Category: housing

MIL-OSI USA: Deploying Water Rescue Team Ahead of Hurricane Helene

Source: US State of New York

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the deployment of a team of 16 swift water rescue personnel, two canines and emergency response equipment to assist communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. The team, made up of members from the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Office of Fire Prevention and Control, the Department of Environmental Conservation and State Police, are en route to Conover, North Carolina where they will deploy as directed.

“New Yorkers lead by example and help our neighbors in times of despair,” Governor Hochul said. “Our expert swift water rescue team and the equipment they will bring with them will help save lives and protect against the potential destruction of property from Hurricane Helene. I thank these brave New Yorkers for answering the call and look forward to their safe return.”

This team can conduct search and water rescues for people and animals, provide emergency medical care and support helicopter rescue operations. They are trained to operate in areas with compromised access to roadways, utilities, transportation and medical facilities, and with limited availability of shelter, food and water. Equipment sent to North Carolina with the team includes Zodiac boats and motors with trailers, two high-water rescue vehicles and drones.

Personnel were deployed as part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), the nation’s all-hazards national mutual aid system. EMAC has been ratified by U.S. Congress (PL 104-321) and is law in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Northern Mariana Islands. EMAC’s Members can share resources from all disciplines, protect personnel who deploy and be reimbursed for mission-related costs.

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “New Yorkers know all too well the impacts that severe weather can have on a community. We are always willing to lend a hand to help other states in need, and we thank those who are currently on their way to provide support to those who will be impacted by Hurricane Helene.”

Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “DEC Forest Rangers are some of the most highly trained search and rescue professionals in the country and we are fortunate that they are always willing to answer the call when other states are in need. As preparations for Hurricane Helene’s landfall continue, I thank our experts for accepting the challenge and joining a team of heroes from across New York State.”

New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “The New York State Police have always answered the call for assistance wherever it’s needed. We are proud to work hand-in-hand with the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Office of Fire Prevention and Department of Environmental Conservation to mitigate this emergency situation. Our members will be assisting our partners with public safety and recovery efforts as long as necessary.”

The swift water team is just the latest instance of New York State sending assistance to other states to help with emergencies. Since the beginning of this summer, Governor Hochul deployed a total of 45 New Yorkers, including 26 DEC Forest Rangers, to battle wildfires in Montana and Oregon. New York’s expertly trained wildland firefighters serve as task force leaders, facilities unit leaders, engine crews, and on suppression teams. One Forest Ranger remains deployed to the Homestead Complex fire on the Umpqua National Forest in Oregon and is scheduled to return home on Oct. 9.

Hurricane Helene, currently a Category 3 storm, is expected to strengthen and make landfall in the Big Bend area of Florida tonight or early Friday bringing with it winds near 100 mph. After landfall, Helene is expected to turn northwestward and slow down over the Tennessee Valley on Friday and Saturday.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Finds Civil Rights Violations by the City of Lexington, Mississippi, and the Lexington Police Department
Source: US State of North Dakota

Note: View the findings report here.

Following a comprehensive investigation, the Justice Department announced today that the City of Lexington, Mississippi (City), and Lexington Police Department (LPD) engage in a pattern or practice of conduct that deprives people of their rights under the U.S. Constitution and federal law. Lexington is a town of approximately 1,200 people, located about an hour outside of Jackson, Mississippi.

Specifically, the Justice Department finds that LPD unlawfully
- Arrests, jails and detains people who cannot pay fines or fees, without assessing their ability to pay;
- Uses excessive force;
- Conducts stops, searches and arrests without probable cause, including jailing people on illegal “investigative holds” and arresting people solely because they owe outstanding fines;
- Imposes money bail without justification or assessment of ability to pay;
- Jails people without prompt access to court;
- Violates the rights of people engaged in free speech and expression, including by retaliating against people who criticize the police;
- Discriminates against Black people; and
- Operates under an unconstitutional conflict of interest because LPD’s funding depends on the money it raises through its enforcement.
“Today’s findings show that the Lexington Police Department abandoned its sacred position of trust in the community by routinely violating the constitutional rights of those it was sworn to protect,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department’s investigation uncovered that Lexington police officers have engaged in a pattern or practice of discriminating against the city’s Black residents, used excessive force, and retaliated against those who criticize them. Additionally, Lexington’s approach to fines and fees — including unlawfully arresting, jailing, and detaining people based on their failure to pay money without assessing if they can afford to do so — has been devastating for its residents. Being poor is not a crime, but practices like these amount to punishing people for poverty. People in that community deserve better, and the Justice Department is committed to working with them, the City, and the Police Department to make the City safer for all its citizens.”

“Public safety depends on public confidence in our justice system,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “The Lexington Police Department’s incarceration of individuals because they could not afford to pay fines — as detailed in today’s findings report — undermined that confidence and violated the civil rights of Lexington residents. I’m grateful to the Civil Rights Division for its thorough investigation and continued work to address these findings.”

“Lexington is a small, rural community but its police department has had a heavy hand in people’s lives, wreaking havoc through use of excessive force, racially discriminatory policing, retaliation, and more. In every corner of our country, police officers must respect people’s constitutional rights and treat people with dignity,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “After an extensive review, we found that police officers in Lexington routinely make illegal arrests, use brutal and unnecessary force, and punish people for their poverty — including by jailing people who cannot afford to pay fines or money bail. For too long, the Lexington Police Department has been playing by its own rules and operating with impunity — it’s time for this to end. Our findings report furthers the Justice Department’s commitment to ensuring fairness and the rule of law.”

“Police have the authority to enforce the law, not to act as debt collectors for the City, extracting payments from the poor with threats of jail,” said U.S. Attorney Todd Gee for the Southern District of Mississippi. “No matter how large or small, every police department has an obligation to follow the Constitution.”

Based on the department’s investigation, over the past two years, LPD has made nearly one arrest for every four people in town, primarily for low-level offenses and traffic violations. That is more than 10 times the per capita arrest rate for Mississippi as a whole. Many of these arrests were for non-criminal conduct, like owing outstanding fines and using profanity. Most of those arrested are Black people. In 2023, Black people were 17.6 times more likely to be arrested by LPD than white people were.

When making low-level arrests, LPD uses tactics normally reserved for serious offenses. For example, LPD officers broke down a Black man’s door to arrest him for swearing at a public official. In another case, while attempting to arrest a man for having a tinted windshield, officers followed the man’s car to his house, forced their way into his home, and tased him for 15 seconds. On the same day the Justice Department opened the investigation, LPD officers chased a man accused only of disturbing a business and tased him nine times.

LPD’s enforcement strategy has put hundreds of people in debt to the police department. In a town of about 1,200 people, the total sum of outstanding fines owed to LPD is more than $1.7 million.

The department also found that LPD lacks any meaningful accountability system and that people experiencing poverty who are accused of crimes in Lexington regularly lack access to counsel, both of which allow LPD’s misconduct to continue unchecked.

The Justice Department opened its investigation on Nov. 8, 2023. Career attorneys and staff in the Civil Rights Division’s Special Litigation Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi conducted the investigation. The team was assisted in this investigation by experts in law enforcement practices. The team conducted an extensive review of LPD’s records, including hundreds of arrest reports and municipal court records and hundreds of hours of body-worn camera footage. The team also interviewed City and LPD leadership and line officers, accompanied officers on ride-alongs, observed the Lexington Municipal Court, and met with dozens of community members.

In February, while the investigation was ongoing, the department issued a letter to the City of Lexington raising significant concerns regarding their practice of jailing people for unpaid fines without first assessing whether they can afford to pay them.

The City and LPD cooperated fully with the investigation. The City and LPD have committed to working cooperatively with the department to address the violations identified in the department’s findings.

The department conducted this investigation pursuant to 34 U.S.C. § 12601 (Section 12601), which prohibits law enforcement officers from engaging in a pattern or practice of conduct that deprives people of rights protected by the Constitution or federal law. Section 12601 authorizes the Attorney General to file a lawsuit in federal court seeking court-ordered remedies to eliminate a pattern or practice of unlawful conduct.

This investigation reflects the Justice Department’s efforts to ensure constitutional policing and to combat unlawful practices with respect to fines and fees. The department previously addressed policing for profit in its findings on the Ferguson Police Department in Missouri in 2015. The consent decree that followed has resulted in the dismissal of about 63,000 citations and a reduction of over $1 million in fines and fees. In July 2022, the department filed a Statement of Interest in Coleman v. Brookside, explaining that judges, prosecutors, and police violate the Constitution when they are motivated by profit rather than justice. And in April 2023, the department issued a Dear Colleague Letter containing updated guidance on fines and fees for state and local courts.

The department will be conducting outreach to members of the Lexington community for input on remedies to address the department’s findings. Individuals may submit recommendations to Community.LexingtonMS@usdoj.gov.

The Justice Department will hold a public community meeting on Sept. 26 at 6:00 p.m. CT at St. Paul C.O.G.I.C. Fellowship Hall, 17214 Highway 17 South, Lexington, MS 39095. Members of the public are encouraged to attend.

Additional information about the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division is available on its website at http://www.justice.gov/crt. Additional information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi is available at http://www.justice.gov/usao-sdms. Information specific to the Civil Rights Division’s Police Reform Work can be found at http://www.justice.gov/crt/file/922421/download.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA News: Statement from President Joe Biden on the Passing of William “Bill” Lucy

Source: The White House

Bill Lucy was a courageous labor leader who dedicated his life bending the arc of history toward justice.

Of his seven decades as a giant in the movement, Bill spent nearly forty years as Secretary-Treasurer of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. He also founded the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists. No matter the title or the place, he worked tirelessly to advance civil rights and labor rights for all Americans, changing the course of history and redeeming the soul of America.

His dedication led to increased benefits and protections for America’s public servants who keep our communities safe, care for the sick, and so much more.

A native of Memphis, Tennessee, he marched with Dr. King to secure the rights of sanitation workers. Bill’s decree, “I Am a Man,” shed light on the humanity of our Nation’s laborers and became a nationwide rallying cry for dignity and equality, two of our most sacred American values.

Over the course of his towering leadership, I saw Bill in action. He believed, like I do, that working class issues and civil rights issues are deeply intertwined, as he strengthened the role of Black Americans in our Nation’s unions and fought to dismantle apartheid in South Africa.

He will forever be remembered for his unrelenting commitment to justice, fairness, and equality—at home and abroad.

Jill and I send our love and condolences to his family, the labor movement he empowered, and every worker whose life he made better.

May God bless Bill Lucy, a great American, and a good man.

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MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Lee Targets Privacy Loophole with Student Voter Data Protection Act

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Student Voter Data Protection Act, a bill to safeguard the personal data of college students from being exploited for partisan voter registration efforts. This legislation amends the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to explicitly prohibit students’ private information from being shared without their consent for voter registration drives. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) is an original co-sponsor of the bill.
In recent years, colleges and universities nationwide have participated in the National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement (NSLVE), which compels institutions to hand over students’ FERPA-protected data. This data is then passed through the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC) and shared with third-party voter processing companies. Without student consent, these companies match student information with voter databases, returning lists of voters and non-voters to participating schools.
“College students’ personal data should not be handed over to partisan organizations under the guise of civic engagement,” said Senator Lee. “These practices violate federal privacy laws, and my bill will close the loopholes that allow institutions to disregard the consent of their students.”
The Student Voter Data Protection Act would amend FERPA to ensure that universities cannot share students’ personally identifiable information for voter registration activities unless the student gives explicit consent. The legislation responds to ongoing concerns that organizations like Civic Nation, an affiliate of the Obama Foundation, are using this data to target student voters with left-leaning get-out-the-vote efforts.
Key Provisions of the Bill:
Amends FERPA to explicitly prevent universities from sharing student data without consent for voter registration purposes.
Ensures that voter registration efforts do not exploit students’ private information for partisan gain.
Protects college students from being targeted based on their voting history or registration status.
The introduction of the Student Voter Data Protection Act follows concerns that the NSLVE initiative has been used to create a voter profile of students, often without their knowledge or consent, to fuel politically motivated campaigns. By tightening FERPA protections, the Student Voter Data Protection Act seeks to preserve the integrity of student privacy and ensure that educational institutions adhere to federal privacy laws.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell, Collins Release GAO Report Revealing Federal Government is Ill-Equipped to Handle Cost of Climate Change

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
09.26.24
Cantwell, Collins Release GAO Report Revealing Federal Government is Ill-Equipped to Handle Cost of Climate Change
Conservative estimates find climate impacts will cost federal government many trillions of dollars
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) published a new report requested by Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, on the economic impacts of climate change to the federal government.
The report, titled Climate Resilience: Congressional Action Needed to Enhance Climate Economics Information and to Limit Federal Fiscal Exposure, warns that “Available estimates indicate significant projected costs to the economy and the federal government as a result of climate change,” and that “the federal government is currently not well-organized to manage this reality.”
“This bipartisan request to GAO to ask how much taxpayers are at risk has revealed we have big exposure. We already know we are being buffeted by more frequent wildfires, shrinking snowpacks, coastal erosion, and harmful ocean acidification. This report makes clear that Congress should act to limit the U.S. government’s alarming fiscal exposure due to the intensifying impacts of climate change,” Sen. Cantwell said.
“In Maine, our economy is inextricably linked to the environment. From rising sea levels to warming waters to damaging storms, the impacts of climate change are already threatening our working waterfronts and coastal communities,” said Sen. Collins. “This nonpartisan GAO report Senator Cantwell and I requested contains astonishing numbers about the cost of climate-related weather events to the federal government. These findings support the need for a coordinated plan by the federal government to increase climate resiliency efforts and improve reporting of climate-related financial risks.”
After reviewing agency documents, conducting literature reviews, and interviewing government experts, the GAO discovered that federal agencies currently have little capacity to analyze or report climate-related risks, making it difficult to evaluate potential climate resilience actions or investments the U.S. government could take to lessen future damages and ultimately save taxpayers money.
GAO’s work on costs to the federal government follows eye-opening analysis last November in the Fifth National Climate Assessment that found the cost of climate damages to the entire U.S. economy from extreme weather events is already $1.5 trillion per decade. This number is a conservative estimate that does not account for loss of life, health care-related costs, or damages to ecosystem services noted the authors, which include federal science agencies whose assessment was reviewed by external experts and required by statute.
GAO’s report identified six key sectors of great financial risk to the federal government due to the projected impacts of climate change: crop insurance, coastal disaster relief, health care expenditures, wildland fire suppression, flood insurance, and sea level rise. By synthesizing scientific and economic analysis across different government and private-sector sources, GAO reported that changes in the first four sectors would cost the federal government an estimated $18 billion annually by midcentury and nearly $69 billion annually by late century. Payouts for flood insurance are estimated to increase by nearly $4 billion per year by 2050, and hurricanes alone are projected to reduce America’s balance sheet by $36 billion per year by 2050 in a high emissions future.

Additionally, there are more than 160,000 federal buildings in a current 500-year flood plain valued at over $490 billion that are at ever increasing risk of flooding due to climate change, while damages to federal facilities due to sea level rise may be even worse. GAO noted that these sectors are not comprehensive and climate change has many other significant impacts, including falling tax revenues due to decreased real estate values, household income, and business revenues.

This report builds on an October 2017 GAO report requested by Senators Cantwell and Collins on the costs of climate change to the federal government.
The full 2024 GAO report can be found HERE.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Working lunch of the leaders of the Paris Pact for People and the Planet on the sidelines of the UNGA.

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

Acting unitedly to accelerate the implementation of the Paris Pact for People and Planet (4Ps) agenda in support of an ambitious reform of the international financial architecture

Just over a year after the June 2023 Summit for a New Global Financial Deal, the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Week provided an opportunity for world leaders to reaffirm their support for the 4P agenda to reform the international financial system. They also expressed their commitment to establishing a 4P Senior Officials Group that will play a strategic facilitative role in delivering ambitious outcomes for the upcoming major events in 2024, ahead of the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville in 2025.

On this occasion, the United Kingdom, Mauritania, Togo, Seychelles, Gambia and Guinea Bissau joined the Compact, bringing the number of 4P member countries to 66. Just over a year after its launch, the 4P is now a vibrant network involving countries from all income levels and continents. It offers the international community a unique opportunity to work together in a spirit of solidarity and equality to develop constructive measures and overcome bottlenecks. Heads of State and Government welcomed the establishment of the Compact Secretariat (housed at the OECD as an independent body) and are committed to supporting its important role in implementing the 4P agenda.

Numerous operational coalitions have been established under the Compact, enabling countries and interested stakeholders to work together in concrete ways to improve outcomes, including the Debt, Nature and Climate Review Process by International Experts, the Coalition for the Inclusion of Debt Suspension Clauses in the Event of Climate-Related Natural Disasters, the Global Solidarity Levies Task Force, the Global Roadmap on Biodiversity Credits, the Global Green Bonds Initiative, and the Coalition for Paris-Compliant Carbon Markets.

Despite an increasingly difficult international context, encouraging results have been achieved, but greater efforts will be needed to accelerate progress. Accordingly, in the presence of the UN, WTO, OECD, and IMF, Heads of State and Government reaffirmed their commitment to work together, in accordance with the fundamental principles of the Pact and in synergy with other relevant initiatives, such as the Bridgetown Initiative.

They have in particular:

affirmed their commitment to accelerate efforts to increase the participation and representation of developing countries and emerging economies in the decision-making bodies of international development finance institutions and other international economic and financial institutions. They supported the ambition of the Brazilian G20 presidency to work towards a fairer system of global governance, in particular with regard to the reform of the international financial architecture; stressed the need to provide concrete solutions to alleviate the debt burden and vulnerabilities of developing countries, including through innovative instruments, such as debt-for-climate or environmental swaps or the adoption, based on good practices, of debt service conditions, including debt suspension clauses in the event of climate-related natural disasters, as well as solutions to address liquidity issues and a voluntary reallocation of Special Drawing Rights to increase fiscal space for countries most in need; affirmed their commitment to support the scaling up of concessional financing for the poorest and most vulnerable countries, including to ensure that the 21st replenishment of the International Development Association is successful; stressed the importance of cooperation to support multilateral development banks (MDBs) and international financial institutions in following the recommendation to achieve a “1:1” ratio for private finance mobilized by public resources, and they recognized the need to mobilize private financial flows for their common priorities by reducing the mismatch between real and perceived investment risks. To this end, Heads of State and Government recognized the need to work together to develop a roadmap and establish a constructive dialogue between regulators, rating agencies, private investors, States and other stakeholders to improve the transparency and accuracy of country ratings and risk assessments, including to maximize the risk reduction impact and the mobilization of private financing by MDBs, development finance institutions and bilateral donors; recalled the need to increase public financing from all sources, including by exploring the possibility of globally targeted levies and other measures to develop fairer and more efficient tax systems, and by further supporting capacity building and the sharing of expertise to increase domestic resource mobilization. To advance these priorities, Heads of State and Government will continue to coordinate their efforts with other members of the Compact and raise the level of ambition in all fora, in order to contribute to ensuring that the best possible outcomes can be achieved. be obtained at the COPs, the International Conference on Financing for Development and other major international events.

List of signatories:

Emmanuel MACRON, President of the French RepublicMacky SALL, Special EnvoyAziz AKHANNOUCH, Head of Government of the Kingdom of MoroccoLolwa AL-KHATER, Minister of State for International Cooperation of the State of QatarGabriel BORIC, President of ChileMohamed Ould EL-GHAZOUANI, President of the Islamic Republic of MauritaniaMoussa FAKI, President of the African UnionMette FREDERIKSEN, Prime Minister of DenmarkLuiz Inácio LULA DA SILVA, President of the Federative Republic of BrazilAmina MOHAMMED, Deputy Secretary-General of the United NationsLuís MONTENEGRO, Prime Minister of the Portuguese RepublicMia MOTTLEY, Prime Minister of BarbadosGustavo PETRO, President of the Republic of ColombiaWilliam RUTO, President of the Republic of KenyaPedro SANCHEZ, Prime Minister of SpainKeir STARMER, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland of Northern IrelandJonas Gahr STØRE, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of NorwayTo LAM, President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rachel Kyte appointed as the UK’s Special Representative for Climate
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Rachel Kyte will support ministers to increase senior international diplomatic engagement on climate and clean energy.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Energy Secretary of State Ed Miliband have announced Rachel Kyte as the UK’s Special Representative for Climate. The role, previously left vacant for over a year, has been re-appointed under this administration as part of our ambitions to restore the UK’s role as an international leader on the climate.

Ms Kyte is Professor of Practice in Climate Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford and dean emerita of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. She has extensive international climate experience with previous roles including Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and CEO of Sustainable Energy for All, World Bank Group Vice President and Special Envoy for Climate Change as well as Vice President for Sustainable Development at the World Bank and for Business Advisory Services at the International Finance Corporation.

The announcement was made in New York in the margins of a discussion on ‘Accelerating Deployment of Clean Power: Building a Global Clean Power Alliance’, an event hosted by the Foreign Secretary and Energy Secretary.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

We cannot address the urgency of the climate and nature crisis without coordinated global action. This government is committed to boosting the UK’s climate leadership. Rachel Kyte will bring invaluable expertise and experience as we work together with partners to drive the energy transition, support those most vulnerable to the worst impacts of the climate crisis and meet the objectives of the Paris Agreement.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

Climate change is the defining issue of our time. The governments mission for clean power by 2030 is about protecting energy security for families and businesses at home, whilst also driving global action to provide climate security for our future generations.

Rachel’s expertise will be invaluable in unlocking climate finance and supporting countries on the front line of the crisis – backing that strong action at home with leadership on the international stage.

Rachel Kyte said:

This government is committed to reconnecting the UK to the world with climate action as a priority. And the world is being shaped politically and economically by climate change.

This provides an opportunity to use international action to help deliver on the UK’s energy mission. And it provides challenges, not least in mobilizing the financing to protect people and drive greener growth. There is no time like now for the UK to help drive action and I am excited to play my part in this new role.

The UK Special Representative for Climate role will support ministers to increase senior international diplomatic engagement on climate and clean energy, increasing UK international leadership, building influence, raising global ambition and accelerating progress on UK strategic climate objectives. A joint role between the FCDO and DESNZ, Ms Kyte will report to both the Foreign Secretary and Energy Secretary.

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Published 26 September 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Joint statement by France, the United States of America, Australia, Canada, the European Union, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and Qatar.

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

The situation between Lebanon and Israel since October 8, 2023 is intolerable and poses an unacceptable risk of broader regional escalation. This is in no one’s interest, neither the Israeli people nor the Lebanese people.

It is time to reach a diplomatic settlement that allows civilians on both sides of the border to return safely to their homes.

Diplomacy cannot prevail in the midst of this escalating conflict.

We therefore call for an immediate 21-day ceasefire along the Lebanese-Israeli border, to allow room for diplomacy to reach a diplomatic settlement in line with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 (UNSCR 1701), and the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735 (UNSCR 2735) regarding a ceasefire in Gaza.

We call on all parties, including the governments of Israel and Lebanon, to immediately endorse the temporary ceasefire in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701 during this period, and to give a real chance to a diplomatic settlement.

We are therefore ready to fully support all diplomatic efforts to conclude an agreement between Lebanon and Israel during this period, building on the efforts of the last few months, in order to put a definitive end to this crisis.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Joint statement by Emmanuel Macron, President of the Republic, and Joe Biden, President of the United States of America.

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

It is time to reach a settlement on the Israeli-Lebanese border that guarantees security and allows civilians to return to their homes.

The exchanges of fire that have taken place since October 7, and particularly over the past two weeks, threaten to widen the conflict and harm civilians.

That is why we have been working together in recent days on a joint call for a temporary ceasefire to give diplomacy a chance to succeed and avoid further escalation on both sides of the border.

The declaration we negotiated is now endorsed by the United States, Australia, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and Qatar. We call for broad adherence and immediate support from the governments of Israel and Lebanon.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kelly Honors Kansas Gold Star Families – Governor of the State of Kansas

Source: US State of Kansas

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly joined the Kansas Office of Veterans Services today to honor more than 6,500 fallen Kansan service members and their families.

“For our Gold Star Families, there are no words or gestures that can ease the pain of such a loss or fill the void left in their homes and in their hearts. That will never go away,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Gold Star Mothers and Family’s Day is an important reminder that the cost of freedom is enormous and enduring, even long after the battles to protect it have ended.”

This was the third annual Kansas Gold Star Remembrance and Recognition Ceremony at the Statehouse following Governor Kelly’s signing of Senate Bill 330 in the spring of 2022, establishing the Kansas Gold Star Families Memorial on Statehouse grounds. The monument was unveiled that September on the “Veterans Walkway,” which runs along the south lawn of the Statehouse.

“Today is a special day to honor the memory of Kansas service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. It’s also a time to express our ongoing support for the Kansas families who have lost their loved ones,” said Brig. Gen. Bill Turner, director of the Kansas Office of Veterans Services. “I want to thank our federal and state partners, veteran service organizations, the military department survivor outreach coordinators, and fellow Kansans for joining us for this important ceremony.”

In addition to her remarks, Governor Kelly laid a wreath in respect to the families and their loved ones. Kansas Gold Star Families and guests in attendance were invited to lay flowers to honor their family members and service members who gave their lives for our nation.

Photos from today’s ceremony for media use can be found below.

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MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Chair Murray Speaks in Support of Short-term CR, Urges Serious Bipartisan Negotiations of Full-year Funding Bills

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

ICMYI: Senate Appropriations Committee Approves Energy and Water, Defense, LHHS, and Financial Services Appropriations Bills

ICYMI: Senate Appropriations Committee Approves Commerce-Justice-Science, Interior-Environment, State and Foreign Operations, and Transportation-HUD Appropriations Bills

ICYMI: Senate Appropriations Committee Approves Subcommittee Allocations, Legislative Branch, Ag-FDA, and Military Construction-VA Bills

***WATCH: VIDEO of Senator Murray’s Floor Speech***

Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, spoke on the Senate floor ahead of consideration of the continuing resolution, urging her colleagues to engage in serious bipartisan and bicameral negotiations to pass full-year funding bills before the end of the year.

Murray’s full remarks, as delivered, are below:

“Thank you, M. President. I am very pleased we have a straightforward, bipartisan compromise to fund the government, and avoid a pointless, devastating shutdown. I hope every single one of my colleagues will join us in voting to pass this bill.

“But, M. President, our work does not end here. My hope is that now we can get going in earnest on hammering out bipartisan, full year funding bills—including providing long-overdue disaster assistance. It’s time for Democrats and Republicans to negotiate those bills together—instead of House Republicans just following the loudest voices on the far right.

“Because M. President, it is getting a little exhausting to watch some House Republicans push again and again for the most extreme, partisan cuts and policies—stuff that is not realistic at all—before learning the same lessons the hard way—yet again.

“You cannot strike a deal to govern with people who do not really want to govern. You can’t avoid a shutdown trying to placate the people who want a shutdown.

“But—here’s the important thing—you do not have to waste time trying. If you are serious about governing—you do not have to let a few extreme House Republicans set the agenda, or let Donald Trump call the shots.

“There is a better way. And I know, because it is the path that we’ve been following here in the Senate. Vice Chair Collins and I passed 11 funding bills out of Committee with overwhelming bipartisan support.

“We negotiated strong bills, that could actually be signed into law, and would make a real difference for folks back at home. We did it by listening to each other, listening to folks back home, rejecting partisan policies, and focusing on how we set our nation and families up for success.

“That is the same approach I hope we can now take, now that this CR gives us the time we need to negotiate bipartisan, bicameral, full year bills.

“M. President, I know that compromise takes time and hard work—I have hammered out many tough deals in my time here. But I think we have proven this Congress, many times over, that the path of bipartisanship is far easier—and far more productive—than the dead end MAGA extremism House Republicans keep making their very first priority.

“So let’s all vote to pass this CR. And then let’s get right to work, in a serious, bipartisan way on full year funding bills, and on meeting the long overdue disaster relief needs of so many of our states and our communities. Thank you.”

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Continues Push for All-Hands-On-Deck Effort to Increase Affordable Housing and Address Crisis In Washington State

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

Washington state faces a shortage of nearly 172,000 affordable homes

Murray has made increasing federal funding to boost housing supply a top priority as Senate Appropriations Chair

Murray: “The housing crisis is hitting everyone, I hear about this from folks back in Washington state all of the time. We’ve got a long way to go, and a lot of people to help, but to me—the bottom line is more affordable housing.”

***WATCH: SENATOR MURRAY’S QUESTIONING HERE***

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Budget Committee, spoke at a Budget Committee hearing focused on steps to increase the supply of affordable housing and address the housing crisis. Senator Murray spoke about the work she has done to bring more affordable housing to Washington state, and emphasized that she is continuing to push additional progress—including through her role as chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

“The housing crisis is hitting everyone, I hear about this from folks back in Washington state all of the time. We’ve got a long way to go, and a lot of people to help, but to me—the bottom line is more affordable housing,” said Senator Murray. “So I really believe this is an all-hands-on-deck crisis that requires every level of government to step up to do their part.”

“On the Senate Appropriations Committee, I was really proud to help create the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing program—or the Yes-In-My-Back Yard program as we originally referred to it—to help identify and remove barriers to producing and preserving affordable housing,” continued Senator Murray. “And we were able to provide $100 million for that program in Fiscal Year 2024—even under the very difficult Fiscal Responsibility Act caps. That is in addition to other important investments the federal government is making to boost supply—the HOME program, Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. But clearly, the current levels of investment are not sufficient—and not moving quickly enough—to meet, really, the urgency of this crisis.

During her questioning, Senator Murray discussed her long history working to help families get affordable housing, which includes steps like helping create the Pathways to Removing Obstacles program (also known as the “Yes-In-My-Back Yard” grant program), funding the HOME Investment Partnerships program, supporting the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, and bringing Congressionally Directed Spending back to Washington state for affordable housing efforts. As Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Murray fought hard against Republican efforts to cut housing investments, and ultimately succeeded in protecting affordable housing programs in Fiscal Year 2024, even securing $100 million for the “Yes-In-My-Back Yard” grant program, a $15 million increase over the year prior.

In the Fiscal Year 2025 housing funding bill Murray passed out of committee this summer, she protected the existing funding level for the “Yes-In-My-Back Yard” grant program and secured a $175 million increase for the HOME Investment Partnerships program to help construct more than 8,400 new affordable homebuyer and rental units—Murray is currently working to pass this bill into law.

Washington state is facing a housing crisis due to the shortage of affordable housing. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, Washington state has a shortage of nearly 172,000 affordable homes, meaning for every 10 extremely low-income Washington state families, there are only about 3 affordable homes.

In her questions to the witnesses, Senator Murray asked about the most effective steps the federal government can take to support increasing the affordable housing supply, what some of the biggest challenges have been over the last ten years, and how progress made in Democrats’ American Rescue Plan contrasts with Republican proposal for a second Trump Administration, like the drastic housing cuts proposed in Project 2025.

The full transcript of Senator Murray’s questioning is below:

MURRAY: The housing crisis is hitting everyone. I’m from Washington state, I hear about it all the time. We’ve got a long way to go, a lot of people to help. But to me—the bottom line is more affordable housing.

In Washington state we face a shortage of almost 172,000 affordable homes, meaning that for every 10 extremely low-income Washington state families, there’s only 3 affordable homes. So I really believe that this is an all-hands-on-deck crisis that requires every level of government to step up and do their part.

On the Senate Appropriations Committee, I was really proud to help create the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing program—or the Yes-In-My-Back Yard program as we originally referred to it—to help identify and remove barriers to producing and preserving affordable housing. And we were able to provide $100 million for that program in Fiscal Year 2024—even under the very difficult Fiscal Responsibility Act caps.

That is in addition to other important investments the federal government is making to boost supply—the HOME program, Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. But clearly, the current levels of investment are not sufficient—and not moving quickly enough—to meet, really, the urgency of this crisis.

So Mr. Williams—let me start with you—what have been some of the most effective federal interventions to address our housing shortage?

WILLIAMS: Thank you, Senator. I think the best way to measure our most effective programs is by looking at the number of units of supply that they’ve brought online. So I think in recent decades, the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program is responsible for the most production of new supply of affordable housing. In the very recent past, I’m also very optimistic about the Pathways to Removing Obstacles program, as it’s kind of addressing the issue from a different angle which is encouraging municipalities to remove some of the zoning and permitting obstacles that prevent new housing supply, affordable and market rate housing, from being able to come online. I understand that, I believe Seattle in your state received a Pathways to Removing Obstacles award, and so I’m optimistic that will result in some changes in your state as well.

MURRAY: Very good, thank you very much.

And Ms. Harris, I’m curious what have you seen in building additional housing over the last decade. You’ve seen a lot, how could the federal government better support the kind of work that the Better Housing Coalition is doing?

HARRIS: Well, thank you Senator. And Mr. Williams is correct, the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program has been extremely effective in allowing us to produce more housing units and also preserve existing affordable housing units. You know the cost of a unit of housing, whether its market rate or affordable, is almost identical and the only way we are able to offer rents at 50, 60, 70 percent off of market rate rents is the capital stack we use by holding our debt down to about 30 percent of the overall development cost versus a market rate development that is somewhere between 70 and 90 percent. The Low Income Housing Tax Credit Equity allows us to do that, and then there’s usually 15 to 20 percent left of gap financing that is needed.

We’ve used creative things like Capitol Magnet Funds from the CDFI fund, ARPA dollars, in some cases CDBG, and philanthropy to be able to fill those holes and deliver quality housing options for families. The one thing I would say while we’re cobbling together sometimes 12, 13, 14 sources of financing–that adds another 12 to 24 months to the delivery time. And the demand is so high every time we open up a new community, we have four, five times the amount of applications that we have units to help families find quality housing.

MURRAY: Thank you very much.

Mr. Speaker it is an honor to have you here, thank you very much for joining us. I’m curious to ask you because we have heard Donald Trump’s Project 2025 agenda proposes leaving HUD’s responsibilities to states and localities without any federal funding or oversight, and proposes selling off the nation’s public housing stock, which is a critical piece of our country’s affordable housing priorities.

Here in Congress, we also saw the House Republicans put forward a 2025 budget that would slash HUD funding. So as you’re watching all this from your seat, can you talk a little bit about those kinds of proposals would affect your state’s housing efforts?

SHEKARCHI: Thank you, Senator. It would have a disastrous effect, not only on Rhode Island but on the rest of the country. Look, there are clearly some things we can all agree on which is we need some local zoning reform. But to privatize the public housing sector would exasperate an already existing crisis we have and a shortage. Where are the people who are living in these homes going to go? How are they going to afford to rent them or buy them? It is a very short-sighted solution to a very complex problem. We need both–we need federal subsidies and we need land use reform on a local level, and we need the federal government to step in because the states and the local communities cannot do it alone, Senator.

So it’s a combination of an effort that would work and you’ll see sustainable progress in affordable housing. Clearly the biggest solution, how we get there we can differ, but is to create more housing. We need more housing at every single level: the market level of housing, the workforce housing, the low income housing, and even homelessness needs more shelters. So you can take your pick as to which one you want to fund or to what degree, but all of them need attention from the federal government and they need to use local reforms to make it easier.

The private sector will step up and the private sector is ready, willing, and able to build in Rhode Island and probably throughout all 50 states. This is not a red state issue or a blue state issue, this is an every state issue. The private sector will do its part, but we need the federal government as well–we need both to partner, if you will.

MURRAY: Thank you very much, I’ve heard the same from my governor and local officials so I really appreciate that.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI China: RMB, stocks rally amid stimulus

Source: China State Council Information Office

The renminbi rallied to its strongest level in more than a year and Chinese equities continued their rebound on Wednesday, after a potent policy package lifted investors’ confidence in the Chinese economy, which is expected to sail through headwinds.

Economists, investment banks and asset managers said that policymakers’ more decisive stance to shore up the economy, a global interest rate cut cycle, and low asset valuations have combined to make it a potentially good time to invest in Chinese financial assets, which are expected to attract more foreign inflow in the months ahead.

However, they cautioned that the forecast may be contingent upon the implementation of further policy support to address economic challenges, with the most urgent priorities being additional fiscal spending to bolster domestic demand and direct funding to alleviate property sector woes.

On Wednesday, the renminbi, or Chinese yuan, rose to 6.9951 against the US dollar in the offshore market, up 158 basis points from the previous close and past the 7-per-dollar milestone for the first time in 16 months.

Guan Tao, global chief economist at BOCI China, said that the renminbi’s rally is attributable to both Tuesday’s policy release, which strengthened investors’ confidence in China’s economy, and the US Federal Reserve’s interest rate cut last week, which narrowed the yield spreads between US and Chinese bonds.

Looking ahead, Guan said the renminbi is likely to register two-way fluctuations against the dollar, with limited possibility of one-sided, drastic appreciation because uncertainties remain surrounding the Fed’s pace of rate cuts, including that the Fed might even reconsider rate hikes if the US economy turns out to be overheated.

Moreover, the People’s Bank of China, the country’s central bank, is expected to take measures to prevent any renminbi exchange rate overshooting if needed, and has accumulated rich experience in this regard, said Guan, who had served as head of the Balance of Payments Department at the State Administration of Foreign Exchange.

Guan added that in the base case scenario, in which the United States achieves a soft landing while the Fed continues rate cuts, foreign institutions may continue to boost holdings in renminbi-denominated bonds, especially treasury bonds.

As of August, overseas institutions’ holdings in China’s interbank bond market had risen for 12 consecutive months, an increase in foreign holdings of as much as 1.34 trillion yuan ($190.7 billion), according to the PBOC’s Shanghai head office.

Upbeat sentiment

The upbeat sentiment was seen in the A-share market as well. The Shanghai Composite Index went up 1.16 percent to Wednesday’s close of 2,896.31 points, extending a jump of 4.15 percent on Tuesday, the biggest rise in about four years.

“I believe that this may be a good time to revisit Chinese stocks,” said David Chao, global market strategist for the Asia-Pacific region (excluding Japan) at Invesco, a global investment management company.

Chao said China has fired off a meaningful monetary stimulus salvo, which may potentially usher trillions of renminbi in liquidity if fully implemented, sending a strong signal that the government is responding to economic headwinds.

Major package

On Tuesday, China’s top financial regulators unveiled a set of measures that some analysts said might be the country’s biggest monetary stimulus package following the pandemic.

This includes a 20 basis point reduction in the seven-day reverse repo rate, a key policy benchmark of interest rates, as well as a 50 basis point cut to rates on existing mortgages and another 50 basis point cut to the reserve requirement ratio, apart from other steps supportive of the property and stock markets.

The PBOC started to put the package into action by lowering the one-year medium-term lending facility rate, a policy rate, by 30 basis points to 2 percent on Wednesday.

A Goldman Sachs report said on Wednesday that the latest stimulus package would be strong enough to catalyze a policy-induced rally in shares listed in Hong Kong and on the Chinese mainland, though it would be unlikely to “turn things around fundamentally”.

The report said a relending program unveiled on Tuesday will allow listed companies to borrow inexpensive money to shore up stock prices and boost investor sentiment, while the stock stabilization fund that is under policy study, if launched, might help fend off systemic risks in the stock market, as indicated by experiences in other markets.

While the PBOC introduced two new policy tools aimed at boosting stock market liquidity, the China Securities Regulatory Commission released a guideline on Tuesday to encourage mergers and acquisitions and a draft rule to strengthen listed companies’ market capitalization management.

Yet more could be done, with Goldman Sachs saying that “we would turn more aggressive on A shares when signs of property market stabilization emerge or policy momentum further strengthens”.

Ding Shuang, chief economist for Greater China and North Asia at Standard Chartered Bank, underlined the importance of beefing up fiscal support, as “monetary easing would be less effective without proactive fiscal policy”.

It is likely that the government will increase bond issuance to accelerate government spending, Ding said, adding that investor sentiment could improve if policymakers decide to broaden the use of bond proceeds, especially to reduce home inventory.

Ding said that Standard Chartered Bank analysts retain the base case forecast that the renminbi will stay within the range of between 7 and 7.1 against the dollar by the end of the year.

MIL OSI China News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI China: 24th China International Industry Fair opens

Source: China State Council Information Office

Visitors watch a robot welding an auto body during the 23rd China International Industry Fair (CIIF) in east China’s Shanghai, Sept. 19, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

China is now home to 30 national-level manufacturing innovation centers and over 260 provincial-level manufacturing innovation centers, with the country persisting in its determined efforts to further boost its industrial development.

China has also built 421 national-level demonstration factories featuring intelligent manufacturing, according to the 24th China International Industry Fair, which is being held in Shanghai, China’s financial hub.

The event kicked off on Tuesday and will run until Saturday, and has attracted the participation of 2,600 exhibitors from 28 countries and regions.

With a total exhibition area of 280,000 square meters, the fair features nine professional exhibitions, with themes including new energy and intelligent connected vehicles, robots and new materials.

Launched in 1999, the fair has become one of the most influential platforms for international trade, exchanges and cooperation on industrial scope.

MIL OSI China News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Premier US Army CBRNE Command hosts South Korean counterparts for exercise

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Maryland –

American and South Korean military leaders held a tabletop exercise to strengthen their combined counter Weapons of Mass Destruction posture, Sept. 25.

The U.S. Army’s 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) Command hosted the Republic of Korea Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) Defense Command for Exercise Liberty Shield.

Leaders from the 20th CBRNE Command welcomed their South Korean counterparts to their headquarters on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, in Northeast Maryland’s science, technology and security corridor.

American Soldiers and U.S. Army civilians from 20th CBRNE Command deploy from 19 bases in 16 states to confront and defeat the world’s most dangerous hazards in support of joint, interagency and multinational operations.

The 20th CBRNE Command is home to 75 percent of the active-duty U.S. Army’s CBRN specialists and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians, as well as the 1st Area Medical Laboratory, CBRNE Analytical and Remediation Activity, Weapons of Mass Destruction Teams and Nuclear Disablement Teams (Infrastructure).

Established in 2002, the ROK CBRN Defense Command incorporates personnel from all branches of the South Korean Armed Forces.

The ROK CBRN Defense Command and 20th CBRNE Command routinely train together in the U.S. and South Korea.

From peninsula-wide exercises in South Korea to field training exercises at the National Training Center on Fort Irwin, California, the allied commands have forged an enduring partnership, much like the enduring alliance they support.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. W Bochat, the commanding general for 20th CBRNE Command, met with her counterpart, ROK Army Brig. Gen. Jaehoon Yoo, the commanding general of the ROK CBRN Defense Command.

Yoo said the relationship between the two highly specialized commands continues to strengthen the counter Weapons of Mass Destruction posture on the Korean Peninsula.

Bochat emphasized the importance of the annual meeting to the ROK-U.S. Alliance and the CBRNE forces that serve in it.

Bochat previously served as the first female chief of staff in the 107-year history of the storied South Korea-based 2nd Infantry Division/ROK-U.S. Combined Division.

“The relationships that I have had personally and professionally both on and off the peninsula cannot be overstated,” said Bochat.

The ROK-U.S. Alliance was officially established by the Mutual Defense Treaty that was signed on October 1, 1953.

The ROK-U.S. Alliance has provided the security on the Korean Peninsula and stability in Northeast Asia that enabled the meteoric rise of South Korea from the ashes of war to become one of the world’s leading economic and cultural powers.

MIL Security OSI –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Eight ways to make the school holidays magical for the whole family!
Source: Auckland Council

School holidays are just around the corner, and with them come a vast array of options to keep the whānau entertained for the duration of the break.

From outdoor adventures to exploring your local maunga; indoor fun with roller skating to rock climbing, and even hydro sliding – there’s something for everyone. Have a look at the list below to get yourself inspired and ready for an active holiday with your tamariki – brought to you by Auckland Council.

1. Check out the Auckland Heritage Festival

Explore Pacific ties at the Auckland Heritage Festival, which runs from 28 September to 13 October, with the theme of Moana Oceania – over130 free or low-cost events! Returning for its 20th year, the two-week festival includes talks, walks, exhibitions, performances, and workshops right across Tāmaki Makaurau – explore and commemorate the region’s Pacific history and heritage with friends and whānau.

Visit Auckland Heritage Festival for the full programme.

Event highlights include:

Exploring the King of Tonga’s Trees at Atalanga

Learn about the unique history and value of some of Auckland’s finest trees in their historic settings on The Tree Council’s guided walking tour of Atalanga, the King of Tonga’s Auckland Residence in Epsom.

Tongan Indigenous Knowledge Showcase

Our elderly Tongans possess a wealth of Tongan indigenous knowledge, and Fe’unukoula – Academy of Tongan Arts, Dance and Culture – would like to honour the uniqueness of these skills and knowledge in the Heritage Festival. Fe’unukoula Director Losalia Pusiaki Fifita leads a showcase explaining different types of attire worn by Tongan people. Visit our Tongan village and join in to learn about the skills of making table mats, wall hangings, laundry baskets, beautiful and colourful leis, the art of mat weaving and sinnet braiding, Tongan dancing and lots more.

Guided Pasifika Heritage Walk of Ponsonby

Take a stroll with charismatic Samoan street historian Reverend Mua Strickson-Pua along Ponsonby Road and discover the Pacific urban history and stories of Ponsonby. Hear about Pacific urban migration, dawn raids on overstayers, the Springbok Tour protest, the Polynesian Panthers, and much more.

Tuia Mātauranga: The Ocean That Binds Us Together

Uncover the rich voyaging traditions and cultures of Moana Oceania – the Pacific Ocean. Embark on a journey with storytellers Sonny Natanielu and Tony Marsters as they take you through the extraordinary achievements of the Pacific voyagers, highlighting their mātauranga, innovation and navigation prowess across the vast Pacific Ocean. Immerse yourself in the Tuia exhibition, delving into the tapestry of our migration history and settlement, prompting reflection on Aotearoa today and our collective aspirations for the future.

Fakafetuiaga

Reminisce and celebrate our beautiful Niue! Niue celebrates its 50th anniversary of self-governing, highlighting its relationship with Aotearoa. The island is commonly referred to as ‘The Rock’ of Polynesia, and it was European sailor Captain Cook who coined the famous phrase ‘Savage Islands’. Through historical imagery, we explore the timeless stories of Niue, the memories and identity that grounds our Niuean communities here in Aotearoa and abroad.

Sustainable Conservation of Pacific Art and Heritage

The team at Studio Izzo talk about their experiences working with Pacific artists on their artworks and more. As part of its everyday activities, Studio Izzo receives many items including those from public art galleries and communities. The talk explores some of these items, their meanings, and sustainable conservation methods for Pacific treasures. You are welcome to bring your own objects to discuss – the team is keen for questions about your treasures!

2. Tūpuna Maunga – explore your maunga

Join a guided hīkoi on one of your local maunga. Choose from three specially selected sites to gather, honour, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Tūpuna Maunga (ancestral mountains) of Tāmaki Makaurau. This culturally enriching experience is open to everyone—register now through our Love Your Maunga Facebook page to secure your spot!

Te Pane o Mataoho / Te Ara Pueru / Māngere Mountain
- Friday, 4 October and Friday, 11 October, 9.30 am – 11.30 am
- Hosted by Māngere Mountain Education Centre
Maungauika / North Head
- Friday, 4 October, 9.30 am – 11.30 am
- Hosted by Explore Tāmaki
Maungarei / Mount Wellington
- Friday, 11 October, 9.30 am – 11.30 am
- Hosted by Explore Tāmaki
3. Head to your local library

Our libraries are always buzzing with activity, but even more so during school holidays! For a list of what’s on at your local library, check out the Auckland Council Libraries school holiday event listings. You can also visit your local libraries Facebook page for more info.

A few examples of the types of activities you can expect include author readings, art events, even live performances:

Author Readings:

Whangaparāoa Library
- Tuesday 1 October, 10.30am
- Nicky Gumbrell will be in to read her adorable book “Mr. Bingley is Different” and she will be bringing some very special guests… the REAL DOGS who inspired the book, Mr Bingley and Manny!
PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THERE WILL BE DOGS IN ATTENDANCE.

Titirangi Library
- Friday 4 October, 10.30am – 11.30am
- ‘The Squeakling’ Storytime with local illustrator, Ronja Schipper and author, Kristin Kelly. Join us for the launch of ‘The Squeakling’! Illustrator, Ronja Schipper, and author, Kristin Kelly will have a special reading of their new book followed by an opportunity to ask questions and learn about their creative processes. Suitable for the whole whanau!
Art events:

Northcote Library

Pakuranga Library

Live Performances:

Warkworth Library

Blockhouse Bay Library

4. Learn to swim

Dive right in for some swimming lessons at select swim schools – for adults and kids alike! Our Pool and Leisure teams are offering intensive swim lesson blocks that you can book for one or two weeks, with a lesson each day. By attending daily and building on the progress from the previous session, you’ll be able to boost your confidence and improve your swimming skills significantly.

Swim lessons available over school holidays at:
- Albany Stadium Pool
- WestWave Pools and Leisure
- Takapuna Pools and Leisure
- Tepid Baths
- Manurewa Pools and Leisure
- Glenfield Pools and Leisure
5. More indoor fun

Become a gymnast with Tristar Gymnastics! Their holiday programme has something on offer every weekday, including tumbling, rhythmic, tramp or parkour to ensure an action-packed holiday break.

Other fun activities to try during the break include:

6. Discover the great outdoors

Tāmaki Makaurau has a great variety of parks and reserves right across the region – that’s 28 regional parks, to be exact! For those keen on an outdoor adventure walk over the school holidays, here’s a few to choose from:

Whakanewha Forest Path (80 mins)

Enjoy unique forests, a stunning beach, native bird song and scenic views on your next Waiheke trip.

Mahurangi West– Cudlip Point Path (90 mins)

A great stop if you’re exploring North Auckland. You’ll find sheltered bays, native bush, open pasture and historic sites.

Auckland Botanic Gardens (90 mins)

A must do any day in South Auckland and it’s dog friendly!

Ōmana Perimeter Walk (60 mins)

An ideal family park in East Auckland, with a shelly beach, shady pōhutukawa and outstanding views.

Montana Trail – Cascade Kauri (4.5 hours return loop)

Head west for this walk and back in time, through some of the Waitakere ranges’ oldest and most precious stands of kauri.

7. Book an Auckland Council holiday park

Consider an affordable holiday escape with the whānau, right here in Tāmaki Makaurau. Bookings are available at any one of Auckland Council’s three holiday parks: Ōrewa Beach Holiday Park, Martins Bay Holiday Park and Whangateau Holiday Park – and for a lot less than a trip to Fiji!

All Auckland Council holiday parks have a wide range of accommodation options and facilities to suit your needs. There’s also plenty of extra in and around each holiday park to keep everyone entertained for the duration of your stay.

8. Add some sparkle with Vector Lights

Light up your weekends with Vector Lights Celebrating Auckland. Enjoy a stunning light and sound show celebrating Tāmaki Makaurau every Friday and Saturday night from 8pm until midnight, playing every 15 minutes.

Get your friends and whānau together, head to one of the prime viewing spots and listen live at vector.co.nz/lights. Some of the best places to see the shows are:
- Westhaven Marina
- Silo Park
- The end of Halsey Wharf (just out from the Viaduct Events Centre)
- The end of Princes Wharf (outside the Hilton Auckland hotel)
- The end of Queens Wharf (in front of The Cloud and The Lighthouse)
- Little Shoal Bay
- Hinemoa Park next to the Birkenhead Ferry Terminal
- Maungawhau Mt Eden
- Bayswater Marina
- Takurunga Mt Victoria
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
January 22, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cline Recognizes Harrisonburg Business for Being Awarded DOL’s HIRE Vets Medallion

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06)

Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) has been awarded the Guardian of Small Business Award for the 118th Congress by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the nation’s leading small business advocacy organization. NFIB’s Guardian of Small Business Award is reserved for lawmakers who vote consistently with small businesses on key issues identified by small business owners. “I am truly ho… Read More »

Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) recently toured the Valley Health Winchester Medical Center, where he was briefed on Valley Health’s upcoming projects. Guided by Kris Maddalena, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, Congressman Cline received an in-depth tour of the facility. During his visit, Valley Health honored him with an award recognizing his leadership, dedication, and support for patient… Read More »

Winchester, VA – Yesterday, Congressman Ben Cline concluded his three-day healthcare tour across Virginia’s Sixth District. Throughout the tour, he visited various healthcare facilities, engaging with dedicated professionals and witnessing firsthand the vital efforts of hospitals, clinics, and organizations committed to delivering quality care in our communities. “This Healthcare tour has been an … Read More »

Yesterday, Congressman Ben Cline continued his three-day healthcare tour across Virginia’s Sixth District, building on the momentum from Tuesday’s kickoff in Roanoke. On Wednesday, he visited additional healthcare facilities, engaging with professionals and examining the vital efforts of hospitals, clinics, and organizations committed to providing quality care in the community. “The tour has been … Read More »

Yesterday, Congressman Ben Cline kicked off the first day of his comprehensive three-day Sixth District Healthcare tour, visiting key healthcare facilities on Tuesday in Roanoke. The tour will take Congressman Cline to various communities across Virginia’s Sixth Congressional District, where he will engage with healthcare professionals and explore the work of hospitals, clinics, and organizations … Read More »

James Madison University | JMU Office of Federal Relations and Communications HARRISONBURG, Va. – Congressman Ben Cline visited the JMU School of Nursing Wednesday to receive feedback from students in the online doctoral program and to tour the school’s labs and classrooms. The congressman, whose 6th District covers western areas of Virginia from Roanoke to Winchester, became interested in touring… Read More »

WSLS | Connor Dietrich ROANOKE, Va. – Rep. Ben Cline is taking time to recognize some of the everyday heroes in the Roanoke Valley. On Monday, Cline stopped by Roanoke Fire-EMS’s station one to honor Capt. Peter Matthiessen. The fire captain is one of the head organizers of the annual Roanoke 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. “You’re truly just an amazing credit to this community and it’s an honor to get… Read More »

The Virginian Review | Rebecca Stalnaker COVINGTON, Va. (VR) — Congressman Ben Cline will visit the Virginian Review office on Aug. 1 at 3 p.m. to present a special plaque commemorating the paper’s 110-year anniversary. The visit will honor the publication’s long-standing contribution to the community and recognize its significant milestone. During his visit, Cline will formally present a plaque t… Read More »

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Ben Cline (R-VA) released the following statement regarding President Joe Biden dropping out of the presidential race. “The undeniable truth is that Joe Biden’s mental incapacity forced him out of the race, rendering him unfit for the presidency,” Rep. Ben Cline said. “If Biden can’t handle running a campaign, he can’t handle holding the highest office. Biden’s … Read More »

Roanoke, VA – Following the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump on Saturday in Pennsylvania, Congressman Ben Cline condemned the terrible attack and called for national unity in rejecting political violence. This violent act is unacceptable, and completely goes against the fundamental values of our nation. “Our thoughts and prayers are with President Trump, his family, and the victim… Read More »

Today, Congressman Ben Cline (R-VA) introduced the No Bias in the Baseline Act to revise the fiscal distortions embedded in the Congressional Budget Office’s (CBO) baseline projections. This legislation will empower Congress with the tools needed to make informed financial decisions and eliminate the baseline bias in the budget process in favor of higher spending. “It is essential that Congress is… Read More »

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Ben Cline (R-VA) led his colleagues in a letter to President Joe Biden, demanding that the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) do not move forward with adopting the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) as the minimum energy efficiency standard. In April of this year, HUD and USDA announced the … Read More »

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Ben Cline (R-VA) announced his candidacy to become the next chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC). “It’s time to turn the tide on the dangerous path our Nation has been led down by the disastrous policies of the Biden Administration,” Rep. Cline said. “We need a strong, conservative compass to set us back on the right course – one that puts America … Read More »

Colby Johnson | WHSV HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) – Sixth District Representative Ben Cline was appointed to the House select committee on the Chinese Communist Party. The committee will study and determine the best ways to counter Chinese influence across multiple areas including telecommunications, immigration, foreign affairs issues, and national security. “My specialty coming from the judiciary co… Read More »

Jon Solomon Reports |Just The News Representative Ben Cline (R-VA) says President Biden’s immigration executive order will do little to nothing to help the dire situation at the southern border, commenting on the amount of loopholes that the order allows is like “trying to catch water with a strainer.” Additional interviews with Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, National Council of Resistanc… Read More »

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MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden at the United Nations General Assembly Leaders’ Reception | New York, NY

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
Metropolitan Museum of ArtNew York, New York
5:49 P.M. EDT
THE FIRST LADY: Good evening. (Applause.)
Aren’t all of our U.S. military musicians spectacular? (Applause.) Thank you for all that you — for joining us this evening. It’s great to be with so many friends here.
For Joe, diplomacy is personal. It’s why, for more than 50 years, he’s created deep personal bonds with world leaders. He shows up for our allies and our partners. He listens and is always eager to debate complex international issues to find common ground.
Serving as first lady has be- — of the United States is the honor of my life. This is our — (applause). Thank you.
This is our fi- — our United Nations — our final United Nations General Assembly as president and first lady. So, tonight, I want to take this moment to celebrate Joe and honor the relationships he’s built with all of you — (applause) — to honor these relationships with all of you to shape a brighter future for people around the world.
Please join me in welcoming my husband, President Joe Biden. (Applause.)
THE PRESIDENT: (Laughs.) That was worth the trip. (Laughter.)
Well, welcome, everyone. I’m delighted to see you all. You know, my fellow leaders and friends we’ve honored here, it’s an honor to welcome you here tonight.
I should start off by saying we owe a special thanks tonight to — to Mayor Bloomberg. He’s not the mayor right now, but he’s still the mayor. (Laughter.) Mr. Mayor, thank you for all you’ve done.
I want to begin by quoting someone who I wish was here tonight: my mom, Catherine Eugenia Finnegan Biden. (Applause.) Growing up, my mom had an expression. She had a lot of expression. She had a backbone like a ramrod. But my mom, she used to say, “Joey, remember, never bow, never bend, never yield, and never give up.”
Folks, as I said yesterday at the United Nations, I recognize the challenges the world faces: Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, Haiti, war, hunger, poverty, climate change. But my message to you tonight is this: We must never, ever, ever bow, bend, yield, or give up. And most importantly, we must never lose faith — lose faith in our abilities to do so much.
I was first elected to the United States Senate when I was 29 years old, 280 years ago. (Laughter.) Since then, I’ve seen the impossible become — the impossible become reality, for real. I’ve seen the Berlin Wall come down. I’ve seen Poland leave the (inaudible) — I shouldn’t go on, I guess. But I’ve seen apartheid end. I’ve seen humanity pull together to prevent a nuclear war. I’ve seen war criminals and dictators face justice and accountability for human rights violations. And I’ve seen countries in the Middle East make peace. We must always remember.
In America, I was (inaudible) — I spent a lot of time with Xi of China, and we were in the Tibetan Plateau, and it was one of my 90-some hours alone with him. And he looked at me; he said, “Can you define America for me?” This is an absolutely true story. He said, “Can you define America for me?” I said, “Yes. In one word: possibilities — possibilities.” (Applause.) We believe anything is possible. No, I really mean it. Remember, nothing is impossible.
And, folks, look, in our time, we turn the page on the — on the — on a whole range of issues. We turned the page. Nothing is impossible, as I said, but we turned the page on the worst pandemic in a century. We defended Ukraine as a tyrant threatened to wipe it off the map. We made the largest investment in history to fight climate change, the existential threat to humanity.
And, folks, time and again — and I mean this sincerely — time and again, our nation and our world found a way forward. But make no mistake: It didn’t happen by accident. Nothing was inevitable. It took people like all of you assembled here tonight refusing to give up, rejecting the forces that pull us apart, believing that change is possible, and fighting to make it so every single day. That’s what you in this room assembled have done.
Ladies and gentlemen, that’s our change. Together, we can broker deals, end wars and suffering. We can stop the spread of disease and dangerous weapons alike. We can make AIempower people, not shackle them. We can cut our emissions and achieve our climate ambitions. We can leave our children, literally, a better world.
That’s our obligation, and we can. We can do this.
I can say to you — and I mean this sincerely — I’ve never more optimistic in my life because of all of you, and I mean it from the bottom of my heart.
So, thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Keep it up.
And every time I’d walk out of my grandpop’s house up in Scranton, he’d yell, “Joey, keep the faith.” My grandmother would go, “No, Joey, spread it.” Spread it. Spread it. Spread it. (Applause.)
Folks, remember, nothing is beyond our capacity when we work together. Nothing at all.
So, thank you, thank you, thank you for all you’re doing. I appreciate it very, very much.
It’s an honor to be with you. Thank you. (Applause.)
5:54 P.M. EDT

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Joint Statement by the United States, Australia, Canada, European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Qatar

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
The situation between Lebanon and Israel since October 8th, 2023 is intolerable and presents an unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation. This is in nobody’s interest, neither of the people of Israel nor of the people of Lebanon.
It is time to conclude a diplomatic settlement that enables civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes in safety.
Diplomacy however cannot succeed amid an escalation of this conflict.
Thus we call for an immediate 21 day ceasefire across the Lebanon-Israel border to provide space for diplomacy towards the conclusion of a diplomatic settlement consistent with UNSCR 1701, and the implementation of UNSCR 2735 regarding a ceasefire in Gaza
We call on all parties, including the Governments of Israel and Lebanon, to endorse the temporary ceasefire immediately consistent with UNSCR 1701 during this period, and to give a real chance to a diplomatic settlement.
We are then prepared to fully support all diplomatic efforts to conclude an agreement between Lebanon and Israel within this period, building on efforts over the last months, that ends this crisis altogether.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Joint statement by President Biden and President Macron

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
It is time for a settlement on the Israel-Lebanon border that ensures safety and security to enable civilians to return to their homes. The exchange of fire since October 7th, and in particular over the past two weeks, threatens a much broader conflict, and harm to civilians. We therefore have worked together in recent days on a joint call for a temporary ceasefire to give diplomacy a chance to succeed and avoid further escalations across the border. The statement we have negotiated is now endorsed by the United States, Australia, Canada, European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and Qatar. We call for broad endorsement and for the immediate support of the Governments of Israel and Lebanon.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: September 25th, 2024 Zuni Indian Tribe and Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlements Bills Receive Key Committee Hearing

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
Before legislative hearing, Heinrich’s bipartisan Indian Buffalo Management Act also advanced out of Senate Committee
WASHINGTON – Today, the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act and the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act, bills sponsored by U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), received a key hearing before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.

VIDEO: U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich testifies in support of the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act and the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act during a hearing before the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs onSeptember 25, 2024.
“The failure of the United States to work with Tribal Governments to ensure that they could use the water they have always owned has reverberated through generations,” said Heinrich. “It has a direct impact on the well-being of Tribal members today. It’s time we make this right for Zuni and the Navajo Nation.”
Heinrich and U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) introduced the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act in July. The bill would unlock federal funding to support a trust for sustainable water management and infrastructure development that upholds the federal government’s trust responsibility while protecting the sacred Zuni Salt Lake. The bill ratifies the settlement between the federal government, State of New Mexico, and Zuni Tribe that affirms their water rights for irrigation, livestock, storage, and domestic and other uses. During the hearing, Zuni Tribe Governor Arden Kucate testified in support of the legislation.
Heinrich and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) introduced the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act earlier this month to approve the water rights settlement for the Navajo Nation as well as participating non-Tribal parties in the Rio San José watershed. During the hearing, Navajo Nation President Dr. Buu Nygren testified in support of the legislation.
Heinrich and Leger Fernández previously introduced the Rio San José and Rio Jemez Water Settlements Act, which would implement the water settlements agreed to by the Pueblos of Acoma and Laguna, the United States, the State of New Mexico, and non-Tribal parties, in the Rio San José watershed. That bill received a hearing and was reported out of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee in December. The House version of this bill received a legislative hearing in the House Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Subcommittee in July. The bill introduced this month and heard today in the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs would further resolve Tribal water claims in the Rio San José basin by settling the Navajo Nation’s claims.
Before the hearing on Tribal water rights settlements legislation, the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs also held a business meeting in which members voted to advance Heinrich’s Indian Buffalo Management Act. That legislation received a hearing before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs in June.
“This legislation will further foster growth of Tribal bison herds, and I am grateful for the committee’s support,” said Heinrich.
The Indian Buffalo Management Act, which Heinrich introduced last year alongside U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), provides secure, consistent funding for Tribes and Tribal organizations that have established buffalo herds, as well as provides resources for Tribes that would like to establish new herds.
The bill creates a permanent buffalo restoration and management program within the Department of Interior to:
Promote and develop the capacity of Tribes and Tribal organizations to manage buffalo and buffalo habitat;
Protect and enhance buffalo herds for the maximum benefit of Tribes; and
Ensure that Tribes are directly involved in the Interior Department decision-making regarding buffalo.
The bill has been endorsed by the InterTribal Buffalo Council, the National Bison Association, The Nature Conservancy, the National Wildlife Federation, and the National Parks Conservation Association.
Full video of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee Business Meeting and Legislative Hearing can be found here.
Heinrich’s full remarks as prepared for delivery are below:
Chairman Schatz and Vice Chairman Murkowski, I want to first thank you for considering the Indian Buffalo Management Act a few minutes ago.
This legislation will further support growth of Tribal bison herds, and I am grateful for the committee’s support.
Turning to the hearing agenda, I want to thank you for holding this hearing on the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act and the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act, two bills of critical importance for the water future of New Mexico’s Tribes.
I am happy to welcome the Governor of Zuni Pueblo, Arden Kucate, who is here today to provide testimony on the Zuni Water Rights Settlement Act.?
The Zuni people have been stewards of the Zuni River Basin for millennia.
Their traditional agricultural practices and careful stewardship of water sustained the tribe over thousands of years.
Unfortunately, the United States has failed to protect Zuni’s water rights and has allowed their water to be diverted to other purposes.
Overuse of water in the Zuni Basin has caused the Zuni people to suffer from a lack of water for their community, their businesses, and their traditional agricultural practices.
This injustice continues today. Without reliable access to clean water, it is difficult for Zuni to attract new businesses that create jobs and revenue for the Tribe.
This legislation would not only fully settle Zuni’s water rights claims in the Zuni River Basin; it would also provide funding for several key water infrastructure projects.
It is an opportunity for the United States to make the Zuni Tribe whole for the water that they have always been entitled to.
And it will support Zuni’s traditional irrigation practice, their people, and their future business development, in a manner that builds resilience in the face of a drying climate.
This piece of legislation would also protect the Zuni Salt Lake, a sacred place of great cultural significance to the Zuni Tribe and others in the region.
I am also happy to welcome the President of Navajo Nation, Dr. Buu Nygren, who is here to provide testimony for the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act.
This legislation would settle the water rights of the Navajo Nation in the Rio San José basin – it is the final step in an adjudication process that began more than forty years ago.
In that time, we’ve seen aridification in the Southwest further strain water resources for Tribes, including the Navajo Nation, that don’t have the resources to fully use their water rights.
This settlement is an important step towards giving the Navajo Nation an equal voice amongst water users in the southwest.
Today, there are more than 200 Navajo households within the Rio San José and Rio Puerco Basins without access to running water.
These households instead have to rely on hauling water.
The lack of reliable drinking water systems in these communities contributed to the widespread health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Navajo Nation, which took the lives of far too many.
I am committed to working with the Navajo Nation to build a future where they have full access to their water rights.
This access to water will facilitate the preservation of Navajo culture and tradition.
Both of these pieces of legislation would implement settlement agreements that have been carefully negotiated between the Tribes, the State of New Mexico, neighboring water users, and the United States.
I want to thank all of the parties for their tireless work in reaching settlements for these basins, and Senator Luján for cosponsoring these settlements along with me.
The failure of the United States to work with Tribal Governments to ensure that they could use the water they have always owned has reverberated through generations.
It has a direct impact on the well-being of Tribal members today.
It’s time we make this right for Zuni and the Navajo Nation.
Thank you to the committee for your consideration today, and I yield back the remainder of my time.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: EnergyAustralia to pay $14m for making misleading statements and breaching the Electricity Retail Code

Source: Australian Competition and Consumer Commission

The Federal Court has ordered EnergyAustralia to pay $14 million in penalties for making false, misleading or deceptive statements to hundreds of thousands of consumers about electricity prices, and failing to provide mandatory information required by the Electricity Retail Code (the Code).

EnergyAustralia admitted it had breached the Australian Consumer Law and the Code in its communications sent between 20 June and 12 September 2022 to around 566,000 consumers about electricity prices, by failing to state the lowest possible price in the communications and misrepresenting the estimated annual price of its electricity offer for an “average” customer.

In addition, Energy Australia admitted, that between 1 July and 27 September 2022, it published 27 electricity offers online that failed to state the difference between the reference price and the unconditional price expressed as a percentage of the reference price, or the ‘lowest possible price’ as required under the Code. These offers were viewed about 220,000 times.

“EnergyAustralia breached laws which were designed to help consumers to compare electricity offers and identify the best deal by increasing transparency,” ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.

“EnergyAustralia’s failure to fully inform consumers meant they could not accurately compare offers from competing retailers and may have been denied the opportunity to choose the best deal for them.”

“Some consumers may also have been misled by EnergyAustralia’s statements into thinking that a price change was less than it actually was, causing them to stay with their existing plan when in fact a different plan may have represented a better deal,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.

This conduct occurred when electricity prices were rising and many consumers were looking to switch to cheaper plans.

“It is essential that electricity retailers provide consumers with accurate information so they can compare and access the most competitive prices in the market. This enforcement action is a reminder that the ACCC is closely monitoring the electricity market, conducting regular compliance checks and ready to take strong action when appropriate,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.

The Court also ordered EnergyAustralia to review its compliance program and pay a contribution to the ACCC’s costs.

Note to editors

The Electricity Retail Code applies to all electricity retailers that supply electricity to residential and small business customers in applicable distribution regions in New South Wales, South Australia, and South-East Queensland. It is a mandatory industry code under the Competition and Consumer Act and establishes enforceable requirements in relation to how electricity retailers must communicate pricing information to small customers. It was introduced to increase transparency in the retail electricity market and allow consumers to easily compare offers against a common benchmark. Under the Code, electricity retailers must include certain information when communicating prices. These requirements include the difference between the reference price and the unconditional price as a percentage of the reference price, as well as the lowest possible price.

The ‘reference price’ is the per-customer annual price based on the Default Market Offer determined by the Australian Energy Regulator. It is used as a benchmark to compare market offer prices.

The ‘lowest possible price’ is the total amount a representative customer would be charged for the supply of electricity in the financial year at the offered prices, assuming that all conditional discounts (if any) are met. (If there are no conditional discounts, the lowest possible price is the same as the unconditional price.)

Since the Code was introduced in 2019, the ACCC has issued infringement notices to Locality Planning Energy, CovaU, ReAmped Energy and Dodo Power & Gas for allegedly failing to include certain mandatory information when communicating prices. The ACCC has also accepted a court-enforceable undertaking from CovaU and Dodo in response to breaches of the Code.

The proceedings against Energy Australia were the first court proceedings brought by the ACCC in relation to alleged breaches of the Code.

Consumers can compare electricity plan information on the Government comparison website Energy Made Easy and Victorian Energy Compare. For further information for consumers on comparing energy plans, see the ACCC website.

Background

EnergyAustralia is one of the ‘big three’ energy retailers.

In September 2023, the ACCC commenced proceedings against EnergyAustralia in relation to these alleged breaches of the Code and the Australian Consumer Law.

EnergyAustralia’s conduct was identified by the ACCC’s regular compliance checks of electricity retailer’s compliance with the Code.

Previously, in April 2014, the Federal Court imposed a $1.2 million penalty on EnergyAustralia for making false and misleading representations and engaging in misleading and deceptive conduct while calling on consumers at their homes to negotiate agreements for the supply of retail electricity, in proceedings brought by the ACCC.

In March 2015, the Federal Court also ordered EnergyAustralia to pay a $1 million penalty for making false or misleading representations and engaging in misleading or deceptive conduct when dealing with certain consumers to sell electricity and gas plans, in proceedings brought by the ACCC.

MIL OSI News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Hitting the nail on the head, Offender arrested in Burglary

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Attributable to Senior Sergeant Ross Smith, Hawke’s Bay Police:

A man is facing the courts after being spotted attempting to steal items from a Napier building site yesterday, Wednesday 25 September.

Police responded to the scene around 4:40pm where a man was attempting to walk out with building materials, including wiring.

It wasn’t his lucky day, and Police quickly swept in apprehending the offender.

A 43-year-old man has been remanded in custody due to appear in the Napier District Court Wednesday 16 October on charges including burglary, procuring cannabis, and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

This is a timely reminder to ensure your building sites are well-secured and items aren’t left in the open.

While it can add a few minutes to your day, ensuring the site is secure could be the deterrent needed to ensure your not the one paying the price.

Prevention is the best offence to decrease the chance of burglaries, here are some useful prevention tips.

1)           If you work on a construction site, be vigilant and secure building materials.
2)           Take your tools home with you or lock them up in a shed on site.
3)           For construction companies that own tools, engrave company names and phone numbers onto the goods.
4)           Engrave your tools with your driver licence number. That way, if we find your tools, there’s a better chance of us getting them back to you.
5)           Keep a record of the serial numbers.
6)           If you work on a construction site, be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Police.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon on Wednesday result in 51 deaths, 223 injuries

Source: China State Council Information Office

The death toll from the continued Israeli airstrikes on Wednesday across Lebanese rose to 51, with injuries up to 223, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry.

The ministry confirmed casualties in several locations across southern and eastern Lebanon, including Bint Jbeil, Ain Qana, Qabrikha and Tebnine.

Military sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Xinhua that Israeli warplanes targeted approximately 90 villages and towns in southern and eastern Lebanon. Among the casualties was Kamel Karaki, a photojournalist for Lebanese Al-Manar TV, killed in a strike on the southeastern village of Qantara.

Meanwhile, local media reported at least seven fatalities and 16 injuries from strikes near Beirut, with three deaths in Maaysrah, northeast of the capital, and four in Joun, Chouf district.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that Hezbollah fired a surface-to-surface missile at Tel Aviv early Wednesday, triggering sirens in the city and surrounding areas. The IDF said it intercepted the missile using the David’s Sling defense system, with no injuries or damage reported. The military later stated it had struck the Hezbollah launcher in southern Lebanon’s Nafakhiyeh.

In a statement, the IDF announced that it had called up two reserve ground brigades to the Israel-Lebanon border following a “situational assessment,” adding that the troops would be deployed for “operational activities on the northern front.”

It noted that the mobilization would “enable the continuation of combat against Hezbollah, the defense of Israel, and create the conditions for northern Israel’s residents to return to their homes.”

This surge in violence follows Israeli bombardments on Monday and Tuesday, the most extensive Israeli attacks on Lebanon since 2006. Official figures indicate the two-day strikes have killed more than 550 and wounded around 1,800 in Lebanon.

On Tuesday, an Israeli airstrike on a residential building in Beirut’s southern suburbs killed Hezbollah commander Ibrahim Muhammad Qubaisi and five others, according to the Shiite militant group.

The escalation comes after last week’s explosions targeting communication devices across Lebanon, which left dozens dead. The cross-border conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has been ongoing since Oct. 8, 2023, following Hamas’s attack on southern Israel.

MIL OSI China News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Thousands flee Lebanon to Syria

Source: China State Council Information Office

People gather at the Jdeidat Yabous border crossing in the countryside of Damascus, Syria, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

Thousands of Lebanese and Syrian families fled Lebanon for Syria as Israeli airstrikes continued, said the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on Wednesday.

According to a statement issued by the UN Refugee Agency, hundreds of vehicles were backed up in queues at the Syrian border, with many people arriving on foot, carrying whatever belongings they can. Large crowds, including women, children and babies, reportedly waited in line after spending the night outdoors in falling temperatures. “Some carry fresh injuries from the recent bombardments,” the statement added.

Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence, stating that the bloodshed was taking a heavy toll, displacing tens of thousands of people from their homes.

He highlighted the plight of families who had previously fled the war in Syria, only to now face bombings in the country where they had sought refuge. Grandi urged the international community to prevent further scenes of despair and devastation, warning that the Middle East could not endure another displacement crisis. He emphasized that protecting civilian lives must be the top priority.

Israel has carried out its most extensive bombardment of Lebanon since 2006, starting on Monday, resulting in over 550 deaths and more than 1,800 injuries nationwide. The attacks have also forced thousands of residents in Lebanon to flee their homes.

The UNHCR, along with its partners, has been present at border crossings, offering essential supplies such as food, water, blankets, and mattresses to incoming refugees, said the statement.

MIL OSI China News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Global economy growth stabilizes at 3.2% in 2024, 2025: OECD

Source: China State Council Information Office

A trader works on the trading floor of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York, the United States, on Aug. 21, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

Global gross domestic product (GDP) growth is projected to stabilize at 3.2 percent in both 2024 and 2025, while inflation should continue to ease, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) said on Wednesday in its latest economic outlook.

According to the OECD economic outlook, annual GDP growth in the United States is projected to slow down to 2.6 percent in 2024 and further down to 1.6 percent in 2025, but be cushioned by monetary policy easing.

For Euro area, the OECD said that GDP growth is projected to be 0.7 percent in 2024 and speed up to 1.3 percent in 2025, with activity supported by a recovery in real incomes and an improvement in credit availability.

Headline inflation has continued to fall this year in most countries, partly due to further declines in food price inflation and low or negative energy and goods price inflation, the organisation noted, adding that the recent steep fall in oil prices, and the ongoing easing of global food prices could place further downward pressure on headline inflation in the short-term.

“Oil prices have declined by over 10 percent since July, amid expectations for excess supply next year and market concerns about weakening oil demand growth… If oil prices remain at their current level, global headline inflation could be reduced by around 0.5 percentage points over the coming year,” the OECD explained.

According to the OECD, declining consumer price inflation has supported household spending, providing a counterbalance to the negative impact from restrictive financial conditions and the uncertainty about the ongoing Ukraine conflict and the evolving crisis in the Middle East.

Along with stable GDP growth and further disinflation, the OECD also said that real incomes would improve and less restrictive monetary policy in many economies would help underpin demand.

The recovery in real incomes could provide a stronger boost to consumer confidence and spending, and further oil price declines would hasten disinflation.

Headline inflation is projected to ease from 5.4 percent in 2024 to 3.3 percent in 2025 in the G20 economies.

MIL OSI China News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Hundreds more jobs cuts on housing frontline

Source: New Zealand Labour Party

The Government has shown its true intentions for the public service and economy – it’s not to get more public servants back to the office, it’s more job losses.

“Reports of more than 300 jobs to go at Kāinga Ora shows that National has no interest in solving the housing crisis, but just wants to see an end to public housing,” Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said.

“The people doing these jobs are the very people that have helped deliver record number of houses for New Zealanders. Now they’re thanking them by taking away their jobs and incomes.

“Chris Bishop and Tama Potaka promised New Zealanders they would build more houses than Labour yet so far, their record on housing is to make it harder for people to access emergency housing, easier to be kicked out of tenancies and taking Kāinga Ora from building record numbers of homes to funding none.

“This has been the Government’s agenda all along. We can’t forget the last National government ended up with 1,500 fewer public homes than it started with and sucked out $576 million in dividends.

“They’ve also capped funding for community housing providers at 750 houses per year, and scrapped the First Home Grant.

“Chris Bishop is all talk and no delivery. His actions will result in more people homeless and less public housing – exactly what happened the last time National were in Government,” Kieran McAnulty said.

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MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Mohamed Younis A Menfi, President of the Presidential Council of the State of Libya

Source: United Nations secretary general

The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Mohamed Younis A Menfi, President of the Presidential Council of the State of Libya. They discussed the latest developments in Libya and the region, and welcomed the recent agreement on the governance of the Central Bank of Libya.

The Secretary-General underlined that the protracted political impasse in Libya can only be resolved through an inclusive dialogue aimed at putting the country back on a firm path towards elections. The Secretary-General reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to supporting the political process in Libya.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: The Government of Canada and the Municipality of the District of Clare invest in the renovation of the Clare Veterans Centre

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Regional Government of Canada – in French 2

Press release

Today, Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings–Hants, and Yvon LeBlanc, Warden of the Municipality of the District of Clare, announced a joint investment of more than $2.9 million to renovate the Clare Veterans Centre in Saulnierville.

Saulnierville, Nova Scotia, July 14, 2023 – Today, Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings–Hants, and Yvon LeBlanc, Warden of the Municipality of the District of Clare, announced a joint investment of more than $2.9 million to renovate the Clare Veterans Centre in Saulnierville.

This investment will improve the building’s accessibility, including the addition of a new accessible entry point with a concrete ramp and an interior elevator. It will also install photovoltaic solar panels that will produce renewable energy and reduce operating costs. In addition, the building’s exterior cladding will be re-done with sustainability in mind, and a new façade will be constructed. Inside, numerous renovations and equipment upgrades will be carried out, including the installation of a new heating and cooling system, modernization of electrical systems and lighting, construction of new accessible washrooms, renovation of the kitchen, construction of a cold room, installation of new drywall and application of new paint.

These improvements are expected to reduce the building’s energy consumption by approximately 31.9% and greenhouse gas emissions by 33.2 tonnes annually. In addition, the improvements will create an accessible environment for users and extend the life of the building, while enhancing its versatility and improving its overall appearance.

The Clare Veterans Centre in Saulnierville is located in the largest rural Acadian community in Nova Scotia. The centre is widely used by groups from all sectors and demographics. In addition, it hosts many annual events.

By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, increasing the resilience of our communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.

Quotes

“The Government of Canada’s investment will help ensure that the Clare Veterans Centre remains a welcoming and inclusive place for all members of the community. The renovations will allow the community to continue to successfully host cultural events in a comfortable environment. In addition, by reducing the facility’s carbon footprint, this project contributes to provincial and federal climate change mitigation efforts.”

Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings–Hants, on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities

“The upgrade to the Clare Veterans Centre is necessary and well deserved. The building is used daily by residents of the municipality, and I am confident that the planned renovations will be enjoyed by all those who make good use of public space. The planned work will certainly improve the aesthetics of the building, but also more functional elements such as its accessibility and carbon footprint.”

Yvon LeBlanc, Warden of the Municipality of the District of Clare

Quick Facts

Our government is investing $2,356,494 in this project through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) Program. The Municipality of the District of Clare is contributing $589,124.

The BCVI program aims to improve the places where Canadians work, learn, play, live and gather by reducing pollution, making life more affordable and supporting thousands of good jobs. Through green upgrades and other work to existing public community buildings, and new construction in underserved communities, the BCVI program helps ensure community facilities are inclusive, accessible and have a long lifespan, and help Canada achieve its net-zero emissions targets by 2050.

At least 10 percent of the funds are allocated to projects for First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, which includes Indigenous populations in urban centres.

The Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program was created to support Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan: A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, and supports the first pillar of the Plan by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing energy efficiency and building resilience to climate change. The program provides $1.5 billion over five years for retrofits, repairs or improvements that promote the environment and accessibility.

The funding announced today is part of the work the Government of Canada is doing under the Atlantic Growth Strategy to create good-paying middle-class jobs, strengthen local economies and build inclusive communities.

For more information, please consult Infrastructure Canada website.

Related links

Contact persons

For further information (media only), please contact:

Jean-Sébastien Comeau Press Secretary and Senior Communications AdvisorOffice of the Honourable Dominic LeBlancMinister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities343-574-8116Jean-Sebastien.Comeau@iga-aig.gc.ca

Media Relations Infrastructure Canada613-960-9251Toll free: 1-877-250-7154Email: media-medias@infc.gc.caFollow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram And LinkedInWebsite: Infrastructure Canada

Pam Doucet Director of Community DevelopmentMunicipality of the District of Clare902-769-2031directorcd@munclare.ca

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Governments of Canada, Nova Scotia and Bayside Development Corporation invest in energy-efficient renovations at Bayside Travel Centre in Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Regional Government of Canada – in French 2

Press release

Today, Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton-Canso, the Honourable Michelle Thompson, Minister of Health and Wellness, on behalf of the Honourable Tory Rushton, Minister of Natural Resources and Renewable Energy, and Rose Paul, CEO and President of Bayside Corporation, announced joint funding of over $1.6 million for energy-efficient green energy retrofits at the Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation’s Bayside Travel Centre.

Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation, Nova Scotia, July 11, 2023—Today, Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton-Canso, the Honourable Michelle Thompson, Minister of Health and Wellness, on behalf of the Honourable Tory Rushton, Minister of Natural Resources and Renewable Energy, and Rose Paul, CEO and President of Bayside Corporation, announced joint funding of over $1.6 million for energy-efficient green energy retrofits at the Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation’s Bayside Travel Centre.

The project involves the installation of a direct current microgrid energy system consisting of solar photovoltaic panels, a battery storage system and two electric vehicle fast chargers at the Bayside Travel Centre, owned by the Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation. By integrating three separate technologies, this project is the first microgrid in Nova Scotia to work together to provide energy services.

This investment will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 3,945 tonnes, improve access to electric vehicle chargers and create jobs in the community.

By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, increasing the resilience of our communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.

Quotes

“The Bayside Travel Centre solar microgrid is a significant milestone for Nova Scotia, the Municipality of Antigonish and the Paq’tnkek Mi’kmaw Nation. Green energy projects like this benefit our communities in many ways. They generate clean electricity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create good jobs. This project will play a vital role in combatting climate change and ensuring a clean energy future for Nova Scotia.”

Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton-Canso, on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities

“The Government of Canada is working with Indigenous partners to make investments in clean energy that will create jobs across the country. Today’s investment is a great example of this ambitious action. We are pleased to deploy EV charging stations, batteries and solar panels at the Bayside Travel Centre with the Paq’tnkek Mi’kmaw Nation and our provincial partners.”

The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources

“Our approach to the energy transition must leave no one behind. Today’s announcement will enable the community to reduce emissions while creating good-paying jobs for its members. Investments in climate-friendly solutions like this will create benefits for years to come, for the environment and for Indigenous peoples. Congratulations to the Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation for taking this important step.”

The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services

“The technology being deployed in Nova Scotia’s renewable energy sector is truly inspiring. The upgrades completed by the Bayside Development Corporation will serve as an example for other organizations in the province looking to move toward a cleaner, greener future.”

The Honourable Michelle Thompson, Minister of Health and Wellness, on behalf of the Honourable Tory Rushton, Minister of Natural Resources and Renewable Energy

“Developing renewable energy is an example of energy sovereignty and being stewards of the land and resources. Working toward our carbon neutrality goals is an opportunity to be at the forefront of an industry that aligns with our sustainability values while providing social and economic opportunities for our communities.”

Rose Paul, CEO and President of Bayside Corporation

Quick Facts

The Government of Canada is investing more than $1.4 million in this project, the Government of Nova Scotia is investing $200,000 and the Bayside Development Corporation is providing $18,309.

The Government of Canada’s funding comes from Infrastructure Canada’s Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – Green Infrastructure Stream, Natural Resources Canada’s Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program, and Indigenous Services Canada’s Atlantic Canada Clean Energy Indigenous Economic Development Strategic Partnerships Initiative.

Federal investments are supporting the development of a coast-to-coast EV charging network along highways, as well as the deployment of chargers in local areas where Canadians live, work and play, with more than 43,600 EV chargers selected to date for funding.

This green infrastructure component supports the development of greener communities by promoting climate change preparedness, greenhouse gas emission reductions and renewable technologies.

Including today’s announcement, 63 infrastructure projects or groups of projects have been funded in Nova Scotia under the Green Infrastructure Stream, for a total federal contribution of more than $357 million and a total provincial contribution of nearly $459 million.

Through the Investing in Canada plan, the federal government is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada’s rural and northern communities.

Infrastructure Canada helps address the complex challenges Canadians face every day, from rapidly growing cities to climate change to environmental threats to our waters and lands.

The funding announced today is part of the work the Government of Canada is doing under the Atlantic Growth Strategy to create good-paying middle-class jobs, strengthen local economies and build inclusive communities.

Related links

Contact persons

For further information (media only), please contact:

Jean-Sébastien Comeau Press Secretary and Senior Communications AdvisorOffice of the Honourable Dominic LeBlancMinister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities343-574-8116Jean-Sebastien.Comeau@iga-aig.gc.ca

Media Relations Infrastructure Canada613-960-9251Toll free: 1-877-250-7154Email: media-medias@infc.gc.caFollow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram And LinkedInWebsite: Infrastructure Canada

Patricia Jreige Communications AdvisorNatural Resources and Renewable Energy902-718-7866Patricia.jreige@novascotia.ca

Richard Perry Public RelationsBayside Development Corporation902-318-7272rgperry@icloud.com

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 22, 2025

Category: housing

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