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newsbites · 8 months

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News from Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada, 27 August

Bob Barker, an icon of the entertainment industry, has passed away.

2. Historic Sites of NL is cutting the ribbon on a new art gallery.

3. The TCH has reopened near Clarenville Area Moose crash.

4. A Cain's Quest participant has passed away following an incident outside Québec Bar.

5. The walk in clinic at Mundy Pond is temporarily closed.

#MundyPondClinicClosure #TemporaryClosure #HealthcareUpdate #MedicalServices #Bar incident #Cain's Quest #fatality #Moose area #crash #TransCanadaHighway #art gallery #opening #Bob Barker #entertainment titan #RIP #The Price Is Right #icon

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newsbites · 9 months

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News from Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada, 21 July.

The Cedar Farmers Market in Nanaimo, British Columbia has seen an increase in visitors during the pandemic, with roughly 40% of attendees coming weekly or multiple times a month.

The market has attracted both locals and tourists, with local residents coming more frequently. The pandemic has also led to a change in mindset among shoppers, with a greater focus on the origin and quality of products. The market currently operates at Woodbank Elementary School with over 100 vendors, but there are plans to expand and operate year-round in a different location. A recent study led by a professor at the University of Northern B.C. named the Cedar Farmers Market as the top market in the province.

2. Reuse Rendezvous encourages residents to label their unwanted items as "FREE" and share them with others, promoting a more caring and sustainable community.

The event has gained popularity over the years, with approximately one-third of residents participating by either giving away or obtaining useful items.

While the event is intended to promote reuse, a significant amount of unusable waste is left behind when people fail to collect unclaimed items by the designated deadline.

3. The City of Parksville is implementing water restrictions to conserve water and protect critical infrastructure, such as sports fields and the Arboretum.

The reduced watering schedule and limited hours at the Parksville Community Park and water park are aimed at maintaining sanitary conditions while minimizing water usage.

The City is balancing the need to water certain areas, such as memorial trees and the off-leash dog park, with the goal of conserving water and meeting peak demand.

4. B.C.'s wildfire battle is shifting towards more populated southern areas due to hot and windy weather, while cooler temperatures and rain offer some relief in the north.

Unconfirmed reports suggest that homes have been lost to the out-of-control St. Mary's River fire near Cranbrook in southeast B.C.

Despite the arrival of additional firefighters and equipment, more rain is needed to help end the fire season and address the province's drought-level conditions.

5. High-quality air filters, such as HEPA filters, should be required in buildings, experts say, to improve indoor air quality and protect public health.

Poor indoor air quality in office buildings and schools can lead to health issues, absenteeism, decreased productivity, and strained relationships between employees and employers.

Current building codes and standards in Canada do not prioritize high-efficiency

6. The union and the federal mediator failed to reach an agreement, resulting in ongoing labour disputes at B.C. ports.

The brief strike by workers was deemed illegal due to insufficient notice, leading to their return to work.

The government's reluctance to enact back-to-work legislation has created uncertainty as the dispute continues.

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newsbites · 9 months

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News from Belize, 21 July

The Santa Rita Cemetery in Cayo District is at full capacity, with only reserved or pre-paid plots available for burials.

The municipality is seeking to purchase a 10-acre piece of land for a second cemetery, but they need to raise $50,000 as a down payment.

2. Despite reaching out to the government for assistance, the municipality has not received any support thus far.

A fire in Dangriga has left a man homeless after his home was completely destroyed.

The cause of the fire is unknown and under investigation.

Andre Garcia, the victim, is in need of assistance and can be reached at 602-4856.

3. The Fire Department has initiated a probe into the explosion that occurred in Neuland Community, Corozal District on Tuesday night, resulting in the tragic loss of an infant and a toddler.

4. There was a fire in the Shipyard Community, Orange Walk District on Monday. The Belize National Fire Service initiated an investigation into the matter and discovered that it was caused by a malfunction in the equipment used on a tanker truck transporting crude oil.

5. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is intensifying its efforts to combat cyber-criminals in the region by collaborating with member states. Today, the Ministry of Home Affairs, in conjunction with CARICOM's Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS), organized a meeting for the "Cyber-in-country Sensitization and Training 2023" project, funded by the European Union. The project aims to enhance capacity building in cybercrime prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution. The training will assist law enforcement agencies, the banking sector, and the judicial sector in addressing financial crime, cybercrime, and asset recovery.

6. Belize Agricultural Health Authority is remaining vigilant amid a New World Screwworm outbreak in Central America.

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Of note is that there has only been one case of the New World Screwworm outbreak in Costa Rica, where a dog was illegally imported from Panama.

7. In response to an increase in human activity in the Cooma Cairn area of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve in the western Cayo District, Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) inaugurated a new ranger outpost on Monday.

Over the past 14 months, FCD has dispatched rangers to support the Forest Department in monitoring activities, including forest fire incidents and bark beetle infestations. They are also monitoring the condition of the Upper Macal Watershed through public participation and research, as well as human activity in the reserve, which is the gateway to the Chiquibul National Park and has experienced increased human presence due to the upgrade of the Caracol Road in the area.

Thanks to the endorsement from the Forest Department, which allows FCD to use the building, and the financing from Bull Run Overseas Limited for the refurbishment costs, the refurbished Ranger Outpost is now operational. This building was previously occupied by the British Army Training and Support Unit Belize (BATSUB) and will now serve as the central hub for FCD's monitoring program in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.

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newsbites · 9 months

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News from Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada, 21 July

A man was spotted running in Carbonear with a rifle case, leading to a large police response and the establishment of a safety perimeter.

After an extensive search, an empty rifle case was found but no firearm.

The suspect was later located and taken into custody, but the investigation is ongoing to determine if a criminal offence has occurred.

2. The provincial government reports that 94% of eligible high school students have fulfilled graduation requirements.

High school transcripts are now accessible to students through the PowerSchool online portal.

Students seeking assistance with accessing transcripts can contact the High School Certification Office via phone or email.

3. The 50th anniversary of a devastating landslide in Harbour Breton will be commemorated, which claimed the lives of four children and brought significant changes to the town.

Heavy rain led to a destructive landslide, causing four houses to be swept into the harbor and resulting in the tragic deaths of the Hickey family's four children.

The aftermath of the disaster included the relocation of several homes and the implementation of a development ban in the landslide area, with a monument erected at the site to remember the victims.

4. The public is being warned about a fraudulent website claiming to offer driver's licenses in Newfoundland and Labrador in a short amount of time for a fee.

A valid driver's license can only be obtained from a Motor Registration office and these illegal products do not have the same high-level security features.

Residents are advised to never share personal or financial information on unknown or unsecure websites and should report any suspicious communication to local police.

5. Concerns persist over waterbomber staffing levels in the province, with only one crew currently available and one pilot scheduled for time off.

The province's fleet of five waterbombers has been reduced to just one operational aircraft since 2018.

NAPE President Jerry Earle warns that the province may struggle to respond effectively to potential fires without sufficient staffing for the remaining four planes.

6. Parks Canada has made the decision to close several rivers and brooks in Gros Morne National Park to fishing due to high water temperatures [per VOCM].

7. Officials in Labrador City are investigating the cause of dead fish washing up on the shoreline near the town's sewage plant.

The fish are covered in a heavy sludge and other items like used tampons have been found on the beach.

The town is working with provincial and federal governments to determine the cause of the fish deaths and prioritize saving the fish population.

8. Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are mourning the passing of legendary WWII veteran Rod Deon.

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newsbites · 9 months

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News from Namibia, 21 July

The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism in Namibia has issued an Environmental Clearance Certificate to Recon Africa for further oil and gas exploration in the Kavango Basin, despite controversy over the potential negative impact on the environment.

The approval of the certificate was done in accordance with national laws and regulations, ensuring that the project meets environmental standards and mitigates its impact.

Namibia recognizes the importance of balancing its energy sector development with its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change, and believes that the oil and gas industry can coexist with these goals.

2. The National Council has approved a bill that will bring poultry, pork, and dairy products under the same regulatory authority as meat in Namibia.

The amendments to the Meat Industry Act will allow the Livestock and Livestock Products Board to effectively manage the importation of dairy, pork, and poultry products and address legal challenges faced in the past.

The inclusion of poultry and dairy in the bill will benefit local producers and consumers by regulating these subsectors and leveraging the expertise and resources of the existing Meat Board.

3. The UK is implementing visa requirements on visitors from Namibia and four other nations over what it claims are concerns about abuse in the migration system, particularly through citizenship by investment schemes and fraudulent asylum claims.

Namibia and Honduras rank highest among non-visa nationals for asylum claims, contributing to operational pressures and diverting resources from other priorities.

The UK government's crackdown on migrants attempting to claim asylum includes the Illegal Migration Bill, which has faced criticism from UN human rights officials for potentially violating international law.

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newsbites · 9 months

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News from Australia, 20/21 July.

Senator Lidia Thorpe's Blak Sovereign Movement (BSM) has released her own pamphlet criticizing both the Yes and No campaigns in the upcoming referendum on the Voice to Parliament in Australia.

Do not be bullied by the Yes campaign and do not be intimidated by the racists. Do not let yourself be emotionally blackmailed. There are many good reasons to say No.

The BSM urges Australians to vote against the referendum, claiming that the Voice is "cheap window dressing" and a distraction from the real issues of truth-telling and recognition of Indigenous sovereignty.

The BSM argues that the Voice is powerless and would acquit the government of its continued crimes against Indigenous people.

They also criticize the government for ignoring other areas of reform and allowing worsening rates of suicide, incarceration, and out-of-home care for Indigenous children.

The BSM rejects the fear mongering from the No camp and claims that the proposed constitutional change is worded to ensure parliamentary supremacy and maintain the powerlessness of the Voice.

The BSM also criticizes the process that led to the Uluru Statement From the Heart, claiming it was top-down and did not represent the diverse views of First Nations communities.

2. The inaugural Ron Hurley Memorial Lecture, hosted by the Queensland College of Art, took place last night to honor the legacy of Ron Hurley, the first Aboriginal graduate of the Queensland College of Art and a respected figure in Indigenous communities.

The lecture featured a talk by prominent artist Gordon Hookey, who discussed both Ron Hurley's legacy and his own career, followed by a panel discussion led by Ron's daughter, Angelina Hurley, with emerging artists reflecting on the influence of those who came before them.

3. - Labor members have called on the Albanese government to withdraw from the AUKUS partnership, ahead of high-level talks between Australian and US ministers.

And, in a joint statement on Wednesday, Defence Minister Richard Marles and Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed they will meet with Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

#BlakSovereignMovement #VoiceToParliament #Referendum #NoCampaign #TruthTelling #IndigenousSovereignty #GovernmentCrimes #IndigenousRights #ConstitutionalChange #UluruStatement #RonHurley #IndigenousLegacy #GordonHookey #AngelinaHurley #AUKUS #AustraliaUSPartnership #LaborParty #HighLevelTalks #ForeignPolicy

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newsbites · 9 months

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News from Marseille, France, 20 July.

Access to five forest "massifs" in the French Riviera is now barred by the Var prefecture, starting from this Thursday, July 20. Located between Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer to the west of Toulon and Grasse to the east, the prohibited zone also includes forest massifs around the commune of Draguignan. An interactive map, regularly updated by the prefecture, is available until September to track the evolution of natural areas where access is not recommended or prohibited.

A heatwave is continuing to affect several regions in the northern hemisphere, with record temperatures being recorded in various countries, leading to wildfires and health concerns.

The extreme heat has resulted in a significant number of hospitalizations and emergency room visits, with the elderly and vulnerable populations being particularly affected.

July 2023 is on track to become the hottest July on record, with the heatwave impacting both ocean temperatures and land temperatures globally.

2. François Braun, former Minister of Health in France, has been replaced by Aurélien Rousseau, former director of cabinet for Élisabeth Borne.

Braun had been working on addressing issues in emergency services and had been advocating for better communication and organization to alleviate overcrowding.

During his year in office, Braun also tackled issues such as flu and bronchiolitis epidemics, shortages of certain medical specialties, and the training of nurses.

3. Brigitte Bardot, the iconic French actress, experienced breathing difficulties during the heatwave and received medical treatment at her home in Saint-Tropez.

Her husband revealed that Bardot's breathing was more laboured than usual but she did not lose consciousness, attributing it to the heat and her age.

Bardot, who retired from acting in 1973, is well-known for her animal rights activism and has faced controversy for her political views.

4. Marseille's metro will soon have 4G connectivity, with tests currently being conducted and expected to be operational by September 2023.

The project is being co-financed by Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile, with Bouygues Telecom leading the design and deployment of the network infrastructure.

The deployment of 4G in the metro faces challenges such as working underground, coordinating with maintenance and emergency exercises, and integrating with the new automated metro system.

Sports and Entertainment:

4. Olympique de Marseille's pre-season preparation includes a training camp in Germany and four friendly matches, with the final one being held at the Vélodrome against Bayer Leverkusen.

The squad for the training camp does not include Payet, but features both experienced players and young talents from the club's youth academy.

Marseille will face either Sturm Graz or TSC Bačka Topola in the UEFA Champions League preliminary round, with the draw taking place on July 24th.

5. TheFork Summer is offering promotions of up to 50% off in a selection of restaurants throughout France. 37 Marseille restaurants are participating. (TheFork.fr for details.)

6. The city of Toulon is welcoming visitors to the Mourillon beaches for game nights every evening during the summer season. Board games, role-playing games, and fun games await you until August 24 at the former site of the restaurant "La Plage," from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Entry is free and no reservation is needed. Suitable for ages 3 and up (per Radio Star).

7. Sunset Live is taking place in Marseille this weekend:

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newsbites · 9 months

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News from Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada, 20 July

Hullo, a new ferry service, will begin operating daily sailings between Downtown Nanaimo and Vancouver with up to seven round trips planned.

Fares for the ferry service start at $39.99 for a one-way trip, with discounts available for certain groups and pre-booking of round trips.

The two custom-built ships, spuhéls and sthuqi’, arrived in Nanaimo after completing certification and will be open for public tours on July 20th.

2. The BC Prosecution Service was unable to pursue charges against Craig Truckle in relation to a shooting at a homeless encampment along Terminal Ave in March this year owing to insufficient evidence and doubts about self-defense.

Inconsistencies in Smith's group's account of events and their lack of cooperation with police raised questions about their credibility.

The incident sparked public safety rallies in Nanaimo, highlighting concerns about repeat violent offenders and general safety in the area.

3. Vanessa Gove of Chilliwack pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention in a fatal single-vehicle crash that claimed her husband's life on Hwy. 19.

The crash occurred on September 24, 2021, when Gove's vehicle left the road, rolled, and landed upside down.

Gove's husband, a 35-year-old male passenger, was pronounced dead at the scene, while Gove herself was flown to the hospital for treatment.

4. Illicit fentanyl continues to be the driving force behind the toxic drug crisis, causing deaths across various communities and demographics in British Columbia.

Working-aged men constitute a significant majority of the victims, with 70% of all victims falling between the ages of 30 and 59, and 77% being men.

The province's pilot project to decriminalize certain drugs is facing skepticism, with concerns raised about its effectiveness in achieving the desired outcome of reducing drug-related fatalities.

5. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has expressed his concern about the ongoing labor dispute at British Columbia (B.C.) ports and the need to maintain stability in national supply chains.

The strike, which began on July 1 and lasted for 13 days, caused significant disruptions to operations at over 30 B.C. port terminals.

6. The BC Ferries vessel, the Coastal Celebration, is suspended due to repairs in dry dock, resulting in eight fewer sailings per day between Vancouver and the provincial capital, Victoria, on the Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay route.

The vessel has been experiencing issues with an ineffective blade seal, causing hydraulic oil leakage and the need for containment measures.

BC Ferries is unsure if the leak is related to recent maintenance work but is offering accommodations and refunds for affected customers.

7. BC Ferries' is also experiencing tight labour conditions. Its reliance on casual and seasonal positions, with employees expected to be on call 24/7, contributes to the difficulty in finding workers and establishing a reliable service.

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newsbites · 9 months

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News from Belize, 20 July

A tragic explosion in Neuland Village resulted in severe burn injuries and the loss of two young children.

The incident, involving a kerosene lamp, which may have been mistakenly filled with gasoline, had a profound impact on the affected family and the tight-knit Mennonite community.

Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the explosion and bring justice to those affected.

2. A pregnant woman was seriously injured and an elderly man was killed after a white Chrysler van knocked her down on George Price Drive, Dangriga Town.

3. The government and Belize Sugar Industries/American Sugar Refining (BSI/ASR) have agreed to proceed under the existing import/export requirements until the court proceedings over new Sugar Industry (License to Import/Export) Regulations, 2023—in which BSI/ASR are seeking an injunction against the new licensing requirements—have concluded.

4. Meanwhile, Belize Sugar Industries and American Sugar Refining (BSI/ASR) have recorded an increase in revenues for the farmers. According to BSI/ASR, this is the second highest the industry has seen since the year 2000.

5. Law enforcement has increased their visibility in the George Street vicinity to avert additional violence following the tragic death of a mother of two on Monday morning.

According to police, the shooting that resulted in the murder of 23-year-old Jasmine Domingo and left her 4-year-old daughter hospitalized was linked to an ongoing internal dispute among gangs in that locale.

Domingo's brothers, who are associated with the gang, were reportedly the intended victims, raising concerns of possible reprisals.

Today, Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, outlined the measures the department is taking to address gang-related violence in the area.

6. According to Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, the officer who shot Belize City fisherman, Kenyon Plunkett, is still on active duty.

Plunkett, 22 years old, was shot last week while riding on a motorcycle with another individual along Chetumal Street.

The police assert that the two men failed to comply with instructions to stop, resulting in the officer firing at Plunkett, hitting him in the elbow.

However, Plunkett's family has challenged these assertions, contending that the officer acted impulsively.

Today, Williams provided a status update and emphasized that the investigations are ongoing.

7. The National Crime Observatory reports that major crimes in the country during the first six months of this year have decreased compared to the same period last year.

Heinous crimes show a decline, but incidents of robbery have increased. Today, Commissioner of Police Chester Williams commented on the statistics, expressing satisfaction with the progress made so far, yet acknowledging the need for ongoing efforts.

He also noted that despite the factual data indicating a decrease in crime, the Leader of the Opposition maintains a different viewpoint.

8. There have been developments within the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU), where a faction of its members has been demanding proof of qualifications from their newly elected president, Ruth Shoman. The group's activities have now subsided, and President Ruth Shoman has resumed her regular duties.

Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner is among several government officials who have shown their support for Shoman.

9. The Yucatec Maya Women's Group in San Antonio Village is planning to expand their clothing project.

The Oxmul Farmers in the village face challenges with high input costs and lack of support.

Alex Balona, the Area Representative for Cayo Central, reaffirmed his commitment to improving the community of San Antonio.

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newsbites · 9 months

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News from Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada, 20 July.

Fuel prices in Newfoundland & Labrador have experienced minor fluctuations today, with gas seeing a slight decrease and diesel, furnace oil, stove oil, and propane witnessing slight increases.

The change in fuel prices includes a half-cent decrease in gas, while diesel, furnace oil, and stove oil have each increased by less than a cent, and propane has risen by almost two cents.

This update in fuel prices may impact consumers' budgets and expenses for transportation and heating purposes.

2. During the current heatwave, workers should be aware of the early warning signs of heat stress and take immediate action to rest and hydrate if experiencing symptoms.

Precautions such as using fans or air conditioning, wearing appropriate clothing, taking regular breaks, and staying hydrated can help reduce the risk of heat stress.

Creating shade and reducing physically demanding activities during peak temperature periods are additional measures that can be taken to protect workers from the heat.

3. The global shortage of pilots and spike in sick leave is seriously affecting the province's ability to respond to forest fires, with only one out of four airworthy water bombers available.

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😱The lack of available water bombers in Newfoundland and Labrador is a scary situation, as there is only one plane to cover a massive geography.

😰The pilots involved in the dangerous work of water bombing are described as extremely concerned and stressed, highlighting the potential risks and challenges they face.

🌧️The lack of available water bombers in Newfoundland and Labrador highlights the potential consequences of not having adequate resources to combat wildfires.

🔥With 89 fires burning and 22,000 hectares of forest affected, the situation in Newfoundland and Labrador is concerning.

💰A proposal for generous pay increases, potentially around 20 percent, for water bomber air crews is imminent, highlighting the importance of recognizing and compensating these essential workers.

4. The CEO of the Construction Safety Association emphasizes the importance of drivers being patient with flag persons during hot and humid summer days.

Workers in construction zones face both positive and negative situations, ranging from kind gestures to verbal and physical assaults.

Drivers have the power to impact a flag person's life in a significant way, so it is crucial to exercise patience to ensure their safety.

5. Metro police encountered resistance and assault while trying to arrest a woman in connection with a stolen vehicle.

The woman faces charges of possession of stolen property, resisting arrest, and assaulting a police officer.

Additionally, she was cited for driving without a valid driver's license.

6. A 20-year-old man has been arrested and charged with possession of a prohibited weapon after police responded to a tent in downtown St. John's.

A resident alleges that the tent was being used for cooking cocaine and selling crack, adding to existing safety concerns in the neighborhood.

The resident is calling on elected officials to take action and suggests starting a non-profit to push for change in the area.

7. RCMP on the Burin Peninsula are seeking a 36-year-old man named Tony Farrell on charges including dangerous driving, possession of stolen property, and resisting arrest.

8. A transport truck accident near the St. George's turnoff on the Trans Canada highway (TCH) resulted in two individuals being hospitalized.

The crash caused a fuel leak, leading to an extended closure of the highway for cleanup operations.

The accident occurred at around 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, causing significant disruption to traffic in the area.

9. The federal government will invest $38 million to expand the Port of Argentia, aiming to enhance cargo movement and accommodate larger vessels.

The expansion project includes the construction of berthing space, a roll-on roll-off ramp, and a significant increase in available dockside space.

The government expects the port's trade volumes to quadruple over the next three decades and recently designated it as a transit route and laydown yard for offshore wind turbine foundations.

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newsbites · 9 months

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News from southern Africa, 20 July

The top ten passports in Africa comprise countries from southern and southeastern Africa.

The top ten African passports in the Henley Passport Index are Seychelles, Mauritius, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Malawi, Kenya and Tanzania.

2. A suspected underground gas explosion near a minibus taxi rank in Johannesburg, South Africa, during rush hour, resulted in extensive damage, flipped cars, and injured at least nine people.

There are concerns of a second explosion and potential building collapses in the affected area, leading to the evacuation of residents.

The cause of the explosion is suspected to be gas, but the source is yet to be determined, and rescue efforts are ongoing amidst the danger of gas leaks.

3. Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be attending the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg and Sergei Lavrov will attend instead "by mutual agreement", according to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Earlier, Cyril Ramaphosa had declared that detaining Putin pursuant to an international arrest warrant would be seen as a declaration of war, prioritizing national security and avoiding potential conflict with Russia.

South Africa, as the chair of the BRICS group, aims to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict through peace talks led by African heads of state, but European leaders have rejected their peace mission.

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newsbites · 10 months

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News from Australia, 18 July

Constitutional expert Prof Greg Craven is furious at being quoted in the no campaign's essay and will complain to the Australian Electoral Commission.

Craven accuses the no campaign of misleading conduct and criticizes their essay as embarrassing, while prominent yes campaigners slam it as cooked and filled with misleading information.

The no essay includes quotes from Craven that oppose the voice, despite him publicly supporting it, leading to accusations of misleading and disreputable tactics.

2. Labor plans to scrap the policy that strips government subsidies and loans from university students who fail half their subjects.

The interim review of the university system highlights inequality in higher education and the need to address student safety and staff underpayments.

The government aims to increase university enrolments and boost participation from disadvantaged backgrounds to meet the future skills challenge.

More on this:

The majority of Australians will have a university degree in the next 15 years, emphasizing the increasing demand for educated workers. The Australian government recognizes the need for changes in the university system to make it more accessible to students from various backgrounds, including those from outer suburbs, regions, poor backgrounds, students with disabilities, and Indigenous students. The government has outlined immediate actions to address these challenges, such as abolishing the 50% pass rule, increasing funding for First Nations students, establishing additional Regional University Study Hubs, and providing support for universities to improve governance.

3. The Federal Court in Australia has ruled that the government's plan to build a nuclear waste dump on the land of the Barngarla people in South Australia cannot proceed.

The court found that there was "apprehended bias" and "pre-judgment" by the former resources minister, Keith Pitt, in deciding on the location of the facility.

The Barngarla Determination Aboriginal Corporation (Bdac) had challenged the decision, arguing that the minister had already made up his mind before the formal declaration.

The Barngarla people celebrated the court's ruling, stating that it was a victory for listening to and respecting First Nations people.

The government had spent nearly $14 million in legal costs fighting the Barngarla people's opposition.

Environmental campaigners argue that the waste should be kept at the Lucas Heights facility in Sydney instead.

The current resources minister, Madeleine King, said she would review the ruling.

4. July is bowel cancer awareness month in Australia. The National Cancer Screening Register (NCSR) is a digital platform that aims to increase participation in screening programs for bowel and cervical cancer.

5. A new report has found that more Australians are living alone than ever before. Based on the latest census data, the Australian Institute of Family Studies report found more than one in four households, 26% are now occupied by one person. The average Australian household has shrunk from 2.6 people in 2016 to 2.5 people in 2021, the first decrease in household size since the year 2000. Those living alone are mostly women at 55%, with half the women living alone aged 65 years or older. The report also found that Australian households are more diverse, with more than 1/3 their immigrant households and increasing proportions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders [per Nirs News/Triple A | Murri Country].

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newsbites · 10 months

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News from Marseille, France, 18 July

"La ville de Marseille a décidé de proscrire les cigarettes de toutes ces plages jusqu'à la fin de la saison balnéaire."

The city of Marseille has decided to ban cigarettes from local beaches until the end of the tourist (lit "bathing") season [per Radio Star].

2. French President Emmanuel Macron has decided to retain Elisabeth Borne as prime minister, maintaining stability in his government amid calls for a reshuffle.

Borne, who has been criticized for lacking charisma but praised for fulfilling Macron's campaign promises, is likely to make only minor adjustments to her cabinet.

Macron's decision to keep Borne in her position indicates his focus on drafting comprehensive policies to address recent riots, rather than opting for immediate changes in leadership.

3. The Var prefecture is recruiting 2 apprentices to the sub-prefect in charge of the economic and political issues of the city.

4. Starting next school year, the announcements in the Marseille metro will be translated into Provençal, adding a local touch and cultural flair.

The idea was proposed by Jean-Michel Turc, a Provençal language professor and local councilor, who plans to extend the use of Provençal to the tramway network as well.

This initiative highlights the unique cultural identity of Marseille and sets it apart from other metropolitan cities like Paris.

5. Marseille is in negotiations with Chelsea to sign Gabonese player Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who is interested in the Marseille project and willing to reduce his salary to join.

Meanwhile, a move to Marseille for international Senegalese striker Iliman Ndiaye appears to be on the brink of collapse.

6. The owner of a renovated apartment in Marseille is testing the short-term rental market by listing it on Airbnb at an exceptional price of €550 per night during the upcoming Rugby World Cup matches at the Vélodrome stadium.

7. The 98th edition of the Foire Internationale de Marseille will be held from September 22 to October 2, 2023, with a focus on the theme of the sea.

The fair will feature around 1,000 exhibitors showcasing various products and activities related to the sea, fashion, gastronomy, innovation, street food, and craftsmanship.

Tickets can be purchased in advance online, with discounts available, and there will also be evening events and a nocturnal closing time of 23:00.

8. "Et n'oubliez pas le Radio Star Live, le vendredi 29 Septembre, avec une programmation exceptionnelle."

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newsbites · 10 months

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News from Vancouver Island, BC, Canada, 18 July

A teenager in Nanaimo, Canada, has been sentenced for assaulting another youth with bear spray.

The incident occurred on a public bus when the victim was ordered to remove his jacket, leading to an altercation. The teenager, who was known to the police and judicial system, hit the victim with a baton before using bear spray on him.

The teenager was caught with bear spray again a few weeks later and was on probation at the time.

The prosecutor mentioned that there is a concerning problem with the use of weapons, particularly bear spray, among young people in Nanaimo.

The defense attorney blamed the teenager's poor choice of friends and enabling adults for his behavior.

The teenager's behavior improved after living with a family friend who provided housing outside of Nanaimo. The judge praised the family friend for their support.

2. The Nanaimo Systems Planning Organization (SPO) is working to find homes for those in need and prevent homelessness through coordination, diverse housing options, and community engagement.

Approximately 6,000 residents in Nanaimo are living on the edge of homelessness, with a 20% increase in homelessness from 2020, highlighting the urgent need for housing solutions.

The Nanaimo SPO is collaborating with community stakeholders to address the housing crisis, including Island Health, BC Housing, and the Snuneymuxw First Nation.

3. Daily closures are taking place on Hwy. 4 at Cameron Lake to allow for rock scaling work, temporarily disrupting the only highway link connecting Tofino, Ucluelet, and Port Alberni to the rest of Vancouver Island.

Westbound and eastbound traffic will be permitted for one hour each day, with the highway closing again in the afternoon and reopening for single-lane alternating traffic in the evening and overnight.

These closures are expected to continue until mid-August, aiming to fully reopen the highway and ensure the safety of motorists.

4. The British Columbia coroner has released a public safety advisory regarding wildfire smoke after verifying that a nine-year-old boy's death was exacerbated by the smoke.

According to the coroner's report, Carter Vigh from 100 Mile House tragically passed away due to a medical condition aggravated by the hazardous smoke. This devastating loss has deeply impacted his family and the entire community.

5. The chief of a municipal police force in Metro Vancouver is criticizing British Columbia's drug decriminalization policies as ineffective in addressing the ongoing overdose crisis.

The early evaluation of the decriminalization policy shows that it has not led to the desired outcome of reducing overdose deaths.

The number of overdose deaths in the province closely resembles the figures from the same period last year, indicating the lack of impact from the decriminalization policy.

6. The Powerball lottery jackpot in the U-S has climbed to one-billion dollars while Canada's Lotto Max lottery jackpot for tonight has grown to 70-million-dollars.

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newsbites · 10 months

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News from Belize, 18 July

A young mother of two was tragically killed and her 4-year-old daughter injured in a shooting incident at their home in Belize City.

The shooting is believed to be the result of an internal feud within the George Street gang, and the victim, Jasmine Domingo, was not the intended target.

Domingo's 4-year-old daughter was shot and is stable, but her parents were killed in separate incidents of gun violence, leaving her and her little brother without parents.

The incident highlights the ongoing issue of violence and crime in Belize City.

2. A resident of San Estevan Village lost his life in a road traffic incident involving a motorcycle and a pickup truck.

The motorcyclist, Edwin Ismael Ramirez, lost control and swerved into the oncoming pickup truck, resulting in the accident.

This incident adds to the tragic history of accidents in the Ramirez family, with one brother already in a wheelchair and another now deceased.

3. A hit-and-run incident in the Orange Walk District resulted in the death of a 34-year-old man and injuries to another person.

The victim's family is seeking justice for their loss and is urging the public to help identify the perpetrator.

The incident involved a white pickup truck hitting a cyclist and a separate motorcycle accident shortly after.

4. Prime Minister John Briceno left the country today enroute to Brussels, Belgium where he will the European Union – Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (EU-CELAC) Summit 2023.

5. The inauguration of a new police station in Seine Bight Village highlights the importance of ensuring the safety of Belizean citizens and tourists.

The collaboration between the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Belize Tourism Board aims to address crime issues and create a safer environment in the Placencia Peninsula.

The government's efforts, along with the leadership of Inspector Martinez, have led to a significant reduction in major crimes in the region.

6. The National Fire Service is implementing a new recruitment process for firefighter volunteers, which includes releasing those who did not complete high school and requiring them to further their education to rejoin.

The aim of this revamp is to ensure a higher level of education and qualifications among firefighters.

The Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Disaster Risk Management, Dr Kenrick Williams, explains that this change is driven by the need for a more skilled and competent fire service.

7. Belize City Fire Service has been in Marion Jones Sporting Complex for two years. A promised new station on Chetumal Street has been delayed and firefighters will stay at Marion Jones a little longer.

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newsbites · 10 months

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News from Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada, 18 July.

A 64-year-old man from St. John's was killed in a two-vehicle crash involving an SUV and a motorhome in the Goulds area of St. John's.

The driver of the motorhome, a 58-year-old woman, was seriously injured and taken to the hospital.

The police are urging anyone with dash cam footage of the area prior to the crash to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.

2. A 77-year-old man died in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on the TCH near Soldier's Pond.

The driver was the only person involved in the accident and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The investigation is ongoing, and the office of the chief Medical Examiner has been notified.

3. A driver is without their motorcycle after being caught traveling nearly twice the speed limit. RNC clocked the machine going 173 km/h in a 90 km/h zone on Robert E Howlett Memorial Drive. The driver was ticketed and the motorcycle seized.

4. A man has been arrested after an unusual incident in downtown St. John's last night. A drunken man jumped into the back seat of a passing convertible. RNC located the vehicle charged the 24 year old with causing a disturbance, resisting arrest, assaulting a peace officer, breach of court orders and breach of probation. The man was released with a future court date [per VOCM].

5. Holy Trinity High in Torbay has suffered significant damage from vandalism, including broken windows and graffiti.

The estimated cost of the damage is around $10,000, which the English School District will cover for necessary repairs before the school year starts.

The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) is currently investigating the incident and will be monitoring the area to prevent future vandalism.

6. Politicians are expressing concerns about the limited availability of water bombers in Newfoundland and Labrador, leaving the province vulnerable to wildfires.

The shortage of aircraft and crews is exacerbated by the high volume of wildfires outside the province, making it unlikely for other provinces to provide assistance.

The union which represents forestry firefighters, says the province would not have the capacity to properly respond to a situation which developed in central Newfoundland last year. NAPE president Jerry Earle says only one water bomber was available on the weekend, but government waited too long to address concerns raised by the union about a shortage of aircraft pilots and ground crews. He says recruitment and retention of the water bomber fleet should have been put to bed before the fire season not during [per VOCM].

The government should consider increasing compensation for pilots and adopting more flexible policies regarding their time off.

7. Earlier this month, a dog in Quebec was rescued after being left outside in a crate for 48 hours during a heat wave.

Now, a local veterinarian in St John's wants to make sure that people are going about things the right way.

For some dog owners, the first instinct may be to pour icy cold water on their dogs or lay a really cold towel across them. However, veterinarian Maggie Brown Berry warns against this and says that it may do more harm than good.

She explains that dogs don't cool themselves down like humans. They cool down by panting. They also have sweat glands on their paws. The problem is when people suggest sort of going for freezing cold or ice being applied to the the dogs that they think are overheating is that actually causes the small skin vessels on the surface to shrink and move the heat more internally. So they might feel cooler on the surface, but internally there's still overheating. So it kind of can definitely make the situation worse. It also can be bad to bring their body temperature down too quickly. [Per VOCM].

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newsbites · 10 months

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News from Australia, 17 July.

Redfern Legal Centre has filed a new NSW Supreme Court application to cancel a COVID-related fine, arguing that it is invalid.

The Court previously deemed two COVID fines invalid, leading to the rescinding and refunding of over 33,000 fines, and Redfern Legal Centre believes that the remaining 29,000 fines are also invalid.

Redfern Legal Centre criticizes Revenue NSW for not withdrawing more fines and highlights the disproportionate issuance of fines to communities with a high proportion of First Nation populations and low socio-economic areas.

2. NSW can close Australia's largest coal power station on time in 2025 by accelerating the deployment of rooftop solar and utility-scale wind and solar projects, securing supply, lowering prices, and driving decarbonization of the industry.

Delaying the closure of Eraring would require significant public subsidies and undermine climate policies and renewable energy targets.

The report calls for increased investment in renewables, raising the 2030 renewables target to at least 70%, supporting rooftop solar installations in social housing and public schools, and expediting approvals for utility-scale renewable projects to meet closure timelines and ensure energy affordability, reliability, and emissions reduction.

3. Consulting giant Deloitte faced criticism for refusing to disclose the government department involved in a breach of confidential information, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.

Deloitte reported only one misconduct case to regulators out of 121 substantiated cases, highlighting potential gaps in reporting and oversight.

Former competition chief Alan Fels called for the breakup of big consultancy firms and a ban on political donations to address conflicts of interest and ensure better governance.

4. On the ninth anniversary of the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17, Australians have been remembering the 298 lives lost, including 38 Australian victims, and their loved ones.

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