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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnicians at the St. Petersburg International Gas Forum

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Last week, the St. Petersburg International Gas Forum 2024 (SPIGF-2024) was held at the ExpoForum Convention and Exhibition Centre, in the exhibition and scientific-business programme of which the Polytechnic University traditionally takes an active part.

    The forum visitors were able to get to know the university better in the Polytechnic’s unified catalogue. More than eight pages were devoted to the main areas of activity of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport.

    SPIGF is one of the key global events in the gas industry. The participation of Polytechnic divisions in the exhibition program of the forum opened up a wide range of opportunities for meeting potential customers and exchanging experience, says Anatoly Popovich, Director of IMMiT.

    Specialists from the Laser and Additive Technologies Research Laboratory (LIAT) at IMMiT presented their developments at the Polytechnic stand: components of the hot tract of gas turbine engines repaired by laser cladding, 7 and 10 mm thick samples welded in one pass without edge preparation using laser welding and hybrid laser-arc welding, and the mobile laser cladding complex “Nomad”, designed to restore large-sized products on the customer’s premises.

    If for some reason the enterprise cannot bring the product to the laboratory, then its specialists go to the site with a mobile complex. At the moment, they have already restored four rotors of the GTK-10-4 gas pumping units. In the laboratory itself, the “Nomad” is also used for laser welding and restoration of smaller products.

    The forum’s rich program brought together all the most advanced and significant areas of the industry. The opportunity to present the developments of the research laboratory at the forum made a significant contribution to determining the optimal scenarios for the further development vector of the division, – shared Mikhail Kuznetsov, head of the Scientific Research Laboratory “LiAT” of IMMIT SPbPU.

    The Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade presented educational programs created and implemented in partnership with PJSC Gazprom and its subsidiaries at the SPbPU exhibition stand: two master’s programs and two programs of additional professional education. The master’s program “IT Economics and Business Analysis” is a corporate master’s program of the university and Gazprom Neft, aimed at training specialists in the field of business analysis. This master’s program is reinforced by modules of specialized focus and project activities within the framework of research work built on business cases of Gazprom Neft. At the forum, we productively discussed with our partners strategic plans for the development of new corporate educational programs and other areas of joint activity taking into account current changes in the economy, – said Irina Rudskaya, Director of the Scientific and Educational Center for Information Technology and Business Analysis of Gazprom Neft.

    The Master’s program “Human Resources Management and Organizational Development”, created and implemented jointly with Gazprom Gazifikatsiya with the information and status support of the presidential platform of the ANO “Russia – Country of Opportunities”, was presented by the Higher School of Industrial Management of IPMEiT. The program was developed based on practical tasks and requests of the university’s corporate partners and is aimed at training specialists capable of implementing organizational design at all stages of the company’s life cycle, forming the company’s HR brand, developing and implementing a human resource management strategy based on building individual personnel development trajectories.

    This year, together with our partners Gazprom Gazifikatsiya, Gazprom Pitanie and the Russia — Land of Opportunities platform, with grant support from Gazprom, we created six online courses that we modularly integrated into the program’s curriculum, explained Olga Kalinina, Director of the Higher School of Industrial Management.

    Based on the created online courses, IPMEiT also presented two continuing education programs on motivation, personnel selection and personnel branding, developed for specialists in the field of HR management and heads of structural divisions of the oil and gas and energy industries. The presentation of the continuing education programs was attended by a student of the master’s program “Digital Business Management”, specialist of the personnel efficiency support group of Gazprom Neft exploration and production Ekaterina Khodarkevich, and a student of the bachelor’s program “Oil and Gas Enterprise Management”, an employee of the marketing department of Gazpromneft-SM Daniil Guryev.

    Professor of the Higher School of Industrial Management Alexander Ilyinsky took part in the round table of the Energy Initiative “International Business Congress” on the topic “Promising technologies for monetizing natural gas and ensuring energy security”. Alexander Ilyinsky also held business negotiations with the General Director of Gazprom Flot Yuri Shamalov, where they discussed promising areas of cooperation in the field of educational and scientific activities.

    Aleksandr Volkov, a practicing teacher, associate professor at the Higher School of Industrial Management, and CEO of the Grand Media Service communications agency, moderated the conference “Gas Industry Companies in New Realities: How to Be Most Effective in PR and Digital Communications?” and gave a presentation on a proven tool for comprehensive promotion in the gas industry, Public Performance. Among the audience were students from the Higher School of Industrial Management studying in the educational programs “Marketing” and “Oil and Gas Enterprise Management”.

    Students of the Higher School of Engineering and Economics took part in the round table “Distributed generation as a solution to the problems of energy-deficient regions”, where the prospects for implementing innovative solutions for distributed generation were discussed: own generation of electricity and heat supply.

    Students of the Higher School of Administrative Management, led by the head of the IPMEiT Directorate, Associate Professor of the Higher School of Administrative Management Maxim Ivanov, attended the conference “New Technologies for the Oil and Gas Industry”, the panel session “Technological Leadership: New Horizons” and the round table “Current Issues of Legislative Support for the Oil and Gas Industry”. They got acquainted with samples of modern equipment and advanced technologies at the RosGazExpo exhibition, an exposition of the subjects of the Russian Federation, which presented projects demonstrating their potential in the oil and gas sector.

    Such forums captivate with their scale and friendly, but at the same time businesslike atmosphere. The stand of the Polytechnic University stood out from the rest and attracted many visitors, it was impressive. We went around the stands that were related not only to the oil and gas industry, but also to the agricultural, transport industry and to the specialization of various regions of Russia. We learned that many representatives of large companies are graduates of the Polytechnic University, and, of course, they were happy to tell us about their work, – the students of the Higher School of Economics shared their impressions.

    Students of the Higher School of Industrial Management of the educational programs “Industrial Management (Energy)” and “Management of Oil and Gas Enterprises” together with teachers Olga Konovalova and Vyacheslav Melekhin participated in the round table “Union of Science and Industry in the Transformation of the World Energy Market”, where current issues and trends in the development of the international energy market, transformation of the gas market, the role of international cooperation and joint educational programs were discussed.

    The Gas Forum is certainly a large-scale event that has become a platform for demonstrating the technological and innovative capabilities of the domestic industry. For our students, this is an invaluable experience of participating in one of the most important events in the Russian economy, says Olga Konovalova, associate professor at the Higher School of Management and Management.

    Students of IPMEiT demonstrated significant results in the Virtual Academy from Gazprom. From June 3 to July 15, as part of the preparation for the SPIGF-2024 Youth Day, an educational program and selection round of the Virtual Academy project were held. This year, more than 130 candidates from 30 countries representing 45 universities participated in it. The Virtual Academy program included lectures in English by leading experts and scientists in the field of energy and information technology. Participants completed individual tasks and submitted them for expert assessment. As a result of the competitive selection, only 30 candidates with the best results received an invitation to the Youth Day. Among them, three students of the Higher School of Industrial Management: Nikita Kuznetsov and Leonid Alkhimovich (Bachelor’s program “International Business”) and Arab Yusof Abad Mohammad (international program “Development of International Business”). Moreover, Nikita Kuznetsov’s team, where he was the captain, took first place based on the results of participation in the case.

    This year, our institute made its small contribution to the work of the Polytechnic University at the St. Petersburg International Gas Forum. We prepared for individual events in advance, planned the participation of both adult colleagues-teachers and students. We paid special attention to the preparation of those students who already work in oil and gas and energy companies, undergo practical training or internships there, – noted the director of IPMEiT Vladimir Shchepinin.

    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 accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/partnership/polytechnics-at-the-Petersburg-international-gas-forum/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Youth Development Commission welcomes initiatives on youth development announced in “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address”

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Youth Development Commission:
     
         The Youth Development Commission (YDC) warmly welcomed the policy initiatives on supporting youth development in “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address” delivered by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (October 16). 
               
         The Vice-Chairman of the YDC, Mr Kenneth Leung, said, “I strongly endorse the expansion of the Youth Hostel Scheme in the past two years mentioned in the Policy Address, which responds to our young people’s aspiration to have their own living space. I also support the setting up of different youth facilities at the Kai Tak Community Isolation Facility, the Nam Cheong District Community Centre and Youth Square to provide more physical spaces for young people to engage in mutual exchange and develop individual potential. These initiatives demonstrate the Government’s determination to support youth development in the long term. I am also pleased to note that the Policy Address has put forward measures of various areas that could benefit young people, in particular helping young people to overcome hurdles in education, employment, entrepreneurship and home ownership, and also assist them to realise their life planning and seize national development opportunities.”
          
         He expressed appreciation of the Government’s acceptance of suggestions raised by members of the YDC, and said that the YDC would continue to work proactively and closely with the Government and different sectors of society to follow up on the implementation of relevant policy initiatives in the Policy Address and the Youth Development Blueprint to promote youth development on all fronts.
               
         Chaired by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, the YDC strives to enhance policy co-ordination within the Government for promoting youth development and enable a more holistic and effective examination of and discussion on issues of concern to young people. Since its establishment, the YDC has implemented a wide spectrum of programmes to promote youth exchanges, internship, entrepreneurship, life planning, positive thinking and more. It has also actively supported the Government in formulating and implementing the Youth Development Blueprint to promote the all-round development of young people and nurture a new generation of young people with an affection for the country and Hong Kong, and are equipped with a global perspective, an aspiring mindset and positive thinking.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New measures tackle housing issues

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee said the Government would strive to “improve livelihoods in pursuit of happiness” as he announced in today’s 2024 Policy Address that the Monetary Authority (HKMA) will adjust the maximum loan-to-value ratio for all properties to 70% and that a new system will be devised to raise standards in subdivided units (SDUs).

    Mr Lee also gave an update on efforts to increase the supply of public housing, and said steps will be taken to widen access to the housing ladder, combat public rental housing tenancy abuse, and create land to build more housing.

    The Chief Executive said that taking into account the current economic and financial environment, the HKMA will adjust the maximum loan-to-value ratio for residential and non-residential properties to 70%, regardless of the value of the properties, whether the properties are for self-use or held by companies, and whether the purchasers are first-time home buyers. The maximum debt servicing ratio for properties will be adjusted to 50%.

    Acknowledging that “housing is an issue of great public concern”, Mr Lee said public housing supply in the coming five years to 2030 will reach 189,000 units, about 80% higher than in the five years to 2027. He added that in the past two years, the average waiting time for public rental housing dropped by half a year, from a peak of 6.1 years to the current 5.5 years, and is expected to fall to 4.5 years in 2026-27.

    On the issue of SDUs in residential buildings, Mr Lee said that the Government has decided to put in place, through legislation, a new system with regard to their rental. SDUs that meet required standards will be categorised as Basic Housing Units (BHUs), and owners of substandard SDUs that are upgraded to meet these standards can apply for BHU recognition. However, following a grace period, owners who continue to rent out substandard SDUs will be held criminally liable.

    The Government will set up a system allowing owners of pre-existing SDUs under rental to register for the grace period. The Government will allow time for those registered owners to carry out the necessary conversion works. New SDUs entering the market must be recognised as up-to-standard BHUs before they can be rented out.

    The Secretary for Housing will be empowered by law to decide, upon expiry of the grace period, when to take enforcement actions against substandard SDUs by batches in an orderly manner in light of actual circumstances.

    The Government proposes that the standards of BHUs should include the provision of windows, an individual toilet and a floor area of no less than 8 sq m. The Deputy Financial Secretary and the Secretary for Housing will announce the details and seek the views of LegCo and stakeholders for drawing up the legislative proposals and related measures, such as the timetable for registration.

    Addressing the public aspiration for home ownership, Mr Lee said the Housing Authority (HKHA) is aiming to gradually adjust the ratio between public rental housing (PRH) units and subsidised sale flats (SSFs) from the current 7:3 to 6:4. Meanwhile, the ratio between Green Form and White Form in respect of Home Ownership Scheme (HOS) flats will be revised from 4:6 to 5:5 to encourage more PRH tenants to buy HOS flats. The HKHA will tighten up its Well-off Tenants Policies by raising the additional rent limit and lowering the income limit for well-off tenants, so that public resources are appropriately allocated to applicants in need.

    With regard to PRH tenancy abuse, the HKHA will launch the “Cherish Public Housing Resources Award Scheme” in January next year to offer rewards to persons who provide concrete intelligence that leads to identification of tenancy abuse.

    Mr Lee also outlined plans to create more land for housing. He said that in order to streamline land development procedures and cut red tape, the Government has promulgated an internal circular stating that all approving departments should take a facilitating role.

    He added that the Government will outsource drone inspections of external walls of buildings and unauthorised building works to enhance speed and efficiency. The purview of the Development Bureau’s Development Projects Facilitation Office will be expanded to facilitate co‑ordination with departments in expediting the approval of land use and related matters in the Northern Metropolis.

    Mr Lee gave an update on the Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands project, reporting that the statutory environmental impact assessment process for the reclamation works will commence by the end of this year. Completion of the relevant approvals is targeted for next year.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government funding secured to bring forward disused site for new homes 16 October 2024 Isle of Wight Council secures government funding to bring forward disused site for housing

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    The Isle of Wight Council has been awarded £150,000 to help bring forward a prime brownfield site for development.

    The windfall will be used to demolish the former police station in Fairlee Road, Newport, and prepare the council-owned site so that it is ready for the building of up to ten new homes.

    The funding comes from the government’s Brownfield Land Release Fund which supports councils in unlocking small and medium sites that have been previously developed and where viability issues due to abnormal costs, such as site levelling, demolition, and groundworks, are likely to prevent their future development.

    Councillor Ian Stephens, deputy leader and Cabinet member for housing and finance, said: “We are delighted to have secured funding from the Brownfield Land Release Fund.

    “This will enable us to demolish a disused building, in a prime location close to the town centre. The cleared site will speed up the delivery time for much needed new homes.”

    Council leader, Councillor Phil Jordan, added: “This scheme, using government funding, is part of a wider council project to deliver homes for residents of the Isle of Wight.

    “In clearing this site in preparation for housing, we are enabling another development to be built on and provide the homes we desperately need.

    “This is the third site we have obtained government funding for and along with other sites we are bringing forward for provision, are positively adding to the housing availability numbers on this Island at a time when demand is outstripping supply.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: YieldMax™ ETFs Announces Distributions on FIAT (105.76%), CONY (101.35%), ULTY (100.99%), YMAX (51.97%), YMAG (62.33%) and Others

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO and MILWAUKEE and NEW YORK, Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YieldMax™ today announced distributions for the YieldMax™ ETFs listed in the table below.

    ETF
    Ticker    1    		 ETF Name Reference
    Asset    		 Distribution
    per Share    		 Distribution
    Frequency    		 Distribution
    Rate    2,4,5    		 30-Day
    SEC Yield    3    		 Ex-Date &
    Record Date    		 Payment
    Date
    YMAX YieldMax™ Universe Fund of Option Income ETFs Multiple $0.1747 Weekly 51.97% 62.93% 10/17/2024 10/18/2024
    YMAG YieldMax™ Magnificent 7 Fund of Option Income ETFs Multiple $0.2261 Weekly 62.33% 50.85% 10/17/2024 10/18/2024
    CONY YieldMax™ COIN Option Income Strategy ETF COIN $1.1098 Every 4 Weeks 101.35% 3.70% 10/17/2024 10/18/2024
    FIAT   YieldMax™ Short COIN Option Income Strategy ETF COIN $1.4513 Every 4 Weeks 105.76% 3.22% 10/17/2024 10/18/2024
    MSFO YieldMax™ MSFT Option Income Strategy ETF MSFT $0.5077 Every 4 Weeks 33.76% 3.33% 10/17/2024 10/18/2024
    AMDY YieldMax™ AMD Option Income Strategy ETF AMD $0.9212 Every 4 Weeks 84.48% 3.24% 10/17/2024 10/18/2024
    NFLY YieldMax™ NFLX Option Income Strategy ETF NFLX $0.7929 Every 4 Weeks 59.84% 3.45% 10/17/2024 10/18/2024
    ABNY YieldMax™ ABNB Option Income Strategy ETF ABNB $0.8003 Every 4 Weeks 61.67% 2.84% 10/17/2024 10/18/2024
    PYPY YieldMax™ PYPL Option Income Strategy ETF PYPL $1.1042 Every 4 Weeks 75.73% 2.94% 10/17/2024 10/18/2024
    ULTY YieldMax™ Ultra Option Income Strategy ETF Multiple $0.8267 Every 4 Weeks 100.99% 0.00% 10/17/2024 10/18/2024
    Scheduled for next week: YMAX YMAG MSTY YQQQ AMZY APLY AIYY DISO SQY SMCY


    The performance data quoted above represents past performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance quoted above. Performance current to the most recent month-end can be obtained by calling     (833) 378-0717.

    Note: DIPS, FIAT, CRSH and YQQQ are hereinafter referred to as the “Short ETFs”.

    Distributions are not guaranteed.   The Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield are not indicative of future distributions, if any, on the ETFs. In particular, future distributions on any ETF may differ significantly from its Distribution Rate or 30-Day SEC Yield. You are not guaranteed a distribution under the ETFs. Distributions for the ETFs (if any) are variable and may vary significantly from period to period and may be zero. Accordingly, the Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield will change over time, and such change may be significant.

    Investors in the Funds will not have rights to receive dividends or other distributions with respect to the underlying reference asset(s).

    1All YieldMax™ ETFs (except YMAX,YMAG and ULTY) have a gross expense ratio of 0.99%. YMAX and YMAG have a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.99% for a gross expense ratio of 1.28%. “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses” are indirect fees and expenses that the Fund incurs from investing in the shares of other investment companies, namely other YieldMax™ ETFs. ULTY has a gross expense ratio of 1.24% but the investment adviser has agreed to a 0.10% fee waiver through at least February 28, 2025.

    2The Distribution Rate shown is as of close on October 15, 2024. The Distribution Rate is the annual distribution rate an investor would receive if the most recent distribution, which includes option income, remained the same going forward. The Distribution Rate is calculated by annualizing an ETF’s Distribution per Share and dividing such annualized amount by the ETF’s most recent NAV. The Distribution Rate represents a single distribution from the ETF and does not represent its total return. Distributions may also include a combination of ordinary dividends, capital gain, and return of investor capital, which may decrease an ETF’s NAV and trading price over time. As a result, an investor may suffer significant losses to their investment. These Distribution Rates may be caused by unusually favorable market conditions and may not be sustainable. Such conditions may not continue to exist and there should be no expectation that this performance may be repeated in the future.

    3 The 30-Day SEC Yield represents net investment income, which excludes option income, earned by such ETF over the 30-Day period ended September 30. 2024, expressed as an annual percentage rate based on such ETF’s share price at the end of the 30-Day period. As of such date, the ULTY subsidized and unsubsidized 30-Day SEC Yields were 0.00% and 0.00%, respectively. The subsidized yield reflects fee waivers in effect while the unsubsidized yield does not adjust for any fee waivers in effect.

    4 Each ETF’s strategy (except those of the Short ETFs) will cap potential gains if its reference asset’s shares increase in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset’s shares decrease in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF. Each Short ETF’s strategy will cap potential gains if its reference asset decreases in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset increases in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF.

    5 As of the date hereof, distributions for the following ETFs have included return of investor capital: TSLY, OARK, APLY, AMZY, NVDY, GOOY, JPMO, XOMO, PYPY, CONY, DISO, FBY, MSFO, NFLY, SQY, AMDY, MRNY, AIYY, MSTY, ULTY, YMAX, YMAG, YBIT, SNOY, CRSH,GDXY and FIAT. For additional information, please visit http://www.YieldMaxETFs.com/TaxInfo.

    Each Fund has a limited operating history and while each Fund’s objective is to provide current income, there is no guarantee the Fund will make a distribution. Distributions are likely to vary greatly in amount.

    Standardized Performance

    For YMAX, click here. For YMAG, click here. For TSLY, click here. For OARK, click here. For APLY, click here. For NVDY, click here. For AMZY, click here. For FBY, click here. For GOOY, click here. For NFLY, click here. For CONY, click here. For MSFO, click here. For DISO, click here. For XOMO, click here. For JPMO, click here. For AMDY, click here. For PYPY, click here. For SQY, click here. For MRNY, click here. For AIYY, click here. For MSTY, click here. For ULTY, click here. For YBIT, click here. For CRSH, click here. For GDXY, click here. For SNOY, click here. For ABNY, click here. For FIAT, click here. For DIPS, click here. For BABO, click here. For YQQQ, click here. For TSMY, click here. For SMCY, click here. For PLTY, click here

    Prospectuses

    Click here.

    Before investing you should carefully consider the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. This and other information are in the prospectus. Please read the prospectuses carefully before you invest.

    There is no guarantee that any Fund’s investment strategy will be properly implemented, and an investor may lose some or all of its investment in any such Fund.

    Tidal Financial Group is the adviser for all YieldMax™ ETFs and ZEGA Financial is their sub-adviser.

    THE FUND, TRUST, AND SUB-ADVISER ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY UNDERLYING REFERENCE ASSET.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable to all YieldMax ETFs referenced above, except the Short ETFs)

    YMAX and YMAG generally invest in other YieldMax™ ETFs. As such, these two Funds are subject to the risks listed in this section, which apply to all the YieldMax™ ETFs they may hold from time to time.

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Call Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s call writing strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in the positive price returns of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold call options and over longer time periods.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying instrument, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of call option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in increases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Call Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, which focuses on an individual security (ARKK, TSLA, AAPL, NVDA, AMZN, META, GOOGL, NFLX, COIN, MSFT, DIS, XOM, JPM, AMD, PYPL, SQ, MRNA, AI, MSTR, Bitcoin ETP, GDX®, SNOW, ABNB, BABA, TSM, SMCI, PLTY), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

    Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to BABO and TSMY)

    Currency Risk: Indirect exposure to foreign currencies subjects the Fund to the risk that currencies will decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates and the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the U.S. or abroad.

    Depositary Receipts Risk: The securities underlying BABO and TSMY are American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”). Investment in ADRs may be less liquid than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.

    Foreign Market and Trading Risk: The trading markets for many foreign securities are not as active as U.S. markets and may have less governmental regulation and oversight.

    Foreign Securities Risk: Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers involve certain risks that may not be present with investments in securities of U.S. issuers, such as risk of loss due to foreign currency fluctuations or to political or economic instability, as well as varying regulatory requirements applicable to investments in non-U.S. issuers. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. issuer than a U.S. issuer. Non-U.S. issuers may also be subject to different regulatory, accounting, auditing, financial reporting and investor protection standards than U.S. issuers.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GDXY)

    Risk of Investing in Foreign Securities. The Fund is exposed indirectly to the securities of foreign issuers selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve risks beyond those associated with investments in U.S. securities.

    Risk of Investing in Gold and Silver Mining Companies. The Fund is exposed indirectly to gold and silver mining companies selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies.

    The Fund invests in options contracts based on the value of the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX®), which subjects the Fund to some of the same risks as if it owned GDX®, as well as the risks associated with Canadian, Australian and Emerging Market Issuers, and Small-and Medium-Capitalization companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YBIT)

    YBIT does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than YBIT.

    Bitcoin Investment Risk: The Fund’s indirect investment in Bitcoin, through holdings in one or more Underlying ETPs, exposes it to the unique risks of this emerging innovation. Bitcoin’s price is highly volatile, and its market is influenced by the changing Bitcoin network, fluctuating acceptance levels, and unpredictable usage trends.

    Digital Assets Risk: Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility. Potentially No 1940 Act Protections. As of the date of this Prospectus, there is only a single eligible Underlying ETP, and it is an investment company subject to the 1940 Act.

    Bitcoin ETP Risk: The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Bitcoin ETP. This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of the Bitcoin ETP, even though it does not. Bitcoin ETPs are subject, but not limited, to significant risk and heightened volatility. An investor in a Bitcoin ETP may lose their entire investment. Bitcoin ETPs are not suitable for all investors. In addition, not all Bitcoin ETPs are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Those Bitcoin ETPs that are not registered under such statute are therefore not subject to the same regulations as exchange traded products that are so registered.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to the Short ETFs)

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Price Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the value of the underlying reference asset. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the underlying reference asset, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, the Fund is subject to the risk that the value of the underlying reference asset increases. If the value of the underlying reference asset increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses.

    Put Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s put writing (selling) strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in decreases in the value of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold put options and over longer time periods.

    Purchased OTM Call Options Risk. The Fund’s strategy is subject to potential losses if the underlying reference asset increases in value, which may not be offset by the purchase of out-of-the-money (OTM) call options. The Fund purchases OTM calls to seek to manage (cap) the Fund’s potential losses from the Fund’s short exposure to the underlying reference asset if it appreciates significantly in value. However, the OTM call options will cap the Fund’s losses only to the extent that the value of the underlying reference asset increases to a level that is at or above the strike level of the purchased OTM call options. Any increase in the value of the underlying reference asset to a level that is below the strike level of the purchased OTM call options will result in a corresponding loss for the Fund. For example, if the OTM call options have a strike level that is approximately 100% above the then-current value of the underlying reference asset at the time of the call option purchase, and the value of the underlying reference asset increases by at least 100% during the term of the purchased OTM call options, the Fund will lose all its value. Since the Fund bears the costs of purchasing the OTM calls, such costs will decrease the Fund’s value and/or any income otherwise generated by the Fund’s investment strategy.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in decreases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Put Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, for any Fund that focuses on an individual security (e.g., TSLA, COIN, NVDA), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

    Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YQQQ)

    Index Overview. The Nasdaq 100 Index is a benchmark index that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, based on market capitalization.

    Index Level Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the Index level. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the Index, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the Index level, the Fund is subject to the risk that the Index level increases. If the Index level increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses. The Fund may also be subject to the following risks: innovation and technological advancement; strong market presence of Index constituent companies; adaptability to global market trends; and resilience and recovery potential.

    Index Level Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will benefit from decreases in the Index level experienced over the Put Period. This means that if the Index level experiences a decrease in value below the strike level of the sold put options during a Put Period, the Fund will likely not experience that increase to the same extent and any Fund gains may significantly differ from the level of the Index losses over the Put Period. Additionally, because the Fund is limited in the degree to which it will participate in decreases in value experienced by the Index level over each Put Period, but has significant negative exposure to any increases in value experienced by the Index level over the Put Period, the NAV of the Fund may decrease over any given time period. The Fund’s NAV is dependent on the value of each options portfolio, which is based principally upon the inverse of the performance of the Index level. The Fund’s ability to benefit from the Index level decreases will depend on prevailing market conditions, especially market volatility, at the time the Fund enters into the sold put option contracts and will vary from Put Period to Put Period. The value of the options contracts is affected by changes in the value and dividend rates of component companies that comprise the Index, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived volatility of the Index and the remaining time to the options’ expiration, as well as trading conditions in the options market. As the Index level changes and time moves towards the expiration of each Put Period, the value of the options contracts, and therefore the Fund’s NAV, will change. However, it is not expected for the Fund’s NAV to directly inversely correlate on a day-to-day basis with the returns of the Index level. The amount of time remaining until the options contract’s expiration date affects the impact that the value of the options contracts has on the Fund’s NAV, which may not be in full effect until the expiration date of the Fund’s options contracts. Therefore, while changes in the Index level will result in changes to the Fund’s NAV, the Fund generally anticipates that the rate of change in the Fund’s NAV will be different than the inverse of the changes experienced by the Index level.

    YieldMax™ ETFs are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC. Foreside is not affiliated with Tidal Financial Group, YieldMax™ ETFs or ZEGA Financial.

    © 2024 YieldMax™ ETFs

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: KEYNOTE ADDRESS BY THE PRIME MINISTER FOR HEALTH MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK – PARADE

    Source: Government of Western Samoa

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    Thursday 10th October, 2024 (9:00am – 10:00am – Infront of the Government Building)

    Captain Eric Turner (Regional Leader of Salvation Army, Samoa),

    Hon. Deputy Prime Minister,

    Hon. Cabinet Ministers,

    Members of the Diplomatic Corps,

    Heads of Government Ministries and Corporations, NGOs,

    Distinguished guests,

    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Talofa Lava! And a Warm Welcome!

    It is a great honor to stand here and address you today on a topic that is vital for our individual well-being, our workplaces, and ultimately, our nation – ‘MENTAL HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE’.

    Today, we rally to not only recognize the importance of mental health but to ensure that it becomes a pillar of how we work, how we lead, and how we care for one another in the workplace.

    Today, the 10th of October is the commemoration of the World Mental Health Day globally including Samoa, with the overall objective of raising awareness of mental health issues around the world, on its theme – ‘Healthy Minds, Healthy Workplaces’. It is also the last day that ends the commemoration of the activities for the Mental Health Awareness Week in Samoa, which started on Sunday 6th October, 2024.

    As this year’s World Mental Health Day puts more emphasis on the

    importance of Mental Health in the Workplace, I am humbled indeed to speak not only as a leader and as an employer but an employee of the Government of Samoa.

    Mental health is not something that exists in isolation. It is deeply tied to every part of our lives, including the workplace. The workplace is where we spend a large part of our days. It is where we contribute to our communities, earn a living, and grow professionally. But the workplace can also be a source of stress, anxiety, and pressure.

    In Samoa, the demands of work, the increasing pace of change, and the responsibilities we all carry, whether as employees or leaders can take a toll on our mental well-being. When stress becomes overwhelming and mental health is not prioritized, the results are clear. There will be a decrease in productivity, an increase in absenteeism, and a general decline in workplace morale.

    However, mental health challenges do not just impact the workplace, they impact individuals, families, and communities. When an employee is struggling mentally, it affects their ability to engage fully at work, their relationships at home, and their overall quality of life. This is why it is essential that we take a proactive approach in addressing mental health in our workplaces. It is not just good for business; it is good for people.

    Samoa, like many other nations, is facing a rise in Non-Communicable Diseases or NCDs including those related to mental health. NCDs accounts for over 80% of all deaths and more than half the premature deaths in Samoa. Therefore, mental health conditions such as stress, depression, anxiety, and burnout are no longer issues we can ignore. In fact, mental health conditions are among the leading causes of lost workdays, lower productivity, and long term-disability worldwide.

    The Ministry of Health in Samoa has integrated mental health into our national health strategy, recognizing the importance of both physical and mental well-being for a healthy Samoa. In the workplace, we must follow suit. We cannot build a prosperous Samoa if our workforce is unwell, both mentally and physically.

    A lot of organizations including our Health Sector Partners who are

    gathered here today, both public and private have recognized the

    importance of mental health through their combined efforts such as awareness campaigns, advocacy, offering of coping platforms and mechanisms for our people to be more resilient. More workplaces are adopting policies that address mental health and are working to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

    However, we need to accelerate these efforts and ensure that all

    workplaces, no matter the size or sector, are places where mental health is supported.

    Let us commit to making mental health a priority in every Samoan

    workplace. We can take practical steps such as raising more awareness on mental health; develop and implement supportive policies; foster a culture of care by showing compassion and understanding toward each other; and collaborate with Mental Health Services in Samoa for counselling and support.

    In Samoa, we have a unique opportunity to lead by example. By

    prioritizing mental health in the workplace, we not only improve the lives of our employees but also enhance productivity and success of our businesses and institutions. Let us move forward with the spirit of fa’aaloalo, valuing and respecting the mental well-being of every

    individual.

    I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge our partners and stakeholders from government, the guidance and support of the World Health Organization, development partners, the private sector, NGOs, and civil society. Thank you for your continuous support towards the work of mental health in Samoa. Your commitment demonstrates your dedication to the health of our people.

    Ladies and Gentlemen – Together, we can build workplaces that not only contribute to Samoa’s economy but also to the happiness, health, and well-being of our people.

    SOIFUA MA IA MANUIA!

    SAUNOAGA AUTU: AFIOGA FIAME NAOMI MATA’AFA – PALEMIA O SAMOA I LE SAVALI FA’APITOA – FA’ATAUAINA O LE VAIASO O LE SOIFUA MALOLOINA O LE MAFAUFAU

    Aso Tofi, 10 Oketopa 2024

    9:00am – 10:00am – Luma Maota o le Malo

    Lau Susuga i le Taitai o le Sauniga, Captain Eric Turner,

    Lau Afioga i le Sui Palemia, Afioga i le Saoali’i, Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio,

    Paia o Minisita o le Kapeneta,

    Sui o Malo Aufaatasi ma Faalapotopotoga mai Fafo,

    Le paia ma le mamalu ua aofia potopoto,

    O le asō, ua fa’ailogaina ai e le lalolagi atoa e aofia ai ma Samoa le Aso Fa’apitoa o le Fa’atauaina o le Soifua Maloloina o le Mafaufau. Ua fa’ai’u ai fo’i ma polokalame e pei ona tapisaina ai e Samoa le Vaiaso Faapitoa mo le fa’alauiloaina o le taua o le Soifua Maloloina o le Mafaufau, e pei ona sa amata mai le Aso Sa 6, Oketopa 2024.

    Tatou ave lea o le vi’iga i le Atua, ua livaliva le foe a le tautai, ua a’e manuia taumafaiga o lenei vaiaso.

    O le soifua maloloina o le mafaufau e aofia i le fa’atulagaga fa’asaienisi o sē tasi o gasegase tumau, ua to’atele nisi ua a’afia ma maumau ai le soifua. E tusa ai ma fa’amaumauga fa’asoifua maloloina, e sili atu ma le 80% o tagata Samoa ua a’afia i gasegase tumau e a’afia ai totoga e pe’i o le suka, toto maualuga ma o’o ai ina maua i gasegase o le fatu, kanesa ma isi. O lo’o aofia ai i totonu ma le faitauga o tagata ua a’afia tumau le mafaufau i le faitauga o nei gasegase tumau. O fa’amaumauga lata mai, o le to’atele ua a’afia le mafaufau ma fa’amauina e mafua mai ona o le soona tagofia o le ava malosi. Ma ua mafuli i tupulaga talavou o lo’o nonofo i nu’u tu taulaga, o i latou fo’i nei e faigaluega.

    O le sini autū o lenei tausaga ma lona fa’amoemoe, ua ave le fa’amamafa i le soifua maloloina o le mafaufau i totonu o fale-faigaluega. O se tasi o mataupu ua le Pau, le Vau, a ua fa’atāfea i le auau e nisi tagata. Atonu e malamalama gofie pe a tatou talatala iai, ae faigata lona fa’atinoga ma e le’o lagonaina e le to’atele.

    Afai o le tele o le taimi o le tagata faigaluega e alu i totonu o le fale-faigaluega, e tatau ona tapena fa’afafine to’aga le silasila mamao i le mafaufau manuia o le aufaigaluega. E lē masino o le a si’itia se auaunaga, tele tupe maua ma fa’afiafiaina le ta’ita’i o le fale-faigaluega, o le aufaigaluega faapea ma aiga o lo’o tapua’i mai.

    E le o pō malaē le to’atele o e pele ia tatou uma, o fanau, uso ma tuafafine faapea tua’ā ua a’afia mafaufau. E le gata o i latou ua iloa āuga ma iai foliga va’aia,ae fa’apena ma nisi o lo’o a’afia i nisi o gasegase ua avea ma mafuaaga ua a’afia ai ma le mafaufau. O le popōlega tele, o le to’atele o lo’o a’afia e le’o mafai ona iloa, ma o nisi ua a’afia ma ma’imau ai le soifua ona o le pule i le soifua. Ua taotaomia le saili o se fesoasoani ona o le to’atele o lo’o a’afia i sauaga ona o le fefe ma le tusitusilima.

    E le māmā lenei mataupu, ma o le tele o lu’itau pe a a’afia le mafaufau, e le gata o le a afaina ai le auaunaga o se fale-faigaluega, ae faapēnā ona a’afia ai aiga, o fanau, faapea ma nu’u ma le atunu’u. O Samoa o lo’o fa’avae ana auaunaga tausili i so’o se fale-faigaluega i ana tu ma aganu’u, e pei o le fa’aaloalo, alofa ma le tautua matavela. O nei tu ma aga a Samoa e mafai ona fa’alautele e fai ma vaifofō ina ia maua le mafaufau maloloina o le tagata faigaluega.

    O se fa’amalosi mo fale-faigaluega uma faapea ma ta’ita’i o Samoa, e tāua tele la tatou pitolaau fai fa’atasi. Afai e lagonaina e so’o se tagata faigaluega o lo’o iai tu ma aga e pei o le alofa ma le fa’aaloalo, e ta’ita’itama ai le fa’atinoga o le galuega, o le a si’itia ma maoa’e so’o se auaunaga, o le a telē le lagolago a le aufaigaluega, ma fa’atuatuaina ta’ita’i o so’o se fale-faigaluega.

    O le fesili – O a nisi taumafaiga tatou te galulue ai ina si’itia le soifua maloloina o le mafaufau i totonu o se fale-faigaluega? Ia tatou:

    • Lagolago ma fai le fale-faigaluega o se nofoaga e fiafia ai tagata e galulue.

    • Ia saogalēmū le fale-faigaluega mo tagata uma, e aunoa ma le tusitusi lima ma le fa’ailoga tagata

    • Ia amanaia le taimi e tatau ona mālōlō, ma mafuta ai le tagata faigaluega i lona aiga

    • Ia fa’atino ni a’oa’oga e si’itia ai le malamalama o ta’ita’i o fale-faigaluega i le tāua o le soifua maloloina o le mafaufau.

    E toe fia fa’aleo le tele o taumafaiga a Samoa ua iai, e pei ona iai le saunoaga a le Afioga i le Sui Palemia i lana saunoaga autū i le Aso Sa, na tatalaina ai lenei Vaiaso Faapitoa mo le mafaufau maloloina.

    – O galuega ma auaunaga e tauala atu le Matagaluega a le Soifua Maloloina, ua amanaia ma tu’ufa’atasia ai vaega o le siakiina o so’o se gasegase, e le gata i le tino ae ua aofia ai ma le mafaufau. O lenei taumafaiga, ua tatau ona fa’ata’ita’i ma fa’atino e fale-faigaluega, e le gata o le ausia o galuega a le aufaigaluega, ae ia silasila toto’a i a’afiaga o le soifua maloloina o le mafaufau.

    – Ua tele polokalame fa’alauiloa, o auaunaga mo le fa’atalatalanoaina o i latou ua a’afia, faapea ma faigafa’avae ma tulafono mo le unaia o le soifua maloloina o le mafaufau.

    – Ua tele polokalame ma auaunaga e taofi ma fa’atonutonu ai mafuaaga fa’avae o le a’afia ai o le mafaufau e pei o le ava malosi ma le tagofia o fualaau fa’asaina.

    Ae peita’i, o lo’o mana’omia ona fa’aauau ona tapisa lenei mataupu i auala saogālēmū, alofa lē fa’atuāoia, ma aua ne’i iai se tusitusilima. E mo’omia na lalago fa’atasi auaunaga fa’asoifua-maloloina ina ia si’itia faigafa’avae ma tulafono e aofia ai vaega o le mafaufau manuia e aunoa ma le fa’aitū-au.

    O le pitolaau a aiga, āoga, fale-faigaluega, nu’u aemaise ekalesia o le ogatotonu lea o le fa’avae o le soifua maloloina e aofia ai ma le mafaufau manuia.

    E toe momoli le agaga fa’afetai i a tatou auaunaga ma fale-faigaluega ua potopoto lenei aso, i lā outou lagolago i lenei fa’amoemoe. E fa’afetaia a tatou paaga uma fa’asoifua maloloina faapea ma auaunaga o lo’o fa’aauau ona galulue mo le soifua maloloina o le mafaufau.

    Ou te fiafia tele e fa’alauiloa ai fo’i le fa’amae’a ai o fa’atinoga uma o le Vaiaso Faapitoa o le Soifua Maloloina o le Mafaufau i Samoa i le asō.

    Agalelei le Atua i fuafuaga o lenei aso, aemaise fo’i le aga atu mo le Aso Sa faapitoa o le fanau.

    SOIFUA

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Healthcare system set for reform

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee announced in his Policy Address that the Government will conduct a comprehensive review on the positioning and objectives of the healthcare system.

    “The review will cover the following areas: reforming the functions and division of work among the Hospital Authority (HA), the Department of Health and the Primary Healthcare Commission, strengthening health promotion and disease prevention in primary healthcare, and improving public healthcare services.

    “In parallel, we will reform private healthcare services in terms of their quality, cost effectiveness and price transparency.”

    Advancing primary healthcare development

    Elaborating on the measures, Mr Lee said primary healthcare development will be carried out in 10 ways:

    (1) formulating legislation to strengthen the regulatory framework of primary healthcare and authorise the Primary Healthcare Commission to set up quality assurance and monitoring mechanisms;

    (2) developing a community drug formulary and launching a community pharmacy programme to help the public obtain affordable, primary-healthcare drugs;

    (3) devising health promotion strategies by adopting a life course framework to formulate health management plans for the public according to age and health conditions;

    (4) revamping maternal and child health and family planning services to strengthen pre-pregnancy counselling and parental education and promote healthy fertility;

    (5) strengthening the Whole School Health Programme to recommend targeted school-based measures for physical activities, meals and other matters to improve students’ physical and psychological well-being;

    (6) upgrading more District Health Centre Expresses into District Health Centres, and expanding the service network, and integrating the services of Woman Health Centres and Elderly Health Centres;

    (7) expanding the Chronic Disease Co-Care Pilot Scheme to cover blood lipid testing; positioning the HA’s general out-patient services as the comprehensive, primary healthcare service providers for the underprivileged;

    (8) formulating risk-based screening programmes for prevalent cancers, and implementing hepatitis B screening to prevent liver cancer;

    (9) launching a Primary Dental Co-Care Pilot Scheme for Adolescents to encourage the prevention of dental diseases, as well as rolling out a Community Dental Support Programme to enhance dental services for underprivileged groups; and

    (10) continuing efforts in tobacco control.

    Enhancing healthcare services

    In his Policy Address, Mr Lee highlighted that the Government will strengthen the HA’s public healthcare services by the following means:

    (1) reviewing the structure and levels of the HA’s fees and charges to encourage prudent use of services and direct resources to patients who need them most, while increasing the support for patients with financial difficulties and strengthening the financial sustainability of the targeted subsidisation of public healthcare services;

    (2) strengthening the centralised procurement of drugs and medical devices by various clusters of the HA system in order to enhance their bargaining power and expedite the introduction of new drugs;

    (3) formulating a directory for inherited and rare diseases by using the Hong Kong Genome Institute’s genomic data, while supporting research and clinical trials to promote precision medicine;

    (4) fully integrating the paediatric services of various clusters at Hong Kong Children’s Hospital and developing more advanced healthcare services to make the best use of the Children’s Hospital;

    (5) finalising the projects and timetable of the Second Hospital Development Plan to dovetail with the development of the Northern Metropolis and address local districts’ needs;

    (6) setting up the first stroke centre and the second chest pain centre;

    (7) enhancing the triage system and referral arrangements for specialist out-patient services, including setting up inter-specialty, integrated, out-patient clinics to avoid the need for multiple referrals; and

    (8) increasing the service capacity for cataract surgeries by at least 20%.

    As regards the quality and efficiency of healthcare services, the Chief Executive said that the Government will establish a professional platform for developing evidence-based clinical protocols and explore the feasibility of devising service quality and efficiency standards for public and private healthcare sectors.

    In addition, quality indicators will be developed for public and private healthcare systems.

    To enhance service efficiency and address the issue of medical inflation, the Government will explore legislating for private healthcare price transparency.

    Furthermore, the Government will seek amending relevant legislations to require all healthcare providers to deposit essential health data in the personal eHealth accounts of citizens, so that people can have more complete electronic health records and better continuity of medical care.

    Bringing in healthcare professionals

    The Government will promote the use of the legislation passed earlier to proactively admit more non-local doctors, nurses and dentists to enhance manpower, Mr Lee said, adding that a bill on the admission of qualified non-locally trained supplementary medical professionals will be introduced next year.

    Establishing third medical school

    The Chief Executive pointed out in the Policy Address that the Government supports the plan by local universities to establish a third medical school in Hong Kong.

    “A task group will be set up, inviting universities interested in establishing the new medical school to submit proposals. The Government will set aside sites in the Northern Metropolis Ngau Tam Mei to develop the new medical school campus and build an integrated medical teaching and research hospital.”

    Promoting development of Chinese medicine

    The Government will publish the Chinese Medicine Development Blueprint next year to take forward measures that helps Hong Kong develop into a bridgehead for the internationalisation of Chinese medicine (CM), Mr Lee said.

    One of the measures relates to exploring the application of big data to foster international research collaboration on herb-drug interaction to discover more evidence of clinical significance, promoting the internationalisation of CM.

    The blueprint will also promote the expansion of integrated Chinese-Western medicine services to cover more diseases in which CM has an advantage, including respiratory diseases and knee osteoarthritis, and to progressively extend the cancer care programme to all hospital clusters.

    Furthermore, the first Chinese Medicine Hospital and the permanent premises of the Government Chinese Medicines Testing Institute are expected to be completed and begin phased operation next year, while the first edition of the Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Cultural Festival will be held, Mr Lee added.

    Promoting mental health

    The Chief Executive also outlined measures, based on a medical-educational-social collaboration model, to promote mental health.

    The Government will develop a stepped care model for mental health, which comprises a multi-disciplinary framework with tiers, from dealing with general emotional problems in the frontline to handling cases requiring follow up and more serious mental illnesses cases.

    “The framework sets out the roles of different professionals and their division of work in the provision of mental health services for cases in each tier, enabling them to work together and perform their respective roles smoothly,” Mr Lee explained.

    An annual promotional theme will be set for the Mental Health Workplace Charter, and recognition will be given to participating organisations for achieving targets. The 4Rs Mental Health Charter in schools will also be campaigned to promote the mental health of students, teaching staff and parents in a more holistic manner.

    The Government will extend and enhance the Three-Tier School-based Emergency Mechanism, and launch the Mental Health Literacy resource packages for senior secondary and lower primary levels. A real-time, online youth emotional support platform will be set up in the second quarter of next year.

    A Transitional Support Service Teams for Persons in Mental Recovery will be set up, offering support to discharged patients waitlisted for halfway house service. The Social Welfare Department will also launch an additional Integrated Community Centre for Mental Wellness.

    The Government will also strengthen teachers’ capacity in the early identification of, and support for, students with mental health needs, and assist parents in acquiring the knowledge and skills in addressing children’s mental health.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: San Gabriel Mountains National Monument project gets boost to improve access and water quality

    Source: US State of California 2

    Oct 15, 2024

    What you need to know: A $3.5 million federal grant will fund cleanup efforts at the recently expanded San Gabriel Mountains National Monument to improve access to the site and enhance water quality on the East Fork of the San Gabriel River, a key Southern California water source and recreational site within the national monument. 

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today highlighted a $3.5 million federal investment to improve access to the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and enhance a key Southern California water source that provides Los Angeles County with one-third of its water supply.

    Federal, state, tribal and local partners celebrated the announcement today, which will support trash removal projects, create new walking trails and install additional restrooms on this popular stretch of the San Gabriel River used primarily for recreation by surrounding underserved communities.

    The state this month marked the 10-year anniversary of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, which was expanded by President Biden in May along with the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument. This action increased protected lands in California by 130,000 acres. California has conserved more than 25% of its land to date and is on track to reach its 30×30 goal in collaboration with federal, state, tribal and community partners.  

    “This collaborative effort is a win-win that will improve an important source of water for Southern California communities, deliver a healthier watershed for native species and enhance outdoor access for millions in the Los Angeles Basin. California will continue working with partners across the board to protect and preserve our common home.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    The State Water Board awarded an initial $1.5 million grant for the San Gabriel project and is planning an additional $2 million investment over the next three years through funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Nonpoint Source Pollution Management Program. The investments support a multi-phase project that will enhance river access, protect fragile forest and riparian habitat and improve conditions for sensitive species, including the endangered Santa Ana sucker. Construction on the project’s first phase is expected to start early next year and will include an access trail and stairs to the riverbank, native plant restoration, increased trash bins and dumpsters and an asphalt parking lot.  

    San Gabriel Mountains

    California’s ongoing work to conserve biodiversity and natural resources includes the state’s first-ever ancestral land return effort through the Tribal Nature-Based Solutions Grant Program, which provided more than $100 million in funding for the return of roughly 40,000 acres to indigenous communities. The state is also advancing Nature-Based Solutions that support the ability of lands to absorb more carbon than they release, helping to combat the climate crisis. Earlier this year, the state opened the first new state park in nearly a decade, Dos Rios, which conserves approximately 1,600 acres of land and is the largest public-private floodplain restoration project in California.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW sets target to boost billion-dollar screen and digital games industries, supporting thousands of jobs

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 16 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for the Arts

    Supporting Australian storytelling, developing the next generation of creative talent, and a plan to grow the digital games sector are the key priorities of the new three-year screen and digital games strategy.

    The NSW screen industry added almost $1.1 billion to the state economy in 2021-22 and is currently home to 51% of Australia’s screen production, and 49% of post-production businesses. To ensure NSW remains the leading screen state, the NSW Screen and Digital Games Strategy will:

    Invest in developing local talent and audiences, including:

    • $1 million pilot program to address skills shortages will be developed and rolled out with TAFE, AFTRS and NIDA to fast-track entry level and mid-career below the line practitioners in the below the line workforce.
    • $200,000 IP option fund to give producers the ability to purchase IP rights to turn home-grown novels, non-fiction work and podcasts into screen and gaming content, so we have more Australian stories on screen.
    • $200,000 Community Film Festival Opening Night Fund will support communities share the vibrancy of screen stories with audiences from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, by bringing them together to enjoy screen community film festivals.

    Role of Screen NSW

    • New film friendly legislation will be introducedto ensure a strengthened standard of working.
    • Address impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the sector: Screen NSW will convene an industry working group to help develop an Australian industry response to AI, and review funding guidelines.
    • Priority hotline: The Head of Screen NSW will be given the authority to escalate critically urgent production issues for an urgent government response.

    Supporting infrastructure

    • Addressing the critical shortage of filming infrastructure in NSW, the NSW Government will develop new partnerships with the private sector to explore alternate options for studio space, including a second studio and Callan Park.
    • Centre for Screen culture and digital innovation. Working with local government and industry partners, the NSW Government will support plans to establish a hub for creative workers across the industry.

    Focus on developing digital games industry

    The $466 billion global digital gaming industry is highlighted as an enormous opportunity. New incentives to support games production and increase NSW revenue for digital games to $406.39 million in 2027-28 include:

    • Reducing Digital Games Rebate NSW expenditure minimum from $500,000 down to $350,000. The Rebate is designed to nurture homegrown developers, attract and retain work and talent to the state, and accelerate growth in the NSW digital games sector. While many larger, established studios currently access the Rebate, the lowered threshold mean it will now be more accessible to a broader range of digital games companies in NSW, including many independent studios that currently operate in the state. 
    • Increased investment in the Digital Games Seed Development Program and Market Travel Programs. A flourishing games industry is one that includes large and small developers, an investment of$1.5 million over three years will support digital games producers to essential skills and build their industry networks and knowledge.

    Minister for the Arts John Graham said:

    “Our people, our stories, and our skills – these are the reasons why more than half of Australian screen production happens here in NSW. This strategy sets out how the government and the industry could work together to build on that.

    “While there has been a recent slowdown in global screen production, the Federal Government’s increased location offset will see Australia gain a greater share of that market. This strategy recognises the opportunities that brings, as well as the pressure that puts on NSW production facilities.

    “We have identified ways of cutting the red tape that has made NSW a ‘No’ state when it comes to attracting productions. Backed by the introduction of a NSW Screen and Digital Games Act, we aim to make NSW a ‘Yes’ state.

    “For the first time in NSW, we are putting digital gaming front and centre. This strategy sets out a ‘hothouse’ approach that backs existing high performing producers to support the ambitious target of 20% compound annual growth in the sector.”

    Head of Screen NSW Kyas Hepworth said:

    “I am thrilled to be able to drive this strategy and provide a path forward for our sector, working towards a vibrant and sustainable future for all screen practitioners and game makers in NSW.

    “Storytelling has the power to unite and inspire, and as a state with such a rich depth of talent, we strive to be known as the place to create compelling stories. This is an exciting time for our sector as, while developing this strategy, we have taken stock of where the industry is at and looked forward to where we want to be in the next three years. This has informed our strategy and with this vital support we want to move forward with the industry and take it to new heights.

    “I am confident this strategy will provide assurance that Screen NSW are committed to supporting NSW stories and storytellers.”

    Background

    The strategy outlines four strategic priority focuses to support and sustainably grow the screen and digital games sector. These include:

    • Creating stories: We lead the way in making enriching, high calibre stories and cultural content for local and global audiences.
    • Building sustainable growth: Our businesses are globally recognised, connected and competitive. High quality, accessible spaces help them grow and create jobs that are future proofed and sustainable.
    • Improving capacity and capability: We set best practice standards to ensure workers have career pathways, are respected, safe, appropriately remunerated and supported in their career ambitions.
    • Developing audiences to increase demand: Local content finds and delights diverse audiences locally and around the world.

    New legislation: The strategy includes proposed new legislation to ensure screen friendly approaches across local councils and state government agencies.

    In 2025, the NSW Government will introduce the NSW Screen and Digital Games Act to strengthen NSW as a film-friendly jurisdiction, reduce red-tape and provide the highest level of cooperation across government with filmmakers to maximise opportunities for the sector. This will strengthen elements of the Making NSW Film Friendly Premier’s Memorandum and incorporate an updated Local Government Filming Protocol.

    Renewed Screen NSW agency: The strategy will provide Screen NSW with greater independence and will build its capacity to continue to strengthen and grow the industry. This will mean:

    • Shortening investment approval timeframes, contracting and payment terms.
    • Legislation will be introduced for the Film and Television Industry Advisory Committee to include digital games representation and renaming the board to reflect this update.
    • The Head of Screen NSW will be given the authority to escalate critically urgent production issues for an urgent government response.

    The full strategy available is here: Screen NSW – NSW Screen and Digital Games Strategy

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Coal Pits for Prosperity – CCL Fish Farming for Community Empowerment

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 16 OCT 2024 1:03PM by PIB Delhi

    Central Coalfields Limited (CCL) has transformed a number abandoned mine pits into thriving fish farms, promoting responsible use of natural resources and boosting local economy and biodiversity. CCL, a subsidiary of Coal India Limited, is making remarkable progress in sustainable development by spearheading innovative pisciculture initiatives under the guidance of the Ministry of Coal.

    CCL’s pisciculture projects are designed to address multiple challenges—economic and environmental. The initiative primarily benefits the local communities by offering an additional source of income and also contributes to the state’s fish production.

    CCL has developed five abandoned mine pits for pisciculture, with impressive results in both community engagement and fish production:

    1. Religara Pisciculture Project, located in the Argada Area of Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, spans across 9.71 Ha. A total of 20 fish cages have been installed, with an annual production of approximately 9.6 tonnes of fish. This project directly benefits around 100 residents from the nearby villages of Religara and Baskudra. It is also supported by the district administration.

    Religara Pisciculture project

    1. Gidi A Pisciculture Project, situated in the Argada Area in Jharkhand, covers an expansive 28 Ha. With the installation of 22 fish cages, the project yields an annual production of approximately 0.72 tonnes of fish in initial year. It benefits the residents of Tehratand, Kendiyatola, and Gidi Basti. The project is poised for further development, including beautification efforts involving support of ₹45 lakhs. Additionally, it is proposed for designation as a Ramsar site, underscoring its ecological importance.

    Gidi A Pisciculture project

    1. Bokaro OCP Pisciculture Project in Jharkhand spans 4.22 Ha, with 27 fish cages installed. This project produces an impressive 81 tonnes of fish annually, benefiting 30 local families. The fish species farmed include Pangasius, Rohu, Tilapia, and Katla, contributing to the local fish production and supporting the livelihoods of the surrounding community.
    2. Central Saunda Pisciculture Project in the Barkasayal Area in Jharkhand features 40 fish cages for Tilapia species, installed in November 2023. The project is expected to generate a significant output, directly benefiting around 250 local villagers, providing them with sustainable income opportunities and boosting the local economy.
    3. Karkatta A & Karkatta C Pisciculture Projects in the NK Area are key contributors to regional aquaculture. Karkatta A covers 1.80 Ha, with 15 fish cages, producing 200 tonnes of fish annually while Karkatta C, the larger of the two, spans 4.5 Ha, housing 50 fish cages and will yield an impressive 800 tonnes of fish annually. Together, these projects will benefit local villagers, providing significant production outputs that play a crucial role in supporting regional development and community welfare.

    Karkatta A & Karkatta C Pisciculture project

    CCL’s pisciculture projects have been a game-changer in revitalizing water filled mine pits, transforming them into sources of livelihood for local communities. These projects contribute to the overall economic upliftment of rural areas while promoting ecologically responsible water filled abandoned mine pits. With several projects slated for completion by 2025, CCL is setting an exemplary model for sustainable industrial practices in the coal sector.

    The progress of these pisciculture projects represents a significant leap towards addressing both the socio-economic and environmental needs of the region. Through this initiative, CCL is championing a balanced approach where community welfare and biodiversity conservation go hand in hand.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar to be the Chief Guest on the 31st Foundation Day of the National Human Rights Commission, India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar to be the Chief Guest on the 31st Foundation Day of the National Human Rights Commission, India

    More than 23 lakh cases resolved and Rs. 254 crore recommended as relief to the victims of human rights violations during its 31 years journey

    The Foundation Day celebrations will be followed by a day-long national conference on the “Rights of Older Persons”

    Posted On: 16 OCT 2024 2:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India is organizing a function to celebrate its 31st Foundation Day at Vigyan Bhawan on the 18th of October 2024. On the occasion, the Chief Guest, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, the Vice-President of India will address several national and international dignitaries in the presence of NHRC, India Acting Chairperson, Smt Vijaya Bharathi Sayani and Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal and other senior officers of the Commission. The Foundation Day celebrations are a reminder of the Commission’s commitment to protecting and promoting human rights.

    Following this, the Commission will also be organizing a day-long national conference on the ‘Rights of Older Persons’ under the theme- ‘Assessing the Structural Framework, Legal Safeguards, Security Rights, and Institutional Protection for India’s Elderly.’ The conference will address various concerns of older persons under three key technical sessions including ‘Addressing the Aging Population,’ ‘The Gendered Perspective of Aging,’ and ‘Evaluating the Healthcare Landscape-Impact on Healthy Living, Productivity, and Social Security.’ These sessions will be attended and addressed by various stakeholders including eminent experts and civil society representatives.

    The live YouTube and Webcast link of the Foundation Day and the National Conference may be accessed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vzxbGV2pGGU and https://webcast.gov.in/nhrc

    The NHRC, India, recognizes senior citizens as valuable assets to society. It is essential to honour their contributions to nation-building by promoting their overall welfare, respecting their rights, and encouraging meaningful engagement. The Commission has a core group on the Rights of older persons to discuss and suggest measures for their welfare. Recently, the Commission assessed the institutional responses and support available to them. It also issued an advisory to ensure the rights of elderly persons during Covid-19. Besides promoting awareness about the need to protect the rights of the elderly in the country, the NHRC has been emphasizing the proper implementation of policies and laws including the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 (MWPSC Act, 2007).

    In addition to the rights of older persons, the Commission has been working to promote and protect the rights of all segments of society, particularly those who belong to the vulnerable sections. During the 31 years of its journey since inception on 12thOctober, 1993 to 30thSeptember, 2024, the Commission has handled 2305194 (23 lakh 5 thousand and 194) cases including 2,873 cases of suo motu cognizance and recommended the payment of monetary relief of more than Rs. 254 crore in 8,731 cases to the victims of human rights violations.

    During the last one year w.e.f. 1st October, 2023 to 30th September, 2024, the Commission disposed of 68,867 cases and recommended more than Rs. 17.88 crore as monetary relief in 404 cases to the victims of human rights violations. It also registered 112 cases taking suo motu cognizance during this period. Besides, 19 spot inquiries were conducted into the allegations of human rights violations.

    The NHRC, India has conducted numerous spot investigations, open hearings, and camp sittings since its inception. Reviews of innumerable bills and laws, conferences and research projects, 31 Advisories, as well as more than 100 publications, including monthly newsletters, thousands of media reports, and engagements in international forums bear testimony to the work of the Commission towards the promotion and protection of human rights.

    The 31 advisories issued by the Commission including the recent, among others are Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), Rights of the Widows, people involved in begging, the Right to Food, Right to Health and mental Health, Rights of the Informal Workers, Upholding the Dignity of the Dead, Rights of Truck Drivers, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Advisory for ensuring the welfare of Transgender Persons, Advisory to mitigate Deliberate Self Harm and suicide attempts by prisoners and Advisory to Prevent, Minimize and Mitigate Ocular Trauma.

    The NHRC, India has designated 14 Special Rapporteurs to assess human rights conditions across various regions of the country. They conduct visits to shelter homes, prisons, observation homes, and similar institutions, compiling reports for the Commission that detail their observations and suggestions for future action. Additionally, the Commission has also appointed 21 Special Monitors tasked with overseeing specific thematic human rights issues and reporting their findings to the Commission. Throughout the year, they have visited several places to suggest improvements in human rights situations.

    The Commission has also proactively engaged with the NGOs and Human Rights Defenders. It has constituted 12 core groups on various thematic issues related to human rights to hold discussions with the domain experts and the concerned senior government functionaries representing different ministries from time to time to finalize its recommendations for the government. Besides these core group meetings, the Commission also organizes open house discussions with different stakeholders on various issues of human rights. The Commission during the last one year, w.e.f. 1st October, 2024 to 30th September, 2024 has organized 13 core group meetings and 06 open house discussions on varied themes of human rights and two national consultations.

    The NHRC, India is actively caring for all 47 Government mental health hospitals across the country. It continues to collaborate with central and state governments, parastatal organizations, academic institutions, NGOs, and human rights defenders to protect and promote human rights for all. Since last year, the Commission started a new program of sensitizing All India Services officers, including IAS, IPS, and IFS officers. The goal is to equip officers with a deeper understanding of human rights, enabling them to share this knowledge within their respective organizations for imparting human rights training to the other personnel.

    The Commission has also collaborated with various institutions to conduct human rights awareness programmes. During the last one year w.e.f. 1st October, 2023 to 30th September, 2024, it organized 69 collaborative workshops and 08 moot court competitions with financial support of over Rs. 130 lakh to various institutions. Additionally, the Commission also organized on-site winter and summer internships and 06 online short-term internships which have benefitted hundreds of students from far-flung areas at zero costs on their travel expenses to help them evolve as human rights ambassadors. During this period, students and faculty from 45 institutions visited the Commission to learn about various aspects of human rights and the functioning of the NHRC. Besides, annual debate competitions for Central Para-military forces and State Police organizations on various aspects of human rights for sensitization of security personnel.

    The Commission has issued notices to various sports bodies to establish Cells to deal with cases of harassment of women in the workplace. It has been issuing regular directions to provide free housing to thousands of homeless persons as per the government scheme. Victims of communal riots and internal conflicts are compensated. The Commission constantly endeavours to rehabilitate persons displaced due to natural disasters, land acquisition, and other causes. In the cases of suicide by debt-ridden farmers, the Commission successfully intervened.

    Some of the other important interventions of the Commission include recommending amendments to 97 laws that discriminate against persons with Hansen’s disease. The Government has enhanced compensation for bonded labour based on NHRC advisory at the pre-trial stage.

    The Commission has also been playing an active role at international human rights forums including the Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions, Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), and UN Human Rights Council, among others with the participation of the Chairperson, Members, and senior officers. Last month, it successfully hosted a two-day conference of the NHRIs of Asia Pacific.

    Twelve Thematic Core Groups involving various experts have helped the Commission to formulate mechanisms to evaluate the schemes initiated by the Govt. and make recommendations thereof. The Special Monitors and Special Rapporteurs who are the eyes and ears of the Commission are adding value to the mandate of the Commission.

    The Commission has taken several new initiatives to expand its outreach including linking its HRCNet Portal with all the State authorities and the majority of State Human Rights Commissions. Any person can file complaints directly through online mode in a fast and efficient manner and can track the real-time status of their complaint on the Commission’s portal. The online complaint filing system is also linked with over five lakh Common Service Centers and the National Government Services Portal.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special Campaign 4.0 implementation in full flow in the Department of Posts

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 16 OCT 2024 3:17PM by PIB Delhi

    The Special Campaign 4.0 being implemented from 2-31 October 2024 has reached the halfway markin the Department of Posts. The Department has adopted 100% saturation, institutionalization and internalization of the underlying values of Swachhata and service delivery excellence as the guiding principles of the campaign to achieve its targets in a sustainable manner. Apart from cleanliness and improvement of the physical work environment for both employees and customers, other focus areas of the Campaign include effective disposal of public grievances, disposal of scrap and freeing up of space, record management and weeding out of files and effective disposal of important pending matters and references.

    During the two weeks gone by, the Campaign has seen enthusiastic participation from the officials of DoP across the network. During the period 02-15 October 2024, the Department has conducted cleanliness campaigns at 76,408 sites out of the target of 1,00,000 sites.36,738 physical files have been reviewed out of the set target of 90,000 files. Space of about 26,297 sq. ft. has been freed by removing junk/obsolete items.

    In addition to the above, 42,712 public grievances have been resolved and the target is to reach up to the figure of 80,000. The target of 239 Public Grievance appeals has already been achieved during the campaign period. A total of 34,588 redundant files have been weeded out and closed. It is also worth mentioning  that a revenue amounting to ₹ 21,27,132 has been generated from scrap disposal including ₹9,60,313/- generated by MMS,Naraina, Delhi.

    The progress has been satisfactory as this period also saw various customer outreach and stakeholder engagement activities as part of the National Postal Week observed from 9-15 October 2024.

    In the remaining period of the Special Campaign 4.0 from 16 to 31 October 2024, the focus will be on the following activities:

    • Wall Artsin Post OfficeBuildings
    • Signages, beautification, cleaning, basic amenities etc in prominent post offices
    • Upkeep of assets like letter boxes, PO boxes, kiosks, ATMs, mail office infra.
    • Special Cleaning activities to cover the entire network including   RMS, Mail Motor Workshops/Offices/Parcel hubs, Inspection Quarters and holiday homes, Canteen, crèche.
    • Scrap disposal, including items like old gensets, air conditioners, other scrap

    Renovation and restoration of counter hall Chennai GPO, Tamil Nadu:

    Redesigned DakNiryat Kendra at Pondicherry:

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Targeted help set for the needy

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee said in his 2024 Policy Address that he attaches great importance to building a caring and inclusive society, providing targeted assistance to the underprivileged and families in need, in addition to strengthening labour support.

    To direct resources to those most in need to alleviate poverty, the Government will expand the Strive & Rise Programme by recruiting 4,000 mentees this year and set up three additional community living rooms in areas clustered with sub-divided units.

    Mr Lee also outlined various measures to strengthen elderly services, such as increasing the total number of vouchers under the Residential Care Service Voucher Scheme for the Elderly by 20% to 6,000, allowing more frail seniors to be admitted to residential care homes for the elderly (RCHEs) of their choice and receive subsidised care services without waiting.

    Additionally, the Government plans to enhance the Residential Care Services Scheme in Guangdong by increasing the number of participating RCHEs from the existing four to 11 in November of this year, sharing part of the elderly participants’ medical expenses and engaging organisations to provide care services to help the elderly adapt to living in Guangdong.

    Furthermore, Mr Lee noted that the Government will launch a three‑year pilot scheme next year to subsidise elderly recipients of the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance retiring in Guangdong to reside in designated RCHEs in Guangdong Province, with each eligible elderly person receiving a monthly subsidy of $5,000, subject to a quota of 1,000.

    To strengthen support for persons with disabilities, the Government will establish 14 Integrated Community Rehabilitation Centres across the city. Apart from providing 1,280 additional service places to support such individuals, an additional district support centre in New Territories East will be set up.

    For ethnic minorities, the Government will engage one more support service centre to provide interpretation and translation services next year, on top of the two additional centres which will begin operation by the end of this year. 

    The Education Bureau plans to strengthen Chinese learning support and parental assistance for non‑Chinese speaking students, Mr Lee added.

    He also announced the setting up of one more child care centre to support working parents. Service places under the Neighbourhood Support Child Care Project will be increased by 25%, to 2,500, with the estimated number of beneficiaries reaching 25,000.

    As for the District Services & Community Care Teams, the Chief Executive revealed that the Government will regularise the funding provision and increase funding by 50% in the next term of service in support of their work.

    It will also expand the Pilot Scheme on Supporting Elderly & Carers to cover all 18 districts in the next year, identifying and reaching out to households in need.

    Regarding measures to strengthen labour support, Mr Lee emphasised that the Employees Retraining Board will be reformed, from providing employment‑related training targeted at low‑skilled workers to devising skills‑based training programmes and strategies for the entire workforce.

    Other measures to protect employees include enhancing the Protection of Wages on Insolvency Fund, implementing the new annual review mechanism of the statutory minimum wage and amending the continuous contract requirement under the Employment Ordinance.

    Mr Lee explained what the Government is doing to encourage employment among middle-aged and elderly people.

    “The three‑year Re‑employment Allowance Pilot Scheme was launched in July, with more than 20,000 participants to date. The Labour Department will continue the scheme and, through the Good Employer Charter 2024, encourage employers to adopt family‑friendly employment practices such as flexible work arrangements.”

    He stressed that promoting occupational safety and health is of key importance to his administration.

    “The Government has been encouraging the industry to provide a safer working environment.  Among other things, it mandated, in July, the adoption of the Smart Site Safety System (4S) for mobile plants in designated private‑building works, and issued the first batch of 4S labelling. 

    “We will strengthen the protection of workers’ safety under a three‑pronged approach, formulating safety guidelines, promoting optimal use of robotic technology and enhancing industry training.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Germany: German balance of payments in August 2024

    Source: Deutsche Bundesbank in English

    Current account surplus down
    Germany’s current account recorded a surplus of €14.4 billion in August 2024, down €3.3 billion on the previous month’s level. This was chiefly attributable to a smaller goods account surplus.
    In August, the surplus in the goods account fell by €3.5 billion to €17.6 billion because receipts recorded a sharper decline than expenditure. The deficit in invisible current transactions decreased slightly by €0.2 billion to €3.2 billion. Small changes were also recorded in the sub-account balances. Net receipts in primary income rose by €0.5 billion to €12.9 billion. In the secondary income account, the deficit narrowed somewhat to €5.2 billion. In both sub-accounts, the individual sub-items changed only slightly, with declines predominating and expenditure falling somewhat more sharply than receipts on balance. The deficit in the services account widened by €0.5 billion to stand at €10.9 billion. Here, too, receipts were down overall, with receipts from other business services and charges for the use of intellectual property decreasing above all. Although declines in these areas in particular as well as lower expenditure on computer services also depressed the expenditure side, the increase in travel expenditure – typical for this time of year – contributed substantially to expenditure narrowing less strongly than receipts on balance.
    Portfolio investment sees net capital imports
    Germany’s cross-border portfolio investment recorded net capital imports of €28.6 billion in August, after net capital exports of €8.7 billion in July. Foreign investors acquired German securities worth €48.4 billion net, purchasing bonds in particular (€39.7 billion), which were roughly split evenly between instruments issued by the public and private sectors. In addition, they bought money market paper (€7.8 billion) and, to a lesser extent, mutual fund shares (€0.6 billion) and shares (€0.3 billion). Domestic investors acquired foreign securities to the tune of €19.8 billion net, adding foreign bonds (€10.8 billion), mutual fund shares (€9.8 billion) and shares (€0.7 billion) to their portfolios, but disposing of money market paper (€1.5 billion).
    In August, transactions in financial derivatives resulted in net outflows of €7.5 billion (€5.9 billion in July).
    Direct investment generated net capital imports of €5.7 billion in August, up from €1.0 billion in July. German enterprises decreased their direct investment funds abroad by €10.3 billion. Although they increased their equity capital abroad by €1.2 billion, redemptions predominated in intra-group credit transactions (€11.5 billion). Non-resident enterprises, meanwhile, withdrew €4.6 billion in direct investment from Germany. This was chiefly attributable to redemptions in intra-group credit transactions (€5.9 billion), which more than offset inflows in the form of equity capital (€1.3 billion).
    Other statistically recorded investment – which comprises loans and trade credits (where these do not constitute direct investment), bank deposits and other investments – registered net outflows of capital amounting to €12.3 billion in August (following €28.8 billion in July). The higher net claims of monetary financial institutions amounting to €16.4 billion made a particularly large contribution to this figure. The Bundesbank’s net external claims also rose (€8.3 billion), due to TARGET claims on the ECB rising by €26.8 billion. However, the Bundesbank’s external liabilities in the form of currency and deposits also increased at the same time. Enterprises and households (€11.4 billion) and general government (€1.0 billion) recorded net capital imports in August.
    The Bundesbank’s reserve assets declined – at transaction values – by €0.6 billion in August.

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI German News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Vincenzo Mascioli appointed new State Secretary for Migration

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Justice and Police

    The Federal CouncilBern, 16.10.2024 – At its meeting on 16 November, the Federal Council appointed Vincenzo Mascioli as the new State Secretary for Migration. Vincenzo Mascioli is currently Vice Director of the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM). He will take up the post on 1 January 2025, succeeding Christine Schraner Burgener, who is moving to the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).
    Vincenzo Mascioli, who is 54, has been working in the Federal Administration since 2005, initially as a research assistant for the Control Committee of the Federal Assembly, and between 2007 and 2010 as an advisor on Federal Councillor Moritz Leuenberger’s personal staff at the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC). From 1 November 2011, Vincenzo Mascioli worked as the personal assistant to Federal Councillor Simonetta Sommaruga in the Federal Department of Justice and Police (FDJP), where he was also responsible for the migration dossier and in particular the reform of the Asylum Act, which was adopted by a clear majority at the popular vote in 2016.
    At the beginning of 2017, he was appointed Vice Director of SEM, where he took charge of the International Affairs Directorate, which includes the Returns, International Cooperation and European Cooperation Divisions. Switzerland is currently one of the leading European states in terms of cooperation with the countries of origin of asylum seekers. In addition, Switzerland’s consistent return policy is internationally recognised. Vincenzo Mascioli also served as Vice Director of SEM for several years under Federal Councillor Karin Keller-Sutter and for one year under Federal Councillor Elisabeth Baume-Schneider.
    Before joining the Federal Administration, he worked for a number of years as an editor at a publishing house and as a lecturer at Zurich University of Teacher Education (PH Zurich) after graduating from the University of Zurich with a degree in education.
    Migration expert with extensive management experience at SEM
    Vincenzo Mascioli is as familiar with the international dimension of migration as he is with Swiss domestic policy. He is an expert in migration issues and, in addition to proven leadership skills, brings with him strong social skills, extensive diplomatic and political knowledge, and strong communication and negotiation skills. The Federal Council is confident that he can credibly represent SEM at home and abroad.
    As State Secretary for Migration, Vincenzo Mascioli heads an administrative unit with around 1,300 employees. He is responsible for developing strategies and implementing and further developing Switzerland’s asylum, immigration and integration policy, as well as its foreign policy on migration. His tasks include liaising with Parliament, cantonal, communal and other federal authorities, non-governmental organisations in the field of migration, international organisations and foreign counterparts.
    State Secretary Christine Schraner Burgener is to step down as head of SEM at the end of the year at her own request to take up a new role at the FDFA. She took over as state secretary on 1 January 2022. During her time in office, Switzerland has had to respond to the largest refugee movement since the Second World War as a result of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. At the same time, SEM has been confronted with a large number of new asylum applications in recent years.
    The Federal Council thanks Ms Schraner Burgener for her services.
    Address for enquiries
    GS-FDJP Communications Services, T +41 58 462 18 18, info@gs-ejpd.admin.ch
    Publisher
    The Federal Councilhttps://www.admin.ch/gov/en/start.htmlFederal Department of Justice and Policehttp://www.ejpd.admin.chState Secretariat for Migrationhttps://www.sem.admin.ch/sem/en/home.html

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Saturday, 19 October 2024

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Fire Danger Ratings tell you how dangerous a fire could be if one started.

    They are important because they help you decide what actions to take to protect yourself and others from bushfires and grassfires.

    Fire danger ratings are shown in the same way across all of Australia, so whether you’re at home or travelling, you will see the same rating system. 

    The new Fire Danger Ratings

    There are four levels of fire danger:

    • Moderate – Plan and prepare
    • High – Be ready to act
    • Extreme – Take action now to protect your life and property
    • Catastrophic – For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas

    Fire Danger Ratings will be issued on days when there is a fire risk.

    Each fire danger rating will have a clear set of messages including the actions the community can take to reduce their risk.

    Ratings are forecast using Bureau of Meteorology data for up to four days in advance, based on weather and other environmental conditions such as vegetation.

    The rating is your trigger to take action to stay safe.

    What do the ratings mean and what should you do?

    CATASTROPHIC

    What does it mean?

    If a fire starts and takes hold, lives are likely to be lost.

    • These are the most dangerous conditions for a fire.

    What should I do?

    For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas.

    • Your life may depend on the decisions you make, even before there is a fire.
    • For your survival, do not be in bushfire risk areas.
    • Stay safe by going to a safer location early in the morning or the night before.
    • Homes cannot withstand fires in these conditions. You may not be able to leave and help may not be available.

    EXTREME

    What does it mean?

    Fires will spread quickly and be extremely dangerous.

    • These are dangerous fire conditions.
    • Expect hot, dry and windy conditions.

    What should I do?

    Take action now to protect your life and property

    • Check your bushfire plan and that your property is fire ready
    • If a fire starts, take immediate action. If you and your property are not prepared to the highest level, go to a safer location well before the fire impacts.
    • Reconsider travel through bushfire risk areas.
    • Leaving bushfire risk areas early in the day is your safest option.

    HIGH

    What does it mean?

    Fires can be dangerous.

    What should I do?

    Be ready to act.

    • There’s a heightened risk. Be alert for fires in your area.
    • Decide what you will do if a fire starts.
    • If a fire starts, your life and property may be at risk. The safest option is to avoid bushfire risk areas.

    MODERATE

    What does it mean?

    Most fires can be controlled.

    What should I do?

    Plan and prepare.

    • Stay up to date and be ready to act if there is a fire.

    NO RATING

    The system also introduces an ‘off’ level for days where no proactive action is required by the community. This does not mean that fires cannot happen, but that they are not likely to move or act in a way that threatens the safety of the community. This rating is the thin white wedge on the colour wheel sitting under ‘Moderate’.

    Find out more

    To see the current Fire Danger Rating forecast across the state see Total Fire Bans & Fire Danger Ratings. To see the Fire Danger Rating forecast for where you are, see CFA Local.

    For more detailed information, check out the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities (AFAC) website and FAQs, or Prepare and Get Ready – VicEmergency

     

    Page last updated:  Thursday, 10 October 2024 7:49:48 PM

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Sunday, 20 October 2024

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Fire Danger Ratings tell you how dangerous a fire could be if one started.

    They are important because they help you decide what actions to take to protect yourself and others from bushfires and grassfires.

    Fire danger ratings are shown in the same way across all of Australia, so whether you’re at home or travelling, you will see the same rating system. 

    The new Fire Danger Ratings

    There are four levels of fire danger:

    • Moderate – Plan and prepare
    • High – Be ready to act
    • Extreme – Take action now to protect your life and property
    • Catastrophic – For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas

    Fire Danger Ratings will be issued on days when there is a fire risk.

    Each fire danger rating will have a clear set of messages including the actions the community can take to reduce their risk.

    Ratings are forecast using Bureau of Meteorology data for up to four days in advance, based on weather and other environmental conditions such as vegetation.

    The rating is your trigger to take action to stay safe.

    What do the ratings mean and what should you do?

    CATASTROPHIC

    What does it mean?

    If a fire starts and takes hold, lives are likely to be lost.

    • These are the most dangerous conditions for a fire.

    What should I do?

    For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas.

    • Your life may depend on the decisions you make, even before there is a fire.
    • For your survival, do not be in bushfire risk areas.
    • Stay safe by going to a safer location early in the morning or the night before.
    • Homes cannot withstand fires in these conditions. You may not be able to leave and help may not be available.

    EXTREME

    What does it mean?

    Fires will spread quickly and be extremely dangerous.

    • These are dangerous fire conditions.
    • Expect hot, dry and windy conditions.

    What should I do?

    Take action now to protect your life and property

    • Check your bushfire plan and that your property is fire ready
    • If a fire starts, take immediate action. If you and your property are not prepared to the highest level, go to a safer location well before the fire impacts.
    • Reconsider travel through bushfire risk areas.
    • Leaving bushfire risk areas early in the day is your safest option.

    HIGH

    What does it mean?

    Fires can be dangerous.

    What should I do?

    Be ready to act.

    • There’s a heightened risk. Be alert for fires in your area.
    • Decide what you will do if a fire starts.
    • If a fire starts, your life and property may be at risk. The safest option is to avoid bushfire risk areas.

    MODERATE

    What does it mean?

    Most fires can be controlled.

    What should I do?

    Plan and prepare.

    • Stay up to date and be ready to act if there is a fire.

    NO RATING

    The system also introduces an ‘off’ level for days where no proactive action is required by the community. This does not mean that fires cannot happen, but that they are not likely to move or act in a way that threatens the safety of the community. This rating is the thin white wedge on the colour wheel sitting under ‘Moderate’.

    Find out more

    To see the current Fire Danger Rating forecast across the state see Total Fire Bans & Fire Danger Ratings. To see the Fire Danger Rating forecast for where you are, see CFA Local.

    For more detailed information, check out the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities (AFAC) website and FAQs, or Prepare and Get Ready – VicEmergency

     

    Page last updated:  Thursday, 10 October 2024 7:49:48 PM

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Monday, 21 October 2024

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Fire Danger Ratings tell you how dangerous a fire could be if one started.

    They are important because they help you decide what actions to take to protect yourself and others from bushfires and grassfires.

    Fire danger ratings are shown in the same way across all of Australia, so whether you’re at home or travelling, you will see the same rating system. 

    The new Fire Danger Ratings

    There are four levels of fire danger:

    • Moderate – Plan and prepare
    • High – Be ready to act
    • Extreme – Take action now to protect your life and property
    • Catastrophic – For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas

    Fire Danger Ratings will be issued on days when there is a fire risk.

    Each fire danger rating will have a clear set of messages including the actions the community can take to reduce their risk.

    Ratings are forecast using Bureau of Meteorology data for up to four days in advance, based on weather and other environmental conditions such as vegetation.

    The rating is your trigger to take action to stay safe.

    What do the ratings mean and what should you do?

    CATASTROPHIC

    What does it mean?

    If a fire starts and takes hold, lives are likely to be lost.

    • These are the most dangerous conditions for a fire.

    What should I do?

    For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas.

    • Your life may depend on the decisions you make, even before there is a fire.
    • For your survival, do not be in bushfire risk areas.
    • Stay safe by going to a safer location early in the morning or the night before.
    • Homes cannot withstand fires in these conditions. You may not be able to leave and help may not be available.

    EXTREME

    What does it mean?

    Fires will spread quickly and be extremely dangerous.

    • These are dangerous fire conditions.
    • Expect hot, dry and windy conditions.

    What should I do?

    Take action now to protect your life and property

    • Check your bushfire plan and that your property is fire ready
    • If a fire starts, take immediate action. If you and your property are not prepared to the highest level, go to a safer location well before the fire impacts.
    • Reconsider travel through bushfire risk areas.
    • Leaving bushfire risk areas early in the day is your safest option.

    HIGH

    What does it mean?

    Fires can be dangerous.

    What should I do?

    Be ready to act.

    • There’s a heightened risk. Be alert for fires in your area.
    • Decide what you will do if a fire starts.
    • If a fire starts, your life and property may be at risk. The safest option is to avoid bushfire risk areas.

    MODERATE

    What does it mean?

    Most fires can be controlled.

    What should I do?

    Plan and prepare.

    • Stay up to date and be ready to act if there is a fire.

    NO RATING

    The system also introduces an ‘off’ level for days where no proactive action is required by the community. This does not mean that fires cannot happen, but that they are not likely to move or act in a way that threatens the safety of the community. This rating is the thin white wedge on the colour wheel sitting under ‘Moderate’.

    Find out more

    To see the current Fire Danger Rating forecast across the state see Total Fire Bans & Fire Danger Ratings. To see the Fire Danger Rating forecast for where you are, see CFA Local.

    For more detailed information, check out the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities (AFAC) website and FAQs, or Prepare and Get Ready – VicEmergency

     

    Page last updated:  Thursday, 10 October 2024 7:49:48 PM

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Agricultural Research Service Develops Long-Term Roadmap for PFAS in U.S. Agriculture

    Source: US Agriculture Research Service

    Agricultural Research Service Develops Long-Term Roadmap for PFAS in U.S. Agriculture

    Multi-Agency Workshop Forms Solutions to Chemical’s Most Complex Challenges

    Contact: Autumn Canaday
    Email: Autumn Canaday

    WASHINGTON, Oct. 16, 2024 —The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) today announced several key outcomes from a workshop to develop a research roadmap that would lead to short and long-term science-based solutions to meet the emerging challenges posed by the discovery of Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in agricultural soils and waters. PFAS have become increasingly found in the environment, posing significant challenges for producers, and farming communities, highlighting the need for agricultural researchers to develop innovative and practical solutions.

    ARS, its Center of Excellence for Environmental Monitoring and Mitigation, and the University Maine, collaborated recently during a three-day workshop to bring together more than 150 interagency researchers, state partners, university partners and other subject matter experts to engage in discussion and identify key research and innovative solutions that address the top challenges PFAS poses to agriculture, agroecosystems, food systems, and farming communities.

    Many within the agricultural community are facing new challenges when PFAS chemicals are detected within their farms, resulting in this being a new challenge to farmers’ continued capacity to sustain healthy soil and water on their farms, as well as continued capacity to provide safe and dependable food and fiber supplies to our nation and the world. The suggested long-term roadmap solutions for improving these circumstances include finding new means of detecting when PFAS contamination is a problem, better understanding of how it moves through the agricultural system, and innovating new ways to interrupt that movement or remove the chemicals before they can do harm.

    Other topics of discussion at the workshop included a strategy for data standardization and integration, how to develop scientific solutions to management of municipal biosolids, and ways of effectively removing existing PFAS chemicals from the production environment.

    “The meeting’s focus on the gap between PFAS challenges and solutions has empowered and offered hope to ARS, its partners and sister agencies – to address and resolve agriculture-centric problems arising from the use of PFAS in our communities and everyday consumer products,” said ARS Senior Management Advisor, Dr. David Knaebel. “The workshop’s overarching impact will assist the U.S. agricultural research community and stakeholders to find creative and innovative ways to mitigate and remediate a rapidly growing PFAS challenge in U.S. agriculture and food systems.”

    PFAS is a class of man-made chemicals that have been manufactured and used in a variety of industries around the globe, including in the United States, since the 1940s. The chemical has been placed in the category of “forever chemicals’ because they bioaccumulate in animals and plants and do not breakdown naturally in the animals or plants or in the environment. These chemicals in agricultural landscapes can cause food producers numerous challenges that require innovative scientific solutions from agriculture research, research and developments, and strategic partnerships.

    “Currently, our data shows that PFAS is an environmental hazard that does not come from agriculture,” said Acting Assistant Administrator Marlen Eve. “But, producers need efficient, cost-effective ways to deal with the challenges when it is detected in our agricultural soils and waters.”

    Federal and stakeholder workshop attendees plan to move forward with next steps by crafting documents that will communicate solutions to the ag research community – especially in locations where PFAS has critical impacts on agriculture – and to engage in partnerships to realize those research solutions into impactful tools and practices for producers and the agricultural community.

    “The University of Maine is pleased to expand our partnership with USDA ARS to find solutions to this national environmental crisis. With our collective expertise — supported by the ingenuity and resolve of our researchers and students — we can accelerate breakthroughs in basic and applied science that will result in new tools and strategies for protecting food systems in Maine and beyond.” said Joan Ferrini-Mundy, Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation for the University of Maine System and President of the University of Maine.  “Together, we will also expand each other’s research capacities, grant funding efforts and infrastructure, all of which will be essential for mitigating the spread of PFAS and other toxic compounds like it. Thank you to U.S. Senator Susan Collins for securing funding for the Center and for her ongoing support of research informing practical solutions for rural farmers and communities.”

    ARS will continue to expand its PFAS research to address its impact on U.S. agriculture. Future research will ensure that the nation maintains a safe and abundant high quality food supply that is undergirded by sustainable natural resources.

    The Agricultural Research Service is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s chief scientific in-house research agency. Daily, ARS focuses on solutions to agricultural problems affecting America. Each dollar invested in U.S. agricultural research results in $20 of economic impact.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The ‘bully cats’ bred to resemble American bully dogs and how fashion is creating mutant pet breeds

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Grace Carroll, Lecturer in Animal Behaviour and Welfare, School of Psychology, Queen’s University Belfast

    Sphynx cats were used to create the bully cat mutant. New Africa/Shutterstock

    Pedigree cat breeding has long had its controversies but a new trend for cats bred to look like American bully XL dogs could be one of the most worrying fads yet.

    So-called “bully cats” originated in the US and are a result of mutant breeding. Unlike pedigree breeding, which focuses on keeping animals purebred, mutant breeding involves intentionally combining genetic mutations to create cats with a specific look. In this case, they mix the gene that causes hairlessness in sphynx cats with the gene responsible for the short legs of munchkin cats, making bully cats a munchkin-sphynx cross.

    These cats share a close resemblance to bully dogs, a group of breeds characterised by a solid build, wide body and short coat. American XL bully dogs were banned in the UK in 2023. Recently, bully cats have made their way to the UK, where social media accounts promoting this new mutant breed have emerged.

    YouTube users criticised this video for “making it normal” to breed animals with genetic health problems.

    According to Marjan van Hagen and Jeffrey de Gier, animal welfare and reproduction experts at Utrecht University in The Netherlands, these mutations can have serious health consequences for the cats and limit their freedom of movement. Kittens already have a limited ability to regulate their body temperature and this is made even more difficult by hairlessness and makes them more suspectible to respiratory infections.

    A lack of fur can also lead to sunburn and skin cancer in hairless cats. Like the sphynx, bully cats also lack whiskers, which cats depend on for communication, navigating their environment and gauging spatial dimensions.

    Short-legged cats also face problems. Short legs limit their ability to jump, can put cats at a disadvantage in fights and can lead to painful health conditions. Although breeders claim that bully cats are healthy and long-lived, it’s still too early to determine their long-term health and welfare.

    Some breeders also say they are screening the cats they breed from for conditions such as heart disease. This can help prevent health problems, but it can’t overcome all of the health and welfare issues with mutant breeding.

    A May 2024 study by veterinary epidemiologist Kendy Tzu-Yun Teng and colleagues assessed annual life expectancy in UK cats and found that the average cat lives nearly 12 years, but sphynx cats have the shortest lifespan — just 6.7 years. Bully cats, being both hairless and short-legged, may face twice the number of challenges encountered by sphynx and munchkin breeds.

    In the wild, unrelated species that face comparable environmental challenges often develop similar traits, a process known as “convergent evolution”. Despite coming from different evolutionary paths, these species evolve to look and behave in similar ways.

    Take the sugar glider from Australia, for example. It looks and behaves much like the US flying squirrel, yet one is a marsupial and one is a mammal. Both animals faced the problem of how to move efficiently in a forest canopy, and evolved the same solution.

    Sugar gliders are not related to flying squirrels.
    I Wayan Sumatika/Shutterstock

    In a similar way, many domesticated animals share common traits, collectively known as “domestication syndrome” including increased tameness, juvenile behaviour, floppy ears and smaller teeth. Traits that helped them adjust to life with humans. However, the resemblance between bully cats and dogs doesn’t come from this gradual, natural process. Instead, it’s the result of selective breeding based on aesthetics.

    Veterinarian and animal welfare scientist Wenche Farstad summarises this as breeding for “curiosity or cuteness” in their 2018 paper on ethical breeding. While people normally find traits like round eyes and short nose length to be particularly cute, breeding for hairlessness and shorter legs is better aligned with the concept of breeding for curiosity.

    In this case, the resemblance between bully cats and dogs is more about human-driven design, where appearance is prioritised. The bully cat seems to have been intentionally bred to resemble the bully dog, perhaps due to their perception among young men as a kind of status symbol.

    Could bully cats survive without humans?

    Mutations that hinder survival and reproduction typically become rare in nature. However, humans bypass natural selection by choosing which animals breed, allowing traits that would be disadvantageous in the wild to persist.

    Examples of this can be seen across a number of domestic species. For example, due to the muscularity of their calves, Belgian Blue cattle require caesarean sections in more than 90% of births.

    Another farm animal, the modern broiler chicken, has been bred to grow much faster than its wild counterparts. If allowed to live longer than their usual slaughter age, many would not survive. Bully cats would probably also struggle to survive in the wild, without humans to care for them.

    Crossbreeding programs can help increase genetic diversity and reduce harmful traits in many breeds. However, for mutant breeds like the bully cat – where hairlessness and short legs are defining traits – this isn’t a realistic solution.

    Prospective pet owners need to be aware of the risks associated with owning mutant and experimental breeds. Consumers hold purchasing power. We can discourage breeders from prioritising aesthetics over the health and welfare of the animals by refusing to buy breeds with extreme traits.

    A fashion toward ethical breeding could ensure future cats are healthier, happier and free to enjoy natural feline behaviour like climbing, jumping and lounging in the sun. We should let cats be cats.

    Grace Carroll 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. The ‘bully cats’ bred to resemble American bully dogs and how fashion is creating mutant pet breeds – https://theconversation.com/the-bully-cats-bred-to-resemble-american-bully-dogs-and-how-fashion-is-creating-mutant-pet-breeds-240729

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Autocratic nations are reaching across borders to silence critics – and so far nothing seems to stop them

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Francesca Lessa, Associate Professor in International Relations of the Americas, UCL

    Iranian journalist Pouria Zeraati survived an assassination attempt outside his home in Wimbledon, south London, in late March 2024. Eighteen months earlier, the London-based independent television channel Iran International, for which Zeraati worked, had temporarily relocated to Washington DC over threats that they believe come from the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps.

    Both incidents are examples of how it seems that a government can target an individual or organisation based outside their borders, with terrifying results.

    According to the latest research from the V-Dem Institute at the University of Gothenberg, 71% of the world’s population lived in autocracies in 2023 – ten years ago it was 48%. But what’s also new is that autocracies – as well as some other nations – are increasingly reaching across their borders to target people living abroad, enforcing the idea that they can reach their critics wherever they live.

    This kind of state action, taken outside national borders, is known as transnational repression, and is becoming more widespread. The Chinese government is seen as the biggest perpetrator, sometimes using violence to close down criticism or protests against its regime, held in other countries.

    Countries reaching across borders

    More than 20% of the world’s governments are believed to have taken this kind of action outside their borders in the past ten years. These included assassinations, abductions, assaults, detentions and unlawful deportations, according to the NGO Freedom House. These are aimed at forcibly silencing exiled political activists, journalists, former regime insiders and members of ethnic or religious minorities.
    In 2023, 125 such incidents were committed by 25 countries.

    While the majority of countries committing such practices tend to be autocracies, a number of democracies have also taken action across borders, including Israel, Hungary, India and Turkey, according to the report. In 2023, six countries engaged in these practices for the first time, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, El Salvador and Yemen.



    Read more:
    Why the growing number of foreign agent laws around the world is bad for democracy

    Freedom House recorded 1,034 physical attacks between 2014 and 2023, committed by 44 governments in 100 target countries. China, Turkey, Tajikistan, Russia and Egypt are the most prolific perpetrators, with China accounting for a quarter of all incidents.

    This type of terror tactic can take many forms. Freedom House has noted that governments increasingly cooperated to help target exiled dissidents. In 74% of the incidents of transnational repression that took place in 2021, both the origin and the host countries were rated “not free” by Freedom House.

    Awareness of this type of cross-border action is growing. Both human rights groups and academics are now systematically tracking attacks. And several governments, including the US and Australia, have committed to taking action to combat these practices. A bill was introduced in the US Senate in 2023 to specifically tackle transnational repression by foreign governments in the US and abroad.

    I studied the increasing levels of cooperation in transnational repression by different nations in a recent article published in International Studies Quarterly. We look at why states, which are normally reluctant to collaborate, do so when it comes to silencing dissidents abroad.



    Read more:
    Continuing crackdown on churches and NGOs moves Nicaragua further from democracy to authoritarianism

    Historical lessons?

    There are historical parallels between what happened during Operation Condor in South America and what’s happening today. Operation Condor was a system that Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay started using in late 1975 with the backing of the US. It was aimed at persecuting exiles. Operation Condor was the most sophisticated, institutionalised and coordinated scheme ever established to persecute citizens who had been forced to flee their homeland.

    Journalist Pouria Zeraati was attacked.

    Three factors were found to explain why this form of repression was able to be used at the time and why countries agreed to cooperate.

    First, politically active exiled dissidents constituted a threat to the reputation and survival of South America’s ruling juntas. They successfully named and shamed the region’s military regimes, discrediting their international public images given the human rights violations perpetrated and resulting in the US cutting funding to Uruguay in 1976 and Argentina in 1977.

    Second, these autocracies, which came to power between 1964 and 1976, drew inspiration from the US National Security Doctrine and the French School of Counterinsurgency. In both, security was considered more important than human rights.

    The history of Operation Condor.

    Finally, two countries catalysed efforts to cooperate in this kind of action. Chile pushed for the formal creation of Operation Condor in 1975. Argentina then expanded it to include Brazil, Peru and Ecuador between 1976 and 1978. This significantly widened Operation Condor’s scope for action to most of South America.

    Why Operation Condor is relevant?

    Operation Condor was the only regional organisation to be created to hunt down political opponents across borders. Lessons from this historical experience are relevant today.

    Cooperation in transnational repression in the last few years also occurs in regional clusters, as shown by research by academics and human rights groups. These groups of nations include, for instance, Belarus, Russia and Tajikistan, as well as Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam.

    In recent years these south-east Asian countries have closely collaborated to persecute, arbitrarily arrest and forcibly repatriate exiled activists and refugees, according to the media, the UN and international human rights NGOs.

    Second, one or more countries, predominantly Russia and Turkey, have worked together on efforts to repress critics over a significant period.

    Third, some regional organisations, of authoritarian nature, often enable cooperation in transnational repression, or at least create unsafe environments for migrating dissidents.

    The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and the Gulf Cooperation Council are examples, since they “have expanded their collective efforts against exiles”, according to some sources. SCO member states, especially Russia, China and Uzbekistan, have repeatedly used the organisation to pursue political opponents abroad and persecute them as criminals. This shows the organisation’s role as a platform for the diffusion and consolidation of authoritarian principles.

    Countries engaging in this kind of political repression today often wish to silence dissent wherever it occurs.

    These countries are acting in complete disregard of established principles of international law and international relations, such as sovereignty and the protection of refugees, and seem to be expanding their operations. It remains to be seen if there’s anything that the rest of the international community can do to reverse this terrifying trend, but at least it has started trying.

    Francesca Lessa’s projects “Operation Condor” and “Plancondor.org” received funding from the University of Oxford John Fell Fund, The British Academy/Leverhulme Trust, the University of Oxford ESRC Impact Acceleration Account, the European Commission under Horizon 2020, the Open Society Foundations, and UCL Public Policy through Research England’s QR-PSF funding. Lessa is also the Honorary President of the Observatorio Luz Ibarburu, a network of human rights NGOs in Uruguay.

    – ref. Autocratic nations are reaching across borders to silence critics – and so far nothing seems to stop them – https://theconversation.com/autocratic-nations-are-reaching-across-borders-to-silence-critics-and-so-far-nothing-seems-to-stop-them-233037

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: In despair about Earth’s future? Look for green shoots

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Heather Alberro, Lecturer in Sustainability, University of Manchester

    A white stork nesting in the city. Dr.MYM/Shutterstock

    As species go extinct and a habitable climate teeters, it’s understandable to feel despair.

    Some of the world’s top climate scientists have expressed their mounting hopelessness at the prospect of reaching 3°C by 2100. This hellish scenario, well in excess of the 1.5°C countries agreed to aim for when they signed the 2015 Paris agreement, would indeed spell disaster for much of life on Earth.

    As a lecturer in sustainability, I often hear my anxious students bemoan the impossibility of building a way out of ecological collapse. However, the greatest danger is fatalism, and assuming, as Margaret Thatcher claimed, that “there is no alternative”.

    There is a vast ocean of possibility for transforming the planet. Increasingly, cities are in the vanguard of forging more sustainable worlds.

    Car-free futures

    Since the early 1900s, the car has afforded a sense of freedom for some while infringing on the freedoms of others.

    Cars, particularly SUVs, are a major source of air pollution and CO₂ emissions globally. Motorways and car parking spaces have transformed Earth’s terrain and monopolised public space. For those of us in industrialised societies, it is difficult to imagine life without cars.

    Global sales of electric vehicles are projected to continue rising. Yet even these supposed solutions to an unsustainable transport sector require a lot of space and materials to make and maintain.

    With cities set to host nearly 70% of all people by 2050, space and livability are key concerns. As such, cities across Europe and beyond are beginning to reclaim their streets.

    Between 2019 and 2022, the number of low-emissions zones, areas that regulate the most polluting vehicles in order to improve air quality and help to protect public health, expanded by 40% in European cities. Research suggests that policies to restrict car use such as congestion charges and raised parking fees can further discourage their use. However, providing viable and accessible alternatives is also crucial: as such, many cities are also widening walkways, building bike lanes and making public transport cheaper and easier to access.

    An estimated 80,000 cars used to pass daily through the centre of Pontevedra, a city in north-west Spain. Mayor Miguel Anxo Fernandez Lores instituted a ban on cars in 1999 and removed on-street parking spaces. The city has since drastically reduced air pollution and hasn’t had a vehicular death in over a decade.

    Civic life in Pontevedra has benefited from the absence of cars.
    Trabantos/Shutterstock

    Living cities

    Cement and concrete are widely used to make major infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings and dams. The cement industry accounts for up to 9% of global emissions. Moreover, the open-pit quarrying of limestone, a key ingredient in cement, involves removing topsoil and vegetation which rips up ecosystems and biodiversity and increases flooding risks.

    A burgeoning “depaving” movement originated in Portland, Oregon in 2008 and has removed concrete and asphalt from cities including Chicago, London and several cities across Canada, replacing it with plants and soil.

    Depaving is an example of the wider urban rewilding movement which aims to restore natural habitats and expand green spaces in cities for social and ecological wellbeing.

    Multispecies coexistence

    A new report by the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF) has documented an average 73% decline in the abundance of monitored wildlife populations globally since 1970. Despite such unfathomable losses, many cities are being transformed into oases of multispecies life.

    Prized for their fur, beavers were hunted to extinction in the UK by the 16th century. Their water damming activities create homes for other species such as birds and invertebrates and help prevent flooding. Eurasian beavers have been thriving in Sweden, Norway and Germany since their reintroduction in the 1920s and 1960s, respectively.

    In 2022, beavers were designated a protected species in England. In October 2023, London saw its first baby beaver in over 400 years.

    Melbourne has launched a project to create a 18,000 square-metre garden in the city by 2028, with at least 20 local plant species for each square metre. An 8-kilometre long pollinator corridor is also being created to allow wildlife to travel between 200 interconnected gardens and further help local pollinators flourish.

    Living alongside larger predators brings unique challenges. However, as with any functional relationship, respect is key for coexistence. Los Angeles and Mumbai are two major cities that are learning to live alongside mountain lions and leopards. Local officials have launched public education initiatives urging people to, for instance, maintain a safe distance from the animals and not walk alone outside at night. In cases where wildlife conflicts occur, such as between wolves and farmers who have lost livestock, non-lethal methods such as wolf-proof fences and guard dogs have been found to be more effective solutions than culls.

    India’s leopard population appears to be rising.
    Nedla/Shutterstock

    Environmental justice now

    Cities, particularly in wealthy countries, are only a small part of the story.

    At just over 500 years old, the modern capitalist system, imposed globally through European colonialism, is a relatively recent development. Despite its influence, the visionary author Ursula K. Le Guin reminded us that “any human power can be resisted and changed by human beings”.

    Indigenous peoples numbering 476 million across 90 countries represent thousands of distinct cultures that persist as living proof of the enduring possibilities of radically different ways of living.

    An online database tracks 4,189 environmental justice movements worldwide. From multi-tribe Indigenous Amazonian alliances keeping illegal miners at bay, to countless local communities and activist groups resisting the construction of new fossil fuel infrastructure. Over the last few years, these place-based struggles have either stopped, stalled or forced the suspension of at least one-quarter of planned extractive projects.

    These examples demonstrate hope in action, and suggest that the radical changes required to avert climate and ecological breakdown are often a simple question of will and collective resolve.

    Reality, like the future, is never fixed. Whether the world is 2, 3 or 4-degrees warmer by 2100 depends on actions taken today. The terrain ahead will be full of challenges. But, glimmers of a better world are already here.


    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get our award-winning weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 35,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Heather Alberro 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. In despair about Earth’s future? Look for green shoots – https://theconversation.com/in-despair-about-earths-future-look-for-green-shoots-232114

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by Minister Khera on the celebration of Sukkot

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Government of Canada celebrates Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles.

    OTTAWA, October 16, 2024

    Tonight at sunset is the beginning of Sukkot, or the Feast of Tabernacles. Celebrated by Jewish communities in Canada and around the world, this holiday traditionally marked the time of harvest in their ancestral homeland. Today, it is also considered a celebration of hospitality.

    For seven days, Jewish families will build a small temporary booth called a “sukkah” on their balcony or in their yard. They gather there to sing, celebrate and share a meal, while reflecting on the blessings of abundance, family and community. According to Jewish tradition, the fact that the doors and windows of the sukkah are always open symbolizes sharing with others. Sukkah are carefully decorated by children, ushering in a new cheerfulness after the solemnity of the major Jewish holidays.

    To all those who celebrate, we wish you a warm and joyful Sukkot filled with gratitude and memorable moments.

    Chag Sukkot Sameach!

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

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MAINE’S SINGLE AREA CODE EXTENDED AN ADDITIONAL TWO AND A HALF YEARS

    Source: US State of Maine

    North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) Predicts 207 Area Code to be Exhausted no Earlier than the Second Quarter of 2036

    October 16, 2024

    Hallowell, Maine -A semi-annual review of area code exhaust dates by the North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) shows Maine’s single area code has gained another two and a half years before its predicted exhaust date. The previous estimated exhaust date was the fourth quarter of 2033.

    “The Commission is very active in a number of conservation efforts, working with companies to ensure they get the telephone numbers they need, while asking other companies to return numbers they dont need,” said Chair Philip L. Bartlett II. Our team has been working collaboratively with phone companies, the Federal Communications Commission, the North American Numbering Council (NANC), and NANPA on strategies to extend the entire numbering system, not just Maine.

    The life of the overall area code system has been extended an additional 1-2 years. According to the FCC, NANC estimated that the total societal cost of expanding the universe of numbering resources in NANP would be as much as $270 billion and would require adding two additional digits to all telephone numbers nationwide.

    The Commission has been monitoring the status of the 207 area code closely for several years as the number of service providers in Maine has been increasing significantly along with the volume of numbering requests. In January 2021, the predicted exhaust date was 2024. With this extension to 2036, weve added more than 12 additional years.

    The Commission continues to work collaboratively with officials in other states to share best practices. New Hampshires 603 area code, which is also in danger of exhaustion, has seen its forecast extended by nearly two years from 2027 to 2029.

    The next update from NANPA on area code exhaust dates will be April 2025. The NANPA number exhaustion and prediction reports can be found at https://nationalnanpa.com/reports/reports_npa.html.

    Background

    In 2023, the Maine Public Utilities Commission opened an investigation into Rate Center Consolidation (RCC) . This approach, recommended by a recent NANC report to the FCC , would combine 149 calling areas into one. The result would reduce demand for numbering resources and allow telephone providers to utilize more existing resources. The Commission is in the final stages of considering RCC.

    The Commission has also worked closely with Maine lawmakers to enact measures that reduce the wasteful use of numbering resources while also combatting illegal robocalling.
    Through the course of its work, the Commission has learned that some telephone number providers legally procure telephone numbers and then sell them to companies that bombard Maine people with scam calls. By working closely with NANPA, the FCC, and state lawmakers, we have worked to curb robocalling in Maine, but more work must be done.

    About the Commission

    The Maine Public Utilities Commission regulates electric, telephone, water and gas utilities to ensure that Maine citizens have access to safe and reliable utility service at rates that are just and reasonable for all ratepayers while also helping achieve reductions in state greenhouse gas emissions. Commission programs include Maine Enhanced 911 Service, gas safety and Dig Safe. Philip L. Bartlett, II serves as Chair, Patrick Scully and Carolyn Gilbert serve as Commissioners.

    Learn more about the Commission at https://www.maine.gov/mpuc/.

    CONTACT: Susan Faloon, Media Liaison CELL: 207-557-3704 EMAIL: susan.faloon@maine.gov WEBSITE: https://www.maine.gov/mpuc/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Imported Clotted cream samples detected with total bacterial count exceeding legal limit

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (October 16) that samples of prepackaged pasteurized Cornish clotted cream imported from the United Kingdom (UK) were detected with total bacterial count exceeding the legal limit. The affected batch of product has been marked and sealed, and has not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the incident.

         Product details are as follows: 

    Product name: Cornish Clotted Cream
    Brand: M&S 
    Place of origin: UK
    Sole importer: Alf Retail Hong Kong Limited
    Packing: 227 grams per pack
    Use-by date: October 18, 2024

         A spokesman for the CFS said, “The CFS collected the above-mentioned samples at the import level for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test results showed that the total bacterial count of the samples were 620 400, 1 128 000 and 1 504 000 per milliliter respectively. According to the Milk Regulation (Cap 132 AQ), milk after heat treatment by means of pasteurisation should not contain more than 30 000 bacteria per millilitre.

         The CFS has informed the importer concerned of the irregularity. An investigation revealed that the affected batch of the product is still stored in the importer’s warehouse. It has not entered the local market. The CFS has temporarily suspended the permission to import for sale of the product concerned granted earlier to the importer. Other types of similar products of the same brand being sold in the market are not affected.
    　
         The spokesman said that the total bacterial counts exceeding the legal limit indicated that the hygienic conditions were unsatisfactory, but did not mean it would lead to food poisoning.
    　
         The CFS has informed the British authorities of the incident, and will continue to follow up on the case and take appropriate action.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada supports tourism development in Rocher-Percé

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    MRC du Rocher-Percé receives over $1.5M in financial assistance from CED to expand and modernize its air terminal.

    MRC du Rocher-Percé receives over $1.5M in financial assistance from CED to expand and modernize its air terminal.

    Grande-Rivière, Quebec, October 16, 2024 – Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED)

    Since the start of the pandemic, tourism organizations have demonstrated resilience, creativity and adaptability. They are vectors for diversification and major economic development, and the Government of Canada recognizes their contribution to economic development in Quebec’s regions.

    That is why the Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Member of Parliament for Gaspésie‒Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, is today announcing, on behalf of the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for CED, a non‑repayable contribution of $1,541,750 for the MRC du Rocher-Percé to help initiate improvements to its air terminal, a tourism product in Rocher-Percé.

    This CED support has enabled the regional county municipality (RCM) to proceed with work to expand, fit out and complete outdoor renovations and indoor leasehold improvements to offer a safe environment adapted to users and staff. By supporting this project, CED is not only contributing to local economic development, but also helping to strengthen the tourism sector in Rocher-Percé, to the benefit of the region’s businesses and organizations.

    Founded in 1986, the Aéroport du Rocher-Percé, owned by the RCM, specializes in the transportation of people and goods by air. It serves the MRC du Rocher-Percé region, providing mainly medical transportation and business and tourism flights. This essential service plays a key role in regional economic development. The proposed improvements under this project will now enable the RCM to meet its tourism development targets aimed at attracting tourists to the region, including through the travel packages it offers.

    The Government of Canada recognizes and supports businesses and organizations that are a source of pride in their communities. Quebec’s economic recovery relies, among other things, on a strong tourism industry with organizations that have deep roots in the regional economy. The players in this sector are major contributors to growth, as well as key assets in rebuilding a stronger, more resilient, greener and more just economy for all.

    Quotes

    “The CED support announced today clearly illustrates our willingness to boost players in the tourism industry. The financial contribution provided for the project to expand and modernize the Aérogare de Grande-Rivière is very good news for the MRC du Rocher-Percé and its appeal. Thanks to the Government of Canada’s investments in the tourism industry, we are ensuring we are ready to welcome travellers and tourists from home and abroad!”

    The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Member of Parliament for Gaspésie‒Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

    “Our government is committed to supporting tourism businesses and organizations. Thanks to the funding announced today, we are helping to strengthen economic growth in the MRC du Rocher-Percé. Our assistance represents an important step in the efforts being made to attract tourists from Quebec, Canada and around the world so they can all discover the best tourism experiences our country has to offer.”

    The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Member of Parliament for Hochelaga, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for CED

    “A functional airport is essential to ensure efficient service for air ambulance flights, thereby enabling our residents to quickly receive emergency medical care in major centres. The airport and its facilities also represent a major development tool for our economy and for the tourism sector.”

    Samuel Parisé, Warden of the MRC du Rocher-Percé

    Quick facts

    • The funds have been granted under CED’s Quebec Economic Development Program. This program aims to help communities seize economic development and diversification opportunities that are promising for the future.
    • In Quebec, SMEs account for 99.7% of the province’s businesses and 50% of its GDP.
    • CED is the key federal partner in Quebec’s regional economic development. With its 12 regional business offices, CED accompanies businesses, supporting organizations and all regions across Quebec into tomorrow’s economy.

    Associated links

    Information

    Media Relations
    Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
    media@dec-ced.gc.ca

    Marie-Justine Torres
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
    Cell: 613-327-5918
    marie-justine.torresames@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Stay connected

    Follow CED on social media
    Consult CED’s news

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK pushes for Middle East stability on ministerial visit to Egypt

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Minister for the Middle East Hamish Falconer visits Egypt to push for regional stability.

    • The UK announces £1 million of assistance to Egyptian health authority to support medically evacuated Palestinians from Gaza.
    • New UK-Egypt Memorandum of Understanding on food security signed, signalling the UK’s support for Egypt’s leading role in food production in the region.
    • Minister calls for urgent de-escalation and a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon in his first visit to the Middle East, with visit to Al Arish border crossing.

    Providing humanitarian support for civilians affected by the current conflict was the focus of the Minister for the Middle East’s, Hamish Falconer, first official visit to the region this week.

    Announcing a new package of support to assist civilians medically evacuated from Gaza to Egypt, the Minister pledged £1 million of UK assistance to the Egyptian Ministry of Health that will support medically evacuated civilians from Gaza who are receiving care in Egypt.

    Delivered through the World Health Organisation (WHO) in Egypt, the funding will provide vital medical supplies and medications, including chemotherapy and rehabilitative equipment, to those in need. It will also strengthen capacity to care for patients from Gaza with chronic diseases.

    Minister for the Middle East Hamish Falconer said:

    “As a key regional partner, Egypt plays a central role alongside the UK in working for stability and security across the Middle East and driving forward de-escalation efforts in both Gaza and Lebanon.  

    “The worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to bring devastation to many lives, with many requiring life-saving support over the border in Egypt. That’s why, alongside our Egyptian partners, we are funding life-saving treatments and support for medically evacuated civilians from Gaza. 

    “At Al Arish, I saw that many tonnes of lifesaving aid continue to be denied entry into Gaza by Israel. As winter approaches, Israel can and must do more to ensure aid flows freely into Gaza and to facilitate the UN and humanitarian agencies to carry out their work safely.

    “I signed a new UK-Egypt Memorandum of Understanding on sustainable food security, launching a new partnership between our two countries to tackle a critical global challenge.”

    The announcement came during the Minister’s visit to Al-Arish, where he met with the North Sinai Governor to discuss aid flows into Gaza. Here, the Minister visited the Egyptian Red Crescent’s warehouse and Al-Arish General Hospital to see how UK funding to WHO Egypt will be used.

    The Minister also met with Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty where he thanked Egypt for its ongoing role in getting aid into Gaza and agreed the need to continue working together for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon. Minister Falconer also raised the consular case of Alaa Abd El-Fattah and called for quick progress on his release.

    As Egypt is a regional leader in ensuring sustainable food security for the Middle East and Africa, the Minister also agreed a landmark UK-Egypt Memorandum of Understanding on Food Security with Rania Al Mashat, Minister of International Cooperation and Alaa Farouk, Minister of Agriculture. The agreement includes technical assistance to advance sustainable agribusiness practice and increase crop yield in Egypt.

    Speaking on today’s funding announcement, World Health Organisation Representative to Egypt Dr Nima Abid said:

    “WHO values its long-standing partnership with the British government, and we are deeply grateful for this generous contribution from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

    “This support will enable WHO, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Population, to deliver critical supplies to Egyptian hospitals and equip healthcare workers to meet the urgent needs of medical evacuees from Gaza. I would also like to express my appreciation for the government of Egypt for its vital role in treating patients from Gaza and in facilitating their safe evacuation to other countries as well.”

    The UK continues to play a leading role in alleviating the suffering in Gaza and continues to provide significant funding to partners to support those most in need. The UK has already provided 78,000 shelter items, 76,000 wound care kits, and 1.3 million items of medicine.

    The UK trebled its aid commitment to the OPTs in the last financial year and this Government will maintain significant funding this financial year to support trusted aid
     agencies on the ground.

    The UK continues to call for an immediate ceasefire on all fronts and continues to push for urgent aid to enter Gaza and reach those most in need.

    Background

    • The FCDO currently advises against all but essential travel to the Egyptian desert west and south of the oases of Fayoum, Bahariya, Farafra, Dakhla and Kharga, except for:
    • The coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh
    • The Marsa Matruh-Siwa road
    • The oasis town of Siwa
    • For further information on Egypt travel advice, visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Coop Pank extends authorities of Paavo Truu as Member of the Management Board of Coop Pank AS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    On 16 October 2024, the Supervisory Board of Coop Pank AS decided to extend the term of office of Paavo Truu, Member of the Management Board of Coop Pank AS, for a new 3-year term, i.e. from the end of the current term until 14 February 2028.

    At the same time, Paavo Truu’s powers as a member of the supervisory board of Coop Pank AS subsidiaries Coop Liising AS and Coop Kindlustusmaakler AS were extended.

    From February 2022, Paavo Truu is a member of the Management Board and the CFO at Coop Pank AS. In addition to sitting on the management board of Coop Pank, Paavo Truu is a member of the supervisory boards of the bank’s subsidiaries Coop Liising AS and Coop Kindlustusmaakler AS.

    Paavo Truu (and his company) holds 52 248 shares in Coop Pank AS and had been issued with the option of a further 22 700 shares with a realization date of 2025, an option for 41 900 shares which mature in 2026 and an option for 86 200 which mature in 2027.

    Coop Pank, based on Estonian capital, is one of the five universal banks operating in Estonia. The number of clients using Coop Pank for their daily banking has reached 200,000. Coop Pank aims to put the synergy generated by the interaction of retail business and banking to good use and to bring everyday banking services closer to people’s homes. The strategic shareholder of the bank is the domestic retail chain Coop Eesti comprising 320 stores.

    Additional information:
    Katre Tatrik
    Communication Manager
    Tel: +372 5151 859
    E-mail: katre.tatrik@cooppank.ee

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group Returns to San Diego After 9-month Deployment

    Source: United States Navy

    TRCSG is a multiplatform team of ships, aircraft, and more than 6,000 Sailors, capable of carrying out a wide variety of missions around the globe. Deploying units of the strike group include Theodore Roosevelt, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 23, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11, and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70). While the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Russell (DDG 59), USS Halsey (DDG 97) and USS Daniel Inouye (DDG 118) also returned to their respective home ports, Lake Erie and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) remain deployed in the 7th Fleet area of operations supporting global maritime security operations.

    TRCSG deployed to the Indo-Pacific region to support regional security and stability, keep sea lanes open, and to reassure our allies and partners of the U.S. Navy’s unwavering commitment to the region. The strike group was later ordered to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility to strengthen U.S. military force posture and capabilities throughout the Middle East in light of escalating regional tensions.

    “The strike group’s ability to quickly adjust from operations in 7th Fleet to 5th Fleet is a testament to both the flexibility of our naval forces as well as the strength and training of our Navy Sailors,” said Commander, Carrier Strike Group 9, Rear Adm. Christopher Alexander. “We had the distinct honor to strengthen our skills and relationships with 10 allied and partner nations, demonstrating our nation’s commitment to the freedom of navigation.”

    The TRCSG strengthened interoperability through dual carrier operations with the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, participation in exercise Valiant Shield 2024, and numerous bilateral and multilateral maritime exercises in the Philippine and South China seas as well as in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

    Notable key leader engagements and visits aboard Theodore Roosevelt included the president of the Republic of Korea, chief of naval operations for the Republic of Korea Navy, lieutenant governor of Guam, U.S. Pacific Fleet commander, U.S. 7th Fleet commander, Republic of Singapore Navy fleet commander, U.S. ambassadors to the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand and Qatar, and senior officers from the armed forces of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Republic of Korea and Royal Thai Navy, among others.

    The deployed Sailors from the TRCSG demonstrated their proficiency in enhanced maritime security operations through more than 9,000 sorties including 21,000 flight hours, 28 replenishments-at-sea, and more than 71,000 nautical miles traveled.

    Ships of the TRCSG conducted routine port visits to Bahrain, Diego Garcia, Guam, the Republic of Korea, Singapore and Thailand.

    “The crew worked incredibly hard and maintained mission focus this entire deployment,” said Capt. Brian Schrum, commanding officer, Theodore Roosevelt. “I am extremely proud of our Sailors and the work accomplished across the world’s oceans to keep our nation safe at home.”

    CVW 11 consisted of nine squadrons: the “Blue Blasters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34, the “Fist of the Fleet” of VFA-25, the “Flying Checkmates” of VFA-211, the “Black Knights” of VFA-154, the “Liberty Bells” of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 115, the “Rooks” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 137, the “Wolf Pack” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 75, the “Eightballers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 and the “Rawhides” of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40.

    As an integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic and relevant training necessary to execute the U.S. Navy’s timeless role across the full spectrum of military operations—from combat missions to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. U.S. 3rd Fleet works in close coordination with other numbered fleets to provide commanders with capable, ready forces to deploy forward and win in day-to-day competition, in crisis, and in conflict.

    For more information about Carrier Strike Group 9 and USS Theodore Roosevelt visit https://www.surfpac.navy.mil/ccsg9/ and https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/COMCARSTRKGRU-9; Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/usstheodoreroosevelt

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bonavista — Bonavista RCMP arrests suspect in multiple break and enters, charges laid

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Following recent investigations into property crimes in Bonavista, 43-year-old Christopher Delaney of Bonavista was arrested on October 9, 2024, by Bonavista RCMP.

    On October 2, 2024, Bonavista RCMP received a report of a break, enter and theft at an Ultramar gas station on Confederation Drive. The suspect forced entry into the store and allegedly stole a quantity of cigarettes from inside.

    On the evening of September 29, 2024, Bonavista RCMP received a report of an attempted residential break and enter on Sweeney’s Lane that occurred while the home owner was away from the property. The suspect tried to gain access to the residence but was startled by a neighbour.

    A short time later that same evening, Bonavista RCMP received a report of a possible break and enter at the Irving gas station on Confederation Drive. The suspect forced entry into the business and stole a quantity of cigarettes, beer and lottery tickets.

    Evidence obtained during each of these investigations identified the suspect involved as Delaney.

    Delaney was remanded in custody over the weekend and is charged with the following criminal offences:

    • Break enter and committing – two counts
    • Possess break in instrument – two counts
    • Mischief Under $5000.00 (damage to property) – three counts
    • Breach of a Probation Order – three counts

    He will appear in court today.

    RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

    MIL Security OSI –