Climate Change Minister Simon Watts will chair negotiations on carbon markets at this year’s United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) alongside Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and Environment, Grace Fu.
“Climate change is a global challenge, and it’s important for countries to be enabled to work together and support each other in the transition to a low emission, net zero future,” Mr Watts says.
“To support cooperation and unlock financial investment, Minister Fu and I have been asked to co-chair negotiations that will finalise details for how countries can cooperate on carbon markets under the Paris Agreement. Having credible, high integrity, and transparent carbon markets are good for countries, consumers, and the climate as they encourage direct investment towards reducing emissions.
“It is an honour to be selected as one of the eight Ministerial representatives from among 195 countries to chair these negotiations. It recognises New Zealand and Singapore’s expertise in carbon markets and emissions pricing mechanisms, and the Government’s work to restore credibility in our domestic carbon market, the Emissions Trading Scheme.”
The UN Climate Change system drives global action to reduce the impacts of climate change through the implementation of the Paris Agreement. These meetings also allow businesses and civil society to engage on climate solutions and navigating the economic transition.
COP29 will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan from 11-22 November 2024. Ministers Watts and Fu will engage with their counterparts in preparation for the meeting to ensure smooth negotiations.
• 81% of New Zealand workers say they feel burnt out, with heavy workloads (59%) and an insufficient number of staff (31%) being the top two contributors
• 24% of workers who say they feel burnout have not expressed their feelings to their manager
• 76% state their managers are aware of their feelings of burnout and are handling it by encouraging time off (24%), delegating some responsibilities to other team members (19%), and helping to prioritise projects (18%)
• 10% say their managers are not taking steps to alleviate their feelings of burnout.
Auckland, 10 October 2024 – On World Mental Health Day, new independent research by specialised recruiter Robert Half finds that the overwhelming majority (81%) of New Zealand workers say they feel burnt out at work, but 24% are not upfront with their manager about it.
When asked whether they feel burnt out, defined in the research as a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive workplace stress, four in five workers (81%) say they feel “a little burnt out” (60%), “very burnt out” (16%) or “completely burnt out” (5%).
With 89%, Gen X feels the most burnt out, compared with 86% of Gen Z, 79% of Millennials and 69% of Baby Boomers.
“Burnout is reaching alarming levels in the Kiwi workforce,” says Ronil Singh, Director at Robert Half.
“Despite New Zealand being known for boasting healthy work-life balance, the past year has seen a surge in stress, exhaustion and disengagement among employees. A combination of factors, including companies operating with minimal staff, the pandemic’s lingering effects, economic instability and pervasive job insecurity have all contributed to this uptick.”
The reasons why workers are burnt out
When asked about what is contributing the most to their feelings of burnout, workers identified their work conditions are playing a larger role than the workplace’s culture or challenges that come with the return to the office:
• Heavy workloads 59%
• An insufficient number of staff 31%
• The commute to the office 29%
• A lack of communication and support from my manager 22%
• A toxic organisational culture 21%.
“The constant pressure to perform, the erosion of work-life balance and fears about job security are leaving many employees feeling overwhelmed and stressed,” Singh says. “Burnout is not a sign of weakness. It’s a signal that something needs to change in the workplace. A healthier and more sustainable workplace can be achieved through a joint effort between employers and employees, built on open communication and mutual support.”
How managers are addressing staff burnout
The majority (76%) of affected workers say they have approached their manager to reveal they feel burnt out and have received support to alleviate their symptoms.
The most common steps managers have taken are:
• Providing encouragement for staff to take time off 24%
• Delegating some responsibilities to other team members 19%
• Helping to prioritise projects 18%
• Providing greater scheduling and workplace flexibility 17%.
For 10% of workers, however, their manager has not taken any steps to address burnout despite being made aware. Meanwhile, almost a quarter (24%) of workers have not made their manager aware of their feelings.
“Employees must recognise the signs and communicate their struggles to their managers for burnout to be properly addressed,” Singh says. “Ignoring it can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism and even long-term health problems. Speaking up allows employees to advocate for themselves and work with their managers to find solutions that address their specific needs and challenges.
“At the same time, it is on managers to create a supportive and empathetic work environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their concerns. Regular check-ins and open communication channels can help reduce stress and promote work-life balance,” concluded Singh.
Notes
About the research
The study is developed by Robert Half and was conducted online in June 2024 by an independent research company, surveying 501 full-time office workers across New Zealand. This survey is part of the international workplace survey, a questionnaire about job trends, talent management and trends in the workplace.
About Robert Half
Robert Half is the global, specialised talent solutions provider that helps employers find their next great hire and jobseekers uncover their next opportunity. Robert Half offers both contract and permanent placement services, and is the parent company of Protiviti, a global consulting firm. Robert Half New Zealand has an office in Auckland. More information on roberthalf.com/nz.
A man critically injured in an assault at his Western Heights, Rotorua home in September has died.
The man and his wife were seriously assaulted on 23 September.
The woman passed away on the evening of 5 October and sadly her husband has now also died, passing away in hospital yesterday.
A 52-year-old man who was arrested and charged with murder in relation to a linked incident at an Utuhina property will now be facing murder charges in relation to all three deaths.
The man is remanded in custody and is scheduled to reappear in Rotorua High Court on 18 October.
Police are not seeking anyone else in relation to the three deaths.
Labour welcomes the release of the Government’s response to the report into the North Island weather events but urges it to push forward with legislative change this term.
“Labour commissioned the review into the severe weather events in Government, so New Zealand can be better prepared,” Labour emergency management spokesperson Camilla Belich said.
“Labour is willing to work with and assist the Government in ensuring the recommendations of this report are actioned, including implementing legalisation this term.
“This needs to be a priority and Mark Mitchell must provide a clear timeline for implementing these changes. We don’t know when the next disaster will strike and must be prepared.
“The Emergency Management system in New Zealand requires urgent reform and investment to make sure New Zealand is best placed to respond to a major natural disaster.
“New Zealand needs to invest in resilient infrastructure and support for local councils. The Government scrapped Labour’s $6 billion National Resilience Plan, which was ringfenced to support local communities and councils after Cyclone Gabrielle and the Auckland floods. The plan also set aside funds to build resilience in at risk locations.
“One in 100-year events are becoming more and more common, it’s critical we invest properly to protect our communities and our economy,” Camilla Belich said.
Are you a community leader? Someone with the vision, community focus and commitment to help Auckland achieve its goals?
There’s now one year to go until Aucklanders decide on the leaders who will take on the big opportunities heading our way.
Those elected to Auckland Council’s Governing Body and its local boards will be taking on a critical leadership role for our large, diverse and growing region. They will govern our organisation; guide and make decisions on how best to allocate resources and drive value for money for ratepayers and Aucklanders alike.
With major infrastructure projects set for completion from 2025, notably the City Rail Link and Central Interceptor, this is the time Auckland can level up on its ambitions. That includes how its businesses thrive, how communities grow and meet their housing needs, how people get around efficiently and easily, how it takes on its environmental challenges and how its centres become great places to be.
Tāmaki Makaurau’s leadership is a big team, with a range of roles and responsibilities: from the mayor and ward councillors, who make regional decisions as members of the council’s governing body, to local board members who represent 21 areas of Auckland and make local decisions.
“It’s time to consider who will be next to take on that responsibility and lead Auckland towards becoming a world-class city,” says Auckland Council’s chief executive, Phil Wilson.
“Elected members have roles that need to show a combination of great leadership skills, advocacy and quality decision-making abilities on behalf of the people they represent.
“Regardless of your background, if you think you can make a difference and be the voice of your community, definitely consider standing as a candidate.
“With our region being so rich in culture and ethnic diversity, it’s important that people from all walks of life are represented,” he says.
“Auckland’s growth and uniqueness has shown how our size and scale has a range of different needs to address, requiring varied thinking and approaches from across the region to weigh in on plans and projects, and to prioritise and what’s best for our communities.
“Elected representatives play a part in almost everything the council does – from decisions on arts, events, sporting and park facilities, libraries, community centres, to infrastructure, environment, emergency preparedness and much more,” says Mr Wilson.
“I genuinely hope people take advantage of this opportunity to stand up for their communities.”
Standing for your community
Ever thought about what you could do to change things or considered taking on something more meaningful that would benefit your neighbourhood?
If you’ve got what it takes or know someone else who could be part of the team to represent Auckland’s 1.7 million people – now’s the time – with less than a year to go, start considering the possibilities.
To make a run for it, nominations open on 4 July 2025 – you’ll find key election dates here. Everything there is to know about how to be nominated is here.
And whether you intend to stand or not, the team is counting on everyone to be enrolled before voting season starts. Make sure you’re in enrolled here.
The University of South Australia has appointed Ryan McClenaghan as its new Director of Defence and Space, responsible for steering research and education across the sector at a pivotal time in the nation’s defence history.
McClenaghan has made a substantial impact in his most recent role as Director, Defence and National Security at Fleet Space Technologies, one of Australia’s leading satellite companies with a global presence. During his three-year tenure at Fleet, McClenaghan secured millions of dollars in defence contracts.
At UniSA, he will draw on his extensive international experience with defence companies, particularly in the United States and United Kingdom, including working across the AUKUS partnership with government and industry.
Originally from Belfast, Northern Ireland, McClenaghan moved to Australia in 2006, co-founding two start-up companies and working in various roles in the intervening years, including with the Australian Industry Group and Micro-X, an award-winning ASX-listed x-ray technology company.
Announcing the appointment, UniSA Director: Enterprise Partnerships, Peter Stevens, says McClenaghan will strengthen the University’s defence and space footprint with industry and governments in Australia and worldwide.
“South Australia is at the forefront of Australia’s space and defence sector, responsible for delivering a $368 billion nuclear submarine construction project for the AUKUS alliance, hosting the Australian Space Agency, and supporting more than 100 space-related companies,” Stevens says.
“Academia, industry and government need to work hand-in-hand to ensure the sector thrives, highlighting the importance of this appointment. Ryan and his experienced team will work closely to bridge the gap between innovation and operational efficiency as well as collaborating to develop the skills required to deliver on our commitments.”
“All these underpin our strengths in research and collaboration in areas such as the SmartSat CRC and iLAuNCH Trailblazer program, which will be amplified by the creation of Adelaide University in 2026, bringing together the State’s two biggest universities,” Stevens says.
Excited by the challenge, McClenaghan says he is looking forward to leading UniSA’s defence and space strategy at such a critical time.
“As Australia seeks to grow its sovereign defence and capabilities, and Adelaide University is created, it is more important than ever that we align research with industry engagement and technology transfer and support the skills required for the future,” McClenaghan says.
He will commence his new role on Monday 14 October.
The Mid North Coast Local Health District will benefit from a $410,000 funding boost from the NSW Government to upgrade health facilities in the region.
The Minns Labor Government is investing a total of almost $12 million in 61 projects as part of the Regional Health Minor Works Program.
Port Macquarie Base Hospital, Kempsey District Hospital and Macksville District Hospital will share a $235,000 allocation to replace outdated waste management systems in each facility’s operating theatres.
Wauchope District Memorial Hospital will also receive $175,000 to replace the decking structure between the main building and the hospital’s rehabilitation unit, improving accessibility for patients and staff at the facility.
Quotes attributable to NSW Regional Health Minister Ryan Park:
“The Minns Labor Government is committed to investing in health infrastructure to support better health outcomes for rural and regional communities.
“This investment will allow Mid North Coast Local Health District to upgrade equipment and health facilities to enhance the working environment for health staff and improve patient experiences.
“The program is one of a number of investments our Government is making to strengthen rural and regional health services, so people have access to the best possible care close to home.”
Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Port Macquarie, Cameron Murphy MLC:
“I’m proud to be part of a government which is making this important investment in regional health facilities.
“This funding will benefit staff and patients, and it means we can upgrade outdated systems in operating theatres in Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Macksville and also improve accessibility for patients in Wauchope.”
Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Oxley, Anthony D’Adam MLC:
“Through investments like this one, our government is improving access to care in our regional, rural and remote communities.
“This investment in health infrastructure supports improved working environments for our healthcare staff.”
Quotes attributable to Jill Wong, Mid North Coast Local Health District Acting Chief Executive:
“The replacement of outdated waste management systems at Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Macksville hospitals will ensure that we can continue to safely remove surgical waste at each of the facilities in an appropriate manner.
“The upgrade to the deck structure at Wauchope District Memorial Hospital will enable patients, staff and visitors have improved accessibility when moving between the main building and the rehabilitation unit.”
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s recent decision to join TikTok marks a big shift in his approach to political campaigning. He previously criticised the platform over security concerns, but now he is embracing it.
Dutton’s reversal reflects a broader trend of Australian politicians using the platform. This is especially the case in 2024, a year marked by pivotal elections worldwide.
TikTok offers a unique form of engagement and allows politicians to reach a wide range of voters in ways traditional platforms don’t.
Dutton’s conservative first post does contrast with TikTok’s casual and engaging style, but signals a willingness to adapt to modern political communication. While his initial concerns about TikTok’s data privacy remain valid, his shift to actively using the platform emphasises its importance in political campaigns today.
TikTok’s rise as a political tool
The political landscape is changing. Politicians worldwide who once criticised TikTok are now joining it.
This shift not only marks evolving campaign strategies but also raises broader questions about the role of social media in democracy.
Major political figures, such as US presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, continue to use TikTok despite proposed bans in the United States. These bans are currently being contested in court, but are due to commence in January 2025.
The continued use of TikTok by both candidates underlines the platform’s undeniable significance in shaping political communication.
TikTok’s popularity stems from its ability to deliver accessible and engaging content. Voters are drawn to TikTok as a source of political news and information because of its easy-to-consume format.
TikTok allows politicians to bypass the formalities of traditional political communication and present their messages in a relatable way.
For instance, Senator Fatima Payman’s viral “skibidi” speech is a clear example of how effectively TikTok can amplify political content. She delivered this speech in the Australian Senate, using only TikTok slang.
It resonated with a younger demographic, and so far has more than eight million views.
As a result, her account now has more than 100,000 followers and continues to receive significant views on all posts.
However, when leaning into slang, trends and other visibility strategies, politician walk a fine line where content could be considered “cringe”. This cringe factor can arise if the trend being used is losing relevance or when the content seems out of place or forced (Dutton himself copped some flack for belatedly jumping on the “demure” trend).
The role of authenticity
One of the key factors behind successful political engagement on TikTok is authenticity. The platform thrives on genuine, relatable content. Politicians who can showcase a more human side tend to resonate with voters.
Payman’s use of TikTok slang in her speech connected her with younger audiences, demonstrating the power of speaking the language of the platform’s primary users. Authenticity plays a significant role in TikTok’s algorithm, making it essential for politicians to come across as sincere.
Because TikTok’s advertising policy bans political ads, politicians must rely on organic content to engage users. Authenticity is therefore an entry requirement.
Dutton’s presence on TikTok will be closely scrutinised to see how he balances the platform’s demand for authenticity with his public persona. Voters are more likely to engage with politicians they find relatable, so Dutton’s ability to reveal his “ordinary” side without making people cringe may determine how well he is received on TikTok.
Electioneering on TikTok
TikTok’s impact on elections has already been demonstrated in several countries.
In the 2022 Australian federal election, the Labor Party’s use of the app was linked to its success. UK Labour’s similar strategy in 2024 mirrored this result.
Elections are won and lost for many reasons. There is also no direct data linking TikTok content to voter decisions. But there is a clear correlation between effective use of the platform and electoral victories.
As Australia approaches its next federal election, TikTok will play a central role in how parties reach voters. For politicians like Dutton, mastering the balance between authenticity and policy will be key to successfully engaging and informing voters on this rapidly evolving platform.
Challenges ahead
TikTok’s short video format poses a challenge for conveying complex policy ideas, often leading to oversimplification. Politicians like Dutton must find ways to deepen engagement outside the platform to ensure voters understand their positions.
Another challenge is the legal issues TikTok faces, particularly in the US. If the platform is banned or restricted in what is a major market, it could affect its use globally, including in Australia. This could disrupt political outreach and engagement strategies, particularly for those who have cultivated a strong presence.
Dutton’s engagement with TikTok may also spark debate about balancing the benefits of reaching voters through a platform with concerns about data security and misinformation.
Susan Grantham does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Court users may use integrated Court Case Management System for bulk claims in Small Claims Tribunal Court users may use integrated Court Case Management System for bulk claims in Small Claims Tribunal ******************************************************************************************
The following is issued on behalf of the Judiciary: The Judiciary today (October 10) announced that starting from October 31, the application of the integrated Court Case Management System (iCMS) will be extended to cover bulk claims in the Small Claims Tribunal (SCT) such that court users can handle filing and payments electronically. Bulk claims refer to claims filed by claimants who have been approved by the Principal Adjudicator to file claims in bulk for hearing at the same time in the SCT. The iCMS is an integral part of the Judiciary’s Information Technology Strategy Plan. It aims to facilitate the handling of court-related documents and payments through an electronic mode across the various levels of court. Since 2022, the iCMS has been implemented in phases. It currently covers personal injury actions, tax claim proceedings, civil action proceedings and employees’ compensation cases in the District Court, as well as summons cases in the Magistrates’ Courts. It will incrementally be extended to other levels of court. It is also the Judiciary’s target to mandate the use of the iCMS for all legally represented litigants in respect of case types where the electronic mode have been made available, starting in 2026. The major electronic services under the iCMS include sending case-specific court documents to the courts and receiving such documents from the courts, inspecting or searching filed documents and other case-related information held by the courts, searching cause books, and making payments for court services. Eligible users need to register for a user account for using the full range of services under the iCMS. Eligible users include parties of an ongoing or new e-proceeding and their legal representatives (if any), the Hong Kong Bar Association, the Law Society of Hong Kong, law firms, government departments, law enforcement agencies and statutory bodies. Registration is free of charge. Unregistered members of the public may also use certain types of iCMS services, mainly related to searching of electronic documents that are open to public inspection. To encourage migration to e-filing and e-payment through the iCMS, a 20 per cent concession is offered to iCMS users for three years on fee items of the SCT, which are primarily or directly related to electronic handling of court documents. As for technical requirements, the iCMS can be accessed using personal computers or mobile devices with an Internet connection, commonly used operating systems and browsers. Relevant technical requirements are available at http://www.judiciary.hk/doc/en/e_courts/AI_TechReq_iCMS_e.pdf. Generally speaking, the iCMS operates around the clock except during system maintenance. The system maintenance schedules of the iCMS, as specified by the Judiciary, are published on the dedicated webpage of the Judiciary’s website (www.judiciary.hk/en/e_courts/index.html). Any e-filing and e-payment received under the iCMS after the registry and the accounts office are normally closed to the public (i.e. after 5.30pm on a working day) will be deemed to be received upon the starting time of the normal opening hours of the registry and the accounts office on the following working day. For enquiries, please call the general enquiry hotline at 2477 1002 or the technical helpline at 2886 6474, e-mail to enquiry@judiciary.hk or visit the Help Centre at 5/F, Wanchai Tower, 12 Harbour Road, Wan Chai.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Keg Royalties Income Fund (the “Fund”) (TSX: KEG.UN) today announced that its October 2024 distribution of $0.0946 per unit has been declared and is payable to unitholders of record as at October 21, 2024. The October 2024 distribution will be paid on October 31, 2024.
The Fund is a limited purpose, open-ended trust established under the laws of the Province of Ontario that, through The Keg Rights Limited Partnership, a subsidiary of the Fund, owns certain trademarks and other related intellectual property used by Keg Restaurants Ltd. (“KRL”). In exchange for use of those trademarks, KRL pays the Fund a royalty of 4% of gross sales of Keg restaurants included in the royalty pool.
With approximately 10,000 employees, over 100 restaurants and annual system sales exceeding $700 million, Vancouver-based KRL is the leading operator and franchisor of steakhouse restaurants in Canada and has a substantial presence in select regional markets in the United States. KRL continues to operate The Keg restaurant system and expand that system through the addition of both corporate and franchised Keg steakhouses. KRL has been named the number one restaurant company to work for in Canada in the latest edition of Forbes “Canada’s Best Employers 2024” survey, securing thirteenth place in the overall ranking across all industries in the country.
NEW ORLEANS, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until October 25, 2024 to file lead plaintiff applications in securities class action lawsuits against Methode Electronics, Inc. (NYSE: MEI), if they purchased the Company’s shares between December 2, 2021 and March 6, 2024, inclusive (the “Class Period”). These actions are pending in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
Get Help
Methode Electronics investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-mei/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.
About the Lawsuit
Methode and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.
On March 7, 2024, the Company announced its financial results for 3Q2024, disclosing that its Automotive Segment generated only $139.7 million in net sales for the quarter and suffered an $11 million loss from operations, and that it was withdrawing its prior guidance due in substantial part to the “operational challenges” at its Monterrey facility and that its prior statements regarding the guidance should no longer be relied upon. On this news, the price of Methode’s shares fell 31%, from $21.04 per share when the market closed on March 6, 2024 to $14.49 per share when the market closed on March 7, 2024, on abnormally high volume.
The first-filed case is Salem v. Methode Electronics, Inc., No. 24-cv-07696. Another case was subsequently filed, City Of Cape Coral Municipal General Employees Retirement Plan v. Methode Electronics, Inc., No. 24cv9654
About ClaimsFiler
ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations.
alem, OR—Oregon resident taxpayers preparing their own tax returns in 2025 will have the option to electronically file both their federal and state income tax returns using the combination of IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon, the IRS and the Oregon Department of Revenue announced today.
“The Direct File Program is a game-changer for taxpayers,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “This free filing option is an equitable opportunity to save Oregonians time and money, regardless of their income.”
The IRS and US Treasury Department announced an expansion of the types of returns that can be filed using IRS Direct File beyond what was available in the pilot program during the 2024 tax filing season.
During the pilot last year, IRS Direct File covered limited tax situations, including wage income reported on a W-2 form, Social Security income, unemployment compensation and certain credits and deductions. For the 2025 filing season, IRS Direct File will support Forms 1099 for interest income greater than $1,500, retirement income and the Form 1099 for Alaska residents reporting the Alaska Permanent Fund dividend. (See the attached graphic for more on who will be able to use IRS Direct File in 2025.)
In the 2024 tax season, more than 140,000 taxpayers in 12 states filed their federal tax returns using the limited pilot program while nearly 7,000 Oregon taxpayers filed their state returns using the free, state-only Direct File Oregon option.
The IRS estimates that 30 million US taxpayers will be able to use IRS Direct File in 2025, including 640,000 Oregon taxpayers who will be able to e-file both their federal and state returns for free.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced in May that it would make IRS Direct File a permanent option for taxpayers and invited all 50 states to participate to create a seamless free filing system for both federal and state taxes. Oregon was the first of 12 new states to accept the invitation from the IRS in June.
“Connecting Direct File Oregon with the IRS Direct File option beginning next year will give Oregon taxpayers a seamless way to electronically file both their federal and state income tax returns—and do both for free,” Oregon Department of Revenue Director Betsy Imholt said.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Government gazetted the Rural By-election today (October 10). Fifty-eight Rural Representative vacancies will be open for nominations from October 22 to November 4. The by-election will return one Resident Representative (ReR) for each of the 35 Existing Villages, one Indigenous Inhabitant Representative (IIR) for each of the 22 Indigenous Villages, and one Kaifong Representative (KFR) for one Market Town (Cheung Chau). The 35 Existing Villages are Po Toi, Ngau Kwu Long, Pui O Lo Wai, Sha Lo Wan, Luk Keng Wong Uk, Nam Chung, San Tsuen, Wu Shek Kok, Shek Chung Au, Kam Tsin, Nga Yiu Ha, Lung Mei, Ma Nam Wat, Nam Wai, Pak Kong Au, Pak Tam Chung, Ping Tun, Sai Wan, Hoi Pong Street, Mui Tsz Lam, Ha Yeung, Pak Sha O, Ping Chau Sha Tau, Uk Tau, Fung Yuen, Kam Shan Village, Kau Lung Hang, Ma Wo Tsuen, Lin Au Cheng Uk, San Tsuen (Lam Tsuen), Tin Liu Ha, Ham Tin, Sai Lau Kok, Sheung Kwai Chung and Tseng Tau Tsuen (Upper); whereas the 22 Indigenous Villages are Po Toi, Sok Kwu Wan, Pui O Lo Wai, Wu Shek Kok, Mang Kung Uk, Pan Long Wan, Long Ke, Mau Ping New Village, Pak Tam Chung, Wong Keng Tsai, Ko Tong, Kei Ling Ha San Wai, Lai Chi Chong, Pak Tam Au, Tung Sam Kei, Uk Tau, Cheung Uk Tei, To Yuen Tung, Tong Sheung Tsuen, Yin Ngam, Sam Tung Uk and Sham Tseng. For the IIR By-election, a candidate must be an indigenous inhabitant of an Indigenous Village/Composite Indigenous Village as well as an elector of the relevant Village and ordinarily resides in Hong Kong. For the ReR and KFR By-elections, a candidate must be a resident of the relevant Existing Village/Market Town and have resided there for six years immediately preceding the nomination. The candidate must also be an elector of the relevant Village/Market Town. All candidates must be Hong Kong permanent residents aged 21 or above and must be nominated by at least five registered electors from that Village/Market Town. No person is allowed to stand as a candidate in more than one type of election (i.e. IIR, ReR or KFR By-elections). Nomination forms are available at the Home Affairs Department (HAD), the New Territories District Offices (NTDOs) and the Rural Representative Election (RRE) website (www.had.gov.hk/rre). Completed nomination forms must be submitted in person to the Returning Officer concerned between 9am and 5pm from Mondays to Fridays, and from 9am to noon on Saturdays, except general holidays. A gazette notice on all valid nominations will be published within 14 days after the nomination period. Each validly nominated candidate will be informed separately. A spokesman for the HAD said that if there is more than one validly nominated candidate for the same Indigenous Village, Existing Village or Market Town, a poll would be held for that Village/Market Town on December 1 (Sunday). Eligible electors will receive a polling notice which specifies the date, time and place of the poll. For enquiries, please call 2152 1521 or contact the respective NTDO. Members of the public can also visit the RRE website for more information.
Source: United States Small Business Administration
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, announced today that SBA has approved more than $500 million in federal disaster loans for Texas businesses and residents impacted by recent disaster declarations. According to Sánchez, SBA has approved $140,398,750 for businesses and $364,812,900 for residents to help rebuild and recover from these disasters.
“SBA’s disaster assistance employees are committed to helping businesses and residents rebuild as quickly as possible,” said Sánchez. “Don’t miss out on any assistance you may be entitled to by not registering for help. You don’t need to wait for your insurance to settle or obtain a contractor’s estimate,” he added.
SBA continues to provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants in all the federal-state Disaster Recovery Centers and SBA Business Recovery Centers located throughout Texas. Please see a complete listing of locations and hours at SBA.gov/disaster.
Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.
“SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” Sánchez continued. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”
Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.
Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.688 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.
Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.
Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
For SBA declaration 20320 for severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that occurred April 26–June 5, 2024, the deadline to apply for a loan for property damage has passed, small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size still have until Feb. 18, 2025, to apply for an economic injury disaster loan to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.
For SBA declaration 20445 for Hurricane Beryl that occurred July 5-9, the deadline to apply for property damage is Oct. 10, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is April 14, 2025.
SBA will accept all disaster loan applications up to 60 days after the filing deadline without an explanation of why you were delayed. You can apply online using the MySBA portal at https://lending.sba.gov, or by coming into our centers.
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About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.sba.gov.
Metal Morphix is a new Living Arts Space exhibition bringing together the exciting work of Andre Sardone and Noel Muscat.
The free exhibition showcases the work of two longtime friends, as they inspire each other to explore ways to morph materials into expressive sculpture.
Living Arts Space Curator Amy Carr-Bottomley said the collection will spark curiosity.
“Both artists aim to challenge the idea of sculpture,” Ms Carr-Bottomley said.
“Andre’s works showcase creative techniques for joining, machining and milling raw metals, having been inspired by natural seed structures.
“Noel’s unique objects are made of machinery, industrial parts, laboratory and photographic equipment.
“Community members and visitors are invited to the exhibition’s free opening celebration from 2pm to 4pm on Saturday October 12 at the Living Arts Space.
“Andre will also be in the Living Arts Space on Saturday October 12 and Sunday October 13 as part of Bendigo Studios Weekend, and visitors are encouraged to come along and chat about the featured works.”
Metal Morphix is free to attend and open from Saturday October 12 until Sunday December 1 at the Living Arts Space located in the Bendigo Visitor Centre, 51-67 Pall Mall (9am to 4.30pm daily except Christmas Day).
“The Government accounts released today show that spending and debt continues to grow under the current Government, but there is no plan to deliver a better economy,” said NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi Economist Craig Renney.
“Net Core Crown Debt increased by $20bn last year, with revenue from taxation also rising by $8bn. The OBEGAL deficit increased $3.4bn last year alone, to $12.9bn.
Finance Minister Nicola Willis admitted, “The accounts show the corrosive impact of low growth and low productivity…and we are cutting back on the investments needed to lift both.” Yet there is no plan to solve this problem, Renney said.
“The Government accounts showed our overreliance on income tax and GST taxes to balance the books. Source deductions from wages increased 10.1% during the last year. The GST take increased by 4.1%. But other sources of taxation have not increased at the same rate, or have fallen in the form of corporate taxation (-5.9%). We need a better conversation about how taxes are being levied and why.” Renney said.
“Spending on welfare has increased by 8%, with Jobseeker Support expenses rising by 17%. Welfare payments would be higher if the one-off $600m cost-of-living support is removed. Unemployment is expected to rise significantly in the future, meaning that welfare expenses will be higher in the future.”
Renney said “The Government has provisioned $500m for the Cook Straight Ferry (iREX) Costs, which is only the cost of the works abandoned to date. This doesn’t include the cost of cancelling the ferry contract, nor the cost of purchasing the replacement ferries necessary. The Government is likely facing a $bn bill for that decision alone.”
“The Minister signalled new cuts in her speech at the event, while requiring new economic growth to deliver on their financial aspirations. Yet decisions like iREX show that the Government has no means of delivering sustainable growth. Health New Zealand is looking for $2bn in savings right now, yet the Government is looking for further savings in spending on top.”
“The Government’s fiscal strategy needs to change. Government debt is low by international standards, and there is no shortage of projects to invest in. These would improve employment and economic outcomes – both of which will benefit working people. Yet the Government is wedded to plan that will see unemployment rise, and investment fall. It’s time for a better plan.” Renney said.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Xinjiang’s protection of blue skies shows China’s determination to air pollution control
URUMQI, Oct. 9 — Zhang Xin still remembers the complaints she saw on social media some years ago: “In winter, you can’t see the sun clearly in the city of Urumqi,” and “The snow is all black.”
Zhang, who works in the ecology and environment bureau of Urumqi, capital of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, has participate in the air pollution prevention and control work for a long time.
Urumqi is among an economically vibrant urban cluster located on the northern slope of the Tianshan Mountains, which also contains parts of Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture and the cities of Wujiaqu and Shihezi. The urban cluster is collectively referred to as the Wu-Chang-Shi area by locals.
For a long time, Wu-Chang-Shi has been a key and challenging area for air pollution prevention and control in Xinjiang due to its heavy industrial and coal-dominated energy structure.
However, 2023 was the year with the most significant improvement in air quality in the past decade for the urban cluster, thanks to the concerted and unremitting efforts made by the local ecology and environment authorities, enterprises and scientists.
An aerial panoramic drone photo taken on May 9, 2024 shows a city view of Wujiaqu, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
The transformation of Wu-Chang-Shi is a microcosm of China’s air pollution control efforts. Following the introduction of an action plan to prevent and control air pollution in 2013, China became the first developing country in the world to impose large-scale efforts to reduce PM2.5 density.
China has announced that it will peak its carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.
IMPROVED AIR QUALITY
Years ago, the Chinese government began publishing air quality rankings in major cities, and the cities in Wu-Chang-Shi, such as Urumqi, often ranked at the bottom of the list.
“Surrounded by mountains on three sides, Urumqi has poor conditions for diffusion in both horizontal and vertical directions. According to an assessment, Urumqi’s self-purification capacity in winter is only one-tenth of that in summer,” said Zhang.
In winter, when temperatures often drop to minus 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, residents in Urumqi relied heavily on coal-fired heating, which led to more pollutant emissions.
Zhang said that with the central government funding, Urumqi has initiated projects, such as clean-energy heating. “The city has begun to improve its heating structure, from centralized heating and cogeneration to clean heating for all bulk coal users, which is a particularly effective experience in air pollution control,” she added.
In 2012, the central urban area of Urumqi completed the transformation from coal to gas for large-scale coal-fired heating boilers. In October 2023, the city completed the treatment of the remaining villages and households in rural areas that were using bulk coal for heating, making it among the first cities in China to achieve full coverage of clean-energy heating.
An aerial drone photo taken on April 25, 2024 shows a wind farm in Dabancheng District of Urumqi, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
From Oct. 10, 2023 to April 10, 2024, Urumqi boasted 144 days of good air quality, an increase of 33 days year on year. The average concentrations of six major air pollutants, including PM2.5, decreased by 8.8 percent to 22.7 percent, reaching the best level since the monitoring began.
Social media, which acts as an unofficial “air quality monitoring station,” also reflects the effectiveness of air pollution control measures.
In recent years, Zhang noticed some positive changes on social media — residents in Urumqi often post photos and videos of the blue skies of the city.
KEY INDUSTRIES, TARGETED MEASURES
Located in the city of Shihezi in the Wu-Chang-Shi area, Tianwei Cement Co., Ltd. is a major cement-producing company in the city.
China is among the world’s largest producers and consumers of cement. However, due to factors such as large emissions during production, the cement industry is also a major contributor to carbon emissions.
In 2023, the regional government of Xinjiang proposed to spend three to five years to completely solve the air pollution problem in Wu-Chang-Shi. Various departments have implemented pollution control measures in key enterprises in the area.
Tianwei Cement is among the 135 industrial enterprises in Wu-Chang-Shi that have been given priority treatment, which altogether accounts for more than 92 percent of the total pollutant emissions in the area.
According to the ecology and environment bureau of Shihezi, in terms of the comprehensive management of air pollution, the city has implemented a performance-based grading system of key industries to cope with heavy-pollution weather, in sync with other regions across China.
This photo taken on Aug. 22, 2023 shows a photovoltaic project in Shihezi City, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
The four-tier grading system, involving 39 key industries including steel and chemicals, is a measure to implement differentiated control in response to heavy-pollution weather, with A representing the highest and D the lowest. When heavy-pollution weather occurs, Class-A enterprises can take measures independently based on their actual situations to reduce emissions without stopping or limiting production.
To attain the Class-A rating as quickly as possible, Tianwei Cement has collaborated with the city’s ecology and environment bureau to develop a tailored pollution control plan. Measures have been taken during various processes of production, including the installment of dust-reduction devices in its warehouses.
Last year, the company obtained the Class-A rating after completing the ultra-low emission transformations. Thanks to the upgrades, the company made a profit of over 80 million yuan (about 11.34 million U.S. dollars) in 2023.
Meanwhile, Shihezi’s air quality in 2023 reached the best level since 2017, data shows.
BUILDING TALENT BASE
Sitting in an office of the air-pollution prevention and control center of Changji, Ma Tong can oversee the pollutant emissions in the entire prefecture in real time through a large screen, which displays data and charts, such as the forecast and dynamic control of heavy-pollution weather. However, she still worries.
“A lot of data has been integrated into the platform, but the problem is how to effectively utilize it. We lack skilled personnel who can use the platform and information equipment,” she said.
This photo taken on May 20, 2024 shows staff members working at an office of the air-pollution prevention and control center in Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
Ma is an expert from the Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences. Five years ago, she came to Xinjiang to provide intellectual support for local air pollution control. “Changji is already at the forefront of Xinjiang in terms of air-pollution treatment through sci-tech means, but compared with the whole country, the prefecture lacks equipment and talent,” said Ma.
Since last year, the regional government of Xinjiang has pooled 10 billion yuan in funding to establish the Xinjiang talent development fund, which is used to introduce talent from other parts of China, among other objectives.
In early 2024, the Urumqi-based Xinjiang University introduced Huang Haibao, an air-pollution control expert from Sun Yat-sen University in south China’s Guangdong Province.
“In addition to cultivating talent ourselves, we have also introduced a group of scholars from universities including Beijing University of Chemical Technology,” said Huang.
Within six months, Huang and his colleagues have established the air pollution control and research center at the university. He is working to establish the Xinjiang environmental science society, which will serve as a gathering place for the top scientific research talent in Xinjiang and a platform for international cooperation and exchange.
He also stresses the importance of collaboration between academia and industry. “Ultimately, emission reduction needs to be implemented at the enterprise level,” he said, adding that his team has visited over 10 companies to strengthen cooperation in terms of technology and scientific research.
“We will try to bring in the technologies, talent and companies from across the country to contribute to air pollution prevention and control work in Xinjiang,” he said.
China’s railway passenger flow surged during the 10-day travel rush for the National Day holiday, data from China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. (China Railway) showed Wednesday. From Sept. 29 to Oct. 8, a total of 177 million railway passenger trips were made nationwide, said China Railway. The average daily number of railway passenger trips reached about 17.74 million, it added. On Oct. 1, the number of passenger trips served by China’s railways reached about 21.45 million, a new record high for single-day passenger traffic, according to China Railway. During the holiday, the railway passenger flow was sustained at a high level and an average of 12,237 passenger trains were operated daily, hitting a record high, it said.
The Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee started a standing committee session on Wednesday to study an important speech that Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, delivered on Sept. 20 to celebrate the 75th founding anniversary of the CPPCC. Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, attended the opening meeting. The meeting was presided over by Shi Taifeng, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and vice chairman of the CPPCC National Committee. Shi called on CPPCC members to take the study and implementation of Xi’s important speech as a major political task, and give full play to CPPCC’s role as a specialized consultative body, so as to build consensus and pool strength for advancing Chinese modernization. Li Shulei, also a member of the Political Bureau and head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, was invited to the meeting and gave a report on the advances on cultural fronts. The senior political advisors also heard reports on a number of topics, including developing fine traditional Chinese culture, building sci-tech innovation centers and improving foreign-related legal services. During the two-and-a-half-day session, they will also hold themed consultations with regional CPPCC committees in Henan, Guangdong and Xinjiang via videolink.
East China’s Jiangsu Province boasted more than 3,300 nurseries at the end of September, signifying its continuous efforts to enhance the childcare service system and reduce the burden on child-rearing families, according to the Jiangsu Commission of Health. The province had also provided 324,000 available childcare slots, with 3.8 slots per 1,000 people by the end of 2023. Various service models are now available, such as community-based childcare, employer-run nurseries, family day-care and comprehensive childcare centers. Spanning over 2,000 square meters, the comprehensive childcare center in the Jianye District of Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province, offers 80 childcare slots. “We are very satisfied with the center’s clean environment, reasonable fees and trustworthy childcare staff,” said Zhang Feng, a resident who enrolled her two-year-old daughter there. Jiang Xuexia, deputy director of the childcare center, noted that Jianye District has the youngest population demographic in Nanjing, with many young parents striving to balance work and family life. To help ease the burden on parents, the center has implemented an integrated medical and childcare service system to improve the quality of infant and childcare services in the district. Since its opening in September last year, all of its slots have been fully booked. More and more cities in Jiangsu have stepped up efforts to provide more families with universal day-care services for children under three in recent years. Suzhou is pushing hard to build a 15-minute childcare service circle, and plans to add 100 community-based childcare centers, offering full-day, half-day, temporary and time-based childcare services at the end of this year. Wuxi and Taizhou have set up childcare facilities within enterprises and industrial parks to provide free or favourable childcare services for employees. Data from the National Health Commission shows that there are currently over ten million children aged under three in need of childcare services. Looking ahead, Jiangsu aims to scientifically allocate childcare resources and improve support policies, foster talents at a faster pace, and promote the high-quality development of accessible, affordable and reliable childcare services.
Headline: FEMA’s Temporary Housing for Wildfire Survivors Extended to February 2026, Supporting their Continued Recovery
FEMA’s Temporary Housing for Wildfire Survivors Extended to February 2026, Supporting their Continued Recovery
HONOLULU – At the request of the state of Hawaiʻi, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved a one-year extension of the Individuals and Households Program (IHP), including Financial Assistance and Direct Temporary Housing Assistance for survivors of the Maui wildfires.
The 18-month initial period of assistance for FEMA IHP was set to end Feb.10, 2025 but has now been extended to Feb. 10, 2026.
Under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, FEMA may extend the period of assistance due to extraordinary circumstances. Last year’s wildfires caused unprecedented damage to Lahaina and impacted numerous households, businesses, communities and the infrastructure on Maui.
FEMA is working closely with the state of Hawai‘i, local officials and volunteers to help survivors in temporary housing find permanent solutions. Disaster case managers are also providing personalized assistance.
FEMA approved the Direct Lease as a form of Direct Temporary Housing Assistance in September 2023 and currently has 1,194 households occupying FEMA-provided units.
During the extended period, survivors who continue to live in a FEMA-provided temporary housing unit are generally expected to work on their permanent housing plan and start paying rent, depending on their financial ability. The rent amount would be based on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Fair Market Rent.
FEMA will send occupants an advance notice of the rent requirement.
Occupants who provide documentation of their post-disaster income that meets or is below HUD’s very low-income limit will qualify for fully reduced rent of $50 per month without having to appeal and submit documentation of pre- or post-disaster housing costs.
Occupants with household incomes above the HUD very low-income limit will only have to provide documentation of post-disaster housing costs for FEMA to evaluate the amount of rent to be charged based on their financial ability.
FEMA will conduct outreach to assist occupants of temporary housing units with the documentation necessary to evaluate their ability to pay. This effort is designed to reduce the need for occupants to appeal the rent amount determined by FEMA.
For more information on temporary housing, call the Individual Assistance Housing Hotline at 808-784-1600. Or contact 2-1-1 to reach the disaster case management program.
You may also call FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Helpline operators can assist you in many languages. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.
You may get help in person at: Lahaina Gateway (next to Ace Hardware) Maui County Office of Recovery – West Maui 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
CNHA Office (next to Maui Mall) Kākoʻo Relief & Aid Services Center 153 E. Kamehameha Ave. Suite 101
Kahului, HI 96732 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org, fema.gov/disaster/4724 and Hawaii Wildfires – YouTube. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema. You may also get disaster assistance information and download applications at sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires.
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has announced details of its Court of Inquiry (COI) into the sinking of HMNZS Manawanui in Samoa.
The dive and hydrographic ship struck a reef south of Upolu on Saturday 5 October. All 75 people aboard were successfully rescued.
Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Garin Golding has directed the assembly of a COI into the sinking of HMNZS Manawanui and has appointed Commodore Melissa Ross as the president. The COI will assemble on Friday.
She will be joined by three senior military members – Captain Andrew Mahoney, Group Captain John McWilliam, from the Royal New Zealand Air Force and Captain Dean Battilana, who has been seconded from the Royal Australian Navy.
Counsel assisting the COI will be Commander Jonathan Rowe, who is a barrister and solicitor of the High Court.
COIs are set up to establish the facts of an incident and any circumstances leading to it to allow the NZDF to identify possible improvements or changes for the future.
The terms of reference direct the COI to collect and record evidence and report on the sequence of events leading up to the loss of the ship, the cause of the grounding and subsequent sinking, and details on notification procedures, injuries sustained and any environmental damage.
The COI has also been directed to consider any organisational aspects relevant to the loss, and the material state of Manawanui prior to the grounding.
Courts of Inquiry into significant matters may be subject to an external legal review to provide independent assurance of their procedure and conclusions. External legal reviews are conducted by independent King’s Counsel or other senior barristers. For the COI into the sinking of HMNZS Manawanui, it has been determined that an external legal review will be conducted by a King’s Counsel.
Rear Admiral Golding said he was very aware of the high interest in the COI.
“Given the high level of public interest in this and with transparency at front of mind, I will make the report publicly available to the maximum extent possible consistent with the Privacy Act and my obligations to uphold national security,” Rear Admiral Golding said.
“I have directed the Court to provide me with an interim report on specific areas by mid-November, and then to provide regular updates on the progress of their inquiry from there.”
MORE DETAILS ABOUT COURTS OF INQUIRY:
Courts of Inquiry are established by an officer in charge of part of the Armed Forces to inquire into any matter.
The court must have no less than two officers and the officer assembling the court must appoint one of those members as the president. The officer assembling the court must issue its terms of reference and the court is required to collect evidence and provide a report against those terms of reference.
The court may sit wherever it considers necessary to do so and may direct or summons any witness to attend before it. Witnesses are sworn and their evidence is transcribed. Any person who may have their character and reputation affected is afforded natural justice rights by the president.
Courts of Inquiry are not designed to determine guilt of any individual and the evidence gathered is not admissible in other proceedings.
Courts of Inquiry are established under statute and are provided numerous powers and protections so that the fact-finding procedure is as expeditious as possible. Courts of Inquiry are statutorily required to be held in private to ensure that there is no inhibition on witnesses giving full and frank evidence.
The provisions governing courts of inquiry can be found at sections 200 to 201 of the Armed Forces Discipline Act 1971.
BIOGRAPHIES
Commodore Melissa Ross, RNZNR Commodore Melissa Ross (Ngāpuhi) joined the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) in 1993 as a Marine Engineering Officer. She was one of the first women in the RNZN to go to sea on an operational warship. Commodore Ross has previously held the position of Deputy Chief of Navy and Commander Logistics. She is appointed to the COI as the President.
Group Captain John McWilliam, AFC Group Captain John McWilliam joined the RNZAF in 1975 as a pilot. Throughout his career he has flown helicopters and been a flying instructor. He departed the RNZAF in 1995 to pursue a civilian career and was a test pilot during this period. He returned to the RNZAF in 2010 and established the role of the NZDF Operating Airworthiness Operator. GPCAPT McWilliam is a deep expert in the airworthiness arena and will bring that expertise to the Court.
Captain Andy Mahoney, RNZN Captain Andy Mahoney joined the Royal Navy (RN) in 1996. He transferred to the RNZN in 2016. He is a Principal Warfare Officer who has served on ships in both the RN and the RNZN. He was the commissioning Captain of the HMNZS Manawanui. Captain Mahoney has operated across a wide range of navies and agencies globally. He will bring decades of ship operations knowledge to the Court.
Captain Dean Battilana, RAN Captain Dean Battilana joined the Royal Australian Navy in 1996 and specialised as a Hydrographic Officer. Captain Battilana has commanded multiple ships with deep expertise in operations, ship driving and hydrography. He brings a wealth of experience in the hydrographic trade to the investigation as well as his experience from his work as part of the recovery efforts in response to the 2017 USMC OSPREY crash in Australia.
Commander Jonathan Rowe, RNZN Commander Jonathan Rowe joined the RNZN in 2014 and is a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court. He has held roles at the tactical, operational and strategic level within the NZDF and has deployed operationally to the Middle East and Asia in roles both ashore and at sea. He has been involved in numerous NZDF Courts of Inquiry as well as external inquiries. He brings a wealth of legal experience to the Court.
Discover the fascinating science lurking beneath the surface of history’s most enduring legends at Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland War Memorial Museum in a new exhibition, Bloodsuckers: Legends to Leeches, open from Monday 9 December 2024 until Sunday 27 April 2025.
Blood is a vital source of life for humans, and an abundant food source for an astounding 30,000 species across the globe, including birds, mammals, fish, insects, leeches, and flatworms. Bloodsuckers draws visitors into this world, starting on a microscopic level with the biology behind blood. Immersive experiences, larger-than-life installations, and interactive displays delve into these diverse organisms and their feeding mechanisms in detail, showing visitors just how clever blood-feeders are, and the intricate ways they have evolved to take blood and thrive on it.
Bloodsucking animals have captured the human imagination for centuries, providing fodder for fear and fantasy. Stories of vampiric creatures persist across cultures and time, borne out of fear of the unknown, from the first publication of Bram Stoker’s Dracula in 1897 and his immortal incarnations on stage and screen, to the more recent urban legend of the coyote-like Chupacabra. In the exhibition, immersive experiences bring myths and beliefs in the undead and bloodthirsty beasts to life, highlighting the history of vampire hunting and pop culture’s most famous monsters.
Auckland Museum’s Tumu Whakarae Chief Executive David Reeves says, “Bloodsuckers blends of science, history, and pop culture, to explore the natural environment and the cultural impact of blood feeding creatures in both our real and imaginary worlds. Drawing from science and culture, Bloodsuckers transforms a subject that might seem gory into something truly fascinating.”
“This award-winning international exhibition lets you get close to bloodsuckers – without the risk of being bitten,” says Reeves.
Bloodsuckers is full of juicy facts on the role that bloodfeeders have played in medicine for over 3,000 years, and how they spark scientific discoveries today. The exhibition explores the evolution of bloodletting, from hungry leeches feeding on patients in the name of health, to barbers and physicians tapping veins for vitality in Medieval and Victorian times. Current research on bloodborne diseases around the world and how leech anticoagulants—the strongest in the world—enable advancements in medical care highlight the impact bloodfeeders continue to have on human health. The exhibition will also arm visitors with knowledge on how to identify, avoid, and heal bites from bloodfeeding organisms, and ultimately live in harmony with them.
Reeves says, “In Aotearoa, bloodsuckers like mosquitoes, sandflies, and ticks are an inevitable part of the summer experience. While they may be a nuisance, these creatures have evolved fascinating adaptations to survive and thrive. Bloodsuckers gives visitors the opportunity to understand species like these in a new light, from their role in nature to their influence on our daily lives.”
The exhibition showcases over 200 unique objects, including wet, mounted, and taxidermy specimens, 17th–19th century bloodletting instruments, and 20th-century pop culture artefacts, all telling the story of blood feeding creatures through time. The interactive exhibits allow visitors to explore these creatures up close, with highlights including a giant glowing column of red blood cells, an old-world bloodletting shop, an audio experience of a mosquito swarm and a retro movie theatre playing clips from classic bloodsucker-inspired films.
Bloodsuckers: Legends to Leeches is coming exclusively to Auckland Museum and opens Monday 9 December. Tickets are on sale from Tuesday 26 November at aucklandmuseum.com.
Auckland Museum Membership provides unlimited free entry to Bloodsuckers: Legends to Leeches, discounted event tickets and exclusive Member-only events. Find out more at aucklandmuseum.com/membership.
Bloodsuckers: Legends to Leeches is produced and circulated by ROM (Royal Ontario Museum), Toronto, Canada.
Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley, a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, wrote the Justice Department (DOJ) and FBI regarding Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) enforcement, raising concerns Hamas-linked entities are escaping FARA scrutiny as they seek to shape U.S. public opinion and policy outcomes through partnerships with campus organizations. Joining Grassley on the effort are Sens. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Tim Scott (R-S.C.).
The senators’ inquiry hones in on the National Students for Justice in Palestine (NSJP) – which received backing from an organization whose associated entities the U.S. government has implicated for financing Hamas – and the hundreds of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) chapters NSJP claims to support across the U.S. Their letter reads, in part:
“It is incumbent upon all of us crack down on hidden foreign influence. […] The introduction of hostile foreign adversaries into domestic political discussion is especially of issue when it is fueling an alarming rise in antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment. The public reporting appears to indicate that NSJP and related chapters may fit into the FARA definition of ‘publicity agent,’ at minimum, and its conduct, among other activity, may constitute a public relations effort designed to impact U.S. public opinion in favor of a foreign principal, which would meet FARA’s definition of political activities.
“Taken as a whole, these actions require further investigation from DOJ and the FBI to fully determine whether NSJP and SJP chapters should register as foreign agents under FARA and the extent of Hamas and Iran’s potential involvement.”
Grassley and his colleagues cite numerous examples that signal NSJP and SJP chapters may have an obligation to register as agents under FARA. Several follow.
Federal court filings from state Attorneys General assert NSJP’s material support to Hamas.
Dozens of SJP chapters echoed NSJP’s social media messages lauding Hamas’ brutal October 7, 2023, attack on Israel; some “[praised] the creativity” of Hamas’ surprise attacks on Israeli civilians.
NSJP urged SJP chapters in the U.S. to publicly facilitate and join “armed struggles, general strikes and popular demonstrations.”
NSJP launched a campaign against U.S. college administrators, pushing for divestments in Israel-connected assets.
NSJP held a summer 2024 program for SJP participants to “deepen our understanding of our current political moment […] with the aim entrenching the frameworks necessary to sustain and grow the Student Intifada.”
NSJP has stated it “aim[s] to develop a student movement that is connected, disciplined, and equipped” with tools toward fulfilling its mission.
Considering this evidence and more, the senators are asking DOJ and FBI pointed questions about the steps they have taken to assess NSJP and SJP’s potential requirement to register as foreign agents.
Read the full letter HERE.
Background:
Congress passed FARA in 1938 to identify Nazi propaganda and other foreign efforts to sway U.S. policy and public opinion. The content-neutral law was designed not to prohibit activity, but rather, to ensure certain individuals who act as agents of a foreign government or enterprise register with DOJ.
Grassley previously pressed for FARA enforcement as Confucius Institutes cropped up on college campuses, working to combat Chinese Communist Party influence in the U.S. education system. He has probed potential FARA violations in recent Congresses, including by Qatari media network Al Jazeera, a Ukrainian operative who consulted for the Democrat National Committee and a Russian lobbyist who attended a meeting with Donald Trump, Jr. Grassley questioned the Biden family’s FARA compliance amid business dealings with a Chinese energy company and sought answers upon learning the top lobbying firm for Ukrainian energy company Burisma filed incomplete disclosures. A longtime advocate of enforcing FARA to the fullest extent, he is leading congressional oversight and legislative reforms to further strengthen the law.
In early October, Israel’s foreign minister, Israel Katz, announced on X he had declared the United Nations secretary-general, António Guterres, persona non grata. In other words, he had banned Guterres from setting foot in Israel.
Katz said Guterres’ failure to “unequivocally condemn” Iran’s recent attack on Israel was the reason he was no longer welcome. The strongly worded statement further accused the UN chief of failing to “denounce” Hamas’ massacre in southern Israel on October 7 2023. He added:
A secretary-general who gives backing to terrorists, rapists and murderers from Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis and now Iran — the mothership of global terror — will be remembered as a stain on the history of the UN.
What is the significance of Israel’s declaration? And what kind of impact could it have?
What does persona non grata mean?
The Latin phrase persona non grata means “an unwelcome person”. In international law, it refers to the right of states to exclude a diplomat or consular officer from their territory. This can take the form of expelling a diplomat or denying them entry.
Under international conventions, nations are not required to provide a reason for such a declaration.
Diplomats and consular staff enjoy a wide range of immunities and privileges under international law. Among other things, they cannot be subjected to any form of arrest or detention, nor can they face legal action in a criminal or civil court.
The diplomat’s home nation must waive immunity for this kind of action to be taken.
The concept of persona non grata was therefore devised as a way to balance against these immunities and privileges. A nation that is aggrieved by the actions of a diplomat or consular officer can simply bar them from their territory, without even providing a reason.
Can UN officials be declared persona non grata?
There is a longstanding debate between the UN and its member states about the legality of such declarations.
The UN maintains its officials cannot be barred from member nations because they are not diplomats accredited to those countries. Rather, they are international civil servants who are accountable to a global organisation.
The UN also notes that declaring its officials persona non grata seriously interferes with the organisation’s functions, as well as the powers of the UN secretary-general under the UN Charter.
Many countries, however, do not agree with the UN’s position. In recent years, Ethiopia, Mali, Sudan and Armenia have all declared UN officials to be persona non grata, just to name a few.
Israel’s declaration is only the second time a nation has specifically banned the UN secretary-general. The first time was in the 1950s when both the Soviet Union and the Republic of China declared the first secretary-general, Trygve Lie, persona non grata.
In 1961, the Soviet Union also said it would not recognise Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjold as an “official of the United Nations”.
Power must be handled with restraint
I am researching this issue, which has not yet been widely explored. My study is looking at two main questions: whether states have the right to bar UN officials and the implications of doing this.
On the first question, I believe there are strong legal reasons to support the rights of states to kick out – or keep out – UN officials.
For one, nations have a wide scope of sovereign rights to decide who enters and leaves their territory. This is a cardinal principle of sovereignty.
If UN officials are suspected of engaging in conduct harmful to a country’s national interests and security, it also has a right to defend and protect itself. One way of doing so is to expel the suspected UN official.
Lastly, there is no direct rule under international law that prohibits this kind of action.
Beyond these legal rights, however, is the important issue of what such an action means for the longer-term credibility and efficacy of the UN.
Because countries are not required to provide a reason for banning a foreign diplomat, this makes it a powerful political weapon if used against a UN official.
And banning UN officials specifically could also seriously jeopardise the organisation’s work and put innocent lives at risk. This is especially true in the context of armed conflicts where the UN is called upon to provide humanitarian assistance.
For example, in 2021, Ethiopia expelled five UN humanitarian officials who were providing food, medicine, water and other life-saving items to more than 5 million people in a region that was engaged in armed conflict with the federal government. Given the expelled officials were high-ranking staff, the action disrupted the co‑ordination and provision of assistance.
And banning the secretary-general, in particular, is perhaps the strongest indicator of the breakdown of the relationship between a state and the UN.
The secretary-general is the chief international civil servant and the embodiment of the organisation. Their leadership is also critical for providing emergency relief, brokering ceasefires and promoting peace.
Declaring the secretary-general persona non grata, therefore, seriously damages his or her standing, especially in the context of an armed conflict. It’s also a strong political statement against the UN more broadly, which could significantly complicate its humanitarian work.
Therefore, while countries do have the sovereign power to declare UN officials persona non grata, they need to exercise restraint in how they use this power. What such restraint should look like is an open question, but one that must be urgently addressed.
The author’s ongoing research work on the topic has received internal funding support from the College of Humanities and Social Futures at The University of Newcastle, NSW.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Preservatives in Food (Amendment) Regulation 2024 gazetted Preservatives in Food (Amendment) Regulation 2024 gazetted **********************************************************
The Government gazetted today (October 10) the Preservatives in Food (Amendment) Regulation 2024 (Amendment Regulation) to update the food safety standards in relation to preservatives and antioxidants in food. The objective of the Amendment Regulation is to keep local food safety standards on par with international standards, thereby enhancing consumer protection and facilitating the food trade. The Amendment Regulation has kept the standards of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex) as the backbone, supplemented with those adopted by the Mainland and by Hong Kong’s other major food-trading partners. A Government spokesman said, “A four-month public consultation was conducted from May 29 to September 30 last year, to collect views on the proposed amendments to the Preservatives in Food Regulation (Cap. 132BD). Respondents and stakeholders generally welcomed and supported the proposed amendments. Taking into account the comments received during the public consultation, we have formulated the updated proposals, as reflected in the Amendment Regulation.” The Amendment Regulation updates the definitions of “preservative” and “antioxidant” with reference to the corresponding definitions adopted by Codex. The list of permitted preservatives/antioxidants has also been updated, which comprises 58 preservatives/antioxidants after the legislative amendments. The number of “additive-food” pairs with specified maximum permitted levels has increased from around 900 to around 2 000. “We consider that the Amendment Regulation should be implemented as soon as possible. However, we acknowledge the importance of providing sufficient time for the stakeholders to adjust to the new food safety standards, and for the local testing laboratories to establish the capability for performing relevant tests. We have also taken into consideration the longer shelf life of processed and pre-packaged foods that may contain preservatives or antioxidants. On balance, we propose a transitional period of 24 months, during which it would be legal for any single food item to comply wholly with the requirements of either the existing or the amended Cap. 132BD,” the spokesman added. The Amendment Regulation will be tabled at the Legislative Council on October 16 for negative vetting.
Ends/Thursday, October 10, 2024Issued at HKT 10:00
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
ALEXANDRIA – This morning, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) hosted his third Rural Community Funding Summit of 2024, where he continued to connect local officials for towns and villages in central Louisiana with representatives of federal and state agencies that can distribute funds from his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
“My goal in working on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill was to bring opportunity to Louisiana to rebuild our infrastructure. My goal for the summit is to connect public officials in Rapides, Vernon, Beauregard, and throughout Cenla with these opportunities,” said Dr. Cassidy. “It was good to see these officials eager to bring resources to their communities.”
In addition to the authorization of the I-14 corridor going through Leesville, communities throughout the parish have benefitted from the IIJA, including in Vernon Parish. There are millions of dollars to improve roads and build roundabouts, $1.3 million was awarded to the East Central Vernon Water System from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, an example of how the IIJA can be used to improve drinking water. Over $300,000 was also awarded to the Leesville City Airport.
Other awards in the region include $15 million for the J. Bennett Johnston Waterway, over $11 million to extend CC Bel Road in the form of a RAISE grant, and over $9.8 million to replace school buses in Rapides Parish. Money has also been awarded in the region to improve roads and replace old natural gas pipes.
Cassidy was welcomed to Leesville and thanked for his leadership in a statement by Mayor Rick Allen.
“Thanks to Senator Cassidy’s infrastructure bill, money has already been delivered to upgrade key roads and the Leesville City Airport,” said Mayor Allen. “We are keen to learn what else the bill can do to strengthen our communities, and we appreciate the Senator connecting us to its opportunities, as well as his support for our troops at Fort Johnson and those who support them.”