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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Whitehouse, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Equip Law Enforcement with Trauma Kits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chris Coons (D-DE), Mike Rounds (R-SD), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced the Improving Police Critical Aid for Responding to Emergencies (CARE) Act, which would equip law enforcement officers with quality trauma kits so they can respond immediately if a civilian or fellow officer experiences a traumatic injury during a call:
    “When responding to medical emergencies, time and access to the right tools can mean the difference between life and death,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would equip law enforcement officers with high-quality trauma kits to prevent deaths due to blood loss and give patients the best chance of survival.”
    “Police officers serve on the frontlines in their communities every day, and they are often first on the scene in medical emergencies,” said Sen. Whitehouse. “Our bipartisan legislation would provide officers in the field with emergency trauma kits, and fund standardized training to allow them to better protect the public and save lives.”
    “As a strong supporter of our brave men and women in law enforcement, I am proud to co-introduce the Improving Police CARE Act which would equip them with the tools they need to keep our communities safe,” said Sen. Tillis. “Ensuring law enforcement officers have effective trauma kits will save countless law enforcement and civilian lives.”
    “Our nation’s law enforcement officers keep our communities safe, and they deserve the resources they need to do just that,” said Sen. Coons. “As co-chair of the Senate Law Enforcement Caucus, I know that this bipartisan, commonsense legislation will ensure that police officers have trauma kits they need in order to save lives.”
    Background:
    Trauma kits play a vital role in preventing deaths due to blood loss. Between 30-40% of trauma-related deaths are caused by hemorrhaging, or uncontrolled bleeding, with 33-56% of them occurring before the patient arrives at the hospital. During the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, tourniquets and tourniquet training were widely adopted by the military for their lifesaving potential in combat. This practice has since been embraced in civilian populations given its clear survival benefit. In fact, one study found that patient survival was six times more likely when a tourniquet was used, underscoring the critical need for timely bleeding control. This is especially true in rural areas where the average EMS response time is typically double that in urban areas. Having access to a trauma kit and early bleeding control can help bridge this gap and mean the difference between life and death.
    The effectiveness of a law enforcement trauma kit program depends in part on the contents and the quality of the kits. Medical professionals recommend that a kit include bleeding control supplies like tourniquets, bandages, non-latex gloves, scissors, and instructions. However, there is enormous variation in the products available on the market.
    The Improving Police Critical Aid for Responding to Emergencies (CARE) Act would:
    Establish baseline standards in consultation with law enforcement and medical professionals for trauma kits purchased using grant funding under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG);
    And require the development of optional best practices that law enforcement agencies can adapt for training law enforcement officers to use trauma kits and for deployment and maintenance of the kits in vehicles and government facilities.
    The legislation is endorsed by the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA), National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the Society of Trauma Nurses, the American College of Surgeons (ACS), and the American Trauma Society.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Decisions of KH Group’s Annual General Meeting and the constitutive meeting of the Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KH Group Plc
    Stock exchange release 6 May 2025 at 6:15 pm EEST

    Decisions of KH Group’s Annual General Meeting and the constitutive meeting of the Board of Directors

    KH Group Plc’s Annual General Meeting was held on 6 May 2025 at Sanomatalo, Flik Event Studio Eliel, at the address Töölönlahdenkatu 2, 00100 Helsinki, Finland. The Annual General Meeting supported all the proposals included in the notice of the Annual General Meeting. The General Meeting adopted the financial statements for the financial period 2024, discharged the members of the Board of Directors and the persons who had acted as CEO from liability for the financial period 2024, and adopted, through an advisory decision, the company’s Governing Bodies’ Remuneration Report for the year 2024.

    Use of profit shown on the balance sheet

    As proposed by the Board of Directors, the General Meeting decided that no dividend be distributed for the financial period ended on 31 December 2024.

    Remuneration of the members of the Board of Directors

    The General Meeting decided that the remuneration of the Board of Directors remain unchanged, so that the Chairman of the Board of Directors be paid as remuneration EUR 3,550 per month and each member of the Board of Directors EUR 2,300 per month. The travel expenses of the members of the Board of Directors are compensated in accordance with the company’s travel policy. Earnings-related pension insurance contributions are paid voluntarily for the paid remuneration.

    Composition of the Board of Directors

    The General Meeting confirmed the number of members of the Board of Directors at six (6). Juha Karttunen, Taru Narvanmaa, Jon Unnérus, Christoffer Landtman, Jari Rautjärvi and Carl Haglund were elected to the Board of Directors until the closing of the Annual General Meeting of 2026.

    Election of the auditor and the sustainability reporting assurance provider

    The General Meeting elected Ernst & Young Oy, Authorised Public Accountant firm, as the company’s auditor. Ernst & Young Oy has notified that Timo Eerola, APA, acts as the principally responsible auditor for the company.

    The General Meeting elected Ernst & Young Oy, Authorised Sustainability Audit Firm, as the company’s sustainability reporting assurance provider. Ernst & Young Oy has notified that Timo Eerola, ASA (Authorised Sustainability Auditor), acts as the principally responsible sustainability auditor for the company.

    The General Meeting decided that the remuneration of the auditor shall be paid according to the auditor’s reasonable invoice approved by the company, and that the remuneration of the sustainability reporting assurance provider shall be paid according to the sustainability reporting assurance provider’s reasonable invoice approved by the company.

    Authorising the Board of Directors to decide on the issuance of shares and special rights entitling to shares

    As proposed by the Board of Directors, the General Meeting authorised the Board of Directors to decide on the issuance of shares and/or the granting of special rights entitling to shares as referred to in Chapter 10, Section 1 of the Finnish Limited Liability Companies Act, in one or several instalments. The total number of shares to be issued under the authorisation may be at the most 11,400,000 shares, and the authorisation concerns both the issuance of new shares as well as the conveyance of shares held by the company. The authorisation may be used to finance or carry out possible acquisitions or other arrangements or investments related to the company’s business, to implement the company’s incentive program, or for other purposes decided by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors decides on all terms and conditions of a share issue and the issuance of special rights referred to in Chapter 10, Section 1 of the Finnish Limited Liability Companies Act, and the authorisation therefore includes the right of the Board of Directors to deviate from the shareholders’ pre-emptive subscription right (directed issue), the right to issue shares against consideration or without payment, and the right to decide on a free issuance of shares to the company itself.

    The authorisation is effective until 30 June 2026, and it cancels the corresponding authorisation given to the Board of Directors by the Annual General Meeting on 7 May 2024.

    Authorising the Board of Directors to decide on the repurchase of the company’s own shares

    As proposed by the Board of Directors, the General Meeting authorised the Board of Directors to decide to repurchase a maximum of 5,700,000 shares in the company in one or several instalments by using funds in the company’s unrestricted equity, however, taking into account the provisions of the Finnish Limited Liability Companies Act concerning the maximum number of own shares held by the company. The company’s own shares may be repurchased to be used as consideration in possible acquisitions or in other arrangements related to the company’s business, to finance investments, as a part of the company’s incentive program, to develop the company’s capital structure as well as to be conveyed for other purposes, to be held by the company or to be cancelled. The authorisation also includes the right to pledge the company’s own shares. The company’s own shares may be repurchased in public trading organised by Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd otherwise than in proportion to the shareholdings of the shareholders, at the market price at the time of repurchase. The shares will be repurchased and paid in accordance with the rules of Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd and Euroclear Finland Oy. The Board of Directors decides in all other respects on the terms and conditions of the repurchase of own shares.

    The authorisation is effective until 30 June 2026, and it cancels the corresponding authorisation given to the Board of Directors by the Annual General Meeting on 7 May 2024.

    Minutes of the General Meeting

    The minutes of the General Meeting will be available on the company’s website on 20 May 2025, at the latest.

    Decisions of the constitutive meeting of the Board of Directors

    In its constitutive meeting held after the Annual General Meeting, the Board of Directors elected Juha Karttunen as its Chairman.

    Additionally, the Board of Directors resolved to establish an Audit Committee and elected Taru Narvanmaa as Chair and Juha Karttunen and Jari Rautjärvi as members of the Audit Committee.

    The Board of Directors considered all members of the Board of Directors to be independent of the company and of the significant shareholders of the company.

    KH GROUP PLC

    Ville Nikulainen
    CEO

    FURTHER INFORMATION:
    CEO Ville Nikulainen, tel. +358 40 045 9343

    DISTRIBUTION:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Major media
    www.khgroup.com

    KH Group Plc is a Nordic conglomerate operating in the business areas of KH-Koneet, Nordic Rescue Group and Indoor Group. We are a leading supplier of construction and earth-moving equipment, rescue vehicle manufacturer as well as furniture and interior decoration retailer. The objective of our strategy is to create an industrial group around the business of KH-Koneet. KH Group’s share is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.

    The MIL Network –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Peak rail fare U-turn a huge win for commuters and climate

    Source: Scottish Greens

    06 May 2025 Transport

    Peak rail fares are an unfair tax on workers.

    More in Transport

    The SNP’s decision to take forward the Scottish Green policy of a permanent end to peak rail fares is a huge win for commuters and climate, says the Scottish Greens transport spokesperson Mark Ruskell.

    The policy was initially secured by the Scottish Greens through budget negotiations in 2023 before being dropped by the SNP in 2024.

    In February 2025 the Scottish Greens forced a vote on making the change permanent, which was opposed by the SNP.

    Mr Ruskell said:

    “This is a very welcome announcement and is a tribute to the work of green campaigners, trade unions and the many people who have urged the SNP to finally end peak fares for good.

    “The 12 month pilot that the Scottish Greens secured showed a huge uplift in passenger numbers while saving some rail users hundreds of pounds. 

    “It is regrettable that the SNP dropped the policy, and it is to their credit that they have listened and brought it back.

    “Peak rail fares have always been an unfair tax on workers, students and regular travellers. They penalise people who often have no say on when and where they need to travel.

    “This is an important step forward and a huge win for commuters and our climate. If we are to build a people’s railway fit for the future then it must be affordable, accessible and available when people need it.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Update on counter-terrorism policing operations

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Oral statement to Parliament

    Update on counter-terrorism policing operations

    Statement by the Security Minister on recent counter-terrorism policing operations and arrests of 8 Iranian nationals.

    With permission Mr Speaker, I will make a statement on the series of national security related arrests that took place on Saturday 3 May. 

    Protecting our national security is the first duty of government, and it is a testament to our world-leading law enforcement and intelligence services that through their tireless commitment, so many plots against the UK have been thwarted. And I want to pay tribute to them again today for the work they have done not just this weekend but in recent weeks and months on these important operations.

    The 2 operations that took place across multiple locations this weekend were significant and complex. They were some of the largest counter state threats and counter-terrorism actions we have seen in recent times. 

    I am sure the whole House will want to join with me in thanking the police, security services, and other partner agencies across the country who showed their professionalism and expertise in carrying out these operations to keep our country safe.

    Honourable and Right Honourable Members will understand that these are complex investigations. 

    The police and security services need the time and space to be able to pursue those investigations and our first priority must be to protect the integrity of that work, so we do not cut across those investigations and operations at a crucial time.

    However, these are serious matters, and the House will rightly want to remain informed. I will therefore outline as much detail as I am able. I hope that Honourable and Right Honourable Members will understand that there is a strict limit to what I can say at this stage given investigations are now ongoing.

    Mr Speaker, I would first like to outline the facts around the events on Saturday 3 May. Throughout that day Counter Terrorism Police undertook a series of arrests relating to two separate investigations.

    In total eight men were arrested by the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command. Five men were arrested on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act, contrary to section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006, as part of a proactive investigation in the areas of West London, Swindon, Rochdale, Stockport and Manchester.

    All 5 men are Iranian nationals. Whilst 4 of the individuals remain in police custody, the fifth individual has now been bailed with strict conditions.

    As part of the investigation, police officers carried out searches at a number of addresses in the Greater Manchester, London and Swindon areas. Investigations continue with searches and activity still underway at multiple addresses across the country.

    The investigation relates to a suspected plot to target specific premises. Police officers have been in contact with the affected site to make them aware and provide relevant security advice and support. However, the police have also been clear that for reasons of operational security and public safety, they are not – and I am not – able to provide further information on the target at this time and I would urge Members not to speculate on the site.

    In a separate police investigation, two men were arrested at two different addresses in north west London and one man was arrested at an address in west London. All 3 were arrested under the National Security Act 2023.

    These 3 men are also Iranian nationals and remain in police custody. I can confirm to the House that these are the first Iranian nationals arrested under the National Security Act.

    The operations to execute these eight arrests under both counter-terror and counter -state threat powers, in different parts of the country, in the space of 24 hours were intensive. They involved a range of different organisations – including different police forces, counter terror police, the National Crime Agency and our security and intelligence services. Those operations were coordinated through the world-leading Counter Terrorism Operations Centre, or CTOC, which brings together and coordinates the UK’s agencies, alongside the agencies of our Five Eyes partners, to detect and tackle national security threats. I welcome the work of the previous government to establish CTOC in 2021, which this government has continued to support and invest in since taking office.

    The significant point about both counter-terrorism and counter-state threats powers is that they allow the police to intervene early to prevent and disrupt threats, not just to respond after events have taken place. That is crucial for public safety, but it also makes the investigations more complex and that is why the police need the time and space to pursue them now. We will not be providing a running commentary on the work that they are doing.

    But what now follows is an incredibly complex set of investigations, involving hundreds more officers carrying out forensic searches, collecting vital evidence across different sites across the country and securing witness statements, backed up by the continued efforts of our security and intelligence agencies. This is careful, painstaking work.

    Mr Speaker, at this stage in the operations and investigations it would not be appropriate for me to speculate on or comment further on the details of these two cases and the motivations behind any of the threats that were posed.

    But the House will be aware that these operations come against a backdrop of complex, interconnected threats to the UK – where state threats and counter-terrorism, as well as serious and organised crime, are intertwined together. 

    For twenty years the greatest focus of our national security work was on terrorism – primarily from Islamist terrorism, with additional threats from Northern Ireland Related Terrorism and other areas – and those threats have not gone away. Fifteen terrorist attacks have taken place since 2017, and there have been 43 late-stage disruptions of terrorism plots. 

    But alongside that we have seen a serious, growing and complex challenge from state threats. Last year, Sir Ken McCallum, Director General of MI5, said MI5 state threats investigations had increased by 48 per cent in the previous 12 months. He added that since January 2022, the police and MI5 had responded to 20 Iran-backed plots presenting potentially lethal threats.

    In March, I told Parliament that the UK is facing a growing and evolving threat from malign activity carried out by a number of states. 

    My statement in March outlined the government’s response to the unacceptable threat we face from the Iranian state, and the steps we are taking to ensure that our intelligence and law enforcement agencies have the tools they need to disrupt and degrade Iran’s malign activity on UK soil. And we have delivered on the commitments made.

    I announced that the whole of the Iranian state – including the IRGC and MOIS – would be placed on the Enhanced Tier of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme. I laid the regulations to make this happen in the House on the 1 April and committed to bring the scheme into force on 1 July. I trust all Members will vote in favour when those regulations are debated shortly.

    Let me be clear. Anyone in the UK who works for the Iranian state must declare it or they will be committing a serious criminal offence.

    We will also go after the criminal networks and enablers that Iran uses to carry out its work. And the government sanctioned the Foxtrot Network last month, a network involved in violence against Jewish and Israeli targets in Europe on behalf of the Iranian regime.

    Training and guidance on state threats activity is now being offered by Counter Terrorism Policing to all 45 territorial polices across the UK.

    And the Independent Reviewer of Terrorism and State Threats Legislation, Jonathan Hall KC, was asked by the Home Secretary to review the parts of our counter-terrorism framework which could be applied to modern day state threats, such as those from Iran.

    The Home Secretary specifically asked the Reviewer to look at a state threats proscription tool so we are not held back in limitations in applying counter-terrorism legislation to state threats. Jonathan Hall has now completed his review and will publish it shortly. The government will not hesitate to take action in response to Mr Hall’s advice.

    As we continue to support the police and the security services in their investigations, I can also tell the House that the Home Secretary has instigated a series of security assessments which are being done or being refreshed in the light of the cases this weekend and the further information surrounding them. This will ensure that the government can respond robustly and comprehensively to any wider national security issues raised by these cases.

    Mr Speaker, working alongside our international allies in countering state threats is central to our success.

    The Foreign Office are engaging with our closest allies to outline the disruptive action that has taken place and will be considering potential future response options, as the investigation progresses.

    The Home Secretary remains in close contact with my Right Honourable Friend, the Foreign Secretary, who I know is committed to doing everything that is necessary to protect the country from these threats and to bring to bear all the diplomatic tools at our disposal.

    Mr Speaker, the Home Secretary and Ministers will provide an update on the national security position when we are able to do so – both following these operations and investigations and the wider security assessments that are underway.

    The government will not hesitate to act in a robust manner to respond to these plots at the appropriate time. But first, we must allow the investigations to continue.

    Our police, security and intelligence agencies are the best in the world and stand ready at all times to take action to keep our country safe – I am sure they will have the support of this whole House as they continue their vital work.

    I commend this statement to the House.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘This will not be tolerated’ – city fly tippers warned as vehicle seized and crushed

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The action was taken as part of an ongoing investigation into fly tipping and other waste offences.  

    The distinctive sign written vehicle has been destroyed after the registered keeper failed to claim the vehicle and failed to pay a fixed penalty notice issued by the council’s environmental crime team.

    Decisive action has been taken to prevent the vehicle being used in future waste crimes and the council hopes it will send a clear message to anyone thinking of spoiling the city in this way.

    Officers first identified the van being used in an incident of fly tipping in the St Peter’s ward of the city last July, when building materials were dumped on land owned by Wolverhampton Homes. The incident was filmed by a resident and evidence was submitted to the council.

    Although the vehicle was not seen at the registered keeper’s address, the environmental crime team continued to search, and it was eventually located in February this year in a different part of the city. Officers then seized the vehicle and investigations are currently ongoing.

    The destruction of the vehicle comes as the Government has announced a crackdown on fly tipping which will include a focus on seizing and crushing vehicles of waste criminals as well as tougher penalties for waste operators who operate illegally.

    Ministers say drones and mobile CCTV cameras will also be deployed to identify cars and vans belonging to fly tippers so they can be destroyed.  

    City of Wolverhampton Council already uses a drone and CCTV cameras in its on going battle to tackle fly tipping and has previously crushed vehicles. In January this year, the council also increased the amount fly tippers can be fined, from £400 to £1,000.

    These initiatives run alongside the city’s successful Shop a Tipper campaign. Under the campaign, anyone suspected of dumping rubbish has their images shared to appeal for information to help identify them.

    Statistics from Defra show that over the past 10 years, the council has issued 330 Fixed Penalty Notices for fly tipping, carried out 58 prosecutions and seized 24 vehicles. In addition, Defra’s latest published statistics show that while fly tipping is on the rise nationally, incidents are reducing in Wolverhampton.

    Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, cabinet member for resident services at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “This isn’t the first time that we have used our powers to crush a vehicle used for fly tipping and we want people to know that we will not hesitate to do it again if such selfish and criminal acts continue.

    “We welcome the announcement by the Government to focus on this crime and we are proud that the council is already using all of these interventions to identify and prosecute fly tippers – these include our drone, our CCTV cameras and track record of crushing vehicles.

    “Fly tipping costs Wolverhampton taxpayers around £300,000 a year and we will not tolerate it. This behaviour is anti social, harmful to people and wildlife, and an eyesore. It’s especially offensive to anyone who lives or works in the city and disposes of their waste responsibly.

    “We work very hard in the city to tackle fly tipping, and our committed action means that while figures for fly tipping are increasing nationally, the latest published statistics from Defra show Wolverhampton has actually seen a reduction in fly tipping incidents.

    “It is our clear message that anyone who is found to have fly tipped in Wolverhampton will face action, whether that is a fine, a criminal prosecution or having their vehicles seized and crushed. We will not stand by and allow these criminals to spoil our city.”

    Under the city’s Shop a Tipper campaign, residents are encouraged to contact the council with information about fly tipping. If the information provided leads to successful identification, and FPNs are issued and paid or a prosecution takes place, residents receive a £100 Enjoy Wolverhampton Gift Card. 

    Residents can contact 01902 552700 with information or report online at Fly-Tipping – Shop a Tipper.

    Residents are also reminded that waste can be disposed of free of charge at our Household Waste and Recycling Centres (tips) which are open 7 days a week from 8am to 4pm. Centres are at Anchor Lane, Lanesfield, Bilston and Shaw Road, Wolverhampton.

    A bulky item collection service to dispose of big unwanted items is also available, find out more at Bulky item collection.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derry Schools Swing into Jazz with Live Music Now

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Derry Schools Swing into Jazz with Live Music Now

    6 May 2025

    As Derry enjoys its annual Jazz and Big Band Festival this weekend, the sound of swing is echoing through local schools thanks to a vibrant outreach programme funded by Derry City and Strabane District Council, delivered by Live Music Now. The initiative aims to ignite a passion for jazz in the next generation, ensuring the festival’s legacy resonates with young people across the city.

    Aisling McCallion, Festival Co-ordinator with Derry City and Strabane District Council, explained more: “Inspiring and providing opportunities for new talent is one of our main priorities at the City of Derry Jazz Festival and we want its legacy to filter down through the generations. Our local schools really support the festival and the Live Music Now programme provides a wonderful experience for all those who take part. The pupils have the opportunity to enjoy the unique experience of a live performance and to learn from some of our most talented local musicians.

    This year’s programme featured two key components. Firstly, “Jazz Labs” brought the infectious energy of jazz to seven schools. Professional jazz musicians Neil Burns, Victoria Geelan, Meilana Gillard and John Leighton delivered 19 engaging performances, introducing pupils to the fundamental elements of the genre and sparking their curiosity about the upcoming festival.

    Secondly, the “School of Jazz” programme provided a more intensive experience for aspiring young musicians in two local schools. Students at St Patrick’s and St Brigid’s College and St Joseph’s Boys School were honing their skills in improvisation and performance under the guidance of our seasoned jazz professionals. This immersive programme was designed not only to develop their musical talents but also to sow the seeds for future careers in music.

    The culmination of the “School of Jazz” was held within each school with a “Mini Jazz Festival “. These showcases will provide a platform for the young musicians to demonstrate their newfound skills, sharing the stage with their professional mentors and celebrating the vibrant sounds of jazz.

    St Patrick’s and St Brigid’s hosted their showcase on Thursday 1st May followed by St Joseph’s Boys School on Friday 2nd May. Head of Music at St Patrick’s and St Brigid’s College, Gareth Doherty said. “We had a great week working with Meilana and John. They gave an excellent concert workshop to our Year 9 pupils introducing them to jazz. Our GCSE music students and school band members had a great experience getting coached in performance skills and musicianship to perform together and showcase a number of songs to our own Year 8 pupils. Meilana and John were very encouraging and helped our students to perform and improvise with confidence. They have really flourished from the experience.”

    “This project is about more than just introducing jazz to schools,” says Margaret Kelly, Project Manager from Live Music Now Northern Ireland, “It’s about igniting a lifelong love of music, fostering creativity, and providing young people with the opportunity to connect with professional musicians. We hope to inspire the next generation of jazz artists and ensure that the City of Derry’s rich musical heritage continues to thrive.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Foyle favourite Colum Arbuckle kicks off Jazz Festival with new book

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Foyle favourite Colum Arbuckle kicks off Jazz Festival with new book

    2 May 2025

    Derry has always been a city of music, but one of its proudest eras has to be that of the showbands, which offered young aspiring stars from the city the chance to cut loose and take their talents all over the world. One of those bright-eyed musicians was musician, producer and broadcaster Colum Arbuckle, who has now written an account of his time on tour – the tame version, he hints – which launched yesterday on the opening evening of this year’s City of Derry Jazz Festival.

    Anyone who grew up in the whirl of 1960’s Derry will uncover a treasure trove of well-known characters and memories within the pages of ‘Radio, Romance and Rock ‘n’ Roll’ which Colum has been working on since his ‘sort of’ retirement from BBC Radio Foyle after a busy 40-year career. It’s fitting that the launch took place amidst the buzz of the Jazz Festival where many of his musician peers have proudly taken centre stage over the years, including the godfather of Jazz himself, Gay McIntyre, who was a much-admired mentor to Colum over the years.

    Colum was joined by fellow jazz aficionados Jim Whiteside, Jim McDermott, John and Fiona Trotter, Joseph Leighton and the Paul McIntyre Quartet on stage at the Guildhall after the launch for a show-stopping showcase of local talent to open the festival.

    It was an opportunity to revisit the music that paved the way for a lifetime of gigging, broadcasting and producing that has made Colum one of Derry’s best loved radio personalities.

    The Mayor of Derry, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, paid tribute to the veteran broadcaster as she welcomed a crowd of family, friends and colleagues to the launch. “Colum’s career as a professional musician spans an incredible 60 years. He was still at St

    Columb’s College when he got his first spot with the Willie Campbell Showband – and he’s gone from strength to strength ever since, playing all over the world with some of the biggest names in the business.

    “He leaves a fantastic music legacy for the city where he has championed so many up and coming artists over the years as a producer and sound engineer, including D:Ream’s Peter Cunnah, Snow Patrol’s Johnny McDaid and Brónagh Gallagher. It’s so fitting that Colum launches his humorous and heartwarming memoir at the Jazz Festival alongside the musicians who feature in his fond memories of the early years on the road. Radio, Romance and Rock ‘n’ Roll’ is a must read for anyone interested in Derry’s proud musical history down the years.”

    Speaking ahead of the event, Colum said: “I never had any intention of publishing the book. I had really just wanted to record some of these stories for my family. It was my wife Sharon who took it to her book club and then came back and said – you really need to publish this! I hope that the stories resonate with people and bring back a few memories.

    “I have many happy memories over the years and I’ve worked with some fantastic people but I think my favourite moments have been the outside broadcasts. I always loved getting out into the local community and letting ordinary people tell their stories. Radio Foyle is very much a community station and that’s what makes it special. Covering local events like the Foyle Maritime Festival and Stendhal with my great friend Mark Patterson, out amongst people, those are the standout moments. Though I’ve been lucky enough to meet lots of big names over the years. I’ve played with the Drifters and met Donovan and Suzie Quatro, and I’ve had the opportunity to travel, playing the music I love. It’s been pretty amazing actually.”

    Colum took the opportunity on the night to pay a moving tribute to Gay McIntyre, and his dear friend Gerry Anderson with whom he toured and shared the airwaves at BBC Radio Foyle for many years.

    ‘Radio, Romance and Rock ‘n’ Roll’ is available to buy through Colmcille Press.

    The City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival is delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council with support from Diageo and EY.

    For more information on all the events at this year’s festival, go to cityofderryjazzfestival.com and for regular updates follow the City of Derry Jazz festival on Facebook Instagram and X @derryjazzfest.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funding secured to explore new John Hume archive project

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Funding secured to explore new John Hume archive project

    6 May 2025

    The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council has warmly welcomed funding announced today for a scoping report to explore the further development of the John Hume archive, currently on loan to the Tower Museum from the Hume family.

    The team at the Museum received confirmation that the application to the Archives Revealed Scoping Grant programme was successful and work can now begin on the project, titled ‘Unlocking The John Hume Archive Collection’. The programme is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Pilgrim Trust, the Wolfson Foundation and The National Archives.

    The Tower Museum team have extensive experience working with archive and museum collections and have been carrying out the professional archive work to ensure the collection can become accessible to the public in the longer term and remain in the city for that process and beyond. A Scoping Report for this collection will help assess potential timelines to develop the collection and integrate the archive into wider engagement plans.

    John Hume’s significant political and personal archive dates between the 1960s-2000s, consisting of documents created and received throughout his time as a political representative during one of the most significant historic eras in Northern Ireland. The collection includes references to the Civil Rights campaign, the Troubles, international affairs and British and Irish relations. The documents include draft and final speeches, policy documents, publications, photographs, and ephemera collected at various events. The collection also captures John Hume’s roles and responsibilities throughout his career and is recognised as having immense value for a range of audiences.

    Welcoming the news, Mayor Lilian Seenoi Barr, said the collection would be of huge interest to visitors and a wonderful legacy for the people of the city. “I want to congratulate the Tower Museum Team on this announcement, which has the potential to develop a fascinating and internationally significant historic archive which will draw people to the city.

    “John Hume’s integral role in the Peace Process and his skill both as a local representative and a major driver of social change are documented in this archive and I know both the Hume family and the people of Derry and Strabane will be delighted to see work commence on exploring a comprehensive and fitting tribute to John Hume and his work.”

    Head of Culture with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Aeidin McCarter, explained more about the project: “The collection was deposited in 2024 in recognition of the archive experience and expertise of our team and the current successful display linked to John Hume’s Peace Prize Collection in the Guildhall. Conversations have been ongoing with the Hume Family and Ulster University other partners to develop plans to make the archive more widely accessible. We will now have the opportunity to look at the archive more closely and explore opportunities that will allow visitors, local and international, to learn more about the role John Hume played in the history of this very unique city.”

    Welcoming the news, the Hume family said: “We congratulate the Tower Museum team on this announcement and thank them for their hard work and dedication.  Our father was passionate about the study of history and specifically the history of Derry.  We are delighted that work is continuing on his archive, and very much hope that it can contribute to both understanding our past and help provide lessons for future generations.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Young Adults Urged To Help Shape the Future of The Lancaster District Young adults are being called on to help shape the future of the Lancaster district — fro..

    Source: City of Lancaster

    Young adults are being called on to help shape the future of the Lancaster district — from the types of homes we live in to where developments should happen and how transport needs can be met.

    Lancaster City Council and Lancaster University have teamed up to give 18 to 30-year-olds a real voice in major local plans through the Placemaking with Young Adults project.

    Young people’s views will help guide the council in its planning for better housing, jobs, transport, and the environment with their thoughts feeding directly into the Local Plan, a document which shapes how Lancaster, Morecambe, Heysham, Carnforth and the many villages and rural areas are likely to evolve during the next few decades.

    This project builds on earlier work carried out with young people which successfully helped to create Lancaster’s Sustainable Travel and Climate Strategies.

    Those interested can join walking workshops and interactive events in May and June – which will include sharing ideas regarding the development of the district and exploring ideas ranging from innovation in land use to boosting biodiversity.

    Those interested can join walking workshops and interactive events in May and June – which includes looking at sites around Lancaster, Morecambe and Carnforth to look at how they can be developed and explore ideas from innovation to biodiversity.

    “Planning is vital for managing how we live together, meet changing community needs, and carefully make the best use of land, said Mark Cassidy, Chief Officer, Planning and Climate Change at Lancaster city council.

    “The Local Plan sets the direction for how our district will grow and develop over the next 15 to 20 years, guiding everything from new housing to protecting important green spaces.

    “Young people’s voices are crucial in this process. Their ideas and aspirations will help shape policies that design a district which reflects what matters most to them and influences decisions which will ultimately affect their future.”

    Dr Mirian Calvo, Lecturer in Participatory Architecture at Lancaster University, said: “Partnering with Lancaster City Council allows us to support young voices at the core of our mission.

    “It’s vital that their perspectives influence planning, ensuring future environments meet their needs and values.”

    All age groups across the district will have the opportunity to have their say and influence the Local Plan as the plan-making process continues.

    The first ‘walkshop’ takes place on May 7 and places can be booked at https://www.trybooking.com/uk/EMSW

    For more information on the project see here: Shaping Tomorrow: Engaging Young Adults

    To keep in touch with the local plan updates and further chances to be involved, see:  Local Plan Review – Lancaster City Council

    Work shops dates:

    Carnforth Hub: Wednesday, May 7, 2025, 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM

    Lancaster Innovation Centre: Saturday, May 17, 2025, 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM

    Lancaster and Morecambe College: Wednesday, June 4, 2025, 4:00 PM – 7:30 PM

    The Storey, Lancaster City Centre: Saturday, June 28, 10.30AM – 3PM

    Last updated: 06 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coventry City Council launches ground-breaking on-road test of Novel Modular Light Rail Track System

    Source: City of Coventry

    The Coventry Very Light Rail (CVLR) project has achieved a significant technical milestone with the construction of a 220-metre single-track demonstrator in the city’s heart.

    Installed along Greyfriars Road and Queen Victoria Road, this trial represents the first time CVLR’s innovative modular track form has been embedded within a live urban corridor.

    The 50 %+ completion milestone follows the appointment of the Principal Contractor in mid-February 2025. Delivery has progressed swiftly to the completion of laying and aligning all Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) slabs and the alignment, welding, and fastening of the grooved rails. With full slab bedding now also complete, the result is a structurally sound and installation-complete track form, ready to accept the CVLR vehicle.

    Over the coming weeks, the team will finalise the installation of the structural health monitoring system, rail drainage, and rail-to-pavement interface components before embedding rails in asphalt pavement. The team targets completion of the construction phase by early May 2025.

    Dr Christopher Micallef, CVLR track programme lead at Coventry City Council, said: “This milestone represents a step-change in the technology readiness level of the novel CVLR track system. Having progressed through concept design, laboratory testing, and a series of increasingly complex pilot installations in controlled environments, we are now proving the system in a dense, operational urban corridor for the first time.”

    Councillor Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration, and Climate Change at Coventry City Council, said: “This is a significant step forward for the CVLR project and how cities like Coventry can rethink public transport infrastructure. We are not just piloting technology, we are building confidence in a scalable model that puts climate, community, and cost-effectiveness at the heart of urban mobility. And I’m pleased to say that this innovation has been born out of our manufacturing skills in this city and the wider region. The green economy is growing, and CVLR is at the heart of that here.”

    A Technically Complex Urban Demonstrator

    The track alignment was chosen to test real-world challenges typical of dense city centres. It traverses a longitudinal gradient between 1.5% and 3.5%, incorporates a 30-metre radius curve, and applies a continuous cant to facilitate compatibility with existing road geometry.

    Construction was undertaken within a strictly constrained corridor, maintaining continuous access across an active junction. Crucially, no full road closures or traffic diversions were required — a key goal in demonstrating CVLR’s ‘LITE footprint’ on the public realm.

    The route also interfaces with all primary below-ground services, including water (clean and foul), gas, electricity, and telecommunications. The track form’s shallow 300mm excavation depth and integrated utility access chambers enabled installation without major service relocation — a fundamental advantage over traditional tram systems.

    Iain Anderson, Managing Director, Colas Rail UK, said: “This trial installation demonstrates how innovative rail infrastructure can be delivered in real city environments with minimal disruption. Our teams worked closely with Coventry City Council to adapt to complex site conditions in real time, showing what’s possible when engineering meets digital responsiveness.”

    Enabling a Step Change in Light Rail Construction

    CVLR’s approach is underpinned by enabling technologies to overcome the traditional barriers to light rail deployment in the UK. These include:

    • The use of UHPC slabs as the core structural element — offering exceptional strength at approximately 100 mm thickness. This enables the construction of the track superstructure without requiring the typical concrete foundation.
    • A digitally integrated construction platform that ensures rapid design adaptation and data capture.
    • A live structural health monitoring system, embedded into the infrastructure, to validate long-term performance in real-world conditions.

    Together, these technologies enable a radically simplified, utility-friendly track form that is scalable and repeatable across various urban contexts.

    Real-Time Monitoring for Long-Term Insights

    The track section has a state-of-the-art, high-frequency structural health monitoring system. This includes strain gauges embedded within the UHPC slabs, asphalt strain gauges, accelerometers, pressure sensors, relative movement sensors, and AI-enabled camera systems.

    This system enables engineers to study the infrastructure’s behaviour under ambient conditions, CVLR vehicle loads, and general road traffic over the short and long term. The data will feed into a digital twin of the track form, allowing predictive modelling, lifecycle assessment, and future specification refinement.

    Digital Construction: Adaptable and Transparent

    Another innovation showcased in this phase is using a digital construction management platform, which enables real-time communication of on-site as-built survey data directly to the design team. This capability has proven essential during milling operations, where conditions such as out-of-spec shallow utilities and historic cobblestone layers require fast redesign and decision-making.

    The platform also generates a high-resolution, fully traceable record of the as-built infrastructure, which can be accessed using augmented reality technologies. This significantly enhances transparency, quality assurance, and long-term asset management.

    Looking Ahead

    Following the completion of construction on the test track, the CVLR vehicle will be brought into Coventry city centre to commence a period of public engagement and trial running on the newly installed infrastructure. These demonstrations will allow stakeholders and the public to experience the system first-hand and provide valuable feedback to inform future development.

    Once the trial runs conclude, the site will be returned to regular highway use, but it will continue to serve as a long-term testbed. Regular road traffic will contribute live loading to the track form, providing essential data to validate the system’s performance over time. This ongoing monitoring is critical to demonstrating the durability and lifecycle behaviour of the CVLR track form under mixed-use conditions.

    The programme will then progress towards delivering the first integrated transport system utilising the CVLR infrastructure, which will be part of the following primary phase. This work is being delivered as part of a dedicated research and development programme fully funded by the Department for Transport (DfT) through the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to create a scalable and sustainable urban mobility solution for the future.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: One Case of Measles Found in HRM

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Nova Scotia has its first case of measles in 2025, found in Halifax Regional Municipality.

    The case involves a Nova Scotian who travelled outside Canada. The person had received one dose of vaccine, but people generally need two to be fully vaccinated.

    There are measles outbreaks around the globe, including in other provinces and the United States. The last case in Nova Scotia was in 2023 and also travel-related.

    Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to serious consequences, including death. It is spread when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. Measles is rare in Nova Scotia because it is preventable by getting vaccinated and is part of routine childhood immunizations. The vaccine, which is free, is safe and very effective at providing lifelong protection.

    There is no treatment for measles.

    “Measles is not an illness to take lightly,” said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer of Health. “It is highly contagious and lingers for hours in a location after an infected person leaves. I highly recommend people check their vaccination status and get vaccinated if needed. Measles vaccines are safe, effective and have been protecting us for decades.”

    People born 1970 to 1995 were offered one dose of measles vaccine as children, and if they have not had a second dose, they should get one now. Those born in 1996 or later were offered two doses of measles vaccine but should get fully vaccinated now if they missed one or both doses.

    Public Health also recommends infants six to 11 months of age receive a single dose of measles vaccine if they are travelling outside of Canada. People born in 1969 or earlier are generally considered immune but can consider receiving a single dose of measles vaccine if travelling outside of Canada.

    There is no risk in getting the vaccine for people who have received it previously.

    People can receive vaccinations from their routine vaccine provider, including family doctor, nurse practitioner, primary care pharmacist, public health office and special measles clinics.

    Measles has an incubation period of seven to 21 days after infection. Initial symptoms of measles include:

    • fever
    • cough
    • runny nose
    • red, watery eyes
    • small, white spots may appear inside the mouth and throat two to three days after symptoms begin.

    More severe cases of measles may result in pneumonia, ear infections, swelling of the brain, blindness and death.

    More information about measles and special measles clinics for immunization is available at: https://www.nshealth.ca/public-health/infectious-diseases/measles

    Quick Facts:

    • complications from measles can include respiratory failure, inflammation and swelling of the brain, blindness, deafness and brain injury
    • over the last month, more than 2,000 people have received the vaccine in Nova Scotia Health measles clinics

    Additional Resources:

    Health Canada information on measles: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/measles.html

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/EGYPT – Here, prayer becomes life and life becomes prayer

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Tuesday, 6 May 2025

    AF

    by Anselmo Fabiano*Kom Ghareeb (Agenzia Fides) – Temperatures here are already approaching 30 degrees Celsius. In recent days, we experienced a sandstorm, one of those scenes from movies where dust and sand obscure everything, even the sun. Fortunately, it only lasted a few hours, partly because then movement becomes complicated and dangerous.The activities of our parish of the Virgin Mary are progressing well, accompanied by the joy of the Risen Lord after the intense Easter week.A week in which we truly prayed a lot between the various celebrations, rites, and Masses. An extraordinary richness that gave me the opportunity to share the authentic and profound faith of these people. Everything was new to me, and so, like a child, I discovered new rites, prayers, and signs, trying to understand their deeper meaning. It was certainly an unforgettable and deeply enriching faith experience.I was deeply moved by the Good Friday prayer, when the priest, in a very special rite, anointed the icon of the death of Jesus with the perfume of nard and various oils. The perfume filled the church and allowed us to gather with Mary in prayer, eyes closed, and feel almost physically close to her. We shared this intense moment of faith before the body of the dead Jesus, lovingly caressed by Mary and then carefully placed in the tomb, thus experiencing the great mystery of our salvation.It is Mary who accompanies us on our journey even in this month of May, dedicated to her. Even from Egypt, the prayer of the Holy Rosary unites us and allows us to pray for the whole world and especially for the Church, which is called to elect a new Pope. Here, prayer becomes life, and life becomes prayer.The children and young people also pray for their end-of-year exams so that they can complete the school year in the best possible way. I meet them in the morning as they go to school; they stop by church to greet Jesus, and they are always joyful, even if they may be a little worried and nervous. The prayer of adults is also a prayer for the harvest of the fields, especially wheat, so that it bears good fruit and guarantees a good harvest for the whole year. I also try in my own way, to take the faces of the people I meet and whom I carry in my heart into prayer, and at the same time, to transform my daily life into a prayer in which I thank God for all the good, and sometimes difficult, things he grants me on my journey. (Agenzia Fides, 6/5/2025)*Missionary of the Society of African Missions (SMA) in Egypt
    AF

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    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/SUDAN – Drone attacks on Port Sudan: The conflict risks spreading to neighboring regions

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Tuesday, 6 May 2025 wars  

    Khartoum (Agenzia Fides) – The war in Sudan has escalated with the bombing of Port Sudan, the stronghold of the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) under the command of General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).Today, May 6, RSF drones under the command of Mohamed Hamdan “Hemeti” Dagalo attacked the important Sudanese port city for the third consecutive day. The attacks targeted the civilian area of the airport, a fuel depot, the main military base in the city center, and a hotel.The first attack took place on Sunday, May 4, when the military part of the airport was targeted.Although there were no casualties, the attack caused damage to several warehouses and facilities. The May 4 attack came just two days after a similar airstrike against facilities in the city of Kassala.Port Sudan has become increasingly strategically important since the Sudanese government, diplomatic missions, international organizations, and major companies relocated there after the RSF seized control of large parts of the capital, Khartoum. The attacks on Port Sudan have provoked strong reactions from the Sudanese government, which has indicated that the RSF is supported by key international allies such as Kenya, which recently hosted a summit sponsored by Dagalo to form an alternative government to the one led by General al-Burhan (see Fides, 19/2/2025).But the United Arab Emirates is particularly in the sights of al-Burhan, who is accused of supplying the RSF with the drones used in the recent attacks. Just yesterday, May 5, the International Court of Justice dismissed the Sudanese government’s lawsuit against the United Arab Emirates, accusing it of complicity in the genocide in Darfur (see Fides, 11/4/2025). The court ruled that it lacked jurisdiction over the case because the UAE had reservations regarding Article 9 of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.Sudanese government officials suspect that the bombs that hit Port Sudan did not come from rebel-held Sudanese territories, but from Bosaso in Somalia’s Puntland, where the Emirates have established a key logistical center from which they supply the RSF with weapons and ammunition. According to some sources, the Emirati base in Bosaso (protected by sophisticated Israeli-made radar) was hit on May 3 by drones launched by the Sudanese army. The latest attacks on Port Sudan are therefore in retaliation for the May 3 attack, in which a cargo plane chartered by the Emirates carrying Colombian mercenaries and weapons was allegedly hit at the moment of take-off to Nyala in Darfur (western Sudan), the RSF stronghold.The Sudanese conflict therefore threatens to spread to neighboring countries and actors outside Africa. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 6/5/2025)
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    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/CHINA – The Jubilee journey of the Archdiocese of Taiyuan continues

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Beijing (Agenzia Fides) – “Born from Hope, Looking towards Hope”: was the motto of the meeting promoted by the Archdiocese of Taiyuan, in the Chinese province of Shanxi, as part of its Jubilee journey in communion with the universal Church, on the occasion of the Jubilee of Hope.The meeting took place on Monday, May 5, in the Parish of the Immaculate Conception in Yangjiapu, one of the churches designated by the diocese as Jubilee Churches. During the meeting, Bishop Paul Meng Ningyou exhorted the faithful to “participate with care and generosity in the life of the Church, supporting one another in Christ to build a culture of encounter and share works of charity and concrete testimonies,” at the service of the ecclesial community and Chinese society as a whole.The Jubilee journey of the Catholic community of Taiyuan began on December 28 with the opening of the Holy Door in the diocesan cathedral. During this solemn celebration, the faithful listened to the silent reading of Spes non confundit, the text Pope Francis used to proclaim the Jubilee of Hope. They then passed through the Holy Door in procession, singing the Prayer of the Saints. On this occasion, Bishop Meng emphasized that the Jubilee is an opportune moment to recognize that “our greatest hope is in God” and to “bring this light to every corner of the world.”In addition to the aforementioned Immaculate Conception Parish in Yangjiapu, other churches designated as jubilee churches in the archdiocese are: the Bansishan Parish (near the shrine of the same name), the Parish of Our Lady of Sorrows, the Cathedral (dedicated to the Immaculate Conception), the Parish of St. Anthony in Xiliulin, the Parish of Christ the King in Guchengying, and the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Honggou and the parish of the Immaculate Conception in YangJiapu. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides, 6/5/2025)
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    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/MYANMAR – The new Bishop of Mindat and the 17th diocese: a gift of divine mercy

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    diocese of Mindat

    Yangon (Agenzia Fides) – The episcopal ordination of Msgr. Augustine Thang Zawm Hung and the erection of the new Diocese of Mindat in the Burmese state of Chin, in northwestern Myanmar, were considered a gift of divine mercy by the Catholic people of Myanmar. Amidst difficulties, conflicts, and the consequences of the violent earthquake that devastated the country a month ago, the baptized in Myanmar wanted to gather around the new bishop and gathered on April 27, Divine Mercy Sunday, at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Yangon, where the establishment of the Diocese of Mindat and the episcopal ordination of Bishop Augustine Thang Zawm Hung took place. The faithful also gave an emotional farewell to the late Pope Francis, recalling that on January 25, 2025, the Pontiff had officially proclaimed the establishment of the Diocese of Mindat, which was based on part of the Diocese of Hakha and is now the 17th diocese in Myanmar.The faithful prayed and were moved by the figure of Pope Francis, who repeatedly mentioned the tragic situation in Myanmar in his appeals, “which showed that he carried Myanmar in his heart,” they said.Also thanks to that special closeness expressed by the Holy See, the Burmese faithful have shown great resilience in faith, in dramatic times: the creation of a new diocese testifies to the dynamism and growth of the Church in Myanmar, “it is a reason for joy for the universal Church and a reason for hope for the future” they said. The Bishop – they emphasize in the new diocese – is not alone in his mission: priests, nuns, catechists, volunteers and faithful all have a great spirit of collaboration. The faithful of Mindat have shown, in these times of serious crisis, that they want to build bridges of friendship, brotherhood and reconciliation. In one of the poorest regions of the country, in the Chin state, crossed by armed conflicts, the population of the new diocese of Mindat and its Bishop are ready to “give a testimony of Christian life, practicing the culture of dialogue and encounter, with closeness to the people, good works and the construction of fraternal and welcoming communities: in this way it is possible to hope and see God at work”, they note.The principal consecrator of the ordination ceremony was Archbishop Marcus Tin Win of Mandalay, as the Archbishop of Yangon, Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, was in Rome for the Pope’s funeral and the Conclave. Archbishop Marco Tin Win said, “God wants us to recognize that his mercy is greater than our sins, so that we can invoke him with confidence, receive his mercy, and through us, it will be passed on to others. In this way, everyone will be able to share his joys.” The Archbishop spoke about the various difficulties facing the people of Chin State, Burma, due to the political situation and the suffering following the great earthquake. He said, “Amidst hardships and difficulties, we cannot limit ourselves to looking down, but are invited to raise our gaze to the Lord,” recalling Christ’s promise “to always be with us.” At the end of the celebration, Archbishop Andrea Ferrante, Chargé d’Affaires of the Apostolic Nunciature in Myanmar, recalled Pope Francis, who was close to the Burmese people in recent years with his prayers and constant appeals for dialogue and peace. He also encouraged the new Bishop of Mindat, who is called to the great responsibility of “bringing the peace of Christ to the flock entrusted to him.” A path that “is not easy, but not impossible, if it is stimulated and nourished by prayer and fraternal cooperation within and outside the Church.” “The new bishop,” he recalled, “has the task of making the community grow in faith, hope, and charity, and of ensuring communion with the Episcopal Conference and the universal Church, under the guidance of the Pope.” He added: “Amidst insecurity, the ongoing armed conflicts, the poverty of the population, the dramatic situation of families and young people, which generates fear, we must remember the words of Pope Francis: ‘War strikes in a special way the most vulnerable and leaves indelible marks on families… the paths of peace are paths of solidarity, because no one is saved alone. Peace is possible.” He concluded by encouraging everyone to work with the new bishop to carry out effective and fruitful missionary work, to “build bridges of friendship, fraternity, and reconciliation.” (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 6/5/2025)
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    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: VATICAN – Conclave: More and more Cardinals from the countries entrusted to the Dicastery for Evangelization gather in the Sistine Chapel

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Tuesday, 6 May 2025

    Foto d’archivio

    by Fabio BerettaVatican City (Agenzia Fides) – With the image of Christ and the Last Judgment painted by Michelangelo on the altar wall of the Sistine Chapel, the Cardinals are gathering in Conclave to elect the successor of Peter. An election in which an increasing number of cardinals from the countries under the jurisdiction of the Dicastery for Evangelization – Section for the First Evangelization and the New Particular Churches – are participating.To date, a total of 1,123 ecclesiastical districts (i.e., Archdioceses, Dioceses, Territorial Abbeys, Apostolic Vicariates, Apostolic Prefectures, Missions sui iuris, Apostolic Administrations, and Military Ordinariates) are subject to the Dicastery for Evangelization. Most of them are in Africa (525) and Asia (481), followed by the Americas (71) and Oceania (46).The Conclave of June 1963When John XXIII died on June 3, 1963, 82 Cardinals were still alive, all of whom had the right to participate in the election of the Successor of Peter. The rule that today prohibits Cardinals over the age of 80 from participating in the Conclave was introduced by Paul VI in 1970. Thus, the College of Cardinals that elected Pope Paul VI included Cardinals over the age of 80.Nevertheless, only 80 of them entered the Sistine Chapel. Two Cardinals did not come to Rome: the Hungarian József Mindszenty (the communist regime forbade him from leaving the country) and Carlos María Javier de la Torre, Archbishop of Quito, Ecuador (absent due to health reasons). A total of 29 nations were represented.A total of seven cardinals from the territories then under the jurisdiction of the Congregation Propaganda Fide participated in the Conclave that year: Peter Tatsuo Doi (Japan, Archbishop of Tokyo, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Japan), Valerian Gracias (India, Archbishop of Bombay, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India), Laurean Rugambwa (Tanzania, Bishop of Bukoba), Thomas Tien Ken-sin (China, Archbishop of Beijing, Apostolic Administrator of Taipei), and Norman Thomas Gilroy (Australia, Archbishop of Sydney, Primate of Australia, Grand Prior for Australia-New South Wales of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem).The Conclaves of 1978Paul VI was the first Pope to expand the boundaries of the College of Cardinals by appointing numerous non-European cardinals. After the death of the Pope (on August 6, 1978), who decided to exclude Cardinals over eighty from voting with the Motu Proprio “Ingravescentem Aetatem” of 21 November 1970 and modified some norms of the Conclave with the Apostolic Constitution “Romano Pontifici Eligendo” of 1 October 1975, a total of 111 cardinals were eligible to vote.At the conclave in August 1978, however, only 108 people entered the Sistine Chapel: Valerian Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay, John Joseph Wright, Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy, and Bolesław Filipiak, Dean Emeritus of the Roman Rota, were all absent from the Conclave for health reasons.A total of 18 cardinals from the so-called mission territories took part in the election of John Paul I, including one cardinal who works in the Roman Curia and one French cardinal who heads an archdiocese in North Africa: Bernardin Gantin (Benin, President of the Pontifical Council “Cor Unum”), Lawrence Trevor Picachy (India, Archbishop of Calcutta, President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India), Justinus Darmojuwono (Indonesia, Archbishop of Semarang), Joseph Marie Anthony Cordeiro (Pakistan, Archbishop of Karachi), Stephen Kim Sou-hwan (South Korea, Archbishop of Seoul, Apostolic Administrator of Pyongyang), Thomas Benjamin Cooray (Sri Lanka, Archbishop of Colombo, President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of Sri Lanka), Joseph Marie Trinh-nhu-Khuê (Vietnam, Archbishop of Ha Noi), Maurice Michael Otunga (Kenya, Archbishop of Nairobi, President of the Episcopal Conference of Kenya, Military Vicar for Kenya), Victor Razafimahatratra (Madagascar, Archbishop of Antananarivo, President of the Episcopal Conference of Madagascar), Dominic Ekandem (Nigeria, Bishop of Ikot Ekpene, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria), Hyacinthe Thiandoum (Senegal, Archbishop of Dakar, President of the Episcopal Conference of Senegal, Mauritania, Cape Verde and Guinea Bissau), Owen McCann (South Africa, Archbishop of Cape Town), Laurean Rugambwa (Tanzania, Archbishop of Dar-es-Salaam) Emmanuel Kiwanuka Nsubuga (Uganda, Archbishop of Kampala), Paul Zoungrana (Burkina Faso, Archbishop of Ouagadougou), Joseph-Albert Malula (Democratic Republic of Congo, Archbishop of Kinshasa), Pio Taofinu’u (Samoa, Bishop of Samoa and Tokelau), Reginald John Delargey (New Zealand, Archbishop of Wellington, President of the New Zealand Bishops’ Conference).In 1978, a second Conclave took place just over a month after the first, as John Paul I died after only 33 days of pontificate. During this brief period, there were no Consistories, and when the cardinals met again in the Sistine Chapel in October of that year, the cardinals were the same ones who had met a few weeks earlier. They all held the same offices. Forty-six nations were represented in both Conclaves.The 2005 ConclaveThe first Conclave of the third millennium began with the reform of the conclave, which John Paul II initiated in 1996 with the Apostolic Constitution “Universi Dominici Gregis.” That year, the cardinals were accommodated for the first time in the new guesthouse Casa Santa Marta (instead of in the halls of the Apostolic Palace), which had been built specifically for this purpose. In the conclave that led to the election of Benedict XVI, 117 Cardinals were eligible to vote. A total of 115 entered the Sistine Chapel: Adolfo Antonio Suárez Rivera (Archbishop Emeritus of Monterrey, Mexico) and Jaime Lachica Sin (Archbishop Emeritus of Manila, Philippines) were unable to travel to Rome for health reasons.At the time of John Paul II’s death, the eligible Cardinals came from 52 nations on all continents. In total, there were seventeen cardinals from countries entrusted to the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, some of whom headed dicasteries and bodies of the Holy See: Wilfrid Fox Napier (South Africa, Archbishop of Durban), Gabriel Zubeir Wako (Sudan, Archbishop of Khartoum), Telesphore Placidus Toppo (India, Archbishop of Ranchi), Armand Gaétan Razafindratandra (Madagascar, Archbishop of Antananarivo), Bernard Agré (Ivory Coast, Archbishop of Abidjan), Emmanuel Wamala (Uganda, Archbishop of Kampala), Christian Wiyghan Tumi (Cameroon, Archbishop of Douala), Frédéric Etsou-Nzabi-Bamungwabi (Democratic Republic of Congo, Archbishop of Kinshasa), Francis Arinze (Nigeria, Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments), Peter Seiichi Shirayanagi (Japan, Archbishop Emeritus of Tokyo), Michael Michai Kitbunchu (Thailand, Archbishop of Bangkok, President of the Thai Bishops’ Conference), Stephen Fumio Hamao (Japan, President of the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People), Anthony Olubunmi Okogie (Nigeria, Archbishop of Lagos), Ivan Dias (India, Prefect Emeritus of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples), Julius Riyadi Darmaatmadja (Indonesia, Archbishop of Jakarta, Military Bishop of Indonesia), Jean-Baptiste Pham Minh Mân (Vietnam, Archbishop of Ho Chi Minh), Peter Turkson (Ghana, Archbishop of Cape Coast).The 2013 ConclaveWhen Benedict XVI announced to the world his resignation from the Petrine Ministry during a Consistory in February 2013, 117 eligible cardinals were present, but only 115 entered the Sistine Chapel. Julius Riyadi Darmaatmadja (Archbishop Emeritus of Jakarta, Indonesia) and Keith Michael Patrick O’Brien (Archbishop Emeritus of Saint Andrews and Edinburgh, Scotland) were absent for health reasons.During the conclave that led to the election of Pope Francis, 17 Cardinals from the territories entrusted to the Missionary Dicastery arrived in Rome. As in previous Conclaves, several of these cardinals served in the Dicasteries of the Roman Curia: Peter Turkson (Ghana, President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace), Albert Malcolm Ranjith Patabendige Don (Sri Lanka, Archbishop of Colombo), Robert Sarah (Guinea, President of the Pontifical Council ‘Cor Unum’), George Alencherry (India, Archbishop of Ernakulam-Angamaly), Oswald Gracias (India, Archbishop of Bombay), Polycarp Pengo (Tanzania, Archbishop of Dar-es-Salaam), John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan (Nigeria, Archbishop of Abuja), John Njue (Kenya, Archbishop of Nairobi), Wilfrid Fox Napier (South Africa, Archbishop of Durban), Gabriel Zubeir Wako (Sudan, Archbishop of Khartoum), Telesphore Placidus Toppo (India, Archbishop of Ranchi), Laurent Monsengwo Pasinya (Democratic Republic of Congo, Archbishop of Kinshasa), John Tong Hon (China, Bishop of Hong Kong), Théodore-Adrien Sarr (Senegal, Archbishop of Dakar), Anthony Olubunmi Okogie (Nigeria, Archbishop of Lagos), Ivan Dias (India, Prefect Emeritus of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples), Jean-Baptiste Pham Minh Mân (Vietnam, Archbishop of Hô Chí Minh).The 2025 ConclaveAt the time of Pope Francis’s death, there are 252 cardinals alive, of whom 135 arepotential electors for the Conclave that begins on May 7. Of these, 133 will enter the Sistine Chapel, as two of them, Cardinal Antonio Cañizares Llovera, Archbishop Emeritus of Valencia, and Cardinal John Njue, Archbishop Emeritus of Nairobi, are absent for health reasons.It will be a Conclave with Cardinals from 66 nations. Among them are 34 from the territories under the jurisdiction of the Dicastery for Evangelization. Some of them come from other countries but exercise their ministry in these mission countries, just as some are active in the Roman Curia: Giorgio Marengo (Italy, Apostolic Prefect of Ulan Bator, Mongolia), Virgílio do Carmo da Silva (East Timor, Metropolitan Archbishop of Dili), Dieudonné Nzapalainga (Central African Republic, Metropolitan Archbishop of Bangui), Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla (South Sudan, Metropolitan Archbishop of Juba), Jean-Paul Vesco (France, Metropolitan Archbishop of Algiers), Soane Patita Paini Mafi (Tonga, Bishop of Tonga), Anthony Poola (India, Metropolitan Archbishop of Hyderabad), Ignace Bessi Dogbo (Ivory Coast, Metropolitan Archbishop of Abidjan), Protase Rugambwa (Tanzania, Metropolitan Archbishop of Tabora), Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Metropolitan Archbishop of Kinshasa), Stephen Chow Sau-yan (China, Bishop of Hong Kong), Antoine Kambanda (Rwanda, Metropolitan Archbishop of Kigali), Tarcisius Isao Kikuchi (Japan, Metropolitan Archbishop of Tokyo), William Goh Seng Chye (Singapore, Archbishop of Singapore), John Ribat (Papua New Guinea, Metropolitan Archbishop of Port Moresby), Stephen Brislin (South Africa, Metropolitan Archbishop of Johannesburg), Désiré Tsarahazana (Madagascar, Metropolitan Archbishop of Toamasina), Filipe Neri Ferrão (India, Metropolitan Archbishop of Goa and Damão), Cristóbal López Romero (Spain, Archbishop of Rabat, Morocco), Lazarus You Heung-sik (South Korea, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Clergy), Sebastian Francis (Malaysia, Bishop of Penang), Ignatius Suharyo Hardjoatmodjo (Indonesia, Metropolitan Archbishop of Jakarta), Arlindo Gomes Furtado (Cape Verde, Bishop of Santiago de Cabo Verde), Francis Xavier Kriengsak Kovithavanij (Thailand, Archbishop Emeritus of Bangkok), Thomas Aquino Manyo Maeda (Japan, Metropolitan Archbishop of Osaka-Takamatsu), Charles Maung Bo (Myanmar, Metropolitan Archbishop of Yangon), Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson (Ghana, Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences and of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences), John Atcherley Dew (New Zealand, Archbishop Emeritus of Wellington), Albert Malcolm Ranjith Patabendige Don (Sri Lanka, Metropolitan Archbishop of Colombo), Philippe Nakellentuba Ouédraogo (Burkina Faso, Archbishop Emeritus of Ouagadougou), Jean-Pierre Kutwa (Ivory Coast, Archbishop Emeritus of Abidjan), Joseph Coutts (Pakistan, Archbishop Emeritus of Karachi), Robert Sarah (Guinea, Prefect Emeritus of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments), Peter Ebere Okpaleke (Nigeria, Bishop of Ekwulobia). (Agenzia Fides, 6/5/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dingell Remarks on H.J.Res.88

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

    WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) spoke on the House Floor on H.J.Res.88. Dingell’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, are below.

    See a video of her remarks here.
     
    Thank you, M. Speaker. 
     
    I rise today in opposition to H.J.Res.88.
     
    As a staunch defender of Michigan’s auto industry — the backbone of the American economy — and someone who cares deeply about the environment, I do not take this vote lightly. I have spoken to all the stakeholders involved multiple times.
     
    I believe in preserving consumer choice, maintaining American leadership in innovation, defending the future of domestic manufacturing, and protecting the environment. These are not mutually exclusive.
     
    Michigan, and the United States, put the world on wheels, and now, we are leading the transition to the next generation of vehicles.
     
    We cannot afford to cede that leadership to our adversaries. I will remind my colleagues that it wasn’t that long ago when gasoline prices went up and American consumers wanted smaller cars, Japanese carmakers flooded our market with smaller vehicles, caught our domestic industry flat-footed, and U.S. manufacturers paid the price for a decade. 
     
    We must innovate, adapt, and build vehicles competitively here at home. The global marketplace wants EVs, hybrids, and internal combustion engines.
     
    To lead globally, we must accelerate the manufacturing of cleaner vehicles in a practical, affordable, and inclusive way. That means building out EV charging infrastructure, keeping hybrids and plug-in hybrids available, and ensuring affordability, which is becoming one of the biggest issues in this country. Especially when competing with at least one country where the government subsidizes manufacturing, uses forced labor, and manipulates currency.
     
    We cannot cede our leadership to China or any other country. This also means investing in advanced manufacturing, securing domestic battery supply chains, and protecting the Inflation Reduction Act’s historic EV investments.
     
    California’s Advanced Clean Cars 2 program would impose EV sales mandates across nearly 30 percent of the U.S. market. While that may work for California, it isn’t working in some other states.
     
    Let me be clear: this is not the time to ban gas-powered vehicles. CARB and Governors must be able to adjust these programs if market conditions change. Maryland Governor Wes Moore recently did just that, easing compliance enforcement. 
     
    I share concerns about consumer choice, but this Congressional Review Act resolution has serious legal flaws. The Government Accountability Office and the Senate Parliamentarian both ruled that these waivers are not subject to the CRA. Proceeding sets a dangerous precedent. 
     
    Misusing the CRA today could open the door to striking down a wide range of federal programs tomorrow, including Medicaid waivers, which worries me greatly. I don’t sleep at night on that one. 
     
    We are here today because some states have adopted stricter rules that could ban new gas-powered vehicles by this summer. I support the EV transition, but we are simply not there yet.

    For model year 2026, ACC 2 states would require 35 percent of new car sales to be a mix of electric or hybrid, yet the national average is still around 10 percent. That jumps to 68 percent by 2030 and 100 percent by 2035. For most states, this is not realistic today.
     
    We need all stakeholders at the table — labor, manufacturers, suppliers, dealers, environmental groups, and consumers — to work together for the American people, and figure it out so we stay competitive in a global marketplace, meet consumer demand, take care of the environment, sell affordable cars, and keep manufacturing in this country.
     
    This resolution would be unprecedented federal overreach. While I disagree with California’s timeline, I also disagree with misusing the CRA to address it.
     
    If we’re serious about American leadership, EVs must be in our portfolio. I remain committed to protecting American jobs, expanding consumer choice, and ensuring U.S. leadership in global automotive innovation.
     
    The American people sent us here to solve problems. Let’s stop wasting time on illegitimate messaging CRAs and work together to support innovation, build out the infrastructure, and ensure access to affordable, American-made vehicles — whether gas-powered, hybrid, or electric.
     
    Let’s work together for our country. With that, I will be voting ‘no’.
     
    Thank you, M. Speaker, and I yield back.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dingell Leads Introduction of Bipartisan Legislation to Remove PFAS from Firefighter Gear

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

    WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI), co-chair of the PFAS Task Force, along with Representatives Sam Graves (R-MO), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ), Dina Titus (D-NV), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Glenn Ivey (D-MD), and Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), today reintroduced the bipartisan Protecting Firefighters and Advancing State-of-the-Art Alternatives Act (PFAS Alternatives Act), to support development of next-generation PFAS-free turnout gear for firefighters and better protect firefighters from the dangers of their work. Sunday, May 4 was International Firefighters’ Day.  

    Studies have shown that all three layers of firefighter turnout gear contain Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), a class of fluorinated chemicals known as “forever chemicals.” PFAS chemicals are persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic, and are linked to harmful human health effects, including reproductive and developmental harms, weakened immune systems, and cancer – the leading cause of firefighter death.

    “Firefighters’ jobs are already dangerous enough without worrying about the long-term health risks of being exposed to dangerous PFAS in their turnout gear,” said Dingell. “The PFAS Alternatives Act will remove this unnecessary occupational hazard and help protect firefighters as they work every day to protect us.”

    “America’s firefighters charge into danger to save the lives of others,” said Graves. “This bipartisan legislation will help develop the next generation of firefighting gear to keep them safe—while they work to protect our families, our communities, and our country.”

    “Firefighters risk their lives every day to keep us safe,” said Bonamici. “The dangers they face shouldn’t come from the gear meant to protect them. I’m grateful to join several of my colleagues to introduce this bipartisan legislation that will spur the development of turnout gear free from dangerous PFAS chemicals and improve the long-term health of the country’s firefighters.”

    “Our firefighters put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe, and their health and safety must remain a top priority,” said Kean. “That starts with ensuring their gear is free from harmful chemicals that pose serious long-term health risks. I’m pleased to once again co-lead the PFAS Alternatives Act to eliminate toxic substances from firefighter equipment and support the long-term well-being of these brave men and women.”

    “Firefighters put their health and safety on the line every day to protect our communities. They run in as others run out,” said Titus. “They shouldn’t have to worry about hazardous substances in their own turnout gear. I’m working with my colleagues to support the development of next-generation gear that is more resistant to soot and other chemicals while eliminating exposure to dangerous toxins like PFAS.”

    “Firefighters risk enough without being exposed to cancer-causing chemicals in the very gear meant to protect them,” said Fitzpatrick. “The PFAS Alternatives Act takes targeted, bipartisan action to eliminate these toxic substances and accelerate safer solutions. It’s time we matched our gratitude with real protections—as Co-Chair of the PFAS Task Force, I am committed to leading efforts like this to do exactly that.”

    “First responders deserve first rate gear.  They put their lives on the line every day to save ours.  We must not make those who risk their lives wear even riskier equipment and handle even more dangerous materials,” said Ivey. “PFAS are directly linked to cancer.  And as a kidney cancer survivor, I know the hardship, uncertainty and fear any family would experience being exposed to cancer causing materials.  I want to thank my colleagues for this bipartisan effort.”

    “Firefighters risk their lives to protect the community and in many cases they are exposed to toxic chemicals,” said Thompson. “The PFAS Alternatives Act is commonsense legislation that invests in safer, more effective equipment to better protect our first responders from these toxins.”

    The PFAS Alternatives Act would:
    – Accelerate the development of PFAS-free turnout gear through research, development, and testing of PFAS-free turnout gear materials.
    – Facilitate the development of safer turnout gear materials that reduces the dangers firefighters face, including enhanced protection against primary and secondary exposure to particulates and byproducts of combustion; reduced maintenance that includes contamination resistance and greater ease of cleaning; visible warning indicators to alert firefighters to hazardous exposures or the need for decontamination; and consideration of body composition in turnout gear design.  
    – Support guidance and training for firefighters on best practices for reducing harmful exposures through the proper wearing, cleaning, and caring for next-generation turnout gear.
    – Involve the firefighting industry in the development process by requiring grant applicants to utilize the leadership, experience, and knowledge of firefighters to ensure the next-generation turnout gear will be both effective and practical for the everyday demands of firefighting. 

    The PFAS Alternatives Act would authorize $25 million annually for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029 to support the development of new materials, and an additional $2 million annually to support guidance and training.

    The PFAS Alternatives Act is endorsed by the International Association of Fire Fighters.

    “The science is clear. Exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals is driving alarming rates of cancer in the fire service,” said IAFF General President Edward Kelly. “The PFAS Alternatives Act is critical legislation that will help introduce next-generation, PFAS-free gear to better protect fire fighters and ensure we have a voice in developing the very products we rely on for safety. The IAFF is grateful to Rep. Dingell for championing this legislation, and we urge Congress to swiftly pass this bill.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Finds Minneapolis Felon Guilty of Illegal Firearms and Machinegun Possession

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    ST. PAUL, Minn. – A federal jury convicted Clenest Demon Wells, Jr. of illegal possession of a firearm as a felon and unlawful possession of a machinegun, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Clenest Demon Wells, 28, was repeatedly caught illegally carrying firearms. Because Wells has multiple prior felony convictions, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.

    On April 6, 2020, law enforcement officers responded to reports in Minneapolis of a passenger wearing a black vest and greyish winter hat on a Metro Transit bus threatening another passenger with a firearm. Law enforcement officers located and boarded the Metro Transit bus at the intersection of Penn and Lowry Avenue North, identified a passenger who closely fit the description, and conducted a pat-down search. The passenger was later identified as Wells, who was found in possession of a black HiPoint 9-millimeter semi-automatic pistol.

    On May 23, 2022, Minneapolis Police Department officers on patrol observed a Pontiac G6 speeding through a residential area and conducted a traffic stop. Wells was the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle. Officers smelled and observed marijuana in the car, initiated a search, and found Wells in possession of a black Springfield Model XD9 9-millimeter semi-automatic pistol.

    On July 30, 2023, law enforcement responded to calls reporting a fight and an individual with a gun in a parking lot at Hennepin Avenue and 5th Street in downtown Minneapolis. Upon arrival, bystanders reported that one of the involved individuals—later identified as Wells—had a gun. As officers approached, Wells turned to walk away, ignoring orders to stop. Wells was subsequently found to be in possession of a Glock model 17 9-millimeter handgun equipped with an auto-sear, commonly called a “switch,” which enabled the Glock pistol to operate as a fully automatic machinegun. Test firing conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation showed that the Glock pistol equipped with a switch possessed by Wells could fire ten rounds in less than one second.  

    “Today’s conviction holds Wells accountable for the fear and violence he has inflicted on the community for far too long,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains steadfast in its commitment to prevent violent crime.”

    “Possession of a firearm modified to function as a machine gun in a public space could have had tragic consequences,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of the FBI Minneapolis. “Protecting our communities from violence is a top priority, and we are committed to working with our partners to stop those who put innocent lives at risk.”

    After a three-day trial before Judge Donovan W. Frank in U.S. District Court, Wells was convicted on three counts of illegal possession of firearms as a felon and one count of unlawful possession of a machinegun. A sentencing hearing will take place at a later date.

    This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, the Minneapolis Police Department, the Metro Transit Police Department, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Green and Syngen Kanassatega tried the case.
     

    Federal Jury Finds Minneapolis Felon Guilty of Illegal Firearms and Machinegun Possession

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Sullivan’s Island Plays Key Role in Navy’s ‘Southern Lightning’ Event

    Source: United States Navy

    NIWC Atlantic and NSWC Crane’s “Southern Lightning,” supported by Sullivan’s Island (Mayor O’Neil), tested unmanned systems communications for a hybrid fleet. Part of Silent Swarm, it integrates manned/unmanned systems. Testing used vehicles supported by the USS Cole and SC National Guard. The island’s environment advances communication capabilities.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: 374 MDG hosts Navy Corpsman for TCCC training

    Source: United States Navy

    YOKOTA AIR BASE, TOKYO, Japan — The 374th Medical Group hosted Sailors from the U.S. Navy 7th Fleet for two iterations of tactical combat casualty care training at Yokota Air Base, Japan, March 30 – April 4 and April 13 – 18.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: CNL Team Recognized With CNIC 2024 Ecosystem Innovation Award for Production of Promising New Medical Isotope

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHALK RIVER, Ontario, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology organization, is pleased to announce that it has been recognized by the Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council (CNIC) alongside the Sylvia Fedoruk Centre and Advanced Cyclotron Systems Inc. for being the first in Canada to produce Actinium-225, a promising new medical isotope in the fight against cancer, using a cyclotron and Radium-226 targets. The team was honoured with this year’s CNIC Ecosystem Innovation Award at the annual awards ceremony held in Ottawa, Ontario on April 15th.

    The CNIC Awards are an annual celebration of the growth and success of Canadian isotope industry and the contributions and innovations of its members and leading Canadian individuals in government and industry. CNIC provides a platform for its community to nominate individuals and organizations who have demonstrated leadership and championed advocacy in the industry. Receiving the Ecosystem Innovation Award, which recognizes a major milestone or initiative in Canada’s isotope industry, recognizes CNL’s ongoing efforts to establish this first-of-a-kind production process in Canada, which brings a significant increase in the quantity of this material to market, and unlocks further research and clinical trials.

    “While Actinium-225 drugs have shown incredible potential to serve as a transformative cancer treatment, clinical trials and eventual drug approvals have been impeded by the tight supply scenario of Actinium-225,” commented Ram Mullur, CNL’s Vice-President of Isotopes. “More than seven years ago, CNL set out to address that challenge with the generator route of production of Actinium-225, and we are now moving ever-closer to industrial-scale production. This was enabled through the services and products provided by our collaborators, including the Sylvia Fedoruk Centre, and Advanced Cyclotron Systems. This achievement is also in support of Actineer, which is a joint venture founded in 2023 by ITM Isotope Technologies Munich SE (ITM), a leading radiopharmaceutical biotech company, and CNL. On behalf of CNL, I want to thank the CNIC for recognizing CNL, our collaborators and partners, and the people who are working so hard to bring this vision to life.”

    “The Fedoruk Centre is proud to participate in this achievement with CNL. The work depended on access to the Saskatchewan Cyclotron Facility, which is owned by the University of Saskatchewan and operated by the Fedoruk Centre. Together, we have advanced the production of an exciting new medical isotope here in Canada,” commented John Root, Executive Director of the Fedoruk Centre. “We must thank the federal and provincial governments who funded the cyclotron and infrastructure to make this innovation possible.”

    “The first demonstration of Actinium-225 production by CNL using ACSI’s TR-24 Cyclotron and targetry system is an important milestone for both organisations. I believe that we will continue this successful collaboration in developing technology that will help in achieving worldwide reliable supply of Actinium-225,” stated Richard Eppich, President and CEO of ACSI.

    CNL is currently working as part of a network of organizations to establish a reliable, industrial-scale production process for Actinium-225. “CNL has come a long way in the last seven years, and this award recognizes all of the hard work we have put in to help achieve this unmet need in the radiopharmaceutical industry,” added Mullur. “But I am pleased to say that we are just getting started, and continue to refine, optimize and improve all aspects of the production process, from development through to the extraction and distribution of the final product. And with each step, our optimism continues to grow that this isotope has the potential to serve as a safe and effective treatment for a variety of cancers.”

    To learn more about CNL, including its work to produce Actinium-225, please visit www.cnl.ca.

    About CNL
    As Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology laboratory and working under the direction of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), CNL is a world leader in the development of innovative nuclear science and technology products and services. Guided by an ambitious corporate strategy known as Vision 2030, CNL fulfills three strategic priorities of national importance – restoring and protecting the environment, advancing clean energy technologies, and contributing to the health of Canadians.

    By leveraging the assets owned by AECL, CNL also serves as the nexus between government, the nuclear industry, the broader private sector and the academic community. CNL works in collaboration with these sectors to advance innovative Canadian products and services towards real-world use, including carbon-free energy, cancer treatments and other therapies, non-proliferation technologies and waste management solutions.

    To learn more about CNL, please visit www.cnl.ca.

    About the Sylvia Fedoruk Centre
    The Fedoruk Centre is a not-for-profit corporation with the University of Saskatchewan (USask) as its sole member and an independent board of directors appointed by the USask board of governors. The Fedoruk Centre board is responsible for providing high-level strategic direction and oversight of Fedoruk Centre operations.

    For more information about the Fedoruk Centre, visit: www.fedorukcentre.ca

    About Advanced Cyclotron Systems Inc.
    Advanced Cyclotron Systems, Inc. (ACSI) is a world leader in the design and manufacturing of cyclotron systems. With over 30 years of experience and more than 60 cyclotron systems installed, ACSI can provide a wide range of equipment and services worldwide. ACSI cyclotrons are used for the commercial production and distribution of PET and SPECT nuclides by internationally recognized companies and leading universities and research facilities. ACSI cyclotrons are designed, manufactured, and assembled in Richmond, Canada.

    ACSI offers a full spectrum of cyclotron systems ranging from PET cyclotrons to medium and high energy accelerators. All ACSI manufactured cyclotrons have variable energy and employ external ion source technology, offering the highest beam current output available on the market.

    The versatility, high beam current and exceptional quality of ACSI cyclotrons are the reasons why many of the world’s most prestigious universities and research centers, as well as some of the most successful commercial radioisotope producers have chosen ACSI cyclotrons to meet their radioisotope production needs.

    ACSI headquarters and manufacturing facility is located in Richmond, BC, Canada.

    For more information, please visit www.advancedcyclotron.com.

    CNL Contact:
    Philip Kompass
    Director, Corporate Communications
    1-866-886-2325
    media@cnl.ca

    Sylvia Fedoruk Centre Contact:
    Daniel Hallen
    USask Media Relations
    daniel.hallen@usask.ca  
    306-966-6922

    Advanced Cyclotron Systems Inc. Contact
    Alex Zyuzin
    Director of Research & Business Development
    azyuzin@advancedcyclotron.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/13192f18-235c-42e2-8bce-2e97b6df9c16

    The MIL Network –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to trial of online dialectical behavioural theory for emotion dysregulation in people with chronic pain

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    May 6, 2025

    Results from a trial published in JAMA Network Open looks at online dialectical behavioural theory for emotion dysregulation in people with chronic pain.

    Dr Whitney Scott, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Health Psychology, IoPPN, King’s College London, said:

    “This is an interesting trial that further highlights the importance of psychologically-based treatments to support the well-being of people with persistent pain. The online delivery format builds on a growing trend towards digital therapeutics to address significant challenges with treatment accessibility.

    “This is a relatively small trial that provides support for a larger study. It’s great to see that a larger trial is planned which can help to further understand the impact of the intervention, including in the longer-term. At present, while promising, there is a limit to what we can conclude from this study in terms of its impacts on future practice.

     “If the larger trial shows similar results, this will add to an established body of evidence showing the efficacy of psychologically-based treatments for people with pain. For example, there is already moderate quality evidence from a number of randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) that cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) improves distress in people with pain when compared to treatment as usual. The current RCT also uses a treatment as usual control group.

     “It’s also important to say that the iDBT-Pain treatment overlaps with elements of traditional CBT and other cognitive-behavioural approaches (mindfulness-based stress reduction, ACT). These treatments have already been widely studied and used in clinical practice to support people with persistent pain to respond more effectively to emotions. So, iDBT very much builds on the tools we already have to support people with pain.

     “The study reported good effects for emotion dysregulation, depression, and pain intensity that were maintained at 21-week follow-up. However, effects for anxiety and sleep problems were not maintained. No significant improvements were observed for pain interference with daily life. This is another key outcome in the pain field and one that is often the target of cognitive-behavioural treatments for people with persistent pain.

     “The online delivery format has the potential to increase accessibility for many people. However, this may not be true for everyone. It’s plausible that people with very high levels of emotion dysregulation, the key target of this intervention, may struggle with the remote format and may need an in-person format. Notably, people with ‘personality disorders’ were excluded which may represent individuals that particularly struggle with emotion dysregulation.”

     

    Dr Franziska Denk, Reader in Neuroscience, King’s College London, said:

    “To my mind, this paper will not significantly change our understanding of how to treat people with pain.

    “It has faced the same challenge faced by almost all behavioural intervention trials: how to placebo control effectively.

    “As it was carried out, this study ends up comparing apples and oranges: in the treatment group, we have people who are being listened to, affirmed and guided by medical professionals and their peers as part of an intensive 8-week treatment programme; in the ‘placebo’ group, we have people to whom nothing happens (as that is what ‘treatment in the community’ basically means). Obviously, the ones who are being cared for actively will fare better.”

     

    ‘Online Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for Emotion Dysregulation in People
    With Chronic Pain    ’ by Nell Norman-Nott et al. was published in JAMA Network Open at 16:00 UK time on Tuesday 6th May. 

     

    DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.6908

     

     

    Declared interests

    Dr Whitney Scott:I have received research funding from the International Association for the Study of Pain and National Institute for Health and Care Research for projects investigating online delivery of psychological treatment (specifically acceptance and commitment therapy) for people with persistent pain. I have received funds for travel to conferences where I have presented on some of this work. I also provide teaching on psychosocial aspects of persistent pain management as part of my paid employment.

    Dr Franziska Denk: I have no conflicts in relation to this paper.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: FDA Announces Expanded Use of Unannounced Inspections at Foreign Manufacturing Facilities

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    May 06, 2025

    Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced its intent to expand the use of unannounced inspections at foreign manufacturing facilities that produce foods, essential medicines, and other medical products intended for American consumers and patients. This change builds upon the agency’s Office of Inspection and Investigations Foreign Unannounced Inspection Pilot program in India and China and aims to ensure that foreign companies will receive the same level of regulatory oversight and scrutiny as domestic companies.  
    “For too long, foreign companies have enjoyed a double standard—given advanced notice before facility inspections, while American manufacturers are held to rigorous standards with no such warning. That ends today. This is a key step for the FDA as part of a broader strategy to get foreign inspections back on track,” said FDA Commissioner Martin A. Makary, M.D, M.P.H.  
    In addition, the FDA will evaluate the agency’s policies and practices for improvements to the foreign inspection program to ensure that the FDA is the gold standard for regulatory oversight. These changes will include clarifying policies for FDA investigators to refuse travel accommodations from regulated industry including lodging and transportation arrangements (taxi, limousine, and for-hire vehicle transit), to maintain the integrity of the oversight process.
    The FDA conducts approximately 12,000 domestic inspections and 3,000 foreign inspections each year in more than 90 countries. While U.S. manufacturers undergo frequent, unannounced inspections, foreign firms have often had weeks to prepare, undermining the integrity of the oversight process. Despite the advanced warning that foreign firms receive, the FDA still found serious deficiencies more than twice as often than during domestic inspections.  
    Only in specific programs and cases are the FDA’s domestic inspections pre-announced to assure that appropriate records and personnel will be available during the inspection. But regulated companies do not have the authority to negotiate the day or time of the inspection— nor should foreign companies have the capability to do so either. With this shift, the FDA is further ensuring that every product entering the U.S. is safe, legitimate, and honestly made. Unannounced inspections will also help expose bad actors—those who falsify records or conceal violations—before they can put American lives at risk. The FDA is authorized to take regulatory action against any firm that seeks to delay, deny, or limit an inspection, or refuses to permit entry for an unannounced drug or device inspection.
    “The FDA’s rigorous, science-based global inspections of manufacturing facilities ensure that the food and drug products that enter the U.S. marketplace, and the homes of American consumers, are safe, trusted, and accessible,” said FDA Assistant Commissioner for Inspections and Investigations Michael Rogers. “These inspections provide real-time evidence and insights that are essential for making fact-based regulatory decisions to protect public health.”
    The FDA’s global inspections generate real-time intelligence that strengthens enforcement and keeps American families safe. Every inspection goes through a classification assignment process to enable an appropriate regulatory response. Even inspections that yield a “No Action Indicated” provide important regulatory intelligence that strengthens the safety net for American consumers.   This expanded approach marks a new era in FDA enforcement—stronger, smarter, and unapologetically in support the public health and safety of Americans. For more information about FDA inspections, visit the Inspections Database Frequently Asked Questions and Inspections Yield Valuable Results, Regardless of Classification.
    ###

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    The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products.

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    Consumer:
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    Content current as of:
    05/06/2025

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Peeling back the layers of the Joint Task Force Southern Guard medical support system

    Source: United States SOUTHERN COMMAND

    A strong military operation relies on layers of support, each one reinforcing the next to keep the mission standing. The Joint Task Force Southern Guard medical team serves as the reinforced foundation, ensuring that service members remain fit for duty and that illegal aliens temporarily held at the Department of Homeland Security-led migrant operations center receive essential care.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks, Dean Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Healthcare Workers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ (IA-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representatives Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) and Madeleine Dean (D-PA) have introduced H.R. 3178, the Save Healthcare Workers Act, a bipartisan bill that would create federal penalties for individuals who knowingly and intentionally assault or intimidate hospital employees. Modeled after existing protections for flight crews and airport staff, the bill is aimed at addressing the rising violence facing healthcare professionals across the country.

    “As a physician, I know how important it is to ensure hospital personnel feel safe to provide quality care for their patients. With rising rates of violence in healthcare settings, burnout, and stress, it is critical we do all we can to improve workplace quality for healthcare professionals,” said Dr. Miller-Meeks. “The Save Healthcare Workers Act will advance legal protections to discourage such violence in America’s hospitals. I thank Rep. Dean for joining me in introducing this bill to protect hospital employees across Iowa and America.”

    “Healthcare workers devote their lives to our well-being — yet hospital employees face more and more incidents of violence in the workplace with no federal protections in place,” said Rep. Dean. “The legal penalties in the Save Healthcare Workers Act already exist for other workforces, like commercial flight crews, and extending these protections to hospital employees is simply the right thing to do. I’m grateful to work with Dr. Miller-Meeks on our bipartisan bill to ensure safety for our healthcare workers.”

    Background:

    In recent years, healthcare workers—especially those in hospitals—have reported increased incidents of violence and harassment that disrupt patient care and worsen stress and burnout in an already strained profession. Despite these trends, there is currently no federal law that protects hospital employees from targeted assault or intimidation.

    The bill includes protections for patients who may be mentally incapacitated due to illness or substance use and does not penalize individuals acting without intent.

    The Save Healthcare Workers Act is endorsed by major healthcare and hospital organizations, including the American Hospital Association, American College of Emergency Physicians, Emergency Nurses Association, and America’s Essential Hospitals.

    Read the full text of the bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ciscomani Hosts Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer in Tucson

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Ciscomani (Arizona)

    Ciscomani, Chavez-DeRemer Visit Pima Community College and Attend Roundtable with the Arizona Builders Alliance 

    TUCSON, AZ — U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani yesterday hosted Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer in Tucson to tour successful job training programs at Pima Community College and discuss collaborative efforts to build a stronger workforce pipeline. 

    “I can’t say enough how important community colleges are in workforce development,” Secretary Chavez-DeRemer said. “They are critical.” 

    At Ciscomani’s alma mater, the congressman and Secretary Chavez-DeRemer got a first-hand glimpse of state-of-the-art programs that train students in automotive technology, advanced manufacturing and construction trades.  

    Ciscomani, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer visit Pima Community College 

    “No matter where I go throughout the district, one of the top issues I hear is about workforce and the importance of workforce development,” Ciscomani told Pima Community College administrators and business leaders. “Community colleges are essential institutions that train and equip the workers of tomorrow with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive as productive members of the workforce. Institutions like this are vital, and I am proud to host Secretary Chavez-DeRemer at my alma mater.” 

    The discussion included Pima Community Chancellor Dr. Jeffrey Nasse, Joe Snell, President and CEO of the Chamber of Southern Arizona, Acting Provost and Vice Chancellor of Workforce Development and Innovation Ian Roark and local business leaders.  

    “We’re honored to welcome Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer and Congressman Juan Ciscomani to Pima Community College today,” said Pima Community College Chancellor Nasse. “Their visit underscores the critical importance of workforce development and validates the work PCC is doing every day with our industry partners. At Pima, it’s all about building real pathways to good jobs—and we do that by working hand-in-hand with employers and with key partners like the Chamber of Southern Arizona to grow a strong, regional workforce ecosystem.”   

    Ciscomani and the secretary then joined a roundtable discussion with members of the Arizona Builders Alliance to identify ways to address the workforce shortage for skilled construction workers and promote policies that reduce unnecessary red-tape and empower workers and businesses.  

    “You’re building Arizona. You’re building this country,” Ciscomani said. “The current shortage of skilled construction workers is driving costs higher and causing project delays. Secretary Chavez-DeRemer and I are focused on promoting and expanding education programs that bolster the workforce of skilled construction workers, support high-demand, well paying jobs, and support the vital construction industry.”  

    Ciscomani, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer attend roundtable hosted by the Arizona Builders Alliance 

    “I am incredibly grateful to my good friend, Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer for her leadership, commitment to empowering our workers, support for workforce development efforts, and for taking the time to meet with educators, business leaders, and employees in my district,” said Ciscomani. “Secretary Chavez-DeRemer is a fantastic partner, and I look forward to continuing working with her to deliver on our promise to America’s workforce.” 

    Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s visit to Arizona was the sixth stop on her “America at Work” nationwide listening tour. She is a former congresswoman and mayor who was sworn in as the nation’s 30th Labor Secretary on March 11, 2025. 

    “With strong growth in the construction industry thanks to President Trump, it’s critical the Labor Department continues our mission to upskill American workers by partnering with local leaders to fill these in-demand jobs,” said Secretary Chavez-DeRemer. “I enjoyed learning firsthand how educators and businesses in Tucson have developed pathways to successful, good-paying careers in construction and building trades. Thank you to my friend Congressman Ciscomani for showcasing these achievements and explaining the challenges facing Arizona’s 6th District. I look forward to collaborating on workforce solutions that continue growing our economy.” 

    Background:

    • Below is legislation Ciscomani has introduced to incentivize construction of affordable housing and develop and fund workforce development programs in community colleges:
      • In the 118th Congress, Ciscomani introduced the Grants for Resources in Occupational Workforce Training for Healthcare (GROWTH) Act (H.R. 6078) to provide additional funding to nursing programs at community colleges in order to address the national nursing workforce shortage.
      • In the 118th Congress, the Congressman introduced the Speeding Up Production of Essential Residences (SUPER) Demonstration Act (H.R. 9195) to utilize unused COVID-19 funds to create and fund a pilot program designed to reduce construction times by removing unnecessary regulatory requirements facing developers, which would in turn incentivize more private-sector investment.   
      • In February 2025, Ciscomani reintroduced the Creating Opportunities for New Skills Training at Rural and Underserved Colleges and Trade Schools (CONSTRUCTS) Act (H.R. 1055) to fund and develop residential construction education and certification program at community colleges, junior colleges, and trade schools.    

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Sues to Block Trump Administration’s Dangerous Dismantling of Health and Human Services Department

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today led a coalition of 19 other attorneys general in filing a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s unconstitutional dismantling of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Since taking office, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and the Trump administration have fired thousands of federal health workers, shuttered life-saving programs, and abandoned states to face mounting health crises without federal support. Last month, the administration escalated its attack on the department, launching a reckless, irrational, and dangerous restructuring that, in a single day, erased decades of public health progress and left HHS unable to execute many of its most vital functions. Attorney General James and the coalition argue that Secretary Kennedy and the Trump administration have robbed HHS of the resources necessary to effectively serve the American people and will be asking the court to halt the dismantling before even more lives are put at risk.

    “This administration is not streamlining the federal government; they are sabotaging it and all of us,” said Attorney General James. “When you fire the scientists who research infectious diseases, silence the doctors who care for pregnant patients, and shut down the programs that help firefighters and miners breathe or children thrive, you are not making America healthy – you are putting countless lives at risk.”

    On March 27, Secretary Kennedy revealed a dramatic restructuring of HHS as part of the president’s “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) initiative. The secretary announced that the department’s 28 agencies would be collapsed into 15, with many surviving offices shuffled or split apart. He also announced mass firings, slashing the department’s headcount from 85,000 to 65,000. On April 1, 10,000 employees were locked out of their work email, laptops, and offices without warning. Many only learned they had been terminated when they arrived at work to find their badges deactivated. In a matter of hours, critical HHS operations ground to a halt. Experiments were abandoned, trainings canceled, site visits postponed, and labs shuttered.

    Attorney General James and the coalition assert the impacts of this restructuring have been immediate and disastrous. Programs serving children and low-income families have been particularly devastated. With HHS regional offices shut down and grant funding frozen, Head Start centers are at risk of closing, depriving children of early education and foster families of critical support. Programs aiding children with disabilities, youth experiencing homelessness, and preschool development have been left in limbo. The administration also fired staff responsible for maintaining the federal poverty guidelines, which states rely on to determine eligibility for food assistance like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), housing support, Medicaid, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The entire team running the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) was terminated, a reckless decision amid extreme weather and rising energy costs.

    Mental health and substance use services have been completely gutted as a result of the administration’s restructuring. The administration fired hundreds of employees working on mental health and addiction treatment, including half of the entire workforce at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and closed all ten SAMHSA regional offices. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline team was slashed, and the National Survey on Drug Use and Health was halted, blinding policymakers to trends amid an escalating overdose crisis. Even the nation’s tobacco prevention agency was dismantled, despite tobacco-related deaths remaining the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S.

    The damage extends to reproductive health, disability services, and the fight against HIV and AIDS. Pregnant people and newborns have been put at risk after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) entire maternal health team was fired, collapsing the nation’s maternal mortality monitoring efforts. The federal fertility tracking program was shut down, stripping families of crucial information on access to IVF and family planning services. Sexual assault and domestic violence prevention efforts have been impacted, with much of the CDC Division of Violence Prevention reportedly fired or placed on leave. Sweeping layoffs at the Administration for Community Living (ACL) stand to devastate services for individuals with disabilities. The nation’s HIV/AIDS response has been undermined with expert scientists fired, prevention initiatives eliminated, and decades of hard-won progress undone in a matter of days.

    The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP), which provides life-saving care to more than 137,000 9/11 first responders and survivors, faces the loss of the physicians needed to certify new cancer diagnoses. Workers across the country, from nurses to construction crews, risk losing reliable access to N95 masks following the closure of the nation’s only federal mask approval laboratory. Several CDC labs tracking infectious diseases – including measles – were shuttered, paralyzing federal disease surveillance. In the absence of federal leadership, New York’s state lab is now scrambling to fill the void, as it is one of the only remaining labs in the nation with the ability to test for many rare diseases and complex sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

    Attorney General James and the coalition argue that this chaos and devastation are not just collateral damage, but the administration’s intended result. They allege the Trump administration has violated hundreds of laws, bypassed congressional authority, and trampled the constitutional separation of powers, ignoring laws that Congress enacted to protect public health and taking reckless action without regard for the consequences. Secretary Kennedy even publicly acknowledged he rejected a case-by-case review of terminations, saying he feared it would cost “political momentum.” As Attorney General James and the coalition write in the lawsuit, “the terminations and reorganizations happened quickly, but the consequences are severe, complicated, drawn-out, and potentially irreversible.”

    “The disastrous cuts to the WTC Health Program are placing in peril the lives of every first responder and survivor that relies on this health care program to stay alive,” said Gary Smiley, 9/11 First Responder and WTC Liaison for FDNY EMS Local 2507. “Every day there is doubt in these responders’ and survivors’ lives as to what will come next in their health battle. The Trump administration, by slashing research grants and proposals for new and emerging conditions to the bone, leaves them hopeless and Forgotten. The psychological impacts on these members are reprehensible. This is exactly the opposite of what this nation promised to each and every one of them: To Never Forget.”

    “Last month, the federal government suddenly closed five regional Head Start offices, including the one that serves New York. Providers were left scrambling, unable to contact anyone, and worried for the families who rely on them. Recertification applications are unresolved, and uncertainty about payments and the future of Head Start have caused a sense of panic among child care providers,” said Susan Stamler, Executive Director of United Neighborhood Houses. “The shrinking of HHS is clearly having devastating impacts on our neighborhoods and families. Jeopardizing child care is no way to help working parents. We stand proudly with Attorney General James as she fights to protect our communities and ensure every child has the care they deserve.”

    “The dismantling of Medicaid and the erasure of maternal health infrastructure reveal a devastating truth—mothers and babies are not a priority in this nation,” said Chanel Porchia-Albert, Founder and CEO of Ancient Song Doula Services. “In one of the wealthiest, most industrialized countries, we rank among the worst for maternal outcomes. If we do not invest now in data, programs, and policies rooted in equity and upliftment, we will bear the generational cost of this neglect. Maternal health must be a bipartisan priority—because the future of our communities depends on it.”

    “In 2024 alone, Housing Works has provided primary care to nearly 10,000 patients—70% covered by Medicaid or Duals,” said Anthony Feliciano, VP of Community Mobilization at Housing Works. “The Trump administration’s reckless dismantling of HHS directly threatens our ability to serve these communities. From HIV services to substance use support, this attack on public health infrastructure abandons the most vulnerable people in our state. These devastating cuts jeopardize decades of progress toward ending the HIV epidemic—an effort that is not only about public health, but about justice and dignity for our communities. Ending the epidemic is how we serve our people, and we refuse to allow this administration to turn its back on them.”

    Attorney General James and the coalition are urging the court to immediately halt the Trump administration’s unlawful dismantling of HHS and to require the restoration of critical health programs to protect the health and well-being of people nationwide.

    Joining Attorney General James in this lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African women at higher risk of pre-eclampsia – a dangerous pregnancy complication

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Annettee Nakimuli, Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Makerere University

    Pre-eclampsia is a danger to pregnant women. It’s a complication characterised by high blood pressure and organ damage, arising during the second half of pregnancy, in labour or in the first week after delivery.

    It plays a major role in about 16% of the deaths of pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa.

    And it’s on the rise: between 2010 and 2018, the incidence of pre-eclampsia in Africa jumped by around 20%.

    Pre-eclampsia usually occurs in young mothers during a first pregnancy. Girls under the age of 18 years are most at risk. The probability that a 15-year-old girl will die from complications of pregnancy is one in 150 in developing countries, versus one in 3,800 in developed countries, according to the World Health Organization.

    Not only does pre-eclampsia pose a serious health threat to women, it also harms babies. It contributes to stillbirth, preterm birth and low birth weight.

    Yet we still do not know enough about pre-eclampsia. This gap has driven my research into the disease.

    I conducted the first genetic case-control study on pre-eclampsia among African women in comparison to European women over a decade ago for my PhD research.

    My work revealed that both African and European populations have a gene (KIR AA genotype) that increases the chance of pre-eclampsia. However, African women are at greater risk of pre-eclampsia than other racial groups. This is because they’re more at risk of carrying a fetus with a C2-type HLA-C gene from the father. African populations have a higher frequency of this gene, which raises the likelihood of risky mother-fetus combinations.

    An additional finding from my research is that genetic protection from pre-eclampsia works differently across populations – and African populations carry unique protective genes. However, even with these additional protections, African women are at greater risk of developing severe pre-eclampsia due to the other challenges, like access to healthcare and socio-economic constraints.

    There’s inequality in the treatment of the condition too. In my experience, wealthier and better-educated African women often receive the necessary diagnosis and treatment. Poorer and less-educated African women too often do not.

    Pre-eclampsia research, especially in Africa, requires a lot more funding, as does broader research related to the maternal health of African women.

    Pre-eclampsia in Uganda

    Around 287,000 women worldwide die during pregnancy and childbirth every year. Shockingly, 70% of these are African women.

    Most of these deaths are preventable. For example, around 10% are the result of high blood pressure-related conditions during pregnancy.

    Uganda’s Ministry of Health recorded in 2023 that out of 1,276 maternal deaths reported, 16% were associated with high blood pressure.

    Hospitals are being overwhelmed by patients with the illness. For example, Kawempe National Referral Hospital in Kampala receives around 150 patients with the condition every month. It has set up a special ward to treat them.

    The maternal mortality rate (death due to complications from pregnancy or childbirth) in Uganda is 284 per 100,000 live births. In Australia it is 2.94. The neonatal mortality rate (death during the first 28 completed days of life) is 19 per 1,000 live births in Uganda against 2.37 in Australia. Infant mortality (death before a child turns one) is 31 per 1,000 live births in Uganda versus 3.7 in Australia, according to the WHO’s Global Health Observatory.

    This stark contrast highlights an enormous gap in care that the two countries’ pregnant mothers and babies receive.

    Part of the problem in Uganda, as in many developing countries, is persistent challenges in healthcare infrastructure. There are shortages of healthcare workers, medical supplies and facilities, particularly in the rural areas.

    Early detection is key

    As a clinician and researcher working at the centre of Uganda’s healthcare system, I witness mothers arriving at hospitals already in a critical condition, with limited options to treat the complications associated with pre-eclampsia. It is heartbreaking.

    The condition is both preventable and treatable if caught early. My research focuses on identifying biological signs of the likelihood of complications during pregnancy, using data analysis informed by Artificial Intelligence.

    These predictive biomarkers, as they are called, enable us to categorise patients based on their risk levels and identify those most likely to benefit from specific treatments or preventive measures.

    The precise causes of pre-eclampsia are not certain, but factors beyond genetics are thought to be problems with the immune system and inadequate development of the placenta. But much of what researchers know comes from work done in high-income countries, often with a limited sample size of African women.

    Consequently, the findings may not apply directly to the genetics of sub-Saharan African women. My research addresses this knowledge gap.

    Building on my findings about genetic determinants, I am leading a research team at Makerere University to design interventions tailored to specific prevention and treatment strategies for African populations.

    Raising pre-eclampsia awareness

    Research alone is not enough. There is an urgent need to bridge the gap between research and practice.

    During my fieldwork, I have witnessed first-hand how many Ugandan women are not aware of pre-eclampsia’s warning signs and miss out on vital prenatal care. These warning signs often include headache, disturbances with vision, upper pain in the right side of the abdomen and swelling of the legs.

    But we can develop screening algorithms so that healthcare professionals can rapidly diagnose women at higher risk early in their pregnancy. Timely intervention, including specific treatment and plans for delivery, would reduce the risk of adverse outcomes for both mother and baby.

    In my capacity as a national pre-eclampsia champion appointed by Uganda’s Ministry of Health, I am spearheading initiatives to raise awareness and improve access to maternal healthcare services.

    Through community outreach programmes and educational campaigns, we want to empower all women, rich and poor, with knowledge about the condition and encourage them to seek medical assistance at an early stage.

    More resources must be allocated to genetics research to realise our goals of prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment of pre-eclampsia and its associated complications.

    This investment will drive the development of predictive technology for precise diagnosis, and enable timely intervention for at-risk mothers.

    Moreover, investigating the genetic roots of pre-eclampsia could lead to novel therapies that reduce the need for costly medical procedures or prolonged care for those affected.

    This would reduce the strain on already overburdened African healthcare systems.

    – African women at higher risk of pre-eclampsia – a dangerous pregnancy complication
    – https://theconversation.com/african-women-at-higher-risk-of-pre-eclampsia-a-dangerous-pregnancy-complication-249222

    MIL OSI Africa –

    May 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: African women at higher risk of pre-eclampsia – a dangerous pregnancy complication

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Annettee Nakimuli, Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Makerere University

    Pre-eclampsia is a danger to pregnant women. It’s a complication characterised by high blood pressure and organ damage, arising during the second half of pregnancy, in labour or in the first week after delivery.

    It plays a major role in about 16% of the deaths of pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa.

    And it’s on the rise: between 2010 and 2018, the incidence of pre-eclampsia in Africa jumped by around 20%.

    Pre-eclampsia usually occurs in young mothers during a first pregnancy. Girls under the age of 18 years are most at risk. The probability that a 15-year-old girl will die from complications of pregnancy is one in 150 in developing countries, versus one in 3,800 in developed countries, according to the World Health Organization.

    Not only does pre-eclampsia pose a serious health threat to women, it also harms babies. It contributes to stillbirth, preterm birth and low birth weight.

    Yet we still do not know enough about pre-eclampsia. This gap has driven my research into the disease.

    I conducted the first genetic case-control study on pre-eclampsia among African women in comparison to European women over a decade ago for my PhD research.

    My work revealed that both African and European populations have a gene (KIR AA genotype) that increases the chance of pre-eclampsia. However, African women are at greater risk of pre-eclampsia than other racial groups. This is because they’re more at risk of carrying a fetus with a C2-type HLA-C gene from the father. African populations have a higher frequency of this gene, which raises the likelihood of risky mother-fetus combinations.

    An additional finding from my research is that genetic protection from pre-eclampsia works differently across populations – and African populations carry unique protective genes. However, even with these additional protections, African women are at greater risk of developing severe pre-eclampsia due to the other challenges, like access to healthcare and socio-economic constraints.

    There’s inequality in the treatment of the condition too. In my experience, wealthier and better-educated African women often receive the necessary diagnosis and treatment. Poorer and less-educated African women too often do not.

    Pre-eclampsia research, especially in Africa, requires a lot more funding, as does broader research related to the maternal health of African women.

    Pre-eclampsia in Uganda

    Around 287,000 women worldwide die during pregnancy and childbirth every year. Shockingly, 70% of these are African women.

    Most of these deaths are preventable. For example, around 10% are the result of high blood pressure-related conditions during pregnancy.

    Uganda’s Ministry of Health recorded in 2023 that out of 1,276 maternal deaths reported, 16% were associated with high blood pressure.

    Hospitals are being overwhelmed by patients with the illness. For example, Kawempe National Referral Hospital in Kampala receives around 150 patients with the condition every month. It has set up a special ward to treat them.

    The maternal mortality rate (death due to complications from pregnancy or childbirth) in Uganda is 284 per 100,000 live births. In Australia it is 2.94. The neonatal mortality rate (death during the first 28 completed days of life) is 19 per 1,000 live births in Uganda against 2.37 in Australia. Infant mortality (death before a child turns one) is 31 per 1,000 live births in Uganda versus 3.7 in Australia, according to the WHO’s Global Health Observatory.

    This stark contrast highlights an enormous gap in care that the two countries’ pregnant mothers and babies receive.

    Part of the problem in Uganda, as in many developing countries, is persistent challenges in healthcare infrastructure. There are shortages of healthcare workers, medical supplies and facilities, particularly in the rural areas.

    Early detection is key

    As a clinician and researcher working at the centre of Uganda’s healthcare system, I witness mothers arriving at hospitals already in a critical condition, with limited options to treat the complications associated with pre-eclampsia. It is heartbreaking.

    The condition is both preventable and treatable if caught early. My research focuses on identifying biological signs of the likelihood of complications during pregnancy, using data analysis informed by Artificial Intelligence.

    These predictive biomarkers, as they are called, enable us to categorise patients based on their risk levels and identify those most likely to benefit from specific treatments or preventive measures.

    The precise causes of pre-eclampsia are not certain, but factors beyond genetics are thought to be problems with the immune system and inadequate development of the placenta. But much of what researchers know comes from work done in high-income countries, often with a limited sample size of African women.

    Consequently, the findings may not apply directly to the genetics of sub-Saharan African women. My research addresses this knowledge gap.

    Building on my findings about genetic determinants, I am leading a research team at Makerere University to design interventions tailored to specific prevention and treatment strategies for African populations.

    Raising pre-eclampsia awareness

    Research alone is not enough. There is an urgent need to bridge the gap between research and practice.

    During my fieldwork, I have witnessed first-hand how many Ugandan women are not aware of pre-eclampsia’s warning signs and miss out on vital prenatal care. These warning signs often include headache, disturbances with vision, upper pain in the right side of the abdomen and swelling of the legs.

    But we can develop screening algorithms so that healthcare professionals can rapidly diagnose women at higher risk early in their pregnancy. Timely intervention, including specific treatment and plans for delivery, would reduce the risk of adverse outcomes for both mother and baby.

    In my capacity as a national pre-eclampsia champion appointed by Uganda’s Ministry of Health, I am spearheading initiatives to raise awareness and improve access to maternal healthcare services.

    Through community outreach programmes and educational campaigns, we want to empower all women, rich and poor, with knowledge about the condition and encourage them to seek medical assistance at an early stage.

    More resources must be allocated to genetics research to realise our goals of prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment of pre-eclampsia and its associated complications.

    This investment will drive the development of predictive technology for precise diagnosis, and enable timely intervention for at-risk mothers.

    Moreover, investigating the genetic roots of pre-eclampsia could lead to novel therapies that reduce the need for costly medical procedures or prolonged care for those affected.

    This would reduce the strain on already overburdened African healthcare systems.

    Annettee Nakimuli receives funding from the Gates Foundation, GSK and the Royal Society.

    – ref. African women at higher risk of pre-eclampsia – a dangerous pregnancy complication – https://theconversation.com/african-women-at-higher-risk-of-pre-eclampsia-a-dangerous-pregnancy-complication-249222

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 7, 2025
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