NewzIntel.com

Category: Vehicles

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lehigh Acres Man Indicted for COVID Relief Fraud

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

    Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Thakur Sukhdeo (38, Lehigh Acres) with wire fraud and illegal monetary transactions. If convicted, Sukhdeo faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison for each wire fraud count and up to 10 years in federal prison for each illegal monetary transaction count. The indictment also notifies Sukhdeo that the United States intends to forfeit a 2018 Jaguar F-Pace, 2020 GMC Sierra 3500 HD, and $414,000, which are alleged to be traceable to proceeds of the offense.

    According to the indictment, beginning in approximately July 2021, Sukhdeo engaged in a scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration (SBA) by making fraudulent representations in Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) loan documents about the use of EIDL funds. Sukhdeo’s false representations caused the SBA to fund a $414,000 EIDL for his company, J.R. Handyman Pro’s LLC.  Instead of using the EIDL proceeds for working capital, Sukhdeo used the funds for unauthorized purposes and for his own personal enrichment and the enrichment of others. This included the purchase of a luxury car for $68,984.61 and a truck for $93,994.42.   

    The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act is a federal law enacted March 2020. It is designed to provide emergency financial assistance to millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. On source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the expansion of an existing disaster-related program, the EIDL Program. The EIDL program is designed to provide economic relief to small businesses that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenue. EIDL proceeds can be used to cover a wide array of working capital and normal operating expenses, such as continuation of health care benefits, rent, utilities, and fixed debt payments.

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Trent Reichling. The forfeiture will be handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Baddeck Inlet — RCMP investigates fatal collision

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Victoria County District RCMP is investigating a fatal collision that occurred in Baddeck Inlet.

    On October 7, at approximately 6:10 p.m., Victoria County District RCMP, fire services, EHS, and the Nova Scotia Department of Public Works responded to a report of a collision near the 8000 block of Hwy. 105. Officers learned that two vehicles had collided on the road before coming to rest in the ditch. Both vehicles, a Western Star tractor trailer and a Hyundai Tucson, sustained significant damage.

    The driver and passenger in the Hyundai, a 45-year-old man and a 49-year-old woman both of British Columbia, were pronounced deceased on scene.

    The driver of the tractor trailer did not report physical injuries.

    An RCMP collision reconstructionist attended the scene and the investigation is ongoing.

    Hwy. 105 was closed for several hours but has since reopened.

    Any witnesses who have not yet spoken to police or anyone who may have dashcam or surveillance footage that shows this incident are asked to contact Victoria County District RCMP at 902-295-2350.

    Our thoughts are with the victims’ loved ones at this difficult time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: RM of Riverdale — Blue Hills RCMP respond to fatal collision

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 8, 2024, at approximately 5:15 pm, Blue Hills RCMP received a report of a vehicle and motorcycle collision on Highway 250, approximately 10 kilometres north of Highway 1, between Road 62 North and Road 64 North in the RM of Riverdale.

    When officers arrived, the driver of the motorcycle, a 48-year-old male from Brandon had been pronounced deceased.

    Initial investigation has determined that an SUV was travelling northbound on Highway 250 when it crossed the centre line at a curve in the road and struck the southbound motorcycle.

    The 37-year-old female driver of the SUV, from Souris was the only occupant of the SUV. She was transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries and has since been released.

    The female was wearing a seatbelt and alcohol does not appear to be a factor in the collision.

    A RCMP Forensic Collision Reconstructionist is assisting with the ongoing investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada Invests in Critical Minerals Sector at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Conference on Mining in Sudbury

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced over $5.1 million in funding for 16 projects in the critical minerals sector, as part of the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy (CCMS), to position Canada as the reliable supplier of choice the world is looking for.

    October 9, 2024         Sudbury, Ontario                     Natural Resources Canada

    Critical minerals are not just the building blocks of clean technology like solar panels and electric vehicle batteries — they are a key ingredient for creating middle-class jobs and growing a strong, globally competitive Canadian economy. As demand for critical minerals around the world continues to surge with the increased adoption of clean technologies, Canadian workers and businesses have a generational opportunity to be global leaders and suppliers of critical minerals.

    Today, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced over $5.1 million in funding for 16 projects in the critical minerals sector, as part of the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy (CCMS), to position Canada as the reliable supplier of choice the world is looking for. This funding is provided through two key programs to increase the supply of responsibly sourced critical minerals and support the development of domestic and global value chains for the green and digital economy. This investment includes:

    ·        Critical Minerals Geoscience Data Initiative (CMGD): over $4.1 million is provided to support 10 projects to enhance access to important data and generate new insights on the geological potential of critical mineral sources.

    ·        Global Partnerships Initiative (GPI): close to $1 million is provided to support six projects that will reinforce Canada’s growing number of bilateral commitments and engagements in the critical minerals space. 

    Across Canada, clean energy solutions are providing enormous economic opportunity. The critical minerals sector is already highly valuable to the Canadian economy. In 2022, the minerals and metals sector directly employed 420,000 people and contributed $109 billion to Canada’s total gross domestic product (GDP). Since 2020, automotive and battery manufacturers have announced investments of over $40 billion in electric vehicle production and the battery supply chain. With government support and demand for critical minerals expected to double by 2024, these sectors will only grow. Today’s investments will help deliver jobs and economic opportunities for communities and businesses across the country. 

    • Budget 2022 provided $3.8 billion over eight years to implement the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy. The funding covers a range of industrial activities, from geoscience and exploration to mineral processing, manufacturing and recycling applications.

    • The Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy is part of Canada’s strengthened climate plan, 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Clean Air, Strong Economy, which advances Canada’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40 to 45 percent below 2005 levels by 2030 and reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

    • Funding for these projects comes from the $79.2 million in Budget 2021 allocated to the CMGD initiative to enhance the quality and availability of data and digital technologies to accelerate the responsible development of Canadian critical minerals resources and the $70 million allocated for the GPI in Budget 2022 to advance Canada’s global leadership on critical minerals under Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy. 

    • The CMGD initiative includes $10 million in contribution funding for the provinces and territories to enhance access to important data and generate new insights on the geological potential of critical mineral sources. By harnessing the power of geoscience and data, we will pave the way for the responsible growth of industries that rely on these minerals, from technology and energy to defence and infrastructure. 

    • Through multilateral engagements, Canada is pursuing collective action on critical minerals to support the global transition to green energy and more-resilient supply chains. Canada currently produces 60 minerals and metals at 200 mines and 6,500 sand, gravel and stone quarries across the country.

    • Canada is home to almost half of the world’s publicly listed mining and mineral exploration companies, with a presence in more than 100 countries and a combined market capitalization of $520 billion.

    Cindy Caturao
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    613-795-5638
    cindy.caturao@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Machine learning cracked the protein-folding problem and won the 2024 Nobel Prize in chemistry

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Marc Zimmer, Professor of Chemistry, Connecticut College

    Protein molecules can have complicated structures that dictate their functions. Christoph Burgstedt/Science Photo Library via Getty Images

    The 2024 Nobel Prize in chemistry recognized Demis Hassabis, John Jumper and David Baker for using machine learning to tackle one of biology’s biggest challenges: predicting the 3D shape of proteins and designing them from scratch.

    This year’s award stood out because it honored research that originated at a tech company: DeepMind, an AI research startup that was acquired by Google in 2014. Most previous chemistry Nobel Prizes have gone to researchers in academia. Many laureates went on to form startup companies to further expand and commercialize their groundbreaking work – for instance, CRISPR gene-editing technology and quantum dots – but the research, from start to end, wasn’t done in the commercial sphere.

    Although the Nobel Prizes in physics and chemistry are awarded separately, there is a fascinating connection between the winning research in those fields in 2024. The physics award went to two computer scientists who laid the foundations for machine learning, while the chemistry laureates were rewarded for their use of machine learning to tackle one of biology’s biggest mysteries: how proteins fold.

    The 2024 Nobel Prizes underscore both the importance of this kind of artificial intelligence and how science today often crosses traditional boundaries, blending different fields to achieve groundbreaking results.

    The challenge of protein folding

    Proteins are the molecular machines of life. They make up a significant portion of our bodies, including muscles, enzymes, hormones, blood, hair and cartilage.

    Proteins are chains of amino acid molecules that form a 3D shape based on their atoms’ interactions.
    ©Johan Jarnestad/The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences

    Understanding proteins’ structures is essential because their shapes determine their functions. Back in 1972, Christian Anfinsen won the Nobel Prize in chemistry for showing that the sequence of a protein’s amino acid building blocks dictates the protein’s shape, which, in turn, influences its function. If a protein folds incorrectly, it may not work properly and could lead to diseases such as Alzheimer’s, cystic fibrosis or diabetes.

    A protein’s overall shape depends on the tiny interactions, the attractions and repulsions, between all the atoms in the amino acids its made of. Some want to be together, some don’t. The protein twists and folds itself into a final shape based on many thousands of these chemical interactions.

    For decades, one of biology’s greatest challenges was predicting a protein’s shape based solely on its amino acid sequence. Although researchers can now predict the shape, we still don’t understand how the proteins maneuver into their specific shapes and minimize the repulsions of all the interatomic interactions in a few microseconds.

    To understand how proteins work and to prevent misfolding, scientists needed a way to predict the way proteins fold, but solving this puzzle was no easy task.

    In 2003, University of Washington biochemist David Baker wrote Rosetta, a computer program for designing proteins. With it he showed it was possible to reverse the protein-folding problem by designing a protein shape and then predicting the amino acid sequence needed to create it.

    It was a phenomenal jump forward, but the shape chosen for the calculation was simple, and the calculations were complex. A major paradigm shift was required to routinely design novel proteins with desired structures.

    A new era of machine learning

    Machine learning is a type of AI where computers learn to solve problems by analyzing vast amounts of data. It’s been used in various fields, from game-playing and speech recognition to autonomous vehicles and scientific research. The idea behind machine learning is to use hidden patterns in data to answer complex questions.

    This approach made a huge leap in 2010 when Demis Hassabis co-founded DeepMind, a company aiming to combine neuroscience with AI to solve real-world problems.

    Hassabis, a chess prodigy at age 4, quickly made headlines with AlphaZero, an AI that taught itself to play chess at a superhuman level. In 2017, AlphaZero thoroughly beat the world’s top computer chess program, Stockfish-8. The AI’s ability to learn from its own gameplay, rather than relying on preprogrammed strategies, marked a turning point in the AI world.

    Soon after, DeepMind applied similar techniques to Go, an ancient board game known for its immense complexity. In 2016, its AI program AlphaGo defeated one of the world’s top players, Lee Sedol, in a widely watched match that stunned millions.

    Demis Hassabis and John Jumper at Google DeepMind on Oct. 9, 2024, after being awarded the Nobel Prize in chemistry.
    AP Photo/Alastair Grant

    In 2016, Hassabis shifted DeepMind’s focus to a new challenge: the protein-folding problem. Under the leadership of John Jumper, a chemist with a background in protein science, the AlphaFold project began. The team used a large database of experimentally determined protein structures to train the AI, which allowed it to learn the principles of protein folding. The result was AlphaFold2, an AI that could predict the 3D structure of proteins from their amino acid sequences with remarkable accuracy.

    This was a significant scientific breakthrough. AlphaFold has since predicted the structures of over 200 million proteins – essentially all the proteins that scientists have sequenced to date. This massive database of protein structures is now freely available, accelerating research in biology, medicine and drug development.

    Designer proteins to fight disease

    Understanding how proteins fold and function is crucial for designing new drugs. Enzymes, a type of protein, act as catalysts in biochemical reactions and can speed up or regulate these processes. To treat diseases such as cancer or diabetes, researchers often target specific enzymes involved in disease pathways. By predicting the shape of a protein, scientists can figure out where small molecules – potential drug candidates – might bind to it, which is the first step in designing new medicines.

    In 2024, DeepMind launched AlphaFold3, an upgraded version of the AlphaFold program that not only predicts protein shapes but also identifies potential binding sites for small molecules. This advance makes it easier for researchers to design drugs that precisely target the right proteins.

    Google bought Deepmind for reportedly around half a billion dollars in 2014. Google DeepMind has now started a new venture, Isomorphic Labs, to collaborate with pharmaceutical companies on real-world drug development using these AlphaFold3 predictions.

    David Baker speaks on the phone with Demis Hassabis and John Jumper just after they got the Nobel Prize news on Oct. 9, 2024.
    Ian C. Haydon/UW Medicine Institute for Protein Design

    For his part, David Baker has continued to make significant contributions to protein science. His team at the University of Washington developed an AI-based method called “family-wide hallucination,” which they used to design entirely new proteins from scratch. Hallucinations are new patterns – in this case, proteins – that are plausible, meaning they are a good fit with patterns in the AI’s training data. These new proteins included a light-emitting enzyme, demonstrating that machine learning can help create novel synthetic proteins. These AI tools offer new ways to design functional enzymes and other proteins that never could have evolved naturally.

    AI will enable research’s next chapter

    The Nobel-worthy achievements of Hassabis, Jumper and Baker show that machine learning isn’t just a tool for computer scientists – it’s now an essential part of the future of biology and medicine.

    By tackling one of the toughest problems in biology, the winners of the 2024 prize have opened up new possibilities in drug discovery, personalized medicine and even our understanding of the chemistry of life itself.

    Marc Zimmer does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Machine learning cracked the protein-folding problem and won the 2024 Nobel Prize in chemistry – https://theconversation.com/machine-learning-cracked-the-protein-folding-problem-and-won-the-2024-nobel-prize-in-chemistry-240937

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Joins Stop Corrupt Gratuities Act to Crack Down on State, Local Corruption

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Bill comes after the Supreme Court decision gutted anti-corruption laws
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined Senators Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) in introducing the Stop Corrupt Gratuities Act to strengthen federal corruption laws after the U.S. Supreme Court made it easier for state and local officials to accept “gratuities” for official actions. The Stop Corrupt Gratuities Act makes it clear that gratuities and other gifts of value outside of official duties, intending to reward or to be a reward, are criminal acts under federal law. The bill strengthens public trust in state and local government officials by clearly banning corrupt payments, veiled gifts, or the exchange of any valuables intended to influence decision-makers. 
    “Let’s call a spade a spade: when money exchanges hands after an official action, that’s a bribe. Leaving corruption unchecked undermines the integrity of our democracy, which is why it needs to be addressed immediately. It’s disappointing that our activist majority on the Supreme Court, already mired in ethical scandals of its own, took a knife to the ethical standards meant to protect other institutions against unethical ‘gratuities,’ and bribes,” said Senator Welch. “This commonsense bill will help protect our democratic institutions from corruption and increase accountability.” 
     “Gratuities that change hands after the completion of an official action are bribes, plain and simple,” said Senator Merkley. “This crooked and corrupt practice is a clear threat to the integrity of our democratic institutions and should be banned. We must put the people ahead of the privileged and powerful—my Stop Corrupt Gratuities Act does just that by providing a simple fix to strengthen federal anti-bribery laws.” 
    “Bribery is bribery, and we need to fight back against Donald Trump’s extremist Supreme Court’s attempts to rig our government for the wealthy and well-connected,” said Senator Warren. “The Stop Corrupt Gratuities Act will help make sure our state and local officials are working for the American people, not the highest bidder.” 
    Decided by the Supreme Court earlier this year, the Snyder v. United States case stems from the corrupt actions of the former mayor of Portage, Indiana, who awarded a $1.1 million contract to purchase garbage trucks and then accepted a $13,000 “gratuity” from the same truck company afterward. The Supreme Court ultimately ruled that state officials may accept “gratuities” from people who wish to reward them for their official actions, weakening federal anti-corruption statute. 
    The Stop Corrupt Gratuities Act is endorsed by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Transparency International U.S., Project On Government Oversight (POGO), and Public Citizen. 
    Read the full text of the bill. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Going off grid is a financial win for some, but it’s a threat for poorer families and the environment

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Joshua M. Pearce, John M. Thompson Chair in Information Technology and Innovation and Professor, Western University

    How would you like to never have another electric bill? Advances in technology have made it possible for some consumers to disconnect from the power grid — a move that was once only available to the ultra-wealthy who could afford the associated costs, or survivalists willing to trade convenience for freedom. This is no longer the case.

    A recent study I coauthored with energy researcher Seyyed Ali Sadat reveals that the balance of economics has shifted and now many families may be better off financially by cutting ties to the grid. However, this might not be a good thing for everyone.

    How did we get here?

    Back in the 2000s, solar was costly. The solar industry’s goal was to push the cost of solar panels below $3 per watt because that would produce solar electricity at a low enough cost to be economically competitive without subsidies. Over the year, the cost of solar plummeted.

    By 2011, we showed for the first time in both the United States and Canada that the levelized cost of solar electricity had reached grid parity. This means people could have a net-metered, grid-connected solar system and pay the same for electricity as the grid costs.

    Your utility meter would spin backward during the day as you amassed solar electric credits, then spin forward at night when you used grid electricity. If you sized your solar correctly, you would never pay an electric bill.

    When I moved to Michigan in 2011, I installed solar, earning a return on investment of more than 10 per cent. Many other faculty members at Michigan Tech did the same, and our area was the first to hit Michigan’s arbitrarily mandated one per cent distributed generation limit.

    Solar costs kept dropping, and ten years later, I collaborated with an engineer from Sweden — where nearly every house has a heat pump — to show that solar costs were so low they could effectively subsidize heat pumps into profitability in both northern Michigan and Ontario. Although the return on investment was modest — only a few per cent — it was enough to make solar-powered heating more viable than natural gas.

    Concern among electric utilities

    Today, more heat pumps are sold that normal furnaces in the U.S., but Canada is still warming up to them. The price of solar modules has since dropped well below $1 per watt.

    This shift caused concern among some electric companies; under their traditional business models, every new solar customer reduces their profit. Forward-thinking companies embraced solar and funded it for their customers. Some even rented their customers’ roofs for solar panel use.

    Many electric companies, however, took a different path by trying to weaken net metering. Some manipulated the rate structure by increasing unavoidable charges for customers while decreasing the electric rate, making net-metered solar systems less appealing for customers. As off-grid systems are now more affordable, this strategy could push customers away.

    Solar costs continued to drop and are now the lowest cost power in history. The costs of electric batteries also plummeted by over 50 per cent just last year.

    Grid defection is a real option

    Grid-tied residential solar systems currently dominate the market, primarily due to historical net metering. As utility rate structures shift away from real net metering, increase unavoidable fees or restrict grid access, solar consumers are finding that going off-grid is becoming more economically viable.

    Our recent study shows that grid defection is economically advantageous for many families because of these rate structure changes.

    Consider a typical family in San Diego, for example. After an initial investment of $20,000 on the off-grid system (solar, diesel generator and batteries), they could pay 45 per cent less for electricity than if they remained connected to the grid.

    The system would pay for itself in just six years, and even with a battery replacement, they would break even again in year eight. Over the lifespan of the system, these families could save over $40,000 in electricity costs.

    Since our analysis using data from one year ago, battery costs have dropped even further, increasing the return on investment. Locations that were previously on the borderline of economic viability are now clear opportunities for grid defection.

    These trends, coupled with increasing grid electricity costs and decreases in both solar and battery costs, have made economic grid defection a salient issue.

    But this also raises concerns about potential “utility death spirals,” where as more customers leave the grid to save money, the ones who are left face higher electricity costs, prompting even more to leave until the utility is bankrupt.

    Stay on the grid

    This trend raises two major concerns. First, those who can’t afford to leave the grid — often the poorest households — will end up paying the most for left-over fossil fuel electricity from the grid. Leaving the grid requires a hefty up-front cost, and not everyone can afford it.

    Second, our research shows that the diesel generators used as back up for off-grid solar and battery systems will cause significant pollution — even more than the grid in some locations.

    Our results show that regulators must consider mass economic grid defection of PV-diesel generator-battery systems as a very real possibility in the near future. To prevent utility death spirals and increased carbon emissions, it’s imperative we have rate structures that encourage solar producers to remain on the grid.

    The worst thing regulators can do is allow the electric utilities to increase unavoidable costs for their short-term profits. This can backfire, as utilities will lose customers entirely in the long run. With solar and battery costs continuing to decline, this problem is only becoming more urgent.

    Joshua M. Pearce has received funding for research from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, the Canada Foundation for Innovation, Mitacs, the U.S. Department of Energy and the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy, U.S. Department of Defense, The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, and the National Science Foundation. His past and present consulting work and research is funded by the United Nations, the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine, and many companies in the energy and solar photovoltaic fields. He does not directly work for any solar manufacturer and has no direct conflicts of interests.

    – ref. Going off grid is a financial win for some, but it’s a threat for poorer families and the environment – https://theconversation.com/going-off-grid-is-a-financial-win-for-some-but-its-a-threat-for-poorer-families-and-the-environment-240615

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Team Europe launches new funding envelope to support economic growth in African, Caribbean and Pacific countries

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • The ACP Trust Fund has received pledges worth more than €74 million from seven EU countries.
    • Denmark, Finland, Germany, Luxembourg, Portugal, Spain and Sweden are the first contributors, adding to the EU contribution launched in February 2023.
    • In line with the EU Global Gateway strategy, the primary focus of the support will be to provide grants and technical assistance to projects promoting sustainable growth in ACP countries.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB Global) has signed agreements with seven EU Member States pledging just over €74 million to a new envelope under the ACP Trust Fund. This funding will promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth and human development, especially in least developed countries and fragile states in Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific. The ACP Trust Fund envelope supported by EU Member States will target EU Global Gateway projects in ACP countries and support the UN’s Agenda 2030 as well as the Sustainable Development Goals.

    “This is a great example of Team Europe partners working together. I look forward to welcoming future donors to the fund so that, together, we can invest in energy, health, climate, food security and digital solutions that will foster green and inclusive growth – ultimately boosting prosperity in Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific,” said EIB Vice-President Thomas Östros.

    Denmark has pledged around €9.9 million, Finland €4.3 million, Germany €30.6 million, Luxembourg €5.4 million, Portugal €2.8 million, Spain €9 million, and Sweden €12.25 million.

    Denmark: “Denmark is committed to supporting inclusive green growth globally, including in least developed countries and fragile states. Our ambition is to promote the European Union as an effective and impactful global actor, and that is why we support the EIB’s new ACP Trust Fund. Through the trust fund, we are delighted to be contributing to inclusive and sustainable development – especially in Africa, which is well-aligned with Denmark’s new strategy of stronger engagement with African countries. The trust fund is financed by a true Team Europe approach, and I strongly encourage other European partners to join,” said Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Denmark’s Minister for Foreign Affairs.

    Finland: “Finland sees the ACP Trust Fund as an important vehicle to support the implementation of the Global Gateway in African, Caribbean and Pacific countries. We hope that our contribution will, for example, contribute to greater, safer digital connectivity in our partner countries and give European companies more ways to invest in and develop projects in the ACP countries,” said Juha Savolainen, Director General (Department for Development Policy) of Finland’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs.

    Germany: “Fostering human and social development, addressing climate change and mobilising investments for sustainable and inclusive growth are at the heart of the EU-ACP partnership. The EIB ACP Trust Fund can help increase the development impact of EIB projects in ACP partner countries, including with regard to the implementation of Global Gateway projects. Therefore, we support it in a Team Europe spirit together with other EU partners,” said Dirk Meyer, Director-General of Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. 

    Luxembourg: “Luxembourg is proud to contribute €5.4 million to the ACP Trust Fund, reflecting our commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth in African, Caribbean and Pacific countries. This funding, from the reflows of the former ACP Investment Facility, aims to empower communities, promote environmental sustainability and enhance resilience. We look forward to ongoing collaboration with the EIB, the European Commission and EU Member States to achieve impactful development outcomes,” said Finance Minister of Luxembourg Gilles Roth.

    Portugal: “Portugal’s contribution to the ACP Trust Fund reflects our ongoing commitment to sustainable economic, social and environmental development in these regions. By partnering with the European Union and other Member States, we can better leverage resources and collectively unlock financial and technical assistance to target global challenges and achieve impact in areas like climate action, connectivity and job creation,” said Portugal’s Minister of State and Finance Joaquim Miranda Sarmento.

    Spain: Spain’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation José Manuel Albares said, “Spain’s €9 million contribution will increase EIB Global’s capacity to reach ACP countries through tailored instruments, such as technical assistance to support capacity-building. We need to unlock sustainable finance for the countries that need it the most, as they often face adverse financing conditions that hinder sustainable development. This contribution reinforces our support for the ACP countries, and is consistent with our commitment to implementing the SDGs and raising more financing for the development agenda, as shown by Spain’s move to host the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville in 2025.”

    Sweden: “Sweden is glad to contribute to the ACP Trust Fund in a renewal of the historic partnership between the EU and African, Caribbean and Pacific States. The Trust Fund will play an important role in fulfilling the overall objectives of the Global Gateway, linking trade, business and development cooperation in the entire ACP region. We look forward to being part of a broad collaboration encompassing four continents, 79 countries and 1.5 billion people, and to work together on issues of green transition, entrepreneurship and digitalisation”, said Benjamin Dousa, Sweden’s Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade.

    European Commission: “Enabling the private sector is key to sustainable development. I welcome the Member States’ contribution to the ACP Trust Fund. Together with our powerful risk-sharing instrument, the EFSD+, these resources will underpin the implementation of the Global Gateway investment strategy,” said Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen.

    In 2023, the European Commission and EIB Global signed an agreement for €500 million and launched the first of two envelopes of the ACP Trust Fund to realise high-impact projects in the private sector that could not otherwise be brought to fruition.

    The ACP Trust Fund forms part of the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI – Global Europe). Through this programme, the European Commission supports technical assistance and financial instruments spanning equity, quasi-equity, subordinated debt and risk-sharing. Last year in Madagascar, for example, the ACP Trust Fund supported agricultural mechanisation for smallholder farmers and the construction of a refrigerated facility for local fishermen. In Uganda, it helped fund the installation of over 500 telecom towers to broaden access to communications in the countryside.

    The Member States envelope of the ACP Trust Fund is an effective complement to the European Commission-financed envelope, and provides technical assistance, investment grants and interest rate subsidies in both the public and private sectors. The technical assistance is expected to help raise standards and ensure that environmental and social requirements are met throughout the preparation and implementation of each project. Investment grants and interest rate subsidies help reduce total financing needs, especially where a project promoter faces debt sustainability constraints.

    Background information

    The EIB is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by the Member States. It makes long-term finance available for sound investments that pursue EU policy goals. EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner in the Global Gateway. It aims to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027 – around one-third of the overall target of this EU initiative. With Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships, alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the Group closer to local people, companies and institutions through its offices around the world.

    Global Gateway

    The Global Gateway strategy is the European Union’s offer for partner countries to support their resilience and sustainable development. It aims to narrow the global investment gap with value-driven investments from the public and private sectors, supporting global economic recovery and accompanying the twin green and digital transitions outside the European Union. Worldwide, the Global Gateway aims to mobilise €300 billion in investments between 2021 and 2027, with a mix of grants, concessional loans and guarantees to de-risk private sector investments.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Possible breaches of NextGenerationEU criteria with regard to projects in Aragon (Spain) – E-001928/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001928/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Estrella Galán (The Left)

    Spain’s Ministry of Industry has allocated upwards of EUR 35 million in European funds to a series of projects in the Autonomous Community of Aragon which, besides failing to comply with the obligatory deadlines for implementation (50 % by December 2024), may be in violation of criteria 1, 2, 3 and 6: mitigating and adapting to climate change; sustainably using and protecting water and marine resources; and protecting and restoring biodiversity and ecosystems.

    At issue are (i) the construction projects for new ski lifts in Astun-Candanchú and Benasque-Cerler (which would entail tree felling and severe ramifications on biodiversity and ecosystems); (ii) the construction of a golf course in Panticosa (which would require a large quantity of water and have a devastating impacton water resources, making the recovery of biodiversity difficult); and (iii) the construction of car parks in Sallent de Gállego and Formigal (which would promote the use of private vehicles).

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to investigate the infringement of the basic NextGenerationEU criteria and objectives which may result from the use of EU funds to finance these projects?
    • 2.Given that currently only 1 % of the projects has been completed and, as the Autonomous Community of Aragon itself confesses, 50 % of those projects will not have been completed by the end of December, can the Commission clarify whether it has relaxed the implementation dates for these projects?

    Submitted: 2.10.2024

    Last updated: 9 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Rebates for buying e-bikes and e-scooters are good but unlikely to greatly boost sustainable transport on their own

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Abraham Leung, Senior Research Fellow, Cities Research Institute, Griffith University

    BikePortland/Flickr, CC BY

    Queensland has joined Tasmania as the second Australian state or territory to offer a A$500 rebate for buyers of new e‑bikes. The pre-election announcement includes a smaller $200 rebate for e‑scooters.

    The Queensland e‑mobility rebate scheme is first come, first served, until its $2 million budget ($1 million was added last week) is used up. The Tasmanian scheme has closed for this reason.

    These schemes follow a trend of government incentives to buy e‑bikes in North America and Europe. The Australian schemes differ from most schemes overseas by including e‑scooters too.

    It’s a welcome move to promote sustainable transport. These personal transport devices have smaller environmental footprints to produce and operate than electric cars. Owning e‑bikes or e‑scooters can enable people to drive less – reducing congestion and emissions – and avoid high fuel costs.

    However, my research and other studies suggest ownership doesn’t guarantee much greater use. Additional measures will be needed to boost use of these sustainable transport modes.

    Why own e-bikes or e-scooters when you can share?

    The rebate is likely to boost retailers’ sales. More than 860 rebate applications were received within three days of the scheme starting on September 23.

    And existing owners now have an incentive to upgrade or replace models. They might then sell their pre-loved e‑bikes or e‑scooters on the second-hand market. This means others could get them more cheaply.

    Queensland was the first Australian state to legalise the use of e‑scooters in 2018, when Brisbane introduced shared e‑scooter operations. Regional cities such as Townsville and Cairns launched similar schemes. Dockless e‑bikes later replaced Brisbane’s initial CityCycle bike-sharing scheme.

    I recently conducted research to understand why South-East Queensland residents want to own e‑scooters. The study methods were comparable to an earlier e‑bike user survey.

    Both sets of owners cite replacing car use as their top reason for ownership. However, their motivations differ.

    E‑scooter owners are mainly driven by the lower price and the fun factor of riding. E‑bike owners focus more on fitness and the health benefits of getting some exercise when riding. Australian regulations require e‑bikes to be pedal-assisted.

    But does this mean people will ride more?

    Since 2022, the Queensland government has offered a rebate of up to $6,000 for buying full-sized electric vehicles (that scheme closed last month). It now appears to have responded to calls to do the same for e‑bikes and e‑scooters.

    Buyers certainly won’t mind freebies and rebates, but rebate-induced ownership might not increase overall use by much.

    An Australia-wide survey in 2023 found 57% of respondents had access to at least one working bicycle at home and this proportion has been increasing. However, only 15% reported riding in the previous week. Only 36.7% had ridden in the past year.

    Overall cycling participation has declined over the past decade, except during the COVID pandemic when work and travel patterns were more local. For all periods, men are significantly more likely to cycle than women.

    The same 2023 survey revealed only about 2.1% own e‑bikes. The rebate will likely increase this rate in Queensland.

    Some preliminary evidence suggests e‑bike users ride more often and further than those riding non-electric bikes. It also helps older people get into cycling. And it has the potential to replace car use even in rural areas.

    Despite e‑bikes offering advantages over traditional bikes, riders of both face obstacles to greater use, such as road safety and poor cycling infrastructure.

    What kinds of incentives do other countries offer?

    Australian policymakers should consider offering incentives to ensure the new purchases are well used, not sitting idle most of the time.

    The United Kingdom has a long-standing cycle-to-work scheme that offers commuters a tax exemption for buying bicycles or e‑bikes.

    In the Netherlands, incentive schemes have used smartphone technology to track their mileage. For example, in the B-Riders scheme, riders earn €0.08–0.15 (A$0.13–0.21) per kilometre. There was a 68% increase in e‑bike use by former car commuters after one month and 73% increase after six months of participation.

    Schemes in North America tend to be aimed at lower-income households. They are more likely to be involuntarily carless, so e‑bikes can improve their access to jobs, goods and services.

    There are alternatives to rebates. North Vancouver, for example, is trialling e‑cargo bike lending to replace car shopping trips, as these bulky bikes are not practical for every household to own.

    In France, residents can claim a bike or e‑bike subsidy of up to €2,000 (A$3,210). Second-hand devices sold by approved repairers are covered too, which is likely to help reduce e‑waste. Australian schemes so far only cover new purchases.

    What more can be done?

    For e‑bike and e‑scooter owners, the main barrier to riding more is the lack of safe and well-connected infrastructure. Numerous studies have connected rates of riding to the quality and quantity of infrastructure. Extensive, high-quality and safe cycling networks can deliver lasting shifts towards sustainable transport.

    When the Spanish city of Seville built such networks, cycling rates surged 11-fold in a few years.

    In the Netherlands, this infrastructure is so well-funded and extensive that it’s no surprise cycling is popular there.

    Riders don’t just need bikeways. They also need end-of-trip facilities with secure parking (and maybe free charging too).

    In Australia, cycling gets only around 2% of transport funding.

    In Brisbane, despite not being anywhere close to the European level of cycling infrastructure, new “green bridges” and bikeways will be expanded to more areas of the city (and other Queensland venues). It’s part of preparations to host “climate-positive” Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032. This year’s games host, Paris, successfully upgraded infrastructure and boosted cycling rates.

    Another benefit of more riders on the streets is that it creates “safety in numbers”. Greater numbers would also help attract more funding for infrastructure that makes cycling and scooting safer and more attractive.

    Both e‑bikes and e‑scooters are already worthwhile investments. Using them often would free yourself from car dependence – and that’s good for the planet and your wallet.

    Abraham Leung received funding from the Transport Academic Partnership (Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) and the Motor Accident Insurance Commission) and the Transport Innovation and Research Hub (Brisbane City Council, BCC). The data from the Privately Owned Electric Mobility User Survey (POEMUS) used in this article is funded and commissioned by BCC.

    His current Advance Queensland Industry Research Fellowship is funded and/or partnered with TMR, BCC, Townsville City Council, and micromobility operators Neuron and Beam. He is also an active member of PedBikeTrans.

    – ref. Rebates for buying e-bikes and e-scooters are good but unlikely to greatly boost sustainable transport on their own – https://theconversation.com/rebates-for-buying-e-bikes-and-e-scooters-are-good-but-unlikely-to-greatly-boost-sustainable-transport-on-their-own-239939

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NY National Guard to Assist in Response to Hurricane Milton

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that 65 New York National Guard Soldiers and Airmen will deploy to Florida on Wednesday, Oct. 9 to assist the Florida National guard in responding to Hurricane Milton, which is expected to hit Florida’s west coast late on Wednesday.

    “As hurricanes wreak devastation along much of the Southeastern United States, we are stepping up to support response efforts for those in need,” Governor Hochul said. “I am deploying the New York National Guard to protect Floridians in the path of Hurricane Milton — offering resources, assistance and standing united with our neighbors in this time of crisis.”

    The New York National Guard will deploy 65 Soldiers and Airmen to Camp Blanding Joint Training Center near Jacksonville, Florida. The New York Army National Guard will deploy 41 Soldiers from the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team in Syracuse and 10 Humvees to provide general purpose support as required by circumstances. The Soldiers will deploy to Florida on board a C-17 Globemaster III transport flown by the New York Air National Guard’s 105th Airlift Wing based at Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh.

    The New York Air National Guard will deploy 24 pararescue Airmen from the 106th Rescue Wing which is based at F.S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base in Westhampton Beach on Long Island. The Pararescue Airmen are all trained EMTs who go through extensive training that involves parachuting, scuba diving and survival skills. The Airmen will deploy with watercraft and specialized vehicles. They will deploy from Gabreski Air National Guard Base to Florida on board the wing’s organic HC-130J search and rescue aircraft. The New York National Guard contingent will be on the ground north of the hurricane’s expected landfall before the storm hits.

    Major General Ray Shields said, “At the direction of Governor Hochul, the New York National Guard is ready to support our fellow citizens in Florida, as Hurricane Milton heads for their state. Our Soldiers and Airmen are simply amazing at the way they respond on very short notice. I could not be prouder of their dedication and professionalism. They continue to make a difference in people’s lives every day. At the same time, the Citizen Soldiers and Airmen we have already deployed are continuing their support of the response effort in North Carolina.”

    The New York National Guard currently has 48 Soldiers and Airmen deployed, including Army engineers and CH-47F Chinook heavy lift helicopters on storm response missions in North Carolina.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Streaming online and airing on PBS affiliates. Thao Lam and Kjell Boersma’s multi-award-winning National Film Board of Canada animated short Boat People featured on POV Shorts, starting November 12.

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Beginning November 12, 2024, Thao Lam and Kjell Boersma’s acclaimed new National Film Board of Canada (NFB) animated short Boat People will be featured in season seven of POV Shorts—a collection of the best and boldest independent short films streaming free of charge on POV.org and on the PBS App.

    October 8, 2024 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada (NFB)

    Beginning November 12, 2024, Thao Lam and Kjell Boersma’s acclaimed new National Film Board of Canada (NFB) animated short Boat People will be featured in season seven of POV Shorts—a collection of the best and boldest independent short films streaming free of charge on POV.org and on the PBS App.

    POV Shorts will be airing on PBS affiliate stations—check local listings.

    Canadians can also continue to enjoy Boat People on the NFB’s free online screening platform, nfb.ca.

    About the film

    Boat People by Thao Lam and Kjell Boersma (10 min)
    Produced by Justine Pimlott and Jelena Popović for the NFB
    Press kit: mediaspace.nfb.ca/epk/boat-people-2

    • As a little girl in Vietnam, Thao’s mother would rescue ants from bowls of sugar water. The tiny creatures would later return the favour, leading her desperate family through darkness—and pointing the way to safety.
    • With Boat People, illustrator and author Thao Lam undertakes a creative rescue mission of her own, joining forces with animator Kjell Boersma to recount the experiences of her family, who were among over 1.6 million refugees who fled the chaotic aftermath of the Vietnam War, venturing across the South China Sea in precarious open boats.
    • Boat People employs a hybrid of traditional 2D animation, stop-motion multiplane, and 3D rendering to capture the unique aesthetic of Lam’s handmade paper textures and patterns. The film speaks across time and culture to anyone who’s ever fought to protect their family or community.

    Acclaim for Boat People

    • Boat People has been selected by more than 30 festivals around the world, including the Ottawa International Animation Festival, DOC NYC, the Stuttgart International Festival of Animated Film and the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival.
    • The film has garnered 10 awards and mentions to date, including the Milos Stehlik Global Impact Award at the Chicago International Children’s Film Festival, a Special Mention at the Oberhausen International Short Film Festival in Germany, and the Audience Award and Helen Hill Award for Animated Short at the New Orleans Film Festival, a short-films qualifying festival for the 97th Academy Awards.

    About the filmmakers

    • Thao Lam is a critically acclaimed Vietnamese-Canadian children’s book author and illustrator who arrived in Canada with her parents at the age of three as a refugee from Vietnam. Her books include the multi-award winning Wallpaper (2018) and Paper Boat (2020).
    • Kjell Boersma is a writer, director and animator whose projects combine traditional and digital animation techniques in novel ways. He directed the short film Monster Slayer (2015) and was commissioned by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and TIFF Kids to write and direct DAM! The Story of Kit the Beaver (2017).

    About the National Film Board of Canada

    Founded in 1939, the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) is a one-of-a-kind producer, co-producer and distributor of engaging, relevant and innovative documentary and animated films. As a talent incubator, it is one of the world’s leading creative centres. The NFB has enabled Canadians to tell and hear each other’s stories for over eight decades, and its films are a reliable and accessible educational resource. The NFB is also recognized around the world for its expertise in preservation and conservation, and for its rich and vibrant collection of works, which form a pillar of Canada’s cultural heritage. To date, the NFB has produced more than 14,000 works, 7,000 of which can be streamed free of charge at nfb.ca. The NFB and its productions and co-productions have earned over 7,000 awards, including 11 Oscars and an Honorary Academy Award for overall excellence in cinema.

    About American Documentary, Inc.

    American Documentary, Inc. (AmDoc) is a multimedia organization dedicated to creating, identifying and presenting contemporary stories that express opinions and perspectives rarely featured in mainstream media outlets. AmDoc is a catalyst for public culture, developing collaborative strategic engagement activities around socially relevant content on television, online and in community settings. These activities are designed to trigger action, from dialogue and feedback to educational opportunities and community participation.

    Major funding for POV is provided by PBS, the Open Society Foundations, The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, the Wyncote Foundation, Reva & David Logan Foundation, Park Foundation, and Perspective Fund. Additional funding comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, New York State Council on the Arts, public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, Chris and Nancy Plaut, Ann Tenenbaum and Thomas H. Lee, Acton Family Giving, and public television viewers. POV is presented by a consortium of public television stations, including KQED San Francisco, WGBH Boston and THIRTEEN in association with WNET.ORG.

    About PBS

    PBS, with more than 330 member stations, offers all Americans the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and digital content. Each month, PBS reaches over 120 million people through television and 26 million people online, inviting them to experience the worlds of science, history, nature and public affairs; to hear diverse viewpoints; and to take front row seats to world-class drama and performances. PBS’s broad array of programs has been consistently honored by the industry’s most coveted award competitions. Teachers of children from pre-K through 12th grade turn to PBS for digital content and services that help bring classroom lessons to life. Decades of research confirm that PBS’s premier children’s media service, PBS KIDS, helps children build critical literacy, math and social-emotional skills, enabling them to find success in school and life. Delivered through member stations, PBS KIDS offers high-quality educational content on TV—including a 24/7 channel, online at pbskids.org, via an array of mobile apps and in communities across America. More information about PBS is available at http://www.pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org websites on the internet, or by following PBS on Twitter, Facebook or through our apps for mobile and connected devices. Specific program information and updates for press are available at pbs.org/pressroom or by following PBS Communications on Twitter.

    About POV

    Produced by American Documentary, POV is the longest-running independent documentary showcase on American television. Since 1988, POV has presented films on PBS that capture the full spectrum of the human experience, with a long commitment to centering women and people of color in front of, and behind, the camera. The series is known for introducing generations of viewers to groundbreaking works like Tongues Untied (1989), Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker’s Apocalypse (1992), Rabbit in the Room (1999), Of Civil Wrongs & Rights: The Fred Korematsu Story (2001), Made in L.A. (2007), American Promise (2013), Not Going Quietly (2021), While We Watched (2022), A House Made of Splinters (2022) and the mini-series And She Could be Next (2020). Throughout its history POV has featured the work of award-winning, innovative filmmakers including Jonathan Demme, Laura Poitras, Nanfu Wang, Frederick Wiseman, Emiko Omori, Janus Metz Pedersen and Ava DuVernay. In 2018, POV Shorts launched as one of the first PBS series dedicated to bold and timely short-form documentaries. In 2024, Indiewire named seven POV films in its roundup of “The 50 Best Documentaries of the 21st Century”: Faya Dayi (2021), The Mole Agent (2020), Minding The Gap (2018), Cameraperson (2016), The Look of Silence (2015), The Act of Killing (2013) and After Tiller (2013). All POV programs are available for streaming concurrent with broadcast on all station-branded PBS platforms, including PBS.org and the PBS App, available on iOS, Android, Roku streaming devices, Apple TV, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung Smart TV, Chromecast and VIZIO. For more information about PBS Passport, visit the PBS Passport FAQ website.

    POV goes “beyond the broadcast” to bring powerful nonfiction storytelling to viewers wherever they are. Free educational resources accompany every film and a community network of thousands of partners nationwide work with POV to spark dialogue around today’s most pressing issues. POV continues to explore the future of documentary through innovative productions with partners such as The New York Times and the National Film Board of Canada and on platforms including Snapchat and Instagram.

    POV films and projects have won 48 Emmy Awards, 28 George Foster Peabody Awards, 16 Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Awards, three Academy Awards® and the first-ever George Polk Documentary Film Award. Learn more at pbs.org/pov and follow @povdocs on social media.

    About POV Shorts

    POV Shorts launched in 2018 as one of the first PBS series dedicated to bold and timely short-form documentaries. The series is known for its curation, and for broadcasting award-winning titles, including: Emmy®-nominated Earthrise, Water Warriors, The Changing Same, Emmy® winner The Love Bugs and the Oscar® shortlisted A Broken House and Aguilas. It won Best Short Form Series at the IDA Documentary Awards in 2023, 2022 and 2020.

    – 30 –

    Stay Connected

    Online Screening Room: NFB.ca
    NFB Facebook | NFB Twitter | NFB Instagram | NFB Blog | NFB YouTube | NFB Vimeo
    Curator’s perspective | Director’s notes

    About the NFB

    Lily Robert
    Director, Communications and Public Affairs, NFB
    C.: 514-296-8261
    l.robert@nfb.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Travel Advisory: Three-Night Closure of Providence Street Bridge Over I-295 Scheduled to Begin Tuesday, October 15 for Pier Work

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    On the nights of October 15-17, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) will close the Providence Street Bridge over I-295 in West Warwick for ongoing work at the bridge. Motorists are advised to use the signed detour via Route 2 and East Avenue during the closure period from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. for each of these three nights.

    The Providence Street Bridge was built in 1968 and carries 10,500 vehicles per day. RIDOT used accelerated bridge construction methods to replace it, installing the new bridge deck in just one weekend in August. The entire project finishes in spring 2025.

    All construction projects are subject to changes in schedule and scope depending on needs, circumstances, findings and weather.

    The replacement of the Providence Street Bridge is made possible by RhodeWorks and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. RIDOT is committed to bringing Rhode Island’s infrastructure into a state of good repair while respecting the environment and striving to improve it. Learn more at http://www.ridot.net/RhodeWorks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canadian urban mobility is woefully lacking, but building a better future is still possible

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Betsy Donald, Professor, Department of Geography and Planning, Queen’s University, Ontario

    Canadian cities are falling behind globally when it comes to efficiently moving people. Long commute times, high congestion rates and infrastructure that is vulnerable to climate change are symptoms of a mobility crisis.

    Mobility is an essential public good, and modern policies aim to move people in a safe, efficient, accessible and non-polluting way. However, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed and worsened existing vulnerabilities in Canada’s urban mobility systems, undermining progress toward these goals.

    Our new book, Urban Mobility: How the iPhone, COVID, and Climate Changed Everything, explores how technology, the pandemic and climate change have shaped, and continue to shape, urban mobility, particularly for those with inadequate transportation networks.

    Population growth outpacing transit

    One of the primary challenges Canadian cities face is that they have grown faster than their sustainable transportation options. While urban populations have expanded, investment in public transportation has not kept pace, resulting in a gap between capacity and potential.

    The COVID-19 pandemic also impacted city life in profound ways, and urban life and economies in Canada are still being affected to this day. Remote work became the norm for many, reducing the number of people commuting and causing a significant drop in public transit ridership.

    Additionally, the shift to hybrid work has permanently altered how Canadians engage with their cities. People are shopping online more, using public transit less, and central business districts and physical retail spaces are seeing less foot traffic.

    Urban economies, which have been designed to rely heavily on the movement and presence of large numbers of people through public transit and local businesses, are still grappling with this new reality. Activity levels, for instance, are down by about 20 per cent from pre-pandemic levels in many downtown spaces still.

    Tech platforms and mobility

    Digital platform firms like Zoom, Uber, Amazon and Instacart adapted quickly during the pandemic, offering safe work-from-home options, private transportation and online shopping services to people. These platforms disrupted the traditional urban economic model, which relies on transit, physical stores and foot traffic.

    Ride-hailing services drew passengers and their fares away from local economies into foreign-owned ride-hailing companies. Transit systems not only depend on the massive built public infrastructure, but also passenger fares and other government funding to maintain the public system over time.

    In addition, these tech platform companies come with equity and accessibility concerns. Research on the use of ride-hailing and public transit during the pandemic found that its usage in Toronto was clearly organized along class, neighbourhood and social lines. People identifying as one or more of the following were more likely to continue riding transit during the pandemic: low-income, immigrant, racialized, essential workers and car-less, in large part because other options were not available to them.

    Similarly, in Calgary, private technology experiments in electric scooters privileged wealthier neighbourhoods. Electric scooters were used more in wealthier neighbourhoods, and as poverty levels increased at the neighbourhood level, the use of them dropped. The researchers concluded that greater attention needs to be paid to ensuring all communities, regardless of economic status, have access to micro-mobility options.

    Canada has a history of importing technological solutions, rather than creating its own. Montréal, however, offers a successful example with its Bixi bike program, the third largest bike share system in North America after New York and Chicago, with 11,000 bikes and almost 900 stations. A non-profit runs the program, Rio Tinto Alcan provides aluminum for the bikes and Cycles Devinci manufactures them in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean.

    Canadian cities need to build innovation opportunities that promote economic development and improve mobility at the same time. Canada’s technology sector is woefully undersupported at present.

    Bixi bikes stand on Sainte-Catherine Street in Montréal in August 2019. The City of Montréal bought the bike sharing system in 2014 and created a non-profit entity to run the bike sharing operations.
    (Shutterstock)

    Climate crisis intensifying challenges

    The third, and perhaps most pressing challenge facing Canadian cities is the growing climate crisis. Cities are both instigators and victims of climate change. They contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, but are also heavily impacted by severe weather events, heat waves and other side effects.

    These impacts are becoming increasingly concerning with the intensification of wildfires, urban flooding and other extreme weather events.

    By the end of the 20th century, most large Canadian cities were heavily investing in strategies to encourage people to use alternatives to cars, such as transit, light rail, biking and walking.

    However, shifting priorities, ideologies and budgetary adjustments led to government cutbacks to transit funding and a lack of new transportation innovation. In Ontario, for example, the government continues to push unrealistic road-building ideas at the expense of more active transit options.

    This failure to effectively move people around has left an opening for new mobility experiments led by private companies, but some of these programs don’t really integrate well into the Canadian urban mobility ecosystem. Many of these mobility options — such as ride-hailing — are also costly and exclusive. Others, like electronic scooters, can lead to e-waste.

    Building a better future

    The disruptions caused by technology, the pandemic and climate change are reshaping how people and goods move in cities. To build a better future, Canadian cities must address the interconnected challenges of three transitions: digital, health and environmental.

    While all sectors need to invest, strong leadership and policy action from governments at all levels is needed to create a more climate-friendly, economically vibrant and equitable urban mobility future. Governments will need to embrace bold, innovative solutions that address all three of these challenges.

    This means policy frameworks that reduce carbon emissions through climate action plans, leveraging political will and funding in efforts to shift away from private automobiles and toward transit, bike lanes and pedestrian pathways, and experimenting with digital mobility services while still prioritizing sustainability.

    Betsy Donald receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    Shauna Brail receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. Canadian urban mobility is woefully lacking, but building a better future is still possible – https://theconversation.com/canadian-urban-mobility-is-woefully-lacking-but-building-a-better-future-is-still-possible-239679

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Occupants assaulted after break-in at Gulfview Heights

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are investigating an incident at Gulfview Heights where two people were stabbed.

    About 3.45am on Wednesday 9 October, police were called to a home on Nelson Road after reports that a group of armed males forced entry into the property and stabbed two occupants.

    The group left the scene in a vehicle which was last seen turning on to Yulinda Terrace.

    A 53-year-old woman and a 17-year-old boy were both taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries. A third person was also taken to hospital with minor injuries after being assaulted.

    It is early in the investigation however police do not believe this to be a random incident.

    Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at http://www.crimestopperssa.com.au/ or on 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Eke Panuku Development Auckland directors appointed

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland Council has appointed Brett Ellison and Aaron Hockly as directors of Eke Panuku Development Auckland.

    The council sought candidates with experience in the property industry relevant to the governance of Eke Panuku, experience in driving outcomes from board level and the ability to work in regulatory frameworks. Council also sought candidates who would bring expertise in iwi relationships, understanding of Te Ao Māori and tikanga Māori, legal expertise and experience of health and safety.

    Councillor Greg Sayers chaired the selection panel and welcomes the appointments.

    “I am pleased to welcome Mr Ellison and Mr Hockly to the Auckland Council whanau as two seasoned property professionals with the leadership skills and experience to provide real strength to the Eke Panuku board. They each bring a set of skills that will complement the existing board members and support the good governance of this organisation, with Mr Ellison providing the board with a strong Māori perspective and Mr Hockly bringing legal expertise,” says Cr Sayers.

    The appointment was approved by the Performance and Appointments Committee on 24 September. The committee is responsible for all appointments to the boards of council-controlled organisations, in accordance with the council’s Appointment and Remuneration Policy for Board Members and the Local Government Act.

    About Brett Ellison

    Brett is an experienced executive across the iwi commercial sector, having spent over 10 years in senior roles across the Ngāi Tahu Holdings Group and Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu – focusing on their seafood and property sector, and Crown relationships and Settlement rights. He was formerly the GM for Business Development at Ngāi Tahu Property which has played a key role in the urban development of Christchurch.

    Brett is an Investment Manager with Koau Capital Partners and supports the property activity of various iwi, and acts as investment manager for the Hāpai property collective – an iwi owned and governed property vehicle with a focus across the commercial, development and housing sectors.

    Born and bred at Ōtākou, and a graduate (BA, MA) of the University of Otago, Brett has been a director on Rangitāne Holdings, and chairs Te Rūnaka Ōtākou Ltd.

    About Aaron Hockly

    Aaron Hockly has over 20 years’ experience in financial services, property and law and currently heads up the NZX-listed, Vital Healthcare Property Trust, which owns hospitals and other healthcare facilities across New Zealand and Australia valued at ~$3.2 billion. Originally from New Zealand, Aaron spent 17 years in the UK and Australia until returning in 2018. He was Chief Operating Officer for a large ASX listed property group for ~10 years where he was responsible for strategy, major transactions and investor relations.

    Among other qualifications, Aaron has a Masters in Applied Finance and a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws from the University of Auckland. He is a Fellow of both Governance New Zealand and the Financial Services Institute of Australasia (FINSIA), a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors (NZ) and a member of INFINZ.

    Aaron has served on the boards of several charities in both New Zealand and Australia and is currently a member of the Auckland Urban Design Panel.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Canadian urban mobility is woefully lacking, but building a better future is still possible

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Betsy Donald, Professor, Department of Geography and Planning, Queen’s University, Ontario

    Canadian cities are falling behind globally when it comes to efficiently moving people. Long commute times, high congestion rates and infrastructure that is vulnerable to climate change are symptoms of a mobility crisis.

    Mobility is an essential public good, and modern policies aim to move people in a safe, efficient, accessible and non-polluting way. However, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed and worsened existing vulnerabilities in Canada’s urban mobility systems, undermining progress toward these goals.

    Our new book, Urban Mobility: How the iPhone, COVID, and Climate Changed Everything, explores how technology, the pandemic and climate change have shaped, and continue to shape, urban mobility, particularly for those with inadequate transportation networks.

    Population growth outpacing transit

    One of the primary challenges Canadian cities face is that they have grown faster than their sustainable transportation options. While urban populations have expanded, investment in public transportation has not kept pace, resulting in a gap between capacity and potential.

    The COVID-19 pandemic also impacted city life in profound ways, and urban life and economies in Canada are still being affected to this day. Remote work became the norm for many, reducing the number of people commuting and causing a significant drop in public transit ridership.

    Additionally, the shift to hybrid work has permanently altered how Canadians engage with their cities. People are shopping online more, using public transit less, and central business districts and physical retail spaces are seeing less foot traffic.

    Urban economies, which have been designed to rely heavily on the movement and presence of large numbers of people through public transit and local businesses, are still grappling with this new reality. Activity levels, for instance, are down by about 20 per cent from pre-pandemic levels in many downtown spaces still.

    Tech platforms and mobility

    Digital platform firms like Zoom, Uber, Amazon and Instacart adapted quickly during the pandemic, offering safe work-from-home options, private transportation and online shopping services to people. These platforms disrupted the traditional urban economic model, which relies on transit, physical stores and foot traffic.

    Ride-hailing services drew passengers and their fares away from local economies into foreign-owned ride-hailing companies. Transit systems not only depend on the massive built public infrastructure, but also passenger fares and other government funding to maintain the public system over time.

    In addition, these tech platform companies come with equity and accessibility concerns. Research on the use of ride-hailing and public transit during the pandemic found that its usage in Toronto was clearly organized along class, neighbourhood and social lines. People identifying as one or more of the following were more likely to continue riding transit during the pandemic: low-income, immigrant, racialized, essential workers and car-less, in large part because other options were not available to them.

    Similarly, in Calgary, private technology experiments in electric scooters privileged wealthier neighbourhoods. Electric scooters were used more in wealthier neighbourhoods, and as poverty levels increased at the neighbourhood level, the use of them dropped. The researchers concluded that greater attention needs to be paid to ensuring all communities, regardless of economic status, have access to micro-mobility options.

    Canada has a history of importing technological solutions, rather than creating its own. Montréal, however, offers a successful example with its Bixi bike program, the third largest bike share system in North America after New York and Chicago, with 11,000 bikes and almost 900 stations. A non-profit runs the program, Rio Tinto Alcan provides aluminum for the bikes and Cycles Devinci manufactures them in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean.

    Canadian cities need to build innovation opportunities that promote economic development and improve mobility at the same time. Canada’s technology sector is woefully undersupported at present.

    Bixi bikes stand on Sainte-Catherine Street in Montréal in August 2019. The City of Montréal bought the bike sharing system in 2014 and created a non-profit entity to run the bike sharing operations.
    (Shutterstock)

    Climate crisis intensifying challenges

    The third, and perhaps most pressing challenge facing Canadian cities is the growing climate crisis. Cities are both instigators and victims of climate change. They contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, but are also heavily impacted by severe weather events, heat waves and other side effects.

    These impacts are becoming increasingly concerning with the intensification of wildfires, urban flooding and other extreme weather events.

    By the end of the 20th century, most large Canadian cities were heavily investing in strategies to encourage people to use alternatives to cars, such as transit, light rail, biking and walking.

    However, shifting priorities, ideologies and budgetary adjustments led to government cutbacks to transit funding and a lack of new transportation innovation. In Ontario, for example, the government continues to push unrealistic road-building ideas at the expense of more active transit options.

    This failure to effectively move people around has left an opening for new mobility experiments led by private companies, but some of these programs don’t really integrate well into the Canadian urban mobility ecosystem. Many of these mobility options — such as ride-hailing — are also costly and exclusive. Others, like electronic scooters, can lead to e-waste.

    Building a better future

    The disruptions caused by technology, the pandemic and climate change are reshaping how people and goods move in cities. To build a better future, Canadian cities must address the interconnected challenges of three transitions: digital, health and environmental.

    While all sectors need to invest, strong leadership and policy action from governments at all levels is needed to create a more climate-friendly, economically vibrant and equitable urban mobility future. Governments will need to embrace bold, innovative solutions that address all three of these challenges.

    This means policy frameworks that reduce carbon emissions through climate action plans, leveraging political will and funding in efforts to shift away from private automobiles and toward transit, bike lanes and pedestrian pathways, and experimenting with digital mobility services while still prioritizing sustainability.

    Betsy Donald receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    Shauna Brail receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. Canadian urban mobility is woefully lacking, but building a better future is still possible – https://theconversation.com/canadian-urban-mobility-is-woefully-lacking-but-building-a-better-future-is-still-possible-239679

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Element to Announce Q3 2024 Results and Host Conference Call on November 14, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Element Fleet Management Corp. (TSX: EFN) (“Element” or the “Company”), the largest publicly traded, pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world, will hold its Q3 2024 results conference call and webcast for investors and analysts on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Element’s financial results for the period will be issued after market close on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 and will be available on the Company’s website at elementfleet.com/investor-relations/public-disclosures.

    The conference call and webcast can be accessed as follows:

    Call Date: Thursday, November 14, 2024
    Call Time: 8:00 a.m. (Eastern Time)

    Webcast:   http://www.elementfleet.com/thirdquarter2024 
    Telephone:   Click here to join the call most efficiently,
    or dial one of the following numbers to speak with an operator:
      Canada/USA toll-free: 1-844-763-8274
      International: +1-647-484-8814

    The webcast will be available on the Company’s website for three months thereafter. A taped recording of the conference call may be accessed through December 14, 2024 by dialing 1-855-669-9658 (Canada Toll Free) or 1-412-317-0088 (International Toll) and entering the access code 8023973.

    About Element Fleet Management Corp.

    Element Fleet Management (TSX: EFN) is the largest publicly traded, pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world, providing the full range of fleet services and solutions to a growing base of loyal, world-class clients – corporations, governments, and not-for-profits – across North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Element’s services address every aspect of clients’ fleet requirements, from vehicle acquisition, maintenance, accidents and remarketing, to integrating EVs and managing the complexity of gradual fleet electrification. Clients benefit from Element’s expertise as one of the largest fleet solutions providers in its markets, offering economies of scale and insight used to reduce fleet operating costs and improve productivity and performance. For more information, visit elementfleet.com/investor-relations.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New report shows improvements in air quality

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The latest report from the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) and Stats NZ, Our air 2024, reveals that overall air quality in New Zealand is improving, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds and Statistics Minister Andrew Bayly say.

    “Air pollution levels have decreased in many parts of the country. New Zealand is making measurable progress towards achieving the Government’s air quality targets,” Ms Simmonds says.

    “While there is still work to be done, the overall trend is positive. We are committed to continuing this progress to enhance the wellbeing of our communities.”

    The independent report, released as part of a regular three-yearly review, brings together recently updated Stats NZ indicator data, as well as insights from research literature.  

    The six refreshed air quality indicators, released by Stats NZ in September, reveal that pollutant concentrations decreased at most monitoring sites between 2016 and 2023. In some areas where air quality has improved, the data shows that pollutant levels still occasionally exceed the World Health Organization’s recommended guidelines.

    “The report shows that human activities, as well as environmental factors, such as temperature and winds, can impact air quality in some areas at certain times,” Ms Simmonds says.

    Key pollutants include fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), which have significant health effects. Burning wood for home heating is a major source of PM2.5, while the main source of NO2 is motor vehicles. Breathing these pollutants can cause a range of health issues.

    “Continued action to improve air quality is needed. These findings will help shape future decisions on air quality management, ensuring cleaner air for all New Zealanders” Ms Simmonds says.

    Mr Bayly emphasised the importance of the robust data gathering processes.

    “Our air 2024 is supported by independent experts, based on environmental data that have been quality assured and analysed. Access to high-quality data like this is crucial for informing targeted policy decisions that will enable us to meet our environmental targets,” Mr Bayly says.

    “The report provides important evidence which helps broaden our environmental data reporting system.”

    New Zealanders are encouraged to read and engage with the findings of Our air 2024 to gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between human activities, natural pressures, air quality and health. 

    Further information:

    • Review Stats NZ’s updated air quality indicators here 
    • Read Our Air 2024 here 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Crypto Security – Cryptocurrency crimes surge 4x as crypto-related SEC litigations boom in Q3

    Source: Finbold

    After a relatively slow start to 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission vastly increased the number of cryptocurrency-related complaints in the third quarter (Q3) of 2024.

    To be precise, Finbold Research found that the number of crypto-related litigations registered by the SEC quadrupled between Q2 and Q3 from 3 complaints to 12.

    Furthermore, September saw a particular uptick in activity as the month witnessed more cases than the entirety of Q1.

    Since January, the Commission also announced the conclusion of several high-profile cases. In March, it revealed it had obtained default judgment against Sameer Ramani – an insider-trading accomplice of Coinbase’s (COIN) former product manager.

    In mid-September, the SEC also revealed it had settled with FTX auditor Prager Metis, accused of severe negligence between February 2021 and April 2022.

    The regulator singled out the failure to detect the risks emerging from the links between the exchange and Alameda Research as particularly damning.

    Cryptocurrency-related cases involve a wide variety of crimes

    The cryptocurrency-related cases of 2024 feature a wide variety of alleged crimes, with unregistered securities offerings and sales remaining particularly common.

    Additionally, scammers have continued leveraging digital assets’ popularity to solicit investments, frequently misrepresenting their business and, sometimes, even taking money for completely fictitious investments.

    Still, as Andreja Stojanovic, a co-author of the research, pointed out:

    “Many of them are not truly lawsuits targeting the industry, as many involved other types of fraud that simply utilized cryptocurrencies’ popularity and reputation as lucrative – if risky – investment vehicles.”

    Indeed, despite the non-trivial number of digital asset cases announced by the SEC, they constitute only 9.21% of the 228 complaints reported by the Commission.

    Read the full story with statistics here: https://finbold.com/cryptocurrency-crimes-surge-4x-as-crypto-related-sec-litigations-boom-in-q3/

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road closed following crash, Marine Parade

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are currently attending a crash on Marine Parade, Napier, where a vehicle has struck a barrier. 

    While there are no injuries, there is traffic in the area and there are currently significant delays.

    The road is closed while Police work to clear the scene, with diversions in place.

    Please avoid the area if possible. 

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whitehorse — RCMP report the remains of a missing man have been located

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On September 16, 2024, a pickup truck pulling a trailer loaded with other vehicles went off the road into the Yukon River near the Lewes River Bridge. One male was able to exit the vehicle while the other male remained missing after the collision.

    On October 7, 2024, the missing male was located deceased in the Yukon River. The Yukon Coroner’s office is investigating and an autopsy has been ordered.

    Whitehorse RCMP would like to thank Yukon Search and Rescue and Whitehorse Fire Department for their support during the sustained search efforts.

    RCMP continue to conduct their investigation of the motor vehicle collision. For respect of the families involved and the integrity of the investigation, no further details will be released at this time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: BusinessNZ – ACC accounts under pressure

    Source: BusinessNZ

    Better claims management and more transparent levy-setting are needed to return ACC Accounts to financial health, BusinessNZ says.
    BusinessNZ’s submission on ACC’s levy-setting for 2025-28 notes that some ACC Accounts are currently underfunded, a situation which will lead to unjustified pressure on future levy payers.
    BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich says ACC needs to be adequately resourced to ensure injured people receive rapid and cost-effective treatment and rehabilitation where required while at the same time being responsive to levy payers to minimise overall costs.
    “While we understand why ACC is proposing levy increases across the various Accounts, many levy payers will not welcome the proposed increases – which will add further pressure on businesses, workers and motor vehicle owners during challenging economic times and cost-of-living pressures.
    “The Government is responding to the economic challenge by seeking to restrain core Crown operating spending and has called on local government to focus on ‘doing the basics brilliantly.’ We believe ACC should do likewise.”
    Mrs Rich says there’s concern at the fact that the Earners Account is currently only 90% funded, with a shortfall of $1.6 billion, and given proposed levy rates, will fall to only 67% funded in 10 years.
    “ACC legislation requires all Accounts to be fully funded to ensure they can meet the lifetime cost of current claims. We believe this legal requirement is currently not being met.
    “There is also concern at the longer-term trend of claim volumes rising faster than population growth.
    “We believe ACC should proactively improve systems for accepting, managing and monitoring claims, and should manage all Accounts transparently, without cross-subsidies.
    “It is important that the businesses, workers and vehicle owners contributing levies to the ACC Scheme have confidence that the Scheme is being funded and managed according to its statutory requirements,” Mrs Rich said.
    The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central, Business Canterbury and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Motor vehicle improvements are helping to reduce air pollutant emissions – Stats NZ media and information release: New Zealand’s environmental reporting series: Our air 2024

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Motor vehicle improvements are helping to reduce air pollutant emissions – 9 October 2024 – Improvements to the motor vehicle fleet are helping to reduce air pollutant emissions in Aotearoa New Zealand.

    That is one of the findings of the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) and Stats NZ’s latest three-yearly update about air quality in Aotearoa. Our air 2024 brings together recently updated Stats NZ indicator data, as well as insights from research literature. The report shows that air pollutant levels have decreased at most monitoring sites over the last eight years. However, some sites showed worsening air quality, while pollutant levels at sites where air quality improved were at times above levels in World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.

    MfE’s Deputy Secretary – Strategy, Stewardship and Performance, Natasha Lewis, says emissions from motor vehicles (as well as aviation, shipping and rail) were lower in 2019 than in 2012 for all monitored pollutants, except sulphur dioxide. “Air pollutants from motor vehicle exhaust emissions are reducing per kilometre as a result of vehicle emissions standards, lower-emissions vehicles and improvements in engine technology and fuel quality,” she says.

    Visit our website to read this news story and information release:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Iraq

    Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

    • Reviewed: 9 October 2024, 10:56 NZDT
    • Still current at: 9 October 2024

    Related news features

    If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

    Do not travel to Iraq including the Kurdistan region due to the volatile and unpredictable security situation, the ongoing threat of terrorism, violent extremism and organised crime (level 4 of 4).

    New Zealanders currently in Iraq despite our advice who have concerns for their safety are strongly advised to depart as soon as possible.

    Iraq

    As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Iraq, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens requiring consular assistance is severely limited. We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Iraq should consider.

    Security Situation
    The security situation in Iraq remains highly volatile and could deteriorate further, with little or no warning. The terrorist group Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant remains active in parts of the country, as do other violent extremist groups engaged in sectarian, ethnic and tribal violence and organised crime. Political instability, crime and corruption, and civil unrest are also common in Iraq.

    Terrorism
    There is a continuing threat of violent attacks across Iraq from terrorist groups. Suicide bomb attacks, roadside bombs, car bombs, rocket attacks, drone attacks and small arms attacks occur frequently. Thousands of people have been killed and injured in these attacks throughout Iraq.

    Attacks can occur without warning at anytime, anywhere in Iraq. Terrorists, violent extremists and both pro and anti-government militias continue to conduct frequent and lethal attacks on a wide range of targets in Iraq.

    Targets include Iraqi Security Forces, government offices, large public gatherings, places of worship, airports, sites frequented by foreigners and residential areas to maximise casualties. While attacks can happen at any time, there is a heightened threat during religious and public holidays. There is also a heightened threat of attacks against Western interests.

    While the security situation in the Kurdistan region is slightly different to the rest of Iraq, there remains a risk of attacks by terrorist groups. Terrorist groups remain active close to the Kurdish region and the security situation in the region could deteriorate quickly.

    Kidnapping/Crime
    Violent crime, kidnapping and corruption are widespread throughout Iraq. Organised criminal groups, militia and tribal groups pose a significant threat. Although violent crime does occur during the day, security conditions get much worse after dark.

    Kidnapping for ransom and hostage taking by extremists and militant groups for ideological reasons, political gain or ransom is a significant threat throughout Iraq. Over the past decade a large number of foreign nationals have been kidnapped in Iraq, including aid workers, security contractors, journalists and soldiers.  Many hostages have been killed or remain missing.

    Women and girls in particular may be subject to harassment or mistreatment. Some sectors of Iraqi society and institutions have been known to overlook allegations of domestic violence against women when it is committed by close family members.

    Civil Unrest
    Political rallies and protests happen frequently in Baghdad and Basra and to a lesser extent Erbil. They can turn violent quickly and have led to injury and death in the past. Political rallies and protests also present viable targets for terrorists.  Police may use tear gas, water cannons and live ammunition to disperse crowds. 

    New Zealanders in Iraq are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Comply with any instructions issued by the local authorities, including any curfews or vehicle bans. Monitor local and international media, review personal security plans and be aware of your surroundings. If unexpectedly in the vicinity of a protest or demonstration, exercise caution and leave the area quickly, find a safe location, remain indoors and follow any local advice.

    Security Forces
    Iraqi Security Forces and international coalition forces are engaged in an ongoing terrorist counter insurgency across central and northern Iraq. They also have a strong presence across the rest of Iraq and conduct targeted airstrikes against militants.

    Security restrictions like curfews and vehicle bans can be imposed at short notice.

    Security checkpoints are common place and often ad hoc, however false checkpoints have also been used to launch attacks, kidnapping, robbery and murder.

    Iraq has a large number of diverse security forces. They do not all enjoy cooperative relationships with one and other.

    Turkish and Iranian security forces have also been known to conduct military incursions targeting terrorist or militia groups across Iraq’s northern borders.

    Local travel
    Travel across Iraq can be extremely dangerous and there continue to be fatal attacks involving roadside bombs and small arms fire.

    There is also an ongoing threat from armed carjacking and robbery. Attacks happen during the day, but travelling at night is more dangerous.

    Domestic and international border crossings and Iraqi airports may close with little or no notice. Avoid travel to border areas as clashes, air strikes and other violent incidents are common. Sensitive border areas, especially with Syria and Turkey, are military targets.

    Piracy
    Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters, particularly in the northern Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Northern Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab El Mandeb regions. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For more information, view the International Maritime Bureaus’ piracy report. 

    Mosul Dam
    The Government of Iraq has taken and continues to take measures to improve the structural integrity of the Mosul Dam. A dam failure could cause significant flooding and disruptions to essential services from Mosul to Baghdad, along the Tigris River as well as areas adjoining the dam. A failure of the Mosul Dam cannot be predicted. Monitor local media reports and prepare contingency plans. 

    General Travel Advice
    Although homosexuality is not explicitly illegal under Iraqi law, people of the same sex who engage in consensual sexual acts may be prosecuted under other provisions of law, such as public indecency, and local attitudes towards LGBTQI+ people may be hostile. Violence, harassment and discrimination against LGBTQI+ people does occur, you are advised to exercise discretion.

    New Zealanders who decide to travel to Iraq are strongly encouraged to: 

    • Consult a reputable security company (with experience in Iraq) for advice on security arrangements. Security arrangements should be reviewed on a regular basis. Such measures may mitigate the risks to your safety but cannot eliminate them entirely.
    • Ensure that appropriate personal security protection measures are in place at all times including a robust contingency plan. The New Zealand government will not be arranging an evacuation for New Zealand citizens, should commercial options for departure cease.
    • Avoid areas of military activity at all times including border areas, as these areas are dangerous, often the target of military operations and not always clearly defined.
    • Have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. You should check that your travel insurance policy covers travel in Iraq – exclusions may well apply.
    • Be highly security conscious at all times, particularly in public places when travelling by road and close to government offices.
    • New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Iraq to avoid offending local sensitivities. 
    • Follow restrictions imposed by the local authorities and seek local advice on any changes to curfews. Exercise particular caution at checkpoints, a uniform is not a guarantee that the wearer is acting in an official capacity.
    • Monitor local developments closely through media and other information sources on possible new safety and security risks. Follow instructions from local authorities. Remain vigilant and alert to your surroundings.

    New Zealanders who decide to live or travel in Iraq against our advice are strongly advised to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    Travel tips

    The New Zealand Embassy Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates is accredited to Iraq

    Street Address Level 25, Suite 2503, International Tower, Capital Centre, Abu Dhabi, UAE Postal Address PO Box 62292, Abu Dhabi Telephone +971 2 496-3333 Fax +971-2-496-3300 Email nzembassy.abu.dhabi@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/united-arab-emirates Hours Mon-Wed 0900-1600, Thu 0900-1530, Fri 0900-1130 Notarial Services: By appointment only, please email to arrange Note Facebook: @nzembassyuae Twitter: @nzinuae

    See our regional advice for the Middle East

    Top of page

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Motor vehicle improvements are helping to reduce air pollutant emissions – Stats NZ media and information release: New Zealand’s environmental reporting series: Our air 2024

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Motor vehicle improvements are helping to reduce air pollutant emissions – 9 October 2024 – Improvements to the motor vehicle fleet are helping to reduce air pollutant emissions in Aotearoa New Zealand.

    That is one of the findings of the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) and Stats NZ’s latest three-yearly update about air quality in Aotearoa. Our air 2024 brings together recently updated Stats NZ indicator data, as well as insights from research literature. The report shows that air pollutant levels have decreased at most monitoring sites over the last eight years. However, some sites showed worsening air quality, while pollutant levels at sites where air quality improved were at times above levels in World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.

    MfE’s Deputy Secretary – Strategy, Stewardship and Performance, Natasha Lewis, says emissions from motor vehicles (as well as aviation, shipping and rail) were lower in 2019 than in 2012 for all monitored pollutants, except sulphur dioxide. “Air pollutants from motor vehicle exhaust emissions are reducing per kilometre as a result of vehicle emissions standards, lower-emissions vehicles and improvements in engine technology and fuel quality,” she says.

    Visit Statistics NZ’s website to read this news story and information release:

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police issue please for all road users to take responsibility

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Police issue please for all road users to take responsibility

    Wednesday, 9 October 2024 – 8:52 am.

    With four deaths on Tasmanian roads last week alone, police are pleading with all road users to slow down and take responsibility on our roads.Acting Inspector Justin Lawson, who is the State Road Safety Coordinator for Tasmania Police, said that over the past decade, Tasmania has faced a tragic toll from road crashes, with more than 3,000 people being seriously injured or killed on our roads.“These numbers mean that on average, 35 Tasmanians are dying from road trauma each year.“A total of 26 people have lost their lives on Tasmanian roads this year, with factors including speed, alcohol consumption, fatigue, and distracted driving continuing to feature strongly as contributors.“Sadly, another four people have died in the past week alone,” he said.“This compares to 25 fatalities at the same time last year. In addition, a total of 223 people have been seriously injured in 2024, compared with 242 in 2023.”Acting Inspector Lawson said that inattention and high-risk driving behaviour were the most common contributors to fatal and serious crashes, along with speeding, drink/drug driving, fatigue and not wearing seatbelts.“The devastating consequences of fatal and serious motor vehicle crashes extend beyond the immediate physical injuries – they ripple through families, friends, and communities, leaving long-lasting emotional and psychological scars,” Acting Inspector Lawson said.“Each incident represents a life altered, a family heartbroken, and a community left counting the cost.“We implore drivers not to become a statistic. We all have a choice when we get behind the wheel and we call upon all Tasmanians to join us in making our roads safer.“Whether you are a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist, your choices matter and can assist in reducing the number of crashes.”“We will continue to conduct targeted and random patrols on rural roads to curb high-risk behaviours like speeding, drink driving, inattention and not wearing seatbelts, because we know these factors overwhelmingly contribute to serious and fatal crashes on our roads.“We also encourage members of the public to report dangerous driving and traffic offending to police on 131 444, or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.”“You can also report dangerous driving through our website at https://www.police.tas.gov.au/services-online/dangerous-driving-report/”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to California Businesses and Residents Affected by the Boyles Fire

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to California businesses and residents affected by the Boyles Fire that occurred Sept. 8–11, announced Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman of the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA acted under its own authority to declare a disaster in response to a request SBA received from Gov. Gavin Newsom’s authorized representative, Director Nancy Ward of the California Office of Emergency Services, on Oct. 1.

    The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available in Colusa, Glenn, Lake, Mendocino, Napa, Sonoma and Yolo counties.

    “SBA’s mission-driven team stands ready to help California’s small businesses and residents impacted by the Boyles Fire,” said Administrator Guzman. “We’re committed to providing federal disaster loans swiftly and efficiently, with a customer-centric approach to help businesses and communities recover and rebuild.”

    “When disasters strike, our Disaster Loan Outreach Centers are key to helping business owners and residents get back on their feet,” said Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. “At these centers, people can connect directly with our specialists to apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to rebuild and move forward in their recovery journey.”

    “Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to businesses of all sizes, most private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters whose property was damaged or destroyed by this disaster,” continued Sánchez. “Beginning Thursday, Oct. 10, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the following Disaster Loan Outreach Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their application,” Sánchez added. The center will be open on the days and times indicated below. No appointment is necessary.

    LAKE COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Clearlake City Hall
    14050 Olympic Dr.
    Clearlake, CA  95422

    Opens 12 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 10

    Closed Monday, Oct. 14 in observance of Columbus Day

    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    Closes 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31

    Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.

    For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

    “SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” Sánchez said. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”

    Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

    Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.813 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

    Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to apply for property damage is Dec. 6, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is July 7, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update – search following serious crash, SH2, Waioeka

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Senior Sergeant Richard Miller, Acting Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander

    Police are continuing to monitor river conditions after the serious crash in Waioeka on Friday that has left one person unaccounted for.

    About 10.20am on 4 October, emergency services were alerted that a single vehicle had gone down a bank and into the Waioweka River, about 2.5km south of the Tauranga Bridge, on State Highway 2.

    Search and rescue teams, including a boat, helicopter and Coastguard jet skis continued sweeps of the river and riverbank on Friday. Unfortunately, the person and vehicle were unable to be located.

    Since that time, conditions on the river have remained dangerous; rain in the headwaters of the Opato and Waioweka has kept the river levels high, making it unsafe to enter the river.

    A jet boat has continued to make sweeps of the river each morning and afternoon, monitoring river flow, depth and clarity of the water.

    Police Search and Rescue and the Police National Dive Squad continue to assess all information available and will deploy as soon as conditions permit.

    Police and rescue agencies remain committed to returning their loved one to whānau as soon as it is possible.

    We urge people who might be considering undertaking their own search activity in the river to please refrain from doing so given the risks posed by the conditions.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: World first vehicles boost capability for NSW Ambulance

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 9 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Health

    NSW Ambulance will roll out eight specially designed vehicles known as Hazardous Area Rescue Ambulances (HARA), the first of their kind in the world, optimising response capabilities during natural disasters and in difficult terrain.

    Minister for Health Ryan Park said the community will benefit from the specialist capabilities of the HARA Mercedes-Benz Unimog vehicles, as part of a major $14.8 million funding package by the NSW Government to further build the state’s flood rescue capabilities.

    The HARAs are designed to drive through flood waters up to 1.2 metres and are equipped with safety features for operation in hazardous environments. The vehicles have also been made to operate around fire grounds, with the inclusion of a burn-over crew protection system, replacement of flammable components, and by wrapping critical vehicle infrastructure in fire-retardant material.

    The rear of the vehicle is a fully operational ambulance, with a specially designed stretcher loading system to assist paramedics in patient handling and for patient comfort.

    The HARAs are equipped with the latest technology and purpose-built features, improving the organisation’s capability to deliver the very best outcomes for patients.

    The vehicles have been purpose modified by NSW Ambulance to withstand harsh environments with enhanced safety features including a reinforced exoskeleton to protect paramedics and patients from falling trees.

    HARAs will be rolled out over the coming months, with the vehicles proposed to be strategically stationed at NSW Ambulance heavy rescue stations based in Tamworth, Rutherford, Cowra, Wagga Wagga and Bomaderry, as well as special operation team locations in Point Clare and Sydney.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:

    “I’m so pleased our Ambulance service will be the first in the world to get these vehicles.

    “These high-tech vehicles, will mean our world class clinicians will be even better prepared for any scenario they face – which could include floods or bushfires.

    “Once they’re rolled out these vehicles will be an invaluable addition to NSW Ambulance.”

    Quotes attributable to Member for Heathcote, Maryanne Stuart:

    “I am proud to join the Minister for Health, Ryan Park MP in Heathcote today and see these innovative vehicles ahead of the rollout. They are long overdue and I’m so appreciative that a Minns Labor government has delivered on these essential vehicles. 

    “They will ensure communities across Heathcote with our challenging landscape and right across NSW receive world-class care and will be an invaluable resource during natural disasters.”

    Quotes attributable to NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan:

    “The HARA vehicles are the first of their kind and an essential addition to our fleet giving clinicians greater access to patients during natural disasters, such as in fire grounds and floods.

    “The 4WD vehicles will be operated by our highly trained special operations paramedics and have been specifically modified by NSW Ambulance to withstand harsh environments.”

    MIL OSI News –