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Category: MIL-OSI

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Ara’s Spring graduation marks new beginnings

    Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury

    They all cross the stage proudly in their academic regalia, but Ara Institute of Canterbury graduates are far from ‘one size fits all’.
    Almost 450 ākonga (students) lined up for the institute’s Spring Graduation on Friday, marking significant personal milestones from Master’s degrees to certificates and every level of study in between.
    Their stories are inspiring. Take Tahlia King (Kāi Tahu, Ngāti Maniapoto, and Arowhenua), the former vet nurse who, after a career ending injury, chased her passion for the arts and received a Master of Creative Practice with Distinction. She’s now planning her first solo exhibition.
    Then there’s Dilan Richards, the Sri Lankan refugee who spent his formative years at Australia’s Nauru detention centre, dreaming of becoming a pilot. He got his first taste of tertiary study and “found his community” at Ara through his New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Level 4). He was unable to make Friday’s ceremony – too busy with classes at flying school.
    One graduate there was Deryn Roder, whose 20-plus years in the workforce in management, leadership and recruitment roles was appraised and evaluated through Ara’s Centre for Assessment of Prior Learning (CAPL).
    Roder said achieving her Bachelor of Applied Management (Human Resources Management) was a dream she’d held for a long time.
    “Doing my degree through CAPL has helped me prove I have the knowledge and background to contribute to a degree,” Roder said. “With a year of challenging study, I’ve shown that I am in the right industry, and I have what it takes to advance in it.”
    Student speaker Gezeng Yeki, Bachelor of Applied Management (Human Resources Management) welcomed the cohort for graduation in her indigenous Papua New Guinean Tok Pisin language.
    She congratulated those gathered for their resilience, determination and dedication, and dedicated her own qualification to her eight-year-old son.
    “Although I knew that being a single parent and studying was not going to be easy, I faced the moments of loneliness and uncertainty for him. In those moments I discovered an inner strength that I never knew existed,” Yeki said.
    In all, 60 programmes were represented, many of which have multiple specialist streams. From Level 1 Foundation graduates achieving the New Zealand Certificate in Skills for Living for Supported Learners right though to those achieving their master’s in the disciplines of health, creative practice and sustainable practice.
    Te Pūkenga representative Paora Ammunson congratulated Ara’s graduates one by one, handing them their scrolls to cheers, applause and stirring tautoko from whānau and friends.
    Farewelling those gathered, Ara’s Executive Director Darren Mitchell urged grads to stay in touch.
    “We have cherished our role in your educational path, and we’re proud of the connections we’ve built together. We are here to support you, to celebrate the contributions you will make to our world, and to continue to cheer you on.”
    With personal triumphs at every turn, Ara graduates from all walks of life are striking new paths.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace – Cook Islands civil society calls for ocean protection from deep sea mining during underwater minerals meeting

    Source: Greenpeace

    Rarotonga, Cook Islands – 150 people paddled out into the port of Avarua, Rarotonga, on Wednesday, deploying a floating banner that calls for ocean protection while an international seabed minerals conference is taking place across town. Another 300 people joined the action on Avarua Harbour.
    Civil society groups Te Ipukarea Society, Kōrero O Te Ōrau and Our Ocean Ancestors convened the peaceful flotilla to demonstrate community opposition to deep sea mining – a sentiment echoed by communities across the Pacific.
    Alanna Smith, Director of Te Ipukarea Society, says the sail-out event is an opportunity to highlight to the world that there is local opposition to deep sea mining in the Cook Islands.
    “Te Ipukarea Society supports a precautionary pause to deep sea mining to ensure robust and independent environmental research is being carried out in our ocean, as well as more time being spent towards meaningful information sharing with our people regarding the environmental risks and impacts of deep sea mining.
    “We are still very much in a period of discovering new learnings about how the deep sea functions, for example, very new research highlighting polymetallic nodules being a source of producing dark oxygen in the deep ocean and potential risks to migratory tuna fish stock through pollutants found in excess sediment brought up from the seafloor.”
    The Underwater Minerals Conference is the largest annual convention of mining companies, governments and academics from around the world. It’s sponsored by Moana Minerals and other deep sea mining-linked companies.
    During conference events, Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown reiterated the government’s plan to be at the forefront of seabed mining.
    Greenpeace campaigner Juressa Lee (Te Rarawa, Ngāpuhi, Rarotonga) is in Avarua in solidarity with the groups, and calls for the community to be heard.
    “While this minerals conference is underway, the local community is out here calling for ocean protection, not pillage. Indigenous People of the Cook Islands and the Pacific have thousands of years of Indigenous knowledge, cultural ties to and guardianship of the moana. Today they are calling for the health and protection of the ocean to be the priority.
    “Efforts to start destructive deep sea mining are being led by the same colonial, extractive mindsets that have caused a huge amount of damage and harm to the climate, environment, biodiversity and Indigenous rights, and Pacific Peoples are on the frontline. Communities here in Rarotonga, in Aotearoa and across the Pacific are standing up to protect the ocean for many generations to come, and Greenpeace stands with them in solidarity.
    “These mining companies, governments and greedy investors are promising riches from these deep-sea ‘treasures’, but this cannot be at the expense of a healthy and thriving ocean, on which we all depend.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Save the Children – Young ocean champions called to join global conversation on ocean protection

    Source: Save the Children

    WWF-New Zealand and Save the Children New Zealand are calling for young Kiwi ocean advocates to share their views on how to better protect our ocean – with at least one young Kiwi given the chance to attend a major global ocean summit in France in 2025.
    The two organisations have joined forces to give young Kiwis an opportunity to be part of the global conversation for change, exploring solutions to better protect the world’s ocean and accelerate youth-led ocean action.
    Young New Zealanders are being invited to take part in four online workshops, where they will meet other young ocean champions, build their networks in Aotearoa, and contribute ideas and solutions at a global level on the protection of our ocean.
    The workshop series will explore a range of topics including humanity’s relationship with the ocean and the threats it faces, protecting and restoring marine ecosystems and biodiversity, unlocking ocean-based solutions to climate change and developing a sustainable and equitable ocean economy that supports future generations.
    One young attendee (aged 18+) will be selected to be among the 60 young people from around the globe attending the Ocean Citizen Summit, hosted at Nausicaá in Boulogne sur Mer, France in March 2025.
    Save the Children Chief Executive Heidi Coetzee says this is a unique opportunity for young Kiwis to join a global conversation for ocean action.
    “While our marine environment is an important part of our lives and national and cultural identities, it is facing many threats, with unsustainable fishing, plastic pollution and climate change pushing our marine species and habitats to the brink of extinction.
    “Too often Pacific voices are missed in these conversations. I would encourage young people from all backgrounds to take part and share their views.”
    WWF-New Zealand CEO Dr Kayla Kingdon-Bebb says this is an opportunity for rangatahi in Aotearoa to play a part in addressing the threats to our ocean and protecting the life within.
    “As Kiwis, most of us have a deep connection to the ocean – but we can often feel disconnected from the decisions that get made about how we look after it for the future.
    “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people who care about Aotearoa’s marine environment to have their voice heard on the world stage and play a part in creating a healthy ocean for future generations.”
    The workshops are open to anyone aged between 16 and 30- with a deep interest or involvement in ocean issues.
    Attendees at the workshops in Aotearoa could be selected to join 60 of the most motivated participants from around the world at the Ocean Citizen Summit in France in March 2025, with their travel and subsistence costs paid by Nausicaa.
    At this summit, the chosen representative(s) will share the insights and solutions from Aotearoa New Zealand and have a role in the creation of a global Ocean Citizen Charter, which sets out youth-led solutions to the challenges facing our ocean. They will also be involved in the development of a digital app to engage people in ocean conservation and receive training in ocean advocacy and communications.
    Registrations close 30 September 2024.
    -Anyone between 16-30 y.o. can participate in the workshops, but only participants 18+ are eligible for the travel opportunities.
    About Save the Children NZ:
    Save the Children works in 120 countries across the world. The organisation responds to emergencies and works with children and their communities to ensure they survive, learn and are protected.
    Save the Children NZ currently supports international programmes in Fiji, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, Nepal, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Areas of work include child protection, education and literacy, disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation, and alleviating child poverty.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xinjiang’s railway port sees 6,000 China-Europe freight trains this year

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

    URUMQI, Sept. 24 — Horgos Port, a major railway hub in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, has facilitated 6,000 China-Europe freight train trips since the beginning of this year, according to local customs officials.

    The port has maintained an average of 22 daily China-Europe freight train trips, with increased exports of daily supplies, electromechanical equipment, electronic products, and agricultural produce to markets in Central Asia and Europe.

    Along with Alataw Pass, another key railway port in the region, the two ports have handled over 10,000 China-Europe freight trains as of late August, according to local railway authorities.

    This figure represents a 9 percent year-on-year growth, data from the China Railway Urumqi Bureau Group Co., Ltd. indicated.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China-ASEAN Expo further drives economic, trade cooperation

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

    NANNING, Sept. 24 — Participants at the 21st China-ASEAN Expo, which kicked off on Tuesday in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, emphasized the importance of deepening economic and trade cooperation between the two sides.

    The opening ceremony attracted about 1,100 participants, including Chinese and foreign leaders, government officials, entrepreneurs, scholars, and representatives from international organizations.

    The theme of this year’s expo focuses on “Upholding amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness for common development, creating a diamond crown new future — promoting development of a China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 and high-quality growth of this region.”

    Speaking at the opening ceremony, China’s Vice Minister of Commerce Li Fei said that the mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation between China and ASEAN countries has reached new levels.

    Bilateral economic and trade cooperation has continued to upgrade over the years, with positive progress achieved in negotiations for version 3.0 of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area, Li said.

    The five-day event covers an exhibition area of nearly 200,000 square meters, with Malaysia as the country of honor.

    As part of the 50th-anniversary celebrations of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia, four events related to China-Malaysia enterprise cooperation matchmaking, China-ASEAN commodity trading innovation promotion, and the Malaysian durian shopping festival, will be held.

    In addition, a new section has been introduced to highlight strategic emerging industries, showcasing the latest developments and technologies in fields such as digital technology, new energy and intelligent connected vehicles.

    The expo has been standing as a testament to the enduring friendship, cooperation and shared prosperity between China and the ASEAN countries over the years, said Kao Kim Hourn, secretary-general of ASEAN, adding that since its inception in 2004, the expo has evolved into an important platform for dialogue, cooperation and development, covering sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, technology, education and tourism.

    It has made important contributions to the economic integration between ASEAN and China, facilitating investment flows and cross-border economic opportunities, laying the foundation for building a more connected, resilient and dynamic region, Kao added.

    Since the first China-ASEAN Expo was held in 2004, the event has actively built a platform for ASEAN enterprises to enter the Chinese market.

    Official data shows that China has remained ASEAN’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years. In the first seven months of this year, bilateral trade reached 552 billion U.S. dollars, up 7.7 percent year on year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: AMERICA/PERU – To support learning among indigenous populations, there is a lack of bilingual teachers and adequate infrastructure

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Tuesday, September 24, 2024

    Iquitos (Agenzia Fides) – “We need authorities who are committed to defending the rights of girls, boys and adolescents of indigenous peoples, because they cannot continue to be set aside”. It is the voice of Mariluz Canaquiri, leader in Peru of the Amazonian indigenous Kukama Kukamiria, who speaks of the decline in education of indigenous peoples. “The authorities do not care about the education of indigenous children, there is no adequate infrastructure and there are no full-time bilingual teachers to teach them in our language,” emphasizes Canaquiri, who is also president of the Federation of Indigenous Women Kukama Kukamiria. Intercultural bilingual education (IBE) is a current educational policy in the South American country of 33 million inhabitants, with 55 recognized indigenous peoples, four Andean and 51 Amazonian. According to the results of the latest National Evaluation of Learning Outcomes (ENLA), published by the Ministry of Education, only 5.6% of fourth-grade primary school students (10 and 11 years old) of IBE institutions of the Amazonian population have achieved the expected results. “There is no bilingual intercultural education here,” said President Canaquiri. “How could they learn if our identity, our culture, our way of seeing the world are not valued in the school curriculum in any way, and in logistical conditions where the school building is an area covered with branches and trunks of trees with unbearable heat,” the leader stressed in a statement to an international non-governmental organization. Although the first policy in favor of the student population of indigenous peoples arose in 1972, more than half a century ago, it has always received little interest from the State, despite the IBE being part of their individual and collective human rights. “They hire teachers because they speak Quechua, Shipibo, Asháninka or the corresponding language, but when they go to school they do not apply the IBE. Sometimes they teach only in Spanish, other times they speak the children’s native language, but all the rest they read and write in Spanish,” an analyst reported. There are 24,000 schools throughout the country that follow the IBE, where most reinforce the students’ native language and teach them Spanish. The educational policy seeks to ensure that the indigenous school population is bilingual with oral and written skills, but according to studies carried out by local researchers, the country is going backwards. However, despite these precariousness, a small school in the peasant community of Accollya stands out positively, located in the municipality of Soccos, almost 3,400 meters above sea level, in the province of Huamanga, one of the 11 that make up Ayacucho. This is an Andean department that was hit hard by an internal armed conflict that Peru experienced between 1980 and 2000. Supported by an NGO, the school boasts a single teacher with 33 years of experience who has always been committed to bilingual intercultural education, following training and in-depth courses. “I work from Monday to Thursday in Spanish and on Fridays in Quechua, using the notebooks that the ministry sends us for each topic,” said the woman who is the only teacher of 10 pupils in first, second and third grade, aged between six and eleven. “The children’s response is very good, from first grade they acquire reading and writing skills, now it’s September and the youngest are already reading. It’s the advantage of teaching different classes because they motivate each other,” the teacher stressed. Furthermore, we must not forget the important contribution of the Catholic Church in the Amazon in the field of education and healthcare where it has often been a substitute for the State, arriving where it is not, even today. Hundreds of missionaries throughout history have been true promoters of respect for human dignity. Religious and lay people from dozens of countries have given their lives in the most remote places with the aim of making the Amazon a place of coexistence and respect for the dignity and rights of all, especially the most vulnerable, largely indigenous peoples. Among other initiatives in favor of learning and the formation of school libraries in these areas, it is worth highlighting the participation of the ‘yachac’, the wise men of the community, who hold intergenerational meetings encouraging the practice of reading among students and their families. The indigenous school population at the national level is estimated at 1.2 million, the vast majority are Quechua (700,000) and Aymara (300,000) from the Andean areas of the country, and the rest from Amazonian languages such as Asháninka, Shipibo Konibo, Awajún, among others. The Kukama Kukamiria people live mainly in the department of Loreto, the largest of the Peruvian Amazon. According to data from the Ministry of Culture, the population of the Kukama Kukamiria communities is estimated at 37,053 people. Among these, 1,185 declared that they speak the Kukama Kukamiria language, which corresponds to 0.02% of the total native languages at the national level. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 24/9/2024) Share:

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: ASIA/BANGLADESH – “Student power” must remain within the rule of law, hopes Bishop Subroto Gomes

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Dhaka (Agenzia Fides) – “The situation we are experiencing now, after the political and social crisis of last August, is delicate. There is still tension in society, there are protests especially by young people. The massive student demonstration caused the prime minister to leave and flee abroad. Now the new interim government, led by Mohamed Yunus, has a difficult task: to heal the political, social and economic wounds, restore trust and also maintain the rule of law, because there are also some worrying signs”: explains to Agenzia Fides Mgr. Subroto Boniface Gomes, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Dhaka. The Bishop notes some possible “dangers” existing in the expressions of “student power”. “For example – he says – in some Catholic schools in the diocese of Dhaka, students tried to force the dismissal of some teachers – regularly chosen and paid by the school administration – only because, in their opinion, they were not aligned and compliant with the new course, or because they had somehow dared to criticize the student protest. This has generated a crisis within our schools, which are attended by 95% Muslim or non-Christian students. Faced with the attempt to forcefully impose this or other measures, such as accepting girls wearing the burqa at school, the Archbishop, with a sensational choice, decided to close the schools. One was a girls’ school, another is run by the Brothers of the Holy Cross. At that point, the concerted intervention of the parents’ committee, religious leaders and school staff allowed for dialogue, a peaceful solution to the crisis and the reopening of the schools. We could not give in on our values and principles. But it is an example to say that the legitimate rights of students must not encroach on and undermine democracy, the rule of law, or the rights of others,” notes Msgr. Gomes. Another aspect to keep under control, then, “is the return or reorganization of radical Islamic groups and parties that could penalize communities of minority religions or promote an agenda of Islamization. We must be vigilant on this aspect, because the temptation of extremism is just around the corner. It is essential not to polarize society. We trust in the new Yunus government to keep the course straight in terms of respect for democratic principles, respect for the Constitution and fundamental freedoms for all citizens, regardless of religion,” says the Bishop. Last July, thousands of students took to the streets to protest against the Supreme Court’s decision to reintroduce a quota system for access to public employment that allocated 30% of jobs to the children and grandchildren of veterans of the 1971 war of independence. Shehik Hasina’s government responded to the demonstrations by deploying police and paramilitary forces who shot at the crowd. The protest thus turned into a movement against Hasina and her party, the Awami League, who led the country for 15 years, often delegitimizing or arresting political opponents and dissidents. The official toll of the repression is around a thousand dead and hundreds injured. On August 5, the prime minister fled abroad, taking refuge in India. The army intervened by dissolving Parliament and then appointed Muhammad Yunus, known as the “banker of the poor”, an 84-year-old economist, known for the “Grameen Bank”, specialized in the microcredit system, as head of an interim government, for which he received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006. The executive is leading a delicate transition phase while waiting for new elections. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 24/9/2024) Share:

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 24/09/2024 Polonia commits to accepting CARF

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    Polonia commits to accept CARF24.09.2024

    The presentation of information on crypto-assets (CARF) is the latest update of information on the OECD.Declaration of the Agreement between Poland and CARF.Declaration of the Agreement between Poland and CARF, a joint statement that obliges the signatories to adopt CARF. Poland has thus joined the 58 countries that will introduce new rules for reporting transactions using crypto-assets. The countries declare that they will start the international exchange of tax information obtained in this regard from 2027.Declaration of the Agreement between CARF is a joint statement constituting a grassroots initiative of the countries of the World Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Tax Information (Foro Mundial sobre Transparencia e Intercambio de Información con Fines Fiscales).The text of the statement is attached.

    MaterialDeclaración conjunta sobre la implementación del marco de presentación de informes sobre criptoactivos (CARF)CARF-signatories-joint-statement.pdf 0.21 MB

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: AFRICA/SOMALIA – Tensions over recent arms supplies to Somalia and Puntland

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Tuesday, September 24, 2024 weapons

    Mogadishu (Agenzia Fides) – Wars (for now?) of words and press releases in the Horn of Africa between Somalia, Somaliland and Ethiopia around recent military supplies that arrived in the region. On September 20, the government of Mogadishu condemned what it called “an illegal supply of weapons” by the government of Addis Ababa to Puntland, an autonomous Somali region that has its own institutions but which has not yet declared its intention to separate from the rest of Somalia. This choice was instead made by Somaliland, a northern region that has declared its independence from Mogadishu since 1991. On January 1, 2024, Somaliland signed a naval agreement with Ethiopia (see Fides 3/1/2024), which aroused the ire of Mogadishu because in exchange for the concession of a naval base and control of a stretch of its coast, Somaliland obtains from Ethiopia to be recognized as an independent state. Addis Ababa thus becomes the great military protector of Somaliland, increasing Mogadishu’s fears for the territorial integrity of Somalia. Concerns now accentuated by Ethiopia’s supply of weapons to Puntland. The authorities of the autonomous region, while recognizing those of Mogadishu, are at loggerheads with the latter, because they claim not to have received from Mogadishu the aid necessary to fight the jihadists present on its territory. These are both groups linked to the Shabaab and the Islamic State. The Ethiopian government therefore seems to be inserting itself into the tensions between Puntland and Somalia to widen its room for maneuver in the area. A few days after the tough stance taken by the government of Mogadishu, protests have arrived from Addis Ababa over the arrival in Somalia of Egyptian military supplies destined for the local armed forces. This is the second delivery of weapons by Cairo under the military agreement signed between Egypt and Somalia in August (see Fides 8/30/2024). According to the Ethiopian Foreign Minister, the supply of weapons by “external forces” risks “exacerbating the fragile security context” and also running the risk that these weapons “end up in the hands of terrorists in Somalia”. “The uncontrolled proliferation of weapons in an already fragile environment increases the risk of an arms race, with various factions probably trying to increase their stockpiles to safeguard their own interests,” echoed his colleague from Somaliland. Tensions between Egypt and Ethiopia regarding the management of the Nile waters have therefore moved to Somalia, with the Somali government, backed by Cairo (but Mogadishu also has important military agreements with Turkey which is currently trying to mediate, see Fides 2/7/2024)) attempted to fuel internal tensions in the neighboring country (see Fides 17/9/2024). (LM) (Agenzia Fides 24/9/2024) Share:

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: ASIA/CHINA – The memory of the Jesuit Martino Martini still opens up paths of encounter and proximity

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    by Marta Zhao and Laura Gomez RuizHangzhou (Agenzia Fides) – China, the city of Hangzhou and the Chinese Catholic community have never forgotten Martino Martini. The great Jesuit missionary esteemed by the Emperors and welcomed to the Court of the Qing Dynasty, was born in Trento precisely 410 years ago, on 20 September 1614. Even today his story and his testimony arouse unexpected sympathy and ignite surprising closeness. In the program of celebrations promoted by the Italian Embassy in Beijing for the 700 years since the death of the traveler and merchant Marco Polo, the theme “In the footsteps of Marco Polo: Martino Martini” was the first addressed to introduce the series of important Italian personalities who, at different times and in different capacities, contributed to the spread of knowledge of China in the West. Even the President Xi Jinping has publicly expressed his esteem for Martino Martini. In an intervention published in Corriere della Sera on 20 March 2019, on the eve of his official visit to Italy, Xi Jinping cited the Jesuit as a pioneer of the group of Italian Sinologists who «have played a bridging role in relations between China and Europe, starting from the first grammar of the Chinese language written for the West by Martino Martini to “Italy and China” by Giuliano Bertuccioli and Federico Masini”. In Italy, the Study Center named after Martino Martini, based in Trento, promotes, among other things “On the Road to Cathay”, a biannual magazine on cultural relations between Europe and China. In the city of Hangzhou, a park bearing his name has been established around his Mausoleum. That site protected by the body that looks after the cultural heritage of Zhejiang Province has become like a sanctuary for Chinese Catholics. Currently undergoing restoration, the Mausoleum holds the mortal remains of 15 famous Jesuit missionaries who ended their earthly lives near the magnificent Xizi Lake. Among them also include Father Prospero Intorcetta (1626–1696), Father Nicolas Trigault (1577-1629), Father Lazaro Cattaneo (1560-1640) and Father Emmanuel Diaz (1574-1659). In 2018, an exhibition dedicated to the work map by Martino Martini was inaugurated in the headquarters of the China-Italy Center in Hangzhou to commemorate the 375th anniversary of the arrival of the great missionary in that city (Agenzia Fides 13/6/2018). The Catholic community of Hangzhou organized a Conference academic commemorating the 350 years of the construction of the Cathedral. Six well-known academics from Chinese universities and scholars linked to Catholic bodies such as the Faith Institute for Cultural Studies (FICS), the Guang Qi Press of the diocese of Shanghai collaborated in presenting studies on the life and mission of the Jesuit, in the presence of the Italian Consul in Shanghai. Martino Martini’s legacy was presented as “a strong impulse for today’s mission, so that it continues on its path by making its sense of missionary responsibility, his courage and his dedication its own”. (Agenzia Fides 22/01/2010). The affection and devotion that surround the figure of Martino Martini are proportional to the intensity with which he lived his time, donating his existence to the announcement of the Gospel in China. Martino Martini was born on 20 September 1614 in Trento. In 1631 he entered the Society of Jesus as a novice. After studying at the Roman College under the influence of his mentor, the German Jesuit Athanasius Kircher, he joined the Eastern Mission in 1640, traveling by ship from Lisbon in Portugal, via Goa in India (November 1640), up to Macao, China, where he arrived in August 1642. The following year he was sent to the Chinese continent. Thus he began his legendary journey of cultural exchange between China and Europe, a journey that he traveled twice. He wrote the first Chinese grammar in the West and related works, which contributed to cultural exchange and bridged the gap between China and Europe, profoundly influencing the birth and development of Sinology in Italy. The time of his stay in China, at era of the Ming and Qing dynasties, is a period of great social unrest. The Jesuits, after having established good relations with influential sectors of Chinese society and political hierarchy, are beginning to experience concerns about how the situation will evolve. The Chinese name you choose, Wei Kuangguo, includes all its good wishes: it indicates the drive to defend and support the country and the desire to have peace and prosperity in the world. In China, turbulence and conflicts also divide the Jesuits and Spanish and mendicant orders they even infiltrate within the Society of Jesus itself. The controversy over the Chinese translation of the name of God and the possibility that the new Christians continue to practice the cult of the dead according to the methods specific to Chinese culture does not abate, it reaches an intensity that Martini does not manages to contain, both inside and outside the Order. An event that will have a profound impact on the rest of his life. Travel and writing constitute the common thread of the second half of his life. During the first eight years of his stay in China (1643-1650), Martino Martini traveled between the two capitals as well as Hangzhou and Jinhua in Zhejiang. In the fourth year of Shunzhi’s reign (1647), with the help of Zhu Shi, a parishioner of Lanxi in Zhejiang, Martino Martini wrote the Qiu You Zhuan (Treatise on Friendship, Hangzhou, 1661), proceeding on the humanist register already adopted on the other, Jesuit Matteo Ricci in his work of the same name, the first written in Chinese by the Jesuit from Macerata. The southern part of Zhejiang, where Martino Martini is located, is a region in which Spanish monks also operate. He agrees with the indications of his brother Matteo Ricci and well recognizes the differences with the Spanish Cistercians on the question of the Chinese Rites. Furthermore, the Spanish Dominican Juan Bautista Morales (1597–1664) had already traveled to Rome to express his objections regarding the Jesuit position regarding the controversy. When the Jesuit mission in China decides to send their representative to Europe to explain the situation from their point of view, the choice falls on Martino Martini. In 1651 the Jesuit goes to Europe to defend the position of the Society of Jesus on the question of Chinese rites. Thanks also to his good offices, in 1656 the Holy See issued an edict in favor of the Jesuits. During his travels in Europe, Martino Martini published three works in Latin: De Bello Tartarico Historia, Novus Atlas Sinensis and Sinice Historia Decas Prima (of which had also announced the publication of the sequel). These works represented the most systematic, in-depth and effective reports on the Chinese reality circulating in Europe at that time. In 1657 Wei returned to China and continued his mission in Hangzhou, where he completed the construction of the Church of the Redeemer in 1661 and where he died on June 6 of the same year at the age of 47. After being well received by the Qing court and received by the Shunzhi Emperor himself in Beijing. (Agenzia Fides 24/9/2024)[embedded content]Share:

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Signs Agreement with Laporte County, Indiana, to Ensure Civic Access for People with Disabilities

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    The Justice Department today announced an agreement with LaPorte County, Ind., to improve access to all aspects of civic life for persons with disabilities. The agreement was reached under the department’s Project Civic Access initiative, which aims to bring state and local governments into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This agreement is the 169th under Project Civic Access and the eighth this year.

     “Civic access is a civil right, and individuals with disabilities must have the opportunity to participate in public programs, services and activities on an equal basis with their neighbors,” said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. “We appreciate LaPorte County’s commitment to ensuring that the civil rights promised in the Americans with Disabilities Act are granted to individuals with disabilities who live in or visit the county.”

    LaPorte County, founded in 1832, is located in northwestern Indiana, near the Chicago metropolitan area. More than 16 percent of the residents of LaPorte County have disabilities and will benefit from the agreement announced today.

     Under today’s agreement, the county will:

    • Make physical modifications to its buildings and parks so that parking, entrances, routes, toilet rooms, courtrooms, assembly areas, service counters and drinking fountains are accessible to persons with disabilities;
    • Post, publish and distribute a notice to inform members of the public of the provisions of the ADA and their applicability to county programs, services, and activities;
    • Amend its employment policies, as necessary, to comply with the regulations of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission implementing the employment provisions of the ADA;
    • Provide auxiliary aids necessary to ensure effective communication with persons who are deaf or hard of hearing and persons who are blind or have low vision;
    • Ensure that each 9-1-1 call station is equipped with a text telephone (TTY) or computer equivalent and that TTY calls are answered promptly and correctly;
    • Implement the La Porte County Sheriff Department’s Policy on Effective Communication with People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, which provides for the county to make available interpreters and other auxiliary aids necessary to ensure effective communication with persons who are deaf or hard of hearing;
    • Provide accessible polling places;
    • Implement emergency management policies and procedures to ensure equal access for persons with disabilities, including preparation, notification, sheltering and response;
    • Make modifications necessary to county sidewalks and curb ramps to provide accessible routes; and
    • Ensure that the county’s official Web site is accessible to persons with disabilities, including people who are blind or have low vision.

    The settlement agreement will remain in effect for three years from Oct. 28, 2009, or until all actions required by the agreement have been completed, whichever is later.

    Project Civic Access was initiated to ensure that persons with disabilities have an equal opportunity to participate in civic life. As part of the project, department investigators, attorneys and architects conduct on-site surveys of state and local government programs and facilities in order to identify modifications needed for compliance with ADA requirements. The agreements contain a plan setting out the specific steps a community will take to improve access for persons with disabilities.

    People interested in finding out more about the ADA, today’s agreement with LaPorte County, Ind., or the department’s Project Civic Access initiative may find this information on the ADA Web site at http://www.ada.gov or may call the toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 or (800) 514-0383 (TTY).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Government Files Seven Lawsuits Nationwide to Block Alleged Scheme Involving Fraudulent Tax-Refund Claims

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    WASHINGTON – The United States this week has filed civil injunction lawsuits across the country against seven individuals, the Justice Department announced today. The federal suits – filed in Los Angeles; Panama City, Fla.; Salt Lake City; Nashville, Tenn.; and Pocatello, Idaho – allege that the defendants promote a tax fraud scheme designed to siphon hundreds of millions of dollars from the U.S. Treasury through fraudulent tax refund claims.

    Papers filed in the cases say the defendants prepared tax returns requesting a total of $562.4 million in bogus refunds. One defendant – Dick Jenkins, of Heber City, Utah – allegedly holds himself out as a CPA and requested a $210 million fraudulent refund for one customer. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) catches the vast majority of the bogus tax returns and blocks the claimed refunds.

    Under the tax fraud scheme, known as the “redemption” or “OID redemption” scheme, participants file a series of false IRS forms, including tax returns, amended returns, and Forms 1099 (including Form 1099-OID) or Forms W-2, to request fraudulent tax refunds based on phony claims of large income tax withholding. According to papers filed in these cases and earlier cases against other alleged scheme promoters, redemption scheme promoters are tax defiers who falsely tell customers that the federal government maintains “secret” accounts of money for its citizens. Promoters claim to be able to help customers access the secret funds by filing the false IRS forms.

    Altogether, according to the IRS, redemption scheme participants (including customers of the defendants in the seven lawsuits filed this week) have requested a total of $3.3 trillion in fraudulent refunds.

    “The scope of the misconduct alleged in these lawsuits is staggering,” said John A. DiCicco, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Tax Division. “The IRS and Justice Department are working together closely to ensure that those who promote or participate in this large-scale attempted raid on the Treasury face all appropriate civil and criminal sanctions. Anyone who participates in this scheme can expect to not get the claimed refund, face very large civil penalties (up to 20 percent of the false claim), and where appropriate, face criminal prosecution with possible substantial prison sentences if convicted.”

    The Justice Department has previously brought other injunction suits to shut down redemption scheme promoters. A federal court in Sacramento found that tax preparer Teresa Marty had been using the same scheme to claim bogus refunds for her customers, and preliminarily barred her from preparing tax returns for others. The Government sued Nyla McIntyre and her Los Angeles-based company, Approved Financial Services Inc., to permanently bar them from preparing tax returns for others.

    Listed below are details of the seven lawsuits, filed in U.S. District Courts in the cities indicated:

    Case

    Fraudulent “Refunds” Requested

    United States v. Dick Jenkins

    Salt Lake City, Utah

    $393 million

    United States v. Susan Guan

    Los Angeles, California

    , et al.

    $4.5 million

    United States v. Jacqueline Cornejo

    Los Angeles, California

    $12.1 million

    United States v. Evelyn Johnston, et al.

    Panama City, Florida

    $17.5 million

    United States v. Thanh Cao

    Los Angeles, California

    $34 million

    United States v. Penny Jones

    Pocatello, Idaho

    $93 million

    United States v. Karen Miller

    Nashville, Tennessee

    $8.3 million

     

    TOTAL:

    $562.4 million

    The Tax Division also prosecutes criminal cases involving the redemption scheme and other schemes involving fraudulent uses of IRS forms, including Forms 1099. These prosecutions often result in significant prison sentences. In May 2009 in the Southern District of Florida, Willie Bernard Cameron was sentenced to 60 months in prison for filing a false $2.9 million refund claim based on a fictitious Form 1099-OID. At the sentencing hearing, Cameron espoused tax-defier positions, including sovereignty and redemption. Other successful prosecutions have involved the use of fraudulent Forms 1099 to harass federal and state officials. In May 2009 in the Northern District of Ohio, Jeanne Herrington was sentenced to 96 months in prison for conspiracy to defraud the IRS and for retaliating against federal prosecutors by filing false Forms 1099 in their names. In May 2009 in the Central District of California, Giancarlo Pertile was sentenced to 60 months incarceration and fined $75,000. Evidence at sentencing showed that, after his indictment for tax evasion, Pertile filed Forms 1099-OID against the judge and others.

    In the past decade, the Justice Department’s Tax Division has obtained more than 430 injunctions against tax fraud promoters and dishonest tax return preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s Web site.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bill Allen and Richard Smith, Former Officers of VECO Corporation, Sentenced for Roles in Alaska Public Corruption Scheme

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    WASHINGTON – Bill J. Allen and Richard L. Smith were each sentenced in separate hearings today for their participation in a corruption scheme in which they provided approximately $395,000 in corrupt payments to public officials from the state of Alaska, announced Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer of the Criminal Division. Allen and Smith were sentenced in U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska by U.S. District Court Judge John W. Sedwick.

    Allen, 72 , the former chief executive officer of VECO Corporation, was sentenced to 36 months in prison, a $750,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Smith, 64 , the former vice president of community and government affairs for VECO Corporation, was sentenced to 21 months in prison, a $10,000 fine and three years of supervised release.

    Both defendants pleaded guilty on May 7, 2007, to three-count informations charging each with bribery; conspiracy to commit bribery, extortion under color of official right, and honest services mail and wire fraud; and conspiracy to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. According to court documents, Allen and Smith conspired with at least five members of the Alaska legislature to provide illegal financial benefits to several Alaska elected officials in exchange for those officials’ support on legislation pending before the Alaska state legislature. Allen and Smith also pleaded guilty to one substantive count of bribery, and admitted that they provided approximately $395,000 in benefits to public officials from the state of Alaska in connection with the scheme.

    The Allen sentencing was handled by Deputy Chief James M. Trusty of the Criminal Division’s Gang Unit, Trial Attorney Kevin R. Gingras of the Criminal Division’s Appellate Section and Trial Attorney Peter M. Koski of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section. The Smith sentencing was handled by Trial Attorney M. Kendall Day and Deputy Chief Raymond Hulser of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section. The case is being investigated by the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Settles Lawsuit Against Nevada Company to Enforce the Employment Rights of Air Force Reservist

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    WASHINGTON – The Justice Department announced today that it has reached a settlement that will resolve its suit filed on behalf of former Utah Army National Guardsman and current Air Force Reservist Matthew T. Denning against Stonescape Pavers LLC. The settlement must be approved by the federal court in Las Vegas. The Department’s complaint, filed in June 2009, alleges that Stonescape violated the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (USERRA) by terminating Denning during his statutorily protected reemployment time period. Under the terms of the settlement, embodied in an agreement that has been submitted to the court, Stonescape must provide Denning with $10,000 to compensate him for his lost wages and benefits as a result of Stonescape’s actions.

    In its complaint, the Justice Department alleged that Denning was a salesman for Stonescape when he was called to active duty to deploy to Iraq with the Utah Army National Guard in January 2006. After he was honorably discharged in June 2006, he was reemployed by Stonescape. According to the complaint, Stonescape terminated Denning without cause in August 2006 during his statutorily-protected reemployment time period. The lawsuit was filed after the Labor Department’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service completed an investigation of Denning’s complaint. Congress enacted USERRA in 1994 to protect service members from being disadvantaged in their civilian careers due to serving in the uniformed services. Among other things, USERRA prohibits employers from terminating a service member except for cause for 180 days after the employee’s date of reemployment if his or her recent period of uniformed service was more than 30 days but less than 181 days.

    “We all have a duty to ensure the brave men and women who serve our country in uniform can land on their feet after they return from active duty. This settlement demonstrates our vigilant protection of the employment rights of our servicemembers, and our commitment to vigorous enforcement of the laws that protect them,” said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division.

    The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division has given a high priority to the enforcement of servicemembers’ rights under USERRA. During 2009, the Civil Rights Division has filed 20 USERRA lawsuits on behalf of service members. Additional information about USERRA can be found on the Justice Department’s Web sites at http://www.justice.gov/crt/emp and http://www.servicemembers.gov/, as well as on the Labor Department’s Web site at http://www.dol.gov/vets/programs/userra/main.htm

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: President Obama Signs the FOIA Improvement Act of 2016

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    Today, as we approach the 50th anniversary of the Freedom of Information Act, President Obama has signed into law the FOIA Improvement Act of 2016.

    In our democracy, the FOIA serves as a vital tool to keep citizens informed about the operations of their government. Since its enactment in 1966, the FOIA has been amended on a number of occasions to adapt to the times and changing priorities.  The FOIA Improvement Act of 2016 contains several substantive and procedural amendments to the FOIA, as well as new reporting requirements for agencies.  

    In order to assist agencies in understanding all of the new changes to the FOIA, OIP has added two new resources to its website today. First, agencies and the public can find a detailed summary of all of the changes to the law on the “FOIA Resources” pages of our site. Additionally, OIP is making available a redline version of the FOIA which outlines each of the changes within the law. 

    In the upcoming months, OIP will be issuing guidance to agencies on the implementation of the various new provisions of the law.  Announcements will be made on FOIA Post as new guidance is released. Agencies are encouraged to contact OIP’s FOIA Counselor Service with any questions they may have on implementation of these new statutory provisions.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former West Point Employee Pleads Guilty in $3 Million Embezzlement Scheme

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    A Highland Falls, N.Y., woman pleaded guilty today for her role in a scheme to defraud and embezzle funds from the U.S. government by authorizing nearly $3 million in payments from the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., to a bogus corporation she controlled.

    Bobbie Cyana Ryan, 51, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly to a three-count information charging her with devising a scheme to defraud, and transmitting funds in interstate commerce for the purpose of executing the scheme; embezzlement and conversion by Ryan of government funds; and executing a financial transaction with criminally derived funds.

    According to court documents filed in U.S. District Court in the District of Columbia, Ryan worked in the Information, Education and Technology division in the Office of the Dean at West Point. Ryan was responsible for coordinating information technology training programs for West Point staff. According to court documents, based on irregularities found during a routine audit, U.S. Army investigators discovered that Ryan, acting as the requesting and approving official, used her government purchase card and cards of her unknowing subordinates to authorize approximately $2.9 million in payments to CWG Enterprises. The payments were purportedly for either on-site training instructors or training reference materials when, in fact, no personnel were ever trained and no materials were ever provided.

    U.S. Army investigators subsequently discovered that Ryan conducted financial transactions and identified herself as doing business as CWG Enterprises. Ryan used a rented mail box as the company address for CWG Enterprises. Based on false invoices created by Ryan, transfers of government funds were allegedly made from a bank in Washington to a bank account in the name of “Bobbie C. Ryan dba CWG Enterprises” at a bank in New Windsor, N.Y. Once the funds arrived in the purported CWG Enterprises bank account, Ryan withdrew the funds and paid personal and family expenses.

    At sentencing, scheduled for Feb. 19, 2010, Ryan faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison a fine of up to twice the pecuniary gain from the scheme.

    The case is being investigated by the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, Hartford Fraud Resident Agency. The case is being prosecuted by Senior Trial Attorney Andrew Levchuk of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. : Form 8.3 – ASCENTIAL PLC – Ordinary Shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

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

    1. KEY INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Full name of discloser: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. in its capacity as investment advisor and on behalf its affiliates who are also investment advisors (”Dimensional”). Dimensional expressly disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares described in this form 8.3.  
    (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
    The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		    
    (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
    Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Ascential PLC  
    (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:    
    (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
    For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23 September 2024  
    (f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
    If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/a  
       
    2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.  
    (a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)  
       
    Class of relevant security: 1.7p ordinary (GB00BQFH6320)  
      Interests Short Positions  
      Number % Number %  
    (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 3,204,832 1.57 %      
    (2) Cash-settled derivatives:          
    (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:          
      Total 3,204,832 * 1.57 %      
    * Dimensional Fund Advisors LP and/or its affiliates do not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 4,198 shares that are included in the total above.  
       
    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

    		  
       
       
    (b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)  
       
    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:    
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:    
       
    3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

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

    		  
    (a) Purchases and sales  
       
    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit  
    1.7p ordinary (GB00BQFH6320) Sale 8,024 5.6492 GBP  
       
    (b) Cash-settled derivative transactions  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. CFD Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit  
               
       
    (c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)
     
    (i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying
     
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   
       
    (ii) Exercise  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit  
               
       
    (d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)  
                 
    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)  
             
       
    4. OTHER INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements  
       
    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives  
       
    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (c) Attachments  
       
    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO  
       
    Date of disclosure 24 September 2024  
    Contact name Thomas Hone  
    Telephone number +44 20 3033 3419  
       

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: Agency Training on FOIA Improvement Act of 2016

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    Update: This post has been updated to reflect that this event is at capacity.

    OIP will be hosting a training session on the FOIA Improvement Act of 2016 on August 8, 2016.  The training will provide agency personnel with an overview of the recent amendments to the FOIA and an opportunity to ask questions to OIP’s Director about the new provisions.  As OIP continues to work on guidance to agencies on the implementation of the specific requirements of the new law, we hope you can join us for this training to address any immediate questions or concerns. The details for this training are:

    FOIA Amendments Training
    Robert F. Kennedy Building – Great Hall
    10th and Constitution Ave NW
    August 8, 2016 – 10am to 12pm     

    This training event is open to agency FOIA professionals and interested agency personnel.

    If you are interested in attending, please e-mail your name and phone number to OIP’s Training Officer at DOJ.OIP.FOIA@usdoj.gov with the subject line “FOIA Amendments Training.” As space for this meeting is limited, registration is required to attend.  You will need a picture ID to enter the building.  If you have any questions regarding this event, please contact OIP’s Training Officer at (202) 514-3642.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.5 (EPT/RI) – NewRiver REIT Plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.5 (EPT/RI)

    PUBLIC DEALING DISCLOSURE BY AN EXEMPT PRINCIPAL TRADER WITH RECOGNISED INTERMEDIARY STATUS DEALING IN A CLIENT-SERVING CAPACITY
    Rule 8.5 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)        Name of exempt principal trader: Shore Capital Stockbrokers Ltd
    (b)        Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 NewRiver REIT Plc
    (c)        Name of the party to the offer with which exempt principal trader is connected: NewRiver REIT Plc
    (d)        Date dealing undertaken: 23 September 2024
    (e)        Has the EPT previously disclosed, or is it today disclosing, under the Code in respect of any other party to this offer? Yes – Capital & Regional Plc

    2.        DEALINGS BY THE EXEMPT PRINCIPAL TRADER

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchases/ sales Total number of securities Highest price per unit paid/received Lowest price per unit paid/received
    Ordinary Purchases 22,477 82.096p 81.888p
    Ordinary Sales 12,936 83p 82.3p

    (b)        Derivatives transactions (other than option)

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

    (c)        Options transactions in respect of existing securities

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

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

    (ii)        Exercising

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

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

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

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

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(b), copy table 2(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    3.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the exempt principal trader making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    None

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

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

    None
    Date of disclosure: 24 September 2024
    Contact name: Clare Gamble-Dale
    Telephone number: 0207 601 6132

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service and must also be emailed to the Takeover Panel at monitoring@disclosure.org.uk. The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s dealing disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.
    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: HSBC Bank Plc – Form 8.5 (EPT/RI) – Keywords Studios plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.5 (EPT/RI)

    PUBLIC DEALING DISCLOSURE BY AN EXEMPT PRINCIPAL TRADER WITH RECOGNISED INTERMEDIARY STATUS DEALING IN A CLIENT-SERVING CAPACITY
    Rule 8.5 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.         KEY INFORMATION

    (a) Name of exempt principal trader: HSBC Bank Plc
    (b) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
         Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Keywords Studios plc
    (c) Name of the party to the offer with which exempt principal trader is connected: OFFEROR: Houting UK Limited (a newly formed company indirectly wholly-owned by EQT’s BPEA Fund VIII)
    (d) Date dealing undertaken: 23 September 2024
    (e) In addition to the company in 1(b) above, is the exempt principal trader making disclosures in respect of any other party to this offer?
         If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A      

    2.         DEALINGS BY THE EXEMPT PRINCIPAL TRADER

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(b), copy table 2(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

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

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchases/ sales

     

    		 Total number of securities Highest price per unit paid/received
    (GBP)    		 Lowest price per unit paid/received
    (GBP)
     

    Ordinary Shares

    		 Purchase 4,378 2,430.000 p 2,428.000 p
    Ordinary Shares Sale 4,378 2,430.000 p 2,428.000 p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

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

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

    (i)         Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

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

    (ii)        Exercise

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

     

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

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

     

    		    

    3.         OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

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

    None

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

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

    None
    Date of disclosure: 24 September 2024
    Contact name: Dhruti Singh
    Telephone number: 0207 088 2000

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: Inaugural Chief FOIA Officers Council Meeting

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    The inaugural meeting of the newly established Chief FOIA Officers Council will be held on July 22, 2016. President Obama recently signed into law the FOIA Improvement Act of 2016, which, among other things, established a Chief FOIA Officer Council. The Chief FOIA Officer Council is co-chaired by the Directors of OIP and OGIS and is made up of each agency Chief FOIA Officer and the Deputy Director of Management of OMB. In accordance with the new law, the Council is tasked with developing recommendations for improving FOIA, sharing best practices, and developing and coordinating initiatives.

    The meeting will be held at 2:00pm on July 22, 2016 in Room 430 of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building; 1650 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20502. 

    You can view a livestream of this meeting at www.wh.gov/live beginning at 2pm. You can also follow the meeting through OIP’s Twitter account @FOIAPost and through the hashtag #CFOCouncil.

    A limited number of seats are available for members of the public to attend in person. For security purposes registration is required. Please email DOJ.OIP.FOIA@usdoj.gov with the subject line “CFO Council Meeting – Public” by COB on July 18, 2016 to request a seat. On July 19, we will respond to your email to confirm your attendance and provide a link for you to formally register by July 21 at 12pm.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: OIP Releases Guidance on the New Requirements for FOIA Response Letters

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    On June 30, 2016, President Obama signed into law the FOIA Improvement Act of 2016, which contains several substantive and procedural amendments to the FOIA. OIP has prepared a summary of the amendments as well as a redlined version of the statute which shows the changes made by the amendments. Today, OIP has released its first guidance piece addressing the new amendments. The guidance addresses the new requirements for agency response letters and for notices extending the FOIA’s time limits due to “unusual circumstances.” The guidance addresses the:

    • Requirement to notify requesters about the availability of the agency’s FOIA Public Liaison to offer assistance,
    • Requirements to notify requesters of their right to seek dispute resolution services from the Office of Government Information Services (OGIS) at NARA, and
    • To afford the requester no less than 90 days from the date of the adverse determination on the request to file an administrative appeal.

    Agencies should update their response letters and notices extending the FOIA’s time limits due to unusual circumstances to include the new requirements from the FOIA Improvement Act of 2016. OIP has prepared an implementation checklist, with sample language, to assist agencies in doing so.

    Guidance on the New Requirements for FOIA Response Letters, Including Affording Ninety Days to File an Administrative Appeal, and New Notification Requirement for Notices Extending FOIA’s Time Limits Due to Unusual Circumstances

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Unlock Your Trading Edge With Axi at The 2024 Dubai Forex Expo

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SYDNEY, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Leading online FX and CFD broker Axi is attending this year’s Dubai Forex Expo, taking place on October 7-8, 2024, at the Dubai World Trade Center.

    Event attendees will have the opportunity to learn about Axi Select, the innovative capital allocation program, designed to empower ambitious traders on their trading journey. “We invite all traders to visit our team at Booth 2 and uncover the future of trading with Axi,” says Louis Cooper, Chief Commercial Officer at Axi, before adding “We look forward to networking with follow traders and showcase the exceptional benefits of Axi Select. Our program features zero registration fees, capital funding of up to $1,000,000 USD, the opportunity to earn up to 90% of the profits, and advanced tools to accelerate traders’ trading potential.”

    Additionally, visitors can explore their Introducing Broker (IB) and Affiliate programs or learn more about Axi’s longstanding partnership with Man City, Premier League Champions. The championship trophy will be on display for photos and attendees stand the chance to win exciting prizes from the broker.

    Recently, the broker has renewed its collaboration with LaLiga club, Girona FC, and their Brand Ambassador, England international John Stones. They’ve also recently launched their biggest global trading competition ever, with a total prize pool of $250,000 USD. Over 45 prizes were given to traders including the grand prize of $100,000 USD.

    About Axi

    Axi is a global online FX and CFD trading company, with thousands of customers in 100+ countries worldwide. Axi offers CFDs for several asset classes including Forex, Shares, Gold, Oil, Coffee, and more.

    At Axi, we are proud of our reputation as an honest, and fair broker, providing our customers with outstanding service and trading conditions since 2007. We also work with leading regulatory governing authorities globally to ensure we exceed the highest standards in the industry.

    Contact: mediaenquiries@axi.com

    The Axi Select programme is only available to clients of AxiTrader Limited. CFDs carry a high risk of investment loss. In our dealings with you, we will act as a principal counterparty to all of your positions. This content is not available to AU, NZ, EU and UK residents. For more information, refer to our Terms of Service. Standard trading fees apply.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: The Eclipse Foundation Launches the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group to Help Open Source Participants Navigate Global Regulations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BRUSSELS, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Eclipse Foundation, one of the world’s largest open source foundations, has announced the formation of the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group (ORC WG). This pioneering initiative aims to support participants across the global open source community—including developers, enterprises, industries, and open source foundations—in navigating and adhering to evolving regulatory frameworks. Additionally, the working group will work closely with governments and regulatory bodies to enhance their understanding of the unique open source development model. Supported by prominent open source foundations and global technology leaders, this collaborative effort is dedicated to advancing the open source model in an increasingly regulated software supply chain.

    “Given the impact of software technology on the global economy, it is unsurprising that governments worldwide are enacting new regulations to safeguard privacy, security, and accessibility,” said Mike Milinkovich, executive director of the Eclipse Foundation.“The Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group was created to bridge the gap between regulatory authorities and the open source ecosystem, ensuring organisations and developers can leverage open source technologies while remaining compliant with evolving global regulations.”

    The newly established working group is committed to formalising industry best practices and offering essential resources to help organisations navigate regulatory requirements across multiple jurisdictions. Additionally, it aims to assist government entities in providing greater legal certainty to the open source ecosystem and software supply chain.

    Through collaboration and guidance, the group seeks to elevate software quality and security in open source projects. Backed by the Eclipse Foundation’s strong commitment to open source supply chain security, the working group leverages a team of expert security professionals and rigorous processes. As a CVE Numbering Authority, the Eclipse Foundation plays a key role in effective vulnerability management, ensuring that security remains a top priority for all contributors, projects, and users within the ecosystem.

    While the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group is chartered to address compliance with open source-impacting requirements in general, its immediate focus is the European Cyber Resilience Act (CRA). With the CRA rapidly approaching implementation, the working group’s immediate efforts are centred on ensuring compliance with this new legislation.

    Current Initiatives:

    1. Process Specifications: Development of cybersecurity process specifications and best practices aligned with the requirements of the CRA.
    2. Collaboration with European Authorities: The working group actively engages with the various European institutions to understand legislative timelines and produce timely compliance materials, with a primary focus on the CRA.
    3. Formalising Standards Participation: Having secured formal liaison status with the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC), the working group is actively pursuing working relationships with other European and National Standards Organizations to expand its contribution on regulatory standards.
    4. Community and Industry Education: A series of webinars with European Commission staff aims to keep the open source community informed about the EU’s legislative process. Recordings and materials, including sessions like “How to Read the CRA” led by Enzo Ribagnac, Associate Director for European Policy at Eclipse Foundation, are available here.
    5. Centralised Information Hub: The working group is developing a central resource to house all relevant CRA-related content, including webinars, glossaries, flowcharts, and FAQs to inform EU guidelines.

    Collaborative Engagement:

    The working group has garnered significant support from a broad range of open source organisations and private companies. As of the date of this announcement, participant organisations include: Apache Software Foundation (ASF), Blender Foundation, Robert Bosch GmbH, CodeDay, The Document Foundation, FreeBSD Foundation, iJUG, Lunatech, Matrix.org Foundation, Mercedes-Benz Tech Innovation GmbH, Nokia, NLnet Labs, Obeo, Open Elements, OpenForum Europe, OpenInfra Foundation, Open Source Initiative (OSI), Open Source Robotics Foundation (OSRF), OWASP, Payara Services, The PHP Foundation, Python Software Foundation, Rust Foundation, SCANOSS, Siemens, and Software Heritage.

    For more information on joining the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group, visit the participation page.

    Member Quotes:

    Apache Software Foundation (ASF)
    “The CRA will impact open source users and producers alike. Legislators will benefit from the brain trust of open source organisations that Eclipse has brought together to ensure that the legislation is crafted in a way that protects all parties. The Apache Software Foundation is committed to safeguarding our digital future by addressing the multifaceted challenges of cybersecurity in the open source ecosystem, and cooperating with and implementing the CRA.” – David Nalley, President of the Apache Software Foundation

    Bosch
    “Bosch supports the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) as a harmonised cybersecurity framework, but also recognizes the crucial role of open-source software (OSS) in its supply chain. Thus, it is vital to regulate the use of OSS in a reasonable way. This requires new processes for OSS due diligence, developed through close collaboration between OSS stewards and manufacturers. We welcome the Eclipse Foundation’s initiative to provide software security specifications aligned with open-source practices. We are convinced that by bringing together industry leaders, SMEs, researchers, and OSS experts, we will be able to develop processes that meet regulations while also supporting open development. We also expect these processes to serve as blueprints for the upcoming EU Data and AI Act and future regulations.” – Dr. Andreas Nauerz – Executive Vice President at Robert Bosch GmbH

    The Document Foundation
    “The Document Foundation participates in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group because it believes that the development of common best practices for the security of open source software is an important factor in the recognition of FOSS as a key element of the global information technology infrastructure and compliance with laws such as the Cyber Resilience Act in the EU.” – Italo Vignoli, Director at The Document Foundation

    FreeBSD Foundation
    The FreeBSD Foundation is proud to participate in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. This initiative is key to helping developers and organisations continue innovating while navigating complex global regulations like the European Cyber Resilience Act. We believe collaboration within the open source community is essential to overcoming these challenges, and we’re excited to contribute to this important effort.” – Deb Goodkin, Executive Director of the FreeBSD Foundation

    Mercedes-Benz Tech Innovation GmbH
    “We support the mission of the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group to help shape the future of secure software development in Europe, together with the European Commission, Open Source foundations and other industry players.” – Jochen Strenkert, Chief Engineer MB.OS

    Nokia
    “Open source communities and the software they produce are ever more important for the whole industry. This is exactly why for Nokia the wellbeing and sustainability of the open source communities is paramount. The European Union Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) brings potential new requirements to the open source communities. Nokia strongly believes that the targets of the EU CRA and the best outcome can only be achieved by the open source community having a strong voice in this process. We believe that the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group is the way to achieve this. Therefore, Nokia is honoured to join the ORC WG. We are looking forward to working as part of the community to ensure getting the best possible outcome of the EU CRA for everybody.” – Jonne Soininen, Head of Open Source Initiatives at Nokia

    Obeo
    “As an SME with open-source in its DNA and a strategic member of the Eclipse Foundation, Obeo is thrilled to join the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. Collaborating with major industry players in critical and strategic sectors, we believe that open innovation is essential for navigating the evolving regulatory landscape. We stress the importance of new regulations recognizing the unique nature of this model to ensure that communities continue to thrive while complying with governmental requirements.” – Cédric Brun, President of Obeo

    The Open Source Initiative (OSI)
    “Compliance with the Cyber Resilience Act and other upcoming legislation poses a new challenge for the Open Source community. The Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group gives us an opportunity to find solutions together, and to work with lawmakers and regulatory bodies to help them better understand Open Source. We very much look forward to contributing to the working group.” – Stefano Maffulli, Executive Director at OSI

    Open Source Robotics Foundation (OSRF)
    “The OSRF is pleased to be involved in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. As well as finding and creating best practices and methodologies for open-source projects to follow when complying with the EU’s new Cyber Resilience Act, the outputs of this working group will enable open-source projects, including in robotics, to also comply with other existing and future regulations that create a safer and more secure world for all. We are honoured to be working with other open-source foundations on this critical task.” – Geoff Biggs, CTO at the Open Source Robotics Foundation

    Payara Services Ltd
    “At Payara, we are proud to be an active participant in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group (ORC WG). By collaborating with other ORC WG members, we will contribute to the development of best practices, guidelines, and standards that will help the open-source community meet evolving regulatory requirements, starting with the European Cyber Resilience Act (CRA). We believe that the implementation of these regulations is essential for ensuring safer software and robust protection for users and enterprises worldwide. Our active participation in this working group underscores our dedication to keeping open-source solutions a trusted choice for companies globally.” – Steve Millidge, Founder at Payara Services Ltd

    The PHP Foundation

    “We’re delighted to be joining the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. With new regulations such as the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) on the horizon, it’s great to be working with other Open Source foundations. We’ll share what we know about building secure software and learn from one another. Our goal is simple: to help make these new regulations work for everyone, without stifling the creativity that makes Open Source so great.” – Roman Pronskiy, Executive Director at the PHP Foundation

    Python Software Foundation

    The safety and security of Python is important to all our users for different reasons, but the recent Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) has created a sharp incentive to work on a collective understanding of best practices for all stakeholders. We appreciate the opportunity to share and collaborate on these topics with our open source peers via the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. — Deb Nicholson, Executive Director at Python Software Foundation

    Rust Foundation
    “The Rust Foundation is delighted to join the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. We look forward to working collaboratively with key Open Source and Industry stakeholders to ensure that emerging and evolving regulation is high quality, accommodating of the unique and valuable features of Open Source, and fit for purpose.“ – Rebecca Rumbul, Executive Director & CEO, Rust Foundation

    SCANOSS
    “Every day, we see the growing need for regulatory tools and robust supply chain security. SCANOSS is dedicated to providing the most comprehensive Open Source detection and SBOM solution, helping organisations mitigate risk and comply with regulations like the CRA. We are honoured to join the Eclipse Foundation in leading this effort to ensure the security and resilience of the open source software supply chain.” – Alan Facey, CEO at SCANOSS

    Siemens
    “Open source technologies are embedded in and vital to many of our solutions. Through our involvement in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group, we actively shape standards to ensure compliance with evolving regulations.” – Oliver Fendt, Senior Manager Open Source at Siemens

    Software Heritage
    “The mission of Software Heritage, launched by Inria and in partnership with UNESCO, is to collect, preserve and share all publicly available software source code. With over 50 billion software artefacts secured through the Software Hash Identifier (SWHID) specification, we guarantee long-term availability, ensure integrity, and enable traceability across the entire software ecosystem. As a foundational non profit open infrastructure for software integrity and compliance, we are excited to join the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group to support the evolving regulatory landscape and ensure the open source ecosystem thrives.” – Roberto Di Cosmo, co-founder and director, Software Heritage

    About the Eclipse Foundation
    The Eclipse Foundation provides our global community of individuals and organisations with a business-friendly environment for open source software collaboration and innovation. We host the Eclipse IDE, Adoptium, Software Defined Vehicle, Jakarta EE, and over 415 open source projects, including runtimes, tools, specifications, and frameworks for cloud and edge applications, IoT, AI, automotive, systems engineering, open processor designs, and many others. Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, the Eclipse Foundation is an international non-profit association supported by over 360 members. Visit us at this year’s Open Community Experience (OCX) conference on 22-24 October 2024 in Mainz, Germany. To learn more, follow us on social media @EclipseFdn, LinkedIn, or visit eclipse.org.

    Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

    Media contacts:
    Schwartz Public Relations for the Eclipse Foundation, AISBL (Germany)
    Gloria Huppert/Marita Bäumer
    Sendlinger Straße 42A
    80331 Munich
    EclipseFoundation@schwartzpr.de
    +49 (89) 211 871 -70/ -62

    Nichols Communications for the Eclipse Foundation, AISBL
    Jay Nichols
    jay@nicholscomm.com
    +1 408-772-1551

    514 Media Ltd for the Eclipse Foundation, AISBL (France, Italy, Spain)
    Benoit Simoneau
    benoit@514-media.com
    M: +44 (0) 7891 920 370

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: CFO Council Holds First Meeting at the White House

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    On July 22, 2016, the Chief FOIA Officers (CFO) Council, created by the FOIA Improvement Act of 2016, held its inaugural meeting at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building. The CFO Council is composed of all agency CFOs, plus the Deputy Director for Management from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and is co-chaired by the Directors of OIP and the Office of Government Information Services (OGIS).  Chief FOIA Officers and representatives from over 64 agencies attended, along with several members of the public. The meeting was available via livestream, and the full video recording is available here.      

    OIP Director Melanie Ann Pustay, opened the meeting by providing an overview of the responsibilities of agency CFOs. Next, Andrew Mayock, a Senior Advisor at OMB, emphasized the Administration’s commitment to transparency and open government. Mr. Mayock described the recently-announced Cross-Agency Priority (CAP) Goal for FOIA that will be co-led by OMB, DOJ, and NARA to focus senior leadership attention and drive performance and accountability for improving FOIA administration, and to ensure that Federal departments and agencies are providing sufficient resources toward FOIA responsibilities. He explained that the CAP goal will be publicly posted on Performance.gov, and will have a detailed action plan, including specific metrics and milestones that will be used to gauge progress. Mr. Mayock explained that the initial focus of the CAP goal will be on implementing the FOIA Improvement Act of 2016.  

    Acting Director of OGIS Nikki Gramian also gave opening remarks. She discussed the responsibilities of OGIS and summarized the first meeting of the second term of the FOIA Advisory Committee, which is composed of representatives from both agencies and the requester community. Ms. Gramian indicated that she anticipates the work of the CFO Council and the FOIA Advisory Committee will be complementary, and that she looks forward to keeping the CFO Council informed about the Advisory Committee’s activities. 

    Director Pustay then introduced the Council’s first item for consideration – implementing a “release to one is release to all” presumption for FOIA responses. Director Pustay briefed the Council on OIP’s six-month pilot program conducted with seven volunteer Federal agencies that was designed to assess the viability of a policy that would direct agencies to proactively post online their FOIA responses. The President has directed the CFO Council to consider the lessons learned from the DOJ pilot program and to work to develop a Federal Government policy establishing a “release to one is a release to all” presumptive standard for Federal agencies when releasing records under FOIA. After briefing the Council on the pilot and OIP’s findings, Director Pustay answered questions from the members on a wide range of issues connected with implementation of the policy.  

    In the coming months, the CFO Council will examine issues critical to this policy’s implementation, including assessing the impact on investigative journalism efforts, as well as how best to address technological and resource challenges. At its next meeting, the Council will invite journalists and members of the public to provide feedback about the “release to all” policy, specifically addressing the concerns raised by some journalists about its possible impact on their work.  Details about the next meeting will be available here on FOIA Post.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: FOIA Summer Program Continues with FOIA Public Liaison and FOIA Requester Service Center Training

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    Both President Obama and the Department of Justice have stressed the importance of agencies working “in a spirit of cooperation” with FOIA requesters. Since their introduction, agency FOIA Requester Service Centers and FOIA Public Liaisons serve as the voice of the agency and provide two channels for the public to use to interact with agencies during the FOIA request process. On August 15th, OIP, in conjunction with the Office of Government Information Services, will be hosting a specialized training event to assist agency personnel in carrying out their responsibilities in these important roles.

    FOIA Requester Service Centers typically serve as the first contact at agencies for members of the public when they have questions or are seeking information about how the FOIA works or  the status of their requests. The individuals who make up these FOIA Requester Service Centers need to be prepared to discuss their agency’s FOIA process and to provide specific details about any given request. In addition, agencies offer the assistance of FOIA Public Liaisons who are tasked by the statute to be supervisory agency officials with the responsibility for “assisting in reducing delays, increasing transparency and understanding of the status of requests, and assisting in the resolution of disputes.”

    The FOIA Improvement Act of 2016 reinforced the important role played by FOIA Public Liaisons who, in conjunction with agency FOIA Requester Service Centers, provide an all-important human touch to FOIA administration. By engaging with requesters during the FOIA process and providing contacts to help answer questions or resolve issues that may arise, FOIA Requester Service Centers and FOIA Public Liaisons serve important roles in promoting understanding throughout the lifecycle of a FOIA request. 

    We hope that you are able to join us for this training, the details of which are:

    FOIA Public Liaison and FOIA Requester Service Center Training
    Department of Justice Conference Center
    145 N Street, NE
    August 15, 2016 – 10am to 12pm

    This training is open to all FOIA Public Liaisons and FOIA Requester Service Center personnel. Registration is required to attend this training and you will need a picture ID to enter the building.

    If you are interested in attending, please e-mail your name and phone number to OIP’s Training Officer at DOJ.OIP.FOIA@usdoj.gov with the subject line “FOIA Public Liaison & FOIA Requester Service Center Training.” If you have any questions regarding this event, please contact OIP’s Training Officer at (202) 514-3642.

    For those individuals outside of the Washington, DC area who are unable to attend this training, we are planning a teleconference to review the presentation material in the coming weeks. If you are interested in being a part of this teleconference, please send an email to DOJ.OIP.FOIA@usdoj.gov with the subject line “FOIA Public Liaison& FOIA Requester Service Center Training – Teleconference.” 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: 2024 HP Work Relationship Index Reveals AI Users Have Healthier Relationships with Work

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    News Highlights

    • Only 28% of knowledge workers from various industries around the world have a healthy relationship with work, a one-point increase compared to 2023
    • AI usage among knowledge workers surged to 66% in 2024, up from 38% last year; and workers who use AI are 11-points happier with their relationship with work than their colleagues who don’t
    • At least two-thirds of knowledge workers desire personalized work experiences; and 87% would be willing to forgo a portion of their salary to get it
    • Only 44% of leaders have confidence in their human skills; female business leaders are significantly more confident than their male counterparts

    PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, HP Inc. (NYSE:HPQ) released the second annual HP Work Relationship Index (WRI), a comprehensive study that explores the world’s relationship with work. The study, which surveyed 15,600 respondents across industries in 12 countries, reveals that work is still not really working. Only 28% of knowledge workers have a healthy relationship with work, a one-point increase compared to last year’s findings. However, new findings hone in on two potential solutions to improve relationships with work: AI and personalized work experiences.

    “We know employer and employee expectations have evolved and we believe smart technology is key to meeting the needs of today’s workforce,” said Enrique Lores, President and CEO of HP Inc. “The future of work will be unlocked by using the power of AI to create solutions and experiences that drive business growth and enable individuals to achieve personal and professional fulfillment.”

    Personalized Work Experiences Can Lead to Healthier Relationships with Work

    In its second year, the study continued to analyze aspects of people’s relationships with work, including the role of work in their lives, their skills, abilities, tools, workspaces and their expectations of leadership. This year, WRI reveals a major universal need from knowledge workers: personalized work experiences.

    At least two-thirds of workers expressed a desire for personalized work experiences, including tailored workspaces, access to preferred technologies and flexible working environments. These experiences are crucial for improving relationships with work, and have positive implications for both employees and businesses:

    • 64% of knowledge workers say if work was tailored or customized to personal needs and preferences, they would be more invested in their company’s growth.
    • 69% of knowledge workers believe it would enhance their overall well-being.
    • 68% of knowledge workers stated it would incentivize them to stay with their current employers longer.

    This desire for personalization is so strong that 87% of knowledge workers would be willing to forgo part of their salary for it. On average, workers would be willing to give up to 14% of their salary with Gen Z workers giving up as much as 19%.

    AI Opens New Opportunities for Knowledge Workers to Enjoy Work and Improve Productivity

    AI usage among knowledge workers has surged to 66% in 2024, up from 38% last year. Workers who use AI are seeing the benefits, including a healthier relationship with work:

    • 73% feel that AI makes their jobs easier, and nearly 7-in-10 (69%) are customizing their use of AI to be more productive, indicating AI could be an ingredient to unlocking a more personalized work experience.
    • 60% state that AI plays a key role in improving their work-life balance.
    • 68% say AI opens up new opportunities for them to enjoy work.
    • 73% agree that a better understanding of AI will make it easier to advance their careers.

    Further, knowledge workers who use AI are +11-points happier with their relationship with work than their colleagues who don’t. Therefore, there is an urgency to get AI into the hands of workers sooner rather than later as non-AI users have shown increased fear of job replacement by AI, with 37% expressing concern, a +5-point increase from last year.

    Business Leaders Lack Confidence; Female Leaders Emerge as a Bright Spot

    While at the global scale the index highlights little change, countries that saw an increase in their individual work relationship index saw slight improvement across the six key drivers of a healthy relationship with work – most notably the Leadership and Fulfillment drivers. This year’s index revealed that trust in senior leadership remains a critical factor in a healthy work relationship, but there is a disconnect between the recognition of the importance of human skills (e.g., mindfulness, self-awareness, communication, creative-thinking, resilience, empathy, emotional intelligence) and leaders’ confidence to deliver:

    • While more than 90% of leaders acknowledge the benefits of empathy, only 44% feel confident in their human skills.
    • Only 28% of workers consistently see empathy from their leaders, despite 78% valuing it highly.

    However, this year’s research uncovered a bright spot: female leaders. On average, female business leaders are +10-points more confident in their hard skills (technical, computer, presentation, etc.), and notably +13-points more confident in human skills than their male counterparts. Additionally, female business leaders’ confidence in both skills grew over the past year (+10-points in human skills, +4-points in hard skills), while confidence among male business leaders remained stagnant in human skills and decreased in hard skills (-3-points).

    For more information on the HP Work Relationship Index, please visit the WRI website and to access the full report, please visit the HP Newsroom.

    Methodology

    HP commissioned an online survey managed by Edelman Data & Intelligence (DXI) that fielded between May 10 – June 21, 2024 in 12 countries: the US, France, India, UK, Germany, Spain, Australia, Japan, Mexico, Brazil, Canada, and Indonesia. HP surveyed 15,600 respondents in total – 12,000 knowledge workers (1,000 in each country); 2,400 IT decision makers (200 in each country); and 1,200 business leaders (100 in each country).

    HP Inc. Media Relations
    MediaRelations@hp.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: Launch of New Chief FOIA Officer Council Page

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    OIP is pleased to announce the launch of a new page on its website dedicated to the work of the Chief FOIA Officer (CFO) Council. Recently established by the FOIA Improvement Act of 2016, the CFO Council is composed of all agency CFOs, plus the Deputy Director for Management from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and is co-chaired by the Directors of OIP and the Office of Government Information Services (OGIS). In fulfilling its responsibilities, the Council will meet regularly to develop recommendations for increasing FOIA compliance and efficiency, disseminating information about agency experiences and best practices, and working on initiatives that will increase transparency. Agencies and the public can access resources related to the work of the Council, including agendas and meeting minutes from past meetings as well as details on future meetings, on this dedicated page.    

    As highlighted on FOIA Post, last month the CFO Council held its inaugural meeting on July 22, 2016 in an event held at the White House. A recording of that event, as well as the meeting minutes and presentation materials, is available on this new page. During this meeting, OIP Director Melanie Pustay introduced the first item for the Council’s consideration — implementing a “release to one, release to all” presumption for FOIA responses. To assist in the implementation of this new presumption, OIP asked agency CFOs to answer specific questions about how such a policy might work at their agency. The memorandum and questionnaire from OIP’s Director to all agency CFOs seeking this feedback is also available on this new page. If you would like to submit your own feedback on the “release to one, release to all” presumption, please email ReleaseToAll@usdoj.gov with your thoughts.

    Please be sure to continue checking FOIA Post and the new CFO Council Page for further updates on the Council’s work and details about upcoming meetings.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Holding(s) in Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TR-1: Standard form for notification of major holdings

    1. Issuer Details
    ISIN
    GB00BLDRH360
    Issuer Name
    OSB GROUP PLC
    UK or Non-UK Issuer
    UK
    2. Reason for Notification
    An acquisition or disposal of voting rights
    3. Details of person subject to the notification obligation
    Name
    BlackRock, Inc.
    City of registered office (if applicable)
    Wilmington
    Country of registered office (if applicable)
    USA
    4. Details of the shareholder
    Full name of shareholder(s) if different from the person(s) subject to the notification obligation, above

    City of registered office (if applicable)

    Country of registered office (if applicable)

    5. Date on which the threshold was crossed or reached
    20-Sep-2024
    6. Date on which Issuer notified
    23-Sep-2024
    7. Total positions of person(s) subject to the notification obligation

    . % of voting rights attached to shares (total of 8.A) % of voting rights through financial instruments (total of 8.B 1 + 8.B 2) Total of both in % (8.A + 8.B) Total number of voting rights held in issuer
    Resulting situation on the date on which threshold was crossed or reached 5.160000 0.340000 5.500000 21013776
    Position of previous notification (if applicable) 4.620000 0.380000 5.000000  

    8. Notified details of the resulting situation on the date on which the threshold was crossed or reached
    8A. Voting rights attached to shares

    Class/Type of shares ISIN code(if possible) Number of direct voting rights (DTR5.1) Number of indirect voting rights (DTR5.2.1) % of direct voting rights (DTR5.1) % of indirect voting rights (DTR5.2.1)
    GB00BLDRH360   19665223   5.160000
    Sub Total 8.A 19665223 5.160000%

    8B1. Financial Instruments according to (DTR5.3.1R.(1) (a))

    Type of financial instrument Expiration date Exercise/conversion period Number of voting rights that may be acquired if the instrument is exercised/converted % of voting rights
    Securities Lending     368875 0.090000
    Sub Total 8.B1   368875 0.090000%

    8B2. Financial Instruments with similar economic effect according to (DTR5.3.1R.(1) (b))

    Type of financial instrument Expiration date Exercise/conversion period Physical or cash settlement Number of voting rights % of voting rights
    CFD     Cash 979678 0.250000
    Sub Total 8.B2   979678 0.250000%

    9. Information in relation to the person subject to the notification obligation
    2. Full chain of controlled undertakings through which the voting rights and/or the financial instruments are effectively held starting with the ultimate controlling natural person or legal entities (please add additional rows as necessary)

    Ultimate controlling person Name of controlled undertaking % of voting rights if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold % of voting rights through financial instruments if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold Total of both if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Holdco 3, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Cayman 1 LP      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Cayman West Bay Finco Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Cayman West Bay IV Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Group Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Finance Europe Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Australia Holdco Pty. Ltd.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Holdco 4, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Holdco 6, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Delaware Holdings Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, National Association      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Holdco 4, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Holdco 6, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Delaware Holdings Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Fund Advisors      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Canada Holdings ULC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Holdco 3, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Cayman 1 LP      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Cayman West Bay Finco Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Cayman West Bay IV Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Group Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Finance Europe Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Advisors (UK) Limited      

    10. In case of proxy voting
    Name of the proxy holder

    The number and % of voting rights held

    The date until which the voting rights will be held

    11. Additional Information
    BlackRock Regulatory Threshold Reporting Team

    Jana Blumenstein

    020 7743 3650
    12. Date of Completion
    23rd September 2024
    13. Place Of Completion
    12 Throgmorton Avenue, London, EC2N 2DL, U.K.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: Second Meeting of the Chief FOIA Officers Council

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    UPDATE: This post has been updated with details regarding the livestream of this event.

    The next meeting of the Chief FOIA Officers Council will be held on Thursday, September 15, 2016.  At this meeting, OIP will brief the Council on the feedback received from agencies on the “Release to One is a Release to All” presumption and will provide journalists an opportunity to share their views on the presumption.  The meeting will be held at:

    Second Chief FOIA Officers Council Meeting
    GSA Central Office – Auditorium
    1800 F Street, NW
    Washington, DC 20405 
    September 15, 2016 – 10am to 12pm

    This meeting will be open to the public, and time will be provided for members of the public to address the Council.  If you would like to address the Council at the meeting, either as a journalist or a member of the public, please request this in your registration email.  Written comments pertaining to the “Release to All” presumption policy may be submitted to ReleaseToAll@usdoj.gov. While the “release to one is a release to all” presumption is the first topic being considered by the Council, the Director of OIP will also provide an update on the consolidated FOIA portal in anticipation of further engagement with the Council on that topic.

    For security purposes registration for this meeting is required.  Please email DOJ.OIP.FOIA@usdoj.gov with the subject line “CFO Council Meeting – Public” by 5:00 PM on September 7, 2016. This meeting will also be livestreamed at https://meet.gsa.gov/foiacfomeetingsept2016/. To view this livestream, please visit the URL and select “Enter as a Guest;” you will be prompted to provide your name and then select “Enter Room.”

    MIL Security OSI –