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Category: Great Britain

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: Tidalwave of clean energy investment worth billions unlocked ahead of Investment Summit

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    Thousands of jobs in green industries announced as the UK Government welcomes more than £24 billion of private investment for pioneering energy projects ahead of the International Investment Summit on 14th October.

    • Thousands of jobs in energy sector to be created across the UK up to £24 billion worth of investment secured ahead of International Investment Summit.
    • Boost for clean energy industries demonstrates vote of confidence in UK and government’s growth mission.
    • Comes as Prime Minister puts investment and growth at heart of first Council of Nations and Regions meeting in Scotland today.

    Thousands of jobs in green industries announced as the UK Government welcomes more than £24 billion of private investment for pioneering energy projects ahead of the International Investment Summit on 14th October.        

    The investments confirmed by private investors today will deliver growth in the clean energy sector across our nations and regions, from Yorkshire to Suffolk and Aberdeen to Stow, representing a huge vote of confidence in the UK and long-term growth.       

    Driven by the government’s clear path to growth creating the conditions for businesses to thrive, the billions worth of investments from leading companies include Iberdrola – one of the biggest energy companies in Europe – doubling their investment in the UK, Orsted unlocking £8bn and GreenVolt £2.5bn of investment in offshore wind farms, and SeAh Wind UK announcing a £225 million expansion of their investment in the North East to build a state-of-the-art wind technology manufacturing facility in Teesside, solidifying the UK’s position as a world leader in the wind power industry.   

    In only 100 days, the government has overturned the nine-year onshore wind ban in 72 hours, consented more solar than ever before, secured the most successful renewable auction round in history, and launched Great British Energy.     

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:    

    Today’s investments are a huge vote of confidence in this government and our relentless focus to drive growth across the UK.

    Whether you’re in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland or England – we are creating the conditions for businesses to thrive, and our International Investment Summit will be a springboard for every part of the UK to be an engine of innovation and investment.

    Today I’m convening the first ever Council of Nations and Regions, because it is when we work together in the spirit of genuine partnership, that we can deliver the real change people want to see and improve opportunities for all.  

    Iberdrola Executive Chairman Ignacio Galán said:    

    After having invested more than £30bn in the last 15 years, the clear policy direction, stable regulatory frameworks and overall attractiveness of the UK are leading us to double our investments for 2024-28, reaching up to £24bn.

    This is a vote of confidence in the UK’s clear and stable policies and is a major boost to the economy and the path towards green energy security and Net Zero. The benefits of electrification in terms of energy security, industrial development, jobs and decarbonisation are shared ambitions of the UK and Iberdrola.

    The investments demonstrate further progress on the government’s clean energy mission and a major boost to the UK economy three days before the first International Investment Summit on 14 October, which will gather UK leaders, high-profile investors and businesses from across the world to deepen our partnership to drive investment and growth.    

    It also comes as the Prime Minister today convenes the first Council of the Nations and Regions, delivering on a manifesto promise to rewire the way UK Government operates. Focussed on investment and growth, the Council will see First Ministers and Deputy First Minister from the Devolved Governments come together with regional mayors to collaborate and seize opportunities to secure long-term investment and boost growth. The agenda, agreed with attendees, includes discussion on how to boost growth and inward investment across the UK, including through an industrial strategy and the Investment Summit.    

    The Prime Minister will also hold bilateral meetings and a joint meeting with the Devolved Government First Ministers and Deputy First Minister focussed on supporting intergovernmental relations as we continue to reset our relationship and work together to deliver for people across the UK.     

    Today’s investments include:    

    • Iberdrola doubling their investment in the UK, through Scottish Power, from £12bn to £24bn over the next 4 years, which includes £4bn for the East Anglia 2 wind farm off the Suffolk coast which was unlocked by this Government’s expanded allocation at the most recent wind auction round. Iberdrola Executive Chairman Ignacio Galan has also today confirmed that the UK has become their largest Investment destination.
    • Orsted and Greenvolt confirming that the Government’s recent expanded offshore wind auction means their projects will unlock £8bn (Orsted) and £2.5bn (Greenvolt) of investment respectively in their planned offshore wind farms. Orsted says its commitment will see thousands of jobs for local people, while Greenvolt says it will create up to 2800 construction jobs.
    • SeAH Wind has made an additional £225 million investment into wind technology manufacturing in Teesside, thanks to new backing from UK Export Finance, which expects to create 750 direct jobs by 2027. This brings their total investment into the site at Teesworks up to £900 million and will help them make their ongoing factory build – one of the biggest facilities of its kind worldwide – even bigger.
    • Macquarie supporting investment of £1.3bn into new green infrastructure including its Island Green Power solar farm in Stow, as a result of planning consents having been granted by the Government, and its Roadchef portfolio company installing electric car ultra-fast charging points across its sites along the UK motorway network.
    • BW Group proceeding with a £300m investment into a new battery energy storage project in Birmingham.
    • Holtec, a major US advanced nuclear engineering company, has confirmed a significant investment of £325 million in a new factory in South Yorkshire which will supply materials for Hinkley Point C and likely Sizewell C power stations. They say this will create up to 490 direct and 280 indirect jobs annually during the construction phase and 1,200 direct engineering jobs created over 20 years.     

    Mads Nipper, CEO of Ørsted A/S said:    

    The reason we are investing in the UK is that alongside the targets for clean energy, we also see the commitment to creating the policy frameworks required to deliver those targets and a government who wants to work with businesses to enable the investments required.

    Lord Nicol Stephen, Chief Executive of Flotation Energy said:  

    Green Volt is a trailblazing, multibillion pound floating offshore wind project which will kickstart jobs and investment by companies right across the UK offshore supply chain. The choice of our HQ in Aberdeen is clear evidence of our strong commitment to support local jobs and businesses wherever possible.

    Chris Sohn, Chief Executive of SeAH Wind, said:    

    With the proactive support of UKEF, our project is progressing smoothly. As we approach the completion of the factory construction, we are committed to ensuring its successful finalization. We aim to become the first monopile manufacturing company in the UK and make a significant contribution to the UK economy.

    Andreas Sohmen-Pao, Chairman of BW Group, said:     

    BW Group is delighted to announce that its subsidiary BW ESS intends to shortly begin construction on two large battery projects in the Midlands – Hams Hall and Berkswell – with a combined capacity of 600 MW. These projects represent a major step forward in enhancing the UK’s energy infrastructure and supporting the transition to renewables.

    I am encouraged by the UK government’s commitment to the clean energy transition and our announcement today highlights BW Group’s commitment to strengthening our presence in the UK and contributing to the growth of the clean energy sector.

    Shemara Wikramanayake, Chief Executive Officer of Macquarie Group, said:   

    We believe that infrastructure investment helps create strong foundations for economic growth, job creation, better services for the public and stronger communities. We are fully invested in the UK’s success and look forward to playing our part in delivering the investment the country needs.

    Dr Rick Springman, Holtec’s President of Global Clean Energy Opportunities, said:   

    Holtec has been part of the UK’s nuclear fabric for over 30 years. We recognise the UK’s long-term commitment to nuclear energy to drive forward government missions on clean energy and economic growth.

    Our planned advanced manufacturing factory in South Yorkshire will bring thousands of skilled, highly-paid engineering jobs to the region while supporting tens of thousands more in the UK’s wider manufacturing supply chains.

    The potential size of the prize of this investment is significant. Depending on future SMR order books it could open up a £30bn export market over ten years adding billions of pounds to the UK economy. Over the coming months Holtec will be finalising its full factory plans and designs based on its UK and international order book.

    This follows the announcement earlier this week that up to 500 UK manufacturing jobs are set to be supported as bus operator Go Ahead confirms a major £500 million investment to decarbonise its fleet including. This includes creating a new dedicated manufacturing line and partnership with Northern Ireland-based UK bus manufacturer Wrightbus.    

    Yesterday, the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero gave the green light for a new scheme to help unlock billions in investment in energy storage infrastructure. This could see the first significant long duration energy storage facilities in nearly 4 decades, helping to create back up renewable power and bolster the UK’s energy security.    

    And it also builds on the Government confirming funding to launch the UK’s first carbon capture sites in Teesside and Merseyside. Two new carbon capture and CCUS enabled hydrogen projects will create 4,000 new jobs, in a boost for the economy and British industry, helping remove over 8.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions each year – the equivalent of taking around 4 million cars off the road.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Tidalwave of clean energy investment worth billions unlocked ahead of Investment Summit

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Thousands of jobs in green industries announced as the UK Government welcomes more than £24 billion of private investment for pioneering energy projects ahead of the International Investment Summit on 14th October.

    • Thousands of jobs in energy sector to be created across the UK up to £24 billion worth of investment secured ahead of International Investment Summit.
    • Boost for clean energy industries demonstrates vote of confidence in UK and government’s growth mission.
    • Comes as Prime Minister puts investment and growth at heart of first Council of Nations and Regions meeting in Scotland today.

    Thousands of jobs in green industries announced as the UK Government welcomes more than £24 billion of private investment for pioneering energy projects ahead of the International Investment Summit on 14th October.        

    The investments confirmed by private investors today will deliver growth in the clean energy sector across our nations and regions, from Yorkshire to Suffolk and Aberdeen to Stow, representing a huge vote of confidence in the UK and long-term growth.       

    Driven by the government’s clear path to growth creating the conditions for businesses to thrive, the billions worth of investments from leading companies include Iberdrola – one of the biggest energy companies in Europe – doubling their investment in the UK, Orsted unlocking £8bn and GreenVolt £2.5bn of investment in offshore wind farms, and SeAh Wind UK announcing a £225 million expansion of their investment in the North East to build a state-of-the-art wind technology manufacturing facility in Teesside, solidifying the UK’s position as a world leader in the wind power industry.   

    In only 100 days, the government has overturned the nine-year onshore wind ban in 72 hours, consented more solar than ever before, secured the most successful renewable auction round in history, and launched Great British Energy.     

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:    

    Today’s investments are a huge vote of confidence in this government and our relentless focus to drive growth across the UK.

    Whether you’re in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland or England – we are creating the conditions for businesses to thrive, and our International Investment Summit will be a springboard for every part of the UK to be an engine of innovation and investment.

    Today I’m convening the first ever Council of Nations and Regions, because it is when we work together in the spirit of genuine partnership, that we can deliver the real change people want to see and improve opportunities for all.  

    Iberdrola Executive Chairman Ignacio Galán said:    

    After having invested more than £30bn in the last 15 years, the clear policy direction, stable regulatory frameworks and overall attractiveness of the UK are leading us to double our investments for 2024-28, reaching up to £24bn.

    This is a vote of confidence in the UK’s clear and stable policies and is a major boost to the economy and the path towards green energy security and Net Zero. The benefits of electrification in terms of energy security, industrial development, jobs and decarbonisation are shared ambitions of the UK and Iberdrola.

    The investments demonstrate further progress on the government’s clean energy mission and a major boost to the UK economy three days before the first International Investment Summit on 14 October, which will gather UK leaders, high-profile investors and businesses from across the world to deepen our partnership to drive investment and growth.    

    It also comes as the Prime Minister today convenes the first Council of the Nations and Regions, delivering on a manifesto promise to rewire the way UK Government operates. Focussed on investment and growth, the Council will see First Ministers and Deputy First Minister from the Devolved Governments come together with regional mayors to collaborate and seize opportunities to secure long-term investment and boost growth. The agenda, agreed with attendees, includes discussion on how to boost growth and inward investment across the UK, including through an industrial strategy and the Investment Summit.    

    The Prime Minister will also hold bilateral meetings and a joint meeting with the Devolved Government First Ministers and Deputy First Minister focussed on supporting intergovernmental relations as we continue to reset our relationship and work together to deliver for people across the UK.     

    Today’s investments include:    

    • Iberdrola doubling their investment in the UK, through Scottish Power, from £12bn to £24bn over the next 4 years, which includes £4bn for the East Anglia 2 wind farm off the Suffolk coast which was unlocked by this Government’s expanded allocation at the most recent wind auction round. Iberdrola Executive Chairman Ignacio Galan has also today confirmed that the UK has become their largest Investment destination.
    • Orsted and Greenvolt confirming that the Government’s recent expanded offshore wind auction means their projects will unlock £8bn (Orsted) and £2.5bn (Greenvolt) of investment respectively in their planned offshore wind farms. Orsted says its commitment will see thousands of jobs for local people, while Greenvolt says it will create up to 2800 construction jobs.
    • SeAH Wind has made an additional £225 million investment into wind technology manufacturing in Teesside, thanks to new backing from UK Export Finance, which expects to create 750 direct jobs by 2027. This brings their total investment into the site at Teesworks up to £900 million and will help them make their ongoing factory build – one of the biggest facilities of its kind worldwide – even bigger.
    • Macquarie supporting investment of £1.3bn into new green infrastructure including its Island Green Power solar farm in Stow, as a result of planning consents having been granted by the Government, and its Roadchef portfolio company installing electric car ultra-fast charging points across its sites along the UK motorway network.
    • BW Group proceeding with a £300m investment into a new battery energy storage project in Birmingham.
    • Holtec, a major US advanced nuclear engineering company, has confirmed a significant investment of £325 million in a new factory in South Yorkshire which will supply materials for Hinkley Point C and likely Sizewell C power stations. They say this will create up to 490 direct and 280 indirect jobs annually during the construction phase and 1,200 direct engineering jobs created over 20 years.     

    Mads Nipper, CEO of Ørsted A/S said:    

    The reason we are investing in the UK is that alongside the targets for clean energy, we also see the commitment to creating the policy frameworks required to deliver those targets and a government who wants to work with businesses to enable the investments required.

    Lord Nicol Stephen, Chief Executive of Flotation Energy said:  

    Green Volt is a trailblazing, multibillion pound floating offshore wind project which will kickstart jobs and investment by companies right across the UK offshore supply chain. The choice of our HQ in Aberdeen is clear evidence of our strong commitment to support local jobs and businesses wherever possible.

    Chris Sohn, Chief Executive of SeAH Wind, said:    

    With the proactive support of UKEF, our project is progressing smoothly. As we approach the completion of the factory construction, we are committed to ensuring its successful finalization. We aim to become the first monopile manufacturing company in the UK and make a significant contribution to the UK economy.

    Andreas Sohmen-Pao, Chairman of BW Group, said:     

    BW Group is delighted to announce that its subsidiary BW ESS intends to shortly begin construction on two large battery projects in the Midlands – Hams Hall and Berkswell – with a combined capacity of 600 MW. These projects represent a major step forward in enhancing the UK’s energy infrastructure and supporting the transition to renewables.

    I am encouraged by the UK government’s commitment to the clean energy transition and our announcement today highlights BW Group’s commitment to strengthening our presence in the UK and contributing to the growth of the clean energy sector.

    Shemara Wikramanayake, Chief Executive Officer of Macquarie Group, said:   

    We believe that infrastructure investment helps create strong foundations for economic growth, job creation, better services for the public and stronger communities. We are fully invested in the UK’s success and look forward to playing our part in delivering the investment the country needs.

    Dr Rick Springman, Holtec’s President of Global Clean Energy Opportunities, said:   

    Holtec has been part of the UK’s nuclear fabric for over 30 years. We recognise the UK’s long-term commitment to nuclear energy to drive forward government missions on clean energy and economic growth.

    Our planned advanced manufacturing factory in South Yorkshire will bring thousands of skilled, highly-paid engineering jobs to the region while supporting tens of thousands more in the UK’s wider manufacturing supply chains.

    The potential size of the prize of this investment is significant. Depending on future SMR order books it could open up a £30bn export market over ten years adding billions of pounds to the UK economy. Over the coming months Holtec will be finalising its full factory plans and designs based on its UK and international order book.

    This follows the announcement earlier this week that up to 500 UK manufacturing jobs are set to be supported as bus operator Go Ahead confirms a major £500 million investment to decarbonise its fleet including. This includes creating a new dedicated manufacturing line and partnership with Northern Ireland-based UK bus manufacturer Wrightbus.    

    Yesterday, the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero gave the green light for a new scheme to help unlock billions in investment in energy storage infrastructure. This could see the first significant long duration energy storage facilities in nearly 4 decades, helping to create back up renewable power and bolster the UK’s energy security.    

    And it also builds on the Government confirming funding to launch the UK’s first carbon capture sites in Teesside and Merseyside. Two new carbon capture and CCUS enabled hydrogen projects will create 4,000 new jobs, in a boost for the economy and British industry, helping remove over 8.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions each year – the equivalent of taking around 4 million cars off the road.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 420 Years Ago: Astronomer Johannes Kepler Observes a Supernova

    Source: NASA

    In October 1604, a new star appeared in the sky, puzzling astronomers of the day. First observed on Oct. 9, German astronomer Johannes Kepler (1571-1630) began his observations on Oct. 17 and tracked the new star for over a year. During that time, it brightened to magnitude -2.5, outshining Jupiter, and for several weeks remained visible in the daytime. Publication of his detailed observations in 1606 led astronomers to call the star Kepler’s Supernova, today formally designated as supernova SN 1604. Astronomers of the day did not know what caused the star’s sudden appearance and eventual disappearance, but the phenomenon helped shape European cosmology toward the heliocentric model proposed by Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus half a century earlier. Today, astronomers designate SN 1604 as a Type Ia supernova, resulting from the explosion of a white dwarf star, and use ground-based and space-based telescopes to study its remnants.
    Left: Portrait of Johannes Kepler by August Köhler. Middle: Kepler’s book about his observations of the 1604 supernova open to the page depicting the location of the new star. Right: Closeup of Kepler’s illustration of the location of the new star, designated N, in the constellation Ophiuchus near the right foot of the serpent-bearer.
    Italian astronomer Lodovico delle Colombo first observed the supernova in the constellation Ophiuchus on Oct. 9. Kepler, then working in Prague, heard rumors of the new star but did not observe it until Oct. 17. He continued to monitor the star for over a year, inspired by the earlier work of Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe’s observations of a similar phenomenon, the 1572 supernova. The new star quickly brightened to magnitude -2.5, outshining Jupiter, and for three weeks could be seen in the daytime before finally fading into obscurity in March 1606. Kepler could only make naked eye observations, since Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei didn’t turn his newly invented telescope to the skies for another four years after SN 1604 faded from view.
    Later in 1606, Kepler summarized his observations in his book De Stella nova in pede Serpentarii (On the New Star in Ophiuchus’ Foot), published in Prague. SN 1604 is believed to be about 20,000 light years away, near the edge of a dark nebula complex. Kepler and his contemporaries observed not only the last known supernova to occur in the Milky Way Galaxy but also the last supernova visible to the naked eye until 1987. That one, Supernova 1987A, appeared in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a small satellite galaxy of the Milky Way.
    A Type Ia supernova results from a white dwarf drawing in material from a nearby red giant star, the additional mass leading to a runaway thermonuclear explosion.
    Astronomers today understand that what Kepler and others believed as the birth of a new star actually represented the violent death of a star. Astronomers today classify supernovas according to their characteristics, and SN 1604 belongs to the group known as Type Ia supernovas, typically found in binary star systems composed of a white dwarf and a red giant. The gravitation force of the white dwarf draws in material from its larger less dense companion until it reaches a critical mass, around 1.4 times the mass of our Sun. At that point, a runaway thermonuclear chain reaction begins, causing a release of tremendous amounts of energy, including light, that we see as a sudden brightening of an otherwise dim star.
    Images of Kepler’s supernova remnants in different portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Left: X-ray image from the Chandra X-ray Observatory. Middle: Visible image from the Hubble Space Telescope. Right: Infrared image from the Spitzer Space Telescope.
    Supernova explosions leave remnants behind and those of SN 1604 remain visible today. Ground-based and space-based instruments using different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum study these remnants to gain a better understanding of their origins. The remnants of SN 1604 emit energy most strongly in the radio and X-ray parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. In recent years, astronomers have used Type Ia supernovas to determine the rate of expansion of the universe. Because Type Ia supernovas all occur in stars of about 1.4 solar masses, they give out about the same amount of light. This makes them useful as distance indicators – if one Type Ia supernova is dimmer than another one, it is further away by an amount that astronomers can calculate. Based on this information, astronomers believe that the expansion of the universe is accelerating, possibly caused by the presence of a mysterious substance called dark energy.
    Events in world history in 1604:
    January 1 – First performance of William Shakespeare’s play A Midsummer’s Night’s Dream.
    March 22 – Karl IX begins his rule as King of Sweden.
    August 5 – Sokolluzade Mehmed Pasha becomes the new Ottoman Grand Vizier in Constantinople.
    August 18 – England and Spain sign the Treaty of London, ending their 20-year war.
    September 1 – Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhism’s religious text, is installed at Hamandir Sahib in Amritsar, India.
    October 4 – Emperor of Ethiopia Za Dengel is killed in battle with the forces of Za Sellase, who restores his cousin Yaqob to the throne.
    November 1 – First performance of William Shakespeare’s tragedy Othello.
    December 29 – A magnitude 8.1 earthquake shakes the Taiwan Strait causing significant damage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, Courtney, Himes, Hayes Announce Over $16 Million For Lead-Free Homes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    October 09, 2024

    HARTFORD—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representatives Joe Courtney (D-Conn.-02), Jim Himes (D-Conn.-04), and Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.-05) on Wednesday announced over $16 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to protect children under the age of six years old from lead poisoning. The funds are awarded through HUD’s Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Grant Program.

    “Investing in lead paint removal will protect our communities from the lifelong, devastating effects of lead poisoning. This $16 million in funding will help mitigate lead-based paint hazards in older homes, maintain affordable housing, and provide resources to ensure families in Bridgeport, Norwich, and Waterbury can address other health and safety concerns. There is no safe level of lead exposure, and I will keep fighting to ensure everyone in our state has a safe and healthy place to call home,” said Murphy. 

    “Over $16 million will protect families across Connecticut from exposure to the pernicious poison that is lead in their homes. Lead poisoning causes detrimental and irreversible damage, especially to children. Currently, more than 1,000 Connecticut children are affected by lead each year and I am proud that federal funding will work to address this dire crisis,” said Blumenthal.

    “My office and I were pleased to lead the federal effort to advocate on the City of Norwich’s behalf and bring the federal funding home to ensure less children are exposed to the serious dangers of lead paint. The federal funding award is a clear testament to the outstanding work executed by the City, Wayne Sharkey, and his team, and the hours and hours they spent on this application to continue their live-saving work,” said Courtney. 

    “Many New England homes and apartments were constructed well before we knew how dangerous lead paint exposure can be, especially for young children. The over $6 million in federal funding Bridgeport will receive will allow the city to expand its remediation efforts and help ensure children are no longer exposed to lead paint’s harmful effects. When coupled with the Governor’s Lead Free CT Campaign, this investment brings us closer to eliminating lead contaminants in Connecticut once and for all,” said Himes.

    The federal funding announced today will address lead-based paint hazards in the following municipalities:

    1. The City of Waterbury will receive $7,000,000.
    2. The City of Bridgeport will receive $6,006,105.
    3. The City of Norwich will receive $3,157,991.

    The Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Grant Program helps transform communities by fixing older housing, preserving affordable housing, and improving communities and the health of children and families in these communities. In addition to addressing lead-based paint hazards, HUD also offers healthy homes supplemental funding to address other housing related health and safety issues while addressing the lead-based paint. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Golden urges regulators to adopt proposed delay to lobster gauge increase, calls for level playing field with Canadian lobstermen

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) yesterday sent a letter urging the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASFMC) to formally adopt a delay to a lobster gauge increase in the Gulf of Maine until at least July 2025. He called on the Commission to gather more accurate lobster stock data in the meantime while also addressing the unequal regulatory burden between Maine and Canadian lobstermen.

    “It is my hope that the ASFMC will ultimately support a long-term pause of the amendment to allow additional time for the technical committee to consider the stock’s health more carefully.…” Golden wrote. “…These efforts should coincide with robust engagement with your Canadian counterparts to address the regulatory disparity between American and Canadian lobstermen and create a level playing field for all harvesters in the Gulf of Maine.”

    Lobstermen gauge the size of a lobster by measuring its carapace from eye socket to tail. Lobsters that are smaller than the minimum gauge size must be put back in the water so they can grow, protecting the lobster population for the future. According to the ASMFC, lobster stock decline in Lobster Management Area 1 has surpassed 35 percent — the trigger point for an automatic increase in allowable catch size from 3 1/4 inches to 3 5/16 inches. However, Maine fishermen have questioned the data used to justify these changes, including concerns that ASMFC stock data is out of date. 

    This new rule — known as Addendum 27 — was originally scheduled to begin in January 2025. Following calls in April and August from Golden and industry leaders, ASMFC voted to approve a delay until July 2025. However, the Commission has yet to formally adopt the measure — Addendum 31 — which means implementation is still currently slated for January.  

    In his letter, Golden noted that moving forward with the gauge increase is estimated to cause theloss of more than 680 jobs and $59.6 million to Maine’s economy. Any such change in the Gulf of Maine would not apply to Canadian lobstermen.

    “The New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association would like to express our gratitude to Congressman Golden for highlighting the problems associated with an increase in the minimum gauge size in area 1 for lobster,” Dustin Delano, a lobsterman and chief operating officer of the New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association said. “We feel the many negative, unintended consequences in this ‘proactive approach’ in management were severely overlooked, will cause major disruptions to the market, and place American dealers and harvesters at a major disadvantage from their Canadian counterparts.”

    “Congressman Golden’s support to review data used to regulate the lobster fishery is vital to the fishermen’s survival,” Virginia Olsen, commercial lobsterman and director of the Maine Lobstering Union said. “The last thing our industry needs is rules with unintended consequences.”  

    In July, Golden introduced a bipartisan amendment to the federal budget that would block any proposed gauge increase for one year. 

    Golden’s newest letter can be found here, and is included below in full:

     

    +++

     

    October 8, 2024

    Robert Beal
    Executive Director
    Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
    1050 North Highland St, Suite 200 A-N
    Arlington, VA 22201

    Dear Director Beal and Commissioners,

    I am writing to you again requesting that the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) and the American Lobster Board delay the implementation of the Lobster Management Area 1 gauge increase, Addendum XXVII, currently scheduled to begin in January 2025. While I believe that the proposal as written in Addendum XXXI to delay a gauge increase until July 1, 2025, is the better of the two options presented by the ASMFC, I encourage the Commission to proceed solely based on the full consideration of all data sources and a commitment from Canadian regulators to enhance their conservation measures.

    As you know, the intent of Addendum XXVII is to mitigate declining stocks of American lobster proactively, a goal shared by harvesters, dealers, and the ASFMC. In my conversations with lobstermen and dealers, it has always been clear that their top concerns are the sustainability of the stock and the ability for it to be harvested by future generations. That is why, as I previously stated in my letter to you on April 29, 2024, I am concerned that the data used to arrive at the trigger index for a gauge increase is overly precautionary and has limitations that do not entirely reflect the current status of the stock.

    It is my hope that the ASFMC will ultimately support a long-term pause of the amendment to allow additional time for the technical committee to consider the stock’s health more carefully while considering other resiliency measures and incorporating thorough scientific data and objective analysis acceptable to regulators and members of the commercial lobster fishery. Other data that has not been considered or will become available include mandatory harvester reporting, the conservation equivalent from a reduction of overall lobster licenses, and the 2025 lobster stock assessment. These efforts should coincide with robust engagement with your Canadian counterparts to address the regulatory disparity between American and Canadian lobstermen and create a level playing field for all harvesters in the Gulf of Maine.

    Without a longer-term pause, devastating economic consequences are on the horizon for Maine’s lobster industry. For the latest year data is available, it is estimated that if Addendum XXVII goes into effect, it would decrease the value of lobster landings, resulting in a loss of over 680 jobs and $59.6 million to Maine’s economy. I am deeply concerned about how this economic impact would impact the industry and the hundreds of communities in Maine that depend on a viable lobster fishery. Few involved in the fishery or these communities are adequately prepared for the economic disruption that would likely occur.

    These decisions must always include those with significant experience, the harvesters themselves. I trust that you, as the regulators, will also consider and incorporate their invaluable input in matters before you.

    Sincerely,

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Transcript – TODAY Show

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    ALEX CULLEN: The New South Wales and South Australian Government will today hold a Social Media Summit focusing on the danger it poses to younger users.

    Joining us to discuss today’s headlines is Education Minister Jason Clare and 2GB’s Chris O’Keefe. Good morning lads, thank you so much for being with us.

    Minister, let’s start with you. This as new data revealed almost every Aussie primary school student is on social media. They love it, it’s extremely concerning.

    JASON CLARE, MINISTER FOR EDUCATION: It really is, and anyone who’s a mum and dad with children in primary school or high school knows the damage that this social media cesspit can do to our kids. I see it as a parent as well. We’ve seen already the difference that we can make when you ban a mobile phone in schools. We banned mobile phones in schools starting this year right across the country, and it’s having a massive impact, you know, kids are more focused in the classroom, they’re having more fun in the playground.  

    Alex, teachers are telling me that the playgrounds are noisier at lunchtime this year than they were last year because kids don’t have their heads down looking at phones like zombies in the playground, they’re playing with their friends, they’re running around.

    But when the school bell rings at the end of the day, the phones are turned back on and they’re back in that cesspit of social media that has all of that mental health impact on our kids, as well as I’ve got reports that tell me it has a massive impact on their studies as well, if you spend a lot of time on social media after school, then it affects how you go at school.

    And so that’s why the work that Michelle Rowland is doing, the Minister for Communications, in setting a national minimum age for access to social media’s so important, and the work that New South Wales and South Australia are doing today is an important part of that.

    CULLEN: Yeah, too right. Minimum age limit, Chris, at 18, what do you think?  

    CHRIS O’KEEFE: That’s probably a bit high, but, well, 14, 16, whatever it is, just go and do it, they don’t need to do a summit, a victory lap, keep talking about it, getting everyone around tables and, you know, the Labor Governments all around Australia effectively saying, “How good are we, we’re cracking down on social media?” That’s what this is about.

    There would be no parents, no teachers, very few people in society who believes what we’re doing with social media now is the right way forward. There needs to be a minimum age limit. Just get on and do it.

    CULLEN: Yeah, too right. My kids especially, I don’t want them on social media until they’re a lot older, let me tell you.

    But the Australian Education Union has been accused of putting kids last after imposing an immediate ban on the roll out of the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement.

    Minister, let’s bring you in. The AEU says your reforms will short change public schools and increase teachers’ workload. What do you say to that?

    CLARE: Today I’m going to introduce legislation into the Parliament, Alex, to increase funding for public schools, but I want to tie that funding to real and practical reforms to help our children.

    The crux of this is that at the moment the percentage of young people finishing high school’s going backwards, and it’s particularly happening in our public schools. Seven or eight years ago, 83 per cent of students finished high school, now it’s dropped to 73 per cent, and if we’re going to fix that, we’ve got to go all the way back to the start when kids are really young when they’re starting primary school, identify children who are starting behind or falling behind and make sure that we intervene with practical reforms like catch up tutoring. So you get children out of a classroom of 25 or 30, put them in a classroom with three or four, and we know that if you do that right, then children can catch up, they can learn as much in six months as they’d normally learn in 12 months.

    I’ve got $16 billion I want to invest to increase funding for our public schools, but I want to invest it in these practical reforms so we can help children right across the country to catch up when they’re little, and keep up, have more people go on and finish high school and go on to TAFE or go to uni.

    CULLEN: Okay, Chris, just as we [indistinct].

    O’KEEFE: Can we just be honest here for a second, and people might not want to hear this, but at what point are teachers going to hang a big mirror in their staff rooms and think, are we the problem here?

    Because there’s got to be some accountability. You’ve never had children dumber. You’ve got one in three kids who are failing NAPLAN when it comes to numeracy and literacy. That’s not good enough in a country like Australia. The classrooms have never had more money in them. The Governments have never spent more on education, yet our kids have never been dumber.

    So you can draw a straight line and say to yourselves, okay, who is responsible for this? It’s not the Government. Is it the parents? Well, the teachers like to say so, but maybe it’s the teachers.

    So at what point is the union movement and the teachers’ cohort more broadly going to sit with themselves and look, and say, well, are we going to take some accountability here?

    Is it have we got something to answer for? Whenever you raise that, “Oh, no, no, no, but teachers are hard working”. I’m not saying they’re not hard working; I’m just saying they might not be doing a very good job.

    CULLEN: Jason?  

    CLARE: I’m not going to attack our teachers, they do the most important job in the world.

    O’KEEFE: No, of course you’re not, but it’s true. Nobody wants to confront this problem, Minister.

    CLARE: No, and Chris, don’t talk down our kids either, they’re not dumb. But the challenge that we’ve got here, and NAPLAN data shows it, is that one in 10 children are below the minimum standard we set for literacy and numeracy, but kids from poor families and kids from the bush, and Indigenous kids, it’s one in three.

    Now here’s a statistic that will scare you: only 20 per cent of those kids that are behind when they’re little, when they’re eight, have caught up by the time they’re 15. That’s why I say you need practical reforms here that we know work.

    O’KEEFE: And the teachers are holding you over a barrel and trying to stop these reforms from happening, and I think it’s shameful.

    CLARE: Well, and I’m determined to act, and I’ve got $16 billion to invest in these reforms to help to make sure that more children catch up and keep up    

    O’KEEFE: But then why   but why as a government and a Minister are you not going to call out the teaching profession, and more broadly the unions, and say, “Hey guys, not good enough”.

    CLARE: I disagree fundamentally with what the union is arguing, but I back our teachers every single day, because they do such an important job. Many teachers out there, if you ask them, will back these reforms. They grab me every single day and say, “Keep going mate”.

    CULLEN: It’s tough, I know, it’s tough for teachers.

    O’KEEFE: [Indistinct] though don’t they?

    CULLEN: Thank you, you two, always interesting. Jason, Chris, thanks so much, boys

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More than £14 million in joint government and industry funding to boost innovation and working conditions in freight

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Funding will provide more parking for HGVs, better conditions for lorry drivers and support UK businesses to take advantage of the latest technology.

    • lorry drivers will enjoy better rest areas, more parking and improved security thanks to over £12 million in joint government and industry funding
    • funding comes as nearly £2 million also announced to drive innovation and decarbonise freight
    • investment will help strengthen the UK supply chain, support jobs, and get the UK back on track to growth

    More green e-cargo bikes will deliver parcels to people’s doorsteps and better truckstops will help relieve local congestion, thanks to a £14 million boost from both government and industry to drive innovation in freight and improve working conditions. 

    Today (10 October 2024), Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood revealed the 23 successful applicants of up to £4.5 million from the government to improve truckstops and working conditions for lorry drivers.  

    From Immingham Lorry Park in Lincolnshire to Embassy Truck Park in Kent, the upgrades include 430 new lorry parking spaces to relieve local congestion by helping reduce the number of large trucks parking in town centres or on the side of the road. 

    The investment will also help build better dining, changing and rest facilities, as well as new CCTV and secure fencing to boost welfare and security for lorry drivers.  

    The funding is from the third year of the HGV parking and driver welfare grant scheme, which will come in addition to £8 million from industry, for a total funding boost of £12.5 million to improve truckstops.

    See the winning bids for round 3 of the HGV parking and driver welfare grant scheme.

    This investment comes on top of £1.8 million from the government for 10 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to trial new groundbreaking technology for decarbonising freight and driving innovation in the sector. 

    Examples of groundbreaking ideas that will become reality include TUAL working with Wincanton to trial high performance powerbanks for electric lorries, and Innervated Vehicle Engineering working in partnership with Asda to retrofit hydrogen power to small delivery vans.

    This funding is the third tranche of the department’s Freight Innovation Fund Accelerator Programme, a £7 million government investment across 3 years to support the freight sector in deploying AI and automation to improve the way trains, lorries, vans, and ships carry parcels and goods. 

    See the winning projects for the third round of the Freight Innovation Fund.

    Today’s measures will help the government achieve its core mission of getting the country back on track for growth. They will improve working conditions for lorry drivers while pioneering innovation and sustainability across freight to strengthen the UK’s supply chain and support jobs across the country.  

    The announcement comes ahead of the International Investment Summit which will gather UK leaders, high-profile investors and businesses from across the world to discuss how we can deepen our partnership to drive investment and growth.

    Future of Roads Minister, Lilian Greenwood, said: 

    Freight is a crucial engine of our economy and it is only right we do all we can to improve working conditions, pioneer innovation and drive sustainability across the industry. 

    Our funding, combined with investment from the industry, will ensure lorry drivers can enjoy safer parking, a proper rest and a warm meal, while supporting UK businesses to harvest the best of technology to move freight faster, decarbonise our supply chain, and grow the economy for all.

    Today’s £12.5 million for truckstops follows £31 million in previous joint government and industry funding as part of earlier application windows.  

    Together with National Highways Lorry Parking Facilities Improvements Scheme, this takes the total joint investment from the department and the sector to improve lorry roadside facilities to up to £64 million. 

    The funding will be spread across England to ensure all lorry drivers in the country can benefit from better roadside facilities and better working conditions, while supporting local jobs and economic growth. 

    Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the Road Haulage Association, Declan Pang, said:

    We are delighted to see funding allocated to drive improvements to standards and capacity at lorry parks and truck stops across England.

    The grant scheme continues to be a very welcome commitment from government and the industry to bring about much-needed improvements for lorry drivers who are a vital workforce in keeping the country’s supply chains moving. We look forward to seeing the impact of these investments in improving conditions and driver welfare.

    The Freight Innovation Fund is providing highly successful in fostering industry investment, as UK businesses from the first year of the fund have so far raised £97 million in additional capital to fund their innovative projects. 

    Delivered by Connected Places Catapult, the Freight Innovation Fund will give SMEs access to technical and business support from the organisation to develop new groundbreaking projects. 

    Chief Executive Officer at Connected Places Catapult, Erika Lewis, said:

    Building on the success of the Freight Innovation Fund to date, I’m very pleased to welcome a third cohort of high potential innovators onto the Accelerator.

    This programme gives bespoke support to SMEs, working hand-in-hand with industry as they trial their solutions in real-world environments. By supporting new ideas in freight, we are helping to unlock the sector’s potential to be greener and more efficient.

    Roads media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New scheme to attract investment in renewable energy storage

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Long Duration Electricity Storage investment support scheme will boost investor confidence and unlock billions in funding for vital projects

    • Government will unlock investment opportunities in vital renewable energy storage technologies to strengthen energy independence, create jobs and help make Britain a clean energy superpower. 

    • New scheme will remove barriers which have prevented the building of new storage capacity for nearly 40 years, helping to create back up renewable energy. 

    • Increasing long duration storage capacity could lead to billions in system savings, helping reduce bills.

    The UK is a step closer to energy independence as the government launches a new scheme to help build energy storage infrastructure. 

    This could see the first significant long duration energy storage (LDES) facilities in nearly four decades, helping to create back up renewable power and bolster the UK’s energy security. 

    These technologies work like giant batteries by storing renewable energy and releasing it onto the grid and into homes when needed. This includes pumped storage hydro, which stores electricity by pumping water up a reservoir, to be released later. 

    By having a steady supply of clean, home-grown energy, these projects would strengthen the UK’s energy independence, and protect consumers from volatile global gas markets. 

    However, barriers including high upfront costs – despite low operating costs – have held back investment in this critical infrastructure.  

    The investment support scheme announced today will boost investor confidence and unlock billions in funding for vital projects which will help create thousands of jobs and deliver clean power as the country accelerates to net zero.   

    This comes days before the government’s set-piece International Investment Summit which is poised to put the UK back at the global table – kickstarting a decade of economic renewal and giving business confidence and opportunity to invest in the United Kingdom. 

    Energy Minister, Michael Shanks, said: 

    We are wasting no time in unlocking Britain’s vast renewable potential by expanding wind and solar power. But we also need to increase our ability to store this energy for when the sun isn’t shining, or the wind isn’t blowing. 

    We’re reversing a legacy that has seen no new long duration storage built for 40 years – and taking steps to unleash private investment in both established and new technologies.  

    With these projects storing the surplus clean, homegrown energy produced from renewable sources, we can boost our energy security by relying less on fossil fuels, protect household bills, and help deliver our key mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower. 

    The announcement follows a consultation held earlier this year which proposed a ‘cap and floor’ scheme to encourage LDES investment. A cap and floor model would provide a guaranteed minimum income for developers, in return for a limit on revenues. Ofgem has agreed to act as regulator and delivery body and the scheme’s first round is expected to be open to applicants next year. 

    Great Britain currently has 2.8GW of LDES across four existing pumped storage hydro schemes in Scotland and Wales, which already play a significant role in powering the country. 

    Other technologies include liquid air energy storage, compressed air energy storage and flow batteries, which are currently in development and would benefit from investor support. 

    Analysis has found that deploying 20GW of LDES could save the electricity system £24 billion between 2025 and 2050, reducing household energy bills as additional cheaper renewable energy would be available to meet demand at peak times, which would cut reliance on expensive natural gas. 

    Meanwhile, the National Electricity System Operator has estimated that a total of 11.5 to 15.3 GW of LDES will be required by 2050 to achieve net zero. 

    Several projects are currently under development and with some expected to be operational by 2030, and the introduction of an investment support scheme will help deliver them.   

    A similar cap and floor scheme is used for electricity interconnectors which connect Great Britain’s grid with other countries. Introduced in 2014, no floor payments have been made but developers have shared revenues with consumers.   

    Ofgem will design the investment support scheme and under these proposals, it will be split into two application routes, with one focusing on mature technologies, while another will be dedicated to new innovation. 

    This is the latest step in the government’s mission for clean power and energy security, building on the confirmation last week of major funding for two carbon capture sites in Merseyside and Teesside, to create thousands of jobs and attract £8 billion of private investment.  

    It also follows the launch of Great British Energy, lifting the ban on onshore wind and delivering a record number of clean energy projects through its renewables auction – all part of the plan to protect billpayers from volatile energy price spikes driven by fossil fuels.   

    Beatrice Filkin, Director of Major Projects at Ofgem said:  

    We are pleased to see the government’s publication today on its plans for long duration electricity storage. Unlocking investment in this important technology is another significant step towards decarbonisation of the  the power system.  

    We are looking forward to continuing to work closely with government as we take on the role of regulator and investment support scheme delivery body for the sector. 

    Notes to editors 

    • a cap and floor scheme provides revenue support to developers should their gross annual margin (the difference between the revenues from selling electricity back to the grid, and the cost of charging) fall below a set threshold known as the “floor”

    • floor levels are set low to minimise the likelihood of their use, while still providing comfort to investors that operators can meet debt payments in the unlikely scenario that revenues are much lower than forecast. They are not high enough for the asset owners to make a profit (when considering the cost of debt), so there is no incentive for them to seek floor payments – they are merely a form of insurance    

    • in return for consumers underwriting this risk, a revenue cap ensures that LDES asset owners must share some or all profits above a certain level 

    • this announcement follows a consultation on proposals to enable investment in LDES which closed in March 2024. The full response will be published on GOV.UK 

    • the analysis on LDES savings is published here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/long-duration-electricity-storage-scenario-deployment-analysis

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Screen Australia announces $8.1 million of production funding for 15 projects

    Source: Australia Government Statements 4

    10 10 2024 – Media release

    L-R: Love Adjacent director Louise Alston, Watching You creators Alexei Mizin and Ryan van Dijk, and Arisa Trew from online development project, Level Up (photo credit: Mathias Scherrer).
    Screen Australia has announced over $8.1 million in production funding for 15 projects spanning feature film, television and online content. This significant investment reflects Screen Australia’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovative storytelling and content that engages audiences across genres and platforms.
    Among the funded projects are Zac Power, a new animated family feature from Flying Bark Productions and Cheeky Little Media, based on the popular book series of the same name; Leviticus, the latest feature from Causeway Films, the production company behind the global breakout success Talk to Me; romantic comedy Love Adjacent; Stan’s psychological thriller series Watching You; and online series Hoops, from the creative team behind the popular TikTok documentary Transathletica.
    Screen Australia CEO Deirdre Brennan said, “These latest projects reflect the depth of creative storytelling that defines the Australian screen industry. We support projects that entertain and resonate with audiences. Our aim is to champion authentic local voices and ensure our sector remains at the forefront of global storytelling.”
    “For the 2023/24 financial year, Screen Australia invested over $85 million across all 57 funding programs, including over $5.5 million through the First Nations Department, and issued 205 final certificates through the Producer Offset with a total value of $413 million. Demand on Screen Australia support remained high, with the agency supporting just under a third of all applications received. We’ll continue to seek ways to provide impactful support within our limited capacity, prioritising audience connection, industry value and cultural relevance.”
    Over the past year, Australian projects demanded global attention with 61 Australian projects selected for international film festivals and events. Amongst those titles, online series Videoland took out Best Comedy series at the prestigious Festival Series Mania, critically acclaimed debut feature Shayda won the Sundance Audience Award, and Furiosa and Australia/Ireland Co-production The Surfer starring Nicholas Cage led the Australian contingent hosting World Premieres at Cannes Film Festival. Funding stories that reflect and connect remains a focus and in 2023/24, the agency supported a breadth of titles that highlight local screen talent including drama series Top End Bub, feature film JIMPA and a new slate of children’s content including DO NOT WATCH THIS SHOW, an animated adaptation of the popular children’s book series by comedian and author Andy Lee.
    “Our focus is firmly on the future. We’re building a sustainable screen economy that both adapts and inspires. I’m thrilled by the international recognition of our stories and excited for the pipeline of projects set to release before the end of the year including films Memoir of a Snail and The Moogai, along with series’ Thou Shalt Not Steal, Four Years Later and Plum – I can’t wait for Australians to experience them,” continued Brennan.
    The projects funded for production include:

    Chasing Millions: A crime drama set in Belfast 2004, where Northern Ireland has been at peace for six years, but old enmities and mistrust remain. Chasing Millions tells the story of the biggest bank heist in Irish, British (and Australian) history making reluctant partners of ambitious Australian police officer, Diana, with gruff, veteran Northern Irish detective, Crawford, as they investigate and seek to solve the crime while navigating their way through the minefield of a fragile peace. An official Irish-Australian co-production with Irish director Stephen Burke (Maze) at the helm, based on a script by Stephen Burke and Katherine Thomson (Schapelle, House of Hancock). Producers are Jane Doolan (Maze, Wolf) of Mammoth Films, Ireland and Michael Wrenn (Audrey) of Invisible Republic, Australia. It has received major production investment from Screen Ireland, with local distribution by Bonsai Films and international sales by Level K.
    Displaced: A six-part comedy sci-fi series for YouTube that follows a dysfunctional physicist who is accidentally sent back in time and in the process, tries to fix her future by mentoring her younger self. Displaced is a comedy about depression, queerness, making trouble, healing an inner child, and being seen. It is from writer/director Molly Daniels (The InBESTigators, Wispy), writer/producer Jem Splitter (Galacticare) and producer Rachael Morrow. Displaced is produced and developed in association with VicScreen and financed with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation.
    Hoops: From the team behind Transathletica on TikTok, Hoops documents the journey of Transgender Basketballer Lexi Rodgers and her fight to be ruled eligible to play with a NBL1 South team. After a major setback in 2023, Lexi spends the year jumping through hoops – determined against all odds to play in the 2024 season. Hoops is from writer/director Hannah McElhinney, writer Rudy Jean Rigg and executive producer Jamie Searle of Transathletica, with Eliza Bone (Letter for the King) producing.
    Leviticus: The latest horror feature film from the production company behind box office hit Talk to Me, Leviticus is the story of two teenage boys living in a conservative Christian community in regional Victoria, Naim and Ryan. When their attraction to each other is identified by the local pastor, the pair are subjected to a conversion ritual which unknowingly releases an entity that terrorises the town. Leviticus is from writer/director Adrian Chiarella (Totally Completely Fine), and producers Hannah Ngo (Latecomers) and Samantha Jennings and Kristina Ceyton of Causeway Films. It is financed in association with Salmira Productions, and developed and produced in association with VicScreen, who is also supporting post, digital and visual effects (PDV). PDV is also supported by Kojo Studio, with local distribution by Maslow Entertainment and international sales by Studio 301 Films.
    Love Adjacent: When food critic Maggie writes a review that causes top chef Ryan’s restaurant to go under, he is forced to retreat back home and start again from scratch. Coincidentally in the same town for her sister’s wedding, Maggie is determined to continue taking down what Ryan is serving up, that is until catastrophe strikes and Maggie desperately needs Ryan’s help to make her sister’s wedding happen. Love Adjacent is a romantic comedy feature film directed by Louise Alston (Back of the Net) and written by Sarah Mayberry (Neighbours) and Christopher Gist (The Broken Shore), with Kate Whitbread (The Caterpillar Wish) and Spencer McLaren (This Little Love of Mine) producing. It is produced in association with VicScreen, with Umbrella Entertainment distributing locally and Film Seekers managing international sales.
    Posthumous: In this drama, horror feature film, Zoe returns to her family home and estranged father to find some semblance of comfort after her life falls apart, but the discovery of a mysterious videotape threatens to undo everything she knew about her deceased mother’s final days and her own birth. Amidst their shared grief, Zoe and her father face a powerful supernatural force as long-buried events are exposed, and must be reckoned with. Posthumous is from writer/director/producer Josh Tanner (Wandering Soul) and writer/producer Jade van der Lei (6 Festivals), with Joel Anderson (Lake Mungo) executive producing. It is funded in association with Screen Queensland. Financed with support from the Gold Coast Screen Incentive, with local distribution by Kismet Movies.
    Saccharine: In this psychological horror feature from Carver Films (Run Rabbit Run), a lovelorn medical student becomes terrorised by a hungry ghost after taking part in an obscure weight-loss craze: eating human ashes. Saccharine is from writer/director/producer Natalie Erika James and producers Anna McLeish and Sarah Shaw, the team behind Relic. It is produced in association with VicScreen, with local distribution by Maslow Entertainment and international sales by XYZ Films.
    Watching You: A six-part gripping psychological thriller for Stan based on J.P Pomare’s novel The Last Guests. Watching You is created for television by Alexei Mizin and Ryan van Dijk and produced by Jason Stephens and Bree-Anne Sykes. Helen Bowden, Cailah Scobie and Alicia Brown are executive producing. It has received major production investment from Stan and is financed with support from Screen NSW through the Made in NSW Fund. Post, digital and visual effects supported by Screen NSW. Financed in association with and distributed by ITV Studios.
    Zac Power: Based on the popular book series of the same name, Zac Power is an animated family feature from Flying Bark Productions (200% Wolf, 100% Wolf) and Cheeky Little Media (Kangaroo Beach, Ginger and the Vegesaurs). Zac Power’s position as the top teenage spy is compromised after a brilliant new agent arrives. When his recklessness allows an ostentatious supervillain to steal a high-tech weapon, Zac is forced to confront his own flaws and team up with his rival. The film is directed by Alexs Stadermann and David Webster and written by Fin Edquist, John Armstrong, Lawrence Leung and Erica Harrison. It is financed in association with the Australian Children’s Television Foundation.

    Also announced today are 27 television dramas, 23 feature films and six online projects that will share in over $1.7 million of development funding. Of these, 24 projects have been supported through the Generate Fund, 26 through the Premium Fund and six through the Online Development Fund.
    The projects include online action adventure series Amy the Pirate; family music drama feature Piano Mums, following a promising teenage pianist and exploring the power of music and love of family; Skip Ahead project Life of Kea that has been developed into a television drama series; and a second season of the TikTok docuseries Sextistics, which continues to explore the statistics to create a snapshot of gender, sexuality and identity within Australia.
    For the list of projects funded across scripted feature films, scripted television, online and development in the 2023/24 financial year, visit:

    For full details on feature films funded for production so far in the 2024/25 financial year, click here.
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    Media enquiries
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    + 61 2 8113 5915  | [email protected]
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    All other general/non-media enquiries
    Sydney + 61 2 8113 5800  |  Melbourne + 61 3 8682 1900 | [email protected]

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Anthrax vaccine protects sheep and cattle

    Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

    10 Oct 2024

    Livestock producers who manage properties where anthrax has occurred or nearby properties have been reminded to vaccinate their cattle and sheep against anthrax, even though there are no current anthrax cases.

    NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and Local Land Services (LLS) advise annual anthrax vaccination on these high-risk properties.

    NSW DPIRD senior veterinary officer, Amanda Walker, said vaccination is a preventative measure against anthrax, the spores of which can lie dormant in the soil for decades.

    “Vaccination effectively prevents anthrax from occurring and helps break the cycle of spore production, reducing cases of this unpredictable and serious disease that can kill stock of any age or class with no warning,” Dr Walker said.

    “If vaccination is continued over time spores in the environment will die, reducing the risk of anthrax occurring in the future.”

    “Producers should contact their LLS district vet to obtain specific advice for their properties.”

    In the past, most anthrax cases have occurred in areas bordered by Bourke and Moree in the north, to Albury and Deniliquin in the south.

    LLS veterinarian, Scott Ison, said the disease is caused by the bacterium, Bacillus anthracis, and affected stock often show few or no signs of ill health before they die.

    “Farmers can apply to use the vaccine through their LLS district veterinarian and once authorised, they can place an order for the vaccine with their local rural supplier or private veterinarian,” Dr Ison said.

    “Farmers should suspect anthrax if animals die suddenly, as in many cases there may be no other signs. The disease may begin in a flock or herd with the deaths of single animals over a few days before increasing to dramatic losses in a very short time.”

    Anthrax is listed as prohibited matter under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 and is a notifiable disease in NSW.

    Anyone who suspects anthrax must report it immediately by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline, 1800 675 888.

    More information about preventing anthrax is available on the NSW DPIRD website or from LLS, 1300 795 299.

    Media contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New study reveals Australian honeybees’ favourite legume flowers

    Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

    10 Oct 2024

    The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) has released a new report revealing the pasture legume flowers that are the most attractive to Australian honeybees.

    NSW DPIRD senior research scientist and Clover4Bees project leader, Dr Richard Hayes said primary producers have always had the option to use forage legumes that support honey production, thereby enhancing resources for honeybees and fostering collaboration with apiarists. However, little was known of the relative value of the range of pasture legume species for honey bees – until now.

    The two-year pilot project, funded by AgriFutures Australia, evaluated 23 different pasture legume species across four NSW DPIRD research stations, focusing on their flower attributes, bee preferences, and nectar characteristics.

    “Out of 23 pasture legume species, six leading contenders were selected based on their flower attributes, bee preferences, and nectar characteristics,” Dr Hayes said.

    “Species like subterranean clover and biserrula were found to have low nectar yields and sugar concentrations, resulting in few bee visits.

    “Meanwhile, our top performers were woolly pod vetch and arrowleaf clover, which showed high potential due to their attractiveness to bees.”

    Balansa clover, gland clover, Persian clover, and crimson clover were also identified as highly enticing for honeybees, making them excellent candidates for supporting honey production and pollination.

    Dr Hayes said the Clover4Bees project highlights the need for further research and collaboration with other agricultural sectors to enhance the use of these legumes.

    “The results have come at a crucial time as environmental challenges and limited access to public lands have prompted the honeybee industry to explore alternative floral resources,” he said.

    “By creating a more pollinator-friendly landscape, all Australian agricultural industries can collectively ensure the sustainability of honey production and support the health of bee populations in the face of challenges like the varroa mite.”

    To view the report, please visit the AgriFutures website.

    For more information on NSW DPIRD Honeybee research, please visit our website.

    Images are available for download here

    Media contact:
    For more information, please contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UniSA appoints new Director of Defence and Space

    Source: University of South Australia

    10 October 2024

    The University of South Australia has appointed Ryan McClenaghan as its new Director of Defence and Space, responsible for steering research and education across the sector at a pivotal time in the nation’s defence history.

    McClenaghan has made a substantial impact in his most recent role as Director, Defence and National Security at Fleet Space Technologies, one of Australia’s leading satellite companies with a global presence. During his three-year tenure at Fleet, McClenaghan secured millions of dollars in defence contracts.

    At UniSA, he will draw on his extensive international experience with defence companies, particularly in the United States and United Kingdom, including working across the AUKUS partnership with government and industry.

    Originally from Belfast, Northern Ireland, McClenaghan moved to Australia in 2006, co-founding two start-up companies and working in various roles in the intervening years, including with the Australian Industry Group and Micro-X, an award-winning ASX-listed x-ray technology company.

    Announcing the appointment, UniSA Director: Enterprise Partnerships, Peter Stevens, says McClenaghan will strengthen the University’s defence and space footprint with industry and governments in Australia and worldwide.

    “South Australia is at the forefront of Australia’s space and defence sector, responsible for delivering a $368 billion nuclear submarine construction project for the AUKUS alliance, hosting the Australian Space Agency, and supporting more than 100 space-related companies,” Stevens says.

    “Academia, industry and government need to work hand-in-hand to ensure the sector thrives, highlighting the importance of this appointment. Ryan and his experienced team will work closely to bridge the gap between innovation and operational efficiency as well as collaborating to develop the skills required to deliver on our commitments.”

    UniSA has bolstered its sector credentials in recent years with programs like the Global Executive MBA in Defence and Space, software degree apprenticeships with BAE Systems and ASC, the Venture Catalyst Space program and the Southern Hemisphere Space Studies Program.

    “All these underpin our strengths in research and collaboration in areas such as the SmartSat CRC and iLAuNCH Trailblazer program, which will be amplified by the creation of Adelaide University in 2026, bringing together the State’s two biggest universities,” Stevens says.

    Excited by the challenge, McClenaghan says he is looking forward to leading UniSA’s defence and space strategy at such a critical time.

    “As Australia seeks to grow its sovereign defence and capabilities, and Adelaide University is created, it is more important than ever that we align research with industry engagement and technology transfer and support the skills required for the future,” McClenaghan says.

    He will commence his new role on Monday 14 October.

    …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Media contact: Candy Gibson M: +61 434 605 142 E: candy.gibson@unisa.edu.au

    Other articles you may be interested in

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $410,000 to upgrade health facilities on the Mid North Coast

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 10 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional Health

    The Mid North Coast Local Health District will benefit from a $410,000 funding boost from the NSW Government to upgrade health facilities in the region.

    The Minns Labor Government is investing a total of almost $12 million in 61 projects as part of the Regional Health Minor Works Program.

    Port Macquarie Base Hospital, Kempsey District Hospital and Macksville District Hospital will share a $235,000 allocation to replace outdated waste management systems in each facility’s operating theatres.

    Wauchope District Memorial Hospital will also receive $175,000 to replace the decking structure between the main building and the hospital’s rehabilitation unit, improving accessibility for patients and staff at the facility.

    Quotes attributable to NSW Regional Health Minister Ryan Park:

    “The Minns Labor Government is committed to investing in health infrastructure to support better health outcomes for rural and regional communities.

    “This investment will allow Mid North Coast Local Health District to upgrade equipment and health facilities to enhance the working environment for health staff and improve patient experiences.

    “The program is one of a number of investments our Government is making to strengthen rural and regional health services, so people have access to the best possible care close to home.”

    Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Port Macquarie, Cameron Murphy MLC:

    “I’m proud to be part of a government which is making this important investment in regional health facilities.

    “This funding will benefit staff and patients, and it means we can upgrade outdated systems in operating theatres in Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Macksville and also improve accessibility for patients in Wauchope.”

    Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Oxley, Anthony D’Adam MLC:

    “Through investments like this one, our government is improving access to care in our regional, rural and remote communities.

    “This investment in health infrastructure supports improved working environments for our healthcare staff.”

    Quotes attributable to Jill Wong, Mid North Coast Local Health District Acting Chief Executive:

    “The replacement of outdated waste management systems at Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Macksville hospitals will ensure that we can continue to safely remove surgical waste at each of the facilities in an appropriate manner.

    “The upgrade to the deck structure at Wauchope District Memorial Hospital will enable patients, staff and visitors have improved accessibility when moving between the main building and the rehabilitation unit.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: These 5 ‘post-truth’ claims are fuelling the water wars in Australia

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Quentin Grafton, Australian Laureate Professor of Economics, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University

    Mr Privacy/Shutterstock

    The contest between truth and post-truth matters when trying to solve big public policy questions. One of these questions is how to sustainably manage water in Australia for the benefit of all.

    Truths can be confirmed or, at the very least, can be proved false. Post-truths, however, are opinions that masquerade as facts and are not supported by verifiable evidence.

    Post-truths muddy political and policy debates. They leave everyday people simply not knowing what to believe anymore. This prevents good policy being enacted.

    As I outline in a speech to the National Press Club today, several post-truths, espoused by a wide range of people and organisations, are getting in the way of Australian water reforms. These reforms are essential to secure a better water future for the driest inhabitable continent.

    Water policy in Australia is now at a crucial juncture. This year is the 20th anniversary of the National Water Initiative that was meant to lay the foundations for sustainable water management. The completion date of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan, accompanied by billions of dollars in funding, is just two years away.

    Yet the so-called “water wars” are raging again. Here are five post-truth claims to watch out for.

    Australia’s water wars are raging again.
    Shutterstock

    1. Water buybacks to sustain rivers harm communities

    The Australian government buys water rights from willing sellers to return water to the environment. These buybacks have been controversial and blamed, with little evidence, for causing many farmers to become distressed and bankrupt, and to leave farming.

    It’s true some irrigators are opposed to buybacks and prefer subsidies to build more efficient irrigation infrastructure on their properties.

    But converting state water licences to a system of tradeable water rights gifted irrigators rights now worth tens of billions of dollars. In return, the government was supposed to buy back enough water from willing sellers to return rivers to health.

    But insufficient water has been bought back from irrigators, for a couple of reasons.

    First, the federal budget for buybacks was much less than needed to reduce irrigators’ water use to sustainable levels.

    Second, the Abbott government capped buybacks in 2015. Its justification was the post-truth claim, based on “low quality” consultant reports, that buybacks were “destroying” irrigation communities.

    The truth is, buybacks from willing sellers are much more cost-effective than taxpayer-subsidised irrigation infrastructure. Research shows infrastructure subsidies give irrigators an incentive to use even more water.

    And there is robust evidence that, overall, the net social and economic impacts of water buybacks are positive. They give sellers the flexibility to adjust their farming practices in ways that are best for them.

    2. Efficient irrigation ‘saves’ water and increases stream flows

    Australia’s irrigation industry, in general, uses water efficiently. It’s a result of many practices, ranging from drip irrigation to covered water channels to digital monitoring technology, among other things.

    However, spending on irrigation efficiencies has not saved much water.

    Landholders have been paid billions of dollars for efficiency improvements. These same taxpayer dollars, paradoxically, may have reduced stream flows in some of our largest rivers. That’s because more efficient irrigation can decrease the amount of water flowing from farmers’ fields to rivers and aquifers.

    3. Australia has world-best water management

    Australia has one of the world’s largest formal water markets. But that doesn’t mean everyone benefits.

    For a start, the water markets are unjust. First Peoples, who were dispossessed of their land and water from 1788 onwards, still have only a tiny share of Australia’s water rights.

    In key areas, Australian water management is also far from best practice. For example, building weirs and dams has partly or completely disconnected groundwater from surface water and prevented or restricted the water flows to floodplains and wetlands that keep them healthy.

    Fish, bird and invertebrate habitats have been destroyed as a result. This must change if we are to avoid further degradation of river ecosystems.

    There is no more obvious sign of the ongoing destruction of Australia’s waterways than the fish kills along the Baaka (Lower Darling River) at Menindee. This happened in 2018–19, during a drought, and again in early 2023, when there was no drought.

    The New South Wales Office of the Chief Scientist and Engineer investigated the 2023 fish kill. Its report found:

    Mass fish deaths are symptomatic of degradation of the broader river ecosystem over many years […] failure in policy implementation is the root cause of the decline in the river ecosystem and the consequent fish deaths.

    4. All Australians have reliable access to good-quality water

    It’s true that residents of Australia’s biggest cities and towns enjoy reliable, good-quality water supplies 24/7. But it’s also true that hundreds of thousands of Australians in rural and remote areas regularly face multiple drinking water threats.

    These threats result in temporary public advice notices to boil water to remove microbiological pollution and health warnings about contaminants that boiling cannot remove, such as nitrates. A few dozen communities have elevated levels of the “forever chemicals”, PFAS, in their tap water.

    5. Dams can ‘drought-proof’ Australia

    It’s true that dams have helped Australia cope with variable rainfall from year to year. It’s also true, however, that despite building very large water storages in the 20th century, too much water is being diverted in multiple places. They include the Murray–Darling Basin, Australia’s “food bowl”.

    Australia is over-extracting the available water in its dams. It’s happening in the northern Murray-Darling Basin, where there is little control over how much overflow from rivers onto floodplains can be taken.

    Over-extraction is a big problem, especially during long droughts when there may be very little water to spare. It means the livelihoods of downstream irrigators with perennial plantings, such as grapes or fruit trees, are at stake. If their trees die, so do their businesses.

    A sustainable future must be built on facts

    Responding to Australia’s water crises is a huge challenge. It’s made even more difficult if we accept the post-truth claims, rather than verifiable facts about how we manage our waters.

    Real reform is needed to secure a sustainable Australian water future. To achieve this, we must tell the truth, acknowledge what’s wrong and be clear about what works and what doesn’t.

    Quentin Grafton receives funding from the Australian Research Council in relation to his water research. He is a former Member of the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists (2010-2011).

    John Williams is affiliated as founding member of the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists, a former Chief CSIRO Land and Water and former NSW Comissioner of Natural Resources.

    – ref. These 5 ‘post-truth’ claims are fuelling the water wars in Australia – https://theconversation.com/these-5-post-truth-claims-are-fuelling-the-water-wars-in-australia-239941

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Federal electoral divisions in New South Wales formalised [10 October 2024]

    Source: Australian Electoral Commission

    AECMedia

    Updated: 10 October 2024

    The next federal election will be conducted on new electoral division boundaries in New South Wales after a notice was published today in the Commonwealth Government Notices Gazette.

    While final names and boundaries for House of Representative seats in New South Wales were announced on 12 September 2024, today’s gazettal is the step that formally sets them in place. Today’s gazettal also provides people with further details about the boundaries.

    • Maps and geospatial data for the new electoral divisions now available.

    More detailed division maps and the final redistribution report will be available after the Minister has tabled material in both houses of Parliament.

    Editor’s notes:

    • People on the electoral roll who are affected by the redistribution will now be moved into their new federal electoral division in readiness for the election. No action is necessary.
    • While the new electoral divisions will be in place from Thursday 10 October 2024, they will only apply from the next full federal election onwards. Any federal by-election conducted before that point must be conducted on existing divisions to avoid overlap in, or missing, representation.
    • Further information about the redistribution process

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Newcomers take flight in aviation advisory body

    Source: Australian Ministers for Infrastructure and Transport

    The Australian Government welcomes Mr Rob Walker as the new chair of the General Aviation Advisory Network (GAAN), with Mr Greg Tyrrell also joining the network as a new member.

    Mr Walker has more than 30 years experience in stakeholder engagement and public affairs in the aviation sector, currently serving as Chief Executive Officer of the Regional Aviation Association of Australia.

    Mr Tyrrell also brings extensive experience to the network, including as the Executive Director of the Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems – the peak body advocating for the drone and advanced air mobility sectors in Australia, whose membership has grown to 4,500 under his leadership since 2014.

    Their expertise will build on that of the current members to support the GAAN’s role in providing advice to me on matters affecting the general aviation sector. 

    The network is also a forum where industry representatives can identify opportunities to work collaboratively to respond to pressures, trends and issues facing the general aviation sector and assist in the development of policy.

    I would like to thank Mr Andrew Andersen, the outgoing chair, for his passionate advocacy for general aviation and service in the role since 2019. 

    Mr Anderson will continue to play key roles in the sector, including as the independent chair of the Aviation Safety Advisory Panel of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

    I also thank outgoing members Dr Reece Clothier and Ms Catherine Fitzsimons for their service on the network. 

    Dr Clothier continues to play a critical role in national and international forums shaping the regulation of the Uncrewed Aircraft Systems and advanced air mobility, with Ms Fitzsimons continuing as Chief Pilot at WardAir, a flight training school in Bathurst, New South Wales.

    The new appointments are for three-year periods to 2027. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Any climate target change must be matched by accelerated climate action

    Source: Scottish Greens

    10 Oct 2024 Climate Climate Action

    Scotland must use every lever available to cut emissions.

    More in Climate

    Any change to Scotland’s climate targets must be met by robust plans for accelerated climate action, says Scottish Green co-leader Patrick Harvie.

    Mr Harvie’s comments come ahead of today’s Stage 1 Scottish Government debate on the Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) Bill, which will amend its targets following confirmation from the UK Climate Change Committee that Scotland’s 2030 targets are now out of reach.

    Mr Harvie said:

    “If the Scottish Government is changing its climate targets then it must urgently upscale and accelerate the action it is taking to meet them. Business as usual isn’t good enough, we cannot continue as we are, not if we want to have any kind of liveable future.

    “The reality is that we are years behind where we need to be. The collective failure to hit our targets must be a source of shame for all parties, but it must also be a wake-up call.

    “From rejecting new fossil fuel exploration to meaningfully investing in public transport and active travel to reduce the number of cars on our roads, we need to see bold new thinking and robust plans to get there.

    “The challenge has been made far harder by 14 years of Tory governments who were actively working against our climate, but that does not excuse the failures of successive Scottish Governments.”

    Last month the Scottish Greens published The Climate Reset, a policy paper by the Scottish Green MSP group that called for the Scottish Government to decarbonise transport by removing peak rail fares and diverting funding from its climate wrecking plans to dual the whole A96 into public transport.

    The paper called for a real and urgent transition plan for the energy sector, urging the Scottish Government to maintain its presumption against new oil and gas exploration while rejecting the proposed expansion of the gas-fuelled power station at Peterhead.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City marks World Mental Health Day and World Homeless Day

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Housing and mental health are often linked. Living in stable, good quality, safe housing is a protective factor for good mental health and wellbeing – but poor mental health can make it harder to cope with housing problems, and being homeless or having problems where you live can make your mental health worse.

    Homelessness, rough sleeping and poor living conditions can also make people feel more isolated and more likely to experience stigma and poorer health.

    A World Homeless Day stall will be in Queen Square from 10am today supported by Wolverhampton BID on behalf of Alternative Giving CIO, P3, Changing Lives, Wolverhampton Homes, Good Shepherd Ministry, The Haven, SUIT and others. 

    John Denley, Wolverhampton’s Director of Public Health, said: “Around a quarter of people in England are likely to experience a mental health problem but, among people experiencing homelessness, and those at risk of homelessness, that number is much higher.

    “As a city, we are committed to supporting people who are homeless, who may risk losing their home, or are otherwise suffering from mental health issues, and – this World Mental Health Day and World Homeless Day – I would encourage people to seek the support they, or their loved ones, may need.”

    Following the Wolverhampton Homeless Health Needs Audit, recognising the barriers that people experiencing homelessness may face in accessing mental health support, homelessness and mental health has been recognised as a key priority for 2024/2025 by the One Wolverhampton Adult Mental Health Strategic Working Group.

    Chair Laura Brookes said: “Poor mental health is both a cause and consequence of homelessness. Drawing on people’s lived experiences to develop a peer support model for mental health and wellbeing in Wolverhampton will enable people experiencing homelessness to access tailored support to build their social and recovery capital.”

    Tom Hayden, Chief Executive Officer of the Good Shepherd Wolverhampton, added: “At the Good Shepherd, we offer a range of services to support people experiencing many complex issues including homelessness and mental health, and, so often, those two will be linked.

    “For example, we run a Breakfast Club where we provide food and drink, a shower and a change of clothes to those who have been rough sleeping, but from there we have been able to help people into accommodation, or to access some of the support groups that we deliver on a weekly basis.

    “These include specific groups to discuss experiences and emotions, meaningful activities including walking, cooking classes and fishing, and our LEAP project, which offers people with lived experience structured volunteering opportunities alongside studying for a diploma.”

    If you are experiencing difficulties with your mental health, housing problems or homelessness, or are worried about the cost of living, please know that you are not alone – and there is a range of support to help you:

    • If you need urgent help with your mental health or you are struggling to cope, call NHS 111 and select option 2 (mental health option) to be connected to your local mental health support team, or text 07860 025 281
    • Your doctor or GP is there to help you with your mental health as well as your physical health
    • Wolverhampton Sanctuary Hub offers out of hours support – book a face to face appointment for by calling freephone 0808 802 2288, texting 07860 065 168 or emailing wolverhamptonsanctuaryhub@rethink.org. 
    • Wolverhampton NHS Talking Therapies offers psychological therapy for people experiencing common mental health problems including anxiety, depression, stress and low mood
    • Visit Hub of Hope to find local support that’s right for you.

    If you need someone to talk to, contact:

    • SANE – call 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm to 10.30pm)
    • Samaritans – call 116 123 
    • Rethink Mental Illness – call 0300 5000 927 (Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4pm)
    • Mind – call 0300 123 3393.

    For housing and homelessness advice, visit Homelessness. If you are homeless, or are at risk of becoming homeless very soon, contact Homeless Services on 01902 556789 (option 2) or via homeless.services@wolverhamptonhomes.org.uk.

    Seen someone sleeping rough? Connect them with support by making a referral through StreetLink.

    For information about support services for homeless people see Street Support Wolverhampton.

    Good Shepherd Wolverhampton and P3 offer support programmes for those in crisis and people experiencing homelessness, including help with accessing accommodation.

    Tailored advice for landlords and tenants in the private sector can be found at Rent With Confidence.

    Support with the cost of living support is available through the council at Cost of Living Support and further information can be found on the Government’s Help for Households website.

    If you would like to take action to help, Alternative Giving gathers donations online or through its 16 donation points and two ‘tap to donate’ points around the city centre. 100% of these donations are then directed to organisations and charities that work to provide long term support for the city’s vulnerable and homeless people. Find out more at Wolverhampton Change.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Students encouraged to look after mental health

    Source: Northern Ireland Direct

    Date published:

    A new term at college or university has begun and students are being encouraged to look after their mental health. Students feeling down or under stress should talk to someone they trust and get support.

    Stress and pressure

    This is a period of huge change for students. New responsibilities can lead to feelings of stress, such as:

    • living away from home
    • moving into a new house
    • making new friends
    • starting a new course

    Some students may also need to find a part-time job to help support their studies, which can be an added pressure.

    A certain amount of stress is normal but it’s really important students know that looking after their mental health is just as important as looking after their physical health.

    Information booklet for students

    There is a booklet for students full of practical tips and information. It covers topics such as money, body image, home life, feeling down, and family issues.

    It also contains a list of helpful local organisations and websites which offer support.

    If you’re worried about someone

    Untreated mental health problems can lead to self-harm and suicide.

    Someone who’s having suicidal thoughts may not ask for help, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want help and support. It can be difficult finding the words to express what they are feeling.

    You can find out more about what to do if you think someone might be in need of immediate help on the mental health emergency – if you’re in crisis or despair page.

    Lifeline

    You can also talk to trained counsellors at any time by contact the crisis helpline Lifeline at:

    More useful links

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CHP announces two new confirmed melioidosis infection cases

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CHP announces two new confirmed melioidosis infection cases
    CHP announces two new confirmed melioidosis infection cases
    ***********************************************************

         The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (October 10) said that two new confirmed melioidosis infection cases had been recorded from October 4 to 9.     The first case involves an 83-year-old female with underlying illness who lives in Sham Shui Po. She developed a fever and cough on September 20 and was admitted to Prince of Wales Hospital on October 1.     The second case involves an 82-year-old male with underlying illness who lives in Kwun Tong. He developed a right neck swelling in August, and a fever, cough and shortness of breath on September 20 and was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital on the same day.     The patients are in stable condition. Their clinical samples were confirmed positive for Burkholderia pseudomallei upon testing.      The CHP is investigating the infection source of the cases. Epidemiological investigations are ongoing. So far, 18 melioidosis infection cases have been recorded in Hong Kong this year. In 2023, 17 melioidosis infection cases were recorded.     A spokesman for the CHP reiterated that person-to-person transmission and animal-to-human transmission are rare, but melioidosis bacteria can survive in the local environment. Melioidosis is an endemic disease in Hong Kong and melioidosis cases have been recorded in Hong Kong each year. According to literature, infection cases are more common after typhoons or storms. The bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei of melioidosis in soil and muddy water may become exposed to the ground after typhoons or storms, and the bacteria could spread more easily with strong winds or storms. As such, the number of melioidosis cases may increase.     The CHP reminded members of the public that melioidosis can be spread by contaminated soil and water during and after typhoons and storms. Where practicable, people should stay indoors during typhoons and storms, avoid travelling to areas with potential flooding, and do not wade in or have contact with muddy water and soil. In addition, high-risk individuals should avoid paths near stormwater drains where aerosols may be generated from contaminated water.     Members of the public should also take the following preventive measures against infection: 

    Avoid contact with contaminated soil;
    Wear appropriate protective clothing or footwear when participating in activities with possible contact with soil or water, e.g. using gloves and wearing boots. High-risk individuals may also consider wearing a surgical mask;
    Wash or shower after exposure to contaminated water or soil;
    Always clean any wounds as soon as possible and cover any cuts or grazes with waterproof dressings;
    Wash hands with liquid soap and water after handling soil or gardening;
    Observe food hygiene and avoid drinking raw water; and
    Travellers can contract the disease through outdoor water sports. Risk of infection can be minimised by avoiding exposure to water sources (such as rivers, ponds or lakes) that might be contaminated.

              ???The CHP appealed to members of the public to seek medical advice if they develop symptoms, in particular people with diabetes or other immunocompromised conditions, in order to receive an appropriate medical diagnosis and treatment. For more information on melioidosis, please visit the website of the CHP at www.chp.gov.hk/en/healthtopics/content/24/101110.html.

     
    Ends/Thursday, October 10, 2024Issued at HKT 17:15

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Road safety improvements begin on busy commuter route

    Source: City of Derby

    Work to deliver a package of upgrades to Ashbourne Road is under way.

    Last year the Council was awarded £475,000 from the Government’s Safer Roads Fund (SRF) to improve safety on Ashbourne Road between Markeaton Island and Friar Gate.

    This section has been identified as high-risk and requiring improvement by the Road Safety Foundation.

    Following a 12-week community consultation, work is now underway to introduce collision reduction measures and to make active travel, such as walking and cycling easier. Measures include:

    • Improvements to existing pedestrian crossings
    • Upgrades to existing crossings on side roads leading to Ashbourne Road
    • New infrastructure to reduce speed.

    These works are expected to be completed in 2025 and will be conducted during off-peak periods as much as possible to minimise disruption.

    Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability, said: 

    We’re committed to creating a safer, greener transport network to Derby and Ashbourne Road is a key element of that.

    The improvements we’re carrying out on this busy commuter route will improve safety for countless road users and make it easier for people to choose greener alternatives.

    The people of Derby have played a key part in these improvements, and I want to thank everyone who took the time to share their views in our consultation.

    The Safer Roads Fund was introduced by the Department for Transport (DfT) to support road safety in England as part of a wider package of investment in Britain’s transport network. In total, £47.5 million of Government funding is being invested to improve 27 of England’s most dangerous roads.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CMA response to Scottish Law Commission report on review of contract law consultation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published its response to the Scottish Government’s consultation on the Scottish Law Commission report on review of contract law.

    Documents

    CMA response to consultation on Scottish Law Commission report on review of contract law

    PDF, 133 KB, 3 pages

    Details

    The CMA has responded to Scottish Law Commission report on the review of contract law consultation, led by the Scottish Government.

    The response highlights the changes to the landscape around contract law as a result of the DMCC Act 2024 granting new powers to the CMA in relation to consumer protection law.

    For queries relating to the CMA’s response, please contact the CMA Scotland team by email at scotland@cma.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 October 2024

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: There’s a new school funding bill in parliament. Will this end the funding wars?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew P. Sinclair, Lecturer and Researcher of Education Policy, School of Education, Curtin University

    On Thursday, federal Education Minister Jason Clare introduced a school funding bill to parliament.

    The bill aims to set a new “floor” for how much the federal government contributes towards public school funding in Australia.

    It would mean the Commonwealth has to contribute at least 20% of the schooling resource standard (how much funding a school needs to meet students’ educational needs) for public schools each year in all states and territories from 2025.

    Clare argues it will provide “certainty” to schools, but it also comes in the middle of a standoff between the federal government and some states over school funding policy.

    What’s in the bill?

    The bill proposes to change the current arrangement, under which the Commonwealth contributes 20% to the schooling resource standard of public schools. As the government explains:

    This means the 20 per cent will become the minimum, not the maximum, the Commonwealth contributes to public schools.

    The Albanese government says the bill will increase “transparency and accountability” and ensure funding cannot go backwards.

    But it cannot be certain of parliamentary support – Greens and independent senators are among those pushing for the government to provide more funding for public schools than is currently on the table.

    The bill will remove a 20% cap on federal funding for public schools.
    Bianca De Marchi/AAP, CC BY

    The bigger picture

    The bill also comes as the federal government is still trying to sign off new deals with some of the states and territories about their public school funding for next year.

    The current agreements will run out at the end of the year. While the new proposed arrangements would increase the federal contribution, it’s not by as much as some states want.

    So far, Clare has made agreements with Western Australia and Tasmania to increase the federal contribution from 20% to 22.5%. For the Northern Territory it will increase funding to a 40% contribution by 2029.

    So far, it has not signed deals with New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia, which are pushing for a federal contribution of 25%.

    The Australian Capital Territory is also yet to sign, despite its public schools receiving at least 100% of the schooling resource standard (via both federal and its own funds) for several years now.

    Clare set a deadline of September 30 for the holdout states to sign on for the 2.5% funding boost, or risk losing an extra A$16 billion in funding. But that has passed without any compromise from either side.

    Progress and politics

    At the very least, the introduction of the bill to federal parliament is symbolically significant, particularly in light of the Commonwealth’s willingness to increase its contribution to the school resource standard of public schools.

    But politics is never far away in school funding policy. Critics could argue the bill is more of a box-ticking exercise, rather than substantive reform. Indeed, the change in wording to a 20% minimum was inevitable given the specifics of the funding agreements already signed with Western Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory.

    Critics might also point out national school funding policy is currently a bit of a mess, with four of the five most populous Australian states ignoring the government’s new funding deal. And they could remind us this agreement has already been delayed by a year. The previous one expired at the end of 2023 and was extended for 12 months by the Albanese government.

    What happens to schools next year?

    The bill does nothing to bring the holdout states any closer to signing on to the new funding agreement.

    But this does not mean the federal government will withdraw its funding when school starts next year. Instead, the current funding arrangements will continue for another 12 months. This is why Clare says $16 billion in “additional investment” is on the table for public schools.

    With a federal election due next year, it is even possible there will be no resolution before Australians go to the polls. This continues the fight over the schooling resource standard funding for public schools, which has has been ongoing since the so-called Gonski Review was made public in 2012.

    Matthew P. Sinclair does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. There’s a new school funding bill in parliament. Will this end the funding wars? – https://theconversation.com/theres-a-new-school-funding-bill-in-parliament-will-this-end-the-funding-wars-240994

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government to consult on five new Fisheries Management Plans

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Consultations open for five new draft Fisheries Management Plans to secure the sustainability of UK fish stocks

    Five new draft Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs) designed to improve the long-term sustainability of UK fish stocks have opened for consultation today, securing the health of the UK fishing industry which depends on them (Thursday 10 October).    

    The draft plans, which have been developed following input from the fishing industry, provide the policies and evidence required to support fish stocks and a healthy fishing sector for generations to come.  The formal public  consultations offering the fishing industry and other stakeholders a further chance to shape the plans before they are finalised. The consultations reflect feedback from stakeholders, with fewer documents and stakeholder questions, reducing the level of work needed to contribute. 

    The plans cover North Sea and Channel sprat (developed jointly with the Scottish Government and covering English and Scottish waters), Cockle, Queen scallop, Southern North Sea and Channel skates and rays, and Southern North Sea demersal non-quota species. Consultations will run for 14 weeks, ending on 19 January 2025. Each plan is tailored to the species, type of fishing and location – which is why working with the groups and communities that understand and use these fisheries is so important. 

    Proposals in the plans will help deliver sustainable fish stocks, supporting the UK fishing industry and delivering growth in coastal communities for generations to come.   

    FMPs will play a crucial role in supporting long-term sustainability of fishing businesses and delivering growth in coastal communities, restoring and protecting nature, and enhancing food security. They are recognised internationally as the gold standard in managing fisheries 

    UK Fisheries Minister Daniel Zeichner said:  

    Fisheries Management Plans are vital for securing the long-term sustainability of our fish stocks, and the fishing industry that relies on them.  

    These consultations give fishermen the chance to have their say on those plans, and for us to draw on the expertise of those on quaysides around the country. 

    Many opportunities lie ahead for our fishing sector, and this government is committed to making the most of them to ensure the industry can best contribute to our country’s food security and economic growth.  

    Mike Cohen, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations, said: 

    The FMP approach is positive, collaborative and forward-looking: exactly what we need to support sustainable food production from the sea and growth in coastal communities.  

    Expanding this ambition to new stocks in these latest consultations is a valuable step towards comprehensively modernising British fisheries management. The proposal to amend the deadlines for completing the FMP project is also deeply sensible.  

    The first round of Plans showed how much effort is required to develop them. Allowing sufficient time to complete such essential work with the care that it deserves shows that stakeholders have been listened to and will be warmly welcomed by everyone who wants to see FMPs succeed.

    In addition to publishing the new draft plans, and after engaging extensively with stakeholders, Defra has published the mixed flatfish FMP, following consultation last year. 

    The published plan reflects technical issues raised in the public consultation including restarting the sole survey in the Thames area and implementing minimum conservation reference size for lemon sole, turbot and brill in area 7.d.  

    Alongside the FMP consultations, Defra and the fisheries policy authorities in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have jointly launched a public consultation into amending deadlines for producing further FMPs as set out in the Joint Fisheries Statement.  This will be a shorter consultation, closing on 21 November.

    The consultation proposes amending the publication deadlines for five Defra-led plans to the end of 2025, for 29 Scottish Government, Defra and DAERA jointly-led plans to the end of 2026, and for one Welsh Government-led plan to the end of 2028.  Some additional technical amendments are proposed. 

    The proposed new deadlines will help to ensure that there is adequate time for the fishing sector and wider stakeholders to feed into the development of the FMPs, and for their views to be reflected as part of the co-design process.   

    Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands Mairi Gougeon said: 

    The revised timeline to deliver the remaining Fisheries Management Plans proposed by the four administrations will help to ensure that the fishing industry and others impacted by these proposals can play a meaningful role in developing them.  

    Work is ongoing to develop the Scottish-led Fisheries Management Plans for UK waters. The Scottish Government will continue to engage to ensure that FMPs are fit for purpose, supporting sustainable fishing and our marine environment and ultimately benefiting Scotland’s fishing industry and coastal communities.

    Wales’ Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said:  

    I am pleased to be launching a consultation with the other UK fisheries policy authorities (FPAs). The proposed changes will enable the FPAs to produce high-quality, comprehensive and robust FMPs that will achieve the long-term aim of sustainably managed fisheries. I now look forward to hearing views on the proposals we have set out. 

    Northern Ireland Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir MLA, said:   

    The development of fisheries management plans provides an important opportunity for Northern Ireland fisheries management, by enabling us to draw on the best available science and the expertise of our fishers and other stakeholders, to ensure that our fish stocks are healthy and sustainable into the long term.  

    I am committed to continuing engagement with all stakeholders likely to be impacted by the plans which my department has responsibility for. It is essential that the plans are fit for purpose and can deliver a thriving, sustainable fishing industry for Northern Ireland whilst improving the marine environment.

    Further information

    • The Joint Fisheries Statement currently lists 43 fisheries management plans. FMPs are intended to help restore or maintain stocks at sustainable levels 

    • The sprat plan was prepared jointly with the Scottish Government and covers sprat fisheries in English and Scottish waters of the North Sea and English Channel. The other 4 plans cover English waters.  

    • The five FMP consultations will run for 14 weeks, ending at 23:59 on 19 January 2025.   

    • The JFS consultation will run for six weeks, starting at 10.00 on 10 October and ending at 23.59 on 21 November.  

    Draft Fisheries Management Plans  

    The draft plans will deliver our obligations as set out in the Joint Fisheries Statement and the England Environmental Improvement Plan. They cover  

    • Cockle  
    • Queen scallop  
    • North Sea and Channel sprat (covering English waters and Scottish waters)  
    • Southern North Sea and Channel skates and rays  
    • Southern North Sea demersal non-quota species  

    More information about the Fisheries Management Programme can be found in the Fisheries Management Programme blog.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press Release – Army officer James Robinson lands in Alderney on a mission to help create a positive outlook – 10.10.24 Thursday 10 October 2024

    Source: Channel Islands – States of Alderney

    Press Release

    Date:  10th October 2024

    Army Officer James Robinson lands in Alderney on a mission to help create a positive outlook

    Alderney’s new Head of Operations has swapped a Colonel’s uniform for island life – and a mission to help foster a “positive and resilient” outlook for the community.

    James Robinson CBE has been finding his feet at Island Hall for a few weeks where he is bringing his experience to the States of Alderney’s operations.

    A key aspect of his job is to provide visionary leadership and build effective relationships with stakeholders including States Members, the community and business partners.

    “I wanted a role that allows me to get things done in a people-oriented way and with a touch of adventure,” he said.

    Coming from an Army family, his officer training at Sandhurst was followed by operational service in hotspots such as Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Kosovo, Sierra Leone, Iraq and Afghanistan. His last job in the Army was Head of the Brigade of Gurkhas during which time he was responsible for maintaining diplomatic relations with Nepal, India and Brunei.

    He left the Army as a full colonel after 36 years’ service since when he has undertaken a number of security and management consultancy projects in Riyadh, Kabul, Qatar, Jordan and for the UK G7 summit in Cornwall. He also managed his borough’s response to COVID for six months leading 3000 volunteers to support the local community.

    “I am here to help create a positive and resilient future for Alderney while seeking to protect its unique environment and heritage,” added Mr Robinson. “I had a hugely varied life in the Army that took me all around the world solving interesting challenges and I hope I can add value here.”

    Ends

    Media enquiries or for a high-res image:Alistair.Forrest2@gov.gg

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Multilingual NSW Academy launch invests in State’s diversity

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 10 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Minister for Multiculturalism

    The Minns Labor Government is investing $7.5 million into Multilingual NSW which will deliver the new Multilingual NSW Academy for translators and interpreters to further strengthen NSW’s linguistic diversity and government services.

    The Multilingual NSW Academy will support the development and sustainability of translating and interpreting services across the State and fulfil a 2024-25 Budget commitment.

    The Academy will explore new opportunities for partnerships and collaborations with leading training organisations, including University of New South Wales, Macquarie University, Western Sydney University and TAFE NSW. The Academy aims to increase the specialist and digital competency of Multicultural NSW’s more-than 1,000 language professionals by providing them with skills to work more effectively on NSW Government assignments.

    Digital uplift through technology and training will be a key feature of the Academy supported by an investment in new technology. Additionally, the Academy will embrace the customer-centric way of working as championed by the Department of Customer Service.

    At a recent event to recognise the work of NSW Government translators and interpreters and launch the new Multilingual NSW academy, three long serving Multicultural NSW employees were recognised for their 40-year professional commitment to their communities.

    Polish translator Czeslaw Olechnowicz, Hindi interpreter Neena Sinha and Thai translator and interpreter Songsri Foran were recognised with medals to commemorate their service.

    Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:

    “Translators and interpreters have a crucial role in ensuring everyone in NSW has access to important information and services, which is why we’re investing in our people.”

    “Multilingual NSW is focusing on building the skills and capabilities of our translators and interpreters so that language is no longer a barrier to our multicultural community accessing government services.”

    “This significant investment delivers on the government’s plan to build strong, diverse communities and a better NSW for everyone.”

    Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

    “With almost 1 in 3 people living in NSW born overseas and more than 280 languages spoken in homes across the state, it is essential we deliver the resources and services our communities need to stay connected.”

    “We are working on a Digital Inclusion Strategy which puts people at the centre of how we roll out technological innovations and develop solutions which focus on diversity and accessibility and bridge the digital divide.”

    “This digital funding will support the rollout of new technology which will support more effective translation and interpreting services to benefit our linguistically diverse residents.”

    “This is about delivering digital for people, with the needs of the community being considered at every step.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £57 million paid to families to help with food shop

    Source: Scottish Government

    People urged to check and use Best Start Foods card  

    Families getting a Scottish benefit to help them buy healthy foods are being urged to check their balance on their prepaid card. 

    Best Start Foods, a payment of up to £42.40 every four weeks, helps eligible pregnant women, parents, families and carers with children under the age of three to buy healthy foods from a range of supermarkets, small shops and online stores.  

    Since its launch in 2019, over £57 million has been paid to over 86,000 parents and carers. 

    The majority of people say it is clear how to use the card, it has helped them to buy milk or healthy food and have been able to use it without any difficulty, according to a recent survey.  

    People that have not yet activated their card or don’t use it regularly could be missing out on money that can help pay for healthy foods. Social Security Scotland continue to contact those getting Best Start Foods via text message to alert them to balances available to spend on their cards.  

    People can apply for the payment as soon as they know they are pregnant, during pregnancy and up to when their child turns three.  

    The removal of income limits earlier this year also means even more people can now get the payment and are being urged to check if they are eligible.   

    Speaking at a visit Edinburgh Community Food during Challenge Poverty Week, Social Justice Secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville, said:   

    “We are determined to eradicate child poverty and reduce health inequalities in Scotland and Best Start Foods, part of the five family payments, is part of a package to support this. 

    “We want to make sure people know about, and get, all the financial help they are entitled to. This is particularly relevant during the continuing cost of living crisis. 

    “I’m urging anyone who has a Best Start Foods card to look it out, make sure it’s activated and check the balance for money to help pay for their food shop.  

    “If cards are lost, or people are unsure of how to use them, support is available to help them use their card. The card works the same as any chip and pin card and can be used in many supermarkets, small shops and online.   

    “The Scottish Government removed income limits earlier this year, so I would also urge anyone who has not yet applied for Best Start Foods to check if they are eligible.” 

    Brenda Black, Chief Executive Officer at Edinburgh Community Food, added: 

    “Working together with Social Security Scotland and community partners we help mothers and (guardians) check their eligibility and to access their money through the handy Best Start Foods Pre-Paid Card providing a dignified way to spend their payment on healthier foods to enjoy with their growing family.  

    “Edinburgh Community Food plays a key role in supporting & nourishing futures for expecting mothers and their children. 

     “We are determined to use every creative way possible to support their access to nourishing food during the first 2001 days, which are crucial for every child’s growth and development.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens welcome Renters’ Rights Bill but say it must go further on rent controls and ending ‘plague’ of cold, damp, mouldy homes

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    Co-leader of the Green Party and MP for Bristol Central, Carla Denyer, will welcome the Renters’ Rights Bill in parliament later today, but will say it must go further in defending the rights of 11 million renters in the UK. Denyer said:  

    “This is a once in a generation opportunity to recognise the rights of the 11 million people living in private rented housing to have a safe, decent and secure home. A chance to stop tenants being constantly uprooted and fleeced to pay for a roof over their heads.  

    “In particular, we need a national system for rent controls with local flexibility aimed at bringing rents down relative to incomes.  

    “We also need to tackle rented properties that are plagued with cold, damp or mould. We need to see a clear commitment to energy efficiency in the Bill to end the scandal of around 5 million renters living in such appalling conditions. 

    “Such a Bill is long overdue. Greens hope it can be made even better and become truly transformative. Let’s make sure we use this opportunity to shift how we think about renting, moving away from viewing housing as assets, to prioritising and valuing the right to a stable home – in policy and practice.” 

    Notes 

    Carla Denyer MP and Sian Berry MP are expected to speak in the debate on the Bill in the Commons.  

    / by Andrew Bell

    Press Releases

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 20mph speed limits: long overdue change that would save lives

    Source: Scottish Greens

    09 Oct 2024 Transport

    Lower speeds save lives.

    More in Transport

    A default speed limit of 20mph in built-up areas is a long overdue change that would save lives, says the Scottish Greens’ transport spokesperson, Mark Ruskell MSP.

    Mr Ruskell’s comments come as the Scottish Government has announced a consultation on changing speed limits following an increase in road deaths in 2024. In 2018 Mr Ruskell brought forward a Members Bill to replace the current 30mph default speed limit on restricted roads with a 20mph limit.

    The Bute House Agreement between the Scottish Greens and the Scottish Government included a commitment to expand 20mph in Scotland, with an agreement that “all appropriate roads in built up areas will have a safer speed limit of 20mph by 2025.”

    Mr Ruskell said: “Lower speed limits save lives. By rolling out a 20mph default across Scotland we can decrease road deaths and create safer streets and communities.

    “We have seen the success that 20mph limits have had in Wales, cutting speeds and reducing road fatalities, and I want to see the same thing happening here in Scotland. I am glad that the Scottish Government is consulting on this, because it is a long overdue change. 

    “We should all have the right to feel safe, and this is a simple change that would help to transform our neighbourhoods and make people feel more confident when walking, wheeling and cycling.

    “There has been important progress in some parts of our country, but we can’t let road safety become a postcode lottery. National limits are the most effective way of saving lives.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Hamza Yassin to deliver free talk at Anglia Ruskin

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Published: 9 October 2024 at 12:18

    Presenter and wildlife cameraman has date at the Chelmsford Science Festival

    TV presenter, wildlife cameraman and Strictly Come Dancing champion Hamza Yassin will be heading to Essex later this month to take part in the Chelmsford Science Festival.

    The free event at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) on Tuesday, 29 October, will focus on Hamza’s journey overcoming adversity with his dyslexia to becoming a renowned wildlife cameraman and presenter in My Life Behind the Lens. Hamza will share some incredible photographs and stories from his early life in Sudan and his global travels as a cameraman. 

    Hamza achieved national stardom when he lifted the famous Glitterball Trophy in 2022 with his professional partner Jowita Przystal, but he had enjoyed a successful and varied TV career before Strictly Come Dancing. Hamza’s first appearance was on The One Show, as one of their wildlife cameramen.

    He is known as Ranger Hamza on the hugely popular CBeebies shows Let’s Go For A Walk and Ranger Hamza’s Eco Quest, and is one of the regular presenters on the BBC’s Countryfile and Animal Park.

    For Channel 4, Hamza has presented Scotland: My Life in the Wild and Scotland: Escape to the Wilderness, and the highly regarded BBC One documentary Hamza: Strictly Birds of Prey. He is currently filming a new BBC One series titled Hamza’s Hidden Wild Isles.

    Hamza has a particular passion for birds and is a skilled ornithologist and birds nest recorder. His first book, Be a Birder: The joy of birdwatching and how to get started, was published last year, while his second book, Hamza’s Wild World, was published by Macmillan Children’s Books and is out now.

    Professor Laurie Butler, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), said:

    “We are absolutely thrilled to be welcoming Hamza to ARU on 29 October as part of the Chelmsford Science Festival.

    “Hamza achieved national treasure status when he danced his way to victory on Strictly two years ago and we are excited to learn more about his passion for wildlife and nature.

    “As well as being a talented wildlife cameraman, Hamza is also a knowledgeable conservationist and ornithologist, so the event should be perfect for anyone with an interest in natural history.”

    Hamza will be bringing his cameras to ARU, offering visitors an exclusive, close-up look at his equipment, and will host a short Q&A session, so attendees should come armed with questions. Hamza will also be available to meet attendees following the talk and Q&A.

    Due to exceptional demand, the organisers have arranged a free live stream of Hamza’s talk on Tuesday, 29 October (6.30-8pm). 

    To register for the live stream, visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/hamza-yassin-my-life-behind-the-lens-tickets-1037842152817 or to join the waiting list to attend Hamza’s in-person talk at ARU, visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/my-life-behind-the-lens-tickets-1015926973927

    For further information about the 2024 Chelmsford Science Festival, and the full range of events taking place this year, visit https://www.aru.ac.uk/events/chelmsford-science-festival 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –