Source: European Parliament
Source: European Parliament
Source: European Parliament
Source: European Parliament
Source: European Parliament
| Antonio Decaro, Lídia Pereira, Javi López, Emma Wiesner, Lena Schilling, Nikolas Farantouris (O-000010/2024) Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety Council 2024 UN Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan (COP29) |
| Antonio Decaro, Lídia Pereira, Javi López, Emma Wiesner, Lena Schilling, Nikolas Farantouris (O-000009/2024) Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety Commission 2024 UN Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan (COP29) |
Source: European Parliament
Central and Eastern Europe has been affected by heavy rains and strong winds. As of 13 September 2024, Poland, Germany, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania pro-actively activated the rapid mapping of the Copernicus Emergency Management Service for flood delineation and damage assessment[1].
The Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC)[2] works on a 24 hours /7 days basis to carry out its mandate that includes, among other tasks, monitoring of unfolding or potential disasters and their impacts.
In this context, the ERCC daily monitors the forecast estimates for potential flooding across Europe, through the dedicated European Flood Awareness System (EFAS)[3] of the Copernicus Emergency Management Service. EFAS complements the national systems to raise awareness.
From the onset, the ERCC was in contact with the national civil protection authorities of Austria, Croatia, Czechia, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia to raise awareness about possible upcoming floods and offered support through the Union Civil Protection Mechanism[4].
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) joined Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) and Bob Casey (D-PA) in sending a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Xavier Becerra urging continued action to address the critical intravenous (IV) fluid shortage affecting hospitals across the nation. This shortage, caused by the temporary closure of Baxter International’s manufacturing plant in North Carolina due to flooding from Hurricane Helene, has created significant challenges for health care providers in Virginia and across the country.
The senators’ letter comes in response to the production halt at Baxter International, the largest manufacturer of intravenous (IV) solutions in the United States, which produces nearly two-thirds of the IV fluids used in U.S. hospitals. While federal agencies—including the HHS, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR)—work to increase supply from other manufacturers, allow temporary importation of products manufactured abroad, and provide guidance on compounded alternatives, hospitals across the country, including in Virginia, continue to face shortages and need clear communication to effectively plan for the months ahead. The letter emphasized that the federal response must especially prioritize providers whose patient communities will be most at risk in the face of continued shortages.
“The uncertainty created by reduced product deliveries has led to conservation policies in health facilities across our states. After orders were recently cancelled, some providers have reported having only single-digit days’ worth of product on hand, while others are utilizing over the-counter oral hydration solutions like Gatorade—and fear reduced allocations of those alternatives as well. While providers are seeing promising results from HHS’s actions so far, we must ensure this progress continues,” wrote the senators.
“As you take the necessary steps to increase production of IV products at alternative domestic sites, facilitate the expedited arrival of additional product from overseas, and review product shelf life to consider extensions, we ask you provide clear and continuous communication to health providers on their options and the path forward as communities recover from this storm and any impact that may stem from Hurricane Milton,” the senators concluded.
Read the full letter to Secretary Becerra here and below:
Dear Secretary Becerra:
We appreciate the Biden Administration’s efforts to swiftly respond to the catastrophic damage caused across the southeast by Hurricane Helene. As you continue this recovery work, on behalf of our constituents and the health care providers who serve them, we write to urge you to continue to work with hospital and health system partners to address disruptions in the intravenous (IV) solution supply chain resulting from the hurricane-induced closure of the Baxter International plant in North Cove, North Carolina.
As you know, Baxter is the largest manufacturer of IV solutions in the United States. Their facility in Western North Carolina produces nearly two-thirds of the IV solution used to provide health care nationwide. As you also know, to protect from stockpiling, Baxter has instituted limits on the amount of saline solution and dextrose product hospitals and health systems are currently able to order. We are encouraged by steps taken by your agency and other federal government agencies to move product more quickly, including rebuilding physical infrastructure, working with manufacturing partners to increase supply from other sites, and providing guidance on appropriate compounding.
However, the uncertainty created by reduced product deliveries has led to conservation policies in health facilities across our states. After orders were recently canceled, some providers have reported having only single-digit days’ worth of product on hand, while others are utilizing over-the-counter oral hydration solutions like Gatorade—and fear reduced allocations of those alternatives as well. While providers are seeing promising results from HHS’s actions so far, we must ensure this progress continues.
As you take the necessary steps to increase production of IV products at alternative domestic sites, facilitate the expedited arrival of additional product from overseas, and review product shelf life to consider extensions, we ask you provide clear and continuous communication to health providers on their options and the path forward as communities recover from this storm and any impact that may stem from Hurricane Milton. We also request intentional outreach to safety net, tribal, and rural providers, as well as those caring for vulnerable populations who may lack the resources to sustain prolonged shortages. Hospitals and health systems in our states are eager to work with you to protect patient care and welcome your outreach.
We look forward to working with you to ensure timely and robust communication to keep our communities healthy. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON – Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Mark R. Warner (D-VA) issued a statement on the death of Hamas terrorist Yahya Sinwar:
“Earlier today I spoke with Director Burns, who confirmed that Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas and one of the masterminds of the October 7 terrorist attack, has been killed in Gaza. As a terrorist leader, Sinwar was responsible for the deaths of thousands of innocents, including Americans, Israelis and Palestinians. While justice has been served to Sinwar, let us not forget that the terrorist network he headed still holds dozens of people hostage in Gaza, and we must continue to press for their safe return.”
Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland today announced that Stephanie M. Hinds has been appointed as the Director of the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA).
“Stephanie is a superb leader with decades of experience at the Justice Department who will be an outstanding advocate for all 94 of our U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country,” said Attorney General Garland. “Since joining the Justice Department 29 years ago, Stephanie has advanced its mission in a wide range of roles. The Justice Department, and the American people, are fortunate to have her in this role. I am grateful to her for her continued dedication to this Department and to the public we serve.”
Prior to her appointment, Hinds served as Associate Deputy Attorney General beginning in May 2023. Hinds previously served as the Interim and Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California (NDCA) from March 2021 to March 2023. At NDCA since 1995, Hinds also served in various positions such as First Assistant U.S. Attorney, Deputy U.S. Attorney, Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division, Chief of the Asset Forfeiture Section, and as an Assistant U.S. Attorney.
Norman Wong, who has been serving as the Acting Director of EOUSA since July 1, 2023, will return to his position as Principal Deputy Director.
“Norm Wong has been an excellent steward of EOUSA since becoming Acting Director of the Office in July 2023,” said Attorney General Garland. “Norm is an extraordinary public servant, and I am grateful to him for all he has done and will continue to do on behalf of EOUSA.”
Learn more about EOUSA at http://www.justice.gov/usao.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
GRAND RAPIDS, MICH. – U.S. Attorney Mark Totten announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Austin Hakes will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. AUSA Hakes will serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Western District of Michigan, overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington, D.C. In addition, U.S. Attorney Totten announced a hotline, 616-808-2140, and website for members of the public to make a complaint or share information related to voting rights concerns.
“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
WATCH: Voting Rights Video Message from U.S. Attorney Mark Totten
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
United States Attorney Totten stated: “Voting is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who have the right to vote can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.”
To respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA Hakes will be on duty in this District while the polls are open.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.
United States Attorney Totten said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
# # #
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)
Providence, RI – U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse and Jack Reed and Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo today announced that the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs has awarded $600,000 in funding to the Rhode Island Department of Health’s Center for Forensic Sciences to reduce the backlog of DNA casework and ensure justice can be served for victims of both violent and non-violent crimes. With this funding, the state’s crime lab expects to typically process cases within 30 days for violent crimes and 90 days for non-violent crimes.
“No victim of a crime should have to wait for justice to be served because of insufficient resources to analyze DNA evidence in a timely fashion,” said Whitehouse, a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and former U.S. Attorney and Rhode Island Attorney General. “This federal funding will help retain qualified forensic scientists, make upgrades to the state’s laboratory, and bring justice and closure to victims throughout Rhode Island.”
“This federal funding will help the state’s crime lab effectively process DNA samples, solve more cases, and help law enforcement bring perpetrators to justice,” said Senator Reed, a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies.
“Justice ought to be delivered swiftly to victims of crime and their families, and this federal funding will make this a reality for Rhode Islanders by reducing the backlog of DNA casework and holding perpetrators accountable,” said Congressman Magaziner.
“As forensic technology advancements help investigators better match DNA found at crime scenes, it’s critically important that we invest in new instruments and training to help secure justice for victims of crime in Rhode Island — no matter how much time has elapsed,” said Congressman Amo. “This federal investment by the Department of Justice will reduce the casework backlog and bolster our state’s capacity to process incoming DNA cases quickly and efficiently.”
This grant funding,which comes through the Department of Justice’s DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program, will help the Center for Forensic Sciences’ Forensic Biology and DNA Laboratory continue to reduce the backlog of DNA casework. Funding will also prevent future backlogs with the purchase of new DNA analysis instruments, an upgraded laboratory information management system, and increased education and training opportunities for scientists. With these investments, the Forensic Biology and DNA Laboratory expects to reduce the DNA casework backlog by at least 125 cases and continue to be able to process incoming cases within an average 90-day time frame for non-violent crimes and a 30-day time frame for violent crimes.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
BOSTON – A Lowell man has been arrested for his involvement in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.
Jorge Manuel “Manny” Huertas, 46, was charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Huertas will make his initial appearance in federal court in Boston later today.
According to the charging document, Huertas distributed counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl and counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine to a confidential source. Search warrants were conducted this morning at Huertas’s residence and the residences of his associates.
The charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and more than 50 grams of methamphetamine carries a minimum sentence of five years and a maximum sentence of 40 years, at least four years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $5,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration; and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Lowell Police Department and the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan Panich of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Source: African Development Bank Group
The African Development Bank and the Government of Japan recently concluded a joint visit to two projects funded by the Fund for African Private Sector Assistance (FAPA) in Ghana to assess their impact on stimulating the growth of small businesses and boosting private sector development.
The Japanese delegation led by Japan’s Deputy Vice Minister of Finance for International Affairs, Mr. Daiho Fujii, together with the African Development Bank’s Executive Director for Japan, Mr. Takaaki Nomoto, were received by the African Development Bank Country Manager for Ghana, Ms. Eyerusalem Fasika. The Delegation engaged with implementing agencies and beneficiaries of two FAPA funded projects – the Ghana SME Business Linkage Program, and Fashionomics Africa Online Platform and Mobile App.
FAPA, a joint initiative between the Bank and the Japanese government, provides untied grants to support the implementation of the Bank’s Private Sector Development Strategy. Through capacity building and technical assistance, the Fund enhances the business environment, strengthens financial systems, promotes the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and facilitates trade across African countries.
Focusing on the projects’ contribution to Ghana’s broader economic and social development goals, Deputy Vice Minister Fujii reaffirmed Japan’s support to FAPA and the Bank. “My thrill turned into confidence that the Japanese taxpayers’ money via FAPA contributes to motivating the beneficiaries by developing their businesses as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and improving their livelihood and well-being. I was also glad that FAPA projects in Ghana played the catalytic role in applying such models to other African countries and in attracting other donors.”
Referencing the positive impact of the projects, Fasika emphasized FAPA’s pivotal role in driving inclusive private sector development and economic growth, creating job opportunities, and reducing poverty. She also expressed gratitude for Japan’s continued support and highlighted the importance of the partnership between the Bank and the Government of Japan. “The projects funded by FAPA are clear examples of how strategic partnerships can have a tangible impact on the ground. We are pleased with the progress made and the transformative effects these projects have on local communities (in Ghana),” she stated.
The visit underscores the continued commitment of the African Development Bank and the Government of Japan to fostering economic growth and strengthening private sector development in Africa through sustainable and impactful investments.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Alford (Missouri 4th District)
Washington, October 17, 2024
Raymore, Mo. – Following recent U.S. airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) emphasized the critical role that the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber and the men and women of Whiteman Air Force Base play in securing America’s national defense and deterring global threats.
This is the first time that the U.S. has used bombers against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels.
“Whiteman Air Force Base is home to the B-2 stealth bomber, a cornerstone of America’s ability to deter threats and project power worldwide. We’re grateful for the dedicated service members at Whiteman who were vital in carrying out this key strike against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The reckless attacks by these terrorists in the Red Sea against global trade and military personnel cannot continue to go unanswered. The men and women of Whiteman are always ready to answer the call,” said Congressman Alford.
On Wednesday, the U.S. announced it hit Houthi targets in Yemen with long-range bombers in an effort to discourage further attacks against commercial and military vessels in the Middle East. The strike included U.S. Air Force and Navy assets, including B-2 Spirit bombers.
In recent military operations, the B-2 has proven its unmatched capability to penetrate fortified targets. This success highlights the critical role that Whiteman Air Force Base plays in defending the United States.
Key Facts:
Source: International Monetary Fund
Launch of the October 2024 Regional Economic Outlook for the Middle East and Central Asia
The Regional Economic Outlook (REO) report provides comprehensive insights into recent economic developments and future prospects specifically for countries in the region. It analyzes the impact of economic policy changes on performance, highlighting key challenges faced by policymakers in navigating complex economic landscapes.
The chapters and main report will be available for download on this page starting on October 31. Stay tuned for updates!
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 17 OCT 2024 6:33PM by PIB Delhi
The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, reached Lilongwe, Malawi this morning (October 17, 2024), on the final leg of her State Visits to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi. At the Kamuzu International Airport, the President was received by H.E. Mr Michael Usi, the Vice President of Malawi and other dignitaries. She was accorded a ceremonial welcome and was warmly greeted by children. A traditional cultural performance was also presented before the President at the airport.
This is the first ever State Visit from India to Malawi. The President was accompanied by the Minister of State, Shri Sukanata Majumdar, and Members of Parliament, Shri Mukeshkumar Dalal and Shri Atul Garg.
Later, the President graced and addressed the India-Malawi Business Meet.
Speaking on the occasion, the President said that Malawi is a country rich in natural reserves and fertile agricultural land. On the other hand, India has a large consumer base with increasing demand for energy, minerals and food for its large population. Both our countries can come together to find synergy in many areas. There is an immense scope for enhancing our cooperation in the fields of agriculture, mining, energy, tourism, etc.
The President was happy to note that the bilateral trade between India and Malawi has been growing. India is currently the fourth largest trading partner of Malawi. India is also one of the largest investors in Malawi with over 500 million US dollars worth of investments in various sectors.
The President said that the India-Malawi partnership is not confined to governments alone, as Africa has emerged as an important trade and investment destination. India’s private sector is at the forefront of driving this impetus. There are growing investments by Indian companies, both multinational and SMEs, in Africa in a range of sectors.
The President expressed confidence that the discussion held at the India-Malawi Business Meet would prove to be a significant milestone in developing commercial relations between the two countries.
In the evening, the President will address members of the Indian community at a Reception.
Click here to see the President’s speech.
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MJPS/SR/SKS
(Release ID: 2065886) Visitor Counter : 29
Source: Government of India (2)
Fortification, a globally recognized practice; India following World Health Organization guidelines
Of 30,000 operational rice mills, more than 21,000 installed blending equipment, with total capacity of 223 LMT of fortified rice per month
Posted On: 17 OCT 2024 5:15PM by PIB Delhi
With the Union Cabinet approving continuation of initiative to provide Fortified Rice under all schemes of Government including Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) and Other Welfare Schemes etc. in its present form, from July 2024 and up to December 2028, the Centre is continuing the ambitious initiative as a complementary strategy to combat micronutrient deficiencies in the country.
Needless to say, scientific evidence supports consumption of Fortified Rice is safe for all including for individuals suffering with haemoglobinopathies such as Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Anaemia.
Fortified rice packaging in India were initially required to carry a health advisory for individuals with Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Anaemia, as per the Food Safety and Standards (Fortification of Foods) Regulations, 2018. The necessity of this advisory was questioned by a scientific committee, noting that no other country mandates such advisory label on packaging. In response, the Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD), Government of India, established a working group in 2023, to assess the safety of iron-fortified rice for people with these hemoglobinopathies.
The working group’s report concluded that current evidence does not support any safety concerns for such individuals. The iron intake from fortified rice is minimal compared to the iron absorbed during blood transfusions for Thalassemia patients and are treated with chelation to manage iron overload. Furthermore, individuals with Sickle Cell Anaemia are unlikely to absorb excess iron due to naturally elevated levels of hepcidin, a hormone that regulates iron absorption.
This assessment was followed by an extensive review conducted by a committee chaired by Director General, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The committee, comprising experts in haematology, nutrition, and public health, conducted a thorough literature review on iron metabolism, the safety of iron doses from fortified rice, and global labelling practices.
Based on this global scientific review, the committee found no evidence suggesting that iron-fortified rice poses a health risk to individuals with these hemoglobinopathies. A large community study in India, involving over 8,000 participants from tribal areas, indicated that nearly two-thirds of patients with Sickle Cell Disease experienced iron deficiency. No specific evidence exists regarding harm from consuming fortified rice for sickle cell anemia or thalassemia .
It is notable that organizations like WHO and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also do not mandate such advisories on packaging.
In India, where large-scale distribution of fortified rice has already taken place in states like Jharkhand and Maharashtra, with more than 2,64,000 beneficiaries in each state, no adverse health outcomes related to iron overload have been reported. This further substantiates the committee’s recommendation to omit the advisory.
The committee recommended removing the advisory, which the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) accepted. The advisory was officially removed in July 2024, following approval by the Food Authority in its 44th meeting.
India’s rice fortification program started in 2019 as a pilot program and scaled up in a 3 phased manner. Fortification is a globally recognized practice, and India follows guidelines aligned with the World Health Organization (WHO). According to WHO’s 2018 recommendations, rice fortification with iron is essential in countries where rice is a staple food. In India, with 65% of its population consuming rice daily, iron-fortified rice is particularly relevant.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), 520 Lakh Metric Tons (LMT) of fortified rice is to be procured annually. There are currently 1,023 FRK manufacturers across the country, with an annual production capacity of 111 LMT, which significantly exceeds the 5.20 LMT required for the program. Additionally, there are 232 premix suppliers with a capacity of 75 LMT per annum, far surpassing the 0.104 LMT needed.
The ecosystem for rice fortification in India has expanded significantly. Of 30,000 operational rice mills, more than 21,000 have installed blending equipment, with a total capacity of 223 LMT of fortified rice per month. Testing infrastructure has also grown, with numerous NABL-accredited labs across India conducting rigorous quality checks on fortified rice.
Rice fortification is a well-established global practice. According to the Global Fortification Data Exchange, 18 countries actively allow rice fortification, 147 support salt fortification, 105 have adopted wheat flour fortification, 43 endorse oil fortification, and 21 promote fortification of maize flour. Advisory labels for individuals with Thalassemia or Sickle Cell Anaemia are not required in these countries.
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AD/NS
(Release ID: 2065835) Visitor Counter : 62
Source: Government of Canada regional news
Farmers are vital to Alberta’s economy, providing essential food resources and driving rural prosperity, yet they often face burdensome paperwork and high accounting fees that hinder their productivity. Governments are making changes to the AgriStability program to address these challenges.
A new option to align AgriStability reporting with tax filing in 2025 will result in less paperwork, reduce accounting fees, and make enrolment and participation in the program much easier. An accelerated deadline to submit program forms to AFSC will lead to earlier payments. Enrolling in AgriStability can also provide producers access to other credit options like the federal Advance Payments Program, which offers low-cost cash advances.
“We value the dedication and adaptability of our province’s farmers. These changes to the AgriStability program will better respond to each producer’s unique situation, making the program more predictable, timely and simpler to access, which is what producers have been asking for.”
AgriStability is an individual, whole-farm, margin-based program that helps producers who experience margin declines greater than 30 per cent due to production loss, adverse market conditions and increased costs. In 2023, AgriStability also increased compensation for margin declines exceeding 30 per cent, offering 80 cents per dollar of decline, up from the previous rate of 70 cents.
Producers rely on business risk management programs to offset the financial impact of many challenges. AgriStability provides income stabilization protection to help producers manage large margin declines that threaten their farm’s viability.
“Farmers can often face uncertainty, and programs like AgriStability help them to protect their operations. To make things a little bit easier, we’ve made changes to the AgriStability program that will reduce paperwork, so our farmers can get the support they need, faster, and continue producing top-quality products.”
Risk management is critical in farming and each producer needs to examine their situation and the tools available before making decisions. AFSC has a robust suite of lending, business risk management and insurance options that producers can access.
“Through our risk management programs, AFSC plays an important role in sustaining the agriculture industry. By making enrolment and participation in the AgriStability program easier it allows us to support Alberta producers more effectively.”
Source: New Zealand Government
The residence portion of the Military Style Academy Pilot at Te Au rere a te Tonga Youth Justice residence in Palmerston North is wrapping up, with the young people now transitioning back into the community with support, Minister for Children Karen Chhour says.
Ten young people have spent three months on the programme addressing criminal behaviours with a focus on structure and routine, physical activities, education and vocational training, preparation for work and finding employment, and rehabilitative, therapeutic, and cultural components undertaken for each young person.
They now head into the 9-month community stage, which will look different for every young person, depending on their needs.
“The lessons learned from previous iterations of Military Style Academies is that for them to work, there needs to be a large amount of community support and the transition back into the community needs to be well managed.
“I took these lessons on board and that is what was used to shape this pilot. I placed a large emphasis on making sure the community support was there, and making sure family are involved throughout the process.
“Each young person will have a ‘kitbag’ when they leave the residence, which they have been building during the residence stage.
“This is made up of practical items, such as an IRD number, CV, bank account and photo ID – items that can be taken for granted but are important basic building blocks to participate in wider society.”
Each young person also has their own intensive mentor on a one-to-one basis who will support them throughout the community stage.
“Each teenager’s ‘transition plan’ is individualised, sustainable, achievable and includes details of the support they need.
“While I am sure there will be bumps along the road for these young people as they work towards a better future, I am proud of the work they are putting in and the effort they and their families are making at turning their lives around.
“I hope these young people take advantage of every opportunity they are offered through this pilot.
“The outcome of their future is now in their hands.”
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Joseph Anthony Santopietro (46, Orlando) with receipt and possession of child sexual abuse material. If convicted, Santopietro faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison on the receipt count, and a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment on the possession count.
According to the indictment, Santopietro received child sexual abuse material in November 2023. He was then found in possession of child sexual abuse material on September 18, 2024.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kaley Austin-Aronson.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man was sentenced to federal prison Wednesday for stealing more than $147,000 in pandemic unemployment benefits from the Oregon Employment Department (OED).
Matthew Kemp, 41, was sentenced to six months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. Kemp was also ordered to pay $147,294 in restitution to the OED.
According to court documents, between July 2020 and January 2021, Kemp devised and carried out a scheme whereby he used the personal information of 17 people, including their dates of birth and social security numbers, to fraudulently apply for pandemic unemployment insurance benefits. Some individuals knew Kemp had used their personal information because he had promised to obtain benefits on their behalf while others were unaware.
To ensure the benefits went to him instead of the named applicants, Kemp requested the benefits be paid out by check or prepaid debit card, and put his own mailing address, email address, and phone number on the claims. If there was a delay or issue in processing his various fraudulent claims, Kemp called the OED and impersonated the named applicant to ensure he got (in his words) “my money.”
On February 7, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a seven-count indictment charging Kemp with mail fraud, bank fraud, and theft of government funds. On June 14, 2024, Kemp pleaded guilty to theft of government funds.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG) and U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General (DHS-OIG). It was prosecuted by Meredith D.M. Bateman, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Source: Peoples Bank of China
The Thirteenth Tripartite Governors’ Meeting among the People’s Bank of China (PBOC), the Bank of Japan (BOJ), and the Bank of Korea (BOK) was held in Beijing, China on October 17, 2024. Governor PAN Gongsheng of the PBOC chaired the meeting, and Governor UEDA Kazuo of the BOJ and Governor RHEE Chang Yong of the BOK attended the meeting.
The Governors exchanged views on recent economic and financial developments.
The Fourteenth Tripartite Governors’ Meeting will be hosted by the BOJ in 2025.
Date of last update Nov. 29 2018
2024年10月17日
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
TUCSON, Ariz. –Pablo Martinez, Jr., 36, of Tucson, was sentenced last week by United States District Judge Scott H. Rash to 25 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Martinez, Jr. pleaded guilty to Second Degree Murder on April 15, 2024.
On September 26, 2019, Martinez murdered the six-year-old victim by holding the victim’s face under the running bathtub faucet for between five to ten minutes, while giving the victim a bath. The victim inhaled water that caused liquid thermal burns, resulting in his death. The victim was an enrolled member of the Pascua Yaqui Indian Tribe.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pascua Yaqui Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frances M. Kreamer Hope and Matthew C. Cassell, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-19-2617-TUC-SHR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-140_Martinez, Jr.
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
2024-140_Martinez, Jr.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
ASHLAND, Ky. – A former Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice employee, Nathaniel K. Lumpkins, 33, of Elkfork, Ky., was sentenced to 36 months in prison by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, on Tuesday, for one count of deprivation of rights under color of law.
Lumpkins was employed at Woodsbend Youth Development Center, a Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice facility located in West Liberty, Ky., and worked as a Youth Worker, responsible for the custody, care, and control of the juveniles housed there. As he admitted in his plea agreement, on January 23, 2019, Lumpkins violated the civil rights of a fifteen-year-old at Woodsbend, when he used unreasonable force on the victim. When the victim was already compliant, on the ground, and being held by three other adult Youth Workers, Lumpkins began twisting the victim’s hand back onto his wrist and pushing his body weight repeatedly down onto the youth’s wrist and arm. While doing this, Lumpkins broke the victim’s arm, and admitted in his plea agreement that he did so out of anger and not for any legitimate purpose. Lumpkins later slammed the victim’s already-broken arm into a concrete wall, again out of anger with no legitimate purpose. Then, Lumpkins wrote and signed an incident report that included false information, in an attempt to cover up his unlawful use of force.
Under federal law, Lumpkins must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; and Michael Stansbury, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office, jointly announce the sentencing.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI, with assistance from the Internal Investigations Branch of the Kentucky Justice and Public Safety Cabinet. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zach Dembo is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
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Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
ASHLAND, Ky. – A Flatwoods, Ky., man, Skyler Allen Mullins, 23, was sentenced on Tuesday, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, to 35 years in prison, for attempted production of child pornography and possession of child pornography.
According to his plea agreement, on May 4, 2022, law enforcement discovered that Mullins was using a social media application to exchange sexually explicit images of children. Law enforcement interviewed Mullins and he admitted to attempting to create videos of himself sexually assaulting a minor known to him. Mullins also admitted using social media platforms to exchange materials and links to images and video of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
In total, Mullins possessed over 600 images or videos of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Under federal law, Mullins must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 30 years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Michael E. Stansbury, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; and Col. Phillip J. Burnett, Jr., Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and Kentucky State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Roth is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted this case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was sentenced to 46 months in prison for a 2020 assault with the intent to steal a motor vehicle within the Navajo Nation.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on May 17, 2020, Daryl Levi, 41, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, and others assaulted John Doe in Shiprock, NM, with the intent of taking his motor vehicle. As a result of the assault, John Doe was wounded.
Upon his release from prison, Levi will be subject to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorneys Mark A. Probasco and Samuel A. Hurtado are prosecuting the case.
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Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
The FBI Atlanta Division is warning the public that verified social media accounts are being hijacked by cybercriminals for the purposes of spreading scams and malicious software. Cybercriminals are targeting established social media accounts with large followings. By successfully taking over these accounts through targeted phishing or social engineering techniques, the cybercriminals broaden the reach of their fraudulent campaigns to vast amounts of followers. The campaigns become more effective because the followers trust the verified accounts.
Cybercriminals are taking advantage of these hijacked accounts to spread cryptocurrency scams. Cryptocurrency “giveaway” scams often include links to malicious websites that steal the victim’s wallet information. Cybercriminals are also using hijacked accounts to post links to free software downloads, which ultimately link to malware. This info-stealing malware takes the victim’s usernames, passwords, and cookies, enabling the cybercriminals to compromise other accounts.
For followers of social media, here are tips to protect yourself from scams and malware shared online:
For social media influencers or creators, here are tips to keep your accounts from being hijacked:
Anyone who is a victim of an account takeover or Internet scam should report it to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at http://www.ic3.gov.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that LISA SCHIFF, a Manhattan-based art advisor focused on contemporary art, pled guilty before United States District Judge J. Paul Oetken to one count of wire fraud for perpetrating a multi-year scheme in which she defrauded the clients of her art advisory business of approximately $6.5 million in connection with the purchase and sale of approximately 55 artworks. SCHIFF will be sentenced by Judge Oetken on January 17, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “For years, Lisa Schiff breached the trust of her art advisory clients by lying to them and diverting millions of dollars her clients had entrusted to her. Instead of using client funds as promised, Schiff used the stolen money to fund a lavish lifestyle. Today’s guilty plea serves as a reminder that the Southern District of New York will vigorously investigate and prosecute those who engage in fraud wherever we may find them, including the art market.”
According to the Information, plea agreement, and statements made in court:
From 2018 through May 2023, SCHIFF engaged in a scheme to defraud clients of her art advisory business, Schiff Fine Art (“SFA”) by diverting her clients’ funds—profits from the sale of her clients’ artworks or payments they made to purchase artwork—to pay her own personal and business expenses. SCHIFF advised clients regarding the purchase and sale of artworks and bought and sold artworks on behalf of clients in exchange for a commission. In her role as an art advisor, SCHIFF acted as an intermediary between art galleries and auction houses, and her clients, who were art collectors. Typically, when SCHIFF’s clients bought or sold artworks, payments were routed through SCHIFF’s business, SFA. In addition, when SCHIFF sold artworks on behalf of a client, she often had custody or control of the artworks to coordinate the sale. At times, SCHIFF, through SFA, also sold artwork on consignment on behalf of artists and other galleries.
Starting in about 2018, SCHIFF began defrauding her clients in two ways: (1) not remitting payments to her clients when she sold their artwork while not disclosing to her clients that their artworks had, in fact, been sold; and (2) not purchasing artworks on behalf of clients despite representing to her clients that she would purchase certain artworks on their behalf using their funds. Instead of using client funds as promised, SCHIFF diverted her clients’ money to pay her business and personal expenses. SCHIFF lied to her clients and galleries in furtherance of her fraud scheme. For example, when defrauding clients in connection with selling their artwork, SCHIFF at times lied to clients, claiming she had not sold the artwork, or the buyer was delayed in making the payment and SCHIFF still had custody of the artwork when, in fact, SCHIFF had sold the artwork, received payment from the buyer, and delivered the artwork to the buyer. When defrauding clients in connection with purchasing artwork on their behalf, SCHIFF lied to galleries from which she was supposed to purchase artwork on behalf clients, blaming delays in payment on clients when, in fact, clients had already paid SCHIFF for the purchase of the artwork but she had diverted the funds for her own use. Over several years, SCHIFF defrauded at least twelve clients, one artist, the estate of another artist, and one gallery, collectively, of at least approximately $6.5 million. During her fraud, SCHIFF lived lavishly and incurred substantial debts, which she paid in part using her victims’ diverted funds.
In about May 2023, SCHIFF could no longer conceal her scheme due to mounting debts. SCHIFF confessed to several clients that she had stolen their money.
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SCHIFF, 54, a Manhattan resident, pled guilty to one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum prison term of 20 years. Under the terms of her plea agreement, SCHIFF agreed to forfeit approximately $6.4 million.
The statutory maximum sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Art Crime Team and the FBI/New York Police Department’s Joint Major Theft Task Force.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Illicit Finance and Money Laundering Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Ong and Cecilia Vogel are in charge of the prosecution.
Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers
Assistant Minister for Education, Anthony Chisholm has officially opened the Cassowary Coast University Centre in Innisfail, providing dedicated support for students across the region to access and complete a tertiary education.
The Innisfail facility is one of the 12 new Regional University Study Hubs announced earlier this year, and is one of 10 hubs across Queensland to be funded through the Albanese Government’s Regional University Study Hubs program.
Thirty students have already registered to access the hub’s facilities, which include computers, high speed internet, breakout spaces, dedicated student mentoring, as well as academic skills and administrative support.
With the support of the Centre, students in the region will engage in studies and undertake courses offered by tertiary institutions across Australia all while remaining in their community with family and friends.
The hub is also expected to provide tailored support for local First Nations students, with 20.5 per cent of the Innisfail population identifying as First Nations.
The hub is being delivered by Vocational Partnerships Group, in collaboration with the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, which has a strong history of supporting local youth across Far North Queensland access and succeed in furthering their education.
Increasing the number of University Study Hubs in regional and outer-suburban communities was a priority action of the Australian Universities Accord Interim Report.
This increase in the number of hubs across Australia is also a central contributing factor toward hitting the government’s target of helping 80 per cent of the country’s workforce attain a university degree, or TAFE qualification, by 2050.
A competitive process to select up to 10 more Regional University Study Hubs closes today, with an announcement of successful applicants expected in early 2025.
Further information on the program, including a list of funded hubs, can be accessed here.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Education and Regional Development Senator Anthony Chisholm:
“The Cassowary Coast University Centre is a prime example of how our study hubs help regional, rural and remote students achieve academic success in tertiary education.
“Around 42 per cent of students who have studied at one of these hubs are the first in their family to attend university, as someone who was the first in their family to attend university, this is fantastic to see.
“By supporting study hubs like this one on the Cassowary Coast, and creating new ones right across Queensland, we’re making tertiary education fairer and more accessible for everyone.”
“Regional University Study Hubs open up new opportunities for students from these areas, and by tailoring university offerings to the needs of regional communities, we’re engaging more students and levelling the playing field regardless of where students live.”
Source: Government of Canada News (2)
Today, the Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, announced a new appointment to the Patented Medicine Prices Review Board (PMPRB). Following a merit-based selection process, Sharon Blady is appointed to the Board for a five-year term.
October 17, 2024 | Ottawa, Ontario | Health Canada
Today, the Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, announced a new appointment to the Patented Medicine Prices Review Board (PMPRB).
Following a merit-based selection process, Sharon Blady is appointed to the Board for a five-year term.
The Government of Canada is committed to appointing highly-qualified candidates to best serve the interests of Canadians and is committed to open, transparent, and merit-based processes for selecting Governor in Council appointees. Appointees play a fundamental role in Canadian democracy as they serve on commissions, boards, Crown corporations, agencies and tribunals across the country.
Ms. Blady is an accomplished senior executive with more than 15 years of healthcare, government, and public policy expertise. She is the former Health Minister of Manitoba and has experience as a mental health advocator and educator. She is the founder and CEO of Speak Up: Mental Health + Neurodiversity, a platform which aims to foster awareness, understanding, and provide support to those navigating mental health and neurodiversity.
The PMPRB is an independent quasi-judicial body established by Parliament in 1987 under the Patent Act. As an arm’s-length organization of the government, the PMPRB protects the interests of Canadian consumers by ensuring that the prices of patented medicines sold in Canada are not excessive.
Matthew Kronberg
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Mark Holland
Minister of Health
343-552-5654