Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Emergency services are responding to a single vehicle crash on State Highway 1 northbound at the Johnsonville off-ramp.
The crash was reported to Police at around 4:10pm.
The Johnsonville off-ramp is partially blocked. Motorists are advised to expect delays.
Three people have been transported to hospital with minor to moderate injuries.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Police are responding to a single-vehicle crash on Edmund Road, near Homedale Street, Mangakakahi.
Emergency services were called to the crash involving a motorbike at around 4.40pm.
One person is believed to have critical injuries.
The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.
Motorists are urged to avoid the area if possible and expect delays.
ENDS
Source: Tasmania Police
Youths charged over several matters including arson
Monday, 14 October 2024 – 4:04 pm.
Police have charged two youths and a young adult over a series of offences in southern Tasmania last week.
The offences, all allegedly committed on Friday, include a deliberately lit property fire at Otago, damage to vehicle windows, the theft of an e-scooter and the attempted theft of a mobile phone.
Police have charged an 18-year-old Otago man and a 15-year-old boy with two counts of arson, aggravated armed robbery, attempted aggravated armed robbery, aggravated burglary and four counts of stealing and destroy property.
A 12-year-old girl has also been charged with aggravated armed robbery, attempted aggravated armed robbery and other offences.
The man was detained to appear in court, and the youths were bailed to appear at a later date.
Investigations are ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact Bellerive CIB on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.
Source: Australia Government Ministerial Statements
The transformation of Tonkin Highway continues to progress, with an Expression of Interest released today for contractors to tender for upgrades planned south of Roe Highway.
The project will see grade-separated interchanges constructed at Hale Road and Welshpool Road, and the highway widened to a six-lane dual carriageway between Roe Highway and north of Kelvin Road, improving safety and reducing delays along the heavily congested route.
A Principal Shared Path will also be added to the eastern side of Tonkin Highway with shared path connections to adjacent communities.
Tonkin Highway is a key transport corridor connecting the city’s industrial centres including international ports, airports, intermodal rail freight terminals and major industrial lands. More than 50,000 vehicles use this section of Tonkin Highway every day, of which 13 per cent are heavy vehicles.
Due to this travel demand, congestion is high and growing, with Tonkin Highway projected to have the fifth-highest ‘delay cost’ of all major road corridors across Western Australia by 2031.
A Design and Construct Contract is expected to be awarded in mid-2025, with construction to start in late 2025.
The project is expected to support around 2,500 direct and indirect jobs during the construction phase.
The $366 million project is jointly funded by the Australian ($293 million) and State ($73 million) governments.
Development work is also ongoing for an interchange at Kelvin Road to be delivered in the future, following environmental approvals.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“Our Government is busy at work delivering on what WA needs for the future.
“Right across the State we’re investing in roads and infrastructure which will improve travel times and safety, and Tonkin Highway will be an important addition to that suite of upgrades.
“It will also create thousands of jobs in the local community and unlock training opportunities for Western Australians wanting to obtain new skills.”
Quotes attributed to WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The Tonkin Highway Interchanges project forms part of our broader Tonkin Highway Transformation program, to support long-term transport and infrastructure planning along Perth’s eastern road corridor.
“This stretch of Tonkin Highway is a notorious bottleneck, particularly the intersection with Welshpool Road which regularly rates as one of the worst for congestion.
“Tonkin Highway is a major freight route in the Perth metropolitan region, but with significant congestion, our Government is taking action to make this road smoother, safer and more efficient.
“This project will complement the Tonkin Gap Project, which recently reached completion, and is providing commuters with faster travel times and a safer journey.
“This important upgrade project will improve safety and the movement of freight and people by creating free-flowing traffic conditions.”
Quotes attributed to Federal Member for Burt Matt Keogh:
“I’ve been advocating for years on behalf of our community to make Tonkin Highway faster and safer, and I’m glad the Albanese and Cook Labor Governments are working together on this important project for Perth’s South Eastern suburbs.
“The congestion on Tonkin Highway has been increasing for years, these upgrades will make a massive difference for our growing community. I can’t wait to see works get underway.
“Only Labor is making the infrastructure investments we need to build a better Burt.”
Quotes attributed to State Member for Forrestfield Stephen Price:
“People in my community are heavily impacted by the congestion build up along this section of Tonkin Highway, which is why it’s critical we take action to make travel on this road smoother and safer for all.
“Whilst these changes will significantly improve this section of Tonkin Highway, they will cause some disruption from mid-2025, so we will be engaging closely with the community to inform them about likely impacts.”
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police have arrested one male youth in relation to a series of crime over the weekend.
Around 11:20pm, police received reports that a group of males allegedly forced entry into a service station on Katherine Terrace before threatening staff with an edged weapon and stealing the cash register and an e-scooter before fleeing the scene.
The alleged offenders later unlawfully entered three separate commercial locations along the Victoria highway, stealing a Toyota Hilux.
A short time later, the group attended a licenced premises on O’Shea Terrace, where an employee was allegedly threatened with an edged weapon before the offenders stole her Holden Viva.
The stolen Hilux and Viva were later used to block a Mitsubishi Triton and subsequently threaten the driver with an edged weapons before her vehicle was also stolen.
Police have arrested and charged a 15-year-old-male who was remanded in custody.
Investigations into the co-offenders remain ongoing.
Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Byron May said, “Detectives continue to investigate the incident and are urging anyone with information to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Please quote reference number NTP2400102176.”
Source: GlobalData
APAC EV infrastructure market to expand at 13.5% CAGR over 2024-29, forecasts GlobalData
Posted in Automotive
Governments worldwide currently face the challenge of creating the strong infrastructure required to accelerate the shift toward electric vehicles (EVs). The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is experiencing significant growth in this area, with China leading as a major EV market and boasting an extensive infrastructure. Government agencies and private entities in other nations in the region, such as South Korea, India, Japan, and Indonesia, are also actively participating and investing in the expansion of charging station networks. Against this backdrop, the APAC EV infrastructure market is expected to record a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.5% over 2024–29, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
GlobalData’s latest report, “Global Sector Overview & Forecast: EV Infrastructure Q3 2024,” reveals that the automotive EV infrastructure market covering two types of charging stations, fast charging stations powered by direct current and slow charging stations powered by alternating current, is estimated at 3.3 million units in 2024 and is forecast to reach 6.2 million units by 2029 in the APAC region.
Madhuchhanda Palit, Automotive Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “To facilitate the widespread adoption of EVs in the APAC region, it is critical to enhance the EV charging infrastructure. Considering that APAC is the most densely populated region in the world, the prospect of long wait times at charging stations may deter potential EV consumers. Therefore, to achieve the electrification goals set by the governments of APAC countries and to drive EV adoption, there is an urgent need to augment the quantity of EV charging stations, with a particular focus on fast charging stations.”
Several initiatives are underway to address the need to expand EV infrastructure. For instance, Volt, an EV charging company within the infrastructure division of Singapore-based Keppel, announced in July 2024, the deployment of a new fast-charging hub in the country. This hub features ratings of 360 kilowatts and 120 kilowatts, enabling electric cars to be charged in as little as 10 minutes.
Palit adds: “The expansion of fast-charging stations for EVs is essential, but there is also a pressing need to ensure equitable distribution across the nation. This distribution challenge has impeded EV adoption, even in countries like China, which is the world’s largest EV market. In China, the concentration of EV charging infrastructure in urban areas far exceeds that in rural areas. This disparity may discourage potential EV customers in rural areas and those planning longer journeys.”
Additionally, the overabundance of chargers in urban areas can lead to underutilization, while those along highways and in rural areas may not meet peak demand during holidays, resulting in potential profit loss and job cuts for EV charging businesses in both urban and rural settings.
A significant percentage of EV charging stations still rely on electrical power produced using fossil fuels, which can limit the environmental benefits of EVs. However, the landscape has changed significantly in recent years, with multiple initiatives by both the public and private sectors to transition the power source to renewable energy. For example, in India, The Climate Pledge, co-founded by Amazon and Global Optimism, announced in September 2024, an investment of $2.7 million in a new project, the Joint Operation Unifying Last-mile Electrification (JOULE), to build a network of shared EV charging stations powered by renewable energy in Bengaluru.
Recognizing the concerns and needs for growth in the sector, multiple innovations are being introduced at various stages of implementation. For instance, crowdsourced EV charging, V2G power management, and bidirectional charging are some of the innovations in the early stages of development with steadily rising adoption rates. Meanwhile, EV inductive charging and dual-voltage charging stations are examples of innovations in the maturing stage, which have become well-established within the industry.
Palit concludes: “Establishing adequate infrastructure is a time-sensitive matter, and the pace of progress varies among different nations. The increasing demand for EVs, coupled with substantial investments and research and development efforts, is expected to drive significant growth in the EV infrastructure sector in the near future.”
Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development
Both heavy vehicle drivers and regular commuters are now enjoying safer and smoother travel along Thomas Road, south of Perth, thanks to the completion of an $81 million upgrade.
The south-east is an important and fast-growing area, with large volumes of heavy vehicles and other through traffic travelling to and from the South West and Wheatbelt regions.
Both projects were jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australian Governments.
The program of works commenced in early 2022, with a range of improvements delivered including:
The final package of works involved the construction of new two-lane roundabouts at the intersections of Nicholson and Kargotich Road.
The new roundabouts will improve safety and traffic efficiency for the more than 19,000 vehicles that pass through the intersections daily.
Further upgrades are planned for the road through the Tonkin Highway Extension, which is expected to commence construction next year.
The State and Federal Governments have also delivered a new traffic bridge over the rail line on Thomas Road as part of the METRONET Byford Rail Extension project, removing a level crossing and significantly improving road safety in the area.
Quotes attributed to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“The Australian Government will continue to partner with the Western Australian Government to deliver upgrades that will increase road safety, reduce congestion and improve travel times.
“The completion of the Thomas Road upgrades ensures the best possible outcome for motorists and heavy vehicle traffic for this fast-growing region, now and into the future.”
Quotes attributed to WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“Thomas Road is a critical route for both the movement of freight and for local communities, which is why we implemented this program of works to make the road safer for all.
“The safety upgrades have included additional lanes, more street lighting and roundabouts – all of which will provide a safer and smoother journey for road users.
“These upgrades will improve traffic flow and reduce congestion while making it safer for heavy vehicles, including oversize, over-mass loads, to traverse this key freight route.
“These upgrades are just one example of how our Government is investing to make the road network safer for everyone in the community.”
Quotes attributed to Federal Member for Burt Matt Keogh:
“It’s fantastic that the Albanese and Cook Labor Governments are delivering the infrastructure investment our community needs to keep business and people moving.
“Bottlenecks on Thomas Road have been an issue for residents in Byford and Oakford for some time. Thanks to these upgrades, people will now be able to get between work and home safely and quickly.”
Quotes attributed to State Member for Darling Range Hugh Jones:
“Road safety remains a critical issue for people in our community, and I am thrilled to see this important project reach completion.
“Our Government is investing billions of dollars to improve the transport infrastructure for communities in the Darling Range electorate, including the METRONET Byford Rail Extension and the Tonkin Highway Extension and Thomas Road Upgrade.
“These projects will fundamentally transform our community, and my focus is to get them delivered, so people can start to enjoy the benefits.”
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julia Powles, Associate Professor of Law and Technology; Director, UWA Tech & Policy Lab, Law School, The University of Western Australia
Since 2019, the Australian Department for Industry, Science and Resources has been striving to make the nation a leader in “safe and responsible” artificial intelligence (AI). Key to this is a voluntary framework based on eight AI ethics principles, including “human-centred values”, “fairness” and “transparency and explainability”.
Every subsequent piece of national guidance on AI has spun off these eight principles, imploring business, government and schools to put them into practice. But these voluntary principles have no real hold on organisations that develop and deploy AI systems.
Last month, the Australian government started consulting on a proposal that struck a different tone. Acknowledging “voluntary compliance […] is no longer enough”, it spoke of “mandatory guardrails for AI in high-risk settings”.
But the core idea of self-regulation remains stubbornly baked in. For example, it’s up to AI developers to determine whether their AI system is high risk, by having regard to a set of risks that can only be described as endemic to large-scale AI systems.
If this high hurdle is met, what mandatory guardrails kick in? For the most part, companies simply need to demonstrate they have internal processes gesturing at the AI ethics principles. The proposal is most notable, then, for what it does not include. There is no oversight, no consequences, no refusal, no redress.
But there is a different, ready-to-hand model that Australia could adopt for AI. It comes from another critical technology in the national interest: gene technology.
Gene technology is what’s behind genetically modified organisms. Like AI, it raises concerns for more than 60% of the population.
In Australia, it’s regulated by the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator. The regulator was established in 2001 to meet the biotech boom in agriculture and health. Since then, it’s become the exemplar of an expert-informed, highly transparent regulator focused on a specific technology with far-reaching consequences.
Three features have ensured the gene technology regulator’s national and international success.
First, it’s a single-mission body. It regulates dealings with genetically modified organisms:
to protect the health and safety of people, and to protect the environment, by identifying risks posed by or as a result of gene technology.
Second, it has a sophisticated decision-making structure. Thanks to it, the risk assessment of every application of gene technology in Australia is informed by sound expertise. It also insulates that assessment from political influence and corporate lobbying.
The regulator is informed by two integrated expert bodies: a Technical Advisory Committee and an Ethics and Community Consultative Committee. These bodies are complemented by Institutional Biosafety Committees supporting ongoing risk management at more than 200 research and commercial institutions accredited to use gene technology in Australia. This parallels best practice in food safety and drug safety.
Third, the regulator continuously integrates public input into its risk assessment process. It does so meaningfully and transparently. Every dealing with gene technology must be approved. Before a release into the wild, an exhaustive consultation process maximises review and oversight. This ensures a high threshold of public safety.
Together, these factors explain why Australia’s gene technology regulator has been so successful. They also highlight what’s missing in most emerging approaches to AI regulation.
The mandate of AI regulation typically involves an impossible compromise between protecting the public and supporting industry. As with gene regulation, it seeks to safeguard against risks. In the case of AI, those risks would be to health, the environment and human rights. But it also seeks to “maximise the opportunities that AI presents for our economy and society”.
Second, currently proposed AI regulation outsources risk assessment and management to commercial AI providers. Instead, it should develop a national evidence base, informed by cross-disciplinary scientific, socio-technical and civil society expertise.
The argument goes that AI is “out of the bag”, with potential applications too numerous and too mundane to regulate. Yet molecular biology methods are also well out of the bag. The gene tech regulator still maintains oversight of all uses of the technology, while continually working to categorise certain dealings as “exempt” or “low-risk” to facilitate research and development.
Third, the public has no meaningful opportunity to assent to dealings with AI. This is true regardless of whether it involves plundering the archives of our collective imaginations to build AI systems, or deploying them in ways that undercut dignity, autonomy and justice.
The lesson of more than two decades of gene regulation is that it doesn’t stop innovation to regulate a promising new technology until it can demonstrate a history of non-damaging use to people and the environment. In fact, it saves it.
The UWA Tech & Policy Lab receives funding from nationally competitive research grants and philanthropic partners. The present research was supported by GA308883: Effective Ethical Frameworks for the State as an Enabler of Innovation, funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Julia Powles is the Director of the Lab and has served as an independent member of the National AI Centre’s Think Tank on Responsible AI, the Australian Government’s National Robotics Strategy Advisory Committee, and the Advisory Panel supporting the Australian Parliamentary Inquiry into the Use of Generative AI in the Australian Education System. Through each of these bodies, she has provided advice on comparative AI regulation.
Haris Yusoff does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. Australia has led the way regulating gene technology for over 20 years. Here’s how it should apply that to AI – https://theconversation.com/australia-has-led-the-way-regulating-gene-technology-for-over-20-years-heres-how-it-should-apply-that-to-ai-240571
Source: Asia Development Bank
The PPP Development Department (PPPDD), established in 2018 under the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MOEF), monitors PPP progress in Uzbekistan. As of 5 August 2024, the government had signed 973 PPPs, totaling about $2.152 billion. These include 463 water management projects, 220 heating system projects, 91 education projects, 52 healthcare projects, and only 2 in transportation. Most PPP projects are small, averaging about $2.2 million each. The benefits of PPPs are more tangible for large projects, such as roads. Currently, no road PPPs have been signed, but two are in the pipeline: the Tashkent-Andijan Road (TAR), estimated at $5.35 billion, and the Tashkent-Samarkand Road (TSR), estimated at $1.4 billion.
Road construction and rehabilitation typically require higher investment than other infrastructure sectors. The World Bank estimates Uzbekistan’s Road Development Plan faces a $1.5 billion annual funding gap. Mobilizing private sector and external financiers is crucial to bridge this gap.
PPP projects generally progress through six phases: project identification, appraisal, structuring, tendering, delivery, and operation. Both the TAR and TSR are at the structuring stage. For TAR, the World Bank funded a pre-investment study in 2015 at a cost of $2.85 million, building on a pre-feasibility study completed in 2020. An investment teaser was prepared in December 2023, and the government invited expressions of interest by March 2024, with prequalification expected later in the year. The TSR feasibility study, funded by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), began in 2019 but remains incomplete.
Besides TAR and TSR, other potential PPP road projects include the Kungrad-Daut-Ata A380 Highway (KDH) operations and maintenance, a nationwide electronic tolling system, real-time traffic monitoring, weigh-in-motion systems, the Takhtakaracha tunnel construction, and the development of a new road crash and vehicle operations and maintenance database.
In December 2023, EBRD approved a €10 million loan to establish the Uzbekistan PPP Project Development Facility (UPDF), which will finance the preparation of priority PPP projects, including in the road sector.
Uzbekistan’s PPP framework is built on the 2019 PPP Law (amended in 2021), Resolution 259 (2020), and a draft toll road law developed with World Bank support. The draft law aims to provide a foundation for tolling roads, complementing the existing PPP Law, and was expected to be submitted to Parliament by June 2024.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recommended improving fiscal risk assessments, including for state-owned enterprises and PPPs, to better manage external borrowing and integrate investment planning into the medium-term budget. Uzbekistan’s public debt rose from 28% of GDP in 2019 to 36.8% in July 2023, reaching $31.5 billion. The Debt Law caps public debt at 60% of GDP, with policies tightening if debt reaches 50%. Attracting private sector financing for high-cost road projects is essential to avoid increasing the public debt burden.
The government plans to introduce toll roads to ease budget constraints and improve road services. A draft toll law, prepared with World Bank assistance, aims to establish tolling mechanisms. Preliminary estimates suggest toll fees for the TAR route could be $5-7 for cars and $15 for trucks and buses. Tolling alone may not cover construction and operations and maintenance costs, requiring availability payments or co-funding from development partners.
The ADB has supported road infrastructure in Uzbekistan with $1.3 billion from 2007 to 2022. The Ministry of Transport requested ADB’s assistance in introducing a tolling system, with the KDH project selected to pilot this system. The KDH could become the first ADB-supported PPP road project in Uzbekistan, with potential involvement in other PPP efforts, such as transforming State Unitary Entities (SUE) for road operations and maintenance and improving urban bus services in Karakalpakstan.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police have arrested one male youth in relation to a series of crime over the weekend.
Around 11:20pm, police received reports that a group of males allegedly forced entry into a service station on Katherine Terrace before threatening staff with an edged weapon and stealing the cash register and an e-scooter before fleeing the scene.
The alleged offenders later unlawfully entered three separate commercial locations along the Victoria highway, stealing a Toyota Hilux.
A short time later, the group attended a licenced premises on O’Shea Terrace, where an employee was allegedly threatened with an edged weapon before the offenders stole her Holden Viva.
The stolen Hilux and Viva were later used to block a Mitsubishi Triton and subsequently threaten the driver with an edged weapons before her vehicle was also stolen.
Police have arrested and charged a 15-year-old-male who was remanded in custody.
Investigations into the co-offenders remain ongoing.
Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Byron May said, “Detectives continue to investigate the incident and are urging anyone with information to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Please quote reference number NTP2400102176.”
Source: City of Portsmouth
With up to 23,000 runners expected, the 10-mile route will wind through some of Portsmouth’s most iconic locations, starting at Clarence Esplanade and passing through Old Portsmouth and the Historic Dockyard before returning to Southsea via Canoe Lake.
Visitors driving to the event from outside the city are encouraged to use the PR4 Portsmouth Park and Ride service to Clarence Pier. This dedicated service for runners, spectators, and supporters provides frequent bus services throughout the weekend. Passengers can buy tickets through the First Bus or Ringo apps and day tickets can also be purchased from the bus driver. In addition to the special PR4 service, the PR1 route will be operating its regular weekend bus service on both days.
If you’re travelling around the city by bus, please plan your journey before you set off as some routes will be affected by the road closures. Check the First Bus or Stagecoach app or operators’ website for service updates. On Sunday 20 October First Bus are offering free travel home for runners who show their medal to the driver after the Great South Run*.
Passengers travelling with Hovertravel from the Isle of Wight can benefit from extra services on Sunday, running every 15 minutes between 8.15am and 9.15am, followed by an additional service at 9.45am.
To ensure the safety of participants and spectators, the council is working with organisers to close some roads to traffic around the race area. These include Clarence Esplanade, Pier Road and Avenue de Caen. During the closures, park and ride Saturday services will terminate at Pembroke Road, and the final stop on Sunday will be City Centre South.
Event parking on Southsea Common will be accessible before 9.30am and after 1pm, outside the time of the road closures.
Parking will also be reduced on some roads, and drivers who park near the area should check temporary signs to make sure they are not parking in prohibited areas where vehicles could be removed. Full details of all road closures and restrictions can be found in the Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO) at http://www.portsmouth.gov.uk/tro.
Cllr Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport, said:
“The Great South Run is a fantastic event that brings a lot of activity to Portsmouth every year. We’re excited to welcome runners and spectators to our great waterfront city and encourage everyone to explore alternative travel options, such as using Portsmouth Park and Ride, travelling by bus, walking, cycling, or renting a bike or rental e-scooter whenever possible.”
Top travel tips for the weekend:
Visit GREAT SOUTH RUN, Portsmouth | First Bus for First Bus service updates.
For more information about the Great South Run, including a map of the route, visit greatrun.org/events/great-south-run. For general information about visiting Portsmouth, head to visitportsmouth.co.uk. And for live traffic updates, follow @portsmouthroads on Twitter.
* Hoverbus and Park & Ride services PR1 and PR4 are excluded from this offer
Source: US State of North Carolina
Headline: Behavioral Health Resources Available for People Impacted by Hurricane Helene
Behavioral Health Resources Available for People Impacted by Hurricane Helene
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Whether directly or indirectly, millions of people in North Carolina have been impacted by Hurricane Helene. Natural disasters are traumatic for individuals, families and communities, and there is no right or wrong way to feel. After a hurricane, it’s even more important to get mental health support if you believe you or a loved one may need help, and to stay in contact with family and friends as soon as your access to communications is restored.
“You are not alone, there is always someone to call and someone to respond if you need help with your mental or behavioral health,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley. “Hurricane Helene brought catastrophic damage that will be felt immediately and for weeks, months and years to come. We are committed to helping those who are impacted right now, and for the long haul.”
The following resources are always available if you or a loved one need help immediately:
There are also resources available for people impacted by Hurricane Helene who are experiencing a crisis and need a safe place for care, as well as those have a mental health diagnosis or substance use disorder.
Mental Health Crisis Care
Community Crisis centers (facility-based crisis) are starting to re-open. Community Crisis & Detox Centers open as of Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024:
Walk-in Clinics
People can walk into a clinic for mental health or substance use care the same way urgent care clinics help people with immediate physical health needs. Walk-in Mental Health centers are open in more than two dozen counties that may have been impacted by Hurricane Helene. You can view a list of walk-in clinics that are open here: Hurricane Recovery Resources – Vaya Health.
Mobile Crisis Response
Mobile Crisis teams are operating throughout the disaster area. Mobile Crisis teams can send trained clinicians to a home, community, or shelter to respond to an urgent need. To get connected with a mobile crisis team, you can call Vaya Health at 1-800-849-6127 and they will respond to you as soon as possible depending on your location.
For the most up to date info on Behavioral Health resources in the area, please reach out to Vaya Health’s Behavioral Health Crisis Line at 1-800-849-6127.
Opioid Treatment Available
All Opioid Treatment Programs in the storm-impacted region are currently open. If you need to find a program, there is a real-time map with location, contact information and hours of operation available at thecentralregistry.com/map. Programs are working with emergency shelters, and all shelters have overdose rescue medications on-hand to provide emergency assistance to shelter residents if needed.
Behavioral Health Shelter Support
Most emergency shelters also have a behavioral health clinician and mental health services available onsite to support people currently residing in the shelter until they are able to return home or secure temporary housing. If additional supports, are needed, shelter staff can reach out to Vaya Health at 1-800-849-6127.
Connections App
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is using the Connections App to make evidence-based support for mental health and substance use recovery available to anyone in Western North Carolina. It is free and confidential. Enroll at signup.connectionsapp.com to receive services like 24/7 peer support, virtual meetings and access to an online community of people in recovery from substance use. Whether you’re in treatment, have a provider, or are seeking support for the first time, the Connections App can help support you. Watch a short video to learn more.
Access to Medication
For people who take regular medications for anxiety, depression, or any other mental health needs, it is important to maintain your regular medication schedule as much as possible. With some exceptions, the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program enables pharmacists to dispense a one-time emergency supply of up to 90 days of a prescribed medication when they are unable to reach the prescribing medical provider, and a one-time emergency refill of up to a 30-day supply.
Visit www.ncbop.org/emergencyoperatingpharmacieshelene to locate a pharmacy that is open and operating in Western North Carolina.
Medicaid Flexibilities
Temporary flexibilities for people on NC Medicaid are in place to make it easier for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injury to continue to receive services and avoid care disruptions related to the hurricane. Detailed information on these flexibilities and all the services they cover can be found in the Oct. 4 press release, Additional Temporary Flexibilities in Place for Medicaid Beneficiaries Due to Hurricane Helene Devastation.
NCDHHS will continue to work with local, state and federal partners to ensure the people and families in communities impacted by Hurricane Helene have access to both the physical and mental health services they need to recover from the storm.
Whether people need help right away after the hurricane, or later on as recovery continues, it’s never too early or too late to ask for support. Please reach out as help is always available to those who need it.
a sea directa o indirectamente, millones de personas en Carolina del Norte se han visto afectadas por el huracán Helene. Los desastres naturales son traumáticos para las personas, las familias y las comunidades, y no hay una forma correcta o incorrecta de sentirse. Después de un huracán, es aún más importante obtener apoyo de salud mental si cree que usted o un ser querido pueden necesitar ayuda, y mantenerse en contacto con familiares y amigos tan pronto como se restablezca su acceso a las comunicaciones.
“No está solo, siempre hay alguien a quien llamar y alguien que responda si necesita ayuda con su salud mental o conductual”, dijo el secretario de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte, Kody H. Kinsley. “El huracán Helene trajo daños catastróficos que se sentirán de inmediato y durante semanas, meses y años. Estamos comprometidos a ayudar a aquellos que se ven afectados en este momento y a largo plazo “.
Los siguientes recursos siempre están disponibles si usted o un ser querido necesitan ayuda de inmediato:
También hay recursos disponibles para las personas afectadas por el huracán Helene que están experimentando una crisis y necesitan un lugar seguro para recibir atención, así como para aquellas que tienen un diagnóstico de salud mental o un trastorno por uso de sustancias.
Crisis de salud mental
Los Centros Comunitarios de Crisis (crisis en instalaciones) están comenzando a reabrir. Los Centros Comunitarios de Crisis y Desintoxicación abren a partir del jueves, 10 de octubre de 2024:
Clínicas ambulatorias que no requieren cita previa
Las personas pueden ingresar a una clínica para recibir atención de salud mental o por uso de sustancias de la misma manera que las clínicas de atención de urgencia ayudan a las personas con necesidades inmediatas de salud física. Los centros de salud mental sin cita previa están abiertos en más de dos docenas de condados que pueden haber sido afectados por el huracán Helene. Puede ver una lista de clínicas ambulatorias en las que no necesita cita previa y que están abiertas aquí: Recursos de Recuperación del Huracán – Vaya Health.
Servicios móviles de respuesta ante crisis
Los equipos de servicios móviles de respuesta ante crisis están operando en toda la zona del desastre. Los equipos móviles de respuesta ante crisis pueden enviar médicos capacitados a un hogar, comunidad o refugio para responder a una necesidad urgente. Para ponerse en contacto con un equipo móvil de respuesta ante crisis, puede llamar a Vaya Health al 1-800-849-6127 y le responderán lo antes posible dependiendo de su ubicación.
Para obtener la información más actualizada sobre los recursos de salud conductual en el área, comuníquese con la Línea de Crisis de Salud Conductual de Vaya Health al 1-800-849-6127.
Tratamiento contra opioides disponible
Todos los programas de tratamiento contra opioides en la región afectada por la tormenta están actualmente abiertos. Si necesita encontrar un programa, hay un mapa en tiempo real con ubicación, información de contacto y horarios disponibles en thecentralregistry.com/map. Los programas están trabajando con refugios de emergencia, y todos los refugios tienen medicamentos de rescate para sobredosis disponibles para brindar asistencia de emergencia a los residentes del refugio si es necesario.
Apoyos de salud conductual para refugios
La mayoría de los refugios de emergencia también tienen un médico de salud conductual y servicios de salud mental disponibles en el lugar para apoyar a las personas que actualmente residen en el refugio hasta que puedan regresar a casa u obtener una vivienda temporal. Si se necesita apoyos adicionales, el personal del refugio puede comunicarse con Vaya Health al 1-800-849-6127.
Aplicación Connections
El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte está utilizando la aplicación Connections para poner a disposición de cualquier persona en el oeste de Carolina del Norte el apoyo basado en la evidencia para la recuperación de la salud mental y el uso de sustancias. Es gratuito y confidencial. Inscríbase en signup.connectionsapp.com para recibir servicios como apoyo entre pares las 24 horas, los 7 días de la semana, reuniones virtuales y acceso a una comunidad en línea de personas en recuperación del uso de sustancias. Ya sea que esté en tratamiento, tenga un proveedor o esté buscando ayuda por primera vez, la aplicación Connections puede ayudarlo. Mire un vídeo corto para obtener más información.
Acceso a medicamentos
Para las personas que toman medicamentos regulares para la ansiedad, la depresión o cualquier otra necesidad de salud mental, es importante mantener su horario regular de medicamentos tanto como sea posible. Con algunas excepciones, el Programa de Asistencia de Recetas de Emergencia permite a los farmacéuticos dispensar un suministro de emergencia único de hasta 90 días de un medicamento recetado cuando no pueden comunicarse con el proveedor médico que lo prescribe, y una recarga de emergencia única de un suministro de hasta 30 días. Visite http://www.ncbop.org/emergencyoperatingpharmacieshelene para localizar una farmacia abierta y en funcionamiento en el oeste de Carolina del Norte.
Flexibilidades de Medicaid
Existen flexibilidades temporales para las personas con Medicaid de Carolina del Norte para facilitar que las personas con discapacidades intelectuales y del desarrollo y lesiones cerebrales traumáticas continúen recibiendo servicios y eviten interrupciones en la atención relacionadas con el huracán. La información detallada sobre estas flexibilidades y todos los servicios que cubren se puede encontrar en el comunicado de prensa del 4 de octubre, Flexibilidades temporales adicionales para los beneficiarios de Medicaid debido a la devastación del huracán Helene.
El Departamento de Salud Y servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte continuará trabajando con socios locales, estatales y federales para garantizar que las personas y familias en las comunidades afectadas por el huracán Helene tengan acceso a los servicios de salud física y mental que necesitan para recuperarse de la tormenta.
Ya sea que las personas necesiten ayuda inmediatamente después del huracán o más tarde a medida que continúa la recuperación, nunca es demasiado pronto o demasiado tarde para pedir ayuda. Póngase en contacto con nosotros, ya que siempre hay ayuda disponible para quienes la necesiten.
Source: United Nations (Video News)
Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.
Highlights:
– Lebanon
– Lebanon/Humanitarian
– Syria
– Occupied Palestinian Territory
– Secretary-General Travel
– Deputy Secretary-General
– Sudan
– Central African Republic
– Myanmar
– Protection of children
– World Mental Health Day
– Guest today
Lebanon
The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) issued a statement this morning saying that two of its peacekeepers were injured after an IDF Merkava tank fired its weapon toward an observation tower at UNIFIL’s headquarters in Naqoura, directly hitting it and causing them to fall. The injuries are fortunately – this time – not serious, but the peacekeepers remain in hospital.
In a separate incident, Israel Defense Force (IDF) soldiers also fired on UN position (UNP) 1-31 in Labbouneh, hitting the entrance to the bunker where peacekeepers were sheltering, and damaging vehicles and a communications system. An IDF drone was observed flying inside the UN position up to the bunker entrance.
Also, UNIFIL says that, yesterday, IDF soldiers deliberately fired at and disabled the position’s perimeter-monitoring cameras. They also deliberately fired on UNP 1-32A in Ras Naqoura – where regular Tripartite meetings were held before the conflict began. Lights and a relay station were damaged.
UNIFIL reminds the IDF and all parties of their obligations to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property and to respect the inviolability of UN premises at all times. UNIFIL peacekeepers are present in south Lebanon to support a return to stability under a Security Council mandate. Any deliberate attack on peacekeepers is a grave violation of international humanitarian law and of Security Council Resolution 1701. Our peacekeepers are following up with the IDF on these matters.
This comes as the recent escalation along the Blue Line is causing widespread destruction of towns and villages in south Lebanon, while rockets continue to be launched towards Israel, including civilian areas.
In the past days, our peacekeepers say incursions from Israel into Lebanon were seen in Naqoura and other areas. IDF soldiers have clashed with Hizbullah elements on the ground in Lebanon.
Later this afternoon, the Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, and the Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, will brief Security Council members on the situation in Lebanon. That meeting will be followed by consultations.
Lebanon/Humanitarian
The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that despite the challenges and a tense security situation, humanitarian organizations continue to deliver aid in coordination with national and local authorities.
Today, a joint mission comprising UN and NGO partners delivered 12 trucks of aid to the towns of Rmeish, Ain Ebel, and Debel in the south of the country. The supplies included food, water, hygiene kits and will support more than 4,000 people. This was the first mission there since July 2024.
UNICEF has also delivered 33 tons of medical supplies to the Ministry of Public Health, including emergency health kits to ensure safe deliveries for pregnant women, as well as essential medicine.
To maintain these efforts, additional funding is urgently needed. While commitments are appreciated, immediate contributions to the $426 million Flash Appeal – which is 12 per cent funded – are vital to continue the response.
Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=10%20October%202024
Source: Government of India (2)
PM Modi is a rare combination of vision, experience and commitment
PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry is an important link between industry and the government
PHD Chamber should implement policies, plans and vision of the government and communicate the pressing issues of industry to the government
In the last 10 years, Prime Minister Modi has laid the foundation of making India rank one in every field in the World
PM Modi took the country out of ‘policy paralysis’ and established the politics of performance
Indian economy, which earlier figured among the ‘Fragile Five’, has emerged as a ‘bright spot’ in the World, under the leadership of PM Modi
The public banking system, which was in shambles before 2014, has earned a profit of ₹1.40 lakh crore in FY 2023-24, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi
By abolishing more than 2000 colonial laws and more than 39,000 compliances, Modi government made the lives of people easier
PM Modi has established a research foundation at a cost of ₹50 thousand crores, which will take India to the top in the field of research in the world in the next 25 years
Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah pays tribute to the renowned industrialist Ratan Tata on his demise
Ratan Tata ji was a respected figure not only in Indian industrial sector but globally as well, he has left behind a legacy which will continue to guide leaders in the industrial sector for a long time
Ratan Tata ji worked to build a good society by solving all the problems of the country through his trust
Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 7:04PM by PIB Delhi
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah today addressed the 119th Annual Session of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) in New Delhi as the Chief Guest. The theme of this year’s annual session was ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047: Marching Towards the Peak of Progress’. Around 1500 business persons, Chartered Accountants, bankers, advocates etc. from the industry participated in the event.
Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah began his address with tributes to the renowned industrialist Shri Ratan Tata, who passed away last night in Mumbai. Shri Amit Shah said that Shri Ratan Tata has been a respected figure not only in the Indian industrial sector but globally as well. He took charge of the Tata Group at a time when the group needed several changes, and Ratan Tata patiently transformed all the businesses of his group and working practices. Shri Shah said that even today, the Tata Group stands as a pole star in India’s industrial landscape. He added that Ratan Tata led his industrial group to a prominent position in the country and globally while adhering to integrity and following all the rules and regulations. Shri Shah also said that through his Trust, Ratan Tata made efforts to address the country’s various problems and contribute to building a better society. He said that Shri Ratan Tata’s legacy will continue to guide industry leaders for a long time.
Union Home Minister said that this year is going to be a decisive one for Indian industry, and it is at such a time that the 119th annual convention of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) is being organized. He said that today, there seems to be a crisis of trust in countries worldwide. He said that Shri Narendra Modi, first as the Chief Minister and then as the Prime Minister of the country, has continuously been winning the trust of the people democratically for the past 23 years. Shri Shah said that without stability, policies cannot be implemented effectively and security and development cannot be ensured. He added that stability brings continuity in policies, ideas, and development. Shri Shah further said that PM Modi has get this vast country rid of many problems over the past 10 years and he is now leading the nation for the third consecutive time.
Shri Amit Shah said that today’s theme ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047: Marching Towards the Peak of Progress’ is very appropriate. He said that Prime Minister Modi has set two major goals before us: India will become a fully developed nation when the country celebrates the centenary of its independence in 2047 and by 2027, India will become the world’s third-largest economy. He said that to achieve these two goals, PM Modi has been working tirelessly for the past 10 years through various policies and programs. Shri Shah emphasized that PM Modi has implemented visionary policies aimed at developing infrastructure in the country, making India a global manufacturing hub, creating an investment-friendly ecosystem, building a skilled work-force, promoting research and development, pioneering India in emerging technologies like advanced computing, and initiating new ventures in fields like deep-sea exploration, the maritime economy, and space. He added that Prime Minister Modi has not only formulated these policies but also made continuous efforts to ensure their implementation.
Union Home Minister said that PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry is a bridge between the industry and the Government. He said that in the coming times, PHD Chamber has to implement the policies, plans and vision of the government and convey the problems of the industry to the government. He added that we have achieved a lot in the last 10 years. Infrastructure like the world’s longest highway tunnel, the world’s highest railway bridge, Mumbai’s world-famous Trans-Harbour Link and Kolkata’s underwater metro have been built in the last 10 years. Shri Shah said that in Andaman-Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep, work has been done to utilize business opportunities and strengthen these islands from a security point of view by bringing connectivity to remote areas through underwater optical fibre.
Shri Amit Shah said that every Indian took great pride when Indian flag was hoisted at the Shiva Shakti Point on the Moon. Connecting the underdeveloped regions of the country through the SagarMala project, weaving a network of Vande Bharat Express trains to open a new avenue for comfortable travel in the country, advancing in semiconductor manufacturing to meet not only ours but also needs of the entire world, bringing a new revolution in electric vehicles, and increasing FDI to record levels, making India the fourth-largest holder of foreign exchange reserves in the world, are significant achievements for us.
Union Home Minister said that we are the fastest-growing start-up economy in the world. We have successfully launched the world’s largest digital payment system, which many countries are now adopting. He said that along with this, Prime Minister Modi has introduced the world’s largest grain storage plan based in cooperatives. Shri Shah said that from food security to health security, we have covered all dimensions, and in the past 10 years under PM Modi’s leadership, the foundation has been laid for India to be at the forefront in every field over the next 25 years. He said that when vision, experience, and commitment come together in one individual, and that individual is the Prime Minister, the country benefits immensely, and Shri Narendra Modi is an excellent example of this.
Shri Amit Shah said that India is a democracy where people decide who should lead the government. He said that without a comparative study, we cannot make a proper evaluation of the work done. He emphasized the need to look at the comparative situation of the country in 2014 and 2024. He stated that before 2014, everyone used to say that our country was suffering from policy paralysis and no policies were being made, but PM Modi ended this policy paralysis, created numerous policies and brought in politics of performance. Shri Shah added that today, there is no sector where a permanent policy hasn’t been formulated. Earlier, India was amongst the “Fragile Five,” but today, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) calls us a “bright spot” in the global economy.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation highlighted that under infrastructure development, projects like the Zoji La tunnel, Chenab rail bridge, and the bridge in Assam are there for everyone to see. He said that earlier, India used to have double-digit inflation, but today we are confidently moving toward double-digit growth. He said that for many years, India’s growth rate has been the highest among G20 countries. Shri Shah said that global investors had lost confidence in India, but today India has become a preferred destination for manufacturing. Shri Shah said that in 2021-22, we attracted a record Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) of $85 billion. He said that today we are leading in many sectors like digital payments. Before 2014, scams worth ₹12 lakh crore had taken place, but in the 10 years of the Modi government, even our opponents cannot accuse us of corruption.
Shri Amit Shah said that during previous government, terrorism, bomb blasts, and Naxalism had become severe issues for the country, but today we can confidently say that whether it’s Kashmir, Left-Wing Extremism affected areas, or the Northeast, we have successfully eliminated terrorism and extremism. He mentioned that in the Ease of Doing Business rankings, India was previously placed at the 142nd position, but today we have risen to the 63rd position. He also highlighted that the entire banking system was in a fragile state, but in 2023-24, government banks earned a profit of ₹1.40 lakh crore. New policies have been introduced in every sector, helping the country move forward.
Union Home Minister said that if the country wants to progress, it must have a new education policy, and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi brought a New Education Policy that has globalized education while incorporating our heritage. He said that initiatives like GST, Digital India, Bharatmala, SagarMala, PM Gati Shakti, and Startup India have propelled the country forward in all directions.
Shri Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the principle of “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance”, 2,000 outdated colonial laws have been abolished, and over 39,000 compliances across various sectors have been eliminated. He highlighted that in the past 10 years, 80 crore people have been receiving 5 kg of free grain per person, houses provided to 4 crore poor, 15 crore households have received piped water, more than 11 crore people have been given free gas connections, and over 12 crore toilets have been built under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Shri Shah said that Prime Minister Modi has alleviated the concerns of millions and transformed India into a market of 130 crore people. He said that when 60 crore people are excluded from the country’s development process, the country can never progress. Today, with 130 crore people engaged in the nation’s development process, our growth rate has surged upward.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the Modi government has made significant efforts in the field of research. He said that for the first time, a research foundation has been established with a budget of ₹50,000 crore. He expressed confidence that in the next 25 years, India will be at the forefront of global research. Shri Shah mentioned that Prime Minister Modi has worked extensively across various sectors. In terms of internet users, India ranks second in the world, while it ranks first in global Fintech adoption and smartphone data consumption. He further highlighted that today half of the world’s daily digital transactions take place in India.
Shri Amit Shah said that Indian industries must now work towards changing both their size and scale. He emphasized the need for companies to go global and that to establish India’s dominance worldwide, our chambers and industries need to make decisive moves.
*****
RK/ASH/PR/PS
(Release ID: 2063932) Visitor Counter : 115
Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
Police have charged a man over an unprovoked assault on an Auckland bus driver.
Auckland City West Police have been investigating an assault that occurred in the Kingsland area last Friday, 4 October.
Area Commander Inspector Alisse Robertson says the bus had stopped on New North Road at the time.
“The offender allegedly struck the driver, before running away from the bus,” she says.
“Our staff attended at the time and began to make enquiries into the matter.”
Overnight, Police located a 25-year-old Henderson man and arrested him.
He has been charged with assault and will appear in the Auckland District Court today.
Inspector Robertson says: “I know when these events occur it impacts the staff and commuters who use these services.
“More than 13,500 bus services alone operate across our city every day, most without incident.
“There is no place for violence, and when these incidents occur we will continue to identify and prosecute offenders.”
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/NZ Police
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
CHANDLER, Ariz., Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Driven by the need for higher bandwidth, advanced features, enhanced security and standardization, automotive OEMs are transitioning to Ethernet solutions. Automotive Ethernet provides the necessary infrastructure to support Software-Defined Networking by centralizing control, enabling flexible configurations and real-time data transfer. To provide OEMs with comprehensive Ethernet solutions, Microchip Technology (Nasdaq: MCHP) today announces its new family of LAN969x Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Switches and VelocityDRIVE™ Software Platform (SP), which is a turnkey Ethernet switch software solution and Configuration Tool (CT) based on standardized YANG models.
The combination of LAN969x devices and VelocityDRIVE SP, the industry’s first integration of CORECONF YANG, offers an innovative industry-standard network configuration solution. The CORECONF YANG standard aims to empower designers by separating software development from the hardware network layer. This reduces complexity and costs and accelerates the time to market.
The high-performance LAN969x Ethernet switches are powered by a 1 GHz single-core Arm® Cortex®-A53 CPU and feature multi-gigabit capabilities with scalable bandwidths from 46 Gbps to 102 Gbps. Advanced Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) is designed to meet precise timing and reliability requirements of applications like Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
“The introduction of the VelocityDRIVE Software Platform provides our automotive customers with a turnkey software switch solution and configuration tool to easily manage in-vehicle Ethernet networking,” said Charlie Forni, vice president of Microchip’s USB and networking group. “The use of the standards-based YANG configuration protocol enables software to be developed independently and reused across multi-vendor Ethernet switches.”
The LAN969x switch family is designed to support ASIL B Functional Safety and AEC-Q100 Automotive Qualification standards, offering high reliability and safety for automotive applications. The devices are optimized for systems with a small embedded-memory footprint and feature secure and fast boot capabilities using integrated ECC SRAM for code execution, which eliminates the need for expensive external DDR memory.
As in-vehicle networking continues to increase, software solutions like VelocityDRIVE SP are necessary for customers to configure and manage their networking systems. The LAN969x switch family joins Microchip’s portfolio of automotive Ethernet solutions, which includes 10 Mbps to 1000 Mbps PHY transceivers, controllers, switches and endpoints. For more information about Microchip’s automotive Ethernet solutions, visit the web page.
Development Tools
The LAN969x devices are supported by the LAN9692 VelocityDRIVE Evaluation Board and VelocityDRIVE Configuration Tool (CT).
Pricing and Availability
The LAN9691, LAN9692 and LAN9693 are available in production quantities. The VelocityDRIVE Software Platform is available to download. For additional information and to purchase, contact a Microchip sales representative, authorized worldwide distributor or visit Microchip’s Purchasing and Client Services website, http://www.microchipdirect.com.
Resources
High-res images available through Flickr or editorial contact (feel free to publish):
• Application image: http://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/54036155085/sizes/l
About Microchip Technology:
Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of smart, connected and secure embedded control and processing solutions. Its easy-to-use development tools and comprehensive product portfolio enable customers to create optimal designs which reduce risk while lowering total system cost and time to market. The company’s solutions serve approximately 123,000 customers across the industrial, automotive, consumer, aerospace and defense, communications and computing markets. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Microchip offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery and quality. For more information, visit the Microchip website at http://www.microchip.com.
Note: The Microchip name and logo, the Microchip logo are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. VelocityDRIVE is a trademark of Microchip Technology Inc. in the U.S.A. and other countries. All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective companies.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
MANCHESTER, N.H., Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALGM) today announced it plans to release financial results for its second quarter fiscal 2025 prior to the market open on Thursday, October 31, 2024. Following the press release, Vineet Nargolwala, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Derek D’Antilio, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will host a conference call at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss the Company’s results and business outlook.
Analysts and investors are invited to join the conference call using the following information:
Second Quarter Fiscal Year 2025 Earnings Conference Call
Date: Thursday, October 31, 2024
Time: 8:30 a.m. EDT
Live Webcast Link: Click Here
Dial-in Participant Registration Link: Click Here
Advanced registration is required for dial-in participants. Please complete the linked registration form above to receive a dial-in number and dedicated PIN for accessing the conference call. A live and archived audio webcast of the conference call will also be accessible for at least 90 days on the Company’s website at investors.allegromicro.com in the Events & Presentations section.
About Allegro MicroSystems
Allegro MicroSystems is a leading global designer, developer, fabless manufacturer and marketer of sensor integrated circuits (“ICs”) and application-specific analog power ICs enabling emerging technologies in the automotive and industrial markets. Allegro’s diverse product portfolio provides efficient and reliable solutions for the electrification of vehicles, automotive ADAS safety features, automation for Industry 4.0 and power saving technologies for data centers and clean energy applications.
Contact: Jalene Hoover
VP of IR & Corporate Communications
Phone: +1 512 751 6526
jhoover@allegromicro.com
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 5:41PM by PIB Delhi
WE, the Member States of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Republic of India, gathered on the occasion of the 21st ASEAN-India Summit on 10 October 2024 in Vientiane, Lao PDR;
REAFFIRMING our commitment to promote the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, guided by the fundamental principles, shared values and norms that have steered the ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations since its establishment in 1992, including those enunciated in the Vision Statement of ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit (2012), the Delhi Declaration of the ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit to mark the 25th Anniversary of ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations (2018), the ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Cooperation on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific for Peace, Stability, and Prosperity in the Region (2021), the Joint Statement on ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2022), the ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Maritime Cooperation (2023) and ASEAN-India Joint Leaders’ Statement on Strengthening Food Security and Nutrition in Response to Crises (2023);
WELCOMING the Decade of Act East Policy of India, where ASEAN is at the heart and of utmost priority, which has contributed to advancing ASEAN-India relations through cooperation in areas of political-security, economic, cultural and people-to-people relations;
ACKNOWLEDGING the deep civilisational linkages and cross-cultural exchanges, facilitated through both land and maritime routes between Southeast Asia and India, encompassing the various seas and oceans of the Indo-Pacific, providing a strong foundation for the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership;
WELCOMING the activities and initiatives held in the year 2024 on the occasion of the decade of Act East Policy to further strengthen the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership;
RECOGNISING India’s support for ASEAN Centrality and unity in the evolving regional architecture and its commitment to work closely through ASEAN-led mechanisms and fora including the ASEAN-India Summit, East Asia Summit (EAS), Post Ministerial Conference with India (PMC+1), ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) and Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum (EAMF) as well as support to ASEAN integration and the ASEAN Community building process including Master Plan for ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025, Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) and ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP);
NOTING the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution A/RES/78/69 which emphasises, in the Preamble, the universal and unified character of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and reaffirms that the Convention sets out the legal framework within which all activities in the oceans and seas must be carried out and is of strategic importance as the basis for national, regional and global action and cooperation in the marine sector, and that its integrity needs to be maintained;
APPRECIATING efforts towards implementation of the ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Cooperation on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific for Peace, Stability, and Prosperity in the Region through trust and confidence based on shared democratic values, strong belief in sovereignty and territorial integrity, and a shared commitment to the rule of law and the principles of the UN Charter;
REAFFIRMING our commitment to upholding multilateralism, the purposes and principles enshrined in the UN Charter and respect for international law, while recognising ASEAN’s rising global relevance and unique convening power amid the emerging multipolar global architecture and noting the growing and active role of India in major international economic and political affairs.
Do hereby declare to
1. Reaffirm the importance of maintaining and promoting peace, stability, maritime safety and security, freedom of navigation and overflight in the region, and other lawful uses of the seas, including unimpeded lawful maritime commerce and to promote peaceful resolutions of disputes, in accordance with universally recognised principles of international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS, and the relevant standards and recommended practices by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO). In this regard, we support the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of the Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) in its entirety and look forward to the early conclusion of an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) that is in accordance with international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS;
2. Build on ongoing collaboration in defense and security within the framework of ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Plus, including the first ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME) in 2023 and co-chairmanship of the ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Group on Counter-Terrorism (2024-2027), as well as noting the two initiatives announced at the ASEAN-India Defence Ministers’ Informal Meeting in 2022;
3. Strengthen cooperation in maritime security, counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, military medicine, transnational crime, defence industry, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, peacekeeping and demining operations and confidence building measures. This will be achieved through the exchange of visits, joint military exercise, maritime exercise, port calls by naval ships and defence scholarships;
4. Advance the implementation of ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Maritime Cooperation and continue to cooperate on areas such as maritime security, blue economy, sustainable fisheries, marine environmental protection, marine biodiversity, and climate change issues, among others;
5. Promote and work towards the strengthening of multilateralism through the UN and the multilateral processes to address global concerns, pursue shared goals and complementary initiatives, and promote sustainable development for the benefit of our peoples;
6. Build on the ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Cooperation on the AOIP for Peace, Stability, and Prosperity in the Region by advancing cooperation between the AOIP and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI);
7. Expedite the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to make it more effective, user-friendly, simple, and trade-facilitative for businesses and relevant to the current global trading practices and promote mutually beneficial arrangements and strengthen economic cooperation between ASEAN and India;
8. Promote diverse, secure, transparent and resilient supply chains while exchanging information on identifying and proactively addressing potential risks in supply chains in areas of mutual interest to promote sustainable development;
9. Cooperate on emerging technologies including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain technology, Internet of Things (IoT), Robotics, Quantum Computing, 6-G technology, building and strengthening of startups ecosystem with special emphasis on digital connectivity and financial technology;
10. Welcome the launch of the ASEAN-India Fund for Digital Future to support joint activities;
11. Cooperate to unlock the full potential of safe, secure, responsible, trustworthy AI by promoting international cooperation and further discussions on international governance for AI, considering that the rapid progress of AI has the potential for prosperity and expansion of the global digital economy. We should endeavor to leverage AI for public good by solving challenges in a responsible, inclusive and human-centric manner while protecting people’s rights and safety;
12. Note the proposal to celebrate the year 2025 as the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism to further strengthen people-to-people ties while recognising the crucial role of tourism in promoting sustainable socioeconomic development and economic prosperity, and as one of the vehicles for achieving the SDGs. In this endeavour, we support the implementation of the ASEAN-India Tourism Cooperation Work Plan 2023-2027, and to explore deeper cooperation to support joint programs for tourism education, training and research to build capacity and ensure a high-quality tourism industry. We also encourage the expansion of business networks among travel stakeholders, the practice of sustainable and responsible tourism, as well as the exchange of tourism trends and information. In addition, we support the enhancement of crisis communications, promotion of tourism investment opportunities, as well as development and joint promotion of niche markets, cruise tourism and tourism standards;
13. Strengthen health systems by enhancing collaboration on public health including, inter alia, in the areas of research and development (R&D), public health emergency preparedness, training of healthcare professionals, medical technology, pharmaceuticals, vaccine security and self-reliance, vaccine development and production, as well as general and traditional medicine;
14. Enhance cooperation in the field of environment, including biodiversity and climate change as well as explore cooperation in the field of energy security, including cooperation on clean, renewable, and low-carbon energy in line with the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation 2021-2025 and India’s renewable energy priorities, as well as other national models and priorities such as bio-circular-green development;
15. Promote disaster and climate resilience of infrastructure systems through knowledge sharing and best practices, capacity building and technical assistance, which can be pursued such as through the framework of Coalition of Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) as well as the proposed Memorandum of Intent (MOI) between ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Center) and National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) of India;
16. Enhance connectivity between ASEAN and India in line with the “Connecting the Connectivities” approach, by exploring synergies between the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025 and its successor document, the ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan (ACSP) and India’s connectivity initiatives in the region under India’s Act East Policy and Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) vision to ensure seamless connectivity in the Indo-Pacific by collaborating for quality, sustainable and resilient infrastructure and enhancing cooperation in transport in land, air, and maritime domains including through the early completion and operationalisation of the India-Myanmar-Thailand (IMT) Trilateral Highway while looking forward to its eastward extension to Lao PDR, Cambodia and Viet Nam;
17. Stressing the importance of strengthening multilateralism and comprehensive reform of the multilateral global governance architecture, including the United Nations and international financial architecture, international financial institutions, and multilateral development banks, to make them fit for purpose, democratic, equitable, representative and responsive to the current global realities and the needs and aspirations of the Global South;
18. Call for an inclusive and balanced international agenda, that responds to the concerns and priorities of the Global South, recognising that the principle of ‘Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities’ (CBDR-RC) within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) applies to all relevant global challenges;
19. Explore potential synergies with sub-regional frameworks, such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT), Singapore-Johor-Riau (SIJORI) Growth Triangle, Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), and Mekong sub-regional cooperation frameworks, including Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) and Ayeyawady Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS), and to support ASEAN and India’s efforts in promoting equitable development by aligning sub-regional growth with the comprehensive, mutual growth and development of ASEAN and India;
20. Continue to work together on regional and global issues of common concern while endeavouring to strengthen our partnership through the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
***
MJPS/SR/SKS
(Release ID: 2063888) Visitor Counter : 67
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
A section of State Highway 2 (SH2) in Dannevirke will be closed to northbound traffic for 4 days, while the road is resurfaced later this month.
This asphalt resurfacing work will take place on SH2 Stanley Street, between Denmark Street and Miller Street from Tuesday 29 October.
During day-time work hours, a detour will be in place for northbound traffic; southbound traffic will continue to flow freely on SH2. The detour is suitable for all vehicle types.
Crews will be working from 6.30am to 5pm each day between Tuesday 29 October and Friday 1 November (weather permitting).
During these work hours, northbound traffic will be detoured via Rawhiti Street, Queen Street, Allan Street and onto Cole Street, before rejoining SH2.
A temporary speed limit of 30km/h will be in place for southbound traffic near the worksite. Outside of work hours, SH2 will be open with a reduced speed limit in place.
This resurfacing work will improve the durability and long-term condition of this section of road. A one-way daytime closure allows crews to complete the work as efficiently and safely as possible while keeping traffic moving, and minimising ongoing disruption and long delay times.
Resident and business access remains and northbound road users are advised to follow the detour to get to your destination. The detour is expected to add less than 5 minutes to journey times.
Thank you for your patience and understanding while we complete this important road renewal work.
We know that a well-maintained state highway network promotes safety and improves options for moving people and freight.
More information about SH2 Dannevirke works
For more information about the 2024/2025 road maintenance season, please visit:
NZTA’s Manawatū-Whanganui maintenance and operations webpage
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
BOSTON – A South Boston man has been arrested and charged in connection with a scheme that defrauded a 75-year-old man from Berkshire County, Mass., of approximately $420,000.
Urvishkumar Vipulkumar Patel, 21, was charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Patel was arrested on Oct. 7, 2024 and subsequently released by the Court on conditions including GPS monitoring and orders that he remain in Massachusetts.
According to the charging documents, in or around June 2024, the victim received a pop-up message on his computer claiming that his computer was frozen. The message contained a phone number, which the victim believed to be associated with Microsoft, and directed the victim to call for assistance. The victim then called the phone number listed in the pop-up and allegedly spoke with an individual before being transferred to another individual who called himself, “Sam Wilson.”
It is alleged that Wilson claimed to be a federal agent with the U.S. Treasury Department and purported to confirm the victim’s name and address. When the victim stated that was not the correct address, Wilson provided additional addresses until the victim identified his correct address. Wilson then allegedly told the victim that the victim’s name and address were listed as being involved in a money laundering scheme and that the “Treasury” showed a number of houses had been purchased in the United States and Russia in the victim’s name. Wilson allegedly told the victim that he was going to help him get out of this trouble and would speak to a judge but that, in the meantime, the victim needed to safeguard his money from being further implicated in the supposed money laundering scheme. Specifically, Wilson allegedly told the victim he should withdraw cash from his bank and send it to the Treasury Department, where it would be kept in a lock box until the victim was cleared of the scheme. Wilson also allegedly cautioned that the bank would not let the victim withdraw all of his money at once – directing the victim to make the withdrawals in smaller amounts and send it to Wilson at the “Treasury” in installments.
On approximately five separate occasions over the course of three months, the victim withdrew and provided approximately $420,000 in cash to several individuals he believed to be associated with “Sam Wilson.” On each occasion, Wilson asked the victim how much he could withdraw from his bank account, directed the victim to place the cash in a taped box with the victim’s own name and address written on it. Wilson also allegedly told the victim a specific date and time at which he would send a courier for the cash. On each occasion, the courier would pull alongside the curb in front of the victim’s house, lower one of the passenger side windows and provide a prearranged “PIN” passcode to the victim. The victim would then place the box of cash into the courier’s vehicle who would then drive away.
The victim’s sister reported this activity to law enforcement on Oct. 1, 2024. According to the charging documents, on Oct. 7, 2024, Patel served as the courier waiting outside of the victim’s home and was approached by an undercover officer posing as the victim. It is alleged that, after receiving the prearranged “PIN” passcode from Patel, the undercover officer placed the box into Patel’s vehicle and Patel quickly drove away. He was immediately apprehended.
At the time of his arrest, Patel was allegedly driving a rental car and was actively engaged in a WhatsApp call on his cell phone. Patel allegedly told law enforcement that he had been collecting packages for weeks at the direction of another individual in exchange for payment. Patel also allegedly told law enforcement that he would deliver each package to a prearranged location before receiving his payment.
The investigation remains ongoing. Members of the public who believe they are victims of a cybercrime – including elder fraud scams, cryptocurrency scams, romance scams, investment scams, and business email compromise fraud scams – should contact USAMA.CyberTip@usdoj.gov. To report elder fraud, please visit the FBI’s IC3 Elder Fraud Complaint Center or contact the dedicated National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833–FRAUD–11 or 833–372–8311 Monday – Friday, 10a.m.- 6p.m. EST.
The charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the North Adams Police Department and the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin Brown of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
One person has died following a serious crash on State Highway 32 this morning.
Emergency services were called to the two-vehicle crash on Whakamaru Road at around 6.30am.
Sadly, the person died at the scene.
One other person received moderate injuries and was transported to hospital.
The road has since reopened.
Police would like to thank motorists for their cooperation and patience during the road closures as it is important for us to conduct a scene examination and gather all the information we can.
While enquiries into the crash are ongoing, Police are seeking the public’s help and want to hear from witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage that may have captured the crash, or the events prior to the crash.
If you have information that may assist Police in our enquiries, please contact us online at 105.online.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or 105.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Please use reference number P060245240.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: United States Attorneys General
Two former Crawford County, Arkansas, sheriff’s deputies were sentenced for using unlawful force on a man they arrested. Levi White, 34, was sentenced yesterday to 63 months in prison, and Zackary King, 28, was sentenced today to 12 months in prison.
Each defendant pleaded guilty to one count of deprivation of rights under color of law for a retaliatory assault on R.W., a 26-year-old man. On Aug. 21, 2022, White, King and a third officer approached R.W. in a gas station parking lot during their investigation into a person threatening a store attendant. R.W. lunged at White and tackled him, then all three officers quickly subdued R.W. and pinned him to the ground. After R.W. was pinned to the ground and no longer fighting the officers, White punched R.W. at least nine times in the head, then lifted R.W.’s head and slammed it into the pavement. King kicked R.W. in the back and struck R.W. once in the midsection with his fist. Following the announcement of a federal investigation into the assault, White obstructed the investigation by wiping all data from his county-issued cell phone and selectively deleting text messages about the incident from his personal phone. White asked King if King was also going to wipe his cell phone, but King declined to do so.
“Punching a man in the head, slamming their head repeatedly on the concrete pavement, kicking them in the back and striking them in the midsection — this kind of gratuitous and unjustified violence at the hands of law enforcement runs contrary to the oath that officers take in our country to protect and serve,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The defendants swore an oath to uphold the law, then violated that oath and abused their power as law enforcement officers by assaulting a person in their custody. At the time of the assaults, three officers had already subdued the victim, and further force was unnecessary and unlawful. White added fuel to the fire by taking steps to obstruct the investigation into the violent assault. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously prosecute officers who abuse their authority and violate the rights of people in their custody.”
“Levi White and Zackary King’s sentencings prove that no law enforcement officer is above the law,” said Special Agent in Charge Alicia D. Corder of the FBI Little Rock Field Office. “FBI Little Rock, alongside our trusted partners at Arkansas State Police, will continue to investigate potential abuses of power and civil rights violations throughout our state. We encourage anyone who has information about abusive or corrupt law enforcement to contact the FBI’s ArkTrust Task Force immediately.”
The FBI Little Rock Field Office and Arkansas State Police investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dustin Roberts and Devon Still for the Western District of Arkansas and Special Litigation Counsel Michael J. Songer and Trial Attorneys Lia Rettammel and Anna Gotfryd of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division prosecuted this case.
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
People travelling throughout Manawatū-Whanganui over the next few months can expect to see a lot of activity rebuilding and resealing the region’s state highways.
The 2024/25 summer maintenance season for the Manawatū-Whanganui region is now underway, with crews starting road rebuilds on State Highway 1 in Levin and State Highway 2 near Dannevirke.
During the course of the maintenance season, which typically runs between October to March when the weather is warmer and drier, it’s anticipated that 17 lane kilometres* of state highway in the region will be rebuilt.
Over the summer months, about 74 lane kilometres are expected to be renewed in total (rebuilt, resealed and resurfaced) throughout the region, which is a bumper increase from the previous 2023/24 season.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Regional Manager of Maintenance and Operations Rua Pani says the focus this season is on more road rebuilding.
“We’re working to improve the overall network condition through more intensive treatments, increasing pavement quality.”
These works are underway:
These works are coming up:
Other areas with planned works:
Please keep up to date with high impact works via Journey Planner(external link).
The season’s work is funded through the State Highway Maintenance and Pothole Prevention activity classes in the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP).
Ms Pani says planned rebuilds help improve the overall condition of our state highway network as they lead to stronger roads that need fewer repairs and less maintenance.
“We’re drivers too and we know there will be long term benefits, but the short-term disruption can be frustrating. We are working hard to minimise the impact of works on road users, but some level of disruption is unavoidable. We appreciate the patience of all road users throughout Manawatū-Whanganui as we complete this necessary maintenance work on the region’s roads.
“It’s also important that drivers plan their trips accordingly, follow the temporary traffic management in place, adhere to all speed restrictions in place and respect our crews while travelling through the roadworks site.
“Our road workers will do their best to complete their work safely and efficiently and keep you moving this summer. Temporary traffic management is there to make everyone’s journey safer. Please be respectful to our crews and follow their advice and instructions,” says Ms Pani.
*Lane kilometres are the total length of lanes to be resealed or rehabilitated. For example, resealing both lanes of a 10 kilometre stretch of two-lane highway results in 20 lane kilometres.
Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Vincent Wong, Assistant Professor of Law, University of Windsor
The Supreme Court of Canada will soon hear a case, R v. Kloubakov, in which two men charged with financially benefiting from sex work are claiming the charges violate their Charter rights.
The accused worked as drivers for sex workers in Calgary. A court in Alberta found them guilty of benefiting financially from prostitution and being parties to procuring women into the sex trade. They argue that Canada’s sex work laws criminalize people who work with sex workers in non-exploitative situations, and are therefore unconstitutional.
While the appellants in this case are not sex workers themselves, the outcome greatly impacts sex workers and their rights because it could, among other things, undermine their security and ability to put in place safety measures. Migrants arrested under these laws also face the prospect of loss of status, detention and deportation.
Nevertheless, the Supreme Court has chosen to exclude a national coalition of 23 sex worker organizations, the Canadian Alliance for Sex Work Law Reform (CASWLR), and two organizations that work with migrant sex workers (the Migrant Workers Alliance for Change and the Canadian Association of Refugee Lawyers.
The court has concluded their views are irrelevant to the case at hand. This exclusion rehearses Canada’s longer history of excluding those connected with sex work based on race, gender and immigration status.
This case centres on the procurement and material benefits provisions in Canada’s criminal code. They are part of the Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act (PCEPA), which was passed in 2014 after the Supreme Court struck down previous provisions targeting sex work.
PCEPA criminalizes “everyone who procures a person to offer or provide sexual services” and anyone “who receives a financial or other material benefit” from sex work, with certain exceptions.
The law assumes that sex workers are victims and ignores their agency and labour. While being a sex worker is not directly made an offence, the law criminalizes the purchase of sexual services and thus renders illegal all commercial transactions for sex. Activists have argued that doing so has driven sex work further underground. Sex workers, and those wishing to purchase sexual services, must avoid police for fear of detection, apprehension and in the case of migrant women, deportation.
Going underground means sex workers are at amplified risk of exploitation and physical harm because they have reduced bargaining power and cannot use safety measures, such as hiring third parties or implementing certain vetting and safety protocols in the spaces they would like to use, for fear of attracting the attention of police.
CASWLR argues that the law’s criminalization of sex workers and third parties replicates and even exacerbates the harms of the former laws that the Court found violated sex workers’ Charter rights to security of the person.
As a sex worker-led umbrella organization, CASWLR members have lived expertise and intimate knowledge of how these laws still harm sex workers in ways that can crucially inform the question of whether the laws are constitutional.
Aside from direct criminalization, migrant sex workers may face additional and distinct consequences under immigration laws if they are charged, convicted or merely under criminal investigation. Migrant sex workers could lose their status in Canada, be detained and deported and be barred from re-entering the country. Further, it is not just sex workers themselves who are affected. Migrant third parties and their family members’ immigration status and future could be imperilled as well.
These potential consequences may drive migrant sex workers to do their work in unsafe conditions to avoid detection by police and immigration enforcement. Sex workers are effectively forced into these precarious conditions because of the existing laws.
In our view, loss of immigration status and deportation for engaging in non-exploitative, consensual activity are consequences of the current law that are not justified under the Charter because of the risks of violence and other harms that arise from avoiding detection.
The Court, however, has decided it will not be considering this aspect at all and has excluded the only two organizations that work with migrant sex workers. The Court did grant intervener status to some organizations who will do a reasonable job in detailing some of the harms of the laws. However, none are sex worker-led and none represent migrant sex workers who may experience additional harms.
The Supreme Court denied intervener status to these organizations because they perceived their interventions as providing new information that would unduly expand the case. Denying standing to these organizations, however, has the ultimate effect of not hearing from those directly impacted by the laws being examined.
Courts are meant to consider the wider implications of how laws are interpreted, implemented and the potential ways they affect others. This is particularly important in constitutional challenges where it is both foreseeable and expected that legal decisions will have widely ranging effects on multiple groups.
Unfortunately, this exclusion is tied to the history of discrimination and stigmatization of Asian migrant sex workers, ostensibly for their own protection. Though many Canadians may have heard of Canada’s law that restricted Chinese immigration, including the infamous Head Tax, many may not know that it explicitly barred “any Chinese woman who is known to be a prostitute.”
This law took influence from the very first immigration ban in the United States, the 1875 Page Act. This law barred the immigration of women from “any Oriental country” if they were “imported for the purposes of prostitution.” The exclusion and policing of Asian sex workers was justified by ideas of carceral humanitarianism, which proposes that exclusion and policing are a necessary way of protecting people from being trafficked.
These so-called safety measures did not achieve either goal — in the past or present. Migrant sex workers who are directly targeted and harmed by the law were never directly asked what they desired or whether they needed saving.
We see these long-standing patterns at work again today with the Supreme Court’s exclusion of migrant sex workers (and other sex workers) in R v. Kloubakov. The court is demonstrating that it has clearly not learned from history.
When courts deny those most impacted by the law a hearing, they do not take into account all of the considerations they should. Cases can take years to reach the Supreme Court. When courts do take up the task to review law, it should welcome those directly affected by it, particularly when there are groups that have been traditionally marginalized from political and legal power.
For courts to be effective, they must hear from those who can best explain how their rights are violated and excluded from the discussion. Trust in our justice system and our laws are diminished when those directly harmed by it have no say and no recourse.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. R v. Kloubakov: Supreme Court of Canada ignores sex workers in case on sex work – https://theconversation.com/r-v-kloubakov-supreme-court-of-canada-ignores-sex-workers-in-case-on-sex-work-240417
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency
Headline: FEMA Responds to Hurricane Milton in Florida as it Continues Coordinated Recovery Across Six States Affected by Hurricane Helene
FEMA Responds to Hurricane Milton in Florida as it Continues Coordinated Recovery Across Six States Affected by Hurricane Helene
WASHINGTON – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell continues to lead the federal government’s coordinated recovery across six states affected by Hurricane Helene, while FEMA remains simultaneously focused on the immediate response to Hurricane Milton in Florida.
The agency was assisting the state of Florida to prepare prior to Hurricane Milton’s landfall. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is on the ground in Florida with local officials assessing the impacts of the storm. Commodities, volunteer agencies, response assets and federal personnel are being coordinated through the FEMA Region 4 Regional Response Coordination Center in Atlanta and the National Response Coordination Center in Washington, D.C. Both facilities are activated on 24-hour operations to support the state.
Resources and personnel have also remained in the states affected by Hurricane Helene to provide immediate long-term support. As these comprehensive recovery efforts continue, more than $344 million in federal disaster assistance has gone into the hands of Helene disaster survivors. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas is in North Carolina today to meet with state and local leaders, and members of the FEMA workforce supporting response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. These engagements follow his visit to North and South Carolina last week with President Biden.
President Joseph R. Biden has approved federal disaster assistance in six states affected by Helene. This opens up federal help for survivors in designated areas in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Survivors may apply for assistance in three ways: online by visiting disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or using the FEMA App.
Survivors may receive upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.
These photos highlight response and recovery efforts across affected states impacted by Helene and the response to Milton.
Raleigh, N.C. (Oct. 10, 2024) – Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas visited the North Carolina Department of Public Safety Emergency Operations Center to help those affected by Hurricane Helene.
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Orlando, Fla. (Oct. 10, 2024) – FEMA Urban Search and Rescue is prepared and ready to respond to Hurricane Milton.
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Orlando, Fla – Power restoration trucks and other equipment are pre-staging ahead of Hurricane Milton making landfall.
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Raleigh, N.C. (Oct. 8, 2024) – FEMA Deputy Administrator Hooks visits the North Carolina Emergency Operations Center to provide support to those affected by Hurricane Helene.
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Newport, Tenn. (Oct. 7, 2024) – Volunteers open large distribution points for Hurricane Helene survivors to receive food, water, clothing, cleaning supplies, pet food, diapers and emotional support at Crossroads Community Church in Newport, Tenn.
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FEMA’s Disaster Multimedia Toolkit page provides graphics, social media copy and sample text in multiple languages. In addition, FEMA has set up a rumor control web page to reduce confusion about its role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response.
amy.ashbridge
Source: US State of North Carolina
Headline: Governor Cooper Surveys Storm Damage in Madison County, Joins EPA Administrator Michael Regan to Assess Water Infrastructure in Haywood and Buncombe Counties
Governor Cooper Surveys Storm Damage in Madison County, Joins EPA Administrator Michael Regan to Assess Water Infrastructure in Haywood and Buncombe Counties
mseets
Today, Governor Roy Cooper traveled to Marshall in Madison County on Thursday morning where he was joined by Mayor Aaron Haynie as well as FEMA and state officials to survey storm damage. Following this visit, the Governor joined EPA Administrator Michael Regan to assess water infrastructure damage and discuss federal support to rebuild water systems in Western North Carolina.
“Today I traveled to Marshall and the Madison County Emergency Operations Center, met with residents, first responders, soldiers and business owners and again saw how they are working together with local, state and federal officials to recover and rebuild,” said Governor Cooper. “I also surveyed sites with EPA Administrator Michael Regan where work is happening to restore clean drinking water and we discussed streams for federal funds that are needed to build back these systems stronger than ever. We’ll continue our unprecedented response with our federal, state, local and non-profit partners to surge resources where they’re needed in Western North Carolina.”
In Marshall, the Governor was joined by FEMA Region 4 Administrator Robert Samaan, NCDPS Secretary Eddie Buffaloe, NCDOT Secretary Joey Hopkins and NCDEQ Secretary Mary Penny Kelley. During the Governor’s travels to Haywood and Buncombe counties with Administrator Regan, he visited an EPA mobile command center that provides a space for first responders and scientists to direct field activities, a mobile drinking water lab that is designed to help local and state governments lift boil water advisories and the North Fork Water Treatment Plant to review operations in the wake of the storm.
Goods and services continue to flow into impacted communities through state, federal and local partners. The North Carolina National Guard and the Joint Task Force- North Carolina have assisted thousands of people who needed rescue, evacuation and other assistance.
Photos from the Governor’s visit to Western North Carolina can be found here.
North Carolina National Guard and Military Response
More than 3,500 Soldiers and Airmen are now working in Western North Carolina. Joint Task Force- North Carolina, the task force led by the North Carolina National Guard is made up of Soldiers and Airmen from 12 different states, two different XVIII Airborne Corps units from Ft. Liberty, a unit from Ft. Campbell’s 101st Airborne Division, and numerous civilian entities are working side-by-side to get the much-needed help to the citizens in western North Carolina.
National Guard and military personnel are operating 29 aviation assets and more than 1,200 specialized vehicles in Western North Carolina to facilitate these missions. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is helping to assess water and wastewater plants and dams. Residents can track the status of the public water supply in their area through a website launched on Saturday.
FEMA Assistance
More than $70 million in FEMA Individual Assistance funds have been paid so far to Western NC disaster survivors and more than 143,000 people have registered for Individual Assistance. Approximately 1,250 households are now housed in hotels through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance. Federal partners have delivered approximately 10 million liters of water and approximately 7.8 million meals in North Carolina to support both responders and people living in the affected communities.
1,000+ FEMA staff are in the state to help with the western North Carolina relief effort. In addition to search and rescue and providing commodities, they are meeting with disaster survivors in shelters and neighborhoods to provide rapid access to relief resources. They can be identified by their FEMA logo apparel and federal government identification.
The Major Disaster Declaration requested by Governor Cooper and granted by President Biden now includes 27 North Carolina counties (Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey) and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
North Carolinians can apply for Individual Assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 from 7am to 11pm daily or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, or by downloading the FEMA app. FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs.
Help from Other States
More than 1,400 responders from 36 state and local agencies have performed 125 missions supporting the response and recovery efforts through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). This includes public health nurses, emergency management teams supporting local governments, veterinarians, teams with search dogs and more.
Beware of Misinformation
North Carolina Emergency Management and local officials are cautioning the public about false Helene reports and misinformation being shared on social media. NCEM has launched a fact versus rumor response webpage to provide factual information in the wake of this storm. FEMA also has a rumor response webpage.
Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution
Efforts continue to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, using both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. More than 20,000 hot meals a day are being prepared and served by mobile kitchens. Food, water and commodity points of distribution are open throughout western North Carolina. For information on these sites in your community, visit your local emergency management and local government social media and websites or visit ncdps.gov/Helene.
Missing Persons
To report a missing person or request non-emergency support, please call NC 211 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state. NC 211 also has a registry page for missing persons and welfare check requests.
Shelters
A total of 16 shelters are open in Western North Carolina serving 695 people and 95 pets.
Storm Damage Cleanup
If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.
Power Outages
Across Western North Carolina, approximately 90,000 customers remain without power as of Tuesday, down from a peak of more than 1 million. Overall power outage numbers will fluctuate up and down as power crews temporarily take circuits or substations offline to make repairs and restore additional customers.
Road Closures
Travel remains dangerous, with hundreds of roads closed. Many of these roads are primary routes connecting the region. As connectivity and reporting measures improve, these number may increase.
NCDOT is asking people to avoid unnecessary travel to or in Western North Carolina. NCDOT has posted at ncdot.gov an interstate detour map for travelers to avoid western N.C. NCDOT currently has approximately 2,100 employees and 1,100 pieces of equipment working on approximately 6,000 damaged road sites.
Fatalities
Ninety-one storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We expect that this number will continue to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If you have an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911. To report that you have been unable to reach a person in Western North Carolina, please call 211.
Volunteers and Donations
Due to dangerous road conditions and the need to maintain open routes for emergency operations, travel to Western North Carolina is strongly discouraged. Instead, consider the following options for donations and volunteer opportunities:
Additional Assistance
There is no right or wrong way to feel in response to the trauma of a hurricane. If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org.
If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599.
For general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.
If you are seeking information on resources for recovery help for a resident impacted from the storm, please email IArecovery@ncdps.gov.
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CommBank supports the growing gateway to the Hunter with a $235m Green Sustainability-Linked Loan.
Newcastle Airport has successfully converted $235m of funding from CommBank to support sustainability initiatives over the next five years.
CommBank acted as sole coordinator in the deal and will provide funding through an innovative Green Sustainability-Linked Loan (GSLL). The Green Loan component can fund energy efficient buildings, renewable energy, energy efficiency, pollution prevention and control, electric vehicle transportation and biodiversity initiatives.
The Sustainability-Linked Loan ties interest rates to performance on three sustainability outcomes, building on existing achievements:
Set and work towards a science-based target for reducing scope 3 emissions, caused indirectly throughout the airport’s supply chain. As part of this, the airport will work with airlines and tenants to reduce supply chain emissions installing infrastructure to support stakeholders to meet their goals, collaborating on mutually beneficial initiatives and advocating for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) alternatives for the aviation industry.
Maintaining the third-highest level in Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA), one of only two airports in Australia to do so. The ACA independently assesses and recognises the efforts of airports to manage and reduce their carbon emissions. Newcastle Airport’s accreditation showcases its commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
Waste reduction – committing to reducing waste to landfill for the entire airport precinct by collaborating with precinct stakeholders, investing in diversion initiatives and waste education programs.
The new loan builds on Newcastle Airport’s commitment to achieving net zero scope 1 and scope 2 carbon emissions by 2030. Some of the important ways the airport has progressed on its commitment include:
Designing and building energy efficient structures: the new terminal build has received a 5-Star Green Star ‘Designed’ Record of Achievement from the Green Building Council of Australia. Innovation hub Astra Aerolab buildings under development are also targeting the same accreditations. The expanded terminal at Newcastle Airport achieving a 5 Star Green Star rating is a testament to its high level of sustainability and environmental performance.
Newcastle Airport CEO Dr. Peter Cock thanked CommBank for its support and said the loan funding will play a crucial role in delivering the airport’s sustainability promise and is fundamental to its commitment of being the airport the region deserves.
“The people of the Hunter have high expectations,” Dr Cock said. “Ongoing investment in energy-saving and green initiatives is a key driver of Newcastle Airport’s leadership in the sustainable energy space. The Hunter is a region in transition, and Newcastle Airport is committed to enabling that shift towards our region and nation achieving net zero.
“Our partnership with CommBank contributes to global sustainability efforts and aligns with our goal to become the green gateway to NSW.”
CommBank General Manager Regional and Agribusiness Banking, Vanessa Nolan-Woods, said: “We’re delighted to continue our ongoing partnership with Newcastle Airport and play a role in helping to support the growth and sustainability of the Hunter and Newcastle region.
“Newcastle Airport is already making strong progress in the transition to net-zero and its desire to set ambitious new environmental targets as part of this new funding arrangement demonstrates a continued commitment to achieving sustainable outcomes and the development of a world-class gateway to the Hunter region.”
Commenting on CBA’s commitment to the region, Ms Nolan-Woods said: “We have expanded our Business Banking and customer support teams on the ground to better support growth in the region. We are also incredibly proud of our specialist sustainable finance team who work with our bankers and their customers to help them innovate and accelerate sustainability objectives.”
CBA is committed to supporting the aviation and transport sectors with sustainable finance. Recent transactions include:
Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development
Four projects will share in $800,000 under Round 2 of the Research and Innovation Grants, a component of the Regional Australia Level Crossing Safety Program (RALCSP).
Through the Research and Innovation Grants, the Australian Government is delivering a total of $4.7 million from 2023-24 to 2025-26 to support research and trials of low-cost, innovative level crossing safety technology and improvements.
These latest projects are in addition to the six projects already underway, which received a total of $2.8 million in federal funding under Round 1.
They will investigate human behaviours at level crossings, trial radar technology that detects upcoming obstacles, engage predictive models to identify high-risk level crossings, and use analytics tools to promote low cost and efficient upgrades.
The results will be used to inform ongoing activities under the National Level Crossing Safety Strategy currently being delivered jointly by the Australian Government, local governments, rail and heavy vehicle industry associations, and regulators.
This is yet another demonstration of our Government’s commitment to achieving the goal of zero harm at level crossings, and finding better ways to improve the safety of level crossings in the regions.
Currently, most level crossings in regional Australia have either give way or stop signs, particularly where there is no reliable electricity source.
To address this, the $180.1 million RALCSP is also providing funding to deliver infrastructure upgrades such as rumble strips or boom gates, improve data, and promote safe behaviours around level crossings.
This is consistent with the National Road Safety Strategy 2021-30 which sets a goal for the Australian, state and territory governments of reducing road deaths by 50 per cent and serious injuries by 30 per cent by 2030.
I look forward to seeing these latest projects get underway, to help us pave a safer road and rail future in Australia.
Source: Toyota
Headline: TOYOTA GAZOO Racing and MoneyGram Haas F1 Team Agree on Technical Partnership for the Future of the Automotive Industry
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) and MoneyGram Haas F1 Team announced today that they have concluded a basic agreement on entering a technical partnership concerning MoneyGram Haas F1 Team vehicle development and collaborative efforts. Through this partnership, the two sides aim to contribute to the development of the automotive industry by creating an environment in which young Japanese drivers, engineers, and mechanics can gain experience and grow in the FIA Formula One World Championship (F1), the pinnacle of motorsports.
