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  • MIL-OSI USA: Bennet, Hickenlooper, Neguse Welcome Over $47 Million from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for U.S. 287 Safety Improvements in Larimer, Boulder Counties

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado Michael Bennet

    Denver — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper alongside U.S. House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse welcomed more than $47 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for safety improvements along U.S. Highway 287 in Larimer and Boulder counties.

    “U.S. 287 helps connect communities across Northern Colorado, and historic funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will improve roadway safety while meeting the needs of Colorado’s growing population. I’m pleased to see Colorado continue to benefit from the most significant investment in America’s roads, bridges, and essential infrastructure since President Eisenhower built the interstate highway system,” said Bennet.

    “Wildlife crossings save lives by dramatically reducing traffic collisions with animals,” said Hickenlooper. “Infrastructure updates like these are exactly why we passed the infrastructure bill.”

    “The US 287 corridor is one of Colorado’s main north-south routes, serving as a gateway to Boulder, Longmont, Loveland, and Fort Collins. I’m proud to have helped secure $47 million in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for the improvement and redevelopment of this major roadway, which will help connect countless communities and improve roadway safety,” said Neguse.

    This funding will help the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) construct wildlife crossings and intersection improvements, add passing lanes and centerline rumble strips, widen shoulders, and install median barriers along U.S. 287. 

    “In Colorado, we are committed to ensuring the safety and protection of Coloradans on the road and avoiding costly wildlife-vehicle collisions. Thanks to the Colorado Department of Transportation for their efforts to secure this funding, Senator Bennet, Senator Hickenlooper, House Assistant Democratic Leader Neguse for their leadership, and the Biden-Harris administration for providing our state with $47 million in funding to continue reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions and help create a safer Colorado for travelers and wildlife in Larimer County and on our roads,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis.

    “US-287 connects bustling communities in Northern Colorado and is an important connector between Colorado and our neighbors in Wyoming. This grant will make it possible to address long-needed safety improvements across this growing corridor and to continue our nation-leading efforts to protect against wildlife collisions. We appreciate the strong support of our Congressional delegation and our strong partnership with Larimer county as well as Wyoming to pursue and advocate for this grant. We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Transportation for funding the grant with dollars from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” said Shoshana Lew, Executive Director, CDOT.

    “We are grateful for this critical funding for CDOT and the support received from Senator Bennet, Senator Hickenlooper, and Congressman Neguse. Improving road safety and protecting our residents is a top priority for Larimer County. This investment in Highway 287 will help ensure safer travel through our region,” said Kristin Stephens, Larimer County Commissioner.  

    In September, the lawmakers sent a letter to DOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg supporting funding for wildlife crossing and roadway safety improvements along U.S. 287. In 2021, Bennet and Senate colleagues called on Congressional leaders to prioritize natural infrastructure restoration, resilience, and reclamation in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK strengthens national security and bolsters Ukraine’s war chest with £2.26 billion military loan

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Ukraine will receive further funding to purchase essential military equipment to defend itself against Russia’s illegal invasion, as the Chancellor today announces that the Government will loan a further £2.26 billion in new money to Ukraine.

    • UK announces £2.26 billion loan to Ukraine backed by profits from sanctioned Russian sovereign assets
    • Forms Britain’s contribution to the $50 billion loan announced at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in June
    • New money for Ukraine will bolster equipment on the frontline

    The new £2.26 billion is the UK’s contribution to the G7 Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration (ERA) Loans to Ukraine scheme, in which $50 billion from G7 countries will be delivered to Ukraine for its military, budget and reconstruction needs. The loan will be repaid using the extraordinary profits on immobilised Russian sovereign assets.

    The Chancellor Rachel Reeves made the announcement alongside Defence Secretary John Healey while visiting Ukrainian personnel who are being trained in the UK. More than 45,000 personnel have been trained in the UK under Operation INTERFLEX and the scheme has been extended to at least the end of 2025.

    The UK’s £2.26 billion loan is earmarked as budgetary support for Ukraine’s military spending, enabling the Ukrainians to invest in key equipment to support their efforts against Russia, such as air defence, artillery and wider equipment support. It comes on top of the UK’s existing £3 billion a year military aid for Ukraine, which the Prime Minister re-committed to within his first week in office.

    The UK has sent around 400 different capabilities to Ukraine, with Defence Secretary John Healey MP recently announcing that the UK will supply 650 Lightweight Multirole Missile systems to Ukraine to boost the country’s air defences.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, said:

    Our support for Ukraine and her men and women in their fight for freedom from Putin’s aggression is unwavering and will remain so for as long as it takes.

    This new money is in Britain’s national interest because the frontline of our defence – the defence of our democracy and shared values – is in the Ukrainian trenches. A safe and secure Ukraine is a safe and secure United Kingdom.

    The $50 billion G7 ERA scheme was first announced at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Apulia, Italy, in June this year. Russia’s obligation under international law to pay for the damage it has caused to Ukraine is clear and this G7 agreement is an important step to ensuring this happens. Today the UK has announced its contribution to the scheme and will introduce domestic legislation in the coming weeks to enable the transfer of the new funds to Ukraine as quickly as possible.

    The loan is on top of the £12.8 billion already committed in military, economic and humanitarian support to Ukraine.

    The funding comes alongside the UK and international partners introducing the largest and most severe package of sanctions ever imposed on a major economy. Without this, Russia would have over $400 billion more for its war machine – enough to fund its illegal invasion for a further four years. The war is having an economic and human cost for Russia; it is soaking up 40% of Russia’s annual budget and last month the country suffered its highest rate of daily casualties since the war began.

    The loan announcement comes ahead of the Chancellor’s attendance of the International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings in Washington D.C. later this week, at which she will underline on the international stage that the UK and its partners stand united and will not let aggressors like Putin succeed. Earlier this month Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Downing Street to discuss his victory plan for Ukraine.

    Defence Secretary John Healey, said:

    By using the money generated from these sanctioned Russian assets, we can help turn the tables on Putin’s war machine. This urgent funding will directly support Ukraine’s defence using the proceeds from assets that had helped fuel Putin’s aggression.

    The UK is stepping up our support to Ukraine, speeding up supplies of vital equipment and boosting our defence industries. We will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Sixth anniversary of the National Apology to Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    Today marks the sixth anniversary of the National Apology to Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse.

    The appalling abuse endured by vulnerable children, including current generations, by the very people who were supposed to care for them, left immeasurable and lasting damage.

    The Australian Government is committed to ensuring those who experienced this abuse are heard, recognised, valued and supported.

    The National Apology was delivered in response to a five-year Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse initiated by former Prime Minister, the Honourable Julia Gillard AC.

    The National Apology acknowledged and apologised for the abuse inflicted by institutions on vulnerable children.

    Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth highlighted the courage of survivors and advocates who spoke out to expose the abuse in institutions.

    “Six years ago, the Government apologised for the inexcusable actions of perpetrators of institutional child sexual abuse,” Minister Rishworth said.

    “I recognise on this anniversary that no apology could ever change the immense trauma and pain caused by the abuse faced by many Australians.

    “Today is an opportunity to reaffirm the Government’s commitment to survivors of institutional child sexual abuse through the National Redress Scheme and its continuous improvement to make it more trauma-informed, efficient, and survivor-focussed.”

    Last week the Minister hosted the seventh Survivor Roundtable in Adelaide with Kyam Maher MLC, Attorney General of South Australia, to hear directly from survivors about their experiences with the Scheme and ensure it is as survivor-focussed as it can be.

    In March this year, the National Redress Scheme for Institutional Child Sexual Abuse Amendment Act 2024 was passed in Parliament, completing the implementation of all primary legislative measures from the Australian Government’s Response to the Final Report of the Second Year Review of the National Redress Scheme.

    The changes include:

    • allowing applicants to provide additional information when requesting a review of a finalised application
    • reducing the circumstances where applications from those with a serious criminal conviction must undergo a special assessment process
    • removing restrictions preventing incarcerated survivors from lodging an application, and
    • enabling reassessment of finalised applications if a relevant institution later joins the Scheme (noting that this change will take effect at a later date).

    The Scheme continues to engage with jurisdictions and strives to on-board new institutions and pursue ‘funder of last resort’ arrangements with State and Territory Governments so applications can continue to progress.

    Minister Rishworth said that the Scheme has continued to grow receiving more than 50,000 applications for redress, demonstrating the widespread and enduring impact child sexual abuse has had on the nation.

    The Royal Commission also recommended a National Memorial for Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse in Canberra, to provide an enduring place of reflection and recognition, a place to gather and honour those whose voices were not heard.

    Work on the National Memorial continues to progress, informed by survivors of institutional child sexual abuse and is on track to commence construction in 2025.

    The Government continues to prioritise implementation of recommendations of the Royal Commission, including Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation, the National Office for Child Safety and the National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Child Sexual Abuse 2021 – 2030.

    The Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus KC launched the ‘One Talk at a Time’ campaign, including a children’s storybook, Australia’s first national campaign aimed at preventing child sexual abuse. The $22.4 million campaign is targeted at adults who play an active role in the lives of children and young people and encourages them to have ongoing, proactive and preventive conversations about child sexual abuse.

    More information about the National Redress Scheme via 1800 737 377 or on its website.

    More information about the National Memorial is available on its website.

    Reading about child sexual abuse can bring up strong feelings. Support is available. For 24/7 support you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14; call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, chat online via http://www.1800RESPECT.org.au, or text 0458 737 732; or 13YARN (13 92 76) for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander crisis support. Bravehearts supports anyone seeking advice or help related to child sexual abuse, and is available Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm. Blue Knot Foundation provides support and information to adult survivors of childhood trauma including child sexual abuse, their families and friends, and is available Monday-Sunday 9am-5pm. Visit ChildSafety.gov.au/get-support for a dedicated list of support services.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s sustainability story for 2023/24

    Source: Auckland Council

    Steps to creating a sustainable Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland are demonstrated by the region’s economic and cultural agency in its annual sustainability story, highlighting the organisation’s multifaceted approach to climate change and sustainability, and its commitment to continuous improvement.

    A snapshot for the 2023/24 financial year shows Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s initiatives and achievements in fostering a more resilient and inclusive Auckland, on the heels of its strong annual results delivering value for Auckland and its people. It shows how the organisation is embedding sustainability practices internally while simultaneously taking on a leadership role across the region.

    Nick Hill, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Chief Executive, emphasises the importance of a holistic approach.

    “This is testament to our commitment to creating a sustainable future for Auckland. While Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is charged with the social, cultural and economic outcomes of our activities, we are increasingly considering climate change and environment in decision-making. Taking an integrated approach is crucial for building a resilient, thriving and future-ready region.”

    Key highlights include:

    1. Climate Change and Environment Strategic Plan: This inaugural plan outlines Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s actions for the next three years towards its sustainability goals and targets.

    2. Decarbonisation project at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki: A successful transition from gas- fired heating to electric heat pumps resulted in a 99 per cent reduction in natural gas consumption and a 22 per cent decrease in overall energy use within the first three months.

    3. Climate Connect Aotearoa initiatives: The climate innovation hub, established and led by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, brought together 115 stakeholders to explore Māori knowledge systems in climate action. This hui was an extension of He Kete Mātauranga, a knowledge hub to connect businesses, communities and organisations with Māori-led climate resources. Additionally, Climate Connect Aotearoa launched ClimateLink, a tool to increase access to connections, resources and funding for climate action.

    4. Proactive climate resilience planning: Adaptation planning for the Aotea Precinct to help mitigate risks associated with physical climate hazards, including extreme heat and flooding.

    5. PalmOil Scan app: Auckland Zoo released a mobile app in New Zealand and Australia to help consumers identify products using certified sustainable palm oil, supporting rainforest conservation and biodiversity.

    6. Commitment to diversity and inclusion: Initiatives include the refresh of Te Mahere Aronga (Māori Outcomes Plan), participation in the whāia te ao Māori self-assessment programme, support for the Rainbow Games and publication of gender and ethnic pay gap data.

    Dr Parin Rafiei-Thompson, Head of Climate Innovation and Sustainability at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, says, “Our approach to sustainability aligns with Auckland’s broader climate goals in Te Tāruke-ā- Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan. Our work in areas like decarbonisation, climate resilience and collaborative climate innovation demonstrates our commitment to driving meaningful change at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited for Tāmaki Makaurau. While there is a lot more work to be done, we are progressing year-on-year towards our goals and seeking out areas for improvement.”

    “We’re proud of the progress we’ve made, but we also recognise that this is an ongoing journey,” says Nick Hill. “We celebrate our achievements while also setting the stage for future actions. We’re committed to continuous improvement and transparent reporting of our progress.”

    Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s ‘Our Sustainability Story’ is available on the organisation’s website, alongside the Climate Change and Environment Strategic Plan.

    More information is available here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government to toughen Three Strikes Bill

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is listening to New Zealanders and Cabinet has agreed to recommend modifications to the Sentencing (Reinstating Three Strikes) Amendment Bill, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee says.

    “This Government is committed to restoring law and order. The Bill to reinstate the Three Strikes law makes it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not acceptable in our society,” Mrs McKee says.

    Cabinet has agreed to modify the Bill by:

    • Lowering the qualifying sentence threshold so that more offenders will be captured by the regime; and
    • Reactivating warnings from the previous regime where they meet this threshold.

    “We have listened to submitters through the select committee process, many of whom have identified areas where the Bill can be changed to deter repeat offenders and protect victims. 

    “Originally the Bill set the threshold for triggering the regime at more than 24 months imprisonment across the board. While the qualifying sentence exists to ensure severe penalties are reserved for serious cases, we agree with submitters that this was set too high and are lowering it to make sure that offenders face appropriate consequences for serious violent and sexual offending.

    Cabinet is proposing that the qualifying sentence threshold will be reduced to more than 12 months imprisonment at the first strike. As a result, more offenders will face stiffer penalties if they go on to commit serious crimes.

    The threshold will remain at more than 24 months imprisonment at strikes two and three to ensure that the resulting stiffer penalties are reserved for more serious offending, as is the intention of the Three Strikes regime.

    “We are also making sure that those who received strike warnings under the previous regime for offending which meets the qualifying threshold will keep these warnings going into the new regime. Those who were warned under the previous regime will face consequences if they continue to offend.”

    The previous three strikes law was introduced in the Sentencing and Parole Reform Act 2010 and repealed in 2022.  The Sentencing (Reinstating Three Strikes) Amendment Bill will reinstate the Three Strikes law, with changes to make it more workable.

    “The Coalition Government is committed to restoring law and order by enforcing tougher consequences for the worst criminals and keeping them off the street. Everyone in New Zealand has the right to feel safe in their homes, businesses, and communities.

    “We have listened to New Zealanders impacted by serious offending, and we are sending a strong message that repeat offending will not be tolerated.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Aiken, Allendale, Greenwood, Newberry Counties

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Aiken, Allendale, Greenwood, Newberry Counties

    Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Aiken, Allendale, Greenwood, Newberry Counties

    Disaster Recovery Centers will be open in Aiken, Allendale, Greenwood and Newberry counties to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  

    Aiken County
    Aiken Technical College – Building B
    2276 Jefferson Davis Highway
    Graniteville, SC 29829
    Open Oct. 21-24, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.
    Oct 25-26, 7:30 a.m.– 6 p.m.

    Allendale County
    James Brandt Building
    398 Barnwell Highway
    Allendale, SC 29810
    Open Oct. 21-23, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

    Greenwood County
    United Way of the Lakelands
    929 Phoenix St.
    Greenwood, SC 29646
    Open Oct. 21-30, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

    Newberry County
    Newberry County Sheriff’s Office
    550 Wilson Road
    Newberry, SC 29108
    Open Oct. 21-24, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

    These locations join the centers previously opened in Anderson, Greenville, Pickens and Union counties. 

    Anderson County 
    Anderson County Library
    300 N. McDuffie St.
    Anderson, SC 29621 
    Open Oct. 20, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
    Oct. 21-24, 9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
    Oct. 25-26, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    Oct. 27, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

    Greenville County 
    Freetown Community Center 
    200 Alice Ave.  
    Greenville, SC 29611 
    Open through Oct. 24, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.  

    Pickens County
    Captain Kimberly Hampton Memorial Library
    304 Biltmore Road
    Easley, SC 29640
    Open through Oct. 21, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.   

    Union County
    Union County Library
    300 E. South St.
    Union, SC 29379
    Open through Oct. 22, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.  

    Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open in other South Carolina counties. You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. To find other center locations, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. 

    Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.

    The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.

    FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 

    kwei.nwaogu

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Welcoming Universities Summit

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which the Conference is taking place today, and I pay my respects to elders, past and present. 

    I would also like to acknowledge:  

    • CEO of Welcoming Australia, Mr Aleem Ali  
    • Associate Professor Kathomi Gatwiri 
    • Professor Kylie Readman 

     Thank you for the invitation to speak to you today and I’m sorry I can’t be there in person.  

     You know, like I do, that education is the most powerful cause for good in this country. 

    It doesn’t just change lives.  

    Its impact ricochets through generations.  

    It changes communities and it changes countries.  

    It’s changed ours.  

    We are a different country today to the one I grew up in. 

    When I was a kid less than 10 percent of young Australians had a uni degree. Now it’s almost half.  

    That’s changed us. We are a different country because of it. Stronger, smarter, wealthier.  

    But that change hasn’t reached into every corner of the country or every home. 

    One in two young Australians might have a degree. But not everywhere.  

    Not where I grew up.   

    Not on our outer suburbs. Not in the regions or the bush.  

    Not if you grew up in a poor family. Not if you have a disability or if you are indigenous.  

    Changing that is, at its core, what the Universities Accord is all about.  

    Cutting student debt.  

    Creating Paid Prac.  

    Massively expanding funding for free university preparation courses.  

    Doubling the number of university hubs – in the regions and for the first time in our outer suburbs. 

    A new funding system for universities – that guarantees a place a university for everyone from a disadvantaged background who gets the marks to get in.  

    And needs based funding to support them when they get there.  

    All of it designed to break down that invisible barrier that stops so many people getting a crack at university.  

    But there are other barriers we also have to break down.  

    Barriers that make university an unwelcome place.  

    That make university an unsafe place.  

    They can take many forms, including sexual violence and harassment, antisemitism, Islamophobia and other types of racism and discrimination. 

    You can see it in the one in 20 students who have reported being sexually assaulted since they started university. 

    Or the one in six who have reported being sexually harassed. 

    The students who are being made to feel unwelcome because of their faith or the colour of their skin.  

    All of it requires action.  

    In the Parliament right now is legislation to establish a National Student Ombudsman.  

    A dedicated, national body to handle student complaints within our higher education system. 

    The National Student Ombudsman will have the powers: 

    • to investigate complaints about a broad range of issues; 
    • to bring parties together to resolve those issues, including offering restorative engagement processes and alternative dispute resolution where appropriate; 
    • to make findings and recommendations on what actions universities should take; and 
    • to monitor the implementation of those recommendations. 

    It will also have strong investigative powers, similar to those of a Royal Commission. 

    It is a direct response to the terrifying evidence of sexual violence in our universities, but its remit is broader than that.  

    It will include complaints about everything from homophobia to antisemitism to Islamophobia to any other form of racism or discrimination.  

    It is also a recommendation of the Universities Accord.  

    So is the work I have asked the Australian Human Rights Commission to do.  

    An examination of racism in our universities and what we need to do to address it.  

     All of it is necessary.  

    All of it is about making our universities more welcoming places.  

    For everyone.  

    Regardless of your gender, where you live, what your parents do, where you worship or the colour of your skin.  

    John Curtin, one of our greatest Prime Ministers, described what he thought a great university should be.  

    He said it should be: 

    “a friend of the reformer, the host ever willing to receive the initiator, the champion always ready to defend the poor and the obscure”. 

    I believe that too.  

    It’s what drives me.  

    And I know it drives you too. 

    It’s why you are here, at this Summit.  

    Because you want our universities to be more welcoming places for everyone.  

    I hope you have a great Summit today and I look forward to seeing what comes out of it. 

     

     

     

     

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: LNG Energy Group Provides an Operational Update and Change of Transfer Agent

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Highlights:

    • LNG Energy Group expects to issue a reserves update by month-end in respect of the reserves to be acquired in Venezuela.
    • Debt Repayments – Approximately U.S.$14.7 million amortization of term-loan debt principal.
    • ESG Initiatives – Lewis Energy Colombia obtains ISO certification and dedicates property to reforestation in advance of its carbon reduction initiatives in Colombia.
    • Natural Gas Compressor – New compressor will be used to optimize production and improve reserves life.
    • Commencement of new Oilfield Services Division.
    • Gas Sales Agreements – Amendments with off-takers allow for temporary lower nominations to facilitate maintenance and workover program.
    • Capital Expenditures – Expecting to drill a development and a re-entry at an existing development well in the fourth quarter of 2024.

    TORONTO, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LNG Energy Group Corp. (TSXV: LNGE) (TSXV: LNGE.WT) (OTCQB: LNGNF) (FWB: E26) (the “Company” or “LNG Energy Group”) is pleased to an operational update on its projects in Venezuela and Colombia.

    Corporate

    Since August 2023, the Company has been able to repay approximately U.S.$14.7 million in amortization on its long-term bank debt.

    Colombia

    Environmental, Health and Safety and sustainability Practices

    The Company is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary, Lewis Energy Colombia, Inc. (“LEC”), has successfully completed the following ISO recertifications, after an audit performed by Bureau Veritas:

    • 9001:2015 – Quality Management System (QMS): this certification recognizes LEC for its successful implementation and continual improvement of its QMS.
    • 14001:2015 – Environmental Management Systems (EMS): this certification recognizes LEC’s commitment to take proactive measures to minimize its environmental footprint, comply with relevant legal requirements and achieve their environmental objectives.
    • 45001:2018 – Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Management System: this certification recognizes LEC’s commitment to systematically assess hazards and implement risk control measures, leading to reduced workplace injuries, illnesses and incidents.

    LEC is also in the process of assigning 25 hectares (62 acres) to the Corporación Autónoma Regional del Atlántico (“CRA”), the environmental agency for the Atlántico state in northern Colombia. This land will be used for reforestation projects and for the purpose of protecting the local watershed. Currently, LEC has approximately 360 hectares (900 acres) in the area and this is land that will be used for environmental compensation purposes, contributing to a reduction in LEC’s carbon footprint.

    Compressor at the Bullerengue Field

    The Company is pleased to announce the completion of its new compressor project at the Bullerengue field. The compressor recently began operation and will be instrumental in increasing the reserves life of the field while facilitating access to an additional 1.67 Bcf of natural gas at the north side of the field. The compressor will also serve to increase LEC’s ability to respond to regulatory requirements and improve general operational efficiencies.

    Source: Company images of the new compressor and facilities at the Bullerengue field.

    Oilfield Services Division

    LEC is continuing studies to offer drilling rig services to third parties in Colombia, as a way of optimizing resource use to increase company income, while allowing us to maintain a strong core rig crew, which helps improve our operational efficiency.

    LEC has three rigs on the ground in its Sinú-San Jacinto Norte-1 Block (the “SSJN-1 block”) near Barranquilla, Colombia. They include one 1,600 HP top-drive drilling rig, one 1,000 HP top-drive drilling rig and one 550 HP workover rig. These rigs come complete with generators, pumps, BOPs, mud systems, tanks and other equipment needed to fully execute drilling and workovers operations. Together, the rigs and associated equipment have an estimated value of approximately U.S.$10 million.

    The Company looks to mobilize its equipment and personnel in the fourth quarter of 2024 to pursue workover and drilling activities.

    Gas Sales Agreements

    As a result of unexpected production restrictions at certain wells in the Bullerengue natural gas field, the Company has had to limit natural gas deliveries under certain gas sales agreements dedicated to supplying natural gas demand. As a result of careful review of the legal, social and security circumstances, the natural gas supply needs of the Colombian gas market, and the Company’s commitment to meet its commercial obligations with its off-takers and strategic partner contracts, the Company considers it prudent to pursue short term volume delivery amendments reducing volumes by 5.0 MMbtu/d for a period of four months with no significant changes to LEC’s average natural gas sales price.

    The Company is presently working on remediating this disruption and expects to have production back to normal levels upon execution of well maintenance and drilling activity. The Company is working on workover and drilling initiatives to make up for these sales volumes in the future and meet its average production and long-term valuation creation objectives and therefore does not expect this situation to have a long-term material impact on its operations and results.

    Capital Expenditures

    For the remainder of 2024, the Company expects to drill at least one additional development well and conduct a re-entry at an existing well at the SSJN-1 block onshore in Colombia in addition to its remaining workover campaign. The workover campaign is designed to address maintenance declines in production as well as increase production from the Company’s existing wells.

    Venezuela

    On April 17, 2024, LNG Energy Group’s wholly own subsidiary, LNGEG Growth I Corp. (“LNG Venezuela”) was conditionally entered into a binding agreement with PDVSA Petroleo S.A. (“PPSA”), a subsidiary of Petroleos de Venezuela S.A., the Venezuelan national oil company, for the operation of the Nipa-Nardo-Niebla and the Budare-Elotes CPPs in onshore Venezuela (collectively, the “Venezuela Blocks”). The Venezuela Blocks are currently producing 3,000 bbl/d of light and medium oil.

    The Company is preparing a baseline to understand the work program and activities required to take over operations of these fields and optimize production and is in the process of certifying the reserves at certain of the Venezuela Blocks in accordance with National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities. The disclosure of these reserves is subject to review and approval of PPSA.

    The CPPs were executed within the term of General License 44 issued by the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). License 44 has been replaced by License 44A, and the Corporation is following the applicable regulatory procedures to operate in full compliance with the applicable sanction regimes. LNG Venezuela and PPSA have mutually agreed to extend the outside date of the CPPs to November 30, 2024.

    Transfer Agent

    LNG Energy Group announces that Odyssey Trust Company (“Odyssey”) has replaced Computershare Investor Services Inc. (“Computershare”) as the registrar and transfer agent of the Company effective September 11, 2024. Shareholders need not take any action in respect of the change in transfer agent.

    All inquiries and correspondence relating to shareholders’ records, transfer of shares, lost certificates, or change of address should now be directed to Odyssey as follows:

    Odyssey Trust Company
    Trader’s Bank Building
    702 – 67 Yonge Street
    Toronto ON M5E 1J8

    Phone: 1-587-885-0960
    Fax:1-800-517-4553
    Email: clients@odysseytrust.com
    Website: http://www.odysseytrust.com/contact

    As of the date hereof, Computershare remains the trustee of any applicable warrants and escrow arrangements.

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    About LNG Energy Group

    The Company is focused on the acquisition and development of oil and gas exploration and production assets in Latin America.

    For more information, please see below:

    Website:
    http://www.lngenergygroup.com

    Investor Relations:
    James Morris, Vice-President, Business Development and Investor Relations
    Email: investor.relations@lngenergygroup.com
    Telephone: 205-835-0676

    Find us on social media:
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lng-energy-group-inc/
    Instagram: @lngenergygroup

    X: @LNGEnergyCorp

    CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION:

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often using phrases such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “forecasts”, “estimates”, “believes” or “intends”, or variations of such words and phrases, or stating that certain actions, events or results “may” or “could”, “would”, “should”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved, are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; delay or failure to receive any necessary board, shareholder or regulatory approvals, factors may occur which impede or prevent LNG Energy Group’s future business plans; and other factors beyond the control of LNG Energy Group. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. Except as required by law, LNG Energy Group assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, whether they change as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    CPPs

    Please see the Company’s news release dated April 24, 2024 for additional information with respect to the CCPs. There can be no guarantee that the Company or LNG Venezuela shall be able to complete the acquisition terms required by PPSA.

    The CPPs were executed within the term of General License 44 issued by the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). License 44 has been replaced by License 44A requiring US persons to wind down oil operations in Venezuela before May 31, 2024. License 44 has been replaced by License 44A, and the Corporation is following the applicable regulatory procedures to operate in full compliance with the applicable sanction regimes.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2891cdb5-62b8-4666-80a7-49014f2eb929

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brown Announces New Investments At Akron-Canton Regional Airport

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced two new investments at the Akron-Canton Regional Airport totaling $3.6 million. The investments will be used to replace four baggage carousels in the airport terminal’s baggage claim area and to replace and install two passenger boarding bridges and associated pre-conditioned air units.
    “Ohio airports are vital infrastructure supporting travel and commerce in our state,” Brown said. “These investments will enhance operations at Akron-Canton Regional Airport and improve travel for Ohioans.”
    The Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration awarded these investments as a part of its FY 2025 Airport Terminal Program. The Airport Terminal Program is made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Brown helped write and pass.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Announces $1.6 Million for College Unbound’s Innovative Education-to-Workforce Pipeline

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    PROVIDENCE, RI – Building on a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in education and helping Rhode Island grow it’s skilled workforce, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today joined College Unbound (CU) to celebrate two major federal awards that will help improve education access and outcomes for Latino students and support CU’s efforts to strengthen and diversify workforce development pipelines to prepare adult learners for in-demand careers.

    College Unbound is an accredited college designed specifically for working adults that seeks to better align adult learner’s educational experience with career readiness.  The non-profit’s bachelor degree program integrates interest/project-based learning with the needs of the current economic landscape and communities it serves.

    The federal funds for CU were awarded through a $900,000 federal earmark secured by Senator Reed and a prestigious $706,588 August F. Hawkins grant, administered by the U.S. Department of Education’s Hawkins Center of Educational Excellence, to help CU train and develop the next generation of diverse, culturally-responsive educators.

    “College Unbound does tremendous work ensuring that every Rhode Islander has the opportunity to achieve their educational and career aspirations.  Through collaboration and learner-centered strategies, College Unbound and its partners across the state are bolstering educational opportunities, especially amongst our diverse communities, while also addressing our state’s critical workforce needs,” said Senator Reed, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.  “This federal funding for College Unbound is a significant investment in Rhode Island’s fastest growing communities and will help raise educational attainment, expand opportunity, and build the foundation for a prosperous future.” 

    “These grants together celebrate and uplift who our students are.  Adults who are parenting, working full time, newcomers to this country or raised in multilingual homes.  This funding helps us better support these students to get their degrees and advance in their careers.  Even more, it allows us to honor, and credit, the learning that has come from the personal and professional experiences that previously made finishing college out of reach,” said Adam Bush, President of College Unbound.  “We can only do this through our partnerships with peer colleges and community organizations, and look forward to leaning in and learning together to make this all possible.”

    College Unbound, in partnership with Rhode Island College (RIC), will use the federal funding to raise the bar for educational opportunity by deepening student supports for Hispanic and Latino students.  Both schools have earned the designation as Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI).  The two colleges will work together to implement HSI best practices on curricula and student supports.  The federal funding will also support an array of CU initiatives, including:

    • The launch of a learning commons program to provide academic supports and integrate wraparound services.
    • Hiring alumni for peer support across writing, technology, math, science, and portfolio submission.
    • Developing two-generational learning opportunities while providing childcare and other supports to parenting students.
    • Developing a career readiness program.
    • Conducting targeted bilingual outreach and programming for admissions.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Revive Live to rock music industry

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    Australia’s live music industry will receive targeted funding to help festivals and venues continue operating under tough conditions.

    Through Revive Live, the Australian Government is providing grants of $7.7 million to 110 organisations including 61 festival-based activities and 49 live music venues. 

    The program is providing critical support to the sector, with grants helping recipients to adapt to market pressures and improve the sustainability of their operations as the sector continues to face challenges across the country. 

    The funding also has a strong focus on activities that improve accessibility at venues or festivals so that more people with disabilities can participate as a performer, arts worker, or audience member.

    The grants announced today will support live music in regional, remote and metropolitan areas across the country, reflecting a diverse range of genres, organisations and audiences including First Nations, LGBTQI+, and all age events. 

    Among the successful applicants are:

    • Gympie Music Muster in Queensland – receiving $60,00 to showcase First Nations Artists and Emerging Artists at the 2025 event.
    • Party in the Paddock in Tasmania – supporting local and national artists, the four-day festival will receive $168,121 to increase accessibility.
    • The Howler in Victoria – the iconic Brunswick venue will receive more than $60,000 for sound system and facility upgrades and marketing for the future.

    Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the funding was being delivered at a crucial time for the industry. 

    “It’s no secret that the live music industry has been facing many challenges.

    “Revive Live will alleviate some of the additional costs that festivals and venues are facing right now ensuring artists are paid, venues stay open and audiences can continue to enjoy live music into the future.”

    Established in the 2024-25 Budget, Revive Live aligns with the Government’s National Cultural Policy, Revive, which recognises the Australian music sector as a vibrant part of our arts and cultural landscape.

    Through Revive, the Government last year established Music Australia within Creative Australia, with new funding of more than $69 million to support and promote the Australian contemporary music industry to increase discoverability and develop markets and audiences.

    More information about Revive Live including successful applicants can be found here.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Park for China-Maldives friendship bridge inaugurated

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    COLOMBO, Oct. 21 — A park commemorating the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge was recently inaugurated in the Maldivian capital of Male.

    Maldivian Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Abdulla Muththalib and Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives Wang Lixin attended the ceremony.

    Muththalib said the park will awaken reminiscence of the fact that the bridge was built with the assistance of the Chinese government, and help promote friendship between the two countries.

    The ambassador said that the bridge has brought about significant changes to the Maldives, facilitating the lives of local people and advancing economic development of the Maldives.

    China will continue to support socioeconomic development of the Maldives, accelerate the implementation of aid projects in the Maldives, thus benefiting the Maldivian people, Wang said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s central bank conducts first SFISF operation

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, Oct. 21 — The People’s Bank of China (PBOC) has conducted the first operation of the Securities, Funds and Insurance companies Swap Facility (SFISF), aiming to leverage the role of financial institutions better in stabilizing China’s capital market, according to the central bank on Monday.

    The scale of the operation was 50 billion yuan (about 7.04 billion U.S. dollars).

    The move came after the central bank on Oct. 10 announced its decision to establish the SFISF with an initial scale of 500 billion yuan, as part of efforts to support the healthy, stable development of the capital market.

    The tool will allow eligible securities, funds and insurance companies to use their assets — including bonds, stock exchange-traded funds and constituent stocks of the CSI 300 Index — as collateral in exchange for highly liquid assets such as treasury bonds and central bank bills, according to the PBOC.

    The central bank launched the SFISF on Friday, with the first group of application quotas exceeding 200 billion yuan. A total of 20 securities and funds companies were approved for participation in SFISF operations.

    On Monday, investment bank China International Capital Corporation Limited announced that it has completed a transaction through the SFISF.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Smarter healthy school lunches programme serves up $130m in savings

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Education Minister David Seymour has today announced that the government has worked with businesses to transform the school lunch programme, delivering for children and saving for taxpayers.    

    “We have embraced commercial expertise, used government buying power, and generated supply chain efficiencies to realise over $130m of annual cost savings, even more than anticipated in Budget 2024,” says Mr Seymour.  

    “Every student receiving a school lunch today will continue to do so from day one of Term 1 next year.   

    “By leveraging private sector expertise from companies like Compass Group, Gilmours, and over 17 food manufacturers and suppliers, we are setting a precedent for the government working with businesses to achieve better results. 

    “The programme will deliver nutritious hot and cold meals, such as butter chicken curry, chicken katsu, lasagne, chicken pasta salad and wraps. These meals will cost $3 each. All students in year 0 to 8 will receive the same sized meals (240 grams) and older students will receive larger lunches (at least 300g) – which will include additional items such as fruit, yoghurt or muesli bars.”

    “Under the Labour-led government, lunches cost up to $8.68 per student.  

    “If the previous government had set up the programme this way, over $800 million of taxpayer’s funds would have been saved over the past five years. Some suppliers in the existing programme will be affected and I appreciate this will be tough. However, the emphasis of the programme is to ensure students get good meals at an affordable cost to the taxpayer. 

    “Schools who receive their lunches on the external model will continue to receive a variety of hot and cold meals, delivered daily. Schools using the internal and iwi/hapū model will have access to a range of government negotiated wholesale ingredients and can continue to prepare meals internally. These schools will receive a slight increase ($4 per meal) in per student funding to continue to employ people to prepare the meals.  

    “Instead of applying a different model for students year 7 and over, we have successfully negotiated a like for like solution for all student age groups in the programme. Composite schools (years 0-13) and full primary (years 0-8) will use this model from 2025 and contributing primary schools (year 0 – 6) from 2026.  

    “The government will also provide food for up to 10,000 two-to-five-year-olds who attend low-equity, community-based early learning services. This will be funded by some of the cost savings found in the lunch programme. I intend to make an announcement on this very shortly.    

    “I expect the programme will continue to evolve over time. But first and foremost, the collective, the Expert Advisory Group, the Ministry of Education and I are focused on a smooth transition for schools on day one of term 1 2025.  

    “I have met with our commercial partners, and they are committed to making this work for the children and the schools. I would like to thank the members of the Expert Advisory Group, the Ministry of Education, affected schools and suppliers for working together so hard, and effectively, to provide a fantastic solution for the kids.” 

    Note to editors:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Songer Street, Nelson closed following crash

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Songer Street is closed at the intersection with Nayland Road following a crash.

    The two-vehicle crash, involving a car and a motorcycle was reported to Police just after 12pm.

    One person has been seriously injured.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area.

    The Serious Crash Unit are in attendance.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health National Adaptation Plan 2024 – 2027

    Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health

    Our climate is changing. These changes are affecting what we value most in our lives, including our health and wellbeing.

    This first Health National Adaptation Plan (HNAP) is an important step towards placing health considerations at the forefront of the climate response of Aotearoa New Zealand. It sets the strategic direction and provides national-level priority actions for health-focused adaptation to climate change. 

    The vision for the HNAP is ‘to protect the health and wellbeing of people and communities from the effects of climate change to achieve pae ora – healthy futures for all New Zealanders’. The aim of this deliberately broad scope is to ensure the health system can provide climate-resilient health services, while also addressing the broader direct and indirect effects of climate change on the health of communities, including those effects that sectors outside the health system contribute to.

    The Ministry of Health – Manatū Hauora has developed the HNAP as an action arising from New Zealand’s first National Adaptation Plan. The HNAP also reflects the health system’s own mandate to respond to climate change, most recently reiterated in the Government Policy Statement (GPS) on Health 2024 – 2027.   

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ROK-UK Joint Statement on DPRK-Russia Cooperation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Joint statement between the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom David Lammy and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea Cho Tae-yul.

    We condemn in the strongest terms the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK)’s continued unlawful arms transfers and the reported deployment of its troops to the Russian Federation to support Russia’s unlawful war of aggression in Ukraine. Such cooperation between Russia and the DPRK is not only in violation of multiple UNSC resolutions, but also prolongs the suffering of the Ukrainian people and threatens global security, including those in the ROK and the UK, and demonstrates the desperation of the DPRK and Russia. We are committed to providing the support Ukraine requires to secure a just and lasting peace.

    We are closely monitoring what Russia provides to the DPRK in return for its provision of arms and military personnel, including Russia’s possible provision of materials and technology to the DPRK in support of Pyongyang’s military objectives. We are also deeply concerned about the possibility for any transfer of nuclear or ballistic missile-related technology to the DPRK, which would jeopardize the international non-proliferation efforts and threaten peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and across the globe. We take note that the security of the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic are more closely intertwined than ever, and commit ourselves to closely monitoring the situation and actively pursuing necessary measures together with the international community to deter further unlawful, reckless and destabilising behaviour.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sinema Introduces Bill Transferring Ownership of Forest System Land to Tonto Apache Tribe

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kyrsten Sinema (Arizona)
    The Senator’s bill would transfer 3,060 acres of culturally significant land to the Tonto Apache Tribe 
    WASHINGTON – Arizona Senators Kyrsten Sinema and Mark Kelly introduced legislation to transfer 3,060 acres of U.S. Forest Service land to the Tonto Apache Tribe, located near Payson, Ariz., to be held in trust as part of their existing reservation. 
    “My legislation transferring culturally significant land to the Tonto Apache Tribe represents our continued work honoring and respecting Tribal sovereignty and protecting culturally significant land,” said Sinema.
    “Transferring this land to the Tonto Apache Tribe is about respecting their history and ensuring their community has the resources to grow and thrive,” said Kelly. “This bill will give them more control over land that holds deep cultural significance, strengthening their community and their connection to their heritage.”
    Sinema’s legislation supports the Tonto Apache Tribe’s proposal to expand their reservation. This land is culturally significant to the tribe and will enable them to build additional housing for community members to reside on the reservation.
    Throughout her time in Congress, Sinema has worked to expand the growth and prosperity of Arizona tribal communities. While in the U.S. House, Sinema championed a La Paz County Land Transfer of 5,900 acres. In 2019, Sinema helped pass that land transfer into law. Sinema’s direct negotiations ensured passage of the Blackwater Trading Post Land Transfer Act and the Old Pascua Community Land Acquisition Act – two pieces of legislation increasing land rights for the Gila River Indian Community and the Pascua Yaqui Tribe – increasing economic opportunities for both tribal communities. 
    Sinema also secured bipartisan passage of critical land and water rights bills for tribes across Arizona, including in part the Hualapai Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act and the White Mountain Apache Tribe Water Rights Quantification Act – legislation helping secure tribal communities’ and Arizona’s water future.
    Supporters of the Tonto Apache Land Transfer Act are the Tonto National Forest, the Department of Agriculture, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Gila County, and the City of Payson.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Upgrades continue on Great Eastern Highway

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    Safety upgrades to the Great Eastern Highway are continuing with a $23 million contract awarded for works in the Wheatbelt Region.

    The upgrades form part of the Australian and Western Australian Government’s $250 million Great Eastern Highway Upgrades, delivering improvements to various sections of the highway through the Wheatbelt and Goldfields-Esperance Regions.

    Fulton Hogan received the contract to deliver three sections of road reconstructions, widenings and sealings including:

    • 4.4km between Carrabin and Bodallin
    • 4.6km between Nulla Nulla South Road and approximately 700m west of Liddell Road (west of Moorine Rock)
    • 2.4km between Liddell Road and Granich Road (west of Moorine Rock)

    The project also includes upgrades to the intersections of Great Eastern Highway with Smyth Road, Nulla Nulla North Road, Bin Road and Granich Road and the installation of new safety barriers, kerbs, signs and audible edge and wide centre line road markings.

    The upgrades follow the completion of major works on the highway including:

    • Widening and sealing between Stephen Road and Noongar South Road
    • Realignment through the Bodallin townsite
    • Intersection upgrades at Penton Road, Ivey Road, Blyth Road, Bodallin South Road and Bodallin North Road
    • Construction of an eastbound passing lane between Bodallin and Moorine Rock
    • Construction of a westbound rest area between Bodallin and Moorine Rock

    The works funded under the $23 million contract are expected to be completed in late 2025 with the staged upgrade program continuing along the highway until 2028.

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

    “Investment in the Great Eastern Highway is essential to keep communities in the Wheatbelt and Goldfields thriving.

    “Our Government understands the critical importance of road transport for our freight industry and its many workers.

    “From the Bass Highway in Tasmania, to the Bruce Highway in Queensland, and the Great Eastern Highway in Western Australia – we’re prioritising upgrades that keep Australians safer and the economy moving.”

    Quotes attributed to WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

    “This $250 million joint project between the State and Australian Governments is helping to improve road safety along this critical road.

    “The Great Eastern Highway is an important transport link to the eastern states, as well as for local communities in the Wheatbelt, which makes this program of work absolutely critical.

    “The works are also providing a critical source of employment in these local communities, helping drive economic growth in Wheatbelt towns.

    “Our Government will continue to invest in initiatives that improve the safety of our road network, make them more efficient and cut down travel times for road users.”

    Quotes attributed to Senator for Western Australia Glenn Sterle:

    “The Great Eastern Highway upgrades continue to deliver the improvements that will keep locals, tourists and truckies safe on our roads.

    “This $23 million is part of a much larger investment across numerous programs that prove to Australian drivers that we’re invested in their safety.

    “Whether it’s rest stops, guardrails, or wider bridges, we’re working with state and local governments across the country to make each drive as safe as possible.”

    Quotes attributed to WA State Member for Kalgoorlie Ali Kent:

    “Kalgoorlie locals and businesses use the Great Eastern Highway every day to commute to and from Perth, so it’s fantastic to see this significant investment to make the journey safer.

    “These upgrades will make the trip to and from Perth easier, faster and safer for Kalgoorlie residents long into the future.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 227-2024: Onshore Biosecurity Measures – Treatment Lodgement and Assessment

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    22 October 2024

    Who does this notice affect?

    All Biosecurity Industry Participants currently lodging biosecurity onshore measures results for the assessment of treatment results

    What has changed?

    This advice outlines the format for submitting TREATMENT records via email. When providing documents for Treatment assessment ensure that the request type and communication mentioned below are indicated in the email’s subject line.

    Email subject…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Ukrainian president, US defense secretary meet on defense issues

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and visiting U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin discussed defense issues during their meeting on Monday, according to the presidential press service.

    The talks touched upon Ukraine’s request to use long-range weapons to attack military targets inside Russia.

    Zelensky and Austin also addressed increasing the production of attack drones, cruise missiles, artillery shells and air defense equipment.

    Austin announced a new U.S. military assistance package for Ukraine worth 400 million U.S. dollars, which includes ammunition, military equipment and weapons.

    Since February 2022, the United States has provided 64.1 billion dollars in military aid to Ukraine, according to the fact sheet release by the U.S. Department of State in October this year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Putin, Serbia’s Vucic affirm strong ties in first call in 2 yrs

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic revealed on Sunday that he had a friendly and personal conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking their first phone call in over two and a half years.

    In a statement shared on social media, Vucic reiterated Serbia’s stance on maintaining independence in its foreign policy, including its decision not to impose sanctions on Russia. “Some will criticize me for this, but Serbia is a sovereign and independent country that makes its own decisions,” Vucic said.

    Describing the ten-minute call as cordial, Vucic said they spoke as “long-time acquaintances and friends,” with Putin adding a personal touch that he appreciated. According to Vucic, Putin reiterated his stance, saying twice during the conversation: “What is good for Serbia is good for Russia, and what is good for the Serbian people is good for the Russian people.”

    Vucic acknowledged Serbia’s difficult geopolitical position, citing international pressure to align with broader European sanctions. However, he emphasized that Serbia has maintained its independence in decision-making.

    The phone call coincided with the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Belgrade’s liberation in World War II. The central event, held on Sunday, included the national anthems of Serbia and Russia and was attended by Pyotr Tolstoy, deputy chairman of the State Duma of the Russian Federation. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Israel claims major blow to Hezbollah’s rocket capabilities, financial network

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Israel’s military said on Monday that it had destroyed about 70 percent of Hezbollah’s rocket capabilities, dismantled parts of its financial network, and killed a senior Hezbollah official in Syria who oversaw the group’s money transfers.

    In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that it had killed seven Hezbollah brigade commanders, 21 battalion commanders, and 24 company commanders.

    The IDF added that since the beginning of its ground offensive in Lebanon in early October, it had struck more than 3,200 sites in the country, including hundreds of weapons storage facilities, rocket launchers, anti-tank positions, and command and control centers.

    Roughly 300 of those targets were hit in the last 24 hours alone, according to the military.

    Citing senior security officials, Israel’s Channel 13 TV news reported that Hezbollah retains about 30 percent of its rocket capabilities, a significant reduction from the beginning of the conflict in October.

    Later in a press briefing, IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari said Israeli warplanes had bombed around 20 Hezbollah sites linked with financial network overnight from Sunday to Monday, with most of the strikes focused on Beirut. The strikes, Hagari said, are expected to resume tonight.

    Among the targets was an underground warehouse belonging to the Al-Qard Al-Hasan Association, a Hezbollah-affiliated financial organization operating primarily in Lebanon with headquarters in Beirut’s southern suburb, where Hezbollah’s headquarters are located.

    According to Hagari, Hezbollah had stockpiled cash and gold worth “tens of millions of dollars, intended for living expenses and post-war reconstruction” in this underground warehouse.

    Hagari also said that under Al-Sahel Hospital, in Beirut’s southern suburb, Hezbollah had built an underground bunker storing “at least half a billion dollars in cash and gold.”

    The bunker, described as a central financial hub, was not struck, but Hagari warned that Israeli aircraft were monitoring the site closely. “We will continue to track it,” he added.

    According to the spokesman, Hezbollah has established a financial network involving Yemen, Lebanon, Türkiye, and Syria. The network was managed by Mohammad Jaafar Qasir and Sheikh Salah, the head of Unit 4400, which is responsible for financial transfers and the financial management of Hezbollah.

    Qasir was killed by Israel in Beirut in early October, and according to Hagari, his successor was also killed in an Israeli airstrike in Syria on Monday.

    The crackdown on Hezbollah’s financial network, Hagari added, aims to “deal a blow to its primary financial centers, making it difficult for the group to restore its capabilities.”

    Also on Monday, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant signed an order designating the Al-Qard Al-Hasan Association as a terrorist organization. The decision, Gallant said in a statement, was due to “the financing of terrorism through the purchase of weapons, payment of salaries to terrorists, and the storage of Hezbollah funds within the association’s facilities.”

    The confrontation between the Israeli army and Hezbollah, since its onset on Oct. 8, 2023, has killed more than 2,300 people, injured over 11,000 others, and displaced about 1.2 million residents in Lebanon, according to Lebanese authorities.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Yanette: My sister was forcibly disappeared by the Colombian military

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Yanette Bautista was just 27 when her sister Nydia was forcibly disappeared in 1987. Three years later, Yanette found Nydia’s remains – she had been murdered by state authorities and her whereabouts concealed to her family. It was the first time she learnt about enforced disappearances, an issue that is rife in Colombia – even today – with an estimated 200,000 people disappeared between 1985 and 2016 according to the 2022 Final Report of Colombia’s Truth Commission.

    Since her sister’s enforced disappearance, Yanette, now 66, has dedicated her life to supporting Colombian women to search for their loved ones without fear. She has set up her own organization, as well as spearheaded a new bill that became a law in 2024, calling for better protection for women searchers. In honour of the bill, Colombia has recently introduced International Women’s Searchers Day, which takes place on 23 October.

    Here she tells her incredible story, spanning three decades…

    I found my sister three years after she was taken away and disappeared. I knew it was her. She was wearing the same clothes she had on the day she disappeared. It had been a day of celebration, the day our children received their first communion. When we found Nydia, she was still wearing the same dress and a jacket I had lent her. The only thing missing was her underwear. There was no reason for her underwear to be missing. I had to beg the authorities to hand her body over. I even threatened to go on hunger strike. When they eventually agreed to give me Nydia’s body, they handed it over in a trash bag.

    My sister was forcibly disappeared when I was 27. At the time, I didn’t know enforced disappearances existed. She was studying economics at university. We knew she was part of an opposition guerrilla group, M-19, that signed a peace agreement and became a legal political party a couple of years later. We thought that the worst that could happen was for her to be sent to jail by a judge for her political activities. It felt shocking to learn that we lived in a country where there was a huge lack of human rights. If you supported the opposition, you paid for it. It was a situation of desperation and confusion.

    My father and I started searching together – we went to hospitals, to military brigades, to the police intelligence, the secret police and the jails to see what could have happened. It was dangerous from the beginning as I started to be threatened many times just for asking for her. Eventually I was forcibly displaced. I left my home, sent my children to live elsewhere and I moved to another location. I soon started receiving anonymous calls. On one occasion, someone said: ‘Don’t look for her, she’s fine.’ It wasn’t a comforting call, and I knew I had to continue searching.

    Yanette Bautista is the founder of Nydia Erika Bautista Foundation, created to fight against impunity in enforced disappearance in Colombia.

    I sought help from the Colombian NGO Committee for Solidarity with Political Prisoners (CSPP) and we were provided with legal assistance, while the Association of Family Members of Disappeared Detainees (ASFADDES) shared advice. While I searched for my sister, I started working with other families and we eventually got in touch with Colombia’s Inspector for Human Rights – he was determined to help. He somehow found a witness who claimed to know where Nydia was. By that point I didn’t have hope we would find her alive. I’d come to realize that those searching for their loved ones, were searching for people who had been murdered.

    A case was opened, and the well-known lawyer Eduardo Umaña took it on. I was told the witness was part of the Colombian military. He wanted to confess and said Nydia had been murdered and was buried in a rural town near Bogota. Together, with the inspector, forensic experts and our lawyer, we exhumed the body. I immediately knew it was her, even though she had been buried under NN (No Name).

    Life changed dramatically

    After Nydia disappeared, my life changed. I used to be an executive secretary for an important CEO, but it felt artificial after I started searching. I found it impossible to continue in this bubble, while people were being forcibly disappeared. That’s why I took off my heels and put on my shoes so I could start searching.

    After my sister disappeared, life changed. So I took off my heels and put on my shoes so I could start searching for her.

    Yanette Baustista

    Even though we found Nydia’s body, we have never got the justice we deserve. The inspector for human rights sanctioned in 1995 one general and four military officials – a first in our country. However, two months later, he had to flee because he started receiving threats. During that time, I was calling for a change in law, speaking out about the military – and I was eight months pregnant. I was under constant surveillance. Eventually the four sanctioned men were set free even though it was clear it was the military committing these crimes.

    By this time, it was too dangerous for me to stay in Colombia. Following a trip to Germany I just couldn’t come home. In 1997, I was forced into exile for seven years. During this time, I worked for Amnesty International, writing and researching about violence against women. I also became President of Federation of Family Members of Disappeared Persons (FEDEFAM), working with victims of forced disappeared in different countries.

    Returning home

    When I eventually returned to Colombia in 2007, I started my own organization. I’d met people from the Philippines, Albania, Kosovo, Turkey. We had so much collective knowledge. I wanted to empower families to search for their loved ones, so we started our organisation in my living room, with a small group of families.

    Our collective, Nydia Erika Bautista Foundation, is designed for women to help one another. There’s no hierarchy. It is an exchange of knowledge. We provide legal support, document stories and advocate. We have a leadership school to empower the women searching in different parts of the country. We work in eight regions of Colombia and we are supporting 519 cases.

    Our collective is mostly women – our research has revealed 95% of those searching for their loved ones are women – they’re mothers, sisters and wives. In a patriarchal society, it’s a task handed to the caregivers. But to me, we’re more than caregivers. When women start searching, we become human rights defenders – searching fearlessly, we challenge the rules of silence and oppression imposed by those who disappeared our loved ones, and we end up defending the rights of everyone.

    Yanette leads a workshop with women searchers in Bogotá, Colombia.

    The women who search are incredibly brave, even though there is no support from the authorities and no political will to investigate these crimes. In fact, enforced disappearance isn’t seen as a crime – it’s normalized; sometimes it’s even justified by the Colombian authorities.

    Moving forward

    As a collective, we want to turn our pain into rights. That’s why we wrote a law in a bid to empower women searching for the forcibly disappeared and to promote the rights of these women. It was signed into law in 2024.

    However, our next task is to ensure it is implemented and becomes a reality. We have so many allies supporting us, including Amnesty International, and it is spurring us on every day. 

    While I have hope going forward, advocating for this law brings fear. As I continue to call for change, enforced disappearances are continuing, women searchers are suffering violence, and our funds are decreasing – making our work even tougher.

    However, in my darker moments, I remember Nydia. Nydia dreamt of an army of women, who were armed with voices, not guns. I am determined to pursue her dream, so women can search without fear of suffering violence or of not having food at their family’s table, so women can search with freedom and dignity.

    This piece is part of Amnesty International’s new campaign #SearchingWithoutFear, supporting women across the Americas searching for their loved ones. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Search underway for missing swimmer near Whangārei

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police, Coastguard and Surf Life Saving New Zealand have commenced a water and shoreline search for a missing man in Onerahi, Northland.

    The 83-year-old man has not been seen since Saturday and was reported missing yesterday evening.

    The man typically goes for a daily swim in the Whangārei Harbour and wears a wet suit and pink swim cap.

    Police, Search and Rescue (SAR) squads from Waipu Cove Surf Life Saving Club, Whangārei Heads Volunteer Surf Life Saving Patrol, along with volunteers from Northland Coastguard Air Patrol and Coastguard Whangarei are involved in the search.

    If you have seen anything, or have any information that could help our search, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 241021/1742.

    ENDS

    Tony Wright/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reserve Bank Speech – Liquidity management: Principles for liquidity provision and the end of an abundant era: A speech by Assistant Governor Karen Silk

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua

    22 October 2024 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua is resourced and ready to provide liquidity if key New Zealand dollar financial markets become dysfunctional.

    In a speech delivered at the CBA Global Markets Conference in Sydney today, Karen Silk, General Manager of Economics, Financial Markets and Banking, outlined the Reserve Bank’s approach to addressing financial market dysfunction and provided an update on the future of our liquidity management framework.

    Karen Silk explained the principles the Reserve Bank has formalised to ensure tools deployed to support market functioning are effective but remain targeted and temporary. These principles support a toolkit that allows room for markets to self-correct, mitigates moral hazard, and protects the Reserve Bank’s balance sheet from undue risks.

    Karen Silk also provided an update on how the Reserve Bank could provide liquidity to the cash system as Additional Monetary Policy tools roll off the balance sheet, a process which is draining settlement cash from the cash system.

    The Reserve Bank has decided to adopt a hybrid approach to ensuring there is ample liquidity in the cash system. This means supply-driven operations like transacting in foreign exchange (FX) swaps will be supplemented with a demand-driven facility or operation that allows counterparties to borrow settlement cash on-demand in exchange for eligible collateral such as New Zealand government securities.

    Karen Silk highlighted that moving down to an ample level of liquidity will “place greater onus on market participants to understand, forecast and manage their individual cash liquidity needs”.

    Finally, the speech notes the Reserve Bank will continue to be as transparent as possible, including ongoing engagement with our stakeholders, in implementing any changes to our liquidity management toolkit.

    Disclaimer
    This speech is not a Monetary Policy Committee communication and contains no guidance on the future path of monetary policy. You can find the latest views of the MPC in our recently published Monetary Policy Review. (ref. https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=8723c49d81&e=f3c68946f8 )

    More information

    Watch the speech live on Teams https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=0677063df0&e=f3c68946f8

    Download the speech (PDF, 660KB) https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=dc63d69d06&e=f3c68946f8

    Previous related speeches

    Building a balance sheet to support financial stability https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=a376fd4c86&e=f3c68946f8

    Liquidity: one word, three meanings https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=7ce88422e9&e=f3c68946f8

    New Zealand’s Monetary Policy Implementation Framework https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=4f813a489f&e=f3c68946f8

    A Strategic View of Te Pūtea Matua’s Balance Sheet https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=5d3b32cfd0&e=f3c68946f8

    COVID-19 and the Reserve Bank’s Balance Sheet https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=1f0a4d3904&e=f3c68946f8

    Data

    RBNZ standing facilities (D12) https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=8fe9254f5b&e=f3c68946f8
    RBNZ open market operations (D3) https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=747c59236d&e=f3c68946f8
    RBNZ influences on settlement cash (D10) https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=88e176993f&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Slovak Republic

    Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

    • Reviewed: 18 November 2022, 08:21 NZDT
    • Still current at: 22 October 2024

    Related news features

    If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

    We advise New Zealanders to exercise increased caution in the Slovak Republic (level 2 of 4).

    Slovak Republic

    Widespread military action is underway in neighbouring Ukraine. You should not attempt to cross into Ukraine from the Slovak Republic. If you have arrived in the Slovak Republic from Ukraine and are in need of consular assistance, contact the New Zealand Embassy in Austria which is accredited to Hungary at nzviennaconsular@aon.at or on +43 1 505 3021, or phone the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24/7 Consular emergency line on +64 99 20 20 20 (outside of New Zealand).

    Terrorism
     Terrorist groups, individuals returning to Europe from areas of conflict, and individuals adhering to various forms of extremist ideologies, continue to make threats to conduct attacks across Europe. Groups adhering to various ideologies have conducted attacks in the past. 

    New Zealanders in the Slovak Republic are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. We recommend following any instructions issued by the local authorities and exercising vigilance in public places.

    Crime
     Petty crime such as bag snatching, passport theft and pickpocketingoccurs and is more common in tourist areas, in larger cities and in and around transport hubs, particularly in Bratislava. Thieves often work together, sometimes involving children, and may distract victims and rob them while their attention is diverted. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.

    Car thefts and break-ins also occur. Do not leave belongings in view in your car, make sure it is locked and be wary of others offering help. Criminals sometimes puncture tyres when they are stopped and proceed to follow the vehicle to offer ‘help’ and then rob the target while they are distracted.

    Some clubs and restaurants overcharge. Always ask to see the menu and price list before ordering drinks or food, and check your bill carefully before paying. Avoid disputes about overcharging, as they can lead to violence. 

    There have been incidents of drink spiking followed by robbery and assault reported in the Slovak Republic. Extra care should be taken to ensure your food and drink is never left unattended. We recommend against accepting drinks from strangers or recent acquaintances.

    Civil unrest
     Protests and demonstrations occur on occasion in the Slovak Republic and may disrupt local public services and transport. New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Follow any advice from local authorities.

    General travel advice
     You should carry a photocopy of your passport or another form of identification at all times.

    Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment.

    Same-sex relationships are legal but public displays of affection may be frowned upon or attract unwanted attention.

    New Zealanders travelling or living in the Slovak Republic should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place.

    New Zealanders in the Slovak Republic are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    Travel tips

    The New Zealand Embassy Vienna, Austria is accredited to Slovak Republic

    Street Address The ICON Vienna, Tower 24, Level 15, Suite 15.02, Wiedner Gürtel 13, 1100 Vienna, Austria Telephone +43 1 505 3021 Email nzconsular-vienna@mfat.net Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/austria Hours Mon-Fri 0900-1200 and from 1400-1600 Note Notarial Services (by appointment only): 0900-1200 Monday & Friday; 1230-1400 Wednesday

    New Zealand Honorary Consulate Bratislava, Slovak Republic

    Street Address Dvořákovo nábrežie 10, 811 02 Bratislava, Slovak Republic Telephone + 421 2 5941 8211 Email nzconsulate-slovakia@nzconsulate.sk

    See our regional advice for Europe

    Top of page

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Recruitment activity and recruitment difficulty increase in regional Australia this month.

    Source: Australia Jobs and Skills

    Recruitment activity and recruitment difficulty increase in regional Australia this month.
    Timothy

    News and updates
    A larger proportion of employers recruited and also experienced recruitment difficulty this month compared to the previous month.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: APEC Finance Ministers Issue Joint Statement Lima, Peru | 21 October 2024 Issued by the APEC Finance Ministers’ Process

    Source: APEC – Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation

    Finance Ministers from the 21 APEC member economies released a joint statement at the conclusion of their meeting in Lima on Monday under the theme, “Sustainable + Digital + Resilient = APEC.”

    The statement reflects the outcomes of the 2024 APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting chaired by José Arista Arbildo, Peru’s Minister of Economy and Finance. It describes joint actions to be taken forward by APEC member economies in the following priority areas:

    • Global and Regional Economy
    • Sustainable Finance
    • Domestic Carbon Pricing and Non-pricing Measures
    • Sustainable Energy Transitions
    • Sustainable Infrastructure Financing
    • Open Finance to Enhance Competition and Foster Innovation
    • Digital Financial Inclusion
    • Hydrometeorological Risk Financing
    • Modernization of the Finance Ministers’ Process

     

    View the 2024 APEC Joint Finance Ministerial Statement

    and accompanying Chair’s Statement

    Finance Ministers also launched the Sustainable Finance Initiative for the coordination and promotion of voluntary information sharing and capacity building on sustainable finance issues. They further welcomed the adoption of the guidance document for developing a new roadmap and endorsed a strategy to modernize the Finance Ministers’ Process.

    Read the accompanying annexes to the joint statement:

    Annex A. Sustainable Finance Initiative

    Annex B. Guidance Document for Developing a New Finance Ministers’ Process Roadmap

    Annex C. Second Strategy for Modernization of the Finance Ministers’ Process

    For further details, please contact:

    APEC Media at [email protected]

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government provides clarity to farmers and councils on freshwater plans

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government will move to add an amendment to the Resource Management Act Amendment Bill, currently before Parliament, which will restrict councils’ ability to notify freshwater plans before the gazettal of the replacement National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management, RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Environment Minister Penny Simmonds say.

    “The Government is taking this step to provide farmers the clarity they need around freshwater management, and to minimise inefficiencies and duplication for councils, and prevent unnecessary costs for ratepayers,” Mr McClay says. 

    “Labour’s National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 (the NPS-FM) is extremely complex and expensive for farmers and councils to implement – and despite that it won’t deliver the outcomes for freshwater that New Zealanders would expect,” Mr Bishop says.

    “That’s why late last year the Government legislated so that councils would have an additional three years to notify their freshwater plans and why this Government is committed to reviewing and replacing the NPS-FM.”

    “Regional councils must be equipped to manage freshwater resources in a way that is efficient, effective, and aligned with the Government’s future-focused goals. This amendment ensures the primary sector has clarity over regulations and that councils don’t waste time and resources developing plans that will soon be superseded by the new NPS-FM,” Mr McClay says.

    “This is about protecting the interests of the primary sector, resource users, and ratepayers. Ratepayers and farmers need certainty, and they don’t deserve to have their money wasted.

    “By delaying plan notifications, we are providing certainty to farmers, that their planning efforts will be in sync with national direction.”

    “Councils will still have an avenue to progress their freshwater plans in some circumstances – for example, where doing so would more quickly enable key housing or infrastructure projects to go ahead – by applying for approval from the Minister for the Environment,” Ms Simmonds says.

    “We look forward to working alongside councils as we develop the replacement NPS-FM. We will have more to say about it early next year.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –