On 29 September each year New Zealand Police commemorates Police Remembrance Day on the feast day of the Archangel Michael, the patron saint of police. This year it will be observed on Friday 27 September.
Police staff and members of the Police family will gather this Friday to mark Police Remembrance Day, a time to honour and remember colleagues now lost to us.
A national service will be held this Friday at the Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC) to honour staff who have been slain or died as a result of their duties, as well as serving, retired and former Police staff who have passed away in the preceding 12 months.
We will also remember our police colleagues in Australia and the Pacific who have been killed by criminal acts while performing their official duties or died as a result of their duties.
Commissioner Andrew Coster will attend the service along with the Minister of Police the Hon Mark Mitchell and Associate Minister of Police the Hon Casey Costello.
Wreaths will be laid at the Memorial Wall and recruits will perform a haka to honour those being remembered.
The livestreaming will be recorded and will remain on the Facebook pages and website to watch after the service.
In addition to the national service, local Remembrance Day services will be held across the country.
On Police Remembrance Day and in the week leading up to it, Police staff throughout New Zealand wear the huia pin which was developed by the Police Association and New Zealand Police.
The tail plumage of the huia bird – now lost to us – is something rare and special and to wear it is considered by Māori to be a great honour. By incorporating the Police chevron into the huia tail feather, the design of the pin symbolises the honouring of someone special, now lost to police.
Media are invited to the event, and are asked to be in place by 10.45am for an 11.00am start to the service.
Please come to the reception area of the RNZPC on Friday 27 September 2024 by 10.30am.
The Albanese Labor Government has today announced the appointment of Mr Will Kostakis to the Public Lending Right Committee as an author representative for a four-year term.
The Committee is responsible for the administration of the Public Lending Right Scheme.
The Scheme ensures Australian book publishers and creators are compensated for the free multiple use of their work in Australian public and educational lending libraries.
Will Kostakis is a bestselling author who, as a high school student, won theSydney Morning Herald Young Writer of the Year for a collection of short stories.
Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said Mr Kostakis’s skill and continued advocacy for young readers and writers would be an asset to the committee.
“Will is a dedicated and passionate young author whose work tells the stories of the people that make up modern Australia.
“The Public Lending Rights Committee ensures writers and publishers are properly compensated for their work and so, it’s invaluable to have working writers, such as Will on board.
“The Albanese Labor Government’s changes to includes ebooks and audiobooks have meant even more Australian writers are now benefiting from these schemes.”
Mr Will Kostakis is an award-winning children’s and young adult’s author who has extensive experience working with public and educational libraries. An accomplished public speaker, he has spent more than 16 years travelling around Australia and overseas to speak about his books and writing at schools, festivals and conferences.
His books have been shortlisted for numerous awards, and his latest bookWe Could Be Somethingwon the 2024 Prime Minister’s Literary Awards in the Young Adult Literature category.
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of Japan, Kishida Fumio, on the margins of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Kishida reaffirmed the strong bond between Canada and Japan as G7 partners, as well as their shared commitment to promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and to standing with Ukraine for as long as it takes.
Prime Minister Trudeau praised Prime Minister Kishida’s leadership on the G7 Leaders’ Hiroshima Vision on Nuclear Disarmament and his efforts toward an international treaty banning the production of fissile material for use in nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices.
The two leaders discussed ways to expand bilateral trade, investment, and energy co-operation to foster economic security and support a strong middle class on both sides of the Pacific. They also explored opportunities to increase collaboration between the two countries and advance progress on shared global priorities, including in the context of Canada’s G7 Presidency next year.
Prime Minister Trudeau thanked Prime Minister Kishida for his meaningful efforts in strengthening the Canada-Japan relationship during his tenure and his friendship to Canada.
Women charged with stealing in Launceston and Devonport
Monday, 23 September 2024 – 9:46 am.
Two women have been charged after allegedly stealing over $6,000 worth of goods from stores in the Launceston and Devonport areas between May and September 2024. The 26-year-old and 39-year-old, both from Ravenswood, were arrested in the Rooke Street Mall, Devonport on Saturday after they were intercepted by police leaving a store with a significant amount of property. Police obtained a search warrant for their vehicle and recovered further stolen property. Both women appeared in court today and were remanded in custody to appear again at a later date. If you have any information regarding this matter, please contact Tasmania Police on 131 444, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania via crimestopperstas.com.au on 1800 333 000.
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of Japan, Kishida Fumio, on the margins of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Kishida reaffirmed the close ties between Canada and Japan as G7 partners, as well as their shared commitment to promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and to standing with Ukraine for as long as necessary.
Prime Minister Trudeau commended Prime Minister Kishida’s leadership in the G7 Leaders’ Hiroshima Vision on nuclear disarmament and his efforts to secure an international treaty banning the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices.
The two leaders discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation on trade, investment and energy to promote economic security and support a strong middle class on both sides of the Pacific. They also explored opportunities to enhance collaboration between the two countries and advance shared global priorities, including through Canada’s G7 presidency next year.
Prime Minister Trudeau thanked Prime Minister Kishida for his significant efforts to strengthen Canada-Japan relations during his term and for his friendship for our country.
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EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Fumio Kishida, Prime Minister of Japan. The Secretary-General thanked Prime Minister Kishida for Japan’s valuable contributions to the United Nations and its activities, as well as for Japan’s strong commitment to disarmament and non-proliferation. The Secretary-General and Prime Minister Kishida discussed a number of key shared priorities, including Security Council reform.
Woman caught more than four times the legal limit in George Town
Monday, 23 September 2024 – 9:53 am.
A 48-year-old George Town woman was charged with high range drink driving, driving under the influence of intoxicating liquor and a number of traffic offences in George Town yesterday. Police reportedly observed the woman speeding in a silver Ford Ranger on Main Road, George Town about 7.05pm, before performing an illegal u-turn and crashing into a residential fence. The woman returned a breath alcohol reading of 0.225 percent, more than four times the legal limit. She was arrested, disqualified from driving for 24 months and bailed to appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court at a later date.
Anura Kumara Dissanayake, candidate of National People’s Power, emerged as the winner in the presidential election in Sri Lanka held on Saturday, the Election Commission confirmed Sunday.
Given that no candidate secured more than 50 percent of the votes, the Election Commission counted the second and third preferences of the two leading candidates, the first time in history of Sri Lankan presidential election.
Dissanayake obtained 5,634,915 votes in the first count and 105,264 preferential votes during the second count.
His main opponent, candidate of opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya, Sajith Premadasa, obtained 4,363,035 votes in the first count and 167,867 preferential votes in the second count.
In a post on social media platform “X” (formerly Twitter) after the release of election results, Dissanayake said, “The millions of eyes filled with hope and expectation push us forward, and together, we stand ready to rewrite Sri Lankan history.”
“This dream can only be realized with a fresh start. The unity of Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims, and all Sri Lankans is the bedrock of this new beginning. The New Renaissance we seek will rise from this shared strength and vision,” he posted.
Incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe failed with a total of 2,299,767 votes.
According to the President’s Media Division, Wickremesinghe delivered a special address after the results came out.
He said that the people of the country have made their decision at this presidential election, and they must respect their decision and act according to that mandate to ensure the functioning of the country.
“I was eventually able to carry the dear child called Sri Lanka along a long distance safely on the dangerous rope bridge. Close to the very end of the rope bridge, people have decided to hand over the dear child called Sri Lanka to President Anura Dissanayake,” he said.
“I wish that you will be able to carry this child away from the bridge to the other bank, even safer than the way I carried the child,” said Wickremesinghe.
Kinmen on Sunday received its first tour group from the Chinese mainland in more than four years. The group of 20-plus tourists arrived in Kinmen from Xiamen, Fujian Province, on the Chinese mainland, and will go on a two-day sightseeing tour that ends on Monday. On Aug. 30, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism announced the decision to resume allowing residents in Fujian Province to travel to Kinmen. The Kinmen County government organized a lion-dance performance at the wharf, along with a long red banner, to welcome the tour group. Hsu Chi-hsin, chief of Kinmen’s tourism department, welcomed the group at the wharf, expressing hope that the tour would pave the way for smoother and more regular cross-Strait exchanges, local media reported. “We hope that after a long absence, the members of this first group will return to Xiamen with fond memories of Kinmen, sharing its beauty with friends and family, encouraging more mainland tourists to visit, and boosting Kinmen’s tourism and local industries,” the tourism department said in a press release. Chen Yu-jen, a Kinmen legislator, urged the Democratic Progressive Party authorities to lift the current ban on tour groups from Taiwan to the mainland as soon as possible.
A member of Guizhou provincial mountain resources institute observes the rock formation inside a branch cave of Shuanghe Cave in Suiyang County, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, Sept. 23, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua] Scientists from China, France, Portugal, Belgium and other countries gathered on Friday at the Shuanghe Cave, Asia’s longest known cave, in southwest China’s Guizhou Province for a launch ceremony of the 23rd joint international scientific expedition into the cave. The expedition is scheduled for Oct. 7 to 24, and the results of their findings will be made available on Oct. 24. Previous scientific expeditions found 44 individual giant panda fossils, with the oldest specimen dating back 100,000 years and the most recent dating back a few hundred years. The fossils prove that Guizhou was once a habitat for giant pandas, which are today known to survive in the provinces of Sichuan, Shaanxi and Gansu. Zhou Wenlong, deputy secretary general of the Guizhou Cave Association, said the upcoming cave expedition will further study the cave’s resources, formation and evolution. According to the results of the 2023 joint expedition, the cave network has 107 connected openings and boasts a length of 409.9 kilometers, making it the longest known cave in Asia and the third-longest in the world. It is also the world’s longest dolomite cave. French caver Jean Bottazzi, who has more than three decades of cave exploration experience in China, is acting as chief of the upcoming cave research. He calls Shuanghe Cave his second home. He said that since the late 1980s, the discoveries of Chinese and foreign experts in the cave have led to repeated updates of the cave’s length, and many cave fossils and living organisms have been unearthed, providing rich, valuable scientific research materials. During this year’s scientific expedition, Suiyang County, which administers the cave area, will hold activities such as a geological science photography contest and a short video contest to promote the cave geopark.
Its purpose is to put more people into prison for longer. In its Regulatory Impact Statement, the Ministry of Justice estimates 1,350 people will be added to the current prison population. The ministry is also clear that most of the changes are unnecessary and rest on inadequate consultation, particularly with Māori.
The main change the bill makes is to cap reductions in a prison sentence for mitigating factors at “40% of the sentence”, unless that would be “manifestly unjust”.
Mitigating factors
To understand why this is a problem, we need to start with how the Sentencing Act 2002 works. First, the seriousness of an offence provides a starting point. Since the maximum sentence is for the worst example of the offence, the facts can be put on a scale.
Secondly, the judge considers aggravating factors, such as repeat offending, malicious motivations or the victim’s vulnerability. The new bill specifies various additional aggravating factors, but the ministry notes these are already taken into account.
Finally, the judge looks at mitigating factors, such as youth, intellectual disability or mental illness, remorse and positive steps to remedy the cause of offending.
One important available reduction is for a guilty plea. The bill will cap this at 25% – the Supreme Court already decided this several years ago.
Sentence reductions based on these factors will regularly exceed the overall 40% cap proposed in the new bill. For example, impulsive offending by a young adult with ADHD who was in state care because of family abuse, and who pleads guilty early, would likely mean a considerable sentence reduction.
Similarly, offending by someone who both admits it, shows remorse and assists the police would qualify for considerable reductions.
The New Zealand judiciary is not soft by world standards. Its rate of incarceration – currently 181 per 100,000 people – places the country 90th out of 223 jurisdictions.
This is well above Australia, England, Wales and Scotland, and double the rates in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Canada. As Māori have long made up more than 50% of the prison population, their incarceration rate is at US levels. Do we really want to make this worse?
When former Finance Minister Bill English observed New Zealand’s high prison population represented a “moral and fiscal failure”, he asked the chief science advisor to collate the evidence.
Prisoners are seven times more likely than the general population to have a mental health or substance abuse problem. Ninety percent have a history of mental health or addiction, with 60% still affected. Up to 70% have significant literacy problems.
The sentencing reform proposals rest on the notion people should take more personal responsibility. But they overlook the reality of most of the people in the system having a reduced capacity to do that. This looks more like dogma than data.
And since prisons train people in criminal ways and provide gangs with recruits, but do not deal with underlying causes of criminal behaviour, it is dogma that risks creating more victims.
Increased prisoner numbers: Paremoremo Maximum Security Prison, Auckland. Getty Images
A stressed justice system
On top of this, the criminal justice system is creaking, without enough judges or courtrooms. Complainants, defendants and witnesses already wait too long for trials.
Reductions in sentences for guilty pleas and other mitigating features are essential to preventing this from getting worse. Some of these factors only come to light at the sentencing hearing when pre-sentence reports (often including medical reports) are provided.
Also, the final preparation for a trial often leads the prosecution to accept a plea to a less serious offence. And the time waiting for a trial often means a defendant will have served all or much of their sentence already.
If a judge feels obliged to impose a higher sentence because of the new amendments, lawyers will have to advise defendants accordingly. Inevitably, more will decide to take their chances in a trial rather than plead guilty.
That means more complainants will have to give evidence, some defendants will be acquitted, and the criminal justice system will creak more.
Judges and rules
Judges will have to confront some dissonance in the law. The Sentencing Act requires judges to impose the “least restrictive” sentence. But a sentence that is longer than appropriate doesn’t meet that requirement.
A longer-than-necessary prison sentence is arguably arbitrary detention. But the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act requires judges to interpret other statutes to avoid breaching rights if possible, including the right not to be detained arbitrarily.
In addition, a fair trial should aim to secure the right sentence for the individual defendant.
Judges do not sign up to breach people’s rights. Nor do they like it when the executive branch of government uses its parliamentary majority to overstep the separation of powers. Quite properly, they will do what they can to secure individualised justice.
They might, for example, set a sentence at the low end of the available range to achieve the same outcome while appearing to abide by the new 40% cap. Or they might just decide a rehabilitative sentence, invariably non-custodial, is the better outcome.
Judges spend all their time dealing with rules. You can expect them to be creative in finding ways around restrictions that should not be imposed on them.
Kris Gledhill is currently working on a project relating to sentencing that is funded by the Borrin Foundation. He is also a member of the Executive Committee of the Criminal Bar Association, which represents prosecution and defence lawyers. The views stated in this article are his own.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne
A national Newspoll, conducted September 16–20 from a sample of 1,249, had a 50–50 tie for the third consecutive time. Since the last Newspoll three weeks ago, primary votes were 38% Coalition (steady), 31% Labor (down one), 13% Greens (up one), 6% One Nation (down one) and 12% for all Others (up one).
Anthony Albanese’s net approval improved five points to -8, with 51% dissatisfied and 43% satisfied. Peter Dutton’s net approval was down two points to -15. Albanese led Dutton as better PM by 46–37 (45–37 previously).
The graph below shows Albanese’s net approval in Newspoll this term. It has plus signs for the Newspoll results and a smoothed line has been fitted. After dropping to -13 net three weeks ago, Albanese’s ratings have rebounded to where they’ve been for most of this year, poor but not dreadful.
Other recent federal polls have not been as good for Albanese and Labor as Newspoll. Albanese’s net approval was at -22 in YouGov and -15 in Freshwater, and Labor trailed by 52–48 in Freshwater, one of their worst results from any pollster this term. Freshwater leans a little to the Coalition relative to other polls.
Asked what aspect of cost of living worried them most, 40% selected housing, 25% groceries, 18% energy and 11% insurance.
Queensland Newspoll has thumping lead for LNP
The Queensland state election will be held on October 26. A Newspoll, conducted September 12–18 from a sample of 1,047, gave the Liberal National Party (LNP) a 55–45 lead, a one-point gain for the LNP since the last Queensland Newspoll in March. Primary votes were 42% LNP (steady), 30% Labor (steady), 12% Greens (down one), 8% One Nation (steady) and 8% for all Others (up one).
Labor Premier Steven Miles’ net approval was up one point to -10, with 51% dissatisfied and 41% satisfied. LNP leader David Crisafulli’s net approval dropped two points to +12. Crisafulli had a 46–39 lead as better premier (43–37 in March).
Asked whether Labor deserved to be re-elected, 57% said it was time to give someone else a go (down one since March), while 29% said they deserved to be re-elected (up three). By 53–47, voters were confident that the Crisafulli LNP is ready to govern.
Labor will be a little relieved that this poll was not worse. A YouGov poll in July and a Wolf + Smith poll in August had both given the LNP a 57–43 lead. Nearly ten years after they gained power in Queensland following the January 2015 election, Labor appears doomed.
Further federal polls: YouGov poll tied
A national YouGov poll, conducted September 13–19 from a sample of 1,619, had a 50–50 tie, unchanged from the previous YouGov poll in late August. Primary votes were 39% Coalition (up two), 30% Labor (down two), 14% Greens (up one), 7% One Nation (down one) and 10% for all Others (steady).
In the previous YouGov poll, Labor was unlucky not to lead given the primary votes. In this poll, Labor is lucky not to trail.
Albanese’s net approval slumped 11 points to -22, with 58% dissatisfied and 36% satisfied. Dutton’s net approval was down five points to -10. Albanese led as preferred PM by 42–39 (43–38 in August).
Freshwater has one of Coalition’s best results this term
A national Freshwater poll for The Financial Review, conducted September 13–14 from a sample of 1,057, gave the Coalition a 52–48 lead, a one-point gain for the Coalition since the August Freshwater poll. This is one of the best results for the Coalition from any pollster this term. Primary votes were 42% Coalition (up one), 30% Labor (down two), 13% Greens (up one) and 15% for all Others.
Albanese’s net approval was down five points to -15, with 49% unfavourable and 34% favourable. Dutton’s net approval was down one point to -4. Albanese led Dutton as preferred PM by an unchanged 45–41.
Asked to give their top three issues, 74% selected cost of living as a top issue, and the Coalition increased its lead over Labor on cost of living from seven points in August to 14. The Coalition also had a 16-point lead on economic management (13 in August).
Morgan poll: Labor has narrow lead
A national Morgan poll, conducted September 9–15 from a sample of 1,634, gave Labor a 50.5–49.5 lead, a 0.5-point gain for the Coalition since the September 2–8 Morgan poll.
Primary votes were 37.5% Coalition (up one), 30.5% Labor (up 0.5), 12.5% Greens (down two), 5.5% One Nation (down 0.5), 10% independents (up 0.5) and 4% others (up 0.5).
The headline figure uses respondent preferences. By 2022 election preferences, Labor led by an unchanged 52–48.
Redbridge and Accent Research MRP poll tied at 50–50
A national Redbridge and Accent Research multi-level regression with post-stratification (MRP) poll, conducted July 10 to August 27 from a sample of 5,976, had a 50–50 tie, a two-point gain for the Coalition since the last MRP poll between February and May. Primary votes were 38% Coalition (up two), 32% Labor (steady), 12% Greens (down one) and 19% for all Others (steady).
MRP polls use modelling to estimate the number of seats that would be won by each party. The August MRP poll had a point estimate of 69 Labor seats out of 150, 68 Coalition, three Greens and ten others. In the May poll, Labor had 77 seats out of 151, the Coalition 60, the Greens three and others 11.
The August poll had no chance either major party would win a majority (76 seats), but Labor had a 75% chance of winning the most seats. These probabilities reflect the poll’s data, and are not predictions for the election, due by May 2025.
Adrian Beaumont does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
New York-based Sea Cadets and Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets attended the event, held at the U.S. Armed Forces Recruiting Station in Times Square.
“Having these young Sea Cadets and NJROTC cadets – the future of our nation – learn about our climate and energy technologies was a fantastic way for the Department of the Navy to kick off its participation in Climate Week NYC,” said Berger. “They understand firsthand how climate change is impacting our world today, and we were able to help make the connection for them of how climate readiness is mission readiness for our Sailors and Marines.”
DON researchers and engineers from various commands showcased technologies, such as hydrogen-powered fuel cells, small unit power systems, water-conserving firefighting nozzles, atmospheric water generation, and green concrete, to educate the students about the DON’s commitment to climate action and inspire them about DON careers in climate- and energy-focused roles.
Madeleine White, resilience innovation research portfolio manager at Naval Facilities Engineering and Expeditionary Warfare Center, explained green concrete, which uses sustainable materials to reduce traditional concrete’s environmental impact, such as lowering the carbon footprint of construction.
“Working on this [technology] as it is as an engineer has been great, but being able to show it to the individuals who are one day going to use it or be involved with it makes my job all worthwhile,” White said. “And doing [the event] out in a space like this and having these engineer technologies out in such a public space for people to see is such a fun environment to be in.”
Jeremiah Rodriguez, a junior and NJROTC cadet at Curtis High School in Staten Island, N.Y., said he would think about global warming and its impact.
“It would be in the back of my mind, such as how it would continuously get hotter,” he said. “One day, it’ll get to the point where you can cook an egg on the sidewalk. With this new technology, I really hope we can figure out a way to significantly reduce the impact of climate change. After this presentation, I really find it hopeful for our generation’s future.”
Climate Week NYC is the largest annual climate event of its kind, bringing together more than 600 events and activities across New York City in person, hybrid and online. Climate Group hosts the official program during the week that brings together the most senior international figures from business, government, civil society and the climate sector.
This year, Climate Week NYC is being held Sept. 22-29, 2024. The event takes place every year in partnership with the United Nations General Assembly and is run in coordination with the United Nations and the City of New York.
In May 2022, the Department of the Navy released Climate Action 2030 in which Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro recognized climate change as one of the most destabilizing forces of our time and charged the Department with building a climate-ready force.
Berger is responsible for providing oversight and policy for Navy and Marine Corps energy and climate resilience; infrastructure sustainment, restoration and modernization; military construction; acquisition, utilization and disposal of real property and facilities; environmental protection, planning, restoration and natural resources conservation; and safety and occupational health.
Residents and visitors will be able to experience areas of the city walls from a fresh perspective next spring, as this unique and historic space blooms into life.
Volunteers and businesses from across the city are coming together this week to help transform the City Walls embankments, for the first phase of the York Walls in Bloom project.
This unique green space will evolve into a beautiful biodiverse landscape, where residents and visitors will be able to enjoy seeing many different pollinators thrive.
Over its 2,000-year-old history, the city walls embankments (ramparts) have constantly evolved and changed from being cleared sheer slopes, areas of grazing until the mid-20th century and in recent years manicured lawns and bedding plants.
The first phase of the York in Bloom project will be in the city centre at Station Rise. The area around the Station Rise rampart has over the centuries seen some of the most dramatic changes in landscape visible anywhere on the city walls.
The season bedding displays here will be familiar to many residents and visitors, but this approach is not without its downsides. It’s resource intensive in terms of water and carbon used in the growing, transporting, planting, weeding and removing bedding plants. This makes the practice increasingly unsustainable for the city and the planet.
Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency, said “York is proud to have some of the UK’s best preserved medieval walls, and this partnership project to cover the site at Station Rise in meadow flowers for York Walls in Bloom will not only look beautiful, it will also help support York’s bees, moths and butterflies, and help preserve the ramparts underneath.
We are lucky to have expert advice from many partners and are also in the process of reviewing our maintenance of the walls overall. We will ensure that we adopt the very best heritage and ecology conservation practices to prevent soil erosion, which increases with extreme heat and increased rainfall, maximise the environmental benefit, and keep the Walls looking great for generations to come.”
Inspired by projects such as the Tower of London ‘Moat in Bloom’, the council believes that carefully managed wild flowering could offer the right mix of stunning visuals, increased sustainability and improved habitat.
York Walls in Bloom is being carefully introduced over the course of 2024. Earlier this year, the area was left to grow naturally for several months so that the ecological study could be undertaken. This was critical so that the council knew that any intervention wouldn’t endanger existing habitats.
While next year will see a spectacular floral display near Station Rise, the area will still be very carefully managed over several years to balance the ecology of the site. The second phase of the project will be extended to the Red Tower, Walmgate next year.
This will transform the flatter sections of rampart on the outside of the city walls by sowing wildflowers in Spring, to create a floral display in summer 2025, which over the following years will be carefully managed into a sustainable natural floral meadow.
Introducing a more sustainable, natural environment in the coming years, including changing how frequently the grass is cut in this area, will ensure a healthier soil and more wildflower growth.
The York in Walls project has gained the backing and sponsorship of local businesses.
Simon Mahon, General Manager of The Grand York, said: “We’re delighted to be working on the York Walls in Bloom project. We’re very proud sponsors and are looking forward seeing wildflowers being introduced along the walls, which naturally will make this historical part of York even more beautiful.
Here at The Grand, York, as part of our sustainability initiative we house approximately 50,000 bees on our roof – the honey they produce is used throughout The Grand in desserts, pastries and cocktails. So, we’re really happy to support this project.”
From Tuesday 24 September, works will be visible on the ground when the turf will be ‘wither stripped’ to allow for the sowing of the wildflowers.
With the help on York Cares, volunteers from across the city will come together to support the project and help sow the seeds.
Holly Hennell, Manager, York Cares: “The 16th annual York Cares Big Community Challenge is taking place between 16 September and 11 October in partnership with City of York Council, St Nicks and the University of York. The challenge aims to connect communities with nature, providing volunteering opportunities at over 30 sites across the city along routes leading into the city centre around the city walls.
“Employee-volunteers will get involved with a variety of practical activities to enhance biodiversity across the city including sowing seeds as part of the York Walls in Bloom project, a fantastic initiative which will really brighten up the city whilst also benefiting the environment. The York Cares team is excited to be able to get involved in one of the sessions alongside their members, demonstrating the difference we can make when we come together.”
The York in Bloom project is funded by the Green Corridors project , the National Lottery Community Fund and is sponsored by local businesses including The Grand York.
Be Bright, Be Seen, Be Safe is the key message from City of York Council and North Yorkshire Council during Cycle to School Week [23-27 September].
Getting to school safely, especially as the nights are now getting darker is one of the most important things taught in schools, through the Bikeability and pedestrian training sessions, which take place throughout the year.
Those who run the training sessions are joining forces with the York and North Yorkshire safeguarding children’s teams, to raise awareness of the importance of children wearing cycle helmets, bright clothing and putting on their bike lights.
Cllr Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport at City of York Council, said: “Cycling can be so much fun. It brings independence and it’s a fantastic way of building exercise into everyone’s day and improving health.
“As the nights draw in it’s important to be visible on your cycle. Wearing bright clothes, using cycle lights after dusk and wearing a helmet will help to keep everyone safe. And drivers also need to play a role: driving responsibly, using mirrors to check for cyclists before turning, and giving cyclists at least 1.5m space when passing.”.
Jason McAleese from Modeshift, who deliver the Active Travel Ambassador programme in secondary schools across York and North Yorkshire, said: “Cycling safety is crucial. If we want young people to embrace more active and sustainable ways of traveling to and from school, they must feel both safe and confident. With our support these Active Travel Ambassador schools lead the way by researching and developing behaviour change campaigns that prioritise active travel and road safety.
Interested in having the Active Travel Ambassador programme at your secondary school, email jason@modeshift.org.uk
Visit iTravelYork for cycling tips or to find out more about the cycle training.
The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada. The Secretary-General appreciated Canada’s support for the Summit of the Future and the Pact for the Future. They exchanged on Canada’s upcoming presidency of the G7, the promotion of sustainable development and effective multilateralism.
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Le Secrétaire général a rencontré S.E. M. Justin Trudeau, Premier ministre du Canada. Le Secrétaire général a exprimé son appréciation pour le soutien du Canada au Sommet de l’avenir et au Pacte pour l’avenir. Ils ont échangé sur la prochaine présidence canadienne du G7, la promotion du développement durable et un multilatéralisme efficace.
Warracknabeal Fire Brigade may be one of Victoria’s oldest fire brigades – but its members have always had a focus on innovation and progression.
Located in the state’s north-west, Warracknabeal brigade has a history dating back to CFA’s formative years. The brigade began in the 1890s when local volunteers secured a 26-person Merryweather hand-operated manual pump enabling them to officially join the newly created Country Fire Brigades Board (now CFA).
By 1919, the Country Fire Brigades Board (CFBB) had seen the potential of motorised firefighting vehicles which were considered a great advance on horse-drawn vehicles. Following the war, there were also huge developments in the design and use of motorised water pumps, which made firefighting more efficient and effective.
Warracknabeal’s then captain, local entrepreneur Tom Gardiner seized upon this opportunity, establishing Gardiner-Aussie Workshops in the early 1920s with the goal of building trucks and pumpers suitable for rural firefighting. His innovative design would prove successful and was quickly adopted by the CFBB. Tom’s workshop was commissioned to develop 55 pumpers prior to his death in 1935.
The new pumpers would not be the first motorised vehicle produced out of Warracknabeal. A belt drive bike with a small four stroke engine and pedal assist was built by the Mallee Cycle works in 1905.
Another of the brigade’s early leaders has strong ties to CFA’s history and was instrumental in improving CFA’s early communication with members. In 1947 Captain Norman Tosh recognised the need for a regular publication to share information with brigades across the state. With approval from CFA, he became the founder and first editor of ‘The Fireman’ (now Firewise), a newspaper for volunteer firefighters which is still in circulation today.
Warracknabeal Fire Brigade has grown significantly in the years since, and members are firmly focused on the future.
Current brigade captain Cameron Whelan says, like its early years, Warracknabeal brigade continues to have a progressive and innovative lens focused on improvement.
The brigade’s new, state-of-the-art station opened in mid-2023 replacing the 35-year-old station. The station features improved facilities such as drive through engine bays, a laundry, changerooms and other amenities. The brigade was able to provide a significant contribution to improve the size of the meeting room, rear shed, install bi-fold doors as well as make other improvements.
“We’ve always been a vibrant and progressive brigade, so the modern design of the new station represents us well,” Cameron said.
“We’ve built this station for the next 30 years so the vision is not only to support the needs of Warracknabeal today; we’re also looking beyond that to what will be required in the future.
“Our Fire Equipment Maintenance servicing is key to the brigade continuing to improve facilities and operational equipment.
“The brigade also has an active social Auxiliary membership primarily supporting the brigade through fundraising programs and assisting local community groups such as the Scouts and Guides.”
The brigade has about 70 members and attends about 40 incidents a year locally; members also provide support across the state during the fire season.
With one of the key industries in Warracknabeal and surrounds being broadacre cereal farming, harvesting-related fires are one of the main risks the brigade encounters over the fire danger period. Its members have been heavily involved in the development of the joint CFA and Victorian Farmers Federation Grain Harvesting Guidelines.
“The main incidents we turn out to are running grass and scrub fires through to harvesting machinery fires,” Cameron said.
“Like many other towns we also have a range of other risks from hospital/aged care, large chemical storage facilities through to household or structural fires.”
The brigade has a very stable membership and whilst they will always welcome new members, Cameron says they are lucky they don’t need to actively seek members.
“Like many rural brigades, we can see a drop off when members reach 18-19 years old because they leave for university or work,” Cameron said.
“A strong Juniors program aims to encourage skill development and succession from the junior to senior ranks.
“To encourage retention, we include fire ground practise as part of our Junior training to build their skills and eagerness.”
Cameron said volunteering with CFA is for anyone who is willing to help their community, better themselves and join a bigger family.
“The thing I’m most proud of in leading our brigade is the values our members display,” Cameron said.
“Values such as care, respect and integrity are common attributes amongst our cohort.”
This story is part of our profile series Brigades of CFA which highlights our brigades and the great work they do in their communities.
On September 18, the “10th Anniversary of the HWPL September 18 Peace Summit” was broadcasted in over 40 countries and attracted approximately 100,000 people at the HWPL Peace Training Institute in Gyeonggi-do, Korea, where the anniversary was held.
Hosted by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), under the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and the Department of Global Communications (DGC), the event was themed “Building a Global Community of Peace through Regional Cooperation.”
Led by HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee, it was a celebration of the contributions of global leaders and citizens towards peace over the past decade and exploring strategies for future global unity. Notable attendees included Great Dharma Master Hyecheon of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and José Honorio da Costa Ferreira Jerónimo, East Timor’s Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Culture.
Previously, the HWPL Peace Summit was first celebrated a decade earlier, in Seoul, 2014. The summit was attended by more than 1,000 political, religious, women’s, and youth leaders, as well as media representatives from over 140 countries. Discussions focused on conflict resolution, religious harmony, and the implementation of legal measures to ensure sustainable peace.
During his commemorative speech, HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee expressed gratitude to all participants for attending the 10th anniversary of the peace movement. He encouraged everyone by saying, “Let us no longer draw lines of difference between you and me. With love and peace, let’s unite to save the global village. Let us cooperate to help each other and leave behind a valuable legacy of peace for future generations.”
Followed by 10 year’s worth of highlights, this led to many discussions of future plans of HWPL and their partners, with a particular emphasis on establishing a “regional network” for peace tailored to local characteristics. Through this regional network, HWPL aims to actively address threats to peace and consolidate collective capabilities.
In light of this, HWPL established partnerships for peace development with intergovernmental organizations such as the Group of Seven Plus (G7+) and the Latin American and Caribbean Parliament (PARLATINO). G7+ was established to promote harmony among conflict-ridden nations through peace, stability, and development, boasting 20 member states. PARLATINO, founded to promote development and integration based on democracy, currently has 23 member states.
Additionally, the nationwide “Accompany: Connecting Korea” campaign was launched with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed during the ceremony. The “Accompany” campaign was initially trialled in major cities in Korea last July. Through this launch, HWPL aims to work with over 230 civic organizations to connect cultures across generations and carry out diverse peace activities.
The “Accompany” campaign is a continuation of the Saemaul (New Village) Movement, which was responsible for South Korea’s economic development and social transformation in the late 20th century. The Saemaul Movement focused on modernising rural areas and strengthening community consciousness. Similarly, the Accompany campaign aims to overcome social conflicts rooted in generational, regional, gender, and ideological differences through social solidarity and cooperation.
To achieve the goal of establishing a “regional network,” various sessions will be held worldwide, focusing on diverse groups. Additionally, under the slogan “Let everyone in the global village become a messenger of peace,” individuals will be encouraged to play active roles in promoting peace. Messages of peace and unity from citizens of all walks of life, both domestically and internationally, will be collected and shared.
Heavenly Culture World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL) is a non-governmental international peace organization registered under the UN DGC and UN ECOSOC that is acknowledged for their endeavors and efforts towards achieving peace worldwide.
Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353September 20, 2024
Cotton, Boozman to Young and Su: All People Should Have the Opportunity for Dignified Work
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Senator John Boozman (R-Arkansas) today wrote a letter to OMB Director Shalanda Young and Acting Secretary of labor Julie Su regarding troubling reports that the Department of Labor (DOL) is considering a new rule that would abolish the 14(c) program wherein individuals with cognitive or physical disabilities can find employment and resources in a supervised setting. The Senators stated that all people deserve to have the opportunity for dignified work, and reiterated to Director Young and Acting Secretary Su that any attempt to disrupt this program without Congressional authorization would be illegal.
In part, the senators wrote:
“All people, regardless of their abilities, should have the opportunity for dignified work. The 14(c) program does not limit the ability of disabled workers to engage in competitive employment. It merely provides those with difficulties in a traditional work environment the opportunity to engage in meaningful work. It provides many vulnerable Americans with a sense of accomplishment and provides their families and caretakers with time to complete activities necessary for the functioning of their households.”
Full text of the letter may be found here and below.
September 20, 2024
Shalanda Young
Director
Office of Management and Budget
725 17th St NW
Washington, DC 20503
Julie Su
Acting Secretary
Department of Labor
200 Constitution Ave NW
Washington, DC 20210
Dear Director Young and Acting Secretary Su,
I write regarding troubling reports that the Department of Labor (DOL) is considering a new rule that would abolish the 14(c) program. Any changes to the 14(c) certificate program rests with Congress and not DOL.
Since 1938, the DOL has provided intellectually and developmentally disabled Americans the opportunity to engage in meaningful work through Section 14(c) certificates. According to the Washington Post, despite these longstanding statutes, and no legislative reforms, the DOL is considering a new rule that would be the “regulatory equivalent of abolition of 14(c) programs.”
All people, regardless of their abilities, should have the opportunity for dignified work. The 14(c) program does not limit the ability of disabled workers to engage in competitive employment. It merely provides those with difficulties in a traditional work environment the opportunity to engage in meaningful work. It provides many vulnerable Americans with a sense of accomplishment and provides their families and caretakers with time to complete activities necessary for the functioning of their households.
Regardless of any policy objections the administration might have with the 14(c) program, it must be enforced according to the law. Former Secretary Marty Walsh, the last Senate-confirmed Secretary of Labor, agreed that changes to the program rest with Congress, rather than the DOL. Any efforts to make it functionally unworkable without Congressional authorization would be illegal.
Before deciding on the legality of these proposed changes to 14(c), please answer the following questions:
1. Where in the Fair Labor Standards Act and accompanying amendments does the DOL find the legal authority to make significant changes to this program, especially considering the Supreme Court’s recent decision to end agency deference in Loper Bright Enterprises .v Raimondo?
2.How many disabled Americans would lose their jobs at sheltered workshops if 14(c) certificates were phased out?
3.Has the DOL considered the secondary effects of these individuals losing their jobs, such as their families needing to provide caretaking services during working hours, rather than working themselves or performing necessary functions for their households? If so, provide the details of that analysis.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
he Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Andrew Holness (ON, PC, MP), Prime Minister, Minister for Defence and Minister for Economic Growth and Job Creation of Jamaica. The Secretary-General welcomed Jamaica’s support to the Multinational Security Support mission to Haiti and Prime Minister Holness’ support to the Financing for Development Agenda and participation in the Sustainable Development Goals Stimulus Leaders Group. The Secretary-General and Prime Minister Holness discussed the importance of reforming the international financial architecture.
This undated file combo photo shows a jade dragon unearthed from a stone tomb site in the city of Chifeng, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Chinese archaeologists have unearthed the largest jade dragon ever discovered from the Hongshan culture, an important part of the Neolithic Age, at a stone tomb site in the city of Chifeng, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, according to the regional institute of cultural relics and archaeology. [Photo/Xinhua]
Chinese archaeologists have unearthed the largest jade dragon ever discovered from the Hongshan culture, an important part of the Neolithic Age, at a stone tomb site in the city of Chifeng, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, according to the regional institute of cultural relics and archaeology.
Measuring 15.8 cm long, 9.5 cm wide, and 3 cm thick, the artifact was found at a site featuring a circular tomb in the north and a square altar in the south, which is the only one of its kind ever found in the region.
Apart from the architectural remains, human skeletal remains, burials, fire pits, and cylindrical object pits have also been discovered at the site. The unearthed artifacts include jade and painted pottery basins and tripod pottery cups, among others.
The ongoing research at the site includes studies of the ancient environment, large-scale topographic mapping and carbon-14 dating, among others. The latest dating data indicates that the site belongs to the late Hongshan culture, dating back 5,100 to 5,000 years.
The finds were revealed during a themed seminar held Sunday in Chifeng, which provided updates on the archaeological progress at the stone tomb in Yuanbaoshan of Chifeng’s Aohan Banner.
For almost a year, Israel and Hezbollah have engaged in increasingly provocative cross-border skirmishes as onlookers warn that this escalating war of attrition could land the region in all-out conflict. The past few days have made that devastating scenario closer to a reality.
First came Israel’s pager and walkie-talkie attack, an unprecedented assault on Hezbollah’s communications that injured thousands of the organization’s operatives. It was followed by the assassination of Ibrahim Aqil, a key Hezbollah leader, who died in an airstrike that also killed other senior commanders of the militant group, as well as some civilians. Hezbollah has responded by extending the geographical range of its rockets fired at Israel, targeting both military facilities and civilian neighborhoods just north and east of Haifa.
As a scholar of Lebanon and Israel, I have followed the dynamics of this war of attrition since Oct. 8, 2023, the day after Hamas executed an unprecedented and deadly attack on Israel, which responded by bombarding the Gaza Strip. Hezbollah then began firing rockets into northern Israel in solidarity with Hamas in Gaza.
Despite the high rhetoric and mutual threatsof destruction, until recent days neither Israel nor Hezbollah, nor the latter’s sponsor Iran, have shown an interest in a full-scale war. All parties surely know the likely destructive consequences of such an eventuality for themselves: Israel has the military power to devastate Beirut and other parts of Lebanon as it did in Gaza, while even a weakened Hezbollah could fire thousands of missiles at Israeli strategic sites, from the airport to central Tel Aviv, water supply lines and electricity hubs, and offshore gas rigs.
So instead, they have exchanged fire and blows along their shared boundary, with somewhat agreed-upon red lines concerning the geographical scope of attacks and efforts not to intentionally target civilians.
But Israel’s recent attacks in Lebanon may have turned the page of this war of attrition into a new and far more acute situation, putting the region on the brink of a full war. Such a war would wreak havoc in Lebanon and Israel, and might also drag Iran and the United States into direct confrontation. In doing so, it would also fulfill the apparent of the Hamas gunmen who murdered around 1,200 Israelis on Oct. 7 in the hope that a heavy-handed Israeli response would draw in more groups across the region.
A dangerous ‘new phase’
Hezbollah’s secretary general, Hassan Nasrallah, has insisted throughout the near-yearlong hostilities that his organization would hold its fire only if a cease-fire agreement is reached between Israel and Hamas. In recent weeks, however, Israel has taken the conflict in the opposite direction.
The country’s defense minister, Yoav Gallant, described the coordinated attacks on Hezbolah targets as a “new phase,” adding that the “center of gravity” in the war was moving north into Lebanon. The Israeli government has added the “return of the residents of the north securely to their homes” as an additional war goal.
The assault on Hezbollah’s communications system targeted the organization’s operatives but hit many civilian bystanders, leaving Lebanese in shock, trauma, anger and desperation.
It demonstrated Israel’s tactical military advantage over Hezbollah. The unprecedented penetration into the heart of the organization’s command and rank-and-file structures has never been seen before in any conflict or war globally. It struck Hezbollah in its most vulnerable places and even exposed its coordination with Iran – one of the injured persons from the pager explosions was the Iranian ambassador in Lebanon.
The killing of Akil two days later was another signal that the Israeli government had now decided to try to change the rules of this risky game of reprisals and counter-reprisals. It is clear that rather than the uneasy status quo that defined this war of attrition for nearly a year, Israel’s intent is now to pressure Hezbollah to concede.
Getting out of control
Nasrallah delivered a gloomy and defiant speech in the aftermath of the pager attack. While acknowledging that Hezbollah was severely undermined by this operation, he defined the Israeli attack as a continuation of “multiple other massacres perpetrated by the enemy over decades.”
By doing so, he framed it within a popular historical narrative among many Lebanese and Palestinians who regard Israel as a criminal entity that regularly carries out massacres against innocent civilians.
Nasrallah also insisted that his commitment to supporting Hamas in Gaza remains unwavering.
While stating that Israeli actions have “crossed all red lines” and could amount to a declaration of war, Nasrallah also reiterated a point he had made in previous peaks of this ongoing conflict: that retribution is coming, the only question being of timing and scale. By doing so, Nasrallah hinted that he may still not be interested in a full war.
Israel, on the other hand, appears less circumspect. After almost a full year of contained tension with Hezbollah, Israel’s leaders appear willing to risk an escalation that might get out of control.
It is hard to determine what the strategy behind Israel’s actions is: Since Oct. 7; as the Biden administration has noted, Israel has not displayed a coherent strategy with clear political goals.
Rather, critics of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggest that he is mainly motivated by his own political survival and the retention of power as the head of state, tying Israel’s interests to his own.
Uniting the ‘axis of resistance’
So where does this leave Nasrallah as he weighs Hezbollah’s response, surely in consultation with Iran? After such devastating blows to Nasrallah’s organization, it is hard to think that Hezbollah would be willing to scale down, stop its cross-border attacks and retreat away from the Israeli border, or give up its commitment to support Hamas in Gaza.
Palestinian refugees listen to a speech by Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah from a cafe at the entrance of the Sabra camp in Beirut. Joseph Eid/AFP via Getty Images
On the other hand, opting for a full-scale war, after spending a year avoiding it, is fraught with risk – both Nasrallah and his sponsors in Tehran know well the high costs of such a war for Hezbollah, Lebanon and potentially also for Iran.
If Hezbollah went to war now against Israel, it would embark on its most consequential move since its foundation in 1982. But it would do so with crippled communications systems and without much of its leadership – some of whom had worked for decades side by side with Nasrallah, building with him the military capacity of the organization.
In some respects, Israelis under Netanyahu’s leadership, and Lebanese in a country increasingly held hostage by Hezbollah’s interests, face similar predicaments: Their well-being is being sacrificed for other priorities.
Netanayhu’s recent statements about concern for Israeli citizens in the north sound hollow after 11 months of pursuing policies that put them more in danger, as well as opposing a Gaza cease-fire deal that would also end hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel.
In Lebanon, Hezbollah has dragged the country into this war against the will of most Lebanese – a decision that has led to significant devastation in parts of a country already suffering extreme political and economic duress.
Nasrallah’s speech described Hezbollah’s predicament as that of all Lebanon – while sending a veiled threat that dissent would not be tolerated. Many Lebanese are undoubtedly sympathetic to the Palestinian cause and resent Israel’s war in Gaza. But at the same time, they may balk at the idea that their own well-being has to be sacrificed in the process.
In the meantime, Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader and mastermind behind the Oct. 7 massacre, may well be looking on at the unfolding events between Israel and Hezbollah with satisfaction. His plan was designed to trigger the unification of all fronts of the so-called “axis of resistance,” which includes the Houthis in Yemen as well as Hezbollah and other Iran-backed groups with the hope for a regional war against Israel.
A year later, we are closer than ever to that scenario.
Asher Kaufman does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
On 13 September 2024, the ACT Government assumed a caretaker role, with an election to be held 19 October 2024. Information on this website will be published in accordance with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions until after the election and conclusion of the caretaker period.
Released 23/09/2024
Quarantine areas restricting the movement of birds and other materials, objects and equipment in the Belconnen area will be reduced as the ACT’s response to avian influenza (HPAI H7N8) enters the final phase.
There have been no new detections of avian influenza in the ACT since 4 July 2024. From tomorrow, 24 September, the quarantine areas will be reduced to:
A restricted quarantine area within a one kilometre radius of the first affected property on Parkwood Road in Belconnen.
A control quarantine area within a two kilometre radius of the first affected property on Parkwood Road in Belconnen.
In the restricted quarantine area the movement of birds, bird products and other materials, objects and equipment deemed as high risk is not permitted.
In the control quarantine area, the movement of birds and other materials, objects and equipment deemed as high risk is not permitted, but bird products such as eggs may be moved under certain conditions.
These restrictions will remain in place until late December 2024, but will continue to be reviewed as the response progresses.
All bird owners should review the updated quarantine restrictions to know their responsibilities and continue to implement good biosecurity practices.
The ACT’s response to avian influenza is moving to the final phase of decontaminating the first property affected by the disease.
Avian influenza is a notifiable animal disease which means any suspected or confirmed cases must be reported immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
For more information on the situation in the ACT and the movement restrictions, including a map of the quarantine area, visit the ACT Environment website.
For updates on the current disease situation in other jurisdictions across Australia visit outbreak.gov.au.
On 13 September 2024, the ACT Government assumed a caretaker role, with an election to be held 19 October 2024. Information on this website will be published in accordance with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions until after the election and conclusion of the caretaker period.
Public transport users are advised of changes to bus and light rail travel from today with the next phase of the MyWay+ transition beginning. This will see existing MyWay equipment removed from buses and at light rail stops so it can be replaced with new MyWay+ validators and other hardware.
Key changes taking place from today, Friday 20 September 2024:
The MyWay ticketing system will no longer be available. Travel on buses and light rail will be free until MyWay+ launches in November.Customers will not be required to tap on and off during this fare free travel period.
NXTBUS will no longer be available. This includes real time information onboard buses, at bus stops and interchanges as well as the NXTBUS real time web site and SMS service.
Bus services will continue to operate to the scheduled timetable. Static timetable information is available at interchanges, major bus stops and online.
Light rail will continue to operate to the scheduled frequency. Next stop information will still be available for light rail (onboard and at stops).
System testing will begin and take place with over 200 Canberrans providing feedback on the new system and the journey planning functionality.
The easiest way to plan your trip is by using the Transport Canberra Journey Planner or referring to timetable information.
Although there is no longer a need for passengers to tap on and off with their MyWay card, passengers are asked to hold onto their card/s. The card number will be required for the transfer and refund process.
People who were not able to register their MyWay card with funds before the Friday 20 September cut-off date are also asked to hold onto their card. These cards will be able to transfer to a new MyWay+ account once the system is launched in November. Further details will be available in the coming weeks.
For updates and further information on MyWay+ and the transition period, please visit www.transport.act.gov.au.
Governor Shapiro Welcomes Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to Scranton Army Ammunition Plant, Signs Sister State Agreement with Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine to Strengthen Ties
Governor Josh Shapiro and members of the Shapiro Administrationwelcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a visit to the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant (SCAAP) in Lackawanna County – one of two major munitions plants in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
President Zelenskyy made a special trip to the Keystone State to visit the Pennsylvania workers who are playing a vital role in Ukraine’s defense. During the visit, President Zelenskyy spoke with workers at SCAAP – a U.S. Army Joint Munitions Command (JMC) facility that manufactures large-caliber metal projectiles and mortar projectiles for the U.S. Department of Defense – and thanked them for their efforts. SCAAP specifically builds 155-millimeter howitzer rounds, some of the most vital equipment for Ukraine’s defense against Russia.
“Pennsylvania is the birthplace of American freedom – and our Commonwealth proudly stands with the people of Ukraine as they fight for their freedom against naked aggression,” said Governor Shapiro. “I’m proud to welcome President Zelenskyy and his delegation to Scranton – to visit with the women and men who are fueling his country’s fight for freedom – and sign an agreement with Zaporizhzhia that will strengthen both states and foster collaboration for years to come. Pennsylvania looks forward to building a close relationship with Zaporizhzhia as we continue to stand on the side of freedom.”
ANZ has successfully closed an USD1.35b Green Labeled K-Sure covered Term Loan Facility for Hyundai Motor Group, funding its first electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in the US, as the world’s third largest car manufacturer continues to invest in the country.
It will help accelerate Hyundai Motor Company’s electrification strategy with an expected manufacturing capacity of 300,000 units annually at its Georgia Metaplant complex.
The Green Export Credit Agency (ECA) backed loan adheres to LMA Green Loan Principles, and reinforces ANZ as a key financing partner for Hyundai Motor Group, acting as ECA and Green Loan Coordinator, Mandated Lead Arranger, and Bookrunner on its past three mandates.
Aaron Ross, ANZ’s Global Head of Project, Export & Asset Finance said, “These deals underscore ANZ’s market-leading position in the Korean ECA sector, delivering low risk, capital-efficient and high-returning facilities that meet our customer needs. We have executed four major EV sector transactions backed by Korean ECAs in the past five years.
“We’re proud to play a role in supporting Hyundai Motor Group’s capital expenditure initiatives as it strives to become a global leader in electric vehicle manufacturing. Leveraging our expertise across Korea, Japan, Singapore, Indonesia and the US, we have been able to consistently deliver smart solutions by integrating sustainable finance to meet Hyundai Motor Group’s strategic and evolving needs,” Mr Ross said.
Previous deals with Hyundai Motor Group include:
USD 940 million K-Sure-backed deal for Hyundai Mobis’ EV parts plant located within the Georgia Metaplant complex
USD 711 million ECA financing to establish South-East Asia’s first and largest EV battery manufacturing facility in Indonesia
SGD 230 million green loan to finance the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center in Singapore
ANZ has set a target to fund and facilitate at least $A100 billion by the end of FY2030, including $A15 billion by end FY2024, in social and environmental outcomes through customer activities and direct investments by ANZ. This includes initiatives that aim to help lower carbon emissions, protect nature, increase access to affordable housing and promote financial wellbeing, as described in the target methodology.
Virtual care programs that improve access to rural and multicultural communities are among some of the incredible finalists being recognised in the NSW Health Awards 2024. Now in its 26th year, the awards acknowledge the personalised, sustainable, and digitally enabled programs that contribute to the wellbeing of patients and the community. NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce AM said it is really exciting to celebrate the people and teams who are enriching health in millions of ways every day. “These awards are a chance to recognise our incredible healthcare staff and volunteers, across the public health system,” Ms Pearce said. “It is important to celebrate innovative and sustainable programs which invest in the wellbeing of the NSW community, while also delivering better patient outcomes. “I congratulate the finalists, but I also want to acknowledge the work being done across the system every day, by our teams of doctors, nurses, midwives, allied health and support staff.” NSW Health received 186 nominations across the 12 award categories. Categories this year include the Keeping People Healthy Award, Transforming Patient Experience Award, and the Health Innovation Award. “All of the nominations really showcase the impressive and important work being undertaken throughout the state, so choosing the 42 finalists was a challenge,” Ms Pearce said. “The awards also recognise the significant contribution of community members who selflessly support our patients carers and staff, with the Volunteer of the Year Award.” The finalists and winners will be celebrated at the NSW Health Awards ceremony, which will be held on Thursday 24 October at the International Convention Centre in Sydney. It will also be livestreamed from 6pm. The full list of finalists is available on the NSW Health website.
The Secretary-General met with Mr. Charles Michel, the President of the European Council, H.E. Mr. Josep Borrell Fontelles, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission and Ms. Jutta Urpilainen, European Commissioner for International Partnerships.
They discussed cooperation between the United Nations and the European Union on global issues, including sustainable development and follow-up to the Summit of the Future. They also exchanged views on the situation in Afghanistan and the Middle East, as well as the war in Ukraine.