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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MoHUA organizes a workshop on Urban Poverty Alleviation

    Source: Government of India (2)

    MoHUA organizes a workshop on Urban Poverty Alleviation

    Workshop aimed to sensitize the States/ULBs on the contours of pilot implementation of a proposed new programme on poverty alleviation in urban areas.

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 5:52PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) organised a workshop on 23rd September, 2024, on Urban Poverty Alleviation. During the workshop, deliberations were held on the various aspects of poverty in urban areas, and methods that can be adopted to address the same.

    Shri Srinivas Katikithala, Secretary, MoHUA delivered the keynote address at the workshop which was attended by State Mission Directors from across the country, Municipal Commissioners and city representatives of 25 select cities, along with senior officials from Ministry and other Departments.

    The workshop aimed to sensitize the States/ULBs on the contours of pilot implementation of a proposed new programme on poverty alleviation in urban areas. The session commenced with an overview of the programme and objectives, presented by Shri Rahul Kapoor, Joint Secretary, MoHUA. It was followed by in-depth presentations covering various aspects including inter alia, community led Institutional development, financial inclusion and enterprise development, capacity building, development of social infrastructure, and innovations in livelihoods space. On this occasion, Shri Srinivas Katikithala, Secretary, MoHUA, released the Mission Document for pilot implementation and briefed the participants regarding the objectives of the workshop, and encouraged States and Cities to think innovatively while trying out various initiatives during the pilot stage.

    On the occasion Shri Srinivas Katikithala, Secretary, MoHUA said “Urbanisation provides various opportunities and there is a need to harness these opportunities through innovative thinking so that the urban poor particularly the vulnerable groups, including youths can get access to better livelihoods opportunities.”

    About the Workshop and the pilot:

     

    The workshop was attended by 28 States /UTs and the officials of 25 select cities. Valuable suggestions were given by States/UTs/Cities to help in designing the contours of an upcoming poverty alleviation programme. The pilot is to be launched in 25 diverse cities—including industrial hubs, migrant centres, aspirational districts, and port cities utilizing a Test-Learn-Scale approach. Set to commence from 1st October, 2024, the pilot will span three months, with a preparatory phase of one month to ensure effective implementation.

    The pilot is designed to uplift vulnerable groups within the informal sector, including construction workers, gig workers, waste workers, care workers, domestic workers, and transportation workers, who often face occupational, social, and residential vulnerabilities. These workers, engaged in precarious jobs with low wages, hazardous conditions, and limited access to social protection, are the primary beneficiaries of this mission. The pilot aims to break the cycle of poverty by providing financial assistance, social protection, and access to credit for micro-enterprises, and fostering innovation and collaboration.

    Through strategic interventions and a collaborative approach, the proposed programme aims to reshape the livelihood landscape in urban India, ensuring that the benefits of urbanisation are equitably distributed to uplift the most vulnerable sections of society.

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    Sushil Kumar

    (Release ID: 2058299) Visitor Counter : 82

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SPEECH BY MR ONG YE KUNG, MINISTER FOR HEALTH, AT THE NATIONAL MEDICAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024, 24 SEPTEMBER 2024, 7.30PM AT PAN PACIFIC HOTEL SINGAPORE

    Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

    Award recipients and their families,
    Colleagues, ladies and gentlemen, 
    1. I am pleased to join you tonight for the 16th National Medical Excellence Awards (NMEA) ceremony. The awards are given annually by the Ministry of Health (MOH) to recognise outstanding healthcare professionals who have made significant contributions in the advancement of healthcare in Singapore. 
    2. The NMEA is significant because it recognises people. With resources, any system can construct infrastructure and any system can procure equipment and therapeutics, but it takes special capability to be able to nurture and develop good people who build a great healthcare system. 
    3. Recently the Pope visited Singapore as part of his Asia-Pacific tour. For those who have visited his home city – the Vatican City, we will know about Saint Peter’s Basilica. It is a majestic structure supported by large stone pillars. We have a very small version of this at MOH. When I go to work every day, I will also admire the brick columns fronting the College of Medicine Building. 
    4. The equivalent of these pillars for our healthcare system are our people. Let me briefly describe these pillars, in no particular order. 
    Pillars of Healthcare
    5. The first pillar are our doctors and dentists. They stand at the forefront of patient care, working in multi-disciplinary care teams to deliver holistic care.
    6. Each clinician – specialists and generalists – brings something important to the table. However, as our population ages and patients have multiple conditions, there is an increasing demand for broad-based competencies. That is why we are trying to train more Hospital Clinicians, and Senior and Principal Hospital Clinicians who can oversee and coordinate care for patients. They are increasingly assuming the role of team lead in acute hospitals. 
    7. Clinicians also serve as educators, scientists and mentors. Their work in research shapes the future of medicine, while their roles as mentors and educators nurture the next generation of healthcare professionals. 
    8. This evening, we recognise clinicians who epitomise the spirit and contribution in public healthcare. Tonight, we are recognising Professors Tan Ban Hock, Jerry Chan, Jodhbir Mehta, Tan Suat Hoon, Associate Professor Gerald Chua and Adjunct Professor Lau Tang Ching. 
    9. The second pillar are our nurses, the largest group of healthcare professionals in our healthcare system. We have over the years elevated the role of nurses. Nurses now coordinate care, ensure treatments are properly delivered, comfort patients and their loved ones, and push the boundaries of care through nursing research, education and innovation.
    10. As the healthcare landscape evolves, their contributions extend well beyond bedside care, to anchoring care in the community, even shaping health habits amongst the population. 
    11. Third, Allied Health Professionals and pharmacists, who cover a wide range of expertise. Again, as the centre of gravity of care shifts out of hospitals and towards the community, their roles in screening, diagnosing, rehabilitating, providing vital support to patients and caregivers, and optimising medication regimens, are becoming more embedded in our day to day living environment. 
    12. The importance of their roles is growing, and so are the opportunities for them to lead community care initiatives.
    13. The final pillar comprises the rich expertise of non-healthcare professionals, who work alongside, around or behind healthcare professionals to keep the healthcare system going. I am happy to say that as a non-healthcare professional, this is the pillar that I belong to!
    14. For example, healthcare administrators ensure the smooth operations of our medical facilities and operations. They handle the budgets, finances, manpower, and ensure compliance with MOH’s regulations. IT professionals are transforming healthcare using data and digitalisation. Healthcare social workers help address the determinants of health at home and in the community. 
    15. These four pillars uphold the two key structures of our healthcare system – acute hospital care, and community care. They are separate, but contiguous, even overlapping structures. As I have alluded to in my speech so far, driven by an ageing population with changing healthcare needs, and major national programmes such as Healthier SG and Age Well SG, care is increasingly anchored in communities, health is being built up outside of hospitals, and new care models involving partnership between hospitals and community organisations, are emerging. 
    Caring for our Community
    16. There is therefore a growing need for awards like the NMEA to recognise these decisive changes that are happening. 
    17. Hence, this year, we have introduced the new National Community Care Excellence Team Award. The inaugural recipient of this new award category is the Social Prescribing Programme led by SingHealth Community Hospitals, in partnership with the Agency for Integrated Care, SkillsFuture Singapore, and several Active Ageing Centres. 
    18. The team has successfully integrated clinical care with social prescriptions, by bringing hospital and community partners to work together. As a result, patients recover faster, they can better manage chronic diseases and improve their health and wellbeing. The team has made a name for themselves internationally and have participated as guest speakers for World Health Organization (WHO) webinars and co-developed online courses for WHO’s online course platform.
    19. In addition, and I think this does not happen very frequently, the Clinical Excellence Team Award this year goes to a community-based, rather than a hospital-based initiative. The recipient is the Neighbours for Active Living, or “Neighbours” Programme, by Changi General Hospital (CGH). 
    20. Through this programme, CGH has identified over 14,000 residents who require follow up in the community. With the consent of the residents, they are then engaged by healthcare professionals and trained volunteers, to develop care plans for their health and social needs. The Neighbours programme is a new care model, which gives us a glimpse of the next phase of development of the national Age Well SG programme.
    21. I should add that other than care models, there are many other efforts to help anchor care in the community. For example:
    • We are expanding the capacity of community hospitals and Transitional Care Facilities. 
    • From next month, we will enhance the subsidies of community hospitals, to align with those of acute hospitals. This was announced some time ago, and effective from 1 October. The funding will be aligned. We will also allow subsidises for advanced diagnostics at community hospitals. By doing this, we minimise the delays and remove the friction for transfer from the acute hospitals to community hospitals.
    • We are expanding the number of Active Ageing Centres. Out of a total of 209 centres, 199 are offering programmes across at least the four domains of physical, learning, volunteer and communal dining activities. About one-third of them is engaging 30% or more of the seniors assigned to them. When we started looking at the data, everyone was at the low, single-digit engagement. Now 30% is engaging 30% or more.
    • We continue to make improvements to our data infrastructure, to facilitate sharing of patient data by healthcare professionals across settings. It also removes the need for repeated tests, screenings and assessment each time a patient moves from one setting to another. 
    22. All these added together, plus all your efforts, I think we are transforming the healthcare landscape. All these transformations are happening at a fairly rapid pace. It may be uncomfortable for some, but we have to change as our demography, patient profile and needs are also changing just as fast. With a common purpose and determination, in a few years’ time, we will have a different healthcare system. What will not change is that it will still be a system upheld by those core pillars, which are our people. 
    23. In closing, let me congratulate once again all our NMEA recipients. It is an honour and truly inspiring to be able to work with all of you. Thank you for your hard work and dedication, and also that of your loved ones and families who have supported you and continue to support you in this journey. I wish everyone an enjoyable evening. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EC reviews poll preparedness for forthcoming assembly elections in Jharkhand

    Source: Government of India

    EC reviews poll preparedness for forthcoming assembly elections in Jharkhand

    Ensure strict implementation of law and ECI guidelines without any bias; EC cautions state & district administration against partisan conduct

    Zero-tolerance against inducements; Stringent directives to enforcement agencies to curb money power

    EC directs to expedite Assured Minimum Facilities at all polling stations

    Engage voters with SVEEP activities involving local culture, sports & influencers

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 5:21PM by PIB Delhi

    CEC Shri Rajiv Kumar along with ECs Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. S. S. Sandhu held a detailed & comprehensive review of the poll preparedness for the forthcoming Assembly Elections in Jharkhand at Ranchi. The term of State Assembly in Jharkhand is due to expire on 5th January, 2025 and elections are scheduled for 81 ACs (44 General; 09 SC; 28 ST) in the State.

    During the two-day review visit of the Commission on September 23-24, representatives of national and state political parties namely Aam Aadmi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party, Bharatiya Janata Party, Communist Party of India (Marxist), Indian National Congress, National People’s Party, AJSU Party, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and Rashtriya Janta Dal came to meet the Commission. All political parties conveyed their appreciation for successful & peaceful conduct of Lok Sabha Elections 2024.

    The main issues raised by political parties included:

    1. Most parties unanimously requested consideration of various festivities like Diwali, Chhath, Durga Pooja and state foundation day in the month of October and November, before deciding on the election schedule for enhanced participation in election process. It was informed that many voters in the state will be travelling during Chatth pooja.
    2. Many parties also requested for a single-phase election.
    3. Parties requested for an error free electoral rolls and to ensure a free and fair elections with non-partisan action by local civil and police administration for a level playing field.
    4. A proper mix of CAPF and State police for appropriate deployment at sensitive and rural booths, monitored by an IG Level Officer.
    5. 100 % Webcasting in all polling stations.
    6. Regarding polling stations, one of the parties requested availability of ramps and sufficient lights in all polling stations, along with priority in voting for elderly, PwDs and pregnant women.
    7. All polling stations to be set up in proximity of residential areas for convenience of voters. Pick and drop facility may be provided for polling stations set-up farther from residential areas. Accessibility Observer may be deployed for ensuring facilities at polling stations.
    8. One of the parties raised a concern that in some cases, members of same family residing together were allotted different polling stations and some polling stations have more than 1500 electors.
    9. To avoid any undue harassment by authorities, few parties raised need for clear guidelines and demarcation of area for setting up of polling desks near polling station by parties on poll day.
    10. One of the parties also raised concern regarding deletion of name of voters in certain constituencies in previous elections, after final publication of the electoral roll.
    11. One of the parties requested enquiry of a sudden increase of voters in certain Assembly Constituencies.
    12. Some parties raised concerns on Hate Speech during campaigning. One of the parties requested ban on raising sub-judice matters like illegal immigrants in the state during campaigning.
    13. Strict vigil and action on use of illicit cash, liquor and freebies to sway voters. A grievance that administration is slow to cooperate/proceed with complaints of opposition parties/candidates and there is a need for swift action on any such complaints.
    14. Monitoring of campaigning by candidates 24×7 for any violations and prohibiting campaigning through IVRS calls on poll day
    15. More awareness on ECI directions regarding display of party flags by voters voluntarily in their home after election announcement to avoid misuse of Public Defacement Act by authorities.
    16. Details of EVM to be used at polling stations to be given to parties/candidates. Reserve EVMs to be made available at all polling stations for smooth voting process
    17. Voter Information Slip to be distributed in advance for awareness
    18. Videography of counting of postal ballots
    19. Other demands included the timely sharing of voter lists with candidates; curb diversion of funds received by certain NGOs for development work towards election related campaigning and reduction in nomination fee for the contesting candidates.  

     

    The Commission assured the representatives that it has taken cognizance of suggestions and concerns of the political parties and ECI is committed to conduct free, fair, participative, inclusive, peaceful and inducement free elections in the state. The Commission after reviewing these issues, decided and conveyed the following to state and district administration:

    1. Beyond the Commission’s mandate of webcasting in 50% polling stations, webcasting will be done in all polling stations, wherever feasible technically.
    2. Assured minimum facilities including ramps, sufficient lighting, wheelchairs, and volunteers for elderly and PwD voters will be provided at all polling stations.
    3. Priority voting for elderly, PwDs and Pregnant women would be ensured
    4. Polling stations will be on the ground floor and within 2 kms of the residence of the voters. Pick and drop facility would be provided for few polling stations beyond 2km range.
    5. All divisional commissioners are directed to assess and ensure compliance of AMFs at polling stations.
    6. None of the polling station will have more than 1500 electors.
    7. Clear demarcation of area i.e. 200mt from the periphery of the polling station premises, where Polling Parties can set up their desks on poll day would be ensured.
    8. There would be no undue harassment of persons under Public Defacement Act. DEOs and SPs directed that law should be implemented equally and without any bias.
    9.  As per ECI guidelines, EVM & VVPAT details will be shared with all contesting candidates after first and second randomization. FLC & First randomisation is done in presence of recognized parties. Second randomization of EVMs and VVPATs is conducted, before commissioning of EVMs and VVPATs, in the presence of contesting candidates to allocate polling station wise and reserve machines.
    10. Video recording of counting of postal ballots would be ensured as per ECI guidelines.
    11. District Administration would ensure vigil and prohibition on campaigning/advertisement using bulk SMS and IVRS calls during silence period.
    12. Voter information slips will be distributed timely
    13.  DEOs were specifically told to be equally accessible to all political parties and to ensure prompt resolution of their complaints and grievances, apart from meeting them regularly through periodic meetings.

     

    During the review meeting with nearly 20 central and state Enforcement agencies like DRI, NCB, State & Central GST, RPF, RBI, State Police, Income Tax, Enforcement Directorate, etc., the Commission underscored its focus for an inducement-free elections. Without mincing words, the Commission conveyed its zero tolerance towards use of money power in the elections. However, CEC Rajiv Kumar also cautioned the officials to avoid any undue harassments to the public in the name of checking during elections. The following directions were given to enforcement agencies:

    1. All enforcement agencies to work in a coordinated manner to curb illicit liquor, cash, and drugs inflow in the state.
    2. Agencies to synchronise and update their route maps of flow of inducements with actual sensitivity on the ground.
    3. SPNO to ensure Joint teams of police, transport, State GST, Excise and forest for coordinated and synergistic action.
    4. Police and excise department to focus on action against liquor and drug kingpins and establish backward linkages for wider deterrence.
    5. Review inter-state border and Naka arrangements, particularly those which lie on illicit liquor and drugs inflow. Special focus on border with West Bengal, Odisha and Bihar.
    6. 24×7 CCTV monitoring at critical check posts on interstate borders and feeds to be followed up earnestly. 
    7. Focus on movement of synthetic drugs apart from rigorous monitoring of Ganja and poppy cultivation and destruction. Special watch of destruction of illegal poppy cultivation in districts of Palamu, Chatra, Hazaribagh, Latehar, Gumla and Khunti.
    8. National Highways particularly connecting Jharkhand with Odisha and West Bengal to be kept under close watch.
    9. Apart from road routes, rail and forest routes to be kept under close watch.
    10. Enforcement Agencies to mutually share intelligence and work in a coordinated manner.
    11. State Level Bankers Committee to ensure cash transfers only in designated vehicles during designated hours.
    12. Strict vigil over illicit online cash transfers through wallets.
    13. Special vigil on cargo movement through airstrips and helipads.

    During its two-day review, the Commission also held meeting with the Chief Secretary & Director General of Police to review the overall poll preparedness and law and order matters. Commission directed CS that AMF should be ensured in all polling stations. DGP was directed to ensure regular co-ordination meetings with counterparts in border states. Jharkhand shares a long border with 5 states namely Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal and Chhattisgarh. CEC Rajiv Kumar highlighted that implementation of law and ECI guidelines should be in letter and spirit without any bias.

    On the second day, detailed review with DEOs/SPs/Divisional Commissioner’s/IGs was held on every aspect of election planning and conduct. The Commission specifically reviewed all the issues and concerns raised by the political parties during their meeting. CEC Rajiv Kumar emphasized that all DEOs/SPs to ensure free and fair elections, maintaining highest standards of impartial conduct for a level playing field. He emphasised that district administration needs to create a festive and comfortable voting experience for voters.

    DEOs to engage voters through innovative voter awareness and outreach activities for enhanced voter turnout. He emphasised that DEOs should organize SVEEP activities using local culture and sports like archery and hockey. Paintings competitions can be organized with local tribal folk themes. Local influencers/icons to be roped in for awareness activities. DEOs were told to intensify outreach activities in urban areas like Bokaro, Dhanbad, Ranchi, etc to address urban apathy noticed in previous elections. All DEOs and SPs were instructed to monitor social media for fake news and to respond swiftly with appropriate legal action, if required.

    The Chief Electoral Officer and State Police Nodal Officer gave a detailed overview of the poll preparations, including the Special Summary revision of Electoral Rolls in the state with respect to July 1, 2024 as the qualifying date. The final electoral roll was published on August 27, 2024, a copy of which was provided to all recognized parties free of cost. The details are summarised in Annexure A. The Commission reviewed in detail the law and order and requirement of forces with CEO & SPNO in for smooth and peaceful conduct of election.

    Senior officials from the Commission were also present during the review meetings.

    Annexure- A

    Electors

    CEO Jharkhand informed 2nd SSR in the state with respect to July 1, 2024 as the qualifying date has been completed and electoral roll was published on August 27, 2024 and copies of the same were provided to political parties. With continuous updation of the electoral roll and as on 20.09.2024, a total of 2.59 crore electors are registered in the state with approx. 1.31 crore male, 1.28 crore female electors. Over 11.05 lakh first time voters (18-19 years); 1.14 lakh 85+ senior citizens and 3.64 lakh PwD voters are registered in the state. More than 1845 voters are 100+ years old.  There is 100% enrolment (1.78 lakhs) of the 8 PVTGs in the electoral roll. With focus on inclusive and participative elections, all DEOs were directed to enhance participation of PVTGs and tribal groups in the elections. The state Electoral gender ratio is 978.

    Polling Stations

    While giving an overview of the polling stations during the review, CEO Jharkhand informed that a total of 29,562 polling stations will be set up on 20,276 locations in assembly elections. While 24,520 of these will be in rural areas, 5,042 will be urban polling stations with an average of 872 voters per polling station.

    1271 PS will be managed solely by women and 139 will be youth managed (young employees) to promote voting amongst the key demographics of women and youth. 48 Polling stations will be manned by persons with disabilities.

    Assured Minimum Facilities at Polling Stations

    All DEOs assured that polling stations across the state will have Assured Minimum Facilities like ramps, drinking water, toilets, electricity, shed, chairs etc. for convenience of voters.

     

    Technology

    DEOs informed that they will use an ecosystem of IT Applications to facilitate all stakeholders including voters and political parties.

    cVIGIL: This app empowers citizens to report any electoral violations and malpractices. Flying squads are deployed to address the complaints raised through an easy to use, intuitive app which preserves the anonymity of the complainant and assures a response within 100 minutes.

    SUVIDHA: It is a single window app for candidates to raise requests for permissions for meeting halls, booking grounds for political rallies etc. The technology is a step towards ensuring a level playing field as permissions are accorded on a first in first out basis, without any discretion.

    KYC or Know Your Candidate App is a step to promote an informed and aware electorate. The app contains the criminal antecedents, if any, of the candidates in the electoral fray and their assets and liabilities, educational details. 

    Saksham App is specially designed for PwD voters with various accessibility features built-in. One can request for Pick-n-Drop facility, wheelchair assistance, or volunteer assistance at the polling booth through this app to make the voting experience smooth for PwD voters.

    Inclusive & Accessible Elections:

    For the first time in State Assembly Elections in Jharkhand, Senior Citizens over 85+ years and PwDs with 40% benchmark disability will be provided an option to vote from the comfort of their homes. Home Voting facility is optional. If an elector is willing to visit the polling station physically to cast their vote, necessary assistance will be provided at the polling station. Application form 12D is distributed and collected by BLO within 5 days of the notification, from such electors who opt for this facility and deposit it with the Returning Officer. The complete process is videographed and representatives of political parties/candidates are always involved in the entire process of voting from home.

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    PK/RP

    (Release ID: 2058271) Visitor Counter : 53

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ayush SHS Campaign in full swing with 500 plus activities nationwide

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 4:59PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Ayush, together with its councils and institutes nationwide, initiated the 502 activities nationwide under ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign. The 15 day campaign was started on September 17, 2024 which will continue until October 1, 2024. The campaign has been designed on the basis of three key pillar ‘Swachhhata Mein Jan Bhagidari, – The first pillar, ‘Swachhhata Mein Jan Bhagidari,’ ‘Sampoorna Swachhata,’ ‘Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir’. Under ‘Swachhhata Mein Jan Bhagidari, ministry has created total 227 activities till date, emphasizing public participation, increasing awareness and making cleanliness a shared responsibility. Under the second domain, ‘Sampoorna Swachhata,’ has successfully created 90 activities aimed at addressing cleanliness issues in neglected areas. With the third pillar, ‘Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir,’ 185 activities are under execution. These activities have been focused on improving the working and health conditions of sanitation workers.

    The Minister of State Ayush (Independent Charge) Shri Prataprao Jadhav stated “Cleanliness is not just a duty, but a devotion to our nation. Every citizen has the power to build a healthier and stronger India by embracing cleanliness in every action. With Swachhata Hi Seva campaign let us unite to make India cleaner, greener, and healthier for future generations.”

    The Ministry of Ayush is successfully running with the campaign supported and initiated by of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Ministry of Jal Shakti, aiming to enhance cleanliness and sanitation across the country. The theme of the campaign, ‘Swabhav Swachchata, Sanskar Swachchata,’ focuses on fostering behavioral and cultural shifts, both.

    The campaign is built around three key pillars, each designed to promote greater public involvement and drive meaningful impact through collective action. The first pillar, ‘Swachhhata Mein Jan Bhagidari,’ emphasizes public participation and raising awareness, making cleanliness a shared responsibility. The Ministry has created 227 activities under this pillar to fulfill its objectives. Since the launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission, its success has been driven by collective responsibility, with every citizen playing a crucial role.

    The second pillar, ‘Sampoorna Swachhata,’ focuses on cleanliness drives under the Sampoorna Swachhata initiative. This aims to transform neglected or challenging locations, often referred to as black spots, into clean and healthy spaces. These areas are typically difficult to manage during regular cleanliness efforts, posing significant health and environmental risks. The campaign has successfully completed 90 activities to address these issues.

    The campaign encourages local bodies, especially in villages, to identify and tackle these black spots through Mega Cleanliness Drives, mobilizing both citizens and partner organizations.

    The third pillar, ‘Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir,’ prioritizes the health, safety, and well-being of sanitation workers, commonly known as Safai Mitras. To support their efforts, 185 activities are completed to improve their working conditions. Under the initiative for Preventive Health Checkups, health camps will be organized to ensure that Safai Mitras and their families have access to necessary healthcare services.

    The ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign is currently in progress and will run until October 1, 2024. The Ministry of Ayush invites all citizens to actively participate in this vital initiative, fostering a culture of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the nation.

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    SK

    (Release ID: 2058262) Visitor Counter : 49

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India attends Ministerial Meeting of Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity

    Source: Government of India

    India attends Ministerial Meeting of Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity

    IPEF partners welcome upcoming entry into force of the Clean Economy Agreement, Fair Economy Agreement, and IPEF Overarching Agreement under Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity

    IPEF partners commit to continued progress at virtual Ministerial Meeting

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 3:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal along with 13 other IPEF Ministers virtually attended the third Ministerial meeting focused on IPEF Pillar II, III, and IV.                

    In particular, Minister Goyal along with other IPEF Ministers welcomed the upcoming entry into force of the Clean Economy Agreement, Fair Economy Agreement, and the Overarching Agreement on IPEF on October 11, 2024, October 12, 2024, and October 11, 2024, respectively, and emphasized the significant opportunities to further deepen economic cooperation and deliver concrete benefits under the IPEF agreements through ongoing collaboration.

    Supply Chain Resilience

    In the virtual meeting, IPEF Ministers reviewed and appreciated the substantive progress made to operationalize the Supply Chain Agreement, deepening cooperation to build more competitive and resilient supply chains, better prepare for, prevent, and respond to supply chain disruptions when they happen, and ensure that regional supply chains raise up workers and respect labor rights.  They outlined concrete next steps for the upcoming months, building on the progress made by the Supply Chain Agreement’s three bodies: the Supply Chain Council, Crisis Response Network, and Labor Rights Advisory Board.  IPEF partners also highlighted the meaningful collaboration taking place under the Supply Chain Agreement which includes:

    The IPEF Ministers noted that the three supply chain bodies – the Supply Chain Council (Council), the Crisis Response Network (Network), and the Labor Rights Advisory Board (LRAB) – met virtually in July to elect leadership in which India was elected as Vice Chair of the Council with US as Chair; Korea as Chair and Japan as Vice Chair of the Network; and the United States as Chair and Fiji as Vice Chair of the LRAB.

    Minister Goyal noted that the formation of Action Plan teams in the first in person meeting of supply chain council held in Washington last week, for three critical sectors – semiconductors, critical minerals with a focus on batteries, and chemicals which are highly relevant today given their supply/production concentration and the experience learned from disruptions faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

     

    The world has witnessed exponential growth in demand for clean energy solutions to meet respective climate goals. The paradigm shift towards a sustainable and low-carbon future has brought to the forefront of the critical importance in securing a reliable supply of minerals which are critical for green transition.

    The use of specific minerals is indispensable for the sectors including clean energy, electronics, defence, transportation, telecommunications, fertilisers, and pharmaceuticals. One of the key challenges in supply chains is risk on account of concentration of global capacities or resources, which can add to price volatility and supply uncertainty. The work under the Action Plan team needs to address this global concentration of supply chains in any form.

    The growing population puts immense pressure on limited agricultural land for higher yields and in this context, the importance of resilient supply chains for Agro-chemicals has become extremely important. According to an estimate, the Global Agrochemicals Market (fertilizers, pesticides, adjuvants, and plant regulators) is projected to reach USD 282.2 billion by 2028 from USD 235.2 billion by 2023, at a CAGR of 3.7%.

    Minister Goyal emphasized that healthcare including pharmaceuticals and medical devices is an extremely relevant area due to over concentration of global production of APIs and Key Starting Materials (KSMs) which can severely impair supply chain resilience and impact our capacity to address the healthcare needs of our economies. Besides, the multimodal transport systems including multimodal transport corridors, upgrades of logistics infrastructure, enhanced technological interoperability and data flows among freight and logistics enterprises, are some of the key areas which need to be focused upon.  

    Minister Goyal noted that IPEF’s focus on Logistics and Movement of Good aligns perfectly with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Gati Shakti initiative, which aims to improve logistics and transportation infrastructure across India through evidence based integrated planning. Further, data and analytics on one hand will help identify new opportunities for collaboration for better resilience amongst IPEF supply chains and on other will help identify structural and systemic risks, enhancing the Council’s ability to address current challenges. He emphasized the workforce development which is a key cross cutting component of building resilient supply chains across the IPEF region should include efforts to identify skill gaps, support reskilling and upskilling, and ensure skill qualification comparability across the region to facilitate workforce mobility.

     

     

    Crisis Response Network

    IPEF Ministers emphasized the importance of collaboration under the Crisis Response Network to help partners timely understand risks in their supply chains. They also reflected on the emergency simulation exercise conducted during the Crisis Response Network (CRN) in person meeting to assist partners in creating tailored systems for real-time monitoring and crisis preparedness.

    Clean Economy

    Agreement on Clean Economy intends to accelerate efforts of IPEF partners towards energy security and transition, climate resilience and adaptation, GHG emissions mitigation; find/develop innovative ways of reducing dependence on fossil fuel energy; promote technical cooperation, workforce development, capacity building, and research collaborations; and collaborate to facilitate development, access, and deployment of clean energy and climate-friendly technologies.  The IPEF partners welcomed the progress made on the eight Cooperative Work Programs (CWPs), which serve as one of the primary mechanisms under the Clean Economy Agreement for facilitating cooperation among participating IPEF partners on priority topics. Each CWP, as developed by the proposing IPEF partner or partners, in consultation with the other IPEF partners, has different objectives and workstreams to carry forward the collaborative work.  During the virtual Ministerial, the IPEF partners commended the progress made on the Clean Economy Agreement since the successful Ministerial and inaugural Clean Economy Investor Forum in June.

    The IPEF partners welcomed the continued efforts to build and sustain longer-term cooperation among various groupings of interested partners on a range of climate solutions through the CWP mechanism, in furtherance of the overarching goals of the IPEF Clean Economy Agreement, especially w.r.t hydrogen, carbon markets, and small modular reactors (SMRs) and e-waste urban mining proposed by India.

    IPEF Ministers expressed great satisfaction over the very successful first IPEF investor Forum held in Singapore which provided a common platform to the investors and the project proponents together and facilitated them to gainfully engage on a wide array of investment opportunities including innovative ideas in the space of climate friendly technologies.

    Fair Economy

              By strengthening anti-corruption efforts and enhancing the efficiency of tax administration, the IPEF partners are demonstrating their commitment to increased transparency and predictability, and thereby will be better positioned to expand their trade, investment ties and ensure the benefits of trade are broadly shared throughout their economies.

    The IPEF partners welcomed the next steps to implement the Agreement, including operationalizing the Technical Assistance and Capacity Building Coordination Group that will coordinate technical assistance and capacity building (TACB) under the Agreement’s Capacity Building Framework. Some of the TACB initiatives highlighted include:-

    • The US Department of Commerce’s Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP)’s  two-year program will offer IPEF partners TACB to help with implementation of the anti-corruption provisions of the Agreement, primarily focused on enforcement training centered on foreign bribery, corporate liability, and compliance.
    • In August 2024, the US Treasury Department’s Office of Technical Assistance (OTA)’s virtual workshop served as a forum for the IPEF partners to discuss the importance of effective tax administration to support economic and development objectives.
    • In October 2024, the US State Department, with the Malaysia Anti-Corruption Commission and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, will hold an IPEF workshop focused on the implementation and enforcement of foreign bribery laws and another IPEF workshop on preventing corruption in public procurement, including tools to improve the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms, appeal systems, and potential remedies and legal options.

    Minister Goyal underscored that peer learning, knowledge sharing and capacity building initiatives under the Fair Economy agreement will remain key to achieving its objectives. India, under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has established a robust anti-corruption regime and has already implemented several legislative, administrative, and regulatory measures to address both corruption and promote tax transparency. 

    Minister Goyal emphasized that the full potential of IPEF can only be realised if each partner country brings their respective strengths to the table whether it is technological advancements or investment capacity or market potential or requisite resources including skilled workforce, to address various challenges of supply chain resilience or green transition.

    The IPEF partners agreed that the Ministers will continue to monitor the progress made to further operationalize the Supply Chain Agreement, the Clean Economy Agreement, the Fair Economy Agreement, and the IPEF Overarching arrangement, and look forward to the first meetings of the ministerial-level IPEF Council and IPEF Joint Commission established under the IPEF Overarching  Agreement .

    About IPEF

    IPEF was launched on 23 May 2022 at Tokyo, Japan, comprising 14 countries – Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and USA. The IPEF seeks to strengthen economic engagement and cooperation among partner countries with the goal of advancing growth, economic stability and prosperity in the region.

    The framework is structured around four pillars relating to Trade (Pillar I); Supply Chain Resilience (Pillar II); Clean Economy (Pillar III); and Fair Economy (Pillar IV). Agreement on Supply Chain Resilience (Pillars II) was signed in November 2023 and is in force since February 2024. Agreement on Clean Economy (Pillar-III), Agreement on Fair Economy (Pillar- IV) and the IPEF Overarching Agreement were signed by India early this week in Delaware, USA in the presence of the Prime Minister during his 3-day visit to the US.  India has maintained an observer status in Pillar-I.

    These agreements were negotiated in consultation with line Ministries/Departments including the Ministry of External Affairs and other relevant stakeholders.

     ***

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland News – Hapū-led partnership launched to protect globally significant ecosystems and endangered species of the Kaipara

    Source: Auckland Council

    Launch of Poipoia Te Kākano – A groundbreaking hapū-led initiative for the Kaipara

    A partnership agreement to protect the delicate ecosystems and endangered species of the Kaipara catchment, an area of global ecological significance, was signed into effect today between its key partners Te Uri o Hau, Te Roroa, Ngā Maunga Whakahii,  Auckland Council, Northland Regional Council, and the Department of Conservation.

    The historic agreement was signed at Te Hana Te Ao Marama Marae, a significant cultural place that reflects commitment to community-driven conservation.

    The initial aim of the partnership, named Puawai ki Kaipara, is to rid the five pivotal peninsulas (105,000 hectares) encircling the Kaipara Harbour of pest animals, including possums, rats, stoats, weasels, ferrets, pigs, and feral cats. The project then plans to extend into the entire Kaipara catchment area – an additional 543,000 hectares.  

    The area’s delicate ecosystems provide refuge for many endangered species, including the tara iti (fairy tern), mātātā (North Island fernbird), and kiwi. The coastal dunes and dune lakes along the western coast provide habitat for matuku-hūrepo (Australasian bittern), moho pererū (banded rail), tūturiwhatu (New Zealand dotterel), and other species.

    Kaipara Moana is a migratory bird habitat of international significance. Rare species, such as the kuaka (bar-tailed godwit), use the harbour for feeding in summer before returning to the northern hemisphere to breed, while the wetland areas provide feeding and roosting grounds for migratory waders.

    Auckland Council Policy and Planning Committee Chair, Councillor Richard Hills says the support Auckland Council is providing Poipoia Te Kākano will help align community and council activities on this important environmental initiative.

    “Poipoia Te Kākano is about working together for the protection of the special ecosystems inhabited by many endangered indigenous species that are pressured by introduced pest animals,” Cr Hills says.  

    “This initiative will focus on predator control, restoring native species and protecting an ecological sanctuary that acts as a haven for migratory birdlife from all over the world, and as nature’s corridor between Auckland and Northland. What we do to protect this precious area has a flow-on effect for other ecologically significant areas in Aotearoa,” he says.

    Auckland Council General Manager Environmental Services Samantha Hill says the partnership represents a shared goal to protect ecosystems and species that are profoundly important.

    “The dunes, lakes and the surrounding forest and wetlands are of cultural and ecological significance to so many. As caretakers of the natural environment, we have a collective responsibility to protect and restore it, and the taonga species that live within it,” she says.

    “We are uniting in this partnership to align our efforts and resources so that we can make a lasting impact, by working together to more effectively control a range of pest animals that threaten this taonga.”  

    Poipoia Te Kākano Project Lead Victoria Kurupō comments, “Our combined partnership has emerged from one united goal: to combat the predator invasions threatening the region’s biodiversity, and reflects our guiding philosophy, embodied in the whakatauki “Poipoia te Kākano, Kia Puāwai”, meaning “Nurture the seed and it will blossom”.

    “Our work is deeply rooted in the principles of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and mātauranga (traditional knowledge). This initiative is about creating a sustainable future for both our environment and our communities,” she says.    

    “With support from Predator Free 2050 Ltd, we have made significant strides in assessing and planning our predator elimination strategies, and an intensive feasibility study has guided us in identifying the needs of each peninsula.”    

    Ms Kurupō adds that the initial focus on the five Kaipara Peninsulas – Poutō, Hukatere (Tinopai), Puketōtara (Ōneriri), Ōkahukura (Tāporapora), and Te Korowai o Tonga (South Head) is inspired by the legendary taniwha Pokopoko Whiti te Rā.

    Kia Puawai ki Kaipara (the partnership) is a Kaipara Uri-led, Tiriti o Waitangi partnership comprising Te Uri o Hau, Ngā Maunga Whakahii, Te Roroa, Auckland Council, Northland Regional Council, and the Department of Conservation. It is one of two Māori-led Predator Free 2050 projects in Auckland.

    Read this and other stories on OurAuckland: https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: RNZRSA Christmas Parcels head off to deployed New Zealand Defence Force Personnel

    Source: RNZRSA

    Thanks to the RNZRSA, a small piece of New Zealand is on its way to every member of the New Zealand Defence Force deployed overseas this Christmas.

    Those serving personnel can expect some festive cheer from home, thanks to 140 RNZRSA Forces Gift Parcels which are now on the way to deployments around the world including in the Republic of Korea, South Sudan, Egypt, the Middle East and Antarctica.  

    The parcels were packed near Trentham Military Camp yesterday by a busy production line of `elves’ including the Minister for Veterans Hon Chris Penk, Commander Joint Forces New Zealand Major General Rob Krushka, RNZRSA National President Sir Wayne Shelford, staff from the RNZRSA’s National Office and volunteers from the New Zealand Defence Force.  

    Christmas boxes were filled with treats and Kiwi classics donated by the wonderful team from Pams. Each box also contained a poppy and a card handmade by students from Mt Cook and Silverstream Primary Schools in Wellington, to let those serving overseas know the country’s thoughts are with them.  

    Commander Joint Forces New Zealand Major General Rob Krushka, who helped to pack the boxes,  said that these small packages make a big difference to those away from home at Christmas.  

    “We know it’s incredibly tough for our service personnel to be away from their families during special occasions such as birthdays and Christmas. The NZDF are very grateful to the RNZRSA for the packages which bring a little bit of joy to our personnel at what can be a challenging time.”  

    RNZRSA National President, Sir Wayne Shelford said the RNZRSA are proud to continue to support NZDF personnel around the world.  

    “This is the 84th year the RSA has sent these parcels to our military personnel overseas at Christmas. It’s a small thing we can do to thank them for the sacrifice they are making, and to brighten their day a little.  

    We are committed to continuing our support to New Zealand’s veterans of military service, including the more than 60,000 that have served since 1990.”

    Background

    The RSA is incredibly grateful for the generosity of Pams New Zealand and Packaging Products. Pams donate the majority of goodies inside the parcels, and this year included items such as microwave popcorn, party mix lollies, roasted and salted deluxe nut mix, packets of biscuits and much more. Packaging Products print and donate the boxes the goodies are packed in to.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

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

    Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

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

    Source: Greenpeace

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

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

    Source: Save the Children

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI China News –

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI China News –

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

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Tuesday, September 24, 2024

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

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

    MIL Translation OSI

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

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Case

    Fraudulent “Refunds” Requested

    United States v. Dick Jenkins

    Salt Lake City, Utah

    $393 million

    United States v. Susan Guan

    Los Angeles, California

    , et al.

    $4.5 million

    United States v. Jacqueline Cornejo

    Los Angeles, California

    $12.1 million

    United States v. Evelyn Johnston, et al.

    Panama City, Florida

    $17.5 million

    United States v. Thanh Cao

    Los Angeles, California

    $34 million

    United States v. Penny Jones

    Pocatello, Idaho

    $93 million

    United States v. Karen Miller

    Nashville, Tennessee

    $8.3 million

     

    TOTAL:

    $562.4 million

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

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

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

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

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

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

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

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

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

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

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

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

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

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

    About Axi

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

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

    Contact: mediaenquiries@axi.com

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

    The MIL Network –

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

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    News Highlights

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

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

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

    Personalized Work Experiences Can Lead to Healthier Relationships with Work

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Methodology

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

    HP Inc. Media Relations
    MediaRelations@hp.com

    The MIL Network –

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

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Net Asset Value(s)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WisdomTree Issuer plc – Daily Fund Prices 23-September-24
                   
    WisdomTree Artificial Intelligence UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BDVPNG13 12803630 USD 781,957,988.75 61.0731
    WisdomTree AT1 CoCo Bond UCITS ETF – EUR Hedged 23/09/2024 IE00BFNNN236 1608706 EUR 135,789,574.05 84.4092
    WisdomTree AT1 CoCo Bond UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged 23/09/2024 IE00BFNNN459 105960 GBP 9,418,208.39 88.8846
    WisdomTree AT1 CoCo Bond UCITS ETF – USD 23/09/2024 IE00BZ0XVF52 659253 USD 57,192,822.77 86.754
    WisdomTree AT1 CoCo Bond UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BZ0XVG69 51373 USD 6,298,067.19 122.5949
    WisdomTree AT1 CoCo Bond UCITS ETF – USD Hedged 23/09/2024 IE00BFNNN012 88391 USD 8,532,954.32 96.5365
    WisdomTree Battery Solutions UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BKLF1R75 5333258 USD 146,900,626.53 27.5443
    WisdomTree BioRevolution UCITS ETF – USD ACC 23/09/2024 IE000O8KMPM1 212000 USD 3,755,617.97 17.7152
    WisdomTree Broad Commodities UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BKY4W127 24200000 USD 267,633,623.18 11.0592
    WisdomTree Cloud Computing UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BJGWQN72 9888863 USD 309,271,377.88 31.2747
    WisdomTree Cybersecurity UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BLPK3577 7598520 USD 191,085,124.79 25.1477
    WisdomTree Emerging Markets Equity Income UCITS ETF 23/09/2024 IE00BQQ3Q067 7886527 USD 121,236,080.82 15.3726
    WisdomTree Emerging Markets Equity Income UCITS ETF Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BDF12W49 730051 USD 19,810,672.71 27.136
    WisdomTree Emerging Markets ex-State-Owned Enterprises UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BM9TSP27 580000 USD 12,617,397.21 21.7541
    WisdomTree Emerging Markets Small Cap Dividend UCITS ETF 23/09/2024 IE00BQZJBM26 1755000 USD 36,945,606.19 21.0516
    WisdomTree Enhanced Commodity ex-Agriculture UCITS ETF – EUR Hedge Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BDVPNV63 15084926 EUR 159,541,721.33 10.5762
    WisdomTree Enhanced Commodity ex-Agriculture UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BDVPNS35 2590364 USD 29,657,366.43 11.4491
    WisdomTree Enhanced Commodity UCITS ETF – CHF Hedged Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BG88WL21 365000 CHF 4,566,150.50 12.51
    WisdomTree Enhanced Commodity UCITS ETF – EUR Hedged Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BG88WG77 1695000 EUR 20,597,366.38 12.1518
    WisdomTree Enhanced Commodity UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BG88WH84 2672311 GBP 34,607,301.76 12.9503
    WisdomTree Enhanced Commodity UCITS ETF – USD 23/09/2024 IE00BZ1GHD37 8287478 USD 111,609,743.73 13.4673
    WisdomTree Enhanced Commodity UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BYMLZY74 11257255 USD 166,310,192.08 14.7736
    WisdomTree Europe Equity Income UCITS ETF 23/09/2024 IE00BQZJBX31 2533458 EUR 31,292,084.32 12.3515
    WisdomTree Europe Equity Income UCITS ETF Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BDF16007 203690 EUR 3,895,048.61 19.1224
    WisdomTree Europe Equity UCITS ETF – CHF Hedged Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BYQCZT11 95208 CHF 2,193,046.70 23.0343
    WisdomTree Europe Equity UCITS ETF – EUR Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BYQCZX56 387585 EUR 9,521,285.61 24.5657
    WisdomTree Europe Equity UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged 23/09/2024 IE00BYQCZQ89 132327 GBP 1,899,073.19 14.3514
    WisdomTree Europe Equity UCITS ETF – USD Hedged 23/09/2024 IE00BVXBH163 933618 USD 23,156,217.19 24.8027
    WisdomTree Europe Equity UCITS ETF – USD Hedged Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BYQCZP72 1313847 USD 42,189,041.57 32.1111
    WisdomTree Europe Small Cap Dividend UCITS ETF 23/09/2024 IE00BQZJC527 1544268 EUR 29,295,597.59 18.9705
    WisdomTree Europe Small Cap Dividend UCITS ETF Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BDF16114 1419362 EUR 28,742,419.10 20.2502
    WisdomTree Eurozone Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – EUR 23/09/2024 IE00BZ56SY76 376939 EUR 7,317,494.66 19.4129
    WisdomTree Eurozone Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – EUR Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BZ56TQ67 1929440 EUR 46,346,351.35 24.0206
    WisdomTree Global Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – USD 23/09/2024 IE00BZ56RN96 9936630 USD 352,209,220.37 35.4455
    WisdomTree Global Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BZ56SW52 17286291 USD 713,165,724.60 41.2561
    WisdomTree Japan Equity UCITS ETF – CHF Hedged Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BYQCZL35 332345 CHF 11,907,390.67 35.8284
    WisdomTree Japan Equity UCITS ETF – EUR Hedged Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BYQCZJ13 909254 EUR 28,982,870.11 31.8754
    WisdomTree Japan Equity UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged 23/09/2024 IE00BYQCZF74 820383 GBP 16,153,445.31 19.6901
    WisdomTree Japan Equity UCITS ETF – JPY Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BYQCZN58 4387257 USD 128,696,862.70 29.3342
    WisdomTree Japan Equity UCITS ETF – USD Hedged 23/09/2024 IE00BVXC4854 2564459 USD 81,877,009.00 31.9276
    WisdomTree Japan Equity UCITS ETF – USD Hedged Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BYQCZD50 1503756 USD 59,484,303.55 39.5572
    WisdomTree New Economy Real Estate UCITS ETF USD 23/09/2024 IE000X9TLGN8 40664 USD 932,232.24 22.9252
    WisdomTree New Economy Real Estate UCITS ETF USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE000MO2MB07 109638 USD 2,632,193.44 24.008
    WisdomTree Recycling Decarbonisation UCITS ETF USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE000LG4J7E7 150000 USD 2,617,181.53 17.4479
    WisdomTree UK Equity Income UCITS ETF 23/09/2024 IE00BYPGTJ26 2230000 GBP 10,283,263.62 4.6113
    WisdomTree US Equity Income UCITS ETF 23/09/2024 IE00BQZJBQ63 1735120 USD 43,552,315.18 25.1005
    WisdomTree US Equity Income UCITS ETF – EUR Hedged Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BD6RZW23 69499 EUR 1,587,208.62 22.8379
    WisdomTree US Equity Income UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BD6RZZ53 32218 GBP 687,247.16 21.3312
    WisdomTree US Equity Income UCITS ETF Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BD6RZT93 1628773 USD 48,882,641.85 30.0119
    WisdomTree US Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – USD 23/09/2024 IE00BZ56RD98 3029106 USD 128,089,957.04 42.2864
    WisdomTree US Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BZ56RG20 10349837 USD 496,399,099.98 47.962
    WisdomTree USD Floating Rate Treasury Bond UCITS ETF – USD 23/09/2024 IE00BJFN5P63 433887 USD 22,063,158.27 50.85
    WisdomTree USD Floating Rate Treasury Bond UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE00BJJYYX67 4109598 USD 233,309,133.18 56.7718
    WisdomTree Blockchain UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE000940RNE6 232500 USD 7,603,206.03 32.702
    WisdomTree Global Automotive Innovators UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE000TB3YTV4 60000 USD 1,878,567.19 31.3095
    WisdomTree Global Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – EUR Hedged Acc 23/09/2024 IE0007M3MLF3 245121 EUR 4,679,035.50 19.0887
    WisdomTree Global Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged 23/09/2024 IE000LRRPK60 58309 GBP 1,111,130.00 19.0559
    WisdomTree Renewable Energy UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE000P3D0W60 90000 USD 1,629,057.03 18.1006
    WisdomTree US Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – EUR Hedged Acc 23/09/2024 IE000CXVOXQ1 327188 EUR 5,926,997.23 18.115
    WisdomTree US Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged 23/09/2024 IE000IGMB3E1 51708 GBP 937,249.05 18.1258
    WisdomTree US Efficient Core UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE000KF370H3 456000 USD 15,295,152.73 33.542
    WisdomTree UK Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – GBP 23/09/2024 IE0003UH9270 100000 GBP 2,991,162.06 29.9116
    WisdomTree Megatrends UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE0000902GT6 1936000 USD 52,987,706.83 27.3697
    WisdomTree Global Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – USD (Inst) 23/09/2024 IE00030Y2P41 65149 USD 723,717,805.57 11108.656
    WisdomTree Energy Transition Metals and Rare Earths Miners UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE000KHX9DX6 60000 USD 1,446,985.36 24.1164
    WisdomTree US Quality Growth UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE000YGEAK03 360000 USD 10,366,092.56 28.7947
    WisdomTree Global Sustainable Equity UCITS ETF – USD Acc 23/09/2024 IE000XNILW20 12176000 USD 320,121,796.40 26.2912

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Invesco Ltd: Form 8.3 – International Paper Company; Public dealing disclosure

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

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

    1. KEY INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Full name of discloser: Invesco Ltd.  
    (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
    The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		    
    (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
    Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 International Paper Company  
    (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:    
    (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
    For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23.09.2024  
    (f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
    If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 Yes, Smith (DS) PLC  
       
    2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.  
    (a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)  
       
    Class of relevant security: Common stock US4601461035  
      Interests Short Positions  
      Number % Number %  
    (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 8,158,384 2.34      
    (2) Cash-settled derivatives:          
    (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:          
      Total 8,158,384 2.34      
    *The change in the holding of 2,233 shares since the last disclosure on 23.09.2024 is due to the transfer out of a discretionary holding at 48.45 USD.  
       
    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

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

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

    		  
    (a) Purchases and sales  
       
    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit  
    Common stock US4601461035 Purchase 747 48.45 USD  
    Common stock US4601461035 Sale 89,776 48.34 USD  
    Common stock US4601461035 Sale 6,300 48.48 USD  
       
    (b) Cash-settled derivative transactions  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. CFD Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit  
               
       
    (c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)
     
    (i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying
     
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   
       
    (ii) Exercise  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit  
               
       
    (d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)  
                 
    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)  
             
             
       
    4. OTHER INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements  
       
    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (b) Agreements, arrangements, or understandings relating to options or derivatives  
       
    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (c) Attachments  
       
    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO  
       
    Date of disclosure 24.09.2024  
    Contact name Philippa Holmes  
    Telephone number +441491417447  
       

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Attorney General Merrick B. Garland Announces Appointment of a Special Counsel

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announced the appointment of a former career Justice Department prosecutor and former U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur to serve as special counsel to conduct the investigation of matters that were the subject of the initial investigation by U.S. Attorney John R. Lausch Jr. related to the possible unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents or other records discovered at the Penn Biden Center for Diplomacy and Global Engagement and the Wilmington, Delaware, private residence of President Joseph R. Biden Jr.

    Related:

    Appointment of a Special Counsel

    Statement of Special Counsel Robert K. Hur

    Attorney General Merrick B. Garland Delivers Remarks on the Appointment of a Special Counsel

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: TransUnion Announces Earnings Release Date for Third Quarter 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TransUnion (NYSE: TRU) will publish its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024, in a press release to be issued at approximately 6:00 a.m. Central Time (CT) on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. The company will hold a conference call on the same day at 8:30 a.m. (CT) to discuss its financial results. The press release and a live webcast of the earnings conference call will be available on the TransUnion Investor Relations website at http://www.transunion.com/tru.

    About TransUnion (NYSE: TRU)

    TransUnion is a global information and insights company with over 13,000 associates operating in more than 30 countries. We make trust possible by ensuring each person is reliably represented in the marketplace. We do this with a Tru™ picture of each person: an actionable view of consumers, stewarded with care. Through our acquisitions and technology investments we have developed innovative solutions that extend beyond our strong foundation in core credit into areas such as marketing, fraud, risk and advanced analytics. As a result, consumers and businesses can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good® — and it leads to economic opportunity, great experiences and personal empowerment for millions of people around the world.

    http://www.transunion.com/business

    E-mail investor.relations@transunion.com
    Telephone 312-985-2860

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eye Surgery Practices Agree to Pay $1 Million and End Discriminatory Policies Towards People with Disabilities

    Source: United States Department of Justice

    The Justice Department announced today that it has filed a proposed consent decree with Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Centers (BDP) and American Vision Partners (AVP), to resolve its lawsuit alleging that the eye care practices violated the Americans with Disabilities Act. The lawsuit alleged that BDP and AVP refused to operate on certain patients who needed assistance transferring from their wheelchairs for surgery and required other such patients to pay for third-party medical transport and transfer assistance. Medical providers routinely offer this type of assistance to patients who need help transferring from a wheelchair to an examination or surgical table for surgery and exams.

    “The Americans with Disabilities Act requires health care providers to offer equal access to their services,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Patients with disabilities must not be denied crucial medical services or forced to pay surcharges because they need transfer assistance. The Justice Department is fully committed to protecting the civil rights of individuals with disabilities to get the medical care they need.” 

    “This agreement reflects an important step in obtaining equal access to health care services for Arizonans with disabilities,” said U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino for the District of Arizona. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work closely with the Civil Rights Division to ensure that all Arizonans are afforded equal opportunity to access health care services in our state.”

    Under the decree, BDP and AVP will end their policies of denying surgery and prohibiting staff from providing transfer assistance to people with mobility disabilities. BDP operates eye care facilities throughout Arizona, and AVP, one of the largest eye care practice management organizations in the country, partners with eye care providers in Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada and Texas, including BDP, Southwestern Eye Center, M & M Eye Institute, Retinol Consultants of Arizona, Abrams Eye Institute, Southwest Eye Institute, Aiello Eye Institute, Havasu Eye Center, Visage Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery and Moretsky Cassidy Vision Correction. These eye care providers will also train staff on the new policy requirements and on safe transfer techniques, and pay $950,000 to patients and prospective patients who were harmed by its policies and a civil penalty of $50,000.

    For more information on the Civil Rights Division, please visit http://www.justice.gov/crt. For more information on the ADA, please call the department’s toll-free ADA information line at 800-514-0301 (TDD 800-514-0383) or visit www.ada.gov. ADA complaints may be filed online at http://www.ada.gov/complaint.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Man Group PLC : Form 8.3 – International Paper Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

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

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Man Group PLC
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 International Paper Company
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23/09/2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES / NO / N/A
    Offeree – Smith (DS) plc

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: common stock
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 71,226 0.02 725,371 0.21
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:                                     1,752,178 0.51
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 71,226 0.02 2,477,549 0.72

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

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

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    common stock Purchase 98 48.431 USD
    common stock Purchase 1,284 48.347 USD

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

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

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

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

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

    (ii)        Exercise

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

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

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

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

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

    None

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

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

    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 24/09/2024
    Contact name: Mackenzie Terry
    Telephone number: +442071441555

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.
    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Man Group PLC : Form 8.3 – AngloGold Ashanti plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

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

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Man Group PLC
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 AngloGold Ashanti plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23/09/2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES / NO / N/A
    Offeree: Centamin plc

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: USD 1 ordinary
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 347,936 0.08 1,083,286 0.26
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:     144,060 0.03
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 347,936 0.08 1,227,346 0.29

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

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

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    USD 1 ordinary Purchase 2 28.863 USD
    USD 1 ordinary Sale 45 28.598 USD
    USD 1 ordinary Purchase 23,478 28.735 USD

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    USD 1 ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a short position 179 497.453 ZAR

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

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

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

    (ii)        Exercise

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

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

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

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

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

    None

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

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

    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 24/09/2024
    Contact name: Mackenzie Terry
    Telephone number: +442071441555

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Man Group PLC : Form 8.3 – Keywords Studios plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

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

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Man Group PLC
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Keywords Studios plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23/09/2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES / NO / N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 1p ordinary
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:        
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives: 1,666,330 2.07    
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 1,666,330 2.07    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

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

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    1p ordinary Equity Swap Reducing a long position 45,274 24.300 GBP

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

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

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

    (ii)        Exercise

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

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

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

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

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

    None

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

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

    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 24/09/2024
    Contact name: Mackenzie Terry
    Telephone number: +442071441555

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Man Group PLC : Form 8.3 – Darktrace plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

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

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Man Group PLC
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Darktrace plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23/09/2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES / NO / N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 1p ordinary
      Interests  
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:        
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives: 7,625,908 1.09    
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 7,625,908 1.09    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

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

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    1p ordinary Equity Swap Reducing a long position 190,064 5.811 GBP

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

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

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

    (ii)        Exercise

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

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

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

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

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

    None

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

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

    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 24/09/2024
    Contact name: Mackenzie Terry
    Telephone number: +442071441555

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Man Group PLC : Form 8.3 – TI Fluid Systems plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

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

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Man Group PLC
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 TI Fluid Systems plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23/09/2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES / NO / N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 1p ordinary
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 11,550,599 2.32    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives: 10,538,589 2.12    
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 22,089,188 4.43    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

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

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    1p ordinary Sale 38,731 1.657 GBP

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    1p ordinary Equity Swap Reducing a long position 8,555 1.657 GBP
    1p ordinary Equity Swap Reducing a long position 135 1.657 GBP
    1p ordinary Equity Swap Reducing a long position 26,648 1.657 GBP

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

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

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

    (ii)        Exercise

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

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

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

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

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

    None

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

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

    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 24/09/2024
    Contact name: Mackenzie Terry
    Telephone number: +442071441555

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –