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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – State of play – revision of the roadworthiness package – E-000381/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000381/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Liesbet Sommen (PPE)

    Periodic roadworthiness testing of vehicles and roadside inspections are crucial not only for road safety and consumer protection, but also for the environment. Vehicles are becoming increasingly complex due to intelligent transport systems and the emergence of connected and automated vehicles. It is therefore essential to keep pace with these developments and work towards a more harmonised EU framework.

    The revision of this package is an important step towards achieving, for example, unified emissions tests (PM and NOx tests), which contribute to a healthier environment. In addition, on-board diagnostics can be improved to detect advanced AdBlue fraud, facilitate access to registration data by delivering it in digital format, ensure cyber security of vehicle data and combat mileage fraud.

    The indicative schedule was for the first quarter of 2023. However, to date, this package has not been published. In view of the above:

    • 1.When can this package be expected?
    • 2.To what extent does the new Commission see this proposal as a priority?
    • 3.To what extent will this package converge with the proposal on access to in-vehicle data, which is also in the pipeline?

    Submitted: 28.1.2025

    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Request for clarification on recent policy changes at EU level – E-000418/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000418/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anna Maria Cisint (PfE)

    The will of the people emerging in the big European countries, starting with Germany, is evidence of the failure of the fragile balance on which the new Commission and its programme are based, both of which were the product of the undemocratic cordon sanitaire that excluded the right and its demands. The elections to the German Parliament, which is bringing asylum and immigration laws into focus, together with EPP statements on the change of course on the Green Deal, are testament to the inevitable shift to the right’s positions on protecting ordinary people and businesses. The risk of Islamisation in opposition to Western values and economic disasters – such as the automotive crisis, which has led to the loss of almost 90 000 jobs since 2020 (60 % of which in Germany) – shows the urgent need for radical change to EU policies.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.How long does the Commission plan to persevere with choices that are out of step with social and electoral opinion and are harmful to Europe, maintaining a cordon sanitaire that the popular vote is effectively dismantling?
    • 2.Does President Ursula von der Leyen endorse the anti-democratic cordon sanitaire established at Parliament through the strength of her majority but dropped in individual national parliaments, including her own?

    Submitted: 30.1.2025

    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Breach of EU habitats legislation in Greece – E-000372/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000372/2025
    to the President of the European Council
    Rule 144
    Konstantinos Arvanitis (The Left)

    In 2020, the CJEU found Greece guilty of breaching its obligations under Directive 92/43/EEC (as amended by Directive 2006/105/EC) on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora[1]. Meanwhile, the Directorate-General for Environment sent EU PILOT request ref. EUP(2021)9086 to the Ministry of the Environment, asking Greece to provide answers concerning issues relating to the the correct transposition of the above-mentioned directive. By its decision (published on 15 February 2023)[2], the Commission sent a reasoned opinion to Greece [INFR(2014)4073] for failing to comply with the above directive when planning wind farm projects. This was after a letter of formal notice was sent in July 2014.

    In view of this, can the Commission say:

    • 1.What action has it taken following the CJEU judgment and at what stage are the EU Pilot request and the trajectory of the reasoned opinion?
    • 2.Why did it take 11 years – from 2014, when the first letter of formal notice as sent, until today – for it to take initiatives to protect Natura 2000 sites, even though Greece failed to review its Special Spatial Plan for RES as well as to set its national targets and conservation measures? Under the circumstances, does it consider the approval given over time for the building of numerous wind and solar farms within Natura 2000 sites (e.g. in northern and central Evia) to be legal?

    Submitted: 28.1.2025

    • [1] Judgment of 17 December 2020 concerning case C-849/2019 – European Commission v Greece
    • [2] See: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/inf_23_525
    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Green transition and RRF: assessment of how climate action resources have been used – E-000422/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000422/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Marco Squarta (ECR), Antonella Sberna (ECR), Francesco Ventola (ECR), Alberico Gambino (ECR), Giovanni Crosetto (ECR), Ruggero Razza (ECR), Stefano Cavedagna (ECR), Daniele Polato (ECR), Elena Donazzan (ECR), Carlo Ciccioli (ECR), Alessandro Ciriani (ECR), Mario Mantovani (ECR), Francesco Torselli (ECR), Sergio Berlato (ECR), Paolo Inselvini (ECR)

    According to European Court of Auditors report 14/2024, the billions of euros allocated through the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) to support the green transition do not seem to have generated significant results in terms of climate impact.

    The court notes gross inefficiencies, including overestimations in climate coefficients, lack of transparency in reporting and difficulties in identifying clear and precise indicators, despite at least 37 % of national allocations being earmarked for climate action.

    These findings highlight the limits of an ideological environmental policy, which risks directing large amounts of public resources to ineffective initiatives and diverting them from the goal to boost the EU’s competitiveness, all while creating more red tape for businesses, citizens and public administrations.

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.How does the Commission justify the use of public funds for measures which, according to the European Court of Auditors, have not achieved tangible results in the green transition?
    • 2.Would it be willing to reconsider its priorities, putting more emphasis on the economy and growth with a view to achieving pertinent milestones and targets, while ensuring more flexibility for Member States?

    Submitted: 30.1.2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – New framework contract for Frontex long-range drones – E-000420/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000420/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Özlem Demirel (The Left)

    Frontex has signed a new 184-million-euro framework contract for long-range drones, under which it has renewed a contract with Airbus to operate Heron 1 (from Israeli defence contractor IAI) in the Mediterranean. Bids under the tender were ranked. The company Leonardo also succeeded in the tender; in December, both bidders were invited to Frontex for a signing ceremony.

    • 1.As things stand, in what areas are the long-range drones to be deployed, and which governments have agreed to host them?
    • 2.What contribution is the company Leonardo expected to make, i.e. under what circumstances is it to receive active, specific assignments if Airbus fails to render the requested services?
    • 3.Aside from the technology specified in award decision OJ S 12/2025 of 17 January 2025, are there plans for the drones to also be equipped with a signals intelligence system (COMINT) to enable telephone locating too, or is this optional for the bidders?

    Submitted: 30.1.2025

    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The extension of the EU school scheme to eastern European countries with candidate status – E-000374/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000374/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gheorghe Falcă (PPE)

    The EU school scheme, which provides schoolchildren with fresh fruit, vegetables, milk and other dairy products, has proven an invaluable tool in promoting healthy eating habits and improving public health outcomes across EU Member States. The programme has successfully tackled issues such as childhood obesity, and has helped to promote sustainable agriculture and reinforce the importance of balanced diets.

    According to the most recent statistics, approximately 30.2 % of children in the Republic of Moldova live in absolute poverty. Rural areas are particularly affected, with the poverty rate reaching as high as 44.6 %. This alarming situation highlights the need for targeted initiatives to improve the well-being of children in these regions.

    Given the success of the EU school scheme, I would like to know if there are plans to extend it to countries such as Moldova and Ukraine, which have made significant progress in aligning with EU standards.

    • 1.How could the Commission support the implementation of the EU school scheme in countries with candidate status, especially Moldova and Ukraine, where the situation is particularly challenging due to the ongoing war and Russian aggression?
    • 2.Is the Commission considering extending this specific programme to these countries as part of their European integration process?

    Submitted: 28.1.2025

    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Equal pay for equal work or work of equal value – E-000370/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000370/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Giorgos Georgiou (The Left)

    Article 157 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union sets out the principle that men and women should receive equal pay for work of equal value. However, this does not happen in practice in some cases in Cyprus.

    What measures does the Commission intend to put in place in cases where the right to equal pay for work of equal value is being violated at the expense of women both in Cyprus and in the other member states?

    Submitted: 28.1.2025

    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Gender-based price discrimination (pink tax) – E-000379/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000379/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Liesbet Sommen (PPE)

    Gender-based price discrimination (pink tax) is a common phenomenon. Many products such as shampoo, razors, deodorants, vitamin pills, haircuts and jeans are often more expensive for women than for men. In many instances, these products differ only superficially, e.g. as regards colour, name or description. That was confirmed by a 2017 German study that looked at 1500 products.

    The pink tax can be seen as a form of indirect discrimination, given that it is a seemingly neutral practice – different prices for products on the basis of target group marketing – that disproportionately disadvantages women. The price differences are not explicitly gender-based, but do result in higher costs for products and services offered to women without any justification that can be regarded as objective or necessary. Indirect discrimination based on sex is prohibited under Article 4(1)(b) of Directive 2004/113/EC.

    • 1.Can the Commission investigate and map this phenomenon at EU level, e.g. by making use of the Joint Research Centre?
    • 2.Is there scope for tightening up Directive 2004/113/EC so that price differences with no objective or necessary justification that result in higher costs for products and services offered to women can be tackled?

    Submitted: 28.1.2025

    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – EU action against poverty – 07-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Poverty has many dimensions. Following recent crises, not least the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis, some of poverty’s known dimensions have evolved while new forms have emerged. Addressing poverty remains mainly the responsibility of EU countries’ governments acting in complex national social settings. The EU meanwhile seeks to coordinate Member States’ efforts and offers support in the form of funding and data. The new European Commission is stepping up efforts to meet the EU’s poverty reduction targets.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Concerns about the absence of a commissioner for equality, and the future for the rights of people with disabilities – E-001978/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission will continue to uphold and strengthen the Union of Equality during this mandate. This concerns the rights of persons with disabilities as well as other aspects of equality.

    The mission letter of the Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management[1] outlines concrete first steps for each equality area.

    On the rights of persons with disabilities, the Commissioner highlighted her commitment in her written answers to the European Parliament: ‘If confirmed, one of my early priorities would be to close the remaining gaps and contribute to a barrier-free Europe for persons with disabilities. Key areas for attention will continue to be employment, independent living, accessibility, and mainstreaming of disability considerations across all policy areas’.

    The combination of equality and the crisis management and preparedness portfolios can lead to positive synergies, helping ensure that no one is left behind in times of crisis, in particular persons with disabilities.

    Moreover, the Commission will continue to mainstream equality. This is also enabled by the designation of equality contact points in the cabinets of each Member of the College.

    Persons with disabilities have the right to live independently and to participate in society on an equal basis to others[2]. The Commission will keep working towards this objective within the framework of the strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021-2030[3] and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities[4].

    The Commission will present a progress report on the implementation of the strategy to date. It will be presented to the European Parliament, Member States and civil society organisations.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/faaf33ff-c8c7-49a1-b01d-56681e11a5e6_en?filename=Mission%20letter%20-%20LAHBIB.pdf
    • [2] I ncluding in education and the labour market.
    • [3] https://employment-social-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies-and-activities/social-protection-social-inclusion/persons-disabilities/union-equality-strategy-rights-persons-disabilities-2021-2030_en
    • [4] https://employment-social-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies-and-activities/social-protection-social-inclusion/persons-disabilities/united-nations-convention-rights-persons-disabilities_en
    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Next meeting: 13 February 2025 – Delegation to the Africa-EU Parliamentary Assembly

    Source: European Parliament

    On Thursday, 13 February 2025 (10.00-11.30), the DAFR delegation will hold a meeting in Strasbourg (DE MADARIAGA S5) on the risk of the regionalisation of the conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

    The meeting will be webstreamed.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Cross-border enforcement of the Unfair Trading Practices Directive – 07-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The 2019 Unfair Trading Practices (UTP) Directive sought to address imbalances in bargaining power between suppliers and buyers of agricultural products. The directive was primarily aimed at protecting farmers, as a weaker party, selling their products to big supermarkets and food processing companies. However, experience has shown that the directive does not always provide a sufficient legal basis for mutual assistance in cross-border investigations. The Commission’s proposal for a new regulation on cross-border cooperation among authorities responsible for the enforcement of the UTP Directive is part of EU efforts to improve farmers’ position in the agri food supply chain. It would enable cooperation between enforcement authorities in cases of unfair trading practices where suppliers and buyers are in different Member States. Farmer associations have welcomed the proposal but are calling for a more substantial revision of the directive, in particular a ban on buying agricultural products below production cost. Retailers meanwhile are highly critical, saying that the proposal risks fragmenting the single market.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ECB publishes consolidated banking data for end-September 2024

    Source: European Central Bank

    7 February 2025

    Chart 1

    Total assets of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    (EUR billions)

    Source: ECB

    Note: Data for all reference periods relate to the EU27.

    Data on the aggregate of total assets of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    Chart 2

    Non-performing loans ratio of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    (EUR billions; percentages)

    Source: ECB

    Note: Data for all reference periods relate to the EU27.

    Data on the aggregate non-performing loans ratio of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    Chart 3

    Return on equity of credit institutions headquartered in the EU in September 2024

    (percentages)

    Source: ECB

    Note: Data for all reference periods relate to the EU27.

    Data on the aggregate return on equity of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    Chart 4

    Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of credit institutions headquartered in the EU in September 2024

    (percentages)

    Source: ECB

    Note: Data for all reference periods relate to the EU27.

    Data on the aggregate Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    The European Central Bank (ECB) has published consolidated banking data as at end-September 2024, a dataset for the EU banking system compiled on a group consolidated basis.

    The quarterly data provide information required to analyse the EU banking sector and comprise a subset of the information that is available in the year-end dataset. The September 2024 data cover 344 banking groups and 2349 stand-alone credit institutions and non-EU controlled subsidiaries and branches operating in the EU, accounting for nearly 100% of the EU banking sector’s balance sheet. They include an extensive range of indicators on profitability and efficiency, balance sheet composition, liquidity and funding, asset quality, asset encumbrance, capital adequacy and solvency.

    Reporters generally apply International Financial Reporting Standards and the European Banking Authority’s Implementing Technical Standards on Supervisory Reporting. However, some small and medium-sized reporters may apply national accounting standards. Accordingly, aggregates and indicators may include some data that are based on national accounting standards, depending on the availability of the underlying items.

    In addition to data as of end-September 2024, the published figures also include a few revisions to past data.

    For media queries, please contact Nicos Keranis, tel.: +49 69 1344 7806

    Notes

    • These consolidated banking data are available in the ECB Data Portal.
    • More information about the methodology used to compile the data is available on the ECB’s website.
    • Hyperlinks in the main body of the press release lead to data that may change with subsequent releases as a result of revisions.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Commission implementing decision on equivalence for UK CCPs – 07-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission’s implementing decision under Article 25(6) EMIR extends for three further years the current equivalence decision regarding the UK (i.e. to consider the regulatory framework applicable to central counterparties in the UK equivalent to the one applicable in the Union). The currently applicable equivalence decision is due to expire on 30 June 2025. The extension could disincentivise efforts to reduce excessive exposures to clearing services of substantial systemic importance provided by CCPs outside the Union, delaying the effective implementation of the active account requirement.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The Grand Mosque of Paris has a monopoly on EU companies’ exports to Algeria – E-000265/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000265/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    François-Xavier Bellamy (PPE)

    According to press reports, the Grand Mosque of Paris has sole control of halal certification under an agreement with the Algerian Government. The agreement forces EU producers to pay money to a commercial company owned by the mosque’s leaders if they want to export any products, including non-food products, to Algeria. This raises a number of serious questions.

    A private company holding such a monopoly is clearly completely unacceptable under EU law. An estimate based on the pricing system used puts the annual cost to EU farmers and industry at several million euros. This levy does not bring any added value or even involve any actual act of certification – it is simply an unmonitored moneymaker. As the Algerian Government, in conjunction with the Grand Mosque of Paris, is increasing its threats and acts of hostility towards France, the fact that this source of funding exists is also concerning from a security point of view.

    • 1.Has the Commission, as the guarantor of transparency in EU trade, investigated this clear distortion and its consequences? Does it know how these funds are used?
    • 2.On 11 December 2024, the Commission was represented at a meeting on this issue at the Grand Mosque of Paris; what was the outcome of that meeting?
    • 3.What criteria would lead the Commission to consider this certification requirement to be a violation of the EU-Algeria Agreement?

    Submitted: 22.1.2025

    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Call for the release of Dr Gubad Ibadoghlu and other political prisoners in Azerbaijan – P-002876/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU has repeatedly voiced its concerns regarding the intensification of repression against civil society, political opponents, and independent media in Azerbaijan.

    In this context, the EU continues to raise the case of Dr Ibadoghlu, both in direct contacts with the authorities and in public statements, urging the authorities to lift his travel ban in order for him to obtain the urgent medical attention he requires abroad[1].

    Moreover, the EU Delegation in Azerbaijan and the EU Special Representative for Human Rights have repeatedly raised his case with the Azerbaijani authorities. The EU Delegation is also in direct contact with Dr Ibadoghlu and his lawyers, and regularly attends the court hearings in his case.

    Moreover, on the occasion of his official visit to Azerbaijan in October 2024, the Commissioner for Climate Action met Dr Ibadoghlu.

    The EU Delegation also facilitated the organisation of a meeting between Dr Ibadoghlu and the European Parliament Delegation, which visited Baku in November 2024 during the United Nations Climate Change Conference ‘COP29’.

    The EU’s relation with Azerbaijan is based on a Partnership and Cooperation Agreement that entered into effect in 1999[2]. The EU engagement with Azerbaijan remains instrumental in order to address human rights issues and to promote peace, stability and prosperity in the South Caucasus through regional cooperation, including in the context of the normalisation process between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

    • [1] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/azerbaijan-statement-spokesperson-human-rights-situation_en; https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/CRE-10-2024-10-22-ITM-020_EN.html; https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/CRE-10-2024-12-18-ITM-019-03_EN.html
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/agree_internation/1999/614/oj/eng
    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man arrested in Salisbury Park after pursuit

    Source: South Australia Police

    A man has been arrested following a pursuit through the northern suburbs.

    About 8pm on Friday 7 February, police attempted to stop a silver Holden sedan on Montague Road, Pooraka after officers noticed the number plates didn’t match the vehicle.

    The driver refused to stop and immediately sped off. The Holden was last seen heading north on Bridge Road.

    PolAir was up at the time and commenced tracking the vehicle as is drove through the backstreets of Salisbury East.

    Police were able to spike the car’s tyres on Main North Road, but it continued driving on to Saints Road.

    The tyres were successfully spiked a second time in Malinya Drive, Salisbury Park.  The driver then abandoned the vehicle in Riversdale Drive, Salisbury Park and fled the scene.

    He was quickly arrested after being found in a reserve adjacent to Smedley Place.

    A 40-year-old man from Richmond was charged with driving dangerously to escape police pursuit, driving while disqualified and unassigned plates. He was bailed to appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court on 27 March.

    The vehicle was impounded and towed from the scene.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Jason Esteves and Rep. Phil Olaleye to Host Press Conference Urging State Lawmakers to Invest in Georgia Public Schools

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (February 7, 2025)—On Monday, February 10, at 12:30 p.m., Sen. Jason Esteves (D–Atlanta) and Rep. Phil Olaleye (D–Atlanta) will hold a press conference alongside Georgia students and parents to announce their legislation to increase public education funding for K-12 students who live in poverty.

    EVENT DETAILS:                      

    • Date: Monday, February 10, 2025
    • Time: 12:30 p.m.
    • Where: Georgia State Capitol, South Steps, 206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, GA, 30334
    • This Event is Open to the Public.

    MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

    We kindly request that members of the media confirm their attendance in advance by contacting Jantz Womack at SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Food Safety Tips for Game Day Celebrations; Safer Cheese Choices / Consejos de seguridad alimentaria para las celebraciones el día del partido; Opciones más seguras de quesos

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    Ahead of Super Bowl Sunday, the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is sharing food safety tips to make sure foodborne illness isn’t invited to your gathering. Many game day favorite foods, like pizza, chicken wings, chili, and dips cannot stay at room temperature for more than 2 hours. When perishable foods are left at room temperature, bacteria can grow and cause foodborne illness.

    Make a game plan to keep food at a safe temperature:

    � If you’re transporting food over an hour away, use an insulated bag. � If you plan to keep food out for more than two hours: o Keep cold foods at a temperature of 40 degrees F or below by keeping food nestled in ice. o Keep hot foods at a temperature of 140 degrees F or above by placing food in a preheated oven, warming trays, chafing dishes or slow cookers. � If you do not plan to use cold or heating sources to keep food hot or cold during the game, split food into multiple portions � and serve only one portion at a time to ensure food is not out for more than 2 hours. � Perishable food should be discarded if left out for longer than 2 hours. To prevent food waste and enjoy leftovers after the game, refrigerate or freeze perishable items within 2 hours.

    There are other steps you can take to keep family and friends safe from foodborne illness. Follow these food safety tips:

    � Clean: Wash hands for 20 seconds before and after handling your takeout or delivered food, as well as any raw meat or poultry you prepare at home. Clean hands, surfaces and utensils with soap and water before and after meal prep and sanitize any surfaces that may have come in contact with food with a commercial or homemade cleaning solution (1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of drinking water). � Separate: Use separate cutting boards, plates, and utensils to avoid cross-contamination between your takeout or delivery foods and any raw meat or poultry you are preparing at home. � Cook: Confirm foods are cooked or reheated to a safe internal temperature by using a food thermometer (165 F for poultry, ground meat, and leftovers). Cooking or reheating food to the right temperature kills germs.

    Safer Cheese Choices for People at Higher Risk for Listeria Infection

    RIDOH recommends that people at higher risk for a Listeria infection avoid any unheated queso fresco-type cheeses, even if made with pasteurized milk. This recommendation is based on updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to better protect people at higher risk of Listeria infection.

    Listeria infection is rare but can be especially harmful for some people. People who are pregnant, newborn babies, people who are 65 years or older, and people with weakened immune systems are all at higher risk for Listeria infection.

    People can get infected with Listeria by eating contaminated food. Some foods are more likely than others to be contaminated with Listeria. Learn more about preventing Listeria infection from food.

    The FDA and CDC guidance includes avoiding unheated queso fresco, or similar fresh, soft cheeses such as queso blanco and reques�n. People at higher risk can still safely enjoy these cheeses if they are heated, cooked, or grilled before eating to 165�F or until steaming hot. Heating these cheese kills harmful germs like Listeria. CDC and FDA continue to recommend that people avoid any type of cheese when made with raw unpasteurized milk, especially if they are at higher risk of infection.

    People at higher risk of Listeria infection can lower their risk by choosing safer cheese, such as: � Hard cheeses made with pasteurized milk, such as asiago, cheddar, parmesan, or swiss/gruyere/emmental; � Cottage cheese, cream cheese, string cheese, feta, and mozzarella, when made with pasteurized milk; and � Heated queso fresco-type cheeses or heated unpasteurized (raw) milk cheeses, when heated to 165�F or steaming hot.

    RIDOH recommends people talk to their healthcare professional know if they possibly ate contaminated food. This is especially important if they are pregnant, are 65 years or older, or have a weakened immune system. If you ate food possibly contaminated with Listeria and do not feel sick, most experts believe you do not need tests or treatment. Talk to your healthcare professional if you have questions about what to do.

    This updated guidance from CDC and FDA includes new information from an analysis on the latest US Listeria outbreak data and findings. From 1998 through 2022, 11 out of the 15 Listeria outbreaks linked to queso fresco-type cheeses were made with pasteurized milk. This indicates that contamination likely occurred during or after cheese-making, not from the milk. More Listeria outbreaks were linked to queso fresco-type cheeses than any other type of cheese during this period.

    ###

    Consejos de seguridad alimentaria para las celebraciones el d�a del partido El Departamento de Salud de RI comparte opciones m�s seguras de quesos para personas con mayor riesgo de infecciones por Listeria

    Antes del domingo del Super Taz�n, el Departamento de Salud de Rhode Island (RIDOH) comparte consejos de seguridad alimentaria para asegurarse que enfermedades transmitidas por alimentos no sean invitadas a su reuni�n. Muchos de los alimentos favoritos durante los d�as de juego, como la pizza, las alitas de pollo, el chili y las salsas, no pueden permanecer a temperatura ambiente durante m�s de 2 horas. Cuando los alimentos perecederos se dejan a temperatura ambiente, pueden crear bacterias y causar enfermedades transmitidas a trav�s de ellos.

    Haga planes para mantener los alimentos a una temperatura segura:

    � Si va a transportar alimentos a m�s de una hora de distancia, utilice bolsas termicas. � Si planea dejar los alimentos a temperatura ambiente por m�s de dos horas: o Mantenga los alimentos fr�os a una temperatura de 40 grados Fahrenheit o menos coloc�ndolos sobre hielo. o Mantenga los alimentos calientes a una temperatura de 140 grados Fahrenheit o m�s colocando los alimentos en un horno precalentado, bandejas calentadoras, platos para calentar u ollas de cocci�n lenta. � Si no planea utilizar fuentes de fr�o o calor para mantener los alimentos calientes o fr�os durante el juego, divida los alimentos en varias porciones y sirva solo una porci�n a la vez para asegurarse que los alimentos no permanezcan a temperatura ambiente durante m�s de 2 horas. � Los alimentos perecederos deben desecharse si se dejan a temperatura ambiente. Para evitar el desperdicio de alimentos y disfrutar de las sobras despu�s del juego, refrig�relos o cong�lelos dentro de las dos horas siguientes.

    Existen otras medidas que puede tomar para proteger a sus familiares y amigos de las enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos. Siga estos consejos de seguridad alimentaria: � Limpie: L�vese las manos durante 20 segundos antes y despu�s de manipular los alimentos preparados ya sea para llevar o que le entreguen a domicilio, as� como cualquier carne o ave cruda que prepare en casa. Lave las manos, las superficies y los utensilios con agua y jab�n antes y despu�s de preparar los alimentos y desinfecte cualquier superficie con los que puedan haber estado en contacto, usando una soluci�n de limpieza comercial o casera (1 cucharada de leg�a o blanqueador l�quido con cloro sin aroma por cada gal�n de agua potable). � Separe: Use tablas de cortar, platos y utensilios separados para evitar la contaminaci�n cruzada entre los alimentos ya sea para llevar o que le entreguen a domicilio y cualquier carne o ave cruda que est� preparando en casa. � Cocine: confirme que los alimentos est�n cocidos o recalentados internamente a una temperatura segura usando un term�metro para alimentos (165 �F para aves, carne molida y sobras). Cocinar o recalentar los alimentos a la temperatura adecuada mata los g�rmenes.

    Opciones de queso m�s seguras para personas con mayor riesgo de infecci�n por Listeria

    El RIDOH recomienda que las personas con mayor riesgo de contraer una infecci�n por Listeria eviten los quesos frescos sin calentar, incluso si est�n hechos con leche pasteurizada. Esta recomendaci�n se basa en las directrices actualizadas de los Centros para el Control y la Prevenci�n de Enfermedades (CDC) y la Administraci�n de Alimentos y Medicamentos (FDA) para proteger mejor a las personas con mayor riesgo de contraer una infecci�n por Listeria.

    La infecci�n por Listeria es poco frecuente, pero puede ser especialmente da�ina para algunas personas. Las personas embarazadas, los reci�n nacidos, las personas de 65 a�os o m�s y las personas con sistema inmunol�gico d�bil tienen mayor riesgo de contraer una infecci�n por Listeria.

    Las personas pueden infectarse con Listeria al comer alimentos contaminados. Algunos alimentos tienen m�s probabilidades que otros de estar contaminados con Listeria. Obtenga m�s informaci�n sobre c�mo prevenir la infecci�n por Listeria a trav�s de los alimentos.

    Las recomendaciones de la FDA y los CDC incluyen evitar el queso fresco sin calentar o quesos frescos y blandos similares, como el queso blanco y el reques�n. Las personas con mayor riesgo pueden disfrutar de estos quesos de manera segura si se calientan, cocinan o asan a la parrilla antes de comerlos a 165 �F o hasta que est�n humeantes. Calentar estos quesos mata los g�rmenes da�inos como la Listeria. Los CDC y la FDA siguen recomendando que las personas eviten cualquier tipo de queso elaborado con leche cruda no pasteurizada, especialmente si tienen un mayor riesgo de infecci�n.

    Las personas con mayor riesgo de contraer una infecci�n por Listeria pueden reducir su riesgo eligiendo quesos m�s seguros, como: � Quesos duros elaborados con leche pasteurizada, como asiago, cheddar, parmesano o suizo/gruy�re/emmental; � Reques�n, queso crema, queso en hebras, feta y mozzarella, cuando se elaboran con leche pasteurizada; y � Calentar los quesos tipo queso fresco o quesos de leche cruda (sin pasteurizar) son m�s seguros cuando se calientan a 165 �F o est�n muy calientes.

    Si se siente enfermo, el RIDOH recomienda que hable con un profesional de salud para saber si es posible que haya consumido alimentos contaminados. Esto es especialmente importante si est� embarazada, tiene 65 a�os o m�s o tiene un sistema inmunol�gico d�bil. Si comi� alimentos posiblemente contaminados con Listeria y no se siente enfermo, la mayor�a de los expertos creen que no necesita pruebas ni tratamiento. Hable con un profesional de la salud si tiene preguntas sobre qu� hacer.

    Esta gu�a actualizada de los CDC y la FDA incluye nueva informaci�n de un an�lisis de los �ltimos datos y hallazgos sobre brotes de Listeria en EE. UU. (analysis on the latest US Listeria outbreak data and findings) Entre 1998 y 2022, 11 de los 15 brotes de Listeria relacionados con quesos tipo queso fresco se elaboraron con leche pasteurizada. Esto indica que es probable que la contaminaci�n se haya producido durante o despu�s de la elaboraci�n del queso, no debido a la leche. Durante este per�odo, se relacionaron m�s brotes de Listeria con quesos tipo queso fresco que con cualquier otro tipo de queso.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Media Availability: Coast Guard, partner agencies to hold virtual press briefing for missing aircraft near Nome, Alaska

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    News Release

    		  

    U.S. Coast Guard 17th District Alaska
    Contact: 17th District Public Affairs
    Office: (907) 463-2065
    After Hours: (907) 463-2065
    17th District online newsroom

     

    02/07/2025 02:39 PM EST

    KODIAK, Alaska — Media is invited to attend a virtual press briefing Friday with local, state and federal agencies regarding the search for 10 missing people who were aboard an aircraft that went missing Thursday approximately 30 miles southeast of Nome. WHO: Coast Guard, Alaska National Guard, Alaska State Troopers and National Transportation Safety Board WHAT: Virtual press briefing WHEN: Friday, 12 p.m. AKST / 4 p.m. EST WHERE: Follow the link: https://dod.teams.microsoft.us/l/meetup-join/19%3adod%3ameeting_0de418ae474b44e882d32ed472ec1412%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22369ba0d5-02cb-4d2f-94fd-9212cc24b78c%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%221a89f247-91f2-44eb-a73a-0c222456d517%22%7d Coast Guard watchstanders at the 17th Coast Guard District command center received notification from the Alaska Regional Command Center of a missing Cessna 208B Grand Caravan with a reported 10 people aboard transiting from Unalakeet to Nome. The aircraft’s last known position was transponded Thursday evening in the vicinity of Norton Sound, approximately 30 miles southeast of Nome. Aircrews from the Coast Guard and Alaska National Guard responded Thursday night, with first light searches planned for Friday morning. The cause of the incident is unknown.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Self Inspection Secures $3 Million to Accelerate AI-Powered Vehicle Inspections for Car Loans and Fleet Management

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Self Inspection, an AI-powered platform for the $30 billion automotive inspections market, announced today that it closed a $3 million seed round. The round was co-led by Costanoa Ventures and DVx Ventures, with participation from Westlake Financial, one of the largest financial institutions for automotive loans.

    “Vehicle inspections are expensive, can take weeks to complete, and rely on outdated methods with a significant margin of error,” said Constantine Yaremtso, founder and CEO of Self Inspection. “Slow, inaccurate and expensive inspections create obstacles and a poor experience in millions of mobile transactions. Our tech completes inspections with greater speed, accuracy and customization, which can save financial institutions millions of dollars and speed up a sales process by weeks.”

    Millions of cars require inspection after a car rental, to be sold after a lease return, trade or repossession, or to create an accurate condition report to accelerate a sale. If one inspection is not done correctly or at all, it can result in arbitration when a car is sold (or increased rental fees), reversing transactions and costing thousands of dollars in expenses and time.

    Self Inspection provides standardized condition reports in minutes with increased real-time accuracy, a significant improvement compared to the current manual process. Key highlights from the company’s progress so far:

    • Avis, the third largest rental car provider in the U.S., uses it to facilitate rental inspections and car transactions. Alaska Rent A Car, Inc. an Avis Licensee, is the first state to fully deploy it.
    • CarOffer, a leading digital wholesale platform, part of CarGurus (CARG), uses Self Inspection as part of its vehicle appraisal process.
    • Westlake Financial, the largest privately held finance company in the automotive industry, handles over a million vehicle transactions annually and now exclusively relies on Self Inspection to deliver condition reports to dealers during trade-ins, re-marketing and repossession processes.

    Most inspections requiring an on-site visit can take days to weeks and often lack critical information like subtle defects, cost estimates, etc. Self Inspection’s AI-enhanced inspection platform quickly creates a detailed report of the entire vehicle, including exterior, interior, tires and mechanical components, with 99% accuracy based on advances in computer vision and AI models.

    “We are thrilled to be partnering with the Self Inspection team to bring this product to life. Westlake Financial is already integrating Self Inspection across our business units, and have seen significant value to detect and assess issues, as well as substantial savings that we can pass to our consumers,” said Ian Anderson, president of Westlake Financial. “We need to maintain accurate records of a vehicle’s condition to ensure correct valuations, manage risk effectively, prevent fraud and determine fair prices for our customers. Self Inspection allows us to streamline and standardize our processes, ensuring accurate vehicle assessments with precise, data-backed reports at scale.”

    Self Inspection is significantly more accurate than current photo-based models, which cannot effectively detect subtle defects or mechanical issues. In contrast, Self Inspection’s proprietary AI models are trained on one of the largest datasets of damaged vehicles to quickly detect and assess damage severity. This data is used to provide detailed cost estimates for repairs, resulting in one of the most thorough vehicle inspection reports available in the industry.

    “We are excited to support the Self Inspection team in their mission to transform the vehicle inspection industry through AI. The traditional vehicle inspection process is ripe for innovation, and Self Inspection’s solution addresses a critical need by providing accurate, efficient and scalable inspections,” said Karim Bousta, partner at DVx Ventures and automotive industry expert. “This technology not only streamlines operations for auto lenders, dealerships and rental companies but also sets a new benchmark for quality, reliability and a seamless digital experience in the $30 billion vehicle inspection market.”

    “Innovation that can modernize a massive traditional industry, like automotive, and solve a critical need through AI is poised for long-term growth,” said Greg Sands, managing partner at Costanoa Ventures. “Self Inspection built a reliable AI-powered vehicle inspection platform that ensures data-backed trust every time a vehicle changes hands. This will prove radically useful as the industry evolves.”

    Yaremtso, a Ukrainian immigrant, founded the company in 2021 with former leaders from Apple, NVIDIA and Coinbase who bring significant AI and automotive experience. Self Inspection plans to use the funds to expand its engineering team in both Ukraine and the U.S. to accelerate product development and enhance machine learning algorithms to optimize and expand use cases.

    For more information and to keep up with the latest news from Self Inspection and its traction in the automotive industry, visit https://www.selfinspection.com/.

    About Self Inspection
    Headquartered in San Diego, Self Inspection was founded in 2021 and is an AI-powered solution in the automotive industry dedicated to revolutionizing the $30 billion vehicle inspection industry. The platform leverages cutting-edge AI technology to deliver unparalleled accuracy and efficiency in vehicle inspections to cut costs and save time through automated, self-guided inspections. Founded by industry veterans with extensive experience in AI, software development and the automotive industry, the company is backed by Costanoa Ventures, DVx Ventures and Westlake Financial. For more information, visit https://www.selfinspection.com/.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9fd9346e-be1c-46e1-9c70-bb2c00af106b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Women’s rights are human rights, with Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda | UN ‘Awake at Night’ podcast teaser

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Having grown up in war-torn rural Zimbabwe, Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda overcame extreme hardship to pursue a career at the highest levels of the United Nations. Now UN Assistant Secretary-General, and one of two deputy executive directors of UN Women, she wants little girls everywhere to aspire to the same heights.

    “Peace is a prerequisite. It’s so critical for development… for unleashing the potential of the little girls. Peace is so important for enabling mothers, widows to give the best they can.”

    UN Women works to uphold women’s human rights and ensure that every woman and girl lives up to her full potential. In this episode, Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda reflects on a childhood touched by war, poverty and disease, on a lifelong love of learning, and on how a recent accident gave her a new perspective on inequality.

    Full podcast: https://youtu.be/u3cDm1iYBVQ

    Listen to more Awake at Night episodes: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwoDFQJEq_0b6hu1e8oxsch9W0D7vkNqt
    #podcast #unitednations #awakeatnight #UNWomen #womensrights

    About Awake at Night
    Hosted by Melissa Fleming, UN Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications, the podcast ‘Awake at Night’ is an in-depth interview series focusing on remarkable United Nations staff members who dedicate their career to helping people in parts of the world where they have the hardest lives – from war zones and displacement camps to areas hit by disasters and the devastation of climate change.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khopLFzHxQU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Wright joins CNBC’s Brian Sullivan – February 7th, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCtRS_wg77s

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Wright joins FOX’s Dana Perino – February 6th, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nv9EiLFb4to

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy Keynote Address | 2025 AASHTO

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy addresses the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) during the 2025 Washington Briefing.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TLyIzRglG1g

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: This Week at Interior February 7, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    This Week: Former North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum is sworn in as the 55th Secretary of the Interior, and welcomed aboard at the Steward Lee Udall Building by an enthusiastic gathering of Interior employees; the new Secretary stressed the vital importance of Interior’s energy portfolio and the Department’s efforts to make America Energy Dominant; Secretary Burgum got right to work, signing several Secretary’s Orders to address the national energy emergency, unleash American energy, deliver emergency price relief for American families, and tap the State of Alaska’s abundant and largely untapped supply of natural resources. Make sure you follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and X.

    http:/www.facebook.com/usinterior
    http:/www.instagram.com/usinterior
    http:/www.x.com/Interior

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_58UKmHg2rM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Making America Safe Again, Week 2

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Making America Safe Again for the Week of January 31, 2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4vcLH4HJL0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Making America Safe Again, Week 1

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Making America Safe Again for the Week of January 27, 2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Pf7pnuM3RM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ecuadorian Man Charged with Being in the United States Illegally After Having Been Previously Removed by Immigration Officials

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that during an arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle on February 5, 2025, Alex Patin-Patin, 28, of Ecuador, pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging him with being unlawfully present in the United States after having been previously removed by immigration officials. At a detention hearing held on February 6, 2025, Judge Doyle ordered that Patin-Patin be detained during the pendency of this matter.

    According to court records, Patin-Patin unlawfully entered the United States in or around February 2022, and was then removed from the United States by federal authorities in or around July 2022. It is unknown where or when Patin-Patin re-entered the United States, but in April 2024 Patin-Patin was arrested in South Burlington, Vermont, and charged by the Chittenden County State’s Attorney’s Office with, among other charges, aggravated domestic assault. Because Patin-Patin had not obtained permission to re-enter the United States, his presence in the country was in violation of U.S. law.

    The federal grand jury returned the indictment charging Patin-Patin with this offense in October 2024 and at that time a federal warrant for his arrest was issued. Court records indicate that Patin-Patin’s arrest earlier this week followed surveillance indicating he had been living at an address other than that required by conditions imposed on him by the Vermont Superior Court in connection with his state domestic assault prosecution.

    The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Patin-Patin is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Patin-Patin faces up to two years’ imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

    Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement/ Enforcement and Removal Operations, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Marshals Service.

    The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew Lasher and Michelle Arra. Patin-Patin is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Postal Employee Guilty of Delay of Election Mail

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – On February 5, 2025, a federal jury convicted María De Lourdes Martínez-Garriga, a former United States Postal Service City Carrier, for unlawfully delaying and not delivering four pieces of election mail.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on August 5, 11 and 15, 2022, Martínez-Garriga, 34, a then City Carrier assigned to the 65th Infantry Postal Office in San Juan, Puerto Rico unlawfully delayed four certified mail envelopes containing ballots for the 2022 Special Election for the District of San Juan. All affected voters confirmed, and four of them testified at trial, that despite having requested early vote ballots from the Puerto Rico Elections Commission they never received the Election Mail envelopes.

    “Our democracy depends on the right of eligible voters to cast a ballot and to have that ballot counted. If voters do not receive their ballots, they cannot execute one of our fundamental rights as United States citizens — the right to vote,” said United States Attorney Muldrow. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office along with our law enforcement partners will continue to protect this fundamental pillar of our society.”

    “Placing mail into the hands of the Postal Service is an act of public trust all postal employees must uphold,” said Tammy Hull, Inspector General, U.S. Postal Service. “Ms. Martínez violated that trust by delaying the delivery of election mail. Through our investigation USPS OIG special agents brought her to justice and she has been convicted of her crimes by a jury.”

    “The FBI is committed to protecting the integrity of our democratic processes, including ensuring that every voter’s voice is heard. Any attempt to interfere with election mail is a violation of public trust and a threat to the foundation of our democracy,” said Joseph González, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s San Juan Field Office. “This case is the result of our unwavering dedication to holding accountable those who undermine the electoral system.”

    Three other former U.S. Postal Service employees were charged in separate indictments, and they are all pending trial. If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

    The U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG) is investigating the case with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), consistent with the mission to ensure efficiency, accountability, and integrity in the U.S. Postal Service.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Michele Colón and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tania Salas-De Jesús from the USPS-OIG are prosecuting the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –