunding Amount: $346,400Project Description: This two-year initiative will include conducting and analyzing aerial surveys, creating a Geographic Information System (GIS) data management and visualization system using RStudio and ArcPY, and continuing to develop the Stoney Lands and Waters course.

British Columbia

Project Title: Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation Guardian Program EnhancementRecipient: Kitasoo Xai’xais NationFunding Amount: $604,925Project Description: This two-year initiative will focus on marine and terrestrial surveys, as well as compliance and enforcement practices that include education, observation and reporting. In addition, guardians participate in Coastal First Nations Coast Guard Auxiliary activities and receive training on emergency response to search and rescue and oil spills.

Project Title: Coastal Stewardship NetworkRecipient: Great Bear Initiative SocietyFunding Amount: $499,785Project Description: This two-year initiative provides programming to the eight member nations of the Great Bear Initiative of Coastal First Nations, who work directly with communities to support Guardians along the North and Central Coast and Haida Gwaii to monitor resource use and ecosystem health, provide training and professional development opportunities, raise awareness, and foster coastal stewardship.

Project Title: Songhees Nation Guardians ProgramRecipient: Songhees NationFunding Amount: $50,000Project Description: This one-year initiative continues work already begun with community members, band council and outside organizations to provide monitoring services, promote community stewardship and restore habitat areas. This initiative helps strengthen Indigenous presence on the water during fishing seasons as it is essential to establishing greater authority over fisheries and coastal resources on the land.

Project Title: Lower Nicola Indian Band – Indigenous Guardians Program – Tier 1Recipient: Lower Nicola Indian BandFunding Amount: $49,450Project Description: This one-year initiative aims to build capacity, skills and knowledge to implement a new Guardians Program in the community. This program will include mapping and indexing areas of the territory, consulting with Elders and Knowledge Keepers, community engagement, developing a plan and working with Chief and Council to ensure alignment of the vision and strategic plan.

Project Title: Mamalilikulla First Nation Guardian ProgramRecipient: Mamalilikulla First NationFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative includes ongoing activities where guardians will spend time in the field collecting data, monitoring cultural sites, managing grizzly bear populations, planting crabapple trees to feed the bears, and improving fisheries. This work will help Chief and Council make informed decisions.

Project Title: Wet’suwet’en First Nation Guardians Initiative: A Holistic ApproachRecipient: Wet’suwet’en First NationFunding Amount: $75,745Project Description: This one-year initiative will monitor and collect data on moose populations and mortality rates, assess wildlife habitat, install camera traps, and assess riparian areas. It will also explore the possibility of launching a water monitoring program in identified priority areas. These efforts will help the community observe and document activities or cumulative effects that impact their ability to practice their traditional way of life.

Project Title: Indigenous Guardians Proposal for Saulteau First NationsRecipient: Saulteau First NationsFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will support the community in taking the lead in monitoring, protecting and restoring lands and waters, which is essential to the health and well-being of the community. Activities include supporting healthy food harvesting, cultural activities, protecting Klinse-za Park, monitoring climate change and understanding how events such as wildfires affect the community, changes in weather patterns, and changes in animal movements and water availability.

Project Title: Saik’uz Guardians ProgramRecipient: Saik’uz First NationFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will build on the long-term monitoring efforts of the Saik’uz Guardians community-based initiative. Guardians will be guided by the wisdom of Indigenous knowledge and Western science, with the goal of empowering the Nation with respect to the water and land of the territory.

Project Title: P’egp’ig’lha GuardiansRecipient: P’egp’ig’lha Council/T’it’q’et First NationFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will conduct land patrols to monitor the health of the land and study wildlife and fisheries. Guardians play a vital role in protecting and restoring the Stein-Nahatlatch grizzly bear population, supporting wildfire recovery efforts, and strengthening collaboration with other guardian programs in the area.

Project Title: Pauquachin First Nation Marine Department – Stewardship InitiativeRecipient: Pauquachin First NationFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will monitor one of British Columbia’s busiest and most heavily used waterways. Guardians monitor culturally sensitive archaeological sites, harvest areas, recreational and commercial fisheries use, environmental threats (pollution sources, marine waste disposal, illegal activities and poaching), and conduct restoration work in designated areas of significance. This initiative represents the interests, concerns and goals of the community to ensure that waterways, foods, historic sites and cultural practices are sustained for generations to come.

Project Title: Takla Nation Guardians Initiative – Tier 2Recipient: Takla NationFunding Amount: $499,959Project Description: This ongoing initiative is monitoring over 30 sites on Takla lands and waters. This work is critical to the Takla’s ability to implement environmental and cultural protections, including ensuring that archaeological impact assessments conducted by various developers and government agencies are consistent with the Takla Archaeology Policy. It also builds capacity to monitor caribou and moose populations and supports the Guardians program by encouraging youth engagement in the community.

Project Title: Tsilhqot’in Guardians NetworkRecipient: Tsilhqot’in National GovernmentFunding Amount: $500,000Project Description: This two-year initiative, led by the Tsilhqot’in National Government in collaboration with six Tsilhqot’in communities – Xeni Gwet’in, Tlesqox, Tletinqox, Tsi Del Del, ?Esdilagh and Yunesit’in – aims to integrate and strengthen Tsilhqot’in values into the management of lands and waters in the region. In partnership with provincial and federal land and water management agencies, the Guardians will conduct hunting, fishing and fire prevention patrols, as well as wildlife and water monitoring research to ensure sustainable management of Tsilhqot’in territories.

Project Title: Quatsino Axsilaxa Ahwheatnagwusn Guardians ProgramRecipient: Quatsino First NationFunding Amount: $342,765Project Description: This two-year initiative will support the implementation of the Quatsino Land Use and Marine Resource Use Plan. This will be done through field work such as data collection and monitoring. These efforts will be critical to ecosystem restoration and food security through local harvesting of traditional foods.

Project Title: Nłeʔképmx GuardiansRecipient: Citxw Nlaka’pamux AssemblyFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will continue to build on-the-ground presence and awareness of Nłeʔképmx territory, protocols and cultural practices. Guardians will monitor and record activities on the land, focusing on priority areas identified by the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly. These priority areas include hunting, fishing, gathering and other culturally significant areas. Nłeʔképmx Guardians will record, monitor and manage invasive species and contribute to research on species at risk on the territory.

Project Title: Supporting and Maintaining a Strong and Effective Heiltsuk Guardian ProgramRecipient: Heiltsuk Integrated Resource Management Department of the Heiltsuk Tribal CouncilFunding Amount: $349,499Project Description: This two-year initiative will focus on building capacity, monitoring local aquatic ecosystems and community fisheries for safe operations, and supporting and restoring the vital relationship between people and the land.

Project Title: Haa Aaní Tulatín – Taku River Tlingit First Nation Land Guardians ProgramRecipient: Taku River Tlingit First NationFunding Amount: $349,600Project Description: This two-year initiative will address threats to the land and monitor salmon populations. The guardians will work to strengthen salmon stewardship by hosting multi-day camps that focus on traditional fishing, intergenerational knowledge transfer, and land monitoring.

Project Title: Spuzzum First Nation Land Guardians InitiativeRecipient: Spuzzum Indian BandFunding Amount: $50,020Project Description: This one-year initiative will focus on protecting important ecosystems by monitoring key territorial and cultural sites, collecting ecological data, and saving endangered species such as the Northern Spotted Owl. The guardians will also contribute to the development of a stewardship policy framework.

Project Title: Kwadacha First Nation Guardians Project – Level 2Recipient: Kwadacha First NationFunding Amount: $348,734Project Description: This two-year initiative will provide long-term ecological and cultural monitoring to track changes in key wildlife habitats, traditional food sources and water sources. This will provide an opportunity to discuss how potential changes may impact Dene roles and responsibilities on the land.

Project Title: Doig River First Nation Guardians ProgramRecipient: Doig River First NationFunding Amount: $349,188Project Description: This two-year initiative will focus on improving land and water monitoring by combining cultural methods and western science. Doig River First Nation Guardians will continue to monitor the health of the land, guided by their members, and will work collaboratively with government to address any impacts.

Project Title: Nahnéhé Gegenı́hı/Kakinawetakwow Uski/Fort Nelson First Nation Land Guardians InitiativeRecipient: Fort Nelson First NationFunding Amount: $375,000Project Description: This two-year initiative supports stewardship, land management and cultural activities on Fort Nelson First Nation territory. The initiative is informed by Western scientific monitoring and research, while drawing on Indigenous ways of knowing and understanding the health and condition of lands and waters.

Project Title: Scianew Guardians InitiativeRecipient: Beecher Bay First NationFunding Amount: $348,614Project Description: This two-year initiative will focus on environmental conservation and monitoring, guardian training, impact assessments, territorial sovereignty and maritime safety. This will be accomplished through partnerships with neighbouring nations, the Western Canada Marine Response Corporation (WCMRC) and Kotug Canada.

Project Title: Upper Similkameen Indian Band Land Guardians ProgramRecipient: Upper Similkameen Indian BandFunding Amount: $391,894Project Description: This two-year initiative aims to address critical environmental challenges while deeply integrating Indigenous knowledge, community engagement and sustainable practices. The Guardians initiative focuses on land conservation, sustainable resource management and building ecosystem resilience.

Project Title: Boothroyd Guardians Program ImplementationRecipient: Boothroyd Indian BandFunding Amount: $50,000Project Description: This one-year initiative will monitor environmental indicators on the land and support restoration work in areas damaged by wildfires and subsequent erosion. Boothroyd Guardians will work with land user groups to improve understanding and respect for the environment.

Project Title: TTQ Guardian Program Initiation ProjectRecipient: TTQ Economic Development CorporationFunding Amount: $62,533Project Description: This one-year initiative will collect and interpret previously recorded Xa’xtsa cultural knowledge data, map priority areas, and develop a monitoring plan. The goal is to observe changes in the supply of traditional herbs and plants, the frequency and impact of foraging on the territory, the vitality of salmon spawning, changes in unauthorized camping, and invasive plant and animal species.

Project Title: Wildfire Recovery MonitoringRecipient: Okanagan Indian BandFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will assess the condition of the White Rock Lake watershed before and after the wildfires on behalf of the Okanagan Indian Band. Guardians will conduct site assessments, inventory significant cultural resources, monitor wildlife, and assess the severity of fire damage to guide restoration efforts.

Project Title: Nanwakolas – Stewardship through Indigenous Scientific KnowledgeRecipient: Nanwakolas Council CorporationFunding Amount: $500,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will apply Kwakwaka’wakw values and Indigenous scientific knowledge to a variety of projects including loxiwe (clam garden) restoration, canoe carving, seasonal Guardian Gathering events, and data collection on water, wildlife monitoring, climate change studies, and emergency response planning.

Project Title: Continuing Implementation of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) Guardian Program InitiativeRecipient: Squamish Nation – Squamish Indian Band 555Funding Amount: $349,505Project Description: This two-year initiative will provide stewardship activities, respond to climate events and emergencies, and enhance public safety. Guardians will continue to be present on the land and learn from Elders, Knowledge Keepers and youth; and collaborate with other Nations to share information and build capacity across the national Guardian network.

Project Title: Guardians of the St’át’imc LandRecipient: St’at’imc Government ServicesFunding Amount: $425,180Project Description: This two-year initiative will focus on implementing the St’át’imc Water Agreement. It includes collecting baseline data on three intact watersheds and three impacted watersheds to assess water quality. Other activities include capacity building and examining stories and legends through workshops and research in collaboration with the Indigenous Law Research Unit.

Project Title: Nak’azdli Whut’en Yinka Huwunline (Caring) Guardian ProgramRecipient: Nak’azdli Whut’enFunding Amount: $349,942Project Description: This two-year initiative will develop geospatial mapping technology for Guardians to use in their monitoring activities. This will create open portals for communication while protecting internal data and cultural information. The project will use remote sensing technology to create “living maps” that will track seasonal phenology, quantify impacts, and provide informed stewardship engagements with industry, government, consultants, and academia.

Project Title: Yintah Guardians of Lake Babine NationRecipient: Lake Babine NationFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will lead the collaborative management of the Yintahs of Lake Babine Nation territory and resources of two key cultural species, talok (sockeye) and khida (moose), to restore moose populations to culturally significant levels, and support fish monitoring, habitat restoration and cooperative management.

Manitoba

Project Title: Seal River Watershed Alliance Land Guardian NetworkRecipient: Seal River Watershed AllianceFunding Amount: $500,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will hire 14 youth and Elders as Land Guardians across the four Alliance Nations. This initiative builds technical capacity and manages species and habitat identification, monitoring, protection, and watershed stewardship.

Project Title: Askiy Okanawaynichikaywuk – Guardians of the LandRecipient: York Factory First Nation Funding Amount: $349,860Project Description: This two-year initiative will maintain trails, monitor cultural and historical sites, observe changes in the land, and support respectful land use. Guardians will provide a visible presence, conduct community outreach, participate in on-the-ground activities, and help guide Council decisions on land use, stewardship, and protection.

Project Title: Pimachiowin Aki First Nations Guardians NetworkRecipient: Pimachiowin Aki CorporationFunding Amount: $499,615Project Description: This two-year initiative will focus on monitoring the seasonal walleye fishery, all-season road design, wildfire management, and climate change adaptation and mitigation. Guardians provide a professional presence and expertise in Pimachiowin Aki, expressing their belonging to the Anishinaabe Nation, filling gaps in the provincial information management system and patrols, and conducting year-round monitoring activities.

Project Title: SCOB Regional First Nations Guardians NetworkRecipient: Southern Chiefs’ Organization Inc.Funding Amount: $500,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will focus on strengthening Indigenous jurisdiction over their traditional lands, developing capacity, training and skills in environmental monitoring and management, and promoting cooperation and collaboration among communities on natural resource stewardship and management issues.

Project Title: Swan Lake First Nation Indigenous Guardians Land, Water and Nature Stewardship InitiativeRecipient: Swan Lake First NationFunding Amount: $349,285Project Description: This two-year initiative, in collaboration with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, will continue to assess and reseed revegetation terraces if necessary, monitor water quality from the tile drainage structure, and monitor animal and pollinator populations. The data collected will help understand the success of this project in reducing nutrient pollution and improving ecosystems.

New Brunswick

Project Title: Amlamgog Earth GuardiansRecipient: Fort Folly First NationFunding Amount: $321,411Project Description: This two-year initiative will expand and enhance an existing salmon recovery initiative. This initiative will focus on monitoring flora and fauna, in accordance with the traditional guiding principle of “Etuaptmumk” (two-eyed vision).

Project Title: Wotstak First Nation Guardians Initiative – Tier 1Recipient: Woodstock First NationFunding Amount: $50,000Project Description: This one-year initiative will collect data and monitor the ecosystem, drawing on the knowledge of Woodstock First Nation’s Indigenous traditions of conservation, with the goal of developing a land use plan.

Project Title: Elugweieg Toqwe’gig ugjit Ugs’tqamu aq ugjit Sapo’nug (We work together for the land and for tomorrow)Recipient: Esgenoôpetitj Watershed AssociationFunding Amount: $349,923Project Description: This two-year initiative will expand monitoring and governance of the Esgenoôpetitj aquatic environment, led by Esgenoôpetitj First Nation Fishery Guardians, in collaboration with Fisheries and Oceans Canada enforcement staff, as part of the management, conservation and protection of fisheries in areas most frequented by the community.

Newfoundland and Labrador

Project Title: Innu Nation Guardians ProgramRecipient: Innu Nation – Environment and Parks OfficesFunding Amount: $700,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will integrate the Innu (Natuashish) communities of Sheshatshiu and Mushuau Innu through environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. The initiative will focus on five objectives: the creation of additional guardian positions, technical and safety training, the organization of youth workshops on knowledge transfer, the purchase of necessary equipment, and the development of cultural initiatives to maintain and promote Innu traditions and ecological knowledge.

Nova Scotia

Project Title: Reconnecting Our People with the LandBeneficiary: Eskasoni Fish

Project Title: Nova Scotia Land Guardians Network/Nuji kelo’toqatijikRecipient: Unama’ki Institute of the Natural Resources SocietyFunding Amount: $500,000Project Description: This two-year initiative involves collecting and sharing Indigenous knowledge, promoting Netukulimk hunting practices, monitoring and data collection including designating areas suitable for cultural activities, harvesting medicinal plants, monitoring species at risk, and education and awareness of culturally significant species.

Northwest Territories

Project Title: Ni hat’ni Dene (“Keepers of the Land”)Recipient: Lutsel K’e Dene First NationFunding Amount: $349,600Project Description: This two-year initiative is part of a long-term mandate to promote Thaidene Nene stewardship, working full-time as guardians of the land, water and animals, and as ambassadors of the Dene way of life, and welcoming visitors. Initiatives include protecting Bathurst caribou, sharing cultural knowledge with youth, and protecting food security.

Project Title: Deninu Kue First Nation GuardiansRecipient: Deninu Kue First NationFunding Amount: $333,055Project Description: This two-year initiative will monitor the land and waters. Guardians will patrol the territory to ensure it remains clean and will conduct water quality sampling and fish cleanliness monitoring.

Project Title: Łı́ı́dlı̨́ı̨́ Kų́ę́ First Nation Guardians and Climate Change Monitoring ProjectRecipient: Łı́ı́dlı̨́ı̨́ Kų́ę́ First NationFunding Amount: $349,961Project Description: This two-year initiative aims to monitor the impacts of climate change on the environment in the Dehcho region of the Northwest Territories. The initiative will include monitoring a variety of indicators such as permafrost thaw, streambank subsidence/erosion, and species population shifts. Guardians will receive specialized training in monitoring erosion and permafrost conditions, observing thaw patterns, and assessing thaw depth. This data collection is essential to assess the evolution of the landscape.

Project Title: Sahtu K’aowe Guardians Project for Tsá Tué Biosphere ReserveRecipient: Délįnę Got’įnę GovernmentFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative supports monitoring of Great Bear Lake and its watershed using the “Two-Eyed Seeing Approach” (uniting Western science and Indigenous knowledge) to ensure biodiversity conservation, ecological integrity, climate change adaptation, local wildlife subsistence, food security, and the continuity and revitalization of cultural practices.

Ontario

Project Title: Environmental Stewardship of Air Quality Issues for Aamjiwnaang First NationRecipient: Aamjiwnaang First NationFunding Amount: $48,732Project Description: This one-year initiative will monitor the air, water and lands surrounding Aamjiwnaang First Nation that have been impacted by industrial development. Guardians will identify environmental monitoring gaps (soil, water, air, fish, plants and endangered species), develop data collection plans, and improve emergency notifications and community responses to oil refineries, chemical plants and other industrial facilities located near Aamjiwnaang First Nation.

Project Title: Temagami First Nation GuardiansRecipient: Temagami First NationFunding Amount: $451,000Project Description: This two-year initiative focuses on water quality, species and habitat protection, preserving Indigenous wisdom, data collection and monitoring. Guardians will participate in tracking, recording and reporting activities related to land use and environmental protection. Special attention will be paid to Lake Temagami, including monitoring ice fishing huts, houseboats, shorelines and more.

Project Title: Atikameksheng Anishnawbek – Phase 2 – Monitoring the Atikameksheng Traditional TerritoryRecipient: Atikameksheng AnishnawbekFunding Amount: $347,263Project Description: This two-year initiative will collect maple sap during the sugar moon and harvest other food items, which will be distributed to Elders and the Nations Food Bank. Guardians will monitor the land, conduct field inspections for proposed logging operations to ensure that Grandmother Trees are protected, and complete daily field worksheets and site inspections that will provide important environmental information on spills, violations, and logging operations.

Project Title: Anishinabek Traditional Ecological Guardians of Georgian BayRecipient: Magnetawan First NationFunding Amount: $500,000Project Description: This two-year initiative supports on-the-ground learning, knowledge transfer and technical skills training on species at risk, species monitoring, data collection and other land management activities using the “Two-Eyed Seeing Approach”. The initiative will also help build sustainable management capacity in other First Nations groups.

Project Title: Charting the Path Ahead – Anishinaabe Aki Shkabewisag (Niiwin Wendaanimok Anishinaabe Guardians Network)Recipient: Niiwin Wendaanimok Limited PartnershipFunding Amount: $500,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will support four Anishinaabe Nations to mitigate and monitor development compliance on the land, increase their capacity to care for land, water, plants and animals, and collaborate to identify individual needs and create customized support and mentorship programs. Anishinaabe Guardians will identify and protect important areas through consultation with Elders and Knowledge Keepers.

Project Title: Ketegaunseebee Aki GuardiansRecipient: Garden River First NationFunding Amount: $301,400Project Description: This two-year initiative will help Garden River First Nation monitor and protect the St. Mary’s River and lands in fulfillment of a treaty with neighbouring Indigenous nations. The initiative will focus on capacity building, community engagement and on-the-ground work, including species at risk, invasive species and logging monitoring patrols.

Project Title: Four Rivers Regional Guardians NetworkRecipient: Matawa First Nations ManagementFunding Amount: $389,771Project Description: This two-year initiative focuses on environmental stewardship and capacity building in nine Matawa First Nations. The Four Rivers Regional Guardians Network will participate in virtual and in-person networking events to expand their knowledge and capacity, including cultural exchanges within the network.

Project Title: Biinjitawaabik Zaaging Anishnaabek Community GuardiansRecipient: Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishnaabek First Nation of Rocky BayFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will implement sturgeon and mine site protocols, conduct environmental monitoring analyses, map the Lake Nipigon basin and compile the data into a geographic information system database.

Project Title: The Height Of Land Wakohtowin Guardians Program – Treaty 9Recipient: Wahkohtowin Development General Partnership INC.Funding Amount: $499,300Project Description: This two-year initiative aims to strengthen traditional knowledge, practices and lifestyles within communities. Guardians will have first-hand experience in the functioning of ecosystem services and the economics of conservation.

Project Title: Neya Waban Guardians Program – Guardians of the LandRecipient: Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First NationFunding Amount: $349,650Project Description: This two-year initiative will gather critical information for decision-making, identify areas of quality wildlife habitat, and develop management plans and protocols. The Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation will continue to collect data based on Algonquin knowledge to better protect the land, water, animals and air of the eleven communities in Ontario and Quebec.

Project Title: Mnisinoog (Warriors for the Bay): Shawanaga First Nation Guardians ProgramRecipient: Shawanaga First NationFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative focuses on enhancing aquatic life, using river monitors to maintain and protect the health of the river ecosystem. Aquatic stewardship is a priority, through catch surveys, large-scale monitoring of water bodies, and a detailed study of fish consumption.

Project Title: Caldwell First Nation Land Guardians ProgramRecipient: Caldwell First NationFunding Amount: $345,840Project Description: This two-year initiative will focus on education, training, on-the-ground learning with technical experts and knowledge holders, and listening sessions with the community. The Guardians will review classroom environmental assessments on behalf of Caldwell First Nation, monitor and participate in environmental projects on the land, and implement multi-year capacity building initiatives, with a focus on supporting the creation, development and management of Indigenous protected and conserved areas on their traditional territory.

Prince Edward Island

Project Title: Lennox Island First Nation Guardians ProgramRecipient: Lennox Island First NationFunding Amount: $346,800Project Description: This two-year initiative will help better manage, protect and utilize the marine resources that the community relies on. It will allow the Lennox Island Watershed Conservation Group to participate in coastal erosion studies, fisheries workshops (lobster handling practices), a black ash reforestation project and the development of a modernized solid waste management plan.

Project Title: Guardians of AbegweitRecipient: Abegweit First NationFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative embodies a cultural and traditional approach to natural resource management. The initiative also includes data collection and monitoring, with a focus on land, water and resource use on traditional territories, including cultural sites.

Quebec

Project Title: Guardians of the NdakinaRecipient: W8banakiFunding Amount: $500,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will support the sustainability of traditional practices of members of the Nation, protect their rights of access to ancestral territories and preserve cultural heritage. This initiative will create conservation spaces, share and transmit Indigenous knowledge, mentor youth, consult the community, promote food sovereignty and many other activities.

Project Title: Moving Forward: Taking Pessamit’s Land Guardians to the Next LevelRecipient: Conseil des Innus de PessamitFunding Amount: $349,550Project Description: This two-year initiative involves a team of six territorial agents specializing in data collection, land monitoring, and comprehensive inventories of biodiversity and ecosystem processes. The initiative will focus on monitoring and assessments, conducting an inventory of cultural sites, developing sampling expertise, and community engagement and visibility.

Project Title: Abitibiwinnik Land GuardiansRecipient: Abitibiwinni First NationFunding Amount: $195,931Project Description: This two-year initiative will continue to train community members in land monitoring and develop new skills and knowledge through fieldwork that uses both Indigenous knowledge and Western science. The initiative aims to document information gathered through the activities of guardians, community members and elders.

Project Title: Chisasibi Intertidal Cumulative Impact Assessment: Integrating Science, Tradition and StewardshipRecipient: Chisasibi Cree NationFunding Amount: $348,468Project Description: This two-year initiative will focus on integrating western science, Indigenous knowledge and stewardship to address key challenges in the Chisasibi community. The initiative will study the impact of land use planning by reviewing existing research, mapping the community, analyzing vegetation and collecting environmental samples. In addition, it will build capacity through workshops and a mentoring initiative involving the Kinwhapmaakins (trapkeepers/managers). All data will be collected and combined into a detailed cumulative effects report.

Project Title: Atikamekw Guardians of ManawanRecipient: Atikamekw Council of ManawanFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative will strengthen the role of Guardians in working with non-Indigenous land users and partners within the Nation and community. The next phase will focus on field activity, data collection, establishing a formal mandate recognized by the community, capacity building and training, and strengthening the role of Guardians within the community.

Project Title: Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Nagadjitòdjig Guardians InitiativeRecipient: Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First NationFunding Amount: $594,020Project Description: This two-year initiative will monitor and inventory key cultural species, wild foods and trees. Guardians will conduct water quality studies, identify sites of cultural significance and record videos to document traditional practices and activities.

Project Title: Protection and Participation in the Development of Pekuakamiulnuatsh Heritage on NitassinanRecipient: Pekuakamiulnuatsh TakuhikanFunding Amount: $49,995Project Description: This one-year initiative aims to ensure the protection and preservation of the territory, while maintaining the well-being of the members of the Nation community, as they carry out the traditional activities of their Nation. Guardians play a crucial role in supporting the Nation community, monitoring the lands and accompanying community members on Nation lands.

Project Title: Essipiu Assinu Nakatuenitamu (He who takes care of the territory of Essipit)Recipient: Council of the Innu Essipit First NationFunding Amount: $246,308Project Description: This two-year initiative supports responsible governance and occupation of the Nation’s territory, land monitoring, participation in community events, and collaboration on various projects that encourage learning and skills development for guardians and community members.

Project Title: Nutshimiunnuat d’ITUM (Guardians of the Nitassinan d’ITUM)Beneficiary: Innu Takuaikan Uashat mak Mani-UtenamFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative involves monitoring, protection and stewardship activities on the Nation’s traditional territory. Its objective is to ensure monitoring of the territory and protection of the Nation, as well as to contribute to studies and inventories on the impacts of climate change and industrial development on the territory.

Project Title: Iakwatonhontsanónhnha – We all mind her, the EarthRecipient: Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:keFunding Amount: $256,416Project Description: This two-year initiative will develop a community environmental charter that will help define the roles and responsibilities of conservation officers. It will also provide an opportunity to consult on a “Rights of Nature” approach to protecting the St. Lawrence River.

Saskatchewan

Project Title: File Hills Qu’Appelle Guardians InitiativeRecipient: File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal CouncilFunding Amount: $354,180Project Description: This two-year initiative will monitor and document stream health, including water quality, medicinal plants, and bank conditions, particularly on the lower Qu’Appelle River and its chain of lakes. It will also revitalize language and land stewardship practices.

Project Title: Monitoring and Protection of Athabasca Denesųłiné Nuhenéné in SaskatchewanRecipient: Ya’thi Néné Lands and Resources OfficeFunding Amount: $498,916Project Description: This two-year initiative will monitor the lands and waters of Nuhenéné, including Indigenous protected areas, caribou hunting areas, and mining and prospecting activities. Guided by Elders, Ya’thi Néné Land and Resource Guardians are working to reconnect youth to the land and train future leaders in sustainable management practices.

Project Title: Birch Narrows Dene Nation Nuh Nene Strategic PlanRecipient: Birch Narrows Dene NationFunding Amount: $49,917Project Description: This one-year initiative will monitor the land, combining ancestral wisdom and modern ecological approaches. Strategic partnerships with neighbouring First Nations and partners such as Tamarack Environmental Associates, Nexgen Energy Ltd. and Fission Uranium Corp. will amplify the impact of conservation efforts. Through training, mentoring and community engagement, the initiative will help the Nuh Nene Department achieve its goal of safeguarding cultural identity and the natural environment.

Project Title: Pheasant Rump Nakota First Nation Community Guardians InitiativeRecipient: Pheasant Rump Nakota First NationFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative aims to build capacity by training and employing youth to collect and analyze data on climate change and industry impacts on the land. The data will be used to develop a land use plan to inform Chief and Council decision-making on stewardship and habitat management initiatives to ensure sustainable sources of traditional foods for the community.

Project Title: Muskowekwan First Nation Community Guardians InitiativeRecipient: Muskowekwan First NationFunding Amount: $350,000Project Description: This two-year initiative aims to build the capacity of community members to monitor and understand the impacts of climate change. Youth will have the opportunity to receive training in Indigenous knowledge, Western science, climate and environmental monitoring practices including geographic information systems and remote sensing, participatory mapping and knowledge gathering.

Yukon

Project Title: Teechik Land Guardians: Nanh gwiinzii vik’ite’tri’giikhii/We read the land wellRecipient: Vuntut Gwitchin First NationFunding Amount: $349,333Project Description: This two-year initiative will operate a camera trap network to monitor predator-prey interactions on the Old Crow Winter Road and conduct baseline fish and water sampling at the headwaters of the Porcupine River. The Guardian Coordinator will be responsible for organizing patrols, analyzing monitoring data, and preparing communications materials for community members and leaders. This capacity building will strengthen monitoring efforts by enabling the initiative to process more samples, improve the use of camera data, and enable keepers to establish an annual trapping camp to extend monitoring to furbearers.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Burlington manufacturer improves production of innovative technologies for the aerospace sector
Source: Government of Canada News (2)

News release

With skilled talent, proximity to critical economic hubs and established industry and academic leaders, Burlington has emerged as a prominent hub for advanced manufacturing, specifically in the aerospace industry. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting our local manufacturing industries as they adopt new processes and develop made-in-Canada products to strengthen their position in global supply chains and create good jobs for Canadians.

Government of Canada investment supports Formula Solutions Inc. to commercialize its innovative jet engine component manufacturing process

September 27, 2024 – Burlington, Ontario

With skilled talent, proximity to critical economic hubs and established industry and academic leaders, Burlington has emerged as a prominent hub for advanced manufacturing, specifically in the aerospace industry. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting our local manufacturing industries as they adopt new processes and develop made-in-Canada products to strengthen their position in global supply chains and create good jobs for Canadians.

Today, on behalf of the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), Pam Damoff, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs (Consular Affairs) and Member of Parliament for Oakville North–Burlington, visited Formula Solutions Inc. (FSI), a globally recognized aerospace composite material manufacturer that is developing and building technologies for the aerospace sector.

While there, PS Damoff met with employees and celebrated how FedDev Ontario’s $1.7-million investment helped the company accelerate the commercialization of its innovative jet engine component manufacturing process. As a result, FSI has been able to increase the production of quality, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly jet engine parts for high-volume commercial aircraft and continues to be an important global player in the aerospace industry supply chain.

The Government of Canada is committed to supporting opportunities for all Canadians by providing the tools they need to scale up and seize new opportunities, contribute to opportunities in our most critical sectors, and grow our economy.

Quotes

“Manufacturing plays a critical role in southern Ontario’s economic growth. When we invest in a business’ potential, we invest in a strong future for our province and our country. Formula Solutions Inc. is producing cutting-edge, Canadian-made parts and products and is embracing next-generation innovations to meet the evolving needs of the aerospace industry. Our Government’s investments prioritize people and pave the way for our businesses to thrive.”
– The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario)

“Formula Solutions is an excellent example of the innovation that takes place here in the region. Through strategic investments, we are supporting businesses like Formula Solutions, growing and strengthening our aerospace industry, while also contributing to a more resilient future for our manufacturing sector.”
– Pam Damoff, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs (Consular Affairs) and Member of Parliament for Oakville North–Burlington

“We appreciate the exceptional support provided by FedDev Ontario to Formula Solutions Inc (FSI) to further advance our innovative aerospace manufacturing technology. The funding received through this program has helped to establish FSI as a world-class advanced composites supplier in the commercial aerospace sector and provide a platform for future growth and technological advancement. This will create additional direct and indirect STEM employment opportunities and help to strengthen Ontario’s status as a global aerospace manufacturing hub.”
– James Peters, Chief Executive Officer and Chaiman, Formula Solutions Inc.

Quick facts
- Ontario’s aerospace manufacturers are well-regarded for their talent and play a key role in the global supply chain for many passenger aircraft.
- Ontario’s aerospace industry contains over 200 firms, employing more than 45,000 workers and is responsible for more than $6 billion in revenue.
- Founded in 2018, Burlington-based Formula Solutions Inc. is a composite material manufacturer specializing in Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic aerospace components.
- Since 2015, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has invested over $885 million in 415 manufacturing projects, supporting over 26,000 jobs.
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Edward Hutchinson
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
Edward.Hutchinson@feddevontario.gc.ca

Media Relations
FedDev Ontario
media@feddevontario.gc.ca

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MIL OSI Canada News –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Backgrounder: More opportunities to stay and play in Ingonish

Source: Government of Canada News

September 27, 2024 · Ingonish, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Cape Breton’s welcoming culture, outdoor experiences and exceptional scenery draws visitors from around the globe. The Government of Canada, through ACOA, is investing a total of $1,262,165 to support winter activities and expand accommodation options in Ingonish, helping to extend the region’s tourism season.

Cape Smokey Holding ltd. is receiving a repayable contribution of $578,575 through the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program to upgrade its power capacity. Power poles, three phase electrical lines and modern systems will be installed from the mid-point to the top of the ski hill, and a control room building will be constructed. This will help Cape Smokey meet the electricity demands for its current amenities and future tourism projects, and significantly increase snowmaking capabilities, ensuring consistent conditions for visitors. It will also allow the business to stop daily use of its diesel generator, leading to cleaner air and less noise.

Cape Smokey is located in Ingonish along the Cabot Trail and within the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. It was built in the 1970s and was operated for many years by local community volunteers. In 2019, new owners purchased the property and began work to turn it into a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the ski resort and gondola, plans for the site include a tree top walk, accommodation and residential development, and marina.

The Cabot Snowmobile Club of Cape Breton Island (CSC) is receiving a non-repayable contribution of $299,840 through the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) to accomplish phase two of improvements to trail #758, also known as the Mary Barker Trail, from Ingonish to Wreck Cove. With this phase, the Club will undertake stump removal, rough and fine grading, culvert installations, ditch and drainage work, silt and sediment control and resurfacing as required. This work will provide a more functional trail to be used all year round by locals and tourists, helping to establish Ingonish as a launch point for year-round tourism activities.

The CSC was incorporated in 1973 as a not-for-profit society and currently includes 90 members. It is a member of the Snowmobilers Association of Nova Scotia (SANS). The CSC is responsible for maintaining and grooming more than 200 kms of SANS trails in the Cape Breton Highlands and is one of six snowmobile clubs in Cape Breton that work together to maintain and groom the trail system. It relies heavily on volunteer members to upgrade, maintain and service the trail system which attracts visitors and locals year-round.

Ingonish Harbour-View Chalets is receiving a repayable contribution of $233,750 through the Tourism Growth Program (TGP) to build two A-frame chalets, each with the capacity to sleep eight people. The chalets will be two kilometers away from Cape Smokey, at the head of the harbour, and directly on the world-famous Cabot Trail. These cabins will fill the need for year-round accomodations that are suitable for larger groups.

Cabot Chalets is a new business, owned by Juanita Butler and her brother, Patrick Barron. Having grown up in Ingonish, the pair know the availability of winter accommodations throughout Victoria County is scarce. The goal for the business is to become a preferred destination for tourists, by offering luxury accommodations with high end amenities, while also focusing on providing unparalleled customer service.

MacKinnon House Ltd. is receiving a repayable contribution of $150,000 through the Tourism Growth Program (TGP) to contruct five new visitor accommodation cottages near the site of MacKinnon House in Ingonish. The cottages will operate under the name Smokey Cove Cottages. They will accommodate small and large groups, helping increase capacity of four-season tourist accommodations while providing a home base to explore Cape Breton Highlands National Park and the Cabot Trail.

MacKinnon House Ltd. is owned and operated by Perry MacKinnon on a property that was once the site of a lighthouse operated by Perry’s grandfather until 1956. MacKinnon House is a four-bedroom, year-round tourism operation on the Cabot Trail, near Cape Smokey Mountain.

Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and of the
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Clifford AuCoin
President
Cabot Snowmobile Club of Cape Breton Island
ftaucoin@hotmail.com
902-563-6749

MIL OSI Canada News –

September 29, 2024

Category: Canada

Statement from Premier Wab Kinew on Fallen Firefighter Ceremony

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