NewzIntel.com

Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manchester resident slapped with hefty fines after neighbours complained about “nuisance” waste burning in his garden

    Source: City of Manchester

    A Manchester resident who made the lives of his neighbours miserable through repeated waste burning in his garden is now facing hefty fines handed down by the courts.

    Haroon Razzaq, of Victoria Avenue East, was found guilty of four offences committed over months following a hearing at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on 19 September.  

    There were four incidents of burning with three taking place in December 2023 and one in March 2024. 

    The 34-year-old was also ordered to pay a hefty £1,500 fine. He was also slapped with a £600 victim surcharge and £3, 116 in total costs.  

    The council received repeated complaints from residents about frequent “nuisance” burning taking place at Razzaq’s property.  

    The burning was having a severe effect on people in the area because of the smell and smoke caused by the fires which prevented them from being able to use their gardens or being able to open their windows.   

    Razzaq was contacted by a Neighbourhood Compliance Officer and was swiftly warned his behaviour was causing problems for his nearby neighbours. 

    Burning continued to take place at Razzaq’s house and negatively impacted residents. At this point, multiple witnesses came forward and reported the notice had been breached on several occasions.  

    Once approached by the council again, Razzaq admitted to bringing wood and pallets from his business monthly to burn in his garden. He believed this wasn’t a problem and that it shouldn’t cause issue for other residents  

    He claimed this activity wasn’t an issue and disputed that it would cause a problem for anyone nearby.    

    Lee-Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbours, said: “The comfort and safety of our residents choosing to make Manchester home is an utmost priority. It is unacceptable that one individual could ignore and dismiss the legal requirements from authority and cause ongoing disturbance for neighbours in the comfort of their own homes and gardens. 

    “I am pleased to see prosecution has been brought in this case of a resident choosing to burn materials in his garden without consideration of others and the environment. The work of our legal team and Neighbourhood Compliance Team has been exemplary in bringing about justice. This case should serve as a warning to other residents who choose to ignore the law and show disregard for the community.” 

      

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Clark, Massachusetts Leaders Secure $472 Million in Federal Funding to Replace Draw One Bridge, Renovate North Station T Stop

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Katherine Clark (5th District of Massachusetts)

    Largest federal award MBTA has won to date

    Funding will increase ridership, streamline operations, and improve resiliency along Amtrak’s Downeaster route and regional rail lines

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5), Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.), along with Representatives Stephen Lynch (MA-8), Ayanna Pressley (MA-7), Lori Trahan (MA-3), Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng announced a grant of $472 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) to fully replace the North Station Draw One Bridge and renovate Platform F at North Station. The grant is the largest federal award the MBTA has won to date.

    The nearly half a billion dollar grant will provide critical support for one of MBTA’s top priority projects and a vital transportation asset to MBTA’s north-side operations. It will also support more than 14,500 jobs, make the bridge more climate resilient by bringing it above projected sea-level rise, and lower emissions. In April 2024, Senator Warren led a letter of support for the MBTA’s funding request to the Department of Transportation.

    Specifically, the new funding for MBTA’s North Station Renovation and the Draw One Bridge Replacement Project will support the full replacement of the existing drawbridge, the extension and activation of a platform with two tracks at North Station, and the replacement of track, signals, and switches to modernize and improve station infrastructure.

    “This bridge is a critical connection point for the communities north of Boston. This federal investment will improve the quality of life for commuters, reduce traffic for everyone, and bring opportunity to the Commonwealth. We will have a faster, more modern, and more user-friendly public transportation system, and that’s exactly the direction we need to move in,” said Democratic Whip Clark.

    “This $472 million investment is a game-changer for the thousands of passengers who pass through North Station every day — and will build a safer, more reliable public transit system for the Commonwealth. Massachusetts leaders worked together to secure the largest ever federal award for the T, and I won’t stop fighting to bring home even more investment to improve transit across the Commonwealth,” said Senator Warren.

    “With $472 million to replace the North Station drawbridge, we’re drawing up a new future for rail transit north of Boston. I’m grateful to the Biden-Harris administration, Governor Healey, General Manager Eng, Senator Warren, and our whole federal delegation for securing this funding. Together, we are delivering critical federal dollars to the T and building a modern, safe, and reliable public transit system for all,” said Senator Markey.

    “We know that improving our transportation infrastructure is critical for improving quality of life and making sure Massachusetts remains the best place to live, work, raise a family and build a future,” said Governor Healey. “That’s why our administration is competing so aggressively to win federal funding that can be put toward our roads, bridges and public transportation. Congratulations to General Manager Eng and the MBTA team for this award that will improve train service for millions of riders. We’re grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration and U.S. Department of Transportation for their continued investment in Massachusetts’ transportation infrastructure.” 

    The Draw One railbridge carries the MBTA Commuter Rail and Amtrak trains, serving approximately 11,250,000 passengers per year. It is particularly critical for Amtrak’s Downeaster, an intercity passenger rail service that travels from Maine and New Hampshire into Boston, which is projected to have some of the highest ridership in New England. Draw One is also a vital connection for all of MBTA’s north-side regional rail lines, including Fitchburg, Lowell, Haverhill, and Newburyport/Rockport. The new federal investment will improve service reliability and operations, reduce congestion along a known bottleneck, and increase capacity across the bridge. Additionally, the funding will allow for upgraded signaling and expanded track capabilities, further improving traffic flow.

    “I am pleased to join my colleagues in government to announce the State of Massachusetts was awarded over $472 million in federal funding that will help improve MBTA and Amtrak services,” said Congressman Lynch. “This funding is the result of our hard work and partnership with the Biden-Harris administration to ensure we invest into our nation’s transportation and infrastructure. People all over the Commonwealth rely on public transportation every day, and this DOT grant is critical to make the necessary repairs and replacements that will make train service more safe and reliable.”

    “Transit justice is a racial and economic justice issue, and a matter of public safety – and this massive federal investment helps make the Commonwealth more connected and our transportation system safer and more reliable for commuters,” said Congresswoman Pressley. “I’m glad that families in the Massachusetts 7th who depend on the commuter rail will be better able to access jobs, healthcare, education, and essential services in other parts of the state, and we won’t stop fighting to build the more just, equitable, and accessible transit system our communities deserve. I thank my delegation colleagues and the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their partnership, and the Biden-Harris Administration for continuing to invest in Massachusetts.”

    “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver unprecedented federal investments to make our transit systems safer and more efficient,” said Congresswoman Trahan. “This massive award is proof that, thanks to the strong partnership between our federal delegation and the Healey-Driscoll administration, Massachusetts continues to punch above our weight when competing for federal funding.”

    “North Station Draw One is a connection point between Boston and Cambridge, and the many cities and towns north who rely on this train bridge to visit and work in our city. Thanks to the leadership of the MA federal delegation and the Healey-Driscoll administration in securing this funding, the Greater Boston area will see benefits from updated infrastructure and more reliable transportation. This funding for a bridge replacement represents our region’s commitment to our local economy and green transit,” said Mayor Wu.

    “I’m proud of the MBTA team that worked diligently to put this project in a strong position to win this highly competitive federal award. I thank the USDOT Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Deputy Secretary of Transportation Polly Trottenberg, and our partners at the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Acting Administrator Veronica Vanterpool, FTA Region 1 Administrator Pete Butler, and their entire team, for this incredible award allowing us to deliver the North Station Draw 1 project, freeing up state capital dollars for other essential needs,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Eng. “This award continues to demonstrate our aggressive approach to pursuing all funding opportunities under the lead of the Healey-Driscoll Administration as we pursue every available federal grant. Our Grants and North Station Drawbridge teams deserve all the credit for their exceptional work to secure this funding which allows us to ensure the efficient and reliable movement of all North Station train lines while greatly improving our ability to provide more frequent, regional rail-style service across the entire northside corridor to serve future generations to come.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Liverpool maps out masterplan to remix “Music City” status

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram has announced radical plans to “remix the music sector” by embracing AI and VR to future-proof music tourism, recording and education.

    Liverpool City Council has mapped out an ambitious programme of four ground-breaking, interlinked projects which would revolutionise the industry and have a multi-million-pound economic impact for decades to come.

    The proposals are expected to be funded by private sector sources with Government support, with media giant Universal expressing their commitment to the concept.

    The four projects are:

    • The Music Futures Lab – this bespoke facility will bring together music businesses and musicians from across the creative and digital sectors to reimagine the way we all create, consume and experience music in the future. This new R&D lab would be the first of its kind in the UK, taking advantage of the opportunities AI and VR brings, and would build on – and future-proof – the incredible creative and digital sector which the city already boasts.
    • MusicFutures Cluster – a mix of academic and private sector bodies creating the talent and training pipeline to make the most of the facilities which the music lab will offer. A Creative Cluster has already been established to kickstart this R&D in bringing together the music and creative industries.
    • Immersive Liverpool – this fully immersive audio and visual visitor attraction will reimagine the way that audiences experience the music they love. A world first, this attraction will offer a rotating set of experience ‘residencies’ with the biggest music artists. Liverpool City Council is undergoing a site selection process and is in partnership with industry leaders to help develop the scheme.
    • Recording and Rehearsal space – this space would become a new rehearsal home for the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and a leading national facility for emerging and established artists. This would be the only UK studio of its kind and capacity outside London – “the Abbey Road of the North” – and as well as boosting the city’s ability to offer recording facilities for musicians, TV, film and gaming, it would also provide first-class training, performance and rehearsal spaces all year-round for young people across the region.

    Mayor Rotheram revealed the ambitious plans at a Creative UK event as part of the Labour Party conference in the city.

    The draft business cases, funded by monies received from the DCMS, are to be presented to Government in the coming weeks with detailed plans expected to be announced in 2025 – 10 years after Liverpool was appointed a UNESCO City of Music.

    Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “Music is the heartbeat of Liverpool and for generations it has defined the city’s global appeal. The time has come to translate that heritage into an offer that shapes our future.

    “We have ambitious plans to remix what it means to be a music city. These projects will help define and shape the next generation of talent and businesses and will increase the impact music can have on our communities and individuals from all walks of life.

    “Our ‘Music 2030’ vision harnesses ambitious thinking and focused investment to turn music into a driver of social, economic and environmental advancement, with the sector becoming the backbone for new high-paying jobs, re-energising the music tourism sector and becoming a vanguard sector for positive environmental change.

    “We have entered into a development relationship with Mercury Studios and Universal Music Group to help create the future of immersive music entertainment right here in Liverpool. The expertise and innovation of Mercury Studios will empower our own homegrown talent. This city is known for our incredible music heritage. Together, we will lean on that heritage to become the birthplace for a new form of music entertainment and create a digital future.

    “I’m delighted with the progress made to date and super excited for what is to come. I look forward to further conversations with our partners and the Government on how we can develop and deliver these projects.”

    Liverpool City Region Mayor, Steve Rotheram, said: “The Liverpool City Region has always had music running through its veins—it’s part of who we are.

    “We’re launching bold, groundbreaking projects that will remix the way music is made and experienced—right here in the heart of the UK.

    “With cutting-edge technology like AI and VR, we’re creating opportunities for the next generation, making sure that Liverpool isn’t just a city with a rich musical history, but a global leader in the music of the future.

    “This isn’t just business—it’s about giving young people the chance to thrive and putting our region back on the world stage.

    “We’re setting the standard for what a music city should be in the 21st century.”

    Culture Liverpool Director Claire McColgan said: “Liverpool is reimagining the role music plays in the regeneration of a city. By bringing musicians and the creative and digital industries closer together and building the facilities to make the most of our enviable talent pool, we believe this approach can be a driving force in positioning Liverpool as a music city remixed.

    “These projects are at a really exciting stage, and we are now starting to get a sense of their scope and potential impact which could redefine what music means to Liverpool and to the rest of the country. We’re looking at a 10 year-plan to supercharge not just our visitor economy but the way that young people get access to the best music education in the world.

    “It will give talented creative graduates a further reason to set up their business here. It’s taking music seriously as a catalyst for regeneration, both in terms of buildings and people.”

    Michael Eakin, Chief Executive of Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, said: “This centre, as part of Liverpool’s overall investment in – and development of – the music sector will be transformative for the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic and for young talent in the city. It will be a major regeneration driver in its location. It will provide economic growth for the city as part of the growing film, television and creative industries sector.

    “It will help secure the long-term sustainability of one of the country’s most important and forward-looking orchestras and music organisations. And it will make Liverpool uniquely strong in delivering true creative education opportunities in music for children and young people across our communities.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Adult Social Care report reflects on the Council’s performance

    Source: City of Coventry

    Coventry City Council will report on its performance across Adult Social Care to Cabinet next week in readiness for national inspections of the service.

    Each year the Council publishes its annual report and this year, for the first time, it will also report on its self-assessment, reflecting on the way its Adult Social Care services have been performing over the past 12 months.

    Both reports are expected to be approved at its Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 1 October.

    The new self-assessment is something Councils must now produce because the Care Quality Commission (CQC) will be measuring how well Councils perform their adult social care duties. This is similar to the way the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills measure services.

    The CQC is responsible for assessing Local Authorities’ delivery of their adult social care functions.

    The CQC will be visiting the Council at a future date to meet with officers and services users to take a closer look at local adult social care services – and will refer to the Local Authority’s self-assessment to inform its findings. A date hasn’t been confirmed yet.

    Local Authorities are required to complete a Self-Assessment for issuing to the CQC following receipt of a ‘Notification of Inspection’ – that’s when the CQC identifies a date to carry out an inspection.

    Reviewing its services and preparing its self-assessment will support Coventry’s Adult Social Care’s readiness for any future inspection.

    Cllr Linda Bigham, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, said: “We want to be completely open about adult social care services. In fact, the more that local people and stakeholders know, the better.

    “It’s really important that people understand what we and other health agencies and care services can offer.

    “We have a lot of information on our website and during the past year have been holding community events to tell people more about what residents can expect from our services.

    “Both the annual report and self-assessment offer an overview that I think is really useful for everyone to read.

    “We try to focus our own reporting on the views of people who use our services to get a good understanding about how our services make an impact on residents.

    “Both reports cover each of the four CQC themes for inspection and the quality statements associated with these themes.”

    She added: “It’s a good way for us to review where we are doing well and more importantly where we need to make improvements, and it makes sense to focus on the CQC themes.

    “We’ll be updating the self-assessment annually and presenting it with the Annual Report. We’ll also provide it to the CQC when the Council is selected for an inspection.”

    The report states: ‘The approach taken both to the Self-Assessment and Annual Report demonstrates an open approach to our successes, challenges and where we can develop further in order to improve outcomes for people with care and support needs and their unpaid carers within Coventry.

    ‘The Self-Assessment also provides the opportunity to present the context within which CQC will be inspecting Adult Social Care in Coventry. The production of the 2023/24 report has drawn on the pool of feedback and information that was gathered over the year from a range of sources including social care staff, Partnership Boards, the Adult Social Care Stakeholder Group, providers, partner organisations and people who have been in contact with Adult Social Care, along with their families and carers.’

    Around 13 per cent of the population in Coventry is over 65. This is expected to increase by 27.7 per cent by the year 2043.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 4th Forum of Mayors to convene global Cities Summit of the Future

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    Cities are on the front lines of addressing humanity’s most pressing challenges, from climate change to migration as well as natural disasters and socioeconomic inequalities.  

    City leaders from across the globe will convene for the 4th Forum of Mayors (Geneva, 30 September – 1 October) to discuss the implications for local governments of the Pact for the Future, which will be agreed upon by UN Member States at the United Nations Summit of the Future (New York, 22-23 September). 

    At the Forum of Mayors, cities will collaboratively draft an Outcome Statement on the Future of Cities.  

    This statement will emphasize the vital role of cities and local actors in driving a sustainable and brighter future for all. It will then be transmitted to the Secretary General of the United Nations as a contribution to strengthening the engagement of local and regional governments in UN intergovernmental bodies and processes. 

    As a unique platform within the United Nations system, the Forum of Mayors connects local and national authorities within a normative intergovernmental framework, contributing to a more networked and inclusive multilateralism.  

    The Forum will be chaired by Ms. Danela Arsovska, Mayor of Skopje (North Macedonia), with Vice-Chairpersons Mr. Ricardo Rio, Mayor of Braga (Portugal), Ms. Susan Aitken, City Leader of Glasgow Council (United Kingdom) and Mr. Sami Kanaan, Deputy Mayor of Geneva (Switzerland). The keynote address will be delivered by renowned architect Lord Norman Foster. 

    Leaders from a diverse range of cities across the pan-European region and North America will participate, including mayors and deputy mayors from Tirana (Albania), Gyumri (Armenia), Vienna (Austria), Ganja (Azerbaijan), Quebec (Canada), Osijek (Croatia), Nicosia (Cyprus), Ostrava (Czech Republic),  Tallinn  (Estonia), Turku (Finland), Strasbourg Eurometropolis (France), Heidelberg (Germany), Athens (Greece), Debrecen (Hungary), Bat Yam (Israel),  Valmiera (Latvia),  Balzan (Malta), Podgorica (Montenegro), Utrecht (Netherlands),  Łódź (Poland), Mafra (Portugal), Bucharest (Romania),  Novo Mesto (Slovenia), Dushanbe (Tajikistan), Konya (Türkiye), Ashgabat (Turkmenistan), Mykolaiv (Ukraine), London (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland), New Orleans (United States of America). Additional Mayors are expected to confirm their participation. 

    Additionally, through collaboration with other Regional Economic Commissions (ESCWA, ECLAC, ECA, ESCAP) and the Global Cities Hub, and in recognition of the global connections between urban areas and the opportunities they present for learning, partnerships, and exchange, the Forum will also unite Mayors from the UNECE region with their counterparts from cities such as Buenos Aires (Argentina), Ifangni (Benin), San Jose (Costa Rica), Pichincha (Ecuador), Irbid (Jordan), Klang (Malaysia), Turbat Kech (Pakistan), Dakar (Senegal), Freetown (Sierra Leone), Lusaka (Zambia), Rabat (Morocco). 

    The Forum will also feature a rich programme of side events, tackling key issues such as the underrepresentation of women in local government leadership, urban peace dialogues, cities’ solutions to the triple planetary crisis, and cities’ experiences with Voluntary Local Reviews of SDGs progress. 

    More information on the Forum is available at https://forumofmayors.unece.org/. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Twelve Defendants, Including Members of International Criminal Gangs, Indicted for Drug Trafficking Conspiracy in South Florida

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

    MIAMI – An indictment has been unsealed charging 12 defendants, including members of international criminal gangs MS-13, Sur-13, and the Mexican Mafia, with drug offenses in and around Broward and Miami-Dade Counties in the Southern District of Florida.

    The twelve-count indictment charges Edgar Garcia-Velasquez, a/k/a “Diablo,” 34, a citizen of Honduras, Francisco Rangel, a/k/a “Casper,” 41, of Calif., Gabriela Rodriguez-Carrillo, 42, of Calif., Luis Portillo, a/k/a “Shadow,” a/k/a “Sombra,” 35, of Miami, Jose Puga, a/k/a “Stranger,” 45, of Calif., Malinda Martinez, 42, of Fort Myers, Fla., Karina Martinez-Vazquez, 34, of Miami, Rafael Gutierrez, a/k/a “Rafy,” 28, of Miami, Jose Hernandez, a/k/a “Blue Demon,” a/k/a “Labomba3,” 39, of Belle Glade, Fla., Loupe Loredo, a/k/a “L3g3nd,” 39, of Lake Wales, Fla., Felipe Gonzalez,  a/k/a “Wicked,” 41, of Calif., and  Hugo Cruz, a/k/a “Houdini,” 33, of LaBelle, Fla., with conspiring with each other, their co-defendants, and others to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties.

    The indictment charges Garcia-Velasquez, Rodriguez-Carrillo, Puga, Gonzalez, and Martinez Vazquez, with conspiring with each other, their co-defendants, and others to possess with the intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties.

    Garcia-Velazquez, Rodriguez-Carrillo, Martinez, Portillo, Gutierrez, Puga, Loredo, and Martinez Vazquez face additional charges for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties.

    Arrests of the defendants began on Sept. 12, at various locations, and thereafter they began making their initial appearances in the Southern District of Florida. If convicted, all of the defendants face up to life imprisonment.

    U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida; Special Agent in Charge Anthony Salisbury of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Miami; Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Christopher A. Robinson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Miami Field Division; Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Miami Field Division; and Sheriff Gregory Tony of the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) made the announcement.

    HSI Fort Lauderdale, FBI Miami, ATF Fort Lauderdale, DEA Miami, and BSO investigated this case with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Fort Myers, FBI Los Angeles, and FBI Fort Myers. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bertila Fernandez is prosecuting the case.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    An indictment contains allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

    You may find a copy of this press release (and any update) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at https://www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 24-cr-60174.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derailment of a freight train at Audenshaw

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Investigation into the derailment of a freight train at Audenshaw, Manchester, 6 September 2024.

    Derailed wagons on the bridge.

    At around 11:25 on 6 September 2024, a freight train travelling between Peak Forest and Salford derailed as it passed over a bridge in Audenshaw, Manchester.

    The train involved was made up of 2 class 66 locomotives and 24 wagons, which were loaded with aggregate. The 2 locomotives and the leading 10 wagons passed safely over the bridge, but the next 9 wagons derailed, with the last of the derailed wagons coming to a stand on the bridge itself.

    No injuries were caused by the accident. However, the derailment caused substantial damage to railway infrastructure and damaged some of the wagons involved.

    Our investigation will seek to identify the sequence of events that led to the accident. It will also consider:

    • the condition of the infrastructure at the time of the derailment
    • the status and condition of the wagons involved
    • any underlying management factors.

    Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the railway industry or by the industry’s regulator, the Office of Rail and Road.

    We will publish our findings, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of our investigation. This report will be available on our website.

    You can subscribe to automated emails notifying you when we publish our reports.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 57: UK Statement on Belarus

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with group of Independent Experts on Belarus. Delivered at the 57th Human Rights Council in Geneva.

    We are deeply concerned by brutal and systematic human rights violations in Belarus.  We condemn ongoing arbitrary arrests and widespread repression.

    To mark the fourth anniversary of deeply flawed presidential elections in Belarus, we announced new sanctions on four commanding officers of penal colonies in response to ongoing human rights violations. 

    In addition, we announced £2.5 million support to Belarusian human rights defenders and civil society.

    To the representatives of Belarus: while we welcome the recent release of some political prisoners, we urge you to immediately release the over 1,300 political prisoners who remain detained without reason. 

    Many face isolation, mistreatment, and a lack of medical care.

    Six political prisoners are reported to have died since 2021.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Record numbers join the NDA group graduate programme

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Over 100 graduates join the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority group today as applications open for 2025.

    NDA group graduate programme

    As applications open for 2025, the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group also welcomed its largest ever cohort of graduates today, with more than 100 new recruits ready to support delivery of one of the world’s most important environmental programmes.

    This week over 100 recently graduated professionals start their new roles supporting the NDA group’s mission to decommission nuclear sites, manage the UK’s radioactive waste and transport materials globally.

    It’s the largest intake to join the programme since its launch two years ago, providing experience throughout the NDA group as part of a two-year scheme. It sees recruits moving between functions and operating companies to complete a series of secondments, building knowledge and experience, as well as growing networks.

    Jacq Longrigg, NDA Group People Development Director, said:

    Our mission is so long-term that it stretches into the next century and our work is growing, as we take on responsibility for decommissioning more of the UK’s nuclear sites.

    Around 6,000 people applied to join us this year and we increased the number of opportunities, up from 60 in 2023, to reflect the scale of our work.

    We’re so proud to welcome over 100 graduates and look forward to seeing their careers develop as they contribute to our nationally important mission.

    Last year the cohort was the most diverse yet and the NDA group continue to build on this progress with an even higher proportion of graduates this year identifying as an ethnic minority and reporting being a person with a disability. This year 20% of graduates are also from disadvantaged backgrounds.

    NDA group graduate programme 2024 cohort

    This year’s intake has started as recruitment opens for the 2025 graduate programme with a target of recruiting 120 graduates across a range of technical and business functions, based at locations across the UK.

    From engineering and procurement, to IT and digital, environmental protection, or finance and risk, the programme provides one of the most diverse range of opportunities available. You can apply here: Our graduate roles – The NDA group.

    Izzy Thomas-Horton recently completed the graduate programme after securing a job with the NDA as a Junior Sustainability Advisor. She said:

    I was attracted to the NDA group because of the scale of the mission and the opportunity to contribute to such an important mission.

    During my two years on the programme, I’ve worked across multiple disciplines and got the chance to work in central government at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

    I’m grateful for the focus there has been on my development, from having a mentor to completing training courses – I would highly recommend this experience. Whatever your degree subject or career aspirations, it’s likely there is a role for you.

    Candidates gain experience in the NDA and its subsidiary companies including Sellafield, Nuclear Restoration Services, Nuclear Waste Services or Nuclear Transport Solutions. NDA graduates benefit from:

    • A starting salary of £30,000 and 25-days annual leave, plus bank holidays, as well as six discretionary days leave for study and relocation.
    • A comprehensive package of benefits including pension, professional institute membership and additional support with travel, relocation, training and development
    • A commitment to personal and professional development, including a dedicated mentor and access to a team of experts.

    In addition to the NDA group graduate programme, applications are also being welcomed for the highly-acclaimed Nuclear Graduates programme which sees the NDA partner with other leading employers in the nuclear sector.

    Both schemes are open for applications until the end of November 2024. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend a recruitment and assessment event at Manchester Central in February 2025.

    Both the NDA group graduate programme and Nuclear Graduates schemes are powered by NDA subsidiary Energus.

    To find out more, visit Graduates – The NDA group or  Nuclear Graduates.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: SLC’s biggest payment date of 24/25

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    SLC pays £0.9 billion in first term Maintenance Loan payments to students today.

    The Student Loans Company (SLC) has paid £0.9 billion in first term Maintenance Loan payments into students’ bank accounts across the UK today (Monday 23rd September).

    SLC enables more than 1.5 million students each year to invest in their futures by providing financial support to access further and higher education. And today marks the biggest payment date at the start of the 24/25 academic year, as students start or return to university. Similarly timed payments of £927 million were made in September 2022 and £798 million in September 2023, and tuition Fee Loan payments are paid directly to higher education providers later in the autumn.

    Payments are released to students when their university or college confirms that they have registered/enrolled. Once SLC has this information, it will send a text message to students a few days before the expected payment date to let them know that their Maintenance Loan is on the way. SLC is encouraging students to log-in to their online account to track their application and payment progress.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint Statement from Troika Capitals on South Sudan

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Statement by the Governments of Norway, the United Kingdom and the United States on the announcement by South Sudan’s leaders of an extension of the country’s transitional period.

    The Governments of Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States note with deep concern the announcement by South Sudan’s leaders of an extension of the country’s transitional period by two years.

    This announcement demonstrates the persistent and collective failure of South Sudan’s leaders to create the conditions necessary to hold credible and peaceful elections in accordance with an established, publicly agreed-upon timeline.  Responsibility for this failure is shared by all parties in the transitional government.  As South Sudan’s leaders vie for power and fail to organise credible and peaceful elections, the people of South Sudan suffer the consequences. Millions face acute food insecurity year after year.

    We acknowledge that elections cannot be credibly held as scheduled in December. This is because of South Sudanese leadership failures and lack of political will. Nevertheless, we cannot in good conscience endorse the extension of a status quo that prioritises the privileges of the elite over the welfare of the South Sudanese people.

    We call on the transitional government to act with urgency to demonstrably create the conditions necessary for credible and peaceful elections. This includes expanded political and civic space to enable citizens to express their views without fear or repercussions, politically neutral security forces, funded and operationalized electoral institutions, and leaders’ public commitment to dialogue and the rejection of violence as a tool for political competition.

    We urge South Sudan’s leaders to work toward sustainable peace, in particular through the Tumaini Initiative in Nairobi and broad-based leadership-level dialogue in Juba. It is also essential that the voices of women and youth are heard.

    The Troika remains committed to the people of South Sudan in their journey towards a democratic future free from conflict.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 September 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Four devolution agreements signed off and others progressing

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Step forward in government’s drive to hand more power from Westminster to local people with skin in the game

    Four areas will receive more power from Westminster in the latest step in the government’s devolution revolution, which will deliver real change by boosting economic growth across the country. 

    The government has today (19) signed off on agreements for regional mayors in Greater Lincolnshire and in Hull & East Yorkshire, and to establish combined county authorities in both Devon & Torbay and Lancashire. 

    The agreements signed today will mean local leaders have the power to make decisions in areas such as transport, adult education, and housing, boosting economic growth and opportunity, which are at the heart of the government’s agenda. 

    Mayors will be elected in Greater Lincolnshire and Hull & East Yorkshire – the last part of Yorkshire to be covered by a devolution deal – in May 2025 and will have control over transport, housing, skills, and investment to shape the future of their area. 

    For Devon & Torbay and Lancashire, combined county authorities will be established in early 2025 handed the responsibility for adult education. Ministers are encouraging local leaders to deepen these devolution deals and take strides towards mayoral devolution as a gold standard. 

    Subject to parliamentary approval and local consent, the devolution agreements will mean local leaders can make decisions that benefit their communities and harness the unique opportunities of their areas.   

    Devolution is central to the government’s mission to economic growth, but only around half of the people in England currently benefit from these arrangements. The Deputy Prime Minister wants every area to have the opportunity to benefit from new powers. 

    At the heart of the government’s drive to shift powers away from Westminster is the flagship English Devolution Bill, which will be introduced to give new powers to mayors and combined authorities – and roll out Local Growth Plans designed to maximise opportunities for growth.  

    Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:

    “This is only the first step of our major ambition to drive forward our devolution revolution, and ensure we empower more communities and strengthen the existing powers of our brilliant mayors.”

    The government is also minded to progress with the four non-mayoral ‘Level 2’ Single Local Authority devolution agreements with Cornwall Council, Buckinghamshire Council, Warwickshire County Council, and Surrey County Council, subject to further statutory tests being met. These agreements are an important step for places to see early benefits from devolution in the short-term. However, in making this downpayment in good faith, the government is encouraging these areas to continue working to explore the next steps towards deeper and wider devolution. 

    Today’s announcement comes after the Deputy Prime Minister’s letter inviting councils to share proposals for new devolution agreements over sensible geographies. The letter kickstarted the devolution revolution and the government expects more deals to be announced in the months to come.  

    The government strongly believes that the benefits of devolution are best achieved through the establishment of combined institutions with a directly elected leader. Mayors should have a unique role in an institution which allows them to focus fully on their devolved strategic responsibilities, working hand in glove with council leaders who will vitally also focus on the delivery of the essential services for which they are responsible. Conflating these two responsibilities into the same individual and institution, as is the case under the mayoral Single Local Authority model of devolution, would risk the optimal delivery of both and is not in line with the government’s approach to English devolution. 

    The government will therefore not proceed with the mayoral deals with Norfolk County Council and Suffolk County Council agreed with the previous government in December 2022 and instead intends to continue discussions over devolution in Norfolk & Suffolk. 

    The government will publish further detail on our approach to devolution in due course.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 September 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Top perpetrators of VAWG targeted under new National Strategy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Top perpetrators of Violence Against Women and Girls to be targeted under new data-driven National Strategy

    Women and girls will be better protected under a new national strategy using advanced data analysis and algorithms to relentlessly target the most dangerous perpetrators of abuse.

    This initiative is part of an ambitious, unprecedented mission to reduce such violence by 50% within the next decade. It will see police forces use new data-driven tools to focus on the small number of offenders responsible for the highest levels of harm.

    Working closely with the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), and the College of Policing, the Home Secretary will oversee the development of a new national approach to the use of these data-driven tools – which use computer programmes to bring together and analyse a range of police data to identify and pursue offenders involved in domestic abuse, sexual assault, harassment, and stalking.

    These tools, used alongside police officers’ expert judgment, will help law enforcement prioritise and pursue the most dangerous offenders, enabling a more effective allocation of police resources.

    The government is committed to providing both local and national capabilities to tackle these devastating crimes and ensure law enforcement agencies pursue the most prolific offenders.

    In addition, the technology will assist in building risk profiles for both perpetrators and victims, enabling law enforcement and partner agencies to implement robust management plans that disrupt offenders’ behaviour and enhance victim safety.

    This new approach will standardise the use of predictive technologies across police forces, ensuring those who pose the greatest threat are identified and managed through the criminal justice system or community-based, multi-agency interventions.

    The Home Office funded National Police Chiefs’ Council’s Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Taskforce will lead the charge in creating a framework for forces to follow. This framework will focus on identifying and managing the most dangerous offenders and drive forward a consistent national approach that allows those in operational policing to help meet the ambition to halve violence against women and girls in a decade.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 September 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to 6-month follow up of phase 2 trial of psilocybin versus escitalopram for depression

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A follow up of a phase 2 trial published in eClinicalMedicine looks at the effect of psilocybin versus escitalopram for depression. 

    Dr James Rucker, Consultant Psychiatrist & Senior Clinical Lecturer in Psychopharmacology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), King’s College London (KCL), said:

    “The authors have tended to attribute differences observed in this study to comparative differences between the drugs themselves, however it is also possible that the results reflect biased reporting between groups. This is more likely here because A) studies involving psilocybin tend to attract those with positive preconceptions about psilocybin and negative preconceptions about conventional antidepressants, and B) study participants were unblinded during the long term follow up phase that is reported in the paper, so knew which condition they were allocated to.

    “This said, the nature of depression varies hugely between individuals, and this calls for the development of a similarly varied suite of treatment paradigms. Psilocybin therapy is certainly a different paradigm of treatment to escitalopram. The observation of similar levels of effectiveness to antidepressants here is encouraging to see alongside the much larger trials of psilocybin currently underway here in the UK, Europe and the US.”

    ‘Effect of psilocybin versus escitalopram on depression symptom severity in patients with moderate-to-severe major depressive disorder: observational 6-month follow-up of a phase 2, double-blind, randomised, controlled trial’ by David Erritzoe et al. was published in eClinicalMedicine at 00:30 UK time on Sunday 22 September. This work is being discussed at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP) Congress 2024.

    DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2024. 102799    

    Declared interests

    Dr James Rucker: I’m PI on various commercial trials with psilocybin but have no financial links or shareholdings with the sponsors of those trials.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New ‘brownfield passports’ to seize the growth opportunities of urban areas

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    As part of its brownfield first approach to development, the government has announced plans to support and expedite approval of urban sites, such as car parks.

    • Call for evidence to look at how to accelerate building in urban areas.
    • Part of the government’s brownfield first approach to deliver the homes in the areas people need.
    • Sits alongside plans to deliver 1.5 million homes this Parliament.

    As part of its brownfield first approach to development, the government has announced plans to support and expedite approval of urban sites, such as car parks.

    As signalled in the National Planning Policy Framework consultation, the government is taking further steps toward the introduction of an effective ‘brownfield passport’ to ensure where proposals meet design and quality standards, the default answer is yes.

    A call for evidence will be launched on options to further increase certainty in relation to brownfield development. These will include bold proposals that provide far greater clarity as to the principle, scale, and form of brownfield development with a view to lowering the risk, cost and uncertainty associated with securing planning permissions. 

    The options will then be discussed with key stakeholders, before specific proposals are consulted on, and any new policies implemented.

    As part of its ambition to deliver 1.5 million homes this Parliament, the Government has already taken steps to deliver on its brownfield first approach through the NPPF consultation, setting out changes to clarify brownfield development is acceptable in principle. The consultation closes on 24 September.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 September 2024

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Government boosts Regional Development with legislation passed by Parliament

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Government boosts Regional Development with legislation passed by Parliament

    Published: 20 September 2024

    Released by: Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW

    The Minns Labor Government has passed legislation today that will greatly enhance the delivery of regional economic development and to build stronger communities across rural and regional NSW.

    Significant changes to the Regional Development Act by the Government, have lifted community confidence in how taxpayer funds will be used in regional NSW following years of porkbarrelling and mismanagement by the former Nationals/Liberal Government.

    The NSW Government is committed to delivering change and ensuring government investments are targeted and will make a real positive difference to people and communities.

    The modernised Regional Development Act reflects the community feedback and 232 submissions received in response to the community engagement on the Bill.

    This engagement also included hearing from rural and remote council Mayors and general managers, regional Councils, the NSW Aboriginal Land Council, Business NSW, NSW Farmers, Regional Development Australia, regionally located Universities and the NSW Aboriginal Women’s Advisory Network.

    The new legislation provides a robust framework for how the Government’s $400 million Regional Development Trust supports community needs and economic development in the communities it is designed to serve.

    The changes introduce independent accountability, greatly improve cooperation between all levels of government and provide greater transparency in funding arrangements for regional development projects.

    The Regional Development Act has now been modernised with:

    • Updated objects of the Act to reflect the contemporary needs of rural and regional NSW and encourage cooperation and collaboration with all tiers of government including local government
    • Broader types of financial investment that can be provided from the Regional Development Trust to better respond to the challenges and opportunities in rural and regional NSW
    • Reinvestment enabled into the Regional Development Trust by government, private sector and non-for-profit organisations
    • Strengthened accountability and transparency through new governance and reporting provisions requiring the publication of an annual report, investment strategy and governance framework so the public have a clear understanding of the focus and investment of the Regional Development Trust
    • A mandate that the Minister must establish a Regional Development Advisory Council so that independent expert advice is a constant component of the administration of the Regional Development Trust.

    As part of the modernised Regional Development Act, the Regional Development Advisory Council will provide independent advice and oversight on investments from the Regional Development Trust.

    Community members interested in shaping the future prosperity of regional NSW are encouraged to apply to become part of the NSW Government’s Regional Development Advisory Council.

    Expressions of Interest for the new Advisory Council opened on 11 September 2024 and close on 11:59PM Wednesday 9 October.

    For more information about the Regional Development go to: www.nsw.gov.au/regional-nsw/regional-development-roadmap

    Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

    “Updating the Regional Development Act is an important milestone that ensures investments into rural and regional communities from the Government’s $400 Regional Development Trust are strategic and provide real benefits for regional communities.

    “This new Act represents the full delivery of the Regional Development Roadmap to update our regional development framework. This is in addition to the establishment of the regional development advisory council and the investment of $400m into the regional development trust.

    “The Trust will invest where it is needed most and support projects that deliver meaningful benefit to regional communities.

    “With these changes, regional communities can have full confidence that investments are made in a fair and transparent way underpinned by independent expert advice.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Quick-thinking Lifestyles staff save man’s life

    Source: City of Liverpool

    A grandfather who suffered a heart attack at Lifestyles Ellergreen leisure centre has praised Council staff for saving his life, calling their swift response “unbelievable.”

    On Wednesday, 14 August, 80-year-old Ted Sturgeon, who is a regular visitor to the leisure centre, collapsed from heart failure as he entered the dryside changing area.

    Within 30 seconds, quick-thinking staff responded, led by Duty Manager Arron McCann, alongside Training Officer Natalie Wainwright and Attendant Heather Gibb.

    In a display of rapid teamwork, four members of staff were delivering CPR to Ted in under a minute, including Attendant Tracy Hulks, who was also on duty. A defibrillator shock was administered just 90 seconds after the collapse.

    Ted, a former joiner from Norris Green, began to show signs of recovery after four minutes of CPR and two defibrillator shocks, a critical window in which the team’s immediate action made all the difference.

    Paramedics, who arrived on the scene six minutes later, commended the staff, describing their response as “one of the best they had witnessed”.

    Ted, who has since had an internal cardiac defibrillator fitted, recently returned to the centre to reunite with the team who saved his life. The reunion was emotional, with staff reflecting on the life-saving events of that day, and many were moved to tears.

    The team have now been invited to Liverpool Town Hall, where they will be personally thanked for their efforts by the city’s Lord Mayor, Cllr Richard Kemp.

    Ted’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of quick reactions, teamwork, and the life-saving value of CPR and defibrillation training and administration.

    Quick-thinking Lifestyles staff save man’s life

    Lifestyles staff with Ted at Ellergreen leisure centre © Liverpool City Council

    A grandfather who suffered a heart attack at Lifestyles Ellergreen leisure centre has praised Council staff for saving his life, calling their swift response “unbelievable.”

    On Wednesday, 14 August, 80-year-old Ted Sturgeon, who is a regular visitor to the leisure centre, collapsed from heart failure as he entered the dryside changing area.

    Within 30 seconds, quick-thinking staff responded, led by Duty Manager Arron McCann, alongside Training Officer Natalie Wainwright and Attendant Heather Gibb.

    In a display of rapid teamwork, four members of staff were delivering CPR to Ted in under a minute, including Attendant Tracy Hulks, who was also on duty. A defibrillator shock was administered just 90 seconds after the collapse.

    Ted, a former joiner from Norris Green, began to show signs of recovery after four minutes of CPR and two defibrillator shocks, a critical window in which the team’s immediate action made all the difference.

    Paramedics, who arrived on the scene six minutes later, commended the staff, describing their response as “one of the best they had witnessed”.

    Ted, who has since had an internal cardiac defibrillator fitted, recently returned to the centre to reunite with the team who saved his life. The reunion was emotional, with staff reflecting on the life-saving events of that day, and many were moved to tears.

    The team have now been invited to Liverpool Town Hall, where they will be personally thanked for their efforts by the city’s Lord Mayor, Cllr Richard Kemp.

    Ted’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of quick reactions, teamwork, and the life-saving value of CPR and defibrillation training and administration.

    For first aid advice and information, please visit St John Ambulance: https://www.sja.org.uk/get-advice/first-aid-advice/?parentId=12265&categoryId=12349

    Ted Sturgeon said: “I can’t thank the team enough for what they did that day. Their quick response and the way they worked together were unbelievable.

    “I owe my life to them, and I’ll never forget how their actions saved me. I’m just so grateful to be here today.”

    Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said: “The incredible actions of the staff at Lifestyles Ellergreen are a testament to the training and dedication they bring to their roles every day.

    “Their quick thinking and the life-saving skills they’ve developed through their training made all the difference in this situation.

    “We are extremely proud of their efforts and the vital work they do, not just in supporting people’s health and wellbeing, but in being prepared for emergencies like this. It’s clear that having such training in place can literally save lives.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Measures to ensure decent homes for all

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The government will consult on a new Decent Homes Standard for the rented sectors.

    • Government to consult on a new Decent Homes Standard for the rented sectors
    • Awaab’s Law legislation for the social rented sector will be brought forward this autumn, and protections will be extended to private rented sector through Renters Rights Bill
    • Introducing new access to information requirements for housing associations so tenants can access the information they need to hold their landlords to account

    The government will consult on a new Decent Homes Standard for the rented sectors.

    The consultation, which will launch as soon as possible, will look to ensure safe, secure housing is the standard people can expect in both social housing and private rented properties.

    The government will also bring forward legislation for Awaab’s Law in the social rented sector this autumn, so hazards such as damp and mould must be investigated and remedied to set timescales. Implementing this legislation for social housing and extending protections to the private rented sector will support tenants to secure faster repairs, reducing health and safety risks.

    Alongside this we will introduce new access to information requirements for housing associations, to enable tenants from the 2.5 million households managed by housing associations to hold their landlords to account and drive up the quality of the housing and services they provide.  

    We will also introduce a Competence and Conduct standard for the social rented sector that will ensure staff have the right skills, behaviours and experience to carry out the role they have in supporting often some of the most vulnerable in our society. The new standard, which will include qualification requirements for senior managers and executives, will help to raise standards across the sector, ensuring tenants receive a professional service and are treated with respect and dignity.

    The government will bring forward further plans for high quality housebuilding through the revised National Planning Policy Framework this autumn, following the NPPF consultation which closes on 24 September.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 September 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Full devolution to be delivered across the North

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The government is continuing to deliver devolution for all corners of the country, with a commitment to deliver full devolution across the North.

    • Government will prioritise remaining Northern areas in the next wave of devolution deals
    • Progression for deals covering Lancashire, Greater Lincolnshire, Hull and East Yorkshire and Devon and Torbay announced earlier this week will be prioritised
    • Backing advanced manufacturing in the West Midlands and life sciences in West Yorkshire by releasing this year’s funding for the Mayors’ Investment Zones

    The government is continuing to deliver devolution for all corners of the country, with a commitment to deliver full devolution across the North.

    The next wave of devolution deals will work to ensure the remaining areas in the region not yet benefitting from greater devolved powers are supported to deliver agreements that work for their communities.

    The commitment confirmed today follows the government’s announcement earlier this week that four devolution agreements will progress in Hull and East Yorkshire, Greater Lincolnshire, Lancashire, and Devon and Torbay.

    The government will also release this year’s funding for two Investment Zones, delivering high quality jobs and attracting private sector investment, focusing on advanced manufacturing in the West Midlands and life sciences in West Yorkshire.

    Investment Zones have been established in a number of Combined Authorities in England, combining tax incentives and flexible funding for research and development, skills, business support, local infrastructure and planning.

    Further government action to deliver devolution includes:

    • The English Devolution Bill announced in the King’s Speech;
    • Establishing the Council of the Nations and Regions, with more details to be announced in due course; 
    • Asking existing mayors to develop Local Growth Plans for their areas to help drive regional growth. Greater Manchester, one of the places where devolution has existed for the longest and the powers are deepest, has been one of the UK’s fastest growing areas over the last 20 years, and is forecast to grow by more than the national average in coming years; and
    • The devolution agreements announced this week means that over 60% of the country will be covered by a devolution deal.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 September 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More than 30 arrests in crackdown on Common Travel Area abuse

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A three-day crackdown against people-smuggling gangs saw 31 arrests.

    A Home Office crackdown against people-smuggling gangs and people exploiting the Common Travel Area (CTA) has led to the arrest of 31 people in multiple locations across the UK.  

    As the government steps up its pursuit against the criminal groups abusing our borders on all fronts, Immigration Enforcement teams, alongside UK police forces and international partners, descended on locations in the UK including Belfast, Scotland, Liverpool and Luton as part of a three-day operation.   

    Checks were conducted at major ports, airports, and road networks across the country, targeting illegal migration and disrupting smuggling routes. Ruthless criminal gangs, operating both in the UK and internationally, often exploit vulnerable migrants, charging them thousands of pounds to enter the UK illegally, luring them with false promises of a better life.  

    During the operation, £400,000 of criminal cash and 10 fraudulent identity documents were seized. These documents, which are critical tools used by people-smuggling gangs, enable them to evade immigration controls. Created by criminal networks, counterfeit documents allow migrants to bypass border checks, trapping vulnerable people in further illegal activities. By exploiting these people, the gangs not only profit but also place them at risk of severe legal and personal consequences.  

    The multi-agency operation was led by Immigration Enforcement’s Criminal and Financial Investigations team in Northern Ireland, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), the National Crime Agency (NCA), other UK police forces, and international partners.  

    This operation is part of a national effort to stop irregular migration and human trafficking at key entry points across the UK, as the government works to tackle people-smuggling gangs and bring those exploiting vulnerable people to justice.  

    Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Dame Angela Eagle, said:  

    This government will not stand by as criminal gangs exploit vulnerable people, risking their lives and giving them false hopes of a better life in the UK. Driven by greed, these gangs have no regard for human life or safety, charging outrageous fees, preying on those desperate to escape hardship, and forcing them into illegal and dangerous situations.  

    We are taking the fight to them on all fronts under the leadership of our new Border Security Commander. Dismantling the business models of these gangs does not just apply to the small boats trade – we are also stamping out other routes into the UK to bring them to justice and slash their profits.” 

    Home Office Immigration Enforcement Inspector, Jonathan Evans, said:  

    This operation has been a huge success and sends a clear message that the smuggling gangs who break our laws will face serious consequences.  

    We are taking action day in, day out to ensure we stay a step ahead of these criminal groups, disrupting them at the earliest possible stage. We will continue working relentlessly to ensure no one abuses the Common Travel Area or the UK’s borders.  

    I’m incredibly proud of our teams across the country, as well as our partners from the police, the National Crime Agency, and international counterparts, for their hard work and collaboration in carrying out this important operation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 September 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Surface water flooding expected on Monday 23 September

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Heavy rain and thunderstorms expected on Monday 23 September could lead to significant surface water flooding across parts of the country.

    Heavy rain and thunderstorms expected on Monday 23 September could lead to significant surface water flooding across parts of the country. We are urging people to keep an eye on the weather, check their flood risk, and take care planning their journeys.

    Sarah Cook, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, said:

    Persistent heavy rain and thunderstorms could lead to significant surface water flooding on Monday across parts of England. The impacts could include localised flooding in urban areas and fast responding catchments, including some property flooding as well as travel disruption. The risk from river flooding remains low.

    Environment Agency teams are out on the ground, and ready to support local authorities in responding to surface water flooding. We urge people to plan their journeys carefully, follow the advice of local emergency services on the roads and not to drive through flood water – it is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car.

    People should check their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation as well as following @EnvAgency on X, formerly Twitter, for the latest flood updates.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 September 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Welcome to Liverpool!

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Last updated:

    An open letter from Liverpool City Council Leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, to Labour Party conference delegates coming to the city….

    I am delighted to welcome the Labour Party conference to our city.

    I know from previous visits how much delegates appreciate our friendly welcome.

    It’s a hugely important event, generating an estimated £30 million for our local economy.

    This year, for the first time ever, we are hosting the conference when Labour is the party of Government.

    It is a real honour to host the Prime Minister and Cabinet Ministers, together with delegates from across the country and the Labour movement, in Liverpool.

    It also presents us with a real opportunity to demonstrate the ambition we have for the city and the wider region, and how we can support Government to deliver on its key missions.

    Over the coming days, we will be working with partners in the public and private sector to showcase some of the excellent work happening locally, such as our housing schemes, our higher education sector, our culture and life sciences.

    Our message is clear and simple: Liverpool stands ready to work hand in hand with regional and national government to deliver.

    Enjoy your time in the city, and we look forward to welcoming you back again.

    Cllr Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council

    Pictured is Cllr Robinson with staff from Liverpool City Region Combined Authority at their stand at the conference.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rural Flood Resilience Partnership launched to help farmers and rural communities adapt to a changing climate

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Partnership unites six organisations including: Action with Communities in Rural England; Association of Drainage Authorities; Country Land and Business Association; Environment Agency; National Farmers Union; and Natural England

    With rural communities increasingly on the frontline of extreme weather and the devastating impacts of flooding, a unique partnership has been launched today (23 September 2024) to support rural flood resilience and help farmers and communities adapt to a changing climate. 

    Climate change means that people, places and nature are facing more frequent and more severe storms and floods. Last winter saw one of England’s wettest periods since records began in 1836. 

    The Rural Flood Resilience Partnership has been established to improve collaboration, deepen understanding of vulnerabilities, and support rural communities and agricultural businesses in building their resilience to present and future flood risks and coastal erosion. 

    The Partnership unites organisations representing government agencies, trade associations, rural communities and businesses to tackle a joint challenge with joint solutions. 

    The six equal founding partners are: Action with Communities in Rural England; the Association of Drainage Authorities; Country Land and Business Association; the Environment Agency; the National Farmers Union; and Natural England. 

    Today, the Partnership publishes its work plan covering 2024 to 2026. Partners and a wide range of projects will work together to improve their evidence base and will draw on this to co-develop solutions. 

    The work plan sets out 21 actions supporting seven strategic outcomes focused on: developing the evidence base behind decision-making to increase resilience; ensuring communities, farmers and landowners have access to quality advice and support; and engaging rural communities in flood resilience.  

    James Blake, Chair of Trustees Action with Communities in Rural England, said:

    It’s vital that everyone living and working in rural communities – not just those involved in land management and agriculture – have an opportunity to engage with and influence plans to manage the consequences of climate change.  

    As one of the founding members of this partnership, we look forward to drawing on the experience and reach of ACRE members to build the capacity of rural communities to come together and consider what can be done based on local circumstances in response to this most pressing global issue.

    Robert Caudwell, Chair of the Association of Drainage Authorities, said:  

    Our climate is changing rapidly, and those living and working in rural parts of England are some of the most aware of, and most vulnerable to, those changes.

    Listening to the voice of rural communities is essential if we are to build England’s resilience to flooding and drought in the future. 

    The best solutions can often be achieved when public authorities work together with local businesses and communities, combining their land and water management expertise with a deeper understanding of our local landscape and those impacted. 

    ADA is proud to play its part in this new Partnership in support of our members, England’s flood and water management authorities.

    Country Land and Business Association (CLA) President Victoria Vyvyan said:

    The damage to rural land and businesses from flooding is localised but acute, and the frequency of these events will increase with climate change.  

    It is crucial to improve the resilience of rural businesses and communities to flooding. The CLA hopes this partnership will provide the evidence, awareness of risks, and access to practical advice that will allow them to improve their resilience.  

    This partnership will look for short and medium-term solutions whilst raising awareness of the rural-specific costs and challenges from flooding which our members face.

    Caroline Douglass, Executive Director for Flood and Coastal Risk Management, Environment Agency, said: 

    Flooding presents specific challenges to those living and working in rural communities, from ruined crops to having road access cut off by floodwaters.  

    Since 2015, flooding and coastal change projects have been completed to protect more than 400,000 hectares of agricultural land better. This includes 280,000 hectares between 2015-2021, helping to avoid more than £500 million worth of economic damage to agricultural land production.

    While the Environment Agency continues to work to strengthen rural flood resilience, no single organisation can tackle these challenges in isolation. This partnership provides the opportunity to accomplish more than any one organisation can manage alone. 

    The new Rural Flood Resilience Partnership will help farmers, land managers and rural communities become more resilient to the impacts of climate change while retaining the vital role of managing land and producing sustainable food.

    NFU Vice President Rachel Hallos said: 

    The NFU is pleased to be involved in this new Partnership and hope it will enable farmers and rural communities to strengthen the resilience of their homes and businesses by providing practical solutions based on tangible evidence to some of the challenges they face in the event of flooding. 

    It will also give rural communities the means to influence decision making, provide access to resources and support action on the ground, strengthening rural resilience to flooding in a changing climate. 

    Farmers are on the frontline of climate change – our biggest challenge. The extreme weather this brings is one of the main threats to UK food security and more severe storms, devastating floods, and increased periods of little or no rain are all impacting our ability to produce food. 

    The country has just experienced its wettest 18 months since records began in 1836 which left many thousands of acres of productive farmland under water. There are still many farm businesses in dire need of support, and we are awaiting details of how the Farming Recovery Fund can help those businesses recover from the impacts of the devastating flooding and saturated ground.

    Natural England’s Greener Farming & Fisheries Director, Brad Tooze, said:

    Natural England champions the power of nature and nature-based solutions to help tackle the joint climate and biodiversity emergencies.  

    NE welcomes the opportunity to join this partnership and add our science and evidence expertise and our local farm advice offer into the mix. Together we can support farmers and land managers to farm in more flood resilient ways – supporting communities to become more flood resilient and recovering nature at the same time. 

    From signing up to the Sustainable Farming Incentive to manage arable land for flood/drought resilience and water quality or by working with others to restore a river and floodplain in Landscape Recovery every farmer and land manager can make a difference.

    The Partnership forms part of the wider work that all partners are undertaking on flood and coastal resilience.  

    All flood and coastal risk management schemes delivered by risk management authorities in England are carefully assessed to make sure they benefit the most people and property. Approximately 40% of all schemes and 45% of investment better protect properties in rural communities.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Taree NPWS hazard reduction burn 22 September 2024

    Source: New South Wales Environment and Heritage

    The 72 hectare ‘Starrs Creek HR – Stage 2’ aims to provide a fuel reduced zone within Coorabakh National Park, aiding in the suppression of bushfire in the area.

    The burn will also stimulate reproduction of the critically endangered Banksia conferta within the prescribed burn area.

    NPWS crews will be working on roads and trails throughout Coorabakh National Park to implement the burn. The public are advised that smoke may affect roads in the area and motorists are reminded to exercise caution when driving along roads in the area.

    Hazard reduction burns are essential to reduce bushfire fuel loads to help protect parks, neighbours and communities from future bushfires. Fires such as this one are also specifically planned to have an ecological outcome.

    All burns around the state are coordinated with the NSW Rural Fire Service.

    People with known health conditions can sign up to receive air quality reports, forecasts and alerts via email or SMS from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (NSW DCCEEW).

    For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit the NSW Health or Asthma Australia.

    More information on hazard reduction activities is available at NSW Rural Fire Service and the NSW Government Hazards Near Me website and app.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Dogma or data? Why sentencing reforms in NZ will annoy judges and clog the courts

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kris Gledhill, Professor of Law, Auckland University of Technology

    Getty Images

    The Luxon government surely has little sense of irony.

    Shortly after introducing the Parliament Bill, designed to reinforce the fundamental constitutional principle of the separation of powers, it has introduced the Sentencing Reform (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to constrain the judicial arm of the state.

    Its purpose is to put more people into prison for longer. In its Regulatory Impact Statement, the Ministry of Justice estimates 1,350 people will be added to the current prison population. The ministry is also clear that most of the changes are unnecessary and rest on inadequate consultation, particularly with Māori.

    The main change the bill makes is to cap reductions in a prison sentence for mitigating factors at “40% of the sentence”, unless that would be “manifestly unjust”.

    Mitigating factors

    To understand why this is a problem, we need to start with how the Sentencing Act 2002 works. First, the seriousness of an offence provides a starting point. Since the maximum sentence is for the worst example of the offence, the facts can be put on a scale.

    Secondly, the judge considers aggravating factors, such as repeat offending, malicious motivations or the victim’s vulnerability. The new bill specifies various additional aggravating factors, but the ministry notes these are already taken into account.

    Finally, the judge looks at mitigating factors, such as youth, intellectual disability or mental illness, remorse and positive steps to remedy the cause of offending.

    One important available reduction is for a guilty plea. The bill will cap this at 25% – the Supreme Court already decided this several years ago.

    Sentence reductions based on these factors will regularly exceed the overall 40% cap proposed in the new bill. For example, impulsive offending by a young adult with ADHD who was in state care because of family abuse, and who pleads guilty early, would likely mean a considerable sentence reduction.

    Similarly, offending by someone who both admits it, shows remorse and assists the police would qualify for considerable reductions.



    Read more:
    A last minute amendment to NZ’s gang legislation risks making a bad law worse

    ‘Moral and fiscal failure’

    The New Zealand judiciary is not soft by world standards. Its rate of incarceration – currently 181 per 100,000 people – places the country 90th out of 223 jurisdictions.

    This is well above Australia, England, Wales and Scotland, and double the rates in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Canada. As Māori have long made up more than 50% of the prison population, their incarceration rate is at US levels. Do we really want to make this worse?

    When former Finance Minister Bill English observed New Zealand’s high prison population represented a “moral and fiscal failure”, he asked the chief science advisor to collate the evidence.

    The resulting 2018 report, Using Evidence to Build a Better Justice System, concluded the prison population had grown because of “dogma not data”.

    Prisoners are seven times more likely than the general population to have a mental health or substance abuse problem. Ninety percent have a history of mental health or addiction, with 60% still affected. Up to 70% have significant literacy problems.

    The sentencing reform proposals rest on the notion people should take more personal responsibility. But they overlook the reality of most of the people in the system having a reduced capacity to do that. This looks more like dogma than data.

    And since prisons train people in criminal ways and provide gangs with recruits, but do not deal with underlying causes of criminal behaviour, it is dogma that risks creating more victims.

    Increased prisoner numbers: Paremoremo Maximum Security Prison, Auckland.
    Getty Images

    A stressed justice system

    On top of this, the criminal justice system is creaking, without enough judges or courtrooms. Complainants, defendants and witnesses already wait too long for trials.

    Reductions in sentences for guilty pleas and other mitigating features are essential to preventing this from getting worse. Some of these factors only come to light at the sentencing hearing when pre-sentence reports (often including medical reports) are provided.

    Also, the final preparation for a trial often leads the prosecution to accept a plea to a less serious offence. And the time waiting for a trial often means a defendant will have served all or much of their sentence already.

    If a judge feels obliged to impose a higher sentence because of the new amendments, lawyers will have to advise defendants accordingly. Inevitably, more will decide to take their chances in a trial rather than plead guilty.

    That means more complainants will have to give evidence, some defendants will be acquitted, and the criminal justice system will creak more.

    Judges and rules

    Judges will have to confront some dissonance in the law. The Sentencing Act requires judges to impose the “least restrictive” sentence. But a sentence that is longer than appropriate doesn’t meet that requirement.

    A longer-than-necessary prison sentence is arguably arbitrary detention. But the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act requires judges to interpret other statutes to avoid breaching rights if possible, including the right not to be detained arbitrarily.

    In addition, a fair trial should aim to secure the right sentence for the individual defendant.

    Judges do not sign up to breach people’s rights. Nor do they like it when the executive branch of government uses its parliamentary majority to overstep the separation of powers. Quite properly, they will do what they can to secure individualised justice.

    They might, for example, set a sentence at the low end of the available range to achieve the same outcome while appearing to abide by the new 40% cap. Or they might just decide a rehabilitative sentence, invariably non-custodial, is the better outcome.

    Judges spend all their time dealing with rules. You can expect them to be creative in finding ways around restrictions that should not be imposed on them.

    Kris Gledhill is currently working on a project relating to sentencing that is funded by the Borrin Foundation. He is also a member of the Executive Committee of the Criminal Bar Association, which represents prosecution and defence lawyers. The views stated in this article are his own.

    – ref. Dogma or data? Why sentencing reforms in NZ will annoy judges and clog the courts – https://theconversation.com/dogma-or-data-why-sentencing-reforms-in-nz-will-annoy-judges-and-clog-the-courts-239303

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: York Walls in Bloom

    Source: City of York

    Residents and visitors will be able to experience areas of the city walls from a fresh perspective next spring, as this unique and historic space blooms into life.

    Volunteers and businesses from across the city are coming together this week to help transform the City Walls embankments, for the first phase of the York Walls in Bloom project.

    This unique green space will evolve into a beautiful biodiverse landscape, where residents and visitors will be able to enjoy seeing many different pollinators thrive.

    Over its 2,000-year-old history, the city walls embankments (ramparts) have constantly evolved and changed from being cleared sheer slopes, areas of grazing until the mid-20th century and in recent years manicured lawns and bedding plants.

    The first phase of the York in Bloom project will be in the city centre at Station Rise. The area around the Station Rise rampart has over the centuries seen some of the most dramatic changes in landscape visible anywhere on the city walls.

    The season bedding displays here will be familiar to many residents and visitors, but this approach is not without its downsides. It’s resource intensive in terms of water and carbon used in the growing, transporting, planting, weeding and removing bedding plants. This makes the practice increasingly unsustainable for the city and the planet.

    Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency, said “York is proud to have some of the UK’s best preserved medieval walls, and this partnership project to cover the site at Station Rise in meadow flowers for York Walls in Bloom will not only look beautiful, it will also help support York’s bees, moths and butterflies, and help preserve the ramparts underneath.

    We are lucky to have expert advice from many partners and are also in the process of reviewing our maintenance of the walls overall. We will ensure that we adopt the very best heritage and ecology conservation practices to prevent soil erosion, which increases with extreme heat and increased rainfall, maximise the environmental benefit, and keep the Walls looking great for generations to come.”

    Inspired by projects such as the Tower of London ‘Moat in Bloom’, the council believes that carefully managed wild flowering could offer the right mix of stunning visuals, increased sustainability and improved habitat.

    York Walls in Bloom is being carefully introduced over the course of 2024. Earlier this year, the area was left to grow naturally for several months so that the ecological study could be undertaken. This was critical so that the council knew that any intervention wouldn’t endanger existing habitats.

    While next year will see a spectacular floral display near Station Rise, the area will still be very carefully managed over several years to balance the ecology of the site. The second phase of the project will be extended to the Red Tower, Walmgate next year.

    This will transform the flatter sections of rampart on the outside of the city walls by sowing wildflowers in Spring, to create a floral display in summer 2025, which over the following years will be carefully managed into a sustainable natural floral meadow.

    Introducing a more sustainable, natural environment in the coming years, including changing how frequently the grass is cut in this area, will ensure a healthier soil and more wildflower growth.

    The York in Walls project has gained the backing and sponsorship of local businesses.

    Simon Mahon, General Manager of The Grand York, said: “We’re delighted to be working on the York Walls in Bloom project. We’re very proud sponsors and are looking forward seeing wildflowers being introduced along the walls, which naturally will make this historical part of York even more beautiful.

    Here at The Grand, York, as part of our sustainability initiative we house approximately 50,000 bees on our roof – the honey they produce is used throughout The Grand in desserts, pastries and cocktails. So, we’re really happy to support this project.”

    From Tuesday 24 September, works will be visible on the ground when the turf will be ‘wither stripped’ to allow for the sowing of the wildflowers.

    With the help on York Cares, volunteers from across the city will come together to support the project and help sow the seeds.

    Holly Hennell, Manager, York Cares: “The 16th annual York Cares Big Community Challenge is taking place between 16 September and 11 October in partnership with City of York Council, St Nicks and the University of York. The challenge aims to connect communities with nature, providing volunteering opportunities at over 30 sites across the city along routes leading into the city centre around the city walls.

    “Employee-volunteers will get involved with a variety of practical activities to enhance biodiversity across the city including sowing seeds as part of the York Walls in Bloom project, a fantastic initiative which will really brighten up the city whilst also benefiting the environment. The York Cares team is excited to be able to get involved in one of the sessions alongside their members, demonstrating the difference we can make when we come together.”

    The York in Bloom project is funded by the Green Corridors project , the National Lottery Community Fund and is sponsored by local businesses including The Grand York.

    For more information visit York Walls in Bloom.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Be Bright, Be Seen, Be Safe

    Source: City of York

    Be Bright, Be Seen, Be Safe

    Published Thursday, 19 September 2024

    Be Bright, Be Seen, Be Safe is the key message from City of York Council and North Yorkshire Council during Cycle to School Week [23-27 September].

    Getting to school safely, especially as the nights are now getting darker is one of the most important things taught in schools, through the Bikeability and pedestrian training sessions, which take place throughout the year.

    Those who run the training sessions are joining forces with the York and North Yorkshire safeguarding children’s teams, to raise awareness of the importance of children wearing cycle helmets, bright clothing and putting on their bike lights.

    Cllr Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport at City of York Council, said: “Cycling can be so much fun. It brings independence and it’s a fantastic way of building exercise into everyone’s day and improving health.

    “As the nights draw in it’s important to be visible on your cycle. Wearing bright clothes, using cycle lights after dusk and wearing a helmet will help to keep everyone safe. And drivers also need to play a role: driving responsibly, using mirrors to check for cyclists before turning, and giving cyclists at least 1.5m space when passing.”.

    Jason McAleese from Modeshift, who deliver the Active Travel Ambassador programme in secondary schools across York and North Yorkshire, said: “Cycling safety is crucial. If we want young people to embrace more active and sustainable ways of traveling to and from school, they must feel both safe and confident. With our support these Active Travel Ambassador schools lead the way by researching and developing behaviour change campaigns that prioritise active travel and road safety.

    Interested in having the Active Travel Ambassador programme at your secondary school, email jason@modeshift.org.uk

    Visit iTravelYork for cycling tips or to find out more about the cycle training.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Finalists announced for the NSW Health Awards 2024

    Source: New South Wales Health – State Government

    Virtual care programs that improve access to rural and multicultural communities are among some of the incredible finalists being recognised in the NSW Health Awards 2024.
    Now in its 26th year, the awards acknowledge the personalised, sustainable, and digitally enabled programs that contribute to the wellbeing of patients and the community.
    NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce AM said it is really exciting to celebrate the people and teams who are enriching health in millions of ways every day.
    “These awards are a chance to recognise our incredible healthcare staff and volunteers, across the public health system,” Ms Pearce said.
    “It is important to celebrate innovative and sustainable programs which invest in the wellbeing of the NSW community, while also delivering better patient outcomes.
    “I congratulate the finalists, but I also want to acknowledge the work being done across the system every day, by our teams of doctors, nurses, midwives, allied health and support staff.”
    NSW Health received 186 nominations across the 12 award categories. Categories this year include the Keeping People Healthy Award, Transforming Patient Experience Award, and the Health Innovation Award.
    “All of the nominations really showcase the impressive and important work being undertaken throughout the state, so choosing the 42 finalists was a challenge,” Ms Pearce said.
    “The awards also recognise the significant contribution of community members who selflessly support our patients carers and staff, with the Volunteer of the Year Award.”
    The finalists and winners will be celebrated at the NSW Health Awards ceremony, which will be held on Thursday 24 October at the International Convention Centre in Sydney. It will also be livestreamed from 6pm.
    The full list of finalists is available on the NSW Health website.​​

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: The Albanese Government invests in future psychologists fast tracking workforce expansion

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    The Albanese Government will increase the number of postgraduate psychology places at universities and provide more psychology internships and supervisors so Australians can access a psychologist when needed.  

    This will help remove barriers to studying and working in mental health, which is sorely needed while Australia faces a critical shortage of mental health workers. 

    The Albanese Government will support Australia’s leading universities to provide up to an additional 500 student places and grow postgraduate psychology courses over a four-year period. 

    Despite strong demand and interest from students, currently only 10 per cent will complete the required postgraduate course to become a registered psychologist due to the limited number of university places.   

    The following universities successfully applied for funding through the 2023–24 Postgraduate Psychology Incentive Program Grant Round and will provide 146 additional student places this year: 

    •    Australian National University 
    •    Central Queensland University 
    •    Charles Darwin University 
    •    Curtin University 
    •    Deakin University 
    •    Federation University 
    •    La Trobe University 
    •    Murdoch University 
    •    Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology 
    •    University of Adelaide 
    •    University of Canberra 
    •    University of Melbourne 
    •    University of New England 
    •    University of Queensland 
    •    University of South Australia 
    •    University of Southern Queensland 
    •    University of Sydney 
    •    University of Tasmania 
    •    University of the Sunshine Coast 
    •    University of Western Australia 
    •    University of Wollongong 
    •    Western Sydney University 

    To address bottlenecks in the psychology training pipeline, the Albanese Government will also provide Supporting Provisional Psychologists to Practice grants to increase the availability of psychology internships and supervisor training. 

    This initiative will support provisional psychologists by funding 681 one-year internships over a four-year period and up to 2860 Psychology Board of Australia endorsed supervisor training places. 

    To prioritise areas of greatest need, half the internships and supervisor training will be offered to people in First Nations communities, culturally and linguistically diverse communities and people living in regional, rural and remote areas of Australia. 

    The following organisations will deliver the internships and supervisor training: 
    •    Stream 1 – psychology internships: 
    o    Western Sydney University (NSW) – 84 places 
    o    Grand Pacific Health (NSW and ACT) – 30 places 
    o    Marathon Health (NSW) – 36 places 
    o    Therapy Pro (QLD) – 85 places 
    o    Flinders University (SA and NT) – 100 places 
    o    CatholicCare Victoria Tasmania (VIC and TAS) – 98 places 
    o    Autism Association of Western Australia (WA) – 48 places 
    o    The Cairnmillar Institute (National) – 200 places 

    •    Stream 2 – supervisor training: 
    o    James Cook University – 380 places 
    o    Deakin University – 480 places  
    o    The Australian Psychological Society – 1000 places 
    o    The Cairnmillar Institute – 1000 places 

    The Albanese Government has also committed to work with the Psychology Board of Australia to reform and redesign the psychology higher education and registration pathway to make it simpler for students to complete their studies and work in the mental health system.  

    The redesign will consider opportunities to streamline psychology training, embed a focus on practical learning, and address access and equity challenges with consultations due to commence early in 2025. 

    Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:  

    “Many students want to become registered psychologists but are unable to due to a lack of internships, supervisors and university places. Given the significant community need for this workforce it critical we expand training pathways. 

    “We are committed to ensuring Australians can access the mental health services they need when they need it and this investment into the psychology workforce will be essential to improving access.  

    “Our commitment will address the shortage of registered psychologists and help develop the next generation of registered psychologists.” 

    Quotes attributable to Minister Clare: 

    “We need more young Australians studying and working in mental health services. 

    “This is an important investment which will help support more Australians study psychology.” 

    Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride: 

    “The Albanese Labor Government is building the mental health workforce, so that everyone can access the mental health care they need close to home.  

    “We are providing even more opportunities for students to become registered psychologists by investing in additional psychology internships, supervisors and postgraduate places. 

    “This investment will support people in regional, rural and remote communities to get the care and support they need from registered psychologists.” 
     

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Stellar line up for Broken Hill NSW Seniors Christmas Concerts

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 23 September 2024

    Released by: Minister for Seniors

    Broken Hill seniors will be ringing in the festive season this November with singing sensations Amy Lehpamer from the musical & Juliet, Arlo Sims, Liz Player and Emily Kate, from The Voice, and Will Skarpona from the Conservatorium of Music.

    The stars will feature in two free concerts as part of the NSW Seniors Christmas Concerts taking place at the Broken Hill Civic Centre on Thursday 28 November 2024 at 10am and 1pm.

    The regional concerts are an annual highlight of the Christmas period and an opportunity for seniors to get together to enjoy a spectacular show and sing along to festive favourites.

    Broken Hill is one of three regional centres this year to host the NSW Seniors Christmas Concerts, with other shows taking place in Cessnock and Moree.

    The concerts are part of the NSW Government’s wider celebration of seniors and their contributions, that include the annual Seniors Festival, Gala Concerts and Expo. Our vision is that all people in NSW experience the benefits of living longer and enjoy opportunities to participate in, contribute to and be included in their communities.

    Free tickets to the NSW Seniors Concerts will be available from Tuesday 15 October 2024. For further information go to: seniorsfestival.info/christmasconcerts

    Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said:

    “The annual Seniors Christmas Concerts bring the spirit of the festive season to regional NSW, featuring some of our best talent and fresh new faces.

    “The NSW Government is proud to deliver these free shows to seniors which are sure to put them in the mood to celebrate the season.

    “It’s our thank you for all your contributions, so mark the date in your diaries and get your friends and family together for an entertaining show.”

    Performer Will Skarpona said:

    “I can’t wait to bring some seasonal cheer to Broken Hill with the Seniors Christmas Concerts.

    “We have a solid line up of talent performing all the songs seniors know and love in a show that is sure to thrill and delight. The theme of this year’s show is ‘Time to shine’. We cannot wait to see you there.”

    MIL OSI News –