NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Security: Career Offender Is Sentenced To More Than 15 Years In Prison For Distributing Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ASHEVILLE, N.C. –Ronald Lee Peak, 45, of Hendersonville, N.C., was sentenced today to 188 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release for distributing methamphetamine, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

    Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which oversees the Charlotte District Office, and Alicia Jones, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making the announcement.

    According to court records and court proceedings, law enforcement learned that Peak was distributing firearms and methamphetamine in and around Asheville and Hendersonville. Investigators used a confidential informant (CI) to purchase firearms and methamphetamine from Peak at least two times between July and August 2022. The first time Peak sold the CI a 9mm pistol with an obliterated serial number in Hendersonville, and later, sold 36.82 grams of methamphetamine in Asheville. The second time Peak sold the CI 27.175 grams of methamphetamine and a .32 caliber pistol.

    Peak pleaded guilty on August 16, 2024, to distribution of methamphetamine. Court records indicate Peak has prior state convictions and as a result he qualified for an increased sentence as a career offender. Peak will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons after he completes his state prison sentence.

    In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Buncombe Country Sheriff’s Office, the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Asheville Police Department for their investigation of the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher S. Hess of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville handled the prosecution.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese vice premier calls for consolidation of poverty alleviation work

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, May 29 — Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong on Thursday called for unremitting work to consolidate and expand China’s poverty alleviation achievements, and to guarantee a smooth transition to assisting rural areas on a regular basis.

    Continuous efforts must be made to prevent a large-scale relapse into poverty or the occurrence of poverty, Liu, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said at a related conference in Beijing.

    After declaring its eradication of absolute poverty in 2021, China established a five-year transition period dedicated to consolidating and building on the outcomes of its poverty alleviation campaign, and to integrating those outcomes with rural vitalization.

    Noting that this year is the final year of this transition period, Liu urged action to optimize screening and assistance processes, ensure stable employment for people who have emerged from poverty, enhance the quality and efficiency of supportive industries, and improve the long-term asset management of assistance projects.

    He stressed the need for strengthened collaboration between the country’s eastern and western regions, as well as the importance of improved targeted assistance, and called for solid work to provide regular assistance for rural low-income populations and underdeveloped areas in the post-transition period.

    Eight provincial regions of east China signed assistance agreements with 10 western provincial regions at the conference.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China invites SCO member states to jointly build AI application center

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    TIANJIN, May 29 — China has invited member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to work together to build an AI application center, according to a plan unveiled on Thursday at the 2025 China-SCO AI cooperation forum in north China’s Tianjin Municipality.

    The China-SCO Member States AI Application Cooperation Center Construction Plan also proposes such goals as talent cultivation, enhanced industrial cooperation, and improved cooperation on the provision of open-source services.

    Themed “Intelligence Converges in China, Wisdom Benefits SCO,” the forum aims to boost practical AI development and governance cooperation between China and SCO member states.

    Huang Ru, an official of China’s National Development and Reform Commission, remarked at the forum that accelerating cooperation on AI technology and application will invigorate the SCO’s economic and social development, advancing inclusive global development and serving as a bridge to span the global digital divide.

    China stands ready to collaborate with other SCO member states to consistently uphold the “Shanghai Spirit” and enhance joint efforts to promote the beneficial, secure and equitable development of AI, Huang added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Scenery of Basum Tso in Xizang, SW China

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Scenery of Basum Tso in Xizang, SW China

    Updated: May 30, 2025 07:36 Xinhua
    An aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows a view of Basum Tso, a lake in Nyingchi, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. This lake nestled among snow-covered mountains is noted for limpid water and diversified vegetation, and has been a tremendous tourist attraction during the summer. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows a view of Basum Tso, a lake in Nyingchi, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows a view of Basum Tso, a lake in Nyingchi, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows a view of Basum Tso, a lake in Nyingchi, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows a view of Basum Tso, a lake in Nyingchi, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Historic Garden of England protected with new sparkling National Nature Reserve

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Historic Garden of England protected with new sparkling National Nature Reserve

    Eighth Kings Series National Nature Reserve to be announced

    Credit: Michael Charlton

    • The North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve is home to around 1700 ancient and veteran trees, as well as a mosaic of natural habitats including wildflower meadows, rare arable plants and chalk grasslands.
    • Around 400,000 people live within 5 miles of the new reserve, and will have new opportunities to connect with this unique landscape.
    • First National Nature Reserve to include an organic and carbon-negative vineyard, bringing a boost for both nature recovery and the local economy.

    Kent has reaffirmed its reputation as the ‘Garden of England’ with the announcement of a new National Nature Reserve (30 May) boasting flagship species including, Man and Lady orchids, the Maidstone mining bee, Hazel dormouse and skylarks.

    The county is said to have been given its famous nickname by Henry VIII to acknowledge its beautiful green landscape and abundant supply of food and drink. While much has changed over the centuries, modern day visitors to the newly opened reserve will find that it is still worthy of this title. The site offers access to a rich mix of wildflower meadows, chalk grasslands and ancient woodlands which have maintained tree cover since the Tudor era.

    Many people have enjoyed the picturesque North Kent countryside, including Charles Dickens, who praised the fresh greenery and bustling wildlife of Kent, and frequently returned to the area in his writings, drawing inspiration from this idyllic landscape. The natural beauty of the area has now been put back in the spotlight with this declaration.

    Over 400,000 people live within five miles of the new North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve and 8 million people live just an hour’s drive away, making this opening an exciting opportunity for people to connect with internationally important nature. 

    The new National Nature Reserve covers 800 hectares, equivalent to over 1100 football pitches, and partners will be working to support conservation efforts beyond the boundary of the reserve, helping to create a joined-up approach to nature recovery for a further 1100 hectares in the surrounding area.

    Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England said:  

    Creating bigger, better and more joined up natural areas is one of the most vital and fundamental steps we must take in meeting our national targets for Nature’s recovery. This new reserve, with its hundreds of ancient trees set amid extensive chalk grasslands, lays the foundations for multiple partners to work together to improve Nature across a significant area of countryside. This reserve presents one further excellent example of the progress that can be made when people decide to work together across landscapes.

    Millions of people visit our National Nature Reserves and having a new one accessible to so many people and with such fantastic Nature is truly a cause for celebration.

    Nature Minister Mary Creagh said: 

    This new National Nature reserve will give people the opportunity to explore Kent’s magical landscapes from wildflower meadows to ancient woodlands.

    Reserves like this one, and others in the King’s Coronation Series, will deliver on our promise to improve access to nature and protect nature-rich habitats, as well as boosting the local economy in line with our Plan for Change.

    Alongside long-term management for the precious habitats found at the site, the declaration of the newest National Nature Reserve in the King’s Series also offers the prime example of how conservation and economic growth can go hand in hand. 

    The site is home to the Silverhand Estate, the largest single organic and carbon-negative vineyard in the UK. For organisations like Silverhand, a healthy natural environment is essential to business, which serves as a reminder that nature underpins all parts of our economy. 

    The creation of the reserve will offer a boost to tourism in the Garden of England, as National Nature Reserve status highlights the internationally important nature found in the area. More than 20 million people visit National Nature Reserves each year, helping to put the natural beauty and ecological importance of our landscapes in the spotlight and boost the visitor economy of the areas around them. 

    This new National Nature Reserve directly supports the government’s commitment to restore and protect our natural world by expanding nature-rich habitats where people can explore and wildlife can thrive.

    This is the 8th reserve to be launched as part of the King’s Series of National Nature Reserves, which will leave a lasting public legacy for people and nature by creating or extending 25 National Nature Reserves by 2027. 

    With support from Natural England and Kent Downs National Landscape, the Reserve will be managed by a number of partners including the National Trust, Woodland Trust, Kent County Council, Plantlife, Silverhand Estate (Vineyard Farms Ltd), and the West Kent Downs Countryside Trust. Affiliated partners include Gravesham Borough Council, Birling Estate, Shorne Parish Council, Tarmac and Forestry England. 

    ENDS 

    QUOTES PACK 

    Nick Johannsen, National Landscape Director, Kent Downs National Landscape:

    The North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve is especially exciting because of the sheer scale, nearly 20 square kilometres of land managed for nature, people, its beauty and history and for scientific research and so close to the urban centres of Gravesend and the Medway Towns.

    Many partners from the public, private, community and charity sectors are working together here, on some of the very best sites for wildlife in England. Together we have committed to work for nature recovery and connect our land. Our partnership has worked for over 2 years to develop a vision for the NNR and carry out detailed research and development. This crucial stage has been supported by the National Highways Designated Funds. Our friends in Natural England guided the proposal through the legal processes and we’ve done it!

    A fantastic new National Nature Reserve in the Kent Downs National Landscape. This launch celebrates all of the work done so far, and will provide added momentum to make more positive change on the ground, securing more flourishing nature and engaging with more and more diverse communities.

    Ben Sweeney, Ranscombe Farm Reserve Manager, Plantlife:

    It is truly exciting that Ranscombe Farm, Plantlife’s flagship nature reserve, is now part of such a concerted effort to bring together conservation, community and sustainable land use at the landscape scale. Ranscombe Farm, a wonderful patchwork of arable fields, ancient woodland and chalk grasslands, is a globally significant place for wild plants and other wildlife.

    Not only is Ranscombe the last wild UK site for Corncockle, it also harbours the largest population of the endangered Broad-leaved cudweed and a wide variety of rare wild orchids. But it is much more than just a treasure trove of rare and threatened plants; visitors are welcome to enjoy 10 miles of footpaths through the mosaic of habitats covering over 600 acres and marvel at the stunning displays of poppies in June and July.

    Gary Smith, CEO, Silverhand Estate:

    We are delighted to be a part of and working alongside the NNR. Sustainability, regenerative farming and protection of the landscape is at the heart of everything we do on our Estate. The work our conservation team does has had an enormously positive impact on the local landscape and we are excited to be able to share this with the community going forward.

    Cllr Emma Morley, Gravesham Borough Council’s cabinet member for operational services:

    We are blessed to have such beautiful and historically significant landscapes within our borough, which are rightly being recognised through the creation of this NNR. Nature does not recognise human boundaries, and so we look forward to working with the various partners and colleagues to protect and nurture this extensive, beautiful and fascinatingly varied reserve, allowing generations to come to enjoy its beauty.

    Jenny Scholfield, Regional Director at the Woodland Trust: 

    We are delighted that Ashenbank Wood, a SSSI site with ancient woodland, veteran trees and home to rare and declining species including the hazel dormouse, is part of the new National Nature Reserve in North Kent.

    For over 40 years Woodland Trust has been caring for and managing this site for trees, wildlife and people and we are pleased that Ashenbank is recognised and protected as an important part of the Kent landscape as part of this initiative. We are looking forward to further collaboration with the NNR partners to strengthen our efforts for nature recovery across this unique landscape.

    Jonathan Ireland, Lead Ranger at National Trust, Cobham Woods:

    Cobham Wood’s inclusion in the North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve is a significant step in safeguarding one of Kent’s most precious landscapes. This ancient woodland, home to centuries-old veteran trees and a rich diversity of wildlife, provides a vital habitat for rare species, from saproxylic invertebrates to nesting birds.

    Through this pioneering partnership and shared learnings, we can ensure the continued restoration of its historic wood pasture, allowing nature to flourish while welcoming visitors to experience its beauty firsthand. By working together across a landscape scale, we are creating a connected and resilient environment where biodiversity can thrive, ensuring Cobham Wood is protected for future generations to explore and enjoy.

    Simon Jones, Corporate Director, Growth, Environment and Transport for Kent County Council, said:

    At the heart of the National Nature Reserve is a partnership working together as one area, sharing work, knowledge and planning for the whole ecosystem to be connected as opposed to working in individual areas. Shorne Woods and Trosley Country Parks are part of the NNR and are home to flagship species such as orchids, arable plants, dormice, great crested newts and spectacular veteran trees, each playing a vital role in the ecosystem.

    The ambition for the NNR partnership is to make a positive change at landscape scale and enhance the vitality of these communities, giving them greater access and awareness of first-class green spaces on their doorstep. Some of Kent’s more deprived areas fall within five miles of the NNR. The social ambitions of the partners include linking the landscape and its urban residents and inviting them to discover what is on their doorstep.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Minister Olszewski regarding wildfires in Manitoba

    Source: Government of Canada News

    May 29, 2025 – Ottawa (Ontario)

    Today, the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, issued the following statement:

    “Early this morning, I approved two Requests for Federal Assistance from the Government of Manitoba to support evacuation efforts in response to the devastating wildfires threatening Pimicikamak Creen Nation and the Mathias Colomb Cree Nation.

    The Government Operations Centre is working with the Canadian Armed Forces, and other federal and provincial partners, to deploy all necessary federal resources, and ensure Manitoba has the supports it needs.

    I also wish to express my profound gratitude to the firefighters, first responders, emergency management officials, and local volunteers who continue to help those in need in these communities.”

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Spsa Fire Ban Revised to Prohibit the Use of ATVs and UTVs

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on May 29, 2025

    Effective as of 5 p.m. on May 29, 2025, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) has revised the provincial fire ban to prohibit the use of All Terrain Vehicles and Utility Terrain Vehicles in the following areas of the province:

    • All vacant Crown land;
    • Provincial parks located within the provincial forest; and,
    • The provincial forest, including the Northern Saskatchewan Administrative District.

    The fire ban also prohibits any open fires, controlled burns and fireworks in the designated boundary. 

    “The vast majority of the active fires in the province are caused by human activity,” SPSA Vice-President of Operations Steve Roberts said. “By revising the fire ban to prohibit ATVs and UTVs, we are taking a significant step to reducing the number of fire starts.” 

    In Saskatchewan, human-caused wildfires typically start in accessible areas near communities and roads. Simple actions like not driving a vehicle on dry grass, drowning campfires until embers are cool and talking to young children about fire safety can make an impact on the number of fires in Saskatchewan.

    The SPSA continues to encourage all other municipalities, rural municipalities and communities to examine fire risks in their area and to consider implementing consistent fire bans to prevent unwanted human-caused wildfires. 

    As of 4 p.m., there are 17 wildfires burning in the province. To date, Saskatchewan has had 207 wildfires, which is 40 more than the same point in time last year of 167. The wildfire 5-year average in Saskatchewan to date is 125. 

    Anyone who spots a wildfire can call 1-800-667-9660, dial 9-1-1 or contact their closest SPSA Forest Protection Area office.

    People can find an interactive fire ban map, frequently asked questions, fire risk maps and fire prevention tips at saskpublicsafety.ca.

    A list of fire bans and restrictions in provincial parks and recreation sites can be found here.

    Established in 2017, the SPSA is a treasury board crown corporation responsible for wildfire management, emergency management, Sask911, SaskAlert, the Civic Addressing Registry, the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program and fire safety. 

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Signs Bills Into Law Expanding Healthcare Services Agricultural Workers; Protecting Colorado From Wildfires; Keeping Colorado Students Safe and Increasing Government Transparency

    Source: US State of Colorado

    KEENESBURG/DENVER – Today, Governor Polis started the day in Keenesburg, signing SB25-128 – Agricultural Worker Service Providers Access Private Property, sponsored by Senators Byron Pelton and Dylan Roberts, and Representatives Karen McCormick and Ty Winter. This law helps ensure agricultural workers have access to health care services when needed. 

    “Colorado is proud of our strong agricultural community and economy. Making sure that Colordans who work in agriculture have access to necessary health care services when needed is critical to ensuring we continue our work to save people money on healthcare and support our farmers and ranchers,” said Governor Polis. 

    Governor Polis also signed SB25-007 – Increase Prescribed Burns, sponsored by Senators Lisa Cutter and Janice Marchman, and Representatives Elizabeth Velasco and Ron Weinberg. This law expands prescribed burn capacity, and strengthens Colorado’s fire mitigation efforts. 

    “Wildfires affect everyone, and in Colorado we are committed to doing everything we can to prevent devastating wildfires and protect our communities. Prescribed burns are an important tool we can use to reduce fire fuel and prevent small flames from becoming major blazes, keeping Coloradans safe and our communities,” said Governor Polis. 

    Governor Polis also signed HB25-1293 – Drug Overdose Education & Opioid Antagonists in School, sponsored by Representative Jackson, Minority Leader Pugliese, and Senators Pelton and Snyder. 

    Governor Polis signed the following bills into law administratively: 

    • HB25-1163 – Free Access to State Parks for Colorado Ute Tribes, sponsored by Representatives Katie Stewart and Rick Taggart, and Senators Dylan Roberts and Cleave Simpson
    • HB25-1294 – Court Costs Assessed to Juveniles, sponsored by Representatives Jamie Jackson and Junie Joseph, and Senators Tony Exum and Julie Gonzales
    • SB25-190 – Offender Release from Custody, sponsored by Senators Matt Ball and Julie Gonzales, and Representatives Jennifer Bacon and Matt Soper
    • SB25-186 – Sunset Workers’ Compensation Providers Accreditation Program, sponsored by Senators Winter and Ball, and Senators Hamrick and Lieder
    • HB25-1240 – Protections for Tenants with Housing Subsidies, sponsored by Representatives Joseph and Froelich, and Senators Winter and Wallace
    • HB25-1219 – Requirements for Better Understanding Metropolitan Districts, sponsored by Representatives Jacque Phillips and Carlos Barron, and Senators Kyle Mullica and Liza Frizell
    • SB25-301 – Remove Authorization Requirement Adjust Chronic Prescription, sponsored by Senators Wallace and Kirkmeyer, and Representatives Lieder and Johnson
    • SB25-118 – Health Insurance Prenatal Care No Cost Sharing, sponsored by Senators – Bridges and Jodeh, and Representatives Stewart and Jackson
    • SB25-296 – Insurance Coverage for Breast Cancer Examinations, sponsored by Senators Michaelson Jenet, and Representatives Bird and Stewart
    • SB25-072 – Concerning the Regulation of Kratom, sponsored by Senators Mullica and Pelton, and Representatives Lindsay and Soper

    Governor Polis vetoed the following bills: 

    • HB25-1122 – Automated Driving System Commercial Motor Vehicle, sponsored by Representatives Sheila Lieder and Chris Richardson, and Senators Tom Sullivan and Larry Liston
    • HB25-1026 – Repeal Copayment for Department of Corrections Inmate Health Care, sponsored by Representatives Michael Carter and Lorena García, and Senators Iman Jodeh and Nick Hinrichsen.
    • HB25-1088 – Costs for Ground Ambulance Services, sponsored by Representatives McCormick and Brown, and Senators Baisley and Mullica
    • HB25-1004 – No Pricing Coordination Between Landlords, sponsored by Representatives Woodrow and Mabrey, and Senators Gonzales and Hinrichsen

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representative Peters Joined by Housing Providers, Veteran Service Organizations to Urge Congress to Protect Funding for Homeless Veterans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Peters (52nd District of California)

    Washington, DC – Today, Representative Scott Peters (CA-50) and local housing service providers highlighted the encouraging results from this year’s Point-in-Time Count and the need for Congress to continue funding proven strategies that are making a difference to curb veteran homelessness in San Diego. The Point-in-Time Count revealed that veteran homelessness in San Diego County is down 25 percent.  

    “No one who honorably served our nation should end up living on the street,” said Rep. Scott Peters. “The results of this year’s Point in Time Count show we are headed in the right direction, but we can’t continue to make progress toward reducing veteran homelessness, or homelessness among any population, if our local partners cannot count on support from the federal government. I urge my Republican colleagues to stand up for the investments and the federal jobs that are helping us get people off the street and into safe, stable housing.”  

    Rep Peters brought service providers, case managers, and veterans who utilize these programs together to discuss San Diego’s ongoing efforts to end veteran homelessness. They also discussed the harm that proposed funding and staffing cuts at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) would have on our communities.  

    “San Diegans want to see continued progress in reducing homelessness,” said San Diego City Councilmember Stephen Whitburn. “One reason we have made progress is that Congressman Peters has brought funding home to San Diego to help end veteran homelessness. But continued progress depends on the federal government continuing to fund these programs.”

    “Every veteran we house and help reintegrate into the community is a success story,” said Hanan Scrapper, PATH San Diego Regional Director. “With continued support, we can make veteran homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring. Let’s not forget—these are more than statistics; they’re real people, real stories, and there are real threats to the progress we’ve made. With bipartisan commitment and sustained focus, we can not only end veteran homelessness, but we can also build a blueprint to end homelessness for all Americans.”

    “We can trace that result to targeted federal funding, local collaboration, and housing options available to veterans,” Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH) CEO, Tamera Kohler said. “RTFH recently started producing monthly data reports focused entirely on veteran homelessness because it’s our goal to ensure every veteran has a place to call home. We can’t do that without federal funding. Washington plays a central role in this collaborative effort to reduce and ultimately end veteran homelessness. We must sustain and enhance this commitment for all who have served this country.”

    “The Point-in-Time Count this year provided a glimpse of the positive results collaboration, coordination and commitment can produce in our community, but funding is key,” San Diego Housing Commission President and CEO Lisa Jones said. “We thank Congressman Peters for his leadership, advocacy and support of the federal funding that is crucial to continuing to advance comprehensive homelessness solutions.”  

    “Thanks to PATH and my case managers, I’ve been able to stabilize my life and get back to work,” said William Applegate, a veteran and PATH program participant who struggled with homelessness after a divorce and challenges with his mental health. “In January, I moved into my own place thanks to my HUD-VASH voucher and all the support I was offered.”

    Rep. Peters is working to bring down the cost of housing by cutting red tape so America can build more low- and middle-income housing faster. He has also authored legislation that is now law to expand the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing, (HUD-VASH) program and legislation to ensure non-profits can directly administer homelessness assistance grants to those who need it. Last year, the House of Representatives adopted a bipartisan amendment led by Rep. Peters encouraging local VA systems and public housing authorities to work together to streamline the HUD-VASH voucher application process in order to reduce barriers for veterans seeking housing assistance.

    Rep. Peters fought back and stopped the Trump Administration from cutting housing vouchers for homeless veterans in 2018. He will push back once again if President Trump and Republicans’ actions threaten to roll back hard-fought progress to house our nation’s heroes.    

    A livestreamed recording of the press conference can be found here.

    Additional photos from the event are available courtesy of Rep. Peters’ office here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley, Rivas and Democratic Colleagues Urge Trump Administration to Reverse Life-Threatening Deportation Decision for Four-Year-Old Girl

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) joined Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29), Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), California Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (CA), and 33 of her Democratic colleagues in urging U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem to reconsider the termination of the legal status of S.G.V. (identified by her initials for privacy reasons). S.G.V. is a four-year-old girl from Bakersfield living with short bowel syndrome who is facing deportation and could die if she loses medical care at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. S.G.V. and her family’s story was highlighted in a May 27 Los Angeles Times article. 

    “We urge you to reconsider the termination of S.G.V. and her family’s legal status as S.G.V.’s doctors say she could die within days without treatment,” wrote the members. “Due to S.G.V.’s short bowel syndrome, she receives intensive medical treatments such as: being tethered to feeding tubes 24 hours a day; spending 14 hours each night being hooked up to an intravenous feeding system; and receiving a different type of nutrition via a gastric tube into her stomach four times a day. In 2023, S.G.V. and her family were allowed to enter the U.S. legally on humanitarian grounds.” 

    “Your Department has revoked this child’s legal status in the U.S., which interrupts the urgent, life-saving care she receives at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles every six weeks. We believe this family’s situation clearly meets the need for humanitarian aid and urge you and this Administration to reconsider its decision. It is our duty to protect the sick, vulnerable, and defenseless. Without action, S.G.V. will die. We urge a prompt response from your Department and a swift decision to extend this family’s legal status in the U.S.” 

    The letter was also co-signed by Representatives Nanette Barragán, Salud Carbajal, Greg Casar, Joaquin Castro, Judy Chu, Gilbert Cisneros, Maxine Dexter, Adriano Espaillat, Jim Costa, Veronica Escobar, Laura Friedman, Jesús “Chuy” García, Sylvia Garcia, Daniel Goldman, Jimmy Gomez, Pramila Jayapal, Teresa Leger Fernandez, Ted Lieu, Seth Magaziner, Robert Menendez, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Delia Ramirez, Andrea Salinas, Linda Sánchez, Lateefah Simon, Darren Soto, Jill Tokuda, Norma Torres, Derek Tran, Juan Vargas, Gabe Vasquez, Nydia Velázquez, and Eugene Vindman. 

    The full letter can be found here and below: 

    The Honorable Kristi Noem
    Secretary U.S. Department of Homeland Security
    2707 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE
    Washington, DC 20528

    Dear Secretary Noem: 

    In April 2025, Deysi Vargas, her husband, and four-year-old daughter, identified as S.G.V., received a notice that their legal status in the United States had been terminated, and in May, Deysi received notice that her employment authorization had also been terminated. S.G.V. suffers from short bowel syndrome, a rare condition that prevents her body from completely absorbing the nutrients of regular food. We urge you to reconsider the termination of S.G.V. and her family’s legal status as S.G.V.’s doctors say she could die within days without treatment. 

    Due to S.G.V.’s short bowel syndrome, she receives intensive medical treatments such as: being tethered to feeding tubes 24 hours a day; spending 14 hours each night being hooked up to an intravenous feeding system; and receiving a different type of nutrition via a gastric tube into her stomach four times a day. In 2023, S.G.V. and her family were allowed to enter the U.S. legally on humanitarian grounds. 

    Your Department has revoked this child’s legal status in the U.S., which interrupts the urgent, life-saving care she receives at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles every six weeks. 

    On the President’s first day in office he issued an Executive Order stating that, “ensuring that the parole authority under section 212(d)(5) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1182(d)(5)) is exercised on only a case-by-case basis in accordance with the plain language of the statute, and in all circumstances only when an individual alien demonstrates urgent humanitarian reasons or a significant public benefit derived from their particular continued presence in the United States arising from such parole.” 

    We believe this family’s situation clearly meets the need for humanitarian aid and urge you and this Administration to reconsider its decision. It is our duty to protect the sick, vulnerable, and defenseless. Without action, S.G.V. will die. We urge a prompt response from your Department and a swift decision to extend this family’s legal status in the U.S.

    ###

    Issues: 119th Congress, Healthcare, Immigration, Local Issues

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley Announces 2025 U.S. Service Academy Appointments

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) announced nine students from California’s 26th Congressional District, who she nominated to the U.S. Service Academies and who have accepted appointments to attend these prestigious institutions of higher learning in the fall. This year, there were fifteen appointments for students throughout Ventura County and the Conejo Valley, with some students receiving more than one appointment to multiple service academies.

    “Every year, the service academy nomination and appointment process shows us that the future of our country is in good hands,” said Congresswoman Julia Brownley. “I am so proud of these young people who are answering the call to serve our nation in uniform. These students are among the best and brightest of our region, and I know they will represent us well.”

    The students are as follows:

    U.S. Air Force Academy

    • Colin McNulty, Newbury Park High School
    • Duc-Han “Kusa” Nguyen, Newbury Park High School
    • Justin Lee, Oaks Christian School
    • Rohan Solanki, U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School

    U.S. Military Academy

    • Cooper McNee, Oaks Christian School
    • Aviel Cohen, Westlake High School

    U.S. Naval Academy

    • Reagan Maguire, La Reina High School
    • Noah Stead, Westlake High School

    U.S. Merchant Marine Academy 

    • Zachariah Sujae-Khoi Diep, Weil Tennis Academy and College Preparatory School

    Photos are available here. 

    Background

    The rigorous nomination and appointment process began last fall with students throughout Ventura County and the Conejo Valley submitting lengthy applications to Congresswoman Brownley’s office. The students were then interviewed by a panel of alumni of the U.S. Service Academies convened by the Congresswoman. The panel then provided the Congresswoman recommendations for each student, and the Congresswoman nominated candidates to the service academies based on the panel’s recommendations. Each nominee then went through the academy application process before a select group were offered appointments.

    The honor of attending a service academy comes with an obligation and commitment to serve in the U.S. military for a minimum of five years upon graduation.

    More information about the U.S. Service Academies and the Congressional nomination process is available here.

    ###

    Issues: 119th Congress, Education, Local Issues

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Rep. Steube Reintroduces Legislation to Stop Federal Payments to the Deceased)

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)

    May 29, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today reintroduced the Valid Benefits Act to require federal agencies and departments verify the eligibility of individuals 105 years of age or older for federal benefits.“No American who has paid into Social Security and Medicare should see their benefits compromised by scam artists or incompetent bureaucrats,” said Rep. Steube. “It shouldn’t have required DOGE examining the rolls to ensure 12 million Americans listed as 120 years old or more were finally properly recorded as deceased. With millions of seniors relying on Social Security and Medicare and our national debt approaching $37 trillion, it is important to make sure every dollar is spent the right way with no room for malfeasance or error. That is why we must protect our retirement programs and beneficiaries by requiring eligibility verification for individuals who are 105 years and older.”Background:First proposed by Representative Steube in 2019, the Valid Benefits Act builds upon the recent work of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to eliminate redundancies, fraud, and waste in federal bureaucracy by mandating verification of eligibility for federal benefits for all individuals 105 years of age or older.Read the full bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Wānaka bridges ‘fit for a King’ to reopen this weekend

    Source: NZ Department of Conservation

    Date:  30 May 2025

    Yesterday a small group of Makarora residents and conservation groups met to admire the bridges and upgraded Blue Pools Track walkway located 70 km north of Wānaka.

    DOC Operations Manager Charlie Sklenar says the occasion warrants a royal celebration after a two-year slog involving engineers, contractors, specialists, geotechnical consultations, unexpected complexities and a lot of hard work.

    “In May 2023 engineering reports on Blue Pools and Rob Roy bridges showed they needed to be upgraded for public safety, while Makarora’s swing bridge had to be completely replaced. We closed all three to get the work done.

    “In peak summer season 550 people a day cross the Blue Pools and Makarora bridges. At times 75 people would cross the bridges each hour, and visitors were regularly exceeding the signposted ‘safe number of people to cross’ advice. We needed to ensure these structures were safe for the public.”

    Upgrades included:

    • a new longer Makarora swing bridge with higher capacity,
    • a 160-metre-long elevated board walk, and
    • extensive upgrades to the Blue Pools bridge offering an improved experience for visitors.

    “We are so fortunate to have the stunning clear waters, native forest and dramatic alpine scenery of Tititea Mt Aspiring National Park on our doorstep,” says Charlie.

    “These upgrades mean people can safely experience this special place for years to come and do so in a way that protects nature.

    “It’s an investment that preserves our natural taonga species and supports our local communities who rely on outdoor recreation and tourism.”

    Yesterday was a big day for the Makarora community, with a parallel celebration for the opening of the 1.1 km Charteris Track in nearby Makarora township.

    Built by the Upper Clutha Tracks Trust on land donated by Makarora resident Gary Charteris, the track is a valuable last link in a loop that takes in the Makarora township.

    Note: Reminder Blue Pools and Makarora bridges are not officially open to the public until Saturday 31 May. Contractors may still be site.

    Visitors should check the DOC website before heading out.

    Blue Pools Track: Mount Aspiring National Park, Otago region

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Announces New Supercomputer Powered by Dell and NVIDIA to Speed Scientific Discovery

    Source: US Department of Energy

    BERKELEY— During a visit to Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab), U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright today announced a new contract with Dell Technologies to develop NERSC-10, the next flagship supercomputer at the National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center (NERSC), a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) user facility at Berkeley Lab. The new system, due in 2026, will be named after Jennifer Doudna, the Berkeley Lab-based biochemist who was awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize for Chemistry in recognition of her work on the gene-editing technology CRISPR.

    The new supercomputer, a Dell Technologies system powered by NVIDIA’s next-generation Vera Rubin platform, will be engineered to support large-scale high-performance computing (HPC) workloads like those in molecular dynamics, high-energy physics, and AI training and inference—and provide a robust environment for the workflows that make cutting-edge science possible.  

    This announcement reflects the Trump Administration’s commitment to restoring the gold standard of American science and unleashing the next great wave of innovation. Doudna will be one of the most advanced supercomputers ever deployed by the Department, advancing U.S. leadership in the global race for AI.

    “The Doudna system represents DOE’s commitment to advancing American leadership in science, AI, and high-performance computing,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. “It will be a powerhouse for rapid innovation that will transform our efforts to develop abundant, affordable energy supplies and advance breakthroughs in quantum computing. AI is the Manhattan Project of our time, and Doudna will help ensure America’s scientists have the tools they need to win the global race for AI dominance.”

    “At Dell Technologies, we are empowering researchers worldwide by seamlessly integrating simulation, data, and AI to address the world’s most complex challenges,” said Michael Dell, Chairman and CEO, Dell Technologies. “Our collaboration with the Department of Energy on Doudna underscores a shared vision to redefine the limits of high-performance computing and drive innovation that accelerates human progress.”

    “Doudna is a time machine for science — compressing years of discovery into days,” said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA. “Built together with DOE and powered by NVIDIA’s Vera Rubin platform, it will let scientists delve deeper and think bigger to seek the fundamental truths of the universe.”

    “The Doudna supercomputer is designed to accelerate a broad set of scientific workflows. We are collaborating with NVIDIA and Dell to prepare our 11,000 users to effectively use this system’s exciting new workflow capabilities,” said NERSC Director Sudip Dosanjh. “Doudna will be connected to DOE experimental and observational facilities through the Energy Sciences Network (ESnet), allowing scientists to stream data seamlessly into the system from all parts of the country and to analyze it in near-real time.”

                                                                                                      ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Issues LNG Export Authorization for Port Arthur Phase II, Advancing President Trump’s Commitment to Unleash American Energy

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON— U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright today approved a final authorization for liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to non-free trade agreement (non-FTA) countries from Port Arthur LNG Phase II in Jefferson County, Texas, following the Response to Comments on the 2024 LNG Export Study issued on May 19. This is the first final LNG export approval under President Trump’s leadership and marks another step in restoring regular order to LNG export permitting–reversing the previous administration’s pause and delivering on the President’s pledge to unleash American energy. 

    “Port Arthur LNG Phase II marks a significant expansion of the first phase already under construction– turning more of the liquid gold beneath our feet into energy security for the American people,” said Secretary Wright. “With President Trump’s leadership, the Energy Department is restoring America’s role as the world’s most reliable energy supplier.”  

    “U.S. LNG exports continue to gain momentum, and I am glad DOE is able to do its part to answer the call for more reliable and affordable energy, at home and abroad,” said Tala Goudarzi, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. 

    Port Arthur LNG Phase II, owned by Sempra Energy, is projected to export 1.91 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) once completed. In addition to Port Arthur Phase I—which is currently under construction and expected to begin exporting LNG in 2027—Sempra also operates the Cameron LNG export terminal in Louisiana, which has been exporting LNG since 2019, and is currently constructing the Energia Costa Azul terminal in Mexico, which will begin commercial export operations of U.S.-sourced gas as LNG beginning in 2026. 

    Today’s action marks the fifth LNG export authorization issued by Secretary Wright, bringing the total volume of exports associated with approvals under President Trump’s leadership to 11.45 Bcf/d.  

                                                                                                 ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom proclaims Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

    Source: US State of California Governor

    May 29, 2025

    Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 2025, as “Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.”

    The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below:

    PROCLAMATION

    California is home to more than 6 million Californians of Asian or Pacific Islander descent, each invaluable to our state and nation. During Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we celebrate all the ways in which AAPI Californians enrich and strengthen our society as part of California’s incredibly diverse heritage.

    Unfortunately, throughout our history, AAPI communities have been the target of violence, disenfranchisement, discrimination, and other xenophobic policies at the federal, state, and local levels. Echoes of this dark history are still evident in shameful anti-Asian hate acts seen across the country. We must confront past and present racism and fight for the safety and inclusion of our AAPI friends and neighbors, who continue to show strength and resilience in the face of this discrimination.

    AAPI communities in California have created and sustained some of the oldest and strongest cultural enclaves in the country, offering refuge and connection during times of hardship. Rebuilt from the ground up after the 1906 earthquake and fire, Chinatown in San Francisco is the oldest and largest in North America. All three remaining Japantowns in the country are in California – each with residents resilient enough to rebuild these thriving neighborhoods after they returned from unjust imprisonment in internment camps to ransacked homes and businesses. Across California, communities like Cambodia Town in Long Beach, Little Saigon in Orange County, Historic Filipinotown and Koreatown in Los Angeles, and Little India in Artesia are now thriving cultural enclaves, but many of these distinct neighborhoods were born of discrimination and segregation. Today, Californians from over 30 different countries and communities, including Native Hawaiians, live inside and outside of these historic boundaries. Their pride in their heritage and in themselves, in spite of prejudice, has always been and continues to be foundational to this state. 

    Few movements and turning points in California history were not shaped, at least in part, by AAPI leaders. Throughout California’s history, AAPI communities have driven change, doing so not just for themselves but in solidarity and partnership with other communities. We would not be the same without the AAPI communities and individuals that have made this state the leader it is in arts and culture, in labor rights and human rights, in business starts, in research, and so much more.

    During Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, California takes the opportunity to pay tribute to the irreplaceable legacy of our AAPI communities, their incredible strength and resilience, and their essential role in driving our state and nation forward. This month and every month, let us celebrate all members of our California family and work together to achieve the promise of a California for all.

    NOW THEREFORE I, GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim May 2025 as “Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.”

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 27th day of May 2025.

    GAVIN NEWSOM
    Governor of California

    ATTEST:
    SHIRLEY N. WEBER, Ph.D.
    Secretary of State

    Recent news

    May 28, 2025

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    May 28, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement after a federal court ruled today that President Trump exceeded his use of emergency powers to enact broad-sweeping tariffs that hurt states, consumers, and businesses: “Like we said when we filed…

    May 28, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed the following bill:SB 49 by Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) – Tribal gaming: compact and amendment ratification.For full text of the bill, visit: leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.  Recent…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Update on Commission for Countering Extremism hateful extremism report

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Update on Commission for Countering Extremism hateful extremism report

    There is an update to the Commission for Countering Extremism’s 2019 report, ‘Challenging Hateful Extremism’.

    The Commission for Countering Extremism has published an apology to Chowdhury Mueen-Uddin.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: East London charity given Official Warning over loss of £1 million

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    East London charity given Official Warning over loss of £1 million

    The Charity Commission has taken regulatory action against East London Mosque Trust for failing to responsibly manage charity funds.

    The Commission has issued an Official Warning to East London Mosque Trust over an investment deal which resulted in the loss of £1 million. The regulator found trustees failed to have sufficient oversight of the charity’s activities and it has given the charity six months to take remedial action or possibly face further regulatory scrutiny. 

    The charity has existed in some form since 1910, and the mosque is considered one of London’s oldest. East London Mosque Trust was established to advance the Islamic faith by maintaining and managing a community centre and mosque, and provides a range of spiritual and community services.   

    The charity had invested £1 million in an NHS-approved supplier, expecting a 20% return in 6 months, but the supplier was forced into administration, resulting in a loss for the charity. The charity’s trustees reported the matter to the Commission in February 2023, which the regulator reviewed as part of wider engagement with the charity.  

    The Commission found the charity’s due diligence regarding the investment deal was not thorough enough. The regulator is also critical of the trustees’ lack of effective oversight and failure to properly scrutinise key documents concerning the investment. The regulator would expect any charity to conduct substantial checks on any investment which uses charitable funds, particularly one of this size.  

    The Commission had previously told the charity to ensure it had sufficient control over its funds and had warned of potential for further action. The trustees’ failure to act with reasonable care and skill, which contributed to the loss of the charity’s funds, is misconduct and/or mismanagement. 

    The Official Warning sets out that the charity is to ensure financial controls are put in place and that there is oversight of the charity’s funds to protect the charity’s assets going forward. The charity is now expected to conduct an independent review of the charity’s governance, reporting findings to the Commission. The regulator also expects the charity to do all it reasonably can to recover the lost funds. 

    Charity Commission Head of Compliance Visits and Inspections, Joshua Farbridge, said:  

    When people donate to a charity, they put their faith in those running it to manage those funds with care and in line with its aims. In this case, we found the trustees lacked the oversight we’d expect of such a large investment, nor did they ensure thorough due diligence had been undertaken.  

    The East London Mosque Trust has been advised on more than one occasion about having appropriate oversight of funds and so we have now issued a formal warning. We expect all charities to promptly act on steps provided in an Official Warning and will be monitoring this charity’s progress. 

    ENDS 

    Notes to editors: 

    1. The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive. This ambition will help to create and sustain an environment where charities further build public trust and ultimately fulfil their essential role in enhancing lives and strengthening society. Find out more: About us – The Charity Commission – GOV.UK 

    2. The Official Warning was issued on 10 April 2025 under section 75A of the Charities Act 2011.  

    3. Information about Official Warnings can be found in an online Q&A: Guidance – Official warnings to charities and trustees: Q and A (publishing.service.gov.uk)  

    4. Our guidance on internal financial controls can be found via this link: Internal financial controls for charities: protect your charity from fraud and loss (CC8)  – GOV.UK 

    5. The Commission’s guidance on decision-making is very clear that good decision-making follows a set of key principles, which includes considering risks and appropriately recording the basis of any decisions.

    Press office

    Email pressenquiries@charitycommission.gov.uk

    Out of hours press office contact number: 07785 748787

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Patients and pupils to benefit from school and hospital repairs

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Patients and pupils to benefit from school and hospital repairs

    Government investing £1.2 billion to fix crumbling hospitals and schools across England

    • Government to deliver vital maintenance in hospitals to help prevent cancelled appointments and operations   

    • Focus put back on education as classrooms and school facilities upgraded to be safe and warm   

    • Combined £1.2billion funding is part of government’s promise to deliver public infrastructure improvements through its Plan for Change   

    Patients and pupils across England are set to benefit from nearly £1.2billion worth of essential maintenance fixes being rolled out at hospitals and schools.   

    Over 400 hospitals, mental health units and ambulance sites will be handed £750million to tackle long-term problems such as leaky pipes, poor ventilation and electrical issues, helping to prevent thousands of cancelled operations and appointments.   

    And children at 656 schools and sixth forms will benefit from a share of £470million for projects like fixing crumbling roofs and removing dangerous asbestos – restoring pride in our classrooms and undoing years of dangerous neglect.  

    The funding is part of the government’s mission to fix the dire state of public service infrastructure it inherited and deliver investment and reform through its Plan for Change.  

    It will help people benefit from better services and facilities across the health system, and supporting children to get the best start in life.   

    Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, said:    

    A decade and a half of underinvestment left hospitals crumbling, with burst pipes flooding emergency departments, faulty electrical systems shutting down operating theatres, and mothers giving birth in outdated facilities that lack basic dignity.   

    We are on a mission to rebuild our NHS through investment and modernisation.   

    Patients and staff deserve to be in buildings that are safe, comfortable and fit for purpose. Through our Plan for Change, we will make our NHS fit for the future.

    Fixing the backlog of maintenance at NHS hospitals will help prevent cancellations, with services disrupted over 4,000 times in 2023/24 due to issues with poor quality buildings.   

    A wide range of facilities and services will benefit, including over £100million for maternity units to enable better care for mothers and their newborns. This will fund critical improvements such as replacing outdated ventilation systems in neonatal intensive care units, creating optimal environmental conditions for vulnerable babies and their families during challenging times.  

    The funding will also support schools and sixth form colleges that urgently need repairs – giving parents the confidence that their children are learning in safety and comfort.   

    It is part of the £2.1 billion investment into the school estate this year, as the government forges on with delivering for the public through our Plan for Change – by investing in our children, their futures and the future of this country.   

    Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, said:   

    The defining image of the school estate under the previous government was children sitting under steel props to stop crumbling concrete falling on their heads. It simply isn’t good enough.  

    Parents expect their children to learn in a safe warm environment. It’s what children deserve, and it is what we are delivering.   

    This investment is about more than just buildings – it’s about showing children that their education matters, their futures matter, and this government is determined to give them the best possible start in life.

    This investment will deliver energy efficient, warm classrooms with safe outdoor spaces that are not just fit for lessons, but for the future. Creating a welcoming and supportive school environment for generations of children so they can achieve and thrive as they progress through their education.    

    The school and hospital funding packages were confirmed in last year’s Autumn Budget, in which an extra £26billion was secured for the NHS.    

    Simon Corben, Director and Head of Profession for NHS Estates and Facilities at NHS England, said:  

    I welcome this funding as a long-overdue step toward tackling the unacceptable state of parts of the NHS estate. Too many buildings have been allowed to fall into disrepair, putting patient safety and staff working conditions at risk. 

    It is now vital that NHS England and local leaders deliver – every pound must be spent wisely, with clear accountability and a laser focus on improving frontline care.

    The government has already delivered over 3 million additional NHS appointments since June 2024, exceeding its 2 million target. Additionally, over 1,000 GP surgeries are being modernised to enable 8.3 million more appointments annually.    

    It has also invested in new technology, including 13 DEXA scanners delivering 29,000 extra bone scans and £70m in radiotherapy machines delivering up to 27,500 additional treatments per year by March 2027.  

    The Department for Education confirmed a £2.1bn investment for the school estate for 2025-26, almost £300 million more than the previous year, to fix the foundations of our school estate.    

    A further £1.4 billion will back the acceleration of the School Rebuilding Programme this year, with a commitment to kickstart projects at 100 schools this year alone.  

    Rejuvenating the school estate by delivering new, high-quality buildings that are not just energy efficient but fit for all pupils needs.  

    This will provide high-tech facilities that will raise the standards of education through new sports halls, IT rooms, school kitchens and playgrounds that children and staff can enjoy for years to come.    

    Projects across schools and hospitals will be delivered during the 2025 to 2026 financial year, with the first upgrades expected to begin this summer.      

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Small but mighty Sunshine Coast community forest stepping up in local economy

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Sunshine Coast Community Forest is being recognized for its excellence in forestry and its effect on the community, receiving the 2025 Robin Hood Memorial Award for Excellence in Community Forestry on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.

    “When you hear about local leaders and the incredible benefits they bring to their community through forestry, you can just tell this is what the future of forestry looks like,” said Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests. “The Sunshine Coast Community Forest is this future and is leading with a community-first approach that weaves together local economic resiliency with healthy forests to support those who call the Sunshine Coast home.”

    The Sunshine Coast Community Forest is one of the smallest in the province, but it has an outsized impact on its community, investing almost $25 million since 2007 in local infrastructure, recreation, economic development and community initiatives across the Sunshine Coast. A recent staple of the community forest, the firewood program, is delivering affordable and sustainably sourced firewood. The program employs people facing barriers in the workforce and provides the firewood at no cost to families facing financial hardship by helping them keep their heat on whether they are elderly, living with a disability or recovering from an injury.

    With a commitment to community involvement and transparency, the Sunshine Coast Community Forest is involved in local events, sends out bi-weekly newspaper updates and an email newsletter, has a community advisory panel and carries out field trips for school children, university researchers, government representatives and community members.

    “It means a lot to us to be recognized among the many exceptional community forests in B.C.,” said Sara Zieleman, executive director, Sunshine Coast Community Forest. “We’re grateful, first and foremost, to our community with whom we share this success – the many people who generously contribute their time, and the organizations that collaborate with us. This recognition reflects the strength of our partnerships, the dedication of our volunteers and a shared commitment to stewarding the land responsibly. We’re proud to be part of a network of community forests working to create social, ecological and economic benefits across the province.”

    The Sunshine Coast Community Forest takes an ecosystem-based management approach that prioritizes forest health, biodiversity and long-term sustainability. It does this by implementing retention systems to reduce the effects of logging, while taking conservation measures to protect wildlife habitats, protect watersheds and reduce the risk of fire.

    Community forests are managed by a combination of local governments, community groups and First Nations. At the heart of community forests is a mandate to support local communities and regions, through contributing to a more diversified forest economy and supporting opportunities in recreation, wildlife and watershed management.

    The Robin Hood Memorial Award for Excellence in Community Forestry was established in 2016 to honour the life and legacy of the late Robin Hood. Hood was a British Columbian with a passion for local community forestry. Hood was active in the woodlot and community forest communities.

    Quotes:

    Randy Spyksma, president, BC Community Forest Association (BCCFA) –

    “The BCCFA board of directors and staff extend our sincere congratulations to the Sunshine Coast Community Forest (SCCF), the well-deserving recipient of this year’s Robin Hood Memorial Award. The SCCF truly exemplifies excellency in community forestry through dedication to ecosystem-based management, commitment to wildfire risk reduction, and fostering meaningful relationships in their community. We are proud to honour their hard work and the strides they have made in long-term forest stewardship around Sechelt.”

    Randene Neill, MLA for Powell River-Sunshine Coast –

    “Congratulations to the leaders of the Sunshine Coast Community Forest on their well-deserved award. The leaders of the Sunshine Coast Community Forest exemplify the care and intention we have for our forests locally and across B.C. They fulfil their mission by creating a legacy by balancing the environmental, economic and social aspirations of the community.”

    Quick Facts:

    • The Sunshine Coast Community Forest is managed by the District of Sechelt and is committed to representation from across the region, with various Sunshine Coast representatives as board members.
    • The Sunshine Coast Community Forest was established in 2007 with an allowable annual cut of 20,000 cubic metres.
    • There are 62 community forests operating in British Columbia.
    • The Community Forest Agreement program contributes more than 2.25 million cubic metres of fibre per year, or 3% of the provincial total cut.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the Sunshine Coast Community Forest, visit: https://www.sccf.ca/

    To learn more about community forests in B.C., visit:
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/forestry/forest-tenures/timber-harvesting-rights/community-forest-agreements

    To learn more about the BC Community Forest Association, visit: https://bccfa.ca/

    A tribute with more information about Robin Hood’s effect on the community forest program can be found on the BC Community Forest Association website:
    http://bccfa.ca/rip-our-beloved-robin-hood

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The road leading up to introduction of bill S-2

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Backgrounder

    Key Moments: 

    • In 2018 and 2019, there was a collaborative consultation process on reform with First Nations. Input was received from over 650 participants, representing 395 First Nation communities and/or a tribal councils. The conclusion was that Canada should work with First Nations to proactively address issues related to registration and band membership provisions of the Indian Act.
    • In 2019, An Act to amend the Indian Act in response to the Superior Court of Quebec decision in Descheneaux c. Canada (Procureur général), Bill S-3, came into full force, eliminating various sex-based inequities in the registration provisions of the Indian Act. 
    • In 2020 the Final Report to Parliament on the Review of S-3 acknowledged that residual inequities still remained in the Indian Act. These included the impacts of a family history of enfranchisement on entitlement to registration, an inequity that exists to this day. 
    • In June 2021, on behalf of 16 individual plaintiffs, Juristes Power Law launched a Charter challenge seeking to end the inequities and exclusion faced by families descended from forebears who were enfranchised under earlier versions of the Indian Act. This is referred to as the Nicholas v. AGC civil claim. 
    • In March 2022, the litigation was placed in abeyance, in order to allow the parties to pursue an out of court legislative solution to end the ongoing impacts of enfranchisement. 
    • The Department held over 50 virtual engagement sessions, which included more than 300 participants, from August to December 2022. 
    • Further consultation with First Nations, Indigenous organizations who represent non-status First Nations, and other interested or impacted individuals, will be required to co-develop options to address the broader suite of remaining issues in the registration and band membership provisions of the Indian Act.
    • On January 6, 2025, Bill C-38 died on the Order Paper, following Parliament dissolution due to the election.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Post-study outcomes data – technical information

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Post-study outcomes from tertiary education measure where graduates go (their destinations) and how much they earn after completing study.
    The data can be broken down into:

    the level of study on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF)
    the field of study
    student characteristics (age, gender, region where they lived, etc) and
    the tertiary provider they studied with.

    The data tells you the number of graduates who:

    are in employment
    are in different types of further study
    are on a jobseeker benefit
    are overseas
    have changed their employment or jobseeker status over a period between two years prior to their graduation and the outcome year, or
    are in another (unknown) destination (if they don’t fit any of the above criteria).

    The data also tells you employed graduates’ median and quartile earnings in years 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 after they graduated and, for comparison, median and quartile earnings for employed students two years before their graduation.
    Things to remember when using this data
    Cohorts
    We show outcomes for graduates 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 years after graduation. To create a large enough set of data to analyse across qualification level, subject area, age, gender, ethnicity, etc, we group graduates into four-year cohorts.
    We use the calendar year to measure further tertiary study and the tax year for all other information (employment, income, days overseas and days on benefit).  

    Graduate cohorts which correspond to the results for each year after study

    Year in which we look at what the graduate earned or did

    Cohorts’ year of graduation

    Year after study

    Calendar year

    Tax year

    2019–2022

    1[1]

    2020–2023

    2021–2024

    2017–2020

    3

    2020–2023

    2021–2024

    2015–2018

    5

    2020–2023

    2021–2024

    2013–2016

    7

    2020–2023

    2021–2024

    2011–2014

    9

    2020–2023

    2021–2024

    The same graduate may appear in two different cohorts. A student who graduated in 2020 may have their outcomes measured in the 2021 calendar/2022 tax year for the Year 1 cohort and measured in the 2023 calendar year/2024 tax year for the Year 3 cohort.
    Who is included in the data?
    The outcomes in these spreadsheets are for domestic graduates who completed qualifications at tertiary education providers reporting qualification completions to the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC). This data excludes graduates who were receiving a disability benefit or in a Corrections facility for any period within the outcome year.
    National-level data includes all qualification completions reported to TEC. Provider-level data includes Student Achievement Component-funded providers and Industry Training Organisations. Some smaller providers may not have outcome data if their graduate numbers do not reach the statistical threshold.
    Outcomes are influenced by a range of factors
    Graduates’ outcomes are influenced by a range of factors outside of providers’ control. These include different regional labour markets, individuals’ choices, and graduates’ other qualifications, skills and experience.
    Outcomes are grouped by qualification subject area, not specific qualification
    We’ve used this higher level of grouping because there are often too few graduates at individual qualification level to produce any meaningful data. We have grouped together some qualifications that are likely to give graduates different outcomes. For example, graduates with a Bachelor in Oral Health (needed to become a dental hygienist) and a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (needed to become a dentist) are grouped together under dentistry.
    Older graduates are included in this data
    This data presents earnings and destinations not only for young graduates but for all age groups (under 25 years old, 25–39 years old, and 40 years and over). Older graduates who complete similar qualifications will likely have different outcomes from younger graduates, as other factors such as prior learning and work experience influence outcomes for older graduates. Accordingly, for older graduates traditionally used outcome indicators of earnings, employment, unemployment, and further study might not be enough to define which groups of graduates have relatively better outcomes from their tertiary study.
    To improve outcome information for older graduates, this data includes measures such as:

    change in employment or jobseeker status over a period between two years prior to student’s graduation and the outcome year, and
    employed students’ earnings two years prior to their graduation compared to employed graduates’ earnings in the outcome year.

    Outcomes are included for only a graduate’s highest and latest qualification
    In previous data sets employment outcomes were attributed to all qualifications completed by a graduate.
    In this data we attribute outcomes only to a learner’s highest and latest (by the outcome year) qualification, so a graduate has labour market outcomes attributed only once. The highest and latest qualification completed by a person is derived from all data reported to the TEC or NZQA by tertiary providers and Industry Training Organisations (ITOs). If a learner completed two equal-level qualifications in the same year at an ITO and a provider, we have attributed the outcomes to the ITO qualification, not the provider qualification.
    Other sources of information
    Jobs
    This post-study outcomes data does not give information on earnings and employment prospects for particular occupations. Graduates will often find jobs outside their area of study.
    For more information on expected earnings and job prospects in different professions see Careers.govt.nz’s jobs database.
    Job profiles – Careers.govt.nz
    Qualification information
    This post-study outcomes data does not provide information on specific qualifications at tertiary providers. For information on qualifications and their completion rates, entry requirements, costs and career opportunities visit Careers.govt.nz’s qualifications database.
    Study and training – Careers.govt.nz
    Technical information
    Domestic graduates
    Only domestic graduates are included in post-study outcomes data.
    A domestic graduate lives in New Zealand and has either New Zealand or Australian citizenship, or permanent New Zealand residency.
    Graduate numbers are rounded
    To protect confidentiality all graduate counts are randomly rounded to base 3.[2] Graduate counts below five, including zero counts, are not included.
    Graduate destinations
    Graduates might be counted under multiple destinations.
    When a graduate meets the criteria for more than one destination, they are counted in each of these destinations.

    Destination

    Definition

    Employed

    The graduate had income above 50% of the minimum wage from employment sources, measured over the 12-month period.

    Full-time higher study

    The graduate was enrolled in a formal study of >=0.8 EFTS at an NZQCF level higher than the completed qualification level in the outcome year.

    Full-time non-higher study

    The graduate was enrolled in a formal study of >=0.8 EFTS at an NZQCF level the same as or lower than the completed qualification level in the outcome year.

    Part-time higher study

    The graduate was enrolled in a formal study of 183 days in the outcome year.

    Overseas

    The graduate was overseas for >183 days in the outcome year.

    Moved into employment

    The graduate was not qualified as employed 2 years prior to qualification completion and was employed in the outcome year.

    Moved off benefit

    The graduate met the definition of a jobseeker (as outlined above) 2 years prior to qualification completion and did not meet the definition of a jobseeker in the outcome year.

    Other

    The graduate didn’t meet any of the above criteria, or there was no record in that year for them in the IDI data.

    Measuring earnings
    Gross earnings from employed graduates

    Earnings include taxable earnings from wages and salary, paid parental leave, ACC compensation and self-employment.
    Earnings are measured across graduates who are employed.
    Earnings in tax years 2021–2023 are adjusted with the Labour Cost Index to the March 2024 dollars.
    Earnings are rounded to the nearest $1,000.

    Hours of work
    Earnings will be understated for any qualifications and fields of study where there are significant numbers of young graduates in part-time work or who only work part of the year. This is because no adjustments are made for graduates’ hours of work.
    Fields of study and qualifications
    Defining area of study
    The field of study is determined from the courses graduates take in their study. The New Zealand Standard Classification of Education (NZSCED) is used to classify the fields of study.
    For more information about NZSCED codes, see New Zealand Standard Classification of Education – Education Counts.
    Results are presented at the broad, narrow and detailed NZSCED levels.
    Number of graduates
    Where the total number of graduates was 20 or below, we excluded the results from this data. Take care interpreting earnings and destination results when there is a small number of graduates as the results may fluctuate.
    Merged providers
    Some providers have merged over the period covered by this data. Where this has occurred, we have combined the former providers’ graduate outcomes to give outcomes for the merged provider.
    Earnings data suppression

    Value

    Meaning

    S

    Earnings data in a cell is suppressed due to a low number of employed graduates (under 10 graduates for median earnings and under 20 graduates for lower and upper quartile earnings).

    Disclaimer
    These results are based on information obtained by TEC from Statistics New Zealand’s Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI). We try to the best of our ability to ensure that these results are true and accurate. However, TEC does not accept any liability for their accuracy or content.           
    These results are not official statistics; they have been created for research purposes from the IDI, which is carefully managed by Stats NZ. For more information about the IDI please see Integrated Data – Stats NZ.
    Access to the data used in this study was provided by Stats NZ under conditions designed to give effect to the security and confidentiality provisions of the Statistics Act 2022. The results presented in this study are the work of the author, not Stats NZ or individual data suppliers.
    The results are based in part on tax data supplied by Inland Revenue to Stats NZ under the Tax Administration Act 1994 for statistical purposes. Any discussion of data limitations or weaknesses is in the context of using the IDI for statistical purposes, and is not related to the data’s ability to support Inland Revenue’s core operational requirements.

    [1] For the example given in the table, the Year 1 cohort takes those who graduated in 2019 and measures their outcomes in the 2020 calendar/2021 tax year; adds those who graduated in 2020 measuring their outcomes in the 2021 calendar/2022 tax year; adds those who graduated in 2021 measuring their outcomes in 2022 calendar/2023 tax year and adds those who graduated in 2022 measuring their outcomes in 2023 calendar/2024 tax year.
    [2] Base 3 refers to a standard arithmetical term, when any number is rounded to the nearest multiple of 3 (eg. 3, 6, 9, etc). The rounding to a higher or lower number is randomly selected to hide the real number of people for confidentiality purposes.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Leg Up on the Mitre Flats

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Wairarapa Police are reminding hikers, as winter sets in, to ensure they dress for all weather eventualities.

    It comes after a woman injured her ankle hiking in the Tararua Ranges last week.

    Despite the pain of a fracture ankle, which happened during a fall about an hour out from “the Pines”, the woman was able to keep warm while help arrived.

    Detective Constable Richard Butler says the injured woman and her friend were well-equipped with overnight gear.

    “We always recommend hikers take warm clothing or a jacket, even if only going on a day walk, as conditions can change quickly.

    “A Personal Locator Beacon can also be a lifesaver when things don’t go to plan.

    “In this case, the injured woman’s friend was able to hike further along the track to obtain cell phone reception and call emergency services.”

    Wairarapa Search and Rescue volunteers deployed, along with an ambulance officer and a wheeled stretcher.

    Murray Johnston, Chairman of Wairarapa SAR, says the team were well-versed in rescues, but the more prepared people were for the outdoors, the better.

    “Our volunteers did a fantastic job, and wheeled the woman to safety for further medical treatment.

    “If you’re heading into the outdoors, our advice is enjoy yourself, but make sure you’re prepared in the event something happens.”

    ENDS
     

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Terms of Reference Inquiry into Ports and the Maritime Sector

    Source: New Zealand Parliament –

    New Zealand’s ports (both marine and inland) and maritime sectors plays a crucial role in global trade, transportation, and economic development.

    The Transport and Infrastructure Committee will establish an Inquiry into the Ports and Maritime Sectors to examine the current state, challenges, and future opportunities within the ports and maritime sectors. The Inquiry will focus on:

    1. Economic Contribution and Efficiency
      • Assessing the contribution of ports and maritime industries to trade, logistics, and both regional and national economic development. This includes the scale, nature of operations, and markets of ports around New Zealand.
      • Understanding how ports and related infrastructure interact with other marine fleets operating in New Zealand (such as the national fishing fleet).
      • Investigating instances where competition between ports may be affected by market distortions.
    2. Infrastructure and Investment needs
      • Evaluating the adequacy of existing infrastructure and identifying key investment priorities to support future growth.
      • Reviewing the interface between ports and the relevant parts of the land and maritime transport system.
      • Examining the current and potential role of coastal shipping within New Zealand’s broader transport network.
      • Looking into the adequacy and locations of drydock facilities.
      • Reviewing technological developments in the sector and how these can help support the sector’s growth.
      • Looking into the safety practices, both in ports and on the sea.
      • Understanding the consenting environment facing ports.
    3. Regulation, Governance, and Ownership of Ports
      • Reviewing the current regulatory frameworks, funding, ownership, and governance structures to ensure effective oversight and coordination.
      • Examining the role of Maritime New Zealand in regulating the maritime sector.
    4. Environmental Sustainability
      • Investigating the environmental impact of the sector
      • Understanding the sector’s progress toward decarbonisation.
      • Reviewing the climate resilience of the sector.
    5. Workforce and Skills Development
      • Considering the workforce capacity, training and education pipeline, and labour market challenges facing the industry.
    6. Security and Supply Chain Resilience
      • Examining the sector’s role in national security, emergency response, and supply chain continuity.
      • Understanding international shipping and supply arrangements.

    The committee will gather evidence through public submissions, hearings, and stakeholder consultations, and report its findings and recommendations to Parliament.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Huge line-up for Spilt Milk Festival return

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Our CBR is the ACT Government’s key channel to connect with Canberrans and keep you up-to-date with what’s happening in the city. Our CBR includes a monthly print edition, email newsletter and website.

    You can easily opt in or out of the newsletter subscription at any time.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Reaches Staff-Level Agreement on the Second Review of the Extended Credit Facility with Togo

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 29, 2025

    Press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after meetings with the authorities of a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary conclusions of the meetings, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • IMF Staff and the Togolese authorities have reached staff-level agreement on economic policies and reforms to conclude the second review of the Extended Credit Facility (ECF)-supported program. Once the review is completed by the IMF Executive Board, Togo will have access to SDR 44.0 million (about US$58.4 million) in financing.
    • The IMF-supported program is broadly on track, with robust growth and moderating inflation. All quantitative targets and all structural benchmarks at end-December 2024 met, except for the quantitative performance criterion on the fiscal balance.
    • The authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to implementing sound policies, including by raising fiscal revenue, containing debt accumulation, and making growth more inclusive, as well as enacting structural reforms to enhance public financial management, strengthen the financial sector, and enhance governance.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff team, led by Hans Weisfeld held meetings with the Togolese authorities in Lomé and Washington in recent months to discuss progress under the authorities’ economic program supported by an IMF Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement.

    At the conclusion of the discussions, Mr. Weisfeld issued the following statement:

    “The mission has had constructive and productive discussions with the Togolese authorities and commended them on the sustained progress in advancing reforms. A staff-level agreement was reached on all policies, including key parameters of the 2025 fiscal framework and reform measures going forward, in line with the program‘s objectives.

    “Economic growth reached an estimated 5.3 percent in 2024 and is projected at 5.2 percent in 2025 and around 5.5 percent per year thereafter, barring major adverse shocks. Inflation has continued to slow, reaching 2.6 percent in April 2025 (annual average). 

    “The IMF-supported government economic policy program is broadly on track. The authorities met all quantitative performance criteria for end-2024 except the criterion on the fiscal balance. Tax revenue in 2024 increased as planned, while non-tax revenue even exceeded expectations. At the same time, financing support provided to local communities affected by floods and the purchase of a large stock of fertilizers that are being made available to farmers at subsidized prices meant that government debt rose more quickly than planned, slowing progress toward stronger debt sustainability. To help the public understand budget execution and the drivers of debt, the authorities have published an explanation of fiscal developments in 2024. This is a very welcome step.

    “At the same time, the authorities made good progress on structural reforms. They met both outstanding structural benchmarks set for end-2024 by (i) strengthening the budgetary risk analysis report accompanying the draft annual budgets; and (ii) injecting substantial funds into the remaining public bank to bring its regulatory capital in line with the requirements set by the regional banking regulator. The authorities also aim to continue to enhance governance. They (i) are working on strengthening the public procurement legal framework to require the publication of the names of beneficial owners of companies awarded procurement contracts; and (ii) have invited an IMF Governance Diagnostic Assessment and committed to publishing its findings.

    “It will be very important to make good progress on the planned growth-friendly and socially responsible fiscal consolidation to reinforce debt sustainability while continuing reforms to enhance public financial management, strengthen the financial sector, and enhance governance.

    “The IMF approved the ECF arrangement in March 2024 to help the authorities address the legacies of shocks seen since 2020, notably the COVID pandemic and the increase in global food and fuel prices. The Togolese authorities were able to lessen the impacts of these shocks on the Togolese economy and population, but this came at the price of large fiscal deficits and a rapidly rising debt burden. The IMF-supported government program aims to (i) make growth more inclusive while strengthening debt sustainability, and (ii) conduct structural reforms to support growth and limit fiscal and financial sector risks. The IMF provides financing of SDR 293.60 million (about US$ 390 million) on favorable terms to Togo through the ECF arrangement. The IMF Executive Board completed the First Review of the program in December 2024.   

    The staff team looks forward to continuing the fruitful dialogue with the Togolese authorities and stakeholders in the period ahead, including in the context of the mission for the Third Review in the second half of 2025.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Kwabena Akuamoah-Boateng

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/29/pr-25166-togo-imf-reaches-agreement-on-the-2nd-rev-of-ecf-with-togo

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The honourable Mandy Gull-Masty applauds the introduction of a new bill to address remaining inequities and band membership provisions of the Indian Act

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    May 29, 2025 — Ottawa, unceded Anishinaabeg Territory, Ontario — Indigenous Services Canada 

    Today, the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services, announced the introduction of Bill S-2 in the Senate, which addresses some of the remaining inequities in the registration and band membership provisions of the Indian Act.

    Bill S-2 replaces former Bill C-38 which was introduced in December of 2022, but did not receive Royal Assent before Parliament was dissolved in March 2025.

    The introduction of this Bill early in the current legislative session reiterates the Government of Canada’s commitment to reconciliation and to eliminating inequities that continue to impact First Nations individuals and families. 

    Bill S-2 proposes amendments in four key areas: enfranchisement, voluntary deregistration, natal band reaffiliation and membership, and the removal of outdated and offensive language related to dependent persons. These changes respond directly to concerns raised by First Nations and individuals impacted by the Indian Act‘s residual inequities. 

    If passed, the legislation would ensure that individuals with family histories of enfranchisement are entitled to registration under the Indian Act and extend entitlement to their descendants.

    Bill S-2 continues the legacy of former Bill C-38 which was developed from extensive engagement efforts, including over 50 virtual sessions held with First Nations, Indigenous organizations, and other partners. These discussions were instrumental in shaping the proposed amendments. It is estimated that approximately 3,500 individuals could become newly entitled to registration as a result of the changes in the first five years after it passes.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 110km/h speed limit consultation begins for SH1 Transmission Gully and Raumati Straights

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Transport Minister Chris Bishop is encouraging New Zealanders to have their say in public consultation that begins today on increasing speed limits for SH1 Transmission Gully and Raumati Straights to 110km/h.

    “Boosting economic growth and productivity is a key part of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy and this proposal supports that outcome by reducing travel times and increasing efficiency on this vital route between Wellington and the lower and central North Island,” Mr Bishop says.  

    “With around 22,000 vehicles using the road daily, it provides important regional resilience and a safe, modern, reliable route for all road users. Transmission Gully is one of the first Roads of National Significance (RoNS) announced by the former National Government in 2009 and is the main gateway to Wellington. 

    “Transmission Gully was designed and constructed to a high safety standard. This is reflected in the low crash numbers on the road since opening in 2022. It has safety features that greatly reduce the risk of death or serious injury in a crash, like two lanes in each direction, and flexible median barrier between opposing lanes. Since opening, there have been over 150 barrier strikes but no deaths

    “Along with Transmission Gully, the NZ Transport Agency will also be consulting on Raumati Straights, which connects Transmission Gully with Kāpiti Expressway.  By consulting on this section now, we can finalise a decision on appropriate speed limits quicker, ahead of possible safety improvements on the section. 

    “This is all part of the Coalition Government’s agenda to deliver the infrastructure needed to grow the economy, reduce travel times and increase the productivity of our transport network. We’re committed to providing state highways that help people get where they need to go quickly and safely.”  

    Consultation on raising the speed limit for SH1 Transmission Gully and Raumati Straights to 110km/h begins on Friday 30 May and will last six weeks.  You can find more on the NZTA website here: . 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New High Commissioner to the UK announced

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced Hamish Cooper as New Zealand’s next High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. “New Zealand’s relationship with the UK is one of our most important. “Mr Cooper is one of New Zealand’s most senior and experienced diplomats and is eminently well-qualified to take on this significant role,” Mr Peters says.Over his 40-year career at the Ministry, Mr Cooper has held several important roles including as New Zealand’s Ambassador to Japan, Russia, and Türkiye. He will take up the role in September.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Sergeant smells trouble after stopping driver on phone

    Source: New Zealand Police

    An officer patrolling the roads in Waiuku earlier this week got more than he bargained for after pulling over a motorist using his phone while driving.

    Counties Manukau South Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Matt Hoyes, says the driver was signalled to stop on Kent Street after he was spotted using his cellphone while driving.

    “While speaking to the man the officer has noticed a strong smell of cannabis coming from the vehicle.

    “A search of the vehicle has then located eight bags of cannabis, weighing more than two kilograms, in the passengers footwell as well as a significant amount of cash.”

    Inspector Hoyes says a knife was also located in the man’s pocket.

    The 24-year-old man will reappear in Pukekohe District Court on 30 July charged with possession for supply of cannabis, possession of a knife in a public place and failing to carry out obligations in relation to a computer search.

    “In the interest of road safety, the man was also issued with an infringement for using his mobile phone while driving.

    “This is yet another example of great Police work and keeping our community safe by removing these harmful substances from our streets.”

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –