[. If passed, Bill 49 would lay additional groundwork for the new police service.
Proposed amendments to the Police Act recognize the unique challenges faced by different communities and seek to empower local governments to adopt strategies that effectively respond to their specific safety concerns, enhancing overall public safety across the province.
If passed, Bill 49 would specify that the new agency would be a Crown corporation with an independent board of directors to oversee its day-to-day operations. The new agency would be operationally independent from the government, consistent with all police services in Alberta. Unlike the Alberta Sheriffs, officers in the new police service would be directly employed by the police service rather than by the government.
“With this bill, we are taking the necessary steps to address the unique public safety concerns in communities across Alberta. As we work towards creating an independent agency police service, we are providing an essential component of Alberta’s police framework for years to come. Our aim is for the new agency is to ensure that Albertans are safe in their communities and receive the best possible service when they need it most.”
Additional amendments would allow municipalities to select the new agency as their local police service once it becomes fully operational and the necessary standards, capacity and frameworks are in place. Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring the new agency works collaboratively with all police services to meet the province’s evolving public safety needs and improve law enforcement response times, particularly in rural communities. While the RCMP would remain the official provincial police service, municipalities would have a new option for their local policing needs.
Once established, the agency would strengthen Alberta’s existing policing model and complement the province’s current police services, which include the RCMP, Indigenous police services and municipal police. It would help fill gaps and ensure law enforcement resources are deployed efficiently across the province.
Related information
Improving public safety
Bill 49: Public Safety and Emergency Services Statutes Amendment Act, 2025
Related news
Keeping Alberta families and communities safe (March 13, 2024)
FALLS CHURCH, Va. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, working with federal law enforcement partners from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Diplomatic Security Service, apprehended an illegally present Guatemalan national and convicted sex offender, Ander Cortez-Mendez, 21, in Falls Church,Virginia, April 2.
“Ander Cortez-Mendez is a convicted sex offender, and exactly the type of illegal alien that ICE officers seek to remove from Washington, D.C. and Virginia,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Washington, D.C. Field Office Director Russell Hott. “We refuse to allow such offenders to continue to threaten the residents of our neighborhoods. ICE Washington, D.C. and our law enforcement partners will continue to arrest and remove criminal aliens from the streets of our communities.”
U.S. Border Patrol apprehended Cortez-Mendez Feb. 04, 2018, after he illegally entered the United States near Rio Grande Valley, Texas. The next day, USBP issued Cortez-Mendez a notice to appear before a Justice Department immigration judge.
Officers with the Fairfax County Police Department arrested Cortez-Mendez, March 16, 2024, for sex crimes.
ICE Washington, D.C. lodged an immigration detainer against Cortez-Mendez with the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center, March 18, 2024; however, the detention center refused to honor the ICE detainer and released Cortez-Mendez back into the community.
The Fairfax County Circuit Court found Cortez-Mendez guilty of consensual sexual intercourse with a child May 20, 2024. The court sentenced Cortez-Mendez to three months in prison but suspended the entire prison sentence.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @EROWashington.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brittany Pettersen (Colorado 7th District)
WASHINGTON — U.S. Representatives Brittany Pettersen (D-CO) and Sara Jacobs (D-CA) issued the following statements after Speaker Mike Johnson struck a deal that effectively blocks their bipartisan resolution to allow proxy voting for new parents in Congress. The agreement would replace their proposed policy with a limited “pairing” system that maintains outdated practices and fails to provide real solutions for lawmakers who are new parents.
Rep. Brittany Pettersen said: “We are so grateful to Rep. Anna Paulina Luna for championing this issue that matters deeply to us, and so many other families. Her partnership was essential in building broad bipartisan support from a majority of the House. When the Speaker refused to act, she continued working to make the House a more welcoming place for families. But the reality is — this outcome does not address the barriers we’ve fought so hard to overcome.
“When Speaker Johnson refused to bring our resolution to the floor for a vote – regardless of how many Members supported it – we followed the rules and tried to force a vote by filing a discharge petition and received the necessary signatures to bring it forward. Instead of letting us vote, he has instead gone to historic lengths to kill our resolution and make sure the large majority of his Members don’t have a voice. Let’s be clear: these changes are not a win for us and Speaker Johnson has turned his back on moms and dads in Congress and working families.
“I am deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from colleagues on both sides of the aisle and the women and moms across the nation. I know that you’re as disappointed as I am that we’re not changing the Rules in Congress to make it more likely that people like us have a seat at the table. But our fight is far from over. I promise I won’t stop working on behalf of moms, our families, and most importantly our kids.”
Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “From the very beginning, our shared goal has been to support new parents so they can do their jobs and vote on behalf of their constituents while also taking care of themselves and their families. Unfortunately, this ‘deal’ falls short of that goal – silencing new parents and perpetuating the status quo and the notion that Congress is ineffective and obsolete. I won’t accept the way Congress has always done things, and the American people won’t either. We will keep pushing for innovative ways to support young people and parents in Congress – including by modernizing how we vote – even if it takes a Democratic majority to do so.”
Background:
In January, Pettersen introduced the bipartisan Proxy Voting for New Parents Resolution alongside Representatives Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), and Mike Lawler (R-NY). After Republican Leadership refused to move forward with their bipartisan legislation, the Members used a rare procedural move called a discharge petition, collecting 218 signatures from a majority of the House.
This procedural tool is used to bypass Leadership and force a vote on the floor. However, despite broad bipartisan support, Speaker Johnson went to extreme lengths to block the measure from advancing. The Members defeated Johnson’s attempts to kill the discharge petition last week, bringing legislative business to a halt. Still, Speaker Johnson continued to ignore House rules and refused to bring the resolution forward for a vote.
This work is the latest in Pettersen’s continued efforts to make government more inclusive and accessible, especially for young families. During her time in the Colorado legislature, she was the first state lawmaker in Colorado history to take parental leave after giving birth to her son, Davis. Pettersen had to seek permission from Leadership and categorize her absence as a “chronic illness” in order to be paid while on leave. That’s why she brought legislation to change the outdated law and allow for paid parental leave for all future Colorado state lawmakers.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jerrold Nadler (10th District of New York)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Representative Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), House Democratic Leader Jeffries (D-NY), and Representative Dan Goldman (D-NY) are leading a bipartisan letter calling on President Trump and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to reverse cuts to National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) staff that provide critical support for the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP).
The WTCHP offers medical monitoring and treatment for first responders and survivors diagnosed with 9/11-related health conditions, including many types of cancers, respiratory illnesses, and more. The cuts include the dismissal of Dr. John Howard, the administrator of the WTCHP, who makes critical decisions regarding covered conditions and ensures the WTCHP complies with statutes enacted by Congress. The WTCHP also currently uses NIOSH staff to determine the awards of research grants in the amount of nearly $20 million a year, an annual requirement of the program to fund research on 9/11 conditions and care.They were joined on the letter by Representatives Mike Lawler (R-NY), Nick LaLota (R-NY), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Laura Gillen (D-NY), Pat Ryan (D-NY), Grace Meng (D-NY), Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), George Latimer (D-NY), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Tim Kennedy (D-NY), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Josh Riley (D-NY), Joseph Morelle (D-NY), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), John Larson (D-CT), Jahana Hayes (D-CT), Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ), and Nellie Pou (D-NJ), as well as Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).
“We were appalled at the recent announcement that the Department of Health and Human Services cut two-thirds of the staff at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), under which the WTCHP operates,” wrote the lawmakers. “We understand that your plan is to ultimately eliminate all NIOSH staff in the next few days. The WTCHP relies on NIOSH staff to fulfill many of its obligations under the law, and eliminating staff that implement it, especially as more and more responders and survivors fall ill with 9/11-related conditions, will directly interfere with program operations and undermine access to the treatment these heroes have earned and deserve. Congress has continually reaffirmed its bipartisan commitment to the responders and survivors of September 11th. We stand ready to work with you to reverse these cuts to ensure that current and future participants receive the coverage and care that Congress has continuously provided.”
“I am glad that the members of the NY Congressional Delegation are working together in a bipartisan manner to demand answers as to what Secretary Kennedy is doing. Why fire Dr. Howard, a Trump appointee, why fire the NIOSH staff the Doctors and epidemiologists that support the WTC Health Program, who is going to approve cancer treatments for 9/11 responders and survivors this week when they are seeking help, why fire the CDC staff that handle the programs contracts and grants, who is going to handle the contracts and grants that are the heart of this program? The Secretary needs to either answer all these questions or restore Dr .Howard and the NIOSH, CDC staff that were doing this work who were terminated. This wasn’t a scalpel or even a chainsaw this was bulldozer that is leveling the program,” said Benjamin Chevat, Executive Director of the Citizens for Extension of the James Zadroga Act, Inc.
In February 2025, the Trump administration drastically reduced the workforce of the World Trade Center Health Program. In response, Senator Gillibrand, Congressman Garbarino, and a number of their bipartisan colleagues in the House called on the administration to reverse the cuts, and the program’s staffing levels were ultimately restored.
After years of efforts and calls on the federal government, Congress established the WTCHP on a bipartisan basis in 2011 with a five-year authorization to provide medical treatment and monitoring for 9/11 responders and survivors suffering from the effects of the toxins at Ground Zero. The program covers the lifespans of all exposed, including responders and survivors of the attack on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, the Shanksville crash site, children who were in schools in downtown Manhattan on 9/11 and during clean-up, and those who have since experienced, or are expected to experience, adverse health effects that are linked to the attacks in the coming years. The program was reauthorized in 2015 and extended through 2090 with bipartisan support. In 2022, lawmakers delivered $1 billion for the WTCHP in the end-of-year spending bill, and in 2023, they secured an additional $676 million for the program.
The full text of the members’ letter to President Trump and Secretary Kennedy is available here or below:
Dear President Trump and Secretary Kennedy,
The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) provides critical medical treatment, research, and monitoring to over 137,000 responders and survivors of the September 11th terrorist attacks, living in every state and nearly every Congressional district. The WTCHP serves first responders and survivors from the World Trade Center and lower Manhattan, the Pentagon, and the crash site in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. This vital program provides life-saving care to the heroes who answered the call to serve in one of our nation’s darkest hours and the survivors who are forced to live with the health consequences from the attacks every single day.
We were appalled at the recent announcement that the Department of Health and Human Services cut two-thirds of the staff at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), under which the WTCHP operates. We understand that your plan is to ultimately eliminate all NIOSH staff in the next few days.
Since the establishment of the WTCHP in 2011, the number of program enrollees has more than doubled from 61,000 to 137,000. The WTCHP relies on NIOSH staff to fulfill many of its obligations under the law, and eliminating staff that implement it, especially as more and more responders and survivors fall ill with 9/11-related conditions, will directly interfere with program operations and undermine access to the treatment these heroes have earned and deserve.
For example, the WTCHP does not employ any staff physicians or individuals with medical degrees. Under the statute medical doctors need to approve certifications of members coming forward with new conditions that meet the requirements of the law for them to receive treatment. The WTCHP has always used NIOSH doctors to perform this work.
Additionally, the WTCHP does not have a staff epidemiologist and has always used NIOSH epidemiologists to review pending petitions for considering whether to add new conditions to the list of covered conditions. The WTCHP also currently uses NIOSH staff to determine the awards of research grants in the amount of nearly $20 million dollars a year, an annual requirement of the program to fund research on 9/11 conditions and care.
We are extremely concerned regarding the dismissal of Dr. John Howard, the Program Administrator of WTCHP. Since the program’s inception, Dr. Howard has faithfully served as the Administrator, playing a critical role as the final decision-maker on determining which petitioned conditions should be covered and ensuring the WTCHP is adhering to the explicit statutes enacted by Congress. His institutional knowledge is unmatched and allows the program to operate effectively and efficiently. It is estimated that over 400,000 individuals were exposed to toxins or other hazards on 9/11, and we are gravely concerned that his termination will undermine the essential work the WTCHP does.
Finally, we are concerned about the termination of the staff at the Office of Acquisition Services at NIOSH. The Office of Acquisition Services oversees all contracts for the WTCHP’s Nationwide Provider Network (NPN), which is a vast network of contracted health providers throughout the country that provide the medical monitoring and treatment for program enrollees who live outside the New York metropolitan area. This office ensures these contracts and providers meet the needs of enrollees and provides oversight and quality assurance for the NPN. Without this coordinating mechanism, current contracts could receive little oversight and that future contracts could lapse, undermining access to enrollee care.
We are asking that the Administration provide answers on how the WTCHP will be impacted by these massive layoffs. Please respond to the below list of questions by April 9th, 2025.
Is the Administration planning to terminate all NIOSH staff?
What was the justification for the termination of Dr. Howard?
Since there are no doctors on the staff of the WTCHP, and the statue requires doctors to sign off on certifications that allow for treatment of members, what is the administration’s plan to rectify this as all of the NIOSH medical staff that performed this function have been terminated?
Since the WTCHP used the staff of NIOSH, especially epidemiologists to review pending petitions under the law to consider covering new conditions, what provisions has HHS made to supply the necessary staff to fulfill that role for the WTCHP?
What is the status of pending petitions to add autoimmune disease and cardiac conditions to the program? The program announced in December 2024 that eligible individuals can expect an answer by March 2025.
WTCHP utilized NIOSH staff to determine the approximately $20 million of annual research awards required under the statute that are normally announced in March. What staff will be assisting WTCHP in making these decisions and when will the awards for 2025 be announced?
Has the administration consulted with advocates or career staff on the impacts these cuts may have on WTCHP service delivery?
If you have not, please explain why.
What office will oversee the contracts and contracting process if there is no staff at the Office of Acquisition Services?
Congress has continually reaffirmed its bipartisan commitment to the responders and survivors of the September 11th attacks. We stand ready to work with you to reverse these cuts to ensure that current and future participants receive the coverage and care that Congress has continuously provided.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Canberra’s Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) pilot program will be expanded.
2024–25 ACT Budget snapshot – Belconnen
New health centre for West Belconnen
FOGO pilot expanded
More housing for Belconnen
New and upgraded community facilities
Belconnen Transitway feasibility study
With the ACT’s population set to reach 500,000 people by the end of 2027, the 2024–25 ACT Budget is funding the services and infrastructure this growing city needs.
Through this year’s Budget, the ACT Government is delivering more public health services, providing cost of living relief for those who need it most, and improving housing choice, access and affordability.
Some of the projects funded in Belconnen include:
A new health centre for West Belconnen
The 2024–25 ACT Budget is investing in health programs and infrastructure throughout the city.
This includes funding to design and plan a new health centre in West Belconnen. This will help provide the right services closer to where people live.
The Government is also investing in a new North Canberra Hospital, including upgrades to existing buildings to maintain services during construction and design work to relocate some existing services.
The Budget will support new and upgraded community facilities and infrastructure across the region.
This includes:
the expansion of the Belconnen Basketball Stadium
the replacement of the existing pavilion at Jamison Oval
upgrades to the Emu Bank foreshore
improving local shops at Charnwood Group Centre, Evatt, Kippax Group Centre, and Macquarie
delivering a new green waste processing facility and landscape depot in West Belconnen.
The Government will also respond to community feedback regarding resources at ACT libraries. There will be new portable phone chargers and more power boards and charging stations, in addition to improving building security.
The combination of unpredictable weather and a growing city have increased demands on those taking care of Canberra’s grass, trees, weeds and gardens.
The Budget includes funding for 10 full-time positions and eight additional mowers to deliver an expanded baseline capacity in the ACT’s mowing teams.
In the low season, mowing crews will assist with horticultural work across the city, including weeding, road edging and maintenance.
Belconnen to City Transitway feasibility study
The Government will undertake a bus transitway feasibility study to investigate potential upgrades to the transport corridor between Belconnen and the City.
The study will focus on improving bus services to minimise congestion and delays between two of Canberra’s major population hubs.
This initiative will be partially funded through a matching contribution from the Commonwealth Government.
The Budget will also provide funding to finalise the duplication of William Hovell Drive and Gundaroo Drive between Ginninderra Drive and the Barton Highway.
The region will benefit from a new suite of system-wide literacy and numeracy initiatives, called Strong Foundations, being rolled out across ACT public schools. The program will ensure all students have access to consistent, high-quality literacy and numeracy education.
There will also be a range of school upgrades across Canberra as part of the ACT Government’s annual Asset Renewal Program.
This includes roof replacement work at Charnwood Dunlop Primary School and Melba Copland Secondary School.
The Budget also includes funding to deliver:
Strathnairn Primary School in the Ginninderry area, which will cater for over 600 preschool to year 6 students
a 130-place Early Childhood Education and Care service.
Find out what else has been funded as part of the 2024-25 ACT Budget by clicking here.
The ACT’s horticulture and mowing teams will receive a funding boost.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Budget will fund path improvements across the Inner North, Inner South and City.
2024–25 ACT Budget snapshot – Inner North, Inner South and City
A new Inner South Health Centre
More housing for the region
Path improvements across the region
The electrification of Alfred Deakin High School
More funding for mowing and horticulture
With the ACT’s population set to reach 500,000 people by the end of 2027, the 2024–25 ACT Budget is funding the services and infrastructure this growing city needs.
Through this year’s Budget, the ACT Government is delivering more public health services, providing cost of living relief for those who need it most, and improving housing choice, access and affordability.
Some of the projects funded in the Inner North, Inner South and City include:
A new Inner South Health Centre
The 2024–25 ACT Budget is investing in health programs and infrastructure throughout the city.
This includes funding to build the new Inner South Health Centre in Griffith. This will help provide the right services closer to where people live.
The ACT Government’s Indicative Land Release Program for 2024–25 to 2028–29 will help cater to the ACT’s growing population.
As part of the program, 4,587 new homes are planned for the Inner North, Inner South and City region.
Road and path improvements across the region
Funding received through the 2024–25 ACT Budget will see improvements made to paths across the Inner North, Inner South and City.
Walkers, cyclists and those riding scooters can expect to see better line marking, completed missing links and more lighting as they exercise or head to and from work.
Other investments across the region include:
progressing Light Rail Stage 2A, which includes design and construction of an extension from the existing Light Rail Stage 1 terminus at Alinga Street to a new stop at Commonwealth Park
road improvements along Beltana Road in Pialligo
construction of the Garden City Cycle Route.
The electrification of Alfred Deakin High School
The Electrification of Gas Assets Program is a 17-year commitment by the ACT Government to replace all gas-powered assets used within Government owned and operated buildings.
The program will abolish and electrify over 1,000 gas assets and will contribute to the goal of net zero emissions from Government operations by 2040.
Funding in the 2024–25 ACT Budget will allow for cooling upgrades at Alfred Deakin High School as part of the program.
The 2024–25 ACT Budget will support new and upgraded community facilities and infrastructure across the region.
This includes responding to community feedback regarding resources at ACT libraries. There will be new portable phone chargers and more power boards and charging stations, in addition to improving building security.
This Budget will also provide support for:
finalising construction of the new Acton Emergency Services Station to house ACT Ambulance Service and ACT Fire & Rescue staff
undertaking capital upgrades at the City Police Station and planning for future accommodation requirements
The region will benefit from a new suite of system-wide literacy and numeracy initiatives, called Strong Foundations, being rolled out across ACT public schools. The program will ensure all students have access to consistent, high-quality literacy and numeracy education.
There will also be a range of school upgrades across Canberra as part of the ACT Government’s annual Asset Renewal Program.
This includes:
the refurbishment of the existing Lyneham High School gymnasium
roof replacement work at Dickson College
continuing the modernisation and expansion of Majura Primary School, Telopea Park High School and Narrabundah College
progressing the UNSW Canberra City Campus project.
Find out what else has been funded as part of the 2024-25 ACT Budget here.
Canberra’s mowing teams and resources have been expanded.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
There is a comprehensive cost-of-living package included in this year’s Budget.
The ACT Government is offering continued support to Canberrans most impacted by cost of living pressures.
Cost of living pressures are being felt across the country and this year’s ACT Budget does more for low-income households.
Supporting apprentices and trainees
One initiative is a new, one-off $250 payment to support local apprentices and trainees.
Apprentices and trainees have a restricted earning capacity while they are obtaining their qualification.
This payment recognises the financial pressures these Canberrans are facing.
The ACT Government will contact eligible apprentices and trainees by the end of September. It is not necessary to apply for the payment.
Assisting families with schooling costs
The ACT Government is also expanding the Future of Education Equity Fund.
The Fund has been hugely successful in supporting students and families in need, helping them with the costs of their education.
Already in 2024, the Future of Education Equity Fund has supported more than 5000 students in Canberra.
More families will be able to get financial assistance with things like textbooks, music lessons and sporting equipment.
Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate
Over 40,000 low-income households in Canberra will also benefit from an increase to the Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate.
The payment will be increased to $800 per year, helping these households with their home energy costs.
When combined with the $300 Federal Government energy payment, one in five Canberra households will receive $1,100 in assistance towards their energy bills.
Targeted cost of living support
These initiatives are part of a comprehensive cost of living package included in this year’s Budget. The package also includes:
expanding the Utilities Hardship Fund, including increasing vouchers from $100 to $300, to support more households to change their energy use
extending the Rent Relief Fund to support more Canberrans on low incomes who are experiencing rental stress or severe financial hardship
expanding public transport concession fares to include Canberrans with a Commonwealth Low-Income Health Care Card, to support more people accessing buses and light rail
additional funding to Roundabout Canberra, Scouts ACT, Fearless Women and Women’s Health Matters to support these community organisations to continue delivering essential services to vulnerable Canberrans
additional funding for emergency material and financial aid programs and food relief services, to support vulnerable Canberrans in need of food and other necessities
increasing assistance through the Taxi Subsidy Scheme, including increasing the subsidy for ride users, further reducing out-of-pocket costs for vulnerable Canberrans
increasing the Life Support Rebate to $150 a year, to support more Canberrans using electric life support equipment to treat a life-threatening condition.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Koori Preschool provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 3 to 5 years with a play-based, culturally safe learning program.
Proud First Nations women Chloe Spratt and Amanda Flemming are driven to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children thrive.
They wear many hats as the Early Years Engagement Officers at the ACT Government’s Child and Family Centres.
Central to their role is engaging with parents about their children’s education – and this begins with Koori Preschool.
Koori Preschool provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 3 to 5 years with a play-based, culturally safe learning program.
Each week, Chloe and Amanda visit Canberra’s five Koori Preschools to meet with families and staff.
Parents and carers get to know them during drop-off and pick-up times and can approach them to discuss support they might need.
School staff can also discuss any concerns with Chloe or Amanda – with consent from the family. Chloe and Amanda can then link the family to relevant services for support which could include referral into the Child and Family Centres or Child Development Service to assist addressing the individual needs of families.
Both officers are determined to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children have a positive experience of school.
“I’ve been in the Early Years Engagement Officer for four years and I am very passionate about supporting our children in community and working so closely with the Koori Preschool program,” Chloe said.
They work tirelessly to empower families to play an active role in their child’s learning journey.
Such efforts have played a role in the success of Koori Preschool.
Enrolments have increased over the past five years and school readiness among First Nations preschoolers has also improved.
An additional 100 places at Koori Preschool were funded in last year’s budget.
Both women regard their work as not just a job, but a calling. This dedication illustrates the power of advocacy in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander early childhood development.
“Being that person who family feel culturally connected to and feel safe to yarn with you is a great sense of belonging in the community,” Amanda said.
“I love that as An Early Years Engagement Officer I can help give the best start to the little Borri and help the families get the support they may need for their family.
“I enjoy being able to see the Borris go from strength to strength from the early intervention they may be linked into with the child development.
“I think the best part is when you visit each school the Borri running up to you and saying ‘Aunty Manda, can you came and play with me’ or ‘can you be my partner on the bus’ when I join them on learning on country,” she said.
Koori Preschools operate at five school sites around Canberra, with curriculum aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework.
Ngunnawal Primary School
Kingsford Smith School
Narrabundah Early Childhood School
Wanniassa School
Richardson Primary School.
Parents and carers can enrol Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in Koori Preschool at any time between the ages of three and five.
Koori Preschool enrolments are now open for the 2025 school year.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Canberra families will have better access to paediatric health services where and when they need it.
Canberra families will have access to more paediatric health services in both the hospital and the community, as part of the 2024–25 ACT Budget funding.
The investment will expand paediatric inpatient care as well as community-based paediatric services.
Eight inpatient paediatric beds at Canberra Hospital will be funded.
This will ensure Canberra Health Services can continue to support unwell children and young people when they need specialist paediatric care.
A new paediatric critical care team will also be established at Canberra Hospital.
The team will provide leadership and specialty skills in paediatric critical care to treat and care for children and young people.
They will also provide better coordination, support and upskilling of existing staff in this area.
There will be additional resourcing to expand multidisciplinary rehabilitation services for children with complex and chronic conditions – where care is shared between local and interstate hospitals.
This funding will develop a model of care to support children in a more sustainable and integrated way.
Budget funding will also support critically unwell newborns, with additional cots added the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Special Care Nursery at Canberra Hospital.
The ACT Government will establish a new location for community-based paediatric services.
This will give families with children with – or at risk of – developmental delays or certain health conditions easier access to services they need, outside of a hospital setting.
These investments will support implementation of actions in the Child and Adolescent Clinical Services Plan 2023–2030 and the opening of dedicated paediatric critical care spaces in Canberra Hospital’s new Critical Services Building.
This Budget builds on the range of Government investments in paediatric services, as well as the expansion of the Centenary Hospital for Women and Children.
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Source: The White House
SUPPORTING AND EMBRACING AMERICAN INNOVATION: Under PresidentTrump’s leadership, America is well-positioned to maintain its global dominance in artificialintelligence (AI) innovation. Today, the White House Office of Management and Budget, incoordination with the Assistant to the President for Science and Technology, issued two revised policies to facilitate responsible AI adoption to improve public services. These policies fundamentally shift perspectives and direction from the prior Administration, focusing now on utilizing emerging technologies to modernize the Federal Government.
The Executive Branch is shifting to a forward-leaning, pro-innovation and pro competition mindset rather than pursuing the risk-averse approach of the previousadministration.
The Federal Government will no longer impose unnecessary bureaucratic restrictions on the use of innovative American AI in the Executive Branch.
By embracing AI adoption, agencies will be more agile, cost-effective, and efficient.
This shift will deliver improvements to the lives of the American public while enhancingAmerica’s global dominance in AI innovation.
PROMOTING RAPID AND RESPONSIBLE AI ADOPTION: M-25-21 gives agencies thetools necessary to embrace AI innovation, while maintaining strong protections for Americans’ privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties.
Agencies will empower AI leaders to remove barriers to AI innovation.
Agency Chief AI Officer roles are redefined to serve as change agents and AI advocates, rather than overseeing layers of bureaucracy.
Chief AI Officers are tasked with promoting agency-wide AI innovation and adoption for lower risk AI, mitigating risks for higher-impact AI, and advising on agency AI investments and spending.
Agencies will produce an AI adoption maturity assessment to better track progress andneeds.
Policies introduce a single “high-impact AI” category to track AI use cases that requireheightened due diligence because of potential impacts on the rights or safety of theAmerican people.
Accountability for AI will mirror the existing process for using government IT, instead ofcreating new layers of approvals.
Use of American AI will be maximized when seeking new AI solutions.
DRIVING EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT AI ACQUISITION: M-25-22 provides agencieswith concise, effective guidance on how to acquire best-in-class AI quickly, competitively, and responsibly.
Agencies must support a competitive American AI marketplace, maximizing the use of American AI systems and services in support of American AI leadership, human flourishing, economic competitiveness, and national security.
This policy recognizes the importance of competition, communicating clear and specific requirements that avoid vendor lock-in.
The new approach removes burdensome agency reporting requirements and optimizes the acquisition process, while continuing to protect privacy and ensure lawful use ofgovernment data.
Agencies will use performance-based techniques to best harness the rapidly developing AI marketplace and create an online shared repository of resources and tools to assist with AI procurement.
AI WORKING FOR AMERICANS: Federal agencies are maximizing the benefits of AI topromote human flourishing, economic competitiveness, and national security. Illustrativeexamples include the following:
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) optimizes patient care through AI tools that help identify and standardize Veterans’ care.
The VA uses AI to support the identification and analysis of pulmonary nodulesduring lung cancer screening exams. The AI functionality improves detection of these nodules, assisting clinicians with life-saving diagnoses.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) improves public safety by leveraging AI to protect theAmerican public.
The DOJ is using AI to better understand the global drug market and the impact of illicit drugs on communities and individuals, in order to further drug traffickinginvestigations and protect the American public.
The National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA) expands humanity’s ability tosafely traverse Mars by using AI.
NASA is using AI on the Mars2020 Rover to help it navigate with limited directionfrom Earth, optimizing scientific discovery from the rover’s sensors and assuring it safely traverses the planet’s hazardous terrain.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
A range of new and expanded measures will further support Canberrans to find a home that suits their needs.
The ACT Government is supporting more Canberrans to buy a home by extending a range of stamp duty concessions and exemptions.
Funding in the 2024–2025 ACT Budget will save many more first home buyers tens of thousands of dollars when they buy their first home.
It also includes specific assistance for downsizers, people with a disability and those fleeing domestic violence.
Home Buyer Concession Scheme
The ACT Government is making major changes to the Home Buyer Concession Scheme.
Buyers are eligible for the full stamp duty concession on the first $1 million of property value.
This will save eligible Canberrans up to $34,000 in tax when they purchase their home.
The Budget expands the scheme from 1 July 2024 to:
increase the income eligibility threshold to $250,000 a year for homebuyers who have not owned a property in the previous five years (this is an increase from $170,000 a year for homebuyers who have not owned a property in the previous two years)
enable homebuyers with children to earn an additional $4,600 per child and stay eligible (up from an additional $3,330 per child).
People fleeing family violence can have owned a property in the previous five years.
Helping more Canberrans buy a new apartment or townhouse
The Government has also temporarily expanded the stamp duty concession for off-the-plan unit-titled apartments and townhouses to include properties valued up to $1 million in 2024-25.
This will begin from 1 July 2024 and will support more Canberrans to buy an apartment or townhouse.
Currently, homebuyers do not have to pay stamp duty on off-the-plan unit-titled apartments and townhouses valued up to $800,000.
Supporting more housing options in existing suburbs
The Budget will temporarily extend the RZ1 Unit Duty Exemption Scheme to include properties valued up to $1 million in 2024-25.
This will align with the Off-The-Plan Unit Duty Exemption.
Announced in October 2023, this Scheme applies to the first transfer of unit-titled dwellings on suburban residential (RZ1) blocks.
It is for purchases valued up to $800,000, between 27 November 2023 and 30 June 2026.
The announcement coincided with the commencement of the new Territory Plan, which allows dual occupancy developments on large suburban residential blocks (over 800 square metres).
This extension further supports the development of more dual-occupancy homes in existing suburbs.
It will create more opportunities for Canberrans to find a home, including people looking to downsize in the suburbs they’ve long called home.
More support for people with a disability
The existing Disability Duty Concession Scheme is available to eligible homebuyers with a disability.
The scheme will be extended from 1 July 2024 to provide a full stamp duty concession on the first $1 million of property value, to further support people with a long-term or permanent disability.
As a result, a partial concession is now available for properties over $1 million. Previously, the scheme was limited to properties valued up to $1 million.
There will also be a new Severe Disability Duty Exemption from 1 July 2025 to support people with a severe disability, and their carers, to find a home.
This new exemption will mean people with severe disability and their carers will not have to pay stamp duty if the home they are buying is their principal place of residence.
The home does not have to be bought by a Special Disability Trust.
Supporting more pensioners to downsize
The Government has also extended the Pensioner Duty Concession Scheme from 1 July2024.
Pensioners will receive a full stamp duty concession on the first $1 million of property value.
A partial concession will be available for properties over $1 million.
This extension will support more pensioners to downsize.
The existing scheme provides a full stamp duty concession for homes valued up to $550,000, with a decreasing concession to zero for homes valued between $550,000 and $765,000.
These 2024-25 ACT Budget initiatives relate to the ACT Wellbeing Framework’s housing and home wellbeing domain.
Missouri State Archives Hosts Program Honoring Deaf Poet and Civil War Correspondent Laura Redden Searing
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins announced an upcoming public program at the Missouri State Archives that will celebrate the legacy of a trailblazing Deaf Missourian. Poet of the Rebellion: Laura Redden Searing and Deaf History in Missouri will take place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the James C. Kirkpatrick State Information Center in Jefferson City.
Hosted by the Missouri State Archives and the Friends of the Missouri State Archives, the event features Lawrence Yates, President of the Missouri Association of the Deaf, and Becky M. Davis, Executive Director of the Missouri Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Together, they will highlight the remarkable life and literary contributions of Laura Redden Searing—a 19th-century journalist and poet who, despite being Deaf, made her mark as a prominent Civil War correspondent under the pen name Howard Glyndon.
“Searing’s story reminds us of the power of perseverance, creativity, and the profound impact of diverse voices in our shared history,” said Secretary Hoskins. “We are proud to share her legacy and elevate awareness of Missouri’s rich Deaf heritage.”
Searing broke barriers in an era when both women and individuals with disabilities faced significant societal limitations. As a correspondent for The St. Louis Republican, she reported from Washington, D.C., during the Civil War and penned poetry inspired by her experiences on the battlefield.
This program comes amid growing national recognition of Deaf culture and history, highlighted by award-winning films and television featuring Deaf performers. The event underscores Missouri’s own contributions to this important narrative.
An American Sign Language interpreter will be present, and all are welcome to attend.
For more information about the Missouri State Archives, visit www.sos.mo.gov/archives.
The event will also be live streamed on the Missouri State Archives Facebook page.
About the Missouri State Archives The Missouri State Archives, a division of the Secretary of State’s Office, preserves and provides access to the state’s historic records. Through educational programming, exhibits, and community outreach, the Archives connects Missourians with their shared past.
About Secretary of State Denny Hoskins
Denny Hoskins, CPA, was elected Missouri’s 41st Secretary of State in November 2024. With a strong background in business and public service, he is committed to improving government efficiency, transparency, and supporting Missouri families.
For more information, please contact: Rachael Dunn, Director of Communications, via email at [email protected].
TORONTO, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rumble Canada, (NASDAQ: RUM), the high-growth video platform and cloud services provider, has joined Rebel News Network and its founder, Ezra Levant, in suing the government of Canada, Member of Canadian Parliament Ya’ara Saks, and other officials, for conspiring to deprive them of their constitutional right to free expression. The lawsuit, filed today in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, alleges that the defendants unsuccessfully tried to block two lawful and peaceful public gatherings celebrating free speech in the Toronto area last year simply because they disagreed with the political points of view of the organizers and participants. The suit alleges that the officials tried to thwart the events, which included Donald J. Trump Jr. as a featured speaker, by imposing unreasonably high charges for security measures that were not needed and designed only to prevent the events from taking place. The plaintiffs are seeking reimbursement in the amount of $37,177.80 for the excessive security costs, $250,000 in punitive damages, and legal expenses, and have requested a trial in Toronto.
Specifically, the suit alleges that the defendants tried to scuttle the events, promoted as “Rumble Live” and “Rebel News Live” on May 10 & 11, 2024, by enforcing unjustifiable fees for security measures they knew were unnecessary and exorbitant. The gatherings were planned and held by the two companies after they entered into a lawful contract to rent a venue in North York, Ontario that typically hosts wedding receptions and other private events.
Referencing internal communications, the complaint alleges that the defendants had been told by local police there was no indication of planned protests or threats of unrest or violence surrounding the gatherings, yet they still imposed outrageously high security charges—more than the cost of putting on the events themselves—in a failed attempt to derail the festivities. More emails make the case that officials worked on ways to shut down the celebrations based on the political beliefs of the people they expected to be involved.
“If it happens on or near our property, we might attract an undesirable crowd,” wrote one official in an email to colleagues.
“I am wondering if you think there is any language within the lease agreement that would permit us to stop this event from happening,” wrote another. “Based on my review, I don’t think there is, but I would appreciate your opinion.”
Both “Rumble Live” and “Rebel News Live” were wildly successful and transpired without incident.
“The Defendants knew that there was no way for them to lawfully prevent the Event from proceeding,” the lawsuit alleges. “Nonetheless, they sought to, and did, interfere with the contractual relationship between Rebel News and the [venue], successfully pressuring the venue to impose the Unwarranted Costs on the Plaintiffs, contrary to the Agreement. These actions constitute unlawful inducement of breach of contract, for which the Plaintiffs have suffered damages as a result of paying for expenses well-above the contracted rate set out in the Agreement.”
Further, the rental agreement contained language that expressly protected the plaintiffs’ rights to free speech.
“The [venue] Agrees to: uphold free speech principles and contractual obligations, irrespective of the event’s content or the public’s reaction to such content,” the rental agreement read. “The [venue] shall not cancel or postpone the event due to external pressures, including but not limited to public dissent, social media campaigns, safety concerns (other than those unrelated to the event), or politically motivated requests.”
Indeed, a public statement from MP Saks revealed that she had political motivations for attempting to interfere, specifically identifying her adversary in an upcoming election and his relationship with Rebel News.
“My conservative opponent, Roman Baber, has been platformed by and interacted with Rebel News at every opportunity,” she wrote on X on May 10, 2024. “Rebel News is clearly supporting Roman Baber.”
This is not the first time that government officials have been accused of interfering with the plaintiffs’ constitutional rights. In 2023, Levant and Rebel News alleged that they had been blocked from viewing official government accounts on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), depriving them of access to government information and the ability to engage in public discourse or represent their views as journalists and citizens. In January 2024 a federal judge issued a consent order that required the plaintiffs to be unblocked.
Listed as defendants in this new lawsuit are MP Saks and several officials with Canada Lands Company Limited, which operates Downsview Park where the venue is located, and a representative of security services at CN Tower.
ABOUT RUMBLE
Rumble is a high-growth video platform and cloud services provider that is creating an independent infrastructure. Rumble’s mission is to restore the internet to its roots by making it free and open once again. For more information, visit: corp.rumble.com.
Rebel News is a federal company carrying on business as an independent online news and media company operating across Canada and around the world. Rebel News has been granted media accreditation by governments in Canada and around the world, including the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Sweden, the Netherlands, and India. Rebel News is a member of the Independent Press Gallery of Canada and can be found online at rebelnews.com.
Headline: Verizon Frontline provides critical Unmanned Aircraft Systems support for New Orleans PD during Mardi Gras
What you need to know:
The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team supported the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) with Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) support during the busiest week of Mardi Gras.
The NOPD requested the support of the Verizon Frontline team due to their experience with advanced UAS technology and long-standing commitment to meeting the mission-critical communications needs of the public safety community.
The team conducted more than 140 flights, totalling over 45 hours in the air, to assist NOPD in its mission of keeping officers and festival attendees safe.
NEW ORLEANS – The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team recently completed a deployment in support of the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) during the city’s annual Mardi Gras celebrations.
To help enhance situational awareness for first responders during Mardi Gras, the NOPD requested the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team provide UAS overwatch support during the busiest week of festivities. The team conducted more than 140 flights, totalling over 45 hours in the air, to assist NOPD in achieving its mission of keeping the festivities safe.
UAS overwatch missions assist public safety agencies with threat assessment and real-time decision making while helping reduce risk to personnel and increasing efficiency of operations.
“We’re honored to be asked to support New Orleans first responders during a large-scale event like Mardi Gras,” said Chris Sanders, a senior manager who leads the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team’s UAS program. “This is the first time UAS is being used on a large scale during Mardi Gras, and to be asked for by name speaks to how much our public safety partners trust us and how Verizon Frontline remains on the cutting edge when it comes to leveraging technology to support our nation’s first responders.”
“Mardi Gras is one of the largest events the NOPD manages each year, and ensuring the safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority,” said Officer Reese Harper, NOPD director of communications. “Utilizing Unmanned Aircraft Systems during this year’s festivities provided our officers with enhanced situational awareness, helping us monitor crowds, respond more effectively to potential concerns, and keep the celebration safe for everyone. We are always exploring ways to strengthen public safety through innovation and strategic resources.”
Held annually, the Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans date back to the 16th century and the city’s origins. The multi-day celebration consists of parades and carnival festivities, where millions of people attend. Mardi Gras also generates over $1 billion for the economy in New Orleans.
The mission of the NOPD is to provide professional police services to the public in order to maintain order and protect life and property. In order to accomplish this mission, the NOPD is committed to the philosophy of Community Oriented Policing as a means to inform organizational decisions and prioritize crime fighting and quality of life initiatives by engaging each neighborhood and community organization in collaborative problem-solving partnerships.
The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team provides on-demand, emergency assistance during crisis situations to government agencies and emergency responders on a 24/7 basis at no cost to the supported agencies. Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team members set up portable cell sites, Wi-Fi hotspots, charging stations and other Verizon Frontline devices and solutions that enable communications and/or improve network performance.
Verizon Frontline is the advanced network and technology built for first responders – developed over three decades of partnership with public safety officials and agencies on the front lines – to meet their unique and evolving needs. Learn more at our site.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The ACT Government is increasing housing supply, access and choice to meet the needs of our growing city.
This year’s Budget makes significant investments to deliver more housing in Canberra – particularly for those who need it most.
The Budget includes:
expanding the Affordable Housing Project Fund to $80 million to grow the number of affordable rental properties
$108 million in extra funding for new public housing, and to improve existing public housing – this takes the Housing ACT Capital Works Program to over $530 million over four years
a taskforce to improve repairs and maintenance of public housing and oversee a pilot for insourcing maintenance of two large multi‑unit properties.
These initiatives will help ensure the right mix of housing options to suit a range of household incomes. It will also meet the housing needs of a growing Canberra, which is on track to reach 500,000 people by 2027.
Affordable Housing Project Fund
This Budget provides a significant boost to the Affordable Housing Project Fund, established last year.
The Fund has so far supported six projects, which will deliver 280 affordable rentals.
Canberra’s food scene gets better each year. 2024 is no exception, with a huge array of eateries opening in the last 12 months.
Whether you’re on the lookout for a fresh new favourite in your neighbourhood, or prepared to venture across town, there are plenty of options to choose from.
The latest venture from the team behind Morks showcases Southeast Asian and Chinese cuisine. Grab takeaway noodles for lunch or dine-in from lunch. There’s a tasting menu or a la carte menu to choose from.
This Italian cafe is about as close to the water as you can get. Enjoy views of Lake Burley Griffin while you indulge in dishes like breakfast risotto, pistachio cream filled croissants or fresh paninis.
Lil Mama’s is more than just a cafe, it’s a gathering spot for local creatives. That being said, you will find delicious sandwiches, bagels, coffee, matacha lattes, sweet treats and more to enjoy at this waterside spot.
Verity Lane Market has a new vendor offering fresh, authentic Vietnamese cuisine. You’ll find classics like Vietname bread rolls, rice noodle soup, rice/vermicelli diesh and rice paper rolls.
The latest addition to Canberra’s thriving Mexican food scene is serving up tacos, burgers and wings. Vegans will love their plant-based chicken burger or cauliflower tacos. There are also options for pescetarians and carnivores, plus sides like waffle or shoestring fries, jalapeno poppers and mozarella fingers.
From the great minds behind Ter and Barrio comes this suburban all-day dining destination. Recess roast their own beans, so you know the coffee is excellent. With sandwiches, pancakes, pasta dishes and sweet treats on the menu, there’s almost certainly something to cure your cravings.
Mort Street’s latest addition is a western saloon-style bar. Visit for American Southwestern food, craft cocktails, whiskey and more.
Good neighbours are invaluable. But a Good Neighbour serving up coffee, breakfast and lunch seven days a week? Worth its weight in gold. Try the strawberry matcha, shakshouka or chilli crab folded eggs.
After a hiatus that lasted a few years, Crack Bakery is making a comeback. The team behind Pâtissez and Cartel are serving up their beloved pies as well as cookies. Orders can be made exclusively online with pickup at their kitchen at Canberra Airport.
This freshly opened boutique wine bar on Lonsdale Street also serves food and cocktails. Think cheese platters, charcuterie boards, hearty mains and desserts. The menu also includes non-alcoholic options.
Catbird’s menu is inspired by the fresh cuisine of sunny Southern California. There are breakfast burritos, sandwiches, salads, sweet things and coffee. There’s also a kid’s menu.
Sweet tooths will love the range of flavours at this New York-inspired donut shop. There are filled options like Biscoff or lemon meringue, or traditional glazed donuts.
Rakkas is a modern Turkish restaurant on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin. The menu includes flavourful authentic Turkish dishes like dips and Turkish bread, fried halloumi with honeycomb, chargrilled spatchcock and more.
This Lebanese restaurant is perfect for casual family dining or group celebrations. The mains are perfect for sharing: choose from a grill platter, shawarma meta, a vegetarian mixed plate and more.
If you’re a meat eater with a big appetite, you’ll love this Korean barbeque spot. Choose your proteins and sides and then barbeque right at the table. There are also rice and noodle dishes, soups and stews.
Italian and Sons is a longstanding Canberra favourite. Their new focaccia bar is open from 11:30am to 2:30pm Wednesday to Friday and includes pillowy, fresh focaccia (with a gluten-free option, too!).
Compa is Matt Moran’s foray into the Canberra dining scene. Steaks are the focus of the menu, accompanied by a fine selection of entrees, sides and desserts.
&Sando is also a Matt Moran creation. It’s a sandwich bar that uses bread (and stocks pastry) from local bakery Under. Their sandwiches range includes elevated classics filled with fresh ingredients.
This new café is run by Illy Coffee and the team behind Pizza Artigiana. Their pastry case is filled with sfogliatelle (an Italian pastry with a ricotta citrus filling), cannoli and croissants.
Alia is the spot for family-style Greek dining. Bring a big appetite and choose from slow-cooked lamb gyros, lobster linguine, chicken souvlaki, and baklava cheesecake.
Donuts, cookies and pastries abound at this Dickson dessert spot. Flavours range from the traditional (hot cinnamon and jam) to the unique (bubblegum, iced vovo and earl grey rose).
No need to journey to Wamboin to visit Contentious Character Winery. Their new location in Fyshwick’s Dairy Road precinct offers wine tastings, coffee and dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner (including tapas).
Gourmet sandwiches are the main offering of this New York-style deli. There are also breakfast options including pancakes and a sausage or bacon and egg roll. Sandwiches come fresh or hot, with options like a schnitty roll, beef and pickle and tuna melt.
Bada Bing has a retro charm that’s perfect for date nights or private dining. Dishes are designed to share and include antipasti, pizza, pasta and more.
Kingston Foreshore’s newest spot is open for breakfast, lunch and takeaway. The menu includes a mushroom croissant, Turkish eggs, chicken porridge and a crab omelette.
Pick up a coffee from Howie Espresso and don’t leave without one of their delicious grab-and-go options. Breakfast options include muesli and yoghurt, bircher muesli, chia breakfast bowls and muffins. Sandwiches, bagels, and wraps are on offer for lunch.
The beloved Mexican food truck now has a permanent shop on Lonsdale Street. The menu boasts authentic Mexican flavours with items like tacos, empanadas and gorditas.
Tangy, refreshing frozen yoghurt has arrived on Lonsdale Street. Moo Moo has a big range of frozen yoghurt flavours that can be customised with toppings and sauces.
A third generation Thai eatery serving lunch on weekdays. Dishes are simple but flavourful and include chicken green curry, spicy pumpkin curry and pad thai.
The Farrer location is a long-time favourite, and Fox and Bow has now arrived in the Inner South. Breakfast, brunch, lunch or just a coffee, everything on the menu is a winner.
Whether you’re after a pastry and a coffee or a pizza and a wine, this outdoor garden bar is sure to please. The food is delicious and the scenery is delightful.
Not strictly new, but recently reopened. Milky Lane is back with its loaded burgers, crispy fried chicken and decadent desserts.
Mediterranean food seems to be having a moment in Canberra, and Kivoto’s is another must-eat destination to add to your list. Pair flavourful Greek cuisine with a drop from their impressive wine list.
Sample the flavours of Europe without leaving Canberra. This bistro in the Realm hotel precinct has a stunning interior with an outdoor terrace to match. Visit for lunch or dinner or try their high tea offering.
Another new addition to the Realm precinct is Med, where Lebanese, Turkish and Greek cuisine collide. It’s a hit with carnivores and also offers vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Wonderburger brings the vintage American diner experience to Canberra. There are 10 different burgers to choose from, plus hot dogs, fried chicken, chips, sides and soft serve.
Fine dining aficionados will love this industrial-style restaurant. It has an ever-changing menu that showcases seasonal local produce.
Visit Pialligo’s newest dining destination for farmhouse-style share plates. Enjoy produce from the farm as well as regional growers.
Woden, Weston Creek and Molonglo
Three Mills has locations spread across Canberra, and now Woden Valley residents and workers can get their fix. Enjoy coffee, pastries, freshly baked bread and more.
Torrens shops is quickly becoming a foodie haven. Saint Elmo is a deli and coffee shop that sells freshly baked goods, a curated selection of meats and cheeses, fresh pasta and sauces.
Two Before Ten is another Canberra favourite, and it has now landed in the Molonglo Valley. Visit for coffee, breakfast, brunch or lunch.
Stop by the Spit Shack food truck at Weston Classic Car Wash for smokey barbeque fare. The menu includes rolls, buns, fries, hot dogs and more.
Gungahlin residents can now get their fix of frozen custard concretes. Choose from one of the delicious flavours or mix it up with different sauces, fudges, nuts, fruits, and toppings.
The Bakehouse has reopened under new management and their fresh menu is bursting with delicious options. Pick up a coffee or raspberry matcha latte and treat yourself to some comfort food.
Love potato? Whether you’re after a quick snack or a filling meal, GoTato offers crinkle cut chips, sweet potato fries, potato scallops, waffle fries, potato tots and hot dogs.
The newest CocoNine restaurant is open for lunch and dinner every day except Tuesday. Get all your Thai favourites including salads, curries, noodles, stir fries and more. There is also a vegan section of the menu.
If you can barely summon the energy to venture out for coffee in the morning, you’re in luck. Kickstart Espresso has opened a drive-thru coffee shop in Belconnen. In addition to your caffeine fix, you can also pick up smoothies, toasties, muffins and more.
This suburban gem offers pick-up and delivery. Choose from traditional options and modern Aussie favourites (chooks and bacon pizza, anyone?).
A new family-friendly pub from the team behind The Knox Made in Watson. They showcase local produce through their menu which includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks.
A modern takeaway shop with a menu that’s regularly updated. Past items have included crispy pork ribs, laksa, authentic mapo tofu, and Chinese sausage fried rice.
This ramen bar has a plant-based menu that features tofu, Japanese sweet potato and seasonal vegetables. They also have an extensive menu of non-alcoholic drinks.
This all-you-can-eat Korean buffet includes self-service bars for hotpot, cupbap, and fried rice, as well as other choices like ramen and noodles, and unlimited drinks.
Open seven days a week, Aby Coffee Couse have coffee, muffins, pastries and sandwiches.
Tuggeranong
L’épi opened its Kambah store towards the end of last year, and it’s become a firm favourite of residents. They make fresh bread, pretzels, pastries, cakes and more.
Brodburger is iconically Canberran, and it’s now easily available to southside residents. From traditional burgers to salmon, lamb, and veg, there’s something for everyone.
Dine in or takeaway from Fricken Chicken in Tuggeranong. In addition to their famous fried chicken, they also have a children’s playground and coeliac safe fried chicken.
Ureshii opened last year and has been satisfying Tuggeranong’s Japanese cravings. Tasty lunch bowls, sushi, udon noodle soup, gyoza and katsu chicken all feature on the menu.
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JAMESPORT, MO – The U.S. Department of Labor reached an agreement with Jamesport roofing contractor John Troyer after a federal investigation determined he violated federal laws, resulting in a teen worker’s fatal fall in March 2023.
The department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administrationfound that Troyer, owner of Troyer Construction LLP which operates as Troyer Roofing & Coatings, failed to provide workers with required fall protection. A separate investigation by the department’s Wage and Hour Divisionfound he violated the Fair Labor Standards Actby employing minors illegally in roofing work from May 2022 to June 2023.
Under the agreement, Troyer must pay $290,000, which includes $156,259 in OSHA penalties, $15,000 in child labor penalties, and $118,741 in criminal fines to the U.S. Department of Justice. The company will also enroll in Missouri’s On-Site Safety and Health Consultation Program.
To learn more about OSHA’s fall protection requirements and how to protect workers from fall hazards, visit OSHA’s stop falls website.
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
Vietnam era Army Veteran Robert Daehler returns to the slopes after an injury that left him paralyzed. This year, he’s not skiing alone—Daehler’s entire family is by his side, cheering him on as he embraces his passion for skiing. Below are the family members who have gathered in Snowmass to join beloved father and grandfather on this memorable journey.
Family Members:
Grandchildren: Juna, Orion and Jacob
Children: Maria, Kirsten, Denise and Erik
In-Laws: Jess and Richard
#sports4vets #DAV
To learn how you can volunteer, or to learn more, visit www.wintersportsclinic.org
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Cosme Marin-Ponce, age 41, of Mexico, was sentenced to 18 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by United States District Judge Jennifer P. Wilson for illegal reentry into the United States by a previously deported alien and failure to register as a sex offender.
According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Marin-Ponce had previously been removed from the United States in 2019, after pleading guilty to indecent assault of a person less than 13 years old. Marin-Ponce was subsequently found in the United States without having first obtained legal permission to reenter the country. Marin-Ponce also failed to register as a sex offender, as his previous conviction required.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This matter was investigated by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant United States Attorney Michael Scalera prosecuted the case.
Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.
Highlights:
-Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda
-Security Council
-Occupied Palestinian Territory
-Lebanon
-Syria
-Yemen
-Ukraine
-Special Envoy on Myanmar
-Myanmar
-Afghanistan
-Sudan
-Democratic Republic of the Congo
-Haiti
-World Health Day
DAY OF REFLECTION ON THE 1994 GENOCIDE AGAINST THE TUTSI IN RWANDA
Today, this is the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. At this morning’s event in the General Assembly to mark the Day, the Secretary-General said that this terrible period of Rwanda’s history reminds us that no society is immune from hate and horror. And as we reflect on how these crimes came about, we must also reflect on resonance in our own times.
The Secretary-General added that we must stem the tide of hate speech and stop division and discontent that is mutating into violence.
And he also issued a message on the day in which he urged all States to deliver on their commitments made in the Global Digital Compact to tackle online falsehoods and hate, to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law, and to become parties to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.
SECURITY COUNCIL
This morning the Security Council heard a briefing on the Heads of Military Components Conference, which is currently taking place in New York.
Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the head of our peace operations department, said this annual gathering is an opportunity to reaffirm our shared commitment to peace and security through the critical work of United Nations peacekeeping.
He was joined by two Force Commanders, Major General Aroldo Lázaro, Head of Mission and Force Commander of our peacekeeping mission in Lebanon -UNIFIL-, as well as Lieutenant General Ulisses de Mesquita Gomes, the Force Commander of the UN peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
General Lazaro was here in person and General Gomes was briefing via video.
Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=07%20April%202025
The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to combating gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) across the province.
This follows recent incidents, including the alleged rape of a seven-year-old girl at Bergview College in Matatiele, and the recent judgment in the Timothy Omotoso case, in which the accused was found not guilty.
Televangelist Omotoso was acquitted in the Gqeberha High Court on 32 serious charges, including allegations of rape, racketeering, human trafficking, and other crimes.
These events have left many survivors and citizens feeling disheartened.
In response to the GBVF incidents, particularly the case in Matatiele, the Ministry of Police has deployed urgent and coordinated interventions. These include intensified law enforcement efforts and the deployment of the South African Police Service (SAPS) specialised Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit to assist with the investigations.
The Department of Social Development has also stepped in to provide psychosocial support to the victim and her family.
In a statement issued on Monday, the provincial government said Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane had reached out to the family to offer reassurance and reaffirm government’s commitment to pursuing justice.
National support was also extended, with the Minister of Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, and Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta visiting the family to provide encouragement.
The provincial government said communities across South Africa, and the Eastern Cape in particular, have long been grappling the devastating impact of GBV, a persistent scourge that continues to disproportionately affect women and children.
It noted that the recent incidents serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of young girls and boys, and the ongoing threat of violence that shadows many lives.
Mabuyane underscored the severity of the situation, saying that the provincial government recognises the gravity of these crimes and views the interventions as essential to “our broader efforts to protect vulnerable groups and ensure that justice is served”.
Mabuyane urged victims and their families not to suffer in silence, calling on anyone who has experienced or witnessed GBVF to report these crimes to law enforcement.
“We understand the courage it takes to come forward [and] we are here to walk that difficult journey with you. Government has systems in place to provide both psychosocial support and legal assistance to survivors,” the Premier said.
Mabuyane called on communities not to lose faith in the justice system, adding that “the fight against GBVF cannot be won overnight, nor can it be won without public participation”.
While acknowledging the frustration that arises when justice is delayed or denied, Mabuyane emphasised the importance of continued engagement with the justice system.
“We must continue to push for accountability, protection, and justice.”
The Premier reaffirmed the provincial government’s resolute commitment to protect the most vulnerable members of society.
He also reiterated that the Eastern Cape Provincial Government will continue to collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations, and community structures to ensure that “no victim is left behind and no perpetrator escapes accountability”.
“In the face of heinous crimes, it is understandable that public trust in the justice system may be shaken. Justice may sometimes appear slow, and outcomes not always satisfactory, but now more than ever, it is vital that communities remain engaged.
“Cooperation, information-sharing, and support for victims are essential to bringing perpetrators to book. Losing faith risks creating a culture of impunity. The Eastern Cape sends a clear message: Gender-based violence will not be tolerated,” Mabuyane said.
The provincial government remains steadfast in its commitment to working with all stakeholders to create safer, more inclusive and just communities across the province. – SAnews.gov.za
Seattle – A 38-year-old member of the Lummi Nation will appear in federal court this afternoon charged with illegal firearms possession and two violations of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Joel David Ridley was arrested by Lummi Nation Police on February 23, 2025. Police responded to reports of gunshots and encountered Ridley with a dead eagle in his SUV.
According to the criminal complaint, a witness on the Lummi Reservation was walking his dog when he heard a gunshot. As he walked home, the witness heard a second shot and saw a person pick up an eagle from the ground. As the witness was on the phone with police, he saw another eagle fall from a tree on his property. The eagle was badly injured. Police captured the surviving eagle and later transported it to the Humane Society.
Shortly after meeting with the witness, police encountered an SUV in the area that matched the description provided by the reporting party. The vehicle quickly turned into a driveway. A records check revealed the vehicle belonged to Ridley. When police responded to the residence, they observed a dead eagle in the back seat of Ridley’s vehicle. Officers subsequently spoke with Ridley in the driveway and arrested him.
Police obtained a search warrant for Ridley’s vehicle. Inside, officers found a dead eagle and a .22 caliber Savage rifle concealed between the rear seats. Ridely is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a 2003 conviction for Assault in the First Degree in Whatcom County Superior Court.
Both eagles were taken to the Washington State Humane Society in Bellingham and found to have suffered gunshot wounds. The surviving eagle was too injured to recover and was euthanized. Both eagles were judged to be juvenile bald eagles.
While the Lummi Tribe is permitted to possess, distribute, and transport bald or golden eagles found dead within Indian Country, the permit does not authorize the taking of eagles by gunshot, poison, or trapping.
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in prison and a $100,000 fine.
The charges contained in the criminal complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by the Lummi Nation Police Department and the FBI.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Celia Lee. AUSA Lee serves as a Tribal Liaison for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Washington.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
TLANTA – Five individuals have been charged in the Northern District of Georgia with firearms-related offenses during a multi-agency immigration enforcement operation in metro-Atlanta during the past week. The operations involved coordinated investigations led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Federal Bureau of Investigation, with valuable support from several local law enforcement partners. In addition to the individuals charged federally, law enforcement seized more than a dozen firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition in connection with the operations.
“Our office is proud to support our law enforcement partners in this effort and other enforcement initiatives to protect our communities and safeguard our national security,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. “This initiative sends a strong message to those engaged in criminal activity, whether regarding immigration-related or firearms offenses, that the ongoing and determined coordinated efforts of our federal and local law enforcement partners will achieve measurable results in making our communities safer.”
“The successful enforcement actions taken during this multi-agency operation underscore HSI’s unwavering commitment to upholding immigration laws and targeting illegal aliens allegedly possessing and trafficking in firearms,” said Steven N. Schrank, special agent in charge of HSI Atlanta, which covers Georgia and Alabama. “By leveraging our partnerships and resources, we are identifying and apprehending those who exploit our immigration system to engage in criminal activities that threaten public safety and national security.”
“ATF along with our federal law enforcement partners will utilize all resources to investigate firearms trafficking by transnational criminal organizations and cartels,” said Special Agent in Charge Benjamin Gibbons. “The success of these investigative efforts could not be accomplished without cohesive partnerships, which keep our communities safe.”
“The DEA, along with our law enforcement partners, are sending a clear message to the Mexican drug cartels and their criminal associates, that keeping our communities safe is our highest priority,” said Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division.
“FBI Atlanta is dedicated to supporting our federal partners in achieving our mutual objective of ensuring the safety of our communities,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “This case clearly illustrates the success that can be achieved when federal agencies unite their resources and expertise to combat violent criminals.”
According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie, the charges, and other information presented in court: From March 24 to April 2, 2025, federal law enforcement agencies conducted a series of enforcement operations targeting individuals allegedly committing firearms and other violations, including those illegally present in the United States. During the operation, law enforcement seized 13 firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. Significantly, resulting investigations revealed that many of the firearms were bound for Mexico.
The following defendants have been charged in connection with the operations:
Lucio Hernandez Mora, 45, of Riverdale, GA, was charged in a Criminal Complaint with possession of a firearm by an alien unlawfully present in the United States. On April 1, 2025, special agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Department of Homeland Security, Enforcement and Removal Operations, executed a search warrant on a residence in Riverdale, Georgia and encountered Hernandez Mora, an illegal alien. During a search of the residence, agents located two firearms, allegedly belonging to Hernandez Mora.
Cameron Vick, 22, of Atlanta, GA was indicted by a federal grand jury on nine counts of making a false statement to a firearms dealer in connection with the acquisition of firearms. Vick’s purchases included two belt-fed M249S rifles, believed to be destined for Mexico. He was arrested on March 27, 2025.
Bernice Macias Montes, 31, of Atlanta, GA, was charged in a Criminal Complaint with making a false statement to a firearms dealer in connection with the acquisition of firearms. ATF agents seized five firearms during a search of her residence on March 27, 2025.
Teresa Gonzales-Hoppo, 56, of Lithia Springs, GA, was charged in a Criminal Complaint with possession of a firearm by an alien unlawfully present in the United States. On March 27, 2025, ATF agents executed a search warrant on Gonzales-Hoppo’s residence and located a firearm, allegedly belonging to Gonzales-Hoppo.
Carlos Sambrano, 28, of Rex, GA, was charged in a Criminal Complaint with unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. ATF agents located seven firearms in his residence during the execution of a March 27, 2025, search warrant.
Hernandez Mora made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Linda T. Walker on April 1, 2025. Gonzales-Hoppo made her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge John K. Larkins, III on March 28, 2025. Vick, Macias Montes and Sambrano also made their initial appearances before Judge Larkins on March 27, 2025.
Members of the public are reminded that the Criminal Complaints and Indictment only contain charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
These cases are being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations, and Federal Bureau of Investigation, with valuable assistance provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Secret Service, Georgia State Patrol, Sandy Springs Police Department, Doraville Police Department, Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, Clayton County Police Department, South Fulton Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Gwinnett County Police Department, Clarkston Police Department and East Point Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys with the Northern District of Georgia, including those assigned to the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN), provided valuable support for these operations.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The specific mission of the David G. Wilhelm Atlanta OCDETF Strike Force (Atlanta Strike Force) is to eliminate transnational organized crime syndicates and major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations in the Atlanta metropolitan area and the Northern District of Georgia. To accomplish this mission, the Atlanta Strike Force will target these organizations’ leaders, focusing on targets designated as Consolidated Priority Organization Targets, Regional Priority Organization Targets, and their associates. The Atlanta Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from ATF, DEA, FBI, HSI, USMS, USPIS, and IRS, as well as numerous state and local agencies; and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6280. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
The National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (Divyangjan), Dehradun, in collaboration with the National Association for the Blind (NAB), New Delhi, inaugurated ‘Antar Drishti’ – a unique sensory dark room – on April 7, 2025. The facility was formally inaugurated by Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Union Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. The occasion was graced by Ms. Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Joint Secretary, DEPwD, and Shri Pradeep Anirudhan, Director, NIEPVD.
‘Antar Drishti’ is a specially designed sensory experience space aimed at raising awareness and sensitizing society towards the challenges faced by persons with visual impairments. In this dark room, individuals experience complete darkness and engage in activities that help simulate the everyday experiences of persons who are blind or have low vision. This initiative seeks to foster empathy, understanding, and inclusion by bridging the gap between perception and lived reality.
In addition to the inauguration, the NIEPVD Dehradun signed an MoU with Amar Seva Sangam, a pioneering organization in the field of disability rehabilitation and inclusive development. The MoU was signed in the esteemed presence of Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, DEPwD, and Ms. Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Joint Secretary, DEPwD.
Through this collaboration, NIEPVD will implement the ‘Enable Inclusion’ App —a digital platform developed by Amar Seva Sangam for early identification, intervention, and tracking of children with developmental disabilities. The app has been successfully used across various communities to support intellectual and developmental needs.
Under the agreement, NIEPVD will integrate its expertise in visual disabilities to help expand the app’s scope, making it more accessible and responsive to the needs of individuals with visual impairments. This initiative will facilitate personalized support and services through digital means, thereby enhancing the reach and effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions.
The expanded ‘Enable Inclusion’ App, with NIEPVD’s contributions, is expected to revolutionize early intervention, tele-counseling, tracking, and rehabilitation planning—setting a benchmark for inclusive practices across India and beyond. This partnership reflects the vision of DEPwD to promote technology-driven, inclusive, and accessible solutions for the empowerment and holistic development of persons with disabilities across the nation.
Chintan Shivir 2025 is a mission-oriented platform for Constructive Dialogue, Ideation, and Exchange of Best Practices: Dr. Virendra Kumar The 2-day event commences in Dehradun with an aim to advance Inclusive and Participatory Governance
Posted On: 07 APR 2025 8:38PM by PIB Delhi
The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment today inaugurated the two-day Chintan Shivir 2025 in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. The event is bringing together key stakeholders from across the country to deliberate on policy making, review welfare schemes, and strengthen Centre-State partnerships to ensure Social Justice for the marginalized communities in India.
The event was inaugurated by Dr. Virendra Kumar, Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment (SJ&E), along with Shri Ramdas Athawale and Shri B.L. Verma, Union Ministers of State (SJ&E), in the presence of Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand. In addition, 23 Ministers in charge of Social Justice and Empowerment from various States were also present on this occasion.
The event witnessed participation of representatives of the following States and Union Territories: Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, Delhi, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Virendra Kumar emphasized that national development is impossible without social equity. He stated that Chintan Shivir is not merely a review meeting but a mission-oriented platform for constructive dialogue, ideation, and the exchange of best practices to assess the efforts of the Ministry towards ‘Viksit Bharat’. The goal is to ensure that every citizen, regardless of caste, age, ability, gender, or background, has equal opportunities to thrive with dignity. “The journey from welfare to empowerment is our collective responsibility, and this forum provides an opportunity to critically examine where we stand and where we aspire to go,” he said.
The first day of deliberations focused on four key pillars of empowerment—education, economic development, social protection, and accessibility. The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) presented progress under schemes such as ADIP, Scholarships for PwDs, and initiatives for skill development and digital inclusion. States shared innovations including mobile assessment camps, inclusive school infrastructure, and accessible transport models. Discussions highlighted the importance of working together to promote a more inclusive environment.
A separate session focused on educational empowerment under schemes such as Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarships for marginalised sections, and PM-YASASVI. States/UTs reported encouraging enrolment trends but also pointed to challenges around digital applications, verification systems, and outreach in rural and tribal belts. The Ministry urged States to adopt proactive communication strategies and community-level mobilisation. The session enabled sharing of practical issues on the ground, along with suggestions and collaborative solutions from different regions.
The Ministry’s key livelihood-oriented schemes—PM-AJAY and SEED—were reviewed, showcasing successful models of asset creation, cluster development, and entrepreneurship support. States demonstrated how these schemes are transforming the lives of SCs, OBCs, and Denotified Tribes through community-led institutions and capacity building. The NAMASTE Scheme discussions underscored the importance of modernising sanitation work and eradicating manual scavenging through a blend of technology, legal safeguards, and skill development. The focus remained on ensuring dignity and financial independence for sanitation workers, particularly women, through sustained collaboration and inter-agency coordination.
In a dedicated session, implementation of The Protection of Civil Rights Act and the Prevention of Atrocities Act was reviewed. The need for faster investigation, sensitisation of law enforcement, and stronger legal aid for victims of caste-based discrimination was emphasized. The Ministry reiterated the need for victim-centred approaches and greater accountability at the district level.
The day’s discussions reaffirmed the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to creating an ecosystem of inclusive governance—one that is rooted in compassion, evidence, and the lived realities of the marginalized. Chintan Shivir 2025 stands as a testament to collaboration, coordination, and shared responsibility among all stakeholders to drive sustainable and participatory development. Through constructive dialogue, sharing of best practices, and responsive policymaking, Chintan Shivir 2025 is paving the way for a just and equitable society in the true spirit of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Phishing emails related to DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).
Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the emails concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012. Issued at HKT 19:08
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd. relating to a fraudulent website, which has been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.
The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).
Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the website concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Octopus Cards Limited relating to phishing messages and fraudulent websites. The relevant stored value facility (SVF) licensee has reported the case to the HKMA.
The fraudulent websites reported by the SVF licensee known at the time are as follows: hxxps[:]//octupos[.]top/hk hxxps[:]//octopos[.]top/hk
The HKMA wishes to remind the public that anyone who has provided his or her personal information or account credentials, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the messages and the websites concerned, should contact the relevant SVF licensee, and report to the Police or contact the Anti-Deception Coordination Centre of the Police at 18222.
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Ryan Spencer, age 33, of Harrisburg, PA, was charged by criminal information on April 4, 2025, for conspiracy to impede the lawful functions of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and to violate the Clean Air Act, and individual violations of the Clean Air Act.
According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, between 2013 and March 12, 2024, Spencer, a Service Manager at Pro Diesel Werks, LLC, doing business as Pro Diesel Werks, along with Pro Diesel Werks owner Roy Ladell Weaver and other co-conspirators, disabled the hardware emissions control systems on the diesel vehicles of Pro Diesel Werks customers (a practice referred to as a “delete” or “deleting”), defeating the systems’ ability to reduce pollutant gases and particulate matter being emitted to the atmosphere. The information further alleges that Spencer and his co-conspirators also tampered with the emissions diagnostic systems on the vehicles to prevent the diagnostic system software from monitoring the emission control system hardware deletes (a practice referred to as a ‘tune” or “tuning).
On February 19, 2025, a federal grand jury indicted Weaver and Pro Diesel Werks for conspiracy to impede the lawful functions of the EPA and to violate the Clean Air Act, and individual violations of the Clean Air Act.
The case was investigated by the EPA’s Criminal Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney David C. Williams, Environmental Crimes Section Trial Attorney Ronald A. Sarachan, and Environmental Crimes Section Senior Trial Attorney Richard J. Powers are prosecuting the case.
The maximum total penalty under federal law for these offenses is seven years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and 40 of their colleagues in reintroducing the bipartisan Major Richard Star Act. The bill allows combat-injured veterans with fewer than 20 years of military service to receive the full retirement benefits concurrent with their disability compensation.
Currently, only veterans with over 20 years of military service and a 50 percent or more disabled rating can qualify to receive Department of Defense retirement and Department of Veterans Affairs disability payments concurrently.
“Veterans medically retired by injuries sustained in combat are heroes who have earned their full benefits and compensation. Their service and sacrifice unite us and this legislation demonstrates our commitment to ensuring they are not denied the vital support they have earned and are owed,” Boozman said.
“The Major Richard Star Act corrects a severe injustice for combat-wounded veterans,” said Crapo. “The support for this correction is clear. Though the namesake of our legislation is no longer with us, I continue to press for its passage on behalf of the more than 50,000 veterans, including hundreds in Idaho, who stand to benefit.”
“This measure corrects one of the deepest injustices in our present veterans’ disability system,” said Blumenthal. “It is unacceptable that tens of thousands of combat-injured veterans are denied the full military benefits they earned. Our bipartisan bill will right this longstanding injustice and finally provide these military retirees who have already sacrificed so much their full VA disability and Defense Department retirement payments.”
Major Richard Star was a decorated war veteran after whom this legislation is named. Major Star retired due to combat related injuries and passed away from cancer in 2021.
Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Rick Scott (R-FL), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Katie Britt (R-AL), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), John Cornyn (R-TX), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Jim Justice (R-WV), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), John Kennedy (R-LA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), James Risch (R-ID), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NV), Mark Warner (D-VA) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) also cosponsored the bill.
Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12).