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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Logistics deal could raise prices for business customers in the UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    CMA’s Phase 1 investigation has found GXO’s purchase of Wincanton could reduce competition in the mainstream contract logistics services market.

    iStock

    Following a Phase 1 investigation, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has found that GXO Logistics’ (GXO) completed purchase of Wincanton PLC could reduce competition in the supply of mainstream contract logistics services (CLS) in the UK.

    Contract logistics services include distribution, transport, warehousing and other supply chain services. GXO is the world’s largest contract logistics services company, and Wincanton is a British supplier of these services. Both companies supply mainstream contract logistics services to business customers in both retail (such as groceries, fashion and apparel) and non-retail (such as manufacturing and construction) sectors.

    The CMA’s investigation found that GXO and Wincanton compete closely, particularly for contracts with large retail customers. Although GXO will continue to face competition from other contract logistics providers, many of these are significantly smaller, or focus on specific industries or types of logistics services (such as transport). Although some businesses have the option to bring services in-house if contract logistics suppliers do not offer good value, the ability to do this varies by customer.

    The CMA is therefore concerned that the deal could raise costs for businesses that rely on contract logistics suppliers to move goods around the UK and for other supply chain activities.

    GXO has 5 working days to submit proposals to address the CMA’s concerns. If suitable proposals are not submitted, the CMA will progress to an in-depth Phase 2 investigation.

    Naomi Burgoyne, Senior Director of Mergers at the CMA, said:

    Contract logistics services are critical for the flow of goods around the country, reducing delays, and ensuring that products reach their destinations efficiently and reliably. These services are essential for millions of people who rely on timely deliveries or being able to buy products off the shelf.

    This market is worth £16 billion in the UK, and we’re concerned that this merger could reduce competition, resulting in higher costs being passed down to consumers. We consider that these competition concerns warrant an in-depth Phase 2 investigation, unless GXO offers solutions which address them.

    More information on this case is available on the GXO / Wincanton case page.

    Notes to Editors:

    1. GXO announced their deal to acquire Wincanton in February 2024. The deal was then completed in April 2024, although an interim enforcement order (IEO) is in place to prevent the two organisations integrating while the CMA conducts its merger review.
    2. CLS encompass a range of B2B and B2C supply chain-related services, which enable businesses to supply goods to customers and consumers. These services include transport and distribution, warehousing and additional value-added services.
    3. CLS in the retail market includes the provision of services to customers whose products are consumer-facing such as groceries or fashion and apparel. This includes products that are ordered online, products that sell quickly and have a short shelf life due to high consumer demand or perishability (known as Fast Moving Consumer Goods), and products that require temperature-controlled logistic services (including certain food and drink products). CLS in the non-retail market involves the provision of services to customers whose products or services are not consumer-facing, such as automotive, construction, energy and manufacturing businesses.
    4. The CMA found that customers often prioritise reputation, reliability and track record when choosing CLS providers. Despite there being other alternatives in the CLS market, GXO and Wincanton (alongside DHL) are regarded as leading suppliers of mainstream CLS services, particularly for grocery retail customers.
    5. Guidance on the CMA’s mergers jurisdiction and procedure can be read here.
    6. All media enquiries should be directed to the CMA press office by email on press@cma.gov.uk or by phone on 020 3738 6460.

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City council improving children’s outcomes in Stoke-on-Trent

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Friday, 1st November 2024

    City leaders have welcomed findings from an Ofsted focused visit that highlighted that the work of children’s services is making a positive difference and improving outcomes.

    The Ofsted visit to Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Children and Family Services, focusing on children in need or subject to a protection plan found that positive progress has been made and children’s outcomes are improved.

    The inspection found that ‘services for children are a high priority’ and that ‘political support is strong’.

    Ofsted highlighted that:

    • Most children receive support and protection addressing risk and need
    • Thresholds were applied correctly
    • Most assessments and plans were timely and comprehensive and assessed risk well
    • Services made a positive difference and improved children’s outcomes

    There were areas for improvement identified by Ofsted.  These highlighted a small number of cases where there was not consistent management oversight or supervision. They also believed we could improve our quality assurance work, including ensuring that the audit of individual cases made more impact on practice.

    Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for children’s services said: “It’s great to see that Ofsted inspectors saw that children in the city are receiving support and protection and that our teams are making a positive difference and improving children’s outcomes.

    “The outcomes of our last two inspections highlighted these as critical areas where we needed to improve to keep children safe so it’s really good to see that this improvement work has been successful.

    “We are working incredibly hard to support children in the city and ensure that as many as possible have safe, secure and loving homes. We will, of course, always continue to strive to be even better.  We will be taking on board the feedback from Ofsted about areas where can improve further. Our ambition is for the whole service to be assessed as “good” when Ofsted return for a full inspection next year.”

    The full report can be read at: https://files.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/file/50260334

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City Art Centre presents POP LIFE: A vibrant fusion of pop culture and contemporary figurative drawing featuring works by 13 Scottish and international artists

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    This November, art enthusiasts and pop culture aficionados are invited to immerse themselves in POP LIFE, an exhibition that explores the intersection of popular culture and contemporary figurative drawing, challenging traditional distinctions between high and low art.

    Opening on Saturday, 2 November, POP LIFE features works by 13 Scottish and international artists, many of whom will be exhibiting in Scotland for the first time. Each artist uniquely engages with popular culture, referencing diverse influences such as music, film, fashion, literature, social media, and celebrities. The exhibition highlights this interplay, using familiar language to delve into themes that expand traditional drawing practices.

    Co-curated by artists Euan Gray and Witte Wartena, POP LIFE is a travelling exhibition previously showcased in Sweden (2022-23) and the Netherlands (2023). This iteration has been tailored to include Scottish artists and underscores the enduring allure of the human form as a reflection of identity and societal norms, drawing inspiration from art history, socio-political movements, and cultural shifts over the past six decades.

    Visitors can look forward to works by renowned and early-career artists including Marcel van Eeden, Euan Gray, Paul McDevitt, Charlotte Schleiffert, Sandra Vásquez de la Horra, Witte Wartena, David Shrigley, Andrew Cranston, Laura Bruce, Marc Brandenburg, Donald Urquhart, Jamie Fitzpatrick, and Fiona Michie—all of whom draw inspiration from the imagery and messages of pop culture.

    Over 80 works will be presented, with several new pieces created specifically for this exhibition.

    Marc Brandenburg has transformed a room of the gallery with UV light, to explore unseen sides of Tiergarten Park in Berlin, whilst Laura Bruce accompanies her drawn tributes to country music icons with vocal renditions of their biggest hits. Edinburgh-based artist Jamie Fitzpatrick is showing his large-scale drawings alongside a new monumental sculpture, looking critically and who in society is publicly memorialised. Internationally renowned artist David Shrigley will present 16 brand new drawings, showcasing his absurd and humorous work.

    Culture and Communities Convener, Val Walker said:

    I’m delighted that the City Art Centre can showcase this fantastic iteration of the POP LIFE exhibition featuring the works of 13 exciting artists. I’m especially proud that it will mark the first time some of these artists have displayed in Scotland, and that we will be presenting works created especially for the exhibition.

    I’m sure visitors will be captivated by these pieces and engage with the ever-changing dynamics of art within society.

    Curator Euan Gray, said:

    In an era dominated by computer generated images, AI and 3D printing, this exhibition offers us a wonderful opportunity to champion the enduring appeal of traditional drawing, wholeheartedly embrace the language of pop culture and promote a remarkable group of Scottish and international artists for whom the human form remains an essential motif.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: In Montreal, Ignazio Cassis stresses human dimension on road to peace in Ukraine

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    On 30 October 2024, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, head of the FDFA, took part in the Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10-Point Peace Formula. This meeting in Montreal concludes the series of follow-up conferences announced in June 2024 at the Bürgenstock resort. During the conference, Mr Cassis held political discussions with Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Russia/Ukraine: Both continued to receive arms, ammunition & military assistance | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Briefing by Adedeji Ebo, Director and Deputy to the High representative for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), on threats to international peace and security.

    —————————–

    The Director of the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), Adedeji Ebo, today (31 Oct) told the Security Council both Russia and Ukraine have continued to receive arms, ammunition and other forms of military assistance, and urged all concerned “to refrain from any steps that may lead to further spill over and intensification of the war.”

    Ebo said the armed forces of Ukraine have reportedly received “heavy conventional weapons such as battle tanks, armoured combat vehicles, combat aircraft, helicopters, light calibre artillery systems, missile systems and uncrewed combat aerial vehicles, as well as remotely operated munitions and small arms and light weapons and their ammunition.”

    While Russia has also reportedly received weapons such as uncrewed aerial vehicles, ballistic missiles and ammunition, Ebo highlighted recent reports that refer to “the presence of third party military personnel in the Russian Federation to assist in military operations against Ukrainian forces.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUIi6cqYQWU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: The youth of Russia and Uzbekistan are united by common spiritual and moral values

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko met with students of Russian universities in Uzbekistan. On the right in the chair is Russian Minister for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic Alexey Chekunkov

    November 1, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko’s speech at a meeting with students of Russian universities’ branches in Uzbekistan

    November 1, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko met with students of Russian universities in Uzbekistan. On the right is Russian Minister for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic Alexey Chekunkov

    November 1, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko held a working meeting with Assistant to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Saida Mirziyoyeva

    November 1, 2024

    Assistant to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Saida Mirziyoyeva at a working meeting with Dmitry Chernyshenko

    November 1, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko held a working meeting with Assistant to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Saida Mirziyoyeva. On the right is the Minister of Russia for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic Alexey Chekunkov

    November 1, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko held a working meeting with Assistant to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Saida Mirziyoyeva. On the right is the Minister of Russia for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic Alexey Chekunkov

    November 1, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko visited the Cathedral of the Dormition of the Mother of God. With Metropolitan of Tashkent and Uzbekistan Vikentiy

    November 1, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko visited the Cathedral of the Dormition of the Mother of God. With Metropolitan of Tashkent and Uzbekistan Vikentiy

    November 1, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko visited the Cathedral of the Dormition of the Mother of God. On the right is Metropolitan Vikenty of Tashkent and Uzbekistan and Russian Minister for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic Alexey Chekunkov

    November 1, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko visited the Cathedral of the Dormition of the Mother of God. On the left is Metropolitan Vikentiy of Tashkent and Uzbekistan

    November 1, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko visited school No. 5 in Tashkent

    November 1, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko visited school No. 5 in Tashkent

    November 1, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko visited school No. 5 in Tashkent

    November 1, 2024

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    Dmitry Chernyshenko met with students of Russian universities in Uzbekistan. On the right in the chair is Russian Minister for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic Alexey Chekunkov

    Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Dmitry Chernyshenko discussed issues of science, education and youth policy with students and heads of branches of Russian universities in the Republic of Uzbekistan, and also held a working meeting with Assistant to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Saida Mirziyoyeva.

    Speaking to students at the branch of the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (University) of the Russian Foreign Ministry, the Russian Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that this year MGIMO celebrates its 80th anniversary. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, the university can rightfully be proud of its graduates, who are in demand not only in Russia and Uzbekistan, but also around the world

    He also recalled that the 16th BRICS summit was recently held in Kazan, in which the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev also took part.

    “As Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin noted, BRICS includes like-minded people, sovereign countries representing different development models, religions, original civilizations, and cultures. All our states advocate equality, good neighborliness, and mutual respect, the affirmation of high ideals of friendship and harmony, and universal prosperity and well-being. Not in words, but in deeds, they demonstrate a responsible attitude toward the future of the world. The youth of Russia and Uzbekistan are united by common spiritual and moral values. Young people of our countries demonstrate a growing mutual interest in creation in the interests of the well-being and prosperity of our countries,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that a harmoniously developed person today needs not only to gain knowledge, but also to stay in excellent physical shape, and spoke about the “phygital” format and the Games of the Future.

    The event was also attended by the head of the Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East, Alexey Chekunkov. He gave a lecture on the development of the Far East.

    The Deputy Prime Minister discussed prospects for developing relations between Russia and Uzbekistan in the area of scientific and educational cooperation with the management of branches of Russian universities.

    The participants of the event were also greeted by the Head of the Department of Social Development of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Odil Abdurakhmanov. The meeting was moderated by the Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Konstantin Mogilevsky.

    “Our discussion today is dedicated to improving the quality of training for the fast-growing economy of Uzbekistan in the branches of leading Russian universities. We discussed advanced educational practices and prospects for their replication, the contribution of industrial partners and, of course, pre-university training. Productive cooperation between branches and schools is important both in terms of selecting applicants and in terms of their in-depth training in the Russian language and basic subjects,” the deputy minister noted.

    During the working visit, the Deputy Prime Minister met with Assistant to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Saida Mirziyoyeva. The parties discussed projects in the field of education, Russian language teaching programs, expansion of scientific cooperation and interaction in the information environment. Dmitry Chernyshenko invited scientists from Uzbekistan to participate in the flagship event of the Decade of Science and Technology in Russia – the Congress of Young Scientists, which will be held this year from November 27 to 29 in Sirius.

    During the visit, Dmitry Chernyshenko assessed the infrastructure of School No. 5, School No. 21 and the IT Park, visited the Cathedral of the Dormition of the Mother of God and held a working meeting with Metropolitan Vikentiy of Tashkent and Uzbekistan.

    All instruction at Tashkent General Education School No. 5 is in Russian. The Deputy Prime Minister inspected the building, talked to the staff, and attended a literature lesson. Following the visit, the Deputy Prime Minister left a commemorative note.

    “Gratitude and admiration to the wonderful staff of School No. 5 with hope for future meetings with you and your graduates on the path to implementing projects of commonwealth and developing relations between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Russian Federation,” wrote Dmitry Chernyshenko in the book of honored guests.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU and SibNIA create a joint laboratory “Intelligent systems for testing aircraft structures”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Novosibirsk State University and the Siberian Aviation Research Institute named after S. A. Chaplygin continue their cooperation in the educational and research spheres. At the scientific and production forum “Golden Valley”, which was held from October 31 to November 1 and the main organizer of which was NSU, an agreement was signed to create a joint laboratory “Intelligent systems for testing aircraft structures”. At the first stage, it will be engaged in bench tests of equipment in order to predict possible deformations and breakdowns, in the future, the range of work performed will be expanded – it will also include video analytics, a vibration damping system.

    The laboratory will include students and postgraduates of the Faculty of Information Technology and the Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics of NSU, as well as employees of partner companies – FAU “SibNIA named after S.A. Chaplygin” FAU (part of the FGBU “Research Center “Institute named after N.E. Zhukovsky”) and JSC TsNIAP “AVIASPETSTEST”, who will act as mentors – a total of 13 people. The head of the laboratory will be Vladimir Berikov, Doctor of Technical Sciences, Senior Researcher at the Institute of Mathematics named after S.L. Sobolev and a lecturer at the Faculty of Information Technology of NSU.

    The laboratory is fully focused on solving applied problems arising during bench tests of aircraft equipment, including the development and creation of modules of the Intelligent Bench Test System for Aircraft Equipment (ISIA) with elements of artificial intelligence; an intelligent operator workstation with connected archives and libraries; intelligent simulators, as well as vibration isolation systems for high-precision instruments and systems.

    — During bench tests of equipment, we will use sensors to collect data streams in our system, use archives and libraries, and analyze all the information received using artificial intelligence systems. Thanks to this, we will be able to predict for what time and what deformations and breakdowns are possible. In this way, we will preserve individual aircraft structures intact, solving the main problem of ground tests, when expensive structures become unusable, — noted Alexander Sychev, Deputy Director of the Center for Interaction with Government Authorities and Industrial Partners of NSU.

    — The organization of a joint laboratory will give a new impetus to the development of methods for testing aircraft structures. I am confident that cooperation with NSU will allow us to significantly advance in the study of the strength of aircraft structures and the subsequent improvement of the test bench base, — commented Alexander Laznenko, head of the research department for fatigue and static strength of aircraft structures at SibNIA.

    At the first stage, the task is to test the capabilities of the intelligent system when testing the main load-bearing parts, and then gradually move on to all parts and units of aircraft structures. What is important is that the integrity of the stand itself will also be monitored, which is also subject to significant loads during testing and may fail.

    The use of artificial intelligence systems and neural networks will not only significantly optimize testing costs, but also reduce the testing time of individual aircraft parts, which can now reach thousands of hours.

    The new laboratory will start operating at NSU this year, and in 2025, a specially equipped site will appear at SibNIA, which will allow NSU students and postgraduates to carry out work directly at the enterprise.

    Another promising area for cooperation between the two organizations is unmanned aircraft systems. Given the developments in this area at NSU and SibNIA, it is planned to create a joint Laboratory of Autonomous and Unmanned Aircraft Systems in the future. In the future, the two laboratories will be combined into the Center for Intelligent Aircraft Systems.

    The Siberian Aviation Research Institute named after S. A. Chaplygin and Novosibirsk State University have been cooperating since 2022, when they began holding a joint seminar on Industrial Mathematics on a regular basis. In 2023, SibNIA and NSU signed an agreement, according to which practical training for students in the field of Computer Systems and Complexes will be organized at the research institute. In August 2024, the two organizations announced plans to create a digital platform for bench testing of aircraft equipment with elements of artificial intelligence within the next two years.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Asia+ Festival: Asian Ethnic Cultural Performances to showcase diverse cultures of Asian and Belt and Road countries and regions (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Asia+ Festival: Asian Ethnic Cultural Performances to showcase diverse cultures of Asian and Belt and Road countries and regions (with photos)
    Asia+ Festival: Asian Ethnic Cultural Performances to showcase diverse cultures of Asian and Belt and Road countries and regions (with photos)
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         To develop Hong Kong into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange, this year’s Asia+ Festival, presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), continues to collaborate with consulates general and overseas cultural organisations in Hong Kong to stage the Asian Ethnic Cultural Performances. The event will take place on November 10 (Sunday), from 2pm to 6pm at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza and Foyer, where the cultural essence and artistic talent from over 20 Asian and Belt and Road countries and regions will be featured. Admission is free. Members of the public are welcome to join.      The theme for this year’s edition is “Celebration in Splendour”. Through folk music, dance, costume display, handicrafts and special delicacies, the event enables visitors to learn about how people of different nations celebrate milestones and important moments in their lives. Highlights include ethnic dances from Cambodia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Laos, Nepal, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Türkiye and Vietnam; as well as traditional musical instrument performances from Kazakhstan, Korea and Kuwait. Of particular note is a 20-plus-member Kuwaiti group who will for the first time fly in to perform a sword dance and Middle East instruments, namely Daf and Mirwas. ​     Members of the public can also enjoy handicraft displays from Bangladesh, Pakistan and other places, and participate in a vast range of workshops such as traditional dance, headgear making, spoon painting, Christmas decoration drawing, paper umbrella painting, and fragrant sachet making. Japanese sake and snacks from Türkiye and Vietnam will also be available at the food stalls on-site for the enjoyment of visitors of all ages. ​     Additionally, an exhibition entitled “Sartorial Splendour – National Costume Exhibition” will be held from November 10 to 17 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Foyer. The eight-day exhibition showcases beautiful costumes and accessories that Asian people wear during festive events and celebratory performances. These include wedding attire and ethnic costumes from multiple countries and regions; Kuwait’s wedding attire and headdress; Laos’ Sinh skirts; Bidayuh, Orang Ulu and Dayak attire from the aboriginals in Malaysia; wedding attire from Myanmar; T’boli ethnic costumes from the Philippines; and Ao Dai gowns from Vietnam. There will also be a trial session of traditional Chinese costumes for visitors to deepen their understanding of Chinese culture. ​     Along with the aforesaid live performances and exhibition, the Asian Ethnic Cultural Performances will also offer an online programme recapturing the event highlights, to be broadcast on November 24 on the LCSD’s Community Programmes Office (CPO) website (www.cpo.gov.hk/activity/en-aecp-2024-carnival/). ​     Twenty-three countries and regions will participate in the event, including Hong Kong, China; Macao, China; Bangladesh; Cambodia; Indonesia; Japan; Kazakhstan; Korea; Kuwait; Laos; Malaysia; Mongolia; Myanmar; Nepal; Pakistan; the Philippines; Russia; Saudi Arabia; Singapore; Sri Lanka; Thailand; Türkiye and Vietnam. For more details of the event, please visit the CPO website or call 2591 1340.      The second Asia+ Festival is running from September to November, highlighting the arts and cultures of nearly 30 Asian and Belt and Road countries and regions. Apart from stage programmes, there are also thematic exhibitions, an outdoor carnival, film screenings, outreach activities and more, numbering over 100 in total. For programme enquiries and concessionary schemes, please call 2370 1044 or visit asiaplus.gov.hk/2024/en/.

     
    Ends/Friday, November 1, 2024Issued at HKT 19:35

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Households urged to check eligibility for winter support schemes

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Cold Weather Payments take effect from today as low-income households set to get £25 during cold snaps.

    • Comes alongside the £150 Warm Home Discount to support eligible customers with energy bills and extension to Household Support Fund

    • Pensioners urged to check eligibility for Pension Credit to claim Winter Fuel Payment

    From 1 November, households receiving certain benefits including Pension Credit could be eligible for extra money to help keep warm during the cold weather until the end of March 2025.

    DWP’s Cold Weather Payments are an automatic bank top-up of £25, triggered to be paid to eligible households when the average temperature has been recorded as, or is forecast to be, zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days at the weather station linked to an eligible person’s postcode.

    The £25 payments will be paid automatically to households receiving certain benefits including, Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Universal Credit and Support for Mortgage Interest.

    The money will appear in bank statements within 14 days of each seven-day period of very cold weather between 1 November 2024 and 31 March 2025, with the payment reference starting with the customer’s national Insurance number followed by ‘DWP CWP’ for people in England and Wales.

    Minister for Pensions Emma Reynolds said:

    As we head into the winter months, I want to ensure the most vulnerable in our society are getting the support they need, and that’s why we have a range of measures targeted at helping low-income households, such as Cold Weather Payments and the Warm Homes Discount.

    With the dire state of the public finances, we have had to make some tough choices, including means-testing the Winter Fuel Payment so that it goes to those most in need.

    And while these choices were not made lightly, this Government is doing everything it can to ensure maximum take-up of Pension Credit while also continuing to support pensioners through our commitment to the Triple Lock which will mean an increase in the full state pension of up to £1,700 over the next 5 years.

    The £150 Warm Home Discount scheme has also been extended as we continue to stand behind households in, or at risk of, fuel poverty with direct energy bill payments as well as other financial and energy-related support.

    On top of this, struggling households can receive further help with their bills and essential costs through the extension of the Household Support Fund – adding to the six months already announced, an additional £1 billion, including Barnett impact, will be invested to extend this support by a full year, and to maintain Discretionary Housing Payments in England and Wales. 

    Anyone struggling to heat their homes or afford other essential items over the colder months should contact their local council to see what support may be available to them.

    Many councils also use the Fund beyond emergency support, including working with local charities and community groups to provide residents with key appliances, school uniforms, cookery classes, and items to improve energy efficiency in the home.

    Eligible pensioners can also receive up to £300 for the Winter Fuel Payment which is set to land in bank accounts in the next two months. We continue to urge anyone who thinks they may be entitled to Pension Credit to check now.

    This could be worth up to £3,900 a year on average and open the doors to other benefits including help with housing costs, council tax reduction as well as a Winter Fuel Payment, and all eligible Pension Credit claims can be backdated.

    Winter support is part of the government’s wider drive to support vulnerable households with the cost of living, as we continue our work to fix the foundations of the economy.

    This includes working closely with Local Authorities to bring together the administration of Pension Credit and Housing Benefit as soon as operationally possible.

    As confirmed in the budget earlier this week, millions of pensioners will also receive an increase of 4.1 percent to their State Pension, which means the full rate of the new State Pension will rise to over £12,000 a year, while Pension Credit standard minimum guarantee will soon be worth £227.10 a week for a single person and £346.60 for a couple.

    Working age people on Universal Credit, PIP, ESA, and other vital benefits will also see their incomes protected, as they are set to increase by 1.7 percent, ensuring incomes of the most vulnerable aren’t outstripped by inflation.

    More than one million households will get a £420 boost thanks to the introduction of the Fair Repayment rate, a cap the amount that can be cut from benefit payments each month to repay short-term loans and debts.

    The Chancellor has also confirmed a 6.7 percent increase in the National Living Wage to over 3 million workers, which will boost the National Living Wage from £11.44 to £12.21 an hour from April 2025 and will be worth £1,400 a year for an eligible full-time worker. It is a significant step towards delivering the manifesto commitment to make sure the minimum wage is a genuine living wage, helping unlock opportunity and potential in every area of the country.

    The cost of bus travel will also be kept down at £3 for an additional year – saving up to 80% on some routes – to ensure fares remain affordable.

    This Government will continue to provide that safety net for the most vulnerable as it ushers in the biggest reform to employment support in a generation to get people into work and make work pay. This includes by overhauling jobcentres, introducing our employment rights bill, delivering a Youth guarantee so every young person is learning or earning, and new work, health and skills plans to tackle inactivity.

    Additional information

    • The new rates for benefits and the State Pension will apply from 7 April 2025.
    • The Warm Home Discount is applied automatically on energy bills in the majority of cases. If a household believes they are eligible, they should first wait to see if they receive a letter, letters will arrive with households between October and January
    • If they have not received a letter by early January, they should check their energy account to see whether they have received the rebate automatically and, if not, they should contact the Warm Home Discount helpline on 0800 030 9322. Eligibility can be checked on gov.uk: https://www.gov.uk/check-if-youre-eligible-for-warm-home-discount

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Ukraine: Independent International Commission of Inquiry – Press Conference | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Press conference by Erik Mose, Pablo de Greiff and Vrinda Gover, of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine.

    ——-

    According to the United Nations’ Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, the “Russian authorities acted pursuant to a coordinated state policy of torturing Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war. Therefore, in addition to torture as a war crime, they also committed torture as a crime against humanity,” said Erik Mose, a member of the commission, during a press briefing in New York.

    The report highlights violent practices reportedly transported from Russian Federation detention facilities to occupied areas in Ukraine. These included the recurrent use of sexual violence and a division of labor among Russian security forces deployed in Ukrainian territories.

    “This report contains evidence of further common elements, including, first, the transposition of violent practices common in Russian Federation detention facilities to similar facilities in occupied areas of Ukraine,” Mose added. “Second, the recurrent use of sexual violence. Third, the deployment of specific services and security forces from the Russian Federation to the occupied areas they controlled in Ukraine, who acted in a coordinated manner and according to a specific division of labor, and fourth, orders of superiors, as well as an apparent sense of impunity among perpetrators.”

    Vrinda Grover, another commission member, described a pattern of consistent torture methods used in detention facilities, detailing what she called a “replication of practices” aimed at controlling and punishing detainees.
    “Detainees consistently described the use of the same harsh practices in the same sequence, demonstrating the replication of practices of torture,” Grover said. “Testimonies described a brutal so-called admission procedure, harsh practices designed to scare, break, humiliate, coerce, and punish detainees were used routinely. Personnel monitored compliance with their rules through surveillance cameras and imposed severe collective punishment for any breach. Interrogations were accompanied by some of the most violent treatment documented.”

    The Commission of Inquiry, established by the Human Rights Council in March 2022, has been investigating alleged human rights violations in Ukraine amid Russia’s ongoing invasion. Tuesday’s report to the General Assembly marks the Commission’s latest findings to date.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQa6fjp1YvA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Security Council Programme for November – United Kingdom Presser | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Ambassador Barbara Woodward, Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the UN and President of the Security Council for the month of November 2024 will brief reporters on the programme of work of the Security Council in November 2024.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zW4B3GkTjEg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AMERICA/CHILE – First National Youth Day: “Jesus calls you, do not say no”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Saturday, 25 January 2025

    La Serena (Agenzia Fides) – “Let us all open our hearts. You, especially young people, open your hearts to Jesus. Do it, do not be afraid, because the Lord needs you today, he needs all of us today”. With these words, the Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of La Serena, Henry Joseph Balzán, addressed the young people gathered for the first National Youth Day in Chile. The Prelate invited the young people to reflect on who the excluded of today are and to become instruments of inclusion and support, following the example of Jesus.“The Lord wants your heart to be ready to help the excluded of today, to seek them, to include them and to extend a hand to them. Jesus has called you, he wants to act through you. Do not say no to him”, said Bishop Balzán.The opening event, attended by thousands of young people, took place on January 22nd and marked the beginning of a series of almost a week of meetings, dialogues of hope, solidarity actions and artistic and cultural events that will take place in the cities of La Serena and Coquimbo until Sunday, January 26th.The opening Mass, presided over by the Auxiliary Bishop of La Serena and con-celebrated by about twenty bishops and as many priests from various dioceses, was accompanied by musical performances. “The musical accompaniment is intended to make the Mass an experience that will remain etched in the hearts of thousands of young people from all over Chile who will come together from Arica to Tierra del Fuego to celebrate faith, fraternity and hope together,” the organizers said in a statement sent to Fides.Bishop Balzán, member of the National Commission for the Day, in his welcoming speech emphasized the fact that the beginning of the day was celebrated on the feast of the young Blessed Laura Vicuña, born in Santiago de Chile, a student at the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, who at the age of thirteen offered her life to God for the conversion of her mother. She was beatified by John Paul II on September 3, 1988. Bishop Balzán, a member of the Youth Day Organizing Committee, stressed in his welcoming speech that this event of the Catholic Church in Chile takes place in the context of the beginning of the Jubilee proclaimed by Pope Francis, whose motto is part of the Youth Day: “National Youth Day 2025: Young Pilgrims of Hope”.After the opening on January 22, the meetings on January 23 focused on the theme “Jesus is our hope”. Today, January 24, has the theme “Witnesses of Hope”, in reference to the solidarity missions carried out by the young people in the midst of the different realities of the parish areas that have welcomed them. Saturday, January 25, has the theme “You are the light on our path”, with the young people gathering for the last Eucharistic celebrations in their parishes before moving to the Lighthouse of La Serena, where the common Eucharistic adoration vigil will be celebrated. Finally, on Sunday 26 May, there will be a day of “celebration and thanksgiving” which will end with a solemn closing mass. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 25/1/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/INDIA – Resignation and succession of metropolitan archbishop of Bombay

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Saturday, 25 January 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has accepted the resignation from the pastoral care of the metropolitan archdiocese of Bombay, India, presented by His Eminence Cardinal Oswald Gracias.He is succeeded by Archbishop John Rodrigues, until now coadjutor archbishop of the same See.His Exc. Msgr. John Rodrigues was born on 21 August 1967 in Mumbai. He obtained a Licentiate in Dogmatic Theology from the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome (2000-2002). He was ordained a priest on 18 April 1998 for the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Bombay.He has held the following positions: Deputy Parish Priest of St. Michael in Mahim (1998-1999); Secretary to the Cardinal Metropolitan Archbishop of Bombay (1999-2000); Professor of Dogmatic Theology (2002-2013) and Dean of Studies (2011-2013) at St. Pius X College in Goregaon.Appointed Titular Bishop of Deulto and Auxiliary Bishop of Bombay on 15 May 2013, he received episcopal consecration on 29 June. He was transferred to the Diocese of Poona on 25 March 2023. (Agenzia Fides 25/1/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/ALGERIA – Resignation and appointment of bishop of Laghouat

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Saturday, 25 January 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – Pope Francis has accepted the resignation from the pastoral governance of the Diocese of Laghouat (Algeria) presented by His Exc. Msgr. John Gordon MacWilliam, M. Afr. At the same time the Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Fr. Diego Ramón Sarrió Cucarella, M.Afr., former dean of the Pontifical Institute of Arabian and Islamic Studies (PISAI) in Rome, as bishop of Laghouat, Algeria.Msgr. Diego Ramón Sarrió Cucarella was born on 20 July 1971 in Valencia, Spain. He studied philosophy at the Faculty of Theology of Madrid, and theology at Tangaza University, Nairobi, Kenya.He was ordained a priest on 2 June 2001.After ordination, he held the role of animator at the Cultural and Saharian Documentation Centre in Ghardaïa, diocese of Laghouat (2001-2003). He was awarded a licentiate at PISAI (2004-2006) and went on to serve as director of the diocesan library of Tunisi (2006-2009). He obtained a doctorate in Islamic studied from Georgetown University in Washington D.C. (2009-2013), and went on to serve as director (2014-2017) and president (2017-2024) of PISAI.He teaches Islamic subjects at the Pontifical Lateran University of Rome, and is a consultor of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue. (Agenzia Fides, 25/1/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/MYANMAR – Erection of the diocese of Mindat, Myanmar, and appointment of first bishop

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Saturday, 25 January 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has erected the new diocese of Mindat, Myanmar, with territory taken from the diocese of Hakha, making it a suffragan of the metropolitan archdiocese of Mandalay.The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Augustine Thang Zawm Hung, of the clergy of Hakha, until now responsible for the translation of the Bible into local languages and parish vicar of Sacred Heart in Mindat, as first bishop of Mindat.Msgr. Augustine Thang Zawm Hung was born on 4 December 1973 in Mindat. He studied philosophy at the major seminary of Pyin Oo Lwin, and theology at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Major Seminary of the archdiocese of Yangon.He was ordained a priest on 17 November 2002 for the clergy of Hakha.After ordination, he first served as parish priest of Saint Michael’s, Kanpetlet, Mindat (2003-2005). He was awarded a licentiate in sacred scripture from the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome (2005-2009), and went on to serve as secretary of the diocese of Kalay (2009-2010), secretary of the diocese of Hakha (2010-2012). He obtained a doctorate in sacred scripture from the Universität Innsbruck in Austria (2013-2018) and held the role of professor at the Saint Joseph Major Seminary in Yangon (2018-2022). Since 2022 he has been parish vicar of Sacred Heart, Mindat, and head of translation of the Bible into local languages.The new diocese of Mindat [Mindatin(us)] in Myanmar is located in the district of Mindat, in the southern part of the Chin State, including the division of Magwem. The See of the diocese is the city of Mindat. The Cathedral Church of the new Ecclesiastical Circumscription is the current parish Church of Most Sacred Heart of Jesus in Mindat. (Agenzia Fides, 25/1/2025)

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/BURKINA FASO – Resignation and appointment of bishop of Nouna, Burkina Faso

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Saturday, 25 January 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has accepted the resignation from the pastoral care of the diocese of Nouna, Burkina Faso, presented by Bishop Joseph Sama.The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Guy Mukasa Sanon, of the clergy of Bobo-Dioulasso, until now rector of the Saint Pierre-Saint Paul Seminary of Kossoghin, Ouagadougou, in Burkina Faso, as bishop of the diocese of Nouna, Burkina Faso.Msgr. Guy Mukasa Sanon was born on 14 September 1968 in Toussiana. After studying philosophy at the Saint Jean Baptiste de Wayalghin Major Seminary, Ouagadougou, he attended the theology cycle at the Saint Pierre Claver de Koumi Major Seminary in Bobo-Dioulasso.He was ordained a priest on 14 July 1996 and incardinated in the archdiocese of Bobo-Dioulasso.After ordination, he held the roles of parish vicar of Saint Vincent de Koko in Bobo-Dioulasso (1996-1998); and formator and director of studies in the Minor Seminary of Nasso, Bobo-Dioulasso (2001-2005). He was awarded a doctorate in philosophy at the Université catholique de Louvain in Belgium (2005-2010), and went on to serve as parish vicar (2010-2011) and parish priest (2011-2016) of the Cathedral of Bobo-Dioulasso, visiting professor at the Saint Pierre-Saint Paul Major Seminary of Kossoghin a Ouagadougou (2011-2016); and permanent formator and professor of philosophy at the Saint Pierre-Saint Paul Major Seminary of Kossoghin a Ouagadougou (2016-2019). Since 2019 he has been rector of the same seminary. (Agenzia Fides, 25/1/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI USA: Republican Governors Welcome South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden

    Source: US Republican Governors Association

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Republican Governors Association Chair Georgia Governor Brian Kemp issued the following statement welcoming new South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden to the Republican Governors Association after Governor Kristi Noem was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to serve as the Secretary of Homeland Security:

    “I am proud to welcome South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden to the ranks of Republican governors across America. Governor Rhoden is a commonsense, conservative rancher with a long record of service to South Dakota – serving in the South Dakota National Guard and as South Dakota’s Lieutenant Governor. Republican governors from across the nation look forward to working with him as we continue in our mission to deliver results for the American people.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Meloni visits Saudi Arabia

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    25 Gennaio 2025

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, is visiting Saudi Arabia on 25 and 26 January. After arriving in Jeddah earlier today, President Meloni greeted the crew aboard the Amerigo Vespucci, the Italian Navy’s historical training ship which set sail from Genoa on 1 July 2023 for a tour around the world, stopping at 35 ports in 5 continents.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Republican Governors Association Congratulates Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem

    Source: US Republican Governors Association

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –Republican Governors Association Chair Georgia Governor Brian Kemp issued the following statement after Kristi Noem was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to serve as the Secretary of Homeland Security:  

    “Congratulations to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on her confirmation. As governor, Secretary Noem showed a deep commitment to ensure the safety and security of the American people by working to protect our borders, and her leadership at the Department of Homeland Security comes at a critical time.  

     “Republican governors stand with President Trump and Secretary Noem, and we look forward to working together to ensure our borders are secure, our national security is prioritized, and families are safe.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Allister congratulates farmers on protest turnout

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV Leader Jim Allister:-

    “It was marvellous to see the huge turnouts at today’s Farmers’ Protest over the Government’s punitive death tax on family farms.

    “I attended the Ballymena protest in which over 300 tractors took part. It was great to see the determination among farmers to keep the pressure on the government over this vital issue.

    “I will continue the fight on their behalf despite the size of the government’s majority, believing that in the end this ruinous policy is unsustainable.  With farmers united across the United Kingdom on the issue, the government must be made to continue to feel the pressure until they retreat from burying family farms under the weight of their greedy death taxes.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s message to the International Holocaust Remembrance Service

    Source: United Nations – English

    ear Rabbi Schneier, Excellencies, Dear Friends,

    It is an honour to send you a message today.

    At this sombre occasion, I want to acknowledge that more than a year has passed since the appalling 7th October terror attacks by Hamas. We welcome, at long last, the ceasefire and hostage release deal. The deal offers hope, as well as much needed relief. The United Nations will do our utmost to ensure it leads to the release of all hostages and a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.

    Dear Friends,

    This year marks eighty years since the end of the Holocaust.

    The history of the Holocaust is one of total moral collapse, dehumanisation, complicity, and unimaginable atrocities. But amidst all the horror, there are also stories of humanity, and of courage.

    I think of those victims who resisted Nazi brutality and supported one another with kindness and solidarity. I think of those survivors who have told their stories to the world, including Rabbi Schneier and others present today.  We owe you — and the children of survivors who made sure those stories lived on – a profound debt of gratitude.  And I think of those noble people of conscience who may not have been targeted by the Nazis but were so horrified by what they saw that they felt compelled to act. 

    That includes a number of diplomats who used their power to save lives.  They were from a variety of countries, including many represented here today.  

    One important example from my own country, Portugal, is Aristides de Sousa Mendes. Stationed in Bordeaux, as the Nazis approached in 1940, Sr. Sousa Mendes faced crowds desperate for visas out of France.

    The orders of the Portuguese Government were clear. The infamous “Circular 14” had been issued, denying visas for refugees’ safe passage to Portugal – with Jews named specifically. Sr. Sousa Mendes decided to disobey, and worked quite literally day and night to issue thousands of visas, saving countless lives.

    The government punished Sr. Sousa Mendes for his defiance. He died in poverty, after being expelled from the diplomatic corps without pension. But his extraordinary efforts have not been forgotten. In 1966, he was recognised as one of the Righteous Among the Nations, and, last year, I was pleased to support the opening of a museum in his honour in Portugal.

    In these days of global turmoil, rising antisemitism, and growing hate towards many communities, it is vital that we remember the stories of people like Sr. Sousa Mendes, who used their power for good in the worst of times. They remind us that it is our duty – individually and collectively – to stand with humanity and against bigotry and discrimination.

    In that spirit, I am pleased to report that the United Nations has launched an Action Plan to Enhance Monitoring and Response to Antisemitism. We have long worked to combat this evil, through a wide range of activities, including our Holocaust Outreach program. This new Plan builds on that work, and the insights of people like Rabbi Schneier, to recommend ways the United Nations system will further enhance efforts to combat antisemitism.

    This goes to the heart of the mission of the United Nations, which was established in the aftermath of the Holocaust.  We will never waiver in the fight for a world that promotes and protects the human rights of all.
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message to the International Holocaust Remembrance Service

    Source: United Nations

    Dear Rabbi Schneier, Excellencies, Dear Friends,

    It is an honour to send you a message today.

    At this sombre occasion, I want to acknowledge that more than a year has passed since the appalling 7th October terror attacks by Hamas. We welcome, at long last, the ceasefire and hostage release deal. The deal offers hope, as well as much needed relief. The United Nations will do our utmost to ensure it leads to the release of all hostages and a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.

    Dear Friends,

    This year marks eighty years since the end of the Holocaust.

    The history of the Holocaust is one of total moral collapse, dehumanisation, complicity, and unimaginable atrocities. But amidst all the horror, there are also stories of humanity, and of courage.

    I think of those victims who resisted Nazi brutality and supported one another with kindness and solidarity. I think of those survivors who have told their stories to the world, including Rabbi Schneier and others present today.  We owe you — and the children of survivors who made sure those stories lived on – a profound debt of gratitude.  And I think of those noble people of conscience who may not have been targeted by the Nazis but were so horrified by what they saw that they felt compelled to act. 

    That includes a number of diplomats who used their power to save lives.  They were from a variety of countries, including many represented here today.  

    One important example from my own country, Portugal, is Aristides de Sousa Mendes. Stationed in Bordeaux, as the Nazis approached in 1940, Sr. Sousa Mendes faced crowds desperate for visas out of France.

    The orders of the Portuguese Government were clear. The infamous “Circular 14” had been issued, denying visas for refugees’ safe passage to Portugal – with Jews named specifically. Sr. Sousa Mendes decided to disobey, and worked quite literally day and night to issue thousands of visas, saving countless lives.

    The government punished Sr. Sousa Mendes for his defiance. He died in poverty, after being expelled from the diplomatic corps without pension. But his extraordinary efforts have not been forgotten. In 1966, he was recognised as one of the Righteous Among the Nations, and, last year, I was pleased to support the opening of a museum in his honour in Portugal.

    In these days of global turmoil, rising antisemitism, and growing hate towards many communities, it is vital that we remember the stories of people like Sr. Sousa Mendes, who used their power for good in the worst of times. They remind us that it is our duty – individually and collectively – to stand with humanity and against bigotry and discrimination.

    In that spirit, I am pleased to report that the United Nations has launched an Action Plan to Enhance Monitoring and Response to Antisemitism. We have long worked to combat this evil, through a wide range of activities, including our Holocaust Outreach program. This new Plan builds on that work, and the insights of people like Rabbi Schneier, to recommend ways the United Nations system will further enhance efforts to combat antisemitism.

    This goes to the heart of the mission of the United Nations, which was established in the aftermath of the Holocaust.  We will never waiver in the fight for a world that promotes and protects the human rights of all.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council service update, January 25

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Council service update, January 25

    25 January 2025

    3.30pm

    Council continues to work with local agencies in the ongoing emergency response to Storm Éowyn which has resulted in some damage to roads and property throughout the City and District.

    Staff continue to be on site carrying out health and safety inspections and providing services from early this morning. Teams from across all Council services have been meeting and co-ordinating efforts throughout the weekend and this work will continue over the coming days.

    The health and safety of both staff and the general public is our first priority and for that reason we would encourage the public to be patient and to expect some delays to services.

    As we continue to work with partner agencies work to assess and remedy damage caused by Storm Éowyn members of the public should exercise caution when close to obvious debris and damage, including power lines. The public are also advised to take note of further yellow weather warnings in place over the weekend relating to winds, snow and ice and to take the appropriate measures to keep them and their property safe. Please follow the Met Office for updates.

    Bin collections

    Refuse Collection crews are out working today servicing bins that were missed from Fridaydq. For any bins not emptied today the advice is to make contact with our Customer Services Team on 028 71 374107 on Monday morning or by email at refuse&[email protected] and arrangements will be made to have them emptied as soon as possible.

     

    Cemeteries and outdoor sites

    The City Cemetery, Ballyoan, Altnagelvin and Strabane Cemeteries are all open to the public. Users are strongly advised to take due care and attention at all facilities both for fallen trees and for slippy pathways. The public are urged not to visit historical sites. Our staff are on site to clear all main arterial routes at our facilities as a priority.

    Recycling Centres

    All of our recycling centres, with the exception of Plumbridge, are open.

     

    Leisure Centres

    All Council Leisure centres are open as normal.

    Community Assistance

    All of our Leisure Centres are open and available to the public who are without power or water and who require assistance with heat, tea/coffee and phone charging and shower facilities. We have extended the opening hours at Templemore, Melvin and Derg Valley Leisure Centre to 10pm tonight, Saturday.

    Tomorrow Sunday, Templemore, Foyle Arena and Melvin will be open from 9am – 6pm while Riversdale and Derg Valley Leisure Centres will open from 1pm – 6pm

    Council facilities

    The Guildhall, Tower Museum and the Alley Theatre are open and operating as normal.

     

    Street cleansing

    Our street cleansing teams have been out and about from this early morning servicing the city and towns and working with grounds maintenance teams to make sure Council facilities are safe to access.

    Grass pitches

    All Council grass pitches and 3g pitches will remain closed for the weekend. User groups are being contacted.

     

    Parks and play parks

    Ongoing health and safety inspections are ongoing today to get as many of our parks, play areas and greenways open to the public. There are several trees down at the Bay Road and Strathfoyle greenways and a number of other parks, we have teams out on site carrying out clearance and repair works. The public are asked to avoid areas where there are trees and to take due care and attention as there may be debris or fallen branches etc.

    Again, the public are asked to be patient and expect some delays to opening of facilities after the storm to allow these checks and possible clean-up work to be carried out.

     

    Looking ahead

    Please take note of further weather warnings in place over the weekend including a YELLOW warning for SNOW & ICE for Northern Ireland between 1800hrs on Saturday 25th and 1000hrs on Sunday 26th January 2025: MEDIUM Likelihood of LOW Impacts and a YELLOW warning for WIND for Northern Ireland between 1000hrs and 1900hrs on Sunday 26th January 2025: MEDIUM Likelihood of LOW Impacts

    Strong winds affecting Northern Ireland, potentially disrupting transport and infrastructure

    Further information:  UK weather warnings – Met Office

    Emergency Contact numbers:

    Emergency services 999 or 112

    Flooding Incident Line  – 0300 2000 100

    NI Electricity Networks – 03457 643 643

    NI Gas Emergency Service – 0800 002 001

    NI Water – 03457 440 088

    Housing Executive – 03448 920 901

    Report a blocked road – 0300 200 7891

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: National Basketball Association (NBA) Africa and University Mohammed VI Polytechnic Launch New Youth Basketball Initiative in Morocco, Through EVOSPORT

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    PARIS, France, January 25, 2025/APO Group/ —

    NBA Africa (www.NBA.com) and University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P), through its subsidiary EVOSPORT, today announced a new collaboration to support youth basketball in Morocco. The collaboration marks the league’s most expansive youth basketball development programming ever in Morocco and makes UM6P an official partner of NBA Africa.

    UM6P is a Moroccan university that focuses on developing solutions to specific continental and, more broadly, global challenges. The university is engaged in economic and human development and puts innovation at the forefront of African growth. In alignment with this vision, UM6P has launched EVOSPORT, its subsidiary dedicated to sports development, with the ambition of contributing to the creation of a dynamic and sustainable Moroccan and African sports ecosystem.

    The collaboration between NBA Africa and UM6P will be implemented by EVOSPORT, in collaboration with Act4Community, which is a part of OCP Group’s ecosystem. Together, they will launch four Jr. NBA leagues that will reach nearly 2,000 boys and girls ages 18 and under annually in Khouribga, Gantour, Laayoune and El Jadida, as well as Morocco’s first NBA Basketball Schools in all four locations. More than 200 local coaches will also participate in Jr. NBA Coaches Workshops in each city.

    The announcement was made today at a signing ceremony at UM6P France in Paris, the university’s branch in Europe, by UM6P President Hicham El Habti, NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum, NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi and Basketball Africa League (BAL) President Amadou Gallo Fall.

    “We have seen firsthand through our previous initiatives in Morocco that there is incredible passion for basketball across the country,” said Akamanzi. “Together with UM6P and ahead of the first BAL games in Morrocco in April, we look forward to significantly expanding our youth basketball development efforts in the country and providing opportunities for thousands of Moroccan youth to learn and play the game.”

    “We are thrilled to work with NBA Africa to bring this transformative youth basketball program to Morocco,” said El Habti. “At UM6P, we believe in the power of sports to inspire and develop young minds. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to foster innovation and contribute to the socio-economic development of Africa. Through EVOSPORT, we are committed to creating opportunities for young athletes to thrive and achieve their full potential.”

    UM6P, as a key component of OCP Group’s ecosystem, has significantly contributed to the group’s long-standing commitment to sports development in Morocco. The collaboration with NBA Africa supports the youth targeted by the Act4Community program and reflects OCP Group’s corporate social responsibility aiming for sustainable and tangible improvements in living standards through job creation, entrepreneurship, culture and sports.

    The announcement builds on NBA Africa’s and the OCP Group’s previous collaboration that has featured previous Jr. NBA leagues in the cities of Benguerir and Khouribga. NBA Africa has reached more than 100,000 Moroccan youth and coaches through youth basketball development programming to date.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ Palestinian network co-founder Janfrie Wakim praises ‘heroic Gaza’, calls for more action

    Asia Pacific Report

    A co-founder of a national Palestinian solidarity network in Aotearoa New Zealand today praised the “heroic” resilience and sacrifice of the people of Gaza in the face of Israel’s ruthless attempt to destroy the besieged enclave of more than 2 million people.

    Speaking at the first solidarity rally in Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau since the fragile ceasefire came into force last Sunday, Janfrie Wakim of the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA) also paid tribute to New Zealand protesters who have supported the Palestine cause for the 68th week.

    “Thank you all for coming to this rally — the first since 7 October 2023 when no bombs are dropping on Gaza,” she declared.

    “The ceasefire in Gaza is fragile but let’s celebrate the success of the resistance, the resilience, and the fortitude — the sumud [steadfastness] — of the heroic Palestinian people.

    “Israel has failed. It has not achieved its aims — in the longest war [15 weeks] in its history — even with $40 billion in aid from the United States. It has failed to depopulate the north of Gaza, it has a crumbling economy, and 1 million Israelis [out if 9 million] have left already.”

    Wakim said that the resistance and success in defeating Israel’s “deadly objectives” had come at a “terrible cost”.

    “We mourn those with families here and in Gaza and now in the West Bank who made  the ultimate sacrifice with their lives — 47,000 people killed, 18,000 of them children, thousands unaccounted for in the rubble and over 100,000 injured.

    Grieving for journalists, humanitarian workers
    “We grieve for but salute the journalists and the humanitarian workers who have been murdered serving humanity.”


    Janfrie Wakim speaking at today’s Palestine rally in Tamaki Makaurau. Video: APR

    She said the genocide had been enabled by the wealthiest countries in the world and the Western media — “including our own with few exceptions”.

    “Without its lies, its deflections, its failure to report the agonising reality of Palestinians suffering, Israel would not have been able to commit its atrocities,” Wakim said.

    “And now while we celebrate the ceasefire there’s been an escalation on the West Bank — air strikes, drones, snipers, ethnic cleansing in Jenin with homes and infrastructure being demolished.

    “Checkpoints have doubled to over 900 — sealing off communities. And still the Palestinians resist.

    “And we must too. Solidarity. Unity of purpose is all important. Bury egos. Let humanity triumph.”

    Palestinian liberation advocate Janfrie Wakim . . . “Without its lies, its deflections, its failure to report the agonising reality of Palestinians suffering, Israel could not have been able to commit its atrocities.” Image: David Robie/APR

    90-year-old supporter
    During her short speech, Wakim introduced to the crowd the first Palestinian she had met in New Zealand, Ghazi Dassouki, who is now aged 90.

    She met him at a Continuing Education seminar at the University of Auckland in 1986 that addressed the topic of “The Palestine Question”. It shocked the establishment of the time with Zionist complaints and intimidation of staff which prevented any similar academic event until 2006.

    Wakim called for justice for the Palestinians.

    “Freedom from occupation. Liberation from apartheid. And peace at last after 76 years of subjugation and oppression by Israel and its allies,” she said

    She called on supporters to listen to what was being suggested for local action — “do what suits your situation and energy. Our task is to persist, as Howard Zinn put it”.

    “When we organise with one another, when we get involved, when we stand up and speak out together, we can create a power no government can suppress,” she said.

    “We don’t have to engage in grand, heroic actions to participate in the process of change. Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.”

    Introduced to the Auckland protest crowd today . . . Ghazi Dassouki, who is now aged 90.

    As a symbol for peace and justice in Palestine, slices of water melon and dates were handed out to the crowd.

    Calls to block NZ visits by IDF soldiers
    Among many nationwide rallies across Aotearoa New Zealand this weekend, were many calls for the government to suspend entry to the country from soldiers in the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF).

    “New Zealand should not be providing rest and recreation for Israeli soldiers fresh from the genocide in Gaza,” said PSNA national chair John Minto.

    “We wouldn’t allow Russian soldiers to come here for rest and recreation from the invasion of Ukraine so why would we accept soldiers from the genocidal, apartheid state of Israel?”

    As well as the working holiday visa, since 2019 Israelis have been able to enter New Zealand for three months without needing a visa at all.

    This visa-waiver is used by Israeli soldiers for “rest and recreation” from the genocide in Gaza.

    Minto stressed that IDF soldiers had killed at least 47,000 Palestinians — 70 percent of them women and children.

    The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has declared Israeli actions a “plausible genocide”; Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch have branded the continuous massacres as genocide and extermination; and the latest report from UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Occupied Palestine Territories Francesca Albanese has called it “genocide as colonial erasure”.

    Watermelon slices for all . . . a symbol of peace, the seed for justice. Image: David Robie/APR

    War crimes red flags
    Also, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

    “All these red flags for genocide have been visible for months but the government is still giving the green light to those involved in war crimes to enter New Zealand,” Minto said.

    Last month, PSNA again wrote to the government asking for the suspension of travel to New Zealand for all Israeli soldiers and reservists.

    Meanwhile, 200 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails have been set free under the terms of the Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. Seventy of them will be deported to countries in the region, reports Al Jazeera.

    Masses of people have congregated in Ramallah, celebrating the return of the released Palestinian prisoners.

    A huge crowd waved Palestinian flags, shouted slogans and captured the joyful scene with their phones and live footage shows.

    The release came after Palestinian fighters earlier handed over four female Israeli soldiers who had been held in Gaza to the International Red Cross in Palestine Square.

    The smiling and waving soldiers appeared to be in good health and were in high spirits.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Storm Update Saturday January 25

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    Dundee City Council is providing an update on its services on Saturday (Jan 25) following a day of disruption due to Storm Eowyn on Friday. 

    Families are being advised that all local authority nursery, primary and secondary schools are preparing to open as normal on Monday January 27.   

    Some damage has been reported at Grove Academy which means that the swim and sport centre operated by Leisure & Culture Dundee will remain closed on Saturday and Sunday. 

    Work will be carried out over the weekend so that Grove Academy opens on Monday as normal. 

    Saturday operating arrangements are in place for Council services and buildings, and council buildings will open as usual on Monday. 

    Any changes to the above arrangements will be shared via our social media channels. 

    Re-arranged waste collections will also be put in place from Monday after services were stood down on Friday.   

    These are:   

    Grey bin (general waste) collections that were scheduled for Friday January 24 will now be collected on Monday January 27.  

    Any bulky uplifts that were scheduled for Friday January 24 will now be uplifted on Monday January 27.    

    Blue bin (paper/cardboard) collections that were scheduled for Friday January 24 will now take place on Wednesday January 29     

    Burgundy bin (metals, plastics, cartons) and food waste collections will be uplifted at the next scheduled pick-up day. 

    Commercial waste (including recycling) collections will also be uplifted at the next scheduled date.    

    Baldovie & Riverside Household Waste Recycling centres re-opened on Saturday. 

    Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice remain in place for the city on Saturday. 

    For the latest updates on all our services, please visit our Storm Éowyn page.  

    Updates will also be posted on our social media channels, including Facebook and X.     

     
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: “Sudan must not be forgotten” David Lammy announces political and humanitarian action to address “catastrophe” in Sudan

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Foreign Secretary announces £20 million in additional funding while visiting the Adré on the Chad-Sudan border.

    • Foreign Secretary to drive new international commitment to a political process towards ending this conflict
    • On first UK Foreign Secretary visit ever, David Lammy sees impact of UK aid supporting nearly 800,000 on Chad-Sudan border town of Adré
    • UK addresses upstream drivers of migration as the FCDO continues its drive to secure borders

    Refugees fleeing war-torn Sudan will receive further UK support to increase food production and lifesaving sexual and reproductive health services, as Foreign Secretary announces £20 million in additional funding while visiting the Adré on the Chad-Sudan border.

    This builds on the doubling of UK aid in November to address the humanitarian emergency in Sudan to £226.5 million. These UK funds are providing emergency food assistance to nearly 800,000 displaced people, of whom over 88% are women and children, as well as improving access to shelter, drinking water, emergency health care and education.

    Not only is this aid vitally needed on humanitarian grounds, but it will also help people to stay within their immediate region meaning that they are better able to return when conditions allow. Since the conflict began, 3.6 million refugees have fled to neighbouring countries, with a significant number travelling on to Europe and the UK.

    Unscrupulous smuggling gangs are looking to profit from the misery in Sudan. And the longer this war lasts, the greater its ripple effect. We must give credit to countries like Egypt, Chad, and South Sudan for managing this crisis alongside others nearby.

    Nearly 2,000 Sudanese nationals arrived on small boats in the year ending September 2024. As part of the Plan for Change, the Government is determined to reduce the number of people making dangerous small boat crossings across the Channel and net migration.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: 

    Sudanese people are facing violence on an unimaginable scale. This is the biggest humanitarian crisis in the world.

    Millions have already fled their homes – in the face of a struggle for power that has led to abhorrent atrocities against civilians and famine on an unconscionable scale. 

    The international community must wake up and act urgently to avoid this horrific death toll escalating further in the coming months, driving instability and irregular migration into Europe and the UK. Under this government’s Plan for Change, we are addressing upstream drivers of migration to secure UK borders.

    The UK will not let Sudan be forgotten. To do so would be unforgiveable.

    Working with partners, the Foreign Secretary is determined to re-energise a political process on this issue. He plans to convene a meeting of Foreign Ministers to galvanise international efforts to work towards an end to the conflict and get aid to where it is needed the most.

    This builds on the UK and Sierra Leone’s resolution at the UN in November, which gained the support of every UN Security Council member except Russia. He will build consensus on how the international community can support region-led mediation efforts that have Sudanese voices at the centre.   

    The UK is calling for greater access so aid can get to where it is needed most and will continue to push for every border crossing and route to be open, accessible, and safe.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Congratulations from the rector of SPbPU Andrey Rudskoy on the Russian Students’ Day

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Dear friends! I congratulate you on one of my favorite holidays – Russian Students’ Day!

    This holiday of youth, enthusiasm, and determination has been celebrated at all times. I remember my student years with warmth and nostalgia, an important part of which were construction teams. Full of enthusiasm and ideas, we participated in SSO work shifts, made friends and worked, learned mutual assistance and support, laid the foundation for our future life.

    Dear students, I am glad that today you are studying at our wonderful university, which is already 125 years old, that together with you we are moving science forward, adding new discoveries to the treasury of human knowledge. You, the young generation, are talented and brave, open and cheerful, happy and ambitious, looking to the future with hope and without fear, in a word, such as students have always been. You accept the challenges of modernity, overcome difficulties and pave your own unique path.

    Our university is a leader in many areas, and I am proud of you, our young generation. I am proud of your successes not only in studies, but also in science, sports, art, social activities and work.

    And today I am happy to congratulate you on your Day! With all my heart I wish you to spend your student years with full dedication and remember them for the rest of your life. I wish you not to lose the inspiration of true researchers, set high goals for yourself and make your dreams come true!

    Happy holiday, dear ones!

    Rector of SPbPU, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrey Rudskoy

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Small Things Like These: Magdalene laundries drama is a powerful rumination on compassion – and its limits

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ruth Barton, Professor in Film Studies, Trinity College Dublin

    In 2021, Ireland’s then Taoiseach (prime minister), Enda Kenny, delivered a formal apology to the survivors of the Magdalene laundries. The laundries were religious institutions where unmarried mothers and other “fallen” women were forced into slave labour.

    “It struck me,” he said, “that for generations Ireland had created a particular portrait of itself as a good living God-fearing nation. Through this and other reports we know this flattering self-portrait to be fictitious … by any standards it was a cruel, pitiless Ireland distinctly lacking in a quality of mercy.”

    His words might well serve as a prologue to the new film adaptation of Claire Keegan’s 2020 novella, Small Things Like These. So too might a brief moment in the equally excoriating, if less nuanced film, The Magdalene Sisters (2002). In it, one of the young women begs a local delivery boy to help her escape, but in the end he lets her down.

    History films work in various ways. One is to comfort the viewer that such a time is consigned to the past. Melodramas like The Magdalene Sisters and that other notable Magdalene story, Philomena (2013), find a form of closure when their victims confront their oppressors.

    Another is to refuse a neat ending, to force us to imagine what might happen in the lives of the protagonists after the final credits have rolled. In Small Things Like These, that protagonist is coal-man, Bill Furlong (Cillian Murphy), who finds himself inexplicably troubled as he is finishing off his delivery business in the days before Christmas 1985.

    All is well at home, where his five daughters quarrel amicably around the kitchen table as they do their homework under the eye of his wife, Eileen (Eileen Walsh). Money is tight but they’re getting by.

    Making a delivery to the local convent, he comes across a young woman, Sarah (Zara Devlin), locked in the coal shed. The discovery sets off his own memories of being brought up by a single mother, and, after her death, by a wealthy landowner, Mrs Wilson (Michelle Fairley). The film confronts kindly Bill with a dilemma: to shut his eyes, as do the other inhabitants of New Ross, to what is going on in the convent, or to aid the young woman.

    The mother superior, Sister Mary (Emily Watson), knows that the stooped coal-man standing uneasily in her office is no match for her. As she warns him, the future education of his younger daughters in the school adjacent to the convent is not guaranteed. Other of the villagers, who sense his confusion, tell him not to involve himself. His wife, even as she doesn’t fully understand what is going through his head, is horrified by the merest suggestion that he will disrupt the status quo.

    The price of compassion

    In a less nuanced film, this advice might prompt the viewer to further empathise with Bill, egging him on to action. But here, the suffocating moral blanket that lies over the city – visually rendered as a thick fog that merges into a drizzle and occasional snow, and the narrow, constricting streets through which he moves – remind us that nonconformity comes with a heavy price.

    The community may pile into the church for Christmas mass but, as Eileen admonishes Bill, there is no point in helping the starving child he meets on the road with the spare coins from his pocket – his father will only drink the money. What small closure comes at the film’s end is fragile and contingent.

    The trailer for Small Things Like These.

    Another risk of telling stories from history is to sacrifice the particular for the universal. Small Things Like These manages, through its visuals and its achingly believable performances (Murphy’s most of all) to be a film rooted in the Ireland that Kenny evoked in his speech. At the same time, it prompts us to question the limits of compassion – how much easier is it to conform to social norms than step outside them.

    The film ends fittingly with a tribute to the more than 56,000 young women who were sent to Magdalene institutions for “penance and rehabilitation” between the years 1922 and 1996. And the children who were taken from them.

    It is not history’s job to impose lessons on the present. But at the same time, it would be inadequate for viewers not to ask what we would have done in Bill’s place. And, more uncomfortably, what, faced with the knowledge of the multiple injustices of our own society, we ourselves are doing now.


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Ruth Barton 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. Small Things Like These: Magdalene laundries drama is a powerful rumination on compassion – and its limits – https://theconversation.com/small-things-like-these-magdalene-laundries-drama-is-a-powerful-rumination-on-compassion-and-its-limits-242057

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Young scientists from the State University of Management presented the results of their research at the All-Russian forum “Science of the Future – Science of the Young”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    From October 29 to November 1, the IX All-Russian Youth Scientific Forum “Science of the Future – Science of the Young” is being held at the Samara National Research University named after Academician S.P. Korolev.

    The forum is attended by more than 500 Russian and foreign researchers, winners of the mega-grant program, heads of world scientific schools and laboratories, young scientists, students and postgraduates.

    At the opening ceremony, the participants were addressed with welcoming words by the Head of the Department of the Presidential Administration of Russia for Scientific and Educational Policy Tatyana Gracheva, the Director of the Department of State Policy in the Sphere of Scientific and Technological Development of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia Anton Shashkin, the Chairperson of the Committee on Education and Science of the Samara Regional Duma Svetlana Ilyina, the President of Samara University, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Viktor Soyfer, the Rector of Samara University Vladimir Bogatyrev and the Scientific Director of Samara University, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Evgeny Shakhmatov.

    The main topics of the forum’s business program were the search for effective ways to attract young people to solve the problems outlined in the Strategy for Scientific and Technological Development of the Russian Federation, and the formation of an effective system of interaction between science, technology and production. At the plenary sessions, leading scientists and experts spoke about new trends in aircraft manufacturing and space exploration, quantum technologies and artificial intelligence, problems of neurodegeneration and how young researchers can build a successful career in science.

    The State University of Management was represented at the forum by Associate Professor of the Innovation Management Department Denis Serdechny and Director of the Business Incubator Dmitry Rogov.

    Denis Serdechny spoke at the opening of the Information Technology and Mathematics section with a scientific report on software and hardware systems and intelligent platform digital solutions in the field of agro-industrial technologies. In his report, the associate professor of the Department of Innovation Management spoke about the competencies of the State University of Management in building ecosystems and platform solutions for business, as well as about the results of research within the framework of a large scientific project – developed methods for assessing the digital maturity of agricultural enterprises, the concept of a data parser for a digital platform and the concept of an intelligent decision support system for computer vision for agricultural tasks.

    Dmitry Rogov opened the Engineering Sciences section by presenting a report on the application of mass service theory tools to optimize the operation of transport infrastructure facilities. Particular attention was paid to simulation modeling, which is used both at the design stage of new infrastructure facilities, which are complex mass service systems, and to optimize the operation of existing ones. The SMU postgraduate student demonstrated to the meeting participants a transport hub model created in the AnyLogic environment, formed on the basis of several logical layers: a two-dimensional scheme, a process diagram, and 3D visualization, and presented the results of an assessment of the qualitative indicators of the system’s functioning, necessary for further analysis and management decision-making.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 10/31/2024

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –