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  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Durbin, Schiff Blast Trump Administration’s Plan to Use Federal Prisons for Mass Deportation Efforts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Durbin, Schiff Blast Trump Administration’s Plan to Use Federal Prisons for Mass Deportation Efforts

    Senate Judiciary Democrats to Attorney General Bondi: “We write to object to the recent decision to use Federal Bureau of Prisons facilities to detain immigrants swept up in the Trump Administration’s mass deportation efforts and urge you to reconsider this plan”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, joined Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and other Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats in condemning the Trump Administration’s intended use of Bureau of Prisons (BOP) facilities to detain immigrants as part of President Trump’s mass deportation plan. The move is a policy revival from Trump’s first administration, where detained immigrants described allegations of mistreatment and unconstitutional detention conditions. The detainees, many of whom were seeking asylum, were often denied access to legal counsel, phone calls, clean clothing, educational programming, and even religious freedom.

    The Senators expressed concerns with the February 7 memo from BOP’s Correctional Programs Branch directing the policy change. They highlighted the memo’s lack of answers on how to safely manage interactions between civil immigration detainees and incarcerated criminals, how BOP staff will receive sufficient training and resources to manage the civil immigrant detainee population, and whether BOP facilities could meet basic immigration detention standards.

    “[This memo fails] to provide meaningful guidance and direction to staff on the serious questions raised by these instructions,” wrote the Senators. “… Due to [the Bureau of Prisons] already suffering from years of understaffing, inadequate resources, and crumbling infrastructure, the Administration’s decision to revive immigration detention in BOP facilities seriously threatens the safety and well-being of BOP staff, incarcerated individuals, and immigrant detainees.”

    “Until serious funding and staffing challenges outlined above are addressed, federal prisons simply cannot safely and humanely meet the needs of its current inmate population, much less the needs of civil immigration detainees,” continued the Senators. “Immigration detainees in federal prisons will face substandard conditions and care, and their detention will only exacerbate significant institutional problems facing the Bureau. We therefore urge you to reconsider this plan and instead work with us to address BOP’s existing challenges.”

    In their letter, the Senators also outlined the long-faced staffing and infrastructure challenges that this policy change would perpetuate, as detailed by labor unions and previous Committee hearings. Additionally, they described understaffing as just “one symptom of chronic underinvestment in the Bureau,” including growing maintenance needs that executive staff characterize as a “foundational, enterprise-wide challenge” costing $3 billion.

    In addition to Padilla, Durbin, and Schiff, the letter is also signed by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).

    Senator Padilla is a leading voice in Congress opposing President Trump’s anti-immigrant actions and rhetoric. He sharply criticized Trump’s harmful executive orders targeting immigrants at the start of his second Administration. Yesterday, Padilla denounced Trump’s transfer of immigrants from the United States to Guantánamo as unlawful and demanded answers regarding these transfers. Last week, Padilla cosponsored the Born in the USA Act to effectively block the implementation of Trump’s unconstitutional executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship for certain children born in the United States, or a similar subsequent executive order. Last year, Padilla emphasized the dangers and immense economic costs of the Trump Administration’s mass deportation plans during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing.

    Full text of the letter to Attorney General Bondi is available here and below:

    Dear Attorney General Bondi:

    We write to object to the recent decision to use Federal Bureau of Prisons facilities to detain immigrants swept up in the Trump Administration’s mass deportation efforts and urge you to reconsider this plan.

    During the previous Trump Administration, detained immigrants described alleged mistreatment and unconstitutional detention conditions in federal prisons. The detainees, many of whom were seeking asylum, lacked access to legal counsel, religious rights, phone calls, educational or other programming, and even clean clothing. Despite this troubling history, the current Trump Administration is apparently relying on the same poorly conceived detention scheme.

    On February 7, the Bureau’s Correctional Programs Branch issued a memo stating that, “[e]ffective immediately, Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees will accept and process all new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) detainees,” while failing to provide meaningful guidance and direction to staff on the serious questions raised by these instructions. These questions include how to manage interactions between civil immigration detainees and the existing criminally incarcerated population; how the Department of Justice (DOJ) and DHS will ensure BOP staff receive adequate training and resources to meet the needs of the civil immigrant detainee population; and whether BOP facilities would even be able to meet basic immigration detention standards. Due to BOP already suffering from years of understaffing, inadequate resources, and crumbling infrastructure, the Administration’s decision to revive immigration detention in BOP facilities seriously threatens the safety and well-being of BOP staff, incarcerated individuals, and immigrant detainees.

    With 122 institutions nationwide, BOP is responsible for the well-being and rehabilitation of over 155,000 federal inmates, nearly 143,000 of whom are in BOP custody. The Bureau has long-faced significant staffing and infrastructure challenges. At the end of 2024, BOP announced plans to permanently close one prison and idle six additional facilities due to “significant challenges, including a critical staffing shortage, crumbling infrastructure and limited budgetary resources.” BOP already grapples with considerable resource deficiencies in discharging its primary mandate, and simply does not have adequate resources to take on the additional challenge of safely and humanely accommodating immigration detainees.

    The Bureau’s chronic understaffing challenges are well-documented. President Trump’s order to freeze hiring of all federal civilian employees as of January 22, 2017 exacerbated the situation. BOP reportedly eliminated 6,000 positions as a result, a 14 percent staffing decrease from 2016 levels. Though the hiring freeze was rescinded later in the Trump Administration, the Bureau has continued to struggle with underfunding, resulting in decreased competitiveness in the employment market; staffing levels have still not rebounded. As set forth in a February 2024 letter to then-President Biden from the President of the Council of Prison Locals 33, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, the Bureau has lost “almost 9,000 staff since 2016,” bringing the federal prison workforce down to a “critical level.” As of December 2024, BOP is authorized for 14,900 full time correctional officer positions and reported 12,662 officers in pay status. BOP is additionally authorized for 27,498 “other” positions, of which the Bureau reports 23,949 are in pay status.

    As several recent Senate Judiciary Committee hearings have highlighted, understaffed prisons already face immense challenges in keeping current populations and staff safe, let alone accommodating an influx of immigration detainees. BOP currently institutes inadequate workarounds to address dangerous staff shortages. A February 2024 DOJ Office of the Inspector General (OIG) report on inmate deaths detailed BOP’s overreliance on augmentation, the practice of assigning noncustodial staff such as teachers, case managers, and medical staff to perform routine correctional officer duties for a period of time to help offset correctional staff shortages. BOP also mandates overtime to compensate for staffing shortages, with officers “often covering six to seven days per week with shifts extending up to 16 hours,” according to the correctional officers union. The OIG report “found that both practices burdened existing staff and potentially contributed to staff fatigue, sleep deprivation, decreased vigilance, and inattentiveness to duty,” outcomes negatively affecting staff morale and performance.

    The significant stress on BOP staff caused by chronic understaffing predictably impacts the Bureau’s ability to care for those in its custody. For example, staff shortages in health and psychology positions “can negatively affect the availability and quality of treatment, programming, and general medical and mental healthcare” for incarcerated individuals, including “treatment and programs designed to treat substance abuse disorders and mental illnesses.” NPR found that some incarcerated individuals have been forced to wait months or years for necessary medical treatment. Similarly, understaffing in educational and programming positions hinders successful implementation of rehabilitative programs designed to reduce recidivism—including programming mandated by the First Step Act, the bipartisan criminal justice reform legislation that President Trump signed into law in 2018.

    Most alarmingly, safety and security cannot be ensured without minimum levels of staffing. For example, in 2022, a fight left two incarcerated individuals dead in United States Penitentiary Beaumont. The correctional officers’ union condemned the incident and noted that “chronic understaffing of our prisons is jeopardizing the lives of both workers and inmates.” Indeed, according to the OIG’s February 2024 report, “[t]he BOP specifically identified insufficient staffing as an issue in at least 30 of the inmate deaths” that the report examined.

    Understaffing is just one symptom of chronic underinvestment in the Bureau. For example, a May 2023 DOJ OIG report noted that “BOP has limited resources to address its extensive and growing maintenance needs, and in many cases, necessary repairs cannot be completed in a timely manner due to a lack of funding.” Examples of the Bureau’s “aging and failing infrastructure” include buckling concrete, water leaks, poor ventilation, and energy inefficiencies. BOP Executive Staff have described the inability to address this issue as a “foundational, enterprise-wide challenge.” In February 2024, then- BOP Director Colette Peters testified to the Senate Judiciary Committee that the Bureau has a maintenance and repair backlog of about $3 billion.

    Immigration detention facilities with which DHS contracts must comply with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) immigration detention standards, including providing access to medical and mental health care, access to counsel, language access, access to religious opportunities, a process for reporting and responding to complaints, and limitations on solitary confinement. Troubling reports indicate that BOP is not observing ICE detention standards, which reflect the appropriate conditions for the unique nature of civil immigration detainees. Indeed, given the staffing, infrastructure, and resource challenges that BOP faces, BOP facilities cannot be expected to rapidly adapt to meet such standards—and as a result they will likely again face challenges regarding unconstitutional conditions of confinement.

    Until serious funding and staffing challenges outlined above are addressed, federal prisons simply cannot safely and humanely meet the needs of its current inmate population, much less the needs of civil immigration detainees. Immigration detainees in federal prisons will face substandard conditions and care and their detention will only exacerbate significant institutional problems facing the Bureau. We therefore urge you to reconsider this plan and instead work with us to address BOP’s existing challenges.

    We look forward to your prompt response.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Church hymns and social beers: how Australia is reviving the magic of singing together

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wendy Hargreaves, Senior Learning Advisor, University of Southern Queensland

    State Library of Victoria

    It was 2009. John Farnham walked on stage at the disaster relief concert for the most devastating bushfires in Australian history. He belted out You’re The Voice to 36,000 people at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Then, as he lowered his microphone, 36,000 voices belted it right back.

    Farnham knew the real star that day was not himself, but the thousands of everyday Australians singing in solidarity with their hurting nation.

    Singing together is electrifying, but can Australians tap into this magic without the tragedy?

    We’re all the voice.

    The science behind the magic

    Group singing has a proven ability to produce positive social bonding and help us tune in to others’ feelings.

    That sense of connecting and relating can boost our mental health; particularly crucial given many Australians seriously neglect self-care.

    After taking part in a year-long community singing program, Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander adults reported reduced depression, increased resilience and a greater sense of social connection.

    Physiologically, research shows group singing can increase the hormone oxytocin which helps us bond with people and feel good. It can decrease cortisol levels to positively modulate our immune system. Making music together may also release endorphins that help our tolerance of pain.

    Rewinding on Australian singing

    Australia’s identity as a singing nation has never quite matched countries like Wales, “the land of song”. Centuries-old singing traditions are well-suited to huddling indoors in snowy northern hemisphere villages.

    Indeed, the tradition of singing Christmas carols was devised as a cure for the European winter blues. Our warmer Australian climate, in contrast, coaxes us outdoors for other activities in wide open spaces.

    Hymn singing at Melbourne’s Royal Exhibition Building in 1882.
    State Library of Victoria

    Australia’s choral tradition grew initially through church music; printed on tiny 12x7cm pages, books from the early 1800s provide a glimpse at the hymns church choirs and congregations once sang.

    Music researcher Dianne Gome reports these books were also used for official state occasions and in the home. They were so popular, Australians began to create their own versions.

    Singing was part of 19th century Australian life. At home, pianos were treasured for family singalongs and a sign of wealth and culture. Choirs blossomed, such as the The Brisbane Musical Union (now The Queensland Choir) which formed in 1872 with 112 members. Singing was valued, and local journals critiqued technique. Even The Wireless Weekly reported a radio poll “to decide the worst singer” in 1942.

    Work songs – morale boosters as workers labour through repetitive tasks – also showed our early singing culture. One Queensland man recently described life as a 14-year-old in a 1930s tram track foundry:

    Every night I came home exhausted. It was hard work, but we used to sing […] How many people sing at their work today?

    Alongside its presence in churches, work places and social gatherings, singing became a pillar of Australian education.

    A book on education history in Victoria reports singing was introduced in the 1850s for “harmonising and refining the mind” and as a “most favourable influence […] on the moral associations of the goldfields”.

    While some traditions in schools continue today, claims of a crowded curriculum and de-valuing of the arts have pushed school singing from essential to optional.

    There also exists a social pressure on Australian boys to play sport rather than sing in choirs.

    Today’s Aussie group singing style

    A fair dinkum Aussie singing style is well established in sporting circles.

    The 1978 World Cricket Series jingle C’mon Aussie C’mon was so simple and catchy its tune still rings through stadiums today. Likewise, Mike Brady’s Up There Cazaly – inspired by the 1910s footballer whose name was used in World War II battle cries – has been a favourite crowd singalong at AFL Grand Finals for decades.

    Footy club theme songs aside, Brisbane Lions fans will be particularly familiar with a modern opportunity for sports singing: goal songs. After every goal at a Lions’ home game, a snippet from a player-chosen track blares across the stands.

    Not all of these song selections make successful singalongs, but Charlie Cameron’s choice of Take Me Home Country Roads is a clear favourite. Tellingly, the crowd keeps singing after the music stops.

    At the other end of the spectrum of group size and vocal expertise is the small Australian-bred a capella group The Idea of North. Their expert musical arrangements and blended sound perfectly encapsulates collaborative singing with unity, harmony and joy.

    For a quirky Australian choral option, a group of men from Mullumbimby formed the “fake” Russian choir, Dustyesky (a wordplay on the famous Russian writer Dostoevsky). They don’t speak the language, yet their energy and passion for singing made them a hit in Russia and brought about an invitation to sing in Moscow.

    With millions of internet views, another highly successful Australian response to group singing came from Astrid Jorgensen, creator of Pub Choir. With laughter and a drink, members of the public meet at a licensed venue to learn a song in three-part harmony.

    Jorgensen’s tailored musical arrangements of popular songs suit untrained singers, don’t require music reading skills and make singing in harmony with complete strangers easy and fun. Jorgensen found the key to motivating Aussies to sing together is crowds, humour and a social beer.

    Wendy Hargreaves 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. Church hymns and social beers: how Australia is reviving the magic of singing together – https://theconversation.com/church-hymns-and-social-beers-how-australia-is-reviving-the-magic-of-singing-together-250254

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB Approves $200 Million Loan to Expand Urban Services in Kolkata, India

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    NEW DELHI, INDIA (26 February 2025) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to enhance the development of climate- and disaster-resilient sewerage and drainage infrastructure in Kolkata, aiming to improve the city’s livability.

    These interventions, which are part of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation Sustainability, Hygiene, and Resilience (Sector) Project, will improve living conditions and health outcomes, particularly for vulnerable groups including women and children, by reducing exposure to waterborne and vector-borne diseases, while also addressing flood risks.

    “The project builds on ADB’s 25-year partnership with the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), working to make Kolkata a more livable city through phased, integrated investments to improve urban services, operational efficiency, institutional effectiveness, and long-term sustainability,” said ADB Water and Urban Development Portfolio Management Unit Head Hikaru Shoji.  “As the next phase of our urban development efforts in Kolkata, this project builds on earlier initiatives to expand sewerage and drainage infrastructure, improve hygiene conditions, and strengthen KMC’s governance and revenue generation efforts.”

    Kolkata, one of India’s most populous and densely populated cities, faces significant challenges due to inadequate drainage and sewerage systems, causing urban floods and unhygienic environment. These issues are exacerbated by increased heavy rains due to climate change.

    To address these challenges, the project will construct 84 kilometers (km) of combined trunk and secondary sewerage and drainage pipelines, 176 km of combined lateral sewerage and drainage pipelines up to customer connections, and 50,000 household sewer connections. It will construct one sewage treatment plant and five pumping stations. The project will benefit over 277,000 residents.

    In addition, the project will support KMC in developing a comprehensive IT-based asset management system, enhance property tax revenue, expand the early flood warning system developed through an earlier ADB intervention, raise community awareness on water, sanitation, and hygiene and support women’s employment through skills training and internship program.

    ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Energy – ELECTRIFY QUEENSTOWN: POWERING INNOVATION, COST SAVINGS AND DECARBONISATION

    Source: Electrify Queenstown

    Wednesday 26 February 2025 (Queenstown, New Zealand) — Queenstown businesses and households are invited to explore practical ways to save money, become more energy efficient, and decarbonise with the return of Electrify Queenstown in May.

    Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, Destination Queenstown, with support from Queenstown Business Chamber of Commerce, will present a three-day programme designed to innovate and inspire change in the Queenstown Lakes.

    With principal sponsor Aurora Energy onboard for the second year, Electrify Queenstown promises to deliver an electric experience for the Queenstown community.

    Mat Woods, Destination Queenstown Chief Executive, says this year’s expanded programme caters to tourism operators, business owners, homeowners and anyone curious about making the switch to enable fully electric heating, cooking and transport.

    “Electrify Queenstown will share ideas and innovations to support businesses and households to electrify, save money and decarbonise. We’re excited about the win-win potential of electrification in supporting a vibrant, growing economy while protecting the environment for future generations,” he said.

    The opening day on Monday 26 May will take stage at Skyline Queenstown, a trailblazer in tourism innovation and electrification.

    Queenstown Lakes District Mayor, Glyn Lewers, will open with a welcome address followed by keynote speaker Saul Griffith — globally acclaimed author and entrepreneur sharing insights on why we must electrify and switch to renewable technology. An inspirational line up of speakers includes industry experts, policy makers and innovators who will present both the challenges and the vast potential of electrification from an economic, environmental and social perspective.

    Sharon Fifield, Queenstown Business Chamber Chief Executive, said, “It’s important, in what has recently been a tough economic climate, that any changes made in your business don’t sacrifice your bottom line. We’re thrilled to have experts joining Electrify Queenstown to share the benefits and opportunities that come with electrifying a business including cost savings, improved productivity, and emissions reductions.”

    On the second day, a full programme at the Queenstown Events Centre will spark conversations about the opportunities for businesses and households with electrification, and innovations in electric transport. A tradeshow exhibition will display new technology, low rate loans and exclusive deals, plus the opportunity to join interactive workshops led by experts in electrification and renewable energy. The community evening session from 6pm will focus on the energy transition, how to electrify your home and the role of electrification in community resilience.

    The third and final day will involve immersive electric experiences, sharing the very best in tourism innovation and technology, from local operators and global leaders.

    Lines company Aurora Energy is proud to once again be the principal sponsor of the Electrify Queenstown event.

    Richard Fletcher, Aurora Energy Chief Executive, said, “The growth of this event from one day to three days highlights the increasing demand and interest in electrification within our region. Aurora Energy is committed to ensuring that our network is ready to enable the future electricity and technology choices of consumers.

    “In supporting events such as these we hope we can play a part helping local businesses and communities be informed about the benefits of electricity, whether it is supplied from the national grid or generated and stored locally. We look forward to meeting with those attending, and discussing how we can work together towards a sustainable, efficient, and resilient future.” Richard said.

    Electrify Queenstown will take place over three days from 26 – 28 May 2025. Registrations are open for individual sessions, a day pass, or for the full three-day event.  

    For more information visit: electrifyqueenstown.co.nz

    Electrify Queenstown programme summary

    Monday 26 May 2025: Setting the stage for electrification (Skyline Queenstown)
    Tuesday 27 May 2025: Electrification in action (Queenstown Events Centre)
    Wednesday 28 May 2025: Electric experiences (Details coming soon)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Community has its say on the future of the David Berry Hospital site

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Community has its say on the future of the David Berry Hospital site

    Published: 26 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Health

    The community and stakeholders have had their say on the future of the David Berry Hospital site, with the overwhelming majority of respondents to the recent Have Your Say survey (87%) expressing a preference for the continuation of health and wellness services at the site.

    The NSW Government has released the David Berry Hospital Community Engagement Report, which summarises the key findings from nearly 1,200 responses received during the consultation.

    The report is available for the community to review on the Have your say website.

    The feedback gathered will enable focused discussions, working groups and broader consultation opportunities with local residents, clinicians and staff, the Aboriginal community, environmental and heritage groups, and other interested parties to continue over the coming months.

    When health services relocate to the $448 million redeveloped Shoalhaven Hospital in 2026, the David Berry site will take on a new role with the help of the local community.

    In the meantime, residents will continue to receive safe, high-quality care from the dedicated health team at David Berry Hospital.

    The Have Your Say survey gathered nearly 1,200 responses on the site’s historical and cultural value, potential future uses, and partnership opportunities.

    As well as strong support for health and wellness services, respondents also showed an interest in preserving the site’s historical aspects and green spaces, and a preference for community-led initiatives over commercial or residential developments.

    Responses also highlighted the importance of ensuring that the future use of David Berry Hospital appropriately acknowledges and includes Aboriginal perspectives.

    The Minns Labor Government will consider any amendments required to the David Berry Hospital Act 1906 once the future use of the site has been identified. This legislative process will take some time to complete and additional consultation will be required on amendments to the Act. 

    For the latest information on the future of the David Berry Hospital site, including future opportunities to have your say, to read the Community Engagement Report or to contact the team, visit the Have your say website.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:

    “I want to thank everyone who responded to the survey, including local residents, healthcare professionals, heritage groups, and other community organisations.

    “The nearly 1,200 responses reflect the community’s strong interest in the site’s future, and we will ensure stakeholders are listened to and kept well informed about next steps.

    “Although no longer suitable for its original purpose, this government will ensure the David Berry Hospital site will continue to serve the community.”

    Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Kiama Sarah Kaine MLC:

    “I’ve heard from many people how important the David Berry Hospital Site is to the local community, and it’s been fantastic to see this represented in the number and variety of responses we have received so far.

    “I am confident that with ongoing consultation we can have this site remain a suitable and valuable asset to the community.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fire and Rescue drone sniffs out trouble

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Fire and Rescue drone sniffs out trouble

    Published: 26 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Emergency Services

    In a first for a NSW Government emergency services agency, Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has launched the latest tool in its technological arsenal, a drone that can ‘smell’.

    The FRNSW Aviation Unit and Hazardous Material teams are constantly looking to innovative ways to utilise the drone fleet, first formed in the aftermath of the Black Summer Bushfires.

    The smelling capability of the new drone means crews can now use drones to detect potential threats in the air with firefighters able to maintain a safe distance and protect the wider public.

    The drone was successfully deployed during last month’s response to a major fire and chemical emergency at a waste recycling plant at St Marys in Sydney’s west.

    One of several drones deployed at the scene by firefighting crews, the smelling drone was able to analyse the smoke from the fire, identifying its chemical make-up and determining any potential risk to the public.

    The drone also analysed the atmosphere around burning gas cylinders within the plant to determine potential air quality impacts.

    This new drone can detect 12 different chemicals in the air including chlorine, carbon dioxide, and a range of flammable gases.

    The drone can then provide live data and gas readings to Command Posts, the FRNSW Strategic Operations Centre at Alexandria, or to scientific support staff for analysis.

    FRNSW continue to find new and innovative ways to keep the NSW community safe using their drone fleet.

    Other drones in the FRNSW fleet can collect water samples for chemical testing, there are smaller drones able to enter buildings through small openings to search for trapped people or identify structural threats, and drones fitted with infra-red cameras which can assist during overnight search and rescue missions.

    Drones were used extensively in the aftermath of the 2022 Northern Rivers floods, carrying out damage assessments over vital infrastructure and identifying debris for collection.

    The Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib said:

    “It’s terrific to see Fire and Rescue NSW continuing to explore new technologies to safeguard its firefighters and keep the broader NSW community safe.

    “This is just the latest in an ever-growing list of FRNSW drone capabilities which means firefighters can have eyes – and a nose – on any blazes they’re battling.

    “The drones can fly over built-up areas, assess the risk, and help authorities protect people in their homes, at work, or in critical infrastructure such as schools or hospitals.

    “Firefighters are prepared for anything, including embracing new technologies to protect the irreplaceable.”

    Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner, Jeremy Fewtrell said:

    “The drone that can smells means we can assess dangerous environments quickly to keep our people and the community safe.

    “Our crews are highly trained to deal with hazardous materials emergencies, but this type of drone means we don’t have to risk anyone’s safety when trying to identify potentially dangerous substances.

    “When crews arrive at the scene of a fire, they can quickly get one of these drones airborne to determine the threat we’re dealing with, and make crucial decisions based on immediate information.

    “This is the latest in an ever-growing list of drone capabilities at Fire and Rescue NSW.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Capital fairs offer Maslenitsa treats and pancake fillings

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The capital’s weekend fairs offer customers fresh products for the family table on Maslenitsa. The shelves offer various fillings for pancakes and holiday treats. This includes farm honey, fresh homemade cheeses, fruits and vegetables, meat and fish products, cottage cheese and much more.

    The most popular sweet fillings include honey, jam, condensed milk and butter. In addition, customers often choose chicken with mushrooms, apples and pears with homemade cheese, feta cheese with spinach and beets with basil and goat cheese for their pancakes.

    Among dietary ones, vegetable fillings are in demand – these are fried pumpkin, carrots, zucchini and sweet peppers – as well as spinach with grated low-fat cheese with the addition of garlic or berries with coconut condensed milk.

    Farmers suggest diversifying the holiday menu and experimenting with ingredients. For example, you can serve cream cheese with herbs and walnuts, chicken with mushrooms and cream, feta with olives and finely chopped tomatoes, and caramelized apples with cinnamon with pancakes. In addition, customers will be offered to try cream cheese with horseradish, pumpkin filling with soft cheese, as well as nut, chocolate and many others.

    The capital’s fairs present high-quality farm products from more than 40 regions of Russia. Specialists Veterinary Committee of the City of Moscow They check the goods immediately before sending them to the shelves; 18 mobile laboratories operate on site, which guarantees the safety of the products.

    The fair pavilions are located near metro stations and other crowded places. They are equipped with commercial and refrigeration equipment, as well as heating, ventilation, air conditioning and video surveillance systems, so that visitors feel comfortable at any time of the year.

    The indoor winter markets are open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 08:00 to 20:00.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/150557073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow schoolchildren can prepare for the Unified State Exam with the help of “MESh”

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    On the platform “Moscow Electronic School” (MES) provides services for students and their parents, allowing them to competently organize preparation for the Unified State Exam and Basic State Exam (USE and OGE), as well as consciously choose a suitable educational institution.

    “The Moscow Electronic School has become an important assistant for Moscow schoolchildren in their studies. The platform includes a wide range of content, including for preparing for final exams, so students can save time and quickly find the topics they need. This approach simplifies preparation and makes it more structured,” the press service of the Moscow

    Department of Education and Science.

    Thus, the service “Exams” is available for graduates, where all the necessary materials for successfully passing the Unified State Exam are collected. During this academic year, more than 80 thousand schoolchildren used it almost 320 thousand times. Here, graduates can familiarize themselves with the content of exercises in all subjects and recommended materials for preparation. In particular, these are annually updated video analysis of Unified State Exam assignments, in which the best teachers of the capital share their experience and analyze examples from previous years. This format helps children to better understand complex topics, avoid common mistakes and increase their self-confidence before exams. Teachers can use the materials in workshops to prepare for the Unified State Exam or attach them to homework so that students repeat the topic covered and better assimilate the material.

    Video analysis of Unified State Exam assignments in all subjects has appeared in the MES library

    This year, 424 video analyses have already been created. They are available in the “Exams” service in the web version of the electronic diary on the website Shul.mos.ru and in the mobile application “MESH Diary”, as well as on the home page of the MES library in the selection “Preparation for the Unified State Exam-2025”. In this section, 281 video analysis for preparation for the unified city test appeared. The materials were published in advance so that graduates had enough time to fully work through the topics.

    To consolidate the material studied, the Exams service offers about 1,600 tests with automatic checking. Students can study at a comfortable pace, devoting more time to those tasks that cause difficulties. In addition, MES has more than 100 videos with recommendations on how to manage time during the exam and fill out the Unified State Exam forms, as well as with advice from psychologists on stress management and memory development.

    In order for the students to understand what they should focus on during their preparation, the topics that may be encountered on the Unified State Exam and the Basic State Exam are marked with special icons in the MESH electronic diary. They are displayed in the lesson cards in the schedule and help to find the necessary materials faster. These functions can be used in the web version of the electronic diary on the website Shul.mos.ru and in the mobile application “MESH Diary”.

    In addition, everything necessary for preparing for exams is collected in the MES library. Thus, the service provides educational materials on mathematics, which were developed by specialists of the electronic educational system “Gipermatika”. Graduates can use collections of problems to prepare for the Unified State Exam, and students in grades 6-11 can take mathematical courses, including theoretical and practical parts.

    A virtual laboratory will help you prepare for the OGE and USE in computer science on your own “MESH Informatics”. A selection of courses and practical tasks will allow you to consolidate or improve your knowledge of the subject, as well as understand how much time it takes to solve a particular test.

    In addition, the children can use the materials of the online service “Cloud of Knowledge”. They include 430 simulators and 142 assignment options for preparing for the Unified State Exam and the Basic State Exam.

    You can get help in choosing a college in the service “Student Portfolio”. This contains the results of professional testing and personal recommendations from career mentors. Ninth-graders can learn more about their abilities, identify their inclinations for certain professions, and decide on the direction of their further education.

    “Moscow Electronic School”— a joint project of the capital’s Departments of Education and Science Andinformation technology, created in 2016. A single digital educational platform is available to Moscow teachers, students and their parents. Among the main services of “MES” are a library of educational materials, an electronic diary and journal, “Moskvenok”, “Student Portfolio” and “Olympiads”.

    Providing the capital’s schoolchildren with modern digital services increases the efficiency of the educational process, helps children to plan their school and personal time wisely and corresponds to the objectives of the “All the Best for Children” national project “Youth and Children”.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: 20 thousand fragments: how 19th century mosaic icons were restored

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Specialists have restored mosaic panels with the faces of St. Olga and St. Panteleimon on the facades of the buildings of the former St. Olga Children’s Hospital. This is one of the stages of complex work to preserve the architectural ensemble of the late 19th century, located at 2a Orlovo-Davydovsky Lane. It includes four buildings and a park.

    A mosaic panel with the face of the healer Panteleimon decorates the facade of one of the buildings (it once housed an outpatient department), and an icon of St. Olga decorates another building (this building historically housed the main hospital building). All buildings in the ensemble are made of red brick in the eclectic style according to the designs of architects Konstantin Bykovsky and Vasily Barkov.

    “The smalt mosaic panels are an important part of the facade decoration of the former hospital buildings. Special attention was paid to their restoration. The icons are made of 20 thousand fragments of colored opaque glass, which are dated 1897-1899. The icon of St. Panteleimon is well preserved, so the work was carried out directly on the facade. And the condition of the panel with the image of St. Olga was critical, so it was dismantled and moved to a restoration workshop. There, specialists carefully cleaned the icon, made up for the losses, and then returned it to its historical place,” said the head of the Department of Cultural Heritage of the city of Moscow.

    Alexey Emelyanov.

    The comprehensive restoration of the architectural ensemble, the first in its entire existence, began in 2022. At the same time, they began to put the historical icons in order. Specialists did a large amount of work: they selected and agreed on the restoration technique, conducted a chemical analysis of the mosaic material at the Ilya Glazunov Russian Academy of Painting.

    It is planned to fully complete all work for the architectural ensemble of the former St. Olga Children’s Hospital in 2025. It is a cultural heritage site of regional significance, so the restoration is being carried out under the supervision of specialists from the Moscow City Department of Cultural Heritage.

    The complex of buildings is located in the Meshchansky district. It was built according to the design of the architect Konstantin Mikhailovich Bykovsky using funds from Count Sergei Vladimirovich Orlov-Davydov. This is how he decided to perpetuate the memory of his beloved mother, Olga Orlova-Davydova. The institution was named in honor of her patroness, Saint Olga.

    It was a small hospital town, on the territory of which there was a two-story brick building with one-story buildings adjoining it on the sides, as well as several wooden buildings of the outpatient building, auxiliary services and a chapel.

    In May 1885, the foundation stone of a large stone building for a children’s hospital was laid; outpatient treatment began in December 1886, and an inpatient department was opened in January 1888.

    Ten years after the medical institution was founded, Count Sergei Orlov-Davydov petitioned the committee of the Imperial Philanthropic Society to begin expanding the hospital. The design for the new buildings was commissioned from Moscow architect Vasily Vasilyevich Barkov. The wooden buildings were replaced with stone ones. At the same time, mosaic panels with images of the healer Panteleimon and the patroness of the hospital, Saint Olga, appeared on the facades of the buildings. The grand opening of the new buildings took place on December 11, 1899.

    Thus, by the beginning of the 20th century, the ensemble of stone buildings of the St. Olga Children’s Hospital was formed in the then widespread style of red-brick eclecticism. A characteristic feature of this architectural trend is decorative elements made of white brick and stone.

    Over the past 14 years, more than 2.3 thousand cultural heritage sites have been restored in Moscow. The restoration of the historic buildings of the former St. Olga Children’s Hospital in Orlovo-Davydovsky Lane fully complies with the goals and objectives of the national project “Culture”.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Walk in an ancient oak grove and watch animals: how to spend Wildlife Day at VDNKh

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    March 3 is World Wildlife Day. The holiday is designed to show people the beauty of animals and plants, and also to remind them of the importance of preserving biological diversity on the planet. On this day, it is worth going for a walk in the picturesque corners of forests and parks, enjoying their beautiful views. One of the best places for such walks in Moscow can be VDNKh. Here you can meet squirrels, as well as tits, woodpeckers, nuthatches, jays, magpies, ducks, owls and other birds. VDNKh invites you to take a break from the bustle of the metropolis and enrich your knowledge of wildlife.

    Wander through an ancient oak grove and treat curious squirrels

    To see and study the habits of birds and animals, VDNKh guests need to go to the Kamensky ponds cascade, the Sheremetyevskaya oak grove, and Ostankino Park. Many trees grow in these places and there are ponds, so most of the feathered inhabitants have chosen them.

    You can start your walk from the Sheremetyevskaya oak grove. This is a unique place on the territory of VDNKh. There is a natural broad-leaved forest here, which has been preserved for many centuries. In the 18th-19th centuries, the oak grove belonged to the possessions of one of the most prominent noble families – the Sheremetevs. However, a dense forest was on this territory in the 16th century. Today, pedunculate oaks, as well as larch, pine, Manchurian walnut and other trees grow in the grove. The average age of oaks is 150 years, but there are also 200-year-old specimens.

    The Sheremetyevskaya oak grove is one of the squirrels’ favorite habitats. In winter, their fur is bluish-gray, and in summer, it is red. You can bring healthy treats for the friendly rodents: walnuts and pine nuts, dried fruits, sunflower seeds or wheat crackers. The main thing is that the treat is not salty, fried or sweet, and does not contain aromatic or flavor additives.

    Another place where hundreds of squirrels live is Ostankino Park. In addition, you can watch the nimble fluffy animals and listen to the birds singing by climbing the eco-trail. This half-kilometer walking path is above the ground. Its height reaches 6.5 meters. Walking along the path is safe for both adults and children. The structure is completely fenced with railings, and the boards have an anti-slip coating. From above, visitors can admire the beautiful views of nature and notice squirrels and birds in the tree branches. The path has many twists and turns, so the walk will not seem monotonous. In the evenings, the lighting is turned on here.

    After the Sheremetyevskaya oak grove, it is worth heading to the cascade of Kamensky ponds. It was created in 1803. In 1954, all four ponds became part of the territory of the All-Union Agricultural Exhibition (later VDNKh). During the reconstruction in 2018, the reservoirs were drained, cleaned and refilled with water. The most notable object here is the Golden Ear fountain. It is located in the center of the Third Kamensky pond and is considered the most spectacular at VDNKh. In early spring, it is pleasant to admire the beautiful views here. And when it gets warmer, there is a chance to meet common newts, toads, grass and sharp-nosed frogs, viviparous lizards and snakes.

    Meet the red duck and other birds

    According to ornithologists, more than 70 species of birds live at VDNKh in the warm season, including rare species listed in the Red Book. Most of them fly away to the southern regions for the winter when the cold weather sets in. But there are also those that live in the exhibition park area all year round. For example, tits, sparrows, woodpeckers, crows, nuthatches, jays, magpies. Most of the birds live near the Kamensky ponds cascade, the eco-trail in the Sheremetyevskaya oak grove and in Ostankino Park.

    Common mallards live on the VDNKh ponds. They have frost-resistant paws with few nerve endings. Thermoregulation is arranged in a special way. The arteries that bring blood to the ducks’ paws are closely intertwined with the veins, which ensures the exchange of heat between the hot arterial and colder venous blood. Thanks to this, mallards can easily walk on ice and snow.

    And in the Ostankino Park lives the common shelduck, or red duck. These birds are listed in the Red Book of Russia under the third category of rarity. During wintering, shelducks gather in small groups with other birds.

    Owls live in Ostankino Park and the N.V. Tsitsin Main Botanical Garden of the Russian Academy of Sciences. These birds are nocturnal, so they can only be seen at night. Four species of owls can be found at VDNKh: the gray owl, the long-eared owl, the long-tailed owl, and the pygmy owl. These places are also home to two species of hawks that lead an exclusively diurnal lifestyle: the sparrowhawk and the goshawk.

    Anyone going for a walk around VDNKh should take bird food with them. Stationary and hanging feeders can be found in Ostankino Park. Winter feeding will help birds survive the cold. In addition, this is a great opportunity to watch them and study their habits. Different treats in the feeder will attract certain types of birds. For example, if you put cereals, sparrows will flock there. Pine cones, nuts, and acorns will interest woodpeckers and jays. Bullfinches will come to taste dried rowan or hawthorn berries.

    However, it is important to remember that birds should not be given fresh and rye bread, smoked and fried foods, chips and salted seeds. The amount of food should not be excessive. In addition, do not put in the feeders what you were going to throw away, you need to put only fresh products. You can feed them with unsalted seeds, oatmeal, fresh and dried fruits and berries.

    Before the walk, it is recommended to study the “VDNKh Bird Book”. The publication contains interesting information about different species and behavioral characteristics of birds, including those wintering in their native lands. In addition, a map of the exhibition and Ostankino Park is published here, where the most convenient places for bird watching are marked. The electronic version of the book is posted on the VDNKh website.

    With the arrival of spring, migratory birds will return to VDNKh. The first to arrive here after wintering will be rooks, starlings and finches. Guests will be able to see them very soon – in March. In April, thrushes, warblers and robins usually return. And in May, the park will be filled with the delightful singing of nightingales and the ringing chirping of orioles and lentils.

    The Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy (VDNKh) is one of the largest green areas of the capital. Its ensemble is a unique object of landscape architecture, a monument of garden and park art of the mid-20th century.

    Today VDNKh is a major international exhibition center, a museum city and a modern platform for education and recreation of city residents and tourists. Many important cultural, scientific and economic events are held here, which are visited by tens of thousands of people. The total area of the territory is more than 325 hectares.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: The city has put eight premises in the Basmanny district up for auction

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Eight commercial properties free-use in the Basmanny District was put up for auction. This was reported by the head of the capital’s Department of Competition Policy Kirill Purtov.

    “Real estate in the center of the capital is especially in demand among investors, as it allows doing business in areas with high traffic and good business and tourist activity. Premises with an area of 37.5 to 409.9 square meters have a flexible purpose and are suitable for implementing various business projects. Application campaigns for them will end between March 4 and 26. Bidding will begin on March 13 and will last until April 4, depending on the selected lot,” said Kirill Purtov.

    The premises are located in residential buildings and office buildings. Seven of them are located on Zemlyanoy Val, Myasnitskaya, Novaya Basmannaya streets and on Chistoprudny Boulevard, they are connected to electricity, water supply and sewerage. The premises on Armyansky Lane are connected only to electricity.

    To participate in the auction, you will need registration on the Roseltorg platform and an enhanced qualified electronic signature. The organizer of the auction is Moscow City Department of Competition Policy.

    Moscow is a city that develops entrepreneurship. The capital puts various properties up for auction, and the showcase of the offered objects is Moscow Investment Portal. More than 400 non-residential premises and buildings are currently available to investors. In the section “Property from the city” All necessary information about the lots is published: photographs, documentation, conditions and form of implementation. Here you can also take a 3D tour of the objects. Participating in city auctions is convenient – the entire procedure takes place online.

    Development of electronic services for business corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State” and the regional project of the city of Moscow “Digital Public Administration”.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Residents of the building on Litvina-Sedogo Street received new apartments under the renovation program

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    About 150 Muscovites, who previously lived in a five-story building on Litvina-Sedogo Street, have become the owners of comfortable apartments in a new building in the Presnensky District. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, the head of the capital’s Department of City Property Maxim Gaman.

    “All residents of house 10 on Litvina-Sedogo Street received comfortable apartments in a short time under the renovation program in a new building at 19 Presnensky Val Street. This is about 150 people who signed contracts with the Department. Their neighbors in the new building will be Muscovites from two five-story buildings on Podvoiskogo Street and one on Strelbishchensky Lane. They are also completing the paperwork. In total, more than 600 city residents will move to the new residential complex,” said Maxim Gaman.

    Participants in the program are provided with equivalent apartments with finished repairs and necessary equipment: plumbing, electric stoves, lighting fixtures. The total area of the new housing is no less than the previous one or even more due to wide corridors and spacious kitchens.

    “The new building on Presnensky Val will have 344 apartments with finished, improved finishing. The entrance hall has rooms for concierges and pram storage. The first floor is non-residential. Currently, there is a resettlement information centre there. Later, social and household infrastructure facilities may open in its place. The area around the residential complex has been landscaped: comprehensive landscaping has been carried out, recreation areas have been equipped, as well as children’s and sports grounds. The metro stations “Ulitsa 1905 Goda” and “Belorusskaya” are within walking distance from the new building,” the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Urban Development Policy, specified.

    Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    In total, about eight thousand people from 53 old buildings are planned to be resettled in Presnensky District under the renovation program. All city residents living in 22 of them, including house 10 on Litvina-Sedogo Street, have already become owners of apartments in new buildings. Residents of four more five-story buildings continue to process documents.

    Previously Mayor of Moscow told on the results of the renovation program implementation in 2024.

    The renovation program was approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. Sergei Sobyanin instructed to double the pace of implementation of the renovation program.

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction volumes. High rates of housing construction correspond to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Address to the Super Summit

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    From capital markets to critical minerals, trade to technology, manufacturing to infrastructure.

    This Summit is about stronger returns and stronger economic ties between 2 great countries.

    So thank you, Ambassador Rudd, for the invitation, for the introduction and for all your work with officials to bring us together in DC to talk about the big opportunities before us.

    In partnership with my friend Heather Ridout – our Consul‑General, who will host you tomorrow in New York.

    And generously sponsored by Macquarie, represented here by Shemara – Australia has a tradition of outstanding business leaders, and Shemara exemplifies it.

    To all the representatives from Australian and US funds, peak bodies and investors who have taken the time to join us today – welcome.

    It’s a special honour to be joined by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

    President Trump told our Prime Minister he would make sure his top people were at this summit.

    They are, and I’m looking forward to introducing Secretary Bessent as our keynote speaker in a moment.

    But first, let me take a few minutes to talk you through why I think this summit is so important, and so timely.

    Not just as a way to explore mutually beneficial investment opportunities.

    But as a powerful demonstration of the strategic and economic alignment between our 2 countries which has done so much to secure prosperity for our people.

    This summit has gathered together some of the key stewards of capital across the United States and Australia.

    Our super fund representatives here today manage almost a trillion US dollars.

    The US companies and investment firms here have a market cap of at least $1.8 trillion.

    And over the course of these 2 days in DC, we’ll be joined by Governors and Congressional representatives from 5 US states – Illinois, Florida, Tennessee, California and Connecticut – that make up more than a quarter of the American economy.

    It’s a remarkable collection of capital and capability.

    So together, you represent very substantial investment opportunities.

    To collaborate on capital flows towards roads and bridges, energy infrastructure and data centres.

    To highlight a point made by Secretary Bessent in the Economist:

    Longstanding trusted allies with shared interests make the best economic partners.

    Across 14 Presidents and 16 Prime Ministers, Australia and America have sought to create a more peaceful, prosperous world – together.

    By the time the ANZUS treaty was signed in 1952, Australia and America had already partnered to shape the post‑war order of Bretton Woods.

    And we collaborated to bring about a period of relative calm after the Cold War that we both benefitted from.

    Through all of this we invested in each other’s success.

    Ford played a major role in the shift of Australia’s economy from primary industries to a stronger manufacturing base in the twentieth century.

    Macquarie Group pioneered private infrastructure investment in both of our countries.

    And BlueScope started its US operations – leading to $5 billion of investment in American steel.

    The last 17 years or so have presented more challenges, starting with the Global Financial Crisis.

    But together, we’ve weathered 3 major economic shocks, war and geopolitical tensions with remarkable resilience.

    Australia and the United States are 2 of the best positioned economies in the world right now.

    Our economies are both growing, inflation is down, and our labour markets strong.

    What makes that unusual around the world, and in historical terms, is we haven’t had to pay for this progress on inflation with much higher unemployment in our economies.

    This is a unique combination and a sound foundation that positions us to be the primary beneficiaries of the churn and change which defines uncertain times in the global economy.

    And to make the most of the 5 big shifts we identified in our own Intergenerational Report that will define the coming decades.

    Supply chain fragmentation, revolutions in energy, the acceleration of AI, an ageing population and the associated changes to our industrial base.

    Amidst this churn and change, we’re an island of dependability in a sea of uncertainty.

    This American–Australian partnership is full of shared interests, mutual benefits and enormous opportunity.

    Australia has and will be an essential contributor to US prosperity.

    Our economic partnership is mutually beneficial and has never been more critical.

    The US has enjoyed an uninterrupted trade surplus with Australia since 1952, currently two‑to‑one.

    We impose zero tariffs on US imports.

    Around half of our exports are inputs into American domestic production processes.

    We can supply 36 of the 50 minerals the United States lists as critical – for advanced technology and defence.

    Under AUKUS, we’re paying our own way at the same time as bolstering our defence capability.

    We are already one of America’s top 10 foreign investors.

    And we have trillions of patient, friendly pension capital ready to invest in the new opportunities that lie before us.

    Above all else, this is the reason we’re here today.

    In Australia, super, or pension savings, have been building steadily now over a long period of time.

    And what was around 100 billion US dollars a few decades ago has now grown to a pool of capital worth $2.6 trillion.

    At home, that helps us take pressure off public pensions and budgets.

    It funds decent, dignified retirements for our people.

    And it’s helped make us a net exporter of capital.

    Australia’s superannuation sector manages the fourth biggest pool of pension funds in the world.

    Larger than the capital controlled by the sovereign wealth funds of the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia – combined.

    Even more remarkable to be in the top 4 when you consider we don’t crack the 50 biggest countries by population and we’re ranked 14th by GDP.

    This pool of capital has and will keep on identifying and making the most of investment opportunities at home – in housing, in energy, in technology and in infrastructure.

    In the next 3 decades, Australia’s super pool could be almost two‑and‑a‑half times the size of the Australian economy.

    Increasingly this means capital needs to be deployed abroad too – in markets which are safe, well‑capitalised and can deliver the right risk‑adjusted returns.

    Markets like this one.

    That’s why it’s no surprise that America is the biggest international destination for Australian super fund capital.

    The current value of Australian super fund investments in the US is around $400 billion – due to reach $1 trillion over the next decade.

    So, Australia’s superannuation sector has the size, scale and presence to play a big role driving new American industries and creating jobs.

    By investing in deep and liquid US equity markets.

    And directly in your infrastructure too.

    Data centres in Las Vegas.

    Toll roads in Indiana.

    Container terminals in Long Beach.

    And more.

    Our funds want to partner with other investors in the US and beyond to finance these kinds of projects.

    Which is why we also have a vision to build Australia’s stature as a financial centre for the Indo‑Pacific.

    Australia has the talent, the financial infrastructure and the institutional capability to mobilise capital efficiently –

    Facilitating capital flows, structuring investments and directing funds to where they can generate the best returns.

    And we look forward to working with the people in this room to help us realise this potential.

    Now, it’s almost time to hear from Treasury Secretary Bessent.

    So let me say a few words about the meeting we wrapped up just an hour or so ago with Director Hassett.

    I was grateful for the very constructive conversation.

    And grateful we were able to cover so much ground over the course of an hour or so.

    We continued the discussion on tariffs, picking up from President Trump’s call with Prime Minister Albanese just over a fortnight ago.

    We also spoke about critical minerals.

    How Australian resources can help fuel American industry and advanced manufacturing.

    And the need to create secure, sustainable, reliable and resilient supply chains.

    And how investors can continue to drive growth and dynamism in both our economies.

    With patient, productive investment that bolsters industry, maintains our edge in the global economy, strengthens resilience, and creates jobs and opportunity.

    Secretary, I was struck by the words you used towards the end of your confirmation hearing.

    ‘I think it’s Main Street’s time.’

    That motivation is at the heart of this summit.

    From Main Street to Middle Australia –

    Stronger returns and stronger ties in the service of both countries together.

    In what will be a defining decade for us all.

    To hear more about all of that, please join me in warmly welcoming the US Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘We’re afraid to return home’: Uprooted again, Congolese civilians face hunger and more insecurity

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Peace and Security

    Around 700,000 people were forced to leave Goma, one of the biggest cities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) when it fell in January to rebels, known as M23. With the conflict spreading, many of them are on the move again but a return home is no guarantee of safety.

    On 9 February, M23 fighters gave Tumusifu, her six children and all the other residents of Bulengo displacement camp just 72 hours to leave. For the second time in a matter of weeks they would have to pick up their belongings and flee. 

    In January they were among the hundreds of thousands who sought refuge from the fighting when Goma fell to M23, but Bulengo is no longer safe. Going back to the city region may be the only option, but it is fraught with danger.

    © WFP/Michael Castofas

    A man dismantles his shelter in a camp before leaving for a safer location.

    “We’re afraid to return home,” Tumusifu, a mother of six, told UN aid workers at the time. “There is still fighting in our home village. We are hungry and do not have money to help ourselves. We’re waiting alongside the road because we do not know where to go.” 

    Since then, the crisis has continued to escalate. After Goma, M23 fighters took over Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern DRC, and other key towns, and thousands more have been displaced.

    This insecurity extends to Goma itself, where there have been reports of crime and targeted violence, including home invasions and kidnappings. The UN peacekeeping mission for DRC, MONUSCO, has described the security situation in areas seized by M23 rebels as “unstable and highly unpredictable.”

    ‘Some children are starving to death’

    Despite the dangers, and with nowhere else to go, Tumusifu and her family went back to their home village near Goma. Conditions are extremely precarious. “Food is our biggest need right now,” she says. “Some children are starving to death. There are no medicines because the clinics are closed.”

    © WFP/Michael Castofas

    Like many displaced people at Bulengo, Francine feared for her family’s safety.

    When Francine fled the displacement camp she lived in near Goma, she was separated from her husband. She fled in one direction with five of her children, whilst her husband ran in another with the couple’s sixth child. 

    “We have not seen each other since,” she said. “I’m currently taking shelter in a school, and our lives are even more challenging than they were in the camps. The most difficult thing for us is the scarcity of food and the lack of water. We have no access to a health centre.”

    After two of WFP’s warehouses in Goma were looted, 70 per cent of the food stored there, some 9,000 metric tons, was taken, severely limiting the World Food Programme, WFP’s ability to support the population.

    Across the country, looting has severely disrupted humanitarian operations, leaving over 450,000 people without shelter, food, or water. 

    “Displaced people have not had assistance for six weeks,” said Shelley Thakral, WFP spokesperson in DRC. “It is critical to bring food in – people are running out.”

    Markets are collapsing under the strain. A recent WFP study found that maize flour – one of the region’s staples – has risen in price by almost 70 per cent, with sharp increases also seen for salt and peanut oil.

    © WFP/Benjamin Anguandia

    An UNHAS plane lands at Bunia airport in the eastern DR Congo. (file)

    Another critical factor is transport. Goma’s airport has been closed for more than two weeks, cutting off a vital humanitarian supply route, and the WFP-operated UN Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) is facing a funding crisis that could see services suspended by the end of March, unless the agency can raise $33.1 million to keep the planes in the air.

    Women and girls on the frontline

    As conditions worsen, women and girls face an increased risk of sexual violence and exploitation. Many are attacked while searching for firewood, and in extreme cases, some resort to providing sexual services to feed their families. Female-headed households are particularly vulnerable.

    © WFP/Michael Castofas

    WFP continues to deliver food aid in Goma.

    “Putting food in the hands of women and providing them with livelihood opportunities is key to curbing violence targeting women and girls,” said Ms. Thakral, adding that WFP plans to distribute 57 metric tons of food to support 11,000 children and pregnant or breastfeeding women at risk of severe malnutrition.

    Amid all the hardship, people’s dreams of returning to the homes they had before they were forced to live in displacement camps are intact. 

    “We will not choose a life of displacement over the peace of our homeland,” said Tumusifu. “Even if we have lost everything – including our farms and our livestock – we have the skills to restart.”

    Surnames in this story are omitted for protection reasons
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Co-Leaders announce plans to launch Green Budget this year

    Source: Green Party

    Green Party Co-Leaders Marama Davidson and Chlöe Swarbrick have announced the party’s plans to deliver a Green Budget this year to offer an alternative vision to the Government’s trickle-down economics and austerity politics.   

    “New Zealanders care about each other and the planet we live on. Our Green Budget will lay out the plan for an economy that respects and protects those things, instead of exhausting and exploiting both,” says Green Party co-leader and spokesperson for Finance Chlöe Swarbrick.

    “Poverty, and all the social ills that stem from it, doesn’t come from nowhere. It comes from a tolerance of extreme inequality. It comes from the privatisation of profit and the socialisation of cost.

    “In December, we released He Ara Anamata, our Emissions Reduction Plan, which showed how we could reduce emissions five times faster than the Government’s proposed ‘plan’. It showed we can not only reduce the cost of living, but increase quality of life.

    “Our Green Budget will build on that to continue to show precisely how a different world is possible, and entirely within our reach,” says Chlöe Swarbrick.

    “More and more tamariki continue to fall through the cracks and live below the poverty line, as a result of this Government’s choices; the choices to gut housing for our most vulnerable, to gut school lunches, to gut our health system and put growing pressure on our health workers,” says Marama Davidson.

    “We all depend on each other when times are rough. People want to care for each other – manaakitanga is part of human nature. This is the core value that will underpin our Green Budget.

    “Our mokopuna deserve better, and we can deliver better by channelling community power and finally putting people and planet ahead of profit,” says Marama Davidson.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Bay Man Pleads Guilty To Aggravated Sexual Abuse Of Victim In Marin Headlands

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN FRANCISCO – Esbin Ramirez-Garcia, 28, of Rohnert Park, pleaded guilty today to aggravated sexual abuse of a victim while in the Marin Headlands.

    Defendant was indicted by a federal grand jury on Aug. 22, 2024, on one count of aggravated sexual abuse in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2241(a).  In pleading guilty, Ramirez-Garcia admitted that late in the evening on Aug. 2, 2024, while giving the victim, with whom he had a prior relationship, a ride from her workplace in his truck, he asked her to get back together with him.  Ramirez-Garcia and the victim got into an argument and she refused to resume their relationship.  Defendant deviated from the route to the victim’s home.  The victim asked to be let out of the vehicle, but Ramirez-Garcia grabbed her with his hand and continued driving, forcing her to accompany him.

    According to the plea agreement, Ramirez-Garcia then drove his truck to a parking lot in the Marin Headlands, which is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and parked just after midnight.  Ramirez-Garcia admitted that he forcibly placed his body on top of the victim’s body while she sat in the passenger seat and sexually assaulted her.

    Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins, FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Dan Costin, and National Park Service Investigative Services Branch Acting Special Agent in Charge Betsy Smith made the announcement.

    Defendant has been in custody since August 2024.  Ramirez-Garcia’s sentencing is scheduled for May 28, 2025, before Senior U.S. District Judge William Alsup.  Defendant faces a statutory maximum of life in prison and a $250,000 fine.  Any sentence will be imposed by the court only after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.

    Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Chen and Assistant U.S. Attorney E. Wistar Wilson are prosecuting this case with the assistance of Sara Slattery, Maureen French, and Fernanda Gonzalez.  This prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI and the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: New light shed on diversity of plateau’s plants

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Aerial photo shows the scenery at Mt Nyanpo Yutse in Tibetan autonomous prefecture of Golog of Northwest China’s Qinghai province. Qinghai province, located in Northwest China, much of which lies on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, is the home to the headwaters of the Yangtze, Yellow and Lancang rivers. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Chinese scientists have discovered what determined the distribution of unique high-altitude plants across the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, thereby answering a major global scientific question.
    Known as the “Roof of the World” and the “Third Pole of the Earth”, the plateau hosts exceptionally rare plants, with over one-third of them found nowhere else on Earth.
    “This makes it a global biodiversity hot spot,” said Wang Tao, a professor at the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research and the lead author of a related study published recently in the journal Nature Communications.
    “For decades, scientists have tried to understand how these mountain-specific plants developed their unique distribution patterns,” he said.
    Working with researchers from the University of Basel in Switzerland, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Peking University, Wang’s team found that historical shifts in tree growth limits — the highest altitude at which trees can survive — played a crucial role.
    The study re-created a model to show how the plateau’s tree line, the upper forest limit, moved over time since the last Ice Age 22,000 years ago.
    Wang said it is widely accepted that the uplift of the plateau played a key role in the origin of its flora, while periodic climate fluctuations during the Quaternary Period 2.6 million years ago drove the diversification of species.
    Earlier studies have warned that global warming pushes trees higher up mountains, squeezing the habitat of alpine plants. This new research reveals that past tree line shifts also left a lasting mark.
    In addition to the Quaternary climate fluctuations, the fluctuations regarding past tree line shifts “have also influenced the diversity of endemic alpine species in alpine areas, a factor that had not been explored before”, Wang said.
    The study found that the average elevation of the tree line in the distant past on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau was lowest — roughly 3,426 meters — during the Last Glacial Maximum, which lasted from 29,000 to 19,000 years ago, and highest — about 4,187 meters — during the Holocene Thermal Maximum about 8,000 years ago. The average present-day tree line is at 4,009 meters.
    The fluctuation in tree line elevation between glacial and interglacial periods reached up to 850 meters, causing the habitat area for endemic alpine species during interglacial periods to be about 50 percent of the habitat area during glacial periods.
    “Areas with stable environments over time developed more unique plant mixes. In contrast, regions with frequent tree line changes had simpler, more uniform plant communities,” Wang said.
    Team member Xu Jinfeng said: “Think of environmental changes as a sieve — only the toughest species survive repeated shifts, making plant groups look similar. Stable areas let plants develop special traits, creating richer diversity.”
    According to the study, rapid warming and rising tree lines could threaten the plateau’s unique plants.
    “These species aren’t built to handle double pressures from climate change and invading trees,” said Wang. “Our findings help design better protection plans.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Cornyn, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Ensure Veterans’ Access to High-Quality Mental Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and John Cornyn (R-TX) today introduced the Veterans Mental Health and Addiction Therapy Quality of Care Act, which would require an independent organization outside of the government to conduct a study to assess the quality of care veterans receive for mental and addiction health treatment from providers within and outside the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
    “Every veteran must receive the care and services they need to address the risk of suicide and addiction,” said Dr. Cassidy. “There is no room for failure.”
    “The brave men and women who served our nation should never be denied access to the high-quality care they deserve,” said Senator Cornyn. “This legislation recognizes the unique mental health challenges our veterans face and aims to improve the VA system by providing an independent evaluation of the quality of life we’re providing for our nation’s bravest.”
    Cassidy and Cornyn were joined by U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Susan Collins (R-ME), Gary Peters (D-MI), John Fetterman (D-PA) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) in introducing the bill.
    The VA is home to the nation’s largest integrated health care system that provides comprehensive health services to U.S. military veterans who are enrolled. However, recent estimates indicate that as many as 70% of VA-eligible veterans received their care from external providers. Given the high rate of veteran suicide due to mental and addiction health conditions, a study is needed to better understand if current practices provide our veterans with the best mental and addiction quality of care. 
    The Veterans Mental Health and Addiction Therapy Quality of Care Act would require an independent and objective organization outside of the VA to conduct a study to:
    Analyze the results of comparable instances of addiction and mental health care between inside and outside providers using objective criteria such as symptom scores and suicide risk; 
    Ascertain to what extent outside providers are using evidence-based practices in the treatment of addiction and mental health issues;
    Identify potential gaps in coordination between internal and external providers in responding to individuals seeking addiction or mental health care;
    Evaluate the availability of coordinated care for veterans who have separate or related conditions which may be impacting their mental health;
    Assess providers’ military cultural competency;
    Gauge the ease and flexibility of sharing medical records with a veteran’s health care team;
    Consider to what extent providers are conducting outcome monitoring throughout a veteran’s treatment to track progress or lack thereof;
    And measure overall patient satisfaction.
    The legislation is supported by the Disabled American Veterans Association, the American Psychological Association, and the Veteran Health Care Policy Initiative.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Simpson Supports House Budget Resolution

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Rep. Simpson Supports House Budget Resolution

    Washington, February 25, 2025

    WASHINGTON— Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson issued the following statement regarding his vote of support for the House of Representatives’ Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Resolution.  
    “I am encouraged that House Republicans have taken the first crucial step in this reconciliation process,” said Rep. Simpson. “The House Republican Budget Resolution lays out a path to advance President Trump’s full America First policy agenda by securing our border, restoring American energy independence, strengthening America’s military, and preventing tax hikes. I have long sounded the alarm that our nation’s debt is an existential threat, and change is necessary to get America’s fiscal house in order. The American people gave House Republicans a powerful mandate on all these issues, and now it’s time to deliver results and get our nation back on track.”
    The Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Resolution passed with a vote of 217-215. The full text of the congressional budget is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AFSCME’s Saunders: This budget proves anti-union extremists are more concerned about tax breaks for billionaires than helping working people

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement after the House passed a budget plan to gut Medicaid, SNAP and essential public services nationwide:

    “This budget proves that anti-union extremists in Congress are more concerned with giving the wealthy trillions in tax cuts than helping working people. Voters across the country are packing town halls to demand no cuts to Medicaid or SNAP. They’re calling representatives asking them to save public services. They want elected leaders who will lower rising costs on everything from rent to food. But instead of listening to workers, the House moved forward on a budget plan that will cause millions to lose their health care, increase food insecurity for families, and jeopardize Medicare and Social Security in the long term. It’s shameful.

    “Public service workers will continue to organize against these billionaire attacks. From nurses to home care providers to corrections officers, AFSCME members and retirees have dedicated their lives to making our communities healthier, safer and

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Secretary Noem Announces Agency Will Enforce Laws That Penalize Aliens in the Country Illegally

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    DHS Will Use Every Available Tool to Compel Illegal Aliens to Self-Deport 

    WASHINGTON – Today, Secretary Kristi Noem announced the Department of Homeland Security will fully enforce the Immigration and Nationality Act, which created multiple tools to track illegal aliens and compel them to leave the country voluntarily. These tools include criminal penalties for certain aliens who:   

    • Willfully fail to depart the United States. 
    • Fail to register with the federal government and be fingerprinted. 
    • Fail to apprise the federal government of changes to their address. 

    An alien’s failure to depart the U.S. is a crime that could result in significant financial penalty. An alien’s failure to register is a crime that could result in a fine, imprisonment, or both. For decades, this law has been ignored—not anymore.  

    Compelling mass self-deportation is a safer path for aliens and law enforcement, and saves U.S. taxpayer dollars, in addition to conserving valuable Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) resources needed to keep Americans safe.  

    Statement Attributable to a DHS Spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin 

    “President Trump and Secretary Noem have a clear message for those in our country illegally: leave now. If you leave now, you may have the opportunity to return and enjoy our freedom and live the American dream. 

    “The Trump administration will enforce all our immigration laws—we will not pick and choose which laws we will enforce.  We must know who is in our country for the safety and security of our homeland and all Americans.”  

    Aliens can register here.  

    This announcement comes on the heels of a nationwide and international ad campaign warning illegal aliens to self-deport and stay out.   

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why do we fall for wellness scams? Our cultural biases and myths are often to blame

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jesse Ruse, Clinical Psychologist, PhD Candidate, University of Sydney

    Netflix

    Netflix’s Apple Cider Vinegar has renewed interest in Belle Gibson’s infamous wellness scam, reminding us how vulnerable we can be to deception. While Gibson’s scheme eventually collapsed, her story highlights how fraudsters can exploit our psychological and cultural biases to lure us into wellness traps.

    Part of our culture includes the shared mythologies and symbols that help us make sense of the world. These stories and symbols seem to make our lives more “efficient” by surpassing tedious fact-checking. Over time, these cultural codes become embedded into our psychologies, operating as background biases that shape our decision-making.

    By becoming aware of these biases, we can develop a more critical approach to evaluating information presented to us. In doing so, we can protect ourselves from the Belle Gibsons of the world.

    A desire for inner bodily purity

    One pervasive wellness mythology suggests health can be found in the “pure” state of the body, and that illness occurs when outside contaminants pollute the body.

    As anthropologist Mary Douglas notes, we symbolically equate the “inner” with purity and the “outer” with pollution. This leads to efforts to protect ourselves from outside threats. We are disgusted by the idea of the harmful “outside” getting inside and violating the body’s inner sanctum.

    Gibson’s cookbook and app promoted a diet that claimed inner health problems (such as cancer) are the result of outside contamination, in this case by “bad” foods.

    This symbolism also appears in various diets that advocate for removing certain types of food, such as sugar or gluten, to achieve a state of inner sanctity and, therefore, health.

    Similarly, various “clean eating” diets will specifically link certain foods to cleanliness and others to dirtiness. In their most extreme form, these diets constitute orthorexia, a clinical condition defined by an “obsession” with healthy eating.

    The allure of ‘ancient wisdom’

    Each day we face an overwhelming array of choices, from the products we use to how we construct our identities. As people living in modern, affluent societies we are, as philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre put it, “condemned to be free”.

    In this context of choice overload and decision fatigue, ancient wisdom offers a seductive simplicity: a return to simpler times.

    In 1953, psychoanalyst Jacques Lacan observed that we possess a nostalgia for an idealised golden age (regardless of whether it ever truly existed). We yearn for a mythical era of simplicity, safety and happiness. This psychological bias for the past manifests as a deep reverence for “ancient wisdom”, seemingly passed down through generations and untainted by modern influence.

    This preference can be seen in our instinctive trust in grandparents’ remedies and traditional healing practices, even when scientific evidence doesn’t always support them. Gibson and others co-opt this nostalgia by selling us products that connect us to the past.

    Suspicion of industrial-scale production

    Our minds are often suspicious of large-scale and complex manufacturing processes, and will often devalue industrially produced products.

    This scepticism of scale stems from negative associations with factory work, questionable standards and a history of multinational corporations prioritising profit over people. As a public, we are growing understandably weary of the multinational companies whose influence we can’t seem to escape. Politicians often further this narrative by claiming that globalisation – replacing local cottage industries with industrialised mega-companies – screws the little guys like you and me.

    Gibson capitalised on a growing suspicion of the industrial-scale pharmaceutical industry to promote her bespoke “homegrown” wellness products. Locally-made goods often have increased value simply because they are made on a smaller scale, regardless of their quality or materials.

    Historically, various groups including the Luddites and the hippie movement have rejected the industrial push. More recently, we saw these dynamics play out in COVID-19 vaccine denial, which partially stems from suspicions of the pharmaceutical companies.

    A preference for natural over artificial

    Culturally, the concept of the “natural” holds powerful meaning, positioning things found in nature as inherently superior to those manufactured by humans (deemed “artificial”).

    This natural/artificial dichotomy establishes a symbolic framework in which natural remedies, raw foods and authenticity represent the “proper” order of things – how life should be. The “appeal to nature” bias persists because it resonates with our collective intuition that modern life has somehow disconnected us from important truths or healthier ways of living.

    Research has demonstrated we tend to have a positive association with the concept of the “natural”, which we understand as objects not altered by human intervention. This preference isn’t merely aesthetic. It also reflects our belief in a moral order.

    Gibson famously claimed alternative therapies – most notably apple cider vinegar – helped treat her alleged cancer. Similar patterns appear throughout the wellness industry, where influencers and companies market products by emphasising their natural origins and minimal processing.

    These claims leverage our psychological bias toward natural remedies, even when the scientific evidence for their efficacy is lacking.

    Jesse Ruse 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. Why do we fall for wellness scams? Our cultural biases and myths are often to blame – https://theconversation.com/why-do-we-fall-for-wellness-scams-our-cultural-biases-and-myths-are-often-to-blame-250790

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Largest forced displacement in the West Bank since 1967 – Oxfam

    Source: Oxfam –

    • At least 800 Israeli military checkpoints, barriers and gates causing unprecedented movement restrictions; two-hour journeys now take twelve, hampering humanitarian response  

    • Largest forced displacement in West Bank since 1967 amid fears of no right of return 

    A dramatic rise in Israeli military violence has caused the largest forced displacement in the West Bank since the Israeli occupation began. As the ‘Gazafication’ of the West Bank unfolds, vital humanitarian work and projects are being delayed or destroyed, Oxfam warned today.  

    More than 40,000 people have been forcibly displaced since the Gaza temporary ceasefire came into force on 19 January – the highest number since Israel occupied the Palestinian Territory including the West Bank, in 1967. The recent Israeli military offensive across the West Bank has particularly impacted the north, with an assault on Jenin just two days after the Gaza ceasefire began, and spread now into Tulkarem, Nur Shams, and El Far’a refugee camps. 

    Palestinian communities across the West Bank are experiencing multiple traumas, including deaths and arbitrary detention, heavily restricted movement and access to jobs and education, and mass demolitions of homes and infrastructure.  

    Suhair Farraj, Director of Oxfam partner Women Media and Development, said:  

    “The situation was never as bad as it is now. There used to be occasional raids by the Israeli army, but nothing like this. Closures and checkpoints make aid delivery nearly impossible. A journey that should take two hours now takes twelve.” 

    Mustafa Tamaizeh, Economic Justice Development Manager and West Bank Response Lead, Oxfam, OPT, said:   

    “In the last month since the ceasefire, the Israeli escalation of violence and destruction in the West Bank has been unprecedented. The Israeli government is pursuing this destruction with full impunity while aiding and abetting illegal Israeli settlers to attack Palestinian communities.  

    “Effectively we are seeing fast-track annexation policies and measures that are making it increasingly difficult and dangerous for Oxfam and other organizations to deliver desperately needed humanitarian programs and reach communities. The acute needs are further compounded by the extensive forced displacement of so many people. 

    “Our staff and partners have reported being denied access or threatened at military checkpoints and aid deliveries blocked. Such restrictions have slowed aid efforts and increased operational costs.”  

    “In the last month since the ceasefire, the Israeli escalation of violence and destruction in the West Bank has been unprecedented. The Israeli government is pursuing this destruction with full impunity while aiding and abetting illegal Israeli settlers to attack Palestinian communities.  

    Mustafa Tamaizeh, West Bank Response Lead

    Oxfam

    Since the beginning of the Israeli forces’ operation in the West Bank on 21 January, 51 Palestinians, including seven children, and three Israeli soldiers have been killed. At Jenin refugee camp, which is now practically deserted, reports from Oxfam partners indicate that Israeli forces have been widening roads and installing Hebrew street signs inside cleared areas.     

    In Jenin refugee camp, on 21 January an Israeli military attack killed at least 12 Palestinians and displaced more than 20,000 people. A young participant in a youth project run by Oxfam and a partner project said the military had been shooting at everyone, burning houses to the ground and destroying infrastructure, including hospitals. Ambulances were blocked for hours. 

    With attacks by illegal Israeli settlers soaring, vital humanitarian work and projects by Oxfam, its partners and other aid agencies, are being delayed. Israeli forces’ operations have caused severe damage to water and sanitation infrastructure, disrupting access to water for tens of thousands of people, leading to growing concerns for public health. Agriculture has ground to a halt. 

    Abbas Milhem, Executive Director of Oxfam partner Palestinian Farmers Union, said:   

    “Since the ceasefire in Gaza, Israel has cut off farmers from accessing their lands across the West Bank, making their lives almost impossible. This month only, the Israeli army ordered the takeover of 1,000 acres of land in the occupied West Bank, emptying the lands of farmers to make it easy for annexation and settlement expansion.  

    “Settlers too, have intensified their attacks. The number of settler attacks every day has multiplied. These include physical attacks, damaging and destroying local agricultural projects, uprooting and cutting down trees, and even shooting at farming communities, forcing large numbers to leave their farmland areas.”   

    Oxfam teams and partners have reported that many rural areas are being put under full closure, cutting off access to humanitarian aid. East Jerusalem is currently closed to Palestinians in the West Bank, as Israel has banned access beyond the restrictions imposed for decades.  

    Oxfam’s Mustafa Tamaizeh, added: “What we are witnessing is a calculated annexation 

    strategy. Overnight, movement between cities has been paralyzed, piling economic and social pressure on already struggling communities. Violations of human rights and international law are happening in plain sight, with impunity, as the international community watches on, complicit in its silence. 

    “As one of our partners described to me, we are now witnessing the same scenes we once watched on TV in Gaza, Rafah, and Deir Al-Balah. We are seeing the ‘Gazafication’ of the West Bank. 

    “The international community must not turn a blind eye while this historic displacement, de-humanisiation and destruction takes place in the West Bank. For too long, Israel’s illegal occupation, oppression and countless grave breaches of International Humanitarian Law across the OPT have been unchecked. Urgent action must be taken so Israel’s impunity ends and aid agencies are granted access to help Palestinians recover and rebuild from the violence so they can fulfill their right to self-determination and live in dignity, freed from occupation”. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: National Care Standards Regulations still not being met – Experiences of Care in Aotearoa 2023/24 released

    Source: Aroturuki Tamariki – the Independent Children’s Monitor

    The latest report on Experiences of Care in Aotearoa has found that tamariki (children) and rangatahi (young people) are still not receiving the minimum standard of care required by the National Care Standards Regulations. The Regulations have been in place since 2019.

    The report on agency compliance with the National Care Standards Regulations for the period 1 July 2023 – 30 June 2024 was published by Aroturuki Tamariki – Independent Children’s Monitor today. Chief Executive Arran Jones says agencies with custody and care of tamariki and rangatahi are required to comply with these regulations.

    “With custody of almost 99 percent of tamariki and rangatahi in care, our findings are mostly about Oranga Tamariki. When the State takes custody of a child, its job is to care for and protect them. Oranga Tamariki is not alone, all government agencies need to see themselves as guardians of these children and make sure they are safe, well cared for, and have their needs met,” Mr Jones says.

    “This is our fourth monitoring report and the very slow pace of change shows that the underlying issues are not being addressed in a way that will make a difference to the lives of tamariki and rangatahi in care. The care standards are fundamentally about social work practice, if that’s enabled the standards will be met.

    “Social workers are not always able to work effectively, including completing meaningful plans and assessments, visiting tamariki and rangatahi as often as they need, and supporting caregivers and whānau.

    “As a result, one third of children are still not being visited by their social worker as often as required, sixty percent of caregivers are not visited as planned and almost a third of rangatahi experience no planning at all for their transition to adulthood.

    “Tamariki and rangatahi in care are not prioritised for government services, and funding does not follow the child. We consistently heard about stand-offs between government agencies over who is responsible for paying. Social workers, caregivers and whānau have to seek out services and supports child-by-child, relying on established relationships and goodwill, rather than there being a system that automatically responds to need.

    “Tamariki and rangatahi, including those who later become involved in youth justice, are often taken into care because they have been abused or neglected. Ensuring they get the help and support they need will give them the best chance to go on and have good lives. Failure to do so can perpetuate the harm,” says Mr Jones.

    The report found more tamariki and rangatahi are being abused in care. In 2023/24, 507 tamariki and rangatahi (nine percent of those in care) were found to have been abused or neglected while in the custody of Oranga Tamariki. The areas where disproportionate levels of abuse continue to occur are in secure residences (mostly by other rangatahi in the residence) and when tamariki and rangatahi return to their parents’ care while in the custody of Oranga Tamariki. For those returned home, supports are not always in place for the parents, and social workers are not visiting when they should.

    When rangatahi are getting ready to leave care for adulthood at 18, many get help from the transition service. Often this help comes too late, with only 14 percent referred when they become eligible at 15 years old, and just over half by the age of 16. Oranga Tamariki is often not doing the things it is required to do to prepare young people for leaving care.

    “The issues identified in our latest Experiences of Care in Aotearoa report are not new. If they can be addressed, we might start to see progress towards provision of the minimum standard of care. Until then, tamariki and rangatahi will continue to miss out.

    “We welcome the extent to which Oranga Tamariki has engaged with this report, and that it will be used to drive performance. However, we are already eight months into the next reporting period and, based on what we have heard so far from our most recent monitoring visits, we are unlikely to see improvement in our next report. From our most recent monitoring visits we’ve heard how the 2024/25 contract funding decisions have damaged relationships, and restricted services that social workers can call on,” says Mr Jones.

    Read the report https://aroturuki.govt.nz/reports/eoc-23-24

    Notes:

    The National Care Standards Regulations came into effect in 2019 and set out the minimum standards required when a child comes into care. These regulations apply to Oranga Tamariki, Open Home Foundation and any other agency with custody and care responsibilities.

    Aroturuki Tamariki – the Independent Children’s Monitor checks that organisations supporting and working with tamariki, rangatahi and their whānau, are meeting their needs, delivering services effectively, and improving outcomes. We monitor compliance with the Oranga Tamariki Act and the associated regulations, including the National Care Standards. We also look at how the wider system (such as early intervention) is supporting tamariki and rangatahi under the Oversight of Oranga Tamariki System Act.

    Aroturuki Tamariki works closely with its partners in the oversight system, Mana Mokopuna – Children and Young People’s Commission, and the Office of the Ombudsman.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Child Care – Save the Children calls for immediate action to meet minimum standards for children in care, following new report

    Source: Save the Children

    Save the Children is deeply concerned by the lack of progress to ensure all children in care are receiving the minimum standard of care required by the National Care Standards and Related Matters Regulations (NCS Regulations).
    Today’s report by Aroturuki Tamariki, the Independent Children’s Monitor highlights the lack of progress of Oranga Tamariki to meet the minimum regulatory care standards that are requirements for children in the care of the State over the past four years, and do not expect to see progress by the next report one year from now.
    “The Royal Commission of Inquiry has illuminated the painful failures of the past where many children were let down by the State, subjected to horrifying levels of abuse and harm while in the care of the State. Sadly, this report shows that abuse and harm to children while in care of the State remains a current issue,” says Save the Children Advocacy Director Jacqui Southey.
    “It is unacceptable that funding cuts are impacting the delivery of care and protection of children in vulnerable situations. Adequate investment is required to ensure our care system is working effectively and cohesively, protecting and improving the lives of children that have already experienced significant harm or neglect.
    “Enduring failures to meet the minimum standards required by the National Care Standard Regulations are not good enough.”
    Ms Southey says significant areas of concern include unacceptably high numbers of children in care continue to be harmed, with highest rates of harm occurring in secure residential care settings or when children return home to their families.
    The report shows 23 % of tamariki and rangatahi were found to have been abused in secure residences, with 18 % of the harm caused by residence staff and 79 % by other rangatahi. For tamariki and rangatahi returned home to the care of a parent while in the custody of Oranga Tamariki, 11% of tamariki and rangatahi were abused or neglected.
    “Failure to complete assessments and care plans for all children is worrying, as is the lack of collaboration of agencies across the care and protection systems potentially leading to gaps creating risks that children could be harmed instead of being protected,” says Ms Southey.
    “There are strong expectations that when a child is being harmed or at serious risk of harm and the State is required to step in, that the situation for that child will dramatically improve, that their care and protection is guaranteed, and that the State will uphold their parental responsibilities to ensure the child’s rights and wellbeing are met in the short and longer duration of their care. The role of social workers, working alongside tamariki, carers and families is critical to achieving this.”
    Save the Children is calling for immediate action based on the findings of the report to change the trajectory to meet the minimum care standards, ensure that all children have required assessments completed, and up to date care plans in place that are communicated to and developed with the children they are about.
    Other areas that urgently need to be improved include ensuring all children that are 18 years transitioning out of the care system are well supported in the next steps of their lives to have emotional support, housing, financial support, support to access employment or undertake further education.
    About Save the Children NZ:
    Save the Children works in 120 countries across the world. The organisation responds to emergencies and works with children and their communities to ensure they survive, learn and are protected.
    Save the Children NZ currently supports international programmes in Fiji, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, Nepal, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Areas of work include child protection, education and literacy, disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation, and alleviating child poverty.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Releases Snapshot Report Showing How Proposed Medicaid Funding Cuts Could Devastate WA Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    02.25.25

    Cantwell Releases Snapshot Report Showing How Proposed Medicaid Funding Cuts Could Devastate WA Health Care

    Central and Eastern Washington at highest risk with Medicaid on chopping block — 70% of children in Central WA’s Congressional District 4 are on Medicaid; rural hospital leaders warn of closings

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, as House Republicans continue to debate whether they will make significant cuts to Medicaid, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released a snapshot report highlighting the impact that slashing Medicaid to fund tax cuts for corporations and the ultra-wealthy would have on Washington state’s health care system — especially in Central and Eastern Washington.

    The snapshot report includes new data on the percentage of Medicaid patients in each of the State of Washington’s U.S. congressional districts, as well as by region. Congressional District 4 (Central Washington) and Congressional District 5 (Eastern Washington) have the highest proportions of adults and total population on Medicaid. Seventy percent of children in District 4 are on Medicaid.

    The report also includes information provided by rural Central and Eastern Washington hospitals, showing how crucial Medicaid funding is for their survival. “We’re struggling to keep our doors open … the only thing left to cut is the hospital itself,” the report quotes Astria Toppenish Hospital Administrator Cathy Bambrick as saying.

    Based on interviews and statements from more than a dozen health organizations statewide, the report details how Medicaid cuts — and the subsequent service cuts by providers — would likely affect all Washingtonians.

    Children:

    47% of WA children are on Medicaid. “Babies could die,” says Dr. Jason Deen, an Associate Professor of Pediatrics and pediatric cardiologist at the University of Washington who treats children across Washington state, as children like those he treats could lose access to life-saving specialty care without Medicaid.

    Farmers: 

    Rural hospitals in Central and Eastern Washington would be hardest hit by these cuts. “It is not uncommon for our small family farmers to be on a Medicaid program,” says Garfield County Hospital District CEO Mat Slaybaugh.

    People with chronic conditions:

    Without health care coverage, people with chronic conditions won’t get the consistent care they need. “People are going to be dying in their homes,” says Spokane-area nurse Jessica Grove. 

    Anyone with a medical emergency:

    Medicaid helps people avoid the emergency room; it also funds first responders in our state. Cuts to the program could mean overcrowded ERs and longer wait times for ambulances. “Every Washingtonian should be concerned about any funding cuts that could lead to slower response times in a life-threatening emergency,” says Dennis Lawson, President of the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters. 

    Sen. Cantwell’s snapshot report on Washington state is available HERE. 

    Medicaid is the federal program that insures many low-income adults and children, pregnant people, seniors, and people with disabilities. Washington state’s Medicaid program, Apple Health, ensures that eligible Washingtonians can afford to seek health care and see providers when they need to.  The program also ensures that hospitals — which are required to treat everyone, regardless of their ability to pay — receive reimbursements for the significant number of low-income people they serve. About 1.8 million Washingtonians are enrolled in Apple Health.

    Congressional Republicans are proposing deep cuts to Medicaid through the budget reconciliation process. President Trump has said that he opposes cuts to Medicaid, however he has also said that he supports the House Republican budget plan — which includes cuts to Medicaid. Late last week, Senate Republicans launched the budget resolution process, which would allow them to fold budget cuts and policy changes into a single package for an up-down vote. The House is expected to vote on a competing budget resolution this week, and the two chambers will eventually have to reconcile their plans and finalize the package’s details. 

    During Trump’s first term, he supported — and Sen. Cantwell opposed — an effort to repeal the Affordable Care Act that would have cut Medicaid by $800 billion.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn on Outbound Investment: It’s High Time China is Held Accountable

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) underscored the importance of Congress passing legislation to prohibit investments by American entities in sensitive technologies in China, a priority he has long championed, in order to bolster America’s national security. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

    “At this very moment, American investors—some of these are businesses, some of these are individuals—the investments they’re making are fueling China’s military buildup and modernization by funneling capital into, potentially, dual-use technology and military capabilities that could eventually be used against the United States and our allies.”

    “How can we expect to outcompete or even catch up to Chinese companies if, unbeknownst to us, American dollars are continuing to fuel their rise economically and militarily?”

    “We’re simply not being serious about confronting our greatest strategic adversary if we continue to be blind to the investment of billions of dollars and the very technologies that could be potentially used to kill American Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines.”

    “There are reasons for optimism that this year will be the time we get these provisions over the finish line, and we’ve worked hard to work with the House’s version and to work with the Senate version that passed overwhelmingly previously to make sure we marry those up and we establish a bill that enjoys bipartisan and bicameral support.”

    “I’ve been working with everyone from the Speaker of the House to the Chairman of the Select Committee on the CCP, John Moolenaar, to Congressman McCaul, as well as Tim Scott, Chairman of the Banking Committee here in the Senate, and we’ve all made input into a piece of legislation that will finally accomplish what we’ve been working on for these last few years.”

    “It will be a home run for all Americans, who can feel safe that American companies and investors are not helping China not only rebuild its economy, but also its military as well.”

    “The only party that stands to lose from this legislation will be the Chinese Communist Party, and it’s high time that they be held accountable.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 【Global News】Panasonic to Showcase Innovative STEAM Program Developed with MIT Media Lab at SXSW EDU 2025

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: 【Global News】Panasonic to Showcase Innovative STEAM Program Developed with MIT Media Lab at SXSW EDU 2025

    Austin, TX, U.S. – Feb. 25, 2025 – Panasonic Holdings Corporation (Panasonic HD) will be demonstrating its groundbreaking STEAM education service, “Scratch Home School,” developed in collaboration with the MIT Media Lab at SXSW EDU 2025, the world’s largest creative conference focused on education. Visit Booth #614 in the EXPO on site for a hands-on demonstration March 3–5 2025, where Panasonic will also be conducting a Show & Tell Session on March 4 starting at 1:30pm CST.
    Panasonic’s “Scratch Home School,” integrates IoT home appliances into a STEAM education curriculum, transforming everyday activities into creative learning experiences. Originally researched at MIT Media Lab in 2018, this program has been rigorously tested in Japan and is currently in a year-long pilot at St. Agnes School in Massachusetts since late 2024.

    Why STEAM Education Matters

    STEAM education is crucial for fostering creativity and deep learning in children. However, traditional materials often limit engagement. “Scratch Home School” breaks these barriers by using IoT devices like toasters and lighting to make learning interactive and fun, encouraging children to experiment and discover their passions.
    Employment in STEM occupations has grown 79% in the past three decades and is projected to grow an additional 11% from 2020 to 2030 [1]. This growth underscores the importance of preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in these fields.

    Experience It at SXSW EDU 2025

    Join Panasonic at SXSW EDU 2025 to experience “Scratch Home School” in action! Attendees can interact with IoT toasters and lighting, powered by (MIT’s) Scratch-based visual programming, and see how these tools are supporting critical curriculums.
    Panasonic HD is committed to exploring new partnerships with educational institutions and companies in the U.S. through this exhibition. Together, Panasonic aims to overcome challenges in STEAM education and create an environment that nurtures children’s diverse talents and interests.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Powering communities: Round 2 of ARENA’s community batteries program launched

    Source: Australian Renewable Energy Agency

    Overview

    • Category

      News

    • Date

      26 February 2025

    • Classification

      Battery storage

    The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has today announced $46.3 million in funding for Round 2 of the Community Batteries Funding Program.

    Building on the success of Round 1, this program aims to deploy community batteries across Australia to lower energy bills, cut emissions and reduce pressure on the electricity grid.

    ARENA is now seeking applications to deploy community batteries. Projects should improve the economics of community battery projects, build industry capacity, support the integration of distributed energy resources into Australian energy markets, or demonstrate benefits of community batteries.

    To be eligible for ARENA funding, each community battery must be between 50 kW and 5 MW in size and connected to the distribution network.

    Community batteries provide energy storage in the distribution network that can store excess solar energy for later use, enabling higher penetrations of rooftop solar, putting downward pressure on household costs and easing pressure on local electricity grids.

    ARENA CEO Darren Miller said batteries are a critical part of the transition to net zero as the grid transitions to energy generated from renewable sources.

    “Part of increasing our dependency on renewably sourced energy is the need to increase our firming technology to make sure the energy grid is secure and reliable. We can achieve this by storing energy in batteries when renewable energy is plentiful and use this stored energy later in the day and overnight when people most need it,” said Mr Miller.

    “Over recent years, a concerted effort has been made in deploying batteries to support the grid and transition to clean energy. Round 2 will build on the insights, expertise and knowledge developed in Round 1, resulting in further optimisation of distributed energy resources in the electricity grid”.

    As part of the 2022-23 Federal Budget, the Australian Government allocated $200 million for the Household Solar budget measure to deploy 400 community batteries across Australia.

    In total, ARENA was allocated $171 million of this funding to deliver at least 342 community batteries across rounds 1 and 2.

    More information about this program, including the application process, can be found at ARENA’s funding page. Funding applications can be submitted from 17 March 2025 to 30 April 2025.

    ARENA media contact:

    media@arena.gov.au

    Download this media release (PDF 143KB)

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW pet laws go under the microscope

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 26 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Local Government

    Pet owners and members of the public are being invited to help shape cat and dog laws in NSW, with the NSW Government delivering on its election commitment to conduct a wide-ranging review of the Companion Animals Act 1998 (CA Act).

    For the first time in two decades the government will review these laws to greater support responsible pet ownership and ensure the wellbeing of pets and the safety of communities.

    The review will examine all aspects of the care and management of companion animals in NSW, including addressing the urgent need to prevent dogs and cats from entering the pound and rehoming system.

    It will also explore actions taken in other jurisdictions and the role and enforcement responsibilities of councils. Key issues under consideration include:

    • cat management
    • preventing dog attacks
    • pounds and rehoming services
    • registration and desexing
    • stakeholder roles and responsibilities and the regulatory tools available under the legislation
    • responsible pet ownership education and training.

    The review of the CA Act will be informed by several NSW parliamentary inquiries, including the inquiry into the veterinary workforce shortage, the inquiry into pounds and the inquiry into the management of cat populations. The findings and recommendations from recent coronial inquests into fatal dog attacks in NSW will also be considered.

    To support the review, the Office of Local Government has released a discussion paper canvassing three key focus areas:

    • the framework for encouraging responsible ownership of companion animals
    • the compliance and enforcement role of councils
    • animal welfare and rehoming.

    Pet owners, councils, rehoming organisations, veterinarians and other stakeholders can provide feedback on the discussion paper before 4 May 2025 by responding to consultation questions.

    To view the discussion paper and provide feedback visit the website of the Office of Local Government.

    Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

    “There are more than 4.7 million dogs and cats kept as pets in NSW, providing love and companionship to so many people across the state.  

    “However, the laws around pet ownership haven’t been reviewed in 20 years.

    “With pet ownership on the rise and increased pressure on council pounds and rehoming organisations, it is important to assess if the current laws are still fit for purpose.

    “We need strong laws that hold pet owners to account and make sure owners take responsibility for their pets at home and in public spaces.

    “The government wants to hear from all interested stakeholders to shape this review and ensure a wide range of perspectives are considered as the government progresses this important work.”

    MIL OSI News –