NewzIntel.com

Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Rise of India’s Indigenous Sports to the Global Stage” — A Call to Celebrate and Globalize India’s Sporting Heritage, at WAVES 2025

    Source: Government of India

    “Rise of India’s Indigenous Sports to the Global Stage” — A Call to Celebrate and Globalize India’s Sporting Heritage, at WAVES 2025

    Indigenous games are not just physical contests, but an integral part of our communities, traditions and identity: Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi

    Khelo India initiative is a transformative force in nurturing grassroots talent and shaping the future of Indian sports: Raksha Nikhil Khadse

    Posted On: 04 MAY 2025 2:50PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai | 4 May 2025

    In a spirited and insightful panel discussion held yesterday at WAVES, Mumbai, the spotlight was turned on the rich heritage of Indigenous Sports and their growing journey from Indian heartlands to global arenas. The session, titled “Indigenous Sports: From India to the Global Stage”, witnessed the convergence of influential policymakers, celebrated athletes, sports entrepreneurs, and thought leaders united in a shared vision: to catapult India’s native games to international recognition and success.

    Delivering the keynote address, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Chief Minister of Odisha, passionately highlighted the deep cultural roots of indigenous sports in India. “These games are not just physical contests; they are an integral part of our communities, our traditions, and our identity,” he said, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his visionary leadership towards making India a global sports powerhouse. Shri Majhi further highlighted that Odisha, home to vibrant tribal communities has preserved these ancient games and is emerging as a sports hub. “We are committed to nurturing rural talents and ensuring every gifted athlete finds a platform to shine”, he stated.

    Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the WAVES platform for fostering a meaningful dialogue around this significant movement. “India has already emerged as a global ambassador of Yoga. Now, we are proudly showcasing our traditional games like Kho-Kho and Kabaddi on the international stage. The Khelo India initiative is proving to be a transformative force in nurturing grassroots talent and shaping the future of Indian sports,” she remarked. She further emphasized that sports not only promote physical well-being but also strengthen relationships and foster unity—reflecting the very essence of India’s rich cultural heritage.

    Anupam Goswami, League Commissioner, Pro Kabaddi League, emphasized India’s vast potential as a sports market. “We must harness this opportunity by promoting indigenous sports, which hold immense emotional and cultural value”, he added.

    Fazel Atrachali, iconic PKL athlete from Iran, shared how Kabaddi has transformed lives. “Thanks to PKL, Kabaddi has become a professional sport, giving players fame and financial security”, flagged an elated Fazel.

    Nic Coward, Regulatory Chairperson, English Cricket Board, stressed the importance of globalization and modern distribution channels. “To popularize traditional sports worldwide, we must embrace digital platforms, including e-sports”, he flagged.

    Sudhanshu Mittal, President of the Kho-Kho Federation, revealed that Kho-Kho is now played in 55 countries, with a target to reach over 90 nations by year’s end. “Our indigenous games are unique—requiring more strategy, stamina, and spirit. They hold immense global appeal. But they need government backing, branding, and diplomatic support”, he asserted.

    Yannick Colaco, Founder of Fancode, pointed to technology as a game-changer. “Access and engagement are key. With the right tech, we can create deeper fan connections and take Indian sports global”, he added.

    The session was moderated by Mantra Mugdh, who masterfully navigated the discussion, weaving together diverse insights and forward-looking strategies.

     

    PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith | Lekshmipriya | Swadhin | CShekhar |175

    (Release ID: 2126741) Visitor Counter : 60

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: From Policy to Practice: National Ayush Mission Delegates Immerse in Naturopathy at National Institute of Naturopathy, Nisarg Gram, Pune

    Source: Government of India

    From Policy to Practice: National Ayush Mission Delegates Immerse in Naturopathy at National Institute of Naturopathy, Nisarg Gram, Pune

    From yoga demonstrations to satvik meals, delegates experience the holistic vision driving India’s traditional healthcare renaissance

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 9:00PM by PIB Delhi

    Following two days of intensive discussions and knowledge-sharing during the National Ayush Mission (NAM) Conclave 2025 at Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala, over 100 senior delegates from across the country embarked on a post-conclave institutional visit to the National Institute of Naturopathy (NIN), Nisarg Gram, Pune. The visit aimed to deepen the experiential understanding of integrative healthcare and highlight best practices in Ayush-based public health delivery.

    The delegation led by Smt. Kavita Garg, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, was joined by senior  NAM officials from across States/UTs including Shri Ranjan Kumar, Principal Secretary (Ayush), Government of Uttar Pradesh; and Shri Vivek Kumar, Special Secretary and Director General (Ayush), Government of West Bengal. Senior representatives from state governments, Ayush departments, and associated institutions were also part of the visiting group.

    The program began with a warm reception at the Nisarg Gram auditorium, marked by a ceremonial lamp-lighting. Prof. (Dr.) K. Satya Lakshmi, Director, NIN, delivered a detailed presentation on the institute’s pioneering work in education, clinical services, and research in naturopathy and integrative medicine. NIN’s students and interns demonstrated Yoga which reflected the institute’s deep-rooted emphasis on wellness through traditional practices.

    Delegates then undertook a guided tour of the 25-acre campus, which included visits to the hospital block, academic infrastructure, Gandhi Memorial Hall, and residential quarters. A satvik meal was served at the Annapurna Mess, thoughtfully curated to reflect the dietary philosophy of naturopathy. The visit concluded with a reflective stop at Bapu Bhavan, a serene space dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of self-care, simplicity, and nature-based healing.

    Inaugurated by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Nisarg Gram represents a ₹213.55 crore investment in advancing integrative health. The campus houses a 250-bed naturopathy hospital, a multidisciplinary research and extension center, and a state-of-the-art medical college offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and paramedical programs. Additional facilities include hostels, yoga halls, auditoriums, wellness cottages, and the historic Gandhi Memorial Hall, creating a holistic environment for education and healing.

    The visit reinforced the role of institutions like NIN in driving evidence-based naturopathy and promoting integrative healthcare as envisioned by the Ministry of Ayush under the NAM framework.

    “The visit to Nisarg Gram offered an inspiring extension to the NAM Conclave, allowing delegates to witness integrative healthcare in action. It reaffirmed our commitment to promoting evidence-based, sustainable, and Gandhian approaches within the Ayush ecosystem.” said Ms. Kavita Garg, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush.

    ****

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2126744) Visitor Counter : 29

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Making tracks towards world-class Metro services to Western Sydney International Airport

    The first tracks have been laid on the Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport line, the public transport spine linking the new airport and the fast-growing area around it. 

    Only Labor will invest in the infrastructure that a growing Western Sydney needs, and we’re getting the job done while supporting local jobs and resources.

    More than 6,400 tonnes of Australian-made rail steel will be laid along the 23-kilometre line between St Marys and Bradfield between now and mid-2026.

    In total, 106.8 kilometres of rail line and 76,285 sleepers will be installed, including putting tracks down at the stabling and maintenance facility at Orchard Hills.

    The new Metro line to Western Sydney International Airport is jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments and will create over 14,000 jobs during construction, including hundreds of apprenticeships.

    The first portion of track was installed at Luddenham, north of a new metro rail bridge over the future M12 motorway, which is also being co-funded by the Australian and NSW Governments.

    Track laying is now progressing north towards St Marys.

    Work to build the six stations for the new line is in full swing, while plans detailing the design for each station are now finalised.

    Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport is part of an integrated transport plan that includes massive infrastructure investment in surrounding roads.

    In January, the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments committed $1 billion in joint funding to upgrade Fifteenth Avenue – a critical transit corridor from Liverpool to the Western Sydney International Airport, unlocking jobs and housing in key growth areas.

    The investment in Fifteenth Avenue complements investments in Metro, the $2 billion M12 Motorway, $1 billion Mamre Road Stage 2 Upgrade and $800 million Elizabeth Drive – Priority Sections Upgrade.  

    The Albanese Government is investing $19 billion towards transport infrastructure projects in Western Sydney.  The Minns Labor Government is investing over $21 billion for Western Sydney roads and public transport projects to accommodate population and employment growth.

    This is yet another example of the Minns and Albanese Labor Governments building Australia’s future, and delivering the critical infrastructure communities need before families move in.

    It’s a stark contrast to a decade of State and Federal Liberal Governments that allowed communities to grow without providing the infrastructure communities need.

    Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said:

    “Every great airport needs a frequent and efficient rail link, and that’s what the Albanese and Minns Governments are delivering in Western Sydney.

    “Once this track is laid and trains are running, this rail link will connect passengers from the new airport to St Marys in just 15 minutes.

    “The Albanese Government has also invested $1 billion to start securing rail corridors in south west Sydney. These corridors will mean this Metro or the Sydney Trains network can be extended, connecting the airport and these growing parts of Sydney to the rest of the city.”

    Minister for Transport John Graham said:

    “The start of track laying is an exciting milestone for Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport. Each new metre of track is a step towards economic opportunity for Western Sydney and the economy of NSW.

    “Sydney loves Metro and this line will deliver passengers between the wider train network and the new airport but also take workers to the new jobs created at the airport and the many businesses that will grow around it.

    “Labor believes Western Sydney deserves the same standard of infrastructure and connectivity that areas closer to the CBD already enjoy – and we are getting on with job of building it. This project is providing 14,000 jobs right here in Western Sydney which is another great dividend.

    Member for Werriwa, Anne Stanley said:

    “With Western Sydney Airport flights starting within the next two years, it has taken a Federal and State Labor Government working together to deliver the infrastructure this part of Sydney needs.

    “Liberal Governments at every level wasted a decade in preparing for Sydney’s new airport. We’re building Australia’s future and getting on top of the work this community needs.”

    Member for Leppington Nathan Hagarty said:

    “We’re making significant progress on the infrastructure that will shape the future of South West Sydney — with world-class Metro services, better roads, and an international airport on our doorstep.

    “This means more local jobs and more opportunity for our growing community.
    “While the Liberals sat on their hands for a decade, Labor is getting on with the job and delivering the transport network we need and deserve.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thousands of veterans to benefit from new UK-wide support network

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Thousands of veterans to benefit from new UK-wide support network

    Veterans across the UK will have easier access to essential care and support under a new VALOUR system being announced today, as part of the Government’s commitment to renew the nation’s contract with those who have served through the Plan for Change.

    *As nation prepares to celebrate VE Day, the Government announces new UK-wide veteran support system, called VALOUR.    *New VALOUR network will deliver easier access to care and support with new regional networks connecting housing, employment and health services in every corner of the UK.  *Backed by £50m of funding, VALOUR will foster the enterprising spirit of veteran charities, better connect local and national services and ensure veterans’ support is truly data driven.  

    Veterans across the UK will have easier access to essential care and support under a new VALOUR system being announced today, as part of the Government’s commitment to renew the nation’s contract with those who have served through the Plan for Change.  

    £50m of funding will establish a new network of VALOUR-recognised support centres across the UK and and deploy Regional Field Officers to connect local, regional and national services – while harnessing the power of data to shape better services.  

    Defence Secretary John Healey MP and Veterans Minister Al Carns are announcing the new service during VE week, marking a major milestone in meeting this government’s manifesto promise to fully implement the Armed Forces Covenant.    

    The new Regional Field Officers will bring together charities, service providers and local government to provide more evidence and feedback driven support for veterans, across housing, employment, health and welfare.  

    The first VALOUR support centres will be operational next year, tailored to the specific needs on the ground and focused on the demands for each location. This could include advice on how to book GP appointments, access welfare or support with housing issues. 

    The Ministry of Defence is announcing today it will invite veterans to help design VALOUR through research, focus groups and feedback. While VALOUR will initially focus on veterans, the service is designed to be scaled up to support the wider Armed Forces community in the future.  

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said: 

    The nation owes a duty to those who’ve served to defend our country, and it is only right that the Government steps up our support to them. The Armed Forces set most people up for success in life but when veterans need help then support is too often a postcode patchwork.  

    Our plan to develop a UK-wide veterans support service will work with enterprising health, employment and housing charities and it is backed by the one of the largest ever Government funding commitments to veterans.   

    This Government is delivering on our Plan for Change and renewing the nation’s contract with those who serve.

    VALOUR will harness the power of data to shape better service provision and ensure the right type of support is available for veterans at a local level.   

    As the delivery arm, field officers will work with local services including local government bodies, to share best practice and guidance. This will include applying the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant, the nation’s promise to support the armed forces community and their families, which will soon gain legal footing as part of the manifesto commitment.  

    Veterans Minister, Al Carns, said: 

    As a veteran who served for 24 years, I recognise the unique challenges they’ve faced and the skills they possess. This new investment will ensure that every veteran, regardless of where they live, can access joined up support services in the way they need it.   

    We are creating the UK’s first ever data-driven framework for veterans’ services, ensuring our resources are channelled to where they’re most needed and can make the greatest difference to those who have courageously served their country.

    Director General of the British Royal Legion, Mark Atkinson, said:  

    The Royal British Legion welcomes today’s announcement to improve and better coordinate government support for veterans under VALOUR. Whilst there are a range of government services already in place for veterans, these services can vary depending on where you live and your access to information about the services available. Improved coordination across health, housing, employment, and mental wellbeing services is crucial to helping veterans lead successful lives.   

    We look forward to working closely with government and partner organisations to help turn these commitments into meaningful change.

    Over the past year, the Government has delivered for veterans, including by removing the local connection requirement for veterans seeking social housing and awarding £3.5m of new funding for homelessness services. The recent launch of Op ASCEND has been critical in ensuring veterans can get onto the career ladder and access meaningful jobs.  

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Toll-free 14 kilometres of M12 motorway surface now complete

    Source: Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority

    The toll-free M12 Motorway has passed a major construction milestone with 14 kilometres of the road now complete, on time and on budget and ready to provide direct access to Western Sydney Airport once open in 2026.

    The road is now being landscaped, sign posted and having safety infrastructure installed. Once opened, it will link the new Western Sydney International Airport at Badgerys Creek to the wider Sydney motorway network, Elizabeth Drive and The Northern Road.

    This last section connecting into the M7 Motorway and still in construction will add around 2 kilometres to the project.

    Significantly, this marks the first time the public could technically drive the full length between The Northern Road and works near the Elizabeth Drive off ramp at Cecil Park. This will leave just connecting and finishing works to complete before the entire 16-kilometre road is opened to the public in 2026.

    The $2.1 billion project, one of the largest transport projects in NSW, has seen:

    • around 117,000 cubic metres mainline road concrete used
    • 8,223 people employed from which 5,472 local people were employed
    • 2,320 bridge lineal metres
    • 3,085,587 cubic metres of completed earthworks
    • 461 bridge piles installed
    • 637 bridge girders installed
    • 867,509 trees, shrubs and grasses planted.

    The central and western sections of the M12 Motorway have been completed by Transport for NSW construction partners Seymour Whyte and CPB Georgiou Group JV.

    Meanwhile work to link the M12 to the M7 is progressing rapidly, with a new alignment of Wallgrove Road at Cecil Hills recently opening to motorists. This is necessary work to create room for the interchange ramps, with bridgework continuing as the M7 upgrade progresses.

    The M12 forms part of a wider Western Sydney roads upgrade as the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments get on with the job of delivering Western Sydney road upgrades.

    Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said:

    “We’re building Australia’s future by delivering the road and rail connections this new Airport needs to connect it to Western Sydney and beyond.

    “With freight services due to start at the airport next year, this new road will ensure trucks can move quickly and easily from the Airport to sites like the new Moorebank intermodal terminal and the rest of the Sydney road network.”

    NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:

    “The M12 Motorway will be a game-changer for Western Sydney residents – a vital, toll-free link that will ease congestion, improve travel times, and connect our local community without adding to household costs. 

    “After years of the former government locking Western Sydney motorists into costly toll roads, this project proves that the Minns Labor Government is committed to building better roads and delivering world-class infrastructure for local families.”

    NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said:

    “We are a Government serious about targeted investment which will help drive employment and provide improved infrastructure for motorists.

    “Just three years ago, around us were just fields. In that time a new airport has emerged from the cow paddocks, a new motorway nearing completion, works on The Northern Road have been undertaken, a new city of Bradfield is beginning to rise, a Metro is connecting the region and other important upgrades are all underway.

    “Driving the M12 today gives the sense of scale as to the works being undertaken.”

    NSW Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said:

    “Once opened next year, this road is expected to carry up to 30,000 vehicles a day.

    “These are vehicles we are taking off local roads by providing a quality free alternative.

    “And while this is happening, we are getting on with the job of strengthening local roads around the precinct. That includes Mamre Road, Mulgoa Road and for the first time $800 million towards fixing Elizabeth Drive and $1 billion on Fifteenth Avenue.”

    Member for Werriwa, Anne Stanley said:

    “This is one of a number of new vital new road connections that the State and Federal Governments are delivering to ensure Western Sydney’s new airport is easily accessible.

    “The M12 will provide a toll-free east to west connection from the M7 to the new Airport, and our investments in Elizabeth Drive and Fifteenth Avenue will ensure people from other parts of Western Sydney can easily access their new airport as well.”

    Member for Leppington Nathan Hagarty said:

    “I welcome this major milestone in connecting all of us to the new Western Sydney Airport, along with upgrades to Fifteenth Avenue, Elizabeth Drive and other key roads.

    “This is all part of ensuring communities like Leppington have easier access to the jobs and opportunities the new airport will bring. These investments ensure everyday travel is easier and we’re building a stronger, more connected Western Sydney.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Albanese Labor Government invests $114 million to improve road connections to the New Richmond Bridge

    Source: Workplace Gender Equality Agency

    The Albanese Labor Government is announcing a further $114 million investment to improve safety and efficiency for users of key roads around the New Richmond Bridge.

    The new investment will upgrade key connecting road infrastructure around Richmond and North Richmond and construct a bypass to Londonderry via a new road parallel to Southee Road.

    The project will help reduce congestion, improve traffic flow, connectivity and safety for road users and communities in and transiting through North Richmond, Richmond, Hobartville and Londonderry.

    The days of Richmond and North Richmond being connected by a century old bridge with one lane in and out are numbered. Today’s announcement builds on the existing $515 million New Richmond Bridge and Traffic Improvements project, which has a commitment of $400 million from the Australian Government.

    The New Richmond Bridge will be built about 10 metres higher than the existing bridge, with elevated approach roads. This will allow the bridge to remain open during one-in-20-year flood events, improving safety and assisting in times of flood evacuation.

    The historic 120-year-old Richmond Bridge will be retained and will enter its next era. Once carrying a train line, then an ever-increasing number of cars, it will be transformed into a walking and cycling path.

    Today’s announcement follows $580 million already invested through the 2025-2026 Federal Budget to support flood resilience and housing growth in the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley and surrounds.

    Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

    “This project will make a big difference for the Richmond community, as well as the broader Hawkesbury.

    “With fast-moving flooding occurring frequently in this region, we are building not just a new bridge but the connections to ensure people have that extra time to get in and out of the watch zones.
     
    “This work isn’t all about flood resilience, and I know the community will welcome the new walking and cycling route repurposed from the old Richmond Bridge.
     
    “This is a really good outcome for this community, and it wouldn’t have happened without the strong advocacy of their local member Susan Templeman, who’s been across every detail of this plan and has brought, State Government, Federal Government and the community together to deliver good outcomes.”
     
    Quotes attributable to Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman:

    “This funding provides the certainty the community has been seeking since the Review of Environmental Factors was released in December. It means there is funding for the approach roads, the new taller bridge and the bypass of Richmond to be built all together.

    “I’ve been fighting to reduce congestion and travel times for people across the river since 2010 and am proud to work with both the Federal and State Ministers to deliver this funding.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Work starts on $36 million safety improvement package

    Work has started to deliver $36 million in road safety improvements on the Snowy Mountains Highway between the Hume Highway and the Princes Highway.

    Jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Labor governments under the Road Safety Program, the first of four projects stretching almost the full 330-kilometre length of the Snowy Mountains Highway will start in April with all projects expected to be completed by mid-2026.

    The Snowy Mountains Highway is an important freight and tourism link, connecting regional NSW with the South Coast, and the local timber industry with the Hume Highway and ports of Sydney and Melbourne.

    Multiple safety treatments will be installed at various points along the highway including audio tactile line marking (also known as rumble strips), widened centre line and safety barriers, and roadside hazards will be removed.

    Later this year, Transport for NSW will also start work on upgrades to the intersection of Black Creek Road, west of Adelong, by realigning tight radius curves, widening shoulders, improving drainage and installing new safety barriers.

    Work on the first two projects that form part of the $36 million package of work has started with the other two projects set to be carried out later this year, weather permitting.

    Safety improvements on the way for the Snowy Mountains Highway start:

    • Monday 7 April between Monaro Highway and the Princes Highway
    • Monday 7 April between Tumut and Cooma
    • From mid-May between the Hume Highway and Tumut
    • From October at Sandy Gully (Black Creek Road intersection)

    The community will be notified of any changes to the work schedule as work progresses.

    For more information, visit the Snowy Mountains Highway web page or download the Live Traffic NSW app.

    Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain said:

    “The Snowy Mountains Highway is busier than ever, as more people move to our region, and as more visitors come and experience everything that the mighty Eden-Monaro has to offer – which is why we’re committed to making this critical road network safer.

    “I’m really proud to have secured $36 million with the Minns Labor Government to deliver these improvements – and it’s fantastic to see this work progressing.”

    NSW Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison said:

    “The Snowy Mountains Highway is a key priority for the Minns Labor Government and with the Albanese Labor Government we are investing $36 million to make it safer.

    “Regional NSW is home to one-third of the NSW population, but accounts for nearly two-thirds of road fatalities in the state. Our goal is simple: everyone on our roads should return home safely to their loved ones. This investment is a crucial step toward making that a reality.”

    State Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, said:

    “Safety barriers have been found to reduce the severity of run-off road crashes and will go a long way to improving safety on the Snowy Mountains Highway.

    “I am pleased to see the state and federal Labor teams working together to deliver a $36 million safety boost for the Highway.

    “It builds great confidence knowing we have a local federal member like Kristy McBain who advocates so strongly for our region and delivers results like this.”

    State Member for Bega, Dr Michael Holland said:

    “Audio tactile line marking, or rumble strips, alert a driver through noise and vibration that they are drifting off the carriageway and have been found to reduce the crash risk by 10-25 per cent for off-carriageway and head-on crashes.

    “The $36 million investment we are making will help more motorists get home safer and protect our communities.

    State Member for Wagga Wagga, Dr Joe McGirr, said:

    “We need to do all we can to reduce the risk of trauma on our roads, so I welcome theimprovements to the highway east of Tumut and at Black Creek Road, which have both been identified as high-risk sections.

    “I have been advocating on behalf of community members concerned about the state of some parts of the Snowy Mountains Highway and I’m very pleased that the state and federal governments are now working together to address these concerns.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police investigate Moonah house fire

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Police investigate Moonah house fire

    Friday, 2 May 2025 – 7:50 am.

    Police are investigating a structure fire in Amiens Avenue, Moonah last night.Police and Tas Fire Service attended the property just after 11:30pm with theresidence well alight.TFS gained control of the fire quickly and prevented the fire from spreading toneighbouring properties.The owner of the property was taken to the Royal Hobart Hospital fortreatment.Investigations are continuing.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police investigate Kingston house fire

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Police investigate Kingston house fire

    Friday, 2 May 2025 – 3:53 pm.

    Approximately 8:30am on 3 May 2025, Police and the Tasmania Fire Service were called to Lewan Avenue, Kingston in relation to a house on fire.The unit suffered significant damage, however the fire was contained within the address and extinguished.The fire appears to be suspicious and a 52 year-old Kingston man is currently assisting police with their enquiries.This appears to be an isolated incident and there is no threat to the wider community.Anyone with information is encouraged to contact:Tasmania Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at crimestoppers.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Cleaver, Casten Lead Call for Transparency on Climate Risks to Federal Mortgage Programs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    (Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, and Sean Casten (D-IL) led 14 House Democrats to call on Congress to direct the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to conduct a study of climate-related risks to its loan guarantee programs. In a letter to Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Chairman Steve Womack (R-AR) and Ranking Member Jim Clyburn (D-SC), the lawmakers argued a study was necessary to understand the full impact of climate disasters on the federal housing finance ecosystem and loan performance.

    “The Federal Housing Administration’s (FHA) mortgage financing programs enable billions of dollars of capital to support the purchase, refinance, construction, and rehabilitation of single- and multi-family housing and assisted housing across the United States,” the lawmakers wrote. “However, due to the increasing frequency and severity of weather disasters caused by climate change, homeowners may find it challenging to make mortgage payments, which could lead to defaulting on FHA-insured loans.”

    “Given the FHA’s prominent role in the mortgage market, we respectfully request that the Subcommittee include the following report language,” the lawmakers continued. “This effort is crucial to understanding the impact of climate disaster broadly on the housing finance ecosystem and loan performance, specifically delinquency and default.”

    In 2024, 27 climate disaster events in the U.S. resulted in nearly $185 billion in total damages. If homeowners cannot bear the costs of climate disasters and are unable to make payments on mortgages or other loans, these resulting defaults could push losses into different parts of the financial system, which could shift the risk to lenders – or, in the case of FHA-insured mortgages, to the federal government and American taxpayers – triggering shocks to the broader financial system. 

    Given these risks, the lawmakers are calling for a study and report on the impacts of climate change on the performance of loans insured under the Federal Housing Administration’s Mutual Mortgage Insurance (MMI) and General Insurance and Special Risk Insurance (GI/SRI) Funds, including the potential for reduced recoveries and higher loss severities on defaulted loans due to the impacts of climate change. Additionally, the lawmakers would like HUD to identify regions of the country where FHA-insured mortgages are most exposed to climate-related risks.

    The letter was co-signed by Representatives Cleo Fields (D-LA), Nikema Williams (D-GA), Juan Vargas (D-CA), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), André Carson (D-IN), George Whitesides (D-CA), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX), Steven Horsford (D-NV), Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Sam Liccardo (D-CA), Dave Min (D-CA), Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA), and Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ).

    The official letter from lawmakers is available here.

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Cleaver, Matsui Fitzpatrick Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Homeowners Plant More Trees and Reduce Energy Costs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    (Washington, D.C.) – Today on Arbor Day, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Doris Matsui (D-CA), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) reintroduced the TREES Act, a bill that will help homeowners lower energy costs, increase tree canopy in underserved communities, and help mitigate the effects of climate change through residential tree planting.

    The TREES Act would create a cost-share grant program at the Department of Energy to provide $50 million in funding to plant a minimum of 300,000 trees annually in residential neighborhoods through 2028. The program seeks to prioritize low wealth communities as well as areas with low tree canopy and heat islands.

    “Kansas Citians know all too well that extreme heat waves are becoming increasingly frequent, costly, and dangerous to communities in the urban core due to the heat island effect exacerbating the historic rise in temperatures we’re seeing around the globe,” said Congressman Cleaver. “By providing states and municipalities the resources necessary to expand tree canopy in cities, we can not only boost the beautification and restoration of places like Kansas City, but we can also lower energy costs and temperatures to the benefit of local residents. That’s precisely what the TREES Act will do, and why I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Congresswoman Matsui.”

    “Urban forests are critical to addressing climate change and air pollution,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “Sacramento is the City of Trees—and through the proactive efforts of local organizations and partners we are working hard to build out a more equitable urban tree canopy across our city. The benefits at the local level are clear: we can lower energy costs, reduce temperatures on our streets, improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, and beautify our neighborhoods—all leading to healthier and more climate resilient communities. The TREES Act incentivizes successful programs like ours and scales them to the national level. By creating a competitive federal tree-planting grant program, we can empower communities to improve access to green space and clean air, reduce consumer costs, and help fight climate change.”

    “The TREES Act brings together environmental stewardship and economic relief—lowering energy costs while making our communities cleaner, healthier, and more vibrant,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “This is about investing in where we live—expanding green spaces, improving air quality, and creating lasting value for families in Bucks County, Montgomery County, and beyond. It’s a smart, bipartisan solution that delivers where it matters most: at the roots of our neighborhoods.”

    “This bill isn’t just about planting trees—it’s about improving lives,” said Joel Pannell, American Forests Vice President of Urban Forests Policy. “The bipartisan TREES Act delivers local benefits that communities will feel for generations—from cleaner air to lower utility bills—proving that smart, shared solutions can still bring people together. We thank Rep. Matsui, Rep. Fitzpatrick and Rep. Cleaver for introducing this critical and timely legislation.”

    Full text of the TREES Act is available here.

     

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cleaver Condemns President Trump’s Proposed Cuts to Head Start, Calls on Administration to Protect Funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    (Washington, D.C.) – This week, following reports that President Trump is working to eliminate Head Start, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) condemned the plan to cut all funding for the Head Start program, which has served nearly 40 million children since its inception in 1965 by providing childcare to low-income families while promoting school readiness for children from birth to age five through services that support early learning and development, health, and family well-being. In a letter to Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Director Russell Vought, Congressman Cleaver called on the Administration to maintain funding for the vital services Head Start provides to communities nationwide and provide additional information to justify such draconian cuts.

    “I am immensely concerned about a recent AP report of the Trump Administration’s plan to cut all Head Start funding,” Congressman Cleaver wrote. “The abolition of Head Start is antithetical to our country’s decades-long battle in the ‘War on Poverty.’ Often mischaracterized as a ‘handout,’ Head Start is a hand-up for low-income families nationwide.”

    “Head Start allows educators who love teaching to teach kids to love learning. In its absence, 790,000 children and their families will enter a failing private childcare market,” Cleaver continued. “Without Head Start, many families unable to afford private childcare would leave their jobs and become full-time caregivers. The remaining families who enter the market will face months-long waitlists and inflated prices”

    “Put simply, this is an unforced error. To put families through this manufactured crisis is unconscionable,” Cleaver concluded.

    “For decades, Head Start has been a cornerstone of early childhood education, providing resources and support to local children and their families,” said Dr. Toni Sturdivant, director of early learning and Head Start with the Mid-America Regional Council. “The Kansas City region relies on Head Start not only for educational opportunities but also for health, nutrition and family engagement services that create a holistic support system. Without Head Start, many children could face significant setbacks in their developmental milestones and families would have less access to the resources they need to thrive.”

    In Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, Head Start serves 2,256 children and employs 500 people. The program enables their employment by providing free/low-cost childcare, prenatal care for expecting mothers, and in-home services. Among Kansas City’s Head Start parents, 1,351 are employed, 169 are in training programs, and 168 are enrolled in school.

    The official letter from Rep. Cleaver is available here.

     

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: The real impact of owning an electric vehicle

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Canberrans who own ZEVs are helping to reduce the city’s use of fossil fuels.

    In Brief:

    • Canberrans are leading the way with zero emissions vehicle (ZEV) ownership, with more than 10,000 ZEVs on our roads.
    • ZEVs can help you save money and are better for the environment.
    • This story details the financial and environmental benefits of owning a ZEV.

    You might have heard that zero emissions vehicles (ZEVs) can save you money and are better for the environment.

    But have you ever wondered just how much of an impact they actually have?

    We’ve done the maths to reveal just how much of a difference they can make for Canberrans.

    How much money can you save?

    Households with electric vehicles could save up to $2,000 per year over the next 10 years.

    That’s according to the Australian Energy Market Commission’s recent report on Residential electricity price trends  2024.

    Electric vehicles are cheaper to run than petrol, diesel and hybrid alternatives. This is because electricity costs less than petrol or diesel and maintenance is cheaper.

    You can increase your savings even further if you:

    • drive a lot (over 15,000 kilometres per year)
    • charge your vehicle at home
    • have home solar.

    The ACT has some of the most generous financial incentives available for ZEV purchase in Australia. These include:

    • zero interest loans
    • stamp duty exemptions
    • lower registration fees.

    Prices for new ZEVs are continuing to drop, with many options now available below $40,000. New manufactures are continuing to enter the market, which increases competition, reducing vehicle prices further.

    With more than 10,000 ZEVs on the road, Canberrans are saving almost $24 million per year on running costs.

    What about the environmental benefits?

    Doing your bit to reduce emissions helps our city take action on climate change.

    More than 40 percent of the ACT’s greenhouse gas emissions come from private vehicle use.

    With 10,000 ZEVs on the road, emissions are reduced by 32,600 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year. That has real benefits to our environment, health and the quality of our air.

    Canberrans who own ZEVs are helping to reduce the city’s use of non-renewable energy sources. They are helping us save around 13 million litres of petrol or diesel per year. That’s roughly five Olympic swimming pools.

    To find out how much you could save by making the switch to electric, try our free Total Cost of Ownership tool.

    Visit the Climate Choices website for more information on owning a ZEV in the ACT.

    Read more like this:

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister’s open letter to veterans ahead of VE Day

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Prime Minister’s open letter to veterans ahead of VE Day

    An open letter from Prime Minister Keir Starmer to veterans ahead of VE Day celebrations.

    In an open letter to veterans, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    To our veterans,

    As we approach the VE Day anniversary, I want to salute your ongoing dedication to keeping our country safe. 

    This week, we celebrate the greatest victory our armed forces ever secured. And like so many families across the country, my relatives served and fought in the Second World War. Therefore, it is the highest honour of my role to meet veterans of that conflict. I think of people like Stanley Fisher and Mervyn Kersch, two Jewish veterans of the Normandy landings, who went on to become eyewitnesses to the horrors of the Bergen Belsen concentration camp in the early days of its liberation by British forces. Their stories – and countless others we will hear this week – are a reminder that our victory was not just for Britain. It was also a victory for good against the assembled forces of hatred, tyranny and evil. VE Day is a chance to acknowledge, again, that our debt to those who achieved it can never fully be repaid. 

    Yet as the nation falls silent on Thursday, I know that my mind will also turn to those who carry the torch of their legacy in our armed forces today – people like you. As time marches on, we all have a responsibility to renew the bonds of our history so that future generations inherit our national story as their own. But alongside our history and our values, service is the other great force that binds a nation together. So this week, I want you to know: the whole nation is inspired by the selfless dedication of your example. It is not just that you keep us all safe. It is also that you represent the best of who we are. A living link of service that unites the values we must stand for in the present, with the stories we must pass down from our past. 

    Furthermore, I know that this is not without sacrifice. I will always remember the conversation I had with a sub-mariner in Faslane, who brought home exactly what over 200 days a year underwater means for the simple things most families take for granted. Missing birthdays, weddings, anniversaries. Not being there in the photographs. From the Carrier Strike Group at sea, to our postings in Estonia, Cyprus and here in the UK, every service man and woman I have met has had a version of this story. And I recognise that this too is a debt that can never fully be repaid. But this week, the country will show you just how thankful we all are. Because we know, that without your service, the freedom, peace and joy that these celebrations embody, would not be possible. 

    So, wherever you are, wherever you serve, have a wonderful VE Day. And on behalf of a proud and grateful nation: thank you for your service.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Harris Applauds Trump Administration for Halting Foreign Owned Offshore Wind Project

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Harris, M.D., Chairman of House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration, released the following statement after the Trump Administration halted the construction of a massive offshore wind project off the coast of New York and ordered a review of all existing permits. 

    Background: On Wednesday, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum directed the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) to order foreign energy developer Equinor to cease all construction activities on its Empire Wind project. In a memorandum released by the Washington Free Beacon, Secretary Burgum confirmed the Biden administration green-lit permits for the project and ultimately approved it without conducting proper analysis.

    Statement From Congressman Harris:

    “I applaud the Trump Administration for exposing the Biden administration’s faulty permitting process and ordering a halt to the offshore wind construction activities of Empire Wind. Offshore wind poses a significant risk to our environment, national security operations, and marine life and its development should be halted. In the last few months in office, the Biden Administration rushed the approval process for permits in Maryland and I look forward to the swift end of all offshore wind construction projects in my district.” 

    For media inquiries, please contact Anna Adamian at Anna.A@mail.house.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Harris Statement on the Verdict in Rachel Morin’s Case

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Harris, M.D., released the following statement after a Harford County jury found illegal immigrant, Victor Martinez-Hernandez guilty of the first-degree premeditated murder, first-degree rape, and third-degree sexual assault of Rachel Morin.

    Statement From Congressman Harris:

    “Rachel Morin would be here today had it not been for the dangerous wide-open border policies of the Biden Administration. This verdict is a victory for justice, and it is my hope it will help bring some peace to Rachel’s family as they cherish her memory and life.”

    For media inquiries, please contact Anna Adamian at Anna.A@mail.house.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI, SCHAKOWSKY, BONAMICI DEMAND ANSWERS ON THE DISBANDMENT OF THE ADMINISTRATION FOR COMMUNITY LIVING

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswomen Doris Matsui (CA-07), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) led 63 House Democrats in a letter to Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expressing their strong opposition to the elimination of the Administration for Community Living (ACL) and the unjustified termination of nearly half of the agency’s workforce. 

    “Established in 2012, the ACL was created to eliminate fragmentation in federal programs for aging and disability populations, improve access to quality healthcare and long-term services, and ensure consistent policies across federal agencies,” wrote the lawmakers. “ACL’s workforce plays a crucial role in managing and coordinating federal, state, and local programs aimed at helping seniors and people with disabilities remain healthy and thrive in their homes and communities.”

    “We are gravely concerned about your arbitrary directive to dismantle the ACL and urgently request answers to understand the wide-ranging consequences this decision will have upon the health and wellbeing of older adults and individuals with disabilities,” the lawmakers continued.

    This letter is in response to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) announcement to end ACL’s critical programs across the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE), and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). This month, a draft budget proposal outlining the proposed elimination of ACL’s Aging Programs and Nutrition and Disability Services Programs from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) was made public. 

    This letter has been endorsed by Justice in Aging, National Health Law Program (NHeLP), National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care, National Council on Aging, National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA), USAging, Caring Across Generations, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, and National Association of Social Workers (NASW).

    Full text of the letter can be found here and below.

    Dear Secretary Kennedy:

    We are writing to express our strong opposition to the disbandment of the Administration for Community Living (ACL), the closure of ACL’s Regional Offices, and the unjustified termination of nearly half of the agency’s workforce, all of which threaten the delivery of critical services for our nation’s seniors, people with disabilities, families, and caregivers. Millions of Americans rely on the ACL’s supportive services—such as Meals on Wheels, caregiver supports, respite, and adult protective services—to live independently and with dignity. We are gravely concerned about your arbitrary directive to dismantle the ACL and urgently request answers to understand the wide-ranging consequences this decision will have upon the health and wellbeing of older adults and individuals with disabilities.

    ACL’s workforce plays a crucial role in managing and coordinating federal, state, and local programs aimed at helping seniors and people with disabilities remain healthy and thrive in their homes and communities. Established in 2012, the ACL was created to eliminate fragmentation in federal programs for aging and disability populations, improve access to quality healthcare and long-term services, and ensure consistent policies across federal agencies. The Older Americans Act (OAA) authorizes funding for various ACL- administered programs and activities, providing nearly $1.9 billion in 2024. The ACL oversees grants for state and community programs on aging, including nutrition services, in-home care, transportation, legal assistance, and research. For example, the ACL manages funding for research, training, and demonstration projects, such as the Alzheimer’s Disease Program, Chronic Disease Self-Management Education Program, Elder Falls Prevention Program, and the Senior Medicare Patrol Program. The ACL is also responsible for funding and overseeing disability programs under the Developmental Disabilities Act to support people with disabilities and their families through the State Councils on Developmental Disabilities and University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs), and to protect people with disabilities from abuse and neglect through the Protection & Advocacy programs. Moreover, the ACL administers the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program and the Elder Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Prevention Program. These programs advocate for the rights of residents in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities and train professionals in elder abuse prevention. Additionally, the ACL manages the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, which offers cost-free, unbiased Medicare guidance to seniors, people with disabilities, and their families. Lastly, The ACL also funds and administers the independent living programs, the state Assistive Technology Programs, and the Aging and Disability Resource Centers to help people get the supports they need to live in the community instead of nursing homes or other institutions.

    We understand that HHS has eliminated the staff of entire offices within ACL—seemingly eliminating these offices altogether. For example, the Center for Policy and Evaluation plays a critical role in supporting the Assistant Secretary for Aging in her role as the advisor to the HHS Secretary on aging and disability policy, engaging across HHS to ensure policies consider the needs of these populations, and evaluating the effectiveness of programs consistent with statutory requirements. We understand that all staff in that office have been fired. Finally, we understand that virtually all staff in the Center for Management and Budget, including the budget and grant staff that distribute and monitor funding, have been terminated. Finally, your announcement to eliminate all of ACL’s regional staff will put the direct work with local grantees, particularly the regional staff’s critical coordinating role during natural disasters and other emergencies, at risk.

    We are also deeply concerned with your decision to dissolve the ACL and reallocate whichever programs and functions HHS unilaterally decides to keep. We understand from HHS’ April 2nd fact sheet, HHS’ Transformation to Make America Healthy Again, that HHS plans to dismantle unspecified ACL functions across agencies, such as the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE), and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). On April 16th, a draft budget proposal from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) was made public, outlining the proposed elimination of the ACL’s Elder Falls Prevention, Long-term Care Ombudsman, Elder Rights Support Activities, etc. Additionally, the proposal recommended eliminating ACL’s Nutrition and Disability Services programs, including the State Councils on Developmental Disabilities, Paralysis Resource Center, Limb Loss Resource Center, etc. Lastly, the proposal suggested shifting the aging programs to CMS, the disability and nutrition programs to ACF, and the National Institute of Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), along with the UCEDD’s, to the Office of Strategy. ACL has been successful in coordinating across the aging and disability networks, ensuring that limited resources can reach most people.

    Spreading ACL’s programs across three separate agencies will undermine the efficiencies that have been created by housing these programs together.

    Given the severe impacts that ACL’s disbandment and mass staff firings will have on the health of seniors and people with disabilities, we request that you respond to the following questions no later than May 20th:

    1. Sec 201 of the OAA establishes the Administration on Aging and mandates that it be led by an Assistant Secretary for Aging. It is the Assistant Secretary’s duty to provide technical assistance and best practices to States, Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), and Aging and Disability Resource Centers, on how to coordinate services with health care organizations.13 With the elimination of the ACL, which point person will uphold the responsibilities previously held by the Assistant Secretary for Aging and oversee the federal, state, and local coordination of aging and disability services?
    2. We are deeply troubled by your directive to divide unspecified remaining ACL programs and allocate them across several agencies such as ACF, ASPE, and CMS. This decision is particularly alarming given the recent substantial staff terminations within these very same agencies. Given the insufficient staffing, how will you ensure that these agencies are equipped to take on additional responsibilities under ACL’s new organizational structure? With ACL’s programs spread across multiple departments, how do you plan to ensure effective coordination among them and the entities with which ACL coordinates to promote access to services for people with disabilities (including the Department of Labor, Department of Education, and others)?
    3. The proposed OMB draft budget suggests the elimination of ACL’s Aging Programs, Nutrition and Disability Services Programs, and the NIDILRR and the UCEDD’s. It also calls for the elimination of discretionary funding for the Aging and Disability Resource Centers and the State Health Insurance Assistance Program. If these proposed cuts are implemented, what concrete steps will be taken to address the critical needs these programs currently meet for individuals with disabilities, older adults, and their families?
    4. The ACL administers billions of dollars in grants annually to state and local governments and nonprofit organizations that offer services and supports for nearly 10.1 million seniors and people with disabilities.14 It has been reported that staff at ACL’s Center for Management and Budget, who are responsible for overseeing ACL’s grants and contracts, have been terminated. How will you guarantee that funds continue to be delivered in a timely manner to the 56 State Units on Aging (SUAs), 614 AAAs, over 280 Title VI Native American Aging Programs, and tens of thousands of local service providers? Can you guarantee that services and supports to disabled people and older adults will not be disrupted?

        # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI CONDEMNS TRUMP’S ILLEGAL ATTACK ON PUBLIC BROADCASTING

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, released the following statement in response to President Trump’s executive order and its illegal attempt to stop the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) from funding National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). This executive order comes on the heels of the President’s earlier attempt to illegally fire CPB board members.

    “Let’s be clear: no president is above the law, and no president can weaponize public broadcasting as a personal propaganda machine. Yet once again President Trump is trying to destroy free speech, silence our media, and keep people from the truth,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “Public broadcasting provides people with free community-supported access to news, educational content, and lifesaving emergency alerts. Congress established the Corporation for Public Broadcasting as an independent, nonprofit entity — precisely to protect public media from political interference and ensure Americans have access to fair, factual, and nonpartisan journalism.”

    “President Trump is not attacking public media because he cares about the truth,” Matsui continued. “He’s targeting it because it tells the truth — even when it doesn’t serve his interests. Time and again, he has used the power of his office to go after independent outlets that refuse to echo his talking points. I will keep fighting to protect public media and the First Amendment from the Trump Administration’s baseless attacks.” 

    The Public Broadcasting Act of 1967 established the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) as a private, non-profit corporation to provide non-commercial educational programming to the public. The CPB is not a federal executive agency subject to presidential authority. CPB provides grants to 1,216 public radio stations and 365 public television stations across the country, to provide nearly 99 percent of the U.S. population with free programming and services.

    Congresswoman Matsui is a longtime champion of public broadcasting and freedom of the press. She introduced the Broadcast Freedom and Independence Act, legislation that would prohibit the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from revoking broadcast licenses or taking action against broadcasters based on the viewpoints they broadcast. The legislation would reaffirm the importance of the independence of the FCC, including that the President should not mandate the FCC’s agenda. Congresswoman Matsui also led a bipartisan letter emphasizing the importance of federal funding for public radio and television.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Newly discovered tropical oyster reefs are thriving across northern Australia – they deserve protection

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Marina Richardson, Research Fellow in Marine Science, Griffith University

    Marina Richardson

    Oysters are so much more than a seafood delicacy. They’re ecosystem engineers, capable of building remarkably complex reefs. These structures act as the kidneys of the sea, cleaning the water and keeping the coast healthy, while providing homes for millions of other animals.

    Oyster reefs were once thought to be restricted to southern, cooler coastal waters where they’re the temperate equivalent of tropical coral reefs. But now, oyster reefs are being found right across Australia’s tropical north as well.

    These tropical oyster reefs are bigger and more widespread than anyone expected. In fact, they are some of the largest known intertidal oyster reefs (exposed at low tide) left in Australia. And they’re everywhere – from the southern limit of the Queensland tropics across to the northern coast of Western Australia – yet we know almost nothing about them.

    In our recent research, my colleagues and I completed the first detailed study of Australian tropical oyster reefs. These reefs are so new to science that until now, the species responsible for building them remained a mystery.

    Using DNA, we identified the main reef-building oyster species in tropical Australia as “Saccostrea Lineage B”, making it a new addition to our national list of known reef-builders.

    Lineage B is a close relative of the commercially important Sydney rock oyster (Saccostrea glomerata), but so little is known about this tropical reef-building species that it is yet to be assigned a scientific name.

    The Saccostrea Lineage B oysters we found in Australia’s tropical north are related to Sydney rock oysters.
    Marina Richardson

    Hiding in plain sight

    So why are we only learning about tropical oyster reefs now?

    Across the globe, oyster reefs have been decimated by human activity. These reefs declined in most tropical regions long ago, even as far back as 1,000 years ago. Most oyster reefs disappeared without a trace before scientists even knew they were there.

    However, Australia’s tropical oyster reefs haven’t just survived, in some cases they have thrived.

    Despite being delicious to many, the species we now know as Lineage B was not very attractive to the aquaculture industry, due to its small size. And while oyster reefs near Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne were dredged and burned to produce lime for mortar, used in the early construction of roads and buildings, this practice was not widespread in tropical regions. This lack of commercial interest is probably the reason why tropical oyster reefs have persisted unnoticed for so long in northern Australia.

    Here the tropical oyster reefs were found growing on a combination of both rock and muddy sediment.
    Marina Richardson

    What we did and what we found

    We assessed three tropical oyster reefs in Queensland, Australia. At Wilson Beach, near Proserpine and Turkey Beach, near Gladstone, reefs were surveyed in late winter 2022. The reef at Mapoon in the Gulf of Carpentaria was surveyed in early spring 2023.

    Using drone footage, we measured reef area and structure. We then collected oysters for genetic analysis.

    Oysters are notoriously difficult to identify, because their shape, size and colour varies so much. Oysters from the same species can look completely different, while oysters from different species can look identical. That’s why it’s necessary to extract DNA.

    We found almost all reef-building oysters across the three locations were Saccostrea Lineage B.

    At Gladstone reefs, several other reef-building species were also present, including leaf oysters, pearl oysters and hairy mussels.

    We compared three tropical oyster reefs in Queensland.
    Richardson, M., et al (2025) Marine Environmental Research

    An ecosystem worthy of protection

    In southern Australia, oyster reefs are critically endangered. But we don’t really know how threatened their tropical counterparts are, although there is some evidence of decline. Further research is underway.

    A new project has begun to map oyster reefs across tropical Australia. Since the project launched in June 2024, more than 60 new reefs have been found across Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia – including some as large as 5 hectares.

    These unexpected discoveries provide a beacon of hope in a world currently overwhelmed by habitat decline and ecological collapse. But tropical oyster reefs are not yet protected. It’s crucial we include them in assessments of threatened ecosystems, to understand how much trouble they’re in and what we can do to protect them into the future.

    By locating and understanding these overlooked ecosystems, we can ensure they’re not left behind in the global oyster reef restoration movement.

    Scientists and others involved in reef restoration are now inviting everyday people across Australia to get involved as citizen scientists in The Great Shellfish Hunt. Anyone can upload tropical oyster reef sightings to this mapping project. It’s more important than ever to work together and ensure tropical oyster reefs receive the protection they deserve, so they continue to thrive for generations to come.

    Marina Richardson currently receives funding from the National Environmental Science Program (NESP) and the Queensland Government Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.

    – ref. Newly discovered tropical oyster reefs are thriving across northern Australia – they deserve protection – https://theconversation.com/newly-discovered-tropical-oyster-reefs-are-thriving-across-northern-australia-they-deserve-protection-254612

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: We talk a lot about being ‘resilient’. But what does it actually mean?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter McEvoy, Professor of Clinical Psychology, Curtin University

    Kinga Howard/Unsplash

    In a world with political polarisation, war, extreme weather events and increasing costs of living, we need to be able to cope as individuals and communities.

    Our capacity to cope with very real stressors in our lives – our resilience – can determine whether we thrive, just survive, or are deprived of a reasonable quality of life.

    Stress vs resilience

    Resilience means having the ability to cope with, and rebound from, life’s challenges and still achieve our goals.

    Stress isn’s something to be avoided. We need to feel some stress to achieve our best. Exposure to manageable levels of stress and adversity develops our coping skills and resilience.

    But if we feel too much stress, we can flounder or become overwhelmed.

    The ability to re-activate ourselves when we feel down, fatigued or disengaged helps to optimise our focus and motivation. Sportspeople, for example, might listen to high intensity music just before a competition to increase their energy levels.

    Conversely, the ability to dampen down emotional intensity can make use feel less stressed or anxious. Exercising, listening to relaxing music, or patting a much-loved pet can prevent high arousal from interfering with completing a task.

    Effective emotion regulation is crucial for adapting to life’s ups and downs, and keeping us on a relatively even keel.

    How does resilience develop?

    Resilience emerges from interactions between personal and environmental factors.

    In addition to emotion regulation skills, personal factors that can bolster resilience include academic achievement, developing a range of skills and abilities (such as sport and music) and problem-solving skills. Many of these skills can be fostered in childhood. And if one area of life isn’t going well, we can still experience confidence, joy and meaning in others.

    Sometimes we need to increase our energy levels, other times we need to lower anxiety.
    Ilias Chebbi/Unsplash

    People who reflect on traumatic experience and develop new positive meanings about themselves (getting through it means I’m strong!) and life (a greater appreciation) can also have higher levels of resilience.

    Genetic factors and temperament also play an important role. Some of us are born with nervous systems that respond with more anxiety than others in novel, uncertain, or potentially threatening situations. And some of us are more likely to avoid rather than approach these situations. These traits tend to be associated with lower levels of resilience. But we can all learn skills to build our resilience.

    Environmental factors that promote resilience include:

    • a nurturing home environment
    • supportive family and peer relationships
    • cultural identity, belonging and rituals
    • modelling from others overcoming hardship
    • community cohesion
    • government policies that provide social safety nets, strong education, anti-discrimination and inclusion
    • investment in facilities, spaces, services and networks that support the quality of life and wellbeing of communities.

    Can resilience be taught?

    Many factors associated with resilience are modifiable, so it stands to reason that interventions that aim to bolster them should be helpful.

    There is evidence that interventions that promote optimism, flexibility, active coping and social support-seeking can have small yet meaningful positive effects on resilience and emotional wellbeing in children and adults.

    However, school-based programs give us reason to be cautious.

    A trial across 84 schools in the United Kingdom evaluated the effectiveness of school-based mindfulness programs. More than 3,500 students aged between 11 and 13 years received ten lessons of mindfulness and a similar number did not.

    There was no evidence that mindfulness had any benefit on risk for depression, social, emotional and behavioural functioning, or wellbeing after one year. Teaching school children mindfulness at scale did not appear to bolster resilience.

    In fact, there was some evidence it did harm – and it was most harmful for students at the highest risk of depression. The intervention was not deemed to be effective or cost-effective and was not recommended by the authors.

    In another recent trial, researchers found an emotion regulation intervention with Year 8 and 9 school children was unhelpful and even harmful, although children who engaged in more home practice tended to do better.

    The evidence doesn’t support school-based resilience programs.
    Mitchell Luo/Unsplash

    These interventions may have failed for a number of reasons. The content may not have been delivered in a way that was sufficiently engaging, comprehensive, age-appropriate, frequent, individually tailored, or relevant to the school context. Teachers may also not be sufficiently trained in delivering these interventions for them to be effective. And students didn’t co-design the interventions.

    Regardless of the reasons, these findings suggest we need to be cautious when delivering universal interventions to all children. It may be more helpful to wait until there are early signs of excessive stress and intervening in an individualised way.

    What does this mean for resilience-building?

    Parents and schools have a role in providing children with the sense of security that gives them confidence to explore their environments and make mistakes in age-appropriate ways, and providing support when needed.

    Parents and teachers can encourage children to try to solve problems themselves before getting involved. Problem-solving attempts should be celebrated even more than success.

    Schools need to allocate their scarce resources to children most in need of practical and emotional support in non-stigmatising ways, rather than universal approaches. Most children will develop resilience without intervention programs.

    To promote resilience, schools can foster positive peer relationships, cultural identity and involvement in creative, sporting and academic pursuits. They can also highlight others’ recovery and resilience stories to demonstrate how growth can occur from adversity.

    More broadly in the community, people can work on developing their own emotion regulation skills to bolster their confidence in their ability to manage adversity.

    Think about how you can:

    • approach challenges in constructive ways
    • actively problem-solve rather than avoid challenges
    • genuinely accept failure as part of being human
    • establish healthy boundaries
    • align your behaviour with your values
    • receive social and professional support when needed.

    This will help you navigate the ebbs and flows of life in ways that support recovery and growth.



    Read more:
    People’s mental health goes downhill after repeated climate disasters – it’s an issue of social equity

    Peter McEvoy is a Professor of clinical psychology at the Curtin enAble Institute and School of Population Health. He is also a Senior Clinical Psychologist at The Centre for Clinical Interventions, Perth, and a Board Member of the Australian Association of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. He does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article. The opinions and perspectives in this article are his own.

    – ref. We talk a lot about being ‘resilient’. But what does it actually mean? – https://theconversation.com/we-talk-a-lot-about-being-resilient-but-what-does-it-actually-mean-245256

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on International Firefighters Day

    Garry Begg, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, has released a statement on International Firefighters Day:

    “International Firefighters Day honours the courage and sacrifices made by firefighters, here at home and around the world, who risk their lives to keep our communities safe. On behalf of the government and people of British Columbia, I express my gratitude to every firefighter in this province for your unwavering dedication and service.

    “Every day, firefighters suit up and protect our homes, businesses, communities; and when wildfires strike, our precious forests. This work is dangerous, yet they heroically put their own safety on the line to protect others.

    “As first responders, firefighters are dedicated to the protection of life and property. They are on the front lines of almost every kind of emergency in our society, including the toxic-drug crisis, which has claimed thousands of lives in our province.

    “The heroic actions of firefighters have saved countless lives. The work that firefighters do day in and day out is the epitome of public service. Thank you for everything that you do.”

    Learn More:

    For more information about International Firefighters Day, visit: https://www.firefightersday.org/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Pelosi at Reframe Festival on the Future of Democratic Leadership

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Boston – Yesterday, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi virtually joined PBS News Hour co-anchor and co-managing editor Geoff Bennett at the Reframe Festival in San Francisco to discuss the future of Democratic leadership. The conversation was presented by PBS News in partnership with Bay Area member station KQED.

    Click here to watch the full conversation.

    Read key quotes from the conversation below:

    On President Trump’s proposed Budget:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. The budget that the President put out that we just are reviewing now is one that is really a shame.

    A budget should be a statement of our national values. What is important to us as a nation should be reflected in that budget. It should be a budget of investing in our future for our children and the rest. And if you review the budget that the President put forth, he cuts education. Nothing brings more money to the Treasury than the education of the American people. Early childhood, K-12, higher education, post-grad, lifetime learning for our workers.

    The best dollar you can spend in the federal budget, I do believe, is basic biomedical research. The biblical power to cure, to save lives, to save funds for families who are confronted with illness and the rest. The list goes on and on. And why? Because he says he has to cut so that he can be fiscally sound—at the same time as he’s giving enormous tax cuts to the wealthiest people in our country.

    On Democrats choosing when to fight back:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. You have to prioritize carefully and make the distinction so the American people can see what impact this has on their lives—carefully prioritizing and at the same time show the narrative, again, with some specific issues, show the narrative thematically of what he is doing to our country. Again: disgraceful, shameful, un-American.

    So again, we always have this debate: whether we go for opportunity, security, all of those things or specific pieces of legislation—we do both.

    On Leader Hakeem Jeffries:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. Our Leader, Hakeem Jeffries, is a master of this: repetition. Prioritize and repeat. Repetition, repetition, repetition. He’s so eloquent, and he’s so forceful in getting the message across.

    And we know what is going to make things different too—by using different platforms. When I was Leader, we won in ’06, we won in ’18. But now we have different platforms—taking messages to platforms where people receive their information much more instantaneously. And he understands all of that. I’m so proud of his leadership.

    He has the unity of our Caucus, the brilliance, and the strategic thinking of a leader. And again, values that would be reflected in a budget put forth by the Democrats and Leader Jeffries.

    On a new generation of Democratic leadership:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. Well, I’m an advocate for it. I was very, very proud to step aside. I wish that we had been in the majority—we will be in about eighteen months. And the point is, when I became the Leader after Dick Gephardt, he very graciously—when I became Leader, he did not interfere. And I don’t interfere. It’s about a new generation of leadership, thinking differently, employing the different tools of communication that exist now, and again, having the unity of the Caucus to support what you’re doing—not only as Leader but the legislation that you would put forth.

    But we have to make sure the public knows what is in their interest—their kitchen table interest—the cost of health care and prescription drugs, the cost of education, the cost of housing, all of it.

    And compare where the Democrats are and where the Republicans are on all of it. And as I say, not only Hakeem, but the rest of the Leadership—Katherine Clark, Massachusetts, her state; Pete Aguilar from California; Ted Lieu from California—so many, all champions on messaging and champions for working families.

    On a Republican cuts to the American safety net:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. As far as Medicare, Social Security—they paid into this. It’s not an entitlement. This is their money. They paid into this for their whole working careers. And now they’re going to say, we’re going to cut this out because we need to save money so we can give tax cuts to the richest people in America?

    No. No, we’re not doing that.

    On repairing the damage President Trump is doing:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. This is what we did in ’18. The President said, he said in the very distinguished way as he’s used to speaking, ‘Obamacare sucks.’

    I hate to even quote him, but I hope my grandchildren aren’t listening. Obamacare doesn’t suck. It cures. It cures.

    We went out there. We had 10,000 events around the country of people telling their stories. They didn’t talk about politics or provisions of the bill. They talked about their stories:

    ‘My baby was born with a heart condition.’

    ‘My wife had breast cancer.’

    ‘My mother — this or that.’

    They told their stories and how that bill made a difference in their lives. Not only did we win the election, we won it with 40 seats—31 of them in Trump districts. People said to me afterward, ‘Aren’t you lucky that the Affordable Care Act—that health care—became such a central issue of the campaign?’

    I said, ‘No, we weren’t lucky. We made our own luck.’

    And that’s what we will do between now and the election.

    We will win the House. Hakeem will be the Speaker. He’ll be historic in his leadership—as well as the other members of the Leadership—and all of it because of the courage of our Members to take the tough votes to get the job done.

    On a potential peace deal in Ukraine:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. I have no idea what it is that Putin has on Trump—politically, personally, financially, whatever it happens to be—that he should be kowtowing to Putin over and over again, saying that the Ukrainians started the war.

    But forget about that. [Russia] came into this country. They raped the women. They did that in front of their children, in front of their parents.

    They kidnapped the children—tens of thousands of them—sent them to Russia, far reaches of Russia. They murdered people in front of their family members. And they’re supposed to get land for that? That’s not where I am.

    But I’m not the President of Ukraine. I respect whatever decision he makes. But for us to say Russia should get land in order to leave—after they’ve committed crimes against humanity? Crimes against humanity.

    I don’t think Putin can go anyplace without getting arrested for his crimes against humanity—at least Europe recognizes that. Others recognize that—even if Donald Trump thinks that’s okay.

    On her proudest accomplishment and legacy:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. Of course, the Affordable Care Act. Because this was directly, directly beneficial to America’s working families.

    And it’s about the national health care financial stability as well. But with all legislation, you want to do more. You don’t do more in terms of lowering the cost of prescription drugs.

    We did that in the IRA, but we can’t do it totally. We have to do it in stages, and I would like to do it all at once. But we have to get it passed in the Congress.

    What was the hardest thing? Well, I always knew we had the votes.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stauber Applauds Trump Administration’s Latest Move to Prioritize NewRange

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) applauds the Trump Administration’s announcement that the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council is prioritizing and designating NewRange Copper Nickel’s NorthMet Project as a FAST-41 transparency project due to its importance to domestic mineral production.

    Of this announcement, Congressman Stauber stated, “NewRange’s NorthMet deposit represents a significant opportunity to produce the critical minerals necessary to secure our nation’s economic and security needs. Fortunately, President Trump and his Administration understands the vital importance of this project, as evidenced by this designation. I look forward to seeing NewRange meet and exceed every permitting standard in a timely manner so that they can help make America not just critical mineral independent, but critical mineral dominant.”

    Stauber continued, stating,“I call on the Walz Administration to follow the science and the law, while recognizing the need for good paying jobs and the demand for these incredible resources we have right here at home. This project is a win-win for Minnesota.” 

    The transparency project designation, established by President Trump’s recent executive order on critical minerals, demonstrates that the NorthMet project is a top priority for this Administration.

    The transparency designation does not automatically grant permits for mining projects. Inclusion as a transparency project makes the environmental review and authorizations schedule publicly available and this transparency leads to greater accountability, ensuring a more efficient process. 

    Under this designation, no corners will be cut, and the proposed project will still have to meet the federal government’s strict environmental and safety requirements, which are some of the most robust and stringent in the entire world.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Members at Pratt and Whitney in Connecticut Vote to Reject Company Offer, Strike for Fair Contract

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Approximately 3,000 members at IAM Union Locals 700 and 1746 in the greater Hartford, Conn., area have overwhelmingly rejected the company’s offer. The current agreement remains in effect through 11:59 p.m. ET on Sunday, May 4, when a strike will begin. 

    “Our committee worked tirelessly to advance our member’s voices to the company, and the company simply failed to bring to the table an agreement that we felt comfortable recommending to our membership,” said IAM District 26 Directing Business Representative Jeff Santini. “At the end of the day, the membership always has the final say.”

    Read: CT-based jet-engine maker Pratt & Whitney sees profits rise 41% in early 2025 despite tariffs

    According to the negotiating committee, the company failed to adequately address the membership’s top concerns about wage and retirement security and offered nothing to improve job security.

    “Pratt and Whitney is a powerhouse in military and commercial aerospace products because our membership makes it so,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “This offer does not address the membership concerns, and the membership made their decision — we will continue to fight for a fair contract.”

    The IAM Union looks forward to returning to the table with Pratt and Whitney’s leadership to continue pressing for the needs and enhancements that ensure the well-being and livelihoods of Pratt and Whitney workers.

    “We advocate daily for the well-being of our IAM family at companies across North America. Our membership is respected globally and deserves an agreement that reflects that,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Pratt and Whitney offered an agreement that the membership ultimately rejected, but we look forward to returning to the table with Pratt and Whitney to iron out an equitable agreement for both parties.”

    Share and Follow:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Raul Ruiz Hosts a Steering & Policy Town Hall with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, House Democratic Steering & Policy Co-Chair Nanette Barragán, and Chairwoman of the Democratic Women’s Caucus Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raul Ruiz (36th District of California)

    Rancho Mirage, CA – Today, Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz hosted a community town hall in partnership with the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee, bringing together local leaders, constituents, story tellers and committee members for a robust discussion on the most pressing issues facing California’s 25th District. 

    Congressman Ruiz was joined by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, House Democratic Steering & Policy Co-Chair Nanette Barragán, and Chairwoman of the Democratic Women’s Caucus Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez.

    The event, held at Rancho Mirage on Saturday May 3, 2025, served as an opportunity for residents to share their stories and priorities directly with Democratic leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives. Topics ranged from affordable housing and veterans’ services to Medicaid and Social Security cuts.

    “This town hall gave our communities a powerful seat at the table in Washington,” said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25). “By connecting constituents with House leadership, we’re ensuring the voices of our region are heard and reflected in national policy. I’m proud to bring the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee to our district to listen, learn, and take action.”

    “The House Republican budget is an attack on every single American, particularly children, families, seniors and those with disabilities. It is unacceptable, unconscionable and un-American,” said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. “House Democrats will continue to lift up the stories of everyday people in every corner of the country and do everything that we can to stop this budget in its tracks, bury it in the ground and make sure it never rises again.”

    “Today’s Town Hall was just the beginning of a nationwide effort by the Steering and Policy Committee to meet people where they are and hear firsthand how Donald Trump and House Republicans’ reckless policies are hurting working- and middle-class families,” said Steering and Policy Committee Co-Chair Congresswoman Nanette Barragán. “From threats to affordable health care to cuts targeting veterans and basic rights, the stories we heard today in Rancho Mirage reflect the stakes across the country. I’m deeply grateful to the residents who shared their experiences and trusted us with their voices. We’ll carry their stories to Washington as we continue to fight back against these dangerous, out-of-touch policies.”

    “There are 96 Democratic women in the House of Representatives and it’s our job to stand up for the issues women face. We listen to and speak for women in our own districts, and for women everywhere, including the Coachella Valley, whether you’re represented by Raul Ruiz or Ken Calvert. It was moving to hear some of your stories today,” said Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03). “Women have lots of power, and when we raise our voices and our stories to protect our families and children, world, watch out. Because we will win those battles.”

    For the live stream of the event, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Wildfire smoke and extreme heat can occur together: Preparing for the combined health effects of a hot, smoky future

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Stephanie Cleland, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University

    In recent years, Canadians have been subjected to both severe wildfire smoke and extreme heat events, as evidenced by the record-breaking 2023 wildfire season and the 2021 heat dome. Western Canada in particular has a long history of wildfires and heat waves, and with climate change, communities have experienced an increasing number of days per year affected by wildfire smoke or extreme temperatures.

    It’s well understood that exposure to either wildfire smoke or extreme heat poses a significant threat to health. For example, there is substantial evidence linking wildfire smoke to an increased risk of hospitalizations for lung or heart complications, with emerging evidence that exposure may also affect birth outcomes and cognitive function. Similarly, we know that extreme heat can increase the risk of illness or death from conditions related to our lungs, hearts and brains.

    However, most available research has focused on the effects of these climate hazards in isolation, without considering what the health risks might be when wildfire smoke and extreme heat happen at the same time. We live in a complex world where we’re rarely exposed to one hazard at a time, and wildfire season overlaps with the warmest months of the year, making it essential to consider the potential risks of concurrent exposure to heat and smoke.

    While only a handful of studies have explored the effects of co-occurring wildfire smoke and extreme heat events, early evidence indicates that simultaneous exposure may actually amplify the adverse health effects, leading to worse respiratory, cardiovascular and birth outcomes than either exposure on their own.

    This emerging evidence of amplified effects, paired with expected increases in Canadians’ exposure to both wildfire smoke and extreme heat, prompted me and my colleagues at the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control to explore how often, and where, these climate hazards are co-occurring in Canada. In doing so, we aimed to identify priority communities to guide public health communication and adaptation planning in the face of hotter and smokier summers.

    When wildfire smoke and extreme heat co-occur

    To understand how often communities are simultaneously exposed to wildfire smoke and extreme heat, we analyzed 13 years of temperature and air pollution data across British Columbia. We calculated the number of days affected by both wildfire smoke and extreme heat in each dissemination area (small, government-defined geographic regions that have an average population of 400-700 people). We also assessed if the frequency and intensity of these simultaneous climate hazards has changed over time.

    The number of days with simultaneous exposure to wildfire smoke and extreme heat between 2010-2022. The number of days are calculated for each community (dissemination area) in British Columbia.
    (Cleland et al., 2025), CC BY-NC-ND

    We found that wildfire smoke and extreme heat frequently co-occur in British Columbia, with all communities experiencing at least seven, and upwards of 65, days with simultaneous exposure to wildfire smoke and extreme heat between 2010 to 2022.

    We also identified that the frequency and intensity of these events has escalated over time, with 42.5 per cent of communities (approximately 1.9 million people) experiencing significant increases in their exposure. For example, between 2018 to 2022, communities on average experienced 4.5 days per year with simultaneous exposure to wildfire smoke and extreme heat, compared with only one day per year between 2010 to 2014.

    Trends in the number of days with simultaneous exposure to wildfire smoke and extreme heat between 2010-2022. The left figure illustrates which communities (dissemination areas) experienced significant increases in their exposure, and the right figure illustrates the number of days with simultaneous exposure during each year of the study period.
    (Cleland et al., 2025), CC BY-NC-ND

    We also found that communities across the province were not equally affected by these co-occurring wildfire smoke and extreme heat events. Those in the northeastern and south-central regions of British Columbia tended to experience more frequent and intense exposure.

    When we dug a bit more into the characteristics of these highly exposed communities, we found that they were primarily located in rural and remote regions of the province, often with lower socioeconomic status and a higher proportion of susceptible populations, such as older adults.

    These types of communities tend to have lower resilience and adaptability to climate hazards, with reduced access to the resources necessary to follow public health guidance and reduce their exposure to wildfire smoke and extreme heat.

    Preparing for hotter and smokier summers

    Our findings, together with evidence of amplified health risks, make it clear that Canada needs to prepare for hotter and smokier summers. There is also a clear need to increase the resilience and adaptive capacity of rural and remote communities in certain regions of British Columbia.

    To do so, we need to invest in strategies that account for the unique ways in which a community experiences wildfire smoke and extreme heat as well as their specific needs and susceptibilities.

    While Health Canada and the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control provide guidance on actions to take when exposed to wildfire smoke and extreme heat together, a recent review of public health guidance on simultaneous exposure to smoke and heat found that the current messaging is often incomplete and inconsistent. This unclear messaging can make it difficult for communities to adequately plan and prepare for these recurrent and intense climate hazards.

    Additionally, a lot of the strategies that cities currently rely on to reduce exposure to smoke or heat do not account for the complex world of multiple hazards. For example, cities often open cooling centres during periods of extreme heat to provide access to air conditioning, but these centres don’t always have air filtration.

    Similarly, cities often designate cleaner air spaces during periods of wildfire smoke to provide access to clean indoor air, but these spaces don’t always have air conditioning.

    Moving forward, Canada needs to invest in co-ordinated public health guidance and adaptation strategies that serve multiple purposes and account for the numerous climate hazards that communities face each year. In doing so, we can better protect the health and well-being of the communities that are experiencing increasingly frequent and intense wildfire smoke and extreme heat events.

    Stephanie Cleland receives funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research

    – ref. Wildfire smoke and extreme heat can occur together: Preparing for the combined health effects of a hot, smoky future – https://theconversation.com/wildfire-smoke-and-extreme-heat-can-occur-together-preparing-for-the-combined-health-effects-of-a-hot-smoky-future-252245

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Lady Gaga acts as a custodian of hope

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By M. Tina Dacin, Stephen J.R. Smith Chaired Professor of Strategy & Organizational Behaviour, Queen’s University, Ontario

    In an age of cynicism and despair, Lady Gaga’s recent Coachella performance “The Art of Personal Chaos” brings audiences hope.

    Over two weekends, audiences were treated to a visually lavish set, flawless choreography and strong vocals. Gaga’s performance in five acts — staged for fans as an opera house set in the Indio, California desert — was a self-reflexive event exploring many influences upon the singer.

    Gaga’s performance paid homage to past greats such as Michael Jackson and Prince as well as her different past selves. From donning armour and crutches from her “Paparazzi” persona to her Fame-era look, Gaga showed that where she is today follows and emerges from every iteration of her artistic identity over the years.

    The evocation and embodiment of her different selves suggested not only a journey of mixed emotions and struggles regarding fame, but her negotiation and resolution of these struggles as pathways into a promising future.

    In a recent interview, Gaga highlights that for her, despite emotional struggles and pain, reflexiveness, acceptance and forward thinking can yield eventual peace and happiness.

    For me as scholar who researches organizations, Gaga’s performance is an allegory of the need for stewarding change and transition in today’s world.

    Allegory of the need to steward change

    In my work with organizational scholars Peter Dacin and Derin Kent, we suggest that people involved in stewarding change and transition in organizations are “custodians” — people with a vested interest in protecting traditions, while also re-imagining and renewing them over time.

    Lady Gaga, ‘Vanish Into You,’ Coachella 2025 Livestream Feed.

    As our work argues, custodians are agents of maintaining the best aspects of cultural continuity, as well as change. Such custodians in workplaces or social organizations facing disruption take valued remnants from the past and curate them to be accessible and relevant for the future.

    Gaga’s performance reminds us how artists may be understood to serve this role for society at large. This leads us to view Gaga as an architect of future possibility, a “custodian of hope.”

    Cultivating expectations, visions

    Custodians of hope are deliberately prospective — meaning, they cultivate expectations and concrete visions for the future.

    They craft futures that are worth preserving. They do this by translating current and past practices through renewal and reinvention and by keeping things continually refreshed. Gaga did this by reimagining her past hits during her performance and by injecting them with a new and renewed sense of energy and style.

    As writer Coleman Spilde’s brilliant review in Salon noted, Gaga’s performance reminds us that in a world where it is easy to feel defeated, “beauty is not lost; its just harder to find.”

    Throughout several of the numbers performed during her Coachella set, Gaga showed that existing in the present is not so simple. Battles are fought and choices must be made. By embodying resilience, Gaga gives us hope and inspiration that in a world full of volatility and despair, small acts of resistance and emotional contagion can craft and re-craft the future.

    The past is a resource for renewal

    According to recent research by organizational studies scholars Matthias Wenzel, Hannes Krämer, Jochen Koch and Andreas Reckwitz, people can work to make alternative futures that are not strictly bound to the past but still align with their values. We shouldn’t just passively allow the future to unfold: we need to be intentional about crafting truly desirable futures, as suggested by organizational scholars Ali Aslan Gümüsay and Juliane Reinecke.

    As my research with entrepreneurship scholar Nico Klenner examines, custodians of hope care for the past while projecting the past into futures they and others desire.

    Yet Gaga goes beyond merely preserving tradition. As a custodian, Gaga curates the past, showing us that tradition is not simply the weight or remnant of the past. Bits of the past are reworked and recrafted as she selectively incorporates past styles of Prince and Michael Jackson into her performance as well as nods to fashion moments of her varied personas.

    As expressed by a fan on Tik Tok, dance moves choreographed during “Shadow of a Man” are reminiscent of Michael Jackson. The past becomes a valuable resource for renewal and re-invention moving us towards what might be.

    Evoke emotion to enlist others

    However, invoking the past is not enough. To realize change, custodians need to evoke emotion to enlist others. As sociologist Ann Mische suggests, hope is ultimately an emotion of possibility.

    As a custodian of hope, Gaga takes audiences through an emotionally laden and inclusive journey that reminds us how struggles can be overcome through acts of confrontation, defiance and resilience. For example, during her performance of “Poker Face” performed on a chess board, Gaga confronts a blond figure, an earlier version of her past self.

    Early on in her second performance at Coachella, Gaga experienced a wireless microphone failure and grabbed a connected mic and exclaimed “I’m sorry my mic was broken for a second; At least you know I sing live; And I guess all we can do is our best; I’m definitely giving you my best tonight; I love you so much,” sending the crowd into an uproar.

    The audience experienced a collective sense of resilience or effervescence, in what seemed to be a public celebration of generosity and improvisation above perfection.

    Collective sense of care

    Through interactivity with the audience via the live performance and livestream, fans are drawn in to co-imagine the future not through Lady Gaga but with her. Asking the crowd to raise their “monster paws” signals encouragement and support highlighting the importance of a sense of collective care.

    In addition to evoking emotion, Gaga reminded us of the importance of anchoring her vision for the future in the collective sense of care embedded in the Born This Way Foundation. For example, her #BeKind365 platform has logged millions of acts of kindness since its inception. This shows how value can be generated through structured supports or programs that link positive emotion with specific and concrete acts.

    Gaga curates as well as extends the past through renewal and reinvention to enlist new believers into a plausible path forward. Her performance underscores that hope is not a one-off moment but rather, an ongoing custodial effort of curating and reconciling the past towards a kinder and more authentic future.

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

    – ref. How Lady Gaga acts as a custodian of hope – https://theconversation.com/how-lady-gaga-acts-as-a-custodian-of-hope-255209

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Yale scholars’ move to Canada can prompt us to reflect on the rule of law

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Jeffrey B. Meyers, Instructor, Legal Studies and Criminology, Kwantlen Polytechnic University

    In the most non-controversial and basic sense, the rule of law means formal legality. The law binds citizens and governments. When it comes to nation states, law is enacted by democratically elected legislatures; legal statutes are openly available and sufficiently clear to follow. State actions can be judicially reviewed for compliance with a constitution.

    In its more ambitious conceptualization, the rule of law can also be understood to include substantive human rights and equity. In Canada, The Constitution Act of 1982 references the rule of law in its preamble.

    The modern Canadian iteration of the rule of law — which includes substantive ideas about human rights as well as Indigenous treaty rights — is based on liberal ideas shared by many countries, including, historically, the United States. What distinguishes a rule-of-law state from an authoritarian one to a large extent is whether state actions can be judicially reviewed for compliance with a constitution.

    Although rule of law scholars debate the parameters of the concept of the rule of law, few would debate that what is happening during U.S. President Donald Trump’s second term presents anything other than a wholesale attack on the rule of law both domestically in the U.S and internationally.

    I am a rule of law researcher, educator and lawyer. Since Trump was elected to his first term in 2016, I’ve relied on American scholars, from a variety of disciplines, to understand what is happening.

    These include two prominent Yale professors, philosopher Jason Stanley and historian Timothy Snynder, both of whom have recently announced they’re moving to the Munk School of Global Affairs at the University of Toronto.

    Authoritarian impulse

    In their scholarship, Stanley and Snyder have sought to explain the authoritarian impulses of the first Trump administration and how to resist it.

    Stanley’s father, a German Jew who fled Germany for America in 1939, carries the remembrance of fascism.

    Both Stanley and Snyder explore the similarities between what is occurring in Trump’s America, Viktor Orban’s Hungary, Vladimir Putin’s Russia, Xi Jinping’s China and, equally chillingly, between Trump’s America and Adolf Hitler’s Germany. Even prior to the first Trump presidency, Stanley already asked in his 2015 book, How Propoganda Works, whether the U.S., “the world’s oldest liberal democracy,” might already have become a liberal democracy “in name only?”



    Read more:
    Why the radical right has turned to the teachings of an Italian Marxist thinker

    Examination of propaganda, rhetoric

    In his 2018 book, The Road to Unfreedom: Russia, Europe, America, Snyder described Trump as a “sado-populist, whose policies were designed to hurt the most vulnerable people of his own electorate.”

    Stanley’s focus on propaganda and rhetoric were especially useful for framing the politics of Trump.

    Similarly, Snyder’s focus on the similarities between Trump and other authoritarian leaders, through their attachment to extreme illiberal ideologies, helped frame public discourse in the U.S. during the first Trump presidency. “Illiberal” does not imply conservative in opposition to “being liberal” (with the resonance of “leftist”); rather, it denotes a repudiation of liberal democracy, in the words of political scientist Thomas J. Main.

    Both Stanley and Snyder are on the public record explaining their decision to immigrate to Canada, on the basis that they can no longer continue their scholarly activities in an American university, even a premier one like Yale.

    Jason Stanley speaks with Amanpour and Company.

    Improper interference

    This is an admission by important thinkers that civil society, intellectuals and critical scholars, in particular, are under assault.

    It comes as no surprise given other developments. Trump’s executive orders, threats to some university funding and crackdowns on activists and academics — as well as the attempted deportations of those without U.S. citizenship — have used the idea of combatting campus antisemitism as cover for an attack on free expression, academic independence and student activism.

    From my perspective as a Jewish person, a post-secondary teacher and as someone with a legal education, all of these developments have hit hard, especially alongside accounts of some of America’s most prestigious law firms caving to improper interference by the Trump administration.

    What ‘fascism’ means

    In the introduction to his bestselling 2020 book, How Fascism Works, Stanley wrote: “In recent years, multiple countries across the world have been overtaken by a certain kind of far-right nationalism; the list includes Russia, Hungary, Poland, India, Turkey and the United States.”

    He explains the choice of the word “fascism” to speak about each of these countries, despite their differences of degree and context:

    “I have chosen the label ‘fascism’ for ultra nationalism of some variety (ethnic, religious, cultural), with the nation represented in the person of an authoritarian leader who speaks on its behalf. As Donald Trump declared in his Republican National Convention speech in July 2016, ‘I am your voice.’”

    In his similarly bestselling book, On Tyranny, published in 2017, Snyder wrote: “To abandon facts is to abandon freedom. If nothing is true, then no one can criticize power, because there is not basis upon which to do so. If nothing is true, then all is spectacle. The biggest wallet pays for the most blinding lights.”

    Now that Trump is back in office, Stanley and Snyder, as well as Snyder’s Yale colleague and spouse, Marie Shore, the celebrated author of The Ukrainian Night, are leaving Yale for Canada with good reason.

    Author Timothy Snyder speaks about Democracy and the Risk of Tyranny with Public Policy Forum.

    Shared mutual concern

    While the departure of a handful of prominent academics is hardly a trend, it raises questions about whether there will be an accelerated academic “brain drain”, or more American students in Canada.

    As a Canadian, I would like to say America’s loss is our gain, and I wish these scholars well. I am also aware that narratives of flight to Canada as refuge have historically bolstered national myths while obscuring Canadian inequities. My hope is that Canadians will not observe the arrival of U.S. scholars with smugness, but instead with shared concern.

    We should not be blind to this unique moment in which Canada is called to revisit why we care about Canada and keep watch on the rule of law. Yet, we must also recognize our own profound historical blind spots.

    For example, while an overt threat to sovereignty is new for some Canadians, it is nothing new for Canada’s Indigenous Peoples. Today it’s important to understand the distinctively Canadian importance of Indigenous law to any reaffirmation of the rule of law tradition in Canada in the 21st century.



    Read more:
    Wet’suwet’en hereditary chief is ‘prisoner of conscience’ after failure of Delgamuukw ruling 25 years ago

    Too much cynicism might prevent us from acknowledging the importance of these three scholars’ decisions to leave their country and come to ours at this particular time in history. However, my hope is also that we are also inspired by their considerable truth-telling skills to demand Canada also do better.

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

    – ref. Yale scholars’ move to Canada can prompt us to reflect on the rule of law – https://theconversation.com/yale-scholars-move-to-canada-can-prompt-us-to-reflect-on-the-rule-of-law-254434

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-Evening Report: In its soul-searching, the Coalition should examine its relationship with the media

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Ricketson, Professor of Communication, Deakin University

    Among the many lessons to be learnt by the Liberal-National Coalition parties from the election is that they should stop getting into bed with News Corporation Australia.

    Why would a political party outsource its policy platform and strategy to people with plenty of opinions, but no experience in actually running a government?

    The result of the federal election suggests that unlike the Coalition, many Australians are ignoring the opinions of News Corp Australia’s leading journalists such as Andrew Bolt and Sharri Markson.

    Last Thursday, in her eponymous program on Sky News Australia, Markson said:

    For the first time in my journalistic career I’m going to also offer a pre-election editorial, endorsing one side of politics […] A Dutton prime ministership would give our great nation the fresh start we deserve.

    After a vote count that sees the Labor government returned with an increased majority, Bolt wrote a piece for the Herald Sun admonishing voters:

    No, the voters aren’t always right. This time they were wrong, and this gutless and incoherent Coalition should be ashamed. Australians just voted for three more years of a Labor government that’s left this country poorer, weaker, more divided and deeper in debt, and which won only by telling astonishing lies. That’s staggering. If that’s what voters really like, then this country is going to get more of it, good and hard.

    The Australian and most of News’ tabloid newspapers endorsed the Coalition in their election eve editorials.

    The election result was a repudiation of the minor culture war Dutton reprised during the campaign when he advised voters to steer clear of the ABC and “other hate media”. It may have felt good alluding to “leftie-woke” tropes about the ABC, but it was a tactical error. The message probably resonated only with rusted-on hardline Coalition voters and supporters of right-wing minor parties.



    Read more:
    Peter Dutton calling the ABC and the Guardian ‘hate media’ rings alarm bells for democracy

    But they were either voting for the Coalition, or sending them their preferences, anyway. Instead, attacking the ABC sent a signal to the people the Coalition desperately needed to keep onside – the moderates who already felt disappointed by the Coalition’s drift to the right and who were considering voting Teal or for another independent.

    Attacking just about the most trusted media outlet in the country simply gave those voters another reason to believe the Coalition no longer represented their values.

    Reporting from the campaign bus is often derided as shallow form of election coverage. Reporters tend to be captive to a party’s agenda and don’t get to look much beyond a leader’s message. But there was real value in covering Dutton’s daily stunts and doorstops, often in the outer suburbs that his electoral strategy relied on winning over.

    What was revealed by having journalists on the bus was the paucity of policy substance. Details about housing affordability and petrol pricing – which voters desperately wanted to hear – were little more than sound bites.

    This was obvious by Dutton’s second visit to a petrol station, and yet there were another 15 to come. The fact that the campaign bus steered clear of the sites for proposed nuclear plants was also telling.

    The grind of daily coverage helped expose the lateness of policy releases, the paucity of detail and the lack of preparation for the campaign, let alone for government.

    On ABC TV’s Insiders, the Nine Newspapers’ political editor, David Crowe, wondered whether the media has been too soft on Dutton, rather than too hard as some Coalition supporters might assume.

    He reckoned that if the media had asked more difficult questions months ago, Dutton might have been stress-tested and better prepared before the campaign began.

    Instead, the Coalition went into the election believing it would be enough to attack Labor without presenting a fully considered alternative vision. Similarly, it would suffice to appear on friendly media outlets such as News Corp, and avoid more searching questions from the Canberra press gallery or on the ABC.

    Reporters and commentators across the media did a reasonable job of exposing this and holding the opposition to account. The scrutiny also exposed its increasingly desperate tactics late in the campaign, such as turning on Welcome to Country ceremonies.

    If many Australians appear more interested in what their prospective political leaders have to say about housing policy or climate change than the endless culture wars being waged by the coalition, that message did not appear to have been heard by Peta Credlin.

    The Sky News Australia presenter and former chief of staff to prime minister Tony Abbott said during Saturday night’s election coverage “I’d argue we didn’t do enough of a culture war”.

    Andrew Dodd has been the recipient of Australian Research Council funding

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

    – ref. In its soul-searching, the Coalition should examine its relationship with the media – https://theconversation.com/in-its-soul-searching-the-coalition-should-examine-its-relationship-with-the-media-255846

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Election flops – a night to forget for minor parties on the left and the right

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Maxine Newlands, Adjunct Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Policy Futures, University of Queensland, Adjunct Principal Research Fellow, Cairns Institute, James Cook University

    Minor parties were all the rage at the last election when, along with independent candidates, they secured almost a third of votes.

    But they have failed to build on that success at this election. The biggest and best funded of the minor parties – the Greens, One Nation and Trumpet of Patriots – have all had disappointing results.

    Few green shoots

    The Greens are the largest party outside of the traditional two-party system. But they failed to launch on Saturday night.

    In 2022, the Greens secured 12.2% of the primary support which returned a record four members to the lower house. This time around, their nationwide vote is up – but only marginally and not where it matters.

    The party has lost big in Queensland, with Stephen Bates in Brisbane and Max Chandler-Mather in Griffith relinquishing their seats to Labor. Elizabeth Watson-Brown could hold on in the neighbouring seat of Ryan, though preference flows will be critical.

    Peter Dutton might not be the only party leader to lose his seat, with Adam Bandt on a knife’s edge in Melbourne, which he has held for 15 years. Again, it will come down to the spread of preferences.

    The Greens had high hopes for two other Melbourne-based seats. They remain a chance in Wills, but got nowhere near it in Macnamara.

    And it is unlikely to snatch the New South Wales seat of Richmond from Labor despite running a close second on primary vote.

    Balance of power

    The Greens have performed much better in the Senate, where they will once again be the largest cross bench party with a predicted 11 seats.

    While the ALP will clearly dominate the lower house in the 48th parliament, the Senate is looking to be more of a two-way spilt between Labor and the Coalition.

    The Albanese government will likely require only the support of the Greens to pass legislation. This is a much better scenario for Labor than the previous parliament when it needed to stitch together all the Greens and four independents to navigate the Senate.

    Once again, the Greens will effectively hold the balance of power. However, Labor will have other crossbench options, such as independents David Pocock, Lidia Thorpe and Fatima Payman if the Greens obstruct bills that are also opposed by the Coalition.

    Minor party fizzers

    Despite their disappointing result in the lower house, the Greens easily outperformed the right-wing minor parties, most of which flopped.

    None more so than Clive Palmer’s newly registered Trumpet of Patriots, which fielded candidates in most lower house seats and in the Senate. It scored 1.8% of the vote, the highest positive swing of all the minor parties.

    But it misfired everywhere, despite Palmer’s reported $A50-60 million advertising spend. While Senate votes are still being counted, Trumpet of Patriots is lagging behind both One Nation and the Legalise Cannabis Party.

    Pauline Hanson’s One Nation recorded just over 6% of first preference votes, up only slightly on its 2022 result and nowhere near enough to win any lower house seats. However, there are enough disaffected voters in Queensland to return Malcolm Roberts to the Senate. Hanson won’t be up for reelection until 2028.

    Hanson’s daughter Lee Hanson is an outside chance of securing a Senate spot for One Nation in Tasmania. Her main rivals are Jacqui Lambie and Legalise Cannabis, which is also in the mix to win the final Senate seat in Victoria.

    Gerard Rennick’s People First party also failed to make an impression. So too, Fatima Payman’s Australia’s Voice.

    What next for the minor parties?

    Minor parties play an important role in the Australian political landscape, and have long been players in federal parliament.

    The previous two elections have seen shifts away from the two-party system, with one in four voters preferring minor parties or independent candidates in 2019, and one in three in 2022.

    On the numbers counted so far in this election, voters have favoured either the traditional major parties or the array of independent candidates.

    The trend towards minor parties has been halted, at least for now.

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

    – ref. Election flops – a night to forget for minor parties on the left and the right – https://theconversation.com/election-flops-a-night-to-forget-for-minor-parties-on-the-left-and-the-right-255623

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –