NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rātā Foundation appoints Megan Glen to Investment Committee

    Source: Rata Foundation

    Rātā Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Megan Glen to its Investment Committee.
    Rātā Foundation is the South Island’s most significant community investment fund, managing a $700 million pūtea (fund) that generates around $26 million per annum to invest in its funding regions of Canterbury, Nelson, Marlborough, and the Chatham Islands. They invest sustainably, with goals linked to people and the community.
    Megan is a director in Forsyth Barr’s investment banking team, based in Auckland, advising large private and public entities on capital raisings and M&A transactions.
    Rātā Foundation’s Chief Executive says, “Megan brings significant investment asset management experience from her time in the direct investments team at the NZ Superannuation Fund, where she was responsible for managing and transacting a portfolio of private direct investments and had the opportunity to sit on the Boards of a number of NZ Super’s investee companies.”
    She also brings over 14 years of corporate finance experience, having worked as an investment banker in New Zealand and New York, advising on capital raisings, M&A, and refinancing transactions. Megan is also currently a member of the New Zealand Takeovers Panel, the Government’s regulator of the corporate takeover market. 
    “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute my experience and perspectives working with the Rātā team to help guide their investment decisions, aligned with a common, motivating purpose,” says Ms Glen.”The Rātā investment strategy and beliefs differentiate it as a capital partner, and I believe that differentiation will allow Rātā to access valuable opportunities to deliver superior risk-adjusted returns while providing sustainable value to support the communities Rātā invests in.”
    Alignment of investors and objectives is critical to de-risking and driving investment performance. Generating investment returns always carries a degree of risk and the alignment of stakeholders is one of the best defenses to navigating turbulent times,” she says.
    Mr Evans says that Megan’s appointment is exciting and her experience will be hugely beneficial as Rātā focuses on its direct investment strategy.
    “Megan will strengthen the investment capability of the Committee by bringing both institutional investment knowledge and supporting informed decision-making, particularly around our direct investment strategy.”
    Megan has replaced Andrew Johnson who was on the Investment Committee since March 2019.
    “I would like to thank Andrew for his valuable insights over the past few years, particularly around the shift from a defensive to a more growth-orientated portfolio, which has set Rātā up for a bright and positive future,” says Mr Evans. 
    About Rātā Foundation
    Rātā Foundation is South Island’s most significant community investment fund, managing a $700 million pūtea that generates around $26 million per annum to invest in its funding regions of Canterbury, Nelson, Marlborough, and the Chatham Islands. The long-term strategic objective of Rātā is to invest in communities to enable a higher standard of community well-being. We intend to grow our investment portfolio so that we can increase our long-term funding distribution
    For more information about the investment approach of Rātā please visit https://ratainvest.org.nz/
    For more information on the social impact provided through community investment please visit https://ratafoundation.org.nz/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Raising funds for devices to detect heart disease early

    Source: Kia Manawanui Trust | The Heart of Aotearoa New Zealand

    Thousands of Kiwis may be living with an undiagnosed heart condition that could put their lives at risk.
    Atrial fibrillation (AF), a serious heart condition that can lead to stroke and heart failure if undiagnosed, affects 1 in 35 Kiwis aged between 35 and 74.
    Yet, many communities – particularly rural areas and among Māori and Pacific people – lack access to heart scan devices (ECGs) that could detect AF early and prevent life-threatening complications.
    This week, The Heart of Aotearoa launched a campaign to get as many portable ECG devices into underserved communities across New Zealand. For every $350 raised, a GP practice or community-based specialist nurse will receive a KardiaMobile ECG, a device that can identify AF in about 30 seconds.
    The Heart of Aotearoa Chief Executive Ms Letitia Harding says too many people are missing the chance to catch AF before it’s too late.
    “We know that people are missing out on life-saving heart checks because of difficulties with access to ECG machines.
    “That means people are potentially missing out on early diagnosis and treatment.”
    Māori and Pacific people are disproportionately impacted by AF, and are diagnosed 10 years younger than other ethnicities, Ms Harding says.
    “Early detection of AF, which mainly affects our most vulnerable communities, can ultimately save lives. That’s why The Heart of Aotearoa wants to help.”
    Ms Harding says this campaign is more than just funding a piece of medical equipment.
    “It’s about coming up with a practical solution to reduce the potential risks of stroke or heart failure that comes with undiagnosed AF by speeding up access to diagnosis and treatment.”
    The Heart of Aotearoa Medical Director, and cardiologist, Dr Sarah Fairley says having equitable access to routine diagnostic procedures and treatment is essential.
    “However, the current reality is that access is not equal throughout the country, and there are now long waitlists for all sorts of diagnostic tests and treatments across New Zealand’s heart healthcare system.”
    Ms Harding says The Heart of Aotearoa – Kia Manawanui Trust is on a mission to improve access, equity and outcomes for those impacted by cardiovascular conditions.
    “Currently our system is severely underfunded, under-resourced, and under-staffed – putting lives at risk – and that’s what we are hoping to change.”
    Heart disease is the leading cause of death in New Zealand.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – Research finds significant shortfalls in early intervention psychosis services – Vic

    Source: Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

    A survey of early intervention services for people suffering from psychosis has found medical care is not being provided early enough, with many patients not seen until after they have been hospitalised. Researchers say these shortfalls are linked to a lack of resources.

    “A key purpose of early intervention is to provide care before a person’s condition worsens and they need hospital treatment. However, we found the ‘early’ part of early psychosis care is significantly lacking in New Zealand,” said Dr Rebecca Grattan, lead author of the study and a psychology lecturer at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.

    The study surveyed all 12 early intervention psychosis services in New Zealand, assessing them against international standards for care. These services were set up to provide treatment for people suffering from psychosis symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions, in the first two years of symptoms occurring.

    “One of the accepted international standards for early psychosis care is that at least 80 percent of patients are seen before their symptoms are so severe they end up in hospital. However, just one of the 12 services we surveyed was able to meet this standard,” said Dr Grattan.

    The study also found most services restricted access by setting age limits for treatment.

    “Age limits for care differed across the services. The lower end of the age range varied from 13 to 18 years and the upper end from 25 to 30 years. While younger people are more at risk of psychosis, people in older age groups can also experience symptoms. Age restrictions mean there will be at-risk people who won’t be eligible to receive care.”

    A lack of services in some areas, particularly rural areas, was also identified by the study.

    “Some areas don’t have a dedicated early intervention psychosis service. This is more likely to affect people living in rural areas, including rural areas with a high Māori population, which are not well-served.”

    When early intervention services can be accessed, the survey results suggest the care patients receive is comparable to that in Canada and California where similar studies have been done, said Dr Grattan.  

    “Services in New Zealand appear to be meeting many of the standards considered to be best practice, such as completing comprehensive initial assessments and providing care for up to two years. The big problem they face is having the resources to provide care early enough to everyone who needs it,” she said.

    Results of the study have been published in the journal Early Intervention in Psychiatry. The study was carried out from 2022 to 2024.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Backgrounder: Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (Investments in Training Equipment) 

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy

    The Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (CAS) aims to support a trades workforce that is skilled, inclusive, certified and productive. The CAS funds projects that aim to:

    • promote the skilled trades as a good career option;
    • develop initiatives that help Canadians explore, prepare for, participate and succeed in apprenticeship;
    • facilitate the participation of employers and unions in apprenticeship; and
    • encourage innovative tools and approaches to better prepare pre-apprentices, apprentices and journeypersons for the jobs of tomorrow.

    CAS Investments in Training Equipment

    The CAS Investments in Training Equipment funding stream helps eligible organizations improve the quality of training through the purchase of equipment and materials that meet the latest industry standards or through investments in new technology needed to train workers in the Red Seal trades.

    Eligible organizations include unions representing Red Seal trades workers, organizations managing their own training funds, and training providers that deliver technical training to apprentices as part of a recognized curriculum for a Red Seal trade.

    This funding stream helps training providers improve the quality of training through investments in equipment and materials. It provides recipients with up to 50% of the cost of new, up-to-date equipment and materials, to train pre-apprentices and apprentices in the Red Seal trades. The 50% leveraging requirement reflects the benefit to the recipient of a capital purchase.

    This year, the Government is implementing a continuous intake to receive and assess project applications. This will allow for faster application assessment and allocation of funding. There is no application end date to this call for proposals.

    Organizations in Quebec are not eligible for the proposed Investments in Training Equipment continuous intake.  In Quebec apprenticeship training happens in the education system prior to registering with an employer as an apprentice. The Government of Canada supports the important goals of training apprentices through a separate funding agreement.  

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Decision-making authority under the WHO pandemic prevention, preparedness and response accord – E-002977/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As outlined on the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) webpage[1], under the draft WHO pandemic agreement on prevention, preparedness, and response, decision-making during a pandemic remains with the future parties to that agreement.

    The current draft of the agreement[2] reaffirms ‘the principle of the sovereignty of States in addressing public health matters’.

    In addition, Article 24, paragraph 2 of the draft agreement clarifies that ‘Nothing in the WHO Pandemic Agreement shall be interpreted as providing the WHO Secretariat, including the WHO Director-General, any authority to direct, order, alter or otherwise prescribe the national and/or domestic laws, as appropriate, or policies of any Party, or to mandate or otherwise impose any requirements that Parties take specific actions, such as ban or accept travellers, impose vaccination mandates or therapeutic or diagnostic measures or implement lockdowns’.

    A guiding principle of the draft agreement is the full respect for the dignity, human rights and fundamental freedoms of persons.

    The aim of the agreement is to help prevent, be prepared for, and respond to future pandemic emergencies and hence help preserve people’s ability to travel, work, seek education, and lead a healthy life free of avoidable disease, as called for by the WHO Constitution.

    The agreement will not affect the responsibility of Member States for ‘the definition of their health policy and for the organisation and delivery of health services and medical care’ as enshrined in Article 168(7) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.

    • [1] See reply to the question ‘How much authority could an accord have over signatory countries? Will it take sovereignty away from signatory countries?’ at https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/pandemic-prevention–preparedness-and-response-accord
    • [2] Available at https://apps.who.int/gb/ebwha/pdf_files/WHA77/A77_10-en.pdf

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Spanish Government’s strategy to decommission nuclear power plants – E-000267/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Spain has confirmed its plans to phase out nuclear energy by 2035 in the recently submitted National Energy and Climate Plan[1]. The choice of the energy resources in the energy mix, including the decision to use or not use nuclear energy, remains within the remit of each Member State in accordance with the provisions of the EU legislation[2].

    The Commission does not intervene in such decisions while it recognises that securing supplies of clean and affordable energy is critical for European competitiveness, security, and EU’s future climate neutrality.

    As reflected in the recently announced Competitiveness Compass[3], the Commission’s aim is to ensure that t he transition to a decarbonised economy is competitiveness-friendly and technology-neutral, while the shift to cleaner and cost-efficient sources of energy must reduce energy costs and price volatility.

    As part of the proposals to accompany its Clean Industrial Deal, the Commission presented on 26 February 2025 an Action Plan for Affordable Energy[4].

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/211d83b7-b6d9-4bb8-b084-4a3bfb4cad3e_es?filename=ES%20-%20FINAL%20UPDATED%20NECP%202021-2030%20%28Spanish%29.pdf
    • [2] Article 194 of the Treaty on Functioning of the European Union.
    • [3] A competitiveness compass for the EU: https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/10017eb1-4722-4333-add2-e0ed18105a34_en
    • [4] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/document/download/7e2e6198-b6b8-46fe-b263-984b437da3ab_en?filename=Communication%20-%20Action%20Plan%20for%20Affordable%20Energy.pdf
    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Territorial continuity and island transport: achieving transparency and sustainability – E-002636/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. EU rules provide for open markets in maritime[1] and air services[2] aiming to reduce prices for consumers through competition between operators.

    Where the market fails to provide adequate connections, EU rules provide the possibility for Member States to set up public service obligations to ensure sufficient connectivity, including for islands. It is for Member States to define specific operational conditions and ensure they are met.

    Operators must in principle ensure ticket prices offered to the public are non-discriminatory[3] and that passenger rights are respected in line with EU Passenger Rights Regulations[4]. Furthermore, for air services, airlines and ticket intermediaries must always display the final ticket price including all applicable taxes, charges and surcharges, and the price of optional supplements. It is for the Member States to enforce these rules.

    2. The Commission supports island regions in their transition to sustainable economies. Trans-European transport network policy aims to develop high-quality, interconnected transport infrastructure across the EU, including links to islands and in support of the wider concept of ‘European Maritime Space’[5].

    3. Cohesion policy investments are already focusing on passenger and freight transport capacity to improve Italy’s transport infrastructure and reduce divergence with EU partners and within Italy. They are concentrated largely in less developed and island regions, aiming at enhancing accessibility, territorial cohesion and transport sustainability.

    • [1] Regulation 3577/92 covers services within the Member States and Regulation 4055/86 services between the Member States.
      https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A31992R3577
      https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A31986R4055
    • [2] Regulation (EC) No 1008/2008.
      https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2008/1008/oj/eng
    • [3] Article 23(2) of Regulation (EC) No 1008/2008 and Article 4(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1177/2010.
    • [4] In particular Regulation (EU) No 1177/2010 for waterborne transport https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32010R1177&from=NL and Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 for air transport https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32004R0261
    • [5] https://transport.ec.europa.eu/transport-themes/infrastructure-and-investment/trans-european-transport-network-ten-t/european-maritime-space_en
    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Risk posed by the operation of an illegal airport in occupied Cyprus and the need for aviation security measures – E-002776/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issues recommendations (Conflict Zone Information Bulletins — CZIBs) for areas where an armed conflict can pose a significant security risk to EU civil aviation. Before issuing a CZIB, the Agency shall obtain the agreement of the Commission and consult the Member States.

    The risk to aviation posed by the operational activities of Ercan airport, as described by the Honourable Member, do not fall within the scope of EASA recommendations resulting from armed conflict.

    Eurocontrol is the designated Network manager under the Single European Sky Regulation in accordance with Commission Implementing Decision 2019/709 of 6 May 2019[1] and its membership as intergovernmental organisation also includes Türkiye.

    Eurocontrol is continuously monitoring and coordinating air traffic management on a pan-European basis, including in the region in question.

    Data from the Network manager show that traffic to and from Türkiye, which is the only traffic possible for this airport, has remained stable for some time.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2019/709/oj/eng
    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Concrete measures in respect of Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 – E-003026/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The obligation to ensure that the rights of passengers under Regulation (EC) No 261/2004[1] are respected lies with the national authorities of the Member States, the so-called national enforcement bodies (NEBs). In its legislative proposal on ‘Enforcement of passenger rights in the EU’[2], the Commission aims at strengthening the role of the NEBs by mandating them to perform compliance monitoring activities based on risk assessment and to investigate suspected practices of non-compliance by carriers.

    2. In order to ensure a more effective complaint handling for passengers, the Commission proposal introduces clear deadlines and includes rules on intermediaries, such as online booking platforms. It also provides for the adoption of a standardised reimbursement and compensation request form to make it easier for passengers to submit their claims. Furthermore, carriers and terminal managers would be obliged to adopt and implement service quality standards, notably regarding complaint handling.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2004/261/oj/eng
    • [2] COM(2023) 753 final; 2023/0437(COD).
    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Defective building blocks in Ireland – E-002738/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In July 2024, the Commission opened an infringement procedure[1] against Ireland for not carrying out market surveillance as required by the Construction Products Regulation (EU) 305/2011[2]. The Commission is assessing Ireland’s reply to the letter of formal notice.

    The Product Liability Directive 85/374/EEC[3] lays down rules on producers’ liability for damages caused by defective products. Victims can claim compensation for damage to, or destruction of, their property. The directive also covers construction materials used in buildings.

    To obtain compensation, victims must prove defectiveness of the product and the consequent damage caused, without having to prove fault or negligence from the producer.

    Compensation for the defective product itself is excluded from the directive. The directive specifies that the damage caused by the product must be compensated in full. Where a producer is established outside the EU or cannot be identified, importers or suppliers can be held liable on its behalf.

    Consumers who bought defective construction materials from professional sellers also have rights under the Sale of Goods Directive[4], including the right to rescind the sales contract.

    Sellers are liable for the lack of conformity that becomes apparent during a period of two years from delivery. Member States can provide for longer liability periods in national law[5].

    Member States have a primary responsibility to monitor and enforce the application of the relevant legal provisions. The Commission will continue to monitor the situation and may decide to take appropriate action.

    National market surveillance authorities are responsible for checking manufacturers’ compliance with their obligations under Regulation (EU) 305/2011.

    • [1] INFR(2024)4003: https://ec.europa.eu/atwork/applying-eu-law/infringements-proceedings/infringement_decisions/?langCode=EN&version=v1&typeOfSearch=byDecision&page=1&size=10&order=desc&sortColumns=decisionDate&refId=INFR(2024)4003&activeCase=true
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:02011R0305-20241117
    • [3] Directive (EU) 2024/2853 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2024 on liability for defective products and repealing Council Directive 85/374/EEC.
    • [4] Directive (EU) 2019/771 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2019 on certain aspects concerning contracts for the sale of goods. The directive applies to sales contracts concluded from 1 June 2022 and similar rules applied under Directive 1999/44/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 May 1999 on certain aspects of the sale of consumer goods and associated guarantees. to contracts conclude before that date.
    • [5] For example, in Ireland national law goes beyond the minimum requirements of the directive and provides a general six-year limitation period for contract claims.
    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Evaluation of the EU’s Flight Emissions Label and its environmental comparability approach – E-000192/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission shares the importance of ensuring a level playing field and providing consumers with accurate information to make informed choices and to allow the comparison of emissions between different modes of transport.

    In this context, the Commission has adopted in 2023 a proposal for CountEmissions EU[1], which is currently being discussed by co-legislators in the legislative procedure.

    The Flight Emissions Label (FEL)[2] was established under the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation[3] as part of the political agreement reached by co-legislators, and it entered into force on 1 January 2025.

    FEL was developed in such a way that its methodology is coherent and consistent with the one proposed under the CountEmissions EU proposal.

    Airlines operating flights within the EU or departing from the EU will be able to voluntarily join this label which will be fully operational as of July 2025.

    The Commission will report to the co-legislators on the implementation of FEL by July 2027, drawing on the preparatory action ‘Environmental Label for Aviation’ delegated to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency[4].

    • [1] Proposal for a REGULATION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL on the accounting of greenhouse gas emissions of transport services, COM(2023) 441 final.
    • [2] Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/3170 of 18 December 2024 laying down detailed provisions concerning the voluntary environmental labelling scheme for the estimation of the environmental performance of flights, established pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EU) 2023/2405 of the European Parliament and of the Council (Flight Emissions Label).
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2023/2405 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 October 2023 on ensuring a level playing field for sustainable air transport (ReFuelEU Aviation).
    • [4] COMMISSION DECISION of 5.4.2024 on the financing of pilot projects and preparatory actions in the field of transport and the adoption of the work programme for 2024.
    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Romania’s Făget Sud – Colonia Făget area in need of urgent protection as a proposed Natura 2000 site – E-000333/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. + 2. The insufficiencies in the Sites of Community Interest (SCI) part of Romania’s Natura 2000 network are subject to an ongoing infringement[1], as mentioned by the Honourable Member. However, the assessment of the information available carried out as part of this infringement indicates no insufficiencies regarding the habitats and species protected in the site ROSCI0074 Făgetul Clujului — Valea Morii, including in the wider area of the site. Thus, the Commission cannot establish any breach of the Habitats Directive[2] and will not enlarge the scope of this infringement procedure against Romania on the basis of the Făget Sud — Colonia Făget area .

    3. Due to the infringement mentioned above, Romania has taken steps to address insufficiencies in the SCI part of its Natura 2000 network (e.g. by launching an ongoing project which is expected to deliver results by the end of 2025).  Cohesion policy supports projects focused on the maintenance and increase of biodiversity in Natura 2000 sites. In 2021 — 2027 programming period the national programme for sustainable development has an allocation of EUR 150 million for these actions .  In its role as guardian of the Treaties, the Commission will continue monitoring the situation and, where necessary, may decide to take appropriate action.

    • [1] INFR(2019)2138: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/inf_23_142
    • [2] Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the protection of natural habitats and wild fauna and flora, OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p. 7-50.
    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash in Browns Bay

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can confirm one person has died following a serious crash in Browns Bay last night.

    The crash involved a single vehicle and was reported on Beach Road at around 7.50pm on 18 March.

    Sadly, Police can confirm that the sole male occupant of the vehicle has died.

    The Serious Crash Unit carried out a scene examination last night.

    Enquiries will be made on behalf of the Coroner into the man’s death.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Gotta catch ’em: Suspect charged after Onix-ceptable Poké heist

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A member of the public would have made Detective Pikachu and Officer Jenny proud, after helping Police locate a man accused of stealing highly sought after Pokémon cards.

    At 9.50pm on Tuesday 18 March, Police were called to a Tuwharetoa Street store after a reported break-in. The offender smashed a glass panel to gain entry and placed Pokémon trading cards, worth more than $2200, into bags.

    A member of the public saw the suspicious activity and – prepared for trouble – called Police while taking video of a suspect walking away.

    Thanks to that information, officers tracked a man to a nearby bar, where he was taken into custody and the cards recovered.

    The man is also a suspect in an incident on 9 November, when Pokémon cards worth more than $500 were taken from the same store. Those cards have not been recovered.

    A 35-year-old man has been charged with burglary, shoplifting and resisting Police. He is due to appear in the Taupō District Court today, 19 March.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Nelson commercial fisher fined $34,000 over failure to continuously operate GPR device

    Source: Ministry for Primary Industries

    A Nelson commercial fisher who failed to continuously operate an electronic monitoring device while fishing, has been fined $34,000.

    Regulations require all commercial fishers to carry and use a geospatial positioning device which transmits data to the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) showing a vessel’s location and enabling Fisheries New Zealand to compare the data with the vessel’s catch reports.

    Campbell David McManaway (61) was sentenced (18 March) in the Nelson District Court on 2 charges under fisheries regulations following a successful prosecution by MPI.

    “All commercial fishing vessels must have their geospatial positioning device on at all times. This is important for keeping our fisheries sustainable because it means we know where people are fishing and it ensures they are complying with fishing activity reporting requirements and staying out of closed areas,” says Fisheries New Zealand district manager Otago/Timaru, Ian Henderson.

    When sentencing, Judge AJS Snell considered an aggravating feature of the offending was that Mr McManaway had been warned by a fishery officer that his geospatial position reporting (GPR) was not working, adding that he took a cavalier approach.

    The offending occurred when commercial fishing vessel ‘Cando’, skippered by Mr McManaway went on a fishing trip, diving for kina between Moeraki and Shag point.

    “A fishery officer contacted Mr McManaway and told him his GPR aboard the ‘Cando’ had not been working during a previous trip and that he must fix this problem before he fished again.”

    “Mr McManaway was given opportunities to comply with the requirement to have a working GPR aboard his boat, but failed to do so,” Mr Henderson says.

    “Our advice to fishers who are having problems with their electronic monitoring devices is to get in touch with their device provider to get advice on how to get it fixed or contact us if there is a technical fault which can’t be resolved by their provider.”

    “The data gathered from electronic monitoring supports good fisheries management,” says Ian Henderson.

    People are encouraged to do their part in protecting our fisheries by reporting any suspicious fishing to 0800 4 POACHER (0800 47 62 24) or poacher@mpi.govt.nz

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

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tree removal work underway on SH2 Otoko Hill until April

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    A stretch of State Highway 2 Otoko Hill will be under stop/stop traffic management from tomorrow (Wednesday 19 March) for vegetation clearance.

    Tomorrow’s start date is an update to an earlier traffic bulletin referring to upcoming vegetation clearance.

    Transport Rebuild East Coast (TREC), on behalf of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, is currently working on the final 3 recovery sites at Otoko Hill.

    Tree removal is required as part of the recovery work and starts tomorrow between Hihiroroa Road and Fitzgerald Road.

    Crews will be working on site to clear the vegetation Monday to Friday 7am to 5pm, with delays of up to 15 minutes expected at the site, while trees are removed, with the potential for longer wait times occasionally.

    Pilot vehicles are being used to escort road users through the site safely.

    The vegetation clearance is expected to take 4 weeks to complete.

    Please expect for delays and plan your trip to factor these in.

    Work has been underway at Otoko Hill north of Gisborne since last winter on a number of sites, including repairs to underslips, overslips and extensive improvements to drainage.

    Work between Hihiroroa Road and Fitzgerald Road began earlier this month to install extensive counterfort drains on both upward and downward slopes to help reduce water pressure in the hills, channelling it away from the road.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Procurement underway for Northland Corridor Section 1, Ara Tūhono – Warkworth to Te Hana

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is inviting interested parties to express their interest in delivering the first section of the Northland Corridor Ara Tūhono – Warkworth to Te Hana, a major transport project designed to improve safety, resilience and efficiency between Auckland and Northland.

    Following extensive market engagement, Registrations of Interest (ROI) for the project opened on Friday:

    Invitation for Registrations of Interest (ROI) – Northland Corridor – Section 1 (Warkworth to Te Hana) Public Private Partnership(external link) 

    The ROI, which marks the start of the procurement process, was announced by Transport Minister, Hon. Chris Bishop, last week, in the lead up to the NZ Infrastructure Investment Summit. 

    “This is a major milestone for the development of Northland’s transport network,” says NZTA Northland Corridor Programme Director, Derek Robertson. 

    “The three Roads of National Significance that make up the Northland Corridor will support economic growth and productivity, reduce congestion, improve safety, support housing development, and improve freight connections to the wider Upper North Island.” 

    “The Ara Tūhono – Warkworth to Te Hana section is the most advanced part of the corridor in terms of consents, property acquisition and design, meaning we can start construction sooner than the other sections.” 

    The indicative design for the 26km four-lane highway includes an 850m tunnel in the Dome valley and three interchanges at Warkworth, Wellsford and Te Hana. These improvements will address the known safety and resilience challenges in the Dome valley, a critical freight and passenger route. 

    The project will be delivered under a Public Private Partnership (PPP), with the current Registration of Interest process marking the first stage of procurement. This will be followed by formal Expression of Interest (EOI) process that will get underway before the end of the month, and a Request for Proposal (RFP) in mid-2025 for up to three shortlisted bidders, with a preferred bidder expected to be announced in early 2026 and contract finalised by the middle of next year. 

    “We would like to thank both the New Zealand based and international contractors, investors and maintenance and operations for their contributions during the market engagement process. 

    “We have heard a lot about how things can be done more collaboratively, quickly and with great outcomes for partners and the community. Their valuable insights have helped us shape up the PPP procurement approach.” 

    Detailed design and construction are expected to start in late 2026. 

    NZTA is also advancing plans for the remaining sections, including an alternative route to the Brynderwyn Hills. Decisions on section 2 Te Hana to Port Marsden Highway and section 3 Port Marsden Highway to Whangārei will be announced soon. Taking a corridor approach will enable NZTA to take advantage of scale and leverage efficiencies, improve innovation and deliver outcomes faster.   

    “This project is an important investment in Northland’s future and will deliver long-term benefits for both the region and New Zealand’s wider transport network.” says Mr Robertson.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Science Continues After Firefly’s First Moon Mission Concludes

    Source: NASA

    After landing on the Moon with NASA science and technology demonstrations March 2, Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost Mission 1 concluded its mission March 16. Analysis of data returned to Earth from the NASA instruments continues, benefitting future lunar missions.
    As part of NASA’s CLPS (Commercial Lunar Payload Services) initiative and Artemis campaign, Firefly’s Blue Ghost lunar lander delivered 10 NASA science and technology instruments to the Mare Crisium basin on the near side of the Moon. During the mission, Blue Ghost captured several images and videos, including imaging a total solar eclipse and a sunset from the surface of the Moon. The mission lasted for about 14 days, or the equivalent of one lunar day, and multiple hours into the lunar night before coming to an end.
    “Firefly’s Blue Ghost Mission 1 marks the longest surface duration commercial mission on the Moon to date, collecting extraordinary science data that will benefit humanity for decades to come,” said Nicky Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “With NASA’s CLPS initiative, American companies are now at the forefront of an emerging lunar economy that lights the way for the agency’s exploration goals on the Moon and beyond.”
    All 10 NASA payloads successfully activated, collected data, and performed operations on the Moon. Throughout the mission, Blue Ghost transmitted 119 gigabytes of data back to Earth, including 51 gigabytes of science and technology data. In addition, all payloads were afforded additional opportunities to conduct science and gather more data for analysis, including during the eclipse and lunar sunset.
    “Operating on the Moon is complex; carrying 10 payloads, more than has ever flown on a CLPS delivery before, makes the mission that much more impressive,” said Joel Kearns, deputy associate administrator for exploration, Science Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters. “Teams are eagerly analyzing their data, and we are extremely excited for the expected scientific findings that will be gained from this mission.”
    Among other achievements, many of the NASA instruments performed first-of-their-kind science and technology demonstrations, including:

    The Lunar Instrumentation for Subsurface Thermal Exploration with Rapidity  is now the deepest robotic planetary subsurface thermal probe, drilling  up to 3 feet and providing a first-of-its kind demonstration of robotic thermal measurements at varying depths.
    The Lunar GNSS Receiver Experiment acquired and tracked Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) signals, from satellite networks such as GPS and Galileo, for the first time enroute to and on the Moon’s surface. The LuGRE payload’s record-breaking success indicates that GNSS signals could complement other navigation methods and be used to support future Artemis missions. It also acts as a stepping stone to future navigation systems on Mars. 
    The Radiation Tolerant Computer successfully operated in transit through Earth’s Van Allen belts, as well as on the lunar surface into the lunar night, verifying solutions to mitigate radiation effects on computers that could make future missions safer for equipment and more cost effective.
    The Electrodynamic Dust Shield successfully lifted and removed lunar soil, or regolith, from surfaces using electrodynamic forces, demonstrating a promising solution for dust mitigation on future lunar and interplanetary surface operations.
    The Lunar Magnetotelluric Sounder successfully deployed five sensors to study the Moon’s interior by measuring electric and magnetic fields. The instrument allows scientists to characterize the interior of the Moon to depths up to 700 miles, or more than half the distance to the Moon’s center.
    The Lunar Environment heliospheric X-ray Imager captured a series of X-ray images to study the interaction of the solar wind and Earth’s magnetic field, providing insights into how space weather and other cosmic forces surrounding Earth affect the planet. 
    The Next Generation Lunar Retroreflector successfully reflected and returned laser light from two Lunar Laser Ranging Observatories, returning measurements allowing scientists to precisely measure the Moon’s shape and distance from Earth, expanding our understanding of the Moon’s inner structure. 
    The Stereo Cameras for Lunar Plume-Surface Studies instrument captured about 9,000 images during the spacecraft’s lunar descent and touchdown on the Moon, providing insights into the effects engine plumes have on the surface. The payload also operated during the lunar sunset and into the lunar night.
    The Lunar PlanetVac was deployed on the lander’s surface access arm and successfully collected, transferred, and sorted lunar soil using pressurized nitrogen gas, demonstrating a low-cost, low-mass solution for future robotic sample collection.
    The Regolith Adherence Characterization instrument examined how lunar regolith sticks to a range of materials exposed to the Moon’s environment, which can help test, improve, and protect spacecraft, spacesuits, and habitats from abrasive lunar dust or regolith.

    The data captured will benefit humanity in many ways, providing insights into how space weather and other cosmic forces may impact Earth. Establishing an improved awareness of the lunar environment ahead of future crewed missions will help plan for long-duration surface operations under Artemis.
    To date, five vendors have been awarded 11 lunar deliveries under CLPS and are sending more than 50 instruments to various locations on the Moon, including the lunar South Pole and far side.
    Learn more about NASA’s CLPS initiative at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/clps
    -end-
    Alise Fisher Headquarters, Washington202-617-4977alise.m.fisher@nasa.gov
    Natalia Riusech / Nilufar RamjiJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111nataila.s.riusech@nasa.gov / nilufar.ramji@nasa.gov
    Antonia JaramilloKennedy Space Center, Florida321-501-8425antonia.jaramillobotero@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Invites Media to View Wildland Fire Technology Flight Test

    Source: NASA

    NASA will conduct a live flight test of aircraft performing simulated wildland fire response operations using a newly developed airspace management system at 9 a.m. PDT on Tuesday, March 25, in Salinas, California.
    NASA’s new portable airspace management system, part of the agency’s Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) project, aims to significantly expand the window of time crews have to respond to wildland fires. The system provides the air traffic awareness needed to safely send aircraft – including drones and remotely piloted helicopters – into wildland fire operations, even during low-visibility conditions. Current aerial firefighting operations are limited to times when pilots have clear visibility, which lowers the risk of flying into the surrounding terrain or colliding with other aircraft. This restriction grounds most aircraft at night and during periods of heavy smoke.
    During this inaugural flight test, researchers will use the airspace management system to coordinate the flight operations of two small drones, an electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, and a remotely piloted aircraft that will have a backup pilot aboard. The drones and aircraft will execute examples of critical tasks for wildland fire management, including weather data sharing, simulated aerial ignition flights, and communications relay.
    Media interested in viewing the ACERO flight testing must RSVP by 4 p.m. Friday, March 21, to the NASA Ames Office of Communications by email at: arc-dl-newsroom@mail.nasa.gov or by phone at 650-604-4789. NASA will release additional details, including address and arrival logistics, to media credentialed for the event. A copy of NASA’s media accreditation policy is online.
    NASA’s ACERO researchers will use data from the flight test to refine the airspace management system. The project aims to eventually provide this technology to wildland fire crews for use in the field, helping to save lives and property. This project is managed at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley.
    For more information on ACERO, visit:
    https://go.nasa.gov/4bYEzsD
    -end-
    Rob MargettaHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600robert.j.margetta@nasa.gov
    Hillary SmithAmes Research Center, Silicon Valley650-604-4789hillary.smith@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Invites Media to 62nd Annual Goddard Space Science Symposium

    Source: NASA

    Media are invited to meet leaders in the space community during the 62nd annual Goddard Space Science Symposium, taking place from Wednesday, March 19, to Friday, March 21, at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt, Maryland. The symposium will also be streamed online.
    Hosted by the American Astronautical Society (AAS) in conjunction with NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, the symposium examines the current state and future of space science and space exploration at large by convening leading minds across NASA, other government agencies, policy, academia, and industry – collectively navigating a path forward by identifying the opportunities and challenges ahead.
    This year’s theme, “Pathways and Partnerships for U.S. Leadership in Earth and Space Science,” highlights the evolving collaborative landscape between the public and private sectors, as well as how it is helping the United States remain and grow as a leading space power. 
    “Earth and space science are complex by nature, with a growing list of public and private enterprises carving out their space,” said Christa Peters-Lidard, co-chair of the symposium planning committee and Goddard’s director of sciences and exploration. “It’s an exciting time as we work to determine the future trajectory of space exploration in this new era, and the Goddard Space Science Symposium is an instrumental tool for gathering the insights of leading experts across a broad spectrum.”
    AAS President Ron Birk and Goddard Deputy Center Director Cynthia Simmons will deliver the symposium’s opening remarks on March 19, followed by panels on enabling science and exploration from the Moon to Mars and navigating space science and exploration policy. Greg Autry, associate provost for space commercialization and strategy at the University of Central Florida, will deliver the keynote address. The first day will conclude with an industry night reception.
    The second day of the symposium on Thursday, March 20, will feature panels on enhancing U.S. economic leadership through science, the Habitable Worlds Observatory, and the confluence of public science and the private sector. Gillian Bussey, deputy chief science officer for the U.S. Space Force, will serve as the luncheon speaker.
    Panels on the third and final day, March 21, will discuss integrating multi-sector data to advance Earth and space science, the Heliophysics Decadal Survey, and the space weather enterprise. Mark Clampin, acting deputy associate administrator for the NASA Science Mission Directorate, will provide the luncheon address.
    Media interested in arranging interviews with NASA speakers should contact Jacob Richmond, Goddard acting news chief.
    For more information on the Goddard Space Science Symposium and the updated program, or to register as a media representative, visit https://astronautical.org/events/goddard.
    For more information on NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, visit https://www.nasa.gov/goddard.
    Media Contact:Jacob RichmondNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Members agree on topics for experience-sharing sessions on services trade

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Members agree on topics for experience-sharing sessions on services trade

    Members also explored the linkages between services trade and environmental sustainability at an event organized by the WTO Secretariat on 12 March.
    Giving effect to ministerial mandate
    The agreement to organize informal experience-sharing sessions on good regulatory practices and recognition of professional qualifications stems from the February 2024 ministerial mandate to  reinvigorate work on trade in services and to facilitate the increased participation of developing members in services trade. Members will also continue discussions on the possibility of organizing sessions on the green transition and digitalization.
    Several members reiterated their call for not duplicating the work carried out in the Council’s subsidiary bodies and for having balanced deliberations.
    Participation of least-developed countries (LDCs) in services trade
    Members responded favourably – pending final discussions on technical issues – to a request by the WTO LDC group to collect information through a survey hosted on the WTO website on how their service suppliers are engaging with consumers and enterprises in other economies. Particular attention will be paid to the 51 WTO members that have notified preferences for LDC services and service suppliers. Members reiterated their commitment to support the participation of LDCs in services trade.
    Members have notified preferences for LDC service suppliers in line with a ministerial mandate to operationalize the “LDC Services Waiver”, which was adopted at the 8th Ministerial Conference in 2011.
    A total of 37 WTO members are classified as LDCs. More information on the waiver can be found here.
    Services trade concerns
    Members discussed three previously addressed specific trade concerns involving cybersecurity measures and mobile applications, among other services-related topics.
    Japan and the United States, supported by several other members, reiterated concerns about the cybersecurity measures of China and Viet Nam. China repeated concerns with certain services measures of the United States. China also reiterated its concerns regarding India’s measures in relation to mobile applications.
    Trade in financial services
    Members continued discussing how to reinvigorate work on trade in services in the Committee on Trade in Financial Services. A new proposal, bringing together three earlier submissions from China, the Philippines and India, calls for information-sharing sessions on digital payments, interoperability of payment systems and cost of remittance services. The proposal also refers to crisis preparedness as advocated by Pakistan. Details of previous discussions can be found here.
    The Committee is one of the Services Council’s subsidiary bodies.
    Classification of environmental services
    At a meeting of the Committee on Specific Commitments held on 11 March, members heard from Costa Rica and Switzerland about how the Agreement on Climate Change, Trade and Sustainability is helping its parties define, classify and make commitments in environmental services.
    In the Agreement, Costa Rica, Iceland, New Zealand and Switzerland set out the commitments they have made on 114 services ranging from environmental protection to resource management and climate change adaptation and mitigation.
    Members welcomed the presentation and agreed to engage further on this topic.
    The Committee is one of the Services Council’s subsidiary bodies.
    Recent developments in services trade policy
    An event held on 12 March entitled “Nexus between Trade in Services and Environmental Sustainability:  Evidence from Recent Research” looked at the role of services trade in promoting environmental sustainability and the impact of environmental policy on services trade.
    Introducing a forthcoming research paper titled “Services Trade and Environmental Sustainability: Conceptual Linkages and Empirical Patterns”, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development highlighted the important role that services trade can play in tackling environmental challenges. This is particularly important as services represent two-thirds of global output and are among the most dynamic sectors in international trade.
    The value that services trade adds to supply chains can support greener production functions and consumption patterns, the OECD noted. For example, engineering services can be used in the green hydrogen production supply chain and financial services can support carbon mitigation projects.
    The OECD paper makes the case for removing restrictions to services imports and for examining synergies with environmental policymaking. Countries at all levels of development stand to benefit from increased openness and participation in services trade as a result of increased domestic productivity, the OECD noted.
    This event was organized by the WTO’s Trade in Services and Investment Division as part of the “Simply Services” speaker series, an informal platform for sharing the latest information on trends in services trade. The webcast of the event can be watched here.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Israel/OPT: Israeli air strikes kill over 400 Palestinians across Gaza in unilateral resumption of mass attacks

    Source: Amnesty International –

    ‘The world cannot stand by and allow Israel to continue inflicting staggering levels of death and suffering on Palestinians in Gaza’ – Agnes Callamard

    Responding to a series of Israeli strikes across the occupied Gaza Strip overnight which killed at least 414 Palestinians, including 174 children, and hospitalised over 550 more, signalling a unilateral end to the truce with Hamas, Amnesty International’s Secretary General Agnès Callamard said:

     

    “Today is a desperately dark day for humanity. Israel brazenly resumed its devastating bombing campaign in Gaza killing at least 414 people in their sleep, including at least 100 children, and again wiping out entire families in a matter of hours. Palestinians in Gaza – who have barely had a chance to start piecing together their lives and continue to grapple with the trauma of Israel’s past attacks – have woken up once more to the hellish nightmare of intense bombardment.

     

    “Israel’s genocide and its unlawful air strikes have already caused unprecedented humanitarian suffering in Gaza. Today, we are back to square one. Since 2 March, Israel has re-imposed a total siege on Gaza blocking the entry of all humanitarian aid, medicine, and commercial supplies, including fuel and food, in flagrant violation of international law. Israel has also cut off electricity to Gaza’s main operational desalination plant. And today the Israeli military has once again started issuing mass ‘evacuation’ orders displacing Palestinians.

     

    “Amnesty International’s researchers spoke to medical staff working at three hospitals in Gaza City and North Gaza governorate who described scenes of unspeakable horror beginning in the early hours of the morning. Al-Shifa, once the largest medical complex in Gaza, now largely destroyed by past Israeli military raids, had only three beds to receive the wounded.

     

    “Al-Ahli Arab Baptist hospital in Gaza City – the only hospital with a functioning intensive care unit – was forced to treat some of the 80 wounded it received in the corridors and in the hospital’s yard. The Indonesian hospital is the only hospital in North Gaza Governorate that is barely functioning. It is still in the process of being rebuilt, following Israel’s previous military campaign. 

     

    “The near-total decimation of the healthcare system in Gaza, particularly in the north, and the desperate shortages in medical equipment and supplies, exacerbated by Israel’s unlawful siege, effectively means a death sentence for many of those with serious injuries and illnesses, including those that in normal conditions would be easily curable. All the while, Israeli authorities continue to impose extremely tight restrictions on medical evacuations outside Gaza. 

     

    “The resumption of Israel’s attacks also puts the lives of 24 remaining Israeli hostages believed to be alive at risk. This is also a cruel blow for hostages and Palestinian detainees as well as for their families. We remind all parties that civilian hostages and arbitrarily detained Palestinians must be released.

     

    “The world cannot stand by and allow Israel to continue inflicting staggering levels of death and suffering on Palestinians in Gaza. We urge all states to uphold their obligations to prevent and punish genocide and to ensure respect for international humanitarian law, by pressing Israel to end its attacks and to facilitate the unconditional and unhindered entry of humanitarian aid.

     

    “States must come together and demand an immediate resumption of an enduring ceasefire, an end to Israel’s genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, and the dismantling of its system of apartheid and unlawful occupation of Palestinian territory.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Israeli air strikes kill over 400 Palestinians across Gaza following unilateral resumption of mass attacks  

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to a series of Israeli strikes across the occupied Gaza Strip overnight which killed at least 414 Palestinians, including 174 children, and hospitalized over 550 more, signalling a unilateral end to the truce with Hamas, Amnesty International’s Secretary General Agnès Callamard said:

    “Today is a desperately dark day for humanity. Israel brazenly resumed its devastating bombing campaign in Gaza killing at least 414 people in their sleep, including at least 100 children, and again wiping out entire families in a matter of hours. Palestinians in Gaza – who have barely had a chance to start piecing together their lives and continue to grapple with the trauma of Israel’s past attacks – have woken up once more to the hellish nightmare of intense bombardment.

    Palestinians in Gaza – who have barely had a chance to start piecing together their lives and continue to grapple with the trauma of Israel’s past attacks – have woken up once more to the hellish nightmare of intense bombardment.

    Amnesty International’s Secretary General Agnès Callamard

    “Israel’s genocide and its unlawful air strikes have already caused unprecedented humanitarian suffering in Gaza. Today, we are back to square one. Since 2 March, Israel has re-imposed a total siege on Gaza blocking the entry of all humanitarian aid, medicine, and commercial supplies, including fuel and food, in flagrant violation of international law. Israel has also cut off electricity to Gaza’s main operational desalination plant. And today the Israeli military has once again started issuing mass ‘evacuation’ orders displacing Palestinians.

    “Amnesty International’s researchers spoke to medical staff working at three hospitals in Gaza City and North Gaza governorate who described scenes of unspeakable horror beginning in the early hours of the morning. Al-Shifa, once the largest medical complex in Gaza, now largely destroyed by past Israeli military raids, had only three beds to receive the wounded.

    “Al-Ahli Arab Baptist hospital in Gaza City – the only hospital with a functioning intensive care unit – was forced to treat some of the 80 wounded it received in the corridors and in the hospital’s yard. The Indonesian hospital is the only hospital in north Gaza Governorate that is barely functioning. It is still in the process of being rebuilt, following Israel’s previous military campaign.  

    “The near-total decimation of the healthcare system in Gaza, particularly in the north, and the desperate shortages in medical equipment and supplies, exacerbated by Israel’s unlawful siege, effectively means a death sentence for many of those with serious injuries and illnesses, including those that in normal conditions would be easily curable. All the while, Israeli authorities continue to impose extremely tight restrictions on medical evacuations outside Gaza.  

    “The resumption of Israel’s attacks also puts the lives of 24 remaining Israeli hostages believed to be alive at risk. This is also a cruel blow for hostages and Palestinian detainees as well as for their families. We remind all parties that civilian hostages and arbitrarily detained Palestinians must be released.

    “The world cannot stand by and allow Israel to continue inflicting staggering levels of death and suffering on Palestinians in Gaza. We urge all states to uphold their obligations to prevent and punish genocide and to ensure respect for international humanitarian law, by pressing Israel to end its attacks and to facilitate the unconditional and unhindered entry of humanitarian aid. “States must come together and demand an immediate resumption of an enduring ceasefire, an end to Israel’s genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, and the dismantling of its system of apartheid and unlawful occupation of Palestinian territory.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: DRC: M23’s rampant human rights abuses demand international action

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Hundreds of dead bodies collected in under a month

    Alarming increase in rapes and other sexual violence in North and South Kivu

    On one night, over 130 people were abducted from Goma hospitals by M23 fighters

    ‘We were whipped. We were made to lie down and beaten on our buttocks and hands’ -Civilian account of hospital abduction

    ‘The world must not turn a blind eye to the crimes taking place in eastern DRC’ – Tigere Chagutah

    Since capturing the city of Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in January, the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group has raided hospitals, abducted patients, including civilians and hospitalised Congolese soldiers, and subjected them to acts of torture, Amnesty International said today.

    Amnesty interviewed 25 survivors, eyewitnesses, civil society activists, human rights defenders, journalists inside the DRC and in exile. They also documented cases of gang rape committed by M23, as well as acts of ill-treatment against human rights defenders after the group seized Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, on 27 January, and Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, on 16 February.

    Amnesty is calling on the East African Community, the Southern African Development Community, the European Union and other international actors to increase pressure on all parties to the conflict to protect civilians and treat detainees humanely, in accordance with international humanitarian law.

    Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, said:

    “Since taking control of Goma, the M23 has instilled a climate of fear and vicious reprisals among the local population. The alarming scale and frequency of abuses in eastern Congo should shock the world. The violence has been enabled by decades of impunity for serious abuses and human rights violations.

    “M23 and the Congolese army, which are bound to international humanitarian law, must be held to account for the rapes. The world must not turn a blind eye to the crimes taking place in eastern DRC.”

    Hospital abductions

    On the night of 28 February and the morning of 3 March, M23 armed fighters forcibly entered Heal Africa and CBCA Ndosho hospitals in Goma where they abducted more than 130 people. These included members of the Congolese army, some of whom had been wounded, and caregivers. They were taken to a stadium in the city where some were tortured. M23 fighters forced some abductees to lie on the ground, whipped them, and pressured them to join M23. Some civilians were released, but many individuals remain missing.

    “(At the stadium), M23 asked civilians to stay together,” said a person who was abducted in the hospital raids. “We were whipped. We were made to lie down and beaten on our buttocks and hands.” They said: ‘If you’re a soldier, admit it.’”

    Sultani Makenga, the military leader of M23, said in a recent interview that members of the Congolese army at the hospitals pretended to be patients or caregivers. He said M23 found 14 weapons in the hospitals and that hospital staff had alerted them to the situation. He also said M23 detained those who did not belong in hospital.

    Under international humanitarian law, all persons who are wounded and sick must be respected and protected. Civilians must not be targeted. Torture, inhumane treatment and targeting civilians or wounded members of the military, may constitute war crimes.

    Hundreds of dead bodies found in South Kivu

    Amnesty received eyewitness accounts and numerous photos of dead bodies frequently found in neighbourhoods in Bukavu, a city of more than one million residents. From 17 February to 13 March 2025, the Congolese Red Cross collected 43 dead bodies in Bukavu, including 29 civilians. Across South Kivu province, during the same period, the Congolese Red Cross collected 406 bodies, including 110 civilians.

    Human rights defenders, journalists and civil society workers targeted

    Amnesty has documented cases of human rights defenders, journalists and civil society activists who have been detained by M23 in recent weeks. They were held in both makeshift and official detention centres, some were tortured and threatened. Dozens of activists have gone into hiding or fled Congo in search of safety.

    Outside the country, threats continue. A human rights defender, who has documented violations committed by M23 since 2023, said that he had received a text message that said: “If we find you, you’re going to be in trouble. Stay where you are.”

    Another defender described how M23 arbitrarily arrested and whipped him after he was recognised by an M23 official. He was briefly detained for speaking out against violations committed by M23 before Goma was taken over.

    People deprived of their liberty, including civilians and members of the military or the M23, are protected under international humanitarian law. M23 must treat humanely all people who it detains. Acts of torture or inhumane treatment may constitute war crimes.

    Alarming levels of sexual violence

    Humanitarian organisations have reported an alarming increase in rapes and other sexual violence cases in North and South Kivu. Survivors told Amnesty how they were raped by M23 fighters and threatened with death.

    In one case, a woman said M23 fighters suspected she was a spy. She said five M23 fighters, wearing military uniforms and armed with weapons, gang-raped her. In another case, two men in Congolese military uniforms raped a pregnant woman and abducted her husband.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: DRC: M23’s rampant human rights abuses demand concerted international action

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Since capturing the city of Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in January, the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group has raided hospitals, abducted patients, including civilians and hospitalized Congolese soldiers, from their beds and subjected them to acts of torture, Amnesty International said today.

    The organization also documented cases of gang rape committed by M23, as well as acts of ill-treatment against human rights defenders after the group seized Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, on 27 January, and Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, on 16 February. Amnesty International is calling on the East African Community, the Southern African Development Community, the European Union and other international actors to increase pressure on all parties to the conflict to protect civilians and treat detainees humanely, in accordance with international humanitarian law.

    “Since taking control of Goma, the M23 has instilled a climate of fear and vicious reprisals among the local population. The alarming scale and frequency of abuses in eastern Congo should shock the world. The violence has been enabled by decades of impunity for serious abuses and human rights violations,” said Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa.

    Since taking control of Goma, the M23 has instilled a climate of fear and vicious reprisals among the local population. The alarming scale and frequency of abuses in eastern Congo should shock the world

    Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa

    Amnesty International interviewed 25 survivors, eyewitnesses, civil society activists, human rights defenders, journalists inside the DRC and in exile.

    Abductions at hospitals

    On the night of 28 February and the morning of 3 March, M23 armed fighters forcibly entered Heal Africa and CBCA Ndosho hospitals in Goma where they abducted more than 130 people. These included members of the Congolese army, some of whom had been wounded, and caregivers. They were taken to a stadium in the city where some were tortured. M23 fighters forced some abductees to lie on the ground, whipped them, and pressured them to join M23. Some civilians were released, but many individuals remain missing.

    “(At the stadium), M23 asked civilians to stay together,” said a person who was abducted in the hospital raids. “We were whipped. We were made to lie down and beaten on our buttocks and hands. They said: ‘If you’re a soldier, admit it.’”

    Sultani Makenga, the military leader of M23, said in a recent interview that members of the Congolese army at the hospitals pretended to be patients or caregivers. He said M23 found 14 weapons in the hospitals and that hospital staff had alerted them to the situation. He also said M23 detained those who did not belong in hospital.

    Under international humanitarian law, all persons who are wounded and sick must be respected and protected. Civilians must not be targeted. Torture, inhumane treatment and the taking of hostages by M23, if targeted against civilians or wounded members of the military, may constitute war crimes.

    “All patients and caregivers, including soldiers in need of medical care, should be immediately released and returned to hospitals so they can continue their treatment,” said Tigere Chagutah.

    Hundreds of dead bodies found in South Kivu

    Amnesty International received eyewitness accounts and numerous photos of dead bodies frequently found in neighborhoods in Bukavu, a city of more than one million residents. From 17 February to 13 March 2025, the Congolese Red Cross collected 43 dead bodies in Bukavu, including 29 civilians. Across South Kivu province, during the same period, the Congolese Red Cross collected 406 bodies, including 110 civilians.

    Human rights defenders, journalists and civil society workers targeted

    Amnesty International has documented cases of human rights defenders, journalists and civil society activists who have been detained by M23 in recent weeks. They were held in both makeshift and official detention centres, some were tortured and threatened. Dozens of activists have gone into hiding or fled Congo in search of safety.

    But even outside the country, threats continue. A human rights defender, who has documented violations committed by M23 since 2023, said that he had received a text message that said: “If we find you, you’re going to be in trouble. Stay where you are.”

    Another defender described how M23 arbitrarily arrested and whipped him after he was recognized by an M23 official. He was briefly detained for speaking out against violations committed by M23 before Goma was taken over.

    People deprived of their liberty, including civilians and members of the military or the M23, are protected under international humanitarian law. M23 must treat humanely all people who it detains. Acts of torture or inhumane treatment may constitute war crimes.

    Alarming levels of sexual violence

    Humanitarian organizations have reported an alarming increase in rapes and other sexual violence cases in North and South Kivu. Survivors told Amnesty International how they were raped by M23 fighters and threatened with death.

    M23 and the Congolese army, which are bound to international humanitarian law, must be held to account for the rapes.  

    Tigere Chagutah

    In one case, a woman said M23 fighters suspected she was a spy. She said five M23 fighters, wearing military uniforms and armed with weapons, gang-raped her. In another case, two men in Congolese military uniforms raped a pregnant woman and abducted her husband.

    “M23 and the Congolese army, which are bound to international humanitarian law, must be held to account for the rapes. The world must not ignore the crimes taking place in eastern DRC,” said Tigere Chagutah.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Peru: Amendment of the APCI law paves the way for impunity

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Lima, 13 March 2025

    Amnesty International expresses its objection and concern for the recent approval of the ruling amending Law 27692, a law that established the Peruvian Agency for International Cooperation (APCI), as it threatens Peru’s civic space and unduly restricts the rights of association, freedom of expression and access to justice. 

    On the grounds of seeking to strengthen the work of the APCI, the law undermines civic space, which is essential for citizen engagement, accountability of authorities and justice, as it increases undue control over the work of civil society organizations and leaves the door open to arbitrary restrictions, discretionality and censorship. It is important to note that civil society organizations already have to provide accountability and are subject to regular monitoring and oversight procedures. Amnesty International recognizes the importance of these procedures but questions the discretionary nature that they could have under the provisions of the recently approved norm.  

    “Any work carried out by civil society organizations using international development funds will have to be approved in advance by the state, leaving decisions at the discretion of the authorities. This could even lead to organizations who are critical of the authorities being removed from the APCI register,” said Marina Navarro, Executive Director of Amnesty International Peru.  

    Any work carried out by civil society organizations using international development funds will have to be approved in advance by the state, leaving decisions at the discretion of the authorities. This could even lead to organizations who are critical of the authorities being removed from the APCI register

    -Marina Navarro, Executive Director of Amnesty International Peru

    Among other issues, this law could threaten access to justice. By classifying as a “very serious” offence the use of development funds to “advise, support or finance, in any form or modality, administrative, judicial or other actions in national or international instances against the Peruvian state”, the right of Peruvians and the entire population to access justice is jeopardized.  

    “This law hinders access to justice for victims of various human rights violations in Peru – such as state repression, environmental pollution or violence against women – who in the past have been able to access justice with the support of civil society organizations. The law fuels impunity for authorities who violate human rights”, stated Ana Piquer, Americas director at Amnesty International.    

    This law hinders access to justice for victims of various human rights violations in Peru – such as state repression, environmental pollution or violence against women – who in the past have been able to access justice with the support of civil society organizations. The law fuels impunity for authorities who violate human rights

    -Ana Piquer, Americas director at Amnesty International    

    The organization warns that this norm could have a negative impact on the accountability and transparency of the state and pave the way for impunity. 

    We therefore urge the Executive not to approve and observe this norm, on the grounds that it violates human rights. We also urge them to respect the international human rights treaties to which Peru is a party, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the American Convention on Human Rights, which guarantee the right to freedom of association and expression, as well as the right to participate in public affairs. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🚨Busted! #uscg #Cutter #Campbell #interdiction #cartel

    Source: US Coast Guard (video statements)

    Late last year, the Coast Guard Cutter Campbell (WMEC 909) broke up a suspected drug trafficking ring in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.

    The pursuit led to the seizure of approximately 8,061 pounds of cocaine worth an estimated street value of more than $91 million and the apprehension of suspected drug traffickers.

    Since January 2024, the crew of Campbell transferred a total of 87 suspected smugglers to federal law enforcement authorities, resulting from 24 interdictions by U.S. Coast Guard cutters in the Eastern Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. 

    Campbell deployed in support of the Joint Interagency Task Force – South (JIATF-S) to advance the primary mission of interdicting illegal narcotics in known drug trafficking zones. The crew returned home to Newport, RI. after completing a 63-day, multi-mission patrol.

    To read more about their time at sea
    https://shorturl.at/AEmhM

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHU7jbZv27s

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Cornyn Introduce Outbound Investment Legislation to Counter China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) introduced the Foreign Investment Guardrails to Help Thwart (FIGHT) China Act, which would safeguard the United States’ national security against the growing threat posed by the communist People’s Republic of China (PRC) by prohibiting and requiring notification of U.S. investment in certain technologies in China.
    “When it comes to cutting-edge technologies – such as AI and semiconductors – the United States must remain ahead of China,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I’m proud to stand with my colleagues across the aisle to introduce this bill that is critical for our national security. We can and must make sure no American investments are giving the Chinese Communist Party a leg up in developing these vitally important technologies.”
    The Foreign Investment Guardrails to Help Thwart (FIGHT) China Act would permit the Secretary of the Treasury to prohibit U.S. investments in certain technologies in the People’s Republic of China (PRC), including certain Artificial Intelligence (AI) models, quantum computers, materials used in hypersonic systems, and other military technologies. It would also require U.S. entities to notify the U.S. Department of the Treasury of investments in certain AI models in the PRC. Lastly, the legislation would permit the Secretary of the Treasury to impose sanctions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) against PRC entities that engage with the PRC military and intelligence sectors.
    Senator Cortez Masto has led efforts in Congress to strengthen our national security and supply chains.Senators Cortez Masto and Rounds (R-S.D.) introduced the PASS Act to ban individuals and entities controlled by China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea from purchasing agricultural land and businesses located near U.S. military installations or sensitive sites and the Strengthening Exports Against China Act,which would incentivize economic growth by eliminating barriers for American businesses competing directly with China in emerging industries like artificial intelligence and semiconductors. She’s also introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen the domestic supply chain for rare-earth magnets, which are critical components of cell phones, computers, defense systems, and electric vehicles, but are almost exclusively made in China.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner Pushes for Answers on Underperforming Taxpayer Advocate Service in Richmond

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON – Ahead of tax season, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) is pressing for answers from Erin Collins, the National Taxpayer Advocate at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding the underperforming Richmond TAS office, which serves the entire Commonwealth of Virginia and has been underperforming for years due to staffing shortfalls that have significantly increased caseloads and further strained the office’s ability to provide timely, effective service.
    Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) offices like the one in Richmond are tasked with helping individuals with tax problems they cannot resolve on their own. They are also tasked with helping ensure that taxpayers are treated fairly and understand their rights. This letter comes amid the Trump administration’s ongoing attempts to gut the IRS and the services it provides to families.
    “In light of the current degradation of the IRS workforce, it is imperative that TAS prioritizes improvements in taxpayer service – especially in offices where staffing issues already are causing delays and disruptions to citizens seeking assistance or simply relying on a timely tax refund,” wrote Sen. Warner. “I urge you to take immediate steps to enhance the service that Richmond TAS provides my constituents.”
    “While pre-existing personnel and leadership issues at Richmond TAS have left morale among its staff low, the workplace atmosphere there likely will deteriorate further in the coming months as Trump Administration policies cause more staff to leave,” he continued. “Already quite strained with just 17 case advocates, another two advocates and a senior case advocate have accepted the Musk-Trump buyout, which will take effect on May 15. At that point, only 15 case advocates will remain to serve all of Virginia—a nearly 25 percent reduction in staff.”
    In the letter, the Senator urged Advocate Collins to push back against any harmful personnel decisions that stand to negatively impact taxpayers and pressed for answers to the following questions regarding the performance of the Richmond TAS office:
    1.      How long has Richmond TAS been performing in the bottom 50 percent of TAS offices nationwide?
    2.      What metrics does TAS use to track performance of its local offices? What specific factors have contributed to Richmond TAS’s poor performance?
    3.      What steps, if any, did TAS headquarters take to improve performance at Richmond TAS prior to January 2025?
    4.      What support does TAS headquarters plan to offer Richmond TAS’s leadership to improve performance?
    5.      How does TAS headquarters plan to address staffing shortages at Richmond TAS to ensure that Virginians receive the level of taxpayer service that they deserve?
    A copy of letter is available here and text is below.
    Dear Advocate Collins, 
    I am writing to express my longstanding concerns regarding the quality of assistance that the Richmond Taxpayer Advocate Service (“TAS”) office is providing to Virginians. In light of the current degradation of the IRS workforce, it is imperative that TAS prioritizes improvements in taxpayer service – especially in offices where staffing issues already are causing delays and disruptions to citizens seeking assistance or simply relying on a timely tax refund. I urge you to take immediate steps to enhance the service that Richmond TAS provides my constituents.
    The Richmond TAS office has struggled with underperformance for years, predating the current administration. The reasons for the office’s underwhelming service are two-fold.
    First, Richmond TAS is not fully staffed. The office should have at least 19 case advocates, but currently has 17. Each advocate handles about 150 cases per year, meaning this staffing shortfall significantly increases individual caseloads and further strains the office’s ability to provide timely, effective service.
    Second, I am concerned that TAS leadership has not done enough to foster a positive work environment and to improve morale at Richmond TAS. During challenging times, employees look to their supervisors for encouragement, reassurance, and direction. Regional and national TAS leaders must provide the support that those in offices like Richmond TAS need in order to operate effectively.
    With the knowledge of Richmond TAS’s personnel issues and leadership challenges in mind, I ask you to answer the following questions by March 25:
    1.      How long has Richmond TAS been performing in the bottom 50 percent of TAS offices nationwide?
    2.      What metrics does TAS use to track performance of its local offices? What specific factors have contributed to Richmond TAS’s poor performance?
    3.      What steps, if any, did TAS headquarters take to improve performance at Richmond TAS prior to January 2025?
    4.      What support does TAS headquarters plan to offer Richmond TAS’s leadership to improve performance?
    5.      How does TAS headquarters plan to address staffing shortages at Richmond TAS to ensure that Virginians receive the level of taxpayer service that they deserve?
    While pre-existing personnel and leadership issues at Richmond TAS have left morale among its staff low, the workplace atmosphere there likely will deteriorate further in the coming months as Trump Administration policies cause more staff to leave. Already quite strained with just 17 case advocates, another two advocates and a senior case advocate have accepted the Musk-Trump buyout, which will take effect on May 15. At that point, only 15 case advocates will remain to serve all of Virginia—a nearly 25 percent reduction in staff.
    Further, according to recent news reports, President Trump plans to cut IRS staffing by a total of 50 percent. If these cuts are applied across the board, Richmond TAS will be left with a skeleton crew of case advocates, further jeopardizing essential taxpayer services. I strongly oppose any staffing reductions that undermine TAS’s ability to serve Virginians, and I urge you to push back against harmful personnel decisions that will negatively impact taxpayers.
    Thank you for the work that you do to advocate for Virginia’s taxpayers. I look forward to your response and to working together to improve the service that TAS provides to my constituents.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Gaming is for everyone! That’s why we’ve partnered with the disability community to introduce our Xbox Adaptive Joystick to help ensure that anyone who wants to can join in on the fun.

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Gaming is for everyone! That’s why we’ve partnered with the disability community to introduce our Xbox Adaptive Joystick to help ensure that anyone who wants to can join in on the fun.

    Gaming is for everyone! That’s why we’ve partnered with the disability community to introduce our Xbox Adaptive Joystick to help ensure that anyone who wants to can join in on the fun. https://lnkd.in/gtwwM-Ct

    Transcript

    Video games. Good job. Leo has issues with this motor ability, doesn’t have access to a lot of things. There’s so many disabled people that deserve a shot to be like everyone else. I want to be a part of this world. So this is my Xbox adaptive joystick and allows her to use the controller without using both hands. He just clicked. To him, this is a joystick. I manipulate the character and this is how I’m going to move myself. You got everybody covered. This is how we do this is my fun stick Topper. You can get different sizes and this is what I’m used to, make it easier to manoeuvre. You can get files from the experts down there, then you can go somewhere else and get it printed. Be yourself, design it how you want. You’re playing with your Xbox controller. Right side right side with the Xbox controller says when he needs help, when he gets stuck I can hold these, hit the gas for him, then he can control the rest. Having the joystick levels the playing field for him. Play you can do everything you can do. He enjoys winning and will definitely let you know when he does.

    MIL OSI Economics –