NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Federated Farmers – Government must deliver on KiwiSaver promise for young farmers

    Federated Farmers is calling on the Government to deliver on National’s pre-election promise to change KiwiSaver rules to help young farmers get their foot on the farming ladder.

    On the eve of the 2023 election National pledged that, if elected to Government, they would allow young farmers to use their KiwiSaver to buy their first home, farm, herd or flock.

    “They made that campaign promise in Morrinsville, but 18 months later there has been no action,” says Federated Farmers dairy chair Richard McIntyre.

    “The announcement was incredibly popular, particularly among the next generation of farmers, but also with older farmers who are looking for succession pathways.

    “There are a lot of people out there waiting for these changes to be made, so it’s important they follow through and deliver on their promise.”

    While National MP Suze Redmayne has since submitted a Members’ Bill that would address some of the issues young farmers face, McIntyre says that isn’t enough.

    “It’s great that Suze has put forward a bill – but it’s one of more than 70 others in the Members’ Ballot. It’s effectively a raffle and the bill may never be drawn.

    “That aside, having a Members’ Bill in the biscuit tin doesn’t even come close to delivering on their campaign promise. It needs to be picked up as a Government Bill.

    “To make that happen, we need the Minister of Agriculture, and all rural MPs, to really get in behind farmers and push hard on this issue. They should be championing the cause.”

    McIntyre says young farmers across the country are being held back by outdated rules that don’t reflect the reality of farm ownership or rural employment.

    “These rules are holding young farmers back years in their career progression as they scrimp and save every dollar to get on the ladder, particularly for sharemilkers and contract milkers.

    “I understand that KiwiSaver is about saving for retirement, but for these young farmers, owning a farm, herd or flock is going to be what sets them up for their later years.

    “These are ambitious young people who are trying to build a future in farming, who just need the Government to get out of their way and allow them to access their own savings to invest in their future.

    “A change in policy would give them a tangible pathway towards ownership and investment in agriculture – something the next generation of farmers desperately needs to see.”

    McIntyre says changing the rules would help level the playing field for young farmers and encourage greater use of KiwiSaver.

    “A lot of young people in towns get into KiwiSaver because they know they can use it as a great way to build a deposit for their first house. “In their early years, that’s effectively what they’re doing – not saving for their retirement.

    “On the other hand, so many young farmers don’t use KiwiSaver because they know they’re not allowed to access that for their first home, farm, herd, or flock.

    “They won’t be able to use those savings until their retirement, whereas there are really important things they need to invest in early in their careers, long before retirement age.

    “It’s an unfair playing field and young farmers are missing out on a key step towards growing their long-term wealth.”

    Federated Farmers are strongly calling on the National-led Government to deliver on this campaign promise and show their support for the next generation of farmers. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: BUDGET 2025 – What Vote Health Needs Just to Stay Afloat

    Budget 2025 will need to include $2 billion in additional operational funding this year just for the public health system to stand still.

    “Year on year specialists in our public hospitals are being asked to do more and more,” says ASMS policy director Harriet Wild.

    “If we do not see this level of investment as a minimum it just means the Government is choosing to dig their own hole that much deeper. Again in 12-months’ time they will gamble on the future of our public health system again, knowing they have made the odds that much worse.”

    Two billion dollars is the increase required to meet health cost pressures (which run higher than general inflation) including changes in pricing, volumes, and inflation, as well as the increased need created by a growing and ageing population.

    New Zealand’s population is growing by 1.3% annually.

    New Zealand’s population is also ageing. Almost three-quarters of total life-long healthcare costs occur in the last three years of life. Census data shows 1 in 6 people were aged 65 and older in 2023, this is projected to be 1 in 5 by 2033.

    The need for hospital-based acute care is also increasing. Acute discharges in public hospital increased by 28% between 2014 and 2023. Almost 1.3 million people attended an Emergency Department in 2022/23, a 22.5% increase since 2013/14. Over the same period, the population increased by 16%.

    Two billion dollars will not remedy decades of underfunding of New Zealand’s health system. New Zealand’s total health expenditure (public and private) as a proportion of GDP has remained well below comparable countries for many years. Prior to Covid-19, New Zealand spent 9% of GDP on health, while countries including Australia, Canada, The Netherlands and Sweden spent an average 10.7%.

    The New Zealand Health Survey shows significant volume of unmet health need also remains in our community, with 1.86 million adults experiencing an unmet need for dental care due to cost. 464,000 adults have an unmet need for mental health or addiction services – an increase of 3.3% since 2023.

    While investing in primary care will make people healthier overall, it will also generate more cost for our hospitals as unmet need for secondary care is identified by those primary care providers.

    $1.43 billion was allocated to meet health sector cost pressures (demographic changes, price and wage increases) in the 2023-4 Budget. However, when appearing before health select committee during Scrutiny Week in March 2024, Te Whatu Ora officials acknowledged this fell short of what was required.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Sen. Cramer Op-Ed: If Countries Want Access to Our Markets, They Must Abide By Our Standards

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    BISMARCK, N.D. – On President Trump’s “Liberation Day” last month, he argued non-tariff trade barriers are often more damaging to America’s competitiveness than actual tariffs imposed by foreign governments. He rightly called out unfair practices like currency manipulation, export subsidies, and intellectual property theft. But one often-overlooked offense stands out: lax environmental standards, enforcement, and compliance.
    In his remarks, the President blasted other countries for accusing America of committing environmental crimes and demanding that our producers pay for damages for which they were not responsible. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, penned an op-ed in RealClearEnergy, arguing for an America First approach to foreign pollution, and that the rules we impose on ourselves reflect our stewardship values. If countries want access to our markets they should abide by our standards, and we shouldn’t devolve to theirs. 

    If Countries Want Access to Our Markets, They Must Abide By Our Standards
    RealClearEnergy – May 19, 2024
    On President Trump’s “Liberation Day,” he argued non-tariff trade barriers are often more damaging to America’s competitiveness than actual tariffs imposed by foreign governments.  
    The President called out several unfair practices used to create an artificial advantage in trade – currency manipulation, export subsidies, intellectual property theft, exorbitant value-added taxes, and unfair rules. But one often-overlooked offense stands out: lax environmental standards, enforcement, and compliance. He is right to pinpoint this disparity as it undermines U.S. competitiveness and directly harms the wellbeing of Americans.
    Emissions from industrial activities across the Pacific, particularly in China, contribute up to 30% of surface ozone and 20% of fine particulate matter in the western U.S., making it more difficult for states to meet their air quality targets under the Clean Air Act. In addition, mercury pollution from coal-fired plants in Asia accounts for 20 to 40% of mercury deposition in the West.
    If American facilities fail to comply with our environmental statutes, a state’s federal highway funds can be withheld, or strict regulatory constraints impacting the permitting and investment of new industrial facilities could be imposed. This is why U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin recently announced the removal of red tape that placed excessive burden on states’ ability to prove their pollution problem was linked to foreign sources. He understands Americans should not be punished for another country’s’ pollution.
    U.S. companies work hard to meet EPA requirements. They spend hundreds of billions on environmental compliance, with our manufacturing and energy-intensive sectors bearing the highest burden. A National Association of Manufacturers’ report found the average U.S. producer pays over $10,000 per employee annually on meeting environmental standards.
    When a regulation’s costs outweigh its public benefits, it should be eliminated. But Americans live by the old Boy Scout adage to “leave this world a little better than you found it.” We want safe environments for our workers, clean air and water, and for our innovators to create more efficient ways to produce more in America. The rules we impose on ourselves reflect our stewardship values. If countries want access to our markets they should abide by our standards, and we shouldn’t devolve to theirs. 
    “Free-trade-at-any-cost” idealogues portend all commodities are created equal, as if there isn’t intrinsic value in where a product is made. In their mind, a barrel of Russian or Iranian oil is the same as one out of North Dakota or Alaska, or a rod of Chinese steel is no different than one out of Cleveland or Pittsburgh. Never mind these foreign producers are dirtier, use their profits to promulgate foreign wars, and exploit abhorrent labor standards.
    In his remarks, the President blasted other countries for accusing America of committing environmental crimes and demanding that our producers pay for damages for which they were not responsible.   
    He’s right to decry this hypocrisy and I’m committed to working with him to hold overseas polluters accountable.
    Last Congress, Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE) and I introduced the PROVE IT Act, which would require the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to develop a dataset to compare the relative carbon efficiency of U.S. production to our foreign competitors. Existing data compiled by the Climate Leadership Council already shows the United States has a clear carbon advantage over its competitors. While the idea of using carbon as a metric might confuse those who seek to punish overseas producers for traditional pollutants, it serves as an excellent proxy for actual emissions. 
    On paper, China’s environmental regulatory regime appears reasonable, but enforcement and compliance suffer from corruption that results in cheating. Chinese companies, especially coal-fired power plants and heavy industries, have been documented turning off or bypassing pollution scrubbers to cut costs. Our bill requires DOE to strictly review foreign data to make sure this type of cheating isn’t tolerated.
    The President is right to focus on the effects of unfair trade practices to level the playing field. An America First approach on foreign pollution, however, can do much more – it can rewrite the script on how conservatives view U.S. environmental progress.
    Paired with effective trade measures that hold overseas polluters accountable, we can monetize the superior environmental performance of our workers and industry and protect public health. At the same time, we can create a durable and transparent trade agenda that not only encourages domestic investment in manufacturing but also cleans up the global environment. 
    Global demand for virtually everything is growing. If we want cleaner, more secure supply chains, we won’t get there by punishing ourselves. The solution is recognizing our excellence and making more in America!
    President Trump gets this. But first, we need the comparative emissions data authorized by the PROVE IT Act to determine the scope of this unfair trade practice and to help understand the impact of foreign pollution on America.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 78th World Health Assembly opens in Geneva with focus on ‘One World for Health’

    Source: People’s Republic of China Ministry of Health

    GENEVA — The 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) opened Monday in Geneva, Switzerland, under the theme “One World for Health.”

    Addressing the opening ceremony, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said every WHA is significant, but this year’s gathering is particularly historic as member states are expected to consider and potentially adopt the pandemic agreement.

    Tedros also called on member states to approve the next round of assessed contribution increases to help ensure the WHO’s long-term financial sustainability and independence.

    Lei Haichao, head of China’s National Health Commission and leader of the Chinese delegation, delivered a statement during the general debate Monday, highlighting China’s active engagement in global health cooperation.

    He stated that over the past six decades, China has dispatched more than 30,000 medical personnel to 77 countries and regions, providing treatment to over 300 million patients. During the COVID-19 pandemic, China supplied 500 billion personal protective items and 2.3 billion doses of vaccines globally.

    Lei reiterated that China will continue to support the WHO and multilateralism through concrete actions. He welcomed the organization’s internal reforms and expressed China’s willingness to work with other member states to build a global community of health for all.

    He also said that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China and the WHA has long made clear decisions not to include in its agenda a so-called proposal on Taiwan’s participation in the annual assembly as an observer.

    The remarks made by a small number of countries concerning Taiwan disrupted the agenda and went against the will of the international community, he noted, adding that China urges these countries to stop interfering in its internal affairs.

    A major focus of this year’s assembly is the deliberation of the much-anticipated pandemic agreement. The WHO announced on April 16 that, following more than three years of intensive negotiations, member states have reached a consensus on a draft of the agreement.

    Delegates will also review the 2024 results report and deliberate on around 75 agenda items covering a wide range of topics, including the health and care workforce, antimicrobial resistance, health emergencies, polio and climate change, among other issues.

    Sustainable financing is another key issue. The Assembly is expected to discuss the proposed program budget for 2026-2027, which may be reduced from 5.3 billion US dollars to 4.267 billion dollars, alongside efforts to refocus priorities, strengthen core functions, and enhance organizational efficiency.

    The World Health Assembly is the WHO’s highest decision-making body and is typically held every May in Geneva. Its main responsibilities include setting organizational policies and reviewing and approving the program budget. This year’s Assembly is scheduled to conclude on May 27. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: UK-EU ties reset with new bilateral deal

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

    British Prime Minister Keir Starmer (C), European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (L) and European Council President Antonio Costa are seen ahead of the UK-EU summit in London, Britain, on May 19, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Britain and the European Union (EU) reached a wide-ranging agreement on Monday, which is expected to generate nearly 9 billion pounds (about 12.02 billion U.S. dollars) for the British economy by 2040, Downing Street announced.

    The deal was unveiled ahead of the first-ever UK-EU summit held in London, a meeting hailed by both sides as a “historic moment.” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the agreement a “new chapter” in the relationship, as the two sides seek to reset ties after years of post-Brexit friction.

    Major highlights

    Hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the summit brought together von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa. All three praised the deal as a major step forward during a joint press conference.

    One major highlight is a youth mobility scheme, described by Downing Street as “capped and time-limited,” and modeled on similar agreements with countries like Australia and New Zealand. The UK and EU will also work toward restoring British participation in the Erasmus+ academic exchange program, from which the UK withdrew during the current 2021-2027 cycle.

    Von der Leyen stressed that the mobility initiative will help rebuild long-term academic and cultural connections between European and British youth.

    The agreement also includes a sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) deal aimed at easing trade in food and agricultural goods. It will eliminate many routine checks on animal and plant products, cutting costs, reducing red tape, and reopening EU markets to British exports such as burgers and shellfish. It will also streamline goods movement between Britain and Northern Ireland under the Windsor Framework.

    “This deal slashes red tape for exporters and will bring down food prices in British supermarkets,” Starmer said. “It directly impacts working people across the country.”

    In the fisheries sector, Britain and the EU agreed to a 12-year framework that preserves British access to EU waters and maintains current quotas for EU vessels. The British government will invest 360 million pounds to modernize its fleet and upgrade technology.

    “Under the old arrangement, we moved to year-by-year negotiations, which brought instability,” Starmer said. “This new deal offers predictability. Over 70 percent of our seafood is sold to the EU, so reducing red tape makes a material difference.”

    The agreement also lays the groundwork for defense and security cooperation, including a framework for UK participation in the EU’s SAFE defense program, which supports joint military procurement. Further negotiations will address financial contributions and supply chain arrangements.

    British holidaymakers also stand to benefit. The deal will expand access to Europol data and enhance cooperation on biometric and vehicle information. British travelers will once again be able to use eGates at EU border controls, streamlining passport checks.

    Surrender or step forward

    Despite broad support, the agreement has also faced criticism. Opposition Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch pledged to reverse it if her party returns to power, while Reform UK’s Nigel Farage called the move a “surrender” to Brussels.

    Fisheries groups also voiced discontent. The National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations said the deal “gives away the best card we still had,” benefiting large exporters and supermarkets more than independent fishers.

    Still, analysts viewed the agreement as a pragmatic step forward.

    “Fishing is a tiny part of the British economy, but critics will latch onto it as symbolic,” said Iain Begg, a European politics expert at the London School of Economics and Political Science. “However, reducing barriers to UK exports carries much greater economic weight — especially for defense contractors who could benefit from EU military procurement.”

    On the mobility deal, Begg noted that relaxed passport controls will be welcomed by many Brits, especially as the holiday season approaches.

    While some critics view the deal as a British retreat, others argue it signals a more mature phase in UK-EU relations.

    “If you frame this as winners and losers, you miss the bigger picture,” said Steve Nolan, senior economics lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University, who sees the move as a mutual recognition that “we are close neighbors and strategic partners.” In a fragmented world, this is a sign that “grown-up negotiation is back on the table,” he added.

    No timeline has been set for the agreement’s full implementation, but Starmer said remaining negotiations would continue “with the same pace and intensity.” (1 British pound = 1.34 U.S. dollar) 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese economy shows strong resilience despite pressure

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

    An aerial drone photo taken on April 25, 2025 shows a cargo ship navigating at Tianjin Port in north China’s Tianjin. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s economy withstood pressure and maintained stable growth, continuing on a path of positive development amid internal challenges and increasing external shocks, an official of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said on Monday.

    NBS spokesperson Fu Linghui said at a press conference that the fundamentally positive outlook for China’s economy has not changed, and there are several favorable conditions for sustained economic recovery.

    China’s retail sales of consumer goods, a major indicator of the country’s consumption strength, expanded 5.1 percent year on year in April to 3.72 trillion yuan (about 517.27 billion U.S. dollars), NBS data showed.

    From January to April, the retail sales of consumer goods rose 4.7 percent year on year, accelerating from the 4.6-percent growth in the first three months, according to the NBS.

    In the first four months, the index of services production grew by 5.9 percent year on year, 0.1 percentage points faster than that of the first quarter, according to the NBS data.

    In April, the total value of goods imports and exports reached 3.84 trillion yuan, an increase of 5.6 percent year on year, the data showed. From January to April, the import and export volume of general trade grew by 0.6 percent year on year, accounting for 64 percent of the total trade value.

    In the first four months, private enterprises saw a year-on-year increase of 6.8 percent in imports and exports, representing 56.9 percent of the overall trade volume, an increase of 2.3 percentage points compared to the same period last year.

    China’s fixed-asset investment went up 4 percent year on year in the first four months of 2025 to 14.7 trillion yuan, the latest NBS data showed. Excluding the property sector, the country’s fixed-asset investment grew 8 percent year on year during this period.

    During the period, infrastructure investment rose 5.8 percent year on year, while manufacturing investment increased 8.8 percent, the data indicated.

    Driven by China’s consumer goods trade-in program, sales of home appliances and audio equipment surged by 38.8 percent last month, and sales of cultural and office goods jumped by 33.5 percent, according to the NBS.

    “In April, the combined retail sales of consumer goods related to trade-ins, including household appliances and audio-visual equipment, cultural and office supplies, furniture, communication equipment, and building and decoration materials, contributed to a 1.4 percentage point increase in the total retail sales of consumer goods,” Fu said.

    In April, the added value of the high-tech manufacturing industry increased by 10 percent year on year, surpassing the overall industrial growth rate by 3.9 percentage points.

    China’s shift toward intelligent and green development is gaining momentum, said Fu. In April, the added value of the intelligent unmanned aerial vehicle manufacturing sector surged by 74.2 percent, while the production of new energy vehicles rose by 38.9 percent.

    “Breakthroughs in advanced technology fields such as large AI models and humanoid robots will further promote industrial upgrading and development,” Fu said.

    Bolstered by multiple favorable factors, China’s economy is expected to maintain stable performance and steady growth momentum, said the spokesperson.

    He added that the significant reduction of bilateral tariffs between China and the United States is beneficial for trade growth between the two countries and global economic recovery.

    However, the current international environment remains complex and challenging, with a rise in unilateralism and protectionism posing serious challenges to the international economic and trade order and hindering global economic growth, Fu noted.

    “But the trend of international cooperation for win-win outcomes will not change, and China’s commitment to expanding its opening up will remain steadfast,” he said.

    The country’s efforts to diversify its foreign trade are progressing steadily, with policies aimed at promoting foreign trade development delivering continuous results, Fu said, adding that these measures are expected to continue supporting the stable growth of China’s foreign trade. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Votes to Cut Bureaucratic Red Tape for Iowa Veterans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) voted for the Simplifying Forms for Veterans Claims Act to make VA benefits forms easier for veterans to understand and complete.

    “Our veterans are American heroes who answered the call to serve our nation and defend the freedoms that we hold dear. As a grateful nation, it is our duty to ensure that our veterans receive the high-quality healthcare and benefits that they earned and deserve,” said Rep. Feenstra. “That’s why I voted for legislation to simplify VA forms so that our veterans can more easily complete these forms and get the benefits that they have earned more quickly. In Congress, I will always stand with our veterans and support their families.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arrest made in Poukawa assault on cyclists

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Attributable to Acting Detective Sergeant Steve Leonard:

    A man has been arrested in relation to an assault in Hawke’s Bay last month in which cyclists competing in a race were pelted with glass bottles.

    On the afternoon of Saturday 19 April, the occupants of a black ute were seen on Mutiny Road, Poukawa throwing bottles from their vehicle towards participants of a Council-sanctioned cycle race.

    A young person was hit by a bottle and fell from their bike – fortunately they were not seriously injured.

    Hastings Police would like to thank the public for their response to our appeal for information at the time, as this has helped bring this matter to a resolution.

    An 18-year-old man has been charged with two counts of assault with a weapon, and is due to appear in Hastings District Court on Friday 23 May.

    He was a passenger in the black ute at the time. This vehicle has been seized by Police, and Police are following lines of inquiry to speak with the driver.

    We would like to take this opportunity to remind road users that cyclists are legal road users under the Land Transport Act, who will on occasion ride two abreast, particularly in organised ride or race situations.

    Please be patient and overtake when safe to do so for all parties, ensuring everyone arrives at their destination safely – preserving Hawke’s Bay’s reputation as a proud cycling region.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advocacy – Nine Aid Trucks Are Not Enough: The Occupying State’s Token Gesture in Gaza Must Be Condemned – PFNZ

    Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    May 19, 2025 – Auckland, New Zealand – In a clear act of defiance against international humanitarian obligations, the occupying state has permitted only nine aid trucks to enter the Gaza Strip — covering both the devastated north and south. This paltry number of trucks represents a deliberate and cynical attempt to circumvent global decisions calling for unrestricted humanitarian access.

    Under the guise of permitting aid, this token gesture is being used to claim compliance while continuing to suffocate more than two million Palestinians trapped under siege. It is a tactic designed to deflect international criticism and ease diplomatic pressure without meaningfully alleviating the catastrophic conditions faced by civilians.

    This is not aid — it is manipulation. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza demands immediate, full, and unhindered access to food, water, medical supplies, and shelter for all areas of the Strip. The international community must see through these performative measures and act decisively.

    We call on governments, humanitarian agencies, and civil society around the world to intensify public and political pressure on the occupying state. It is imperative that world leaders hold it accountable for its ongoing violations and demand an end to the blockade, the siege, and these deceptive, life-threatening tactics.

    Every minute of delay costs lives. Nine trucks are not enough. Gaza needs justice, not crumbs.

    Maher Nazzal
    Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Urgent and after-hours care support welcome, but Budget must tackle GP funding and retention – Genaro

    Source: GenPro

    The General Practice Owners Association is welcoming a $41 million a year uplift in funding for urgent and after-hours care services and hopes the government’s newly proactive approach to supporting family doctors continues in Thursday’s Budget.

    “The after-hours and urgent care system is under considerable stress – about 10 urgent care services closed in the last two years – so it’s encouraging the government is funding improvement to urgent and after-hours care, but the devil is in the detail,” said Dr Angus Chambers, Chair of GenPro.

    In particular more detail is required on rural services, which are under considerable stress, and on the split in funds for five new regional services, the expansion of others, and support for those already operating.

    “This $164 million injection over four years and other recent announcements by senior ministers show the government is serious about tackling the crisis in primary health care.
     
    “Looking forward, the best thing the Budget could contain is a 10 percent uplift in the government’s contribution to general practice, which covers approximately half a patient’s consultation fee.

    “The government’s contribution has gradually fallen over the past 20 years, a period when an aging population, changing health needs, rising costs, and stretched hospitals have piled more work and cost on family doctors.

    “The result is that many general practices have closed or reduced their services, GP salaries have failed to keep pace with overseas, and recruitment hasn’t kept up with GPs leaving or retiring. We expect considerable upward pressure on patient fees unless there is a substantial funding boost in the Budget.

    “The government currently puts $1.3 billion or just 4 percent of its $30 billion health budget toward general practice.  A 10 percent uplift is urgently required in 2025/26 just to catch up and maintain existing services, with more investment needed in later years.

    “General practice would also like the Budget to include progress on a new method for funding general practice to replace the current flawed ‘capitation’ model.

    “A new model has been worked on for years by successive governments. But we’re still waiting for an outcome. The need is urgent as the old model hasn’t kept pace with the needs of patients and is resulting in longer waiting times to see a family doctor,” Dr Chambers said.

    GenPro members are owners and providers of general practices and urgent care centres throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. For more information visit  www.genpro.org.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary for Health attends 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, attended the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, Switzerland, yesterday (May 19, Geneva time).

         Professor Lo and the Director of Health, Dr Ronald Lam, attended the Assembly as members of the Chinese delegation. The theme of this year’s Assembly is “One World for Health”, and the discussions cover a wide range of issues, including universal health coverage, prevention and control of non-communicable diseases, antimicrobial resistance, health emergency preparedness and response, mental health and social connection, standardisation of medical devices nomenclature and the International Health Regulations. The Minister of the National Health Commission (NHC), Mr Lei Haichao, delivered a speech about healthcare developments of the Mainland at the plenary session.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Collins, Shaheen Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Diabetes Patients’ Access to Therapeutic Shoes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), the co-chairs of the Senate Diabetes Caucus, introduced the Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act. This bipartisan legislation would improve care for patients with diabetes by allowing nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician associates/physician assistants (PAs) – who often act as sole primary care providers for many patients with diabetes – to prescribe therapeutic shoes.
    Diabetes can often lead to health complications, such as foot ulcers and calluses, and can even necessitate the amputation of toes, legs, and feet. In addition to managing the disease through physical activity, diet, and medication, diabetic patients often benefit from the use of therapeutic shoes, which are an important preventive measure to mitigate these complications.
    “Therapeutic shoes are a proven method for preventing costly and painful complications related to diabetes, yet current Medicare regulations force patients to endure a time-consuming process to obtain them,” said Senator Collins. “Our bipartisan legislation would allow nurse practitioners and physician assistants to certify their patients’ need for this important treatment method, saving patients time and allowing them to keep their current medical provider.”
    “Ensuring patients with diabetes can access the full range of treatments in a timely manner is critical to helping them manage their diabetes and prevent medical emergencies,” said Senator Shaheen. “Therapeutic shoes can help put a stop to a number of complications caused by diabetes — so it’s only commonsense to clear the way for nurse practitioners and physician assistants to prescribe these life-changing shoes for their patients.”
    “On behalf of more than 431,000 nurse practitioners (NPs) nationwide, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) thanks Senators Collins and Shaheen for their leadership on the Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act,” said American Association of Nurse Practitioners President Stephen A. Ferrara, DNP. “This legislation will authorize NPs to continue providing high-quality, cost-effective care for their Medicare patients with diabetes. By introducing this important legislation, Senators Collins and Shaheen have renewed their commitment to remove outdated barriers to care, improve patient access, and empower patients with diabetes to continue receiving care from their provider of choice.”
    “Medical care for America’s aging population who live with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, should never be delayed by unnecessary restrictions. The American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) extends our gratitude to Senators Susan Collins and Jeanne Shaheen for their commitment to the health and well-being of those served by the Medicare program through the introduction of the Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act. This bill would correct an undue barrier to care for Medicare beneficiaries by authorizing physician associates/assistants (PAs) to order diabetic shoes for their patients. With this change in the law, PAs will be able to provide timely care that means so much to the patient who needs it,” said American Academy of Physician Associates President and Board Chair Jason Prevelige, DMSc, MBA, PA-C, DFAAPA.
    While NPs and PAs often act as sole primary care providers for patients with diabetes – particularly those in underserved and rural communities – current law requires that they send their diabetic patients on Medicare who need therapeutic shoes to a physician who will certify that they do in fact need these shoes. The physician is then required to become the provider managing the patient’s diabetic condition moving forward. Not only does the current law impose additional costs on the Medicare program by requiring the participation of an additional provider, it can also result in delays for patients in underserved and rural areas which could jeopardize their overall health. This bill would authorize NPs and PAs to certify a Medicare beneficiary’s need for therapeutic shoes, improving timeliness and access to care while reducing costs.
    The Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act is endorsed by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Academy of Physician Associates.
    The full text of this legislation can be read here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 15 years ago, I urged the AFL to launch a mental health round. Now it’s time for action

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Pat McGorry, Professor of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne

    The death of former AFL footballer Adam Selwood, less than four months after the death by suicide of his twin Troy, is an unfathomable tragedy for the Selwood family.

    The devastating news has sent shockwaves through the AFL and wider Australian communities.

    The shock and grief have prompted many people, from current and former AFL players to fans and media commentators, to seek actions and solutions.

    The immediate priority is to ensure the Selwood family and anyone who is currently struggling with mental ill-health and may be adversely impacted by this latest tragedy, is supported and offered hope for the future.

    In addition, the AFL community and mental health advocates have implored the AFL to introduce a mental health round, similar to its other themed rounds such as its ANZAC commemorations or the current Sir Doug Nicholls round, which celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players, cultures and communities.

    Better late than never?

    I first raised the idea of a mental health round for the AFL in 2010 with then-CEO Andrew Demetriou after I was fortunate enough to be named Australian of the Year.

    This allowed me gain access to prominent leaders to champion the fight against the alarming rise of mental ill-health in Australia – especially young people.

    The idea never materialised, but I strongly believe a mental health round can play a significant role in reimagining the national conversation on mental health.

    However, there are pros and cons to this, and it is critical it is approached in a strategic fashion that goes beyond just awareness and anti-stigma campaigns.

    It must instead deliver real and meaningful reform to reduce the impact of mental ill-health and preventable deaths from suicide.

    The problem we face

    Mental ill-health affects all Australians directly or indirectly – suicide is the number one cause of death for people under 40.

    More than 3,000 families every year lose a loved one to suicide and these are largely preventable deaths.

    This growing public health crisis creates a huge burden that is social, emotional and economic.

    In 2021, the Productivity Commission estimated the cost to Australia of our neglect of mental ill-health and suicide: around A$200 billion per year.

    Up to 75% of all mental disorders begin before the age of 25.

    Suicide is the biggest killer of young people, and two in five young people now experience mental ill-health every year, a 50% increase since 2007.

    Athletes sit within the peak age of risk for mental ill-health, and elite sport can come with unique pressures that heightens risk.

    While the AFL and most clubs have engaged strongly around this issue and have sought to provide support for current and former players, the wider mental health crisis extends far beyond the boundaries of the sporting arena.

    Now the AFL has a unique opportunity to drive significant change.

    Benefits and risks of a mental health round

    A mental health round would build on key recommendations from The Lancet Psychiatry’s 2024 commission on youth mental health.

    Produced by a global consortium of world-leading psychiatrists, psychologists, academics and young people, it identified the need for “high-profile societal champions” to help sustain “high-quality media attention, which is crucial to any political campaign”.

    It highlights societal champions (such as sporting bodies and figures), alongside the unified voice of health and research experts “play a key role in ensuring a message is received by a wider audience and appeals to the public in order to gain support from policy makers”.

    This approach must be underpinned by powerful storytelling, which emphasises:

    Positive stories of effective care and innovation, combined with credible first-person accounts from service users and their families and carers.

    The AFL is uniquely positioned to deliver this by uniting athletes, fans, media platforms and grassroots programs.

    It has taken on this role before with positive results, improving awareness and raising money for our ANZACs, as well as the fight against motor neurone disease (MND) – a relatively rare condition compared to mental illness and suicide.

    However, it is imperative any such approach moves beyond the well-meaning but tired awareness campaigns that merely encourage people to “check on your mates”, “speak up if you’re struggling” or suggest the solution is simply a matter of improving “resilience”.

    That can be code for “just pull yourself together” or “toughen up” – language that is all too familiar in footy circles.

    Some elements of the sporting media may need to look in the mirror here.

    Anti-stigma campaigns are similarly ineffective in isolation.

    A key objective of a mental health round should also be to engage and empower grassroots Australian communities to demand investment the mental health crisis urgently requires.

    There is not much use urging people to seek help if expert mental health care is inaccessible or of poor quality. We can rely on world-class cancer care when we need it, but not so mental health care.

    In addition to rapid and free access to high quality care, we also need a major boost to scientific research to create new treatments and fuel prevention.

    The AFL is already a case study in how to galvanise medical research in another neglected area via its partnership with the FightMND campaign, an incredible initiative that has raised both public engagement and precious funds for scientific discovery.

    A step forward?

    To honour the tragic deaths of Adam and Troy Selwood and the tens of thousands of families who have been are devastated by suicide in recent years, Australia needs to do something about it.

    The AFL is uniquely positioned to take a decisive leadership role on this issue.

    But a mental health round must ensure public mental health experts are central to its design and delivery, so it drives not just conversation but real, lasting change.

    If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

    Patrick McGorry receives funding from the NHRMC, NIH, Wellcome Trust and other research funders fro scientific research in mental health and suicide prevention. I am a member of the AFL’s mental health advisory committee.

    – ref. 15 years ago, I urged the AFL to launch a mental health round. Now it’s time for action – https://theconversation.com/15-years-ago-i-urged-the-afl-to-launch-a-mental-health-round-now-its-time-for-action-256995

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Wicker Helping Maintain America’s AI Edge

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    For decades, most Americans thought of artificial intelligence (AI) as a make-believe character in science fiction movies. Now, the future has arrived. We are adjusting to a world full of AI.
    Artificial intelligence is with us at the doctor’s office, helping detect cancer during our annual screenings. Companies use AI to support self-driving vehicles. On Facebook, users debate whether video clips are authentic or are eerily believable “deepfakes.” ChatGPT notoriously allows students to produce illicit term papers in seconds. On the battlefield, AI lets soldiers quickly analyze enemy activity. I could go on – to AI’s applications in finance, agriculture, manufacturing, and more.
    The Risks and Rewards of AI
    Those capabilities make people both excited and troubled. We call this intelligence “artificial” because scientists create it. They use math to teach computers how to solve problems and recognize patterns. Americans recognize that AI has nearly unlimited potential to benefit humanity. But the technology also raises difficult questions about privacy and job security.
    Even the recently-elected pope understands these concerns. In his first address to the world, Pope Leo XIV said this rapidly developing technology raises, “new challenges for the defense of human dignity, justice, and labor.” I believe the pope is right to recognize the high stakes. To use AI wisely, we need input from leaders in the church, government, academia, and the private sector.
    In the U.S. Senate, my colleagues and I are working to balance the risks and rewards of AI. Earlier this year, we acted to protect Americans from some of the harmful uses of the technology. Congress passed and President Trump signed into law a bill called the Take It Down Act. A key part of that law sets punishments for those who use AI to create certain pornographic deepfakes.
    Beat China in the AI Race
    The Take It Down Act demonstrates the unfortunate fact that individuals can misuse AI to devastating effect. The same is true for our adversaries. For the past two decades, the Chinese Communist Party has been pouring trillions of dollars into its military, trying to challenge the United States in hard power. It has also been investing in cyber capabilities such as AI.
    The United States is – and can remain – ahead of the Chinese Communist Party’s technological ambitions. But we must act quickly to keep America’s edge. Simply put, if we do not win the AI race, China will – directly threatening our national security.
    To Win, Unleash American Innovation
    America is poised to succeed in AI because we have the world’s most dynamic talent, research, and business ecosystem. The government should do what it can to facilitate that marketplace. Any government regulations on AI must begin with a “light touch” so that innovators can experiment, prototype, and compete. In this way, we mirror the approach the government took with the internet, allowing that technology to grow and develop in the United States.
    Unfortunately, President Biden took the opposite approach. In the final week of his term, officials set new rules that would have handicapped the supply chain for chips and semiconductors, which power AI. The rule would have gone into effect this month, weakening the American companies helping us win the technology race.
    My Republican colleagues and I encouraged President Trump to block the heavy-handed rule, and he did so this month. The president replaced that Biden-era policy with a framework that makes the United States and our allies more competitive again.
    On that positive note, it seems fitting to conclude with a summary written by ChatGPT: “America has always led the world in innovation. From the lightbulb to the moon landing to the internet, we have proven time and again that freedom fosters invention. AI should be no different.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Woman charged over apartment burglary

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police have made arrests following an early morning burglary at a Devonport apartment building.

    Two offenders were seen allegedly breaking into the Queens Parade complex just before 2am.

    Waitematā East Area Response Manager Senior Sergeant CJ Miles says Police quickly deployed into the area.

    “Our staff were on scene quickly and located a vehicle travelling away from the scene,” she says.

    “The vehicle was stopped on Lake Road in Hauraki and its occupants were spoken to.”

    A 39-year-old woman, who was a passenger, has since been charged with a raft of offences.

    She will appear in the North Shore District Court today charged with burglary, possession of instruments for burglary, resisting Police and possession of methamphetamine utensils.

    Another passenger taken in custody, a 27-year-old woman, had warrants for her arrest for failing to appear in court.

    Police enquiries remain ongoing into the burglary.

    “I’d like to acknowledge the work of our night shift team in their response,” Senior Sergeant Miles says.

    “It highlights the benefits of having good quality CCTV operating around your property.”

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Hosts Veterans Town Hall in Crystal Lake

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    May 17, 2025
    [CRYSTAL LAKE, IL] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today hosted a town hall in Crystal Lake to hear directly from Veterans and other Illinoisans about how the Trump Administration and Elon Musk’s draconian cuts to federal programs and indiscriminate firings of federal workers are impacting them. Duckworth, who serves on both the U.S. Senate Armed Services (SASC) and Veterans’ Affairs Committees (SVAC), discussed her efforts at the federal level to help Veterans and shared information about local resources available to the community, including how her casework staff can assist Veterans and other constituents who are having issues receiving the benefits they’ve earned. Also joining Duckworth at today’s town hall was Army Veteran Major General James Mukoyama as well as representatives from McHenry County Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs), the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA), Lake-McHenry County Habitat For Humanity, Illinois Joining Forces and local community leaders. Photos from today’s town hall can be found on the Senator’s website.
    “Our government has an obligation to support our Veterans in a way that honors their service and sacrifice,” Duckworth said. “By firing thousands of Veterans, gutting the VA and jeopardizing Veterans care and benefits, Donald Trump is completely betraying that obligation. I appreciate all of the Veterans and local leaders who came out to share their stories at my town hall today, and I’m as committed as ever to pushing back against Trump’s efforts to privatize our VA and defending those who sacrificed to defend us.”
    Duckworth has been a fierce leader and advocate for Veterans, VA staff and Veteran Crisis Line (VCL) workers in the wake of the disastrous Trump-Musk layoffs at the VA. After the Trump Administration’s indiscriminate purge of Veterans and VA employees, including staff who help operate the VCL, Duckworth led her fellow Democratic colleagues in demanding answers from Trump and VA Secretary Doug Collins on exactly who was impacted—requesting a list of public answers detailing the specific job categories that were impacted, how many of those fired were Veterans and more. After the first purge at VA laid off workers with the VCL—including several Veterans—Duckworth successfully pushed the Trump Administration to reinstate these devoted public servants that work to support our Veterans in their darkest moments. Earlier this month, she criticized VA Secretary Doug Collins for erroneously firing workers with Veterans Crisis Line without cause in the first place and jeopardizing the lives of Veterans who depend on it.
    This spring, Duckworth introduced a resolution to condemn the Trump-Musk layoffs and demand the immediate reinstatement of all Veteran federal employees illegally and indiscriminately fired since Trump took office. Ultimately, Republicans blocked the resolution. Pushing for this resolution came after Duckworth and U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) introduced their Protect Veteran Jobs Act in March, legislation that would reinstate the thousands of Veterans who were fired in the Trump-Musk layoffs. Duckworth and Kim subsequently introduced their legislation as an amendment to Republicans’ slush fund continuing resolution. Republicans shamefully blocked it from passing.
    In February, Duckworth also joined SVAC Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and a group of 34 Democratic Senators calling on VA Secretary Collins to immediately reinstate the more than 1,000 VA employees terminated earlier that month who serve Veterans and their families nationwide, including critical employees addressing Veteran suicide working at the Veterans Crisis Line.
    Additionally, Duckworth has long been a leader in pushing for better benefits and support for members of the armed and uniformed services and their family members. In April, she introduced legislation that would help expand leave benefits for the millions of devoted health professionals serving in the U.S. Public Health Service (PHS) Commissioned Corps. Last year, she helped secure $2.9 billion to support family caregivers of disabled Veterans and $2.4 billion to expand benefits and services for military and Veteran caregivers to include health care and mental health services, among other things. Last month, she also renewed her push to ensure IVF treatment costs are covered on servicemembers’ and military families’ health care plans.
    Last December, Duckworth helped pass the bipartisan Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that gave servicemembers a pay raise and included a Duckworth-led provision to improve access to high-quality medical care for servicemembers and their families in the Indo-Pacific region, among other wins for military families.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Durbin Help Introduce Resolution Recognizing May as AANHPI Heritage Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    May 19, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) helped U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) and U.S. Representative Grace Meng (D-NY-06) introduce a bicameral and bipartisan resolution to mark May 2025 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. The resolution recognizes the significant contributions that Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities have made to this country.
     “No matter what anyone says, AANHPI stories are the American story—from our struggles to our triumphs, our diversity has always made our nation stronger,” said Duckworth. “Every Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is an opportunity to honor the trailblazers who came before us, uplift diverse stories and celebrate our community as we continue to forge that path toward a better tomorrow where the American Dream remains within reach for all.”
    “I’m joining my Senate colleagues to introduce this resolution, recognizing the numerous contributions and achievements of the Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities while also acknowledging the hardships they have faced. As a diverse nation, we are made stronger by celebrating the heritage and traditions of Asian Americans and uplifting their stories,” said Durbin. “Not just this month, but every day, it is also our responsibility to condemn and combat racism and discrimination targeting Asian Americans.”
    Along with Duckworth, Durbin and Hirono, this resolution is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Andy Kim (D-NJ), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Ron Wyden (D-OR). 
    Full text of the resolution is available on Senator Duckworth’s website.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Cherfilus-McCormick, Ciscomani Reintroduce the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Physicist Pay Cap Relief Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))

    Washington, D.C. ─ Today, Representatives Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) and Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) reintroduced the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Physicist Pay Cap Relief Act.

    Therapeutic Medical Physicists (TMPs) and Diagnostic Medical Physicists (DMPs) assist radiation oncologists in delivering high-quality cancer care and treatment for veterans enrolled in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health system. This bill lifts the arbitrary pay cap imposed on VA TMPs and DMPs that harm veterans’ access to care and exacerbate clinical staffing shortages at VA medical facilities. 

    Over the past fifteen years, TMP and DMP salaries have increased nationwide as radiation therapy has become more sophisticated and more common. However, VA TMPs and DMPs earn approximately $40,000 less than their private sector counterparts ― forcing the VA to overspend on contracted TMP/DMP services, which could be done more reliably in-house and at a much lower cost.

    “Our veterans and wounded warriors deserve the highest quality cancer care available,” said Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL). Unfortunately, too many VA facilities lack the necessary staff needed to deliver for our veterans. This common-sense, bipartisan legislation corrects a long-standing gap that has prevented veterans from receiving the first-rate oncology treatment they have earned fighting for us on the battlefield.”

    “When our veterans and wounded warriors return home, they deserve access to convenient and high-quality care, especially when it comes to receiving cancer treatment,” said Congressman Ciscomani (R-AZ). “However, far too often, VA facilities lack the necessary equipment and staff needed to properly care for our veterans. The brave men and women who serve in our military are America’s heroes, and I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation to ensure they are able to receive the oncology care they need at VA facilities.”

    “Medical physicists form an integral part of a patient’s clinical care team, ensuring safe and precise diagnosis and treatment of disease, most often cancer,” said Dr. M. Mahesh, President of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine. “If signed into law, this bill will ensure our veterans have access to the highest quality of radiology and radiation oncology care. We commend Representatives Cherfilus-McCormick and Ciscomani for their leadership on this important issue.”

    The American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) and the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) have endorsed this legislation. 

    The full text of the legislation can be found here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Requests Federal Disaster Declaration for Barry, Greene, Lawrence, McDonald, Newton and Washington Counties for Destructive April 29 Severe Storms

    Source: US State of Missouri

    MAY 19, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe requested that President Donald Trump approve a major disaster declaration to provide federal assistance to six counties that sustained major damage as a result of a cluster of severe storms that swept through the area and produced eight tornadoes on April 29. The counties are Barry, Greene, Lawrence, McDonald, Newton and Washington.

    “This season’s weather pattern has brought one destructive severe storm after another to Missouri, and the April 29 storms led to widespread damage in six counties – damage that is simply beyond their capabilities and those of the state to sustain without federal assistance,” Governor Kehoe said. “Missourians are rallying to rebuild and support one another and will continue to do so as we now respond to the latest deadly and highly destructive storms that swept across the state on Friday, May 16.”

    Governor Kehoe is requesting Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance based on documented damage and emergency response costs that exceed $16.5 million in Barry, Greene, Lawrence, McDonald, Newton and Washington counties alone. Those cost estimates were gathered during joint damage assessments conducted by FEMA, the State Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and local officials and include damage to a public elementary school, a Missouri Department of Transportation facility, essential utility distribution lines, roads and other public infrastructure as well as debris removal.

    If approved, Public Assistance would allow local governments and qualifying nonprofit agencies to seek federal assistance for reimbursement of emergency response and recovery costs, including repair and replacement of damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure.

    Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, including general clean-up information, housing assistance, and mental health services, please visit recovery.mo.gov.

    As of May 19, there have now been four major storms in the state of Missouri. The following outlines the current status of Governor Kehoe’s federal assistance requests:

    March 14-15 Storms

    Status: Awaiting Federal Disaster Declaration approval

    Details: On April 2, Governor Kehoe requested that President Donald J. Trump approve a major disaster declaration to provide federal assistance in a total of 28 counties in response to the severe storms and tornadoes that devastated Missouri March 14-15, claiming 13 lives and causing significant damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure.

    March 30 – April 8 Storms

    Status: Awaiting Federal Disaster Declaration approval

    Details: On May 1, Governor Kehoe requested that President Donald Trump approve a major disaster declaration to provide federal assistance in a total of 26 counties in response to the severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that caused widespread destruction across the state, resulting in six confirmed deaths.

    April 29 Storms

    Status: Awaiting Federal Disaster Declaration approval

    Details: On May 19, Governor Kehoe requested that President Donald Trump approve a major disaster declaration to provide federal assistance to six counties that sustained major damage as a result of a cluster of severe storms that swept through the area and produced eight tornadoes on April 29.

    May 16 Storms

    Status: FEMA to participate in joint Preliminary Damage Assessments

        Sent request for federal Emergency Declaration to authorize Direct Federal Assistance and up to $5 million in immediate       funding to the state

    Details: On May 19, Governor Kehoe took two actions to expedite federal assistance to Missouri following the severe storms and tornadoes that struck the state on May 16, causing seven deaths and widespread damage in the St. Louis region and areas of southeast Missouri

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Great to have Jensen Huang at Build to talk about our partnership and how we are building and scaling the largest AI supercomputer in the world on Azure. Watch our full conversation here.

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Great to have Jensen Huang at Build to talk about our partnership and how we are building and scaling the largest AI supercomputer in the world on Azure. Watch our full conversation here.

    Transcript

    Thank you so much, Jensen for joining yet again for our Build Developer conference. You were here a couple of years ago and we had a chance at that time to talk about all the great innovation you are bringing to our Azure and how customers were going to benefit. And in fact, you know that type of compounding of scarves, right, You’re innovation, our innovation coming together ultimately driving that frontier forward is just unbelievable, Satya. In fact, two years ago we had just launched. The largest AI supercomputer in the world together on Azure. And then right now as we speak, we are in full production with Grace Blackwell. We are ramping and scaling and building the largest AI supercomputer in the world in Azure. This is the insane execution of our two organizations now hyperlinked if you will, and the the beautiful thing is because of because of our natural understanding of the importance of. Reserving, enhancing developer productivity and developer value for the life of the architecture. We support software when we fine tune software for as long as we shall live. Ultimately, it’s not just tokens, but it’s all workloads per dollar per Watt. Can we really accelerate them all as we continue to innovate across both the hardware and the software boundaries and really have the compounding effects ultimately show up for our customers?

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Strong demand and reduced domestic competition have contributed to significant earnings for Qantas Group and Virgin Australia

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    Australia’s two largest airline groups have both recorded strong financial results for the first half of 2024-25, reflecting a number of factors including strong ongoing demand for flying and limited domestic competition, the ACCC’s latest Domestic Airline Competition report has found.

    Qantas Group reported earnings before interest and taxes of $1.5 billion for the first half of 2024-25, with $916 million coming from its domestic operations across both Qantas and Jetstar.

    Of the Qantas Group’s total earnings, Qantas Domestic, including Qantaslink, contributed the highest share of the group’s earnings at $647 million. Much of this result can be attributed to the airline’s dominance in the corporate travel market – Qantas Group had an 80 per cent share of the corporate travel market over the reporting period, coinciding with a resurgence in demand.

    “The high half-yearly earnings reported by Qantas Group reflect its dominance of the domestic airline sector, with Qantas and Jetstar accounting for over 60 per cent of passengers,” ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey said.

    The domestic operations of Jetstar recorded the biggest increase in earnings across the Qantas Group, increasing by 53.7 per cent between the first half 2023-24 and 2024-25, to $269 million. Jetstar Domestic became the sole low-cost carrier in Australia after the exit of Tigerair in 2020, and again when Bonza collapsed in April 2024.

    “Jetstar has been able to capitalise on the continued absence of competitive pressure from another low-cost carrier in the domestic market to increase its market share and operating margin,” Ms Brakey said.

    While Virgin Australia does not publicly report half-year results, its then CEO, Jayne Hrdlicka, said in February that the airline group had achieved record profits in the first half of the current financial year, following its post-administration restructure under Bain Capital.

    After the withdrawal of Rex from routes connecting capital cities, Virgin Australia has increased its share of passengers to 34.4 per cent in March 2025, up from 31.3 per cent from a year prior. Virgin Australia also secured three of Rex’s Boeing 737 aircraft leases, which has facilitated its ability to add seat capacity and improve network resilience.

    Record passenger volumes in April following weather disruptions in March

    Although the data was not yet available for this report, airlines and airports were expecting a significant increase in travellers in April with school holidays, Easter and ANZAC day all condensed into a three-week period. Airservices Australia noted that 17 April 2025 (the Thursday before Good Friday) was the busiest day for domestic travel in the past five years.

    This follows disruptions to travel in March, when passenger levels declined by 4.9 per cent compared to March 2024, which can be attributed to Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred and associated severe weather events along the east coast of Australia.

    Flights operating between Brisbane-Sydney and Brisbane-Melbourne experienced a 9.9 per cent and 9 per cent reduction in passengers in March 2025 respectively. Meanwhile, Gold Coast and Maroochydore airports experienced the biggest decline in passengers over this period by 30.2 per cent and 25.1 per cent respectively.

    The weather disruptions also contributed to the average industry flight cancellation rate increasing significantly in March 2025 to 5 per cent, compared to the long-term industry average of 2.2 per cent.

    Despite the disruptions caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the on-time arrival rate has improved over the past six months to levels just below the long-term industry average of 80.7 per cent. The average industry on-time arrival rate was 80.2 per cent in March 2025, an improvement from 74.5 per cent in October 2024.

    “It is encouraging to see the on-time arrival rate improving as this means travellers can have more confidence that their flight will arrive at the time they booked,” Ms Brakey said.

    Seasonal patterns driving recent movements in airfares

    Following a peak in October 2024, the average airfare fell by 16.1 per cent in the three months to January 2025, before increasing again by 9.6 per cent by March 2025.

    “The trends observed in average airfares since January reflect seasonal factors and are broadly consistent with those observed in previous years,” Ms Brakey said.

    “Average airfares have come down from their peak in October 2024.”

    Demand for domestic air travel in the first quarter of 2025 was lower than 12 months prior. However, 2024 was a particularly unusual year by comparison due to significant events that led to unprecedented demand for flights to Melbourne and Sydney, such as the Taylor Swift concerts in February 2024, which in turn led to higher airfares as demand outstripped supply. The Easter long weekend also fell in March last year which contributed to the increase in demand for travel during this time.

    Background

    On 6 November 2023, the Treasurer directed the ACCC to recommence domestic air passenger transport monitoring. Under this direction the ACCC is to monitor prices, costs and profits relating to the supply of domestic air passenger transport services for a period of three years and to report on its monitoring at least once every quarter.

    The ACCC collects data from Jetstar, Qantas, Rex and Virgin Australia for monitoring purposes.

    Rex entered voluntary administration in July 2024 but continues to operate its regional services. The government is guaranteeing regional flight bookings for Rex customers throughout the voluntary administration process.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Public invited to SR 165 Carbon River/Fairfax Bridge in-person open houses on June 2, 11

    Source: Washington State News 2

    Both events include displays, timelines and chances to provide feedback

    CARBONADO – Community members are invited to learn more about options for the future of State Route 165 and crossing the Carbon River at two in-person open houses in June.

    The Washington State Department of Transportation will hold one event at Carbonado School from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 2, and one at Wilkeson Elementary School from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 11. Both sessions will include information about the WSDOT planning study underway after a permanent bridge closure.

    The planning study will develop data-driven recommendations to address long-term transportation needs for SR 165 across the Carbon River Valley.

    WSDOT also will host an online open house on its Engage page beginning Wednesday, May 28. The information in the online open house will be the same as the in-person open house events. A link to the online open house will be shared in a subsequent news release and on the planning study website.

    SR 165 Carbon River- Fairfax Bridge Planning Study in-person open houses

    June 2 open house

    When:  4 to 6:30 p.m., Monday, June 2
    Where:  Carbonado School, 301 O’Ferrell Drive, Carbonado WA 98323 

    June 11 open house

    When:  5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 11
    Where:  Wilkeson Elementary School, 640 Railroad Avenue, Wilkeson, WA 98396  

    Details:  There is no formal presentation. Attendees are welcome to drop by anytime during the events. Project team members will be available to answer questions about the study and the options presented. The same information will be presented at both events, so participants can choose the one that best meets their schedules. Details also will be available on an online open house on the Engage page beginning Wednesday, May 28.

    Background

    WSDOT permanently closed the Carbon River/Fairfax Bridge on April 22. Recent inspections of the 103-year-old bridge revealed new deterioration of steel supports across the bridge. Since 2009, the bridge operated under vehicle weight restrictions. The structural challenges the bridge faced were brought on by years of deferred preservation due to lack of funding.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: PrimeEnergy Reports Increased Production, Higher Revenue, and Strategic Share Repurchases in Q1 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PrimeEnergy Resources Corporation (NASDAQ: PNRG) today announced first quarter 2025 results, with continued growth in oil and gas production supporting a 16.4% increase in revenue year-over-year. While earnings per share declined compared to Q1 2024, the Company highlighted significant shareholder returns and operational momentum.

    Key Highlights – Q1 2025 vs Q1 2024
    • Revenue: $50.1 million ↑ 16.4%

    • Oil Production: 457,000 barrels ↑ 6.0%

    • Natural Gas Production: 2.39 Bcf ↑ 106.6%

    • NGL Production: 454,000 barrels ↑ 120.4%

    • Net Income: $9.1 million ↓ 19.3%

    • Diluted EPS: $3.72 ↓ 15.7%

    • Share Buyback 2025: 47,970 shares repurchased at a cost of $9.17 million

    Since initiating its share repurchase program, PrimeEnergy has returned a total of $112.6 million to shareholders through stock repurchases. As of May 19, 2025, the Company’s outstanding share count was 2,428,000, inclusive of vested options.

    Total assets were $339.3 million at quarter-end, up from $324.6 million as of December 31, 2024.

    “Our Q1 results reflect a continuation of strong operational momentum with significant growth in natural gas and NGL volumes,” said Beverly Cummings, CFO of PrimeEnergy. “We are also returning capital to shareholders through our buyback program, demonstrating confidence in our long-term value.”

    PrimeEnergy Resources is an independent oil and natural gas company engaged in the acquisition, development, and production of hydrocarbons, primarily in Texas. The Company’s common stock trades on the NASDAQ under the symbol PNRG.

    For investor inquiries, contact:

    Connie Ng – (713) 735-0000 ext. 6416

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This Report contains forward-looking statements that are based on management’s current expectations, estimates and projections. Words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes”, “projects” and “estimates,” and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and are subject to the safe harbors created thereby. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties and are based on a number of assumptions that could ultimately prove inaccurate and, therefore, there can be no assurance that they will prove to be accurate. Actual results and outcomes may vary materially from what is expressed or forecast in such statements due to various risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, the possibility of drilling cost overruns and technical difficulties, volatility of oil and gas prices, competition, risks inherent in the Company’s oil and gas operations, the inexact nature of interpretation of seismic and other geological and geophysical data, imprecision of reserve estimates, and the Company’s ability to replace and expand oil and gas reserves. Accordingly, stockholders and potential investors are cautioned that certain events or circumstances could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Speaks on Prescription Drug Pricing: “The bottom line is that President Trump issued an executive order that I support—my hope is that he’s going to follow through.”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) tonight spoke on the Senate floor about how health care is at risk for millions, and challenged President Trump to join him and Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) in working to lower prescription drug prices through concrete, durable legislation, such as the recently-introduced, bipartisan Fair Prescription Drug Prices for Americans Act:
    “The bottom line is that President Trump issued an executive order that I support—my hope is that he’s going to follow through, because we are going to need the leadership of the president of the United States, and the influence he has in Congress, to…make more progress on price negotiation. All for the goal of making lifesaving medications more accessible to folks on Medicare, folks on Medicaid, to folks who have private insurance, and also to bring down the cost for our employers,” said Senator Welch.
    Watch more here:
    ■■■
    Senator Welch’s Committee and Subcommittee Assignments for the 119th Congress include: 
    Senate Committee on Finance  
    Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry
    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit  
    Senate Committee on the Judiciary
    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on the Constitution  
    Senate Committee on Rules & Administration
    Learn more about his work by visiting his website or by following him on social media.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Peters’ Bill to Prevent Veterans Benefit Scams

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Peters (52nd District of California)

    Washington, DC – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Representative Scott Peters’ (CA-50) Veterans Claims Education Act (VCEA), which provides educational resources to steer veterans to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) accredited entities instead of scammers. This will limit the ability of predatory companies to take advantage of and unfairly profit off veterans trying to access their hard-earned benefits. The House passed the legislation by voice vote.  

    The VCEA is inspired by a constituent who wrote to Rep. Peters seeking assistance after he hired a for-profit company to maximize his VA benefits, but ended up having to pay more money to the company than benefits he was receiving.  

    Speaking in support of his legislation, Rep. Peters said, “It is unconscionable that for-profit entities, known as ‘claims sharks,’ prey on the trust and goodwill of our veterans to line their own pockets. Republicans and Democrats may have sincere policy disagreements about how to provide world-class care to our nation’s veterans and their families, but I know we all agree that no one should be able to profit from the service and sacrifice of our veterans.” 

    Multiple veterans service organizations have endorsed the VCEA, including the American Legion, Fleet Reserve Association, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Veterans of Foreign Wars, AMVETS, and the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.  

    Specifically, the bill requires VA to:  

    1. Inform all veterans filing a claim that there are accredited entities that can assist them.  
    1. Provide the web address of an online search tool that lists accredited entities that can assist veterans with filing a claim.  
    1. Provide a publicly accessible web address where veterans can file a complaint to report entities that are unaccredited and target veterans by charging a fee for their services.      

    Background:  

    Upon separating from military service, veterans may file a disability claim with the VA on their own or by utilizing VA-backed resources, such as an accredited attorney, a claims agent, or a Veteran Service Officer (VSO). An accredited representative or VSO must pass an exam, complete a background check, and take continuing education courses to ensure they provide up-to-date information to veterans. These accredited resources may file an initial claim with VA on the veteran’s behalf free of charge. Unfortunately, an ecosystem of non-accredited for-profit entities has emerged which preys upon veterans’ frustrations with VA’s claims process. These companies often provide “consulting” services to help veterans prepare and present relevant paperwork needed to file a claim with VA in exchange for lump sum payments, a percentage of the total dollar amount awarded for a successful claim, or some other payment mechanism. Such fees lead many veterans to receive far too little of the benefits to which their service entitles them. Current legislative proposals designed to curb the excess of these companies focus on more stringent enforcement of existing laws and regulations.   

    Full text of the legislation can be found here. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Dairy conversions: What’s the story?

    Source: PISA results continue to show more to be done for equity in education

    Changes in the regulatory environment for National Environmental Standards for Freshwater

    The  National Environmental Standards for Freshwater (NES-F 2020) temporary agricultural intensification regulations controlling the conversion of land to dairy farmland expired on 1 January 2025.

    Before this date, under the NES-F 2020, consent was required to convert to dairy farming.

    At the time those temporary restrictions on dairy conversions were put in place, the expectation was that regional councils would notify new freshwater plans or change existing plans, to manage effects on water quality.

    Central Government has since introduced restrictions on plan changes that would have given effect to the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020. A replacement National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPS-FM) is currently being prepared and will give new national direction on managing water quality.

    While consent is no longer required for a change in land use to dairy farming, there are still consenting controls in place under the Canterbury Land and Water Regional Plan (LWRP) to protect the environment. Both existing and new dairy farms must hold consent for animal effluent discharges.

    Farms may also require water permits for the taking and use of water in the dairy shed.

    Applications for these activities still need to be considered through the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) process with a consideration of the effects of these activities on the environment.

    A consent may also be required for the use of land for farming in general, but that requirement isn’t specific to dairy farming.

    Farming and the environment

    We know that water quality is degraded in some parts of Waitaha. This means we carefully consider all consent applications for the discharge of animal effluent to evaluate the effects of the proposed discharge relative to the existing state of the local environment. Every consent application is considered on a case-by-case basis following RMA process; we can’t pre-determine decisions.

    The likelihood of a new dairy effluent discharge permit being open for public input (being publicly notified) and/or being granted will depend on the state of the receiving environment, the effect of the proposed operation, and the proposed mitigations.

    For example, declining water quality trends in the area where dairy farming is proposed may require a consent applicant to demonstrate how the conversion will not worsen, or in some cases improve, local water quality outcomes.

    If the likely adverse effects of the proposal are deemed to be more than minor, they will be publicly notified to give the wider community an opportunity to be heard.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Innovative Scientific and Technological Center of Moscow State University “Vorobyovy Gory”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovative Scientific and Technological Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With the head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With the Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, and the Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Innovative Scientific and Technological Center of Moscow State University “Vorobyovy Gory”

    May 19, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov

    The innovative scientific and technological center of Moscow State University “Vorobyovy Gory” is being created by the Moscow government and Lomonosov Moscow State University in pursuance of the President’s instructions to ensure conditions in Moscow for the effective development and commercialization of innovative solutions.

    The most favorable taxation and regulation regime has been created for residents of the INTC. Residents’ projects are exempt from most taxes for 10 years, including property tax, profit tax and VAT (with annual revenues of up to 1 billion rubles). Insurance contributions to state extra-budgetary funds are reduced to 14%, and foreign workers can be hired without a separate permit.

    The MSU Technological Valley will consist of 9 specialized clusters with a total area of 479 thousand square meters on a territory of 17.6 hectares.

    To date, two clusters have been put into operation: Lomonosov (created by the Moscow government) and Educational (created by Lomonosov Moscow State University). Construction has begun on two clusters (Interdisciplinary (by Lomonosov Moscow State University)) and Engineering (by attracting funds from private investors).

    The areas of scientific and technological activity carried out on the territory of the MSU Scientific and Technical Center “Vorobyovy Gory”: biomedicine, pharmaceuticals, medical and biological research and testing; nanotechnology research of new materials and nanomechanics; information technology and mathematical modeling; robotics, special-purpose technologies and machine engineering, energy saving and efficient energy storage; space research and astronautics; geonomy and ecology; interdisciplinary humanitarian research and cognitive sciences; sports, innovative sports technologies; artificial intelligence technologies.

    Residents – 294 companies.

    Results of the activities of the MSU Vorobyovy Gory Scientific and Technical Center in 2021–2023: the number of R&D projects performed by residents is 181; the number of R&D projects developed by the residents of the Scientific and Technical Center is 416.

    The Lomonosov cluster was commissioned in January 2023 and is currently 100% occupied. The selection of site residents was carried out jointly with the non-governmental development institute Innopraktika, with special attention paid to the technological component of the projects, the volume of scientific research and development of companies, as well as their demand in the market.

    Currently, there are 76 resident companies in the Lomonosov cluster.

    The cluster residents work in the following key areas: industrial technologies – 18 residents; unmanned systems – 18 residents; geotechnology and ecology – 15 residents; medicine and biotechnology – 13 residents; information technology – 12 residents.

    According to the results of 2024, the residents of the Lomonosov cluster showed the following results: investments in R&D – 2.4 billion rubles; number of patents received – 105; total number of employees – 2 thousand people; company revenue – 15 billion rubles.

    The products of the cluster residents are in demand and are used for seismic research in the Arctic seas (special hardware and software systems), production of buses, ATVs, snowmobiles and cleaning robots (electric drives), as well as for air purification in industrial buildings (innovative filters) and clinical and preclinical research, etc.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the Voin center

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center

    May 19, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center

    May 19, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center

    May 19, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center

    May 19, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center

    May 19, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center

    May 19, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center

    May 19, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center

    May 19, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center

    As part of the all-Russian charity event “Yolka Zhelaniy”, Deputy Prime Minister – Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev helped fulfill the wish of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov from Sochi. The boy’s dream of being a soldier was realized with the support of the center for military-sports training and patriotic education of youth “Voin”.

    “This is a good wish. A courageous one. By order of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, a center with this very name was created – “Warrior”. This center educates citizens who love their Motherland, who are ready to serve it in a broad sense, to defend it. The center has been operating for three years. I will say honestly, the feedback from all the guys who have completed training at the center is very good. Half of my family has completed such training,” Yuri Trutnev noted earlier when presenting the certificate and talking to the boy.

    Nikita himself said: “I have long dreamed of becoming a military man, and this trip is the best gift in my life. I learned a lot of new things and was able to see real military equipment with my own eyes.” He received a certificate for completing a military-sports training course at the regional branch of the “Voin” center in the Chechen Republic, located on the basis of the Russian Special Forces University named after V.V. Putin.

    The program of the stay was prepared taking into account the age and interests of the young guest. The boy was introduced to the main training sites of the center and shown samples of heavy weapons and armored vehicles. Over the course of three days, Nikita underwent a series of classes, including both theoretical and practical training. The program included fire training, tactical medicine, control of unmanned aerial vehicles, and classes in a wind tunnel.

    In Gudermes, he took part in a flower-laying ceremony to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory Day at the memorial to those killed in the Great Patriotic War.

    In addition to the educational part, the boy was given an exciting trip on a Chaborz buggy and excursions to the cities and picturesque corners of the mountainous regions of the Chechen Republic.

    Director of the branch of the Voin center Pavel Kozlov commented: “Nikita made a wish to become a military man, and training at the Voin center was the first step to fulfilling this dream. We are glad that we made these days special for him, and we hope that he will remember them for the rest of his life.”

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cyanotoxins in Oregon’s Cascade Range Rivers that are Tapped for Drinking Water Supply

    Source: US Geological Survey

    A study conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in collaboration with multiple water utilities and research partners revealed widespread cyanotoxin occurrence in Cascade Range rivers that provide municipal drinking water to over 1.5 million Oregonians. 

    Cyanotoxins produced by harmful algal blooms (HABs) threaten people, pets, recreation, and aquatic ecosystems. Exposure through drinking, swimming, and dialysis can cause illness, liver damage, neurological effects, and even death. HABs, whether they produce cyanotoxins or not, impact aquatic habitats and impair water quality by blocking sunlight, depleting oxygen, and may cause fish kills. Recreational advisories at popular waterbodies occur each summer, harming local economies, and HABs can sometimes make drinking water unusable. 

    Example of a a Solid Phase Adsorption Toxin Tracking (SPATT) sampler. Passive samplers like this one are left in the river to accumulate toxins over time for later analysis.

    The 2016-20 study examined sources and downriver transport of four cyanotoxins—microcystins, cylindrospermopsins, anatoxins, and saxitoxins —across reservoir-river systems in northwestern Oregon that supply 18 drinking water treatment plants. The study utilized direct sampling of cyanobacterial mats and materials collected with plankton net tows, and the deployment of Solid-Phase Adsorption Toxin Tracking (SPATT) samplers to assess toxin presence in reservoirs, rivers, and tributaries. Over 300 samples from 65 sites across seven river basins, including the Clackamas, North Santiam, McKenzie, and North Umpqua rivers, were assessed. 

    Key findings indicate that cyanotoxins were frequently detected in cyanobacteria from both reservoir and river environments, with over 90% of concentrated samples containing at least one toxin. The research identified both planktonic (drifting in the water) cyanobacteria in reservoirs and benthic (occurring in the riverbed) cyanobacteria in rivers as primary sources of these toxins, which can persist in the water column and be transported into drinking water supply intakes.  “This study provides critical insights into the types of streams and specific locations supporting toxin producing cyanobacteria” said Kurt Carpenter, USGS lead scientist on the study. “The occurrence of multiple cyanotoxins in raw source waters for several drinking water supply plants highlights the need for continued monitoring to protect public health.” 

    Funding for the study was jointly provided by the Clackamas River Water Providers: the Cities of Estacada, Clackamas, Gladstone, Oak Lodge, Oregon City, Tigard and West Linn, the Sunrise Water Authority and South Fork Water Board, Clackamas County Water Environmental Services, City of Salem, Eugene Water & Electric Board, and the Congressionally Directed USGS Cooperative Matching Funds (Directed HABs) Program.

    For more information, access the full study: Reservoir and Riverine Sources of Cyanotoxins in Oregon’s Cascade Range Rivers Tapped for Drinking Water Supply

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Katherine Reilly Named SEC Acting Inspector General

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced the appointment of Katherine Reilly as the agency’s Acting Inspector General. Ms. Reilly is currently serving as a Deputy Inspector General at the SEC. She replaces Deborah Jeffrey, who has served as the SEC’s Inspector General since 2023 and is retiring.

    “Our Inspector General’s office champions transparency and seeks to root out redundancy and overlap to ensure our agency is running as efficiently and effectively as possible,” said SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins. “Katherine possesses the experience and expertise to continue these oversight efforts. We also thank Deb for her leadership and dedication in this area during these past two years.”

    Prior to her arrival at the SEC, Ms. Jeffrey served as inspector general at AmeriCorps for 11 years after working in the private practice of law for 25 years. She holds degrees from Johns Hopkins University and Harvard Law School, where she served as Editor-in-Chief of the Harvard Civil Rights-Civil Liberties Law Review.

    Ms. Reilly joined the SEC’s Office of Inspector General in 2020 as Counsel to the Inspector General. She later served as Acting Inspector General in a rotating role prior to Ms. Jeffrey’s arrival and served as the Acting Deputy Inspector General for Investigations from December 2022 to March 2025.

    Ms. Reilly began her career as an antitrust lawyer at the Federal Trade Commission before transitioning to private practice in the field of antitrust and commercial litigation. She joined the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG) in 2005 and ascended to become Director of Legal Services before leaving in 2013 to join the U.S. Department of Justice Executive Office for Immigration Review, where she served in the roles of Chief Counsel for Employee and Labor Relations as well as Deputy Director. In June 2019, Ms. Reilly returned to the USPS-OIG as Deputy Assistant Inspector General for Mission Support.

    Ms. Reilly is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctorate degrees. Ms. Reilly also has a Master of Laws degree from The University of Melbourne, Australia.

    The SEC’s Office of Inspector General is an independent unit that promotes the integrity, efficiency, and effectiveness of the SEC’s critical programs and operations through rigorous and objective oversight.

    Under the Inspector General Act of 1978, inspectors general have a dual and independent reporting relationship to the Commission and Congress. Appointments are made without regard to political affiliation and solely on the basis of integrity and demonstrated ability in accounting, auditing, financial analysis, law, management analysis, public administration, or investigations.

    MIL OSI USA News –