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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Blind and partially sighted supporters to avail of new commentary service at Brandywell games

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Blind and partially sighted supporters to avail of new commentary service at Brandywell games

    24 September 2024

    Visually impaired or blind spectators attending Derry City games at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium can now avail of a new service that will give them a live audio description of games.

    The new programme has been designed to allow the supporters to listen to descriptive commentary that will be transmitted to a radio receiver through a headset from anywhere within the stadium. The commentary will be provided by Drive 105. 

    The new service will be available for Derry City’s forthcoming games versus Sligo Rovers, Bohemians and Shelbourne and is available to home and away supporters.              

    The equipment has been installed by stadium owners Derry City and Strabane District Council following a report on accessibility improvements at the stadium being approved by Elected Members of Council’s Health and Community Committee in May.

    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, said it will allow more supporters to enjoy the match day experience.

    “This is brilliant news for blind and visually impaired supporters who can now be more involved and enjoy an enhanced match day at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium.

    “I have had the opportunity to attend a number of games in recent months when I experienced the noise and excitement for myself, and I am so delighted more people can now feel included and part of that.

    “I would like to thank Council Officers for bringing the project to fruition so quickly, the RNIB for their input in the project development, Derry City FC who will manage the service at games and Drive 105 for providing commentary from their Match Night Live service.”

    The service at the Ryan McBride Stadium is similar to the Soccer Sight programme that was successfully implemented at Windsor Park in Belfast.

    Campaigns Officer for RNIB Northern Ireland, Michéal Smith, attended Friday’s match at The Brandywell and said: “RNIB Northern Ireland is delighted to be involved in this initiative.

     “Blind and partially sighted fans should be able to enjoy watching a live football match in an accessible environment which welcomes both participants and those who visit sporting facilities to follow the action.

     “Too often, access to and within grounds and stadia, the facilities on offer, the accessible communication and the return travel, can be difficult to negotiate or completely absent. In many cases this deters sports fans with sight loss from getting involved.

    “Football is for everyone and we commend The Brandywell for introducing Audio Description technology to the stadium. Many thanks to stadium announcer Martin Bradley for all his assistance.

    “We thank local RNIB volunteer Rory McCartney and Richard Moore from Derry’s Drive 105 community radio station for their brilliant work together to make this happen. We also thank Derry and Strabane District Council – particularly Councillor Emma McGinley, Councillor Aisling Hutton and Leisure Area Manager Steve Setterfield, for helping bring this project to fruition. This is a great example of the Council’s ongoing partnership with RNIB to help Derry/Londonderry become a ‘Visually Aware City.’”

    Derry City’s Robert Martin added: “Derry City FC is delighted to note the success of the new ‘Brandywell Audio Assistant’ service that was trialled in our home game against Shamrock Rovers on Friday night.

    “Anything that enhances the match night experience at the ground is warmly welcomed and no doubt our visually impaired supporters will be happy to make use of the headsets going forward.

    “We congratulate all involved in the development of this project and encourage anyone who feels they may benefit from the service to speak with stadium stewards.

    “The sets will be stored in the Communications room and signed in and out by an appointed club delegate.”

    For further information on accessing the new service contact Rory McCartney (RNIB),  [email protected].

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Preparing health and social care for winter

    Source: Scottish Government

    Record high NHS 24 workforce to meet increased demand.

    A record number of NHS 24 call handlers will support the public to access the most appropriate care this winter as services deal with increased demand.

    Through the Scottish Government and COSLA’s joint Winter Preparedness Plan, continued investment for NHS 24 will increase service capacity to provide clinical supervision for at least 150,000 additional calls per year and help prevent unnecessary A&E attendances.

    Key measures to support services in the face of increased demand, include; improving discharge planning for patients admitted to acute or community hospitals, maintaining established care at home packages and a Government led delayed discharge response team to directly support Boards in need of assistance. Planned care capacity will also be safeguarded with a continued focus on clearing long waits.

    The annual winter vaccination programme, which includes respiratory condition RSV for the first time, will support a reduction in severe disease, hospitalisation and mortality – while protecting health and social care service capacity. The joint plan also sets out action to support the mental health and well-being of service staff through increased flexible working options and dedicated mental health resources.

    This year’s plan has been published a month ahead of last year, and earlier than ever before, to allow more time for NHS Boards and care providers to prepare for winter surges in demand.

    Health Secretary Neil Gray said:

    “As winter approaches, the NHS will see surges in demand across all health, social care and social work services. Our joint-plan Winter Plan with COSLA is just one part of a wider programme of work to respond to heightened demand.

    “A record number of NHS 24 call handlers will be available this winter to direct people to the most appropriate care, helping reduce unnecessary A&E attendances. We will continue our work to reduce delayed discharge in hospitals with an increased focus on effective discharge planning and protecting care at home packages. We will also ensure planned care capacity is protected as much as possible in the face of winter pressure so patients are seen as quickly as possible.

    “We are prioritising frontline services with over £14.2 billion investment in our boards this year – an almost 3% real terms uplift – and also investing £2 billion in social care services.

    “I thank all health, social care and social work staff for their continued efforts and dedication to deliver high quality care. It is fundamental we safeguard their wellbeing, and improved options on flexible working and continued access to mental health resources will ensure staff are supported over this challenging period.”

    COSLA Health and Social Care Spokesperson, Councillor Paul Kelly said:

    “It is our shared responsibility to ensure that people and communities have timely access to quality care and support when they need it most. We know that Local Government and Health and Social Care Partnerships across Scotland are working hard to plan and deliver the essential health and social care services our communities rely on every day.

    “The context within which this takes place is increasingly challenging, which is why COSLA have worked jointly with the Scottish Government to produce this plan. Local Government plays a key role in supporting people to experience better wellbeing and better outcomes, so it was only right that this plan reflects the whole system of integrated health and social care, from acute and primary care to social work, our care homes, community settings, and our partners across the sector.

    “Winter is often a time of exceptional pressure on our services so I am pleased that this plan, produced with our partners across the sector, reflects the challenges and the opportunities we face.”

    Background

    Health & Social Care Winter Preparedness Plan for 2024-25

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Death of an inmate from Archambault Institution

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    On September 15, 2024, Guy Bissonnette, an inmate from Archambault Institution, died while in our custody of apparent natural causes.

    September 17, 2024 – Sainte-Anne-des-Plaines, Quebec – Correctional Service of Canada

    On September 15, 2024, Guy Bissonnette, an inmate from Archambault Institution, died while in our custody of apparent natural causes.

    At the time of death, the person had been serving an indeterminate sentence, which commenced on October 26, 1990, for second-degree murder.

    As in all cases involving the death of an inmate, Correctional Service Canada (CSC) will review the circumstances.

    CSC policy requires that the police and the coroner be notified.

    -30-

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leeds low carbon heat network set to expand to thousands more residents

    Source: City of Leeds

    Leeds’s South Bank is to enjoy more affordable and lower carbon heating after £24.5m funding was secured to further expand the Leeds PIPES district heating network.

    The expansion is planned to include up to 28 buildings, with up to 8,000 residents and mixed-use customers benefitting from connections, making it the most significant single investment into the project since its inception.

    Households benefitting from the expansion will enjoy more reliable, more affordable, lower carbon heating.

    By using heat recovered from the city’s non-recyclable domestic waste to provide warmth and hot water to buildings in the city, the Leeds PIPES district heating project is helping businesses and residents to move away from costly fossil-fuel powered heating systems.

    The continued expansion of the district heating network is supporting efforts to end the city’s contribution to climate change by transitioning to lower carbon heating systems. Last year, 5,945 tonnes of carbon were saved through the network.

    The original project connected over 1,900 homes and non-domestic buildings to the energy-from-waste scheme. Earlier this year, over two hundred and fifty council properties in Lovell Park Heights, Lovell Park Grange, and Lovell Park Towers were set up to receive heat from the network.

    This year, connections have been completed at Leeds Conservatoire and the former Technology Campus Student Residential development and both sites are now receiving heat from the network.

    Over the summer, agreements have also been signed with the new Railway Street affordable homes scheme, 24-28 Great George Street, which is to become student apartments with the Victoria Hotel pub reopening on the ground floor, Leeds College of Building’s North Street Campus and the Co-op Academy Brierley SEND School in Cross Green.

    Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space and Councillor Jessica Lennox, executive member for housing, said:

    “We are both pleased that many more residents will soon be paying significantly less to heat their homes thanks to this latest expansion of the Leeds PIPES network.

    “UK’s homes are some of the least efficient and most reliant on costly fossil fuel gas in Europe, and too many families in our city struggle to pay their energy bills. We are committed to helping households by making our homes greener and fit for the future.

    “Leeds is working towards becoming the first net zero city in the UK, and connecting more homes to affordable low carbon heating like Leeds PIPES is a step in the right direction.”

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Edinburgh to host International Fair Trade Towns Conference in 2025

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    A prestigious international convention on Fair Trade and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will be hosted in the capital in August next year.

    Delegates from around the world will come to Edinburgh for the 18th International Fair Trade Towns Conference. 

    They will take part in a three-day (29 to 31 August) series of discussions themed around the SDGs and the importance of Fair Trade in driving progress towards them. The conference will also highlight the important contributions that Edinburgh has made to Fair Trade. 

    Fair Trade is an international movement that aims to secure better prices, fair terms of trade, and improved working conditions for farmers, producers and workers in the global south. The movement now works with farmers and workers in more than 1,900 producer organisations across 70 countries. 

    The event is expected to welcome over 150 representatives from around the world, and to have 100 or more Edinburgh schoolchildren participate.

    City of Edinburgh Lord Provost Robert Aldridge said:

    It is a great honour that Edinburgh will be hosting this fantastic event. It gives Edinburgh and our friends across the globe the opportunity to share know-how, expertise, and best practice, while showcasing the best our city has to offer. This is a very powerful example of joint working between international partners. 

    As a Fairtrade City, Edinburgh is dedicated to motivating residents to work towards a common goal and stay on course by advocating for environmental sustainability and supporting local sustainable businesses.

    This year Edinburgh marks 20 years as a Fairtrade City, and Scotland has recently celebrated 10 years as a Fairtrade Nation. I look forward to the gathering next year and celebrating yet another milestone in our aim to make this a world in which trade is based on fairness, and where the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are successfully implemented.”  

    Published: September 24th 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Schweikert Introduces Legislation That Would Save Taxpayers Almost $80 Billion Across a Decade

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Schweikert (AZ-06)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman David Schweikert, alongside Congressmen Jared Golden (D-ME), Mike Kelly (R-PA), and Glenn Grothman (R-WI), introduced the Employee Retention Tax Credit Repeal Act, bipartisan legislation that would disallow the processing of Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) claims filed after January 31, 2024; dramatically increase penalties on those defrauding the government; and aid the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in getting out the door honest, low-risk returns from small businesses. The original design of the ERTC was to help Main Street retain employees during the pandemic. However, legitimate returns from small businesses desperately needing support were crowded out by perverse promoters looking to take advantage of an emergency program, landing ERTC on the IRS’s “Dirty Dozen” list in 2023.

    Earlier this summer, IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel asked for Congress’ “help with this situation” and assist Treasury to “address fraud and error.” The ERTC Repeal Act would enable the return to fiscal sanity and end a program riddled with fraud that could cost up to seven times more—up to $550 billion—than initially estimated if allowed to continue. By eliminating the ERTC program, this bill would save taxpayers an estimated $79 billion over ten years.  

    “We’ve all heard from the number of small businesses in our district waiting for their claims to be processed,” said Rep. David Schweikert (AZ-01). “A 1.4 million return backlog still exists, and moving the deadline up, rather than waiting until April 2025, will enable the IRS to go after the bad actors seeking to take advantage of taxpayers while approving legitimate claims faster and delivering long-overdue refunds to small businesses. Congress would be perpetuating a moral hazard if this level of fraud were allowed to go unpunished. It’s past time fiscal responsibility prevails, and we act on behalf of future generations who will be shouldered with a more than $35 trillion national debt.”

    “This tax credit was an emergency response to protect workers and small businesses during the pandemic. Today, bad actors are abusing the program to pad their bottom lines at Americans’ expense,” Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) said. “It’s past time we end this program — the conditions that made it necessary are over, and it’s a ripe target for tax cheats. Taking it off the books will protect taxpayers from fraud.”

    Maya MacGuineas, president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, said, “Although the COVID public health and economic emergency has ended, our national debt and fiscal challenges continue to mount. We thank Representatives Schweikert (R-AZ) and Golden (D-ME) for introducing the House version of legislation to repeal the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC), which is rife with fraud and has significantly overshot the original cost estimate, increasing the national debt. Given that the economy has recovered from the pandemic, it’s clear that this tax credit has outlived its purpose. We encourage Congress to pass this bipartisan, bicameral bill without delay and save $80 billion as a first step toward putting our country back on a fiscally sustainable path.”

    Background of the Employee Retention Tax Credit Repeal Act:

    • The Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC)—created by the CARES Act and furthered expanded by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan—is a refundable credit available to qualifying businesses who paid wages to employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. In October 2021, the IRS issued a notice warning employers of “third parties promoting improper Employee Retention claims.” These “promoters” often use aggressive and deceptive marketing tactics to convince businesses to allow them to file ERTC claims on their behalf. Fraud within the program became so prevalent that it then earned a place on the “Dirty Dozen” list of schemes and scams that make taxpayers vulnerable to personal and financial risk in March of 2023.

    The ERTC Repeal Act would bring forward the sunset date of the ERTC and disallow the processing of ERTC claims filed after January 31, 2024. Additionally, this bill would:

    • Increase penalties for promoters from $1,000 to $10,000 for individuals and $200,000 for business promoters;
    • Impose a $1,000 penalty for failure to comply with due diligence requirements; and
    • Extend the statute of limitations period on assessments to six years.

    Full bill text can be found here.

    ###

    Congressman David Schweikert serves on the Ways and Means Committee and is the current Chairman of the Oversight Subcommittee. He is also the Vice Chairman on the bicameral Joint Economic Committee, chairs the Congressional Valley Fever Task Force, and is the Republican Co-Chair of the Blockchain Caucus, Telehealth Caucus, Singapore Caucus, and the Caucus on Access to Capital and Credit.

    Back to News

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada imposes further sanctions against Iran

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada is imposing additional sanctions under the Special Economic Measures (Iran) Regulations.

    September 18, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada is imposing additional sanctions under the Special Economic Measures (Iran) Regulations.

    Today’s announcement follows the second anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian woman, who died while in the custody of Iran’s so-called morality police on September 16, 2022. Iranian authorities had detained her for allegedly violating the country’s strict dress code.

    The sanctions apply to five Iranian political figures responsible for the design and implementation of repressive policies, including the violent repression of protesters.

    The five individuals are:

    • Mohammad Mokhber
    • Gholam Hossein Esmaili
    • Seyyed Masoud Mirkazemi
    • Siamak Rahpeik
    • Ahmad-Reza Radan

    Canada is imposing these sanctions in coordination with Australia and the United States. The three countries are taking similar action this week in response to the acceleration of Iran’s repressive measures against women and its brutal crackdown on citizen demonstrations, as well as its ongoing grave breach of international peace and security.

    Canada will continue to increase pressure on Iran and implement further measures for as long as Iran continues its abhorrent conduct. Canada’s measures includes designating Iran as a state sponsor of terrorism under the State Immunity Act, listing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code and implementing sanctions under the Special Economic Measures Act and the United Nations Act to impose dealing restrictions and freeze assets held in Canada.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia Joins Letter Calling on President Biden to Expedite Review of LNG Projects for Ukraine and Eastern European Allies 

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29) joined her colleagues in a letter to President Biden requesting that the Department of Energy (DOE) prioritize and expedite the review of projects that will supply liquified natural gas (LNG) to Ukrainian and Eastern European allies as it recommences the processing of applications for authorization to export LNG to countries where the U.S. does not have existing free trade agreements (non-FTA nations). This request was made with a focus on maintaining both U.S. national security and energy security for European allies. 

    “We must ensure that new exports do not impact energy prices for American consumers and businesses. However, the public interest also requires consideration of the extent to which LNG exports promote geopolitical stability and serve our national security interests. Russia’s increasingly aggressive actions towards Ukrainian infrastructure, including electricity and gas storage facilities, highlight the urgent need to assist Ukraine in recovering and rebuilding and for Ukraine to diversify and secure its energy supply,” said the Members.

    The letter was led by Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Chair and Co-Founder of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. Other signers include Representatives Lou Correa (CA-46), Jim Costa (CA-21), Don Davis (NC-01), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Mary Peltola (AK-AL), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), Marc Veasey (TX-33), and Susan Wild (PA-07).

    A full copy of the letter can be found by clicking here, or reading below:
     
    Dear President Biden: 

     As members of Congress, we write to request that the Department of Energy (DOE) prioritize and expedite review of projects that will supply liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Ukrainian and Eastern European allies as it recommences the processing of applications for authorization to export LNG to countries where the US does not have existing free trade agreements (non-FTA nations). This request is made with a focus on maintaining both US national security and energy security for our European allies. 

     DOE performs a critical function when it reviews applications for new LNG exports to non-FTA nations for consistency with the public interest. We must ensure that new exports do not impact energy prices for American consumers and businesses. However, the public interest also requires consideration of the extent to which LNG exports promote geopolitical stability and serve our national security interests. Russia’s increasingly aggressive actions towards Ukrainian infrastructure, including electricity and gas storage facilities, highlight the urgent need to assist Ukraine in recovering and rebuilding and for Ukraine to diversify and secure its energy supply. The Administration’s recent announcement of over $800 Million towards emergency energy needs in Ukraine to help “repair energy infrastructure damaged in the war, expand power generation, encourage private sector investment and protect energy infrastructure” will be vital to helping Ukraine recover and rebuild. 

    Equally important will be allowing Ukraine the ability to replace its natural gas supply when its contract with Gazprom expires at the end of this year. We believe that reducing Ukraine’s dependence on Russian energy will strengthen Ukraine’s energy security and align with the broader strategic goals of diminishing Russia’s influence in the region and reducing the leverage that hostile actors like Russia have over our allies. 

    Any delays to providing additional supplies of LNG to Ukraine and our Eastern European allies could jeopardize European energy security and market stability in the long-term. Typical gas offtake contracts are measured in years, not months, and are underpinned by certainty. We should not send mixed signals to our allies who want to eliminate their reliance on Vladimir Putin for good. We believe that the United States must demonstrate its commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and resilience amidst ongoing threats by prioritizing and expediting review of projects that will supply LNG to Ukraine and Eastern Europe. 

    Additionally, American LNG is produced with some of the strongest environmental protections globally.1 Rigorous regulations and oversight ensure that our LNG exports are reliable and adhere to high environmental standards. We believe that these environmental standards, in combination with assistance made available through Inflation Reduction Act programs, such as the GHG Reporting and the Methane Emissions Reduction Programs, will ensure industry and this Administration work to continue reducing emissions from natural gas. By prioritizing and expediting review of LNG projects that will supply LNG to vulnerable nations, we believe DOE would enable our allies to benefit from cleaner LNG sources that have been shown to reduce emissions compared to foreign supplies and coal,2 thus supporting their transition to more sustainable energy systems. 

    The United States has already shown a strong commitment to supporting Ukraine. Extending and expanding support to the energy sector is a natural and necessary step. We must continue to lead by example, showing that we can balance our environmental commitments with the need to provide reliable energy to our European allies. We believe that, if US LNG producers adhere to increasingly stringent environmental standards, then this balance is maintained, promoting both energy security and environmental stewardship. 

    In conclusion, we believe that prioritizing and expediting review of LNG projects that will supply Ukraine and Eastern Europe will support geopolitical stability and advance the national security interests of the United States. Thank you in advance for your consideration of this request. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. House of Representatives Unanimously Passes Trahan’s Bipartisan Legislation to Advance Rare Disease Treatments for Kids

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Health Subcommittee, celebrated the unanimous passage of her bipartisan Creating Hope Reauthorization Act of 2024 in the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation will reauthorize a key program that incentivizes the development of new drugs and treatments for children battling rare pediatric diseases. Trahan introduced the legislation earlier this year alongside Representatives Michael McCaul (R-TX-10), Anna Eshoo (D-CA-16), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12), Michael Burgess (R-TX-26), and Nanette Barragán (D-CA-44).

    “When a child is battling a rare disease like cancer, currently one of the leading causes of death for kids, they deserve access to the best treatments possible,” said Congresswoman Trahan. “The Creating Hope Reauthorization Act is a critical bipartisan effort to make sure those treatments are available while newer and more effective treatments are being advanced to save children’s lives. The unanimous support for this legislation in the House is a testament to the necessity and effectiveness of this initiative, and I look forward to working with our colleagues in the Senate to send it to the President’s desk to become law.”

    Approximately 30 million Americans are affected by rare diseases, two out of every three of whom are children. However, treatments intended for adults are often too harsh for children, limiting their treatment options or even leaving them with life-altering complications after their disease is cured. The Creating Hope Reauthorization Act seeks to solve this problem by reauthorizing the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) cost-neutral priority review voucher (PRV) program, which incentivizes the development of treatments for rare pediatric diseases. Since 2012, the PRV program has spurred the development of therapies for nearly 40 different diseases, 36 of which previously had no safe or effective FDA-approved treatments for children.

    The Creating Hope Reauthorization Act was included in the Give Kids a Chance Act, a bipartisan legislative package created to advance pediatric disease treatment. During a markup last week, members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee unanimously passed the Give Kids a Chance Act. In addition to Trahan’s legislation to advance pediatric rare disease treatments, the package also authorizes the FDA to direct companies to research combinations of therapies and cancer drugs in pediatric patients. The FDA is currently only authorized to direct pediatric cancer trials of single drugs, and the majority of these trials are conducted on children with relapsed cancer. However, kids with relapsed cancer are very rarely cured by one-drug treatments because their diagnoses are so advanced.

    Since her appointment to the House Energy and Commerce Committee in 2021, Trahan has spearheaded multiple bipartisan initiatives to expand and improve pediatric health care. Last week, she secured passage by the full House of Representatives of her bipartisan Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act, legislation that will break down barriers for children with complex medical conditions to make it easier for families to access out-of-state care. In July, she introduced the Bolstering Research and Innovation Now (BRAIN) Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen research and treatment development for brain tumors, the leading cause of cancer-related death among children and young adults. In May, the House passed her bicameral and bipartisan Youth Poisoning Protection Act, bipartisan and bicameral legislation that would ban the consumer sale of products containing high concentrations of sodium nitrite, a meat-curing chemical that has been popularized in online suicide forums because of its lethality when ingested.

    The legislative package containing Trahan’s Creating Hope Reauthorization Act now moves to the Senate where companion legislation has been introduced by Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK).

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia Statement on First Known Post-Dobbs Death

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29) issued the following statement based on ProPublica’s recent reporting on the tragic death of Amber Thurman, a 28-year-old mother who lost her life due to Georgia’s extreme abortion ban shortly after the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision:

    “American women woke to learn their worst fears have been realized—a 28-year-old mother in Georgia was left to die because of the Trump abortion bans. A son lost his mother, a family lost their loved one.

    “Two years after her death, she is the first confirmed casualty in the MAGA war on women. It begs the question, how many more women have died, their stories hidden away?

    “What we know for certain is this will happen again. It will happen in Texas, and across the country, until we end these cruel bans.

    “We must defeat these Trump abortion bans and ensure every woman has access to comprehensive reproductive health care without fear of losing her life.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK, Türkiye enter into tax pact

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Hong Kong today signed a comprehensive avoidance of double taxation agreement (CDTA) with Türkiye.

    Signing the agreement on behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui said the CDTA will further promote economic and trade relations between Hong Kong and Türkiye, and contribute to the high-quality development of the Belt & Road Initiative through enhanced connectivity.

    He explained that while Türkiye is participating in the Belt & Road Initiative, the signing of the CDTA at the Fifth Belt & Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Forum highlights the commitment of the two jurisdictions to deepening tax co-operation under the initiative.

    “We will continue to negotiate with trading and investment partners with a view to expanding Hong Kong’s CDTA network. This will enhance the attractiveness of Hong Kong as a business and investment hub, and consolidate the city’s status as an international economic and trade centre,” he added.

    This CDTA is the 51st agreement that Hong Kong has concluded.

    According to the Hong Kong-Türkiye CDTA, Hong Kong companies can enjoy double taxation relief in that any tax paid in Türkiye, whether directly or by deduction, will be allowed as a credit against the tax payable in Hong Kong in respect of the same income, subject to the provisions of the tax laws of Hong Kong.

    The Hong Kong-Türkiye CDTA also provides other tax relief arrangements.

    Representing the Türkiye Government was the Commissioner of the Turkish Revenue Administration Bekir Bayrakdar.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Subsidised flat applications to open

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Housing Authority announced today that applications for purchasing flats under the Sale of Home Ownership Scheme (HOS) Flats 2024 will be accepted from October 3 to 23.

    A total of 7,132 HOS flats will be put up for sale in five new developments, including Kai Ying Court in Kai Tak, Ko Hei Court in Yau Tong, On Pak Court in Kwun Tong, Yu Hing Court in Tung Chung and Siu Wu Court in Tuen Mun.

    Around 70 rescinded flats from Kam Chun Court in Ma On Shan, Kei Wah Court in North Point, Chiu Ming Court in Tseung Kwan O, Kai Yan Court in Kai Tak, Kwun Shan Court in Ma Tau Kok, On Sau Court in Kwun Tong and Siu Tsui Court in Tuen Mun, as well as about 350 recovered Tenants Purchase Scheme flats will also be available for resale in this sale exercise.

    The average flat selling prices are set at a 30% discount from the assessed market values. Balloting is expected to be held in the fourth quarter of this year, while flat selection is expected to start from the second quarter of next year.

    Green Form applicants, same as White Form applicants, should not have owned any domestic property in Hong Kong during the 24 months preceding the closing date for submitting the application up to the time of purchase.

    From tomorrow, sales booklets, application forms and application guides will be available on the authority’s website.

    Printed copies can be obtained from the authority’s Customer Service Centre in Lok Fu, the Green Form Subsidised Home Ownership Scheme Sales Unit’s office, estate offices and district tenancy management offices, the Housing Society’s rental estate offices and the Home Affairs Department’s Home Affairs Enquiry Centres, also from tomorrow.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia Named Chief Deputy Whip as Part of the House Democratic Leadership Team

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29) was named Chief Deputy Whip by Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-05).  

    “I’m honored to join the Chief Deputy Whip team, supporting my dear friend Katherine Clark and the House Democratic Caucus. I’m humbled by the trust she’s placed in me, given her fearless leadership for women, children, and working families. Our mission is clear: put people over politics, stop MAGA extremism and Project 2025, and show that Congress delivers results when we unite. While Republicans push fear and division, we’ll defend our freedoms and work to reduce costs for all Americans. I look forward to being a voice for Latinos and Texans on the Whip team and keeping our caucus focused on the issues that matter most,” said Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia.

    “Since arriving in the halls of Congress, Rep. Sylvia Garcia has quickly proven a staunch advocate for Houston and a defender of democracy,” said Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. “I’m thrilled that she will serve the House Democratic Caucus as a Chief Deputy Whip, helping to defend reproductive freedom, reduce costs for families, and stop Republicans from enacting their extreme Project 2025 agenda.”

    Chief Deputy Whips play a key role in assisting the Whip by ensuring an accurate count of where the Democratic Caucus stands on upcoming bills in the U.S. House. They collaborate with colleagues to address questions about pending legislation, making sure members are well-informed on legislation before they reach the House floor for a vote.

    In this role, Congresswoman Garcia will also continue her service on the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee, which is responsible for recommending committee assignments for members of Congress and influencing House policy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia Statement on the Federal Reserve’s Decision to Cut Interest Rates

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29) issued the following statement following the Federal Reserve’s decision to cut interest rates by 50 basis points (0.5 percent):

    “Today’s rate cut is the first step of many to making everyday expenses more affordable to all Americans. For everyday consumers, it will be easier to obtain a mortgage or to borrow money for necessary expenses. For our businesses, it is now easier and less risky to invest in projects, like housing developments. It is also easier to borrow funds to hire more workers and grow our economy. As the Federal Reserve moves forward with these adjustments, they need to remain vigilant to ensure inflation continues to go down. Given how housing and gas prices continue to drive the current rate, they should continue to pursue avenues to help relieve pressures in these sectors.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Orders Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce to Pay $30 Million for Recordkeeping and Supervision Failures for Firm-Wide Use of Unapproved Communication Methods

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission today issued an order simultaneously filing and settling charges with Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC), a swap dealer, for failing to maintain and preserve records that were required to be kept under CFTC recordkeeping requirements and failing to diligently supervise matters related to its business as a CFTC registrant.

    The order imposes a $30 million civil monetary penalty; orders CIBC to cease and desist from further violations of recordkeeping and supervision requirements; and orders CIBC to engage in specific remedial undertakings. CIBC also admits the facts detailed in the order.

    Case Background

    The order finds that from at least Sept. 2018 to the present, CIBC failed to stop employees, including those at senior levels, from communicating using unapproved communication methods, including messages sent via personal text. CIBC was required to keep certain of these written communications because they related to the firm’s CFTC-registered business. These written communications generally were not maintained and preserved by CIBC, and CIBC generally would not have been able to provide them promptly to the CFTC if and when requested.

    The order further finds the use of unapproved communication methods violated CIBC’s internal policies and procedures, which generally prohibited such communications. Further, some of the same supervisory personnel responsible for ensuring compliance with CIBC’s policies and procedures also used non-approved methods of communication to engage in business-related communications, in violation of firm policy

    The order recognizes CIBC’s cooperation with the Division of Enforcement’s investigation. 

    Since Dec. 2021, the CFTC has imposed $1.237 billion in civil monetary penalties on 27 financial institutions for their use of unapproved methods of communication, in violation of CFTC recordkeeping and supervision requirements.  [See CFTC Press Release Nos. 8470-21; 8599-22; 8699-23; 8701-23; 8762-23; 8763-23; 8794-23; 8880-24; 8943-24; 89-4524.]

    Related Civil Actions

    The Securities and Exchange Commission also announced today its filing and settling of charges against affiliates of CIBC, and imposed civil monetary penalties for recordkeeping and supervision violations related to the use of unapproved methods of communication.

    The Division of Enforcement staff responsible for this matter are Katie Rasor, Alejandra de Urioste, David MacGregor, Lenel Hickson, Jr. and Manal M. Sultan.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST’s speech at 5th Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Forum welcome dinner (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at the 5th Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Forum welcome dinner tonight (September 24):Honourable Commissioner Hu Jinglin (Commissioner of the State Taxation Administration), Deputy Commissioner Wang Daoshu (Deputy Commissioner of the State Taxation Administration and Executive Secretary of the Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Mechanism Secretariat), honourable Ministers and senior officials from the Belt and Road economies, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,     Good evening. I am delighted to welcome you all to the dinner tonight. I am very glad to see so many esteemed officials from tax administrations, representatives from international organisations, business leaders and tax experts from around the world to come to this vibrant city.       I trust your day has been both rewarding and stimulating, filled with productive discussions on emerging tax issues and valuable exchanges of experiences in tax administration. I hope the dialogues today have sparked innovative ideas and fostered meaningful collaborations that will continue to develop throughout this Forum and beyond.     The Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Mechanism (BRITACOM) has taken up an active role in building a growth-friendly tax environment through promoting international co-operation on tax administration.  Since its inception five years ago, BRITACOM has made substantial achievements and significant milestones in fostering co-operation and building capacity in taxation across Belt and Road jurisdictions. All of you here tonight have witnessed these successes and contributed profoundly to our shared objectives.     The BRITACOF (Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Forum) is a crucial and exemplary international platform designed to enhance co-operation among tax administrations along the Belt and Road. It facilitates insightful exchanges of experience and expertise among tax authorities, experts, practitioners and the business community, which enable participants to effectively address tax related challenges in their own jurisdictions.         Hong Kong has actively participated in the previous four Forums, and it is our privilege to host this year’s Forum for the first time. I am thrilled to welcome over 400 delegates, both international and local, to this mega event. Indeed, the hosting of the 5th BRITACOF in Hong Kong underscores our unique gateway role in fostering partnerships and creating value for economies, businesses and people along the Belt and Road.     Our commitment to realising the visionary goal of the Belt and Road Initiative goes beyond participation. As the world’s premier international financial centre, Hong Kong brings unique advantages to the table. By integrating our sophisticated infrastructure, globally competitive financial services and transparent legal system, we offer unmatched opportunities for our Belt and Road partners to connect and grow. In every endeavour, we strive to consolidate these advantages, ensuring that Hong Kong continues to serve as a dynamic gateway for international trade and investment, and a “super connector” and “super value-adder” in connecting Mainland China and other Belt and Road jurisdictions.       Now back to the core of our Forum – tax co-operation. An efficient and effective tax system is essential in driving the sustainable growth of an economy. On one hand, it provides resources for governments to deliver essential public services and launch new developments. On the other, tax system must be fair and transparent to avoid becoming a disincentive to people and businesses. Hong Kong’s tax system is internationally recognised for its clarity, efficiency, and compliance with international standards. In fact, the latest World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024 published by the International Institute for Management Development once again acknowledged Hong Kong as one of the most competitive economies in the world, with “Tax Policy” ranking first in the Asia-Pacific region and second in the world. And tomorrow, at a panel to be hosted by Benjamin, our Deputy Commissioner (of Inland Revenue), you will be able to share more and learn more about that. Against this backdrop, Hong Kong is perfectly positioned to be a catalyst for promoting economic activities under the Belt and Road Initiative.      Also, as the globalisation of economic activities continues to evolve and new ways of working and doing business emerge, it is more important than ever for tax administrations to build capacity and share knowledge together. Hong Kong has always been committed to upholding international tax standards, including the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) framework set by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. We are also fully supportive of the international standard of tax information exchange to avoid tax evasion. By endorsing and implementing these standards, Hong Kong ensures that Belt and Road projects involving Hong Kong companies adhere to the highest international benchmarks in terms of tax governance and transparency.       The future holds great promise, and through our concerted efforts, I am confident that we will continue to see a cascade of benefits for all involved. At this juncture, I am pleased to announce a key achievement that reflects our dedication to strengthening global tax collaboration.      On behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, I had the honour of signing a new Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement (CDTA) with Türkiye today as witnessed by all of you. This agreement, along with three others signed earlier this year, bring our total number of CDTAs to 51. Each agreement signed is a step forward in our ongoing effort to broaden Hong Kong’s tax treaty network and reaffirm our commitment to fostering efficient, transparent and fair international tax practices.       Our efforts to conclude more CDTAs with our trading and investment partners from the Belt and Road Initiative will definitely continue. These agreements are instrumental in fostering deeper economic and trade connections between Hong Kong and the Belt and Road jurisdictions. We are now having negotiations with 16 jurisdictions, and about 80 per cent of them are along the Belt and Road. For those who have yet to be our CDTA partners, I hope we can make it happen soon.     Looking ahead, I am filled with optimism about our collective efforts to create a sustainable tax environment. Together, let us strengthen our co-operation in tax administration to support high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative, paving the way for a new era with abundant opportunities.        Ladies and gentlemen, I hope you will enjoy this meal and the Chinese cultural performance. And as you are here, I invite you to take some time to explore our wonderful city. Hong Kong actually has 24 country parks, 22 special areas for conservation and other protected areas that together cover more than 40 per cent of the city’s land area. We have some 80 hiking trails totalling 500 kilometres within these areas. We also have some 42 beaches in Hong Kong that you can enjoy the sunshine. Of course, don’t forget to try our wonderful food as well, ranging from street food, dim sum to Michelin cuisine.     Have a productive Forum and an enjoyable stay in Hong Kong. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Blackville — Missing 46-year-old man

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Blackville RCMP is asking for the public’s help locating a missing 46-year-old man from Blackville, N.B.

    Marcus James Curtis was last seen on September 22, 2024, at approximately 2:30 p.m., in a parking lot on Highway 8 in Blackville. He was reported missing to police on September 24, 2024. Police have followed up on several leads to try and locate him, but have so far been unsuccessful. Police are concerned for his wellbeing.

    Marcus James Curtis is described as being approximately 5 feet, 7 inches (170 centimetres) tall, and weighing approximately 155 pounds (70 kilograms). He has green eyes, brown hair, and wears glasses. He was last seen wearing a plaid jacket with a grey hoodie and green pants. He could be travelling in a black 2014 and yellow Kawasaki Brute Force ATV, with New Brunswick licence plate XY 1713.

    Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Blackville RCMP at 506-843-9400.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Canada imposes new sanctions on Iran

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, announced today that Canada is imposing additional sanctions against Iran under the Special Economic Measures (Iran) Regulations.

    September 18, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, announced today that Canada is imposing additional sanctions against Iran under the Special Economic Measures (Iran) Regulations.

    Today’s announcement comes on the heels of the second anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian woman who died while in the custody of Iran’s so-called morality police on September 16, 2022. Iranian authorities had arrested her for allegedly violating the country’s strict dress code.

    The sanctions apply to five Iranian politicians responsible for designing and implementing repressive policies, including the violent repression of protesters.

    These five people are:

    Mohammad Mokhber Gholam Hossein Esmaili Seyyed Masoud Mirkazemi Siamak Rahpeik Ahmad-Reza Radan

    Canada is imposing these sanctions in coordination with Australia and the United States. All three countries are taking similar measures this week in response to Iran’s accelerating crackdown on women and brutal repression of citizen protests, as well as Iran’s continued serious violation of international peace and security.

    Canada will continue to increase pressure on Iran and implement new measures as long as Iran maintains its abhorrent behaviour. These measures include designating Iran as a state sponsor of terrorism under the State Immunity Act, listing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code, and implementing sanctions under the Special Economic Measures Act and the United Nations Act to impose transaction restrictions and freeze assets held in Canada.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bird Union-CWA Wins First Union Contract at Audubon

    Source: Communications Workers of America

    With a unanimous vote, Bird Union-CWA Local 1180 members ratify first union contract with the National Audubon Society

    NATIONWIDE — Today, members of the Bird Union-CWA Local 1180 unanimously voted to ratify the first union contract at the National Audubon Society. The contract covers 260 union members represented by the Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1180 and was reached after more than two years of negotiations, supported by mobilization of union members across the country.

    The contract builds a foundation of union rights at Audubon, giving union workers just cause job protections, the organization’s first grievance procedure, and arbitration rights. The union members will receive up to 7% annual raises, including the first guaranteed across-the-board annual raise of 3% to all members. Across-the-board raises have been shown to improve pay equity, an important goal for Bird Union members. The contract also improves important employee benefits, such as paid parental leave, which will increase sixfold, from the previous two weeks to 12 weeks of paid leave.

    “After four hard-fought years, workers have secured a union contract for the first time in Audubon’s 119-year history,” said Shyamlee Patel, a member of the Bird Union-CWA Local 1180 and Audubon employee. “We’ve won better wages, better benefits, and better working conditions for ourselves—and secured a better future for Audubon. This contract supports and empowers workers who are dedicated to protecting the birds and the planet.”

    “This union contract marks a new beginning for Audubon—one where union members and management are able to collaborate instead of being at odds,” said Erin Hamilton, a member of the Bird Union-CWA Local 1180 and Audubon employee. “Reaching this agreement means so much for so many dedicated working members across the organization. And I am so glad to have been part of this historic moment in Audubon’s growth and a future where we can all focus on what’s really important, the BIRDS!”

    “Members have been waiting a long time for the benefits and protections that a contract provides,” said Soncey Kondrotis, a member of the Bird Union-CWA Local 1180 and Audubon employee. “We will finally see raises and bonuses and wage leveling that has been promised for years—monies that people have needed in these years we have been bargaining. Through the process of forming our union and negotiating our contract, I have had the opportunity to meet some of the great people we have at Audubon, and I only see this organization changing for the better for everyone going forward.”

    “This agreement is the result of membership solidarity, patience, strength, and action,” said Robin Blair-Batte, Secretary-Treasurer of CWA Local 1180, which represents Audubon workers. “Our Bird Union members have shown that when we stand together, we win. Together, Local 1180 members fought for a contract that will raise standards at Audubon and includes significant gains for every part of our membership—and for those who come after.”

    The contract was ratified unanimously through a vote that gave every union member a voice in their union contract.

    ###

    About CWA: The Communications Workers of America represents working people in telecommunications, customer service, media, airlines, health care, public service and education, manufacturing, tech, and other fields.

    cwa-union.org @cwaunion

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS: Rightmove plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: AXA Investment Managers S.A.
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Rightmove plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23 September 2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES
    REA Group Ltd

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 0.1p ordinary
      Interests Short positions
      Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 10,227,030 1.30    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: AXA Investment Managers does not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 3,059,659 that are included in the total above 10,227,030 1.30    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    0.1p ordinary Sale 6,872 GBP 6.90
    0.1p ordinary Sale 626 GBP 6.90
    0.1p ordinary Sale 14,403 GBP 6.83
    0.1p ordinary Sale 15,576 GBP 6.84
    0.1p ordinary Sale 28,934 GBP 6.90
    0.1p ordinary Sale 2,634 GBP 6.90
    0.1p ordinary Sale 60,645 GBP 6.83
    0.1p ordinary Sale 65,583 GBP 6.84
    0.1p ordinary Sale 124 GBP 6.90
    0.1p ordinary Sale 2,860 GBP 6.83
    0.1p ordinary Sale 3,093 GBP 6.84
    0.1p ordinary Sale 3,978 GBP 6.90
    0.1p ordinary Sale 362 GBP 6.90
    0.1p ordinary Sale 8,339 GBP 6.83
    0.1p ordinary Sale 9,018 GBP 6.84
    0.1p ordinary Sale 61,706 GBP 6.83
    0.1p ordinary Sale 66,730 GBP 6.84

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
             

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit
             

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
           

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 24 September 2024
    Contact name: Sabrina AID
    Telephone number*: +33 1 44 45 59 79

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    *If the discloser is a natural person, a telephone number does not need to be included, provided contact information has been provided to the Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Investment Management Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THAMES VENTURES VCT 2 PLC
    LEI: 21380035MV1VRYEXPR95

    INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT UPDATE
    20 SEPTEMBER 2024

    Following the novation of the investment management agreement from Downing LLP (“Downing”) to Foresight Group LLP (“Foresight”) comprising management of the Company’s Venture, AIM and DP67 share classes in July 2022, the Board is pleased to confirm that Foresight has now also been appointed as Manager of the Company’s Healthcare share class following completion of a Put-Option Agreement between Downing and Foresight on 20 September 2024.

    For further information, please contact:

    Company Secretary
     Foresight Group LLP
    Contact: Stephen Thayer Tel: 0203 667 8100

    Investor Relations
     Foresight Group LLP
    Contact: Andrew James Tel: 0203 667 8181

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS: NewRiver REIT plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE / DEALING BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR   MORE  
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: AXA Investment Managers S.A.
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 NewRiver REIT plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23 September 2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 NO

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 1p ordinary
      Interests Short positions
      Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 5,677,323 1.50    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 5,677,323 1.50    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
           

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
             

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit
             

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    1p ordinary Receipt of placing shares 650,000 GBP 0.80

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 24 September 2024
    Contact name: Sabrina AID
    Telephone number*: +33 1 44 45 58 79

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    *If the discloser is a natural person, a telephone number does not need to be included, provided contact information has been provided to the Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Saskatchewan —  Saskatchewan RCMP WEST asks members of the public to report sightings of Joey Desjarlais

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Saskatchewan RCMP WEST is asking members of the public to report all sightings and information on the whereabouts of 34-year-old Joseph “Joey” Desjarlais.

    Desjarlais is wanted in relation to a September 8 robbery in Wadena, a September 16 robbery in Melfort, and is now charged in relation to a robbery in Yorkton.

    On September 22, 2024 at approximately 2:05 a.m., Yorkton RCMP received a report of a robbery at a business on Smith Street.

    Investigation determined an adult male entered the business, threatened an employee with a firearm, then stole cash, cigarettes and the keys to the employee’s vehicle. He then fled in that vehicle.

    No physcal injuries were reported as a result of the robbery.

    As a result of investigation, Desjarlais has been charged with:

    • one count, robbery with firearm, Section 344, Criminal Code;
    • one count, theft of motor vehicle, Section 333.1(1), Criminal Code;
    • one count, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, Section 88(1), Criminal Code; and
    • three counts, possession of weapon contrary to order, Section 117.01(1), Criminal Code.

    Saskatchewan RCMP, including the Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team (WEST), is actively working to locate and arrest Desjarlais on his multiple outstanding warrants. Residents in the area may notice an increased police presence as a result of the efforts to arrest him.

    If you see Desjarlais, do not approach him. Report all sightings of him or information on his whereabouts to police immediately.

    Desjarlais is described as approximately 5’7″ tall and 130 lbs. He has brown eyes, short brown hair, and a short beard. He has tattoos of the words ‘public’ and ‘enemy’ with flames on his hands, and ‘Bonnie and Clyde’ tattooed on the right side of his neck.

    Report information to 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: NAVFAC Volunteers Help Develop Future Engineers as part of NAS Oceana Outdoor STEM Laboratory

    Source: United States Navy

    The free event, which has been held nearly every year since 2016, allows 5th graders from Virginia Beach City and Chesapeake Public Schools to receive an exclusive sneak peek of the Air Show performances, including the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels and the F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team; vendor booths and activities; and numerous STEM Laboratory exhibits. This year’s theme is “Inspire. Educate. Soar!”

    NAVFAC volunteers staffed engineering-themed tables to encourage the participating students to take part in the command’s annual Penny Boat Challenge.

    “The students get a sheet of aluminum foil, and they design a boat to see how many pennies it can hold before it sinks,” said Taylor Priest, a Civil Engineer for NAVFAC LANT and STEM Coordinator. “We talk to the students about weight distribution, boat shapes and design, and buoyancy, among other things.”

    This challenge not only leads the students to think about the basic shape and design of the boat so it can float on water, but strategy and skill also come into play when they start adding the weight of the pennies.

    “The idea of showing these skills to a younger generation is fascinating to me … I have kids who were into STEM and became engineers, so I want to continue to help push and promote STEM for other children,” said Robert Brown, a Project Manager for NAVFAC MIDLANT, and a first-time STEM Lab volunteer. “NAVFAC is connected to all of this, so it gives us an opportunity – as volunteers – to explain and show off what we do at NAVFAC, and hopefully encourage these students to one day become better NAVFAC engineers.”

    As a hands-on learning activity, the Penny Boat Challenge generates significant crowds as the students show off their talent and patience throughout the day.

    “The students get really competitive as they watch each other build different boats,” Priest explained. “When they work side-by-side in the engagement stations, they start to see who gets more pennies, and then they want to do it again, and again to get better results. We also have an ongoing high score board that displays the highest number [of pennies floated] to keep the competition and creativity flowing.”

    According to the National Center for Science and Engineering website, about a quarter of the current U.S. workforce is employed in STEM occupations. Events such as these not only help to plant a seed for students to seek out future STEM careers, but specifically, it plays a role in promoting STEM opportunities for women, persons of color, and persons with disabilities who have historically been underrepresented in U.S.-based science and engineering fields.

    “We love promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics activities, such as this, to allow children to ask questions about future engineering professions and get them interested in engineering,” said Melissa Dyson, Supervisory Project Manager for NAVFAC MIDLANT and STEM Coordinator. “Many of these students incorporate engineering into their daily routines and they don’t even realize it, so this event allows us to help them identify those skills and show them it can be fun. The STEM fields are growing exponentially, so there’s tons of opportunities – and there will be even more within the next 10 years – and NAVFAC is on the forefront.”

    While most of the attending students are a part of Generation Alpha – who were born at a time when technological devices are getting smarter, and everything is connected digitally – they also demonstrate exceptional skill with non-digital, hands-on learning activities.

    “The students use different parts of their brains … some learn visually, some learn by auditory, and others learn through physical activities, so this activity combines a lot of that together when our volunteers coach them and talk to them about the different elements involved,” said Priest. “It completely syncs for them, and I’ve seen students who take these basic skills home to show their parents and teachers so they can recreate the activities again at home or school.”

    The NAS Oceana Air Show is an annual opportunity for the U.S. Navy to give back to our military families and the local Hampton Roads community. Each year, the base welcomes visitors from across the country and around the world to the Navy’s East Coast Master Jet Base to experience the wonder of flight firsthand and meet the exceptional men and women of naval aviation.

    NAVFAC’s STEM team of volunteers will represent the command again on October 17-18 for Naval Station Norfolk’s STEM Days in Norfolk, Virginia, which will be held in conjunction with the installation’s annual Fleet Fest, scheduled on Oct. 19.

    NAVFAC MIDLANT provides facilities engineering, public works and environmental products and services across an area of responsibility that spans from South Carolina to Maine, as far west as Illinois, and down to Indiana. As an integral member of the Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic team, NAVFAC MIDLANT provides leadership through the Regional Engineer organization to ensure the region’s facilities and infrastructure are managed efficiently and effectively.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN attends dinner reception hosted by CAEXPO Secretariat

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this evening attended a dinner hosted by Secretary-General of the China-ASEAN Expo Secretariat Dr. Wei Zhaohui. During the dinner, Dr. Kao congratulated the CAEXPO Secretariat on the successful opening of the 21st CAEXPO. He also expressed his appreciation to the CAEXPO Secretariat for the warm welcome and continuous support extended to the ASEAN Secretariat.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: New York State Joins the Global Offshore Wind Alliance

    Source: Global Wind Energy Council – GWEC

    Headline: New York State Joins the Global Offshore Wind Alliance

    24 September 2024, New York, USA | The State of New York announced its membership of the Global Offshore Wind Alliance (GOWA) – joining a network of governments, international organizations, and private sector actors committed to expanding offshore wind capacity globally and driving the transition to a clean energy future.

    GOWA is a multi-stakeholder alliance that aims to speed up the global deployment of offshore wind power. The alliance was launched at COP27 by Denmark, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), and the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC). Twenty governments have already joined GOWA. The addition of the State of New York further strengthens the global collaboration between regional and national governments and creates a more unified and coordinated approach to offshore wind development across the globe.

     

    Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), said: “New York is honored to join the Global Offshore Wind Alliance as we work with other government partners to grow and build-out the offshore wind industry, which is a critical component of the renewable energy infrastructure in New York and worldwide. This collaboration, which spans from sharing lessons and best practices to helping scale up offshore wind projects, will help further advance and sustain this powerhouse industry as we harness its full potential to secure a clean energy future.”

     

    “New York’s decision to join GOWA is a very timely step in uniting global efforts to expand the deployment of offshore wind energy. The commitment of New York not only enhances the alliance but also strengthens the collaboration between regional and national actors, improves energy security and pushes forward toward our shared global climate goals,” said Danish Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities, Lars Aagaard.

     

    Francesco La Camera, Director-General of IRENA, welcomed New York State joining GOWA: “Through GOWA, we work closely with governments, industry, and investors to accelerate the deployment of offshore wind projects worldwide. Offshore wind offers a pathway to decarbonize our power systems, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth. Our World Energy Transitions Outlook projects that offshore wind capacity must increase sevenfold by 2030 and more than thirtyfold by 2050 to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C. We need policies that incentivize investment, streamlined permitting processes, and innovative financing solutions.”

     

    As a pioneer in renewable energy, New York has already set ambitious targets under its Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, including the deployment of at least 9 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2035, a goal of at least 70 percent of New York’s electricity being generated from renewable sources by 2030 and a commitment to 100 percent zero-emission electricity by 2040. By joining GOWA, New York contributes to the global effort to accelerate renewable energy development, including the push for tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030, a key global goal decided at COP28.

    The GOWA membership fosters collaboration between regional and national governments, a partnership important for advancing the offshore wind industry. This cooperation enables more efficient offshore wind deployment by combining the innovation and localized expertise of regional governments with the broader policy frameworks and resources provided by national authorities.

     

    “The continuous growth of GOWA’s membership reflects a steadfast commitment to offshore wind as a vital force in achieving net zero, supported by multi-national, national, and sub-national governments. I’m encouraged by the eagerness of key players to join our community, united in addressing the challenges of accelerating offshore wind development. New York’s decision to join GOWA at this critical juncture will bring invaluable expertise from a market that has weathered challenging conditions. I look forward to collaborating with New York and all GOWA members as we chart the global offshore wind pathway toward 2050.” – Amisha Patel, Head of Secretariat (Interim), Global Offshore Wind Alliance (GOWA).

    Ben Backwell, CEO of GWEC, said: “The growth of the Global Offshore Wind Alliance demonstrates the vital role offshore wind plays in the energy transition and the importance of collaboration to delivering on the world’s renewable energy ambitions. The addition of the State of New York to the Alliance brings another strong voice and invaluable expertise to the group. The US offshore wind industry is a key part of the energy transition’s acceleration this decade, and we look forward to supporting the State of New York’s efforts in making their offshore wind sector an example for the rest of the world to follow”

     

    He also highlighted GWEC’s research findings:

     

    “GWEC’s research suggests the world could deliver GOWA’s target of 380 GW of offshore wind by 2030, but only with the right frameworks in place. The collaborative work of the Alliance is fundamental to establishing and expanding this framework around the world and ensuring offshore wind delivers on its potential as a key tool of the energy transition.”

     

    GOWA’s goal is to significantly increase the global offshore wind capacity, aiming for a total of at least 380 GW by 2030 and at least 70 GW each year from 2030 onwards. This expansion is essential for reaching global climate neutrality by 2050 and limiting global warming to below 1.5°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.

     

    With New York State as its newest member, GOWA now includes 21 member governments, including the European Commission and three subnational governments, and ten other key stakeholders, including the offshore wind sector, inter-governmental organizations, and non-governmental organizations.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: USS Leyte Gulf Decommissioned

    Source: United States Navy

    Over 500 attendees including plankowners and former crew members joined together to celebrate the ship’s distinguished 37 years of naval service. Vice Adm. Eugene Black III, Leyte Gulf’s 14th commanding officer, served as the ceremony’s keynote speaker, wishing the current crew fair winds and following seas as they bade their ship farewell.

    “What a great opportunity to celebrate the Sailors who brought this ship to life, kept her operating at the highest level and ready for a fight throughout her long and illustrious career of service to our nation,” he said.

    Cmdr. Brian M. Harrington, who served as the 23rd and final commanding officer of Leyte Gulf, led the ship’s final crew through the decommissioning process, assuming command following Leyte Gulf’s deployment to the Caribbean Sea and South Atlantic earlier this year.

    “It’s been an honor to lead America’s Battle Cruiser and her crew through the final chapter in her storied career. This crew accomplished the final mission with professionalism and dedication that honors all Leyte Gulf Sailors past and present.”

    The ceremony atmosphere was one of fond but somber remembrance as Black and Harrington shared a few memories created over Leyte Gulf’s 37 years of service, inviting shared laughter from crewmembers past and present.

    Leyte Gulf was built at Ingalls Shipbuilding Corporation in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and commissioned in Port Everglades, Florida, on September 26, 1987. Leyte Gulf’s namesake commemorates the largest naval battle in history, fought from October 23-26, 1944 during World War II.

    Since her maiden deployment in 1988, the warship has been vital to America’s national defense strategy, leading the way in air defense throughout 17 deployments around the world. After decommissioning, the ship will be towed on October 16th to the Navy’s Inactive Ship’s facility in Philadelphia, Pa., where it will be in a Logistical Support Asset status.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Singapore steps up participation in global offshore wind development with new partnership to catalyse project and innovation opportunities

    Source: Global Wind Energy Council – GWEC

    Headline: Singapore steps up participation in global offshore wind development with new partnership to catalyse project and innovation opportunities

    Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) is a member-based organisation that represents the entire wind energy sector. The members of GWEC represent over 1,500 companies, organisations and institutions in more than 80 countries, including manufacturers, developers, component suppliers, research institutes, national wind and renewables associations, electricity providers, finance and insurance companies.

    Find out more

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: New York State Joins the Global Offshore Wind Alliance

    Source: Global Wind Energy Council – GWEC

    Headline: New York State Joins the Global Offshore Wind Alliance

    24 September 2024, New York, USA | The State of New York announced its membership of the Global Offshore Wind Alliance (GOWA) – joining a network of governments, international organizations, and private sector actors committed to expanding offshore wind capacity globally and driving the transition to a clean energy future.

    GOWA is a multi-stakeholder alliance that aims to speed up the global deployment of offshore wind power. The alliance was launched at COP27 by Denmark, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), and the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC). Twenty governments have already joined GOWA. The addition of the State of New York further strengthens the global collaboration between regional and national governments and creates a more unified and coordinated approach to offshore wind development across the globe.

     

    Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), said: “New York is honored to join the Global Offshore Wind Alliance as we work with other government partners to grow and build-out the offshore wind industry, which is a critical component of the renewable energy infrastructure in New York and worldwide. This collaboration, which spans from sharing lessons and best practices to helping scale up offshore wind projects, will help further advance and sustain this powerhouse industry as we harness its full potential to secure a clean energy future.”

     

    “New York’s decision to join GOWA is a very timely step in uniting global efforts to expand the deployment of offshore wind energy. The commitment of New York not only enhances the alliance but also strengthens the collaboration between regional and national actors, improves energy security and pushes forward toward our shared global climate goals,” said Danish Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities, Lars Aagaard.

     

    Francesco La Camera, Director-General of IRENA, welcomed New York State joining GOWA: “Through GOWA, we work closely with governments, industry, and investors to accelerate the deployment of offshore wind projects worldwide. Offshore wind offers a pathway to decarbonize our power systems, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth. Our World Energy Transitions Outlook projects that offshore wind capacity must increase sevenfold by 2030 and more than thirtyfold by 2050 to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C. We need policies that incentivize investment, streamlined permitting processes, and innovative financing solutions.”

     

    As a pioneer in renewable energy, New York has already set ambitious targets under its Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, including the deployment of at least 9 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2035, a goal of at least 70 percent of New York’s electricity being generated from renewable sources by 2030 and a commitment to 100 percent zero-emission electricity by 2040. By joining GOWA, New York contributes to the global effort to accelerate renewable energy development, including the push for tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030, a key global goal decided at COP28.

    The GOWA membership fosters collaboration between regional and national governments, a partnership important for advancing the offshore wind industry. This cooperation enables more efficient offshore wind deployment by combining the innovation and localized expertise of regional governments with the broader policy frameworks and resources provided by national authorities.

     

    “The continuous growth of GOWA’s membership reflects a steadfast commitment to offshore wind as a vital force in achieving net zero, supported by multi-national, national, and sub-national governments. I’m encouraged by the eagerness of key players to join our community, united in addressing the challenges of accelerating offshore wind development. New York’s decision to join GOWA at this critical juncture will bring invaluable expertise from a market that has weathered challenging conditions. I look forward to collaborating with New York and all GOWA members as we chart the global offshore wind pathway toward 2050.” – Amisha Patel, Head of Secretariat (Interim), Global Offshore Wind Alliance (GOWA).

    Ben Backwell, CEO of GWEC, said: “The growth of the Global Offshore Wind Alliance demonstrates the vital role offshore wind plays in the energy transition and the importance of collaboration to delivering on the world’s renewable energy ambitions. The addition of the State of New York to the Alliance brings another strong voice and invaluable expertise to the group. The US offshore wind industry is a key part of the energy transition’s acceleration this decade, and we look forward to supporting the State of New York’s efforts in making their offshore wind sector an example for the rest of the world to follow”

     

    He also highlighted GWEC’s research findings:

     

    “GWEC’s research suggests the world could deliver GOWA’s target of 380 GW of offshore wind by 2030, but only with the right frameworks in place. The collaborative work of the Alliance is fundamental to establishing and expanding this framework around the world and ensuring offshore wind delivers on its potential as a key tool of the energy transition.”

     

    GOWA’s goal is to significantly increase the global offshore wind capacity, aiming for a total of at least 380 GW by 2030 and at least 70 GW each year from 2030 onwards. This expansion is essential for reaching global climate neutrality by 2050 and limiting global warming to below 1.5°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.

     

    With New York State as its newest member, GOWA now includes 21 member governments, including the European Commission and three subnational governments, and ten other key stakeholders, including the offshore wind sector, inter-governmental organizations, and non-governmental organizations.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Welcome to the Sustainable Development Impact Meetings 2024

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    During the week of 23-27 September 2024, on the occasion of the United Nations General Assembly, the World Economic Forum will host the Sustainable Development Impact Meetings.

    Drawing on the Forum’s dedicated communities of purpose, business leaders, policymakers, international and civil society organizations, innovators and social entrepreneurs will convene in person for a series of carefully curated impact-driven leaders’ dialogues.

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/ 
    Twitter ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #WorldEconomicForum

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cq6zmX_tvM

    MIL OSI Video –