NewzIntel.com

Category: MIL-OSI

  • MIL-OSI China: 3rd global digital trade expo highlights AI innovations, low-altitude economy

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

    The exhibition area of humanoid robots is pictured at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. The third Global Digital Trade Expo opened in Hangzhou on Wednesday, showcasing the latest technological innovations and business development of the digital economy sector. [Photo/Xinhua]

    HANGZHOU, Sept. 25 — The third Global Digital Trade Expo opened in Hangzhou, capital of east China’s Zhejiang Province, on Wednesday, showcasing the latest technological innovations and business development of the digital economy sector.

    Themed “Digital Trade, Global Access,” this year’s edition has attracted more than 1,500 enterprises from home and abroad, among which over 300 are international companies. Over 30,000 purchasers have signed up for the event, with more than 6,000 of them from foreign countries and regions.

    A total of 446 new products and technologies are scheduled to be showcased at the five-day expo. Notably, this year’s expo has set up special exhibition areas for robots equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) innovations and the smart traffic solutions of the low-altitude economy.

    The size of China’s low-altitude economy is estimated to have exceeded 500 billion yuan (about 70.1 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023, with its scale expected to rise to 2 trillion yuan by 2030, according to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).

    Co-hosted by the Zhejiang provincial government and China’s Ministry of Commerce, the event is currently China’s only digital trade themed expo at the national level. China’s digital industry has seen robust growth in recent years, reporting a total revenue of 32.5 trillion yuan in 2023.

    This photo taken on Sept. 25, 2024 shows the launching ceremony of the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Sales staff promote African products via livestreaming during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on Sept. 25, 2024 shows the China Pavilion at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A visitor poses for photos at the booth of “Black Myth: Wukong” during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the Silk Road E-commerce Zone during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Staff members promote products via livestreaming at the Silk Road E-commerce Zone during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the Silk Road E-commerce Zone during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the Smart City Zone during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People use VR devices to enjoy virtual concerts during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the Kazakhstan Pavilion at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the Thailand Pavilion at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Visitors try the games at the booth of “Black Myth: Wukong” during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on Sept. 25, 2024 shows the main entrance to the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A visitor learns about a driverless aircraft at the Smart Mobility Zone during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Staff members promote products at the Silk Road E-commerce Zone during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on Sept. 25, 2024 shows a view outside the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A foreign merchant consults about a small intelligent translation device at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the Silk Road E-commerce Zone during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Staff members showcase a smart office desk at the Silk Road E-commerce Zone during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi congratulates Communication University of China on 70th founding anniversary

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

    BEIJING, Sept. 26 — Chinese President Xi Jinping has extended congratulations to the faculty, students and alumni of the Communication University of China on its 70th founding anniversary.

    In a reply letter to its faculty and students, Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, called on the university to cultivate more high-caliber journalism and communication professionals.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Screening, medicine, and MRI access will avoid hundreds of deaths from prostate cancer, MPs told

    Source: Prostate Cancer Foundation

    A prostate cancer screening programme starting with simple blood tests will halve the number of deaths from prostate cancer, MPs heard last night.

    At a Parliamentary event to mark prostate cancer awareness month, about 20 Ministers and MPs were encouraged to support pilots that would guide an eventual national screening programme for at-risk men.
     
    Prostate Cancer Foundation Chief Executive Peter Dickens said a diagnostic pathway which starts with a PSA blood test carries the promise of a 50 percent reduction in prostate-cancer specific mortality in New Zealand men.
     
    “Pilots are important for learning the lessons on how to optimally engage with and screen New Zealand men in the same way that women are successfully screened for cervical and breast cancer.”
     
    The Prostate Cancer Foundation is asking the Government to fund two PSA screening pilots which would test men based on age and familial and genetic risk. The cost is relatively low at an estimated $6.4 million, and learnings would inform an eventual national population-based screening programme.
     
    “Pilots will help us develop a comprehensive, optimum clinical care pathway for prostate cancer, which if done properly will take care of any issues with diagnosis and overtreatment.”
     
    “But we really need to move now on piloting so we learn the lessons we need to learn. The number of prostate cancer cases is likely to double by 2040. The clock is ticking. We need to pay attention to that now and start piloting prostate cancer screening.”
     
    Dickens said that medicines and access to MRI screening were also important for reducing prostate cancer deaths.
     
    “MRI is an absolute game changer. It’s a vital part of diagnostic pathway. The vast majority of men who are diagnosed in the public health service don’t have access. We need greater availability of MRI, and not just for prostate cancer.”
     
    And while there has been a lot of focus this year on funding for medicines, there’s been little good news for men with prostate cancer.
     
    “There hasn’t been a new drug funded for prostate cancer in last 10 years. People are paying up to $8000 a month to maintain their quality and length of life. We would encourage MPs  to keep a focus on access to medicines for a wide range of treatments,” Dickens said.
     
    Blue September is prostate cancer awareness month.  The Prostate Cancer Foundation offers a portfolio of services to help 42,000 men with a prostate cancer diagnosis and their families to fight their cancer battle.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Issues Statement on FAFSA Update: Urges Careful Implementation and Accessibility for All Students

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement on the Department of Education’s update on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

    “I wrote the FAFSA Simplification Act to make it easier for students to get the financial aid they deserve—it should be uncomplicated for students and parents to navigate this form and figure out what kind of federal aid they’re eligible for. And I want to be clear: I wrote this law to make the FAFSA accessible for everyone, including students who are unhoused, low-income, or first-generation—it’s important to me that I continue to see serious progress on this front. I will be closely following the Department’s implementation of these newly announced improvements to make sure a truly simplified FAFSA is the end result.”

    In May and February, Murray led Congressional oversight efforts of the newly simplified FAFSA form’s implementation and she has continued to stay in close contact with the Department of Education since then. The Senate Fiscal Year 2025 spending bill, authored and negotiated by Murray, which funds the Department of Education includes an additional $100 million for the administration of student aid programs—the funding will support a wide range of activities including implementation of the FAFSA. The bill also directs the Department of Education to undertake various activities related to the FAFSA, including conducting outreach to students who have uncompleted FAFSA applications, providing weekly updates to Congress on FAFSA implementation, and correcting errors that have made it difficult for unaccompanied homeless youth to access the FAFSA application. Murray’s funding bill passed out of the Senate Appropriations Committee 25-3.

    As the top Democrat on the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), in 2020, Senator Murray successfully negotiated—and got signed into law—bipartisan legislation to reform the financial aid application process, simplify the FAFSA form for students and parents, and significantly expand eligibility for federal aid. Now, the changes are taking effect—making the financial aid application process easier to navigate for families and getting more federal support to more students.

    The bipartisan FAFSA Simplification Act that Senator Murray negotiated was signed into law in December 2020. In particular, Senator Murray secured policies that, among other things:

    • Restore Pell Grant eligibility for incarcerated individuals, students who have been defrauded, and students with drug-related offenses;
    • Significantly expand who is eligible to receive Pell Grants and the maximum award; simplify the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA);
    • Make the financial aid process easier to navigate for students experiencing homelessness and students formerly in foster care.

    More about the changes Senator Murray secured HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Feedback sought on Marlborough Sounds blue cod fishery

    Source: Ministry for Primary Industries

    Fisheries New Zealand is seeking feedback on a proposal aimed at reducing fishing pressure on blue cod in the Marlborough Sounds, as well as a range of other potential measures to ensure the long-term sustainability of the popular fishery.

    “We’re considering a range of options and management tools to address overfishing and increase abundance of blue cod in the Marlborough Sounds,” says Emma Taylor, director fisheries management.

    “The area sees very high levels of fishing effort, particularly in the holiday period, which, when combined with other factors such as sedimentation and marine heatwaves, is affecting the health of the fishery. This is despite catch limit reductions and other changes over the past decade.”

    Following a 2021 potting survey which indicated that the amount of fishing in the area was significantly higher than can be sustainably supported by the fishery, the commercial catch limit (TACC) for Marlborough Sounds blue cod was reduced.

    An advisory group of tangata whenua, fishers, and local residents was also formed to identify measures to reduce fishing pressure and increase abundance in the fishery. The group met throughout 2023 and identified several potential measures to improve sustainability and abundance for the fishery.

    We are now seeking public feedback on a proposal to extend the seasonal closure, which currently runs from 1 September to 19 December 2024. If approved, the new season would apply from the end of 2025 onwards.

    We are also seeking public input on a range of wider measures for future implementation identified by the group, such as:

    • closure of spawning areas to fishing to rebuild spawning populations
    • reduction of the combined daily bag limit for finfish in the area
    • options to increase information on recreational fishing, such as voluntary catch reporting
    • an educational campaign to improve fishing practices
    • tools to mitigate release mortality.

    “Marlborough Sounds blue cod are a taonga, and iconic for many Kiwis. We want to hear from fishers, tangata whenua, the local community, and anyone else with an interest in the fishery,” says Emma Taylor.

    Submissions can be made online or by mail until 5pm on 1 December 2024.

    More information, including on how to make a submission

    There will be 2 public drop-in information sessions to present information and assist with making submissions:

    • Tasman Bay Cruising Club in Nelson/Whakatū on Tuesday 12 November 2024 (4.30pm to 7.30pm)
    • Queen Charlotte Yacht Club in Picton/Waitohi on Thursday 14 November 2024 (4.30pm to 7.30pm).

    For further information and general enquiries, email info@mpi.govt.nz

    For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Department of Defense and U.S. Small Business Administration Announce First Licensed and Green Light Approved Funds for the Small Business Investment Company Critical Technology Initiative

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    The Department of Defense (DoD) and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) today announced the first group of Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) Licensees and Green Light Approved investment funds approved under the Small Business Investment Company Critical Technology Initiative (SBICCT Initiative). This first group collectively plans to invest over $2.8 billion into over 1,000 portfolio companies.

    The SBICCT Initiative’s primary objective is to attract and scale private investment into technology areas critical to economic and national security. Funds licensed under the SBICCT Initiative are eligible for access to SBA guaranteed loans designed to enhance fund-level investment returns. Each fund can access up to $175 million in loans which can be accessed through the new Accrual Debenture, which aligns with the cash flows of longer duration and equity-oriented investment strategies and may also be accessed through the longstanding SBA Standard Debentures that aligns to credit strategies. DoD also provides Program Related Initiatives intended to drive value in the implementation of the Licensee’s respective investment strategies.

    The SBICCT Initiative was announced by Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman in December 2022. Through this first-of-its-kind partnership, DoD’s Office of Strategic Capital (OSC) and SBA’s Office of Investment and Innovation (OII) aim to increase private investment in critical technologies, including component-level technologies and production processes vital to U.S. economic and national security interests.

    “This first group of SBICCT Initiative funds represents a consequential milestone in demonstrating the power of public-private partnerships to build enduring advantage by growing and modernizing our supply chains, strengthening our economic and national security, and benefiting the development and commercialization of critical technologies that are key drivers of our U.S. industrial base,” said Heidi Shyu, Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. “I am proud of the collaborative work between OSC and our SBA OII colleagues to stand up and advance this important program.”

    These investment funds, as well as representatives of the SBA and DoD and investment industry advisors, gathered today at the Hall of Heroes at the Pentagon to celebrate this accomplishment.

    “SBA and DoD entered into this historic initiative to ensure America maintains its global competitive edge,” said SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman. “Today we are proud to recognize the early results of our Agencies’ collaboration and partnership with the U.S. investment community to fill capital access gaps vital to our national and economic security.”

    The SBICCT Initiative formally launched and began accepting SBIC applications in fall 2023. In early July 2024, the SBA granted the first SBICCT Initiative license. Just three months later, as of October 22, 2024, after taking the significant step to submit a formal application and undergo the rigorous underwriting and due diligence process, 4 funds are Licensed and 9 are Green Light Approved by SBA to raise private capital.

    These 13 funds, taken along with the other investment funds nearing the end of the diligence process, collectively project to invest over $4 billion in nearly 1700 portfolio companies focused on all 14 DoD Critical Technology Areas and component-level technologies and production processes. In addition, these funds plan to invest across asset classes including seed, venture, growth, buyout, direct lending, special situations, and fund-of-funds.

    Interest in the SBICCT Initiative continues to grow, as over 100 funds have expressed interest in the Initiative. Additional applications are expected in future quarterly filing windows. The next filing deadline is November 15, 2024. For more information on the SBICCT Initiative and the application process, please see the Investment Policy Statement here.

    About the Office of Strategic Capital

    Established by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III in December 2022, the Office of Strategic Capital has a mission to attract and scale private capital for national and economic security priorities. Follow the work of the Office of Strategic Capital at https://www.osc.mil.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Competition Bureau seeks feedback on the new guidance for market studies

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Competition Bureau seeks feedback on the new guidance for market studies October 23, 2024 – GATINEAU (Québec), Competition Bureau

    October 23, 2024 – GATINEAU (Québec), Competition Bureau

    The Competition Bureau is seeking Canadians’ feedback on a new version of its Market Studies Information Bulletin, which has been updated following recent changes to the Competition Act. Market studies allow the Bureau to conduct in-depth examinations of a market or industry to identify competition issues and propose solutions. They aim to help understand and enhance competition in important sectors of the Canadian economy.

    The December 2023 amendments to the Competition Act established a new framework for undertaking market studies with information-gathering powers. This new information bulletin provides general guidance and information on how the Bureau conducts its market studies following these amendments. 

    It will answer five broad questions:

    • What steps do we take before launching a market study?
    • How do we launch market studies and decide how long they will take?
    • How do we obtain and use information, including confidential information?
    • What are the outcomes of a market study?
    • How do we follow up and monitor the impact of our market study?

    Interested parties are invited to submit their views by no later than December 23, 2024. Submissions can be made by e-mail at MS-consultation-EM-cb-bc@cb-bc.gc.ca or by completing the Guidance Consultation Form.

    Written comments that are not flagged as confidential may be published on the Bureau’s website. Feedback may also be incorporated into the final version.

    The Bureau expects to publish a final version of the Market Studies Information Bulletin in March 2025.

    The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that protects and promotes competition for the benefit of Canadian consumers and businesses. Competition drives lower prices and innovation while fueling economic growth.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fraudulent websites, internet banking login screens and phishing emails related to Dah Sing Bank, Limited

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

         The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Dah Sing Bank, Limited relating to fraudulent websites, internet banking login screens and phishing emails, which have been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.

         The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).

         Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the websites, login screens or emails concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PB-SHABD: 24/7 News, 1500+ Reporters, Live Feeds, and Archival Access

    Source: Government of India (2)

    PB-SHABD: 24/7 News, 1500+ Reporters, Live Feeds, and Archival Access

    Digital News Portals can now access DD & AIR’s Trusted Repository via PB-SHABD – Fair, Objective and Reaching the remotest corners of India

    Free sign up available to media organisations for PB-SHABD services until march 2025

    Logo free content in text, video, picture, and audio form to be made accessible across India in all major Indian languages

    Posted On: 24 OCT 2024 7:04PM by PIB Delhi

    Digital News Portals can now register on the PB-SHABD portal  by filling a simple sign up form on https://shabd.prasarbharati.org/register. This will enable Digital News Portals to access logo free content in text, video, picture, and audio form throughout the India, in all major Indian languages on PB-SHABD. The service is free for media organizations to sign up and use until March 2025.

    Subscription criteria for YouTube-based Digital News Portals:

    1. Portals in English/Hindi need to have a minimum of 1,00,000 subscribers.
    2. Regional news portals need to have a minimum of 50000 subscribers.
    3. The Youtube account must be verified.
    4. The portal should have been in existence for a year.
    5. The portal must have uploaded at least 1 video each month, and at least 5 videos in the last one month at the time of application.

    A Digital Proforma may be filled by the digital news portals, which then will be verified internally at Prasar Bharati. Only after the completion of this process, will digital news portals be able to register for PB-SHABD.

    About PB-SHABD:

    Prasar Bharati-Shared Audio-Visuals for Broadcast and Dissemination (PB-SHABD) was launched on March 13, 2024 as a news sharing service designed to provide media organizations with daily news feeds across various formats including video, audio, text, and photos.

    Extensive Network for Comprehensive Coverage

    Leveraging a robust network of over 1500 reporters, correspondents, and stringers, supported by 60 dedicated edit desks operating round the clock, PB-SHABD offers the latest news from every corner of India. More than 1000 stories, covering over 50 news categories such as agriculture, technology, foreign affairs, and political developments, are uploaded daily in all major Indian languages from the Regional News Units (RNUs) and headquarters combined.

    Main features of PB-SHABD

    The content provided through PB-SHABD is logo-free, and no credit is required on using content from this platform. Additionally, the service includes a Live Feed feature, offering exclusive coverage of live events such as National award ceremonies from Rashtrapati Bhawan, election rallies, important political events, and various press briefings, all without a logo.

    To further enhance access, a Media Repository is being developed as an archival library, allowing subscribers to easily access rare and archival footage from the Doordarshan and Akashvani libraries, along with special curated packages.

    Follow PB-SHABD on X and Instagram for the latest updates

    For more updates, PB-SHABD is available on X (former Twitter) at https://x.com/PBSHABD and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/pbshabd/

    *****

     Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2067861) Visitor Counter : 5

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Listening to feedback: changes to York’s sexual health service

    Source: City of York

    A number of changes have now been agreed to the way sexual health services are provided in York, which follows a consultation on proposed changes and listening to respondents’ feedback.

    The consultation ran between July and September and saw over 100 people respond.

    The sexual health service in York is delivered through YorSexualHealth, provided by the York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

    The council has worked closely with the York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to review the service and its partnership, as part of the re-procurement of the service for the next 10 years.

    The consultation highlighted the need for a number of changes, following a 30 per cent reduction in the public health grant since 2015, which funds the service.

    The provision of free, comprehensive, open access sexual health and contraceptive services is a mandated Public Health function of local authorities, as part of the Health and Social Care Act 2012.

    A report was taken to an Executive meeting in June to outline what these changes could mean, before going out to consultation.

    The contract with the York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust was renewed in July, and following Executive approval was extended for an additional 12-month period.

    In order to deliver the new contract, the York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and the council identified that some efficiencies would need to be made to the service. These will now be introduced soon, through a staged approach during the 12-month extension period, to ensure robust monitoring and evaluation.

    The changes include these staged service reductions over a 12-month period:

    1. A reduction in the number of clinic hours the service is open for: The council and York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust listened to feedback on the Saturday closure proposals, which was unpopular with respondents. We have revised our thinking on this and are looking at closing the service at a different time to lessen the impact. Instead, the clinic will now close on a Wednesday morning.
    2. A further cap on activity relating to Preventx for York residents. (online STI testing): The service will now offer an ‘enhanced triage’ or clinician recommended approach, to ensure that service users get the right test for them, which is better for both the service user and the cost efficiency of the service. This also brings the online testing provision in line with the testing that is offered when attending the service in person.
    3. A cap on activity relating to LARC (Long-Acting Reversible Contraception) including contraceptive coils and contraceptive implants: York has a high number of LARC fitted per head of population, well above the national average. This means we are building from a strong position in access to contraception in the city, and need to ensure that this remains a specialist service available to those who need it. However, last year over 3,000 people attended for basic contraception needs, which GPs and Pharmacists can support with. Pharmacists can also issue repeat contraception and initial contraception. So our contraception activity will be focussed and prioritised according to need.

    Peter Roderick, Director of Public Health, said: “We’d like to thank everyone for their feedback during the consultation. We’ve listened to everyone’s comments and have made some changes to the proposals as a result. These service changes are not being made lightly – we know there will be impacts, and its our role to mitigate these as much as we can.

    “Sexual health services are vital, and we are proud of the quality of what has been available to people in York in recent years, and of the staff who deliver these vital services.

    “Sexual and reproductive health is not just about preventing disease or infection. It also means promoting good sexual health in a wider context, including relationships, sexuality and choices around conception. It is a vital aspect of overall health and wellbeing and of public health.

    “We are determined that we will meet York’s future needs to the same level, but there are always opportunities to make changes and do things more efficiently.

    “That is reflected in our performance figures, which reflect very well on those involved in delivering the services.”

    Jo Mannion, Consultant and Care Group Director for Family Health at York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We have successfully provided a range of high-quality, easily accessible sexual health services over the last few years, and we welcome the opportunity to build on this success in strong partnership with York.”

    The council and the York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust are continuing its analysis and work towards potential commencement of a new contract (under a section 75 partnership agreement) in 2025/6,

    Sexual health services are a key part of public health and are funded via the ring-fenced Public Health Allocation.

    The current contract with York and Scarborough NHS Trust and Nimbuscare Limited was extended earlier this year, following discussions with the providers through the Sexual Health Joint Management Board, chaired by the Director of Public Health.

    A benefit of a new service contract with the current Integrated Sexual Health Services contract with York and Scarborough NHS Trust, is that they have a proven track record and have been a provider of sexual health services in York for over 10 years.

    Following this consultation, a new legal agreement between two organisations will be agreed.

    View the findings of the consultation here

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Suppliers encouraged to submit feedback on supermarket dealings

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    To ensure farmers and suppliers get a fair go when dealing with the major supermarkets – Coles, Woolworths, Aldi and Metcash – the Government is encouraging affected businesses to submit feedback to the 2024 Annual Food and Grocery Code (the Code) Independent Reviewer’s Survey.

    The survey monitors compliance with the Code, which mandates conduct between supermarkets and their suppliers, and is part of our work to ensure our supermarket system is fairer for farmers and for families.

    Tracking and reporting on supermarket conduct is key in cracking down on anti‑competitive behaviour in the food and grocery sector, which is a priority for the Government.

    This year’s survey incorporates recommendations of Dr Craig Emerson’s Review of the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct to monitor suppliers’ experience agreeing to exceptions to the Code and retribution concerns.

    These changes to the survey form part of the Government’s commitment to implement all recommendations of the review, announced in June this year.

    The Albanese Government will introduce legislation later this year to enact substantial multi‑million dollar penalties for serious breaches of the Code. The Government will also give the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission new powers to issue infringement notices where it has reasonable grounds to believe a provision has been breached.

    The new mandatory Code with strengthened dispute resolution mechanisms will come into effect from 1 April 2025.

    Suppliers eligible for participation in the survey will have received correspondence from the Independent Reviewer, Chris Leptos AO, containing the survey link.

    The survey closes on 26 November and results will be published with the Independent Reviewer’s Annual Report.

    To see the previous years’ results, including how the major supermarkets rate against each other and the annual reports, go to Grocery Code Reviewer annual reports.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/1828 renewing the authorisation for the placing on the market of feed containing, consisting of and of food and feed products produced from genetically modified maize MON 810 pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2017/1207 – B10-0146/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety
    Members responsible: Martin Häusling, Biljana Borzan, Anja Hazekamp

    B10‑0146/2024

    European Parliament resolution on Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/1828 renewing the authorisation for the placing on the market of feed containing, consisting of and of food and feed products produced from genetically modified maize MON 810 pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2017/1207 (2024/2840(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/1828 renewing the authorisation for the placing on the market of feed containing, consisting of and of food and feed products produced from genetically modified maize MON 810 pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2017/1207[1],

    – having regard to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 September 2003 on genetically modified food and feed[2], and in particular Article 11(3) and Article 23(3) thereof,

    – having regard to the vote of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed referred to in Article 35 of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003, on 26 April 2024, at which no opinion was delivered, and the vote of the Appeal Committee on 29 May 2024, at which again no opinion was delivered,

    – having regard to Article 11 of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by Member States of the Commission’s exercise of implementing powers[3],

    – having regard to the opinion adopted by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) on 30 November 2023, and published on 19 January 2024[4],

    – having regard to its previous resolutions objecting to the authorisation of genetically modified organisms (‘GMOs’)[5],

    – having regard to Rule 115(2) and (3) of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the motion for a resolution of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety,

    A. whereas, on 6 October 2022, Bayer Agriculture BV, based in Belgium, submitted on behalf of Bayer CropScience LP, based in the United States, an application to the Commission for the renewal of Commission Implementing Decisions 2013/649/EU[6] and (EU) 2017/1207[7]; whereas, in accordance with Article 11(4) of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003, the period of authorisation of genetically modified pollen produced from genetically modified maize MON 810 (the ‘GM maize’) for food uses covered by Implementing Decision 2013/649/EU has been automatically extended until a decision is taken on the renewal application;

    B. whereas, on 30 November 2023, EFSA adopted a favourable opinion, which was published on 19 January 2024;

    C. whereas the GM maize has been modified to produce insecticides (‘Bt toxins’);

    Outstanding questions concerning Bt toxins

    D. whereas a number of studies show that side effects have been observed that may affect the human immune system following exposure to Bt toxins and that some Bt toxins may have adjuvant properties[8], meaning that they can increase the allergenicity of other proteins with which they come into contact;

    Bt crops: effects on non-target organisms

    E. whereas, unlike the use of insecticides, where exposure is at the time of spraying and for a limited time afterwards, the use of Bt GM crops leads to continuous exposure of the target and non-target organisms to Bt toxins;

    F. whereas the assumption that Bt toxins exhibit a single target-specific mode-of-action can no longer be considered correct and effects on non-target organisms cannot be excluded; whereas an increasing number of non-target organisms are reported to be affected in many ways; whereas 39 peer-reviewed publications that report significant adverse effects of Bt toxins on many ‘out-of-range’ species are mentioned in a recent overview[9];

    Member State comments

    G. whereas Member States submitted many critical comments to EFSA during the three-month consultation period[10], including that the compositional data for the GM maize should be checked and re-analysed and that the analysis should fulfil the present EFSA requirements, inter alia equivalence testing, and that the literature review did not include studies on the fate of Cry1Ab in the environment or on potential effects of Bt-crop residues on non-target organisms, which is problematic because publications indicate that a carryover from GM maize feed to manure may lead to exposure of soil organisms to Cry1Ab and that this may trigger negative effects on soil organisms with consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem services;

    H. whereas Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 states that GM food or feed must not have adverse effects on human health, animal health or the environment, and requires the Commission to take into account any relevant provisions of Union law and other legitimate factors relevant to the matter under consideration when drafting its decision; whereas such legitimate factors should include the Union’s obligations under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (UN CBD);

    Reducing dependency on imported feed

    I. whereas one of the lessons from the COVID-19 crisis and the ongoing war in Ukraine is the need for the Union to end the dependencies on some critical materials; whereas in the mission letter to Commissioner-elect Christophe Hansen, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen asks him to look at ways to reduce imports of critical commodities[11];

    Undemocratic decision-making

    J. whereas the vote on 26 April 2024 of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed referred to in Article 35 of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 delivered no opinion, meaning that the authorisation was not supported by a qualified majority of Member States; whereas the vote on 29 May 2024 of the Appeal Committee again delivered no opinion;

    K. whereas, in its eighth term, Parliament adopted a total of 36 resolutions objecting to the placing on the market of GMOs for food and feed (33 resolutions) and to the cultivation of GMOs in the Union (three resolutions); whereas, in its ninth term, Parliament adopted 38 objections to placing GMOs on the market;

    L. whereas despite its own acknowledgement of the democratic shortcomings, the lack of support from Member States and the objections of Parliament, the Commission continues to authorise GMOs;

    M. whereas no change of law is required for the Commission to be able not to authorise GMOs when there is no qualified majority of Member States in favour in the Appeal Committee[12];

    N. whereas, on 2 July 2024, the Commission renewed the authorisation for the placing on the market of the GM maize;

    1. Considers that Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/1828 exceeds the implementing powers provided for in Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003;

    2. Considers that Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/1828 is not consistent with Union law, in that it is not compatible with the aim of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003, which is, in accordance with the general principles laid down in Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 of the European Parliament and of the Council[13], to provide the basis for ensuring a high level of protection of human life and health, animal health and welfare, and environmental and consumer interests, in relation to GM food and feed, while ensuring the effective functioning of the internal market;

    3. Calls on the Commission to repeal Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/1828;

    4. Welcomes the fact that the Commission finally recognised, in a letter of 11 September 2020 to Members, the need to take sustainability into account when it comes to authorisation decisions on GMOs[14]; expresses its deep disappointment, however, that, since then the Commission has continued to authorise GMOs for import into the Union, despite ongoing objections by Parliament and a majority of Member States voting against;

    5. Urges the Commission, again, to take into account the Union’s obligations under international agreements, such as the Paris Climate Agreement, the UN CBD and the UN SDGs; reiterates its call for draft implementing acts to be accompanied by an explanatory memorandum explaining how they uphold the principle of ‘do no harm’[15];

    6. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council and the Commission, and to the governments and parliaments of the Member States.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Giving feedback is a skill: 3 tips on how to do it well for students

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Martina van Heerden, Senior Lecturer in English for Educational Development, University of the Western Cape

    It can be difficult to tell someone what you think of their work, even if you mean well and even if you think they’re doing a good job. Sometimes the person doesn’t understand what you mean, or doesn’t respond the way you’d hoped. Feedback should contribute to learning, but you might sometimes wonder if it’s any use at all. South African university lecturer Martina van Heerden studied the art of giving feedback to students in higher education. Her insights and three top tips are useful for effective communication in many areas of life.

    Why did you decide to study feedback?

    As a tutor, I initially did not get training on how to give feedback to students on their essays. After a while, I started thinking more about what exactly I was trying to say and do with my feedback. For example, if I told a student “your argument lacks depth”, was I just telling the to make a stronger argument in this essay, or was there a “deeper message”?

    So, in my PhD, I explored “what lies beneath” our feedback. What I found is that often feedback has very specific messages for students, largely about what is valued in a particular context; what the student is expected to know in that discipline.

    Feedback is a big concern in higher education globally. It is fairly well researched and most research identifies various problems with it. Students don’t seem to take up the feedback, or there are different understandings of its purpose, or it’s not as effective as it should be because of academic language and conventions. The blame tends to be put on students.

    I wondered if the problem lay instead with how educators approach and give feedback.

    Focusing on English literature studies, I analysed written comments given to first year students and worked with the tutors giving the feedback. English literature is a tricky discipline to give feedback in as it involves balancing language, literature and academic literacy aspects. Focusing too much on one aspect in feedback could mislead students.

    What did you find?

    There was a bit of misalignment between the purpose and the practice of feedback.

    Ideally, the underlying message of feedback in literature studies should be to develop students’ ability to think critically and analytically about texts. It could do this, for example, by asking questions that stimulate thinking around the topics and themes of the text (rather than asking students to merely provide more information on it).

    Most of the feedback in my study, however, focused on correcting surface-level errors like grammar and spelling. Although there is nothing wrong with this in itself, it could mislead students about what is valued in the discipline.

    Feedback is often quite frustrating for both students and educators – both research and practice wisdom attest to this. Educators are frustrated because students don’t seem to learn from feedback, and students are frustrated because they are getting what they feel is unhelpful feedback. These are global concerns. There is a big discrepancy between how useful educators and students perceive feedback to be.

    My work and other research highlights the importance of seeing feedback as a literacy – that is, as a skill – that needs to be developed deliberately.

    Too often, it is assumed that educators will know how to give effective feedback, or it is assumed that students will know what to do with feedback. But a lot of the time, they don’t – we go by our instincts and what is perhaps easier to identify and correct. For feedback to actually “feed forward” – beyond a specific essay or task – the skill needs to be developed.

    How can people give better feedback?

    I recommend asking yourself three questions:

    1.) What do I want to achieve with my feedback? Ask yourself if you just want to help students pass this essay or do well in this task, or if you want them to learn something. If they need to learn something, what should they learn?

    2.) How understandable is my feedback language? The language of feedback may be steeped in academic, professional, or industry terms which you take for granted. Or you may have developed your own feedback shorthand. This might be easy for you to understand – you’re the one writing it – but that doesn’t mean a student will. So, ask yourself whether someone who is not you would understand your feedback.

    3.) What do I want my students to do with my feedback? Too often, comments don’t really give students guidance on what to do. Correcting errors and making statements about students’ work takes agency and action away from students. Using questions and suggestions means that students become more active in the feedback process.

    Feedback is important for learning and development. Too often, though, it becomes another obstacle that has to be overcome. Useful, clear, actionable feedback can help students become better writers, researchers, thinkers and scholars.

    Martina van Heerden is a member of the South African Association of Academic Literacy Practitioners.

    – ref. Giving feedback is a skill: 3 tips on how to do it well for students – https://theconversation.com/giving-feedback-is-a-skill-3-tips-on-how-to-do-it-well-for-students-240572

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: : Feds Feed Families USDA End of Summer Thank you and Celebration – 2024

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Thank you to Feds Feed Families agency chairs, champions and leadership who supported Feds Feed Families activities this summer and helped to feed hungry people in our communities.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__Si7eR3v58

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Rabuka’s message to free Kanaky movement: ‘Don’t slap the hand that feeds you’

    By Lydia Lewis, RNZ Pacific presenter/Bulletin editor

    Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is cautioning New Caledonia’s local government to “be reasonable” in its requests from Paris ahead of a Pacific fact-finding mission.

    A much-anticipated high-level visit by Pacific leaders to the French territory is confirmed, after it was postponed by New Caledonia’s local government in August due to allegations France was pushing its own agenda.

    President Louis Mapou has confirmed the Pacific leaders’ mission will take place from October 27-29.

    Rabuka is one of the four Pacific leaders taking part in the so-called “Troika Plus” mission and confirmed he will be in Nouméa on Sunday.

    He told RNZ Pacific during his visit to Aotearoa last week that as “an old hand in Pacific leadership”, listening was key.

    “I’m hoping that they will be very, very reasonable about what they’re asking for,” the prime minister said.

    “When they started, the Kanaky movement started during my time as Prime Minister. I told them, ‘look, don’t slap the hand that has fed you’.

    ‘Good disassociation arrangement’
    “So have a good disassociation arrangement when you become independent, make sure you part as friends.”

    This week, Rabuka told RNZ Pacific in Apia that he would be taking a back seat during the mission.

    Veteran Pacific journalist Nick Maclellan, who is in New Caledonia, said there was “significant concern” that political leaders in France did not understand the depth of the crisis.

    “This crisis is unresolved, and I think as Pacific leaders arrive this week, they’ll have to look beyond the surface calm to realise that there are many issues that still have to play out in the months to come,” he said.

    He said there appeared to be “a tension” between the local government of New Caledonia and the French authorities about the purpose of Pacific leaders’ mission.

    “In the past, French diplomats have suggested that the Forum is welcome to come, to condemn violence, to address the question of reconstruction and so on,” he said.

    “But I sense a reluctance to address issues around France’s responsibility for decolonisation.

    ‘Important moment’
    “The very fact that four prime ministers are coming, not diplomats, not ministers, not just officials, but four prime ministers of Forum member countries, shows that this is an important moment for regional engagement,” he added.

    In a statement on Friday, the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat said that the prime ministers of Tonga and the Cook Islands, along with Solomon Islands Foreign Affairs Minister, would join Rabuka to travel to New Caledonia.

    Tongan PM Hu’akavameiliku will head the mission, which is expected to land in Nouméa after the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa this week.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Giving feedback is a skill: 3 tips on how to do it well for students

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Martina van Heerden, Senior Lecturer in English for Educational Development, University of the Western Cape

    It can be difficult to tell someone what you think of their work, even if you mean well and even if you think they’re doing a good job. Sometimes the person doesn’t understand what you mean, or doesn’t respond the way you’d hoped. Feedback should contribute to learning, but you might sometimes wonder if it’s any use at all. South African university lecturer Martina van Heerden studied the art of giving feedback to students in higher education. Her insights and three top tips are useful for effective communication in many areas of life.

    Why did you decide to study feedback?

    As a tutor, I initially did not get training on how to give feedback to students on their essays. After a while, I started thinking more about what exactly I was trying to say and do with my feedback. For example, if I told a student “your argument lacks depth”, was I just telling the to make a stronger argument in this essay, or was there a “deeper message”?

    So, in my PhD, I explored “what lies beneath” our feedback. What I found is that often feedback has very specific messages for students, largely about what is valued in a particular context; what the student is expected to know in that discipline.

    Feedback is a big concern in higher education globally. It is fairly well researched and most research identifies various problems with it. Students don’t seem to take up the feedback, or there are different understandings of its purpose, or it’s not as effective as it should be because of academic language and conventions. The blame tends to be put on students.

    I wondered if the problem lay instead with how educators approach and give feedback.

    Focusing on English literature studies, I analysed written comments given to first year students and worked with the tutors giving the feedback. English literature is a tricky discipline to give feedback in as it involves balancing language, literature and academic literacy aspects. Focusing too much on one aspect in feedback could mislead students.

    What did you find?

    There was a bit of misalignment between the purpose and the practice of feedback.

    Ideally, the underlying message of feedback in literature studies should be to develop students’ ability to think critically and analytically about texts. It could do this, for example, by asking questions that stimulate thinking around the topics and themes of the text (rather than asking students to merely provide more information on it).

    Most of the feedback in my study, however, focused on correcting surface-level errors like grammar and spelling. Although there is nothing wrong with this in itself, it could mislead students about what is valued in the discipline.

    Feedback is often quite frustrating for both students and educators – both research and practice wisdom attest to this. Educators are frustrated because students don’t seem to learn from feedback, and students are frustrated because they are getting what they feel is unhelpful feedback. These are global concerns. There is a big discrepancy between how useful educators and students perceive feedback to be.

    My work and other research highlights the importance of seeing feedback as a literacy – that is, as a skill – that needs to be developed deliberately.

    Too often, it is assumed that educators will know how to give effective feedback, or it is assumed that students will know what to do with feedback. But a lot of the time, they don’t – we go by our instincts and what is perhaps easier to identify and correct. For feedback to actually “feed forward” – beyond a specific essay or task – the skill needs to be developed.

    How can people give better feedback?

    I recommend asking yourself three questions:

    1.) What do I want to achieve with my feedback? Ask yourself if you just want to help students pass this essay or do well in this task, or if you want them to learn something. If they need to learn something, what should they learn?

    2.) How understandable is my feedback language? The language of feedback may be steeped in academic, professional, or industry terms which you take for granted. Or you may have developed your own feedback shorthand. This might be easy for you to understand – you’re the one writing it – but that doesn’t mean a student will. So, ask yourself whether someone who is not you would understand your feedback.

    3.) What do I want my students to do with my feedback? Too often, comments don’t really give students guidance on what to do. Correcting errors and making statements about students’ work takes agency and action away from students. Using questions and suggestions means that students become more active in the feedback process.

    Feedback is important for learning and development. Too often, though, it becomes another obstacle that has to be overcome. Useful, clear, actionable feedback can help students become better writers, researchers, thinkers and scholars.

    – Giving feedback is a skill: 3 tips on how to do it well for students
    – https://theconversation.com/giving-feedback-is-a-skill-3-tips-on-how-to-do-it-well-for-students-240572

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Undoing the ‘deep state’ means Trump would undo over a century of progress – UPDATED-4

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Joseph Patrick Kelly, Professor of Literature and Director of Irish and Irish American Studies, College of Charleston – UPDATED-4

    If elected, Donald Trump has vowed to demolish what he calls the “deep state” – a conspiratorial term for the American federal bureaucracy. A second Trump administration, running mate JD Vance has said, should fire thousands of civil servants and replace them with MAGA loyalists.

    Trump has said he would tap the billionare Elon Musk as the hatchet man to lead his proposed government commission on “efficiency” in government.

    Compared with the other fireworks of the campaign – like Trump’s promise to criminally prosecute his political rivals and suppress news organizations – threats to gut the United States’ vast federal bureaucracy don’t get much attention. But doing so is a big a threat to democracy.

    For years, conservatives have claimed that taking power from government agencies gives it back to the people. Yet while it might seem counterintuitive, Americans actually exercise their sovereignty through the administrative state.

    The American administrative state was established almost 100 years ago by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. As a historian of American democracy, I think it’s valuable to remember what the old deal looked like while Trump rails against the New Deal.

    The Gilded Age

    Around 1900, America was not really democratic. The federal government did not rule by the consent of the governed. As historian Heather Cox Richardson recently argued, the American government was an oligarchy.

    Millions of working-class Slavs, Jews, Italians, Asians and Scotch-Irish Appalachians toiled mercilessly in death-trap sweatshops, suffocating mines and fiery steel mills. Cotton farmers in the Black Belt lived like peons.

    These people were America’s “other half,” as the social reformer Jacob Riis called them in 1890. And they were effectively excluded from the social contract.

    Meanwhile, for rich white men like Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller it was, as Mark Twain quipped, a “Gilded Age.” Robber barons ran their industrial empires with impunity.

    When their employees tried to organize or protest, industrialists got sheriffs and police to suppress them. Or they hired private armies of “detectives,” like the Pinkertons, as Carnegie did when steelworkers struck in Homestead, Pennsylvania.

    Governors called in the National Guard, as Ephraim Morgan did in 1921 to suppress a labor dispute in West Virginia. Sometimes, it was the regular Army, as in 1919, when soldiers from Camp Pike propped up the peonage system of tenant farming by indiscriminately machine-gunning Black farmers hiding in the woods outside Elaine, Arkansas.

    ‘We stand at Armageddon’

    Forced by popular clamor, Congress decided to act.

    It created the Interstate Commerce Commission in 1887 and told its commissioners to compel railroads, which were gouging some customers and favoring others, to charge fair rates to everyone.

    This was the start of federal regulation.

    In 1895, the New York Legislature passed the Bakeshop Act, making it illegal to force an employee to work more than 10 hours a day or 60 hours a week.

    The Supreme Court, however, was still friendly to business. In its 1905 decision in Lochner v. New York, the court ruled against the Bakeshop Act. No one could regulate the workday or work week. The decision stripped Congress and state legislatures of their nascent regulatory powers. That enraged President Teddy Roosevelt.

    “(T)he right of the people to rule,” Roosevelt later thundered, had been usurped by the corporations. With apocalyptic fury he predicted, “We stand at Armageddon!”

    That was in 1912. The Lochner era, as historians call this period when workers and the public had few protections from exploitative businesses, lasted another 20 years.

    Then, in 1929, the U.S. economy collapsed.

    One-quarter of Americans had no work. Starving and desperate migrants wandered across the country. An army of veterans marched on Washington.

    The apocalyptic misery of the Great Depression finally made American oligarchy untenable.

    Liberal democracy

    In 1932, the people rewrote the social contract: They elected Franklin Delano Roosevelt and his New Deal in a landslide.

    It was, in essence, a revolution. After nearly 60 years of corporate domination, the 1932 election would “return America to its own people,” to use Roosevelt’s words.

    Of course, it was not really a “return.” In the precorporation world, most Americans – notably women and Black people – couldn’t participate in their own government. But 1932 was a giant step toward democracy. And the great innovation that would usher in this modern, liberal democracy was the administrative state: a meritocracy of career civil servants dedicated to carrying out the law.

    Have you ever wondered why a green light means “go” in every state? In 1935, the Bureau of Public Roads – now the Federal Highway Administration – wrote and enforced its first Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways.

    That’s the administrative state in action. It’s how 122 million people cooperated to make complex, modern society work – without surrendering their sovereignty to some dictator like Benito Mussolini or Josef Stalin.

    But the Supreme Court kept striking down New Deal laws and regulations.

    After a massive electoral victory in 1936, FDR threatened to “pack” the court by raising the number of justices from nine to 15. Finally, the court relented. In a 5-4 decision, it allowed the state of Washington’s Industrial Welfare Committee to establish a minimum wage – $14.50 for a 48-hour work week.

    Most history textbooks don’t mention this milestone, but that’s when liberal democracy was secured.

    To be sure, it would take almost 30 more years before the Civil Rights Acts of the 1960s brought democracy to the Jim Crow South. But even that victory depended on the Justice Department’s power to regulate elections in historically white supremacist states.

    The administrative state has been protecting the rights of ordinary Americans and executing the sovereignty of the people for the past 87 years.

    Who grounded Boeing airplanes when a door blew off a 737 in midflight? It was civil servants in the Federal Aviation Administration, a government agency founded by Congress in 1958 “to regulate civil aviation.”

    Why does the U.S. have cleaner air and water today than it did in the 1960s? Because in 1970, Congress passed the Clean Air Act, and a new Environmental Protection Agency was empowered to write and perpetually rewrite regulations that execute Congress’ antipollution laws.

    The alternative

    This system produces the occasional injustice or overreach.

    A farmer’s puddling acre, for example, might be overregulated as a “wetland.” A fishing company might be ordered to maintain a government-appointed herring counter at a cost of $710 a day.

    But gutting regulatory agencies and replacing a meritocratic bureaucracy with MAGA loyalists won’t help small farmers or family-owned fishing boats. It will empower big corporations to pollute, exploit their workers, price-gouge customers, cut corners on safety – and to corrupt the political system.

    It’s also illegal. Congress has deliberately protected those bureaucrats from the volatility of presidential politics.

    Unlike presidential appointees, who serve at the pleasure of the president, civil servants work for the people. They are empowered by Congress, and the president cannot fire them. At least for now.

    Joseph Patrick Kelly has previously volunteered as an officer at the county and precinct level in the Democratic Party.

    – ref. Undoing the ‘deep state’ means Trump would undo over a century of progress in building a federal government for the people and not just for rich white men – https://theconversation.com/undoing-the-deep-state-means-trump-would-undo-over-a-century-of-progress-in-building-a-federal-government-for-the-people-and-not-just-for-rich-white-men-234421

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Hungary

    Source: Australia Safe Travel Advisories

    We’ve reviewed our travel advice for Hungary and continue to advise exercise normal safety precautions. Hungary is part of the Schengen area. From November, the new European Entry/Exit System will start for all non-EU nationals, including Australians, travelling in or out of the Schengen Area (see ‘Travel’).

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s message on World Maritime Day: “Navigating the Future, Safety First” [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations – English

    hipping is vital to keeping our economies and societies afloat.

    It is the lifeblood of global supply chains, stretching across oceans, connecting goods and communities.

    Today, the maritime sector is undergoing a profound transformation as it steers towards greater digitalization, automation and decarbonization.

    New technologies and designs offer the opportunity to make important contributions to climate action. I count on the commitment of regulators, seafarers and ship operators alike.

    As this year’s theme reminds us, safety must remain a priority. While conflicts rage around the globe, targeted attacks have turned key global shipping routes into danger zones, killing seafarers and threatening their well-being. Such attacks are totally unacceptable and must be rejected by all.

    Safe navigation for the women and men who anchor this crucial industry must not be compromised.

    On this World Maritime Day, let’s play our part to ensure a safe, sustainable and prosperous maritime sector for all humanity.

    ***
    Les transports maritimes sont essentiels pour maintenir nos économies et nos sociétés à flot.

    Ils sont l’élément vital des chaînes d’approvisionnement mondiales, qui s’étendent sur tous les océans et permettent d’acheminer les biens aux populations.

    Aujourd’hui, le secteur maritime connaît une transformation profonde et se dirige vers une plus grande dématérialisation, automatisation et décarbonation.

    Grâce aux nouvelles techniques et aux nouveautés en matière de conception, il est possible de contribuer fortement à l’action climatique. À cet égard, je compte sur la mobilisation des responsables de la réglementation, des gens de mer et des exploitants de navires.

    Le thème de cette année nous rappelle que la sécurité doit rester une priorité. Alors que des conflits font rage dans le monde entier, de grands axes maritimes sont devenus des zones dangereuses dans lesquelles des attaques ciblées tuent des gens de mer et menacent leur bien-être. Ces attaques sont totalement inacceptables et doivent être universellement dénoncées.

    La sécurité de la navigation des femmes et des hommes indispensables à ce secteur essentiel ne doit pas être compromise.

    En cette Journée mondiale de la mer, jouons notre rôle afin de garantir la sécurité, la durabilité et la prospérité du secteur maritime, pour l’humanité tout entière.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: BPA – Decathlon recalls Rockrider MTB EXPL500 and ST500 bicycle helmets

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

    Federal Office of Consumer Affairs

    Bern, 26.09.2024 – In collaboration with the Accident Prevention Bureau (BPA), Decathlon is recalling the Rockrider MTB EXPL500 and ST500 bicycle helmets. A plastic part of the helmet may break. Consumers are urged to stop using the helmet and return it to a Decathlon branch for exchange or refund.

    What danger arises from the product concerned?

    A plastic part at the back of the helmet holding the chin strap can break. In this case, the support is no longer ensured during a fall, which can lead to a risk of injury for the user.

    Which products are affected?

    The following are affected by this recall: Rockrider (Decathlon brand) MTB EXPL500 and ST500 bicycle helmets with the following serial numbers. The affected helmets were purchased from Decathlon between July 2 and September 9, 2024:

    KT24040006-15

    KT24040006-16

    KT24040006-17

    KT24040018-14

    KT24040018-16

    KT24040018-17

    KT24040034-10

    KT24040034-2

    KT24040034-4

    KT24040034-8

    KT24040045-10

    KT24040045-8

    KT24040045-9

    Serial numbers not listed above are not affected by the recall.

    What should affected consumers do?

    Affected consumers should no longer use the helmet. Affected helmets can be returned to any Decathlon branch. They will be exchanged or refunded at the purchase price.

    Address for sending questions

    If you have any questions, consumers can contact Decathlon customer service: Telephone: 49 (0) 6202 97 81 300 Email: help.switzerland@decathlon.com URL: https://www.decathlon.ch/fr

    Author

    Federal Consumer Affairs Officehttp://www.konsum.admin.ch/

    Social sharing

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Grassley Presses USDA to Act Now to Protect U.S. Farmland

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a lifelong family farmer and a Senate Agriculture Committee member, is urging the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to share with key national security agencies its data on foreign-owned farmland.  

    “USDA is sitting on a treasure trove of data that federal partners could use to help protect American farmers.”

    Download video HERE.

    In a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, Grassley notes the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act of 1978 – which he cosponsored as a member of the House of Representatives – requires USDA to “collect, track and report reliable data on foreign investments in U.S. agricultural land.” To enhance transparency and curtail malign foreign investments, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a January 2024 report recommending USDA share this data with the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) in a more timely fashion. While USDA agreed with GAO’s recommendations, it has yet to take the necessary steps to address GAO’s guidance and improve its data sharing standards. 

    “It is crucial that USDA continue to improve its processes for collecting, tracking, and reporting data on foreign ownership and investment in U.S. agricultural land. Further, it is essential that USDA provide CFIUS and its member agencies with access to timely and detailed information on these transactions to ensure that all potential national security risks receive a thorough review,” Grassley wrote to Vilsack.   

    Read Grassley’s full letter HERE. 

    Learn more about Grassley’s work to protect American farmland through his:

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s message on the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations – English

    his tenth International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons arrives at a troubling moment.  

    Growing geopolitical divisions and mistrust are driving tensions to new heights. Instead of dialogue and diplomacy being deployed to end the nuclear threat, another nuclear arms race is taking shape, and saber-rattling is re-emerging as a tactic of coercion.

    We need to stop the madness before it’s too late. On this important Day, the world must deliver a clear and united message: the only way to eliminate the nuclear threat is to eliminate nuclear weapons.

    Disarmament and non-proliferation are two sides of the same coin. Progress in one spurs progress in the other. States must pursue both as a matter of urgency.

    Nuclear weapon States must lead the way by honoring their disarmament obligations, and committing never to use nuclear weapons under any circumstances, or threaten to do so.

    The treaties and instruments that seek to prevent the spread and testing of nuclear weapons and bring about their elimination need to be reinforced and adapted to meet today’s challenges, including to address technological changes that could increase the threat.

    Just days ago, the Summit of the Future — and the Pact for the Future that emerged — resulted in a new global commitment to revitalize the global disarmament regime, and bring our world closer to our goal of total elimination of nuclear weapons.

    Our future hangs in the balance. Let’s eliminate these weapons from our world for good.

    ***

    Cette dixième Journée internationale pour l’élimination totale des armes nucléaires arrive à un moment inquiétant.

    Alimentées par des divisions géopolitiques et une méfiance croissantes, les tensions atteignent de nouveaux sommets. Alors même qu’il conviendrait de nouer un dialogue et d’user de diplomatie pour mettre un terme à la menace nucléaire, on assiste à la naissance d’une nouvelle course aux armements nucléaires et au retour des démonstrations de force comme tactiques de coercition.

    Nous devons mettre fin à cette folie avant qu’il ne soit trop tard. En ce jour important, le monde doit délivrer d’une seule voix un message clair : le seul moyen d’éliminer la menace nucléaire est d’éliminer les armes nucléaires.

    Le désarmement et la non-prolifération sont les deux faces d’une même médaille. Tout progrès dans l’un de ces domaines entraîne des progrès dans l’autre. Les États doivent s’employer à atteindre ces deux objectifs de toute urgence.

    Les États dotés d’armes nucléaires doivent montrer la voie en honorant leurs obligations en matière de désarmement et en s’engageant à ne jamais utiliser de telles armes, quelles que soient les circonstances, ou menacer de les utiliser.

    Pour relever les défis actuels, notamment propres aux changements technologiques susceptibles d’accroître la menace, il faut renforcer et adapter les traités et instruments visant à empêcher la prolifération et les essais d’armes nucléaires et à éliminer ces armes.

    Il y a quelques jours seulement, dans le cadre du Sommet de l’avenir – et du Pacte pour l’avenir qui en a résulté – la communauté internationale a pris un nouvel engagement : celui de revitaliser le régime mondial de désarmement et de faire en sorte que le monde progresse vers la réalisation de l’objectif commun qu’est l’élimination totale des armes nucléaires.

    Notre avenir est en jeu. Éliminons une fois pour toutes ces armes de notre monde.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message on the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations

    This tenth International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons arrives at a troubling moment.  

    Growing geopolitical divisions and mistrust are driving tensions to new heights. Instead of dialogue and diplomacy being deployed to end the nuclear threat, another nuclear arms race is taking shape, and saber-rattling is re-emerging as a tactic of coercion.

    We need to stop the madness before it’s too late. On this important Day, the world must deliver a clear and united message: the only way to eliminate the nuclear threat is to eliminate nuclear weapons.

    Disarmament and non-proliferation are two sides of the same coin. Progress in one spurs progress in the other. States must pursue both as a matter of urgency.

    Nuclear weapon States must lead the way by honoring their disarmament obligations, and committing never to use nuclear weapons under any circumstances, or threaten to do so.

    The treaties and instruments that seek to prevent the spread and testing of nuclear weapons and bring about their elimination need to be reinforced and adapted to meet today’s challenges, including to address technological changes that could increase the threat.

    Just days ago, the Summit of the Future — and the Pact for the Future that emerged — resulted in a new global commitment to revitalize the global disarmament regime, and bring our world closer to our goal of total elimination of nuclear weapons.

    Our future hangs in the balance. Let’s eliminate these weapons from our world for good.

    ***

    Cette dixième Journée internationale pour l’élimination totale des armes nucléaires arrive à un moment inquiétant.

    Alimentées par des divisions géopolitiques et une méfiance croissantes, les tensions atteignent de nouveaux sommets. Alors même qu’il conviendrait de nouer un dialogue et d’user de diplomatie pour mettre un terme à la menace nucléaire, on assiste à la naissance d’une nouvelle course aux armements nucléaires et au retour des démonstrations de force comme tactiques de coercition.

    Nous devons mettre fin à cette folie avant qu’il ne soit trop tard. En ce jour important, le monde doit délivrer d’une seule voix un message clair : le seul moyen d’éliminer la menace nucléaire est d’éliminer les armes nucléaires.

    Le désarmement et la non-prolifération sont les deux faces d’une même médaille. Tout progrès dans l’un de ces domaines entraîne des progrès dans l’autre. Les États doivent s’employer à atteindre ces deux objectifs de toute urgence.

    Les États dotés d’armes nucléaires doivent montrer la voie en honorant leurs obligations en matière de désarmement et en s’engageant à ne jamais utiliser de telles armes, quelles que soient les circonstances, ou menacer de les utiliser.

    Pour relever les défis actuels, notamment propres aux changements technologiques susceptibles d’accroître la menace, il faut renforcer et adapter les traités et instruments visant à empêcher la prolifération et les essais d’armes nucléaires et à éliminer ces armes.

    Il y a quelques jours seulement, dans le cadre du Sommet de l’avenir – et du Pacte pour l’avenir qui en a résulté – la communauté internationale a pris un nouvel engagement : celui de revitaliser le régime mondial de désarmement et de faire en sorte que le monde progresse vers la réalisation de l’objectif commun qu’est l’élimination totale des armes nucléaires.

    Notre avenir est en jeu. Éliminons une fois pour toutes ces armes de notre monde.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message on World Maritime Day: “Navigating the Future, Safety First” [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations

    Shipping is vital to keeping our economies and societies afloat.

    It is the lifeblood of global supply chains, stretching across oceans, connecting goods and communities.

    Today, the maritime sector is undergoing a profound transformation as it steers towards greater digitalization, automation and decarbonization.

    New technologies and designs offer the opportunity to make important contributions to climate action. I count on the commitment of regulators, seafarers and ship operators alike.

    As this year’s theme reminds us, safety must remain a priority. While conflicts rage around the globe, targeted attacks have turned key global shipping routes into danger zones, killing seafarers and threatening their well-being. Such attacks are totally unacceptable and must be rejected by all.

    Safe navigation for the women and men who anchor this crucial industry must not be compromised.

    On this World Maritime Day, let’s play our part to ensure a safe, sustainable and prosperous maritime sector for all humanity.

    ***
    Les transports maritimes sont essentiels pour maintenir nos économies et nos sociétés à flot.

    Ils sont l’élément vital des chaînes d’approvisionnement mondiales, qui s’étendent sur tous les océans et permettent d’acheminer les biens aux populations.

    Aujourd’hui, le secteur maritime connaît une transformation profonde et se dirige vers une plus grande dématérialisation, automatisation et décarbonation.

    Grâce aux nouvelles techniques et aux nouveautés en matière de conception, il est possible de contribuer fortement à l’action climatique. À cet égard, je compte sur la mobilisation des responsables de la réglementation, des gens de mer et des exploitants de navires.

    Le thème de cette année nous rappelle que la sécurité doit rester une priorité. Alors que des conflits font rage dans le monde entier, de grands axes maritimes sont devenus des zones dangereuses dans lesquelles des attaques ciblées tuent des gens de mer et menacent leur bien-être. Ces attaques sont totalement inacceptables et doivent être universellement dénoncées.

    La sécurité de la navigation des femmes et des hommes indispensables à ce secteur essentiel ne doit pas être compromise.

    En cette Journée mondiale de la mer, jouons notre rôle afin de garantir la sécurité, la durabilité et la prospérité du secteur maritime, pour l’humanité tout entière.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley Statement on Steward Hearing and Ralph De La Torre

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) issued the following statement on Steward Healthcare CEO Ralph De La Torre’s refusal to comply with a subpoena to appear before Congress today. Congresswoman Pressley represents many patients and workers served by Carney Hospital in Dorchester as well as St Elizabeth’s Hospital in Brighton.

    “We cannot allow companies like Steward Health Care and their CEO Ralph De La Torre to get away with ravaging our healthcare system and leaving our hospitals, patients, and workers behind. But De La Torre’s refusal to come before the Senate today is the latest in a series of cowardly attempts to avoid responsibility, and he must be held in contempt of Congress.

    “I’m grateful to the Senate HELP Committee, Chairman Sanders, and Senator Markey for holding this critical hearing, and for the Massachusetts nurses who came forward to expose the shameful impact of Steward’s greed. We won’t stop fighting to hold Steward and De La Torre fully accountable for the public health crisis they created.”

    In Congress, Rep. Pressley has repeatedly demanded accountability and transparency from Steward executives, and she has been worked with her colleagues at the federal and local levels to ensure care remains accessible and Steward’s other facilities remain open.

    • In July 2024, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Lynch rallied with colleagues, patients, and providers to speak out against Steward’s abrupt closure of Carney Hospital in Dorchester.
    • In July 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on the announcement by Steward Health Care of the closure of hospitals in Massachusetts, including Carney Hospital in Dorchester.
    • In May 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement condemning Steward’s filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and failure to protect patients and workers.
    • In February 2024, Rep. Pressley joined members of the Massachusetts congressional delegation in seeking answers from Cerebrus on the private equity firm’s role in creating the current financial challenges at Steward hospitals, which threaten access to medical care for thousands of people in eastern Massachusetts.
    • In January 2024, following a Boston Globe report indicating that Steward Health Care System is in dire financial condition, Rep. Pressley, Sen. Warren, and the Massachusetts congressional delegation pressed Steward to brief them on Steward’s financial position, the status of their Massachusetts facilities, and their plans to ensure the communities they serve are not abandoned. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Taumaranui

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    One person has died following a crash in Taumaranui this afternoon.

    Police were alerted to the single vehicle crash on Kururau Road just before 3pm.

    The car had gone down a bank and the driver was located deceased.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are under way.
     

    ENDS
     

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Action on NPSFM needed urgently

    Source: ACT Party

    “Farmers are under serious pressure from Labour’s National Policy Statement on Freshwater Management 2020 and action is urgently required to provide them with relief,” says Ruawai dairy farmer and ACT Rural Communities spokesperson Mark Cameron.

    “The coalition government was elected with a mandate to end this unnecessary burden. We’ve made excellent progress, but a significant remnant of Labour’s damaging policies still lingers: the National Policy Statement on Freshwater Management 2020.

    “Farmers have raised concerns with me about the proposed changes to the Otago Regional Council’s freshwater rules – rules which are being drafted in accordance with Labour’s NPSFM 2020.

    “ACT continues to argue that the full repeal of NPSFM 2020 is the right approach.

    “Short of achieving that, I have written to Environment Minister Penny Simmonds asking her to use section 25A of the RMA to allow the Otago Regional Council to remove any sections relating to freshwater management from their plan while allowing them to progress with other sections. This would provide consistency across councils and offer clarity for the farmers who have sought my help.

    “Over the past six years, farmers have not only had to manage the day-to-day challenges of farming but also navigate a sea of red tape and costs imposed by the last Government. This onslaught has threatened one of our most efficient and productive industries.

    “This policy introduced stringent rules, centralising control from Wellington, and elevating the vague concept of ‘Te Mana o te Wai’, the mana of the water. This principle has led to even more restrictive regulations being imposed on our farmers by regional councils.

    “Today, despite the work of the Government, regional councils continue to integrate these stringent regulations and vagaries into their regional plans. Farmers face uncertainty and fear. This over-regulation not only stifles our agricultural productivity but also risks our entire national economy at a time when we should be empowering our most productive sectors.

    “The concept of ‘Te Mana o te Wai’ is not only vague but replaces scientific benchmarks with subjective interpretations. This isn’t about environmental standards, which are necessary, it embeds a subjective idea of the mana of the water that leads to co-governance and unequal treatment based on who someone’s ancestors were. The broad and often ambiguous interpretation of this principle by councils and courts adds to the confusion, diverting from a clear, science-based approach.

    “ACT is dedicated to real change. We cannot continue with a policy that burdens our farmers unnecessarily. We campaigned on a complete overhaul of this policy to remove subjective concepts and ensure that our freshwater management is scientifically sound and adapted to the needs of local communities.

    “We are continuing to advocate for repealing the NPS-FM and allowing district councils more flexibility in how they meet environmental limits.

    “It is time for urgent reform. We must protect our farmers from the ongoing effects of what has effectively been a war on our agricultural sector.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ChatGPT is changing the way we write. Here’s how – and why it’s a problem

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ritesh Chugh, Associate Professor – Information and Communications Technology, CQUniversity Australia

    Shutterstock

    Have you noticed certain words and phrases popping up everywhere lately?

    Phrases such as “delve into” and “navigate the landscape” seem to feature in everything from social media posts to news articles and academic publications. They may sound fancy, but their overuse can make a text feel monotonous and repetitive.

    This trend may be linked to the increasing use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT and other large language models (LLMs). These tools are designed to make writing easier by offering suggestions based on patterns in the text they were trained on.

    However, these patterns can lead to the overuse of certain stylistic words and phrases, resulting in works that don’t closely resemble genuine human writing.

    The rise of stylistic language

    Generative AI tools are trained on vast amounts of text from various sources. As such, they tend to favour the most common words and phrases in their outputs.

    Since ChatGPT’s release, the use of words such as “delves”, “showcasing”, “underscores”, “pivotal”, “realm” and “meticulous” has surged in academic writing.

    And although most of the research has looked specifically at academic writing, the stylistic language trend has appeared in various other forms of writing, including student essays and school applications. As one application editor told Forbes, “tapestry” is a particularly common offending term in cases where AI was used to write a draft:

    I no longer believe there’s a way to innocently use the word ‘tapestry’ in an essay; if the word ‘tapestry’ appears, it was generated by ChatGPT.

    Why it’s a problem

    The overuse of certain words and phrases leads to writing losing its personal touch. It becomes harder to distinguish between individual voices and perspectives and everything takes on a robotic undertone.

    Also, words such as “revolutionise” or “intriguing” – while they might seem like they’re giving you a more polished product – can actually make writing harder to understand.

    Stylish and/or flowery language doesn’t communicate ideas as effectively as clear and straightforward language. Beyond this, one study found simple and precise words not only enhance comprehension, but also make the writer appear more intelligent.

    Lastly, the overuse of stylistic words can make writing boring. Writing should be engaging and varied; relying on a few buzzwords will lead to readers tuning out.

    There’s currently no research that can give us an exact list of the most common stylistic words used by ChatGPT; this would require an exhaustive analysis of every output ever generated. That said, here’s what ChatGPT itself presented when asked the question.

    Possible solutions

    So how can we fix this? Here are some ideas:

    1. Be aware of repetition

    If you’re using a tool such as ChatGPT, pay attention to how often certain words or phrases come up. If you notice the same terms appearing again and again, try switching them out for simpler and/or more original language. Instead of saying “delve into” you could just say “explore”, or “look at it closely”.

    2. Ask for clear language

    Much of what you get out of ChatGPT will come down to the specific prompt you give it. If you don’t want complex language, try asking it to “write clearly, without using complex words”.

    3. Edit your work

    ChatGPT can be a helpful starting point for writing many different types of text, but editing its outputs remains important. By reviewing and changing certain words and phrases, you can still add your own voice to the output.

    Being creative with synonyms is one way to do this. You could use a thesaurus, or think more carefully about what you’re trying to communicate in your text – and how you might do this in a new way.

    4. Customise AI settings

    Many AI tools such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot and Claude allow you to adjust the writing style through settings or tailored prompts. For example, you can prioritise clarity and simplicity, or create an exclusion list to avoid certain words.

    By being more mindful of how we use generative AI and making an effort to write with clarity and originality, we can avoid falling into the AI style trap.

    In the end, writing should be about expressing your ideas in your own way. While ChatGPT can help, it’s up to each of us to make sure we’re saying what we really want to – and not what an AI tool tells us to.

    Ritesh Chugh does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ChatGPT is changing the way we write. Here’s how – and why it’s a problem – https://theconversation.com/chatgpt-is-changing-the-way-we-write-heres-how-and-why-its-a-problem-239601

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Wodonga West hosts Fijian locals

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Last Thursday night, 19 September, Wodonga West Fire Brigade members and members from other brigades in the Wodonga Group hosted a community engagement event for the local Fijian community.

    As part of our roles as volunteers and the Community Safety team, we have experienced many magic moments and this event reinforced to us why it is such a pleasure to be part of community engagement.

    After a community safety session facilitated by AWECC (Albury Wodonga Ethnic Community Council) several months ago, a number of Fijian community members living and working in Wodonga expressed interest in volunteering with CFA.

    As a result, on 19 September 2024, we arranged for them to visit Wodonga West Fire Station, where brigade Captain Gary Lockhart and five brigade volunteers hosted the AWECC Fijian community’s introduction to CFA volunteering.

    More than 20 Fijian men and women attended the information session, discussed the benefits of volunteering, then moved into the engine bay to be shown all the vehicles and equipment.

    There was lots of laughter, a lot of water sprayed around, warning lights activated and some went for a ride in the Wodonga West tanker. There were many questions about how it all works and what it is used for.

    The brigade volunteers also demonstrated the difference between ‘structure’ and ‘wildfire’ personal protection equipment, with the outfits being tried on and paraded around the station.

    The camaraderie that was born at this event bertween the Fijians and Wodonga West members was palpable, and as brigade Captain Gary Lockhart said, “We have an open-door policy for all to join the Brigade and CFA”.  

    After eating, a pastor with the Fijian community began to sing and all the Fijians joined in. The station reverberated with song, and it bought a tear to my eye, as with most of the CFA volunteers. What a joy to listen to them sharing their culture.

    Gary thought it was a wonderful evening.

    “After sharing some pizza, the magic happened and the meeting room erupted into song with the Fijians sharing some of their culture with us,” Ross Coyle said.

    “It was fantastic to be involved, especially as members from other brigades in the group joined in to make it a group event.

    “Events such as this make me a very proud CFA member.”

    Not all the Fijians are interested in becoming firefighters, though some of them will become part of the CFA family as a way for them engage and give back to the wider community.

    The event reinforced to us that CFA needs to keep encouraging and welcoming the multicultural members of our community to join us as we would all benefit.

    Submitted by Maureen Piera and Will Vale

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Giant panda pair arrives in Hong Kong

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    A pair of giant pandas gifted by the central government to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) of China arrived at the Hong Kong International Airport on Thursday morning.
    They will be sent to Ocean Park Hong Kong for health checks and quarantine, and will spend time there to adapt to the new environment. The pair, named An An and Ke Ke, is the third pair of giant pandas the HKSAR has received as gifts from the central government. 

    MIL OSI China News –