“The House of Lords is an archaic, anti-democratic and farcical relic of an institution, and it should have been scrapped long ago.
“It is simply staggering that we are in the 21st century and are still using a system that allows the government to appoint cronies, donors and friends into positions of immense power and privilege for life, and we have no way of removing them.
“It is made even more ridiculous when someone has just been rejected by their constituents and is appointed straight after. That practice must come to an end. It is an absurd way to run any country. We can and must do better than this.”
Mr Harvie added:
“One of the many benefits of Scottish independence is that it would allow us to move on from this broken system and build a proper modern democracy where all politicians can be held to account at the ballot box.”
Derby residents could win up to £1000 off next year’s Council Tax bill if they sign up for electronic billing.
Electronic billing is another way to receive your Council Tax bill. Instead of getting a paper bill in the post, you can view your bill online.
Switching to e-billing online is easy to do and Council Tax payers who are registered for e-billing by 14 February 2025 will be entered in to a prize draw
The first prize is up to £1000 off, with four runner-up prizes of up to £500 off for the 2025/26 Council Tax bill year.
Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the secure online system means you can access your Council Tax account information at any time, any place.
Council Tax payers need first to register for myAccount. As soon as this account is activated, you can select the electronic billing option.
Anyone who has already registered for e-billing will be automatically included in the prize draw.
With myAccount, you can also:
check your balance
set up or change a Direct Debit
make a payment arrangement
apply for an exemption or discount
update your contact details
Councillor Hardyal Dhindsa, Cabinet Member for Digital and Organisational Transformation, said:
We continually strive to expand our online offering to make interacting with the Council faster, more convenient, and more secure.
Registering for myAccount and e-billing is free and easy and means residents can check their Council Tax bills at any time. By not receiving paper bills, they also help to keep costs down and minimise our impact on the environment.
Every sign-up helps. Postage costs are so high that a relatively small number will cover the cost of the prize draw. Every additional sign-up will directly benefit the Council, helping us to maintain essential services.
I would encourage all Council Tax payers who aren’t already registered for e-billing to do so now and be in with a chance to win money off their next Council Tax bill.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today strongly disapproved of and opposed the so-called “2024 Annual Report” issued by the US Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), which made malicious smearing remarks against multiple areas in the Hong Kong SAR.
In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government said it disapproves of the CECC’s repeated tactics to interfere in the affairs of Hong Kong through the so-called annual report, and for making slandering remarks against the city, where “one country, two systems” is successfully implemented.
The US is once again making unfounded and fact-twisting remarks, the Hong Kong SAR Government specified, adding that such attempt to undermine the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong and interfere in its law-based governance is smack of despicable political manipulation with ill intentions.
“The CECC openly clamours for so-called ‘sanctions’ with an aim to intimidate Hong Kong SAR officials who resolutely safeguard national security. The Hong Kong SAR Government strongly condemns its political grandstanding rife with ill intentions, which have been seen through by all.
“The Hong Kong SAR despises the so-called ‘sanctions’ and will not be intimidated by such a despicable behaviour. It will resolutely continue to discharge the duty of safeguarding national security.
“The Hong Kong SAR Government reiterates that it steadfastly safeguards national sovereignty, security and development interests, and fully and faithfully lives up to the highest principle of “one country, two systems”.
It added that it strongly demands the US to immediately stop acting against the international law and basic norms of international relations and interfering in China’s internal affairs and Hong Kong affairs.
The Hong Kong SAR Government sternly refuted the slandering remarks against the Hong Kong SAR in the US’ so-called report citing three aspects that include safeguarding national security, safeguarding the due administration of justice and rule of law, and safeguarding rights and freedoms.
It stated that it strongly opposes the absurd and untrue content regarding legislation safeguarding national security in Hong Kong contained in the report.
In accordance with international law and international practice based on the Charter of the United Nations, safeguarding national security is an inherent right of all sovereign states. Many common law jurisdictions, including the US, the UK, Australia and Canada, have enacted multiple pieces of legislation and implemented measures to safeguard national security.
The US’ report completely ignored the severe national security threats posed by the riots and the Hong Kong version of “colour revolution” in 2019, and neglected that the implementation of the National Security Law has enabled the livelihood and economic activities of the community and the business environment to return to normalcy, the Hong Kong SAR Government pointed out.
“This is a clear demonstration of hypocrisy with double standards. In fact, security and development work together like the two wings of a bird. Development requires a safe social environment.
“The Hong Kong SAR has fulfilled the constitutional responsibility and historic mission of enacting local legislation for Article 23 of the Basic Law. The newly enacted Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO) achieves convergence, compatibility and complementarity with the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL).”
Together the SNSO and HKNSL form a comprehensive legal system and enforcement mechanism for safeguarding national security. Hong Kong can finally advance from stability to prosperity following the transition from chaos to order, the Hong Kong SAR Government said.
It added that extraterritorial effect for the offences endangering national security under the HKNSL and the SNSO fully aligns with the principles of international law, international practice and common practice adopted in various countries and regions.
“It is both necessary and legitimate, and is also in line with those of other countries and regions around the world including the US, the UK, Australia, Canada and member states of the EU. Police have the responsibility to pursue those who are suspected of committing offences endangering national security outside Hong Kong.”
Smearing remarks in the US’ report pinpointing custodial and rehabilitation work of Hong Kong is untrue, misleading, irresponsible and absurd, the Hong Kong SAR Government emphasised, noting that the Correctional Services Department (CSD) is committed to ensuring the custodial environment is secure, safe, humane, appropriate and healthy, and has put in place an established mechanism to ensure the rights of persons-in-custody (PICs) are protected.
Such rights include regular inspection of independent visitors, namely Justices of the Peace. The CSD performs its duties in accordance with the law and regulations in managing all PICs, regardless of their background, it added.
As regard the administration of justice, Hong Kong is a society underpinned by the rule of law and has always adhered to the principle that laws must be obeyed and lawbreakers held accountable, which is well recognised by international communities, the Hong Kong SAR Government noted.
Apart from stressing that the Basic Law clearly stipulates the Judiciary shall exercise judicial power independently in accordance with the law, free from any interference, it specified that everyone charged with a criminal offence has the right to a fair hearing as guaranteed by the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights.
The Department of Justice, by virtue of Article 63 of the Basic Law, shall control criminal prosecutions and make independent prosecutorial decisions based on an objective assessment of all admissible evidence and applicable laws, the Hong Kong SAR Government said.
The courts decide cases strictly in accordance with the evidence and all applicable laws. Cases will never be handled any differently owing to the profession, political beliefs or background of the persons involved, and the prosecution has the burden to prove beyond reasonable doubt the commission of an offence before a defendant may be convicted by the court, it explained.
Regarding rights and freedoms, the Hong Kong SAR Government made it clear that it steadfastly safeguards the rights and freedoms enjoyed by its people as protected under the law, noting that human rights in Hong Kong have always been robustly guaranteed constitutionally by both the Constitution and the Basic Law since its return to the motherland.
The HKNSL and the SNSO clearly stipulate that human rights shall be respected and protected in safeguarding national security in Hong Kong, and the rights and freedoms that Hong Kong residents enjoy under the Basic Law and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil & Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social & Cultural Rights as applied to Hong Kong, shall be protected in accordance with the law.
The Hong Kong SAR Government indicated that such rights and freedoms include the freedoms of speech, of the press, of publication, of association, of assembly, of procession and of demonstration.
As is the case with other places in the world, such rights and freedoms are not absolute. The ICCPR expressly states that some of them may be subject to restrictions as prescribed by law that are necessary for protection of national security, public safety, public order or the rights and freedoms of others, etc, the Hong Kong SAR Government added.
The New Zealand government coalition is tweaking university regulations to curb what it says is an increasingly “risk-averse approach” to free speech.
The proposed changes will set clear expectations on how universities should approach freedom of speech issues.
Each university will then have to adopt a “freedom of speech statement” consistent with the central government’s expectations.
The changes will also prohibit tertiary institutions from adopting positions on issues that do not relate to their core functions.
Associate Education Minister David Seymour said fostering students’ ability to debate ideas is an essential part of universities’ educational mission.
“Despite being required by the Education Act and the Bill of Rights Act to uphold academic freedom and freedom of expression, there is a growing trend of universities deplatforming speakers and cancelling events where they might be perceived as controversial or offensive,” he said.
“That’s why the National/ACT coalition agreement committed to introduce protections for academic freedom and freedom of speech to ensure universities perform their role as the critic and conscience of society.”
Minister for Tertiary Education and Skills Penny Simmonds said freedom of speech was fundamental to the concept of academic freedom.
“Universities should promote diversity of opinion and encourage students to explore new ideas and perspectives. This includes enabling them to hear from invited speakers with a range of viewpoints.”
It is expected the changes will take effect by the end of next year, after which universities will have six months to develop a statement and get it approved.
Aside from the fact that the free speech legislation for universities is a waste of time (and seemingly ideologically inconsistent with the anti-regulation stance of the government), this line from the RNZ article is both hilarious and worrying pic.twitter.com/aOoPa0ZPc5
Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington said the important issue of free speech had been a dominant topic throughout the year.
It believed a policy it had come up with would align with the intent of the criteria laid out by the government today.
However, the Greens are among critics, saying the government’s changes will add fuel to the political fires of disinformation, and put teachers and students in the firing line.
Labour says universities should be left to make decisions on free speech themselves.
‘A heavy-handed approach’ The Tertiary Education Union (TEU) said proposed rules could do more harm than good.
They have been been welcomed by the Free Speech Union, which said academic freedom was “under threat”, but the TEU said there was no problem to solve.
TEU president Sandra Grey said the move seemed to be aimed at ensuring people could spread disinformation on university campuses.
“I think one of the major concerns is that you might get universities opening up the space that is for academic and rigorous debate and saying it’s okay we can have climate deniers, we can have people who believe in creationism coming into our campuses and speaking about it as though it were scientific, as though it was rigorously defendable when in fact we know some of these questions . . . have been settled,” she said.
Grey said academics who expressed views on campus could expect them to be debated, but that was part and parcel of working at a university and not an attack on their freedom of speech.
“There isn’t actually a problem. I do think universities, all the staff who work there, the students, understand that they’re covered by all of their requirements for freedom of speech that other citizens are.
“So it feels like we’ve got a heavy-handed approach from a government that apparently is anti-regulation but is now going to put in place the whole lot of requirements on a community that just doesn’t need it.”
Some topics ‘suppressed’
Free Speech Union chief executive Jonathan Ayling . . . some academics are afraid to express their views and there is also a problem with “compelled speech”. Image: VNP/Phil Smith/RNZ News
Free Speech Union chief executive Jonathan Ayling said freedom of speech was under threat in universities.
“We’ve supported academics . . . where they feel that they have been unfairly disadvantaged simply for holding a different opinion to some of their peers. Of course, that is also an addition to the explicit calls for people to be cancelled, to be unemployed,” he said.
Ayling said some academics were afraid to express their views and there was also a problem with “compelled speech”.
“Forcing certain references on particularly ideological issues. There’s questions around race, gender, international conflicts, covid-19, these are all questions that we’ve found have been suppressed and also there’s the aspect of self-censorship,” he said.
“As we have and alongside partners looked into this more and more, it seems that many people in the academy exist in a culture of fear.”
University committed to differing viewpoints Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington is committed to hearing a range of different viewpoints on its campuses, vice-chancellor Professor Nic Smith says.
Free speech had been an important issue during 2024, and the university had arrived at a policy that covered both freedom of speech and academic freedom.
By consulting widely, there was now a shared understanding of “foundational principles”, and its policy would be in place early in the new year.
“We believe this policy aligns with the intent of the criteria [from the government] as we understand them. It recognises the strength of our diverse university community and affirms that this diversity makes us stronger,” Professor Smith said.
“At the same time, it acknowledges that within any diverse community, individuals will inevitably encounter ideas they disagree with-sometimes strongly.
“Finding value in these disagreements is something universities are very good at: listening to different points of view in the spirit of advancing understanding and learning that can ultimately help us live and work better together.”
The university believed in hearing a range of views from staff, rather than adopting a single institutional position.
“The only exception to this principle is on matters that directly affect our core functions as a university.”
‘Stoking fear and division’
The Green Party’s spokesperson for Tertiary Education, Francisco Hernadez . . . this new policy has nothing to do with free speech. Image: VNP/Phil Smith/RNZ News
Green Party’s spokesperson for Tertiary Education, Francisco Hernadez, said the new policy had nothing to do with free speech.
“This is about polluting our public discourse for political gain.”
Universities played a critical role, providing a platform for informed and reasoned debate.
“Our universities should be able to decide who is given a platform on their campuses, not David Seymour. These changes risk turning our universities into hostile environments unsafe for marginalised communities.
“Misinformation, disinformation, and rhetoric that inflames hatred towards certain groups has no place in our society, let alone our universities. Freedom of speech is fundamental, but it is not a licence to harm.”
Hernandez said universities should be trusted to ensure the balance was struck between academic freedom and a duty of care.
“Today’s announcement has also come with a high dose of unintended irony.
“David Seymour is speaking out of both sides of his mouth by on the one hand claiming to support freedom of speech, but on the other looking to limit the ability universities have to take stances on issues, like the war in Gaza for example.
“This is an Orwellian attempt to limit discourse to the confines of the government’s agenda. This is about stoking fear and division for political gain.”
Labour’s Associate Education (Tertiary) spokesperson Deborah Russell responded: “One of the core legislated functions of universities in this country is to be a critic and conscience of society. That means continuing to speak truth to power, even if those in power don’t like it.”
“Nowhere should be a platform for hate speech. I am certain universities can make these decisions themselves.”
‘Expectations clarified’ – university The University of Auckland said in a statement the announcement of planned legislation changes would help “to clarify government expectations in this area”.
“The university has a longstanding commitment to maintaining freedom of expression and academic freedom on our campuses, and in recent years has worked closely with [the university’s] senate and council to review, revise and consult on an updated Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom Policy.
“This is expected to return to senate and council for further discussion in early 2025 and will take into account the proposed new legislation.”
The university described the nature of the work as “complex”.
“While New Zealand universities have obligations under law to protect freedom of expression, academic freedom and their role as ‘critic and conscience of society’, as the proposed legislation appreciates, this is balanced against other important policies and codes.”
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
“It looks like Hiroshima. It looks like Germany at the end of World War Two,” says an Israeli-American historian and professor of holocaust and genocide studies at Brown University about the horrifying reality of Gaza.
Professor Omer Bartov, has described Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza as an “act of annihilation” of the Palestinian people, reports Middle East Eye.
Dr Bartov said that not only had Israeli forces been moving displaced Palestinians around the Gaza Strip but they had also been strategically bombing mosques, museums, hospitals, and anything that served the health or culture of a people — in an attempt to cleanse the entire area of Palestinians.
Al Jazeera reports that an Israeli drone attack on the Shati refugee camp in northern Gaza targeted a group of people gathered at a phone charging and internet distribution point, killing three people.
According to a witness, this was the only point in the refugee camp where people trapped in the area charge their phones and connect to the internet to be in touch with family members who are displaced in the central and southern parts of the Gaza Strip.
This was not the first time that the Israeli military has carried out deliberate attacks on such connectivity points.
Houthis ballistic missile wounds 14 Meanwhile, a ballistic missile launched by the Houthis from Yemen has broken through Israeli defences above and below the Earth’s atmosphere before slamming into Tel Aviv, reports Israel’s public broadcaster Kan.
It said interceptors from the Arrow missile defence system were launched into the upper atmosphere after detecting the missile, but missed the target and failed to stop it before it entered Israeli territory.
As captured in numerous videos, two more interceptors were then fired in the lower atmosphere, also failing to shoot down the missile.
At least 14 people were wounded after a failed interception of the ballistic missile.
This was the third incident of its kind just this week. The Israeli army says it was now investigating why it was not intercepted and why this was such a significant failure.
Since the start of the war, the Houthis have launched more than 200 missiles, and more than 170 drones in support of the Palestinians in Gaza. The Houthis have said they would continue the attacks until Israel ends its war in the besieged enclave.
In July, there was a drone that evaded all Israeli air defences, no siren sounded, and it was able to detonate in the middle of Tel Aviv and kill one person.
This time, it was just one minute from the time the sirens rang until the moment of impact.
About the U.S. Army:
The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.
Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L
Connect with the U.S. Army online:
Web: https://www.army.mil
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
#USArmy #Soldiers #Military #YIR2024
0:15 How corruption damages society – Corruption is a pervasive issue that undermines societies, economies, and governance. Defined as the abuse of entrusted power for personal gain, it has far-reaching consequences that go beyond financial losses. Understanding its impact and adopting strategies to fight it are critical to creating more equitable and sustainable societies.
4:29 Tips for safeguarding green spaces – Just 37% of the world’s 500 most populous cities have developed a dedicated strategy around nature and biodiversity preservation. Travis Beck is Chief Park Officer at the Presidio, a historic national park site in California’s San Francisco Bay Area. He discusses 3 ways the park is safeguarding its future under his watch.
7:24 Heavy industries push for net zero – Eight heavy-emitting sectors account for around 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions. These sectors play a key role in the global economy. Demand is set to rise more than 60% by 2050, so it’s imperative to make them more sustainable. How are they getting on? The Net Zero Industry Tracker has the answers.
10:42 Impact of climate change on profits – Researchers have calculated the business risks posed by climate hazards such as extreme weather, which pose a threat to companies’ fixed assets such as property, machinery and equipment. Together, these losses could cut 7% from companies’ profits every year by 2035, half as much as the losses incurred during the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
_____________________________________________
The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.
RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment is investigating a serious single-vehicle crash that occurred in Enfield.
Yesterday, at approximately 11:20 a.m., RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment,fire services, and EHS, responded to a reportof a single-vehicle crash on Hwy. 102 between exit 6 and 7. RCMP officerslearned that a Toyota Rav4 was travelling north when it left the roadway and came to rest in the ditch.
The driver and lone occupant, a 20-year-old Halifax man, suffered life-threatening injuries. He was transported to hospital by LifeFlight.
An RCMP collision reconstructionist attended the scene and the investigation is ongoing.
The highway was closed several hoursbut has since reopened.
Dhaka (Agenzia Fides) – “I have received a gift from the Catholic community. I am grateful. I will share it at Christmas with my grandchildren,” says Maria Gomes, a 65-year-old widow, one of the beneficiaries of the Holy Rosary Conference of the Society of St.Vincent de Paul, in the parish of Tejgaon, Dhaka. Maria lost her husband and a son, and now lives with her daughters-in-law and grandchildren in a slum in Dhaka. In the gift package she received, there is a sum of money, a cake and 1 kg of rice. Another beneficiary, Raphael Biswas, who also lives in a slum in the old town of Dhaka, expresses his gratitude: “I am diabetic and cannot do heavy work because of my physical condition. I thank the Catholics of Tejgaon for their generous help this Christmas. May Almighty God bless you.”Like them, many others in need have received solidarity aid during the Advent season. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul supports many families in their basic material needs. The organization collects funds among local Catholics and distributes aid to those in need. Before Advent, the Society promoted a solidarity campaign and many Catholics responded generously. This effort highlights the spirit of generosity and compassion of the Catholic community in Dhaka, which, while preparing to celebrate the birth of Christ, gives hope and joy to marginalized families.“The faithful of Bangladesh are preparing to welcome the Lord Jesus with gestures of compassion and charity. As part of this preparation, we are collecting clothing and financial contributions to help the poorest, and there are many of them,” says Bruno Dias, president of the Holy Rosary Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Dias stresses that financial difficulties do not hinder initiatives. “We overcome them thanks to God’s providence, to charitable people and to organizations that come to support us,” he says. “Committing ourselves to this mission of mercy and solidarity brings us peace and joy, that joy that lies in giving.”Elizabeth Rozario, one of the volunteers, adds that all this gives a deeper meaning to the Advent season. “Jesus Christ comes for all humanity. We are ready to welcome him,” she says. “During Advent, sharing one’s resources with those in need is a source of happiness.” Elizabeth is one of the people who have donated winter clothing to needy Christians who do not have adequate clothing for the cold season.The mission of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is to accompany the spiritual life of its members in the witness of faith in Christ, sharing fraternal love with those who suffer or are in poverty. The organization helps people of all faiths, ethnicities and backgrounds.Father Joyanto Sylvester Gomes, parish priest of Tejgaon, praises the initiatives of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, which has also donated 10,000 Tk (about 100 euros) to the parish to help the needy. “In my parish, people actively participate in charitable initiatives when asked. This is very positive and I hope it will continue in the future,” he says. The volunteers of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul “do an important job helping the needy in the parish. They take care of them and I thank them on behalf of the parish community,” he adds.Along with active charity, spiritual preparation is not lacking among Catholics in Bangladesh. This is why the faithful approach the sacrament of confession and long queues form in front of the confessionals in churches. “For my spiritual life, I think it is essential to confess before Christmas, and I have done it,” says Tanmoy Cruze, a 35-year-old faithful from Dhaka. (FC/PA) (Agenzia Fides, 20/12/2024)
Share:
Aachen (Agenzia Fides) – The focus of the “Star Singers” campaign of the Pontifical Society of German Missionary Childhood (Aktion Dreikönigssingen) is on children’s rights, and aims to emphasize that all people are beloved children of God and have a right to a life with dignity.The campaign encourages children and young people to work together with their peers from all continents to ensure that their rights are recognized, guaranteed and protected.In 1989, the United Nations adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child.Nevertheless, millions of children continue to suffer greatly: 250 million children, especially girls, do not go to school. 160 million children are forced to work, around half of them under exploitative conditions. One in four children worldwide is malnourished. More than 43 million children and young people are refugees and displaced persons fleeing their homes.Children’s rights must therefore continue to be strengthened and their implementation must be further promoted. Because “every human being has the right to live with dignity and to develop integrally; this fundamental right cannot be denied by any country” (Pope Francis in the encyclical “Fratelli Tutti”, 107).”‘Raise your voice! Star Singers for Children’s Rights’ is the motto of the upcoming campaign – and the Singers will bring this message to the people they visit all over Germany”, explained Father Dirk Bingener, National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies and of Missionary Childhood in Germany, illustrating the importance of the upcoming campaign theme. “The rights of children must be brought to people’s attention again and again. Our partners in around 1,100 projects worldwide contribute every day to implementing and thus protecting children’s rights,” said Bingener.Every year in the days before Epiphany the “Star Singers” dressed in their costumes of Magi, with their Star and their songs during Christmas time go around visiting German homes. The children from Catholic parishes in Germany carry the “C+M+ B” blessing (“Christus mansionem benedicat – Christ bless this house”) to the families, collecting donations for other children their age who suffer throughout the world.Since its beginning in 1959, the Star Singers Campaign has grown into the largest solidarity campaign in the world by children for children. Children’s projects have been supported in Africa, Latin America, Asia, Oceania and Eastern Europe.The Pontifical Society of the Holy Childhood uses the funds to support projects around the world in the fields of education, health, pastoral care, nutrition and social integration.A delegation of Star Singers from the diocese of Freiburg will participate in the celebration with Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, January 1. A total of 21 other Star Singers from Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Slovakia and Romania will also be in the Vatican on New Year’s Day.b(MS) (Agenzia Fides, 21/12/2024)
Share:
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the Honourable Mona Fortier, Member of Parliament for Ottawa—Vanier, will serve as Chief Government Whip.
Mona Fortier previously served as Deputy Government Whip. First elected in 2017, and re-elected twice, she has held various Cabinet positions, including President of the Treasury Board and Minister of Middle Class Prosperity and Associate Minister of Finance. Before entering politics, she worked as Chief Director of Communications and Market Development at Collège La Cité and managed her own strategic communications-consulting firm. Her community involvement has earned her various recognitions, including a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.
As Chief Government Whip, Ms. Fortier will work as part of a diverse team to deliver real, positive change for Canadians, including making life more affordable, growing the economy, and creating good middle-class jobs.
Quote
“Mona Fortier is an experienced leader with a keen understanding of the issues that matter most to Canadians and the values that guide our work in their service. I know she will continue to be a great asset in this new role, as we work together to build a better Canada for everyone.”
Quick Fact
Each recognized party in the Parliament of Canada has a whip. Among other duties, the whips ensure that enough Members are in the chamber for debates and votes, determine which committees Members will sit on, and assign offices and seats in the House of Commons. Whips also work with Members to ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament, Members’ offices, and service to constituents.
Dear Friends, I’m happy to share that earlier this month, in Texas Top Cop Shop v. Garland, a federal court in Texas issued a nationwide preliminary injunction against the Corporate Transparency Act, or CTA. Idaho joined an amicus brief with 21 other states defending the court’s decision. Ostensibly written to combat money laundering, the CTA would have collected millions of small business records and interest ownership across the states and put them into a federal database. The CTA disproportionately harmed small businesses and violated privacy, impacting 32.6 million businesses nationwide, without providing clear safeguards for the information compelled from the businesses. And apart from the privacy issues, complying with the CTA’s demands would have cost billions of dollars and tens of millions of personnel hours. The deadline for businesses to file their CTA report was December 31, 2024. In delivering this nationwide injunction, the Texas court handed a clear victory to those of us supporting the principles of Federalism. This decision will set a vital precedent for courts when they scrutinize other federal initiatives that encroach into subjects that are rightfully within the purview of states alone. As your Attorney General, I will always continue to fight federal encroachment into the regulation of intrastate commerce and corporate regulation which are clearly state responsibilities. The Texas court felt similarly and had a harsh rebuke for the extensive constitutional overstep by the federal government. Federal district judge Amos Mazzant wrote in his preliminary injunction that, “For good reason, Plaintiffs fear this flanking, quasi-Orwellian statute and its implications on our dual system of government.” Despite the win and a nationwide injunction, the fight isn’t over. The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals is reviewing this case after the Biden Administration immediately appealed the decision. Idaho will remain in this fight and will be submitting our amicus brief along with many other states who view this issue similarly. There is also a pending case involving the CTA in the 11th Circuit Court and Idaho has joined it as well. It remains to be seen how an incoming Trump Administration or a new Congress will handle this matter. However, Idaho will always stand up for keeping the federal government out of our state affairs and in its own constitutional lane. Best regards,
Not yet subscribed to the Labrador Letter? Click HERE to get our weekly newsletter and updates. Miss an issue? Labrador Letters are archived on the Attorney General website.
NEW YORK, Dec. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm by ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating:
Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp. (NYSE: AUB), relating to a proposed merger with Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, all Sandy Spring shares will automatically be converted into the right to receive 0.900 shares of AUB, and cash in lieu of fractional shares.
ACT NOW. The Shareholder Vote is scheduled for February 5, 2025.
Cyclo Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:CYTH), relating to its proposed merger with Rafael Holdings, Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, Cyclo common stock will automatically be converted into the right to receive shares of Rafael common stock.
Patterson Companies, Inc. (NASDAQ:PDCO), relating to the proposed merger with Patient Square Capital. Under the terms of the agreement, shareholders of Patterson will receive $31.35 in cash per share.
SK Growth Opportunities Corporation (NASDAQ:SKGR), relating to the proposed merger with Webull Corp. Under the terms of the agreement, shares of SK Growth will be converted into shares of Webull Corp.
NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:
Do you file class actions and go to Court?
When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
What cases did you recover money in and how much?
About Monteverde & Associates PC
Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.
No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in any of the above listed companies and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.
Contact: Juan Monteverde, Esq. MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC The Empire State Building 350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740 New York, NY 10118 United States of America jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com Tel: (212) 971-1341
Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.
Coast Guard and local emergency response authorities ended the search for a missing swimmer after local responders located and recovered his body off Flamenco Beach in Culebra, Puerto Rico, Friday. Recovered deceased is Brandon Smith, a U.S. citizen in his sixties, from Connecticut residing in Culebra, after local emergency responders using a drone located the swimmer’s body, approximately one nautical mile offshore from Flamenco Beach.
For more breaking news follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
Source: The Conversation – Indonesia – By Aswin Ariyanto Azis, Head of department of Politics, Government, and International Relations of Universitas Brawijaya, Universitas Brawijaya
Ilustrasi-ilustrasi bendera negara anggota BRICS dan mitra.justit/Shutterstock
Indonesia’s decision to pursue membership in BRICS – an emerging economy bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa – signals that President Prabowo Subianto is steering foreign policy in a direction contrasting with his predecessors.
Since BRICS is an alternative to Western-dominated organisations, many observers scrutinised and questioned Indonesia’s nonalignment commitment. However, Foreign Minister Sugiono argued that BRICS aligns with Indonesia’s ‘free and active’ foreign policy, allowing Indonesia to collaborate widely without aligning too closely with any single bloc.
For Sugiono, joining BRICS means paving the way to advance the new government’s goals of food security, energy independence, poverty alleviation, and human capital development. The bloc offers access to funding, technology, and trade opportunities to tackle key challenges in those sectors. BRICS, with its emphasis on fairness and cooperation, supports Indonesia’s vision for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
The shift from Retno’s OECD focus to Sugiono’s BRICS approach reflects at least two visions. First, Indonesia seeks to reassess its strategic position as the leading economy in Southeast Asia. Second, the country seeks to switch from its nonalignment stance to multi-alignment. The later will help navigate partnerships with both developed and emerging economies, balancing traditional alliances with new opportunities.
Joining BRICS can amplify Indonesia’s influence in its already strong ties with each of the member countries and unlock opportunities beyond one-on-one partnerships.
Fear of missing out
Indonesia’s pivot to BRICS reflects both its relationship with major powers, such as China and the US, and regional pressures.
Neighbouring countries Malaysia and Thailand have recently expressed interest in BRICS, creating a sense of competition within Southeast Asia. Both countries joining the bloc could erode Indonesia’s leadership and influence in the region, especially in affecting global affairs.
As its de facto leader, Indonesia has historically championed initiatives like the South China Sea Code of Conduct and Myanmar’s peace process. Its G20 presidency further underscored its role as a mediator between global powers.
Joining BRICS ahead of its regional peers ensures that Indonesia maintains its leadership position in ASEAN. For Prabowo’s administration, BRICS offers a platform to advance Indonesia’s interests in maritime security, economic growth, and global governance. It is a strategic move beyond an economic decision to amplify its voice on global issues and prevent fellow Southeast Asian countries from overtaking it in shaping the bloc’s agenda.
Bold (but not one) direction
Indonesia’s BRICS membership announcement highlights the new administration’s foreign policy ambitions, centred on two key shifts: adopting a multi-alignment strategy and strengthening its ‘good neighbour’ policy.
Prabowo envisions engaging with all nations, fostering friendly relations while opposing oppression. This approach resonates with Indonesia’s historical commitment to sovereignty and equality in international relations.
By joining BRICS, Indonesia avoids taking sides and instead diversifies its partnerships to maximise benefits. This multi-aligned approach enables active participation in BRICS discussions on multilateral reform.
Such collaborations reduce reliance on Western financial systems and enhance Indonesia’s autonomy. Ultimately, these strategic directions position Indonesia as a sovereign and dynamic player capable of balancing global relationships while advancing its own priorities.
What about the OECD?
This move does not mean the OECD is off the table for Indonesia. Instead, Prabowo’s approach reflects a dual-track strategy that values both alliances for their respective benefits.
The OECD remains a long-term objective to enhance Indonesia’s economic governance and regulatory standards. It serves the goal of providing the country with stable relationships within the Western economic framework. Meanwhile, BRICS offers an immediate avenue for Indonesia to deepen ties with equivalent economies and actively shape policies that impact the Global South.
Sugiono’s statement in Kazan emphasised Indonesia’s commitment to engaging in other forums, including the G20 and OECD discussions. It highlighted the country’s flexibility in international alliances.
This dual-track strategy reinforces Indonesia’s role as a bridge between developed and developing nations, maximising the benefits of both alliances without sacrificing its autonomy.
What’s next for Indonesia?
Indonesia’s decision to join BRICS marks a significant evolution in its foreign policy. By participating in BRICS, Indonesia positions itself as a critical player in global discussions on economic reform and development, asserting its voice within a multi-polar world order.
Indonesia is charting a path that balances traditional alliances with emerging opportunities, reinforcing its role as a dynamic, independent player on the world stage.
Aswin Ariyanto Azis tidak bekerja, menjadi konsultan, memiliki saham, atau menerima dana dari perusahaan atau organisasi mana pun yang akan mengambil untung dari artikel ini, dan telah mengungkapkan bahwa ia tidak memiliki afiliasi selain yang telah disebut di atas.
A man has been charged with the murder of 42-year-old Gemma Devonish in Carshalton.
The 38-year-old man, who was known to Gemma, was arrested in the early hours of Friday, 20 December. On Saturday, 21 December, he was charged with her murder.
The man is James Madden, 38, (25/03/1986) of Railton Road, SE24. He will appear in custody at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 23 December.
Officers await the conclusion of a post-mortem examination.
Detectives are not looking for anyone else in connection with the murder.
Source: The White House
Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Madam President:)
In accordance with section 21304 of the American Relief Act, 2025 (H.R. 10545; the “Act”), I hereby designate as emergency requirements all funding (including the transfer and repurposing of funds) so designated by the Congress in the Act pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985, as outlined in the enclosed list of accounts.
The details of this action are set forth in the enclosed memorandum from the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.
Sincerely,
JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.
NEW YORK, Dec. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm by ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating:
Universal Stainless & Alloy Products Inc. (Nasdaq:USAP), relating to its proposed merger with Aperam US Absolute LLC. Under the terms of the agreement, all USAP shares will be automatically converted into the right to receive $45.00 per share.
ACT NOW. The Shareholder Vote is scheduled for January 15, 2025.
Nabors Industries Ltd. (NYSE:NBR), relating to its proposed merger with Parker Wellbore Co. Under the terms of the agreement, Nabors will acquire Parker Wellbore’s issued and outstanding common shares in exchange for 4.8 million shares of Nabors common stock, subject to a share price collar.
ACT NOW. The Shareholder Vote is scheduled for January 17, 2025.
Altair Engineering Inc. (NASDAQ:ALTR), relating to a proposed merger with Siemens AG. Under the terms of the agreement Altair stockholders will receive $113.00 per share in cash.
ACT NOW. The Shareholder Vote is scheduled for January 22, 2025.
Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq:SASR), relating to a proposed merger with Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp. Under the terms of the agreement, all Sandy Spring shares will automatically be converted into the right to receive 0.900 Atlantic Union shares, and cash in lieu of fractional shares.
ACT NOW. The Shareholder Vote is scheduled for February 5, 2025.
NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:
Do you file class actions and go to Court?
When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
What cases did you recover money in and how much?
About Monteverde & Associates PC
Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.
No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in any of the above listed companies and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.
Contact: Juan Monteverde, Esq. MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC The Empire State Building 350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740 New York, NY 10118 United States of America jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com Tel: (212) 971-1341
Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Dmitry Chernyshenko awarded the winners of the “Minister of Youth – 2024” nomination of the “Time of the Young” award
December 21, 2024
Dmitry Chernyshenko awarded the winners of the “Minister of Youth – 2024” nomination of the “Time of the Young” award
December 21, 2024
Dmitry Chernyshenko awarded the winners of the “Youth Minister – 2024” nomination of the “Time of the Young” award. The first place was taken by the Minister of Youth Affairs of the Kamchatka Territory Victoria Ariarti
December 21, 2024
Guest of honor at the award ceremony of the All-Russian Youth Achievement Prize “Time of the Young” First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Administration of Russia Sergei Kiriyenko
December 21, 2024
Previous news Next news
Dmitry Chernyshenko awarded the winners of the “Minister of Youth – 2024” nomination of the “Time of the Young” award
The National Center “Russia” is hosting a solemn award ceremony for the All-Russian Youth Achievement Award “Time of the Young” of Rosmolodezh. Organizations, regions, heads of regional ministries, and projects were recognized for their contribution to the development of the youth policy sector. The award in the nomination “Minister of Youth – 2024” was presented by Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.
The ceremony’s guests of honor also included First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Sergei Kiriyenko, Head of Rosmolodezh Grigory Gurov, Chairman of the Board of the Movement of the First, Hero of Russia Artur Orlov, Governor of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug Dmitry Artyukhov, Governor of the Omsk Region Vitaly Khotsenko, General Director of the ANO Russia – Land of Opportunities, Rector of the Senezh Management Workshop Andrei Betin, Director of the Information and Press Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Maria Zakharova and others.
Sergey Kiriyenko announced the winners of the special nomination “Youth Capital of Russia – 2025”. He thanked the teams of the cities that held the status of “Youth Capital of Russia” in 2024 – Moscow and Vladivostok, as well as all five cities – finalists of this year.
“For the first time, the final stage of the competition – the public vote for the title of “Youth Capital of Russia – 2025″ – was held on the public services website. In addition, it was impossible to vote for your region. And this became a real test of teamwork. 818 thousand people took part in the public vote, and the gap between the leaders was only 500 votes. Therefore, the jury and the organizing committee of the competition decided that in 2025 Russia will again have two youth capitals – Omsk and Perm,” said Sergey Kiriyenko.
Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko announced the winners of the “Youth Minister – 2024” nomination. First place went to the Minister of Youth Affairs of Kamchatka Krai Victoria Ariarti, second place went to the Chairperson of the Youth Affairs Committee of the Government of Khabarovsk Krai Amalia Shikhaleva, and third place went to the Deputy Governor of Belgorod Oblast – Minister of Youth Affairs of Belgorod Oblast Tatyana Kireeva.
“Our President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin has instructed the Government to create a national project “Youth and Children”. Starting next year, events for young people will be held within its framework. But effective management of this national project is impossible without such people who know firsthand about the values approved by the 809th decree of the President, which we must comply with, as well as how to make our work real and effective in their cities and regions,” the Deputy Prime Minister noted.
The All-Russian Youth Achievement Award “Time of the Young” has been held since 2021. This year, the awards were presented to laureates in 10 nominations, including the thematic nomination “Family of the Young”, which was announced specifically on the occasion of the Year of the Family.
“For Rosmolodezh, the Time of the Young Award is an important event, which we traditionally hold at the end of the year. In the award, we recognize the best teams, regions, project authors and young people who strive to develop their future and the future of our homeland. This is an opportunity to say thank you to everyone who works in the field of youth policy and is involved in educational activities. Only together can we create truly interesting and useful projects for the future of Russia,” said Grigory Gurov, head of Rosmolodezh.
The All-Russian Youth Achievement Award “Time of the Young” of Rosmolodezh was first initiated in 2021. In 2022, a special nomination “Youth Capital of Russia” appeared. This is a nationwide award in the field of youth policy, encouraging outstanding achievements of industry specialists, leaders of youth public associations, business structures, as well as individual figures who have made a significant contribution to the development of youth policy in Russia. The strategic partner of the Youth Achievement Award “Time of the Young” is the VK company.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
To be attributed to Inspector Simon Feltham, Marlborough Area Commander:
A 44-year-old man is facing numerous charges following an incident at a Park Terrace house in Blenheim.
The man has been charged with threatening to kill, discharging a firearm to intimidate, abducting a child under 16, and contravening a protection order.
He is scheduled to appear in Blenheim District Court on Monday 23 December.
The holiday season came alive at the Dragon Hill Lodge on Yongsan Garrison, where the entire community gathered to celebrate with a tree lighting ceremony, Seoul, South Korea, Dec. 17. U.S. Army Col. Edward Cho, the U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan-Casey commander, welcomed military service members, families, and local residents in the area to a night of family-friendly fun, free food, caroling, an ugly sweater contest and pictures with Santa.
“To our incredible Soldiers, their families, and our devoted Korean allies, I thank you for your continued commitment, resilience, and the sacrifices you make every day. Your dedication strengthens the bonds that we have between nations,” said Cho during his opening remarks. “It’s because of you that we can stand strong together, ready to face any challenge that comes our way. During this season of joy and reflection, I’m humbled to serve alongside such remarkable individuals.”
The tree, standing tall, in front of the Dragon Hill Lodge was adorned with a multitude of sparkling lights and colorful ornaments, symbolizing the spirit of the holiday season. The lighting ceremony typically marks the beginning of a month-long series of holiday-themed events, accompanied by musical performances, gift-giving, and festive culinary delights.
Santa Claus made a grand entrance on an installation fire truck, later taking pictures with several families and children just inside, in the Dragon Hill Lodge’s main lobby area. Local dignitaries and leaders from both U.S. and South Korean communities attended the event, reinforcing the strong ties between the two nations.
The ceremony was a chance for service members and their families to take a break from their normal duties and enjoy the warmth of the holiday season together. For many, the annual celebration on Yongsan Garrison has become a beloved family tradition.
The event serves as a welcome reminder of the importance of community during the holiday season, as well as a testament the enduring friendship between friends, allies, and colleagues who serve abroad together.
The Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s Operation Support Wing hosted its annual mochi-pounding ceremony, bringing together U.S. and JASDF personnel to celebrate cultural exchange and teamwork at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Dec. 13.
The centuries-old tradition involved steaming glutinous rice before rhythmically pounding it with large wooden mallets in a mortar to create a sticky dough. Symbolizing unity and prosperity, mochi-pounding marks the arrival of the New Year in Japan. Once prepared, the mochi was shaped into small round cakes and served as part of the traditional celebratory meal.
The ceremony not only celebrates Japanese culture but also provides a unique opportunity for U.S. and JASDF personnel to collaborate and strengthen their bonds through shared customs. This year’s event saw both JASDF and U.S. military personnel working together to prepare the mochi, fostering teamwork and cultural understanding.
“At Yokota, the mochi-pounding ceremonies are a bit unique,” said Keisuke Kitano, JASDF Operational Support Wing liaison. “This event allows us an opportunity to welcome U.S. members and share Japanese culture, promoting exchange and teamwork.”
The annual mochi-pounding ceremony highlights the strength of the partnership between U.S. and Japanese forces. It not only fosters cultural understanding and mutual respect but also strengthens community bonds, offering both forces a unique opportunity to work together and build lasting friendships.
End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. This mission will not result in a Board discussion.
Management of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved on December 20, 2024, a Staff-Monitored Program (SMP) with Haiti covering the period through December 2025.
This new 12-month SMP is expected to contribute to strengthen macroeconomic stability to support well-being of people and to enhance economic resilience and governance. It will anchor the government’s macroeconomic priorities for the year ahead.
Fund management also welcomes the authorities’ commitment to publish the forthcoming Governance Diagnostic Report.
Washington, DC–December 21, 2024: Management of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved on December 20, 2024, a Staff-Monitored Program (SMP) with Haiti which runs through December 19, 2025. The new 12–month SMP was designed by the Haitian authorities and IMF staff, keeping in mind Haiti’s fragility and capacity constraints while supporting the authorities’ economic policy objectives.
SMPs are arrangements between country authorities and the IMF to monitor the implementation of the authorities’ economic program and to establish a track record of policy implementation that could pave the way for financial assistance from the Fund under the Upper Credit Tranche (UCT).
Haiti faces a multidimensional crisis, a political transition, with a challenging outlook. The country is beset by both global and country-specific shocks, which have heightened its fragility. In addition to causing terrible human suffering, escalating gang violence has blocked the flow of goods and services. These events have further fueled inflation and left half the population suffering acute food insecurity. The supply-side shock caused by the security crisis will continue to suppress growth and feed inflation unless the security outlook improves.
The top priority is to continue to restore security. This is a prerequisite for macroeconomic stability and for allowing growth to materialize. Despite domestic and global difficulties, the authorities are firmly committed to negotiating a new SMP and have managed to contain somewhat the impact of the various shocks, thereby averting even worse macroeconomic outcomes. Net international reserves were valued at nearly US$1billion at the end of September 2024. Despite the political instability, Haiti’s two key economic institutions (Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Central Bank of Haiti) have remained continuously engaged with the Fund. They have consistently attempted to adopt feasible measures to limit macroeconomic imbalances and ensure a reasonable level of economic activity in the country. They have also continued to provide data and information on previously agreed benchmarks, even when the previous SMP had lapsed.
The SMP is an important anchor for signaling the authorities’ commitment to continue making progress toward macroeconomic stabilization and strengthen governance, and locking in macroeconomic gains accumulated over recent years, despite the many headwinds. Despite the delicate political context, and thanks to a highly inclusive consultative process, the authorities have been able to demonstrate full ownership and support for the SMP through the high-level Program Monitoring Committee (Comite du Suvie).
The authorities have a narrow but important window of opportunity to implement reforms that can help Haiti build resilience and eventually restore its medium- and long-term potential. An urgent government priority is re-starting the mobilization of revenue, to support the country’s massive development needs and boost well-targeted spending. The measures under the new SMP should help achieve these goals.
Continued strengthening of the social safety net is essential to cushion the impact of the shocks on the population and alleviate widespread poverty. The spending commitments previously indicated by the authorities using Food Shock Window resources should be audited in line with SMP commitments.
The fiscal and monetary authorities’ commitment to keeping monetary financing of the deficit at zero is commendable and should continue. The FY2023 financial audit of the BRH is urgent and its eventual publication by June 2025 would be important for demonstrating transparency. The authorities’ careful pace of monetary tightening has been appropriate and consistent with the goal of fighting inflation.
Advancing governance reforms is paramount to help Haiti exit from fragility, ensure inclusive growth and build trust with the private sector and development partners. In this vein, the authorities’ commitment to publish the Governance Diagnostic Report is commendable. It should provide a road map for reforms to enhance governance and will require capacity development support not only from the Fund but also from development partners.
A government-led strategy to continue to strengthen the economy’s resilience to multiple shocks requires the financial support of the international community. This assistance is indispensable to allow quality spending, over the short, medium, and long term. Without it, Haiti will continue to suffer large import compression. External assistance should take the form of grants. The authorities should avoid contracting non-concessional loans, to ensure consistency with the SMP commitments. Non-concessional loans would not only be against SMP commitment. It would also undermine debt sustainability.
In line with the Fund Strategy for Fragile and Conflict-Affected States, IMF staff will also continue to coordinate closely with Haiti’s main development partners, particularly on governance and capacity development.
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says Health New Zealand will move swiftly to support dozens of internationally-trained doctors already in New Zealand on their journey to employment here, after a tripling of sought-after examination places.
“The Medical Council has delivered great news for hardworking overseas doctors who want to contribute to New Zealand, by significantly increasing capacity in the all-importantNew Zealand registration exams (NZREX),” Dr Reti says.
“This is very exciting news and is expected to mean exam spots for up to 180 international candidates over the course of 2025, an increase from 60 initially planned.
“Once the candidates complete those exams, I’ve also instructed Health New Zealand to move to secure the clinical placements needed as an additional step to potential employment, particularly in general practice.
“Lack of exam spots and clinical placements have been repeatedly raised with me as barriers to employment in our health system.
“Over the past 18 months, I’ve received many letters from hardworking, well-qualified international candidates who were effectively shut out because they couldn’t get into the exams they needed, or secure placements.
“This group has come to be colloquially titled ‘Uber doctors,’ because they’ve sometimes ended up driving passengers for a living, instead of helping patients. Their stories have made for sad reading, when I’ve known our health system could benefit from their expertise, and they are already in New Zealand.
“Matters came to a head recently when I became aware that some doctors were being shut out of the online exam registration process by mere seconds, as the limited places were snapped up.
“These medical professionals shouldn’t have been fighting for places as if they were lining up for a pop concert. I raised this with the Medical Council directly and am very pleased they have been able to respond so swiftly with extra exams. I thank the Council for its collaboration.
“Another ongoing roadblock has been a lack of PGY1 positions – or first year house officer roles – for those who pass. The Commissioner of Health New Zealand has assured me that he’s ready to organise these placements, so the skills of these doctors can be utilised on the frontline. This is especially so for the NZREX GP pilot which has been so successful.
“The skills of these international doctors who are already resident in New Zealand, would sit alongside our outstanding New Zealand-trained doctors who are already delivering great care to Kiwis,” Dr Reti says.
The Medical Council will now have three exam dates in March, June and September 2025, up from two in 2024.
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Emilio Chirico, age 56, the Station Manager for the DeWitt, New York Post Office, has been charged by indictment with wire fraud, misappropriation of postal funds, and false entries and reports, announced United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Matthew Modafferi of the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG).
The indictment alleges that between January 2021 and March 2023, Chirico stole $81,553.94 in stamps from the DeWitt Post Office and falsified postal records to conceal the theft of the stamps. Chirico has been the station manager at the DeWitt Post Office since March 2012.
The charges filed against Chirico carry a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and a term of supervised release of up to 5 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG) is investigating the case, which is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tamara B. Thomson and Michael F. Perry.
Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)
—————
@marines recruits tackle the confidence course at @USMCRDSanDiego. This course challenges recruits’ physical and mental focus and helps them step out of their comfort zone.
For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov
—————
Keep up with the Department of Defense on social media!
Like the DoD on Facebook: http://facebook.com/DeptofDefense
Follow the DoD on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DeptofDefense
Follow the DoD on Instagram: http://instagram.com/DeptofDefense
Follow the DoD on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/DeptofDefense
Dec. 21, 2024 Release Number 20241221-01 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TAMPA, Fla. – U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted precision airstrikes against a missile storage facility and a command-and-control facility operated by Iran-backed Houthis within Houthi-controlled territory in Sana’a, Yemen, on Dec. 21 Yemen time.
CENTCOM forces conducted the deliberate strikes to disrupt and degrade Houthi operations, such as attacks against U.S. Navy warships and merchant vessels in the Southern Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb, and Gulf of Aden.
During the operation, CENTCOM forces also shot down multiple Houthi one way attack uncrewed aerial vehicles (OWA UAV) and an anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM) over the Red Sea.
The operation involved U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy assets, including F/A-18s.
The strike reflects CENTCOM’s ongoing commitment to protect U.S. and coalition personnel, regional partners, and international shipping.
Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
The workshop was organized jointly by EFTA and UNECE in close collaboration with the Statistical Committee of the Republic of Armenia (Armstat) and overseen by the Conference of European Statisticians’ Steering Group on Statistical Legislation. It brought together representatives of national statistical offices who have used or implemented the GLOS to:
Share the national experiences of using GLOS
Collect inputs regarding needed updates or extensions to existing guidance and
Initiate the review process.
The workshop took place in person with simultaneous interpretation in English and Russian during the meeting.
The Albanese Government is working hard to get Australian travellers a better deal, releasing the draft Aviation Customer Rights Charter today for public consultation over the summer period.
The Charter sets out the expectations of fair treatment by airlines and airports to their customers to ensure customers get what they pay for or get their money back.
The Australian flying public deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, and this includes receiving timely and fair remedies when their flight is cancelled or delayed.
That is exactly what this charter is about, providing clarity to consumers on their rights – giving them greater certainty about what they can expect, and where to go if these conditions are not met.
The Charter proposes that customers have the right to:
be treated with dignity and respect, in an accessible and inclusive environment;
accurate, timely and accessible information and customer service;
prompt and fair remedies and support during and after cancellations, delays and disruptions;
safe and timely baggage handling and fair remedies for damage and delays
the protection of their personal information;
provide feedback, make complaints and exercise their rights without retribution.
The Charter was one of the landmark commitments of the 2024 Aviation White Paper; it will be a first for Australia after years of increasing customer dissatisfaction in domestic aviation.
It has been informed by submissions received through the Aviation White Paper process, as well as feedback from customers and industry about the standards of service currently being experienced across the aviation sector.
I encourage the flying public, industry and other stakeholders to give their feedback on the draft charter before submissions close at 5pm on Friday, 28 February 2025.
Find out more, and have your say, by visitingwww.infrastructure.gov.au/Aviation-Rights-Charter