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Category: Law Enforcement

  • MIL-OSI USA: Five Country Ministerial 2024 – Joint statement on Irregular Migration

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Five Country Ministerial 2024 – Joint statement on Irregular Migration

    Globally, irregular migration and forced displacement have increased in scale. This presents complex challenges that need to be addressed through a well-managed, coordinated, flexible and whole-of-route strategy. We recognise the value of a comprehensive approach which takes into account the diverse and multi-dimensional drivers of irregular movement and forced displacement. These drivers can include conflict and violence, poverty, political instability, crime and corruption, environmental degradation and climate change, or the seeking of family reunification or economic opportunities. 

    The Five Countries aim to work together to identify and implement consistent, equitable, and mutually beneficial partnerships that develop and stabilise source countries, improve the capacity of transit countries, and deter individuals from embarking on dangerous or irregular journeys or attempting to misuse our migration systems. 

    Further, the Five Countries remain committed to disrupting the activities of bad actors, and taking swift action against those who exploit the vulnerable and who violate, or facilitate the violation of, our respective immigration laws. This includes working to combat attempts to misuse our migration systems, including through visa fraud. We will endeavour to prevent and disrupt people smuggling activities and prosecute the people smuggling groups and facilitators responsible. We will also seek to return, in a fair, safe and orderly manner, those individuals who have no legal basis to remain in our countries, consistent with our domestic and international obligations. 

    As partners, the Five Countries acknowledge the existing international migration and protection frameworks and value the activities and partnerships with international organisations across the migration space, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL). We will continue to collaborate with these institutions and leverage existing national, regional and international frameworks to bolster our responses through strengthened institutions, systems and processes. 

    The Five Countries encourage pragmatic approaches to establishing migration policies and managing their sovereign borders in defence of national security, and in accordance with our obligations under national and international law. To this end, we affirm our collective responsibility to identify and better understand the evolving challenges of irregular migration. We commit to working together, learning from best practice based on robust evidence and analysis to identify and implement effective and sustainable solutions. Our efforts will include taking bold, flexible approaches and action, where needed. 

    The Five Countries agree that it is through committed and focused partnerships that we will deliver results on providing protection to the most vulnerable whilst protecting our borders and maintaining public confidence in our migration and protection systems, in line with our international obligations and commitments. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Announces Nearly $300,000 to Boost Support & Safety for RIers with Autism

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to strengthen resources, support, and services for Rhode Islanders with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today announced $296,673 in federal funds to support initiatives that spread awareness about challenges faced by individuals with ASD and to expand programs that provide support and resources for people with autism, their families, and the community.
    The federal funds will flow through the Department of Justice (DOJ) Kevin and Avonte Program: Reducing Injury and Death of Missing Individuals with Dementia and Developmental Disabilities. This program provides up to $150,000 per award to advance comprehensive initiatives that prevent wandering or elopement for individuals with forms of dementia or developmental disabilities and reduce associated dangers and potential injuries that stem from wandering or elopement.  
    The Autism Project (TAP) will receive $149,994 for its work to increase awareness for first responders, families, and community members through specialized education on ASD and developmental disabilities and the associated dangers of wandering and elopement, with the goal of saving lives.  Specifically, this funding will help TAP expand their educational programming and create new programs to reach underserved and Spanish-speaking communities.
    National Autism Association, Inc. (NAA) will receive $146,679 to support its core safety program, the Big Red Safety Box, which provides preventative tools and educational materials for families and caregivers of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or developmental disabilities, so they are better prepared to prevent and manage crises stemming from wandering and elopement within underserved populations.
    “Elopement and other dangers associated with ASD and developmental disabilities can be frantic, harrowing experiences for children and individuals with autism as well as for their family members, loved ones, and caregivers. These federal funds will equip law enforcement and first responders, families, and community members with new tools and resources to spread awareness, help limit incidents of elopement, and save lives,” said Senator Reed, who was recently recognized by the Community Provider Network of Rhode Island for his work with TAP to increase support and strengthen resources for Rhode Islanders with ASD.  “I’m proud to help support the tremendous work being done by The Autism Project and National Autism Association in partnership with community-based organizations, first responders, and families across Rhode Island and the nation.”
    According to TAP, about 22,000 Rhode Islanders have autism.  TAP serves the entire state of Rhode Island, but much of this project will focus on assisting families and autistic people living in diverse urban areas of Central Falls, Pawtucket, Providence, and Woonsocket.
    “The Autism Project (TAP) is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue our work to prevent elopement at both the local and national level. Keeping autistic people safe is our highest priority, while simultaneously educating and empowering families and first responders involved in the prevention of and response to elopement,” said Joanne Quinn, executive director of The Autism Project.  “With these new grant funds, TAP will have the ability to create a greater library of materials on safety, and to elevate the voices of autistic people and families from underserved communities. Without the generous funding from the Kevin and Avonte Program, this work would not be possible. We are resolute in our commitment to autistic people and their families, and are thrilled by the opportunity to continue our mission.” 
    Since 2011, NAA’s Big Red Safety Box program has provided free safety toolkits for nearly 75,000 families across the country in need of wandering-prevention tools. Recipients of these toolkits must be a primary caregiver of an individual with ASD. Each box includes educational materials, two door/window alarms, one identification bracelet or shoe tag, for adhesive “Stop Sign” visual prompts, one safety alert window cling for care or home windows, and one Child ID Kit from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. More information on NAA’s Big Red Safety Box program and how to request a box can be found here. 
    “The autism community has endured a harrowing summer – the most fatal on record for wandering-related emergencies.  With nearly fifty heartbreaking losses this year, primarily nonspeaking children who died due to accidental drownings, our mission has never been more urgent. The funds provided by Kevin and Avonte’s Law will help us continue to provide families across the country with critical preventative tools, free of charge,” said Krystal Higgins, Executive Director of the National Autism Association.  “We are grateful to be able to expand our programs, outreach, and partnerships with organizations such as the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children so that we can continue to address the unprecedented need for safety programs, federal advocacy, and first responder trainings.  We are committed to using these funds responsibly and effectively to make the biggest impact possible furthering our work in spearheading nationwide awareness and resources to help address the dire issues of wandering and drowning.”
    Elopement refers to a common occurrence for children with ASD, who may wander away from caregivers or secure locations. According to the National Institutes for Health (NIH), elopement occurs in approximately 49 percent of individuals diagnosed with ASD. Additionally, accidental harm and injury is a serious risk during elopement incidents as drowning accounts for about 71 percent of wandering-related deaths among individuals with autism and close calls with traffic were reported in 65 percent of all elopement cases. Elopement can be a traumatic experience for a person with autism and their caregivers. It is imperative for first responders to be aware of how best to assist an individual with autism in these situations.
    Senator Reed helped pass Kevin and Avonte’s Law in the 114th Congress. This law is named in honor of two boys with autism – 9 year-old Kevin Curtis Wills of Iowa and 14-year old Avonte Oquendo of New York – who perished after wandering away from supervised settings.
    In 2022, Reed voted to reauthorize Kevin and Avonte’s Law for another five years as part of the fiscal year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The law has helped direct over $10 million to communities across the nation and includes an alert program to help notify communities about missing individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease, autism, and other developmental disabilities. It also enables the Department of Justice (DOJ) to award grants for state and local education and training programs to help prevent elopement and reunite caregivers with missing family members.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey Exposes Private Equity’s Shady Dealings at Charleroi Glass Manufacturing Plant, Urges Federal Investigation and Injunction to Protect PA Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey
    Private equity owners seek to shut down Pyrex plant that has been a keystone of Charleroi, PA for 132 years
    In recent years, Wall Street has gutted companies and communities in a seemingly never-ending quest to make a quick buck off the backs of hardworking Americans
    In light of new report, Casey is pressing FTC to pursue measures to stop the plant closure pending a full investigation into private equity firm Centre Lane Partners’ potential illegal activity to acquire plant without regulatory approval
    Read Casey’s report: Charleroi, PA: An Example of How Private Equity is Shattering the Glass Industry and Leaving Workers Behind HERE
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), member of the Senate Finance Committee, released a report exposing how a private equity firm is shattering Charleroi’s 132-year-old proud tradition of glass manufacturing. Closing the Charleroi Pyrex glassware factory would not only cost more than 300 Pennsylvanians their jobs but would change the fabric of this community and put an end to one of Pennsylvania’s most impressive manufacturing success stories. His report, Charleroi, PA: An Example of How Private Equity is Shattering the Glass Industry and Leaving Workers Behind, exposed private equity firm Centre Lane Partners for questionable financial engineering and shady business deals that culminated in Centre Lane’s recent decision to close the plant, leaving its workers as collateral damage. In the report and a follow up letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan, Casey called on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Department of Justice (DOJ) to take action to block the plant closure pending the outcome of a full investigation into the private equity firm for its efforts to evade regulatory rules to strip the plant bare and lay off Pennsylvania workers.
    “Private equity crushing Charleroi’s generational legacy of glass manufacturing is yet another example of Wall Street screwing over Pennsylvania workers. The plant’s closure is a slap in the face to workers, their community, and the people of Pennsylvania,” said Senator Casey. “I am working every day to protect union jobs and hold Wall Street executives accountable for the havoc they’ve wreaked in our Commonwealth.”
    Since Anchor Hocking abruptly announced plans to close this glass manufacturing plant in September 2024, Senator Casey has been investigating the questionable practices used by Anchor Hocking’s private equity owner, Centre Lane Partners, to make a quick buck. In his report, Casey revealed how private equity firms like Centre Lane prioritized short term ownership of companies to maximize profits at the expense of companies’ long-term health. Specifically, the report showed how Centre Lane purchased two of the Nation’s largest home glassware brands, Pyrex and Anchor Hocking, even though it initially failed to receive regulatory approval to purchase Pyrex in the fall of 2023. Casey’s report exposed Centre Lane’s actions to obtain a potential monopoly in the home glassware manufacturing market and emphasized the urgent need for a federal investigation. The report also laid out a timeline detailing Centre Lane Partners’ questionable financial engineering and shady business deals that culminated in the decision to consolidate its home glassware manufacturing at a separate Anchor Hocking facility outside of Pennsylvania.
    The initial findings outlined in Senator Casey’s report only raised more alarms about Centre Lane’s potential illegal activity. In a letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan, Casey laid out the perplexing and questionable practices of Centre Lane and its acquisition of several glassware companies and called for a swift and full investigation. Casey urged the FTC to block the closure of the plant while it investigates whether Centre Lane violated the law in its acquisition of the facility.  
    Casey’s report and call for investigation continue his tireless efforts to combat the Charleroi plant’s closure and save Pennsylvania jobs from the ravages of private equity. Immediately upon learning of Anchor Hocking’s plans to close the plant on September 5th, Senator Casey’s office reached out to the plant’s union leadership and Charleroi Borough officials, connecting them with federal and state authorities. Casey’s office also helped convene a task force of county commissioners, borough officials, and local economic development leaders. Casey’s staff also alerted the White House Interagency Working Group on Coal and Power Plant Communities and Economic Revitalization to the situation, leading to several federal officials visiting Charleroi on September 11th. On September 19th, Senator Casey sent a letter to Anchor Hocking demanding an explanation for the closure and imploring the company to reconsider its actions. On September 20th, Senator Casey and Senate Finance Committee Chair Senator Ron Wyden successfully requested a joint confidential briefing with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on questions concerning Anchor Hocking’s assumption of control of the Pyrex manufacturing operation in Charleroi.
    Read the full report “Charleroi: An Example of How Private Equity is Shattering the Glass Industry and Leaving Workers Behind” HERE.
    Read the full letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan HERE or below:
    Dear Chair Khan:
    I write today regarding the recent decision to shut down the Pyrex glass factory in Charleroi, Pennsylvania by its private equity owners, Centre Lane Partners, and parent company, Anchor Hocking. As I have detailed in a recent report entitled, Charleroi, PA: An Example of How Private Equity is Shattering the Glass Industry and Leaving Workers Behind, Charleroi has become the latest victim of the all-too-common abusive financial engineering that private equity owners engage in to make a quick profit at the expense of its workers and consumers.  In light of the numerous concerns that I raise in that report and this letter, I believe that Center Lane Partners’ acquisition of the Charleroi Pyrex plant deserves the fullest scrutiny by federal enforcement agencies, and I urge you to take whatever action necessary—including filing for preliminary injunctive relief—to block this plant closure pending the completion of an investigation into the matter.
    As you know, many private equity (PE) firms invest in companies and use financial engineering tactics to extract a quick profit from the company at the expense of its long-term health, its workers, and its customers. Unfortunately, few industries and companies exemplify the abusive PE playbook as much as the glass manufacturing industry and Anchor Hocking. Over the past 28 years, four major domestic glass manufacturers have filed for bankruptcy eight times among them—one bankruptcy every 3.5 years. In five of those cases, the company was owned by a PE firm —a fact that is not surprising given that PE-owned companies are far more likely to go bankrupt than non-PE-owned companies. 
    From dividend recaps and leasebacks to layoffs and cutting employee benefits, including retirees’ healthcare, PE firms have specifically abused Anchor Hocking and its workers for far too long.  However, over the course of my preliminary investigation into the recent circumstances surrounding Anchor Hocking and the Charleroi Pyrex plant, I am particularly troubled by the manner in which the PE firm, Centre Lane Partners (“Centre Lane”), came to acquire the Charleroi Pyrex plant. This acquisition set the stage for the subsequent announced closure of the plant, as well as the hundreds of lost jobs associated with the closure.
    In June 2023, the Charleroi plant’s prior parent company, Instant Brands (“Instant”), filed for bankruptcy. Instant was owned by another PE-firm, Cornell Capital, and included the popular Instant Pot and other consumers brands including Corelle, Pyrex, Snapware, CorningWare, Visions and Chicago Cutlery.  After a bankruptcy auction in September, Centre Lane received court approval to acquire Instant’s housewares and appliances businesses in two separate transactions for $228.2 million and $122.6 million, respectively.  Based on the Hart-Scott-Rodino (HSR) Act, I understand that these acquisitions would have both been subject to FTC premerger review given that they were higher than the HSR filing threshold in 2023—$111.4 million.
    In November 2023, Centre Lane officially acquired Instant’s appliance division, but bankruptcy documents filed in December confirmed that Centre Lane failed to receive the required regulatory approvals to finalize the deal for Instant’s housewares division.  As a result, Instant proposed a new plan wherein Instant would emerge from bankruptcy under the ownership of its prior lenders. In February 2024, Instant’s restructuring plan was approved and the housewares division emerged from bankruptcy under the new name, Corelle Brands (“Corelle”), and under the ownership of its prior lenders, including Centre Lane, which held 33.6% of the company.
    Less than a week and a half later, Centre Lane purchased the remaining 66.4% of Corelle from the majority lenders, including another PE firm, Citadel Group (“Citadel”), for approximately $38.5 million.  The Anchor Hocking CEO informed me that this decision was made after “[t]he majority owners of Corelle, who had no operating or industrial expertise in the glass manufacturing industry broadly speaking, approached Centre Lane . . . about buying their ownership interests, as it became clear that Corelle Brands on a stand-alone basis would likely not be economically viable.”  Days later, Centre Lane transferred ownership of Corelle to a subsidiary of Anchor Hocking in exchange for common stock valued at approximately $79.8 million.  Approximately six months later, in September 2024, Anchor Hocking announced that it would be shutting down the Charleroi Pyrex plant.
    Given this timeline, it is fair to question why a PE firm—seemingly as sophisticated and savvy as Citadel—decided to acquire a company coming out of bankruptcy only to determine less than a week and a half later that it was no longer a viable investment. But it is even more perplexing that Centre Lane was able to acquire two-thirds of Corelle for merely $38.5 million in March 2024 and transfer it to Anchor Hocking days later at yet another price ($79.8 million)—all while evading FTC oversight—after it previously bid nearly $230 million for the same company and filed for regulatory approval in September 2023.
    The timeline of these financial transactions raises enough questions on its own, but the subsequent decisions of Centre Lane also justify further scrutiny. I have been informed by locals in Charleroi that despite taking ownership over Corelle, Anchor Hocking does not actually control two of Corelle’s most valuable brands—Pyrex and Snapware. It is my understanding that the licenses for these brands are in the process of being transferred or have already been transferred to another Centre Lane affiliate, 1880 Hospitality. This assertion is further supported by Anchor Hocking’s letterhead, which includes all of Corelle’s previous brands, except for Pyrex and Snapware.  It is difficult to discern a logical business reason for such a move, but even more peculiar—it further calls into question the financial details of these transactions. How did Centre Lane acquire two-thirds of Corelle, including Pyrex and Snapware, for just $38.5 million from its prior owners, and then days later, transferred it to Anchor Hocking for approximately $79.8 million without two of its biggest brands—Pyrex and Snapware?
    At the core of these questions and concerns is whether Centre Lane engaged in any illegal activity to evade FTC scrutiny in pursuit of an anticompetitive advantage in the kitchenware and glassware markets. To better understand these concerns, it is important to review Centre Lane’s recent acquisition history. As you know, “rollups” are a common PE tactic to acquire many smaller companies in a specific market to be able to better exert market power and extract economic rents in a market. For example, since at least 2018, Centre Lane has made a concerted effort to acquire numerous kitchenware and tableware brands, and its portfolio now includes Anchor Hocking, Corelle, Pyrex, Corningware, Snapware, Chicago Cutlery, Visions, Lenox, Oneida, Kate Spade New York tabletop collection, Hampton Forge, Reed & Barton, and Cambridge.  Centre Lane’s increasing market share in the kitchenware industry raise some broader antitrust questions, but none more so than the glassware market. 
    In the domestic market, “heavy” glassware products—such as bakeware, measuring cups, and food storage containers—are primarily sold under two brands—Anchor Hocking and Pyrex. A simple search on just a few retail websites is illustrative. On Target’s website, 11 of the 12 glass bakeware products sold in-store are Pyrex, and in Wal-Mart, 33 of the 45 glass bakeware products sold in-store are either Pyrex or Anchor Hocking.  On Costco’s website, a search for “glass food containers” returns nine results—five of which include Anchor Hocking or Pyrex.  When searching for “glass measuring cups” sold on Amazon.com, 11 of the first 20 products are Pyrex or Anchor Hocking.  Permitting Centre Lane to control both Anchor Hocking and Pyrex clearly increases its ability to manipulate the glassware market at the expense of both consumers and workers.
    During your time as Chair of the Federal Trade Commission, your focus on the impact of PE in our markets has been laudable. As you highlighted in remarks on March 5 regarding the impact of PE in healthcare, some PE firms can provide an important source of capital for companies and aim to “take a more long-term view and focus on creating real operational improvements to generate value in ways that provide broader benefits.”  Too many, however, “take a different approach, where they load up companies with enormous amounts of debt, strip valuable assets and sell them off to enrich the private equity owners, and pursue financial engineering tactics that leave the underlying firm weaker and worse off.”  Given the history of PE abuses at Anchor Hocking and its recent decisions at the Charleroi Pyrex plant,  I am afraid that Centre Lane falls into the latter category.
    In light of my preliminary investigation and the information that I have shared in this letter, I respectfully request your response to the following questions. Additionally, recognizing the strict confidentiality requirements under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act, I ask that you answer these questions to the best of your ability as a general statement of law and agency practice, and not related to any particular individual case or company:
    In your experience, is it common for a company to be valued at nearly $230 million in a bankruptcy auction, but then be bought for only a third of that price months later?
    If a company is initially denied regulatory approval to acquire another company by the FTC, is it legal for the company to proceed with the acquisition under different terms without notifying the FTC?
    What tools does the FTC have to address anticompetitive deals that are consummated—either legally or illegally—without FTC premerger review?
    How much market share would a combined firm need to control for the FTC to consider a merger or acquisition to be anticompetitive?
    Is it lawful for a company to establish monopoly power over a market, if the company divides the market among its various subsidiaries? 
    Do antitrust laws and/or FTC guidelines and practices allow a company to divide a potential acquisition’s assets among multiple subsidiaries in order to evade FTC oversight, including HSR premerger review?
    Do antitrust laws and/or FTC guidelines and practices allow a company to evade FTC oversight, including HSR premerger review, by acquiring a company in two steps? For example, by buying only 33% of a company initially, and then later buying the remainder?
    What tools (e.g., statutory authorities, resources) does the FTC need to better address the potentially anticompetitive behaviors of PE firms?
    Over the course of my preliminary investigation into this matter, I have unfortunately been left with far more questions than answers regarding Centre Lanes’ transactions, its decision to close the Charleroi Pyrex plant, and its broader impact on competition in the glassware market. At the very least, these questions deserve the fullest scrutiny from federal enforcement agencies, but unfortunately—time is of the essence. On Thursday, October 10, Centre Lane, through Anchor Hocking, submitted its federally required Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notice confirming its plans to begin laying off workers in Charleroi on December 9, 2024, and fully shutting down the plant by February 28, 2025. 
    Recognizing the time sensitive nature of this situation and to ensure a full and fair investigation into the many issues that I have raised in this letter, I urge you to consider filing for preliminary injunctive relief against Centre Lane’s acquisition of Corelle and utilizing any other tools at your disposal to block its efforts to shut down the Charleroi Pyrex plant. Knowing the resources and time necessary to pursue court action, I do not make this request lightly, but it is worth noting that there is historical precedent for the FTC to intervene in mergers regarding domestic glass manufacturing companies. In 2002, Libbey abandoned efforts to acquire Anchor Hocking due, in part, to an order issued by the FTC, and over a decade later in 2015, executives again dismissed the possibility of a merger between the two companies given the FTC’s prior concerns. 
    After years of shady business deals and financial engineering, we owe it not only to the workers of Charleroi, but to the thousands of workers across the Nation who have been repeatedly taken advantage of by Wall Street and PE firms, to ensure that we are taking every action possible to fully investigate and hold accountable any company that has engaged in wrongdoing in this situation. Wall Street should not, and cannot, act with impunity.
    Thank you for your leadership on this issue and for your and your staff’s cooperation with Senator Wyden’s and my inquires on this topic to date. I look forward to your prompt response.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 149TH ASSEMBLY OF INTER-PARLIAMENTARY UNION (IPU) CONCLUDES

    Source: Government of India

    149TH ASSEMBLY OF INTER-PARLIAMENTARY UNION (IPU) CONCLUDES

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER SH. OM BIRLA HIGHLIGHTS INDIA’S PIVOTAL ROLE IN GLOBAL DIALOGUE AIMED AT ADDRESSING COMMON GLOBAL CHALLENGES

    SH. BIRLA HOLDS SEVERAL BILATERAL MEETINGS WITH COUNTERPARTS FROM PARLIAMENTS FROM ACROSS THE WORLD

    JAMAICA BECOMES 181ST MEMBER OF IPU

    150TH ASSEMBLY OF IPU TO BE HELD IN TASHKENT FROM 5-9 APRIL, 2025

    Posted On: 18 OCT 2024 7:24PM by PIB Delhi

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla led a Parliamentary Delegation (IPD) to the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in Geneva which was held from 13th October to 17th October 2024.

    The Delegation comprised of Shri Harivansh, Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha; Shri Bhartruhari Mahtab, MP; Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, MP; Shri Rajeev Shukla, MP; Shri Vishnu Dayal Ram, MP; Smt. Aparajita Sarangi, MP; Dr. Sasmit Patra, MP; Smt. Mamata Mohanta, MP; Shri Utpal Kumar Singh, Secretary – General, Lok Sabha and Shri P. C. Mody, Secretary – General, Rajya Sabha.

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla arrives in Geneva on 13 October, 2024 to participate in the 149th Assembly of IPU

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla attending the 149th Assembly of IPU on 14 October, 2024

     

    Rajya Sabha MP, Shri Rajiv Shukla participating in the Inter-Parliamentary Union General Assembly 2024 with Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla on 14 October 2024.

     

    Lok Sabha MP, Smt. Aprajita Sarangi participating in the Governing Council Meeting of Inter-Parliamentary Union with Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla and Dy. Chairman, Rajya Sabha Shri Harivansh in Geneva on 14 October 2024.

     

    Addressing the Assembly on the theme “Harnessing science, technology and innovation for a more peaceful and sustainable future”, Shri Birla highlighted India’s commitment to multilateralism and the importance of parliamentary dialogue in advancing global challenges. He emphasized the need for equitable distribution of the benefits derived from science and technology, advocating for collaborative efforts among Parliaments to achieve inclusive development. Shri Birla underscored the convergence of technological advancements and innovative approaches to build a resilient future.

    He noted that the Assembly not only underscores the strength of India’s parliamentary diplomacy but also highlights India’s pivotal role in global dialogue aimed at addressing common global challenges.

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla addressing the 149th Assembly of Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva on the theme “Harnessing science, technology and innovation for a more peaceful and sustainable future.” on 14 October, 2024

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla addressing the 149th Assembly of Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva on the theme “Harnessing science, technology and innovation for a more peaceful and sustainable future.” on 14 October, 2024

     

    Speaking about climate change Shri Birla referenced the “One Sun, One World, One Grid” initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He pointed out India’s significant increase in renewable energy capacity and the various initiatives aimed at addressing climate issues. Highlighting India’s support for innovation through the Start-up India program, Shri Birla noted the India’s position as the third-largest start-up ecosystem globally.

    With 118 Unicorns, with valuation of more than US $ 355 billion, India had become the third largest start-up nation in the world, he added. Referring to India’s unprecedented use of technology for delivery of public services, he illustrated how digitisation of financial services and financial inclusion through JAM Trinity of Jan Dhan, Aadhar and Mobile financial benefits of 2 trillion 495 bllion INR had been transferred through DBT-Direct Benefit Transfer to the bank accounts of beneficiaries under 314 public welfare schemes, ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.

    He called for a robust regulatory framework to protect citizens’ data and ensure responsible use of technology. Shri Birla concluded by mentioning India’s recent legislative efforts related to technology and environment, showcasing advancements like Digital Sansad, which has enhanced efficiency and transparency in governance.

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla addressing the149th Assembly of Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva on the theme “Harnessing science, technology and innovation for a more peaceful and sustainable future.” on 14 October, 2024

     

    Shri Birla also held bilateral meetings with his counterparts from parliaments of other countries, such as Oman, Algeria, Seychelles, Nepal, Switzerland, Thailand, Armenia and Maldives etc. He also addressed the Indian Diaspora in Geneva.

    The Indian delegation engaged in various Committee Meetings and Sessions during the Assembly.

    The Assembly adopted a resolution on the emergency item titled “Response by Parliamentarians to the urgent plea by the UN Secretary-General to recommit to multilateralism for global peace, justice, and sustainability.”

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla held a bilateral meeting with Speaker of the Consultative Assembly of Oman State Council H.E. Khalid Al Mawali, on the sidelines of 149th IPU Assembly on 14 October 2024

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla held a bilateral meeting with Speaker of the Consultative Assembly of Oman State Council H.E. Khalid Al Mawali, on the sidelines of 149th IPU Assembly on 14 October 2024.

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met His Excellency Mr. Roger Mancienne, Speaker, Seychelles` National Assembly on the sidelines of IPU149 on 14 October, 2024.

     

    It is noteworthy that the reports from the four Standing Committees of the IPU—namely, those addressing Peace and International Security, Sustainable Development, Democracy and Human Rights, and United Nations Affairs—were also adopted. Members of the IPD participated actively in the discussions surrounding these reports.

    Particularly commendable was the approval by the IPU’s Governing Council of Indian candidates—Smt. Bijuli Kalita Medhi, MP (Working Group on Science and Technology), Dr. Lata Wankhede, MP (IPU High-Level Advisory Group on Counter Terrorism and Violent Extremism), and Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, MP (IPU Standing Committee on UN Affairs)—who were endorsed by the Asia-Pacific Group.

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met His Excellency Mr. Roger Mancienne, Speaker, Seychelles` National Assembly on the sidelines of IPU149 on 14 October, 2024.

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met Namibia`s National Assembly Speaker, H.E. Peter Katjavivi on the sidelines of IPU149 in Geneva on 14 October, 2024.

     

    The resolution addressing “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Democracy, Human Rights, and the Rule of Law,” co-drafted by Dr. Sasmit Patra, MP, was adopted by the IPU. Dr. Patra was also chosen to serve as one of the three rapporteurs for a forthcoming resolution on “Recognizing and Supporting the Victims of Illegal International Adoption and Taking Measures to prevent this Practice.” This resolution will be discussed at the 150th IPU Assembly, with a presentation scheduled for the 151st Assembly.

    Smt. Aparajita Sarangi, MP, and Vice President of the IPU Executive Committee, attended the Executive Committee sessions, which endorsed amendments to the IPU Statutes and Rules, a Charter on the Ethics of Science and Technology, and revisions to the rules governing the Cremer-Passey Prize.

    Shri Bhartruhari Mahtab, MP, participated in a meeting of the Bureau of the IPU Standing Committee on Peace and International Security, where he shared India’s perspectives on current challenges to global peace and security.

    Shri Vishnu Dayal Ram, MP, presented an overview of India’s recent activities in Sustainable Development during the Bureau Meeting of the IPU’s Standing Committee on Sustainable Development.

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met Hon`ble Mr. Lungten Dorji, Speaker, Bhutan National Assembly during IPU149 in Geneva on 14 October, 2024

     

    Smt. Mamata Mohanta, MP, took part in meetings of the Forum of Women Parliamentarians and the IPU Governing Council. Shri Rajiv Shukla, MP, attended a workshop on practical tools for achieving sustainable development, as well as a panel discussion on common principles for support to parliaments, focusing on parliamentary development as a defense against democratic backsliding.

    Secretary General Lok Sabha addressed the delegates at the meeting of the Association of Secretaries General of Parliaments (ASGP) on 16 October 2024.

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla addressing members of the Indian Diaspora in Geneva on 14 October, 2024

    Addressing the Indian diaspora, Sh. Birla praised their skill, talent, and commitment. Recognizing their potential as the nation’s strongest brand ambassadors and noting their ability to foster familial relationships and harmony wherever they reside, Shri Birla emphasized the values of diversity and inclusiveness that define the Indian community. He highlighted India’s leadership in confronting global challenges, attributing this confidence to both strong leadership and the power of its citizens and Diaspora.

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla addressing members of the Indian Diaspora in Geneva on 14 October, 2024

    He added that Indo-Swiss collaboration has flourished in areas including trade, investment, technology, education, and the environment. Speaking about the economic ties between India and Switzerland, Shri Birla observed that the signing of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement between EFTA countries, including India and Switzerland, is a significant step toward mutual economic development and job creation.

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla addressing members of the Indian Diaspora in Geneva on 14 October, 2024

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla with Speaker of the Consultative Assembly of Oman State Council H.E. Khalid Al Mawali, on the sidelines of 149th IPU Assembly on 14 October 2024.

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met with Speaker of House of Representatives of Australia H.E. Mr. Milton Dick, on the sidelines of 149th Assembly of Inter Parliamentary Union on 15 October 2024.

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met with Speaker of House of Representatives of Australia H.E. Mr. Milton Dick, on the sidelines of 149th Assembly of Inter Parliamentary Union on 15 October 2024

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met with Speaker of National Assembly of Zimbabwe H.E. Mr. Jacob Mudenda, on the sidelines of 149th Assembly of the Inter Parliamentary Union on 15 October 2024

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met with Speaker of National Assembly of Zimbabwe H.E. Mr. Jacob Mudenda, on the sidelines of 149th Assembly of the Inter Parliamentary Union on 15 October 2024

     

    On the sidelines of the 149th Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in Geneva, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met the President of the IPU H.E. Ms. Tulia Ackson on 15 October, 2024

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla and Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, Shri Harivansh with the President of the IPU H.E. Ms. Tulia Ackson in Geneva on 15 October, 2024.

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker met H.E. Mr. Eric NUSSBAUMER, President of the National Council, Switzerland, on the sidelines of the 149th Assembly of IPU in Geneva on 15 October, 2024.

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker met H.E. Mr. Eric NUSSBAUMER, President of the National Council, Switzerland, on the sidelines of the 149th Assembly of IPU in Geneva on 15 October, 2024.

    Lok Sabha Speaker met H.E. Mr. Eric NUSSBAUMER, President of the National Council, Switzerland, on the sidelines of the 149th Assembly of IPU in Geneva on 15 October, 2024.

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met H.E. Mr. Mongkol Surasajja, President of the Senate of Thailand on the sidelines of the 149th Assembly of IPU in Geneva on 15 October 2024

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met H.E. Mr. Alen Simonyan, President of Armenia`s National Assembly, at the 149th IPU Assembly in Geneva on 15 October, 2024.

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met Speaker, People`s Majlis of Maldives, H.E. Mr. Abdul Raheem Abdulla on the sidelines of the 149th IPU Assembly in Geneva on 15 October, 2024.

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met Speaker, People`s Majlis of Maldives, H.E. Mr. Abdul Raheem Abdulla on the sidelines of the 149th IPU Assembly in Geneva on 15 October, 2024

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met H.E. Shri Narayan Prasad Dahal, Chairperson of National Assembly of Nepal on the sidelines of the 149th Assembly of IPU in Geneva on 15 October, 2024.

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at his statue in Geneva on 16 October, 2024, during his visit to the city for the 149th Assembly of IPU.

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at his statue in Geneva on 16 October, 2024, during his visit to the city for the 149th Assembly of IPU.

     

     

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla participating in the Governing Council meeting of IPU on the concluding day of its 149th Assembly on 17 October, 2024.

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla during an interaction with President of the National People’s Assembly, H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Boughali on the sidelines of 149th Assembly of IPU in Geneva on 16 and 17 October, 2024

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met President of the National People`s Assembly, H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Boughali on the sidelines of 149th Assembly of IPU in Geneva on 16-17 October 2024

    The IPU has 180 member parliaments and 15 associate members. Members include parliaments from large countries like China, India, and Indonesia, as well as smaller countries like Cabo Verde, San Marino, and Palau.

    Jamaica became the 181st member of the IPU during the Assembly. The next Assembly will be hosted by Uzbekistan, which has invited all member parliaments of the IPU to the 150th Assembly in Tashkent, scheduled for April 5-9, 2025.

    ***

    AM

    (Release ID: 2066198) Visitor Counter : 13

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Oriental Rise Holding Limited Announces Closing of Initial Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Ningde, China, Oct. 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Oriental Rise Holding Limited (“Oriental Rise” or the “Company”) (NasdaqCM: ORIS), an integrated supplier of tea products in mainland China, today announced the closing of its initial public offering (the “Offering”) of 1,750,000 ordinary shares at a public offering price of $4 per share. The ordinary shares began trading on Nasdaq Capital Market under the ticker symbol “ORIS” on October 17, 2024.

    The Company received aggregate gross proceeds of $7 million from the Offering, before deducting underwriting discounts and other related expenses. In addition, the Company has granted the underwriter an option, exercisable within 45 days from the date of the underwriting agreement, to purchase up to an additional 262,500 ordinary shares at the public offering price, less underwriting discounts and commissions. The Offering was conducted on a firm commitment basis.

    US Tiger Securities, Inc. acted as sole book runner for the Offering. The Crone Law Group served as counsel to the Company. VCL Law LLP served as counsel to the underwriter.

    A registration statement on Form F-1, as amended (File No. 333-274976) relating to the Offering was previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) by the Company, and subsequently declared effective by the SEC on September 30, 2024. The Offering is being made only by means of a prospectus, forming a part of the registration statement. A final prospectus relating to the Offering was filed with the SEC on October 17, 2024 and is available on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the final prospectus related to the Offering may be obtained, when available, from US Tiger Securities, Inc., 437 Madison Avenue, 27th Floor, New York, New York 10022, or by telephone at +1 646-978-5188.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described herein, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    About Oriental Rise Holding Limited

    Oriental Rise Holding Limited is an integrated supplier of tea products in mainland China. Our major tea products include (i) primarily-processed tea consisting of white tea and black tea, and (ii) refined white tea and black tea. Our business operations are vertically integrated, covering cultivation, processing of tea leaves and the sale of tea products to tea business operators (such as wholesale distributors) and end-user retail customers in mainland China. We operate tea gardens located in Zherong County, Ningde City in Fujian Province of mainland China. For more information, visit the Company’s website at https://ir.mdhtea.cn/.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    All statements other than statements of historical fact in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs, including the expectation that the Offering will be successfully completed. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and in its other filings with the SEC.

    For more information, please contact:

    Investor Relations:
    Sherry Zheng
    Weitian Group LLC
    Phone: 718-213-7386
    Email: shunyu.zheng@weitian-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arrest after serious assault, Central Auckland

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A young person has been arrested after a serious assault in Central Auckland last night that left another man in critical condition.

    Emergency services were called to a Quay Street premises about 1am following a report of a person being stabbed.

    The victim was transported to hospital in critical condition, where he remains this morning.

    A 17-year-old male was arrested at the scene. He is due to appear in Auckland District Court this morning on a charge of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

    A scene examination has been carried out, and enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing.

    Police would like to hear from anyone who might have witnessed this incident who has not yet spoken to us.

    If you can help, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number P060330621.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Amber weather warning – Storm Ashley confirmed

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Issued by Transport Scotland

    The public is being warned to prepare for travel disruption on Sunday and early on Monday as the first named storm of the new season arrives.

    The weather system bringing strong winds and heavy rain across Scotland on Sunday and early Monday has now been named as Storm Ashley.

    An Amber Warning for Wind has been issued for parts of north west Scotland (the Western Isles, West Highlands and parts of Argyll & Bute) for between 0900 and 2359 on Sunday. Yellow warnings are also in place for a wider areas of Scotland on Sunday and Monday.

    Ferries, trains – including cross-border travel – HGVs, and other modes, including possible bridge closures and speed restrictions, and much of the network in those specific areas, is set to experience cancellations, speed restrictions and delays as a direct result of challenging conditions.

    Full information on the warnings is available on the Met Office website: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice

    The Multi Agency Response team will be active and monitoring conditions and preparations. Officials will continue to meet with the Scottish Government’s central resilience operation which is also closely monitoring preparedness activity.

    Head of Transport Resilience at Transport Scotland, Ashleigh Robson, said:

    “Storm Ashley will likely mean travel disruption on Sunday. Passengers should certainly check with their operator, and with many families enjoying the October school holidays, we would advise them to pay close attention to any cross-border travel updates too.

    “The Multi Agency Response Team will be in position to oversee the network, advise the public, and update Ministers over the weekend, as the storm sweeps into parts of Scotland.

    “The strong winds may cause particular difficulties for HGVs and we would urge drivers to take note of the conditions. Debris on the roads and treefall is a strong possibility. The forecasted rain will make visibility difficult when driving and could result in some localised flooding.

    “Disruption on ferry services is very likely, rail services and some flights will also be impacted. Please check with you transport operator for the latest information. The decision to cancel services is never taken lightly, but safety of passengers has to be the priority. Please plan ahead. The latest information on the trunk road network is always available at http://www.traffic.gov.scot.”

    Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, Police Scotland’s Head of Road Policing said:

    “The amber warning for high winds means that there is a strong likelihood of disruption on the road network and as such, motorists are advised to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary travel where possible.

    “If you are travelling, make sure your vehicle has sufficient fuel and is completely roadworthy. Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged in the event you need to call for assistance and if it is likely you may be within your vehicle for long periods of time, take additional clothing and water with you.

    “Please do not ignore any road signage advising of changes to speed or closures to routes. These are in place for your safety and the safety of other road users and listen out for media broadcasts about the weather and how it may be impacting travel.

    “Further information of the weather and road closures can be found by visiting the Met Office, Ready Scotland and Traffic Scotland websites and social media accounts.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Police travel advice issued ahead of Storm Ashley

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Issued by Police Scotland

    The Met Office has issued an Amber warning for wind across parts of western and northern Scotland. The warning is in place between 9am on Sunday, 20 October, and 11.59pm on Sunday, 20 October, 2024.

    The following areas are expected to be affected by the Amber warning:

    • Highlands and Eilean Siar (Highland, Na h-Eileanan Siar)
    • Strathclyde (Argyll and Bute)

    A Yellow warning for wind affecting much of Scotland is also in place between 3am on Sunday, 20 October, and 11.59pm on Sunday, 20 October, 2024.

    The following areas are expected to be affected by the Yellow warning:

    • Central, Tayside & Fife (Angus, Clackmannanshire, Dundee, Falkirk, Fife, Perth and Kinross, Stirling)
    • Grampian (Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray)
    • Highlands & Eilean Siar (Highland, Na h-Eileanan Siar)
    • Orkney & Shetland (Orkney Islands, Shetland Islands)
    • SW Scotland, Lothian Borders (Dumfries and Galloway, East Lothian, Edinburgh, Midlothian Council, Scottish Borders, West Lothian)
    • Strathclyde (Argyll and Bute, East Ayrshire, East Dunbartonshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow, Inverclyde, North Ayrshire, North Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire)

    Further information about the weather warnings and flood information is available on the Met Office and SEPA websites.

    Those in amber alert areas may experience power outtages. For advice, visit Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks – https://www.ssen.co.uk/news-views/2024/SSEN-Weather-Warning-ahead-of-strong-winds-forecast-for-the-north-of-Scotland/

    Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, Police Scotland’s Head of Road Policing, said: “The amber warning for high winds means that there is a strong likelihood of disruption on the road network and as such, motorists are advised to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary travel where possible.

    “Make sure your vehicle has sufficient fuel and is completely roadworthy, with tyre pressure and tread meeting legal requirements. Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged in the event you need to call for assistance and if it is likely you may be within your vehicle for long periods of time, take additional clothing and water with you.

    “Please do not ignore any road signage advising of changes to speed or closures to routes. These are in place for your safety and the safety of other road users and listen out for media broadcasts about the weather and how it may be impacting travel.

    “Further information of the weather and road closures can be found by visiting the Met Office, Ready Scotland and Traffic Scotland websites and social media accounts.”

    General advice for road users:

    • Plan ahead and avoid unnecessary travel
    • All road users should consider if they really need to travel during adverse weather
    • Consider delaying travel until conditions improve
    • If you are travelling on the roads, prepare yourself and your vehicle for the conditions
    • Ensure your mobile phone is charged and plan your journey, including an alternative route
    • Have sufficient fuel, warm clothing, food and water in case you’re delayed
    • Do not ignore road closure signs – they are for your safety
    • Congestion caused by vehicles may restrict emergency services and recovery vehicles from providing essential assistance
    • Listen to media broadcasts, including radio, for updates Traffic Scotland radio player | Traffic Scotland or visit Traffic Scotland | Trunk road traffic updates & route planner
    • Follow your local authority for the latest updates in your area via Facebook, X or their website
    • Other information can be found on the Met Office and Ready Scotland websites. For public transport information visit http://www.travelinescotland.com
    • Follow @trafficscotland on X for up-to-date travel information.

    Wind

    HGV and bus drivers should drive with extreme caution and be aware you may be asked to park at a suitable position by the police.

    Drivers of vehicles vulnerable to being blown over should plan their route to avoid exposed areas or consider cancelling your journey until conditions improve.

    Cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians should consider the risk of being blown over or into the path of other road users.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Governments of Canada and Manitoba Announce Healthy Meals for Kids in Manitoba

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 18, 2024

    Governments of Canada and Manitoba Announce Healthy Meals for Kids in Manitoba

    Today, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland and Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, alongside Families, Children and Social Development Minister Jenna Sudds and Northern Affairs Minister Dan Vandal, announced the governments of Canada and Manitoba have reached an agreement to expand school food programs in Manitoba.

    This agreement, made possible by the federal government’s $1-billion National School Food Program, will enhance and expand Manitoba’s existing school food programs to provide meals to about 19,080 more kids every year, starting this school year. 

    When children have access to healthy food, they do better in school and are set up to succeed, noted Freeland. The federal government’s generational investments like the Canada Child Benefit, which provides families with up to nearly $8,000 per child, per year, help cover the costs of essentials children need. The federal government is building on this support by providing healthy meals at school, so children have what they need to learn, grow and succeed – regardless of their family’s circumstances. 

    Manitoba is the second province, after Newfoundland and Labrador, to sign an agreement with the federal government for the new National School Food Program. Today’s agreement includes an initial federal investment of approximately $17.2 million over the next three years to ensure more kids get the nutritious food they need to thrive.  

    The federal government invites all provinces and territories to help more kids get access to school food by reaching these agreements. It is one of the best investments governments can make to lower costs, support families and care for the next generation, noted Freeland. 

    With an investment of $1 billion over five years, the National School Food Program will feed up to 400,000 more kids across Canada every year. This is a generational investment, especially in the most vulnerable children, who are most impacted by a lack of access to food. Through today’s agreement, the federal government is helping children across Manitoba reach their full potential. 

    Quotes

    “Giving our children the best start in life is an essential part of fairness for every generation. Today’s agreement with Manitoba will ensure that over 19,000 more children get the food they need at school, starting this year, while saving a family with two kids up to $800 on groceries annually. Our National School Food Program will cut costs for families and help build a Canada where every child is set up to succeed.” – Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland 

    “Kids can’t learn on an empty stomach. We made a commitment to Manitoba families that we’d make sure kids across our province had access to food when they go to school, and we’ve delivered on that promise. Kids across Manitoba can now get a meal or a snack when they need one, so they can concentrate, learn and reach their full potential.” – Premier Wab Kinew 

    “It’s wonderful to see another province partner with us to deliver our National School Food Program. This agreement with the Government of Manitoba means that more of the top-quality, local food that our hardworking farmers produce will reach kids who need it and help set them up for success in the classroom and beyond.”  – Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lawrence MacAulay 

    “Today, we’re delivering a promise to the kids and parents of Manitoba—a promise that every child will have access to the healthy meals they need to succeed. It’s simple: when kids eat well, they learn better, play harder, and feel good. And for parents, it gives them peace of mind, knowing that their kids are getting the fuel they need to focus on just being kids. We will keep working to make sure that every family across Canada benefits from this program.” – Families, Children and Social Development Minister Jenna Sudds 

    “Every child deserves the best start in life. And that begins with ensuring that no one goes to school on an empty stomach. I’m incredibly proud that Manitoba is the second province to sign onto our National School Food Program, so we can fill the gap and make sure every child has the chance to thrive.” – Northern Affairs Minister Dan Vandal 

    Quick Facts

    • $15 million directly to Manitoba’s 37 school divisions;
    • $6 million to 50 schools in communities with high socioeconomic need; and,
    • $9 million in grants to community partners.
    • To give every child the best start in life, the federal government is also:
    • Giving families more money through the Canada Child Benefit http://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/child-family-benefits/canada-child-benefit-overview.html to help with the costs of raising children and make a real difference in the lives of kids in Canada. The Canada Child Benefit, which is providing up to nearly $8,000 per child in 2024-25, is indexed annually to keep up with the cost of living and has helped lift hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty since its launch in 2016.
    • Building a Canada-wide system for $10-a-day child care, which has already cut fees for regulated child care to an average of $10-a-day or less in over half of all provinces and territories, and by 50 per cent or more in all others.
    • Rolling out the Canadian Dental Care Plan, which is already available for children under 18, with family incomes under $90,000, because no one should have to choose between taking care of their kids’ teeth and putting food on the table. Families are encouraged to apply online at http://www.Canada.ca/dental. 

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Minister McPhee on the recognition of Persons Day

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:

    “Persons Day is recognized across Canada on October 18. It marks a historic decision, made in 1929, to include women in the legal definition of ‘persons’.

    • Read more about Statement from Minister McPhee on the recognition of Persons Day
    • Add new comment

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Minister McPhee supporting the court filed proposed plan for tobacco compensation

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Minister of Justice and Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:

    “On Thursday, October 17, a proposed Plan of Compromise and Arrangement was filed with the courts detailing a resolution for ongoing tobacco litigation in Canada.

    • Read more about Statement from Minister McPhee supporting the court filed proposed plan for tobacco compensation
    • Add new comment

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Russia’s strategy for Latin America: Strengthening ties in the light of the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan (Russia) – 18-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Since Russia started its war of aggression against Ukraine by illegally annexing the Crimean peninsula, it has been seeking to foster relations with countries in the Global South that are not firmly aligned with the Western world. In 2023, a change in Russia’s foreign policy of 2016 placed a greater emphasis on Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) and Africa, where the Kremlin has been building influence since the Soviet era. Russia’s strategic goal is to counter the United States presence in the neighbourhood and to ensure that Latin America and the Caribbean remain geopolitically neutral. Russia is also pursuing the goal of building a new multipolar world order. Russia’s longstanding political and security partners in LAC are Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela, each under an authoritarian regime. Russia is also trying to strengthen its political ties with other LAC countries such as Bolivia, Brazil and El Salvador. With all LAC countries, Russia works through bilateral agreements and intergovernmental forums, in particular BRICS and the G20. From an economic perspective, Russia’s footprint in the region is very limited: its trade with LAC countries accounts for a mere 2 % of its global trade. Nevertheless, Russia has gained political leverage through its economic ties, especially due to key LAC countries’ reliance on Russian fertilisers and diesel. In addition to political and economic relations, Russia has signed several military cooperation agreements with Latin American countries over the past two decades. Currently, military cooperation is primarily limited to Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela. Russian arms sales to the region have steadily declined since Russia’s invasion of Crimea and are now insignificant. Alongside political, economic and military ties, Russia employs disinformation campaigns to undermine liberal democracies and promote Russian propaganda narratives.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Rosen Secure More Than $275 Million to Improve and Expand I-80 Corridor, Reduce Congestion in Northern Nevada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Reno, Nev. – Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) announced that the Nevada Department of Transportation will receive more than $275 million in federal funding to widen I-80 from Vista Boulevard to USA Parkway between the Reno-Sparks metro area and Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center. The improvements funded by this award include an additional lane in each direction, shoulder widening, bridge reconstruction, new pavement, and intelligent transportation system facilities. Senators Cortez Masto and Rosen advocated specifically for this project, and the funding was made possible thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law they helped pass.

    “Interstate 80 is a critical corridor for so many Nevadans—that’s why Senator Rosen and I worked in a bipartisan way to help secure these federal dollars coming to Northern Nevada to ease congestion, drive economic growth, and save lives along the corridor,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This investment is essential for our communities, and it was made possible thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Senator Rosen and I fought to pass. I commend her steady partnership in improving transportation access for hardworking Nevadans, and we’ll keep fighting to deliver the infrastructure investments that Nevada needs.”

    “I’m proud to have worked across the aisle to secure more than $275 million in federal funding to widen I-80, which will help reduce traffic and support local economic growth,” said Senator Rosen. “This funding was made possible thanks to the landmark Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that I helped write and pass. I’ll keep working with Senator Cortez Masto and our bipartisan Congressional delegation to deliver real results for Nevadans.”

     Senators Cortez Masto and Rosen worked to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to create good-paying jobs and upgrade road infrastructure in Nevada. Both Senators have secured funding to improve pedestrian safety, expand clean energy public transit, and modernize and expand critical roadways to shorten commute times and improve driver safety. Last month, they announced $4.7 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to enhance road safety in Northern Nevada.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar to inaugurate the 21st Divya Kala Mela at Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, on 19th October 2024

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar to inaugurate the 21st Divya Kala Mela at Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, on 19th October 2024

    The Vocal for Local initiative to be a grand celebration of talent, entrepreneurship and craftsmanship of Divyang artisans from across the country

    Posted On: 18 OCT 2024 4:22PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar would be formally inaugurating the 21st Divya Kala Mela at Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, tomorrow. The event is being organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, through the National Divyangjan Finance and Development Corporation (NDFDC), from 17th October to 27th October 2024. This event would be a grand celebration of talent, entrepreneurship, and craftsmanship of Divyang artisans from across the country.

    Over 100 Divyang entrepreneurs and artisans from more than 20 States and Union Territories will gather at this 11-day mela to showcase an impressive range of locally-made products. These will include home décor, handlooms, handicrafts, jewellery, packaged food, and eco-friendly items, all representing the resilience and creativity of persons with disabilities. The event will also emphasize the Vocal for Local initiative, spotlighting the importance of supporting indigenous products.

    The mela will feature dedicated stalls and exhibitions for Divyang artists to showcase their creative prowess and offer a glimpse into the incredible artistic expressions of this community. These events will run alongside the vibrant marketplace for all 11 days, allowing visitors to witness the diverse talents of disabled entrepreneurs and artists.

    In addition to being a platform for entrepreneurs, the Divya Kala Mela will offer a robust array of side events:

    • A Job Fair that connects Divyangjan job-seekers with potential employers, empowering participants with career opportunities and access to the workforce.
    • Special interactive sessions for parents of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), providing guidance on caregiving, support networks, and educational opportunities, ensuring holistic development and well-being.
    • Daily cultural performances by Divyang artists, alongside workshops and interactive sessions designed to foster entrepreneurship, skill development, and creativity.

    A major highlight will be the ‘Divya Kala Shakti’ cultural programme on 27th October 2024, featuring captivating performances by Divyang artists from across India, celebrating their talent and dedication. In addition, the mela will offer a wide variety of regional delicacies, providing visitors with a chance to savor the culinary diversity of India, creating an enriching cultural experience. Open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Divya Kala Mela 2024 is set to be a truly memorable celebration of inclusivity, talent, and cultural heritage.

    *****

    VM

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  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Experts of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women Praise Cuba’s High Percentage of Women in Parliament, Ask about Measures to Address Sex Trafficking and Reduce the Burden of Unpaid Care Work

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women today considered the ninth periodic report of Cuba, with Committee Experts praising the State’s high percentage of women in Parliament, and asking about measures to protect women and girls from sex trafficking and reduce the burden of unpaid care work on women.  Committee Experts also discussed the impact that the United States’ economic blockade had on Cuban women’s rights.

    A Committee Expert welcomed that Cuba currently had one of the highest rates of female participation in Parliament worldwide.

    Rhoda Reddock, Committee Expert and Rapporteur for Cuba, raised the issue of the economic blockade on Cuba by the United States, which she said was estimated to have cost Cuba a significant percentage of its gross domestic product.  Had the State party had been able to address all the challenges that came with the blockade?

    One Committee Expert said there were concerning reports of sexual abuse of girls in the tourism industry and of criminalisation of women victims of sex trafficking.  When would the State party adopt a comprehensive law on trafficking with clear provisions on prevention and reparation for victims?

    Another Expert said women spent twice as much time doing domestic and care work compared to men, and there had been successive cuts to social care programmes.  How did the State party intend to sustain these programmes?

    Introducing the report, Inés María Chapman Waugh, Deputy Prime Minister of Cuba and head of the delegation, said women accounted for 56 per cent of members of Cuba’s Parliament, the second highest percentage in the world.  Around 80 per cent of judges in the judiciary were women; eight in every 10 prosecutors were women; and women made up 60 per cent of university graduates.  The State also had a high representation of women in its science and technology sector, she noted.

    Ms. Chapman Waugh said the United States’ financial blockage against Cuba was a flagrant violation of the rights of Cubans and it had disproportionately affected women. It had led to devastating shortages in medication, food and energy.  Progress in distributing the human papilloma virus vaccine, for example, had been hampered by the blockade.

    The delegation said Cuba had a zero-tolerance policy regarding all forms of trafficking.  Trafficking in persons had been included as a crime in the Criminal Code, as had forced labour.  The State did not criminalise women victims of trafficking.  Detection and combatting systems were in place in the tourism industry.

    The Government was calling for fair distribution of household and care work between men and women, the delegation said.  A recent decree on the national care system provided for a more equitable approach to care.  The State was training carers to provide formalised care for the aging population and raising awareness about the need for men and women to spend equal time on care duties.

    In closing remarks, Ms. Chapman Waugh said Cuba valued the recommendations of the Committee, which would be scrutinised with due rigour.  The Government was committed to implementing the Convention and promoting women’s rights.  It would do its utmost to achieve its goals in this regard, despite the economic blockade imposed by the United States.

    Ana Peláez Narváez, Committee Chair, in concluding remarks, said that the Committee commended Cuba for its efforts and called on the State party to implement the Committee’s recommendations for better implementation of the Convention for the benefit of all women and girls in the State.

    The delegation of Cuba consisted of representatives from the National Assembly of People’s Power; Ministry of Justice; National Secretariat of the Federation of Cuban Women; Ministry of Education; University of Havana; Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and the Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations Office at Geneva.

    The Committee will issue the concluding observations on the report of Cuba at the end of its eighty-ninth session on 25 October.  All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 10 a.m. on Monday, 21 October to consider the fifth periodic report of Benin (CEDAW/C/BEN/5).

    Report

    The Committee has before it the ninth periodic report of Cuba (CEDAW/C/CUB/9).

    Presentation of Report

    INÉS MARÍA CHAPMAN WAUGH, Deputy Prime Minister of Cuba and head of the delegation, said gender equality and the eradication of all forms of violence against women were objectives that Cuba and the Committee shared.  Almost 80 per cent of the Committee’s recommendations from the last review had been complied with.  Cuba was steadfastly committed to complying with its obligations under the Convention.

    Since 2019, Cuba had undergone a far-reaching process to strengthen its legislative framework. The 2019 Constitution promoted the right to equality and the prohibition of discrimination.  Direct and indirect discrimination had been prohibited in the Criminal Code.  The newly adopted Family Code defended women’s rights, permitted same-sex marriage, and set the age of marriage at 18.

    The national programme for the advancement of women was implemented in 2021.  It included 46 measures promoting women’s advancement and established a follow-up mechanism to ensure its implementation.  Under the programme, the State party adopted polices to promote the inclusion of women in the labour market.  Around 250 creches had been established to support working women.

    A Cuban association for persons with disabilities had been established, and the social assistance programme provided support for the children of women with disabilities. Around one quarter of women were self-employed.  The State’s unemployment rate was low, at around two per cent.  Six decree laws were recently adopted that promoted the protection of women working in the private sector.  The national response to the COVID-19 pandemic included benefits provided to working women and women who lost their jobs.  Over 60 per cent of persons who coordinated COVID-19 vaccination development in Cuba were women.

    Women accounted for 56 per cent of members of Parliament, the second highest percentage in the world.  In the Supreme Court, women accounted for 53 per cent of judges, while around 80 per cent of judges in the judiciary were women.  Eight in every 10 prosecutors were women.  Women made up 60 per cent of university graduates.  The State also had a high representation of women in its science and technology sector.  Care services accounted for a high percentage of the State budget.  The State party continued to work to collect cross-cutting and intersectoral data on women. 

    Cuba had developed robust legislation and a national action plan to tackle gender-based violence. It addressed direct and indirect violence in all settings.  In 2022, the murder of women was specifically criminalised in the Criminal Code. Education measures played a key role in preventing gender-based violence in the State.  In the coming days, Cuba would set up a data mechanism that would provide real-time information about violent deaths of women and girls, and a hotline for reporting violence against women.  Measures would also be implemented to address the disproportionate burden of care placed on women.

    The United States had been imposing a financial blockage against Cuba for several decades. This was a flagrant violation of the rights of Cubans and it had disproportionately affected women.  It had led to devastating shortages in medication, food and energy.  Progress in distributing the human papilloma virus vaccine, for example, had been hampered by the blockade.

    The Government was working to address macho stereotypes, and support women’s access to health, education and land.  Measures were implemented to support the many rural women who were engaged in low paid or unpaid work.  Programmes had also been implemented to address the high prevalence of teenage pregnancies.  Cuba promoted women’s bodily autonomy and allowed women to decide regarding abortion.

    Seventy per cent of the people murdered in the Gaza Strip were women and girls.  Ms. Chapman Waugh appealed for peace in the Middle East.

    Cuba, on the basis of its international commitments and in spite of the blockade placed upon it, would continue to do its best to implement the Convention and protect the rights of all women in its territory.

    Questions by a Committee Expert

    RHODA REDDOCK, Committee Expert and Rapporteur for Cuba, congratulated Cuba on its achievements over the years.  Cuba was the first country to sign and the second to ratify the Convention, and several Cuban experts had served on the Committee.  The economic blockade on Cuba by the United States had been in place since the 1960s.  It was estimated to have cost Cuba a significant percentage of its gross domestic product.  Cuba had also been added to the United States’ list of States that sponsored terrorism, further hindering Cuba’s access to resources.  Women were worst affected by this situation.  They were forced to spend most of their time working to obtain resources to support their families, and more than one million women and girls had fled the State to seek a better life.

    Ms. Reddock welcomed that the State party had introduced several laws to address discrimination and violence against women.  It was also promising that a National Ombudsperson’s Office had recently been established.

    The death penalty remained in place for more than 20 offences.  Were there plans to implement a moratorium?  The July 2021 protests against increasing shortages of fuel and food were met with disproportionately violent responses by State agents.  Many women protesters reportedly remained in detention.  There were also reports of poor conditions for women in Cuban prisons.  Were there plans to release the women protesters detained since 2021?  Was there a right of appeal for detained protestors?  What was the status of the National Ombudsperson?  Had it received complaints from women?

    Another Committee Expert welcomed efforts by the State party to disseminate the Convention and provide training for State agents on the Convention.  What concrete steps had been taken to enhance women’s awareness of their rights under the Convention?  How was the Committee disseminating the Convention among politicians and the judiciary? What was the national mechanism for monitoring the Committee’s recommendations?  What was the position of the State party on the ratification of the Optional Protocol?

    The Committee was concerned that the State party had failed to incorporate a comprehensive definition of discrimination against women in the Constitution or in State legislation. Why was this?  What legislative and policy measures were in place to address intersectional discrimination against women?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said access to justice was a constitutionally recognised right for all Cubans.  Men and women enjoyed the same legal status and the same rights with regard to succession.  Exorbitant fees could not be charged for legal aid services.  Around 700 pro-bono services were made available in 2024, the majority of which related to gender-based violence cases. 

    The National Ombudsperson was established in June 2023.  Its role was to protect and restore the rights of marginalised people, including women, young people, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.  It had received 102 complaints of violence and discrimination.  Forty-eight of these cases had been resolved; the rest were being reviewed.

    No authority could modify the rulings of courts or instruct judges.  The judiciary’s independence met the highest international standards.  The public was actively engaged in trials and rulings could be appealed.

    Cuba was in favour of removing the death penalty when the conditions were favourable to do so.  It had not been applied or handed down as a sanction for 20 years and had never been issued against a woman.  Four crimes had been removed from the list of crimes for which the death penalty could be applied. 

    There were no political prisoners in Cuba.  All prisoners had been sentenced for violating the law and had benefited from fair trial guarantees.  In the 2021 riots, there was vandalism and public and private property was destroyed. No country would allow such actions to go unpunished.  Criminal trials of persons who committed such actions were fair; rioters were prosecuted based on their actions, not their gender.

    Cuba engaged in ongoing awareness raising and training on the Convention and other international human rights instruments for civil servants and the judiciary.  There was also an awareness raising campaign for women and vulnerable groups.  The State party worked with local media and civil society to support this work. There were also post-graduate courses in universities on women’s empowerment and gender-based violence.

    The State party did not recognise the competence of any international treaty bodies to receive individual communications.  This was a long-standing position of the Government and there were no plans to change it.

    The State party had a follow-up mechanism to assess the implementation of the Convention and the national programme for the advancement of women.  It was working to ensure that women could play their full roles in the family, the economy and society.  The mechanism included representatives of all government bodies and civil society organizations.

    Cuba prohibited all forms of discrimination.  State legislation addressed discrimination based on sex and gender identity, amongst others.  The 2019 Constitution stated that international treaties ratified by Cuba were directly applicable in the State.  The State party had adopted over 400 decrees promoting gender equality.  An important example was the new Family Code, which placed gender equality at its core.  Members of parliament were provided with training on this legislation to ensure that they were able to apply it.  The national programme against racism and discrimination also addressed intersectional forms of discrimination.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert asked about the State party’s assessment of its efforts to disseminate the Convention. The Optional Protocol put into practical effect the rights of the Convention and would be of benefit to Cuba if it were ratified.

    RHODA REDDOCK, Committee Expert and Rapporteur for Cuba, asked if the State party had been able to address all the challenges that came with the United States’ blockade.

    Another Committee Expert shared deep concerns about the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on human rights.  Businesses and multilateral actors needed to consider the impacts of overcompliance with sanctions, and States needed to act in line with their international obligations.

    One Committee Expert said the Federation for Cuban Women coordinated the national programme for the advancement of women.  How did the Federation mainstream gender equality across different sectors and promote the participation of women of African descent and women with disabilities in the creation of public policies?  How did it assist civil society organizations in efforts to promote gender equality?

    Cuba did not have a national human rights institute, but the National Ombudsperson might be a first step towards this.  How many complaints had it received from women?  To what extent had gender sensitivity training been provided?  Did the State party plan to establish a national human rights institute in accordance with the Paris Principles?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said that specialised training on international treaties was a challenge.  To address this, the State party had stepped up training of police, journalists and other stakeholders on the Convention, including in rural areas.  A gender approach was gradually being implemented in university textbooks. There was a communication strategy in place to promote positive portrayals of women in the media and prevent gender stereotypes.

    The State party did not recognise the competence of the treaty bodies to receive individual communications as Cuba believed that its national rights protection framework was sufficient.

    The economic blockade had primarily impacted women and families.  Banks did not allow Cuba to conduct many transactions, due to the State having been classified as a co-sponsor of terrorism.  This had hampered efforts to invest in energy and infrastructure. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a shortage of ventilators in hospitals, and the Government was unable to acquire them due to the blockade.  Twenty-five days of the blockade represented a year’s worth of financing required to acquire the basic basket of food and medical supplies for one year.  Eighteen days of the blockade covered a year’s worth of investment in fuel. Thirty-six hours of the blockade represented the annual cost of education materials in the country.

    Since the establishment of the Ombudsperson, it had dealt with 1,001 cases, 616 of which it had accepted for follow-up.  Over 300 of these cases had been resolved.  Two national workshops had been held to strengthen the capacity of Ombudsperson Office staff.  The State was working to ensure that women were aware of the national programme for women’s empowerment.  National and local groups provided follow-up on human rights issues affecting certain communities; these issues included racism, women’s empowerment, and the rights of persons with disabilities.  In all these fora, civil society participated actively.

    Among Cuban members of Parliament, there were 149 Afro descendants, representing over 30 per cent of members. Around 56 per cent of women members of Parliament were Afro descendants.  The State party was working to address discrimination and racism against this group.  A national observatory on racism had been established and there was a reporting line for lodging complaints of racism.  A national day for Afro-Latina and Afro-Caribbean women had been established. Over 60 civil society organizations representing these women participated in celebrations of this day.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert said the Federation of Cuban Women was very strong.  How did it support independent civil society organizations which did not belong to the Federation?

    Another Committee Expert asked whether the State party believed that there was a need to enact temporary special measures to support young girls and older women?  Were temporary special measures planned to address the phenomenon of rural to urban migration?

    RHODA REDDOCK, Committee Expert and Rapporteur for Cuba, commended the State party for continuing efforts to eliminate gender discrimination of women and carry out training and sensitisation programmes on gender discrimination.  How effective had these programmes been?  Would the State party consider establishing a multi-sectoral strategy to eliminate patriarchal stereotypes?  What work on gender stereotypes had been carried out with men and boys?  Schools reproduced gender ideologies.  To what extent were gender studies part of the teacher training curriculum?

    There were many legislative changes put in place related to gender-based violence since the last dialogue.  To what extent had the implementation of this legislation been affected by the economic blockade?  Were there official shelters for victims of gender-based violence and did the State party collaborate with civil society organizations that supported victims?  Was there a reparations procedure for victims?  Did the State party have an aversion to addressing femicide in its legislation?  What was the social perception of this phenomenon?

    One Committee Expert said that the State party had a zero-tolerance policy to trafficking.  However, there were concerning reports of sexual abuse of girls in the tourism industry and of criminalisation of women victims of sex trafficking.  When would the State party adopt a comprehensive law on trafficking with clear provisions on prevention and reparation for victims?  When would it review its Penal Code to criminalise the use of services of trafficking victims?  How would it prevent the revictimisation of trafficking victims? How many victims had been identified and assisted in the past year, and how many perpetrators had been prosecuted? Did the State party intend to include women’s non-governmental organizations in the process of identifying and preventing trafficking?  How was the State party training officials to respond to trafficking, including online trafficking activities?  What awareness raising campaigns were in place regarding trafficking?  How many shelters were available for victims of trafficking and what services did they provide?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said more than four million Cubans belonged to the Federation of Cuban Women.  The Federation of Cuban Women coordinated a working group on implementing the national programme on women’s empowerment, which also included civil society organizations that were not part of the Federation.

    Cuba had a tradition of enacting temporary special measures when needed.  For example, it had reopened children’s creches in workplaces. Measures were also being implemented to support women’s access to the basket of foodstuff and employment, and to support women and girls migrating from rural areas to cities.  The Government was supporting rural women to access livelihoods to reduce their need to migrate from rural areas.  There was a working group in place that addressed internal and external migration, developing policies to support migrants and manage urban development

    The national education system was being reviewed in 2023 and 2024 to strengthen guidelines for teachers. Issues such as gender inequality and sexual division of labour were being incorporated in students’ education. Intergenerational meetings were held with men and boys, in which elderly men taught boys about the importance of tackling gender stereotypes.

    The State party had a comprehensive legal framework and a national strategy to address gender-based violence. One of the goals of the strategy was to develop a comprehensive law on violence against women.  The Criminal Code imposed severe sanctions for the crime of murder of a women motivated by gender.  There were shelters for female victims of violence provided by grassroots organizations.  Workshops were held to coordinate the Government and civil society’s responses to gender-based violence.  Comprehensive reparations for violence could be sought through civil courts.  Members of parliament had discussed but had not agreed to include the concept of “femicide” within legislation.

    Cuba had a zero-tolerance policy regarding all forms of trafficking and was a State party to international instruments addressing various forms of trafficking.  Trafficking in persons had been included as a crime in the Criminal Code, as had forced labour.  There was a very low incidence of human trafficking in Cuba, thanks in part to the absence of significant organised crime networks.  Cuba had a national action plan and a national working group addressing trafficking.  The national action plan included strong measures promoting support for victims. The State did not criminalise women victims of trafficking. 

    State regulations prohibited sex tourism.  Detection and combatting systems were in place in the tourism industry.  The State party had identified a small number of foreigners in the country who were involved in facilitating child sex tourism, who were duly sentenced.  Over 700 training sessions had taken place for 7,000 workers in the tourism sector on the prevention of trafficking. 

    Cuba had published an annual report on trafficking that contained data on cases of trafficking before the courts. There were 14 prosecutions for trafficking crimes in 2023.  The State party did not criminalise prostitution but did punish pimping with severe penalties.  Social workers were supporting sex workers and the State was working to eradicate the root causes of women becoming involved in prostitution.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert welcomed that Cuba currently had one of the highest rates of female participation in Parliament worldwide.  However, a gender gap persisted in cabinet ministries, with only 18.5 per cent of ministerial positions being held by women.  Men were concentrated in the most influential spheres of Government.  How was the State party measuring the number of women in executive posts in the private sector?  Was it encouraging private sector bodies to promote women’s representation?  How many heads of standing committees in Parliament were women?  How many women civil society organizations were there and were they affected by laws preventing access to foreign funding?

    Another Committee Expert asked about circumstances in which Cuban women could lose their nationality.  Could the State party strip people of their nationality? Was there a mechanism for Cuban women born abroad to regain their nationality?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said Cuba had made significant progress over the reporting period regarding the representation of women in Parliament.  Three women played a key role in leadership of the Central Communist Party Committee and 46 per cent of members of this committee were women.  Six provinces had female governors; 80 per cent of vice-ministerial posts were held by women; and six of the 11 standing working committees of Parliament were led by women.  The State party had put in place an action plan to increase the representation of women in non-traditional sectors and in leadership positions, and to increase the number of women-owned enterprises.

    Civil society organizations could receive foreign funding, but not financing for activities that subverted the constitutional order.

    The Constitution regulated how citizenship was acquired.  The acquisition of citizenship of other States did not lead to the revoking of Cuban citizenship.  A new law on citizenship had been adopted but had not yet come into force.  The law would require persons who applied to renounce Cuban nationality to hold another nationality.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert asked if there was a follow-up mechanism in place to assess the number of women in executive posts.

    RHODA REDDOCK, Committee Expert and Rapporteur for Cuba, said that the President could issue decisions on the removal of citizenship.  Could this lead to statelessness?

    One Committee Expert commended Cuba for its efforts to make the right to education free and universal and to promote women’s academic achievements.  The Expert cited reports of an increased rate of teenage pregnancies in rural and remote areas, particularly for people of African descent.  When would the State party start implementing a sexual education programme?  How was it working around the economic blockade to support rural and Black women? How many rural and marginalised women were attending university?  Did the State party have legislation and policies that addressed bullying in schools and cyber bullying?  How did the State party ensure that women and men earned the same in the education sector?

    Another Committee Expert said women’s labour force participation rate was relatively low, at 39 per cent.  How would the State party increase this rate, particularly in the formal sector, and ensure that women in the informal sector had the same access to protections as in the formal sector?  What measures were in place to address the segregation of women in the workforce and to promote the employment of women of African descent and women with disabilities?  The State party had prohibited discrimination on the basis of employment.  How was this being implemented?  Women spent twice as much time doing domestic and care work, and there had been successive cuts to social care programmes.  How did the State party intend to sustain these programmes? 

    How effective was legislation promoting shared parental responsibility?  How was the State party working to prevent workplace sexual harassment? How many complaints of workplace harassment had been received since 2019?  What were the obstacles to the State party ratifying International Labour Organization Conventions 189 and 160?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the national programme for the advancement of women included measures to assess the representation of women in construction, agriculture, mining and water resource fields, in which there were fewer women in executive posts.  The ministries of transport and energy and mining had vice-ministers who were women.  The Government would continue to undertake actions to incentivise women’s participation in non-traditional sectors.

    Citizens needed to comply with specific requirements to renounce nationality.  There needed to be serious circumstances, such as membership of an armed group that had attacked the State, for nationality to be deprived. The President authorised the deprivation of nationality.

    For the current school year, the State party had incorporated comprehensive sexual education into the common compulsory syllabus at both primary and secondary levels.  Students and their families had contributed to drafting a protocol to tackle violence in schools.  Capacity building on responding to violence was provided through conferences and training for teachers.  There was only a small number of girls who dropped out of school, but every effort was taken to encourage them to return.  This had led to a decline in the dropout rate in recent years.  At the secondary level, around 1,500 students with disabilities had graduated in the most recent school year.  There was no gender wage gap in the educational sector.

    Cuba was promoting the prevention of cyber violence.  The law on social communications established that online content could not be used to discriminate against any group on any grounds.  Online advertising could not employ stereotypical depictions of women. There was also legislation sanctioning online child pornography and bullying.  The Criminal Code addressed criminal activities using digital spaces. In the 10 years since the last review, access to the internet in Cuba had improved significantly, despite the United States’ blockade, which affected the telecommunications industry.

    The Government was calling for the fair distribution of household and care work between men and women.  A recent decree on the national care system provided for a more equitable approach to care.  The decree recognised that carers’ unpaid work made valuable contributions to society.  The State was training carers to provide formalised care for the aging population and raising awareness about the need for men and women to spend equal time on care duties.

    The Labour Code included a definition of workplace harassment.  If the victim was a subordinate to the perpetrator, or if the harassment was based on gender, higher sanctions were implemented.  Mechanisms for reporting harassment were in place in each workplace and complaints could also be submitted directly to the Government. 

    Women workers enjoyed the right to maternity leave, which had recently been extended to 15 weeks after the birth of a child.  The posts of women who took maternity leave were reserved for when they returned. The Government was also encouraging sharing of parental leave between mothers and fathers.  It had opened early childhood facilities across the country, increasing places in those facilities ten-fold.  Workplace creches provided childcare for 5,000 children.  Wage equality between men and women was established as a right within legislation.

    Cuba did not believe it was currently necessary to ratify International Labour Organization Convention 160.  It was a party to the main eight International Labour Organization Conventions.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert said the Committee welcomed actions taken by the State party to reduce under five mortality rates.  The life expectancy in Cuba had reached 81 years, which was remarkable.  The Government provided a public and free health care system.  Did it cover the needs of poor and rural women?  How did the State party succeed in being the first country to eradicate mother-to-child HIV and syphilis transmission?  There was a high level of teenage pregnancy in Cuba.  What measures were in place to provide affordable contraception to women and girls who needed it?  How was the State party reducing post-partum complications and ensuring the availability of family doctors in rural and remote areas?

    Another Committee Expert noted that there were multiple initiatives to promote women’s access to employment in fields such as agriculture.  The Government had promoted 20 affirmative actions in the rural sector to advance the empowerment of women.  What resources were available to women to succeed in business initiatives?  Were there opportunities for women to participate in the blue economy?  A law on the transfer of agricultural land had recently been enacted; how had it assisted rural women to access land?  To what extent had Cuba provided loans and credit for women?  Were there plans to improve data on women’s access to credit?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said that in 2023, there were around 27,500 general practitioners in the State party. Priority was attached to providing health services in rural areas. 

    The State party needed to continue to increase the percentage of women in agriculture and the percentage of women landowners.  The Government was supporting women to access bank loans.  It planned to collect data on recipients of bank loans, disaggregated by sex and ethnicity.

    Cuba had managed to keep prevalence rates of HIV at the lowest rates in Latin America through prophylaxis measures implemented with the support of the World Health Organization.  There were several programmes in place for the prevention and monitoring of sexually transmitted infections.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    RHODA REDDOCK, Committee Expert and Rapporteur for Cuba, said that only 10 per cent of the agricultural land distributed by the Government had been distributed to women.  What factors were affecting women’s involvement in agriculture and their access to land?

    Another Committee Expert said that there were restrictions on people changing residence, particularly affecting women in the eastern part of the island.  Institutions had been authorised to find and deport people to their places of origin.  How would the State party guarantee the right to internal migration?

    Women deprived of liberty reportedly faced violence from staff and inmates.  How did the State party work with civil society to oversee prisons? Was prenatal care provided to pregnant women in prisons?

    How was the State party providing elderly women with basic care, food and services?  What steps had been taken to ensure substantive equality for women of African descent?  What services were provided for women with disabilities in rural areas?  How was the State party promoting the right to identity for lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex women?

    One Committee Expert said that the economic blockade on Cuba was a flagrant violation of the rights of Cubans, damaging their rights to food, education, health and other areas.  The Expert commended legislation that increased the age of marriage to 18.  How did the State party plan to address de facto unions with children?  How many criminal cases related to child marriage had there been in the last four years?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the gender observatory was compiling data on women who owned land and worked in agriculture. The Government was working to support more rural women to gain access to land, State services and economic empowerment.

    The national health system had 53 different services for older persons delivered at the community level.  Cuba continued to promote access to services, cultural spaces and employment for persons with disabilities.  The State party was taking steps to ensure that Afro descendant women played their full role by supporting access to education and breaking down stereotypes.

    The treatment of detainees in Cuba was in line with the Mandela and Bangkok Rules.  The right to free medical care was provided in places of detention, along with recreational activities.  Women prisoners received differentiated treatment.  Support and care for children staying in prisons with their mothers was provided.

    The Family Code recognised same-sex marriage and assisted reproduction.  There had been 85 same-sex marriages between women in the last year. The State party was providing care and support for trans women.  Campaigns to tackle homophobia and transphobia were being rolled out across the country.

    Concluding Remarks 

    INÉS MARÍA CHAPMAN WAUGH, Deputy Prime Minister of Cuba and head of the delegation, thanked the Committee for the constructive dialogue.  Cuba valued the recommendations of the Committee, which would be scrutinised with due rigour.  The Government was committed to implementing the Convention and promoting women’s rights. It would do its utmost to achieve its goals in this regard, despite the economic blockade imposed by the United States.

    ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chair, said that the Committee commended Cuba for its efforts and called on the State party to implement the Committee’s recommendations for better implementation of the Convention for the benefit of all women and girls in the State.

     

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

    CEDAW24.030E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Kingston police investigating burglaries as total offences drop

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Kingston police investigating burglaries as total offences drop

    Saturday, 19 October 2024 – 8:22 am.

    While the Kingston area has had a significant drop in total offences, police are investigating a series of recent burglaries.
    Inspector Colin Riley said total offences in the area have dropped 32 per cent, compared to the same time last year.
    “There has, however, been a distinct and uncommon pattern of burglaries and stealing in the area over the past two weeks, and police are investigating,” he said.
    The matters include:
    Wednesday 9 October
    Between 1pm and 4pm a home burglary on Garnett Street, Blackmans Bay with jewellery stolen (reference 756024).
    Between 8am and 8pm a home burglary on Hutchins Street, Kingston with jewellery and a laptop stolen (reference 756030).
    Tuesday 15 October
    Overnight into Wednesday morning a shed burglary on Tinderbox Road, Tinderbox with power tools stolen (reference 756546).
    Wednesday 16 October
    Between 8.30am and 5.40pm a home burglary on Tinderbox Road, Tinderbox with electrical items stolen (reference 756585).
    Overnight into Thursday morning a vehicle was entered on Wells Parade, Blackmans Bay with a credit card and gift voucher stolen (reference 75668).
    Friday 18 October
    Between 8am and 4.30pm a home burglary on Hutchins Street, Kingston with a sound system and jewellery stolen (reference 756724).
    “Investigators are seeking any information from the public that might assist with apprehending the person or people responsible for these matters,” Inspector Riley said.
    “Please quote the reference numbers when providing information.”
    “Importantly, police are requesting that members of the public remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police, particularly in these areas.”
    “If the suspicious activity is occurring at the time of reporting, contact Triple-Zero (000).”
    “If the information is not time critical, please call 131 444 or report to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au.”“We are confident that we will apprehend this offender or offenders and bring this crime pattern to a conclusion quickly.”
    “As the activity seems to be continuing, any information from the public, about suspicious activity or people observed, regardless of how insignificant it appears, is wanted by us to aid in that quick apprehension.”
    “If you have CCTV cameras, please ensure they are operating and recording, please also ensure doors remain locked and the house is secure when you are not home”.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Announces $27 Million In Federal Funding For Delaware County Electric Cooperative As Part Of The Department Of Energy’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    Funding Will Improve Grid Resiliency Against Strong Storms And Invasive Species In Rural Areas Of New York

    Today, Senator Gillibrand announced $27,681,725 in federal funding for the Delaware County Electric Cooperative, Inc. (DCEC). DCEC provides electricity to over 5,000 families, farms, and local businesses in four New York counties – Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, and Schoharie. With this funding, awarded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program, DCEC will lead a partnership composed of six small electric cooperatives to increase grid resilience against outages caused by weather events and tree damage caused by invasive species. This partnership will also serve the counties of Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, Orange, Schuyler, and Steuben, in addition to rural areas of New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

    “Strong energy infrastructure is critical to the stability of our rural communities, especially given the threats that extreme weather and invasive species pose,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This funding will create good-paying union jobs and deploy advanced technology to support rural communities. I am proud to have voted to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and fought to secure this funding. I will continue working to make sure that New Yorkers have reliable access to strong energy infrastructure.”

    As DCEC works to improve New York’s grids, it will deploy advanced software to enable proactive grid management, as well as hardware such as grid sensors and drones to provide real-time data and monitoring capabilities. The new technology is anticipated to improve grid reliability and resilience, reducing major outage events by 50%, and help save the local economy millions of dollars per year in outage costs. DCEC will work with five other small electric cooperatives, including Oneida-Madison Electric Cooperative, Otsego Electric Cooperative, Inc., Steuben Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc., Sussex Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc., and Claverack Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc.

    This project will also create an estimated 20 jobs, many of which will be high-quality union positions, and will leverage a workforce career training center that is under development in collaboration with the State University of New York–Delhi.

    “The rural electric cooperatives of New York are not-for-profit distribution companies and serve some of the areas hardest hit by the impacts of extreme weather and invasive species,” said John Gasstrom, CEO of DCEC. “This grant will enable the co-ops to make resiliency improvements to ensure that we continue to deliver safe and sustainable electricity to our members who rely on it. We also appreciate the support and encouragement we have received from Senator Gillibrand in bringing this funding to the electric cooperatives as we find solutions together to meet our energy challenges and goals.”

    “At Otsego Electric Cooperative, we believe in forward-thinking solutions that safeguard our grid and enhance reliability for rural communities,” said Tim Johnson, CEO of Otsego Electric Cooperative. “This project represents a vital step toward building a resilient electric network that can withstand future challenges while supporting sustainable growth. We are especially grateful for the Beneficial Electrification League’s detailed support and expertise throughout the application process.”

    This project is part of a $2 billion U.S. Department of Energy investment in 38 projects across 42 states and the District of Columbia to protect the U.S. power grid against growing threats of extreme weather, all funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s GRIP program. The selected projects will lower costs for communities and enable additional grid capacity to meet load growth stemming from an increase in manufacturing and other strains on the electric grid. The selected projects will deploy new, innovative transmission and distribution infrastructure and technology upgrades to enable over 7.5 gigawatts (GW) of grid capacity.

    Earlier this year, Senator Gillibrand wrote to Secretary Granholm in support of DCEC’s funding application. Senator Gillibrand’s letter can be read below:

    Dear Secretary Granholm,

    I write in support of the application submitted by the Delaware County Electric Cooperative (DCEC) for funding from the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Grant Program administered by the U.S. Department of Energy. This funding will be used to improve grid resiliency against strong storms and invasive species in rural areas of New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.

    Established in 1942, DCEC provides electricity to more than 5,200 families, farms, and local businesses across Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, and Schoharie Counties. For a larger project that will enhance the protection of local electric grids, DCEC plans to partner with the Oneida-Madison Electric Cooperative, Otsego Electric Cooperative, Inc., Steuben Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc., Sussex Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc., and Claverack Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. These five other non-profit electric cooperatives collectively serve tens of thousands of members across Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chenango, Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, Orange, Otsego, Schuyler, and Steuben Counties in New York. 

    The requested funding will be used to safeguard rural electric grids from invasive species and intense storms that are causing long-lasting power outages and hurting rural economies. For instance, DCEC has experienced four multi-day power outages since December 2023 due to the proliferation of emerald ash borer–infested trees, which have toppled powerlines, coupled with the increasing threat of extreme weather conditions and other natural hazards. The six electric cooperatives’ proposed project will deliver much-needed upgrades to rural electric grids in three states and enable load growth that the region’s aging electric infrastructure has otherwise constrained. In addition, the project promises to benefit more than 43,000 customers, stimulate regional economic growth, and bring approximately 20 high-quality, clean-energy jobs to areas where the loss of coal power plant and rail jobs, along with a decline in employment opportunities for supporting industries and services, has led to the displacement of the working-age population and high levels of poverty.

    I ask that you please give this application your full consideration. If you have any questions or desire further information, please do not hesitate to contact my staff at (202) 224-4451.

    Sincerely,

    Kirsten Gillibrand

    United States Senator

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Mike Lawler Announces Major, Multi-Faceted Housing Plan Alongside Local Elected Officials and Realtors

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Today, Congressman Mike Lawler rolled out a multi-faceted housing plan alongside elected officials and realtors from across the Hudson Valley, addressing housing challenges impacting Hudson Valley residents and families across the United States – the Revitalizing America’s Housing Act. The plan calls for a series of bipartisan reforms and policies that would incentivize construction and reduce the lack of affordability, improve the availability of supplies, land, and financing, address the health and safety of our communities’ housing, and vastly improve oversight to ensure resources are being properly utilized and going where they’re needed.

    “I’m proud to be introducing the Revitalizing America’s Housing Act,” said Congressman Lawler. “This plan calls for a series of bipartisan reforms and policies that would incentivize construction and reduce unaffordability, would improve the available of supplies, land, and financing for builders, owners and purchasers, would address the health and safety of our communities’ housing, and would vastly improve oversight to ensure resources are being properly utilized and going where they’re needed.

    “The issues confronting our housing system are myriad and manifold,” Congressman Lawler concluded. “They require a comprehensive set of policy prescriptions to address. The Revitalizing America’s Housing Act will do exactly that. I’m looking forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in both parties to advance this important measure, and I’m going to keep working on common sense solutions to the issues of the day, including our housing crisis, in order to benefit hard-working Hudson Valley families.”

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of the 118th Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.

    Text of the bill is included HERE.

    A section-by-section breakdown is HERE.

    Footage of today’s announcement can be watched HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Enfield — The RCMP/HRP Integrated Criminal Investigation Division investigating suspicious deaths

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The RCMP/HRP Integrated Criminal Investigation Division is investigating two suspicious deaths that occurred in Enfield.

    On October 18 at approximately 10:45 a.m., RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment responded to a request to check on the wellbeing of two people at a home on Rockcliffe Dr. in Enfield. Responding officers found the remains of two adults deceased in the residence. The deaths are being treated as suspicious, the individuals were known to one another.

    The ongoing investigation is lead by the RCMP/HRP Integrated Criminal Investigation Division and supported by the RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment, Nova Scotia RCMP Forensic Identification Services (FIS), and the Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service. There is no evidence at this time to suggest any risk to the public.

    The investigation is in the initial stages and no further information will be released at this time.

    Our thoughts are with the deceased’s families at this difficult time.

    Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Halifax Regional Detachment at 902-490-5020 and reference file number 24-143338. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers toll free at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at http://www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips App.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police Operation to protect children

    Source: South Australia Police

    South Australia Police searched 161 homes of Serious Registrable Child Sex Offenders during the third Operation Child Safe.

    Between August and September, SAPOL conducted 16 days of action to ensure 277 offenders on the Australian National Child Offender Register (ANCOR) were complying with the strict conditions imposed on them.

    Acting Officer in Charge of Public Protection Branch, Chief Inspector Kellie Watkins said 46 people were charged with breaching ANCOR obligations under the Child Sex Offenders Registration Act.

    “These obligations include notifying police of any change of address or vehicle and disclosing their email addresses. Importantly the offenders must report any contact with children to police,” Chief Inspector Watkins said

    During the operation police located eight Serious Registrable Offenders who had failed to report contact with children and six in possession of child exploitation material. Two mobile phones, five tablets/laptops, two hard drives and 71 storage devices were seized, along with cannabis and related equipment.

    “Police will continue examining a number of items seized which may result in further charges being laid,” Chief Inspector Watkins said.

    “Checks on all registered child sex offenders are a matter of routine for police. The public should be reassured that SAPOL will take every opportunity to police child sex offenders and ensure they comply with their legal obligations.”

    Anyone found guilty of an offence against this Act is liable to up to 10 years imprisonment.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Lee Announces $77 Million for Power Grid Resilience Investments in Nevada and the West

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-03)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-03) announced that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has selected a coalition of public energy utilities – including NV Energy and other partners – to receive more than $77 million to protect the Western power grid against extreme weather, improve grid reliability, and lower costs for consumers. This investment stems directly from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Congresswoman Lee helped negotiate and pass. The project will be implemented in collaboration with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). 

    “Southern Nevada is on the front lines of the climate crisis, and as we invest in clean energy projects that create jobs and lower costs, we must also continue to strengthen our power grid to withstand some of the worst impacts of this crisis, including extreme heat and wildfires,” said Congresswoman Susie Lee. “I helped negotiate and pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to bring much-needed investments in our infrastructure and long-term savings to Nevada communities. Today’s award does exactly that, and I will continue working to ensure that Nevadans have the support they need to thrive.” 

    DOE is providing this $77,021,741 grant to the coalition including NV Energy, Idaho Power, Northern Lights, and Puget Sound Energy through the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program, which was established and is funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The grant is part of a broader investment in 38 projects across 42 states that will upgrade nearly 1,000 miles of transmission infrastructure. 

    You can read more about the GRIP program here. 

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Welch, Schakowsky Push to Increase Funding for Medical Research, Require Law-Breaking Drug Companies to Reinvest in NIH and FDA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    October 18, 2024

    Bill applies to pharmaceutical companies who are found guilty or are accused of breaking the law and settle with the federal government. 

    Bill Text (PDF) | One Pager (PDF)

    Boston, MA – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.), along with Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) introduced the Medical Innovation Act of 2024 to increase funding for medical innovation by requiring large pharmaceutical companies that are accused of breaking the law and settle with the federal government to reinvest a small percentage of their profits into the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

    In 2023, the NIH only had funds for 23% of the applications it received, contributing to a huge medical innovation gap. At the same time, pharmaceutical companies have been accused of defrauding Medicare and Medicaid, marketing drugs for unapproved uses, illegally incentivizing doctors to prescribe drugs, lying about the safety of their drugs, and violating other criminal and civil laws. The companies have settled many of these claims with the federal government, treating the fines as a cost of doing business. Most recently, Teva Pharmaceuticals agreed to pay the Justice Department $450 million to settle a set of lawsuits alleging that the company defrauded Medicare and conspired with other drug-makers to illegally inflate the prices of two generic drugs.

    Between 2019 and October 2024, the Department of Justice pursued new actions against or settled cases with at least 40 pharmaceutical companies. 

    The Medical Innovation Act would: 

    • Require pharmaceutical companies accused of breaking the law to reinvest a small percentage of their profits in NIH and FDA. These payments would increase with the severity of the settlement penalty, and would only be required of companies that rely on federally-funded research to develop billion-dollar, “blockbuster” drugs.  
    • Invest in life-saving medical innovation through the NIH and FDA. Payments collected through this bill would be used to develop treatments and diagnostics to address unmet medical needs; support research grants for early career scientists; research diseases that disproportionately contribute to federal health care spending; and advance basic biomedical research, among other uses.
    • Promote sustained investments in biomedical research. To ensure that the Act results in a net increase in funding for medical research, money from the supplemental settlement fees would only be available in years that annual appropriations for NIH and FDA are equal to or greater than appropriations for the agencies in the prior fiscal year.    

    “Big Pharma shouldn’t be able to defraud the federal government and get away with just a slap on the wrist,” said Senator Warren. “This bill will help us save lives by ensuring giant drug companies that enter into settlement agreements with the federal government chip in to fund the next generation of medical research.”

    “The Medical Innovation Act is a commonsense way to advance more medical research by holding shady pharmaceutical companies accountable when they break the law,” said Senator Welch. “I led this bill as a member of the House and am fighting today with my colleagues Senator Warren and Representative Schakowsky to maintain America’s leadership in biomedical science.”

    “For too long, drug companies that rely on federally-funded research to develop their blockbuster drugs have gotten away with defrauding consumers and taxpayers,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “The Medical Innovation Act would make it more difficult for these drug companies to game the system by requiring them to provide a share of their profits to increase investments in biomedical research at the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration. We can continue to be a leading force in medical innovation and this legislation will help ensure that we have the means to cure diseases and save lives.” 

    Senator Warren first introduced the Medical Innovation Act in the 114th Congress and has pushed for its passage in every Congress since. 

    The following Senators also co-sponsored the bill: Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.). 

    This bill is endorsed by the following organizations: National Women’s Health Network, AIDS United, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Society of Behavioral Medicine, Families USA, Public Citizen, and Massachusetts Medical Society. 

    “The Medical Innovation Act reinvests in vital research. This legislation is a crucial step toward holding the pharmaceutical industry accountable while ensuring that taxpayer-funded research leads to tangible advancements in health. With women historically underrepresented in clinical trials, it’s imperative that we close the innovation gap. The Network thanks Senator Elizabeth Warren for her leadership on this issue and we are hopeful that together, we can create a healthier future for all women,” said Denise Hyater-Lindenmuth, Executive Director, National Women’s Health Network.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE conducts single adult, family unit removal flights Oct. 18

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a component agency of the Department of Homeland Security, working in close coordination across the department, including with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, continued to facilitate removal flights of single adults and family units between Oct. 14 and Oct. 18.

    Those included removal flights to Brazil, Central America, China, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, Mexico and Peru. If a noncitizen arrives and has no legal basis to remain in the United States, they are processed and removed quickly, consistent with U.S. law.

    Since the Presidential Proclamation and Interim Final Rule went into effect on June 5, through the end of September, DHS has removed or returned more than 160,000 individuals to more than 145 countries, not including repatriations of people encountered at airports or the northern border. ICE ERO has operated more than 495 international repatriation flights in that period, while DHS has tripled the percentage of southwest border encounters processed for expedited removal. Overall, preliminary data show that DHS completed over 700,000 removals and returns in fiscal year 2024, more than any prior fiscal year since 2010. That included more removals to countries other than Mexico than in any prior year ever. DHS has also reduced the time it takes to remove individuals who do not establish a legal basis to remain in the United States by more than half from its historical average.

    In keeping with standard practice, the United States ensures that all noncitizens without a legal basis to remain in the United States are properly screened for valid protection claims and withholding of removal in accordance with our laws and U.S. international obligations. This applies to all noncitizens, regardless of nationality, to ensure the orderly and humane processing, transfer and removal of single adults and family units.

    Noncitizens placed into removal proceedings present their claims for relief or protection from removal before immigration judges in the immigration courts, which are administered by the Justice Department’s Executive Office for Immigration Review. Due to operational security reasons, ICE does not confirm or discuss future or pending transportation operations.

    ICE Air Operations facilitates the transfer and removal of noncitizens, including family units, via commercial airlines and chartered flights in support of ICE field offices and other DHS initiatives. In fiscal year 2023 , ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted 142,580 removals and 62,545 Title 42 expulsions to more than 170 countries worldwide.

    B-roll for removal flights is available here. DHS has made additional videos available to the public and the media, including b-roll footage of removal flights, a public service announcement and testimonials from migrants who have been removed.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Olympia, Washington man who attacked religious buildings with gunshots and fires sentenced to 11 years in prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tacoma –A 52-year-old Olympia, Washington man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to 11 years in prison for a series of arsons and a shooting spree in 2018 that damaged or destroyed several Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Halls, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Mikey Diamond Starrett, aka Michael Jason Layes, pleaded guilty in May 2024 to four counts of damage to religious property and one count of using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. At today’s sentencing hearing, Chief U.S. District Judge David G. Estudillo said, “There are significant and troubling facts…. Terrorizing a group of individuals because of their religious beliefs.”

    “Mr. Starrett’s attacks irrevocably destroyed the sense of safety and peace that a house of worship is supposed to provide, and caused severe, permanent harm to the Jehovah’s Witness community in Washington,” said U.S. Attorney Gorman. “These were not crimes against buildings, but a series of attacks against a community and a faith.”

    “The defendant in this case committed four attacks on Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Halls, causing fear and anguish to its members,” said  Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The freedom to practice the religion we choose, without discrimination or violence, is a fundamental civil right in our nation and a hallmark of our democracy from its very inception. Violence based on religious prejudice has no place in our society.  The Justice Department will continue to prosecute those who target and harm houses of worship.”

    According to records in the case, Starrett set fire to Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Halls on three occasions. On March 19, 2018, he set fire to the Kingdom Halls in Tumwater and Olympia, Washington. On July 3, 2018, Starrett returned to the Olympia Kingdom Hall and burned it down completely. In a fourth attack on May 15, 2018, Starrett used an assault-style rifle to shoot rounds into another Kingdom Hall in Yelm, Washington. Starrett’s attacks caused more than $700,000 in damage to these Kingdom Halls. Starrett admitted in his plea agreement that he defaced, damaged, and destroyed the Kingdom Halls because of the properties religious character.

    After an extensive investigation, Starrett was arrested in September 2021 and has been in federal custody since then.

    “ATF and our law enforcement partners spent many thousands, if not tens of thousands, of hours investigating these attacks and ensuring that the right person was identified,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “His guilty plea is a validation of the hard work put in by all the law enforcement involved in the investigation, and this sentence is appropriate for his egregious actions. We are all committed to defending the right of people to practice their religion, and investigating when someone acts to deprive them of that right, in this case through acts of arson and use of a firearm during, and in relation to, a crime of violence.”

    Prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo that Starrett “committed several violent, premeditated attacks using fire or a dangerous weapon. His attacks were brazen and show that he believed he could engage in extensive criminal conduct without consequence. Starrett’s disregard for the safety of the Kingdom Halls, its congregants, first responders, and the surrounding area, which is vulnerable to devastating wildfires, underscores the danger that he poses to the public.”

    At the sentencing hearing, a spokesman for the Jehovah’s Witness community read a series of statements that had been submitted by community members. They wrote of the fear and anxiety the attack engendered writing: “I wondered if the arsonist would strike again with people inside; any new face at the meeting made me worry: and …the gunshots and bomb left, were clear threats, we worried someone would come to a meeting with a gun.”

    The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Seattle Field Division, the FBI, the Tumwater, Washington Police Department, and the Olympia, Washington Police Department.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonas Lerman of the Western District of Washington and Trial Attorney Matthew Tannenbaum of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. 

    For more information and resources about DOJ’s work to combat hate crimes, visit http://www.justice.gov/hatecrimes.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Guilty of Being Felon in Possession of Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on October 10, 2024, BRIAN WARD (“WARD”), age 30, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). Sentencing is set for January 2, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe.

    WARD faces up to fifteen (15) years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, at least three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

    According to court documents, on January 7,2024, WARD was arrested by the New Orleans Police Department following a physical altercation between WARD and another man in the 300 block of Bourbon Street.  During the altercation, WARD produced a firearm he possessed and shot at the man.  After WARD’s arrest, his firearm, a Taurus Model PTl40 G2, .40 caliber pistol, was recovered  near the tire of a van where WARD had hidden it.  Also, law enforcement recovered a spent .40-caliber shell casing from the scene.  It was later determined to be a match to the gun recovered.  The incident was additionally recorded by RealTime Crime Cameras in the area.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 50-Year Prison Term Handed Down for Man in Double Shooting at a Temp Labor Agency

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Victims Shot During Early Morning Attack in Northeast D.C.

                WASHINGTON – Matthew Walker, 25, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today, to 50 years in prison for shooting two men, killing one, at a temporary labor agency in Northeast Washington D.C. on February 14, 2019, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Pamela A. Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

                Walker was convicted at trial in January 2024 in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.

                In addition to the 50-year prison term, Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo also ordered Walker to serve five years of supervised release.

                According to the government’s evidence, at approximately 5:45 a.m. on February 14, 2019, Walker walked into Trojan Labor, a temporary labor agency in Northeast Washington D.C.  Once inside, Walker ran directly to the agency’s dispatch office, where he repeatedly shot David Remen, one of the agency’s workers and Michael Hardy, the manager of the agency. Walker then fled away from the scene and discarded his clothing, mask, and firearm nearby.  Mr. Remen died on scene.  Mr. Hardy died in 2022.  DNA evidence from the clothing, mask and firearm, as well as ballistic, video, and other evidence linked the defendant to the shooting.

                In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Assistant U.S. Attorney Prava Palacharla who investigated and indicted the case, Deputy Chief Assistant U.S. Attorney Sharon Donavan for providing forensic DNA expertise, Paralegal Specialist Grazy Rivera, Victim/Witness Advocate Karina Hernandez, Supervisory IT Specialist Leif Hickling, and IT Specialist Charlie Bruce.

                Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Seidel and Alec Levy, who investigated and prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bloods Gang Member Sentenced to 40 Years’ Imprisonment for Double Homicide at Bay Shore Long Island Railroad Station

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Lameek Everette and a Fellow Bloods Member Killed Two Long Island Residents During a Robbery

    Earlier today at the federal courthouse in Central Islip, Lameek Everette, also known as “La,” a member of the Bloods Street gang, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gary R. Brown, to 40 years’ imprisonment. On November 27, 2017, Everette was convicted of racketeering, including predicate acts of murder, robbery and attempted robbery.  Those charges stemmed from his participation in the September 2, 2016 murders of David Arzu and Janelle Curella, who were each shot by Everette during a robbery as the victims walked to the Long Island Rail Road train station in Bayshore, New York. 

    Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, William S. Walker, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Robert Waring, Acting Commissioner, Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD), announced the sentence. 

    “What started out as a robbery, turned into a double murder with the defendant pulling the trigger over and over to kill his victims simply because they resisted a holdup.  Today the defendant faced a reckoning for the devastating harm he has caused,” stated United States Attorney Peace.  “Gang members’ violent choices­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ will not go unpunished in our district.  The substantial sentence handed down today provides some measure of justice following the defendant’s senseless murder of a young man and woman whose families still grieve for the loss of their loved ones.  I hope it will also deter others from joining gangs and committing brutal crimes that terrorize our community.”

    “Lameek Everette’s blatant disregard for human life was clear not only by the execution of two young victims in cold blood, but also by his decision to spend the remainder of his night at a local club,” stated HSI New York Special Agent in Charge Walker.  “While no amount of time or justice can bring back David Arzu and Janelle Curella, preventing future violence is of the utmost priority for HSI New York. We will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue violent street gangs and bring them to justice for the greater good of our Long Island community.”

    FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy stated, “Lameek Everette personally appraised the lives of two innocent victims to be less than the potential value of their belongings. His callous actions demonstrate the senseless gang violence that can target random civilians. May today’s sentencing reflect the FBI’s unwavering commitment to eradicate all gang members threatening the welfare of our communities.”

    “Gang violence has no place in Suffolk County, and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable dangerous individuals like Everette whose plan for robbery escalated to murder,” stated Acting SCPD Commissioner Waring.  “I hope today’s sentence brings some sense of closure to the victims’ family and serves as a reminder we will pursue justice for all victims.”

    At approximately 9:30 p.m. on September 2, 2016, David Arzu, Janelle Curella and two friends were walking towards the Bay Shore train station.  Unbeknownst to them, Everette and a fellow Bloods member had devised a plan to rob them at gunpoint, and were lying in wait for them.  When Everette and his coconspirator spied Arzu, Curella and their friends, they approached the group, brandished firearms and demanded the victims’ money and valuables.  Arzu resisted, and a struggle ensued.  When Curella attempted to come to Arzu’s assistance, Everette shot and killed her.  Everette then shot Arzu multiple times, killing him.  Everette later posted pictures of himself of Facebook, flashing hand signals that signified his affiliation with the Bloods and wearing a necklace he had stolen from Arzu when he murdered him.

    Everette’s coconspirator in the robbery, Taheem Smith, was previously sentenced to 27 years’ incarceration for his role in the killings. 

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program that brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of a renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division.  Assistant United States Attorneys Mark E. Misorek and Anthony Bagnuola are in charge of the prosecution.   

    The Defendant:

    LAMEEK EVERETTE
    Age: 31
    Bay Shore, Long Island

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 17-CR-504 (GRB)

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Avon, NY, police trainee charged with attempted kidnapping, cyberstalking, and multiple child pornography charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Casey Medina, 33, of Rochester, NY, was charged by criminal complaint with attempted kidnapping, distribution, receipt, and possession of child pornography, cyberstalking, and aiding and abetting. The charges carry a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of 20 years.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that in May 2024, the Onondaga County, NY, Sheriff’s Office was contacted by a 31-year-old female (victim), who reported that she had been receiving text messages from unknown numbers that included photographs depicting her face superimposed on various pornographic images made to appear as if she had been engaging in sexual acts. In addition, the victim reported being threatened by the unknown numbers, including being kidnapped, raped, sexually abused and/or killed. In August 2024, the victim indicated to investigators that the text messages in May occurred over the course of approximately 26 days, and, after short break, continued sporadically through June and July 2024. The victim stated that the messages were becoming very concerning, and she had no idea who they were coming from.

    Also in August 2024, law enforcement received a tip from an individual that he had communicated with another individual with username “crcdal” via social media. The other individual, later identified as Medina, was looking for someone to help to harass the victim. Medina provided the individual with the victim’s personal information, including her place of employment, home address, personal cell phone number, and a variety of photos. The individual provided law enforcement with several screenshots of communications with Medina, which included discussions of abducting, drugging, and raping the victim. An undercover law enforcement officer then began communicating with Media online, during which they also discussed abducting, drugging, and raping the victim.

    On August 22, 2024, Medina was an Avon Police Department trainee, and was arrested by the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office at the Rural Police Training Academy in Livingston County on multiple state charges. Investigators executed a search warrant on Medina’s cell phone and recovered the communications discussing the abduction, drugging, and raping of the victim as well as images and videos of child pornography that Medina shared online.

    The complaint is the culmination of an investigation by the Onondaga County, NY, Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Tobias Shelley, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.          

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

    # # # #

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Registered sex offender sentenced to 10 years in prison for latest conviction

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NORFOLK, Va. – A Woodford man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

    According to court documents, on April 7, 2023, Theodore William Cathers, 49, uploaded four files of CSAM depicting prepubescent and pubescent children in sexually explicit behavior. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) forwarded a report of the uploaded material to the Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD).

    On June 27, 2023, VBPD obtained a search warrant for an online storage account belonging to Cathers and recovered approximately 2,900 CSAM files, including images of pre-pubescent children and depictions of bondage and sadomasochism. A large portion of the CSAM files were collage images of prepubescent and pubescent children, partially or completely nude, engaged in sexually explicit acts.

    Cathers is a registered sex offender after having been convicted of two counts of Taking Indecent Liberties with Children Under the Age of 15. In 2012, Cathers was discovered naked in the bedroom of two children aged eleven and seven years old. The eleven-year-old informed law enforcement that Cathers came into their bedroom and got into her bed with her. A short time later, Cathers got into the seven-year-old’s bed and removed all his clothing. Cathers was convicted in 2013 and sentenced to 10 years in prison with 10 years suspended.

    Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Derek W. Gordon, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph L. Kosky prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-17.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: North Carolina Man Sentenced for Assaulting Law Enforcement During the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

             WASHINGTON— A North Carolina man was sentenced to prison today after he previously pleaded guilty to assaulting law enforcement during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

             Curtis Davis, 45, of Snow Hill, North Carolina, was sentenced to 24 months in prison, 36 months of supervised release, the first six months of which to be served on home detention, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution by U.S. District Judge Amit P. Mehta. Davis previously pleaded guilty to one count of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers on June 10, 2024.

             According to court documents, at about 3:00 p.m., on Jan.6, 2021, Davis entered the U.S. Capitol building via the East Rotunda doors and made his way into the Rotunda, where law enforcement officers were attempting to disperse a crowd of rioters. Inside the Rotunda, while pressed against a line of police officers, Davis forcibly attacked a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer and attempted to grab ahold of the officer’s baton.

             At about 3:09 p.m., court documents say that Davis punched an MPD officer in the face shield and refused law enforcement orders to leave the building. A short while later, Davis punched another MPD officer in the head and forcibly pulled away a riot shield from another. Davis then used the shield to press against the backs of a line of rioters in an attempt to resist the efforts of police.

             Davis was then expelled from the Rotunda but later returned to the East Rotunda doors. Here, Davis, along with other rioters, attempted to push their way through a line of police officers into the Rotunda.  Davis then made his way to the front of the line of rioters and punched a riot shield held by an officer three times.

             Court documents say that later that night, Davis filmed a group of police officers with his cell phone camera before turning it around, filming his fist, and stating, “Them knuckles right there, from one of those m—f— faces at the Capitol.”

             The FBI arrested Davis on Dec. 8, 2023, in Snow Hill.

             The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting this case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina provided valuable assistance.

             The FBI’s Charlotte and Washington Field Offices investigated this case. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

             In the 45 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,532 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 571 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

             Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

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