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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Tackling workforce challenges across the health and social care system

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Key representatives from Plymouth’s health and social care sector have met for the first time to share system-wide, collective workforce strategies across University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, Livewell Southwest and adult social care.

    The event hosted by Caring Plymouth, the city’s sector skills partnership for health and social care, brought together a range of stakeholders including adult social care providers, Plymouth City Council’s Commissioners, senior representatives from the NHS and Livewell Southwest, training providers including further and higher education, and representatives from Department for Work and Pensions.

    Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “We now have shared understanding about the demands for this critical workforce so that we can better prioritise the coordinated actions that we need to take to deliver a sustainable, system-wide skilled workforce for the future. We know that this sector has the highest overall demand for recruitment in Plymouth, with approximately 350 unique job vacancies a month with highest demands for care workers and home carers as well as nurses, and there is also significant need for managerial and administrative roles.”

    Speaking at the event, Darryn Allcorn, Chief Nurse & Director of Integrated Professions at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, said: “It is exceptionally positive that we can work collaboratively across the city in order to understand our collective workforce demands and challenges. There is so much more to our workforce than the traditional caring roles associated with health and social care. Through working together, we can ensure our local communities not only have employment opportunities but supported to develop lifelong careers.”

    Sharing their workforce strategy priorities, Nicky Varker, Assistant Director of Workforce at Livewell Southwest, said: “We share in the ambition to deliver the highest-quality health and care services to our population and to do this, we want to make sure Plymouth is the destination of choice for roles in the sector. This means creating attractive packages that bring the best people into the city and support them to unlock their potential. We’ve worked hard to open doors in recent years with new pathways into nursing that are helping people to achieve aspirations they had started to close a door on. The challenge is to spread this into our wider workforce to create clear development pathways to help people enter and grow within Livewell.”

    The event also marked the launch of the city’s first dedicated Skills and Training Directory for the Health and Social Care sector which provides access and improved information, advice and guidance for people new to the sector as well as helping the existing workforce with career progression.

    For further information email caringplymouth@plymouth.gov.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Thnks Announces Winners of the 2024 Thnks Gratitude in Business Awards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Thnks, the first on-demand gratitude expression platform for enterprises, SMBs, and individual contributors, today announced Troy Stevenson, Account Manager at Pegasus Logistics Group as the individual winner and Pegasus Logistics Group as the company winner for the 2024 Thnks Gratitude in Business Awards sponsored by First Horizon.

    As the gratitude in business pioneer, Thnks has transformed small gestures of appreciation into enduring business connections, fostering loyalty, and driving revenue growth. Through the Thnks Gratitude in Business Awards, Thnks celebrates individuals and organizations who are growing their businesses with gratitude.

    “Troy and the entire team at Pegasus Logistics Group inspire a ripple effect of gratitude that transforms how we do business and strengthens our communities,” said Brendan Kamm, Thnks Co-Founder and CEO. “The response to this year’s Thnks Gratitude in Business Award has been truly remarkable. We’ve seen an inspiring array of stories demonstrating how gratitude is being leveraged as a powerful tool for business growth and relationship building.”

    Pegasus Logistics Group, the first company honored by the Gratitude in Business Awards, is being recognized for their exceptional dedication to fostering a culture of appreciation and recognition to drive growth. The company’s innovative initiatives, including their Culture Team’s CREW program and “People on Point” rewards system, demonstrate a strong commitment to fostering a culture of gratitude and empowerment. As the individual winner, Stevenson’s commitment to building trust-based relationships and consistently showing appreciation embodies the transformative power of gratitude in the workplace.

    “We are truly honored to receive this recognition from Thnks and First Horizon,” said Ken Beam, Founder and CEO of Pegasus Logistics Group. “Gratitude is at the heart of our culture, and this win is a testament to the dedication and commitment of individuals like Troy Stevenson and all our team members. We believe that gratitude is the foundation for building strong relationships with our team members, clients, partners, and the community. It’s wonderful to see both Troy’s efforts and the collective spirit of Pegasus Logistics recognized. We’re excited to continue fostering an environment where appreciation drives success and strengthens our connections.”

    Stevenson will be awarded $10,000 in Thnks credits to enhance further the gratitude program at Pegasus Logistics, a $500 credit from a selection of Thnks retailers, and a $2,500 donation will be made in his name to The Grace Foundation, which assists individuals and families in crisis and guidance toward self-sufficiency. The team at Pegasus Logistics will receive $10,000 in Thnks credits for their gratitude program.

    “At First Horizon we’re proud to support the Thnks Gratitude in Business Awards,” said Lucas Doppler, SVP at First Horizon. “We share Thnks’ vision of celebrating those who elevate their workplace, enhance customer experiences, and enrich their communities – by leading with gratitude. “

    To learn more about the Thnks Gratitude in Business Awards sponsored by First Horizon, visit thnks.com.

    ABOUT THNKS
    Established in 2016, Thnks believes making people feel appreciated – not just part of a transaction – is a business-building strategy. Utilized by over 10,000 teams and 120 Fortune 500 companies, Thnks is an on-demand gratitude expression platform for enterprises, SMBs, and individual contributors that converts small acts of gratitude into lasting business relationships that drive loyalty and revenue. The Thnks platform incorporates technology, program analytics and compliance/budget adherence to empower customers with a more economical, intentional, and authentic way to make people feel appreciated. To date, millions of Thnks have been sent – proving small acts of gratitude generate outsized business impact.

    ABOUT FIRST HORIZON
    First Horizon Corp. (NYSE: FHN), with $82.2 billion in assets as of June 30, 2024, is a leading regional financial services company, dedicated to helping our clients, communities, and associates unlock their full potential with capital and counsel. Headquartered in Memphis, TN, the banking subsidiary First Horizon Bank operates in 12 states across the southern U.S. The Company and its subsidiaries offer commercial, private banking, consumer, small business, wealth and trust management, retail brokerage, capital markets, fixed income, and mortgage banking services. First Horizon has been recognized as one of the nation’s best employers by Fortune and Forbes magazines and a Top 10 Most Reputable U.S. Bank. More information is available at www.FirstHorizon.com.

    ABOUT PEGASUS LOGISTICS GROUP
    Pegasus Logistics Group is a global leader in transportation and logistics, specializing in both international and domestic shipments of consequence. With a client-centric approach and a flexible global network of partners, we deliver a highly managed transportation model that adapts to the unique challenges of each business. Our stakeholder-focused approach ensures that our solutions benefit not just our clients but also our team members, partners, and communities. At Pegasus Logistics Group, we believe that true partnership is defined by flexibility, collaboration, and a commitment to improving business processes as we grow together.

    FOR MORE INFORMATION, PRESS ONLY:
    Kaileigh Higgins
    thnks@inkhouse.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2d0bcf29-0a44-40ba-92d5-2b6dadd89c15

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNECE Trees in Cities Challenge surpasses goal with over 18 million trees planted 

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The UNECE Trees in Cities Challenge, a global effort to enhance urban greening, reduce extreme heat events and improve air quality, has reached a significant milestone. Since its launch in 2019, the initiative has facilitated the planting of 18.5 million trees in cities worldwide, more than double its initial target. This significant accomplishment represents a collective effort by partners to improve our planet’s well-being.  

    The Trees in Cities Challenge aims to address the pressing challenges of climate change and urban pollution by encouraging the planting and care of trees in urban environments. Trees play a vital role in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, reducing noise pollution, and enhancing community well-being and biodiversity. The Challenge has garnered widespread support from cities, governments, and civil society organizations around the world.  

    The participation of over 80 cities in the UNECE Trees in Cities Challenge demonstrates their strong commitment to environmental stewardship and a greener future. It has inspired numerous local and regional tree-planting campaigns and initiatives.  

    The planting of over 18 million trees under the UNECE Trees in Cities Challenge is a significant achievement contributing to global efforts to combat climate change highlighting also the importance of local action for sustainable development on a large scale. 

    The Trees in Cities Challenge has evolved into a worldwide initiative leading to the development of dedicated support programmes and new focus areas at UNECE. These include an Urban Expert Network with over 1,000 participants, a dedicated UN Petite Forest program, urban-to-national policy action work (resulting in the San Marino Urban Forestry Action Plan), urban food trees and forests, and more recently, the Coalition for Trees in Dry Cities.  

    The success of this UNECE initiative is a direct result of its strong partnerships with cities. This focus on sustainable local action for national and global impact reaffirms the organization’s commitment to environmental sustainability as it plans for future initiatives. 

    Find out more about UNECE’s green cities initiatives and resources:  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ERO Boston arrests Dominican national convicted of child sexual abuse material crime in Massachusetts

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON — Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston apprehended a 25-year-old, unlawfully present Dominican noncitizen convicted of possessing child sexual abuse material in Massachusetts. Officers with ERO Boston arrested Enrique Alberto Ortiz-Brito Sept. 12 in Dorchester.

    “Enrique Alberto Ortiz-Brito was convicted for possessing sick and disturbing sexual material,” said ERO Boston Field Office Director Todd M. Lyons. “He posed a significant threat to the children of our Massachusetts community that we could not tolerate. ERO Boston will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing egregious noncitizen offenders.”

    U.S. Customs and Border Protection lawfully admitted Ortiz into the United States Dec. 16, 2016, in Boston. However, Ortiz violated the terms of his lawful admission.

    ERO lodged an immigration detainer with the Boston Police Department against Ortiz Aug. 31, 2017, following his arrest for possession of child sexual abuse material. Later that day, the Dorchester District Court released Ortiz from custody on a GPS monitoring system pending the outcome of his criminal case.

    The Suffolk County Superior Court convicted Ortiz of possession of child pornography. The court sentenced him to a split sentence with a term of one year with 30 days to serve (deemed served) in the house of correction followed by three years of probation with numerous conditions, including sex offender registration.

    Officers from ERO Boston arrested Ortiz Sept. 12 in Dorchester and served him with a notice to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge. He remains in ERO custody.

    Detainers are critical public safety tools because they focus enforcement resources on removable noncitizens who have been arrested for criminal activity. Detainers increase the safety of all parties involved — ERO personnel, law enforcement officials, removable noncitizens and the public — by allowing an arrest to be made in a secure and controlled custodial setting as opposed to at-large within the community. Because detainers result in the direct transfer of a noncitizen from state or local custody to ERO custody, they also minimize the potential that an individual will reoffend. Additionally, detainers conserve scarce government resources by allowing ERO to take criminal noncitizens into custody directly rather than expending resources locating these individuals at-large.

    ERO conducts removals of individuals without a lawful basis to remain in the United States, including at the order of immigration judges with Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review. The Executive Office for Immigration Review is a separate entity from the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Immigration judges in these courts make decisions based on the merits of each individual case, determining if a noncitizen is subject to a final order of removal or eligible for certain forms of relief from removal.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our New England communities on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @EROBoston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manchester resident slapped with hefty fines after neighbours complained about “nuisance” waste burning in his garden

    Source: City of Manchester

    A Manchester resident who made the lives of his neighbours miserable through repeated waste burning in his garden is now facing hefty fines handed down by the courts.

    Haroon Razzaq, of Victoria Avenue East, was found guilty of four offences committed over months following a hearing at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on 19 September.  

    There were four incidents of burning with three taking place in December 2023 and one in March 2024. 

    The 34-year-old was also ordered to pay a hefty £1,500 fine. He was also slapped with a £600 victim surcharge and £3, 116 in total costs.  

    The council received repeated complaints from residents about frequent “nuisance” burning taking place at Razzaq’s property.  

    The burning was having a severe effect on people in the area because of the smell and smoke caused by the fires which prevented them from being able to use their gardens or being able to open their windows.   

    Razzaq was contacted by a Neighbourhood Compliance Officer and was swiftly warned his behaviour was causing problems for his nearby neighbours. 

    Burning continued to take place at Razzaq’s house and negatively impacted residents. At this point, multiple witnesses came forward and reported the notice had been breached on several occasions.  

    Once approached by the council again, Razzaq admitted to bringing wood and pallets from his business monthly to burn in his garden. He believed this wasn’t a problem and that it shouldn’t cause issue for other residents  

    He claimed this activity wasn’t an issue and disputed that it would cause a problem for anyone nearby.    

    Lee-Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbours, said: “The comfort and safety of our residents choosing to make Manchester home is an utmost priority. It is unacceptable that one individual could ignore and dismiss the legal requirements from authority and cause ongoing disturbance for neighbours in the comfort of their own homes and gardens. 

    “I am pleased to see prosecution has been brought in this case of a resident choosing to burn materials in his garden without consideration of others and the environment. The work of our legal team and Neighbourhood Compliance Team has been exemplary in bringing about justice. This case should serve as a warning to other residents who choose to ignore the law and show disregard for the community.” 

      

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Clark, Massachusetts Leaders Secure $472 Million in Federal Funding to Replace Draw One Bridge, Renovate North Station T Stop

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Katherine Clark (5th District of Massachusetts)

    Largest federal award MBTA has won to date

    Funding will increase ridership, streamline operations, and improve resiliency along Amtrak’s Downeaster route and regional rail lines

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5), Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.), along with Representatives Stephen Lynch (MA-8), Ayanna Pressley (MA-7), Lori Trahan (MA-3), Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng announced a grant of $472 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) to fully replace the North Station Draw One Bridge and renovate Platform F at North Station. The grant is the largest federal award the MBTA has won to date.

    The nearly half a billion dollar grant will provide critical support for one of MBTA’s top priority projects and a vital transportation asset to MBTA’s north-side operations. It will also support more than 14,500 jobs, make the bridge more climate resilient by bringing it above projected sea-level rise, and lower emissions. In April 2024, Senator Warren led a letter of support for the MBTA’s funding request to the Department of Transportation.

    Specifically, the new funding for MBTA’s North Station Renovation and the Draw One Bridge Replacement Project will support the full replacement of the existing drawbridge, the extension and activation of a platform with two tracks at North Station, and the replacement of track, signals, and switches to modernize and improve station infrastructure.

    “This bridge is a critical connection point for the communities north of Boston. This federal investment will improve the quality of life for commuters, reduce traffic for everyone, and bring opportunity to the Commonwealth. We will have a faster, more modern, and more user-friendly public transportation system, and that’s exactly the direction we need to move in,” said Democratic Whip Clark.

    “This $472 million investment is a game-changer for the thousands of passengers who pass through North Station every day — and will build a safer, more reliable public transit system for the Commonwealth. Massachusetts leaders worked together to secure the largest ever federal award for the T, and I won’t stop fighting to bring home even more investment to improve transit across the Commonwealth,” said Senator Warren.

    “With $472 million to replace the North Station drawbridge, we’re drawing up a new future for rail transit north of Boston. I’m grateful to the Biden-Harris administration, Governor Healey, General Manager Eng, Senator Warren, and our whole federal delegation for securing this funding. Together, we are delivering critical federal dollars to the T and building a modern, safe, and reliable public transit system for all,” said Senator Markey.

    “We know that improving our transportation infrastructure is critical for improving quality of life and making sure Massachusetts remains the best place to live, work, raise a family and build a future,” said Governor Healey. “That’s why our administration is competing so aggressively to win federal funding that can be put toward our roads, bridges and public transportation. Congratulations to General Manager Eng and the MBTA team for this award that will improve train service for millions of riders. We’re grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration and U.S. Department of Transportation for their continued investment in Massachusetts’ transportation infrastructure.” 

    The Draw One railbridge carries the MBTA Commuter Rail and Amtrak trains, serving approximately 11,250,000 passengers per year. It is particularly critical for Amtrak’s Downeaster, an intercity passenger rail service that travels from Maine and New Hampshire into Boston, which is projected to have some of the highest ridership in New England. Draw One is also a vital connection for all of MBTA’s north-side regional rail lines, including Fitchburg, Lowell, Haverhill, and Newburyport/Rockport. The new federal investment will improve service reliability and operations, reduce congestion along a known bottleneck, and increase capacity across the bridge. Additionally, the funding will allow for upgraded signaling and expanded track capabilities, further improving traffic flow.

    “I am pleased to join my colleagues in government to announce the State of Massachusetts was awarded over $472 million in federal funding that will help improve MBTA and Amtrak services,” said Congressman Lynch. “This funding is the result of our hard work and partnership with the Biden-Harris administration to ensure we invest into our nation’s transportation and infrastructure. People all over the Commonwealth rely on public transportation every day, and this DOT grant is critical to make the necessary repairs and replacements that will make train service more safe and reliable.”

    “Transit justice is a racial and economic justice issue, and a matter of public safety – and this massive federal investment helps make the Commonwealth more connected and our transportation system safer and more reliable for commuters,” said Congresswoman Pressley. “I’m glad that families in the Massachusetts 7th who depend on the commuter rail will be better able to access jobs, healthcare, education, and essential services in other parts of the state, and we won’t stop fighting to build the more just, equitable, and accessible transit system our communities deserve. I thank my delegation colleagues and the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their partnership, and the Biden-Harris Administration for continuing to invest in Massachusetts.”

    “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver unprecedented federal investments to make our transit systems safer and more efficient,” said Congresswoman Trahan. “This massive award is proof that, thanks to the strong partnership between our federal delegation and the Healey-Driscoll administration, Massachusetts continues to punch above our weight when competing for federal funding.”

    “North Station Draw One is a connection point between Boston and Cambridge, and the many cities and towns north who rely on this train bridge to visit and work in our city. Thanks to the leadership of the MA federal delegation and the Healey-Driscoll administration in securing this funding, the Greater Boston area will see benefits from updated infrastructure and more reliable transportation. This funding for a bridge replacement represents our region’s commitment to our local economy and green transit,” said Mayor Wu.

    “I’m proud of the MBTA team that worked diligently to put this project in a strong position to win this highly competitive federal award. I thank the USDOT Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Deputy Secretary of Transportation Polly Trottenberg, and our partners at the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Acting Administrator Veronica Vanterpool, FTA Region 1 Administrator Pete Butler, and their entire team, for this incredible award allowing us to deliver the North Station Draw 1 project, freeing up state capital dollars for other essential needs,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Eng. “This award continues to demonstrate our aggressive approach to pursuing all funding opportunities under the lead of the Healey-Driscoll Administration as we pursue every available federal grant. Our Grants and North Station Drawbridge teams deserve all the credit for their exceptional work to secure this funding which allows us to ensure the efficient and reliable movement of all North Station train lines while greatly improving our ability to provide more frequent, regional rail-style service across the entire northside corridor to serve future generations to come.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Liverpool maps out masterplan to remix “Music City” status

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram has announced radical plans to “remix the music sector” by embracing AI and VR to future-proof music tourism, recording and education.

    Liverpool City Council has mapped out an ambitious programme of four ground-breaking, interlinked projects which would revolutionise the industry and have a multi-million-pound economic impact for decades to come.

    The proposals are expected to be funded by private sector sources with Government support, with media giant Universal expressing their commitment to the concept.

    The four projects are:

    • The Music Futures Lab – this bespoke facility will bring together music businesses and musicians from across the creative and digital sectors to reimagine the way we all create, consume and experience music in the future. This new R&D lab would be the first of its kind in the UK, taking advantage of the opportunities AI and VR brings, and would build on – and future-proof – the incredible creative and digital sector which the city already boasts.
    • MusicFutures Cluster – a mix of academic and private sector bodies creating the talent and training pipeline to make the most of the facilities which the music lab will offer. A Creative Cluster has already been established to kickstart this R&D in bringing together the music and creative industries.
    • Immersive Liverpool – this fully immersive audio and visual visitor attraction will reimagine the way that audiences experience the music they love. A world first, this attraction will offer a rotating set of experience ‘residencies’ with the biggest music artists. Liverpool City Council is undergoing a site selection process and is in partnership with industry leaders to help develop the scheme.
    • Recording and Rehearsal space – this space would become a new rehearsal home for the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and a leading national facility for emerging and established artists. This would be the only UK studio of its kind and capacity outside London – “the Abbey Road of the North” – and as well as boosting the city’s ability to offer recording facilities for musicians, TV, film and gaming, it would also provide first-class training, performance and rehearsal spaces all year-round for young people across the region.

    Mayor Rotheram revealed the ambitious plans at a Creative UK event as part of the Labour Party conference in the city.

    The draft business cases, funded by monies received from the DCMS, are to be presented to Government in the coming weeks with detailed plans expected to be announced in 2025 – 10 years after Liverpool was appointed a UNESCO City of Music.

    Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “Music is the heartbeat of Liverpool and for generations it has defined the city’s global appeal. The time has come to translate that heritage into an offer that shapes our future.

    “We have ambitious plans to remix what it means to be a music city. These projects will help define and shape the next generation of talent and businesses and will increase the impact music can have on our communities and individuals from all walks of life.

    “Our ‘Music 2030’ vision harnesses ambitious thinking and focused investment to turn music into a driver of social, economic and environmental advancement, with the sector becoming the backbone for new high-paying jobs, re-energising the music tourism sector and becoming a vanguard sector for positive environmental change.

    “We have entered into a development relationship with Mercury Studios and Universal Music Group to help create the future of immersive music entertainment right here in Liverpool. The expertise and innovation of Mercury Studios will empower our own homegrown talent. This city is known for our incredible music heritage. Together, we will lean on that heritage to become the birthplace for a new form of music entertainment and create a digital future.

    “I’m delighted with the progress made to date and super excited for what is to come. I look forward to further conversations with our partners and the Government on how we can develop and deliver these projects.”

    Liverpool City Region Mayor, Steve Rotheram, said: “The Liverpool City Region has always had music running through its veins—it’s part of who we are.

    “We’re launching bold, groundbreaking projects that will remix the way music is made and experienced—right here in the heart of the UK.

    “With cutting-edge technology like AI and VR, we’re creating opportunities for the next generation, making sure that Liverpool isn’t just a city with a rich musical history, but a global leader in the music of the future.

    “This isn’t just business—it’s about giving young people the chance to thrive and putting our region back on the world stage.

    “We’re setting the standard for what a music city should be in the 21st century.”

    Culture Liverpool Director Claire McColgan said: “Liverpool is reimagining the role music plays in the regeneration of a city. By bringing musicians and the creative and digital industries closer together and building the facilities to make the most of our enviable talent pool, we believe this approach can be a driving force in positioning Liverpool as a music city remixed.

    “These projects are at a really exciting stage, and we are now starting to get a sense of their scope and potential impact which could redefine what music means to Liverpool and to the rest of the country. We’re looking at a 10 year-plan to supercharge not just our visitor economy but the way that young people get access to the best music education in the world.

    “It will give talented creative graduates a further reason to set up their business here. It’s taking music seriously as a catalyst for regeneration, both in terms of buildings and people.”

    Michael Eakin, Chief Executive of Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, said: “This centre, as part of Liverpool’s overall investment in – and development of – the music sector will be transformative for the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic and for young talent in the city. It will be a major regeneration driver in its location. It will provide economic growth for the city as part of the growing film, television and creative industries sector.

    “It will help secure the long-term sustainability of one of the country’s most important and forward-looking orchestras and music organisations. And it will make Liverpool uniquely strong in delivering true creative education opportunities in music for children and young people across our communities.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Amid renewed attacks, international architecture competition launched to help Kharkiv re-imagine iconic city centre 

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    Kharkiv, the second most populous city in Ukraine, is among the urban areas most affected by the war and has been the target of intense shelling over the last weeks. Despite these hugely challenging circumstances, Kharkiv is looking ahead and planning for its future. 

    As part of the new concept Masterplan for Kharkiv developed under the UN4UkrainianCities initiative led by UNECE, the Norman Foster Foundation, in collaboration with Kharkiv City Council, Arup, and a group of local and international professionals, is launching an international competition to reimagine the heart of the city and create a new landmark. 

    Through the UN4UkrainianCities initiative, UNECE has been supporting the city of Kharkiv and the government of Ukraine since the start of the war against Ukraine to build back better and to address housing challenges.     

    The competition invites innovative design solutions for two key components: the iconic Regional Administration Building, which was heavily damaged in March 2022, and the public realm of the adjacent Freedom Square.  

    Freedom Square has long served as a central venue for public gatherings and cultural events in Kharkiv. However, despite its historical importance, the square’s current design and huge scale – approximately 115,000 square metres – have resulted in a lack of human-centric interaction, rendering it underutilized in the daily life of the city. The challenge now lies in transforming this space into a hub of activity that resonates with the people of Kharkiv. 

    The proposals should take a holistic approach that envisions a vibrant, prosperous future while enhancing Kharkiv’s historical significance and urban identity. 

    Participants will be tasked with developing concept-level design proposals. After the winners are announced 13 December 2024, the selected proposals will have the opportunity to be further refined into detailed designs for construction.  

    The competition presents a unique opportunity to contribute to the revitalization of Kharkiv’s city centre, harmonizing respect for its rich heritage with a vision for the future. 

    This builds on the strong interest in designing solutions to Kharkiv’s damaged modular housing through a separate competition launched as part of the UN4UkrainianCities initiative in May 2024, which has received over 450 submissions. 

    The UN4UkrainianCities initiative has supported the development and operationalization of the vision master plans for the cities of Kharkiv and Mykolaiv following the establishment of dedicated interagency Task Forces and partnerships with international architects, in cooperation with local and national architects and stakeholders, since 2022. 

    Details on the competition are available at Norman Foster Foundation Kharkiv Freedom Square Revival International architecture competition (architecturecompetitions.com)

    Photo credit: Kharkiv City Council

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Powering Africa: new model compares options for off-grid solar in 43 countries

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Hamish Beath, Research Associate in Societal Transitions, Imperial College London

    Sub-Saharan Africa, home to 80% of the global population without electricity access, is unlikely to reach the United Nations’ goal of access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all by 2030.

    The region is significantly behind the rest of the world. Globally, access to electricity increased from 79% of the population in 2000 to 90% in 2019. In sub-Saharan Africa, access to electricity rose from 26% to 47%, and most who don’t have access live in rural areas, according to World Bank data.

    The World Bank predicts that, based on current electricity connection and population growth trends, sub-Saharan Africa will have more than 400 million people unconnected to electricity by 2030.

    A lack of access to reliable electricity has a significant negative impact on living standards. For example, it can limit the provision of quality public services such as healthcare, education and water. It also creates a barrier to access to digital services, holding back participation in an increasingly digital global economy.

    Lack of access is not the only challenge for sub-Saharan African countries. Existing connections are unreliable too. About 43% of Africans had access to electricity that worked “most” or “all” of the time in 2022. Reliability issues are typically more common in rural areas.

    Just two sub-Saharan African countries have electricity grids without significant outages: Angola and Botswana. Outages reduce the benefits electricity offers to households and businesses, and create demand for expensive and typically polluting fuel-run generators.

    Studies have proposed off-grid solar generated electricity as one possible solution for economies with poor electricity access. In some locations, they are the lowest-cost option, and can enable electricity access without building electricity grid infrastructure – transmission and distribution networks.

    Some of these studies, however, may have underestimated the potential benefits of off-grid solar power. This is because they don’t consider the cost impacts of poor reliability or of carbon price schemes.

    I was part of a team of scientists using a new approach to assessing the cost of different energy access options. It combines modelling individual energy systems with spatial data covering large areas. Our approach allows us to put a cost to the reliability and the pollution of different sources of electricity. When you account for these, the relative attractiveness of technologies may change.

    Our research explores the role off-grid solar could play in different scenarios in Africa. It covered 43 countries for which data is available, and that are home to more than 99% of the continent’s population without access. Below, we will highlight two countries, Nigeria and Mozambique.

    Cost of carbon and cost of poor reliability

    Using our new approach, we analyse which parts of each country would find solar to be the cheapest technology. We do this at a fine level of detail. Our scenarios include either a carbon price, or a penalty for poor reliability. We can show what policy would make the greatest impact in a given location.

    Electricity access can be arranged into tiers that combine different levels of wattage, hours of availability, number of disruptions, affordability and so on.

    For our medium electricity demand scenario (tier 3), our modelling suggests that off-grid solar would be cheapest for 65 million more people if you applied a carbon price to the calculation. If you applied a reliability penalty, off-grid solar would be cheapest for 80 million more people.

    Carbon markets are financial markets which put a price on emitting greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide. These markets influence the relative cost and shares of different electricity generation technologies. However, the use of carbon credits on the African continent remains limited as they are a relatively new initiative on the continent.

    The reliability of supply is crucial in determining the value of a connection. Poor reliability can lead to reduced security and reduced household income.

    Off-grid solar systems may offer improved reliability when compared to national grid networks.

    To demonstrate our methods and findings more clearly, let’s look at two countries in more detail: Nigeria and Mozambique.

    Nigeria

    Nigeria has an unreliable grid, with service levels worse in rural areas. Our analysis projects that Nigeria will have as many as 55 million households – around 20% of the population – without electricity access in 2030. In our research, we find that off-grid solar would be the cheapest way for connecting between 5% and 60% of these people to electricity.

    But solar’s economic viability versus the traditional grid network depends on the level of demand for electricity. At low electricity usage (tier 2 or 200Wh per day), off-grid solar beats traditional electricity grid networks. It meets the energy needs of a higher proportion of the population (60%) at lower cost.

    The reverse is true when demand for electricity is higher (tier 4 or 3,400Wh per day). Under this scenario, high electricity usage demands traditional electricity grids.

    Poor reliability of national electricity grids is an issue on the continent. When the costs of poor reliability are included in the calculation, solar becomes more competitive. It meets the needs of between 38% and 65% of the 55 million households in Nigeria.

    This finding highlights that to provide reliable access, focusing on off-grid solar may be the best solution. Nigeria is already using subsidies to encourage this.

    Read more: Nigeria’s chronic power shortages: mini grids were going to crack the problem for rural people, but they haven’t. Here’s why

    Mozambique

    In Mozambique, we estimate that more than 16 million people (40% of the population) will remain without access to electricity by 2030. As it is for Nigeria, off-grid solar power is cheaper for lower electricity usage levels. Off-grid solar would, by our estimates, be cheapest for between 28% and 88% of the 16 million people, depending on demand levels.

    When carbon pricing is factored in, this increases to 88% from 50%, with the greatest impact seen at higher demand levels. Our research also shows the carbon price levels that are effective at different demand levels, for different parts of the country.

    Due to differences in the costs of different technologies in different places, there is variation in policy effectiveness and thresholds. When considering where carbon credit schemes may be most effective, stakeholders should consider areas highlighted as seeing a shift in technology at the lower price level.

    Read more: Mozambique’s unstable and expensive power supply is devastating small businesses – study examines what’s gone wrong

    Targeted policy can boost access and reliability in Africa

    When considering energy policy across a large region, country-specific and localised factors are paramount. We do not pretend to capture all of these in our research. However, our use of spatial data, and country-level demand and supply modelling, tries to move in the right direction.

    – Powering Africa: new model compares options for off-grid solar in 43 countries
    – https://theconversation.com/powering-africa-new-model-compares-options-for-off-grid-solar-in-43-countries-232192

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: It’s Rail Safety Week in Saskatchewan

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on September 23, 2024

    The Government of Saskatchewan is joining in to proclaim September 23 to 30, 2024 as Rail Safety Week in Canada and reminding everyone to choose safety when around trains. Saskatchewan’s rail system is vital for our province’s export-based economy, and so is rail safety. 

    “Saskatchewan Rail Safety Week serves as a great reminder of how much we rely on our rail system and the significant benefits it brings to our export-based economy,” Highways Minister Lori Carr said. “This week is also a good opportunity to remind motorists about rail safety tips, such as looking and listening for trains, understanding railway signage and markings and being vigilant near all rail crossings.” 

    Everyone is responsible for rail safety. Rail safety requires constant alertness and reminding loved ones, children and communities about the importance of being safe around rail lines. 

    Rail incidents can happen fast and often have tragic consequences.  

    In 2023, 914 accidents, including 67 fatalities, were reported to the Transportation Safety Board of Canada.

    The Ministry of Highways is proud to continue educating children through our partnership with Canadian Safety Train Express Inc. by providing funding to print and distribute railway safety activity books to grade four students in communities served by our short lines.  

    “It is important for everyone, especially our youth, to recognize the importance of railway safety,” Canadian Safety Train Express CEO Perry Pellerin said. “Railway safety is everyone’s responsibility. We ask that everyone serve as a rail safety ambassador to ensure everyone can go home safely each and every day.”

    The Ministry of Highways offers financial support to short lines through the Short Line Railway Improvement Program to help upgrade and maintain their tracks.

    There are 13 short line railways in Saskatchewan that are used to move goods such as grain, oil and lumber, and link to the larger national rail lines. There are more than 2,000 km of railways under provincial jurisdiction.

    Motorists with any questions or concerns regarding railway safety, signage, work zones and more are welcome to reach out to the Highway Customer Service Centre at 1-844-SK-HIWAY, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or online anytime.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Deputy Secretary-General’s remarks at the open dialogue on “Strengthening Financing for the SDGs: High-level Dialogue between MDB Heads and UN Member States” [as prepared for delivery]

    Source: United Nations MIL-OSI 2

    xcellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

    I am thrilled to be with you all at this high-level dialogue.

    We meet at a pivotal time.

    The SDGs are off-track. Hunger is rising. Fossil fuel use and global temperatures have reached unprecedented new highs. Conflicts are spreading. And the fight for gender equality has stalled.

    Meanwhile, financing gaps are large and growing.

    Multilateral Development Banks are a critical part of the solution to salvage the SDGs and spur progress towards the future we want and need.

    MDBs are an essential source of affordable, long-term finance to developing countries.

    They provide vital countercyclical support in times of crisis.

    And they are uniquely capable of mobilizing other sources of finance with the SDGs, including private investments.

    But to fulfill this role effectively, MDBs must become bigger, better and bolder.

    This message is being clearly articulated by Member States at the Summit of the Future.

    In the Summit’s Pact, Member States welcome the reforms taking place across the MDB system, while declaring that further reforms are urgently needed.

    What we will hear today is that MDBs are rising to this challenge.

    This meeting provides a unique opportunity for MDB Principals to share their vision for reform, explain how it can accelerate SDG action, and take stock of progress.

    They will also explain where they need your support to push their reforms – and impact – further.

    I’m delighted that the MDB Principals are delivering these messages here – in New York, the home of the SDGs – and now, against the backdrop of the Summit of the Future.

    This sends a powerful message of the bridges we are building between the UN and MDBs, between New York and Washington DC, and between Ministries of Finance and Ministries of Foreign Affairs.

    Over the coming months, the UN will be working with our MDB partners to agree on further steps to increase development finance and to reform the international financial architecture, as we prepare for the

    Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Spain in 2025.

    This is our once-in-a-decade opportunity to transform financing to serve sustainable development everywhere.

    The United Nations is proud to be travelling this path with you.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 57: UK Statement on Belarus

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with group of Independent Experts on Belarus. Delivered at the 57th Human Rights Council in Geneva.

    We are deeply concerned by brutal and systematic human rights violations in Belarus.  We condemn ongoing arbitrary arrests and widespread repression.

    To mark the fourth anniversary of deeply flawed presidential elections in Belarus, we announced new sanctions on four commanding officers of penal colonies in response to ongoing human rights violations. 

    In addition, we announced £2.5 million support to Belarusian human rights defenders and civil society.

    To the representatives of Belarus: while we welcome the recent release of some political prisoners, we urge you to immediately release the over 1,300 political prisoners who remain detained without reason. 

    Many face isolation, mistreatment, and a lack of medical care.

    Six political prisoners are reported to have died since 2021.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New UN regulations target pedal misapplication and usher in new generation of braking systems for electric vehicles 

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The United Nations’ Working Party on Automated/Autonomous and Connected Vehicles (GRVA) has adopted the new regulation for Acceleration Control for Pedal Error (ACPE), and regulatory provisions for the introduction of a new generation of braking systems for electric vehicles. 

    The new UN regulation is expected to significantly improve road safety, while the regulatory provisions for the new braking systems in electric vehicles aim at improving energy efficiency. 

    Pedal misapplication more frequent among older drivers 

    Drivers sometimes press the acceleration pedal instead of the brake pedal by mistake, causing serious accidents. Relevant data from Asia and Europe suggest that older drivers tend to make this error more often than young drivers. For example, in Japan, they are 8 times more likely to make that mistake than other generations, leading Japan to propose a draft UN regulation to address this issue.  

    With population ageing affecting Europe, North America and most of Eastern and South-Eastern Asia, and estimates indicating that the number of people aged 65 years or older worldwide will more than double by 2050 the number of older drivers is also expected to rise. For example, in Japan, the number of driving license holders older than 75 is projected to increase from 4% in 2009 to 9.2%  in 2025.  

    According to the United Nations, persons aged 65 years or above account for 30% of the overall population in Japan, 23% in Germany, 22% in France, 20% in Canada, 19% in the Republic of Korea, 18% in the United States, and 15% in China.  

    Given the suggested correlation between pedal misapplication and age, these figures imply a potentially increased risk of accidents in the future.  

    Another factor likely to contribute to this increased risk is the global rise in sales of vehicles with automatic transmission. Crash data from Japan and the United Kingdom reveal that such vehicles are more frequently associated with pedal misapplication cases. For example, in the United Kingdom, 7 out of 8 pedal misapplications with associated gear confusion are automatics. 

    The new UN regulation will therefore only apply to passenger cars with automatic transmission. Expected to enter into force in June 2025, the new regulation introduces a system designed to detect an object in front and rear of the vehicle and then prevent sudden acceleration.   

    New generation of braking systems for electric vehicles to boost energy efficiency 

    The continued growth of electric car sales, and estimates that it could reach 45% of the market share in China, 25% in Europe and 11% in the United States in 2024, has revealed a need to optimize the energy consumption necessary for them to brake.   

    Hydraulic systems, typically used in passenger cars, rely on the muscular energy of the driver for the basic braking function, but may use reserves of stored energy for advanced safety features. Braking systems using compressed air (trucks and buses), and the advanced functions of passenger cars, rely on the energy converted from fossil energy. However, in electric vehicles, it is not efficient to convert electrical energy from batteries to stored energy (pressurized fluids) and then apply the brakes.  

    A new braking technology, employing stored electrical energy for both the control transmission and the energy transmission, aims to be more energy efficient for electric vehicles and is seen as an important element to advance the transition from vehicles employing internal combustion engines to alternatives powered by electric energy.  

    The hydraulic and pneumatic braking systems currently regulated by UN Regulations No. 13 (heavy vehicle braking) and No. 13-H (light vehicle braking) have reached a high level of safety, reducing the risk of dangerous crashes, especially when it comes to heavy-duty vehicles and those transporting dangerous goods. 

    The UNECE Working Party on Automated/Autonomous and Connected Vehicles has reviewed potential layouts for the new braking system in both light-duty and heavy-duty vehicles, and it has defined relevant technical provisions to provide a comparable level of safety.  

    The new regulatory provisions will be adopted as amendments to UN Regulations No.13 and No.13_H. They are expected to enter into force in June 2025, while some manufacturers are anticipated to introduce new braking systems in compliance with the provisions already by end of 2025. 

    Note to editors 

    The UNECE World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (WP.29) is a unique worldwide regulatory forum hosted within the institutional framework of the UNECE Inland Transport Committee. Overall, the regulatory framework developed by the World Forum WP.29 allows the market introduction of innovative vehicle technologies, while continuously improving global vehicle safety, and vehicles’ environmental performance.  
      
    GRVA is the Working Party preparing draft regulations, guidance documents and interpretation documents for adoption by the parent body, WP.29. GRVA deals with safety provisions related to the dynamics of vehicles (braking, steering), Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, Automated Driving Systems and well as Cyber Security provisions.   

    GRVA meets three times a year, with around 160 experts present at each session. It gathers the decision makers (the representatives of Countries and REIOs – “the Contracting Parties”) as well as many stakeholders having a technical interest in the work of GRVA: the vehicle manufacturers (cars, trucks, buses etc.), the suppliers, the motorists, the test houses, the consumers representatives to name a few.  

    More at: https://unece.org/transport/vehicle-regulations/working-party-automatedautonomous-and-connected-vehicles-introduction  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Prime Minister on Armenia’s Independence Day

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Armenia’s Independence Day:

    “Today, we join the people of Armenia and Armenian communities in Canada and around the world to celebrate the 33rd anniversary of Armenia’s independence.

    “Canada was one of the first Western countries to recognize Armenia’s independence in 1992, and today, our partnership remains steadfast.

    “Last year, Canada established a full embassy, with a resident ambassador, in Armenia’s capital, Yerevan. We continue to work with Armenia – and international partners including the United Nations and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – to advance long-term peace and stability in the South Caucasus. And to ensure communities are protected, we are working with the European Union Mission in Armenia to support stabilization efforts and providing critical humanitarian assistance to those most in need.

    “The Canada-Armenia relationship is rooted in warm ties between our peoples. Almost 70,000 Canadians of Armenian descent call Canada home, and they are tightly woven into our national fabric.

    “On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend my warmest wishes to all those celebrating Armenia’s Independence Day.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Investments in active transportation infrastructure in Lower Sackville

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Press release

    Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia, September 21, 2024 — The Lower Sackville area has access to a new trail thanks to an investment of more than $680,000 from the federal, provincial and municipal governments and not-for-profit organizations.

    This was announced today by Parliamentary Secretary Darrell Samson, MPP Steve Craig, Mayor Mike Savage, Brenden Blotnicky of the Trans Canada Trail and Matthew Spicer of the Sackville Lakes Park and Trails Association.

    The investment added 1.5 km to the Beech Hill Trail, which is now a 2.9 km gravel trail located in Sackville Lakes Provincial Park. This trail will provide important connections to other regional and provincial trail networks, increasing connectivity in the area. The trail, designed for pedestrians and cyclists, extends from First Lake Drive to Cobequid Road.

    Quotes

    “This trail is a great complement to Sackville Lakes Provincial Park, which offers hiking and cycling trails in a forested setting for those living in nearby urban areas. The federal government is investing in active transportation networks across Canada to make it easier, safer and more convenient for Canadians to navigate their communities without their cars, reducing greenhouse gases and increasing opportunities for movement in our daily lives.”

    Darrell Samson, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, and Member of Parliament for Sackville–Preston–Chezzetcook, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “By providing greener, cleaner ways to get around, Nova Scotia continues to play a leading role in the fight against climate change. With the funding announced today, people of all ages and abilities will have safer, more accessible and greener ways to get around the community.”

    The Honourable Steve Craig, MLA for Sackville–Cobequid on behalf of the Honourable Allan MacMaster, Nova Scotia Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage

    “This investment in the Beech Hill Trail Extension will allow more people to connect with nature and stay active, providing better access to valuable trail networks.”

    Mike Savage, Mayor of the Halifax Regional Municipality

    “What a great asset to the community! The Beech Hill Trail has just been completed in Sackville Lakes Provincial Park. The final 1.5 km of this 2.9 km crushed rock trail has just been completed. Hundreds of users have already used this trail that connects the Windsor Junction area to the community of Sackville. We were thrilled to celebrate the official opening of the trail on September 21. The Sackville Lakes Park and Trails Association has managed Sackville Lakes Provincial Park in partnership with the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewable Energy since the park was designated in 2013. Our trail development work in this natural area began in 2001 and we received a great deal of support in building the Beech Hill Trail. Funding includes funding from Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada, ACOA, the Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage, the Halifax Regional Municipality Active Transportation Program, the Trans Canada Trail and private sponsors. We also benefited from infrastructure advice and support from the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewable Energy. And of course, none of this would have been possible without the hundreds of volunteer hours of our association members. Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate the opening of our brand new active transportation trail.”

    Matthew Spicer, Sackville Lakes Park and Trails Association

    Quick Facts

    The federal government is investing up to $237,642 in this phase of the project through the Active Transportation Fund (ATF). The provincial government provided $94,000, while the Halifax Regional Municipality contributed $205,000. The Sackville Lakes Park and Trails Association provided $136,701 and the Trans Canada Trail provided $15,000.

    Active transportation refers to the movement of people or goods through human activity. This includes walking, cycling, and the use of human-powered or hybrid mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, electric scooters, e-bikes, inline skates, snowshoeing, cross-country skis, and more.

    To support Canada’s first National Active Transportation Strategy, the Active Transportation Fund is providing $400 million over five years, starting in 2021, to make active transportation travel easier, safer, more convenient and more enjoyable.

    Canada’s National Active Transportation Strategy is the first pan-Canadian strategic approach to promoting active transportation and its benefits. The strategy aims to make data- and evidence-based investments to expand and build new active transportation networks, and to support healthier, more active, more equitable and more sustainable travel.

    Investing in active transportation infrastructure provides many tangible benefits, creating good middle-class jobs, strengthening the economy, promoting healthier lifestyles, ensuring everyone has access to the same services and opportunities, reducing air and noise pollution, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

    The new Canada Public Transit Fund (CCTF) will provide an average of $3 billion per year in permanent funding to address local transit needs by strengthening integrated planning, improving access to transit and active transportation, and supporting the development of more affordable, sustainable and inclusive communities.

    The FTCC serves the needs of communities of all sizes, from large metropolitan areas to mid-sized and smaller communities, including rural, remote, northern and Indigenous communities.

    We are currently accepting expressions of interest for Metropolitan Area Agreements and Core Funding. Visit the website Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada website to find out more.

    The funding announced today builds on work the federal government is doing under the Atlantic Growth Strategy to create well-paying jobs and strengthen local economies.

    Related links

    Contact persons

    For further information (media only), please contact:

    Micaal AhmedCommunications ManagerOffice of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities343-598-3920micaal.ahmed@infc.gc.ca

    Media RelationsHousing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada613-960-9251Toll free: 1-877-250-7154Email:media-medias@infc.gc.caFollow us onTwitter,Facebook,InstagramAndLinkedInWebsite:Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

    Susan Mader-Zinck Communications Advisor Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage 902-499-1343Susan.mader-zinck@novascotia.ca

    John WedderburnHalifax Regional Municipalityjohn.wedderburn@halifax.ca

    Melissa BolandSackville Lakes Park and Trails Association902-717-0640melissasperry9@gmail.com

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Investing in active transportation infrastructure in Lower Sackville

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia, September 21, 2024 — The Lower Sackville area has access to a new section of trail after an investment of over $680,000 from the federal, provincial, and municipal governments and non-profit organizations.

    This was announced by Parliamentary Secretary Darrell Samson, MLA Steve Craig, Mayor Mike Savage, Brenden Blotnicky of the Trans Canada Trail, and Matthew Spicer of the Sackville Lakes Park and Trails Association.

    The investment helped build an additional 1.5 km of the Beech Hill Trail, now a 2.9 km gravel trail located within the Sackville Lakes Provincial Park. The trail will support important linkages to other regional and provincial trail networks. The trail, designed for pedestrians and cyclists, stretches from First Lake Drive to Cobequid Road, creating a link from within the park to Cobequid Road.

    Quotes

    “This trail is a great addition to the Sackville Lakes Provincial Park, which provides walking and cycling trails in a forest setting for those living in close-by urban areas. The federal government is investing in active transportation networks across Canada to make it easier, safer, and more convenient for Canadians to navigate their communities without their cars, reducing greenhouse gases and increasing opportunities for movement in our everyday lives.”

    Darrell Samson, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Member of Parliament for Sackville–Preston–Chezzetcook, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “Providing greener and cleaner ways to get from place to place helps Nova Scotia continue to be a leader when it comes to responding to climate change. With the funding announced today, people of all ages and abilities — will have more safe, accessible and environmentally friendly ways to move around the community.”

    The Honourable Steve Craig, MLA for Sackville–Cobequid on behalf of the Honourable Allan MacMaster, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage

    “This investment in the extension of the Beech Hill Trail will help more people connect to nature and stay active, providing greater access to valued trail systems.”

    His Worship Mike Savage, Mayor of the Halifax Regional Municipality

    “What a great asset to the community! The Beech Hill Trail has just been completed in Sackville Lakes Provincial Park. It is 2.9 km of crusher-dust surfaced trail with the final 1.5 km piece just finished. Trail users by the hundreds have already taken advantage of this route which joins the Windsor Junction area to the Sackville community. We were excited to celebrate the official opening of the trail September 21. The Sackville Lakes Park and Trails Association has been co-managing Sackville Lakes Provincial Park with the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables since the park was designated in 2013. Our trail development work in this natural area started in 2001. We have had lots of help building the Beech Hill Trail including funds from Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada; ACOA; Nova Scotia Department of Community, Culture, Tourism and Heritage; Halifax Regional Municipality Active Transportation; Trans Canada Trail; and private sponsors. We have had guidance and infrastructure help from the NS Department of Natural Resources and Renewables. And of course it could not have happened without the hundreds of volunteer hours from members of our association. Thank you to all who came to celebrate the opening or our newest Active Transportation trail.”

    Matthew Spicer, Sackville Lakes Park and Trails Association

    Quick facts

    • The federal government is investing up to $237,642 in this phase of the project through the Active Transportation Fund (ATF). The provincial government contributed $94,000, while the Halifax Regional Municipality contributed $205,000. The Sackville Lakes Park and Trails Association contributed $136,701 and the Trans Canada Trail contributed $15,000. 

    • Active transportation refers to the movement of people or goods powered by human activity. It includes walking, cycling and the use of human-powered or hybrid mobility aids such as wheelchairs, scooters, e-bikes, rollerblades, snowshoes, cross-country skis, and more.

    • In support of Canada’s National Active Transportation Strategy, the Active Transportation Fund is providing $400 million over five years, starting in 2021, to make travel by active transportation easier, safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable.

    • The National Active Transportation Strategy is the country’s first coast-to-coast-to-coast strategic approach for promoting active transportation and its benefits. The strategy’s aim is to make data-driven and evidence-based investments to build new and expanded active transportation networks, while supporting equitable, healthy, active, and sustainable travel options.

    • Investing in active transportation infrastructure provides many tangible benefits, such as creating good, middle-class jobs, strengthening the economy, promoting healthier lifestyles, ensuring everyone has access to the same services and opportunities, cutting air and noise pollution, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

    • The new Canada Public Transit Fund (CPTF) will provide an average of $3 billion a year of permanent funding to respond to local transit needs by enhancing integrated planning, improving access to public transit and active transportation, and supporting the development of more affordable, sustainable, and inclusive communities.

    • The CPTF supports transit and active transportation investments in three streams: Metro Region Agreements, Baseline Funding, and Targeted Funding.

    • We are currently accepting Expression of Interest submissions for Metro-Region Agreements and Baseline Funding. Visit the Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada website for more information.

    • The funding announced today builds on the federal government’s work through the Atlantic Growth Strategy to create well-paying jobs and strengthen local economies.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information (media only), please contact:

    Micaal Ahmed
    Communications Manager
    Office of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
    343-598-3920
    micaal.ahmed@infc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
    613-960-9251
    Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
    Email: media-medias@infc.gc.ca
    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
    Web: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

    Susan Mader-Zinck 
    Communications Advisor 
    Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage 
    902-499-1343 
    Susan.mader-zinck@novascotia.ca

    John Wedderburn
    Halifax Regional Municipality
    john.wedderburn@halifax.ca

    Melissa Boland
    Sackville Lakes Park and Trails Association
    902-717-0640
    melissasperry9@gmail.com

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: United States and Uzbekistan Sign MOU on Critical Minerals Partnership

    Source: United States Department of State (4)

    Office of the Spokesperson

    United States and Uzbekistan Sign MOU on Critical Minerals Partnership

    Media Note

    September 16, 2024

    Today, Ambassador Jonathan Henick and First Deputy Minister of Geology Omonullo Nasritdinxodjaev signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen cooperation between the United States and Uzbekistan on critical minerals.  The signing ceremony took place in Tashkent, ahead of the Government of Uzbekistan’s participation in MINExpo INTERNATIONAL, the mining industry’s largest global event, taking place in Las Vegas. 

    In line with the initiative announced by President Biden and the presidents of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan at the September 19, 2023, C5+1 Presidential Summit in New York, the MOU signifies the intention of the United States and Uzbekistan to diversify global mineral supply chains and advance the clean energy transition, while also protecting Central Asia’s unique ecosystems.   

    Critical minerals and rare earth elements play an increasingly important role in our economies.  The United States and Uzbekistan are actively working to encourage private sector investment in Uzbekistan’s mining sector. The MOU further reflects both sides’ shared goal of strong environmental, labor, and governance practices in the global mining sector.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Four devolution agreements signed off and others progressing

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Step forward in government’s drive to hand more power from Westminster to local people with skin in the game

    Four areas will receive more power from Westminster in the latest step in the government’s devolution revolution, which will deliver real change by boosting economic growth across the country. 

    The government has today (19) signed off on agreements for regional mayors in Greater Lincolnshire and in Hull & East Yorkshire, and to establish combined county authorities in both Devon & Torbay and Lancashire. 

    The agreements signed today will mean local leaders have the power to make decisions in areas such as transport, adult education, and housing, boosting economic growth and opportunity, which are at the heart of the government’s agenda. 

    Mayors will be elected in Greater Lincolnshire and Hull & East Yorkshire – the last part of Yorkshire to be covered by a devolution deal – in May 2025 and will have control over transport, housing, skills, and investment to shape the future of their area. 

    For Devon & Torbay and Lancashire, combined county authorities will be established in early 2025 handed the responsibility for adult education. Ministers are encouraging local leaders to deepen these devolution deals and take strides towards mayoral devolution as a gold standard. 

    Subject to parliamentary approval and local consent, the devolution agreements will mean local leaders can make decisions that benefit their communities and harness the unique opportunities of their areas.   

    Devolution is central to the government’s mission to economic growth, but only around half of the people in England currently benefit from these arrangements. The Deputy Prime Minister wants every area to have the opportunity to benefit from new powers. 

    At the heart of the government’s drive to shift powers away from Westminster is the flagship English Devolution Bill, which will be introduced to give new powers to mayors and combined authorities – and roll out Local Growth Plans designed to maximise opportunities for growth.  

    Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:

    “This is only the first step of our major ambition to drive forward our devolution revolution, and ensure we empower more communities and strengthen the existing powers of our brilliant mayors.”

    The government is also minded to progress with the four non-mayoral ‘Level 2’ Single Local Authority devolution agreements with Cornwall Council, Buckinghamshire Council, Warwickshire County Council, and Surrey County Council, subject to further statutory tests being met. These agreements are an important step for places to see early benefits from devolution in the short-term. However, in making this downpayment in good faith, the government is encouraging these areas to continue working to explore the next steps towards deeper and wider devolution. 

    Today’s announcement comes after the Deputy Prime Minister’s letter inviting councils to share proposals for new devolution agreements over sensible geographies. The letter kickstarted the devolution revolution and the government expects more deals to be announced in the months to come.  

    The government strongly believes that the benefits of devolution are best achieved through the establishment of combined institutions with a directly elected leader. Mayors should have a unique role in an institution which allows them to focus fully on their devolved strategic responsibilities, working hand in glove with council leaders who will vitally also focus on the delivery of the essential services for which they are responsible. Conflating these two responsibilities into the same individual and institution, as is the case under the mayoral Single Local Authority model of devolution, would risk the optimal delivery of both and is not in line with the government’s approach to English devolution. 

    The government will therefore not proceed with the mayoral deals with Norfolk County Council and Suffolk County Council agreed with the previous government in December 2022 and instead intends to continue discussions over devolution in Norfolk & Suffolk. 

    The government will publish further detail on our approach to devolution in due course.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Thursday, 26 September 2024

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

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

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

    A new Fire Danger Rating system was introduced in 2022 across Australia so whether you’re at home or travelling, you will see the same rating system. 

    The new Fire Danger Ratings

    There are four levels of fire danger in the new system:

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

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

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

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

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

    What do the ratings mean and what should you do?

    CATASTROPHIC

    What does it mean?

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

    • These are the most dangerous conditions for a fire.

    What should I do?

    For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas.

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

    EXTREME

    What does it mean?

    Fires will spread quickly and be extremely dangerous.

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

    What should I do?

    Take action now to protect your life and property

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

    HIGH

    What does it mean?

    Fires can be dangerous.

    What should I do?

    Be ready to act.

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

    MODERATE

    What does it mean?

    Most fires can be controlled.

    What should I do?

    Plan and prepare.

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

    NO RATING

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

    Find out more

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

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

     

    Page last updated:  Wednesday, 6 March 2024 9:16:53 AM

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Sunday, 22 September 2024

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

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

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

    A new Fire Danger Rating system was introduced in 2022 across Australia so whether you’re at home or travelling, you will see the same rating system. 

    The new Fire Danger Ratings

    There are four levels of fire danger in the new system:

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

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

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

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

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

    What do the ratings mean and what should you do?

    CATASTROPHIC

    What does it mean?

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

    • These are the most dangerous conditions for a fire.

    What should I do?

    For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas.

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

    EXTREME

    What does it mean?

    Fires will spread quickly and be extremely dangerous.

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

    What should I do?

    Take action now to protect your life and property

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

    HIGH

    What does it mean?

    Fires can be dangerous.

    What should I do?

    Be ready to act.

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

    MODERATE

    What does it mean?

    Most fires can be controlled.

    What should I do?

    Plan and prepare.

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

    NO RATING

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

    Find out more

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

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

     

    Page last updated:  Wednesday, 6 March 2024 9:16:53 AM

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Monday, 23 September 2024

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

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

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

    A new Fire Danger Rating system was introduced in 2022 across Australia so whether you’re at home or travelling, you will see the same rating system. 

    The new Fire Danger Ratings

    There are four levels of fire danger in the new system:

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

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

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

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

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

    What do the ratings mean and what should you do?

    CATASTROPHIC

    What does it mean?

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

    • These are the most dangerous conditions for a fire.

    What should I do?

    For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas.

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

    EXTREME

    What does it mean?

    Fires will spread quickly and be extremely dangerous.

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

    What should I do?

    Take action now to protect your life and property

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

    HIGH

    What does it mean?

    Fires can be dangerous.

    What should I do?

    Be ready to act.

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

    MODERATE

    What does it mean?

    Most fires can be controlled.

    What should I do?

    Plan and prepare.

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

    NO RATING

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

    Find out more

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

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

     

    Page last updated:  Wednesday, 6 March 2024 9:16:53 AM

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Tuesday, 24 September 2024

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

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

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

    A new Fire Danger Rating system was introduced in 2022 across Australia so whether you’re at home or travelling, you will see the same rating system. 

    The new Fire Danger Ratings

    There are four levels of fire danger in the new system:

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

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

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

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

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

    What do the ratings mean and what should you do?

    CATASTROPHIC

    What does it mean?

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

    • These are the most dangerous conditions for a fire.

    What should I do?

    For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas.

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

    EXTREME

    What does it mean?

    Fires will spread quickly and be extremely dangerous.

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

    What should I do?

    Take action now to protect your life and property

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

    HIGH

    What does it mean?

    Fires can be dangerous.

    What should I do?

    Be ready to act.

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

    MODERATE

    What does it mean?

    Most fires can be controlled.

    What should I do?

    Plan and prepare.

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

    NO RATING

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

    Find out more

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

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

     

    Page last updated:  Wednesday, 6 March 2024 9:16:53 AM

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Wednesday, 25 September 2024

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

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

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

    A new Fire Danger Rating system was introduced in 2022 across Australia so whether you’re at home or travelling, you will see the same rating system. 

    The new Fire Danger Ratings

    There are four levels of fire danger in the new system:

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

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

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

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

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

    What do the ratings mean and what should you do?

    CATASTROPHIC

    What does it mean?

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

    • These are the most dangerous conditions for a fire.

    What should I do?

    For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas.

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

    EXTREME

    What does it mean?

    Fires will spread quickly and be extremely dangerous.

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

    What should I do?

    Take action now to protect your life and property

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

    HIGH

    What does it mean?

    Fires can be dangerous.

    What should I do?

    Be ready to act.

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

    MODERATE

    What does it mean?

    Most fires can be controlled.

    What should I do?

    Plan and prepare.

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

    NO RATING

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

    Find out more

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

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

     

    Page last updated:  Wednesday, 6 March 2024 9:16:53 AM

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Agricultural Societies Day: Minister Sigurdson

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    “Sept. 21 marks Agricultural Societies Day in Alberta, a chance for everyone across the province to recognize and appreciate the hard work ag societies do and the difference they make in our communities.

    “Alberta is home to 292 agricultural societies, the most in Canada. Ag societies own or operate more than 900 different types of facilities and host more than 37,000 activities or events in our province every year. If you’ve been to a rodeo, farmers’ market or bonspiel, there’s a good chance you have an ag society to thank.

    “Ag societies are the backbone of many rural communities and have been for decades. There are even some that are older than Alberta itself, like the Calgary Stampede, which started in 1884 as the Calgary and District Agricultural Society.

    “We are proud to support them through the Agricultural Societies Infrastructure Revitalization Program, which provided $5 million in total grants for 71 projects over the last two years. Through this program, we have been able to help improve and repair commercial kitchens, dressing rooms, roofing and so much more. That’s on top of the Agricultural Societies Grant Program, which gives $11.5 million in stable operational funding every year.

    “Today, take a minute to appreciate agricultural societies and the folks who dedicate so much time and energy to ensuring their communities are excellent places to live. On behalf of all Albertans, a big, sincere thank you to all of our agricultural societies and the impact you have on our province.”

    Related information

    • Alberta Agricultural Societies Program

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks as Prepared for Delivery by First Lady Jill  Biden at a Celebration for the Opening of “The People’s House: A White  House Experience”

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    The South Lawn
    Thank you, Fig. You inspire young people to get excited about their education, especially in STEM. We’re lucky to have you guiding the future of the White House Historical Association.
    And I’m glad to see so many Association board members with us. I know you all have had a packed schedule these past few days. Your commitment to this project warms my heart. Thank you.
    Earlier, we heard from the Suitland High School Choir. We appreciate you sharing your voices with us today.
    And thank you, Emma, JD, and Jonas, for leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance!
    We’ve also had the Armed Forces Color Guard presenting the colors, and the President’s Own Marine Band playing the beautiful music we’ve heard this afternoon. Joe and I are so grateful to you and your families for your service to our nation.
    And it’s great to see so many kids on the South Lawn. The project we’re celebrating today is for you.    
    Welcome, everyone, to the White House!
    Doorway by doorway, moment by moment, every piece of the White House is cloaked in history—whether it’s in the Cabinet Room where President Kennedy deliberated over the Cuban Missile Crisis, or the East Room where President Theodore Roosevelt once held a wrestling match.
    Kids roller skated in the room where we host heads of state, and nearby, in the Red Room, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt held her own press conferences back when women were excluded from the President’s press briefings.
    Some guests at the White House have the chance to step inside these rooms—in fact, around 3,000 people come through these halls every day. But the reality is that many people never get that opportunity.
    Even fewer get to walk through the Rose Garden and the Oval Office. And almost no one gets to go behind the scenes to hear from the Chief Floral Designer or glimpse the upper floor of the residence.
    Until now.
    Starting Monday, an immersive learning center will be open to all.
    “The People’s House: A White House Experience” will bring new generations closer to the home behind me, sparking greater curiosity for civics education and our democracy.
    Teachers know the best way to learn is by involving all of the senses—and lingering in the little details that stand out to you.
    Right across the street, people will be able to interact and experience how our government works. 
    That makes this new space a powerful kind of classroom. Because when people learn more about our democracy, they will be more inspired to participate in it.
    At 1700 Pennsylvania Avenue, in an exact replica of the Oval Office, you can feel the gravity of sitting behind the President’s Resolute desk. You can join the intense deliberations of a Cabinet meeting. And you can get swept away by the 360-degree enchantment of a State Dinner.
    Along the way, you’ll meet people who have lived and worked here across centuries—from Cabinet Secretaries advising the President in times of war, to the chefs, ushers, and florists who work together to arrange the most intricate details of American diplomacy.
    Students will imagine themselves as public servants through interactive technology, and teachers will have dedicated spaces to bring their lesson plans to life.
    Stewart, you’ve put your whole heart and soul into “The People’s House”—and frankly, I’m not sure when you found the time to sleep! Month after month, you guided this project with careful precision and breathtaking speed.
    I’ve been a part of the process from when it was just an idea, to the final touches—and I can’t wait for everyone to see it.
    So, let’s get started. In just a moment, a group of students will load onto a bus to experience this incredible, immersive space. 
    I know it will encourage them to embrace the wonder of White House history, and inspire them to shape our nation’s future.
    Thank you, and please enjoy the celebration!

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Remarks as Prepared for Delivery by First Lady Jill  Biden at a Celebration for the Opening of “The People’s House: A White  House Experience”

    Source: The White House

    The South Lawn

    Thank you, Fig. You inspire young people to get excited about their education, especially in STEM. We’re lucky to have you guiding the future of the White House Historical Association.

    And I’m glad to see so many Association board members with us. I know you all have had a packed schedule these past few days. Your commitment to this project warms my heart. Thank you.

    Earlier, we heard from the Suitland High School Choir. We appreciate you sharing your voices with us today.

    And thank you, Emma, JD, and Jonas, for leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance!

    We’ve also had the Armed Forces Color Guard presenting the colors, and the President’s Own Marine Band playing the beautiful music we’ve heard this afternoon. Joe and I are so grateful to you and your families for your service to our nation.

    And it’s great to see so many kids on the South Lawn. The project we’re celebrating today is for you.    

    Welcome, everyone, to the White House!

    Doorway by doorway, moment by moment, every piece of the White House is cloaked in history—whether it’s in the Cabinet Room where President Kennedy deliberated over the Cuban Missile Crisis, or the East Room where President Theodore Roosevelt once held a wrestling match.

    Kids roller skated in the room where we host heads of state, and nearby, in the Red Room, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt held her own press conferences back when women were excluded from the President’s press briefings.

    Some guests at the White House have the chance to step inside these rooms—in fact, around 3,000 people come through these halls every day. But the reality is that many people never get that opportunity.

    Even fewer get to walk through the Rose Garden and the Oval Office. And almost no one gets to go behind the scenes to hear from the Chief Floral Designer or glimpse the upper floor of the residence.

    Until now.

    Starting Monday, an immersive learning center will be open to all.

    “The People’s House: A White House Experience” will bring new generations closer to the home behind me, sparking greater curiosity for civics education and our democracy.

    Teachers know the best way to learn is by involving all of the senses—and lingering in the little details that stand out to you.

    Right across the street, people will be able to interact and experience how our government works. 

    That makes this new space a powerful kind of classroom. Because when people learn more about our democracy, they will be more inspired to participate in it.

    At 1700 Pennsylvania Avenue, in an exact replica of the Oval Office, you can feel the gravity of sitting behind the President’s Resolute desk. You can join the intense deliberations of a Cabinet meeting. And you can get swept away by the 360-degree enchantment of a State Dinner.

    Along the way, you’ll meet people who have lived and worked here across centuries—from Cabinet Secretaries advising the President in times of war, to the chefs, ushers, and florists who work together to arrange the most intricate details of American diplomacy.

    Students will imagine themselves as public servants through interactive technology, and teachers will have dedicated spaces to bring their lesson plans to life.

    Stewart, you’ve put your whole heart and soul into “The People’s House”—and frankly, I’m not sure when you found the time to sleep! Month after month, you guided this project with careful precision and breathtaking speed.

    I’ve been a part of the process from when it was just an idea, to the final touches—and I can’t wait for everyone to see it.

    So, let’s get started. In just a moment, a group of students will load onto a bus to experience this incredible, immersive space. 

    I know it will encourage them to embrace the wonder of White House history, and inspire them to shape our nation’s future.

    Thank you, and please enjoy the celebration!

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Indo-Pacific Senior Military Official, Republic of Palau strengthen partnership, security, defense at Joint Committee Meeting in Palau

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    PELELIU, Palau  –  

    The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s Senior Military Official in Guam and Palau Rear Adm. Greg Huffman, commander, Joint Task Force-Micronesia (JTF-M), the President of Palau Surangle Whipps, Jr., and the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Palau Joel Ehrendreich hosted a bilateral Palau-U.S. Joint Committee Meeting (JCM) in Peleliu, Sept. 16-17.

    Senior leaders including ambassadors, ministers, senators, governors, and advisors from across the Republic of Palau gathered with representatives from the U.S. Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, Navy, Marine Corps, and other governmental organizations for the two-day event to discuss the United States’ ongoing commitment to security and defense in the region.

    “The foundation of the Joint Committee Meeting is our robust partnership,” Huffman said. “In order for our military to train and operate here — to protect and defend the Republic of Palau — it is essential for the right infrastructure to be in place. While there is much progress ahead, I’m so proud of the work we have already accomplished together. The improvements we have made will benefit both the Palau community and our military force, strengthening our defensive posture in the region for years to come.”

    Held a day after Marine Corps Forces, Pacific’s ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Peleliu and located adjacent to the memorial, the meeting focused on working together to protect Palau’s national sovereignty, territory, domestic population, and critical infrastructure against external threats and aggression. Subject-matter experts provided briefs on progress made in Palau over the past six months in addition to plans for future collaboration with Palau national and regional law enforcement, and capacity building to improve internal stability, maritime security, cyber security, maritime domain awareness, border protection capabilities, and maritime safety; and increasing capacity- building efforts to improve Palau’s incident response readiness.

    “I commend everybody for the spirit of cooperation and collaboration that all have shown during this important meeting,” Ehrendreich said. “This is really a great representation of the state of U.S.-Palau relations right now — the outstanding partnership and cooperation we have.”

    This was the first Palau-U.S. Joint Committee Meeting held since Huffman assumed responsibilities as the first commander of JTF-M in June. Once fully operational, JTF-M will synchronize operations and activities across all domains, enabling a robust warfighting posture while enhancing partner nation capacity. Dedicated to promoting regional stability, JTF-M will perform homeland defense, Defense Support to Civil Authorities (DSCA), and foreign humanitarian assistance through a whole-of-government approach within its assigned joint operations area.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Announces 180 Guns Turned in at Amsterdam Gun Buyback

    Source: US State of New York

    NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced that 180 firearms were turned in at a community gun buyback event in Amsterdam hosted by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and the Amsterdam Police Department. This event was part of Attorney General James’ ongoing effort to combat gun violence and keep New Yorkers safe. In addition to the guns turned in at the Amsterdam event, Attorney General James secured an additional 82 firearms from a community gun buyback event in Saranac Lake, bringing the total number of guns secured today to 262. To date, Attorney General James has removed more than 7,662 guns from New York communities since taking office in 2019.

    “Every gun taken off our streets and out of our homes is a potential tragedy averted,” said Attorney General James. “Gun buyback events empower members of local communities and nearby regions to turn in their firearms and be part of the solution against gun violence. Through strong partnerships with local law enforcement, my office has been able to run successful gun buyback programs throughout New York state, and has helped local communities remove more than 7,662 firearms. I thank the City of Amsterdam’s Police Department, and all of our partners in today’s gun buyback event, for their commitment to helping safeguard New Yorkers.”

    Today’s buyback event in Amsterdam resulted in 180 guns being turned in, including 17 assault weapons, 100 handguns, and 47 long guns. Following today’s gun buyback events held in Amsterdam and Saranac Lake, Attorney General James has helped remove more than 7,650 guns out of New York communities.

    “Gun buyback programs are a practical approach to removing illegal firearms from our communities, reducing the potential for their involvement in criminal activity,” said Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara. “Supporting these initiatives reinforces our commitment to public safety and helps protect our families, children, and first responders. This event is another step in our efforts to prevent gun violence and promote safer neighborhoods. By working together, we can ensure a safer future for everyone.”

    “I commend not only Attorney General James but our local law enforcement, for collaborating to host today’s gun buyback program in the City of Amsterdam,” said Montgomery County Executive Robert Purtell. “Their efforts are the right step towards ensuring illegal and unregistered firearms are taken off the streets of our communities.”

    “Thank you to the New York State Attorney General and our local law enforcement partners for spearheading the recent gun buyback program in Amsterdam,” said Montgomery County Sheriff Jeffery T. Smith. “This initiative not only promotes community safety but also fosters a collaborative spirit in our fight against gun violence. Together, we are making our neighborhoods safer for all.”

    “The Gloversville Police Department is proud to be part of the effort to reduce gun violence in our communities,” said Gloversville Police Chief Michael F. Garavelli. “We have seen a dramatic increase in the number of illegal firearms taken off our streets in the past five years by our officers. Even small cities and rural communities are not immune from illegal firearms, privately made firearms or “ghost” guns as they are commonly referred to, and the senseless violence that comes with them. This is the first time that this area has had any type of gun buyback program, but we hope it is successful and not the last.”

    “This gun buyback event was only possible because of the strong partnership between local law enforcement and the Office of the Attorney General,” said Amsterdam Police Lieutenant Joseph E. Spencer. “The work that goes into organizing and executing a gun buyback event is all worth it when we see dozens of dangerous weapons being turned in by members of the community, and we are all safer as a result. I applaud Attorney General James for making gun buyback events like this a priority for her office and team.”

    “Every unwanted gun turned in by its owner is one less gun that can fall into the wrong hands and be used to commit a crime or add to the abhorrent number of gun deaths that already occur in this country,” said Amsterdam Mayor Michael Cinquanti. “Our city is grateful for the opportunity to again participate in this gun buyback program.”

    “The gun buyback program is a great way to get guns that are not secured off the streets and properly accounted for,” said Fort Plain Mayor Patrick Hanifin. “This is a great way to keep guns out of the hands of irresponsible people.”

    “Public safety is our top priority and as a community, we need to create an environment that is safe for all citizens,” said JohnstownMayor Amy Praught. “Today’s gun buyback event is just one way we can all work together to make a much safer community for all.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/VIETNAM – “WYO4children”: a musical project that heals wounds and opens people up

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Ho Chi Minh City (Agenzia Fides) – The orphans of the home run by the Missionary sisters of Charity in the diocese of Phu Cuong, in southern Vietnam, have learned that “music heals the wounds of the heart”, said Fr. Dominic Nguyen Van Lam, a 40-year-old Vietnamese priest, to Fides, referring to a special musical initiative with orphans on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City. “They are children marked by suffering and the hardships of life. Music has given them back their self-confidence and joy in life, which is reflected in the relationships between them and in the not always easy relationship with the teachers and the sisters. Music is and remains a tool for human and spiritual growth that can restore the virtuous circle of love,” explains the Catholic priest who coordinates the WYO4children project as part of the Sounds of Brotherhood initiative promoted by the World Youth Orchestra (WYO) Foundation, which is being carried out this year in Vietnam thanks to the support of the Italian Cassa Depositi e Prestiti Foundation and other sponsors.As part of a cultural cooperation initiative, the project offered concrete support to orphaned and abandoned children in Vietnam, “to emphasize three fundamental values of life: friendship, brotherhood, peace,” explained Adolfo Vannucci, President of the World Youth Orchestra Foundation.At the “Home of Mother’s Love” in Binh Duong, where around 20 nuns look after a total of 80 orphaned and abandoned children and young people aged 5 to 17 from difficult family backgrounds, the young people took part in music workshops throughout the year and at the end presented the musical skills they had acquired in the last few days.Father Dominic emphasizes “the power of music, which has brought about positive changes in the children’s lives. Since they have come into contact with music and play an instrument, they are happier and the results can also be seen at school. The atmosphere in the house has become more cheerful.” “Music,” the priest continues, “builds mutual love: this path has not only helped the children to become more sensitive, both internally and in their relationships with their neighbors; it has also helped me, the teachers and the sisters to rediscover the joy of love and care when we share our time with them.” “The Missionaries of Charity confirm how much the children’s lives have improved, especially because everyone is now smiling. Music was a means of bringing back smiles and openness to love God and neighbour,” the priest concluded.In the diocese of Phu Cuong, which has around 165,000 Catholics in a population of more than 4 million people, the Catholic community is very keen on charitable and social activities. It works to help disadvantaged or poor people and provides scholarships to poor students, an initiative that the local bishop Joseph Nguyen Tan Tuoc wanted to extend to the “Home of Mother’s Love”. This enables the children to attend school for free. The local church provides accommodation and care for children of ethnic minorities from remote areas and works to improve their material and spiritual life. The “Wyo4children” project is part of this framework.The World Youth Orchestra, which has 23 years of musical and social activity, is present in 75 countries, has 300 international partners, including universities and music academies, and has involved more than 3,500 talented young musicians worldwide. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 21/9/2024)

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Priority One effective in getting kids into homes

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Ki te kahore he whakakitenga, ka ngaro te Iwi – without a vision, the people will perish.

    The latest data on whānau moved from emergency housing motels into social homes shows that Priority One is making a huge difference, Associate Minister of Housing Tama Potaka says.

    “At the end of August this year, the total number of households in emergency housing motels had reduced by 57 per cent under our Government, from 3141 in December last year to 1365 at the end of August. The daily cost to the taxpayer has fallen from about $1 million a day to around half that.

    “In April, we brought in our Priority One policy, a key election promise from National, which prioritises whānau with tamariki who have been in emergency housing for 12 weeks or more to move into social homes. So far, thanks to Priority One, we’ve seen around 645 households move from emergency housing into social housing. That includes over 1311 children who no longer have to live in unsuitable dank motels.

    “I recently met a dad who had been moving between homeless shelters, a caravan, and his car. He told me that moving into his home earlier this year has been life-changing for him and his daughter. His teenage daughter is now settled, achieving excellence at school and he told me that his daughter now has goals in life.

    “I also met a mum whose four young tamariki are living in a stable home for the first time in their lives after cycling in and out of emergency housing for years. She said: ‘It was just me and my babies sleeping in one bed in emergency housing before I got this home’.

    “Unlike the previous government which didn’t know where half the people leaving these motels had gone, we are continually improving our insights on those entering and exiting emergency housing. 

    “We now know that about 80 per cent of those leaving emergency housing go into some form of social or private housing because of support they receive. The remaining people are not accessing any government housing supports administered by the Ministry of Social Development.

    “People don’t have to tell us where they are moving to, and they may no longer need to access government support – people living in emergency housing should not be judged as being incapable of navigating their own lives. We need to balance the requirement to monitor the effectiveness of our interventions with the need to respect people’s reasonable right to privacy.

    “Officials are monitoring the risk of increased homelessness through regular engagement with housing and social service providers. Officials are also working to better understand homelessness. It’s important to remember too that emergency housing remains available as a temporary last resort for people in greatest need.

    “With the targeted supports we’re offering, and more social housing and private rentals becoming available, people have more options for finding houses they can make into homes.

    “Over the two years to 30 June 2026, Kāinga Ora will be adding 2,650 homes to the state housing stock, and our Government has committed to delivering 1,500 new social housing homes by June 2027 to keep the pipeline of social houses coming. These new social homes will be delivered by Community Housing Providers.

    “We are committed to achieving our target of reducing the number of households in emergency housing by 75 per cent by 2030 and I am encouraged by the progress we are making towards this target.”

    Whakaarotau Tuatahi: kia whaikāinga ō tātou tamariki

    Ki te kahore he whakakitenga, ka ngaro te Iwi.

    E tohu ana ngā raraunga hou mō ngā whānau kua hūnuku i ngā nōhanga tata ki ngā kāinga pāpori i te hurihanga nui kua puta i te Whakaarotau Tuatahi, hei tā te Minita Tuarua mō ngā take whare a Tama Potaka.

    “I te hiku o te marama o Here-turi-kōka i tēnei tau, i heke te rahinga o ngā whānau e noho ana i ngā mōtera nōhanga tata i te 57 ōrau i raro i tō mātou Kāwanatanga, mai 3141 i te marama o Hakihea i tērā tau ki 1365 i te mutunga o Here-turi-kōka i tēnei tau. Kua heke te utu o te ia rā mō te kaiutu tāke i te takiwā o te kotahi miriona tāra ia rā, ā kātata ki te hāwhe o tērā.

    “I te marama o Paengawhāwhā, i whakarewa mātou i te kaupapa here o Whakaarotau Tuatahi, he kī taurangi nō te pōtitanga a-motu a Nahinara, e aronui ana ki ngā whānau whai tamariki kua noho i ngā nōhanga tata mō te 12 wiki, neke atu rānei kia hūnuku ki ngā kāinga pāpori.  Hoi anō, kua kite mātou ngā hua o te Whakaarotau Tuatahi, ā tata ki te 645 whānau kua hūnuku i ngā nōhanga tata ki ngā kāinga pāpori. Tae ana ki ngā tamariki neke atu i te 1311, kua kore e hoki ki ngā mōtera karukaru, hūnounou anō hoki.

    “Nō naia tata ake nei i tūtaki ki tētahi pāpā i nuku haere i waenga i ngā whare tāwharau, tētahi whare tāwhai me tōna waka. I kī mai ia kua huri te ao mōna me tana tamāhine, i tōna taunga ki tōna ake kāinga i tēnei tau. Kua mahuru tana tamāhine, kua angitū ia i te kura, waihoki i kī mai ia he whāinga nui tō tana tamāhine ināianei.

    “I tūtaki hoki au ki tētahi māmā katahi anō rātou ko ōna tamariki tokowha ka noho ki tētahi kāinga haumaru, ā kua roa nei e uru, e puta anō hoki i ngā nōhanga tata i roto i ngā tau. I kī mai ia ‘Ko au me aku pēpē anake, e moe tahi ana i te moenga kotahi i roto i ngā nōhanga tata i mua i taku whai i tēnei kāinga’. 

    “E kore e whai i te kāwanatanga o mua e kūare ana i ngā nekehanga o te haurua o ngā tāngata e puta ana i ngā mōtera, ka whanake haere mātou i ngā mōhiotanga o ngā tāngata e uru, e puta anō hoki i ngā nōhanga tata.

    “E mōhio ana mātou ināianei e haere ana te 80 ōrau o ngā tāngata e puta ana i ngā nōhanga tata ki tētahi momo kāinga pāpori, kāinga motuhake rānei nā te momo penihana i whakawhiwhia e rātou. Ko te toenga o ngā tāngata kāore e whai i tētahi penihana whare o te kāwanatanga, nā te Manatū Whakahīato Ora i tuku. 

    “Ehara i te mea me whakamōhio mai ngā tāngata i ō rātou nekehanga, ā tērā pea kāore e whaitake te kimi penihana o te kāwanatanga – kia kaua e whakawā i te hunga e noho ana i ngā nōhanga tata me te pōhēhē  e kore e tāea e rātou te whaioranga. Me whakataurite mātou i ngā mahi haepapa ki te aroturuki i ngā hua ka puta i ngā kaupapa me te  whakaaro hoki ki ngā tikanga mana tangata kia noho motuhake.

    “Ko te pikinga o te kāingakoretanga tētahi tūraru e aroturuki ana e ngā kaimahi i roto i ngā hononga ki ngā ratonga whare, ratonga hauora anō hoki. Ka whanake hoki ngā kaimahi i te mōhiotanga e pā ki te kāingakoretanga. Me maumahara tonu kei reira tonu ngā nōhanga tata hei kōwhiringa whakamutunga mō te hunga e tino hiahia nei.

    “Mā ngā kaupapa hāpai e whakaritea nei e mātou, me te whanake haere o ngā kāīnga pāpori me ngā kāinga rēti anō hoki e whai wāhi ana, ka nui ake ngā ara whai whare, hei kāinga mō te tangata.

    “I roto i ngā tau e rua, tae ana ki te 30 o Pipiri 2026, ka hangaia e Kāinga Ora kia 2650 ngā whare tūmatanui, ka ū hoki tō mātou Kāwanatanga kia 1500 ngā kāinga pāpori hou ka whakatūria i mua i te Pipiri hei te tau 2027 kia pakari ai te pūnaha kāinga pāpori. Mā ngā Ratonga Whare Hapori ēnei kāinga pāpori e whakatū.

    “E ū ana ki tā mātou whāinga kia angitū, kia heke te rahinga o ngā whānau e noho ana i ngā nōhanga tata i te 75 ōrau hei te tau 2030, waihoki e hiamo ana ahau i ngā hua kua puta kia tutuki tēnei whāinga.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –