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If you control the media, you can control the message. What do presidents Putin and Xi have in common? They control the message in their countries; there is no free speech, only that which acceptable to the state.

But Russia and China also are experts in cyber-activity and have been implicated in trying to influence election results in democratic countries. What if they are trying to manipulate the media in the west for other reasons?

Mr. Putin sentimentally writes about the historical unity of Russians and Ukrainians, to make it sound as if those two countries wish for a union; that he has no plans for a forced takeover. Mr, Xi has aspirations for the reunification of Taiwan, also claiming historical links.

But what if someone is planting different messages, not about the Ukraine or Taiwan, but of Hillary Clinton eating babies or Justin Trudeau faking his vaccination for TV?

Free speech is one of democracys greatest strengths but it also may be one of its greatest weaknesses. Should anyone be able to say whatever they want, whether true or not? Perhaps someone is trying to undermine our democracy and economy to divide us.

Would Russia be happy to see discord within NATO as it amasses an invasion-size force on Ukraines borders? Would China be emboldened towards Taiwan if it felt there was confusion among Taiwans friends? Would segments within the U.S. push for industries to build in the that country because Canada can no longer be trusted to be a stable trading partner?

Who are those anonymous supporters of the Freedom Convoy and what are their motives? Is it for freedom?

This is my conspiracy theory.

Paul Szak, Brantford

Re: With coyote sightings rising, city seeks to get handle on problem (Feb. 11)

The article advises to not leave birdseed around and to cover garbage cans so as not to attract coyotes and and other creatures.

Ironically, the city is implementing a green bin collection program ( yes, I understand the reason for this ) for food scrapes. So, dont be surprised when you get more than coyotes visiting.

Steve Whines, Brantford

Re: Think of others (Letter, Feb. 10)

It seems to me that the letter writer is saying that we should suspend the freedoms of other people for the good of his own health.

I think this is problematic both from an ethical and a legal standpoint.

Werner BroschinskiPrinceton

I am writing to pronounce my whole-hearted support for the end to mandates. Inspired by the Freedom Convoy, I demand an end to all mandates and suggest truckers turn their attention to the mandates that affect them most directly.

Stopping at stop signs is a mandate that slows truckers and costs them money, as do speed limits. Stop signs must be removed, speed limits abandoned. For that matter, requiring a licence to drive is a mandate and infringes on my freedom. Hold the line!

Bob Gordon

Brantford

The rest is here:
Letters to the editor - Brantford Expositor

Social media can be both a friend and a foe during a crisis, and identifying the line between them is harder than it sounds, says Shane Henry, CEO and Founder of Reconnaissance Group

Can you give an overview of what the Reconnaissance Group is?

At Reconnaissance, we specialize in the provision of security risk management services and organisational resilience consultancy. Our headquarters are in Dublin, but we have operated globally since 2006, successfully building a workforce of 1,600 people across multiple and diverse markets such as Ireland, the US and Haiti, in addition to providing project consultancy across Central America and the Pacific Islands. Given the geographical spread of our business and each markets unique specific requirements, we have been fortunate enough to build an incredibly strong and well-experienced team focused on protecting our clients people, assets and brand.

How did the idea for the Reconnaissance Group come about?

As a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) deployed overseas with the Irish Defence Forces, I began part-time studies in security risk management. This sparked a deep interest in risk and how it shapes our world on practically every level. In 2006 I decided to finish my military career and move forward with forming a company in the security sector and have since worked and consulted in over 30 countries personally. From an academic perspective, over the years I would go on to complete a Diploma in Business Continuity and a Master of Science in Organisational Resilience. More importantly, I have been extremely fortunate in building a fantastic team within the business, that comes from a wide array of backgrounds and experiences with a sharp collective focus on our clients needs. Something I take great pride in is our focus on professional development, in addition to obvious job-specific training, we also run educational support programmes for our team to take up third level education, whether it be degree or master level studies.

For you, what does crisis management mean?

In traditional terms, crisis will often mean a level of disruption to normal business operations, and as such it follows crisis management is the attempt to limit this disruption. However, putting aside best practices or international standards I think crisis and the management of crisis can be a subjective issue, and this can present challenges for organisations as a crisis evolves. It is clear that right now, organisations in every sector are operating in the most complex and dynamic business environment we have ever seen. A case in point is the speed at which we communicate, which can act as a great enabler for crisis management while equally being an Achilles heel in crisis response. I think good crisis management is the organisations desire and willingness to protect all stakeholders, whether they be employees, customers, shareholders or local communities. I have been fortunate enough to see how this stakeholder approach can deliver better results over the medium to long term as opposed to focusing solely on the immediate financial implications of the crisis.

What role does the Reconnaissance group play in advising clients on crisis management?

Our role can vary quite a lot from client to client and indeed across our markets. For example, we have a strong footprint across the Caribbean and each of the past 5 years has seen us deploy support teams in the aftermath of hurricanes. These teams will often focus on security and logistics, but also work in a support and consultative capacity to our clients local leadership. The role leaders play during a crisis can be a lonely existence and they are often not provided the leeway that other people in the organisation are given. We provide that independent view and support to leaders that are in the middle of trenches. In contrast, we consult a lot in organisational resilience in the US, allowing us to guide organisations in creating a more sustainable approach to managing crises. From the perspective of organisational resilience we accept that crisis will occur, so instead focus on creating a culture within the organisation that can adapt quickly and look to thrive as the crisis presents opportunities.

In your opinion, what are the current challenges facing your clients today?

Again I would suggest this differs across our markets. For example, in Ireland, GDPR is still a significant discussion point as organisations grapple with their data management, all while climate change is clearly impacting regions such as the Caribbean. In the US, the political scene over the past decade certainly is a hot topic and one that will intensify as we draw closer to mid-term elections in November. Looking to the future, I feel the two key challenges facing us are the fallout from geopolitics as global power evolves and the colossal challenges facing society from the climate crisis.

How does Reconnaissance Group work with clients to develop their crisis management strategies?

The ideal scenario is actually working with clients prior to any crisis with a view to developing their organisational resilience. From this perspective we will help our clients develop resilient cultural traits while focusing on developing processes within four key areas; preparedness, responsiveness, adaptability and learning.

Are there are any previous crises that you still reference today when developing risk and crisis management strategies?

Perhaps the most significant crisis we faced as a business, and as an employer, was the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. It was a very complex response for us, as we had to continue providing our security and logistics services to our clients in Haiti, who were all in crisis mode themselves, while equally dealing with the crisis as it unfolded for our people. The stakeholder-focused response adopted by our clients certainly proved itself in the years after, and forms the basis of how we view crisis management to this day.

What roles does social media play in crisis management for your clients?

I think social media can be a friend and a foe during a crisis, and often not equally balanced between either. Having a clear crisis communication strategy is critical from the outset and I would argue that developing a mechanism for having one version of the truth should be a top priority. Organisations will live or die based on how they communicate during a crisis so preplanning this activity and keeping a very watchful eye on it is crucial. Crisis communication is an expertise in itself and should be recognised and invested in as such.

What impact does crisis and risk management have on the wider industry?

The reality is crisis impacts every industry, case in point is the ongoing supply chain issues as an outcome of the pandemic, likewise, the escalation of the current Ukrainian crisis will likely see Russia subject to heavy sanctions at the least.

How does Reconnaissance Group help clients overcome unforeseen crises?

Again, our focus is on developing resilience within the organisation. The more resilient an organisation can become the more likely it is to adapt during the crisis whilst being able to quickly innovate post-crisis. If we are brought in during the crisis we focus on supporting people. In our experience supporting people is critical to successfully navigating a crisis. Quite often, this support is focused on supporting the leadership team to act as a reality or navigation check as they develop the decisions within the response activities.

Shane Henry is CEO and Founder of Reconnaissance Group. To learn more, visit http://www.reconnaissancegroup.com.

About Reconnaissance Group

Reconnaissance Group is a global risk management company that provides specialized security and business continuity services, uniquely designed to suit individual company requirements. The team originates from highly trained and diverse military, police, security, legal and business backgrounds, to provide a wealth of experience and qualifications across all areas. The organisation provides expert specialised security services to a portfolio of global clients including the Marriott Hotel Group, the Andrew Grene Foundation in Haiti, and many more. Established in 2006 by Irishman Shane Henry, the company comprises 1,000 5,000 employees across Ireland, Haiti and the United States. For more information please visit http://www.reconnaissancegroup.com

Read more here:
Risk Management: A balanced approach - Global Banking And Finance Review

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is working with the Grains Research and Development Corporation to back grains research in Western Australia and is seeing growers reap the results through the States record harvest.

DPIRD grains researchers will be presenting some of their latest findings at the upcoming 2022 Grains Research and Development Corporation's Grains Research Updates. The Updates will be held as a virtual event over six days kicking off next week on 21-22 February and continuing through March.

DPIRD grains director Kerry Regan said scientific research was the key to helping growers adapt to produce better crops, increase profitability and export competitiveness, and in turn support regional economies and communities.

The departments scientists and researchers are working across a broad range of areas developing innovative cropping technologies and management practices tailored to WAs unique growing conditions, Ms Regan said.

Growers are using this information on crop and soil management strategies and new technologies to increase returns on investment in their farm business.

Ms Regan said building scientific, industry and export capacity of the States grains industry was vital to building resilience and profitability into the future.

We have just seen another record harvest with growers delivering 24 million tonnes of grain. This couldnt be achieved without the innovative research to underpin it, Ms Regan said.

Continuing to look at how we can do things better, how technology can be applied, what is the impact of climate change, market variability and the information growers are asking for is vital.

Collaboration on research and development that drives innovation and international competitiveness is also important.

An emerging imperative is to respond to the environment, social and governance standards that are rapidly emerging in international and domestic markets, including the requirement to account for greenhouse gas emissions.

We are working closely with universities, CSIRO, private companies, interstate agencies, consultants, growers and grower groups to link innovation from the lab to the paddock to the market.

Grains Research Updates are a great example of collaboration between key industry partners and provides a fantastic platform for our researchers to share their work and how it will benefit grain growers.

Eighteen department researchers will present over the six days across a wide range of topics, including plenary sessions on carbon neutral grain farming by 2050, managing risk versus potential in wheat crops, optimising fertiliser applications and a panel session on fertiliser strategies in response to higher prices.

Breakout sessions will cover nitrogen in legume crops, crop protection focusing on bacteria and grain yields linked to frost, electric weed control, spraying for yellow spot in wheat, seeding rates and ryegrass in canola crops, winter wheats for the WA environment, pre-harvest sprouting management and tips for canola establishment.

For more information and to participate in the Grains Research Updates 2020 visit the GRDC Updates and events page.

Media contact:

Katrina Bowers/Megan Broad, media liaison +61 (0)8 9368 3937

Link:
DPIRD backing grains research and development in Western Australia - Government of Western Australia

The media revelled in Liverpools 2-0 win away to Inter Milan in the Champions League, with certain individuals receiving special praise.

Jurgen Klopps men produced a strong away performance on Wednesday night, riding a few waves of Inter pressure but ultimately getting the job done in the space of eight minutes.

Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah scored Liverpools goals at the San Siro, before seeing the game out with consummate ease.

The Reds are now firm favourites to reach the quarter-finals, as an unprecedented quadruple still remains possible, if unlikely.

Heres a look at how the media reacted to Liverpools victory.

Goals Neil Jones felt Liverpool got the job done in professional fashion:

At the final whistle, Simone Inzaghi looked like a man whod just had his lunch money stolen. No wonder.

Liverpool have one foot in the Champions League quarter-finals, while Inter find themselves halfway out the door.

And it all seemed to happen in the blink of an eye. For five-sixths of this last-16, first-leg clash, a cigarette paper wouldnt have separated the two teams.

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If they can win like this when playing like this, imagine what they can do when they really click.

Melissa Reddy of the Independent enjoyed the gritty style of victory, too:

Simone Inzaghi would have been dismayed, but not dumbfounded. Inter Milans coach predicted such an ending back in December when the Champions League last-16 draw was made.

Teams like Liverpool have something more, he mused. They always give you the idea that youre in it, that you can score a goal. Instead, they punish you.

It was all shaping up for an Inter triumph, persistent pressure blended with winning the duels, but then Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah breached their defence eight minutes apart to enact Inzaghis prophecy.

Football365s Matthew Stead felt Inter matched Liverpool in general, but the visitors ruthlessness shone through after the substitutions:

The hosts gave a phenomenal account of themselves, from Milan Skriniar keeping pace with Virgil van Dijk in the ludicrously imperious defensive stakes, to Arturo Vidal inhaling the vaguely chaotic nature of this bout and using it to sustain his lifeforce. Ivan Perisic and Hakan Calhanoglu might similarly be wondering what more they could have done.

But they are not Liverpool and Simone Inzaghi is not Jurgen Klopp. As good as he and his team are, they faced and fell to a ruthless machine that bounced off the ropes to land two knockout blows.

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For so long it was Inter who had the best of it, but Klopps substitutions swung the game. The introduction of Luis Diaz, Jordan Henderson and Naby Keita on the hour, combined with Inters reluctance to make any such change, reinvigorated Liverpool.

It came at a time when they really ought to have been behind on the balance of play. But Henderson and Keita helped reestablish midfield control, while Diaz was a livewire.

Martin Samuel of the Mail lauded Klopps tactical nous in the second half:

Scorers get the headlines but, make no mistake, this was Jurgen Klopps triumph.

He is not a man for dramatic gestures mid-game. Dramatic emotions on the touchline maybe, but Klopp is not one of those managers who makes flurries of changes, or embarrasses a player by hooking him after 20 minutes.

So when he makes a substitution after 45 minutes, and three at once 15 minutes later, something must be wrong. And something was going terribly wrong for Liverpool in the San Siro on Wednesday night.

They were pinned back, overrun. They couldnt breathe such was Inter Milans second-half pressure. So Klopp acted. He ditched Sadio Mane for Luis Diaz, brought Jordan Henderson and Naby Keita into the overwhelmed midfield. And he changed the game. Suddenly, Liverpool were out of their half, giving as good as they got.

The Telegraphs Jason Burt focused on Firminos continued importance:

There is so much understandable talk of a changing of the guard along Liverpools frontline with the arrival of Luis Diaz and the blossoming of Diogo Jota that it is forgotten what a decisive performer Roberto Firmino can still be.

The Brazilian appears to have lost his place in the famed attacking trident, for the big games at least, but he emerged after half-time to replace the injured Jota and make the vital breakthrough in the first leg of this Champions League tie which was actually in danger of running away from Liverpool.

The Mirrors Freddie Keighley was impressed with Virgil van Dijk:

Jurgen Klopp declared Virgil van Dijk is back to his best after Liverpools 1-0 victory over Burnley on Sunday, and the Dutchman proved it once again in the Lombardy capital.

Van Dijk was hugely impressive against Inter Milans strike partnership of Lautaro Martinez and Edin Dzeko, positioning himself to snuff out the danger and using his remarkable recovery pace to

During Liverpools spell under the cosh early in the second half, the 30-year-old was seen bellowing to his teammates, urging them to raise their level and caulk the gap between defence and midfield.

Van Dijk was paired with Ibrahima Konate rather than Joel Matip at centre-back as Jurgen Klopp and the Frenchman made a number of important interventions including a fine block to repel Ivan Perisics effort just before the hour mark.

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher loved Ibrahima Konates display, taking to Twitter to provide his thoughts:

Jones feels the coming months could be hugely exciting:

And so on to Anfield we go. Liverpool have back-to-back home games in the Premier League now, a chance to make up some ground in their pursuit of Manchester City.

After that comes the Carabao Cup final, and next month brings an FA Cup fifth round tie with Norwich before the second leg against Inter.

Big games, big stages, big possibilities. A big few months lie in wait for Klopp and his side.

This Is Anfield also looked ahead to a key period:

So back to Anfield well go and given our form there, hopes will be high that were heading into the last eight.

Before then, though, theres a lot to get through for the Reds including two games against Norwich and a cup final.

The first one against the Canaries is in the league and at the weekend, back to Anfield where weve won 11 of the last 12 in all competitions and are unbeaten all season long.

Klopp has already explained how well be rotating more frequently for the coming run of games, with Leeds and West Ham the other opponents before the second leg with Inter.

Everyone will be needed and by the time that game comes along, well hopefully be a point or two closer to Man City and have a trophy in the bank. On we roll.

Finally, Reddy was another who was eyeing up glory for Liverpool this season:

The scoreline will feel agonising for his (Inzaghis) charges, but enlivens Liverpools ambition of picking up more than one piece of silverware this season.

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Henderson was excellent in midfield as Liverpool swung the game and tie in their favour, keeping the big picture of Champions League glory in frame.

Original post:
Klopps subs swung the game as media admire hugely impressive centre-backs - This Is Anfield

New Zealanders abroad are being urged to come home and do their patriotic duty - picking and packing kiwifruit - in the national interest.

(Source: 1News)

And, if they're quick, they can help out sending New Zealand's first red kiwifruit abroad.

New Zealand's annual harvest began in Te Puke this week, a Bay of Plenty town known as the kiwifruit capital for its hillside orchards teeming with fruit.

The harvest will take roughly four months and kiwifruit marketers Zespri are hopeful of a record haul.

Last year, 177 million kiwifruit trays - or 5.3 billion pieces of fruit - were taken from trees, and this year, the forecast is for 190 million trays.

That's if they can find enough staff.

The workforce is usually comprised of around 60 per cent locals, 20 per cent Pacific workers, and 20 per cent backpackers, but with border settings still tightly-controlled, that backpacking crowd isn't available.

New Zealand's tight labour market exacerbates the problem; unemployment is a staggering 3.2 per cent, meaning there are fewer Kiwis looking for work than usual.

New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc chief executive Colin Bond says they're appealing to Kiwis - whether at home or abroad - to make up the shortfall.

"We could be around 6000 short because that's about the number of backpackers that we normally have," Bond told AAP.

"Our challenge is how do we cover that gap? So we're going to try and attract more New Zealanders."

Last month, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced a reopening strategy that begins with Kiwis based in Australia, who can enter from next week without staying in MIQ.

From March 14, that will extend to working holiday makers, leaving a tight turnaround before the picking peak in mid-April.

Given that, growers are hopeful Kiwis in Australia might jump the ditch and roll their sleeves up.

"We're a billion (dollar) industry for New Zealand and that money flows back to local communities," Bond said.

"It is about people pitching in and coming to do your bit, to pick a bit of 'kiwiana' and come and help out the growers."

Kiwifruit is big business in New Zealand.

It is the largest horticultural export, outdoing even wine, and is expected to be worth up to $NZ3 billion this year.

This year, pickers will get their hands on a new variety: Zespri's RubyRed flavour.

The new fruit has been engineered over the past decade to ensure it's the right colour, taste, is easily stored and grown for commercialisation.

"It's a beautiful-tasting fruit," Bond said.

"When you slice them open you'll get red flesh and they're slightly different on the outside as well.

"The green has the hairy fuzz. The gold has a smooth skin. The ruby red is a slightly different shape and colour again."

Zespri claims the RubyRed has an edible skin, and the fruit is "high in antioxidants, rich in Vitamin C and it's a good source of folate, potassium, and Vitamin E".

Just a few hundred thousand trays are being exported this season, making it a tiny slice of the overall market.

Sadly for Australian consumers, they're bound for Singapore, Japan and China - with Australia part of plans further down the track.

That means the best route for Australians to try the fruit is to head to New Zealand and pick them.

Bond said the vast majority of packhouses pay the living wage - NZ$22.75 an hour - or above, while pickers can attract an average of NZ$27.

Read more:
Kiwis abroad urged to return home and pick kiwifruit - 1News