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"Ireland: A Place Among the Nations": Speech by Minister Roche to the Emmet Summer School
Even though the peace process in Northern Ireland has experienced some temporary turbulence, as reflected in the current suspension of devolved government in Northern Ireland, the British and Irish Governments continue to work in close partnership to overcome the difficulties. The most recent manifestation of that partnership was the publication on the 1st May of their Joint Declaration aimed at implementing all outstanding aspects of the Good Friday Agreement.
Partnership does not, of course, mean that the partners always agree on everything. The two Governments did not agree on the question of the postponement of the Northern Ireland Assembly elections. However, once that decision was taken by the British Government, we could either move on and pick up the pieces or indulge in sterile recriminations. Even if we opted for the latter, we would eventually have to come back and pick up the pieces.
The partnership between both Governments has been a major asset in the peace process in Northern Ireland and will continue to be. As in all areas of life, partnerships have their rocky moments. The key thing is to survive those moment in the interests of the larger project and keep our eyes on the prize of a permanent and lasting peace.
For many, Ireland's role in the League of Nations under De Valera, and then since 1955 in the United Nations, have been central to playing our part on the international stage. Ireland's membership of the United Nations has always been a defining element of our foreign policy. The purposes of the United Nations - to promote peace, economic and social development, and respect for human rights - are fundamental to our conduct of international relations. So also are its principles - the sovereign equality of states, the peaceful settlement of disputes, and the avoidance of the threat or use of force.
Our commitment to the United Nations is reflected in our high profile in disarmament, development and human rights issues, and in our continuous participation since 1958 in UN peacekeeping operations. We have never failed to assert and support the primary role of the Security Council in the maintenance of international peace and security. We are committed to reaching the UN development cooperation target of 0.7 percent of GDP by 2007, a commitment made by the Taoiseach at the UN Millennium Summit, and we have made major strides towards it.
This commitment to the United Nations is well and widely recognised in the international community. It was endorsed by the UN member states in our election to the Security Council in 2000, when 131 of them gave us their vote. It is also reflected in our regular election to the Commission on Human Rights.
As a member of the Security Council during 2001 and 2002, Ireland worked hard to achieve practical outcomes on the wide range of issues that are on the Council's agenda. Many of these issues are longstanding and difficult, and the regrettable failure of the Security Council this year to maintain its unity on Iraq is prominent in people's minds. It is as well to recall, therefore, that the great majority of the Security Council's decisions on issues of peace and security are reached by consensus, often through a long and difficult process in which member states interests and concerns have to be reconciled. The government welcomes the agreement that has now been reached by the Security Council on the immediate way forward in Iraq.
There are few bigger challenges to a Security Council member than to hold the Presidency of the Council at the outbreak of hostilities. Ireland found itself in this situation in October 2001, when military operations against Afghanistan commenced, in the wake of the September 11th attacks. It is widely recognised that on that occasion Ireland protected the prerogatives of the Security Council and ensured that it would have effective oversight of the military operations, and that humanitarian concerns would be taken fully into account.
Ireland pressed strongly for increased Council engagement on African issues - the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Angola, among others. It was particularly active in bringing about increased UN engagement with Somalia, rejecting the so-called "failed state" analysis shared by some in the international community.
The European Union, together with the acceding and associated states, has become a major and cohesive group in the United Nations General Assembly, in the subsidiary UN bodies and at UN and other international conferences. It exerts influence over many more states. It is therefore the key negotiating bloc. We look forward to being the focal point of this bloc during our forthcoming Presidency of the European Union, and will endeavour to make it even more cohesive and effective.
One concrete measure of how seriously Ireland takes its international responsibilities is our commitment to development aid. Over the past three decades, successive Governments have built upon the modest foundations laid in 1974 with the establishment of the Ireland Aid programme. Our programme has grown substantially with increases in funding recorded in every year since 1992. Funding has increased from €51 million in 1992 to reach €374 million this year. This means that in 2003 we will spend more than 13 times what we spent on ODA in 1992. When contributions from other Government Departments towards ODA are factored in, the total allocation this year is likely to exceed €450 million.
We have also achieved impressive growth as a proportion of our GNP. OECD figures show that for the period 1990/91, Ireland's aid programme stood at just 0.16% of GNP. This placed us firmly in the relegation zone of the league table of OECD member states – 21st of 22 countries. Figures released by the OECD last April show that in 2002 we had risen to seventh among OECD Member States and well above the EU average.
This is a record of which Ireland can justifiably be proud, especially because it has been achieved against a background of stagnant or falling levels of aid in many other donor countries. Aid levels from a number of wealthy member states, including the USA, Canada and Finland, have fallen over the past decade. Along with a handful of others however, Ireland has made significant progress towards the UN target of 0.7% of GNP.
The allocation for 2003 of €374 million should enable us to reach 0.41%. In the context of current difficult financial circumstances, there would be a temptation, as has in fact happened in other countries, to reduce assistance to other countries when circumstances at home become more difficult. However, we have not done this, and rightly so. We remain committed to further expansion of our aid programme in the years ahead.
If anyone has any remaining doubts about Ireland's place in the world, our forthcoming Presidency of the European Union for the first half of 2004 should answer them. This will be our sixth Presidency and it presents us with unprecedented challenges and opportunities. It will be Ireland's great privilege to preside, in May 2004, over the expected accession to the Union of the ten new member States. How we, as Presidency, manage and organize the transition from fifteen to twenty five member States, will be a major challenge of our Presidency and will be an enduring legacy for the continued progress and development of the Union.
The Accession process of course goes hand in hand with the major consideration of institutional reform of the Union's structures, currently underway in the Convention on the Future of Europe. While the exact timing of the Inter-Governmental Conference will be for the European Council to determine in the light of the outcome of the Convention, should the IGC not conclude during the Italian Presidency as now seems likely, it will fall to Ireland to chair these complex and important negotiations during our Presidency.
Ireland has, as you will be aware, an excellent track record in the running of European Union Presidencies. From 1975, when Ireland successfully presided over the conclusion of what was at that time a landmark development agreement between the then European Economic Community and the African and Caribbean States, the Lome Convention, through to our chairing in 1996 of the IGC which eventually in the subsequent Dutch Presidency adopted the Amsterdam Treaty, Ireland has consistently shown that small EU countries can successfully exercise the leadership role which the Presidency confers.
Ireland enjoys a good reputation within the European Union as an example of how a small member state can run an efficient and impartial Presidency. Against the background of on-going discussion in the European Convention on the Presidency function in an enlarged Europe, expectations will be high that Ireland can, once again, deliver an effective Presidency.
The Government are therefore committed to delivering a pro-active and efficient Presidency of the European Union in 2004. The Taoiseach, Minister Cowen and myself, as well as other Ministers, have undertaken an intensive programme of visits to the present and accession members of the Union in preparation for the Presidency. Planning and preparation are at an advanced stage across all Government departments and the necessary resources are being made available. I have no doubt that we will again conduct the Presidency in a way that reflects well on our foreign policy traditions and priorities, and confirms our good international standing.
A place among the nations? Certainly. Emmet's epitaph ? Not for any one generation to dictate, but for each generation to live up to and honour in its endeavors and pass on the flame and the challenge to the next generation.
Thank you.


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Mountain Hardwear Banshee 0 Sleeping Bag: 0 Degree DownView Larger Image
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Have the crappy zippers with lack of stiffening tape on the MHW bags changed at all? Or are they still the same? I'm really glad MHW is now using the highly breathable Dry-Q Elite in its cold weather bags, but I don't trust the zippers, as both high end MHW bags I've owned kept having the same zipper snag problem.
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Old Oyster Factory
- Address:
101 Marshland Rd
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926Neighborhood:
Hilton Head
- Cuisine:
SeafoodPrice: $30 and under
Old Oyster Factory
- Dining Style: Casual Dining
- Website: http://oldoysterfactory.com/
- Phone: 8436816040x
- Hours of Operation:
Dinner: Daily: 4:45pm - 10:00pm
- Payment Options: AMEX,Discover,MasterCard,Visa
- Cuisine: Seafood, American, Steakhouse
- Executive Chef: Andy Love
- Dress Code: Smart Casual
- Accepts Walk-Ins: Yes
- Additional Details: Banquet/Private Rooms, Bar Dining, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Menu, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking Restaurant, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Personal wines welcome (corkage fee applies), Private Room, View, Wheelchair Access, Wine
- Private Party Facilities: Private area upstairs accommodates 55ppl
Semi private area off of main dining room seats 70ppl.
- Private Party Contact: Craig Ryan 8436816040x
- Entertainment: We offer nightly live music and a juggler from Memorial Day weekend through the middle of August.
- Special Events: Fall & Winter Oyster Roasts
A word from Old Oyster Factory
Hilton Head's Finest Seafood & Steakhouse.Continued
Beautiful views and sunsets from every table overlooking Broad Creek.
Beautiful views and sunsets from every table overlooking Broad Creek.
Foodspotting photosSee all photos
Awards voted by OpenTable diners
- Diners' Choice WinnerKid Friendly
- Diners' Choice WinnerOutdoor Dining
- Diners' Choice WinnerScenic View
Old Oyster Factory - Best Restaurants in Hilton Head ›
Old Oyster Factory reviews from OpenTable diners
360 reviews since May 26, 2014
- Food4.2Service4.3
- Ambiance4.2Noise LevelModerate
scenic view (304)kid-friendly (178)good for groups (166)great for outdoor dining (165)special occasion (108)fit for foodies (76)romantic (63)neighborhood gem (56)hot spot (37)notable wine list (29)vibrant bar scene (18)great for lunch (18)great for brunch (12)late-night find (7)Show More
- OVER RATED RESTAURANTOpenTable Diner Since 2014Dined on 9/19/2014We were really looking forward to a special night. It was just ordinary food and overpriced. Server had such a heavy accent it was difficult to understand him.
- Great foodOpenTable Diner Since 2014Dined on 9/19/2014Wait staff really energetic. Food was excellent. They take reservations and we were seated immediately when we got there. Menu has many choices. I do not think this is a place for children but overall we enjoyed our entrees. It is expensive but I would definitely return.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Old Oyster is great.ACfunDined on 9/16/2014Old Oyster is a great find on Hilton Head Island. Food is great, service is wonderful, friendly, overall great experience.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Not as good as it was...Anniversary34Dined on 9/14/2014We have eaten there many times over the last 15*yrs. we hadn't been there for 2 yrs and decided to go back. Disappointing, I remembered the food quality as being much better. Next year we will select another place.Special Features:
- Wish I'd known!BigredmomDined on 9/13/2014Average food, good service by Aleena but this was a disaster. Screaming chdren-3 no less-seated next to us-and parents did little to nothing about it. Food was average, but overpriced given lack of any ambiance.
- Happy Hour at the barGinMillDJDined on 9/12/2014Bar menu was much better than table side dining. I would go back and only sit at the bar for appetizers.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Tastefully DoneRemarkDined on 9/12/2014This is truly one of our return visit places. It works well for family and for couples. We love the view and the many great entrees. The staff is courteous and provide for a worthwhile and enjoyable experience.Special Features:
- Old Oyster Factory FunDrJHADined on 9/6/2014This was a fun evening. Our waitress was an elementary school teacher and very personable, quick, and efficient. Food was very good and fairly priced. Come for the view of the bay and marshes!Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Great locals and for touristsOpenTable Diner Since 2014Dined on 9/6/2014The Old Oyster Factory has been a Hilton Head favorite for very many years. During the tourist's season, reservations a few days in advance would be needed. As a resident, I got reservations on a Saturday for a Saturday night. Everyone in our group, 5 of 6 residents, loved the food and found the overall experience, including the food and the views, to be among the best in Hilton Head. I recommend it without hesitation. (I cannot comment on the bar scene or of it being a "hot spot". Look to others to comment on those areas.)Special Features:
- A wonderful experienceGiggleboxDined on 9/6/2014We made reservations and were seated promptly. Lauren, our waitress, gave us recommendations from the menu which helped our selection. Everyone at the table enjoyed their meal. In fact, it was the best meal of the whole week. I ordered the scallops based on the recommendation and they were cooked to perfection. My husband and I also shared a wedge salad which was quite large for a side salad. The hushpuppies weren't as good as Hudson's, sorry. But our food overall killed our meal from there.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- One of our favoritesKatiebugzDined on 9/6/2014My husband and I live in Rincon, Georgia. The Old Oyster Factory is one of our 3 favorite restaurants for special occasions. While we cannot fit a visit to the Old Oyster Factory into our budget more than once or twice a year, it is always on the top of the list when considering where to celebrate a special event in our lives. The food is wonderful, the atmosphere is relaxing and the staff is always friendly and welcoming.Special Features:
- Beautiful View but...FoodieCharlestonDined on 9/6/2014I am from Charleston so I always have a high bar set for food quality. The view is the draw but the food is not good at all. I would equate it with Applebys or Ruby Tuesday. In my opinion this place is good for light fare and drinks at the bar only. If you are a foodie you will not be impressed. Seemed very touristy.Special Features:
- NonFoodieDined on 9/5/2014View is amazing inside and out, glass wraps the entire back of the building, Beautiful wood ceiling beams and candlelight dining make it very romantic. I don't think there is really a bad seat in the whole place. Nearly all Seafood, could use a few more non-seafood choices, but, I believe they would have been very accommodating with substitutes. Food was fantastic and Server was friendly and fast!Special Features:
- A Trusted FavoriteKarenDined on 9/5/2014If anything, OOF was even better this year than last. We had a reservation, obviously. Outside dining was not a great option as it had been raining off and on all evening. But we had a table by the windows to catch the last bit of daylight. The hush puppies were excellent. They are not better anywhere else on the island. I had crab cakes and we Marylanders are particular about them. Delish and shell free. My daughter and husband had a tilapia special that was excellent. Most entrees now come with rice or whipped potatoes. You can get a baked potato, but they are not nearly as good (my first one was basically uncooked) as when they were served still wrapped in aluminum. Portion sizes remain generous.Special Features:
- Perfect dinnersaycrewsDined on 9/5/2014Our food was delicious and the presentation was beautiful. It is amazing that a "tourist" spot had mouth watering delicious food! In addition to the food and great service the view from our water front table was absolutely spectacular. A perfect dinner out.Special Features:
- Good Fish entreesDCslimDined on 9/4/2014Our party of 3 had the swordfish, salmon, and mahi, each of which were nicely spiced and juicy. The salad with warm bacon dressing was outstanding, the hush pups just ok. We'll be back!Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Great place to dine!BrunnerSmith1Dined on 9/1/2014The whole experience is delightful! The staff was polite and accommodating. The food was amazing. Would definitely recommend making a reservation on line to avoid long waits.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- LenlynnDined on 9/1/2014This was my second visit during a week long vacation. If, I had not been given such great service on my first visit then I would not have know, how bad the service was on my second visit. I originally made a 7PM reservation but quickly change it to 6PM. When I say quick, I am talking the same day. Upon my arrival at the restaurant, I make note of the modification. The young blond-headed lady, stated the 7PM was canceled but no table was reserve for 6PM. I know because we were assign to eat at the bar. Please note that open table had sent me a confirmation of my reservation. It was a very special occasion and I made my very specific reservation almost two weeks in advance.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Great foodLuv2dineDined on 8/31/2014Enjoyed the food. Great service! I had swordfish dinner. Hush puppies are amazing.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Style, used to be a favoriteNewportbummerVIPDined on 8/31/2014They need to step it up to compete with the other local favorites
- Great seafoodOnVacationVIPDined on 8/30/2014Our first dinner on the island and we greatly enjoyed the seafood at OOF. I had the mahi and my husband had the seafood medley and both were excellent. I got the balsamic dressing on the side and asked to take it home with my leftover mahi because it was excellent. I do NOT recommend sitting out doors in the evening in the summer months. The mequitos were terrible and there were no ceiling fans to keep the air circulating. If you're looking for something quiet and cozy, this isn't your place. It's a huge restaurant with hundreds of tables. Service was great for the volume of business they were handling. There is also a great bottle of Cote d'Rhone on the wine menu at a very reasonable price. Enjoy!I would recommend this to a friend.
- Excellent Food & ServiceJohnVIPDined on 8/30/2014Food and Service was excellent. Young adults, Gen X & Y, should know better than to bring crying babies and distrubing young children to a nice restaurant. We want to enjoy our dinner not listen to kids. They belong at casual or fast food or leave them home with a baby sitter.Special Features:
- Very good menuHHIregsDined on 8/30/2014Food was very good. Terrific views. Oyster prices are a bit steep.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Special treat!OpenTable Diner Since 2014Dined on 8/30/2014The food was amazing and the ambiance was perfect. The view is beautiful, a special treat for a vacation meal! Our waitress was a gem & service was great!Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Great place!Luv2eatDined on 8/29/2014We had a great evening and wonderful meal with a nice young waiter. We could not have had a better time or a better meal. I had swordfish and my husband had mahi and both meals were wonderful. The hushpuppies and our appetizer of calamari were great also. We will got back there again someday I am sure.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Nice view and good foodOpenTable Diner Since 2008Dined on 8/29/2014We choose Old Oyster factory as they had a great menu, nice view of the marsh and were kid friendly as we had our two nephews in tow. Food was good and service was great.Special Features:
- LenlynnDined on 8/29/2014My wife and I went on a very busy Friday but the up-front service was exceptional. I made a reservation about 10 days in advance an they reserve, the type of table that I asked for. One young lady attempted to assign us a table but another more experience lady pointed out that a table had been reserve. That attention to detail made our visit more enjoyable.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- ALCfromNJDined on 8/28/2014My husband and I had a wonderful dinner here. We ate on the outside deck and enjoyed the view. We were pleased with the quality of the food and the service. Our only complaint, although minor, was to slow down service between courses. We had just finished our salads/appetizers, when the main dishes appeared. I would have preferred a few minutes between courses. However, this is a lovely restaurant and we would recommend to anyone. The online reservation service was super, too.Special Features:
- Best SeafoodluvgoodfoodDined on 8/28/2014This was our second visit and this time we brought another couple with us and it was their first time and we all greatly enjoyed it. The service was excellent, the food was spectacular. I would definitely recommend this restaurant to everyone, couples, and families. The seafood was great but they do have an extensive menu to suit everyones palate.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Dining with a viewROMANCEDined on 8/25/2014Very nice restaurant. Offers both indoor and outside dinning with a view of the cove and wildlife area. Great for letting kids watch the wildlife while adults enjoy a fine dinning experience. Also great for dining without kids to have a more adult like ambience. The service was quick and friendly and the food hot and tasty.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Family DinnerolivesDined on 8/25/2014Excellent food and drink for family gathering. My wife and I went the night before for a date night (nice table overlooking the water) and decided to return with the extended family. The service was excellent.Special Features:
- Great for Date NightolivesDined on 8/24/2014My wife and I had an excellent experience...we come back every year when visiting Hilton Head Island. The view was wonderful and the service was excellent. Our waiter was very attentive but allowed us to take our time and enjoy our date night out. We highly recommend this establishment for both couples and for families.Special Features:
- Outstanding!!Luv2dineVIPDined on 8/24/2014If deciding on a restaurant in Hilton Head, this is a must. We ate nice dinners every night, and this is still one of our favorites, which we will return to. The hushpuppies are amazing, but everything was truly great!!!Special Features:
- OpenTable Diner Since 2013Dined on 8/24/2014enjoyed every aspect of dinner, the view, the ambience as we watched the sun set over the water, we are here for the week, will probably go back later in week, enjoyed a Tilapia dish that was on special that eveningSpecial Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Great food at Old Oyster FactoryJordangoodVIPDined on 8/24/2014Excellent selection of seafood and wonderful view and attentive service at Old Oyster FactorySpecial Features:
- On the waterdineNdashVIPDined on 8/22/2014My partner and I had a beautiful dinner here, on our last night in Hilton Head. We sat outside and had a wonderful view of the sunset over the water. The food was fantastic as well. I had the almond crusted Mahi Mahi which was flavorful and light. Our server, Petey, was knowledgeable and friendly!Special Features:
- Enjoyable evening with friends!DinetteDined on 8/21/2014Food was very good, server was most accommodating, nice water views, loved being able to make a reservation at this restaurant....we are local and never went there in the summer, so it is nice to be able to go back in the tourist months. Our friends were celebrating their anniversary, and they brought a complimentary key lime pie which was very much appreciated. Would always recommend!Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Great place to go with large familyCatujimDined on 8/19/2014Easy seating for group of 11 with only an hours notice. Vegan and vegetarian options. Calamari was a pretty generic, but everything else was great. Bug spray was supplied for night time outside dining.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- lovely restaurant, great service!watersideVIPDined on 8/19/2014this was our first visit to OOF and we were extremely pleased. we dined outside on the deck and the view was lovely. our server was extremely pleasant and accommodating! the tuna nachos were wonderful!! our entrees were very good also. even had a peek at a couple of dolphins that were wandering by - that was great! enjoyed our dining experience here! thank you!Special Features:
- Quality service and food.....mikemDined on 8/18/2014Party of 10 with 4 children, 4-12.....Service and food outstanding, location scenic and staff accommodating........Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.


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Stories Tagged with "robot" from 2010
2013 - 4 stories
2011 - 1 story
2010 - 9 stories
2009 - 3 stories
2008 - 5 stories
2007 - 1 story
2006 - 4 stories
2005 - 3 stories
2003 - 1 story
2011 - 1 story
2010 - 9 stories
2009 - 3 stories
2008 - 5 stories
2007 - 1 story
2006 - 4 stories
2005 - 3 stories
2003 - 1 story
Paper Co-Authored by NJIT's Sergei Adamovich Wins Award at International Conference
November 10, 2010
Sergei Adamovich, PhD, associate professor in the department of biomedical engineering at NJIT, co-authored "Integrated Arm and Hand Training Using Adaptive Robotics and Virtual Reality Simulations," which won the Best Paper Award at the VIII International Conference on Disability, Virtual Reality and Associated Technologies in Valparaiso, Chile. >>
Digital Data Forensics Expert at NJIT To Be Feted by R&D Council for Patents To Stop Data Hiding; Hall of Fame Honors NJIT Inventors Earlier This Month
October 25, 2010
An expert in digital data forensics and information assurance, Yun-Qing Shi, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at NJIT, will number among 30 New Jersey inventors from eight companies and universities to be honored at the upcoming 2010 Thomas Alva Edison Patent Awards on Nov. 4. Hosted by the Research & Development Council of New Jersey, the ceremony and reception will take place at the Liberty Science Center. >>
NJIT Professors and Alumni Honored Tonight at New Jersey Inventors Hall of Fame Awards
October 14, 2010
NJIT professors and alumni will be among the innovators honored this evening at the 22nd Annual New Jersey Inventors Hall of Fame Awards ceremony in Hoboken. Timothy Chang, PhD, distinguished professor of electrical and computer engineering, will receive a Special Award for his achievements in the areas of ultra-high precision systems, genetic systems, robotics and motion control; and Yun-Qing Shi, PhD, professor of electrical and computer engineering, will be recognized for his work in digital forensics and security. Jingjing Zhang, a PhD candidate in NJIT's Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, will receive the Graduate Student Award. Vikki Hazelwood, PhD, who received her MS from NJIT in 1998, will receive the Advancement of Invention Award for a pioneering process for translational research in medicine and Richard Caizza, who received a certificate in plastics technology from NJIT in 1992, will receive the Inventor of the Year award for his "Single-Handedly Actuatable Safety Shield for Needles" patent. >>
NJIT Biomedical Engineering Professor Gives Invited Lecture
October 04, 2010
Sergei Adamovich, PhD, associate professor in NJIT's Department of Biomedical Engineering, gave an invited lecture last week at the meeting of the American Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine in Washington, DC. He participated in a panel of six experts from the US, Canada and Europe to share his views on future trends in pediatric rehabilitation. The topic of his presentation to a large audience of pediatricians and physical/occupational therapists was the use of technology (robotics and virtual reality) in rehabilitation of arm movement in children with cerebral palsy. >>
Doctoral Student Awarded Fellowship from National Institutes of Health
September 24, 2010
Ian Lafond, a second-year PhD student in NJIT's Department of Biomedical Engineering, has received a Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award for Individual Predoctoral Fellowship from the National Institutes of Health. This $142,000 award will support Ian's dissertation research in the lab of Associate Professor Sergei Adamovich over the next four years. >>
AT&T Netflix Contest Winners Speak to 22 Science and Technology Teachers at NJIT Conference
July 08, 2010
Netflix Contest winners, AT&T researchers Bob Bell and Chris Volinsky, recently told 22 science and technology teachers from throughout New Jersey that collaboration was key to winning the prize money. The occasion was a teacher luncheon, wrapping up a three-day conference at NJIT highlighting the use of robots in science, math and technology classes. The NJIT Center for Pre-College Programs hosted the event, thanks to Netflix prize money won by a team led by Bell and Volinsky and donated last year to NJIT by AT&T. Teachers walked away with teaching ideas, plus Lego Mind Storm sets to continue building robots back in their classrooms. "My kids are going to be so excited that we now have this kit," said Rich Bettini, a technology teacher at West Essex High School, North Caldwell, who participated in the learning session. Conference organizer Howard Kimmel, director of the NJIT Center, said that robots were a great way to introduce science and math materials in a multi-disciplinary way to students. "When you design a robot you also teach algebra," he said. "We also love them because they are a hands-on learning tool, something which always enhances learning." >>
Helping stroke patients regain use of their hands and arms through innovative robotic and virtual reality-based video game therapies is the focal point of NJIT Associate Professor Sergei Adamovich, a biomedical engineer. Thanks to a $1.3 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Adamovich is developing better ways to rehabilitate people who have lost control of their hands, fingers, shoulders and elbows. >>
It was the night before the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Annual Student Design Competition and NJIT senior Mike Lowry, of Parsippany, was stumped. His single-stream recycling machine, Rufus, nicknamed after NJIT's green mascot, couldn't distinguish cans from bottles, a possible cause for disqualification. >>
NJIT President Robert A. Altenkirch addressed student teams representing 30 New Jersey public and private high schools last week at the 2010 Panasonic Creative Design Challenge finals at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. For this year's challenge, teams designed and built a remote-controlled robotic recycling plant to help sort through debris in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. NJIT makes significant contributions to this science and engineering technology competition: Three NJIT student interns develop the Challenge, while NJIT staff score the written reports as well as provide judges for the performance and oral presentations. >>


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Demo Derby: PlayStation Underground: Volume 3 Issue 3
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This odd Wii U collaboration plays like a guided tour of The Legend of Zelda's most iconic locations and characters. The price of admission? Playing a bunch of Dynasty Warriors.
Destiny is a beautiful but hollow experience with most of the pieces you'd expect from a great multiplayer shooter. It just can't find a way to fit them all together.
Whatever steps forward NHL 15 has taken in visual presentation hardly make up for the alarming gutting of many of the series' best features.
Game »
consists of 6 releases.
Released Mar 27, 2012
Beverages that cause the imbiber to become intoxicated.
An aluminum can is a lightweight container that often holds some type of soda.
Many games have ammo. In some, you can design your own. Ammo is put in a weapon and fired as a projectile.
An arcade cabinet (also known as an arcade machine) is popular among clubs, theme parks, shopping malls and even in some homes. It is a form of entertainment to the owner or guests playing it; the machine usually requires coins to be inserted, in order to play.
A pack one wears on his/her back.
A plumbing fixture used for bathing. Usually used in video games as a decorative item.
A furniture that provides a place to sleep. In video games, often used to regain health, skip time and *ahem* other activities...
Seasoned meat that is dried and made into thin strips. Most commonly found at the checkout counter of gas stations.
Some games have readable books. Come and quench your thirst for knowledge.
A container made for holding water or other liquids.
A bus is a vehicle that is usually used to transport people from one location to another. It is commonly used across the world as a means of public transport and for schools.
A can of pickles. It will satisfy a small amount of your hunger.
An object used to open "cans".
Food preserved by canning, as it should be.
A cardboard box is handy for many things, but it's probably best known as something Solid Snake can hide under.
A electronic device for calculating and recording sales transactions.
A delicious substance that makes even the most cold-hearted person cry out, "Yum!"
A clip is a piece of metal that holds cartridges together for easy loading into a magazine. It is also used erroneously to describe the magazine itself.
A thin board used to rigidly support the pad of paper with one hand, while writing on it with the other.
Just a coat man!
The late night gamer's and student's best friend. It is also an important beverage for detectives, lawyers, and other high-strung video game characters.
A book that tells stories through the use of large pictures and words. A basis of many video games to this day.
An Object used for cooking food
The (already) dead body of an animal or human being. Some have items or important notes on them.
A couch is long, cushioned seat that can hold 2 or more people in it. They may have an armrest on either side and are found in living rooms throughout the world,often a TV in front.
The crunchy, salty snack.
The cross is the worldwide symbol for the Christian religion. Exposure to a cross is harmful to evil.
Crowbars are commonly used to open nailed wooden boxes. They are also, however, excellent weapons. Epitomised in the phrase: "Aliens have invaded the Earth. Here's a goddamn crowbar."
A daily record that consists of written (personal) experiences and observations.
Doors are a common object in most video games, as well as the keys and objects needed to open them. From role playing to shooters, doors are an important component of many games.
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Sew Stylish Cake is a classic sewing machine – complete with its base cabinet, black and gold colour scheme and cotton reel and lace accompaniments – instantly taking us back in time. It evokes thoughts of 1940s wartime Britain, where 'Make Do and Mend' was in full force, everything was handmade and people had to create and repair their own clothing. The careful carving of the cake and intricate additions, such as the buttons, dials, shaped pressure foot and gold lustre details, bring the sewing machine to life. By breaking each section down into individual stages, the final impressive result becomes easily achievable.
You will receive this project as a full-colour download. Taken from Chic & Unique Vintage Cakes by Zoe Clark.
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The world's largest reinsurer has examined the recent rise in the number and severity of natural disasters worldwide, and finds the trend bears the unmistakable fingerprints of climate change.
What's more, America is bearing the brunt of that change.
National Casualty (Insurance) Company, part of the Nationwide group of insurance companies, has announced that hydraulic fracturing operations are prohibited in relation to properties it insures.
The company has determined that the exposures presented by hydraulic fracturing are too great to ignore. Risks involved with hydraulic fracturing are now prohibited for General Liability, Commercial Auto, Motor Truck Cargo, Auto Physical Damage and Public Auto (insurance) coverage. The company said it would not bind risks with this exposure, and any policies currently written with the exposure would be non-renewed
(following state requirements).
Among the prohibited risks involved in fracking operations listed by the company are contractors involved in fracking operations, landowners whose land has been leased to lessees with fracking operations, frack sand and frack liquid haulers and site prep (dump trucks, bulldozers) or leasing of tanks.
In a rare "scoop" for an editorial cartoonist today, Matt Bors skewered a little-known National Rifle Association (NRA) program that offers insurance to cover policy holders' costs should they become embroiled in a legal battle after shooting someone in self-defense.
The insurance — technically endorsed by the NRA and administered by Lockton Affinity exclusively for NRA members — is available as a rider to the "excess personal liability" plan. Here's how the website advertises the added coverage for self-defense (emphasis in the original):
What's Covered:
• Provides coverage up to the limit selected for criminal and civil defense costs.
• Cost of civil suit defense is provided in addition to the limit of liability for bodily injury and property damage.
• Criminal Defense Reimbursement is provided for alleged criminal actions involving self-defense when you are acquitted of such criminal charges or the charges are dropped.
The basic liability plan costs either $47 or $67 annually, for coverage up to $100,000 or $250,000, respectively. Though the coverage amounts stay the same, a policy holder can add the self-defense insurance by paying $118 or $165 for the lesser coverage, or between $187 and $254 for the larger plan. (The discrepancies are due to the different prices for coverage on two different webpages from the insurer.)
"In a survey conducted by Ceres, a Boston-based coalition of investors and environmental groups, more than 75% of insurers acknowledged the existence of perils stemming from climate change."Yet despite widespread recognition of the effects climate change will likely have on extreme events, few insurers were able to articulate a coherent plan to manage the risks and opportunities associated with climate change," the Ceres report states.The Ceres study found that out of 88 U.S. insurance companies, only 11 had formal climate change risk policies and more than 60% had no dedicated management approach to assessing climate risks.Ben Schiller at Yale's Environment 360 noted that while American insurance companies have been slow to prepare for global warming's ramifications, their European counterparts have been getting ready for a potentially costly future."Via AllGov
Absolutely all of the top-elite officers of these services appear to be convinced, without a shadow of a doubt, about Human Generated Climate Change (HGCC). All of those I have met consider it to be both real and one of the greatest challenges of our time.
Ponder this: the US Navy is striving with great intensity to prepare for an Arctic Ocean that is nearly ice-free for large parts of the year. Canada is shifting most of its military budget northward.
The Russians have moved an entire division to the Siberian northern coast. And dig this. The Russian Navy's top priority? Their pride-and-joy? SIX brand new, double-hulled, nuclear powered icebreakers they recently put in service. (The U.S. has one single-hulled, obsolete oil-powered breaker, soon to be retired.)
A year or so ago, the Northwest passage opened so wide that a flood of cargo vessels raced through it from China to Europe. And prospectors are sifting for treasures on the sea floor, where Peary once spent a summer dragging sledges over ice-continents in search of the Pole.
Louisiana Attorney General Buddy Caldwell outside the Supreme Court on Wednesday. Caldwell opposes Obamacare and the individual mandate, but for a different reason than most of his fellow litigants: it props up the private health insurance industry. (by ThinkProgressVideo)
Seems he is a vote for single-payer - Medicare for All.
I heard a saying the other day, it went, "Your freedom to swing your arms ends when you hit my face."
Now, I want you to sit back and think about that if you think that requiring insurance companies to cover birth control pills somehow violates your religious freedom.
Oh wait, but you say by paying into the insurance, you are paying for "sluts" to have sex and it's against your moral values. Sorry, this is how insurance works. Everybody pays in, spreads the risk and the cost. It works that way with car insurance, home owner's insurance, health insurance and any other kind of insurance.
You might as well not buy into insurance at all if this is the way you see it. It's a non-argument.
Back to religious freedom, if the Blunt Amendment had been passed, that means it would be up to your employer as to if you got coverage for birth control or not. That's not freedom. That's your employer pushing their moral values on you. That's giving over your personal choice to another person.
Don't work for a religious organization you say? Many Catholics use birth control, in fact offhand, most Catholics I have known do. That means if a Catholic was working for a Catholic organization who is on birth control could be denied coverage because their boss decided it was against their moral values. Is this really what you want? Does that sound like freedom to you?
Freedom is a personal choice, freedom means you have the power to make decisions for yourself. If you are against using birth control, don't use it. It's that simple.
What freedom doesn't mean is that you have the right to make decisions for other people. This means you are more than welcome to practice your religion, worship your god, and live by the moral guidelines of your belief.
It doesn't mean you have the right to force everyone else to, and I really have a hard time understanding why so many people think it does. Your freedom is no more important than anyone else's.
What if your boss told you that you were only allowed to eat kosher food, even outside of work? You'd think that was pretty unreasonable.
As soon as your "freedom" to do something starts infringing on another person's freedom, you are now oppressing. You are now taking away another person's decisions and replacing them with your own.
"But, but I shouldn't be forced to pay into an insurance plan that supports things that I think are immoral."
Too bad, don't pay for insurance then, you still have the right to do that, you still have the right not to use that birth control if it's available through your plan. You can still make a decision.
Don't go around thinking you can make decisions for other people just because it has to do with your religious belief, because nothing, not even religion gives you the right to do so.
Coming off a year of record-setting $1 billion-plus natural disasters, representatives of leading insurance companies said today that costs to taxpayers and businesses from extreme weather will continue to soar because of climate change.
Cost of Climate Change (by SenatorSanders)
"Coming off a year of record-setting $1 billion-plus natural disasters, representatives of leading insurance companies said today that costs to taxpayers and businesses from extreme weather will continue to soar because of climate change.
The insurers joined Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) at a press conference to discuss the mounting financial impact of global warming. Both Vermont and Rhode Island last August felt the brunt of Tropical Storm Irene, one of the record 14 natural disasters in the United States last year that each caused more than $1 billion in damage. Irene alone, which first came ashore as a hurricane, killed at least 45 people and caused more than $7 billion in damage.
"Perhaps no industry better understands the impact of global warming than the insurance industry whose job it is to analyze risk," Sanders said. "I am pleased leaders in that industry are speaking out about the need to reverse global warming." Added Whitehouse, "Extreme weather events, like Rhode Island's historic floods in 2010, can result in the loss of homes, livelihoods, and even lives. These extreme events fit a pattern predicted by climate scientists, and we should take action now to minimize the damage that carbon pollution is causing to our country and our world."
Property and casualty insurers in the United States experienced an extraordinary estimated $44 billion in losses last year when hurricanes, droughts, tornadoes and other natural disasters were more severe, longer, more frequent and less predictable than in the past. "From our industry's perspective, the footprints of climate change are around us and the trend of increasing damage to property and threat to lives is clear," said Franklin Nutter, president of the Reinsurance Association of America.
According to Swiss Reinsurance Company Ltd., the average weather-related insurance industry loss in the U.S. was about $3 billion a year in the 1980s compared to approximately $20 billion annually by the end of the past decade. "A warming climate will only add to this trend of increasing losses, which is why action is needed now," said Mark Way, head of Swiss Re's sustainability and climate change activities in the Americas.
"Extreme weather is a threat today and a greater threat tomorrow," said Pete Thomas, chief risk officer at Willis Re, one of the world's leading reinsurance intermediaries. "I'm pleased to see the federal government grappling with this issue. The continuing work of Sens. Sanders and Whitehouse is an important start for this necessary dialogue.""
Read the rest at Bernie Sanders (D-VT)
This deserves a lot more attention than it is getting.
In December 2000, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ruled that companies that provided prescription drugs to their employees but didn't provide birth control were in violation of Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which prevents discrimination on the basis of sex. That opinion, which the George W. Bush administration did nothing to alter or withdraw when it took office the next month, is still in effect today—and because it relies on Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, it applies to all employers with 15 or more employees. Employers that don't offer prescription coverage or don't offer insurance at all are exempt, because they treat men and women equally—but under the EEOC's interpretation of the law, you can't offer other preventative care coverage without offering birth control coverage, too.
"It was, we thought at the time, a fairly straightforward application of Title VII principles," a top former EEOC official who was involved in the decision told Mother Jones. "All of these plans covered Viagra immediately, without thinking, and they were still declining to cover prescription contraceptives. It's a little bit jaw-dropping to see what is going on now…There was some press at the time but we issued guidances that were far, far more controversial."
After the EEOC opinion was approved in 2000, reproductive rights groups and employees who wanted birth control access sued employers that refused to comply. The next year, in Erickson v. Bartell Drug Co., a federal court agreed with the EEOC's reasoning. Reproductive rights groups and others used that decision as leverage to force other companies to settle lawsuits and agree to change their insurance plans to include birth control. Some subsequent court decisions echoed Erickson, and some went the other way, but the rule (absent a Supreme Court decision) remained, and over the following decade, the percentage of employer-based plans offering contraceptive coverage tripled to 90 percent.


text:
The OKC Barons are leading the league in damn near everything, and Taylor Hall is on the way. I don't know about you, but cheering for a winner feels very good!
Justin Schultz leads the league in points and was the player of the month for October. He also leads in points by a defenseman and points by a rookie. Schultz is tied for the league lead in shorthanded goals (2) and Colten Teubert leads in pims.
Taylor Hall steps onto AHL ice for the first time tonight, and if he plays the full season down there we should see some spectacular things. Hall's presence should open up the ice on EV and PP sorties and one imagines the PP will be even more effective. I can't wait to see Hall, Nuge, Eberle and Justin Schultz working together.
If you've been reading Eric Tulsky's stuff, then you know the value of a player who can gain the zone under control is off the charts. Hall is such a player, and it'll be interesting to see how many times this weekend (three games) the young man flies a sortie successfully into enemy territory. He's going to be rusty, but he's a gem.
Cameron Abney was called back up and I suspect he's going to play a role this weekend and in the future. If you're following along at home–and we all are–Abney is a prospect in that role. The Oilers have employed enforcer's all down the line, and I think this management group sees having one as a benefit. The one positive I recall from the olden days is that it makes it easy to double shift the forward pair who are having a strong night.
Brandon Davidson is out, Teigan Zahn is the callup. He's another big, tough player, so we can predict many pims and shorthanded situations during the weekend.


text:
LODI—A Lodi High School student died suddenly during a physical education class Wednesday morning.
The student was a member of a physical education class designed for individuals with special physical needs. After the student collapsed, staff members attempted to revive him by performing CPR. The student was transported to an area hospital and was pronounced dead a short time upon arrival.
An e-mail sent to the staff of Lodi High School detailed the incident this morning. The student's name has not been officially released by the school, but at least one student has identified him as sophomore Tyler Henson.
Students and parents have yet to be notified by the school, according to a report published by the Lodi News-Sentinel, but would most likely be notified by e-mail later today.
The campus was on an early-release schedule the day of the incident. The school plans on offering grief counselors to students and staff when classes resume on Thursday.
FOX40 News at 5:30pm and FOX40.com will have more details on this story as information becomes available.


text:
Sep 04th 2013
Fall Fashion Fusion at Fashion Place Mall
Fashion Place Mall and SLCC Fashion Institute are hosting a fashion show featuring original designs in time for fall! Read More
Fashion Place Mall and SLCC Fashion Institute are hosting a fashion show featuring original designs in time for fall! Read More
Join in the fun as Fashion Place Mall celebrates its 40th birthday! Read More
With the fall fashion season beginning, Fashion Place Mall participated in Vogue's Fashion's Night Out last night, showcasing five amazing fashion displays, along with runway models strutting their stuff. Read More
By 8 o'clock last night, the line had begun to form. Temperatures were already threatening to drop below freezing, and these folks came prepared with gloves, knit hats, face masks, sleeping bags, hot cocoa and coffee--you name it--all to be some of the first shoppers in the state's first-ever H&M when the doors open today at noon. (Fashion Place Mallofficials took pity on these die hards and allowed them to countdown the hours inside, rather than on the cold concrete and in the frigid November air). Read More
As we posted two weeks ago, we're covering the Fashion Place Mall's VIP grand re-opening event, Wasatch Rails 2011 and the Jewish Arts Festival—all happening in the next few days—for our Utah People section. Click here for all the info on those events. Read More
And so the countdown begins. Read More
Forget solids this fall. Stripes of every size and color add a punch to dresses, tops, skirts, sweaters and vests as autumn settles in and we gear up for winter. Not quite a print, but far from basic, stripes can be paired with a solid top or bottom to maximize color or simply bring a little wow factor to an otherwise plain look. Read More


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29th Meeting of the Ramsar Standing Committee -- Report of the meeting, annex 2
Lamentablemente, no hay versión en español de este documento
|29th Meeting of the Ramsar Standing Committee
Gland, Switzerland, 26-28 February 2003
Report of the Meeting, Annex 2
Priorities and guidance established by the Standing Committee for the STRP Work Plan 2003-2005
The Context for establishing priorities for the STRP Work Plan 2003-2005
1. The Actions adopted in Section II of Ramsar's Strategic Plan 2003-2008 (Resolution VIII.25) and the additional Actions called for in other COP8 Resolutions include a very large number of major tasks requested of the Convention's Scientific and Technical Review Panel.
2. During COP8 it was recognized that, even allowing for more efficient and effective work of the Panel operating under its new modus operandi, it would likely have insufficient capacity and resources to undertake all of these tasks. Accordingly, COP8 Resolution VIII.26 requested the Standing Committee at its first meeting of the triennium to determine the priority activities which should be undertaken by the STRP during 2003-2005.
3. Based on the actions pertinent to the STRP Strategic Plan 2003-2005 and other relevant actions called for in Resolutions adopted by COP8, the full list of STRP tasks is provided in the Annex to this note. This full task list covers the STRP work for the coming two triennia. Therefore, not all tasks need to be delivered for consideration by COP9.
4. On the basis of this list of tasks and priorities indicated by COP8, the Standing Committee instructs the STRP to address the priorities summarised below, and specified in the Annex to this note, in preparing its detailed work plan for 2003-2005.
5. In recognition of the capacity of the STRP and from the experience gained in 1999-2002, the Standing Committee advises the STRP that it should undertake a maximum of six priority areas for its work during 2003-2005 (noting that each work area may include several tasks for the Panel).
6. The Standing Committee advises the STRP that in establishing its detailed Work Plan 2003-2005 several options exist for undertaking its work on each task identified by COP8 during the 2003-2005 triennium. These include:
i) the task is undertaken as a high priority for the 2003-2005 triennium;ii) the task is undertaken as a lower priority for the 2003-2005 triennium, to be taken up only if additional capacity or resources can be identified, for example through an IOP or observer organization to the STRP agreeing to undertake the task;iii) the task is undertaken as a low priority for 2003-2005 and deferred for further consideration during the 2005-2008 triennium
7. The Standing Committee recognizes that amongst the high priority tasks identified for the STRP, some will require substantial capacity and resources but others are anticipated to require only a small commitment.
8. It should also be noted that certain STRP tasks are wholly dependent upon other work first being undertaken or provided by others, for example the preparation and provision of case studies by Contracting Parties and other organizations. Such tasks are indicated in the Annex to this note. For these tasks the Standing Committee requests the STRP to prepare at its 2003 meeting an outline proposal for undertaking its part of work, which would be subsequently initiated in 2004, capacity and time permitting, once the relevant materials become available.
9. Ongoing priority actions (recognized by Action 17.1.5 of the Strategic Plan 2003-2008) of the STRP are:
a) development of new tools to assist Parties with the implementation of the wise use principle; andb) review of the Ramsar Criteria for Identifying Wetlands of International Importance, to ensure that these reflect global wetland conservation and wise use priorities.
10. Other ongoing tasks of the STRP, including inter alia advising on requests for the removal of Ramsar sites from the Montreux Record, advising on Small Grants Fund projects, advising on the review and evaluation of other wetland projects, collaboration with other Convention's subsidiary bodies, and input to the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MA) process, should be undertaken as and when requests for STRP advice are made, and in some cases should be delivered by STRP through the identification of STRP focal points for such work (as is already the case for MA inputs).
11. The Standing Committee confirms the following areas of work as the top priorities for the core work of the STRP during 2003-2005:
i) Operational Objective 1.1/1.2 - Wetland inventory and assessment: preparation of further guidance; contributing to update of Global Review of Wetland Resources and priorities for wetland inventory (if funding for this project becomes available); preparation of further guidance on wetland ecological character, inventory, assessment and monitoring, and consolidation and harmonisation of all guidance through an integrated framework for inventory, assessment and monitoring;
ii) Operational Objective 3.1 - Review, updating and elaboration of the Wise Use Concept and guidelines;
iii) Operational Objective 3.4 - Water resource management: preparation of new guidance, including on environmental flow methodologies, wetlands and groundwater, and river basin management case studies;
iv) Operational Objective 10.1 - Ramsar site designation: preparation of substantial further guidance on the application of the Strategic Framework, including developing and harmonising the Ramsar Information Sheet with ecological character statements, and the development of additional socio-economic and cultural designation criteria in relation to CBD's Annex 1 list of features of biological diversity;
v) Operational Objective 11.1/11.2 - Managing and monitoring Ramsar sites: preparation of a 'field guide' for using Ramsar's management planning guidance, further guidance on zonation and monitoring, including detecting, reporting and responding to change in ecological character, and analysis of status and trends of ecological character of Ramsar sites in their broader context;
vi) Operational Objective 17 - Assessing the effectiveness of implementation of the Convention: providing advice on matters addressed by the STRP to the Standing Committee in its review of the process of preparation of Resolutions and Recommendations for COPs 6, 7 and 8 (Resolution VIII.45); drafting of, and consultation on, technical Resolutions (Resolution VIII.45); and preparing key indicators in relation to the effective implementation of the Strategic Plan during the 2003-2005 triennium (Resolution VIII.26);
12. Concerning Communication, Education and Public Awareness (CEPA), the Standing Committee reaffirms that CEPA is a high priority for the Convention, but advises that it does not regard the full range of tasks identified to be undertaken through an STRP CEPA Working Group by Resolution VIII.31 as being an effective process for delivering this area of work. The Standing Committee further advises that the Bureau should explore an alternative mechanism for the establishment and operation of a CEPA working group which should, as its first task, review and establish the priorities for undertaking the work requested of it by Resolution VIII.31. However, the Standing Committee recognizes that a high priority for the CEPA-related work of the STRP should be to secure input from CEPA experts to each Working Group established by STRP so as to ensure that CEPA issues are fully incorporated. Other CEPA tasks identified by Resolution VIII.31 for an STRP CEPA Working Group are a lower priority for implementation.
13. The following other work areas should be undertaken through the STRP process during 2003-2005 only if one or more contributing organizations (IOPs, observer organizations) has the appropriate capacity and offers at the first meeting of the STRP to fully undertake the work, or if another mechanism is identified at the first meeting of the STRP. Such organizations would take the lead in preparing the required outputs for review by the second full meeting of the Panel, under the guidance of an STRP Working Group (or, if appropriate, STRP lead focal points) which should be established by the Panel for any such topics:
i) Operational Objective 2.2 - Environmental and strategic impact assessment;ii) Operational Objective 3.2 - Peatlands: participation in Global Action Coordinating Committee, once established;iii) Operational Objective 3.4 - Climate change: if prepared by IPCC, review of Technical Paper and preparation and peer review of key issues synthesis;iv) Operational Objective 4 - Restoration and rehabilitation, including compensation for wetland losses;v) Operational Objective 5 - Invasive alien species;vi) Operational Objective 6 - Local communities and indigenous peoples: guidance on implementing Participatory Environmental Management;vii) Operational Objective 8 - Incentives;viii) Operational Objective 10.1 - Ramsar site designation: further guidance on 'under-represented' wetland types; andix) Operational Objective 14 - Sharing of expertise and information: assisting information sharing of traditional, indigenous and more recent technological knowledge.
14. The Standing Committee recognizes, as identified in DOC. SC29-12, that whilst the Convention's budget for 2003-2005 includes funding for attendance at STRP meetings by members from OECD-DAC list countries, as well as for the STRP Support Service, no funds are available from the Convention's core budget for the substantive work of the Panel for its preparation of reports and guidelines.
15. Accordingly the Standing Committee urges interested Parties to consider, as a matter of priority, the provision of voluntary contributions for this priority work of the STRP, taking into account the advice from the STRP at its first meeting in April 2003 on the precise nature of the work it will undertake on the priority tasks that were identified by the Standing Committee, as embodied in its Work Plan, which will be proposed to the Standing Committee for approval.
List of tasks requested of the STRP for the period 2003-2008
Derived from Actions in Section II of the Convention's Strategic Plan 2003-2008 (Resolution VIII.25), and all other relevant actions called for in Resolutions adopted by COP8
Operational Objectives themes: Ramsar Strategic Plan 2003-2008
Provisional STRP tasks 2003-2005
Strategic Plan Action and COP8 Resolution Action numbers are shown in square brackets […].
Notes and Proposed 2003-2005 priorities
1. Inventory and assessment
1.1. Wetland inventory
a) Contribute to update of the Global Review of Wetland Resources and Priorities for Wetland Inventory, reporting to COP9 [1.1.5]
b) Further review application of remote sensing data, low-cost GIS, and classification systems in wetland inventory, reporting to COP9 [R1.1.i] (Resolution VIII.6)
High [if project resourcing become available]
1.2 Wetland assessment
a) Further review and, as appropriate, develop guidance and report to COP9, concerning identified gaps and disharmonies in defining and reporting the ecological character of wetlands through inventory, assessment, monitoring and management of Ramsar sites and other wetlands, giving priority to advice and guidance on practical matters on issues that should include:
i) the Ramsar Classification System for Wetland Type, (bio)geographical regionalization schemes, and their application in defining and reporting the ecological character of wetlands;
ii) determining the ecological character of Ramsar sites and other wetlands, including techniques for delineating and mapping wetlands and for evaluating the values and functions, goods and services provided by wetlands;
iv) practical methods, including indicators, for monitoring wetlands and for the rapid assessment of wetland biodiversity, including both inland waters and coastal and marine systems;
v) incorporation of environmental impact and strategic environmental assessment into wetland risk assessment procedures; and
vi) harmonization of definitions and terms throughout the suite of Ramsar guidance on inventory, assessment, monitoring and management of the ecological character of wetlands [R1.2.viii] (Resolution VIII.7)
b) Consider consolidation of existing Convention guidance and develop an integrated framework for wetland inventory, assessment and monitoring [R1.2.ix]
c) Contribute to, review, and utilise the work of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment in reporting to COP9 on wetland status and trends [1.2.1]
d) Contribute to assessment of contribution of Ramsar sites and other wetlands to fisheries maintenance, and recommend sustainable management practices [1.2.6]
f) Develop methodologies for vulnerability assessment of wetlands to change in ecological character (incl. to impacts of climate change, alien species invasion and agricultural practices) [1.2.4]
High [all sub-tasks – STRP should determine how to consolidated guidance on these should be developed]
[all sub-tasks – STRP should determine how to consolidated guidance on these should be developed]
[guidance should address both socio-economic and ecological valuation techniques]
ongoing, through MA STRP focal points
defer to 2005-8 triennium
2. Policies and legislation, including impact assessment and valuation
2.2 Development, review and amendment of policies, legislation, institutions and practices
a) Prepare advice for Contracting Parties on applying strategic environmental assessment in the context of the Convention's guidelines [R2.2.v] (Resolution VIII.9)
b) Prepare a synthesis of lessons learned from case studies [of impact assessment on wetlands] submitted by CPs, including indications of linkages with existing Ramsar guidance on other topics where relevant [R2.2.viii] (Resolution VIII.9)
c) Review references to impact assessment in Ramsar COP decisions, guidelines and other Ramsar publications, and in particular identify and seek to correct if necessary any inconsistencies of approach, and make the results of such a review available as an updated index of references to impact assessment in Ramsar materials [R2.2.ix] (resolution VIII.9)
d) Continue to identify wetland-related elements of existing guidelines on impact assessment, to identify important gaps where such guidance is failing fully to meet the needs of Contracting Parties, and to investigate possible ways of filling such gaps, taking into account CBD's COP6 guidance on impact assessment in relation to sacred and indigenous and local communities' lands [R2.2.x] [(Resolution VIII.9)
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
3. Integration of wetland wise use into sustainable development
3.1 Methodogies for wetland conservation and wise use
a) Review the Wise Use concept, its applicability and consistency with sustainable development objectives [3.1.1]
b) Compile advice, methods and best practice studies on wise use of wetlands, including application of the ecosystem approach [3.1.2]
c) Develop new tools to assist Parties with the implementation of the wise use principle [17.1.5]
d) Contribute to technology transfer initiatives for sustainable management of mangrove ecosystems [R3.1.iv]
3.2 Peatlands
a) Participate in the Coordinating Committee for Global Action on Peatlands and its preparation of an implementation plan for global action on peatlands [R3.2.i] (Resolution VIII.17)
[depends on Coordinating Committee mechanism being established]
3.4 Integration of wetland policies into broader planning and management from local to national scales
a) River basin management: Review case studies compiled through the River Basin Initiative and prepare additional guidance (as necessary) on integrating wetlands, biodiversity and river basin management [3.4.3]
b) Dams: Develop guidelines for considering full environmental, social and economic impacts of large dam construction on wetland and river systems, for COP9 [3.4.4]
c) Prepare report on environmental flow methodologies, to assist in management of dam-related impacts, for COP9 [R3.4.v] (Resolution VIII.2)
d) Water allocation and management: Contribute to report to COP9 on successes achieved and lessons learnt from demonstrating good practice in water allocation and management for maintaining ecological functions of wetlands [R3.4.ix] (Resolution VIII.1)
e) Review Resolutions VIII.1 and VIII.2 and prepare further guidance, if required, for COP9 [R3.4.xi] (Resolution VIII.1)
f) Groundwater: Review and prepare guidelines, as appropriate, on the role of wetlands in groundwater recharge and storage and of groundwater in maintaining the ecological character of wetlands, and on the impacts of groundwater abstraction on wetlands [Resolution VIII.1]. Prepare guidance, as appropriate, on sustainable use of groundwater to maintain wetland ecosystem functions [3.4.5]
g) Integrated Coastal Zone Management: Review case studies (from CPs) of integrating wetlands and ICZM, as basis for preparing further guidance on wetlands and ICZM. [R3.4.vi] (Resolution VIII.4)
h) Climate change: Collaborate with IPCC and UNFCCC to promote management of wetlands and mitigation of climate chage impacts (particularly in context of land use, land use change and rising sea levels, forestry, peatlands and agriculture [3.4.8]
i) If, as requested, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has prepared a Technical Paper on the relationship between wetlands and climate change, in time for consideration at the second STRP meeting prior to COP9, develop, on the basis of the IPCC Technical Paper, a synthesis of key issues on wetlands and climate change as an information paper, which should undergo a review process as determined by the STRP, for consideration by Contracting Parties at COP9. If the IPCC is unable to undertake preparation of a Technical Paper on the relationship between wetlands and climate change, the STRP is requested to prepare an information paper, based on the IPCC Third Assessment Report and other authoritative, updated information, that synthesizes key issues on wetlands and climate change, which should undergo a rigorous peer review process as directed by the Standing Committee upon the advice of the STRP, and which should be made available for consideration by the Parties at COP9. [R3.4.xxi] (Resolution VIII.3)
j) Agriculture: Ensure that adequate consideration of agriculture and wetland issues is incorporated into other relevant areas of work that the STRP may be dealing with, including global climate change, groundwater and its interaction with surface water, toxic chemicals and desertification [R3.4.xxii] (Resolution VIII.34)
Depends on provision of case studies – defer to 2005-8
Defer to 2005-8, for review and consolidation of COP8 and COP9 guidance
Depends on provision of case studies – defer to 2005-8
High (but depends on IPCC agreement to undertake paper preparation)
[if IPCC unable undertake task, alternative STRP role is recognized]
[Cross-cutting task for other STRP work]
4. Restoration and rehabilitation
a) Compile information on new research and methodologies for restoration and rehabilitation of lost wetlands and disseminate this information [4.13]
b) Contribute to identification of training opportunities and expertise in wetland restoration and creation of relevant training modules as part of the Ramsar Wetland Training Initiative, once established. [R4.1.vi] (Resolution VIII.16).
c) Contribute relevant addition information on wetland restoration projects and experience to Ramsar's restoration Web site, and particularly provide demonstration projects that illustrate the application of the principles and guidelines adopted by Resolution VIII.16. [R4.1.ix] (Resolution VIII.16)
d) Further develop tools and guidance on wetland restoration, including a glossary of wetland restoration terminology and guidance on small dams and wetland restoration [R4.1.x] (Resolution VIII.16)
e) Prepare guidance on compensation for wetland losses, in response to Resolution VIII.24, and report to COP9 [R4.1.xi] (Resolution VIII.16)
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
5. Invasive alien species
a) Continue to develop (with GISP, CBD, IOPs and interested Parties) practical guidance on prevention, control and eradication of alien species [5.1.2]
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
6. Local communities, indigenous people, and cultural values
a) Prepare for COP9 methodologies or guidelines, including case studies, for effective implementation of Participatory Environmental Management. [R6.1.ii] (Resolution VIII.36)
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
8. Incentives
a) Continue to contribute to development of the Internet-based resource kit (http://www.biodiversityeconomics.org/incentives/policies-07-00.htm) on positive incentives prepared and maintained by IUCN–the World Conservation Union. [8.1.2]
b) Advise the Ramsar Bureau on the relevance, quality, and accessibility of the information provided on the web-based resource kit (see Action 8.1.2) and indicate further needs regarding information on incentive measures. [R8.1.iv] (Resolution VIII.23)
c) Report to COP9 on progress in design, implementation, monitoring, and assessment of incentive measures and identification and removal of perverse incentives [8.1.3]
d) Investigate linkages between incentives and related topics including financial mechanisms, trade, impact assessment and valuation (in collaboration with IUCN, IAIA, other relevant bodies and experts and the Bureau) [R8.1.v] (Resolution VIII.23)
e) Continue to identify wetland-related elements of existing guidelines on incentive measures, so as to recognize important gaps where such guidance is failing to meet fully the needs of the Parties, investigate possible ways of filling such gaps, and to prepare a report on these matters for COP9 (in collaboration with IUCN, the subsidiary bodies of other environmental conventions, and other relevant organizations) [R8.1.vi] (Resolution VIII.23)
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified
9. Communication, education, and public awareness
a) Establish a Communication, education and public awareness (CEPA) Working Group [R9.i.iii]. Priority tasks are to:
1. For each task within the STRP's programme of work for the triennium, provide ongoing input to the various working groups to ensure CEPA issues are considered fully and reflected appropriately in the guidance developed for Parties' consideration at COP9.
2. Evaluate the CEPA-related information provided in the National Reports submitted for COP8 and identify the major impediments and constraints being experienced by Parties in this area. Provide summary advice on this to the STRP and Standing Committee, and use it to guide the actions of this Working Group.
3. Review existing Ramsar guidance, and develop additional guidance, as required, for Parties, STRP, Bureau and IOPs, on CEPA issues and on opportunities which exist in the Ramsar Strategic Plan 2003-2008 to further the objectives of the CEPA Programme.
4. Develop for consideration at COP9 additional guidance based on practical experiences to enhance Ramsar's New Guidelines for management planning for Ramsar sites and other wetlands (Resolution VIII.14), Guidelines for establishing and strengthening local communities' and indigenous people's participation in the management of wetlands (Resolution VII.8), and the Guiding principles for taking into account the cultural values of wetlands for the effective management of sites annexed to Resolution VIII.19, in order to show the role of CEPA in local management action.
5. Review Ramsar's other guidance for Parties (as contained in the Wise Use 'Toolkit') and, where appropriate, develop additional guidance to indicate how CEPA can be integrated into these policy and planning approaches.
6. Review the CEPA programmes and activities of other international conventions and programmes, including but not restricted to the Convention on Biological Diversity, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB), and provide advice to the Ramsar Bureau on how to advance more harmonised approaches.
7. Develop the scope and Terms of Reference for pilot projects to evaluate a range of approaches for applying CEPA in promoting the wise use of wetlands
8. Review existing models and case studies for undertaking wetland CEPA activities and document the lessons learned from these experiences. Make these conclusions and case studies available to the Ramsar Bureau for distribution to Contracting Parties and other interested bodies.
9. In coordination with the Ramsar Bureau, ensure that the conclusions from the reviews and revision of National Wetland CEPA Action Plans are available to all Contracting Parties, as working examples of CEPA Action Plans.
Lower, except for task 1. [refer to paragraph 12. of covering note]
10. Designation of Ramsar sites
10.1. Application of the Strategic Framework
a) Provide interpretation of the term 'under-represented type' in the context of available information on the global extent of different wetland types and representation of these in the Ramsar List, and investigate methods for defining targets for representation of wetland types in the Ramsar List in the context of the Strategic Framework for the future development of the List (Resolution VII.11), and report to COP9. [R10.1.iii] (Resolution VIII.11)
b) Prepare guidance for the clear definition of the ecological character features in the Information Sheet on Ramsar Wetlands (RIS), including recommendations for change to the structure and content of the RIS and, as appropriate, further guidance on the application of the Criteria for the identification and designation of Wetlands of International Importance in the Strategic Framework and future development of the Ramsar List (Resolution VII.11) and the additional guidelines for the identification and designation of under-represented wetland types (Resolution VIII.11) in the definition of the ecological character of Ramsar [R10.1.x](Resolution VIII.7)
c) Keep under review the Ramsar Criteria for Identifying Wetlands of International Importance to ensure that these reflect global wetland conservation and wise use priorities [17.1.5]
d) Develop, for consideration by COP9, additional Criteria and guidelines for the identification and designation of Ramsar sites concerning their socio-economic and cultural values and functions that are relevant to biological diversity, as listed in Annex 1 of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), which would be applied on each occasion in conjunction with one or more existing criteria for the identification and designation of Ramsar sites; and include in this work a full analysis of the implications for Contracting Parties of the implementation of such criteria for the management of Ramsar sites, including Contracting Party obligations and responsibilities for maintaining the ecological character of any such sites so selected so as to ensure that the coherent national networks of Ramsar sites fully incorporate all relevant aspects of the biological diversity of wetlands. [R10.1.xi] (Resolution VIII10)
e) Consider allocating an open field in section of the Ramsar Information Sheet concerning wetland types, to facilitate the process of review of the Ramsar wetland classification system with a view to including additional types [R10.1.xii] (Resolution VIII.13)
f) Harmonize of the layout and information fields of the Information Sheet on Ramsar Wetlands (RIS) and the core data fields recommended in the Ramsar Framework for Wetland Inventory [R10.1.xiii] (Resolution VIII.7)
g) Investigate the inclusion of a core data field in the Ramsar Information Sheet to allow for the insertion of a precise site boundary description and consider the preparation of guidance about this field for inclusion in the accompanying RIS Explanatory Notes and Guidelines [R10.1.xiv] (Resolution VIII.21)
h) Provide further guidance concerning Ramsar site maps on:
i) where the additional information called for in paragraphs 14-16 of Annex III to the RIS Explanatory Notes and Guidelines (Resolution VIII.13) would be incorporated into the RIS;
ii) the value and feasibility of supplying digital mapping (called for in paragraphs 17-22 of Annex III);
iii) the compatibility of such data at a global scale;
iv) the use of such data by third parties; and
v) issues of data licencing, copyright, access and fees.
[R10.1.xv] (Resolution VIII.13)
i) Prepare further guidance on identification and designation of other coastal wetland types, including inter alia intertidal and subtidal mud and sand flats and seagrass beds. [R10.1.xvii] (Resolution VIII.4)
j) Review the ecological roles of artificial reservoirs and dams, including use by waterbirds, and prepare guidance on identification and designation of such wetlands for the Ramsar List (if indicated as priority by Standing Committee) [R10.1.xviii] (Resolution VIII.2)
k) Review the multiple sources of information available on Ramsar Sites, including RISs, the Ramsar Sites Directory, site management plans, and data that might be collected under other international instruments; review the needs for such information, their uses and users; and make recommendations to COP9 as to how the supply and international reporting of information on Ramsar Sites might be better harmonized to give possible efficiency and cost savings. [R10.1.xix] (Resolution VIII.13)
[all sub-tasks: STRP should determine how consolidated guidance on these should be developed]
High (all sub-tasks)
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified [and after clarification of task 10.1 a)]
Undertake 2003-2005 if lead organization identified [and after clarification of task 10.1 a)]
10.2 Maintenance and analysis of Ramsar Sites Database
a) Contribute to reviewing change in ecological character and progress in achieving the Vision and Objectives of the Strategic Framework and guidelines for the future development of the List of Wetlands of International Importance, based on RIS information supplied by CPs, at each COP. [10.2.4]
11. Management planning and monitoring of Ramsar sites
11.1 Maintain ecological character of all Ramsar sites
a) Develop a field guide for the practical application of the guidelines [on management planning] adopted by Resolution VIII.14, recognizing that there may be circumstances that limit the application of the guidelines in full. [R11.1.viii] (Resolution VIII.14)
b) Working in close cooperation with relevant international organizations, and with input from STRP National Focal Points and drawing on the review conducted by the IOPs (see Action R3.3.i):
a) establish a framework for identifying, documenting and disseminating good agriculture-related practice, including site-specific and crop-specific information, and policies that demonstrate sustainable use of wetlands for agriculture; and
b) use this framework to develop for consideration at COP9, and possible incorporation into the site-management guidelines annexed to Resolution VIII.14, wetland-type specific management guidelines to:
i) enhance the positive role that sustainable agricultural practices may have vis-à-vis the conservation and wise use of wetlands;
ii) minimize the adverse impacts of agricultural practices on wetland conservation and sustainable use goals; and
iii) include examples based on wetland-type specific needs and priorities that take into account the variety of agricultural systems.
[R11.1.ix] (Resolution VIII.34)
c) Assist the Bureau to establish the procedures for the creation and maintenance of the "San José Record" [11.1.3]
d) Review and prepare further guidance on zonation and monitoring programmes and methodologies for Ramsar sites and other wetlands, including indicators and rapid assessment methodologies and the use of remote sensing [R11.1.xiii]
[depends on prior review work under Action R3.3.i by IOPs and others]
High [but largely covered by work under 1.2 above]
11.2 Monitoring the condition of Ramsar sites, including application of Article 3.2 and Montreux Record
a) Prepare further consolidated guidance on the overall process of detecting, reporting and responding to change in ecological character, including guidelines for determining when such a change is too trivial to require reporting, having regard to the reasons why a given site is important, and the conservation objectives set for it [R11.2.ii] (Resolution VIII.8)
b) Review and evaluate the Man and the Biosphere Programme's procedure for Biosphere Reserve Integrated Monitoring (BRIM), once developed, and advise on its application to the monitoring of the ecological character of Ramsar sites and other wetlands [R11.2.iii] (Resolution VIII.7)
c) Advise on CP requests for removal of Ramsar sites from the Montreux Record, as required [11.2.6]
d) Prepare an analysis and report of the status and trends in the ecological character of sites in the Ramsar List, and set, as far as possible, the status and trends of Ramsar sites within the wider context of the status and trends of marine, coastal and inland wetlands, drawing upon the results of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MA) and other assessment initiatives as appropriate [R11.2.ix] (Resolution VIII.8)
Defer to 2005-8, pending full availability of BRIM methodology
As required
12. Management of shared water resources, wetlands and wetland species
12.2 Cooperative monitoring and management of wetland-dependent species
a) Contribute to promotion and dissemination research into the population dynamics and sustainable harvesting of wetland dependent species, especially migratory waterbirds [12.2.4]
Lower –
defer to 2005-8
13. Collaboration with other multilateral environmental agreements and institutions
a) Exchange information, cooperate and coordinate activities, where appropriate, with subsidiary bodies of other Multilateral Environmental Agreements and relevant regional instruments, including the implementation of actions in Joint Work Plans [13.1.1]
b) Become involved in any work undertaken through invitation to the IPCC and UNFCCC to focus some of their future work on issues related to region-specific wetland data, and to improve knowledge on the vulnerability of wetlands to climate change and the capacity to project impacts on wetlands, reporting on the status of international discussions at COP9. [R13.1.iv ] (Resolution VIII.3)
Defer, pending initiation of any IPCC/UNFCCC work
14. Sharing of expertise and information
a) Assist in promoting sharing of knowledge (traditional, indigenous and more recently derived technologies and methods), through STRP National Focal Points [14.1.1]
[Note. This task is a contribution which would be undertaken through the STRP Support Service, but which in turn could link to providing input to review of socio-economic and cultural site designation criteria (see 10.1 d) above)]
17. Institutional mechanisms of the Convention
a) Prepare a series of key indicators in relation to the effective implementation of the Strategic Plan in the next triennium, to be used as part of the National report Format [indicators to be adopted by the Standing Committee at its annual meeting in 2004 so that Parties may use them to complement their National Reports to COP9] (Resolution VIII.26)
b) Assist the work of the Standing Committee in reviewing the process of the preparation, and adoption of Resoltuions and Recommendations by COP (Resolution VIII.45)
c) Prepare draft Technical Resolutions, circulate for consultation to STRP National Focal Points and review for transmission to the Standing Committee (Resolution VIII.45)


text:
Filthy Alert: Kyle Drabek's Two-Seamer
I finally got around to posting this from this past Tuesday, but this was the result from one of Kyle Drabek's two-seam fastball from the game vs. the Red Sox.
Jarrod Saltalamacchia was held helpless against it, as he struck out looking in this at bat.
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