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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recovering from Storm Éowyn

    Source: Scottish Government

    First Minister thanks people for patience as recovery operation continues.

    A further meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGoRR) has been chaired by First Minister John Swinney to coordinate the recovery response to Storm Éowyn.  

    Due to the severity and impact of the storm, there is significant disruption to parts of the country. This includes around 35,000 properties without power and continued transport disruption with road closures and rail, bus, flight and ferry cancellations. It is expected to take some time to get all services fully restored.   

    Utility companies, national agencies and local authorities are working at pace to restore power and assess the impact, including responding to significant damage, removing fallen trees and debris, to ensure services can fully resume in the coming days.   

    The First Minister joined a Ministerial COBR meeting chaired by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden earlier this evening. The First Minister also spoke with the Prime Minister today to discuss the ongoing response to Storm Éowyn and the impact on Scotland.

    First Minister John Swinney said:   

    “I want to thank everyone who followed Police Scotland advice not to travel and express my sincere gratitude to the emergency services and to those working in the public, private and third sector who are continuing to support people and communities across the country.   

     “With yellow warnings in place for wind, snow and ice over the weekend, it is clear the severity of Storm Éowyn will continue into next week and this will have an impact on the speed at which utilities and local services can fully resume.  

     “Given the damage and disruption facing the network across the United Kingdom, utility companies are under significant pressure and are working in challenging conditions. I have stressed the importance of getting power restored as quickly as is practically possible and have been assured that assessments are being made at pace to ensure power is restored to affected properties in Scotland as soon as possible. Alongside our partners, Ministers are being updated regularly and ensuring all steps are being taken. 

    “I am pleased at the progress made to restore power to many communities over the course of today however a significant number of properties remain without power. Utility companies are continuing to provide support to customers, including ensuring provisions are in place for the most vulnerable.   

    “I want to thank people for their continued patience and encourage them to take extra care and look out for each other, particularly those who are supporting vulnerable neighbours and family members.  

    “As we look ahead to Monday, partners are working at pace to ensure services can resume next week. Local authorities – who are responsible for school closures – will be working to ensure all buildings meet the required safety standards to reopen safely to pupils. We would expect decisions on schools to be clearly communicated by local authorities to parents, pupils and staff, with as much advance warning as possible, and would encourage all parents to follow that advice. 

     “People should prepare for continued disruption, especially in areas that have been impacted by a loss of power, and I encourage everyone to follow advice being issued by local authorities, as well as continuing to follow updates from national agencies.”  

    Background  

    • SGoRR was attended by the Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop, Justice and Home Affairs Secretary Angela Contance, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Neil Gray, Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth, Rural Affairs and Islands Secretary Mairi Gougeon, Acting Net Zero and Energy Secretary Gillian Martin and Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture Angus Robertson. They were joined by representatives from the Met Office, Police Scotland, Transport Scotland, SEPA, transport and utilities companies and resilience partners.
    • The latest Met Office weather warnings are available on the Met Office website.
       
    • Flood alerts are issued by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency and can be viewed on their website. 
    • Advice on preparing for severe weather can be found on the Ready Scotland website.
    • Follow Traffic Scotland for the most up-to-date information on the trunk roads throughout the warning periods, via their website, social media channels and radio broadcasts. Updates on ScotRail services and road conditions are available online. 
    • To report a power cut or damage to electricity power lines or substations call the SP Networks national Freephone number 105. More information on what to do during a storm can also be found on SP Energy Website.
    • During a power cut firefighters can be called to fires started by candles or portable heaters. For advice on how to stay safe during a power cut visit Scottish Fire and Rescue Website.   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Supports Noem Confirmation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement after the Senate confirmed, by a vote of 59-34, Kristi Noem to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS):
    “The previous Administration’s open-border policies exacerbated the crisis at our southern border, bringing in record numbers of illegal crossings in the last four-year span.  Blocking the flow of illegal immigration was one of the top voting priorities for millions of Americans, including Idahoans.  Kristi Noem has demonstrated exceptional leadership in providing resources to stop the crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border.  She will streamline functions at DHS to bring public security back to the forefront of the Department’s activities, secure our nation from hostile threats and expeditiously provide appropriate disaster assistance where needed.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Votes Against Kristi Noem for Secretary of Homeland Security 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) voted against confirming South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as the next Secretary of Homeland Security. Senator Rosen met with Governor Noem earlier this month and strongly opposed the Trump Administration’s plans to carry out mass deportations. She also emphasized the importance of protecting Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipients.
    “Nevada is the proud home of countless law-abiding immigrants looking for a better future and making contributions to our state and our economy. We also have thousands of DACA and TPS recipients who deserve a permanent solution that provides them peace of mind and a pathway to citizenship,” said Senator Rosen. “The Trump Administration has already taken shameful actions to try to eliminate automatic citizenship of children born here to immigrant parents, target sensitive locations like schools and churches, and start to carry out mass deportations. I voted against Kristi Noem for Secretary of Homeland Security because I believe she will take actions that will hurt families in my state. I’ll keep fighting back against the Trump Administration’s actions that negatively impact Nevadans.”
    Senator Rosen has been outspoken in her opposition to mass deportation, and her strong support for DACA and TPS recipients and their families. Earlier this year, she applauded the extension of TPS status for immigrants from El Salvador and Venezuela, after calling on the Biden Administration to continue to protect displaced Salvadorans. She has also raised concerns over the significant application delays impacting DACA recipients, and gave a floor speech urging her Senate colleagues to take immediate action to permanently protect Dreamers, while simultaneously continuing to work to pass comprehensive immigration reform that provides a pathway to citizenship.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins’ Statement on Confirmation of Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued a statement following her vote to confirm Governor Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security.

    “Our nation is currently facing serious threats on multiple fronts, including at our northern and southern borders. Mexican drug cartels, especially, are using the chaos at the southern border to facilitate their drug and human trafficking operations and to flood our nation with fentanyl and other illegal drugs. As Governor of South Dakota, Kristi Noem understands that what happens at the southern border has repercussions for communities all over the United States, including here in Maine. I support her nomination because we need to secure our borders and stem the flow of fentanyl that is destroying lives across our country.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Respected leader honoured with AFSM

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Mark Gunning AFSM

    Mark Gunning’s more than four decades of service to CFA, Fire Rescue Victoria and the broader fire and emergency services is testament to his commitment to the protection and wellbeing of all Victorians.

    Mark has been recognised for his dedication and contribution with an Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) in today’s Australia Day Honours. 

    With more than 44 years of firefighting and emergency management service under his belt, Mark Gunning AFSM has been a driving force in the protection of communities throughout Victoria and beyond. His remarkable contributions span frontline response, incident management, fire operations, flood response and crisis leadership – all of which have had a lasting impact on the safety, wellbeing and recovery of communities across Victoria. 

    Although he stems from a family of CFA volunteers, Mark said he was inspired to join Mortlake Fire Brigade in 1980 as a teenager after working on different farms in the area and getting a taste for firefighting.  

    “Back in those days you would work on people’s farms during the day and proactively burn with local landowners to reduce fire risk during the evening,” Mark said. “That experience, together with that family connection, very much shaped me and encouraged my long-term involvement in CFA and broader emergency services.” 

    Mark attended when the largest Victorian Ash Wednesday fires erupted at Ballangeich-Cudgee on 16 February 1983 and a move to North Geelong Brigade (now Corio) in 1985 saw him on the frontline during the Little River fire. He credits this experience for further teaching him important skills and knowledge about firefighting and fire behaviour.  

    “Ash Wednesday had a huge impact on me as a volunteer, especially being local to the area and knowing so many of the people who had been affected,” Mark said. 

    In 1988, Mark joined CFA as a career firefighter, working in various locations across the state including Hamilton, Dandenong, Bairnsdale, Casterton and Horsham as well as CFA’s Fiskville training ground and CFA headquarters. During this time, he has contributed significantly as an operational leader, working his way through the ranks to his current role as Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO) Regional Commander based in West Region, seconded to CFA from Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV). 

    A respected figure in the emergency management community, Mark’s innovative and inspirational leadership has been pivotal during major emergencies such as the 2009 bushfires, St Patrick’s Day peat fires, Black Summer bushfires 2019-20, the 2011 and 2022 Victorian Floods, and the Victorian COVID-19 response.  

    Mark is well known for his commitment to ensuring communities are not only protected during emergencies and supported in their recovery but are better prepared for future fires and other emergencies. Most recently he was an Incident Controller at Horsham Incident Control Centre, managing response to the Grampians complex fires which started in December 2024 and burned for three weeks. Mark’s leadership has also extended beyond Victoria’s borders, and he has provided invaluable support during operations in New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland.  

    “Out of all the fires and events I’ve experienced, the Linton fire, Black Saturday and the St Patrick’s Day peat fires of 2018 have all stayed with me for different reasons,” he said. 

    “The fire at Linton on 2 December 1998 was my worst day at CFA. You never want to be in the position where you have to look someone in the eye and tell them their child is not coming home.  

    “Black Saturday and the peat fires, in particular, highlighted how important those connections with our communities are in times of emergency.  

    “You spend weeks building relationships with members of communities; you get to know them and their lives, and they start to see you as one of their own. I took what I learned at those fires about working with communities into the approach to the recent Grampians fires.”

    In addition to the Australian Fire Service Medal announced today, Mark has received the National Medal (two clasps) and a National Emergency Medal and clasps for his roles on Black Saturday and for the 2019-20 Bushfires. He is also a Life Member of CFA. 

    “I am humbled to receive an AFSM in today’s honours,” Mark said. “It’s just nice to know that someone thought that much of me to nominate me. 

    “Working in the emergency services is a privilege in many ways. We are there helping people on their worst day. But the challenges you face, you can’t do on your own, and that’s when fellow agencies whether local, interstate or international are there to support you. The value of teamwork in our sector is the best thing you can take away.” 

    Submitted by CFA Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: CFA volunteer and educator awarded ASFM

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Lisa Hicks ASFM

    CFA firefighter Lisa Hicks was recognised in today’s Australia Day Honours, receiving an Australian Fire Service Medal for her 49 years of dedicated service to CFA and her community.  

    CFA firefighter Lisa Hicks was recognised in today’s Australia Day Honours, receiving an Australian Fire Service Medal for her 49 years of dedicated service to CFA and her community.   

    Lisa Hicks has been a dedicated member of CFA for almost 50 years. During this time, she has served in a range of roles in Narre Warren North and Pakenham Upper brigades and supporting roles in Cardinia Group.    

    She is currently the secretary and community safety coordinator of Pakenham Upper brigade and group community safety coordinator and is employed full-time as a brigade administrative support officer (BASO). She has supported incident control centres (ICC) and incident management teams for 30 years as a public information officer and is an endorsed crew leader and is still operational.  

    “When I’m in an ICC, I know what the firefighters are facing and that helps me to understand what they need to make informed decisions. And as a crew leader, I see it through the eyes of a firefighter on the ground and know what I need from an ICC,” Lisa said.    

    Lisa also delivered the Fire Safe Kids Program to local schools and kindergartens for the past 20 years and is involved in a working group to update the program.  

    “Fire Safe Kids has been an amazing journey,” Lisa said. “Although each class is different, the children are like sponges absorbing the information. When you deliver the information in a fun way, they learn better. I recently worked with all the schools in Cardinia and asked the kids to do a home fire safety plan and make sure they have working smoke detectors.”  

    She was instrumental in establishing and maintaining the Cardinia Group compressed air breathing apparatus refilling station. She supervised the build and testing of the facility, development of documentation and the training of all refilling operators.    

    In her role as a BASO she has supported brigades across the Cardinia Group to recruit new members over many years. She has a strong understanding of the operational and non-operational requirements of brigades.   

    As a dedicated firefighter for almost 50 years, Lisa has made a significant contribution on the frontline of many major fires, including the 1983 Ash Wednesday fire at Upper Beaconsfield. When the fire started in Belgrave South, she responded on Narre Warren North brigade’s tanker and was on one of the first trucks on scene. Despite having only just married Steve Hicks, captain of Narre Warren North, she spent the next fortnight working long hours on opposite shifts to her husband. She fought through all stages of this major fire, including the response, containment, blacking out, patrolling, and supporting the local community, brigade, family, and friends.  

    “As we headed to Belgrave South, the column of smoke just kept growing – it looked bad. None of us had experienced anything like it before. It seemed to change direction at will,” Lisa said.   

    “It was a hot, windy day and nothing was going to stop the fire. We couldn’t hold it, so we were sent further along to try to get ahead of it. Unfortunately, that was impossible so we just did what we could, wherever we could. We never stopped fighting until late that night when we changed crews.  

    “Through the heartache of the loss of fellow firefighters, we took comfort that this was a turning point for CFA to make sure it was never repeated. We now have crew protection, diesel pumps, better radio communication, strike teams and incident control centres.”  

    Another catastrophic fire, the Bunyip Ridge fire, ripped through the Cardinia Group area in February 2009 following a lightning strike three days earlier. In the lead-up to the fire, Lisa supported key district pre-planning meetings and activities to prepare for the extreme weather.  She ensured the Pakenham ICC was fully operational and Cardinia Group brigades were fully stocked and prepared. Over the next few weeks, Lisa worked continuously, undertaking fire brigade activities wearing her two hats – that of a CFA employee and CFA volunteer. Perhaps the most important support she gave was offering a friendly face and focusing on the wellbeing of our brigade leaders and volunteers.   

    On 1 March 2019, multiple lightning strikes started fires across the Bunyip State Park and Gembrook areas. Over the next five days, four fires combined to form one large blaze with the Bunyip fires burning until the end of the month. Through March, Lisa was in high demand by her brigades and the Cardinia Group. She was constantly picking up and dropping off replacement turnout gear, maps, incident action plans, water, foam, and countless other items to brigades and the divisional command point.   

    Lisa’s husband Steve received an AFSM last year.  

    “It’s amazing that both Steve and I have now received this award. To be nominated for an AFSM was an honour, and I’m even more honoured to receive one,” Lisa said.  

    Submitted by CFA Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Cotton Statement on CIA Findings on Covid Origins

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353January 25, 2025
    Chairman Cotton Statement on CIA Findings on Covid Origins
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, released the following statement about the CIA’s findings on the origins of the Coronavirus:
    “I’ve said from the beginning that Covid likely originated in the Wuhan labs. Communist China covered it up and the liberal media covered for them. I’m pleased the CIA concluded in the final days of the Biden administration that the lab-leak theory is the most plausible explanation of Covid’s origins and I commend Director Ratcliffe for fulfilling his promise to release this conclusion. Now, the most important thing is to make China pay for unleashing a plague on the world.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Volunteer leader awarded AFSM medal

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    CFA volunteer Fiona Burns

    CFA volunteer Fiona Burns was recognised in today’s Australia Day Honours, receiving an Australian Fire Service Medal for her more than 21 years of dedicated service to CFA and her community. 

    Fiona Burns has been an inspirational member of CFA for more than 21 years, serving as a member of two brigades (Launching Place and Hillcrest) and is the current group officer of Yarra Valley Group. 

    She has served with distinction as an officer of her brigade and group for 19 of her 21 years of CFA service.  

    Fiona has distinguished herself through her outstanding ability and reputation as an extremely capable member of incident management teams. As a result, she was chosen to take on Level 3 planning officer role in incident control centres (ICC) at large and prolonged, multi-agency campaign fires in 2013, 2019-20 and again in 2024 in Gippsland and the Grampians.

    In addition, she has represented CFA internationally as a planning officer undertaking two five-week stints to support fire suppression in Canada in 2014 and 2015. She has been a Level 3 accredited planning officer for 10 years. 

    “I love the planning officer role because I can take my fireground skills and use them in ICCs to support our firefighters on the front line,” Fiona said. “It’s a demanding role but I really enjoy the challenges.” 

    Fiona is also an experienced fireground commander where she identifies emerging operational leaders with whom she willingly shares her significant experience.  

    Her extensive fire management experience and analytical ability were influential during the successful transition of the former Launching Place and Woori Yallock brigades into one new brigade – Hillcrest Fire Brigade – in 2007.

    As brigade captain, Fiona was responsible for driving the creation of an emergency services hub with Ambulance Victoria, co-locating an ambulance at Hillcrest Fire Station to allow better medical response for the Yarra Valley and surrounds.   

    Fiona was a foundation mentor in CFA’s statewide Women In Leadership mentoring program, and she is still involved in this important initiative. She is also part of the District 13 Captains’ Leadership Mentoring Program, providing guidance to new captains about leadership and administration. These programs align with Fiona’s leadership philosophy.

    “Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors and supporters who share their knowledge and experiences with me, and I believe that it’s my responsibility to do the same for emerging leaders.

    ”By sharing my experiences and insights, I hope to inspire others to realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to CFA and beyond.

    “I gain as much from the people I mentor as they get from me. It’s not a one-way street. 

    As a mentor, Fiona encourages diversity and opportunity to the women of CFA and is helping to future-proof CFA by developing a pool of future leaders to replace those currently holding leadership roles.  

    She has been a CFA trainer and assessor since 2013 and continues to combine her practical skills and knowledge to deliver training in District 13 on General Firefighter, Low Structure and Introduction to AIIMS courses, as well as leading skills maintenance and specialised bushfire training for brigades in the group and other local brigades.   

    Fiona has made significant contributions to community safety and education. She is a founding committee member of the Teenage Road Information Program (TRIP) and has been the chair of TRIP for the past six years. TRIP is presented by people who have lived the experience of a road crash. It includes all the emergency services agencies who attend a crash and have to deal with the resulting devastation. It’s a hard-hitting program that’s delivered in a funeral home.  

    “TRIP is my passion. It is primarily aimed at 16 to 25-year-olds because statistics show they have more crashes,” Fiona said. 

    “The program is designed to be thought-provoking and initiate conversations between mates and families about making good decisions while driving. There are consequences to decisions that drivers make. For every road fatality about 800 people are impacted.”   

    Along with TRIP, Fiona is an ongoing advocate of creating links to local Yarra Valley community groups that has ensured the development of more integrated emergency preparedness and response planning processes between Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria, Victoria State Emergency Service, local government, community groups and the local schools.  

    Post Black Saturday, Fiona recognised that some lives were lost by people who tried to stay to rescue their pets. The Grab and Go Pet Bag concept was developed as a result of a local school art competition. The bags, which are made from reusable calico, include a checklist for pet owners who need to evacuate.

    “It was an absolute delight for me to present a framed Grab and Go Pet Bag to the winning student at their school assembly.

    “I want to take moment to acknowledge those who have played a significant role in shaping my CFA journey. Brian Willians, my first captain, set a strong foundation for me. Graeme Bourne offered unwavering support during my early captaincy days. Lex de Man for his support to establish and develop Hillcrest brigade, whilst Geoff Conway and Graeme Armstrong provided me exceptional leadership and guidance. Locally, Don Bigham and Roly Rak challenged and supported me, pushing me to grow in ways I hadn’t imagined and seek opportunity to enhance our local brigades’ capacity and capability.

    “Lastly and most importantly, I want to thank my mum. None of us can volunteer without the unwavering support of our loved ones, and her encouragement and support has been a cornerstone of my journey.”

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Hassan Votes to Confirm Governor Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) issued the following statement today after voting to confirm Governor Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security:
    “In our conversations throughout the confirmation process, Governor Noem has demonstrated to me that she’s willing to work together to tackle the important challenges facing our country, including strengthening border security and protecting our communities from the spread of illicit fentanyl. Of course, there are policy areas where we disagree, but we do agree that there is no more important task of government than keeping people safe. I believe that she has the qualifications necessary to be our next Secretary of Homeland Security, and I look forward to partnering with her in the future.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Statement On Confirmation On Pete Hegseth

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    January 25, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today released the following statement after voting against the confirmation of Pete Hegseth, President Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense:

    “Today, I voted against the confirmation of Pete Hegseth to serve as Secretary of Defense.  We must have military leaders who have proven good judgement for when they are sitting in the Situation Room.  From the outset, Pete Hegseth has failed to position himself as someone who can be trusted to develop a strategic plan to address the threats to our nation. 

    “Between his unacceptable views on women in the military, his stunning lack of basic knowledge on the rules of engagement, and serious allegations of personal misconduct, it’s crystal clear that Pete Hegseth should not be leading the Department of Defense.”

    Hegseth was confirmed with a vote of 50-50, with Vice President JD Vance casting a tie-breaking vote. 

    Earlier this week, Durbin delivered a speech on the Senate floor explaining his objections to Hegseth’s nomination, including his inability to articulate a defense strategy in addressing threats to the U.S., his disparaging comments about women serving in the military, and troubling reports of financial mismanagement, alcohol abuse, and personal misconduct.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Statement On President Trump Unlawfully Firing Independent Inspectors General Across Multiple Federal Agencies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    January 25, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today released the following statement after President Donald Trump unlawfully fired at least 12 independent inspectors general across multiple federal agencies:

    “President Trump’s firing of at least 12 independent inspectors general at important federal agencies is a continuation of his efforts to reshape the federal government without oversight or accountability—and with loyalty to Donald Trump and Donald Trump alone. It is a brazen attempt to rig these offices to look the other way when violations of law take place. These dismissals clearly violate federal law, which requires the President to provide Congress with 30-day notice of intent and detailed reasons to fire inspectors general.

    “Inspectors general are vital for keeping the government honest and revealing waste, fraud, and abuse. Less than one week in office and President Trump is dismantling the checks and balances on the Executive Branch at an astounding rate.”

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: State Highway 2, Takapau crash

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)


    District:

    State Highway 2, north of Takapau remains closed and is expected to be closed for most of the day. 

    A detour is in place via State Highway 50.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect ongoing delays. 

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers keynote remarks at the Jakarta Forum on ASEAN-China Relations

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this morning delivered a keynote speech at the Jakarta Forum on ASEAN-China Relations with the theme “Bridging and Bonding by Connectivity,” aligning with Lao PDR’s ASEAN Chairmanship theme of “ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience,” and in support of 2024 as the ASEAN-China Year of People-People Exchanges.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Statement on Fentanyl Trafficking Bust

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    10.31.24

    Cantwell Statement on Fentanyl Trafficking Bust

    EDMONDS, WA – U.S Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement on today’s fentanyl trafficking bust.

    “Tonight’s announcement of the indictments against a violent criminal ring peddling fentanyl is welcome news. Tracking fentanyl in every mode of transportation like in our airports is critical to stopping the movement of this deadly drug because it helps expose local distribution rings. All of the Pacific Northwest should applaud the massive amount of federal, state, and local law enforcement work and coordination that led to these indictments and arrests,” said Sen. Cantwell.

    A full timeline of Sen. Cantwell’s actions to combat the fentanyl crisis is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: No Oil Sightings Arising From Oil-Related Incidents; Precautionary Measures To Stand Down From Today

    Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

    JOINT NEWS RELEASE BETWEEN NEA, BCA, JTC, MPA, NPARKS, PUB, SDC, SFA AND SL

    Singapore, 30 October 2024 – The clean-up of Shell’s leaked slop in the channel between Pulau Bukom and Bukom Kechil, including the cleaning of the oil-stained rock bunds and infrastructure, has been completed.

    2.             There have been no other oil sightings at sea and ashore since 20 October 2024 when Shell first reported the leak.

    3.            There are also no oil sightings arising from the separate oil overflow bunkering incident on 28 October off Changi.

    4.            All the seaward oil response assets deployed by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) for both incidents will stand down today.

    5.           The containment and absorbent booms that were installed by government agencies at various locations as a precautionary measure since 20 October, will be removed progressively. 

    6.            Investigations by the National Environment Agency and MPA into the leaked slop incident at Pulau Bukom are ongoing. MPA will also be investigating the Changi oil overflow bunkering incident.

    ~~ End ~~

    For more information, please submit your enquiries electronically via the Online Feedback Form or myENV mobile application.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Ending QLD Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry is harmful and divisive

    Source: Australian Human Rights Commission

    The Queensland Government’s decision to abolish the state’s Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry and repeal its Path to Treaty Act marks a major step backwards for First Nations rights, says Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Katie Kiss. 

    Newly-elected Premier David Crisafulli, who was sworn into office this week, said yesterday he will follow through on his election promise to end the Queensland’s truth- telling inquiry, which is underway, and repeal its treaty legislation.  

    Commissioner Kiss, a proud Kaanju and Biri/Widi woman who grew up in Rockhampton on the lands of the Darumbal People, was previously the Executive Director of the Interim Truth and Treaty Body supporting Queensland’s Path to Treaty. 

    “The decision to scrap the Inquiry, denying our First Nations People a chance to share their stories to help accurately convey our state’s history, is extremely disrespectful and harmful,” Commissioner Kiss said. 

    “It is disrespectful to communities, but also to the many people who put in years of work to make this Inquiry happen. This includes the contributions of everyday Queenslanders – Indigenous and non-Indigenous – who provided invaluable input to support truth, justice and healing. 

    “The inaugural truth-telling hearings of the Commission that occurred in September showed the enormous contribution that this process can make to public understanding of the treatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Queensland, building a basis for dialogue, understanding and compassion. These hearings showed the immense benefits truth-telling has for everyone. 

    “The Path to Treaty was something our People have long called for. They believe this is what is needed to bring Queenslanders together in a way that fosters unity, understanding, respect, dignity and wellbeing for all. In particular, those Elders who have lived experience of the impacts of colonial policies and practices of the past, and our families and communities who experience the ongoing trauma and effects. 

    “Now more than ever, we need policies that promote reconciliation and unity – not division and discord. First Nations Queenslanders deserve and need to have their rights upheld and their stories heard.” 

    Commissioner Kiss has written to Premier Crisafulli, urging him to reconsider his decision and offering to work collaboratively with his government to achieve better outcomes for First Nations people in Queensland. 

    “I am very keen to establish a positive working relationship with the new Queensland Government – supporting it to advance the human rights of First Nations people. Truth-telling about past and ongoing injustice is critical to advancing human rights and building a better future for First Nations people and all Queenslanders. I urge the Premier to reconsider his decision,” Commissioner Kiss said.

    “With the absence now of a First Nations member in the new Queensland Government, it is of great importance to include First Nations People in decisions that affect them. That means meeting with us, talking with us and hearing and incorporating our views into decisions that will impact us all.” 

    ENDS | Media contact: media@humanrights.gov.au or 0457 281 897 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s 41st Antarctic expedition begins

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China’s 41st Antarctic expedition team set sail Friday, starting a mission expected to last nearly seven months.
    Over the coming months, researchers will build the supporting infrastructure for the Qinling Station in Antarctica, investigate the impact of climate change on the Antarctic ecosystem, and conduct international research and logistics cooperation.
    The expedition will be carried out by three ships, including research icebreakers Xuelong and Xuelong 2, or Snow Dragon and Snow Dragon 2, as well as cargo vessel Yong Sheng. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Dongfeng landing site ready to welcome return of Shenzhou-18 astronauts

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The Dongfeng landing site in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, north China, is ready to welcome the return of the Shenzhou-18 astronaut crew, according to Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.
    To ensure search and rescue readiness, the last comprehensive drill was carried out at the Dongfeng landing site from Thursday evening to early morning on Friday, said the center.
    The return capsule of the Shenzhou-18 manned spaceship, carrying three astronauts, is scheduled to touch down on Earth in the early morning on Nov. 4.
    The comprehensive drill was designed to target any difficulties and requirements expected from challenging conditions, such as the weather, the center added.
    All personnel and equipment at the Dongfeng landing site are ready to be deployed to support the search and rescue missions. Moreover, the Shenzhou-18 crew completed all preparations before leaving the Tiangong Space Station.
    China launched the Shenzhou-19 crewed spaceship on Wednesday, sending three astronauts to its orbiting space station for a six-month mission.
    The Shenzhou-19 and Shenzhou-18 crews met in the Tiangong space station, starting a new round of in-orbit crew handover. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ​Falcon Project gives platform for Hubei-focused short films

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A new season of short film creation under the Falcon Project was launched at the China National Film Museum on Oct. 28 in Beijing.

    Leadership, mentors and guests pose for a group photo at a new Falcon Project creative season launch ceremony held at the China National Film Museum in Beijing, Oct. 28, 2024. [Photo courtesy of China Film Association] 

    With the theme of “The City in My Heart – The Jingchu Land that Extends for Thousands of Miles,” the new season will give participating young filmmakers a platform to produce shorts about Hubei province. The term “Jingchu” is an ancient name for what is now China’s Hubei province.

    Shorts will be no longer than 30 minutes and depict everyday stories, focusing on the five Hubei cities of Huangshi, Jingzhou, Xianning, Jianshi, and Xiangyang.

    Deng Guanghui, the resident vice president of the China Film Association (CFA), at the ceremony stated that this season of the Falcon Project aims to be an educational platform to help budding filmmakers cultivate their cinematic skills as well as hone creativity. 

    As the second run of this mentorship program, this season plans to continue the Falcon Project’s objective of guiding young talent with documenting the era and expressing various sentiments of the people.

    “I hope that young filmmakers will set the right direction, create for the great era and use the medium of film to document the new journey of the new era,” Deng said, “by fulfilling their artistic mission and telling good Chinese stories, they shall create film works of both artistic grace and substantial content to reflect the history, culture and eras of transformation in Hubei.”

    As part of the bigger outreach project to connect future filmmakers with today’s industry, selected young filmmakers will be given the chance to work with established professionals. Additionally, numerous filmmakers specializing in professional fields such as cinematography, sound recording and film art will be invited to contribute as mentors, providing comprehensive guidance and support throughout the project.

    Interested young filmmakers are asked to submitted a short no longer than three minutes as part of the registration process. Tian Zhuangzhuang, veteran actor, filmmaker and artistic director for the Falcon Project, explained: “a 3-minute short film can reveal the creator’s basic understanding of film visuals and aesthetic talent. Creators should be focusing on reality and rooting in life to find better stories. I hope we can cultivate better talent for the film industry.”

    At the launch ceremony, other mentors also stepped onstage to share their experiences and expectations. Among them, Wang Kai, a native of Wuhan, Hubei province, expressed his hope that through these future shorts, everyone will be able to understand and appreciate the spirit and mentality of Hubei and its people in a more holistic and multi-dimensional way.

    Participating young directors and screenwriters from the previous program also appeared on stage to share their gratitude, insights and anticipations. They encouraged more young filmmakers to join the new season to showcase Hubei stories and make friends with those who share similar visions.

    Entitled “The City in My Heart – Altay,” the previous season saw the production of shorts that focused on Altay, a prefecture in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region.

    Mentors for the new Falcon Project creative season share their expectation and insights on stage at the China National Film Museum in Beijing, Oct. 28, 2024. [Photo courtesy of China Film Association] 

    Liu Haijun, deputy head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Hubei Provincial Committee, noted in his speech that Hubei is an important, historic and strategic area within China, holding a vital role in Yangtze River civilization as well as Chinese society as a whole.

    “This short film season, focusing on Hubei, fully leverages the unique influence and communicative power of short films to more vividly shape the urban and cultural image of Hubei, spread Jingchu culture and enhance understanding of the region. It is a very meaningful activity,” he stated.

    This new Falcon Project creative season is guided by the CFA and sponsored by the Film Art Center of the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles and the Hubei Provincial Federation of Literary and Art Circles. The season is organized by the Hubei Changjiang Film Group and the Hubei Film Association. 

    Registration for the season is open from Oct. 29 to Dec. 15, with applicants being chosen for two categories: directing and screenwriting. The process then will include phases ranging from talent selection and training to filming and post-production.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS concludes Riyadh trip

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Financial Secretary Paul Chan completed the final day of his visit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, yesterday by participating in several events at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) with his delegation.

    Speaking at a themed session at the conference, Mr Chan highlighted that Hong Kong is actively developing as an international centre for green tech and green finance, contributing to the future of the New Silk Road.

    Also during the FII, Mr Chan witnessed the signing of co-operation agreements between a number of Hong Kong organisations and enterprises with their Saudi counterparts.

    Among such agreements are a memorandum of understanding between the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund to jointly establish a new investment fund of up to US$ 1 billion and a pact between the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation and the FII Institute to join the institute’s investment ecosystem.

    Earlier in the day, the Financial Secretary attended the listing ceremony of the SAB Invest Hang Seng Hong Kong Exchange Traded Fund at the Saudi Exchange.

    The product, developed in collaboration with Saudi Awwal Bank’s subsidiary, SAB Invest, provides Middle East investors with opportunities to invest in Hong Kong’s capital markets.

    After concluding his visit, Mr Chan departed for Hong Kong last night and is scheduled to arrive in the city this afternoon.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New marine park established

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department today announced the establishment of Hong Kong’s eighth and largest marine park, the 2,400-hectare North Lantau Marine Park (NLMP).

    The NLMP is also one of the measures for mitigating the impacts on Chinese White Dolphins (CWD) and fisheries habitats brought by the construction and operation of the Three-Runway System Project.

    Its establishment increases the area of the city’s protected marine habitat to over 8,500 hectares, which is conducive to the conservation of the CWD and the marine environment and ecosystem in North Lantau waters.

    The NLMP links with the nearby Sha Chau & Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park and The Brothers Marine Park in North Lantau waters to form a matrix of connected marine protected areas totalling about 4,570 hectares.

    The NLMP is also contiguous with the Pearl River Estuary Chinese White Dolphin National Nature Reserve established in Guangdong Province, allowing for better protection of core CWD habitats.

    The department pointed out that it is liaising with the relevant Mainland authorities regarding the establishment of the Guangdong-Hong Kong CWD marine protected areas network platform.

    This platform will serve to strengthen co-operation on management and enforcement, ecological monitoring and enhancement as well as education and publicity between the two places, the department added.

    It indicated that it also plans to conduct long-term ecological and water quality monitoring in the marine parks and encourage scientific research in marine parks.

    Furthermore, the NLMP will adopt management measures similar to those of the existing marine parks, such as routine patrols and law enforcement, restricting vessel speed to 10 knots, and accepting NLMP fishing permit applications for local fishing vessels registered under the Fisheries Protection Ordinance.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Inter-departmental help desk stood down

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Inter-departmental help desk stood down
    Inter-departmental help desk stood down
    ***************************************

    Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:     The inter-departmental help desk set up by the Central and Western District Office at Queen Mary Hospital today (November 1) in response to the ferry accident occurred in the Central Pier No. 9 has now been stood down.

     
    Ends/Friday, November 1, 2024Issued at HKT 13:47

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Facilitation measure on Standard Contract for the Cross-boundary Flow of Personal Information Within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (Mainland, Hong Kong) extends to all sectors

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Facilitation measure on Standard Contract for the Cross-boundary Flow of Personal Information Within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (Mainland, Hong Kong) extends to all sectors
    Facilitation measure on Standard Contract for the Cross-boundary Flow of Personal Information Within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (Mainland, Hong Kong) extends to all sectors
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address announced the extension of the facilitation measure on the Standard Contract for the Cross-boundary Flow of Personal Information Within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (Mainland, Hong Kong) (the GBA Standard Contract) to all sectors, promoting more cross-boundary services to benefit the public and businesses while facilitating data flow throughout the Greater Bay Area (GBA). The related measure commences today (November 1).     According to the agreement framework of Memorandum of Understanding on Facilitating Cross-boundary Data Flow Within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, signed by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau and the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) in June 2023, the GBA Standard Contract facilitation measure was launched at the end of last year, allowing individuals and organisations of the two places, namely the nine Mainland cities in the GBA (i.e., Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Foshan, Huizhou, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Jiangmen and Zhaoqing in Guangdong Province) and Hong Kong, to enter into a standard contract by adopting a standardised template on a voluntary basis, with a view to facilitating and streamlining the cross-boundary flow of personal information within the GBA in a safe and orderly manner.        The “early and pilot implementation” arrangements of the facilitation measure on GBA Standard Contract for the banking, credit referencing and healthcare sectors has been operating smoothly and has been well received. Thus, the Digital Policy Office (DPO) announced that starting from November 1, 2024, industries of all sectors in the nine Mainland cities in the GBA and Hong Kong can take part in the facilitation measure and voluntarily adopt the GBA Standard Contract. The DPO, at the same time, optimises the filing arrangements and rationalises several operational details to further facilitate the compliance of the cross-boundary flow of personal information by enterprises.      The Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Tony Wong, said, “Facilitating the Mainland’s data flow in the GBA is an important initiative to promote the development of cross-boundary services, digital economy and smart cities. It not only brings benefits to citizens and enterprises, but also accelerates the integration of economic development in the GBA. We are grateful for the support of the CAC and the Cyberspace Administration of Guangdong Province in enabling industries of all sectors in the GBA to enjoy the benefits from the GBA Standard Contract facilitation measure.”      Mr Wong added that, “The GBA Standard Contract is an administrative measure. It does not affect the supervisory and regulatory roles of the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data in ensuring compliance with the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (PDPO). The processing and cross-boundary transfer of personal information in Hong Kong will continue to be on a voluntary basis and being regulated in accordance with the PDPO of Hong Kong.”     The DPO will arrange briefings and production of promotional videos to facilitate industries’ understanding of the details of the facilitation measure on the GBA Standard Contract. For details, please visit the DPO’s thematic webpage (www.digitalpolicy.gov.hk/en/our_work/digital_infrastructure/mainland/cross-boundary_data_flow/index.html).

     
    Ends/Friday, November 1, 2024Issued at HKT 14:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EDB announces Saint Francis University becomes university of applied sciences

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    EDB announces Saint Francis University becomes university of applied sciences
    EDB announces Saint Francis University becomes university of applied sciences
    *****************************************************************************

         The Education Bureau (EDB) today (November 1) announced that Saint Francis University (SFU), having successfully gone through a stringent institutional review by the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications (HKCAAVQ) and fulfilled all relevant criteria as confirmed by the EDB, has become a university of applied sciences (UAS).      An EDB spokesman said, “The Government actively promotes the development of UASs to enhance the status of vocational and professional education and training (VPET) at the degree level and provide an alternative pathway to success for young people. The EDB is pleased that SFU has demonstrated its vision, commitment, capabilities and experience in providing high-level VPET programmes in close collaboration with relevant industries, and has successfully gone through the stringent review by the HKCAAVQ and met all of the relevant criteria, becoming the second UAS in Hong Kong.”                                              In assessing SFU’s application for becoming a UAS, the Government has taken into account relevant factors, including the outcome of the institutional review for UAS by the HKCAAVQ, and SFU’s experience in operating applied degree programmes and other VPET programmes. The institutional review by the HKCAAVQ focuses on the commitment and competence of SFU to operate as a UAS at both institutional and programme levels, based on three domains, namely governance, management and quality assurance; learning environment and learner support; and industry collaboration and recognition.       SFU was founded as the Caritas Francis Hsu College. It began offering degree programmes and changed its name to the Caritas Institute of Higher Education in 2011, and was conferred a university title and was approved to change its name to SFU in January 2024. In the 2024/25 academic year, SFU offers two master’s degree programmes, 13 bachelor’s degree programmes (including two applied degree programmes) and four higher diploma programmes, with about 3 800 full-time and 800 part-time students in total.      Similar to the Hong Kong Metropolitan University, the first UAS in Hong Kong, SFU is subject to ongoing reviews by the HKCAAVQ to ensure further development of its maturity and competency as a UAS. It is also required to submit annual progress reports to the EDB.          To bolster the UAS development, as announced in “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address”, the Government has allocated a start-up fund of $100 million to support UASs and aspiring institutions to establish an UAS alliance this year to embark on joint promotion with the industries and stakeholders, including organising international conferences, strengthening collaboration with applied sciences institutions from other places and initiating collaboration and research on applied education at the post-secondary level. Priority will be accorded to eligible programmes of a UAS for inclusion under the Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors and eligible applications from UASs when considering applications for relevant support measures, including the EDB’s Quality Enhancement Support Scheme and Enhancement and Start-up Grant Scheme for Self-financing Post-secondary Education.           Self-financing post-secondary institutions planning to apply for becoming a UAS should have a university title and possess the vision, commitment, capabilities and experience in operating an institution that embodies the key features of a UAS, including: (a) the vision, maturity and capability in providing high-level VPET programmes ranging from Levels 5 to 7 under the Hong Kong Qualifications Framework, blending theory and practice with substantial workplace learning and assessment, having flexibilities in curriculum design, admission and delivery mode, and having recognition and support from industries and professions; and (b) the experience in providing (an) applied degree programme(s) in at least one area of applied sciences for which it has attained the programme area accreditation or self-accrediting status, and the commitment to developing and providing more applied degree programmes.                                                The relevant criteria and application procedures are set out in the Manual for Institutional Review for UAS on the HKCAAVQ website (www.hkcaavq.edu.hk/en/accreditation/institutional_review/). Applications are accepted all year round. Eligible institutions may apply for combining the institutional review for becoming a private university and that for a UAS, subject to the EDB’s approval.

     
    Ends/Friday, November 1, 2024Issued at HKT 14:08

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: HILL ROAD, YAHL (Grass Fire)

    Source: Country Fire Service – South Australia

    Issued on
    01 Nov 2024 16:31

    Issued for
    YAHL, O.B. FLAT, MOUNT GAMBIER in the Lower South East of South Australia.

    Warning level
    Advice – Avoid Smoke

    Action
    Smoke from Hill Road, YAHL is in the Yahl, O.B. Flat and Mount Gambier area.

    Smoke can affect your health. You should stay informed and be aware of the health impacts of smoke on yourself and others.

    Symptoms of exposure includes shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing, burning eyes, running nose, chest tightness, chest pain and dizziness or light-headedness.

    If you or anyone in your care are having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention from your local GP. If your symptoms become severe, call 000.

    More information will be provided by the CFS when it is available.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: KH Group Plc’s Business Review January–September 2024: Moderate profitability in a demanding market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KH Group Plc
    Stock Exchange Release 1 November 2024 at 8:00 am EET 
      
    KH Group Plc’s Business Review January–September 2024:
    Moderate profitability in a demanding market

    This is the summary of the Business Review for January–September 2024. The full Business Review is attached to this release and is also available on the company’s website at www.khgroup.com.

    KH Group, July–September 2024 pro forma 

    • Net sales amounted to EUR 85.7 (91.1) million.
    • Operating profit was EUR 3.3 (4.1) million.
    • The net sales of KH-Koneet were slightly better than in the comparison period and operating profit remained nearly unchanged from the comparison period.
    • Indoor Group’s net sales and operating profit were below the level of the comparison period.
    • NRG’s net sales and operating profit were below the level of the comparison period.
    • KH Group divested its holdings in HTJ. 

    KH Group, January–September 2024 IFRS 

    • Net sales amounted to EUR 253.2 (161.0) million. The figure for the comparison period includes net sales accumulated in May–September 2023 and HTJ is classified as a discontinued operation retroactively.
    • Operating profit was EUR 0.8 (-17.5) million.
    • Net profit for the period was EUR -3.3 (-12.1) million.
    • Earnings per share (undiluted and diluted) were EUR -0.02 (-0.15).
    • Equity per share at the end of the review period was EUR 1.30 (1.39).
    • Return on equity for rolling 12 months was -7.1% (-14.5%).
    • The Group’s cash and cash equivalents amounted to EUR 11.6 million at the end of the review period
    • Gearing at the end of the review period was 195.6% (195.4%).
    • Gearing excluding lease liabilities was 120.6% (115.1%).

    CEO Ville Nikulainen:

    “Our consolidated pro forma net sales and operating profit declined year-on-year. KH-Koneet’s net sales increased moderately and operating profit was nearly at the same level as in the comparison period, which means that the market share increased in a declining market. For Indoor Group, the general market uncertainty, the increase to the general value-added tax rate in Finland and the deployment of a new ERP system in spring 2024 had a negative impact on net sales and operating profit.

    On 15 August 2024, KH Group announced the launch of an extensive operating model reform programme aimed at improving the group company Indoor Group’s profitability. The reform includes development initiatives to stabilise Indoor Group’s financial situation in the challenging furniture industry market environment. The company aims for an annual operating profit improvement of at least EUR 10 million by the end of 2026. Based on current information, a significant part of the targeted profitability improvement is estimated to be realised already during 2025. KH Group published a stock exchange release on 10 October 2024 concerning the reform of Indoor Group’s operating model and change negotiations.

    Nordic Rescue Group’s pro forma net sales and operating profit decreased year-on-year during the seasonally weaker quarter. The demand for rescue vehicles in Sweden has remained at a good level but, in Finland, the budgeting phase of the wellbeing services counties has slowed down the accrual of new orders during autumn 2024.

    In the fourth quarter, the business areas will focus on securing net sales and operating profit as well as improving the efficiency of working capital. KH Group’s change in strategy is progressing according to plan.

    On 9 August 2024, the company updated its earlier guidance on net sales and operating profit for 2024. The calculation of the guidance is based on Indoor Group’s lower than expected net sales and operating profit in both the first and second half of 2024. According to the updated guidance, the company estimates, with the current Group structure, to reach pro forma net sales of EUR 340–360 million and operating profit of EUR 4–7 million in 2024.”

    Events after the review period

    During the current year, Indoor will continue to implement measures aimed at improving profitability. KH Group published a press release on 10 October 2024 concerning the reform of the operating model and change negotiations.

    Future outlook

    KH Group’s medium-term objective is to become an industrial group built around the KH-Koneet business and to divest other business areas in line with previous strategy. At the same time, active developments will continue regarding other business areas. Exit planning and the assessment of exit opportunities for the other business areas will also continue.

    On 9 August 2024, the company updated its earlier guidance on net sales and operating profit for 2024. According to the updated guidance, with the current Group structure, the company estimates pro forma net sales for 2024 to be EUR 340–360 million and operating profit to be EUR 4–7 million.

    KH GROUP PLC

      
    Ville Nikulainen
    CEO

    FURTHER INFORMATION:
    CEO Ville Nikulainen, tel. +358 400 459 343

    DISTRIBUTION:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Major media
    www.khgroup.com

    KH Group Plc is a Nordic conglomerate operating in business areas of KH-Koneet, Indoor Group and Nordic Rescue Group. We are a leading supplier of construction and earth-moving equipment, furniture and interior decoration retailer as well as rescue vehicle manufacturer. The objective of our strategy is to create an industrial group around the business of KH-Koneet. KH Group’s share is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: 39/2024・Trifork Group AG – Interim report for the quarter ending 30 September 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Trifork Group AG
    Company announcement no. 39/2024
    Schindellegi, Switzerland – 1 November 2024
    Interim Financial Report for the third quarter ending 30 September 2024

    Trifork Group reports -0.8% revenue growth in the core business, adjusts full year-outlook, and targets around EURm 10 in annual cost savings to improve margins

    CEO Jørn Larsen comments on the third quarter:
    “2024 has proven to be one of Trifork’s most challenging years. The private sector business environment for many of the services we provide remained difficult and unpredictable through the third quarter, but we cannot only blame the market. Some of our units have struggled to secure new customers or new engagements with existing customers. This will be fixed, based on the ways of working of our well-performing units.

    We underestimated the negative margin impact from persistently lower-than-expected revenue growth throughout the year. In response, we will now extend our cost savings program with the aim to reduce overall annual cost by around EURm 10. We will introduce a 10% cut in selected management remuneration led by myself and our CFO, make further rightsizing in low-performing units, and reduce other costs until we see an improved market situation. Reducing our workforce in certain units is a necessary but difficult decision that weighs heavily on me and our business unit leaders and we will work closely together to make the right decisions. We do not know when a market improvement will materialize, but with a broader customer network and pipeline than ever before, we are prepared to capitalize when it does, at which time we aim to return to double-digit growth with a double-digit EBIT margin.

    These challenges in parts of the organization are offset by many positive developments too. Our Public sector business, accounting for 39% of revenue, is back on track with healthy growth and a robust pipeline. Our strategic focus on the U.S. market is also yielding results, with solid growth and a promising pipeline for 2025. US revenue increased by 56% in Q3 and 29% in the first nine months compared to the same periods in 2023. Additionally, our Run business is building momentum for recurring revenue growth, and our new office in Oman is off to a strong start, powered by our proprietary platforms. Finally, our most valuable companies in Trifork Labs are performing very well.”

    Third quarter 2024

    • Trifork Group
      • In Q3 2024, Trifork Group revenue amounted to EURm 47.1, a net decline of -1.8% from Q3 2023, the combined result of an inorganic growth of 4.9% and an organic decrease of 6.8%. In the quarter, Trifork had EURm 0.5 less revenue from the more volatile and non-core hardware and third-party licenses compared to Q3 2023. Adjusted for this, Group revenue growth was -0.8% in Q3 2024.
      • Trifork Group adjusted EBITDA amounted to EURm 5.3, corresponding to 11.3% margin. No special items were recorded.
      • Trifork Group EBIT amounted to EURm 1.1, corresponding to 2.4% EBIT margin.
      • Trifork Group net income amounted to EURm 1.6.
    • Trifork Segment
      • In Q3 2024, adjusted EBITDA in the Trifork Segment amounted to EURm 5.8 (Q3 2023: EURm 7.0). The adjusted EBITDA margin was 12.3% (Q3 2023: 14.5%).
      • Sub-segments
        • Inspire revenue increased by 11.6% to EURm 0.8 and realized an adjusted EBITDA of EURm -0.6 (Q3 2023: EURm -0.9).
        • Build revenue declined by -2.9% to EURm 34.5 and realized an adjusted EBITDA margin of 11.3% (Q3 2023: 18.5%).
        • Run revenue increased by 2.2% to EURm 11.7. Adjusted for volatile and non-core hardware and third-party licenses, revenue growth was 8.4%. The adjusted EBITDA margin was 33.5% (Q3 2023: 23.2%).
    • Trifork Labs
      • In Q3 2024, fair value adjustment of Trifork Labs investments was EURm 1.7. The book value of all minority investments was EURm 75.4 at the end of the quarter. EBT from Trifork Labs was EURm 2.1 in the quarter.

    The financial outlook for 2024 is adjusted as follows:

    • Revenue is expected in the range of EURm 205-208 (previously EURm 215-220) equal to -1.4 to 0.0% growth. The revised revenue guidance is explained by lower revenue expectations in the fourth quarter, including around EURm 7 (license and hardware sales) in revenue on already agreed engagements now delayed to 2025.
    • Adjusted EBITDA in Trifork Segment is expected in the range of EURm 25-27 (previously EURm 31-34). The revised guidance on adjusted EBITDA in Trifork Segment is explained by the lower revenue outlook and the additional costs of reorganizations in Q3 and Q4.
    • EBIT in Trifork Group is expected in the range of EURm 8-10 (previously EURm 14-17).
    • As the planned transaction in our managed security services is not yet to be closed, we have excluded any potential effect from its potential deconsolidation in the guidance. We expect a positive effect between EURm 3-5 on unadjusted EBITDA and EBIT when the process is completed.

    Main events in the third quarter of 2024

    • Inspire
      Q3 is seasonally a quarter with low conference activity. Hence, the conference activities in the quarter were primarily focused on preparing for GOTO Copenhagen and GOTO Chicago in October. The online GOTO universe continued to grow in with 1.9 million combined views on YouTube and Instagram in Q3, and 74.6 million views in total. At the end of the quarter, we had 1.0 million subscribers. We are continuously sharpening our planning of events and have optimized our cost structure through the year. The improved earnings momentum continued in Q3, and in the first three quarters Inspire improved EBITDA with EURm 0.8 compared to the same period last year.
    • Build
      Build revenue declined by 2.9% compared to the same quarter last year. The weakness came primarily from the private sector, which accounted for 61% of revenue. Corporates continued to take a cautious approach to IT spending in light of the global economic uncertainty, geopolitical uncertainty, and higher interest rates compared to previous years. The continued low activity from private sector customers has been particularly visible in UK, whereas our private sector engagements in the US displayed comparatively better performance. Danish public revenue grew 15% in Q3 compared to the same quarter last year. After a soft start to the year with disruptions to existing customer engagements, our Danish Public business has gained momentum with several key wins and ramp-up of delivery on existing framework agreements won in previous quarters and years. Public wins in Q3 included The IT and Development Agency at the Danish Ministry of Taxation as well as The Danish Business Authority.
    • Run
      Revenue in Run increased by 2.2% in Q3 compared to the same quarter last year. Our Cloud Operations business has built a solid sales pipeline supported by our new Contain cloud product offering. This is driven by both public and private customers. As announced in Q2, our managed services security business is in discussion with potential strategic partners in order to accelerate growth and market share. Our Splunk services gained momentum in Q3 with key customer wins and a new product offering for SME’s compliance with NIS2 cyber regulation.
    • Trifork Labs
      In Q3, Trifork Labs completed no new investments or exits. One Labs company completed an internal financing round. Activities in the quarter primarily included reviewing investment proposals from new investors in individual Labs companies. The most valuable companies in Trifork Labs are performing to a satisfactory degree. Dividends of EURm 0.2 were received in the quarter.

    Results presentation

    Trifork will host a results presentation and Q&A session with CEO Jørn Larsen and CFO Kristian Wulf-Andersen today, 1 November 2024 at 11:00 CET in a live webcast that can be accessed via the following link, or via the investor website:

    https://trifork.zoom.us/j/96731822513?pwd=NW1HUxyhyL8sUfP7pCpymC9vOsDpNe.1

    A recording will be made available on our investor website. More information can be found at https://investor.trifork.com/events/.

    For more information, please contact:

    Investors
    Frederik Svanholm, Group Investment Director & Head of Investor Relations
    frsv@trifork.com, +41 79 357 7317

    Media
    Peter Rørsgaard, CCO Fintech & Head of Press Relations
    pro@trifork.com, +45 2042 2494

    About Trifork Group
    Trifork is a pioneering global technology partner, empowering enterprise and public sector customers with innovative solutions. With 1,278 professionals across 76 business units in 15 countries, Trifork delivers expertise in inspiring, building, and running advanced software solutions across diverse sectors, including public administration, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, energy, financial services, retail, and real estate. Trifork Labs, the Group’s R&D hub, drives innovation by investing in and developing synergistic and high-potential technology companies. Trifork Group AG is a publicly listed company on Nasdaq Copenhagen. Learn more at trifork.com.        

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Indo-Fijian ‘listen to us’ plea to NZ over Pacific ethnicity classification

    By Lydia Lewis, RNZ Pacific presenter/Bulletin editor

    Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says that as far as Fiji is concerned, Fijians of Indian descent are Fijian.

    While Fiji is part of the Pacific, Indo-Fijians are not classified as Pacific peoples in New Zealand; instead, they are listed under Indian and Asian on the Stats NZ website.

    “The ‘Fijian Indian’ ethnic group is currently classified under ‘Asian,’ in the subcategory ‘Indian’, along with other diasporic Indian ethnic groups,” Stats NZ told RNZ Pacific.

    “This has been the case since 2005 and is in line with an ethnographic profile that includes people with a common language, customs, and traditions.

    “Stats NZ is aware of concerns some have about this classification, and it is an ongoing point of discussion with stakeholders.”

    The Fijian Indian community in Aotearoa has long opposed this and raised the issue again at a community event Rabuka attended in Auckland’s Māngere ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa last month.

    “As far as Fiji is concerned, [Indo-Fijians] are Fijians,” he said.

    ‘A matter of sovereignty’
    When asked what his message to New Zealand on the issue would be, he said: “I cannot; that is a matter of sovereignty, the sovereign decision by the government of New Zealand. What they call people is their sovereign right.

    “As far as we are concerned, we hope that they will be treated as Fijians.”

    More than 60,000 people were transferred from all parts of British India to work in Fiji between 1879 and 1916 as indentured labourers.

    Today, they make up over 32 percent of the total population, according to Fiji Bureau of Statistics’ 2017 Population Census.

    Sangam community NZ leader and former Nadi mayor Salesh Mudaliar . . . “If you do a DNA or do a blood test, we are more of Fijian than anything else. We are not Indian.” Image: RNZ Pacific/Lydia Lewis

    Now many, like Sangam community NZ leader and former Nadi Mayor Salesh Mudaliar, say they are more Fijian than Indian.

    “If you do a DNA or do a blood test, we are more of Fijian than anything else. We are not Indian,” Mudaliar said.

    The indentured labourers, who came to be known as the Girmitiyas, as they were bound by a girmit — a Hindi pronunciation of the English word “agreement”.

    RNZ Pacific had approached the Viti Council e Aotearoa for their views on the issue. However, they refused to comment, saying that its chair “has opted out of this interview.”

    “Topic itself is misleading bordering on disinformation [and] misinformation from an Indigenous Fijian perspective and overly sensitive plus short notice.”

    ‘Struggling for identity’
     “We are Pacific Islanders. If you come from Tonga or Samoa, you are a Pacific Islander,” Mudaliar said.

    “When [Indo-Fijians] come from Fiji, we are not. We are not a migrant to Fiji. We have been there for [over 140] years.”

    “The community is still struggling for its identity here in New Zealand . . . we are still not [looked after].

    He said they had tried to lobby the New Zealand government for their status but without success.

    “Now it is the National government, and no one seems to be listening to us in understanding the situation.

    “If we can have an open discussion on this, coming to the same table, and knowing what our problem is, then it would be really appreciated.”

    Fijians of Indian descent with Prime Minister Rabuka at the community event in Auckland last month. Image: Facebook/Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka

    Lifting quality of data
     Stats NZ said it was aware of the need to lift the quality of ethnicity data  across the government data system.

    “Public consultation in 2019 determined a need for an in-depth review of the Ethnicity Standard,” the data agency said.

    In 2021, Stats NZ undertook a large scoping exercise with government agencies, researchers, iwi Māori, and community groups to help establish the scope of the review.

    Stats NZ subsequently stood up an expert working group to progress the review.

    “This review is still underway, and Stats NZ will be conducting further consultation, so we will have more to say in due course,” it said.

    “Classifying ethnicity and ethnic identity is extremely complex, and it is important Stats NZ takes the time to consult extensively and ensure we get this right,” the agency added.

    This week, Fijians celebrate the Hindu festival of lights, Diwali. The nation observes a public holiday to mark the day, and Fijians of all backgrounds get involved.

    Prime Minister Rabuka’s message is for all Fijians to be kind to each other.

    “Act in accordance with the spirit of Diwali and show kindness to those who are going through difficulties,” he told local reporters outside Parliament yesterday.

    “It is a good time for us to abstain from using bad language against each other on social media.”

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Politics with Michelle Grattan: Bruce Wolpe says personal relations between Trump and Albanese would be ‘rocky’

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    Days from the US presidential election, the polls are showing the outcome of the race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump remains a nail biter.

    With the United States our closest ally, the result could have potential implications for Australia in areas such as climate change policy, defence and the economy. If there is a Trump victory, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will also have the challenge of building a relationship with an unpredictable character.

    To discuss the state of the contest and what comes next, we’re joined by Bruce Wolpe, senior fellow at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney. Wolpe worked with the Democrats in Congress, and on the staff of Julia Gillard. Last year, he authored the book, Trump’s Australia.

    Wolpe regards the election as too close to call.

    They’re just deadlocked in two fundamental respects. National head-to-head across the country – the popular vote – they’re 49-48, 47-47, no one cracking 50, and there’s no clear favourite. And then that same pattern exists in all of the seven swing states that will decide the election per the Electoral College.

    In terms of key issues:

    Just as it is here in Australia, hip pocket is the strongest determinant of how you will vote, and so inflation and the state of the economy, in the lived experience, is the number one issue. Americans and Australians share the same experience over the past post-COVID years where there’s been an outbreak of inflation and high interest rates. And that means that the basket of goods that you buy day in, day out, week in, week out, from the supermarket to your petrol to your insurance prices are up between 10 and 40%.

    The second big issue is immigration. As I’m sure you know from looking at the news over the past three years, just following things, the southern border with Mexico has been effectively out of control. It’s back under control but in that time, perhaps millions of people have flowed into the United States.

    The third big issue is abortion rights, reproductive health rights and its future. The Supreme Court two years ago repealed Roe v Wade, which established a right found in the Constitution for women to take care of their reproductive health services. That’s the first time that a universal human constitutional right has been repealed since Dred Scott in the Civil War [denying slaves’ rights]. Three generations of women have grown up with the protections for them.

    This has become a very powerful issue. And 52% of all voters are women.

    On what either a Harris or a Trump administration might look like for Australia:

    I think with Harris, we would just see very strong continuity with Biden. I mean, on foreign policy issues, they really have worked together.

    The relationship with Australia is fine. Her relationship with the Prime Minister is absolutely fine. They know each other, can work together, a very comfortable working relationship.

    [As to] Trump and Australia: first, I really have to say in the first [Trump] term, I think Australia had the most untroubled relationship with Trump than any other country in the world, and that includes Israel, that includes Europe, that includes Canada.

    There is a structural trade surplus that the United States has with Australia. So Australia is not number one on the hit list of nations that are, quote, taking advantage of the United States in their trade agreements. […] It will start off in Trump’s head with all the countries that he wants to go after – I don’t think Australia is high on the list.

    However, on a personal level, Wolpe says there might be some issues between Trump and Albanese:

    I think personally it will be rocky at the start for several reasons. First, Trump will be briefed on everything that the Prime Minister has said on him and his presidency. And he attacked Trump for the January 6th insurrection. He’s for abortion rights and attacked the ruling of the Supreme Court. He’s for gun control, and Australia has a completely different posture on gun control, and Trump is strong on the Second Amendment. If Trump looks at the agenda of the Albanese government, it is a mirror image of Joe Biden’s domestic policy agenda adjusted for realities in both countries. But it’s the same deal.

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

    – ref. Politics with Michelle Grattan: Bruce Wolpe says personal relations between Trump and Albanese would be ‘rocky’ – https://theconversation.com/politics-with-michelle-grattan-bruce-wolpe-says-personal-relations-between-trump-and-albanese-would-be-rocky-242684

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: HILL ROAD, YAHL (Rubbish Fire)

    Source: Country Fire Service – South Australia

    This warning was reissued to correct operational information

    Issued on
    01 Nov 2024 16:43

    Issued for
    YAHL, O.B. FLAT, MOUNT GAMBIER in the Lower South East of South Australia.

    Warning level
    Advice – Avoid Smoke

    Action
    Smoke from Hill Road, YAHL is in the Yahl, O.B. Flat and Mount Gambier area.

    Smoke can affect your health. You should stay informed and be aware of the health impacts of smoke on yourself and others.

    Symptoms of exposure includes shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing, burning eyes, running nose, chest tightness, chest pain and dizziness or light-headedness.

    If you or anyone in your care are having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention from your local GP. If your symptoms become severe, call 000.

    More information will be provided by the CFS when it is available.

    MIL OSI News –