Source: Google
Blog
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MIL-OSI Banking: 24 startups fueling Ukraine’s future
Google for Startups Ukraine Support Fund announces 24 new recipients<meta name="optimize_experiments" content="[]"><meta name="description" content="Meet the next 2024 cohort of Google for Startups Ukraine Support Fund recipients."><meta name="keywords" content="None"><meta name="article-author" content="Matt Brittin"><meta name="robots" content="max-image-preview:large"><meta property="og:type" content="article"><meta property="og:title" content="24 startups fueling Ukraine's future"><meta property="og:description" content="Meet the next 2024 cohort of Google for Startups Ukraine Support Fund recipients."><meta property="og:image" content="https://storage.googleapis.com/gweb-uniblog-publish-prod/images/_DSC2358.width-1300.jpg"><meta property="og:site_name" content="Google"><meta property="og:url" content="https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/entrepreneurs/google-ukraine-support-fund-june-2024-update/"><meta property="article:publisher" content="https://www.facebook.com/Google/"><meta property="article:published_time" content="2024-09-27"><meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"><meta name="twitter:url" content="https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/entrepreneurs/google-ukraine-support-fund-june-2024-update/"><meta name="twitter:title" content="24 startups fueling Ukraine's future"><meta name="twitter:description" content="Meet the next 2024 cohort of Google for Startups Ukraine Support Fund recipients."><meta name="twitter:image:src" content="https://storage.googleapis.com/gweb-uniblog-publish-prod/images/_DSC2358.width-1300.jpg"><meta name="twitter:site" content="@google"><link rel="preconnect" href="https://fonts.googleapis.com"><link rel="preconnect" href="https://fonts.gstatic.com" crossorigin=""><link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="/static/keyword/css/blog/index.min.css?version=pr20240911-2220"><link rel="stylesheet" href="https://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Google+Sans:400,500,600,700%7CProduct+Sans:400&display=swap&lang=en"><link href="https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Noto+Color+Emoji&display=swap" rel="stylesheet"><link href="https://www.gstatic.com/glue/cookienotificationbar/cookienotificationbar.min.css" rel="stylesheet"><link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="/static/keyword/css/print/index.min.css?version=pr20240911-2220" media="print"><link rel="canonical" href="https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/entrepreneurs/google-ukraine-support-fund-june-2024-update/"><link href="/favicon.ico" rel="icon"><link href="/static/blogv2/images/apple-touch-icon.png" rel="apple-touch-icon"><meta property="gtm-tag" content="GTM-TRV24V"></p> <article class="uni-article-wrapper"> <section class="article-hero"> Osavul is an AI-powered platform specializing in threat intelligence and information environment assessment, was founded in March 2022 as a direct response to the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine and the critical need to combat information threats. The platform enables users to detect and analyze hostile activities like disinformation and coordinated attacks.</p> </section> </article> <p> -
MIL-OSI Africa: Motsoaledi warns leaders against antimicrobial resistance
Source: South Africa News Agency
Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has described antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as a ticking time bomb that could return the world to an era where common infections are untreatable, and routine surgeries become life-threatening.
“I stand before you with a sense of urgency and hope that as we join hands to tackle the problem of AMR, we have a full appreciation of the significant threat it poses to global health, food security and development,” he said on Thursday.
The Minister was speaking at the United Nations on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa at the high-level meeting on AMR.
Motsoaledi believes that ARM is currently a pressing challenge, and he told world leaders that South Africa was one of the high-burden countries of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB), where this makes up 2% of the TB burden.
The World Health Organisation (WHO), he stated, has identified DR-TB as one of the top AMR threats.
“However, in responding to this threat, we continue to lag behind, especially on TB research, and global collaboration. This situation has the potential to reverse many decades of medical advancements,” he stressed.
According to the WHO, AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to medicines, leading to infections becoming difficult or impossible to treat, increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death.
Motsoaledi said the risks of these illnesses have profound economic implications, affecting healthcare costs, productivity, and overall economic growth.
“Addressing AMR is not just a health imperative but also an economic necessity that requires coordinated global action.”
He is of the view that specific actions need to be taken to preserve efforts and to ensure collective action, which must turn the tide against AMR.
“We must embrace the power of education about the prudent use of antibiotics so that we can curb the misuse and overuse that drive resistance in humans, plants and animals.”
In addition, he spoke against the practice of polypharmacy, especially as it relates to unnecessary utilisation of antibiotics.
“We also need an integrated national patient information system, so that the patients cannot be hopping between health facilities, thus collecting multiple prescriptions for the same condition.”
The Minister also called for investment in research and innovation, which he said requires some urgent intervention, through academic and research institutions.
He took the time to call for a strengthened healthcare system – equipping hospitals and clinics with the necessary tools and training will ensure that infections are identified and treated promptly and accurately.
Also, the Minister stressed the importance of champion policy and advocacy and effective policies that promote antibiotic stewardship and infection prevention can safeguard our communities.
“Lastly, we need to jointly tackle the challenges of human behaviour through the social and behaviour community communication, so that we can educate our people about the dangers of AMR.”
Motsoaledi said AMR has greater potential to also impact patient satisfaction, prolonged patient recovery and poor treatment success rate.
“Together, we can turn this crisis into an opportunity – a chance to unite, innovate, and lead the world in the fight against antimicrobial resistance,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
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MIL-OSI Security: NATO’s scientific cooperation with Azerbaijan
Source: NATO
On 25 and 26 September, a team from the NATO Science for Peace and Security (SPS) Programme was in Baku, Azerbaijan to review practical scientific cooperation and kick off a new research project focused on protecting critical infrastructure from cyber-attacks.
Through the new project, contributors will develop a cyber platform that will allow organizations to train staff, test new technologies, and assess processes under pressure from simulated cyber-attacks. Over the next two years, the National Institute for Research and Development in Informatics – ICI Bucharest (Romania) and the Special Communication and Information Security State Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan will work together to bring this initiative to life. The aim is to help cyber defence teams better understand the vulnerabilities of Operational Technology systems so they can be better protected. These systems are the backbone of critical infrastructure such as power grids, water treatment plants, and transportation systems.
While in Baku, the NATO team also organized an Information Day at ADA University. It focused on NATO’s scientific cooperation activities involving Azerbaijan, and on encouraging new ideas involving the local research community. Over 40 participants from academia, as well as from Azerbaijan’s Ministries of Foreign Affairs and of Defence participated in the event.
NATO’s SPS Programme has a history of cooperation with Azerbaijan. Over the years, this has included activities focused on neutralising toxic rocket fuel left behind from Soviet times, securing energy infrastructure against seismic hazards, protecting cyber networks, and developing sensors for the detection of landmines and explosives.
Through its activities, the SPS Programme provides opportunities for academics, experts and officials in Azerbaijan, as well as other partner countries, to develop proposals for innovative scientific projects to be implemented with peers in NATO countries. Through these activities, participants exchange knowledge on security-related topics and build relationships that expand international scientific networks.
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MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Director bans for husband-and-wife who hired illegal workers at Chinese takeaway
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Five-year bans for couple who employed illegal workers
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Yu Jian Chen and Yunqin He employed three illegal workers at a Chinese takeaway in the Scottish Highlands
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The illegal workers were found during a visit from Immigration Enforcement officials last year
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Both Chen and He have been banned as company directors for the next five years
A couple who employed three illegal workers at a Chinese takeaway in the Scottish Highlands have been banned as company directors.
Yu Jian Chen, 39, and his wife Yunqin He, 38, recruited the workers, who were from China and Malaysia, at The Jade Garden in the village of Bonar Bridge.
Immigration Enforcement officials discovered the illegal workers during a raid of the takeaway last year.
Dave Magrath, Director of Investigation and Enforcement Services at the Insolvency Service, said:
Yu Jian Chen and Yunqin He failed to comply with their statutory obligations by employing three people who did not have the right to work at their takeaway.
Employers hiring illegal workers not only defraud the public purse but potentially put some of the most vulnerable people in society at risk of exploitation.
We are pleased to be supporting the Home Office with their activities by taking firm action against rogue company directors.
Chen and He were directors of The Jade Garden, trading under the company name JG Sutherland Limited, when Immigration Enforcement officials visited the premises in January 2023, finding two Chinese men and a Malaysian woman with no right to work there.
Immigration Enforcement fined The Jade Garden £45,000 for the immigration breach, which remains unpaid.
Brian Gillespie, the Home Office’s Immigration Compliance Enforcement lead for Scotland, said:
Illegal working undercuts honest employers, places vulnerable individuals at risk of exploitation and disadvantages legitimate job seekers.
It also impacts public finances as taxes are not paid by these businesses and workers, which is why tracking down unscrupulous employers is so important.
We’re pleased to secure these bans following an effective and close working relationship between the Home Office and the Insolvency Service.
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade accepted disqualification undertakings from Chen and He, and their five-year bans began on Thursday 19 September.
The disqualifications prevent the pair from becoming involved in the promotion, formation or management of a company, without the permission of the court.
He resigned as a director of the company five days after the Immigration Enforcement raid.
Further information
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Yu Jian Chen’s trading address was Unit 2, South Bonar Industrial Estate, Bonar Bridge. His date of birth is 15 September 1985
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Yunqin He is of the same trading address. Her date of birth is 2 September 1986
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JG Sutherland Limited (company number SC738578)
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Individuals subject to a disqualification order or undertaking are bound by a range of restrictions
Updates to this page
Published 27 September 2024 -
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MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: Rosreestr has concluded 22 agreements and memorandums within the framework of international cooperation
MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Russia is expanding international cooperation in the areas of real estate and land use. Since 2020, Rosreestr has concluded 22 memorandums and agreements on cooperation with relevant agencies of other countries, Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin said.
“Including three memorandums concluded since the beginning of this year with Kyrgyzstan, India and Serbia. Studying foreign practices is necessary to improve the quality of services in the field of land and real estate and to build the National Spatial Data System (NSDS). In addition, possessing advanced competencies in the industry, the department assists other countries in developing the sphere of registration of rights and cadastral registration, creating modern geoinformation resources. One of such large international projects is the creation of a geoportal of the spatial data infrastructure of the CIS member states, which is being implemented on the basis of the unified digital platform “NSDS” developed by Rosreestr,” said Marat Khusnullin.
The geoportal of spatial data infrastructure of the CIS member states is one of the four major international projects of the department, which is being implemented at the site of the Interstate Council on Geodesy, Cartography, Cadastre and Remote Sensing of the Earth. The corresponding list of instructions was signed by the President of Russia in November 2022.
“The geoportal is being created using the experience of development and technological solutions of the Russian state information system “Unified Digital Platform “NSPD”. It will provide quick and convenient access for citizens, businesses, and professional market participants to open geospatial data of the CIS member states and electronic services created on their basis. Currently, within the framework of the schedule, the issue of providing the infrastructure of the state unified cloud platform for hosting and operating the portal has been worked out. All participants of the CIS Interstate Council have formed a technical assignment for the implementation of the first stage of work, and basic data sets for the operation of services have been agreed upon. The geoportal is planned to be put into operation in 2025,” said Oleg Skufinsky, head of Rosreestr.
Rosreestr is implementing three more joint international projects with Uzbekistan, Abkhazia and Kyrgyzstan. They are related to the creation of national systems of state cadastral valuation. In particular, Abkhazia was provided with assistance in developing an automated information system of the real estate cadastre and a software module “Assessment of the cadastral value of real estate objects”. The project in Uzbekistan is planned to be completed by the end of 2024.
The agency also signed six “road maps” for exchanging experience in the field of registration of rights, cadastral registration and creation of spatial data infrastructure. Such contacts have been established with Turkey, Armenia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and South Ossetia.
In addition, Rosreestr is developing cooperation with the countries of the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia, Latin America and China, and has joined the activities of the BRICS Working Group on Geospatial Technologies and their Application.
One of the key areas of the agency’s activities remains cooperation with relevant international organizations, including the UN system, where the agency represents Russia’s interests. This allows not only to study advanced foreign experience in the field of geodesy, cartography and spatial data infrastructure, but also to promote Russian achievements and technologies in the industry in the international arena.
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.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
http://government.ru/nevs/52817/
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.
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MIL-OSI Economics: The Pula depreciated by 1.3 percent against the South African rand
Source: Bank of Botswana
Over the twelve months period to September 2024, the nominal Pula exchange rate depreciated by 4.8 percent against the South African rand and appreciated by 1.3 percent against the IMF Special Drawing Rights (SDR). With respect to the SDR constituent currencies, the Pula appreciated by 4.4 percent against the US dollar, 0.7 percent against the Japanese yen and 0.2 against the Chinese renminbi, while it depreciated by 4.5 percent against the British pound and 1 percent against the euro.
The Pula depreciated by 1.3 percent against the South African rand and appreciated by 0.9 percent against the SDR over the one-month period to September 2024. It appreciated by 1.5 percent against the US dollar, 0.6 percent each against the Japanese yen and the euro and 0.2 percent against the Chinese renminbi, while it depreciated against the British pound by 0.1 percent.
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MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Traders invited to Derby Market Hall information event
Source: City of Derby
Potential traders are invited to find out more about the opportunity to set up in the transformed Derby Market Hall.
A special event will be held at the Museum of Making on the evening of Tuesday 1 October. The friendly Derby Market Hall team will be on hand to answer any questions traders have about operating from the venue.
They’ll have information on costs, what’s included, fit outs, opening hours, events, types of leases, types of units, pop-ups, grants, business support and much more.
The historic Derby Market Hall is being given a new lease of life to transform this heritage asset into an attractive retail and leisure destination fit for the future.
It will bring together the best of the region’s independent shopping, eating, drinking and entertainment when it reopens in Spring 2025.
The transformed market will offer:
- A carefully curated mix of traditional and themed stalls, including quality fresh produce
- Make and trade stalls and creative spaces
- A cosmopolitan food court and bars
- Events and pop-up activity
Traders, entrepreneurs and businesses from across the region are invited to join the vibrant community it will create. It’s fantastic opportunity for both established and up-and-coming businesses to be part of a modern central hub while benefiting from Derby’s rich history and heritage.
The Derby Market Hall – Small Business Trader Event takes place on Tuesday 1 October from 5:30pm until 7:30pm at the Museum of Making, Silk Mill Lane, Derby DE1 3AF.
If you would like to attend, please email markets@derby.gov.uk to confirm, including your full name and business name. You can also complete a form to register your interest in becoming a trader.
For more information on Derby Market Hall, follow on Instagram and subscribe for further updates on the Derby Market Hall website.
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MIL-Evening Report: View from the Hill: Albanese and Chalmers play cat-and-mouse on negative gearing with the public – and possibly with each other
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra
Is the government seriously interested in changing arrangements on negative gearing? After days of questions to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Treasurer Jim Chalmers, who would know?
They’ve engaged in obfuscation at every turn.
Today, Chalmers was asked, at a news conference in Beijing, whether he had told treasury to model reforms of the tax break for property investors.
He replied:
It is not unusual at all for governments or for treasurers to get advice on contentious issues which are in the public domain, including in the parliament. It is not unusual for treasurers to do that. But we have made it very clear through the course of this week that we have a broad and ambitious housing policy already and those changes aren’t part of it.
Not unreasonably, the Australian Financial Review took this as Chalmers owning the request to treasury. But his office contested the interpretation, insisting he’d said nothing he hadn’t said before – taking us back to the position that the request formally remains an orphan.
The story started earlier in the week with a report in the Nine papers that the government had asked treasury for work on options “to scale back negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions”. The report did not specify who’d done the asking, although Albanese later said it wasn’t him, and told reporters to quiz Chalmers instead.
That treasury is working on options has inevitably raised the suggestion that reforms to negative gearing is on the agenda, perhaps as an election commitment.
Given the government’s reaction, the story may have been a genuine “leak” rather than a deliberate balloon (although it’s often hard to be sure who’s holding the sting of balloons).
Anyway, it put Albanese in a very grumpy mood in his television interviews. Fancy journalists trying to insist on a straight answer when he kept dodging and coming up with, in today’s much-used term, “word salads”.
He stressed the government had no plans to change negative gearing. Then he got cross when it was pointed out it had had “no plans” to change the stage 3 tax cuts, until it did suddenly have a plan.
Does the history of the stage 3 change give us any clue to what’s going on here?
In that instance, Chalmers was the one wanting change as far back as soon after the 2022 election. Albanese held out, worried about what a broken promise would do to his reputation for integrity.
In the end, under the pressure of a looming byelection, change came this year. Although the shift was well received, we’re now seeing it did damage him on the integrity front – his word is not automatically believed, and his phrases are carefully parsed.
Thus when he was asked, “are you considering taking negative gearing reform and capital gains tax reform to the next election?” and he replied “No, we’re not”, this was not regarded as a definite “no”.
Could it be that Chalmers is again putting himself at the forefront of seeking to alter policy, while Albanese is equivocal or resisting?
If that is so, it reprises an old story that crosses governments: differences between a treasurer with strong views (Paul Keating, Peter Costello) and a leader (Bob Hawke, John Howard) who is politically more cautious.
If there is any substance to the theory of a difference between Chalmers and Albanese, the treasurer would be very frustrated with his boss for hosing down a change to negative gearing, to the extent he has. And Albanese would be very annoyed if he thought the treasurer was responsible, by seeking options, for landing him in this pickle.
There are strong views among experts about whether negative gearing should be scrapped or capped.
But given that making the change would not significantly add to the total supply of housing, it’s really about the politics.
The Greens are taking skin off Labor on the housing issue, as well as holding up two government housing bills in the Senate. The government is worried the Greens could successfully milk the issue at the election, especially with younger voters, many of whom see house prices rising further out of reach and rents badly stretching their budgets.
Labor is pouring billions into housing but the results are set to fall well short of the numbers needed.
Tackling negative gearing might be a “look over here” policy to undermine the Greens and attract the young. But it would be ripe for a fear campaign from the Coalition and, as Albanese says, it wouldn’t solve the problem of the inadequate supply of homes.
Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. View from the Hill: Albanese and Chalmers play cat-and-mouse on negative gearing with the public – and possibly with each other – https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-albanese-and-chalmers-play-cat-and-mouse-on-negative-gearing-with-the-public-and-possibly-with-each-other-240020
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MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: US(Ed) leads Hong Kong education sector to call on state leader and officials of Ministry of Education (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Under Secretary for Education, Mr Sze Chun-fai, led the 16th National Day and Professional Exchange Delegation from the Hong Kong Education Sector to visit Beijing today (September 27) to call on a state leader and officials of the Ministry of Education.
Mr Sze and the delegation were received and welcomed by the Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress, Mr Peng Qinghua, at the Great Hall of the People. They then met the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Education, Mr Wang Jiayi. Mr Sze said that it was particularly meaningful to visit Beijing with representatives from the education sector before the National Day and celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China together with the people of the capital. He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Education, the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Department of Education of Liaoning Province and various Mainland units for their full support, facilitating the smooth conduct of the exchange programme.
Mr Sze said that the Education Bureau has been promoting national education through a “multipronged and co-ordinated” approach, encouraging whole school participation within and beyond the classroom. The exchange programme has deepened the education sector’s understanding of the history, culture and education development of the motherland, and broadened their professional horizons through on-site studies and professional exchanges, helping them further promote patriotic education, spread patriotic values, and strengthen students’ identification with the country and Chinese culture.
This year, the delegation comprised over 130 participants from the education sector, including representatives from tertiary institutions and professional education organisations, as well as principals and vice-principals from primary and secondary schools and kindergartens. The delegation began its visit on September 23. Members toured schools in Shenyang and Beijing to observe lessons and interact with teachers and students. They also visited the “918” Historical Museum, the Museum of the Communist Party of China and the Shijingshan Planning Exhibition Hall to learn about the history, culture and urban planning of the country.​Tomorrow morning (September 28), Mr Sze and the delegation will observe the flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square. They will conclude their visit and return to Hong Kong in the afternoon.
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MIL-OSI Translation: AFRICA/NIGERIA – National day of protest called against government’s economic policy
MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –
Source: The Holy See in Italian
Abuja (Agenzia Fides) – “A national day for survival” was announced on October 1 by several groups of Nigerian civil society. The date has a high symbolic value because it coincides with the 64th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence. The initiative was presented to the press on September 26 at the International Press Centre, Ogba, in Lagos by Hassan Taiwo Soweto, national coordinator of the Education Rights Campaign (ERC), one of the organizations of Nigerian society that oppose the economic policy launched by President Bola Tinubu, already the subject of ten days of protests in August, organized on social media with the hashtag
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
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MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Day Fireworks Display to be held at 9pm on October 1 (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The National Day Fireworks Display will light up the sky over Victoria Harbour at 9pm on October 1 (Tuesday) to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
A total of 31 888 firing shells will be discharged from three barges and six pontoons in an approximately 23-minute extravaganza. The event is co-ordinated by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, and is sponsored by the Hong Kong Chinese Importers & Exporters’ Association.
The theme for this year’s fireworks display is “Splendid fireworks shining over a prosperous China”. The fireworks display will be divided into eight scenes, each with its own characteristics. Highlights include the first scene, “75th Anniversary of the People’s Republic of China”, which will lift the curtain on the display with images of red five-pointed stars and purple five-petal flowers. The sixth scene, “The Legend of Pandas”, mainly featuring the green colour, shows images of pandas’ favourite food such as bamboo leaves to express the citywide welcome for their arrival. The seventh scene “Auspicious Treasures” showcases different kinds of ring-shaped fireworks, symbolising the strong bonds and perfect harmony among the various ethnic groups in China. The fireworks display will reach its climax in the last scene, “The Magnificent Scenes of China”, with flourishes of “Chinese Red”, “Big Whistle” and “Gorgeous Golden Crown” images showering blessings to all, wishing continued prosperity for the nation and peaceful lives for the people.
To offer audiences a new experience, for the first time a drone session will be staged before the National Day Fireworks Display as a prelude.
(Note: The staging of the drone session will depend on factors such as weather conditions that night).
The display can be seen from many vantage points on both sides of the harbour including Tsim Sha Tsui, the Mid-Levels, Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay and the Hung Hom Bypass.
To present the fireworks display in a more enjoyable way, viewers are invited to tune into Radio Television Hong Kong Radio 4 (FM 97.6 to 98.9) for synchronised music.
To facilitate police implementation of special crowd management measures in the Tsim Sha Tsui area for the fireworks display, both the Hong Kong Museum of Art and the Hong Kong Space Museum will be closed earlier at 6pm on October 1.
Citizens are urged to help keep public areas clean and to show respect for public property. They are also urged to show consideration to others to make the event a safe one. -
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “iAM Smart” as default registration method for Hong Kong identity card holders in completing real-name registration for pre-paid SIM cards from October 1 (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
“iAM Smart” as default registration method for Hong Kong identity card holders in completing real-name registration for pre-paid SIM cards from October 1 (with photos)
“iAM Smart” as default registration method for Hong Kong identity card holders in completing real-name registration for pre-paid SIM cards from October 1 (with photos)
******************************************************************************************The Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA) announced today (September 27) the latest enhanced arrangement of the Real-name Registration Programme for SIM Cards (Real-name Registration Programme). Starting from October 1, Hong Kong identity (HKID) card holders completing real-name registration for pre-paid cards (PPS cards) via telecommunications service providers’ online registration platforms can by default register and verify their identities through the mobile application “iAM Smart” so that they can instantly complete the registration. The enhancement aims to ensure the effective implementation of the Real-name Registration Programme and enable members of the public to activate their PPS cards more conveniently. According to the Telecommunications (Registration of SIM Cards) Regulation (the Regulation), Hong Kong residents must use HKID cards for real-name registration. If members of the public choose not to use “iAM Smart” for real-name registration for PPS cards, telecommunications service providers will manually verify the registration information submitted upon receipt of the relevant registration requests, and the relevant PPS cards will be activated after completing the real-name registration procedures. OFCA has already requested telecommunications service providers to deploy additional resources and manpower to process such verification work. Users in need may contact their respective telecommunications service providers for details. “To assist the enforcement agencies in combating fraudsters exploiting false information for registrations, OFCA has been maintaining close contact with telecommunications service providers and the Police, and has constantly requested telecommunications service providers to enhance their registration platforms, taking into account the operational experience since the full implementation of the Real-name Registration Programme in February last year. The digital identity authentication function of “iAM Smart” can help verify the identities of those who complete real-name registration with their HKID cards, thereby further ensuring the effective implementation of the Real-name Registration Programme. We urge members of the public to use “iAM Smart” for instant completion of the real-name registration procedures, making it easier to activate their PPS cards,” a spokesman for OFCA said. To help the public understand more about the relevant enhancement, OFCA and the Digital Policy Office (DPO) jointly conducted publicity and education activities in Mong Kok today, and arranged “iAM Smart” mobile registration teams to assist members of the public in registering for “iAM Smart” on-site. Staff members of OFCA also distributed leaflets and souvenirs to remind members of the public not to purchase or resell PPS cards that have allegedly completed real-name registration. In addition, OFCA has requested telecommunications service providers to step up their inspection of user information of registered PPS cards and refer suspicious cases to the Police for follow-up to assist in combating phone deception. As of end August this year, telecommunications service providers had rejected around 3 million registration requests as clients failed to provide information that meets the registration requirements, and had deregistered around 2.64 million non-compliant PPS cards. Earlier, based on reports from telecommunications service providers, the Police successfully arrested suspects for using false identity information to register a large number of PPS cards, including the telephone deception case involving a transnational crime syndicate as announced last month. “To avoid contravening the relevant laws, members of the public must complete real-name registration with their own original identity document, and traders should not assist any persons in using the identity document of a third party in completing the registration. OFCA will continue to carry out a series of monitoring actions to ensure that telecommunications service providers comply with the requirements of the Regulation and the relevant guidelines,” the spokesman added. Details of the Real-name Registration Programme are available at OFCA’s thematic website (www.ofca.gov.hk/simreg/en). For further information about the “iAM Smart” services, please visit the DPO’s “iAM Smart” thematic website (www.iamsmart.gov.hk/en/).
Ends/Friday, September 27, 2024Issued at HKT 18:38NNNN
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MIL-OSI Translation: ASIA/PAKISTAN – “Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan” militants in action: analysts and social organizations ask government for clarification
MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –
Source: The Holy See in Italian
Lahore (Agenzia Fides) – What role do the “civil militias” or “vigilante squads” of the “Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan” (TLP) organization have or how is the work justified, who go around the streets of Pakistani cities to search for and punish people accused of some religious crimes, such as blasphemy or contempt of Islam? It is a question that analysts and political and civil society representatives are asking themselves in the face of a phenomenon that is disturbing Pakistani society. Members of NGOs, social organizations, religious communities of various faiths, are asking the government for clarification in the face of the “extrajudicial” action of groups that are instilling fear among the people, threatening the safety of citizens and their right to live freely. Three cases, among the latest registered, have raised concern and debate in the Pakistani mass media. They are cases related to the accusations of “blasphemy on social media”, an area in which members of the TLP seem to pay maximum attention. One concerns a doctor, Shah Nawaz Kumbhar, originally from the province of Sindh, accused of sharing blasphemous content on the social network “Facebook”. The second refers to 50-year-old Abdul Ali, owner of a hotel in Quetta, Baluchistan, also arrested for posting denigrating comments on social media towards the Prophet Muhammad, and killed while in police custody. The third case concerns Christian nurse Shagufta Kiran, 40, mother of four children, punished with the death sentence for blasphemy on WhatsApp (see Fides 20/9/2024). In these and other cases, the active involvement of TLP members was noted, with public or intimidating acts. The Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) is an Islamic organization that in 2021 was declared “outlawed” by the government. Subsequently, in the fall of the same year, the TLP reached an agreement with the federal government in which it committed to uphold the Constitution and not to promote violent protests. In November 2023, the government of Pakistan officially recognized it as a “political party registered with the Election Commission of Pakistan.” The government entered into a pact with the TLP “in view of the larger national interest and long-term perspective to ensure no recurrence of violence in the future.” The agreement stipulated that Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997 (prosecution for acts of terrorism) is applicable to persons charged with blasphemy under Section 295-C of the Pakistan Penal Code (insulting the Prophet Muhammad). In addition, the parties agreed to establish a special section called the “Counter Blasphemy Wing” within the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), the investigative agency of the federal police. The section was established with the aim of strengthening the capacity to monitor “desecration of religions” but, as the blasphemy law is configured in Pakistan – it actually applies specifically to Islam, in particular to content shared on the web. The pact also guarantees a fair and speedy trial for defendants facing blasphemy charges, which “should protect against extrajudicial actions and lynchings that still occur by militants,” notes Farzana Imran, of the Christian organization “LEAD Pakistan” (Legal Evangelical Association Development), calling on the authorities to guarantee the rule of law and not to allow a para-state militia of “moral or religious police” to interfere with the work of the police or ordinary justice. Muhammad Amir Rana, a Muslim scholar, co-founder of the “Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies” and columnist for the Pakistani daily “Dawn”, recalls that last July the TLP incited violence against the Supreme Court of Pakistan, after the acquittal of a member of the Ahmadiyya community (considered “heretical” by Islam). And he asks: “Why does the State compromise and tolerate a group responsible for mass violence, vandalism, killing of innocent citizens, damage to property, which stains the international image of the country, promoting extremism?” (PA) (Agenzia Fides 27/9/2024) Share:
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
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MIL-OSI Translation: ASIA/SOUTH KOREA – “Resurrection”: The spiritual legacy of missionary John Lee Tae-seok in a film
MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –
Source: The Holy See in Italian
Friday, September 27, 2024
Rome (Agenzia Fides) – “Certain realities can only be seen with eyes cleansed by tears.” These words spoken by Pope Francis during the meeting with young Filipinos in Manila well represent the key to understanding the documentary film “Resurrection” which on Saturday 28 September 2024, at 11 am, will be screened in the Aula Pio XI of the Pontifical Lateran University to close the Korean Culture Week, an event organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea to the Holy See to celebrate the day of the “Foundation of Korea” which is celebrated every year on 3 October. The feature film collects what is the spiritual legacy of Fr. John Lee Tae-seok, a Korean Salesian missionary who carried out his pastoral and professional activity (he was already qualified as a doctor when he became a Salesian, ed.) for almost a decade, from 2001 to 2009, in the community of Tonj, in today’s South Sudan. In Africa he devoted himself to such intense pastoral activity that he profoundly influenced the lives of the people he helped. Those people at the time were children or young people. Today they are adults and some, following his example, have wanted to follow in his footsteps, retracing his steps not only in their profession, but also in their training, some even studying medicine at his own university. And they are precisely them, students of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Busan, in South Korea, the protagonists of this film by director Goo Soo Hwan, the same director of the famous film also dedicated to Don Lee and entitled “Don’t cry for me, Sudan”, which was an extraordinary success in his homeland (it was also screened in the Vatican in December 2011). “Resurrection” can be defined as the sequel to “Don’t cry for me, Sudan”: the new cinematic work by Goo Soo Hwan, in fact, starts from the death of Don Lee, which occurred in 2010. Those who tell the story of those moments are his students, young people who fell into despair at the news of his passing. A desperation that did not last long: they soon realized that their task was to continue, albeit in different ways, his mission. Here lies the key to understanding the entire film: in South Sudanese culture, crying in public is a cause for embarrassment, but the students cannot hold back their tears when they think of their teacher. And by sharing the love he had given them, the tears soon give way to joy and today the gratitude towards Don Lee shines through in the gestures of his students. “Certain realities can only be seen with eyes cleansed of tears”. The director is keen to point out that the film is not just a story of the path that the missionary’s students have undertaken to become doctors: “They have become people who give: what matters here is how they are living their lives. And they are living exactly the life of their ‘father’. They have shown me what happiness is and what authority really is”. “I wanted to know if the students’ tears had changed them. Well, their lives have changed a lot!”, adds the director, known for his critical and harsh interventions, who has over 30 years of experience as an investigative journalist. (FB) (Agenzia Fides 27/9/2024)
The poster of the movie “Resurrection”
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EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
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MIL-OSI Economics: stockstrends.co: BaFin warns consumers about website
Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English
The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) warns consumers about the website stockstrends.co. According to information available to BaFin, financial and investment services are being provided on this website without the required authorisation.
The operator of the website is StocksTrends Ltd. It provides business addresses in London, United Kingdom, and the British Virgin Islands.
BaFin has warned consumers about several almost identical websites that have come to its attention recently. The homepage of each website begins with the following sentence: “Step Into the Trading Arena With Confidence & [name of website]”.Anyone providing financial or investment services in Germany may do so only with authorisation from BaFin. However, some companies offer these services without the necessary authorisation. Information on whether a particular company has been granted authorisation by BaFin can be found in BaFin’s database of companies.
The information provided by BaFin is based on section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG).
Please be aware:
BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.
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MIL-OSI Translation: Guarantee of the quality of the women and the provisions used during the legislative process. Examen by the Federal Finance Control
MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –
Source: Switzerland – Federal Chancellery
Federal Council
Berne, 27.09.2024 – The Federal Financial Control Office will proceed with an examination of prescriptions designed to guarantee the quality of women and forecasts which are used in accordance with the legislative process, in accordance with the decision made by the Federal Council for their approval 27 September 2024. This exam will contribute to the fact that the Federal Council, the Parliament and the people have the best possible basis for making decisions.
The women and the forecasts are of great importance for the legislation. Elles influentialnt l’ensemble du processus, de la consultation à l’éventuelle vote popularaire en passant par les débats au Parlement. As a result, the Federal Council has asked the Federal Finance Inspectorate (CDF) to proceed with an examination of the suitability and effectiveness of the prescriptions and instruments existing here to guarantee the quality of women and forecasts. He is also asked to examine the quality of the women’s bases, methods and processes which are used to evaluate the forecasts contained in the messages and the explanations brochure of the Federal Council. The CDF operates autonomously and independently, within the limits of legal prescriptions. I accept the request of the Federal Council. Your work is signed up for the annual program 2025.
Erroneous women and imprecise predictions make it possible to question the decisions of the Federal Council and the Parliament, once again the people’s cells if the women’s project is to be voted on. Also the Federal Council at the beginning of the measures on January 15, 2020 to guarantee the objectivity and actuality of the basic decisions. For example, the quantitative data should be presented in a synthetic manner, with its sources, from the stages of consultation and the reports should contain an appreciation of the reliability of the estimations.
The Federal Council requested by the CDF to verify that the measures decided on 15 January 2020 are well taken into account in practice in all departments. The first to determine is that it is necessary to take the general order measures on the basis of the administrative enquête in cours portant on the erroneous estimations in the financial perspectives of the AVS. Ultimately, the examiner’s request is that the Federal Administration team is competent in the systematic manner of the training undertaken by the Federal Administration of contributions to the arrest suite concerning the initiative on the criminalization of the mariage. The CDF fixes independently the definitive questions that concern the object of the exam.
The women and the fairytale predictions reinforce not only the legislation, but also the confidence of the population in the political process and the instruments of direct democracy.
Address for envoi de questions
Urs Bruderer Chef ai de la Section communication058 483 99 69urs.bruderer@bk.admin.ch
Author
Federal Councilhttps://www.admin.ch/gov/fr/accueil.html
Federal Chancelleryhttps://www.bk.admin.ch/bk/fr/home.html
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EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
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MIL-OSI: US Army Bowl National Combine Returns for 3rd Annual Event Powered by Signing Day Sports
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
Event to generate upfront revenue through registration fees and apparel sales
Expected to be the largest attended combine in the country in 2024
Event to be held at The Star, the Dallas Cowboys Practice Facility in Frisco, TX
SCOTTSDALE, AZ, Sept. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Signing Day Sports, Inc. (“Signing Day Sports” or the “Company”) (NYSE American: SGN), the developer of the Signing Day Sports app and platform to aid high school athletes in the recruitment process, announces the 3rd Annual US Army Bowl National Combine, powered by Signing Day Sports. Set to take place from December 18-21, 2024, at The Star, the state-of-the-art Dallas Cowboys Practice Facility in Frisco, Texas, this year’s combine is expected to attract over 1,500 participants, making it the largest football combine in the nation for 2024.
In addition to creating an invaluable opportunity for aspiring football players, this event generates upfront revenue for the Company through event registration fees and promotion of the Company’s apparel sales by offering exclusive merchandise to both participants and fans.
The US Army Bowl National Combine will lead up to the prestigious US Army National High School All-Star Game, where elite student-athletes from across the country will showcase their skills. During the three-day event, Signing Day Sports anticipates the integration of more than 1,500 student-athletes into the Signing Day sports app, offering enhanced visibility to college recruiters and professional scouts.
“We are thrilled to run this year’s U.S. Army National Combine at such a world-class venue,” said Jeff Hecklinski, President of Signing Day Sports. “With the momentum from our growing community and the expected participation of top high school athletes from the classes of 2026, 2027, and 2028, we anticipate this to be a record-setting event both in terms of attendance and talent on display.”
About Signing Day Sports
Signing Day Sports’ mission is to help student-athletes achieve their goal of playing college sports. Signing Day Sports’ app allows student-athletes to build their Signing Day Sports’ recruitment profile, which includes information college coaches need to evaluate and verify them through video technology. For more information on Signing Day Sports, go to https://bit.ly/SigningDaySports.Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “may,” “could,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “plan,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “project” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. These statements are only predictions. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. These risks, uncertainties and other factors are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s periodic reports which are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These risks, uncertainties and other factors are, in some cases, beyond our control and could materially affect results. If one or more of these risks, uncertainties or other factors become applicable, or if our underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual events or results may vary significantly from those implied or projected by the forward-looking statements. No forward-looking statement is a guarantee of future performance. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.Investor Contact:
Crescendo Communications, LLC
212-671-1020
SGN@crescendo-ir.com -
MIL-OSI Video: Deputy President Mashatile arrives in Dublin for a working visit in Ireland
Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)
Deputy President Mashatile arrives in Dublin for a working visit in Ireland
Checkout more: http://www.thepresidency.gov.za
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MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK supports humanitarian emergency response in Lebanon
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The UK is providing £5 million to UNICEF in Lebanon to support humanitarian response efforts and enable UNICEF to distribute supplies to those in need.
The essential humanitarian support comes after further civilian casualties following this week’s air strikes. Thousands more have been displaced or forced to flee their homes.
The package includes essential medical supplies, hygiene kits and fuel for water stations, to help thousands of displaced civilians across Lebanon meet their basic needs.
It will also help emergency teams respond to urgent health and nutrition needs and provide a series of training sessions for key delivery partners and frontline workers to ensure an effective emergency response.
Minister for the Middle East and North Africa Hamish Falconer said:
Today we are providing £5 million to UNICEF in Lebanon to support the urgent humanitarian response in Lebanon. The number of civilian casualties is unacceptable, and the UK is deeply concerned by the surge in numbers of displaced people.
An immediate ceasefire is essential.
Development Director and Deputy Head of Mission at the British Embassy Beirut Victoria Dunne said:
We are profoundly saddened by the civilian deaths in Lebanon. The number of casualties and the scale of displacement is deeply distressing.
Alongside our tireless diplomatic efforts, the UK is providing £5m to UNICEF Lebanon, to deliver vital supplies to support thousands of displaced civilians facing a humanitarian emergency in Lebanon. The UK has been and will remain a strong supporter of Lebanon.
Updates to this page
Published 27 September 2024 -
MIL-OSI Europe: Federal Council requests CHF 13 million for humanitarian aid in Middle East
Source: Switzerland – Federal Council in English
The Federal CouncilBern, 27.09.2024 – At its meeting on 27 September 2024, the Federal Council took a decision concerning the final instalment of the credit for humanitarian operations in the Middle East. A total of CHF 13 million will be used to support national and international organisations working in the region. The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) has been instructed to consult the foreign affairs committees. In this context, the FDFA informed the Federal Council about how it intends to implement Parliament’s decision to reduce the humanitarian credit for 2024. The Federal Council reiterates its call for a diplomatic solution that upholds international humanitarian law and leads to de-escalation and peace in the Middle East.
As decided by Parliament in December 2023, disbursements for the Middle East under the ‘Humanitarian operations’ credit for 2024 will be made in instalments and only after consultation with the chambers’ foreign affairs committees. For the third and final instalment in 2024, the Federal Council has decided to allocate around CHF 13 million to organisations from Switzerland, the International Committee of the Red Cross, United Nations organisations and international NGOs. The humanitarian aid payments are intended to alleviate hardship, particularly in the areas of water, food, health, education, income and social cohesion in Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, the occupied Palestinian territory and Syria. The decision regarding this final instalment will be submitted to the foreign affairs committees for consultation.
The total budget for humanitarian operations in the Middle East this year amounts to around CHF 79 million. On 24 April 2024, the Federal Council approved around CHF 56 million for the first instalment. On 8 May, the Federal Council decided to disburse CHF 10 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This funding was restricted to an appeal for humanitarian aid from UNRWA and to the most pressing basic needs of the people in Gaza. The foreign affairs committees were consulted and approved these funds. As a result of Parliament’s decision to cut the 2024 humanitarian credit by CHF 10 million, in view of the humanitarian situation worldwide (including possible natural disasters) and the related need to maintain a certain degree of financial flexibility until the end of the year, as well as the ongoing parliamentary deliberations on UNRWA, the CHF 10 million contribution to UNRWA approved by the Federal Council in May will not be increased within the 2024 budget.
The Federal Council emphasises that only dialogue, de-escalation and adherence to international humanitarian law can bring about peace in the Middle East. Regarding Gaza, it reiterates its call for a ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages and unimpeded humanitarian access. The Federal Council also reaffirms that the two-state solution is the only basis for peace between Israelis and Palestinians. In light of the ongoing violence in the Lebanese-Israeli border area and the resulting, a diplomatic solution is essential to enable the Lebanese and Israeli populations to live in peace and security.
Address for enquiries
For further information:
FDFA Communication
Tel. Press service +41 460 55 55
kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
Publisher
The Federal Council
https://www.admin.ch/gov/en/start.html -
MIL-OSI Security: Creator of tool to protect DV victims wins national award
Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council
Stacey Rothwell, Network Director for the Eastern Region Innovation has been working on Rapid Video Response (RVR.)
The creator of an innovative tool to tackle domestic abuse and protect victims has won a national award for her work.
Stacey Rothwell, Network Director for the Eastern Region Innovation was instrumental in the development and roll out of Rapid Video Response (RVR) – a secure technology which gives domestic violence victims video-based officer response in as little as three minutes.
In the pilot area of Kent, the tool has significantly increased victim satisfaction and reduced anxiety, while from a policing perspective it has led to an increase in arrests and cut down on investigation time.
RVR has been given the seal of approval from the national VAWG Taskforce, who will oversee its national roll out, under the leadership of Assistant Chief Constable Sam Millar and Deputy Chief Constable Louisa Rolfe.
The technology aims to put victims at the forefront and offer them a consistent service and a more efficient response. It also wants policing to measure performance based on victim satisfaction levels, and encourage further reporting of Domestic Abuse.
Praising Stacey’s work, Professor Paul Taylor, Chief Scientific Adviser said:
“Few examples in the public sector so crisply capture the value of science-led innovation than Rapid Video Response (RVR).
“It uses secure technology to give domestic violence victims an immediate video-based officer response rather than a delayed physical response. By doing so, RVR reduces policing’s response time from around 33 hours to just three minutes.
“This massively increases trust and confidence in policing, and for victims, it reduces anxiety. RVR improves evidence collection, reduces the length of primary investigations by around 40 per cent and has increased arrests by around 50 per cent. It also has the potential to save forces money in transportation and other costs.”
He added: “The idea of RVR may seem obvious, yet Stacey deserves credit for her breakthrough because she recognised the problem and stepped up to lead a solution.
“She undertook two randomised-control trials in Kent Police, with support of the Chief Officers, to show the value of RVR and the absence of negative consequences and then developed a blueprint to across the Eastern region initially.
“RVR has helped tens of thousands of women and girls suffering from domestic violence. With overseas forces expressing interest, this innovation is on course to be an international success.”
Comments from the judges echoed Professor Taylor, stating Stacey’s work was a worthy winner due to ‘the efficient and rigorous process’ which was undertaken as well as the ‘significant impact’ made not only to the area of research, but to people’s lives.
Stacey’s hard work and determination was recognised at the Government Science and Engineering (GSE) Awards, held at the Science Museum in South Kensington on September 18, where she took home the Innovation Award.
The category recognises those who utilise and embed innovation within their ways of working in the public sector.
If you would like to learn more about RVR you can read a detailed case study here and also watch a short video about the innovative tool.
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MIL-OSI: Changes to reference sources for FX and overnight rates
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
Nordea Bank Abp intends to source certain data for base rate calculations and currency components under its programme for Warrants & Certificates, which currently are being sourced from LSEG Data & Analytics (formerly Refinitiv) from Bloomberg. All references to Reuters, Thomson Reuters, Refinitiv or LSEG Data & Analytics shall therefore be construed as references to Bloomberg.
These changes will affect all instruments issued in or after 2012 and will be effective as per 11 October 2024. The changes are not expected to be materially prejudicial to any holder of the affected instruments.
Attachment
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MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ill prepared
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
In a recent public inquiry, Traffic Commissioner Miles Dorrington heard the case of Peter Edward Douglas.
Mr. Douglas held a restricted PSV licence and had applied for a standard licence, but following an extensive investigation, it was determined that Mr. Douglas is no longer trusted to operate in a compliant manner in the future.
Mr Douglas, a sole trader, was granted as restricted public service vehicle operator’s licence authorising 2 vehicles in 2007. The inquiry heard that the DVSA had stopped his vehicles four times and on each of the four occasions, the vehicle had been used commercially for hire and reward.
There were no tachographs fitted in the vehicles, no commercial MOTs and in two cases, the driver did not have the required driving entitlement for the vehicle, nor did he have a driver CPC qualification or a digital tachograph card which were also required in order to drive the vehicle for hire and reward. The operator seemed to have no real idea of how to run a compliant business.
In the absence of the correct driving entitlement the insurance for the vehicle was invalid since all policies of commercial vehicle insurance require the driver to have the correct driving entitlement required to drive the insured vehicle at the time it was being driven. The second time that this driver was stopped, the vehicle was seized by the Police because they were satisfied that it was not insured and as at the date of the public inquiry it remained in their custody.
Commissioner Dorrington said “It is clear to me that Mr Douglas lacked, any, or any effective management control of the transport operation to ensure that the general undertakings on the operator’s licence were fulfilled. His lack of knowledge is inexcusable as an experienced operator (he has been an operator for 17 years) and no lack of basic knowledge to operate a compliant transport operation can ever be accepted.”
The commissioner found that he had lost his good repute and revoked the licence, giving the operator until the 30th September to wind down the operation.
The full written decision can be found here.
For any further details or enquiries, please contact:
Office of the Traffic Commissioner Press Office
Moblie: 07971963998 I Email: pressoffice@otc.gov.uk
Updates to this page
Published 27 September 2024 -
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Applications open for flagship initiative for top civil servants
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Director-level managers have until 14 October to apply for the Director Leaders Programme.
Chandru Dissanayeke Director, Regulatory Stewardship and Reform, Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government, Director Leadership Programme Alumni
Applications are now open for places on the prestigious Director Leaders Programme — an initiative designed to empower senior civil service leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks to navigate the complex landscape of public service.
Over the course of nine months, participants will take part in face-to-face and online sessions that include immersive, front-line visits and action learning sets.
They will delve into the programme’s key themes, including leading-at-scale, systems thinking and leadership, effective communication, and effective partnerships with ministers.
Alumni Chandru Dissanayeke, director of regulatory stewardship and reform at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (pictured), said:
“It’s a unique opportunity to share challenges and explore how we, as leaders, can piece together the broader societal puzzle through our individual roles. It invites us to deeply reflect on our work in the context of a rapidly changing world — both as individuals and collectively.”
New generation of senior leaders
This programme aims to build a new generation of senior leaders equipped to guide the civil service toward delivering meaningful service to communities.
“The Director Leaders Programme is a vital space for senior leaders to develop the skills and networks they need to lead in today’s challenging environment,” said Jo Hollis, deputy director for the Leadership College for Government, the part of Government Skills that delivers the programme.
“It’s not just technical skills, but fostering the ability to think strategically, collaborate effectively, and reflect deeply on their leadership.”
Applications are now open until 14 October 2024. Contact your Permanent Secretary’s office and your Head of Talent for an application and to secure your nomination.
Updates to this page
Published 27 September 2024 -
MIL-OSI Security: Participation by the NATO Secretary General in a conversation at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York
Source: NATO
On Thursday, 26 September, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg participated in a conversation and Q&A session at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) in New York. The event – moderated by CFR board member and MSNBC host Ayman Mohyeldin – gathered an audience of policy experts, government officials, scholars, business leaders, media practitioners, and non-governmental organizations.
Read the full transcript of the conversation here.
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MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to news that the FDA has approved the drug Cobenfy (KarXT) for schizophrenia
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Scientists comment on the FDA approving Cobenfy (KarXT) for schizophrenia.
Dr Sameer Jauhar, Senior Clinical Lecturer in Affective Disorders and Psychosis, Consultant Psychiatrist, King’s College, London and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“Schizophrenia can be a devastating illness for people and their families, and the effects on society are significant.
“We do have effective treatments, and the pharmacological treatments are a foundation for holistic care (which includes psychosocial interventions).
“Unfortunately currently available antipsychotics have significant side-effects, which include weight gain and movement effects, and this can affect peoples’ concordance with treatment.
“All currently licensed antipsychotics exert effects on the dopamine system, and this has been the case for at least 50 years.
“We have had false dawns before, despite significant efforts in the field (with significant financial investment) phase three trials of newer compounds have so far been disappointing.
“This novel treatment is the first of its kind, which does not act directly on the dopamine system, with good phase three trial data.
“The side effect profile from Phase three trials suggests it has less of the side effects noted with current treatments.
“It is acknowledged that these trials are short in duration, and we will need longer-term trials, to inform clinical care.
“In my opinion, as a clinician and researcher, this is possibly one of the most exciting developments in our field, and I am very excited about this.”
Dr Robert McCutcheon, Wellcome Clinical Research Career Development Fellow, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, said:
Just how significant is this approval in the mental health/ schizophrenia treatment field?
“This is a major advance – it is the first treatment for schizophrenia with a novel target for 70 years.
Why do we need other drug treatments in schizophrenia?
“Current treatments are ineffective for many of the symptoms of schizophrenia, we need compounds with novel mechanisms of action.
What is different about this drug to previous drugs for schizophrenia?
“All other treatments work by targeting dopamine receptors. This is the first treatment that has a different target. We hope this may mean it can help people who don’t respond to standard treatments and maybe help the symptoms that aren’t helped by existing treatments.
What does this mean for patients in the UK who may be excited about this news?
“We will be running the first UK trial of this compound in Oxford, starting in 2025.”
Dr Paul Keedwell, Consultant Psychiatrist and Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said:
“New candidates for the treatment of this frequently debilitating condition are always welcome. However, the clinical effectiveness needs to be tested in real clinical settings. We also need to know how well it is tolerated given its tendency to cause gastro-intestinal problems in some patients.”
Declared interests
Dr Sameer Jauhar: SJ has given educational talks on psychosis for Behringer=Ingelheim, Sunovian, Janssen, and Lundbeck. He has consulted for LB Pharmaceuticals on antipsychotics. He has sat on a Wellcome Funding Panel, and NICE Technology appraisal panel for treatment of antipsychotic induced movement disorder. He is a Council Member of the British Association for Psychopharmacology (unpaid) and Academic Faculty of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (unpaid).
Dr Robert McCutcheon: RAM has received speaker/consultancy fees from Boehringer Ingelheim, Janssen, Karuna, Lundbeck, Newron, Otsuka, and Viatris, and co-directs a company that designs digital resources to support treatment of mental ill health. I am leading a Wellcome trust funded RCT of the compound in early psychosis.
Dr Paul Keedwell: No conflict of interest.
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MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Update on Moor Park
Source: City of Preston
The BBC have now left Moor Park in Preston following the Radio 2 in the Park event that took place over three days from 6-8 September
Due to the wet ground conditions from heavy rain on the Sunday during the event, the BBC site team only left the park on 20 September, a week after their scheduled departure.
The Council’s parks team, in conjunction with the BBC and their event team, have attended the park every day since the event but were unable to carry out a full assessment of the site until after all the crew and vehicles had left.
The Council continues to work with the BBC and events team who are helping with the reinstatement of the park, with some areas already starting to ‘green up’ again.
Two specialist contractors have also attended the park to give their advice on how to best help the affected areas. Both have advised that it is best to leave the ground to recover and dry out and to reseed where needed in the spring.
A priority for the parks team has been to clear all the paths of mud and we are in the process of arranging to have these cleaned further to allow better access through the site.
The Council is advising people to be careful when using the park as some of the ground is still uneven, to stick to the paths wherever possible and to watch where they are walking.
Councillor Freddie Bailey, Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety said:
Anyone who attended the event or saw the footage of the Sunday knows just how much rain we had in a short space of time. Unfortunately, due the large numbers of visitors and heavy footfall in some areas of the park, damage to parts of the park were inevitably unavoidable.
“The public have been really supportive and we’d like to say thank you for understanding that the damage caused really was out of our control. As proud Prestonians, we have been very pragmatic and appreciate that the grass will grow back again in time, with a little help and care from our team of fantastic gardeners!
“We have prioritised getting the football back up and running on the site and have already marked up two new pitches with a plan for the third one in the coming weeks. We are liaising with the local football league as to when we can start to use them.”
The Councils team of gardeners continue to work on the site daily to ensure that the areas that are unaffected by the event are kept clean and tidy, as the park is expected to look.
The two children’s play areas, basketball courts, tennis courts and skate park remain unaffected by the event.
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MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 57: UK Statement for UN Report on Reprisals
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Interactive Dialogue on the UN Secretary General’s Report on Reprisals. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.
Thank you, Mr President, and thank you to the Secretary General for his tireless work to highlight continuing efforts to silence those who cooperate with the UN to defend human rights.
The UK pays tribute to these courageous individuals.
This time last year, we highlighted the intimidation and harassment faced by the son of Jimmy Lai, Sebastien, and his international legal team, for their engagement with this Council. We are deeply troubled that such tactics appear to have continued, including death and rape threats and repeated attempts to hack email and bank accounts as set out in this year’s report.
In Belarus, members of the Congress of Democratic Trade Unions have been detained for advocating for workers’ rights and engaging with the International Labour Organization. Delegates of the Human Rights Centre Viasna face years in prison for cooperating with UN mechanisms.
In Vietnam, author and journalist Pham Doan Trang remains in detention for her work to advance human rights, including through her engagement with the UN.
And in Russia, the authorities have dissolved the NGO “Man and Law” citing its engagement with the UN.
Mr President, a conservative figure of 300 human rights defenders lost their lives in 2023; what can be done to reduce this terrible toll?
Thank you.
Updates to this page
Published 27 September 2024 -
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Super-complaint on the police response to stalking
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Super-complaint submitted by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, on behalf of the National Stalking Consortium about the police response to stalking.
Applies to England and Wales
Documents
Details
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) and the College of Policing have published a report in response to the super-complaint submitted by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, on behalf of the National Stalking Consortium. The super-complaint raised concerns about how police forces in England and Wales respond to reports of stalking.
A joint investigation by the IOPC, HMICFRS and the College of Policing found that significant changes are needed to improve the police response to reports of stalking in England and Wales.
The joint investigation report includes a series of recommendations aimed at supporting policing to make the necessary improvements to ensure reports of stalking are consistently taken seriously and victims are better safeguarded. There are recommendations for chief constables, as well as for the Home Office, the Ministry of Justice, police and crime commissioners and the Crown Prosecution Service. These include recommendations for changes to the law around stalking and stalking protection orders. There are also actions for the College of Policing and the IOPC to further develop the available guidance and advice for police on responding to reports of stalking.
Updates to this page
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MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Next chapter for Oceansgate submitted to planners
Source: City of Plymouth
Innovation barns that could house workshops and offices More skilled jobs and a place for Plymouth’s marine businesses to innovate and collaborate – that’s all part of the vision for the next stage of the Oceansgate development which has now been submitted to planners.
A planning application has been submitted this week for a series of innovation barns – high spec large industrial units for use as workshops and prototyping along with project offices.
Over 1,700 square metres of high-quality space within eight units is being planned to expand the existing Oceansgate complex, which is already home to 14 light industrial units and 12 offices.
Councillor Tudor Evans OBE, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “Plymouth is at the forefront of marine innovation and a key part of its success is enabling businesses to collaborate with each other and test prototypes.
“The first two phases have regenerated and revived land that had been unused by the MOD for decades. There are over 170 people employed directly or indirectly thanks to Oceansgate.
“We need to make sure Plymouth stays at the forefront of marine innovation and this is the ideal place to help make this happen.
“South Yard was literally built for the city’s marine industry – an industry which changes all the time. These proposals should help the city of Plymouth continue to lead in this key sector.”
The planning application proposes two buildings that would be similar in style, but a higher specification to the already high-spec offices and industrial units at Oceansgate. The Oceansgate development has been built to reflect the historic nature of South Yard as well as the street pattern outside its boundaries with natural material such as limestone.
The next phase promises to be even greener and built to the latest low carbon building specifications. Features include renewable energy systems, the use of lower carbon materials – such as sustainably sourced timber, stone, and recycled building materials, orientation of the buildings for heat/shade, efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. There will also be cycle parking and EV charge facilities.
Historic England have been part of the pre-application discussions along with the Council’s planning department and it supports the Council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan.
The Plymouth and South Devon Freeport have allocated seed capital grant of £3.256 million and the Council is service borrowing of £3.274m to fund the plans.
Securing the City Deal nearly 10 years ago helped lay the foundations for the city’s marine and maritime innovation sector to thrive. South Yard is now a key part of the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport and offers specific tax and relief benefits for companies based within it, incentivising employers to invest and create new jobs.
The Freeport’s Tax Site at South Yard will support the marine and defence sectors by providing a focal point for technological advances in these arenas. It is the South West’s prime location for marine and maritime capability with direct waterfront access to docks, deep water jetties, land, offices and workshops for testing, trialling, and prototyping.