During the 56th U.S.-Republic of Korea (ROK) Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) on October 30, 2024, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and ROK Minister of National Defense Kim Yong Hyun advanced numerous initiatives that deepen our extended deterrence cooperation, modernize our alliance capabilities, and strengthen our contributions to regional security.
On October 31, Secretary Austin and Minister Kim will join U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and ROK Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-yul for a Foreign and Defense Ministers’ Meeting (2+2 Meeting) to align our diplomatic and defense efforts, ensuring that bilateral activities are synchronized to advance our Alliance’s shared values and interests.
ENHANCING EXTENDED DETERRENCE
The United States reaffirmed that its extended deterrence commitment to the ROK is ironclad. The United States and the ROK are enhancing our combined deterrence and response posture by:
Enhancing extended deterrence cooperation through Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) workstreams that enable integrated planning, decision-making, and execution of conventional-nuclear operations, as laid out in the “Guidelines for Nuclear Deterrence and Nuclear Operations on the Korean Peninsula.”
Conducting large-scale field training exercises to maintain a strong combined defense posture, such as Freedom Shield and Ulchi Freedom Shield, and enhance the Alliance’s crisis management capabilities and strengthen deterrence.
MODERNIZING ALLIANCE CAPABILITIES
The United States and the ROK are modernizing our capabilities to strengthen the combined defense architecture of the Alliance, empowering us to work together more seamlessly by:
Enhancing combined abilities to deter and respond to DPRK missiles by upgrading Shared Early Warning Systems and missile defense capabilities against advanced and novel threats.
Expanding science and technology cooperation through the new Defense Science and Technology Executive Committee (DSTEC) to guide defense innovation and accelerate the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies in areas such as autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies.
Deepening industrial collaboration and supply chain resiliency by strengthening and connecting our defense industrial bases through our participation in the Partnership for Indo-Pacific Industrial Resilience (PIPIR) and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) activities, allowing our forces to field the most modern, interoperable weapons systems.
STRENGTHENING REGIONAL SECURITY COOPERATION
The United States and the ROK resolved to jointly strengthen activities with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific by:
Launching a new Regional Cooperation Framework to better coordinate efforts to advance our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. Areas of focus under this framework include maritime security, multilateral exercises, capacity building, defense industrial cooperation, technical cooperation, and information sharing.
Deepening U.S.-ROK-Japan trilateral security cooperation through a Trilateral Security Cooperation Framework that institutionalizes high-level dialogues, missile warning data sharing, and an increased scope, scale, and frequency of trilateral multi-domain exercises.
The United States (U.S.) – Republic of Korea (ROK) Alliance remains the linchpin of peace and security not only on the Korean Peninsula but also in the Indo-Pacific region.
Today the U.S. Department of Defense and ROK Ministry of National Defense announce the following Regional Cooperation Framework for U.S.-ROK Alliance Contributions to Security in the Indo-Pacific to facilitate deeper collaboration between our two countries and to demonstrate our commitment to maintaining a free, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
Our two nations share fundamentally common interests and values that underpin regional security efforts, such as respect for democratic governance, the rule of law, territorial integrity, and sovereignty. We seek to better align our efforts in the Indo-Pacific to help realize the vision of a global comprehensive strategic alliance and to advance the security and prosperity of our people, the region, and the globe.
This framework builds upon our respective strategies for the region – the U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy, and the ROK Strategy for a Free, Peaceful, and Prosperous Indo-Pacific region – to help develop and maintain a sustainable, secure, and resilient regional order. Our cooperative efforts also draw upon the 2023 Defense Vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance, which identifies strengthening solidarity and regional security cooperation with like-minded partners as one of our key bilateral priorities, and are intended to support the Republic of Korea’s goal of becoming a “Global Pivotal State.”
To advance this cooperation, the U.S. Secretary of Defense and the ROK Minister of National Defense endorse the following general principles and seek to chart a path forward that ensures our common national interest:
Our cooperative efforts should seek to create a region that is more connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient. We intend to utilize approaches and pursue initiatives that are based on mutual confidence, trust, reciprocity, and respect for relevant international laws, standards, and norms.
Both the U.S. and ROK recognize that our national interests, as well as those of our bilateral Alliance, can be advanced by firmly upholding and strengthening the rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region; this includes the freedoms of navigation and overflight, and other uses of the sea guaranteed to all nations under international law.
Both sides reaffirm their strong support for Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) centrality, unity, and the ASEAN-led regional architecture; we commit to partnering closely with ASEAN to advance implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific in defense-related areas; we are also determined to work closely with Pacific Island countries and the Pacific Islands Forum to build capacity in the region.
Both sides intend to pursue initiatives and activities together that more comprehensively build partner capacity, bolster maritime security, and foster collaboration and interoperability with like-minded countries in the region.
Through increased participation in multilateral exercises, both sides are determined to enhance the readiness, capability, and resilience of combined forces to be prepared to respond to evolving and complex threats in the region.
To expand comprehensive security cooperation, the U.S. and ROK intend to pursue initiatives that strengthen collaboration in the areas of non-proliferation, counter-terrorism, humanitarian aid and disaster relief, climate change, and the prevention of infectious diseases as well as empower regional organizations to contribute to greater regional stability; both sides also intend to increase information sharing with like-minded countries to better address challenges in the region.
In the area of defense exports and defense industrial cooperation, both sides intend to work together on issues of mutual interest including: sharing best practices on export controls, foreign direct investment, and technology security; exchanging information on expert planning and decision-making; and cooperating effectively to secure supply chains.
Both sides are also determined to work together to increase information sharing in the cyber domain to enhance regional cybersecurity practices and situational awareness, and build cyber resilience to defend against globally-expanding malicious cyber threats.
Finally, both sides also pledge to continue using established forums such as the Regional Cooperation Working Group (RCWG), and other existing bilateral mechanisms, to develop and sustain dialogue between the U.S. and ROK on defense cooperation in priority areas identified in both the government and industrial sectors. The mechanisms will report to the annual Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) through the Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD).
To implement this framework, both sides intend to present concepts for cooperative projects through government channels and, where appropriate, facilitate business-to-business connections that may advance opportunities for collaboration and cooperation. These projects should complement other efforts being undertaken by other like-minded countries in the region and seek to effectively utilize public sector resources.
Initiatives and projects under this framework will focus on the following areas, which both sides have identified as priority areas for cooperation, with a particular focus on cooperation with ASEAN and Pacific Island countries:
Maritime Security
Multilateral Exercises
Capacity Building
Defense Exports and Defense Industrial Cooperation
Technical Cooperation (e.g., cyber security and emerging capabilities)
Information Sharing
Both sides intend to identify points of contact responsible for coordinating engagements and tracking the implementation of cooperative projects decided upon under this framework. The lead points of contact should review potential opportunities and prioritize actions, with the goal of presenting at least one project or initiative each year before the SCM.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Search and Rescue Section (SRS) conducted an intensive search and rescue exercise (SAREX) in Batchelor last week, focusing on testing and refining the agency’s land search and rescue response capabilities. The exercise showcased the effectiveness of deploying K9 units and other specialist police assets in challenging field conditions, vital for enhancing operational readiness across the Territory.
The exercise revolved around a simulated missing person report, where the search began after an abandoned vehicle was discovered on a remote dirt road in Batchelor. The scenario required the missing person, who had wandered a considerable distance from the vehicle, to be located by the Northern Territory (NT) Search and Rescue K9 Unit, an external agency working in collaboration with our NT Police Dog Operations Unit. Various specialist sections of NT Police were deployed to establish a field search headquarters, coordinate search efforts, and safely recover the missing person according to the rescue plan.
As part of NT Police’s responsibility under the Intergovernmental Agreement, the SRS coordinates both marine and land search and rescue operations. This recent training exercise provided a critical opportunity to assess the deployability of police SAR assets to regional and remote areas, demonstrating the team’s ability to respond to emergencies across varied and demanding terrains.
Acting Sergeant Chris Grotherr explained, “The main purpose of this SAREX was to test our Land SAR response capabilities, particularly the deployment of K9 assets in the field, alongside other specialist resources, such as the Mounted Unit, motorcycles, ATVs, and drone capability. This allows us to identify gaps in our capabilities and find ways to bridge them, ensuring we are constantly improving our readiness for future operations.”
The exercise also offered vital training for SRS and other specialist police sections, helping them understand local conditions at this time of year and the specific challenges associated with the terrain in the Batchelor region.
In the 12 months ending June 2024, the SRS responded to over 80 search and rescue incidents across the NT, assisting 93 people and saving 10 lives. These successes highlight the importance of ongoing training and multi-agency collaboration. Regular exercises like the one in Batchelor help the team maintain proficiency in operating specialist equipment and assets, while identifying any maintenance or serviceability issues that need to be addressed.
“Operating specialist equipment in real-world conditions is key to maintaining our proficiency and ensuring all assets are mission-ready,” A/Sgt Grotherr added. “The insights gained from this exercise are invaluable in fine-tuning our response strategies moving forward.”
The NT Police are dedicated to maintaining a high standard of search and rescue readiness, working continuously to enhance their operations and ensure the safety of all Territorians, no matter the challenge or location.
Media Note: Imagery, including interview footage, overlays, and still shots, is available upon request.
Federal funding will help restore the Klamath River’s habitat following historic dam removal and further protect endangered C’waam, Koptu, and salmon
Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is investing a total of$46,191,133in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to boost ecosystem restoration and enhance water quality and reliability through 24 projects throughout the Klamath Basin—12 of which are taking place in Oregon.
This latest federal funding wave from the landmark law will largely fuel the Klamath River’s recovery and habitat restoration efforts following the removal of the four lower Klamath Dams in 2024—the largest dam removal effort in U.S. history.
“A key to restoring the Klamath Basin is major federal investments that will support collaborative ecosystem restoration and water improvement efforts. This funding will continue ongoing efforts I helped energize alongside the Klamath Tribes and other stakeholders to save the C’waam and Koptu, and restore the aquatic habitat and ecosystems of the Klamath River following the historic removal of the four lower Klamath Dams,” said Merkley, who visited Northern California earlier in October to tour a former dam site and celebrate removal alongside Tribes and other key partners. “Since the dams came out, we’ve seen the salmon returning home for the first time in generations. This federal investment champions projects that help ensure the C’waam, Koptu, and salmon all have an ecosystem to thrive in, while also prioritizing efforts that help this unique region’s water go farther for the Tribes, farmers, fish, and vital ecosystems that rely on it.”
“Restoration of the Klamath Basin requires significant resources just like these to catalyze the work that’s needed locally to build a stronger ecosystem and improve water quality,” Wyden said. “This fresh federal investment in the region and the big gains it will generate for jobs, recreation, and habitat will work to ensure the area’s farmers, Tribes and communities can grow and thrive for generations to come.”
As Chairman of the Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, Merkley secured a historic $162 million over five years through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law specifically dedicated to restoring ecosystems and enhancing drought resiliency work in the Klamath Basin. Today’s $46 million funding announcement from the U.S. Department of the Interior’s USFWS marks the third year of investments from this landmark law, as it follows $26 million provided in 2022 and $15 million in 2023. Merkley also convened the “Sucker Summit ” in 2018, which brought people from across the Basin together and helped lay the groundwork for these significant investments to protect the C’waam and the Koptu.
In February of this year, Merkley and Wyden announced $72 million in new federal funding for critical ecosystem restoration projects and agricultural infrastructure modernization in the Basin, as well as a historic agreement with the Klamath Tribes, Yurok Tribe, Karuk Tribe, and Klamath Water Users Association (KWUA). This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) cemented their commitment to working together to drive long-term solutions to the Basin’s water challenges. That includes collective efforts to restore the region’s ecosystem and improve water supply and reliability for the Klamath Project.
The 12 restoration projects in Oregon—some of which are being developed by Klamath MOU group partners, as well as other Tribes and other conservation partners—are as follows:
$13,000,000 for the Wetland Restoration on Upper Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Agency Lake Units project. This will complete restoration of the Agency-Barnes wetland units of Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge and provide fish habitat access in Fourmile and Sevenmile creeks. Covering 14,356 acres, the restored wetland will create vital habitat for waterfowl, federally endangered Lost River and shortnose suckers (C’waam and Koptu sucker fish), and other species, making it one of the largest wetland restoration initiatives in America. MOU group partners – Ducks Unlimited and Klamath Tribes
$3,500,000 for the Upper Williamson River Restoration Phase 2 project. This will provide fish passage to over 26 miles of the upper Williamson River and reconnect several thousand acres of adjacent wetlands and riparian habitats within the Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge project area. MOU group partners – Ducks Unlimited and Klamath Tribes
$3,179,400 for the Climate Change Resiliency Stream Restoration and Post Bootleg Fire Stream Stabilization and Restoration project. This effort includes placing approximately 400 Beaver Dam Analog, Post Assisted Log Structures, and other types of instream structures to help restore several streams in the Sprague River and Williamson River watersheds. MOU partner – Klamath Tribes
$3,000,000 for the Lake Ewauna Restoration for the Benefit of People, Fish and Wildlife project. This funding will be used to develop and restore wetlands and shoreline around Lake Ewauna in downtown Klamath Falls for the benefit of native fish and wildlife species and to tell the story of the local Tribes, farmers, and communities in the Klamath Basin. Restorative improvements to habitat in Link River and instream habitat improvements within Lake Ewauna will benefit C’waam and Koptu suckers, native trout, migratory waterfowl, and other species. With the recently removed Klamath dams, salmon and steelhead will also be migrating through Lake Ewauna for the first time in over a century. Partners – The Klamath Watershed Partnership, City of Klamath Falls, and Klamath County Economic Development Agency
$2,540,000 million for the Tule Lake Flow Through Infrastructure Improvement project. This encompasses a suite of infrastructure improvements and operational changes to provide natural ecosystem services with respect to water quality in the Klamath Basin. Water used for farmland irrigation would then flow through wetlands before returning to the Klamath River. In addition to water quality benefits for the Klamath River, this project will provide habitat for threatened and endangered fish, support migratory wildlife, recharge groundwater, and provide other ecosystem benefits. MOU group partners – KWUA and Tulelake Irrigation District
$2,027,799 for the SONAR and Radio Telemetry and Spawning Surveys for Klamath Salmon project. This will be used to obtain abundance estimates of salmon and steelhead entering the reach previously blocked by the four lower Klamath dams and track salmon migrations to their spawning grounds. These metrics will provide a foundation for assessment of stock status and trends while guiding future restoration efforts in the newly accessible habitats, developing a toolset to support prioritization of future restoration and monitoring in the Klamath River. It will also provide much needed capacity for three of the six tribes on the Klamath River, allowing them to track the return of these culturally significant species. MOU group partners –Karuk Tribe, California Trout, Klamath Tribes, Yurok Tribe, Cal Poly Humboldt, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife
$1,253,000 for the Klamath Basin Fisheries Collaborative: Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) Tag Monitoring and Database project. This will be used to continue to build the infrastructure required to provide Klamath Basin fisheries managers with consistent and reliable data on movements of fish using PIT tags. Work funded by this proposal includes continuing to improve on existing fish monitoring efforts by coordinating activities and collaborating on tasks, as well as advancing data exchange by refining the user interface and providing technical support to data providers. Partner – Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission
$500,000 for the Implementation of Integrated Fisheries Restoration and Monitoring Plan (IFRMP) project. This will fund a USFWS initiative to support Klamath Basin stakeholders in tracking, coordinating, and integrating monitoring and data collection efforts across the Basin.
$500,000 for the Klamath Basin Stakeholder Engagement and Facilitation project. This will fund a USFWS initiative to provide greater continuity and work toward local governance for the MOU parties, which are interested in utilizing a neutral facilitator to help identify additional ways to promote collaboration and reduce conflict over natural resources. This effort could include expanding the MOU group to include other interested parties and to develop proposals related to a governance structure for making important decisions on restoration and monitoring in the Klamath Basin. These funds would support the hiring of a facilitator selected by the parties and support up to three to five years of facilitation support.
$300,000 for the Post Dam Removal Data Collection on Salmon Migration and Movement project. This funding will be used by project partners to use otolith microchemistry tools to 1) understand how Klamath Dam removal affects the early life history diversity of Chinook salmon, 2) determine the natal origin and migration histories of returning fish, pre- and post-dam removal, 3) determine which tributaries are and are not producing Chinook salmon, and 4) quantify how Chinook production varies between different tributaries before and after dam removal. The information is critical to adaptively managing the Klamath Basin, post dam removal, and has important implications for restoration of key tributaries. Partner – UC Davis
$295,000 for the Surface Water Management and Efficiency Enhancement project. This encompasses necessary infrastructure improvements to allow safe, reliable, and integrated management of water within the Klamath Project. MOU group partners – KWUA, Klamath Irrigation District, and Klamath Drainage District
$200,000 for the FWS Post Dam Removal Science Symposia project. This will fund an USFWS initiative to sponsor a Klamath science symposium in 2025. Planning for this symposium will start in November 2024. The goal is to bring together stakeholders/experts to discuss the state of the Basin post dam removal, progress on restoration and monitoring, and next-step strategies to continue the momentum on restoration progress in the years ahead.
For a complete list and full descriptions of all the 24 projects awarded funding in the Klamath Basin, click HERE.
Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
Boulder City, Nev. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) joined staff and survivors for the grand opening of the St. Jude’s Ranch for Children in Boulder City. The St. Jude’s Healing Center provides trauma-informed treatment to survivors of commercial child sex trafficking.
“Since my time as Nevada’s Attorney General, combating human trafficking and supporting survivors has been one of my top priorities,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I was here for the groundbreaking of the St. Jude’s Healing Center two years ago, and I am grateful for the opportunity to come back for its grand opening. I’ll continue fighting to ensure essential organizations like the St. Jude’s have access to the resources they need to support survivors through the recovery process.”
Senator Cortez Masto is an outspoken advocate for the survivors of human trafficking and sexual assault. She recently called on Congress to provide more funding to support the Crime Victims fund, which provides services and resources for survivors of sexual assault. Her federal legislation to help train law enforcement to identify and prevent child trafficking and combat human trafficking activity on social media was signed into law. She co-sponsored bipartisan legislation that would prevent the trafficking of children by providing grants for the training of students, parents, and school personnel to respond to the signs of human trafficking.
As a three-day fact-finding mission from a group of Pacific leaders drew to a close in New Caledonia, and with the outcomes report not expected before next year, the visit to the riot-hit French Pacific territory seems to have triggered a new sense of awareness locally about the values of Pacific regional mechanisms of “talanoa” embodied by the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).
Local President Louis Mapou stressed on several occasions during the visit that New Caledonia’s situation was the “subject of much attention” in the Pacific region.
He suggested that one of the reasons for this could be because of a potential “spillover” effect that could “jeopardise cohesion in the Pacific”.
However, Mapou also stressed that he had received the message conveyed by the PIF “Troika-Plus” group that “they’re ready to take part in [New Caledonia’s] reconstruction”.
‘New Caledonia’s regional integration in its region’ Mapou said that one of the recurrent themes during the PIF visit was “New Caledonia’s regional integration in its region”.
“Whatever might be said, in many ways, New Caledonia does not know its [Pacific] region very well. Because it has this affiliation relationship to Europe and France that has prevailed over all these years,” he told local media.
“So, in a certain way, we’re just discovering our region. And in this process, the Pacific Islands Forum could bring a sort of leverage,” he said.
Kanaky New Caledonia, as well as French Polynesia — both French Pacific entities — became full members of the Pacific Islands Forum in 2016, after several years of “associate members” status.
Mapou said New Caledonia’s current status vis-à-vis France was mentioned during talks with the PIF mission.
“I spoke with them about obstacles that should be removed, that are directly related to our current status. This is part of topics on which we should be working in future,” he said.
“They’re very open-minded, they don’t have any preconceived ideas, they’re happy to talk equally about the concepts of independence, just as they are for keeping [New Caledonia] within the French Republic,” he revealed.
One of the unexpected outcomes, beyond the specific fact-finding mission that brought this PIF “Troika-Plus” leaders’ delegation to New Caledonia, seems to have underlined the values of regionalism, as well as New Caledonia’s long-awaited and genuine integration in its “regional environment”.
These values seem to have been recognised by all sides of New Caledonia’s political spectrum, as well as all walks of life within the civil, economic, educational and religious society.
PIF’s “Troika-Plus” leaders meet with Southern Province President Sonia Backès (third from left) at SPC headquarters last Monday. Image: PIF/RNZ Pacific
Pacific diversity in status During the past few days, informal exchanges with the Pacific leaders have also allowed New Caledonia’s authorities to share and compare possible ways forward regarding the territory’s political status.
“They readily exchanged their own experiences with our government. The Cook Islands, which is a self-governing state in ‘free association’ with New Zealand; Tonga, which has never been colonised; and the Solomon Islands, who have also undergone inter-ethnic conflicts and where the young population was also involved. And Fiji, which obtained independence (in 1970), had decided to withdraw from the Commonwealth and is finally re-discussing its link with Great Britain,” Mapou briefed local media on Tuesday.
The leaders spent three days (October 27-29) in the French Pacific territory to gather information on the ground, after destructive riots broke out in May, resulting in 13 deaths and extensive economic damage estimated at €2.2 billion.
During the three days, the PIF leaders met a wide range of political, business, religious, and civil society leaders to get a first-hand account of the situation.
On Tuesday, the “plus” component of the troika, Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, reiterated the mission’s assigned mantra in a manner of conclusion to their mission.
“We were here to understand and make recommendations. We have heard many extremely different attitudes. We hope it will be possible to find a solution for the people and the government,” Rabuka told religious leaders.
Bitterness from civil society The long series of talks, within a particularly tight schedule, also allowed groups within New Caledonia’s civil society — including traditional chiefs, youth, human rights activists, educationists, mayors and women — to express their views directly during the Pacific leaders’ visit.
Some of these groups also took the opportunity to point out that they were not always listened to in other circumstances.
“Today, peace has just been through a rough episode. And we, women, are being asked to help. But when was the last time we were heard?
“We’ve already said women should be part of all levels of decision-making, including on matters of dealing with violence and access for women to economic empowerment.
“We were ignored. And then, when fire breaks out, we’re being asked for help because this is the foundation of Pacific values,” said Sonia Tonga, the president of the Oceania Union of Francophone Women, which groups women’s groups from New Caledonia, French Polynesia, Wallis-and-Futuna and Vanuatu.
Talking about the youth, she said there was an “ill-being”, “they don’t recognise themselves in this system, including for education. We’re trying to fit an Oceanian society into a framework that has not been designed for them.
“When will we be heard in our country?”.
As part of talks with church leaders, it was also pointed out that there were benefits from sharing experiences with Pacific leaders.
“I’ve been many times in Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and other Pacific islands. They too have had their hard times.
“And they too are familiar with the experience of violence which is difficult to bring back to a path of dialogue,” said 80-year-old Nouméa Catholic Archbishop Michel-Marie Calvet, a respected figure.
In terms of earlier crises in the Pacific region, among PIF member island states, in the early 2000s, civil unrest occurred in both Fiji and the Solomon Islands, with shops being targeted and looted.
Under Pacific Islands Forum mechanisms, especially the declaration of Biketawa, this prompted in 2003 the setting up of “RAMSI” (Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands), with mostly Australia and New Zealand military and police as its main contributors, with additional input from other Pacific island countries.
In Fiji, the mission to defuse the crisis, associated with an attempted coup and a MPs hostage situation within Parliament buildings in May 2000, was mainly achieved by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) through protracted negotiations and without violence.
Forum “Troika-Plus” leaders in New Caledonia conducting a fact-finding mission to assess the situation on ground. Image: X /@ForumSEC/RNZ Pacific
Supporting Pacific dialogue In the political sphere, there was a recognition of the benefits of a Pacific perspective.
“There is a Pacific tradition of dialogue and talanoa. So, I think [the PIF leaders] can invite pro-independence parties to come to the [negotiating] table,” said New Caledonia’s Mayors’ Association president Pascal Vittori.
“We’re actually expecting PIF will back this notion of dialogue — that’s what’s important now,” he told local media.
Sonia Backès, one of the staunchest defenders of New Caledonia remaining part of France, told reporters on Monday: “We didn’t ask for this [mission]. Now we’re waiting for this (troika) report based on their observing mission.
“We all know that there are biased views on the part of some, one way or the other.
“So we hope the final report will be as fair and neutral as possible so as not to add fuel to the fire.”
Following their visit to New Caledonia and based on the information gathered, the Forum “Troika-Plus” leaders are expected to compile a “comprehensive report” to be submitted to the next annual Forum Leaders’ Summit in the Solomon Islands in 2025.
“The terms of reference of this mission were discussed beforehand between the government of New Caledonia, the Pacific Islands Forum and the (French) State. We all agreed that what was most important was to have an assessment of the situation.
“There is a need to provide information to the public so that it is an informed opinion leader. It’s important in those times of misinformation and manipulation from one side or the other,” French ambassador for the Pacific Véronique Roger-Lacan told public broadcaster NC la 1ère TV on Tuesday evening.
Business sector now needs Pacific market overtures Even the business sector now seems to believe that, as a result of the widespread destruction caused by the riots, which has left more than 800 companies burnt down and looted, as well as thousands jobless, the wider Pacific region has now become a new potentially attractive market.
“Our local market has just shrunk considerably and so we will need to find new openings for our products. In that perspective, our cooperation with the Pacific is very, very strategic”, said business leaders association MEDEF-NC president Mimsy Daly.
She had once again presented a detailed view of the widespread devastation caused by the recent riots and those who took part.
“‘Were they aware of what they were doing?’ is one of the questions I was asked,” she wrote on social networks after her encounter with the “Troika-Plus”.
“A logical question when you know that what has been destroyed equals about 70 percent of the GDP of the Cook Islands, 100 percent of the GDP of the Solomon Islands and 40 percent of the GDP of Fiji.”
But she admitted the response to this complex question was “primordial” and “every light will have to be shed on the matter”.
In a wrap-up of the three days, President Mapou held a final meeting with the group on Tuesday.
Wide circle of ‘concertation’ needed French High Commissioner Louis Le Franc, after a final meeting with the delegation, said: “They have come here to seek the profound causes of what happened on May 13. They have been listening very closely.
“I understand their view is that a wide circle of concertation [cooperation] will be required to reach an agreement,” he said.
He elaborated, saying that the Pacific Forum leaders seemed to place a lot of hope in the notions of “trust”, the “necessity of living together” and the PIF’s “will to help, while saying that, at the same time, the solution lies in the hands of New Caledonia”.
French President Macron (right) with New Caledonia’s President Louis Mapou (left) and former New Caledonia Congress President Roch Wamytan (centre) earlier this year. Image: RNZ Pacific
Next: another ‘concertation and dialogue’ mission Following the PIF “Troika-Plus” mission, another visit is expected in New Caledonia in the next few days — this time coming from Paris.
This new high-level visit will be headed by the presidents of both houses of Parliament in France (Senate and National Assembly), respectively Gérard Larcher and Yaël Braun-Pivet, from November 9-14.
They will lead what is described as a “mission of concertation and dialogue”.
The dates come as a top-level meeting took place last week, presided by French Head of State Emmanuel Macron and attended by French minister for Overseas François-Noël Buffet (who had just returned from New Caledonia), French PM Barnier, Larcher and Braun-Pivet.
The objective, once again, was to reinforce the signal that the time had come to resume political dialogue.
Macron indicated earlier that he still intended to host a meeting in Paris sometime in November.
Buffet was also in New Caledonia earlier this month for four days to assess the situation and try to restore a path to dialogue between all political stakeholders, both pro-independence and pro-France.
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
CFA firefighters battled a recycling truck fire this morning at Colac which prompted a warning to the community to stay indoors.
CFA was called to the truck fire on the corner of Calvert Street and Queen Street at 7.14am today.
Firefighters found the rubbish in the recycling truck on fire and heavy haulage machinery was called to the scene to help lift the truck to empty its contents onto the ground.
CFA District 6 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Craig Brittain said the volunteer firefighters who responded to this incident have done an amazing job.
“On inspection there was quite a number of items such as aerosol cans that shouldn’t be in a recycling bin that have possibly caused the fire so we will investigate that further,” Craig said.
“Community members need to please be careful what they put into rubbish bins.”
An excavator was also called in to pull apart the rubbish to assist firefighting with extinguishing the fire.
A Watch and Act message was issued asking people in the area to stay indoors due to the dangerous smoke from the burning plastic and other materials in the truck. That warning has since been downgraded to an Advice message.
The incident was brought under control at 8.48am and declared safe at 9.05am.
CFA has four trucks on scene from Colac, Cororooke and Larpent.
The NSW Government has made appointments to the board of the Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority (ILGA), including a deputy chairperson and two new members.
Associate Professor Amelia Thorpe and Nicholas Nichles have been appointed following a rigorous public expression of interest selection process. Additionally, existing member Chris Honey has been appointed deputy chairperson.
ILGA is a statutory decision-maker responsible for a range of liquor, registered club, and gaming machine regulatory functions including determining licensing and disciplinary matters.
The appointments follow the end of the term of appointment for outgoing deputy chairperson Sarah Dinning, and also fill vacancies that existed on the board.
Mr Honey, who was appointed a member of ILGA earlier in 2024, has been named deputy chairperson until the end of his current appointment term (11 February 2027). Mr Honey has extensive experience in the advisory and restructuring field, including working extensively in highly regulated sectors.
Associate Professor Thorpe and Mr Nichles have both been appointed for four years commencing 6 November 2024.
Associate Prof Thorpe is with the Faculty of Law & Justice at the University of New South Wales and an Acting Commissioner of the NSW Land and Environment Court.
Mr Nichles was previously a Consul General and Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner for Australian Government agency Austrade, based in the US.
The new appointments bring the ILGA board membership to seven.
The new appointments will join chairperson Caroline Lamb, new deputy chairperson Mr Honey and current members Cathie Armour, Jeffrey Loy APM and Dr Suzanne Craig.
“I would like to thank Sarah Dinning for her contribution to the Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority, including during her service as deputy chairperson.
“ILGA has an important role to play as the administrative decision-making authority for liquor, registered club and gaming machine licensing decisions in NSW.
“An exhaustive selection process was undertaken for these new appointments in accordance with legislative requirements and including the engagement of an independent probity advisor.
“Chris Honey has brought significant expertise to the board since his appointment and Amelia Thorpe and Nicholas Nichles will bring their substantial experience, expertise and leadership to ILGA.”
ILGA chairperson Caroline Lamb said:
“Mr Honey joined the ILGA board earlier this year and has proven himself to be an invaluable board member with his energy and considerable skills and experience in the advisory and restructuring field.
“The ILGA board also welcomes A/Prof Thorpe and Mr Nichles to the board.
“People appointed to the ILGA board must be of the highest integrity and promote fair, transparent and efficient decision-making.”
The European Union’s (EU) decision to impose definitive countervailing duties on Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs) for a period of five years has sparked strong opposition, with China calling the move “unfair, unreasonable and unobjective.”
In a statement on Wednesday, the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products (CCCME), on behalf of the Chinese automotive industry, expressed “great regret” over the decision to impose anti-subsidy tariffs on electric vehicles originating in China.
Starting Wednesday, these tariffs will apply with varying rates for different companies: 17 percent for BYD, 18.8 percent for Geely, and 35.3 percent for SAIC. Other cooperating firms will be subject to a 20.7 percent duty, while non-cooperating companies will have a duty rate of 35.3 percent, according to the European Commission.
Following a substantiated request for an individual review, U.S. EV maker Tesla, which also manufactures vehicles in China, will face a duty of 7.8 percent, the commission noted.
The CCCME said the European Commission failed to rectify its “incorrect findings” in the final ruling on the imposition of definitive duties against Chinese EVs, and there was a serious lack of transparency in the procedure, adding that the move seriously violates relevant World Trade Organization (WTO) and EU anti-subsidy rules.
The China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) also expressed disagreement with the decision in a statement on Wednesday. The decision, which is not objective and extremely unfair to China’s auto companies, is deemed unacceptable, the CAAM said.
The CAAM stressed that the imposition of tariffs not only violates the fundamental principles of free trade and fair competition, but also undermines cooperation between the Chinese and European automotive industries, as well as green and low-carbon transition.
Earlier on Wednesday, a Ministry of Commerce (MOC) spokesperson said China does not approve of or accept the European Commission’s decision to impose extra tariffs on Chinese EVs.
China has repeatedly pointed out that the EU’s anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese EVs is irrational, fraught with numerous non-compliance issues, and is a protectionist move under the guise of “fair competition,” the MOC said.
China has already appealed to the WTO’s dispute settlement mechanism over the issue, and will continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises, the MOC spokesperson noted.
Chinese carmaker SAIC Motor, which has been slapped with a duty rate of 35.3 percent by the European Commission, said that it plans to file a lawsuit at the Court of Justice of the European Union challenging the decision.
According to the carmaker, the European Commission made errors in identifying subsidies during its probe, ignored key facts and arguments presented by SAIC, and inaccurately presumed subsidy rates for several items.
The company said that the extra tariffs will only raise costs for European car buyers and impede the widespread adoption of EVs, adding that it is taking steps to adapt to trade barriers, including intensifying efforts to introduce new car models with various power systems to the European market and expanding its product lineup under the MG brand.
NEW PHASE OF CONSULTATIONS
While announcing the imposition of duties on Tuesday, the European Commission said the EU and China are continuing to work toward finding alternative, WTO-compatible solutions that would be effective in addressing the problems identified by the investigation, adding that it remains open to negotiations on price undertakings.
Noting that the EU remains open to continuing discussions on price commitments for Chinese-made EVs, the MOC spokesperson said that China always advocates for resolving trade disputes through dialogue and consultation, and has made every effort to achieve this.
Currently, technical teams from both sides are engaged in a new phase of consultations. It is hoped that the European side will work constructively with China, follow the principles of “pragmatism and balance” and take into account each other’s core concerns, and strive to reach a mutually acceptable solution as soon as possible to avoid an escalation of trade frictions, according to the MOC.
The CAAM voiced the hope that both sides will continue to engage in dialogue and consultations to maintain the steady operations of global automotive industrial and supply chains.
The CCCME, meanwhile, has expressed the hope that the EU would approach the consultations with the utmost sincerity and reach a balanced solution acceptable to both sides as soon as possible.
Police in South Auckland have taken another firearm off the streets following a road rage incident in Hampton Downs.
At about 6pm, a member of the public contacted Police stating that a person travelling in a yellow vehicle had allegedly pointed a gun at them while travelling north on State Highway 1.
Counties Manukau South Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Matt Hoyes, says within minutes Police located the vehicle north of Ramarama and observed it exiting at Drury.
“The Police Eagle helicopter has provided support as ground units initiated an armed vehicle stop on Chichester Drive, Papakura.
“During a search of the car, a loaded shotgun was located along with a number of shotgun cartridges.”
Inspector Hoyes says three people were taken into custody without incident.
“Thanks to the detailed and prompt report made by a member of the public, we were able to act quickly to locate the vehicle of interest and take one more firearm off the street.
“Police work hard to hold offenders to account, especially those with the potential to cause serious harm in our communities.”
If you witness any unlawful activity and it is happening now, please contact Police on 111 as soon as possible with as much information as possible, including descriptions of the offenders, their vehicles, and what direction they may have travelled in.
Alternatively you can report any information anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
A 22-year-old man will appear in Papakura District Court today charged with presenting a firearm at a person, unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition.
NEW ORLEANS, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until December 23, 2024 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against The Toronto-Dominion Bank (“TD” or the “Company”) (NYSE: TD), if they purchased the Company’s securities between February 29, 2024 to October 9, 2024, inclusive (the “Class Period”). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.
Get Help
TD investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-td-1/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.
About the Lawsuit
TD and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.
On October 10, 2024, the Company disclosed resolutions reached from investigations by various U.S. Government entities into the Company’s anti-money laundering (“AML”) program compliance with the United States Bank Secrecy Act (“BSA”), which included a punitive payment of $3.09 billion, an asset cap preventing TD’s two U.S. subsidiaries from exceeding a collective $434 billion, and a “more stringent approval processes for new bank products, services, markets, and stores to ensure the AML risk of new initiatives is appropriately considered and mitigated.”
On this news, the price of TD’s shares fell from a closing price of $63.51 per share on October 9, 2024 to $59.44 per share on October 10, 2024, and further to $57.01 on October 11, 2024.
The case is Tiessen v. The Toronto-Dominion Bank, et al., No. 24-cv-08032.
About ClaimsFiler
ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations.
China does not acknowledge or accept the European Union’s final ruling to impose additional tariffs on electric vehicles manufactured in the Chinese market, the Ministry of Commerce said on Wednesday, vowing to take all necessary measures to protect the interests of companies.
The European Commission, the EU’s executive arm, announced on Tuesday the conclusion of its anti-subsidy investigation, resulting in the imposition of definitive countervailing duties on EVs produced in China. The measures will expire at the end of a five-year period unless an expiration review is initiated before that date, the commission said in a news release.
In response, China has filed a complaint under the World Trade Organization’s dispute settlement mechanism.
China has repeatedly pointed out that the EU’s anti-subsidy investigation into EVs manufactured in China is irrational and fraught with numerous noncompliance issues, and is a protectionist move under the guise of “fair competition”, the Ministry of Commerce said in an online statement.
Noting that the EU is still willing to continue talks on price commitments for Chinese-made EVs, the ministry said that China always advocates the resolution of trade disputes through dialogue and consultation.
The EU’s new tariffs will range from 7.8 percent for the Chinese output of United States EV maker Tesla Inc, to 18.8 percent for Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, and up to 35.3 percent for Shanghai-based carmaker SAIC Motor Corp, in addition to the EU’s existing 10 percent duty on imported cars.
Other Chinese EV manufacturers face an average tariff of 20.7 percent, with rates reaching up to 35.3 percent for those classified as “noncooperative”.
SAIC Motor expressed disappointment on Wednesday with the decision and said that it plans to pursue necessary legal action by filing a lawsuit with the Court of Justice of the European Union to ensure its legitimate rights and interests.
The Chinese automaker said that it is implementing a series of measures to strengthen its resilience against the EU’s trade barriers.
These tariffs on Chinese, European and US EV producers operating in China neither enhance the EU’s resilience in EV manufacturing nor promote innovation or job creation. Instead, they represent a politically motivated approach, the Brussels-based China Chamber of Commerce to the EU said on Wednesday.
Market watchers warned that these additional tariffs will likely intensify trade friction between China and the EU, and may trigger a global rise in trade protectionism within the automotive industry.
Zhang Yongjun, secretary-general of the China Center for International Economic Exchanges in Beijing, said that based on the principle of reciprocity, the EU’s decision will inevitably trigger countermeasures, potentially having an impact on competitive EU export industries that trade with China.
“Under such circumstances, European consumers may suffer, facing either increased costs for Chinese EVs or limited options from alternative suppliers,” he added.
Wei Jianguo, former vice-minister of commerce, said that the EU’s move could weaken Chinese investors’ confidence in Europe, especially those in the automobile, power battery, industrial parts and logistics industries.
Erik Solheim, former executive director of the United Nations Environment Program, told China Daily on Wednesday: “Tariffs on superior Chinese electric cars go contrary to all economic wisdom. It will make us all poorer and slow down the green transformation in Europe.
“Green competition is a race to the top, tariffs and protectionism is a race to the bottom. Europe should invite investments from BYD and all the other Chinese car makers to help share technology and help shape competition so that European car makers can catch up.”
Also on Wednesday, Foreign Minister Wang Yi reiterated China’s opposition to the EU’s tariff measure. The move clearly violates WTO rules and contradicts the principles of free trade, Wang said while meeting in Beijing with Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen.
China has always believed that openness leads to progress while protectionism has no future, and universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization serves the interests of all parties, Wang added.
Believing that dialogue is the best path forward, Chen Huiqing, head of the legal service branch at the Beijing-based China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products, said that talks remain the most effective way to prevent the escalation of bilateral economic and trade tensions.
Currently, technical teams from both sides are engaged in a new phase of consultations, according to the Ministry of Commerce.
The Government is exploring how to modernise the law around people attending court remotely, to support access to justice and enhance court performance.
Courts Minister Nicole McKee says the current law has not kept up with evolving court practices and public attitudes to the use of remote technology, nor been substantially reviewed since it was put in place 14 years ago.
The Courts (Remote Participation) Act 2010 provides a framework for determining when court users can attend remotely by audio-visual or audio links, instead of in-person.
“We want a modern, fit-for-purpose law that enables increased remote participation, supports access to justice and promotes efficiency in courts in a way that is consistent with the interests of justice. This review is aimed at delivering on this objective,” Mrs McKee says.
“Appearing remotely can benefit court users by reducing the costs and time required to come to court in person. It may also be a better option for people with accessibility concerns because of a disability, or who live rurally and who must travel a long distance to their nearest court.”
The Ministry of Justice is now seeking public feedback on potential options for improving the Act. These are set out in adiscussion documentpublished today.
The options for change relate to three areas; what a remote participation Act should apply to; how decisions about participating remotely should be made; and when remote participation should be used.
This review is part of a wider work programme to improve the efficiency, timeliness and performance of the courts system.
Consultation closes on 6 December 2024, and feedback can be submitted online to the Ministry of Justice website.
Attributable to Inspector Herby Ngawhika, Rotorua Area Commander.
A person has died following a serious crash in Owhata, after initially fleeing Police.
At around 11.30am a vehicle of interest was identified on Haupapa Street, Rotorua. Police signalled it to stop but it failed to do so and instead fled from Police.
A pursuit was initiated and a short time later, the vehicle collided with another vehicle on Vaughan Road.
Despite efforts of emergency services, the driver of the fleeing vehicle died at the scene. The passenger of the vehicle received minor injuries and was transported to Rotorua Hospital..
The two occupants of the other vehicle sustained moderate injuries and were transported to Rotorua Hospital.
The road remains closed while the Serious Crash Unit conducts a scene examination.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible, follow diversions, and expect delays.
As standard practice, the matter will be referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority.
Police would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the crash, or has dashcam footage from the area at the time of the crash.
If you have information that may assist Police, please contact us online at 105.police.govt.nz or call 105.
Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia
Senators Reverend Warnock, Ossoff, Secure Over $60 Million to Improve Rail Safety Across Georgia Through Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
The Georgia Department of Transportation will receive $8,496,000 to improve rail line in Lowndes and Berrien Counties
The Georgia Ports Authority will receive $26,521,740 to finalize designs and build improvements at Brunswick’s Colonel’s Island Terminal
Funding provided through federal CRISI program Senator Reverend Warnock championed through the Senate Commerce committee
Senator Reverend Warnock: “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver historic investments for Georgians in every corner of the state. This latest grant will help mitigate congestion, build new tracks, and reinforce existing tracks leading to safer, more efficient, and more sustainable rail transportation and shipping”
Senator Ossoff: “After hearing from communities statewide about aging railroad infrastructure conditions Senator Warnock and I elevated this as one of our highest priorities”
Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), a member of the Senate Commerce committee charged with overseeing the nation’s transportation policies, and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) announced they secured $60,324,102 in federal funding to strengthen railroad safety across Georgia. The funds were made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, championed by the senators for its investments in Georgia, and administered through the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program. Senator Warnock successfully strengthened the CRISI Program to deliver for Georgia during negotiations for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and wrote letters of support championing funding for the Georgia Ports Authority, Patriot Rail Company, and OmniTRAX Holdings projects.
The Georgia Ports Authority will receive $26,521,740 to finalize designs and build improvements at Brunswick’s Colonel’s Island Terminal. This includes constructing a new South Side Rail Yard with four additional tracks (about 23,735 feet), an auto parking area, and a perimeter road, as well as adding a grade separation at SCM Road. Additionally, the existing Myd-Harris Yard will be reconfigured to improve efficiency and shift rail operations away from nearby neighborhoods.
The Georgia Department of Transportation will receive $8,496,000 to improve the CPR GF rail line in Lowndes and Berrien Counties. This project includes upgrading tracks, rehabilitating bridges and sidings, and adding a new spur. These upgrades will help maintain large freight capacity, enable speeds of 25 mph, enhance crossing safety, improve reliability, reduce future maintenance costs, and support local economic growth with improved infrastructure.
“Our communities thrive when we are better connected, which is why I have been focused on strengthening rail safety and infrastructure in Georgia, and why I was proud to champion efforts in the Senate to strengthen the CRISI program allowing these funds to flow our state,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver historic investments for Georgians in every corner of the state. This latest grant will help mitigate congestion, build new tracks, and reinforce existing tracks leading to safer, more efficient, and more sustainable rail transportation and shipping.”
“After hearing from communities statewide about aging railroad infrastructure conditions Senator Warnock and I elevated this as one of our highest priorities. Resources through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are now flowing across the State of Georgia to plan and begin construction to address this crisis. We’ve listened, we’ve heard, we’ve acted, and help is on the way,”said Senator Ossoff.
The purpose of the CRISI Program is to invest in a wide range of projects within the United States to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability; mitigate congestion at both intercity passenger and freight rail chokepoints to support the more efficient movement of both people and goods; enhance multi-modal connections; and lead to new or substantially improved Intercity Passenger Rail Transportation corridors.
See a full breakdown of the grants below:
Grant Recipient
Project Description
Federal Award Amount
Georgia Ports Authority
Final design and construction to improve the Myd-Harris Yard and build the new South Side Rail Yard at the Colonel’s Island Terminal in Brunswick, GA. Specifically, for the South Side Rail Yard, the project would construct four new yard tracks, estimated at approximately 23,735 feet of track, and construct south side auto parking area and a perimeter road, as well as grade separate the existing crossing at SCM Road. Additionally, it would lengthen and reconfigure tracks at the existing Myd-Harris Yard to improve operational efficiency and bring rail switching activities inside the terminal and away from the adjacent neighborhood.
$26,521,740
Georgia Department of Transportation
Final design/construction for a track and rail rehabilitation/upgrade, multibridge rehabilitation, siding rehabilitation, and the construction of a new spur on the CPR GF Line across Lowndes and Berrien Counties, Georgia. The objective of this Project is to preserve the railroad’s ability to accommodate 286,000-lb carloads and 25 mph operating speeds, enhance safety at grade crossings, support the reliability of freight movement by improving state of good repair, reduce future maintenance costs, and support economic development with new and improve siding and spur tracks.
$8,496,000
Patriot Rail Company LLC
Final design and construction activities to improve track conditions on eight Patriot railroads across the southeast.
$12,840,150
OmniTRAX Holdings Combined, Inc.
Final design and construction activities to replace railroad ties on four OmniTRAX-owned short lines across four states – Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, and Washington.
$12,466,212
Last December, Senators Warnock and Ossoff delivered $12 million in new Federal funding for a project in Jenkins County that will improve mobility by helping eliminate railway-highway crossings through the Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program. Last year, Senator Warnock secured the passage of two critical provisions in the Railway Safety Act of 2023 to address stalled trains trapping Atlanta residents in their neighborhood, and would update the grant program to provide additional support for projects that would eliminate crossings near schools, along school bus routes. In August 2023, Senator Warnock urged Secretary Buttigieg to approve rail crossing improvements in Millen, GA, and in 2021, Senator Warnock joined Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) to introduce the bipartisan Railway Upgrades for Rural American Lines(RURAL)Act to build on the successes already found through the Section 130 grant program and help states modernize unsafe or functionally outdated railroad warning devices.
Senator Ossoff has worked alongside Senator Reverend Warnock to help Georgia communities address railroad crossings blockages. In September 2023, Senator Ossoff urged U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to support GDOT and Millen’s project. In June 2023, Senators Ossoff and Warnock delivered Federal resources for Chatham, DeKalb, and Gwinnett Counties through the bipartisan infrastructure law’s Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
Derik Carothers, 29, pleaded guilty to Count Four of the Indictment before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on or about October 20, 2019, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Carothers possessed numerous firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon. Carothers was previously convicted on November 7, 2013, in the Cambria County Court of Common Pleas of burglary and carrying a firearm without a license, and, on March 20, 2017, of carrying a firearm without a license. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for March 12, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Carothers.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
GREENVILLE, Miss. – Dennis Vernandale Phillips, 42, was sentenced today to over 15 years in prison for his possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute the controlled substance.
The investigation began when law enforcement purchased over 30 grams of methamphetamine from Phillips using a confidential informant. During a subsequent search of Phillips’ residence in Preston, Mississippi, officers located methamphetamine, two firearms, and other narcotics. In total, Phillips’ conduct involved over a kilogram of methamphetamine that impacted the Choctaw Indian Reservation in Winston, Kemper, and Neshoba counties.
On October 30, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Phillips to 188 months imprisonment followed by a 48-month term of supervised release for possessing the methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
“Meth indiscriminately kills children, men and women and it ravages our communities, including the Choctaw Indian Reservation,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “This prosecution and sentence are the result of outstanding cooperation between our federal law enforcement partners and the tribal police to achieve a straightforward goal – to reduce the supply of illicit drugs while seeing to it that those who poison communities with narcotics are held to account.”
Phillips’ drug distribution was a threat to the community,” said Whitney Woodruff, Regional Agent in Charge of the Southeast Region for the Division of Drug Enforcement with the Bureau of Indian Affairs. “He was poisoning Indian Country for his personal gain and now he will pay the price. I am proud of our partnerships with the other law enforcement agencies involved.”
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated the case in partnership with the Choctaw Police Criminal Investigations Division, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Howell Addison prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
Reviewed: 7 June 2023, 08:45 NZST
Still current at: 31 October 2024
Related news features
If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.
Exercise increased caution in the United States due to the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).
United States of America
Terrorism The United States Department of Homeland Security regularly issues terrorism-related advice and updates. For current alerts, see the US National Terror Advisory System webpage.
The United States remains a target of terrorist interest, both from international terror groups and from domestic-based individual’s adhering to various forms of violent extremist ideologies. Credible information assessed by US authorities indicates that individuals or groups have developed both the intent and capability to conduct terrorist attacks in the US. Attacks could be indiscriminate, targeting law enforcement officials, government buildings and areas frequented by foreigners including transport hubs and major events.
New Zealanders in the United States are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. Follow any instructions issued by the local authorities and be aware of your surroundings in public places such as shopping malls, markets, monuments, places of worship, tourist destinations, demonstrations, large gatherings and on public transport.
In the event of an attack, leave the area as soon as it is safe to do so. Avoid the area in case of secondary attacks.
Crime Petty crime such as theft and pickpocketing can occur, particularly in urban centres, tourist locations and on public transport. New Zealanders should stay alert to their surroundings, stay vigilant on public transport and avoid leaving belongings unattended, including in rental vehicles.
There is a higher incidence of violent crime and firearm possession than in New Zealand. In many states, it is legal for United States citizens to openly carry firearms in public. Violent crime has targeted individuals and groups from the LGBTQIA+ community and those with diverse ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds. However, crime rates vary considerably across cities and suburbs and while tourists are rarely targeted, there is always a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. New Zealanders should take care when travelling in unfamiliar areas including on public transport. Research your destination before travelling and seek local advice if you are concerned about levels of criminal activity.
Active shooter incidents occur in the United States. For advice on how to respond to an active shooter situation, please see the US Department of Homeland Security website.
You should exercise caution if crossing the border by car into Mexico from Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas. There have been increased incidents of crime associated with drug trading and some foreign nationals have been targeted indiscriminately.
Be aware of rental and financial scams via websites and social media. Credit card and ATM fraud including debit card cloning is also a risk to travellers.
Civil Unrest and Political Tension Protests and demonstrations regularly occur. We advise New Zealanders to follow any advice issued by the local authorities, monitor local media for developments and avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to result in violence.
Natural Disasters The US can experience severe weather events, such as hurricanes, especially in May or June to November regularly impacting the eastern seaboard, Gulf Coast, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.
Tornados are most frequent and at their highest intensities across the Central Plains and parts of the Midwest. While tornadoes can form at any time of year, conditions are most favourable in the spring and summer months (March to September).
Severe snowstorms during winter can cause disruptions to critical infrastructure, including power cuts. Winter storms may also lead to widespread flight delays and cancellations.
Many parts of the US are also prone to earthquakes including Alaska, California, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada, Northern Mariana Islands, Oklahoma, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington state and the US Virgin Islands.
Contact your travel operator or airline for the latest departure information, and monitor local weather forecasts. If there is a severe weather event, or natural disaster, follow the advice of the local authorities and keep your family and friends back in New Zealand informed of your safety and well-being.
Travellers carrying electronic devices, such as laptops and mobile phones, should be aware that these devices may be subject to security checks by United States border authorities.
Immigration regulations are strictly enforced. Overstaying can result in detention then deportation. See our United States travel tips.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in the United States should have comprehensive travel and medical insurance policies in place. Medical costs in the United States are extremely high and the New Zealand government cannot assist with medical expenses.
New Zealanders in the United States are encouraged to register their travel with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Travel tips
The New Zealand Embassy Washington DC, United States of America
New Zealand Consulate-General Honolulu, United States of America
Street Address 733 Bishop Street, 2020, Honolulu, HI 96813 Telephone +1 808 675 5555 Fax +1 808 675 5561 EmailHLUEnquiries@mfat.govt.nz
New Zealand Consulate-General New York, United States of America
Street Address 41st Floor, 295 Madison Ave, New York, 10017, United States of America Telephone +1 212 832 4038 Fax +1 212 832 7602 Hours Mon – Fri 0900 – 1230 hrs for consular calls
New Zealand Consulate Atlanta, United States of America
Street Address 47 Hawk Road, Newnan, Georgia 30263, United States of America Telephone +1 202 328 4800 Emailnewzealand@mindspring.com
New Zealand Consulate Boston, United States of America
New Zealand Consulate Chicago, United States of America
Street Address 1223 Oakwood Lane, Glenview, IL 60025 Postal Address 1223 Oakwood Lane, 6400 Shafer Ct 60025, Glenview, IL Telephone +1 202 328 4800 Emailnzconsulatechicago@gmail.com
New Zealand Consulate Houston, United States of America
Street Address 4424 W. Sam Houston Pkwy North, Suite 100, Houston, TX 77041, United States of America Telephone +1 202 328 4800 Emailconnelly@nzhonoraryconsul.org
New Zealand Consulate Oregon, United States of America
Street Address 430 SW 13th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97205, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 Emailcjs@theswindells.org
New Zealand Consulate Sacramento, United States of America
Street Address 44733 North El Macero Drive, El Macero, CA 95618 – 1066, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 Emailstarrned@msn.com
New Zealand Consulate Salt Lake City, United States of America
Street Address 1655 Linden Lane, Bountiful, UT 84010, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 EmailIain.mckay1@hotmail.com
New Zealand Consulate San Francisco (Northern California), United States of America
Postal Address PO Box 1276, Burlingame, CA 94010, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 EmailNewZealandHCSF@gmail.com
New Zealand Consulate Seattle, United States of America
Street Address 4010 Lake Washington Blvd NE, Suite 300, Kirkland WA 98033, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 EmailNZHonConSeattleWA@outlook.com
Motorists using the southbound lanes of Waterview Tunnel are advised to expect delays while emergency services respond to a serious crash involving a motorcycle and a vehicle.
One southbound lane is blocked and motorists are advised to use extra caution in the area and to expect delays for some time.
More than 50 senior enlisted leaders from the Republic of Korea and United States militaries engaged in Mangudai 2024, which ran from Oct. 22-24, and included events spanning the lengths of Rodriguez Live Fire Complex, Camp Casey, and Camp Bonifas.
Mangudai is an annual three-day training exercise that evaluates senior enlisted leaders’ mettle in a grueling series of events, testing their physical fitness, adaptability, discipline, and mastery of core Soldiering tasks in an environment where sleep is sparse, and the weather is constantly adverse.
“Mangudai goes back to the 13th Century with the Mongolian Warriors. The leader of that force would select his most elite special forces through a training competition, which was called Mangudai,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Jack Love, Tri-Command Senior Enlisted Advisor.
“The US military has been executing Mangudai since the former U.S. Forces Korea Sergeant Major, Sgt. Maj. John Wayne Troxell started it at Joint Base Lewis McCord when he was the 1st Corps Command Sergeant Major,” said Love. “I think it’s critically important for all senior enlisted leaders to participate for a number of reasons. First and foremost, we can never forget that we, all of us, whether you’re in for twenty years or thirty years, we must earn our place in the formation every day.”
“We need to be able to do what we expect our young Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Guardians to do,” explained Love. “We may not be able to do it as fast as we used to be able to, but we must be able to train, fight, and win in any conflict, in any environment. And so, this exercise really gets after that, and it tests a lot of grit.”
Key events for Mangudai include: live fires, patrol base activities, land navigation, rendering casualty care under threat of mortar fire, a hand-to-hand combat challenge in a waist deep mud-pit, and miles upon miles of foot-marching through rain and the frigid cold.
“We all got soaking wet from the rain and it was extremely cold to the point we were shivering; However, we were still motivated, which is the most meaningful part to me,” said Republic of Korea-Army Master Sgt. Hyun-Beom Lim, company executive officer, Special Task Infantry. “I think it is fascinating that ROK and U.S. personnel manage to overcome hardships by working as a team, and it made me enjoy all the tough tasks that need to be done through the exercise.”
While the training focuses on pushing competitors to their limits and potentially to their breaking points, it’s also an opportunity to build trust and strong relations between partners, according to 1st Sgt. Gerald L. Harness, a competitor hailing from Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 6-52 Air Defense Artillery Battalion.
“Mangudai is a test of intestinal fortitude and of our ability to communicate with our allied partners who we’re teamed up with. It’s all about teamwork. When you’re in charge, be in charge, and when you’re not, be a good follower,” said Harness. “My biggest takeaways from participating in Mangudai are, understanding my limits and the capabilities of our host nation allies, expanding both my comfort zone and my capabilities to not only lead with my peers, but follow them as well.”
When all is said and done, the core focus of Mangudai, like all military training, is grounded in warfighter readiness and instilling confidence in the tactics, techniques, and procedures Soldiers will employ on the battlefield.
“General LaCamera has four lines of operation and two lines of effort. Line of Operation number three is Combat Readiness,” said Love. “We have to be ready on the Peninsula, and though we pray for peace and want to maintain the current armistice state, should crisis or conflict arise, we have to be ready to fight tonight and win, so these skills really are the foundation of everything we do, regardless of your service, whether you’re from the United States or a Republic of Korea service member, winning is the only option.”
“When I watch these first sergeants and master sergeants across our combined forces command and the grit and determination they’re pushing through, I’ve never been prouder,” Love added. “I would go to combat any day, anywhere with any one of them because they’re warriors.”
We are aware of the DPRK’s ballistic missile launch and are consulting closely with the Republic of Korea and Japan, as well as other regional allies and partners. The United States condemns these actions and calls on the DPRK to refrain from further unlawful and destabilizing acts. While we have assessed that this event does not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel, or territory, or to our allies, we continue to monitor the situation. The U.S. commitments to the defense of the ROK and Japan remain ironclad.
SUBJECTS: $241 million in outstanding Medicare payments owed to Australians; MP’s declaration of flights; academic pressure on politicians re: abortion laws.
REBECCA SHARKIE, MEMBER FOR MAYO: I’d like to now welcome the Minister for NDIS, Government Services Minister Bill Shorten, who I – I’m allowed to have favourites, the Minister is my favourite Minister in the government. There we go. Mic drop over to you.
BILL SHORTEN, MINISTER FOR THIS NDIS AND GOVERNMENT SERVICES: Look, it is great to be in Rebecca Sharkie’s electorate of Mayo. The truth of the matter is, Rebecca is one of the hardest working members of Parliament. She’s highly respected in all parts. And I was very keen to come and visit, hear her issues on the ground. It’s great to be here at Service Australia and the NDIA office. The Services Australia staff here look after over 100 people every day, making sure that people can get their pensions, their entitlements, their Medicare. And it’s fantastic, what this hard-working team do.
It’s also great to be here with staff from the National Disability Insurance Agency. The NDIS is changing hundreds of thousands of lives for the better. There’s been a lot of change. We’re making the scheme better. We’re making it true to its original purpose. We’re ensuring it’s sustainable. But all of that happens because we’ve got great people. So, the fact that call waiting times in Centrelink are down, processing payment times are now shorter in Medicare because of the hard work. And in the NDIS, we’re getting better outcomes for people daily, is due to hard work in Commonwealth public servants here in Mount Barker.
But I’m not just here to listen and not just here to say thank you to the public servants who look after people when they’re vulnerable or in distress. I’ve got some good news for South Australians and good news for Australians generally, during a cost-of-living crisis. At the moment, there is $241 million of Medicare payments which people have accrued. In other words, the money is there for them. There’s 930,000 of our fellow Australians, from every corner of this continent and all walks of life, who actually are entitled to get rebates for the health system. They just haven’t collected them.
In South Australia alone, there’s $19 million, just basically sitting in the government bank accounts for 73,800 South Australians who, all they have to do is because we don’t have their current bank details, we can’t just automatically send it to them. So, this is good news, but it’s also a request. People should go to the myGov website or the myGov app, link up their Medicare card to their myGov account, and then make sure that the bank details are up to date. You will receive any outstanding money within three working days. That’s all you’ve got to do. Like, if finding treasure was this easy, we’d all be treasure hunters.
But the reality is we’ve got a national treasure. It’s called Medicare. It’s there to help people defray the costs of their health system. And what we find is that there’s $241 million which people legitimately can claim, just tell us your bank account details and then we will pay you. And you know, when you think about a million people and a quarter of $1 billion, that’s not small change. For some people, I think the average that’s owed is about $260, which is just great. But some people, there’s thousands of people who are owed tens of thousands of dollars. So, my request, my plea, my invitation is, go online to myGov, download the myGov app, link up the Medicare card, make sure you’ve got your bank details up to date, and then if you’re owed money, bang, in three days, it’s in your account. This process will take you about ten minutes if you have to set up a myGov account and link it to Medicare. It’s a lot quicker if you’ve already got your myGov app and Medicare linked. Just update your bank details. Anyway, that’s good news and happy to take questions on this or any other matter.
JOURNALIST: How did this get uncovered in the first place?
SHORTEN: Well, it’s always been a thing. I’m just not sure my predecessors always talked about it. I want the money which is the money of the Australian people to be in Australian people’s bank accounts. So, it is possible, you know, you change banks, you can lose track of different things that you put in. You’re not sure. So, I can understand how in busy lives and changing details, thinking about whether or not the government’s got your current bank account details, it’s probably not your number one issue. If you’ve got to, you know, feed the dog, get the kids to school, you know, go to work. But it’s 241 million. We’ve been pushing this a bit to get money back to people. Since the end of last year, we have reunited $117 million with Australians who had outstanding payments, but literally, you don’t have to go on a treasure hunt. Just go to myGov. It’s your money. We just want to try and give it to you. Please just update your bank details.
JOURNALIST: It might be possible that scammers might jump on this and try.
SHORTEN: Oh yeah. One thing, listen, there’s a lot of – you know, scammers are wicked, wicked people. Um, and you know, international scammers, terrible. Don’t open a link. We won’t be sending you a link to open. You go to myGov website, you download the myGov app. We won’t be sending you a link to click and open. Do not click a link. You go to myGov website, and you go to the myGov app. Download that.
JOURNALIST: Is there a certain age group which is owed significantly more than others?
SHORTEN: Well, the Millennials. The Millennials, Gen Z. There is about 224,000 Gen Z-ers who are owed some money, so that’s the biggest group. But what is interesting when you look at the age cohorts are there’s children, so, through their parents, Gen Z is the biggest group, but it’s right up to people in their 80s. So everywhere in Australia, there’s 930,000 people who are owed money. And literally, it’s not that hard to get. You’ve just got to sort of prioritize it for about ten minutes of your life. I’m not saying you might well be up to date with your Medicare payments, so that’s good, that doesn’t mean you get any more. But for 930,000 of our fellow citizens, it’s just there. Like, it’s like picking apples off a tree.
JOURNALIST: And this obviously isn’t just in the last financial year. Has this been accruing over time?
SHORTEN: It accrues over time, yes. I mean, this year, last financial year, this nation of ours paid out $30 billion in Medicare payments, but there’s a quarter of a billion which is ready to be paid, which hasn’t been collected.
JOURNALIST: As you said, this keeps happening. Do processes perhaps need to be a bit more streamlined?
SHORTEN: Yeah, we do so – well, the good news is we’re taking a lot of government services online so we can digitally notify a lot of people. Until we had the myGov app, once upon a time, you’d get, you know, myGov, “you have mail”. And that was sort of almost like a nightmare for people because they’d have to try different systems. Very clunky. You’d have to go to the site. The myGov app is great. It’s in the Google shop, just download it. So, we can notify people digitally. We’ve got 30 different campaigns on campuses to let students know, but I think this is something which we can more proactively push, which is why we’re doing it today. We’re doing it in Rebekha Sharkie’s electorate. She has people in Mount Barker, 795 who are owed some money. They’ve just got to update their bank registration details.
JOURNALIST: It doesn’t run out. Does the government going to hold on to these?
SHORTEN: Yeah, we’re not spending it. No, there’s no there’s no due date where then it’s garnisheed. It just builds up. But let’s just get it out the door. Cost of living crisis. This is this is really good practical stuff, by the way. It’s not inflationary. This is money which has already been accrued, banked, allocated. We just need to help people reunite with it.
JOURNALIST: On other matters if that’s okay. Minister. Police are currently investigating the death of a woman in Port Augusta, apparently living with quite significant disability, but wasn’t on the NDIS. She was just living in squalor. How can something, how does someone fall through the cracks like this? Or is the onus on the person with the disability to get onto the NDIS?
SHORTEN: First of all, this woman’s passing is a tragedy. I understand she was about 26. It’s just tragic. That’s the first point I’d want to make. People with disabilities are vulnerable. It’s a tragedy when someone dies. As I understand in 20 – I’ve only just heard about this matter – in 2017, there was an initial expression of interest to be on the scheme. Then documentation was sent back, and then nothing more was ever heard. South Australian police, you know, they’re the professionals. We’re going to let them investigate. Obviously, we want to see what the findings are. But I think this is an issue not just for government. You know, the great people here or, you know, a local member can’t know what’s going on behind the fence and behind the door in every house. But communities, we’ve all got to look after each other, look out for each other more. Um, and sometimes people with disabilities can be socially isolated, or they might just have a relationship, and if that breaks down, then no one cares. So, I think it is a tragedy and a disaster. And the challenge here, though, is how do we as a community make sure that if someone isn’t seen for a while, what are we doing about it? So, I think this is not just one on government. This is one on all of us, to keep an eye out for each other.
JOURNALIST: When there is a request to NDIS and you don’t hear back, are steps taken to follow up or is that it?
SHORTEN: I don’t know what the system was in 2017. Yeah, we do follow up and we do go back to people. But at the end of the day, if someone doesn’t want to persist with an application, you’re not going to make them. It’s not compulsory to be on the NDIS.
JOURNALIST: Do you think there needs to be more independent processes or safeguards for people to report concerns?
SHORTEN: I think the question really is, and I’ll be interested in what the South Australian police say, from 2017, who knew about her circumstances? That’s a pretty relevant question, isn’t it? I don’t expect every politician in Australia to know every one of 110,000 adults in their electorate, but one thing they have in some states are community visitor programs. There’s a role also here for the state government. I know Nat Cook is a very conscientious Minister, though. I don’t think there’s a better Disability Minister in the country at the state level. But I think that we need to have a discussion with councils because councils often know where – I mean, maybe I don’t know if anything could have been done to avoid this death. I don’t know. But generally, your council bylaw officers often know where the dodgy houses are. They know what’s happening. I think community visitor programs are very good, where you’ve got volunteers who want to just pop in and check in on people. I think the community generally needs to notice if your neighbours aren’t around, or if they haven’t seen them in a while. What we do though, of course when we get someone who seeks a plan, is we have red flags. So, if you get to sit down and you want your individual plan, we look at their social circumstances. Are they vulnerable where they might just have a carer as a relationship or just one person? o that’s something we certainly take into account in the planning stage, but it’s not compulsory to be on the NDIS.
JOURNALIST: Do you think this was an extreme case or do you are you concerned with how many others there might be out there like this?
SHORTEN: It’s an extreme case, but I also am concerned, and it might be rare, but that doesn’t make it acceptable. But let’s let South Australian police see what they say and recommend will, of course. Watch the findings.
JOURNALIST: We just might move on to the whole Qantas saga at the moment and the whole flights. Peter Dutton now has admitted to taking flights from Gina Rinehart. Do you think MPs are going to be looking at their flight logs?
SHORTEN: First of all, let’s go to the heart of the matter. The Prime Minister has done everything according to the rules that are in place. He’s made that clear. He’s also made clear that he didn’t approach Alan Joyce for upgrades. That’s the sort of – that’s where this this debate started. Now, of course, it’s cascading into the adequacy of reporting, you know, the role of upgrades. Just two observations. The Liberals have been holding themselves out to be pretty pure and pretty holier than thou, but then it turns out they’ve got problems.
This reminds me of when Malcolm Turnbull went on the attack, when he was an opposition leader, and there was a whistleblower who I believe was called Godwin Grech and said somehow Kevin Rudd had done something wrong on a used car scheme and it was just wrong. So, I think oppositions need to be very careful about playing the man and going after the Prime Minister because they, I think, have their own problems. They clearly don’t live in a glass house.
But the other observation I want to make is this I think politicians work incredibly hard. I think they’re very committed. They want to make a difference. I think the opposition fascination with airlines lets the big issue of cost of living off the hook. You know, I’m here today with Rebecca. We want to talk about, how do we get money, which people are owed, in their pockets so they’ve got a little bit more for Christmas. So, you know, I think the opposition’s sort of made a meal of this. They’ve held themselves up to be saintly and they’re not. And I think they’re in danger of overreaching. And maybe they might even shoot themselves in the foot.
JOURNALIST: But do you do you think that the Prime Minister, by using terminology like he didn’t call Alan Joyce, he could have cleared it up by clarifying it from the outset?
SHORTEN: Well, first of all, there’s been a book written. Everyone got excited about that. Or at least Mr. Albanese’s enemies did. He’s cleared it up. We want to get on with talking about cost of living.
JOURNALIST: Sorry, one quick question. Do you recall working with a Professor Joanna Howe?
SHORTEN: Not in the Parliament, no. Way back when I was a union official, I don’t really recall, but that would be 20 years ago.
JOURNALIST: This is a question from another network, but there was, she was championing an anti-abortion bill lately, and she’s admitted to pressuring a politician to abandon a pair vote. Your thoughts on, you know, an academic trying to pressure MPs to vote a certain way?
SHORTEN: Listen, I’ve accused of being ambitious. I’ve been ambitious for the Australian people, but I’ve never been ambitious enough to run for the South Australian parliament. I think Peter Malinauskas is outstanding. I’m not really wanting to get into South Australia and the entrails of South Australian politics. I do make this point about a woman’s right to choose nationally. I think Mr. Dutton needs to come out and be very clear that if he was ever elected Prime Minister, he wouldn’t use federal powers to roll back the protections that women have to accessing our safe and healthy treatment.
JOURNALIST: Sorry, Minister, I just have to take you back to the flights. Can I ask, does Bridget McKenzie have anything to question for, any questions to answer? If she hasn’t declared flights, should she be found in contempt of the Senate?
SHORTEN: Oh, man, the Senate. We have enough time in the Reps. I think the point here is that the Liberals got on their high horse, and they’ve been throwing a lot of mud, but I think what’s ended up is they’ve ended up with most of it on their own face.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police have arrested a female youth and a male adult in relation to an aggravated robbery that occurred in Palmerston yesterday evening.
Around 6:30pm, police received reports of an adult male and a female youth allegedly threatening bar staff at a licenced premises on University Avenue, demanding alcohol.
A short time later, the two offenders allegedly threatened a man before stealing his golf buggy and travelling to another business on University Avenue, in the golf buggy, where they stole multiple items.
While attempting to flee in the stolen buggy, the offenders collided with a parked vehicle, the male offender fled the scene, and the female offender was apprehended nearby members of the public.
The 38-year-old male offender has since been apprehended by Strike Force Trident.
Both offenders remain in custody and are expected to be charged later today.
Strike Force Trident are continuing investigations into the incidents.
Police urge anyone with information about the incident to make contact on 131 444 and quote P24300362.
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
The repertoire of Moscow theatres this season includes classic works in unexpected interpretations and modern plays, anticipated premieres and performances that have been on stage for many years. Theatre and film actress Elena Zakharova told mos.ru readers about the productions that particularly impressed her.
“I have a pretty busy schedule: work in the theater, filming, touring. And going to the theater as a spectator does not happen as often as I would like. Nevertheless, I try not to miss interesting theater events in Moscow whenever possible. Visiting the theater always means new emotions and vivid impressions. I am happy to share with you a short list of performances that can transform gloomy autumn evenings,” says the actress.
“Sashashishin” at the Sovremennik Theatre
Address: Chistoprudny Boulevard, Building 19, Building 1
Dates: November 27 and 28, December 14 and 15
Age limit: 12
The play “Sasha Shishin” is a reason to remember childhood, to be touched and to think at the same time. The main character Sasha Shishin lives with a despotic mother, is in love with the neighbor girl Tanya and hates his classmate Bobrykin. In his imaginary world of childhood, he experiences all feelings with equal intensity and does not want to grow up at all. Sasha likes to look at the Moscow courtyard of the 1980s through bottle glass and see the Emerald City, where there is no hostility, malice and the hated Bobrykin. There is only joy, naive dreams and incredible love for Tanya.
A magical phantasmagoric world comes to life on stage thanks to animation, choreographic numbers, double puppets, songs by Petr Nalich and spectacular tricks.
“Solo for a Chiming Clock” at the Mossovet Theatre
Address: Bolshaya Sadovaya street, house 16, building 1
Dates: November 20, December 6 and 22
Age limit: 12
Every Friday, František Abel’s old friends from the nursing home gather in his small apartment, which he shares with his grandson Pavel, and reminisce about the happy past. Pavel, having decided to get married, suggests that his grandfather move in with his friends – he thinks it will be better for everyone. But he does not understand how important his home is to František – the only place where reality is not so harsh.
Oswald Zahradnik’s play is tragicomic, but its parable essence immerses the characters in a fantasy world, a timelessness between the past and the present.
“The Marriage of Figaro” at the Moscow A.S. Pushkin Drama Theatre
Address: Tverskoy Boulevard, Building 23, Building 1
Dates: November 4th and 5th, December 17th and 18th
Age limit: 12
Director Evgeny Pisarev turned Beaumarchais’ classic comedy of situations into a real celebration with spectacular sets and beautiful costumes, charming characters extricating themselves from complex intrigues, and an inevitable happy ending.
Figaro is pursued by failures in all his endeavors, but the hero, full of dignity and love of life, does not despair. Even having experienced the betrayal of a friend and the imaginary betrayal of a young wife, he does not lose faith in love and himself.
“An absolutely incredible event” at the “Pyotr Fomenko Workshop”
Address: Taras Shevchenko Embankment, Building 29
Date: November 13
Age limit: 12
The main conflict of the famous Gogol’s play is at first glance very clear – matchmaking, albeit involving trickery and confusion, but still with an inevitable wedding in the finale. And how far from this the comedy turns out to be – everything in it seems to be turned inside out, everything is the opposite.
A simple everyday story turns into a wonderfully absurd and ridiculous buffoonery, a carnival with grooms’ viewing and a lot that the bride is ready to draw. That is why “The Marriage” by director Evgeny Kamenkovich turned into “An Absolutely Incredible Event”.
“The Lady of the Camellias” at the Theatre on Trubnaya
Address: Neglinnaya street, house 29, building 1
Dates: November 15 and 16, December 12, 13, 26 and 27
Age limit: 18
“The Lady of the Camellias” is the most famous work of Alexandre Dumas (fils), it is based on real events: the prototype of the Parisian courtesan Marguerite was the author’s beloved. The novel was transferred to the stage of the Theater on Trubnaya this season by Dmitry Astrakhan, the main roles are played by Valeria Lanskaya and Sukhrab Khaylobekov.
Margarita loves camellias because they have no scent, candied grapes because they have no taste, and rich men because they have no heart. But behind the desire to escape from feelings lies fragility, vulnerability, and a thirst for true love. A chance encounter gives Margarita hope for a different life, but will the heroine be able to allow herself to be real?
Two friends who haven’t seen each other for a long time meet at a sanatorium on the Black Sea coast. Valentin is a successful civil servant, a married man who came to relax, and Sergey, a lonely entertainer, works and lives at this recreation center. In the past, they courted the same girl, Galina – then Valentin won thanks to his influential father. How will this love story end many years later?
The plot is based on the play of the same name by Viktor Rozov.
Beethoven has come a long way from obscurity to worldwide fame, from despair to hope. The path that lay through the struggle with the most terrible illness for a musician and composer – deafness. However, the life of a genius is not limited to the years indicated in the biography, Beethoven lives today – in his works.
The Praktika Theatre’s production is about a composer who wanted to “embrace all of humanity.” The creators told his story without pathos, through acting and mummery, an endless change of masks, and in the diverse and contradictory context of his time.
“Fathers and Sons” at the Moscow Theatre of Illusion
Address: Perovskaya street, house 75
Date: November 8
Age limit: 12
The novel Fathers and Sons became a landmark for its time, and the image of the main character, Yevgeny Bazarov, was perceived by young people as an example to follow – they were enchanted by his uncompromising nature, his lack of worship of authorities and old truths.
The worldview conflict of generations intersects in the play with love triangles. “Fathers” defend their foundations from rebellious “children”, women defend their rights. The line between the modern and classical vision of Ivan Turgenev’s work at the Moscow Theatre of Illusion is very thin.
The classic play by Alexander Ostrovsky for the renovated Moscow Drama Theatre named after N.V. Gogol was interpreted by Anton Yakovlev. His production immerses the viewer in the world of mystical drama with elements of tragicomedy, revealing the story of a person’s struggle with temptations – absurd, funny and sometimes frightening.
The plot centers on Katerina, for whom forbidden love becomes a source of internal conflict. Perceiving passion as a challenge from the surrounding reality, the heroine is forced to fight the moral foundations and pressure of a stagnant conservative society. And the path to liberation will be a very difficult test.
In Athens they used to say: “The law is above all in human life, and the unwritten law is above the written.” This is what Antigone, written by Sophocles in 442 BC, is dedicated to. In the early 1940s, Jean Anouilh created his own version of the famous tragedy – and the image of the main character then became one of the embodiments of the highest morality.
The play is based on the mythological plot of the Theban cycle. Polynices, the son of King Oedipus, fought with his brother for power after the death of his father and died at the walls of Thebes. The new king Creon forbade the burial of Polynices’ body, while the defender of the city Eteocles was buried according to the law. Their younger sister Antigone, who disagreed with this decision, buries Polynices at night, bypassing the guards, knowing that she would die for it.
Fate or will? Laws of the country or laws of conscience? What is a person willing to do, driven by love? Answers to these eternal questions have not been found for many centuries, but everyone has the opportunity to make their own choice. And director Vladimir Kimmelman considers the play more relevant today than ever.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
One man is due to appear in court following a serious crash in Onekawa this morning.
At around 8.05am, Police were called to the intersection of Taradale Road and Riverbend Road after reports of a vehicle rolling multiple times and colliding with another vehicle.
One person received critical injuries and was transported to hospital.
Police are making enquiries into the circumstance of the crash.
A 31-year-old man is due to appear in Napier District Court on Friday 1 November, facing multiple charges including unlawful taking of a motor vehicle and reckless driving.
Following significant investigations into a series of reported home burglaries in the Kingston area, Kingston police have charged an Old Beach man with a range of burglary-related matters, and have recovered stolen property. Inspector Colin Riley said the man was arrested on 23 October, and there have been no further reports of home burglaries in the area since that date. “House burglaries not only lead to significant financial loss but can also create feelings of insecurity in our community,” he said. “With the busy summer months approaching, Kingston Police are encouraging residents to enhance their home security measures.” “Preventing house burglaries involves a combination of physical security measures, community awareness, and personal habits.” “By implementing these measures, community members can significantly reduce the risk of burglary and create a safer environment for themselves and their neighbours.” Burglary prevention tips: Enhance physical security Secure doors and windows: Install deadbolts on doors and ensure windows have sturdy locks.Install a security system: Use a monitored alarm system, video doorbells, or security cameras. Visible cameras can deter potential burglars.Use smart home technology: Smart lighting, motion sensors, and automated timers can make it appear that someone is home, even when you’re away. Improve outdoor security Lighting: Install motion-sensor lights around entry points and in your yard to eliminate dark areas.Landscaping: Tidy shrubs and trees near windows and doors to reduce hiding spots.Fencing: A sturdy fence can provide an additional layer of security. Ensure gates are locked and maintained. Be aware of your surroundings Neighbourhood Watch: Join a neighbourhood watch program to promote communication and vigilance among neighbours. There is a Kingston Central Neighbourhood which has just started up.Report suspicious activity: Encourage everyone in the community to report any unusual behaviour or unfamiliar individuals who look out of place in an area. Practice good habits Lock up: Always lock doors and windows, even when your home. Use deadbolts when possible.Don’t advertise absences: Avoid sharing vacation plans on social media until you return. Use timers for lights and electronics to simulate occupancy.Secure valuables: Keep valuable items out of sight from windows and consider using a safe for important documents and expensive belongings. Suspicious behaviour should be reported to police on 131 444, or Triple-Zero (000) in an emergency.
Attributable to Inspector Juliet Burgess, Tamaki Makaurau Road Policing Manager
One person has been injured following a crash in the Waterview Tunnel, Southwestern Motorway after fleeing Police.
Shortly before 2.30pm Police received reports of a motorcycle riding on the wrong side of the road, in the northbound lane of the Southwestern Motorway near Walmsley.
Police signalled for the motorcycle to stop but it failed to do so and instead fled from Police. Police blocked the northern end of the Waterview Tunnel and again signalled for the motorcycle to stop. It did not stop and fled back into the tunnel.
A short time later the motorcycle collided with a Police vehicle in the tunnel. The motorcyclist was transported to Auckland Hospital in a serious condition.
One southbound lane in Waterview Tunnel was blocked while emergency services attended, and the Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination.
All lanes have now re-opened but there is still congestion, Police advise motorists to expect delays on the Southwestern Motorway and surrounding roading network.
As standard practice, the matter will be referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority.
Any further information will be issued proactively when available.