NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Seafarer cadets funding secured for extra 12 months by Maritime and Coastguard Agency

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Seafarer cadets funding secured for extra 12 months by Maritime and Coastguard Agency

    Seafarer cadets can continue to benefit from financial support for their training up until spring 2026 thanks to a 12-month funding extension unlocked through the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).

    Cadets training in a classroom. Image courtesy of Fleetwood Nautical Campus.

    A multi-million-pound budget, awarded to the Support for Maritime Training (SMarT) fund, gives support to cadets as well as additional help for junior officers.  

    Under SMarT, sponsoring companies can continue to claim up to half of the total training costs for eligible trainees.

    A six-month extension to the original September 2024 deadline guaranteed increased funding until the end of March 2025.

    Now, inspired by the initiative’s ongoing success, funding has been secured for a further 12-month period and will be available until 31 March 2026.

    The funds provide further financial support to those who want to progress in the maritime industry by, for example, supporting self-funded UK junior officers to complete a Management Level Certificate of Competency.

    The aim is to increase UK seafarers, drive recruitment by encouraging men and women to consider a career in maritime, and to create opportunities for new companies to access the scheme.   

    Ajit Jacob, MCA Chief Examiner and Head of Seafarer Technical Delivery, said:

    SMarT funding provides strong support both for the careers of seafarer cadets and vital skills for the maritime industry, so this extension is very welcome.

    We hope this extra support continues to attract men and women who might not have considered a maritime career. Unlocking access to comprehensive, thorough training benefits everyone, and I hope even more people take advantage.

    For more information visit MIN 678 Amendment 2

    Press office

    Email public.relations@mcga.gov.uk

    Press enquiries (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) 0203 817 2222

    Outside these hours or on bank holidays and weekends, for media enquiries ONLY, please send an email outlining your query and putting #Urgent in the subject title.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Deputy Mayor launches £99,800 War and Peace Programme at Newgate Arts and Culture Centre

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Deputy Mayor launches £99,800 War and Peace Programme at Newgate Arts and Culture Centre

    8 May 2025

    Deputy Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Alderman Darren Guy, has officially launched the War and Peace Programme, a new cross-community initiative funded by the PEACEPLUS Programme.

    The launch event, held at the Newgate Art and Culture Centre, brought together community representatives, schoolchildren, and stakeholders from across the district to mark the beginning of this significant reconciliation project.

    With £99,800 in funding, the programme will be managed by the Rural Area Partnership in Derry (RAPID) and will deliver historical research, cross-community dialogue, and visits to significant wartime sites. The wider project will also include the restoration of four key war memorials located in The Diamond, Sion Mills, Strabane, and Castlederg.

    Speaking at the launch, Deputy Mayor Guy highlighted the importance of the programme for community relations. He said: “The War and Peace Programme represents a significant investment in our shared future. This initiative creates vital space for people from all backgrounds to engage in honest, respectful conversations about our past.

    “What makes this programme particularly special is its intergenerational approach, bringing together our young people with older generations to explore shared histories and foster deeper understanding. The restoration of our war memorials across the district will provide physical spaces for reflection and education, ensuring these important stories continue to be told for generations to come.

    “Derry City and Strabane District Council is proud to support this PEACEPLUS-funded initiative, which will make a real difference in communities throughout our district.”

    Philip O’Kane, spokesperson for the Rural Area Partnership in Derry (RAPID) added: “RAPID is delighted to be part of the project and to work closely with Derry City and Strabane District Council and North West Cultural Partnership in the delivery of such an important cross-community programme of shared learning and dialogue around such an important era in our history. The project gives us the opportunity to explore the history of the world wars locally and in doing so to connect communities and explore personal local stories from that era”.

    Brian Dougherty CEO of the North West Cultural Partnership said: “The programme will provide an exciting, innovative, and inclusive opportunity for a broad demographic from across the Council area and Donegal. Our colleague David Thompson will be co-leading on the programme, and we look forward to partnering with RAPID and Council over the next year.”

    The project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).  Part of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s theme 1.1 local co-designed Action Plan.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Our Union Street gets £400,000 grant

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    A group set up to regenerate, repopulate, and reinvigorate Union Street has been awarded a grant of £400,000.

    Aberdeen City Council’s Finance and Resources Committee yesterday (8 May 2025) approved the money to Our Union Street which is on top of £100,000 over a three year period agreed at the Council Budget on 1 March 2023.

    Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “We look forward to seeing what work Our Union Street will do with the £400,000 grant money.

    “The Council is investing in Union Street and the surrounding area through grants to Our Union Street along with schemes such as the Union Street Empty Shops Grant Scheme and the City Centre and Beach Masterplan projects to ensure that it remains an attractive place to live, work, and visit.”

    Our Union Street was established in 2022 is funded through private and public sector partnerships. The Scottish Government has confirmed a funding contribution of £400,000 to Aberdeen City Council to support city centre regeneration activity currently being undertaken by Our Union Street.

    Our Union Street’s Bob Keillor said: “We have a range of projects that will help to inject new energy into the city centre and, in some cases, could be transferrable to other communities too.

    “The use of technology and artificial intelligence will be part of this – for example, how do we get the ten Scottish monarchs portrayed on the Mercat Cross monument to come to life and tell their stories?

    “We are grateful to Aberdeen City Council for helping us to secure this funding. The Scottish Government recognised the importance of Our Union Street and the work we do – that’s why they are providing this support.”

    The £400,000 grant is subject to submission and approval of a delivery plan which supports the Union Street Action Plan, which was set up in 2022 to support reconfiguring empty shops on Union Street, helping to reinvigorate and reimagine the area.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Skate park handed to community group

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    A Bridge of Don skate park has been handed to a local community group to manage for a peppercorn rent.

    Bridge of Don Skate Park Group is looking to upgrade and extend the facility at Westfield Park so it was agreed at Aberdeen City Council’s Finance and Resources Committee yesterday to a community asset transfer.

    Committee convener Councillor Alex McLellan said: “The 34 letters sent through a feasibility study for the upgraded skate park from school pupils and other people in Bridge of Don show the amount of support in the area for the facility.

    “There will be health and economic benefits for the upgrade and extension to the skate park as the new attraction would encourage wheeled sport enthusiasts into the park and wider area while promoting outdoor physical activity so we are very happy to let the local group manage the facility.

    “We look forward to seeing the improvements to the skate park.”

    The Group’s vision is to create a space for all ages and abilities to use, to refurbish the current area making it a safer usable space and to provide an entertaining and fun recreational space for years to come.

    Glenn Belka, Chair of Bridge of Don Skatepark Group, said: “After a lot of hard work from the group, we are delighted to be moving forward with the project. Our next steps to bring this exciting new facility to Bridge of Don include fundraising and collaborating with skatepark designers and the local community.”

    Under the community asset transfer lease of £1 a year for 20 years, the Council will empty the litter bins close by the facility and maintain the grass area around the skate park. Discussions are to be held for lighting as the Group plans to extend and upgrade this as part of its improvements.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Chairpersonship Conference on Gender Equality: Building resilience through inclusion and empowerment

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Chairpersonship Conference on Gender Equality: Building resilience through inclusion and empowerment

    VIENNA, 8 May 2025 – Over 400 participants from across the OSCE gathered in Vienna for the “Building resilience through inclusion and empowerment” Conference on Gender Equality organized under Finland’s 2025 OSCE Chairpersonship on 6 and 7 May 2025.
    By hosting the conference, Finland encouraged OSCE participating States to uphold their commitments on gender equality, address challenges faced by women and girls due to unequal opportunities, discrimination, and persisting violence, and take collective action to foster inclusion and empowerment.
    “Promoting gender equality is not just about fairness—it is about resilience, security, and building stronger societies. As Chair, Finland calls on all OSCE participating States to take tangible action to ensure that women and girls have equal opportunities to participate, lead, and shape the future,” said Ambassador Vesa Häkkinen, Finland’s Permanent Representative to the OSCE and Chair of the Permanent Council.
    The conference featured discussions led by high-level speakers, including Mariana Betsa, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and Laura Rissanen, State Secretary at the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health of Finland. Representatives from OSCE Structures and Institutions, international organizations, and civil society also participated in the discussions.
    Key sessions addressed current trends in gender equality: rethinking the Women, Peace and Security Agenda against multiplying crises, preventing gender-based violence, promoting equal opportunities in the digital era and engaging men and boys for gender equality. In line with Finland’s strong priority to support Ukraine, the conference also featured a special session on amplifying Ukrainian women’s voices.
    Launch of the OSCE-wide Women, Peace, and Security Roadmap
    As part of the conference, the Chairpersonship launched an OSCE-wide Roadmap for the effective implementation of Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) commitments. The Roadmap provides a comprehensive overview of the OSCE’s efforts in advancing the WPS agenda and guides participating States towards concrete action.
    “In the year of the 25th Anniversary of 1325, we wanted to use our Chairpersonship of the OSCE to showcase the good work of the OSCE on WPS. We chose to put focus on concrete action, and to provide participating States with practical ideas for doing more on WPS,” said Ambassador Vesa Häkkinen.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Art dealer charged as part of Met investigation into terrorist financing

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    An art dealer from London has become the first person to be charged with a specific offence under section 21A of the Terrorism Act 2000.

    Oghenochuko Ojiri, 53 (05.05.72), of west London, has been charged following an investigation into terrorist financing by officers from the National Terrorist Financial Investigation Unit (NTFIU), part of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.

    Following authorisation from the Crown Prosecution Service, he has been charged with eight counts of failing to make a disclosure during the course of business within the regulated sector, contrary to section 21A of the Terrorism Act 2000. The charges relate to a period from October 2020 to December 2021.

    Ojiri is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 9 May.

    The investigation has been carried out in partnership with the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) in HM Treasury, HMRC (the organisation that regulates the art sector), and the Met’s Arts & Antiques Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Generations of football fandom given a new voice in library exhibition

    Source: City of Leeds

    Some of the world’s oldest football fanzines, which kicked off a wave of people-powered publications on terraces across the globe, are going on display in a new exhibition in Leeds.

    A copy of Foul, widely regarded as the original magazine created by football supporters, is among the scores of titles which feature in Voice of the Fans, which opens at Leeds Central Library on Friday (May 9) in partnership the British Library.

    On loan from the British Library’s collection, Foul was originally produced by students at Cambridge University in October, 1972, with 34 issues subsequently published between 1972 and 1976.

    Researchers scouring through archives, libraries and loans from members of the public have also discovered a copy of The Shamrock, made by fans of Celtic in Scotland, which researchers believe is the oldest fanzine they have traced.

    On loan from the National Library of Scotland, it was produced by the Edinburgh-based Shamrock Supporters Club in the early 1960s, and was sold on match days by volunteers along the approaches to Celtic Park.

    These early examples are among a huge range of grassroots, self-published zines on display tracing the evolution of fan-led media right through to modern, multimedia content.

    Other aspects of fan culture including badges, banners, scarfs and even recordings of terrace chants from the British Library Sound Archive also form part of the exhibition.

    And fresh off a parade earlier this week, which saw thousands of Leeds United fans gather to celebrate the club’s triumphant return to the Premier League, the exhibition also features some of their most important and enduring zines.

    Editions of The Square Ball, featuring Elland Road idols including Gordon Strachan and Lucas Radebe, and Marching Altogether, founded by Leeds United fans to campaign against racism in football, are among the exhibits on display.

    And with Bradford City also securing promotion to League One last weekend fans will be able to see copies of The City Gent– the longest running print football zine in the country.

    Antony Ramm, librarian at Leeds Central Library, said: “The longevity and sheer variety of some of these remarkable publications really demonstrates how much fan culture has been at the heart and soul of football, playing such a huge role in making the game so beloved the world over.

    “The ways fans express themselves may have changed through the years, but what’s remained the same is that passion and desire which has driven supporters to find a way to make their voices heard.

    “As well as being a fun way of fans communicating, self-published zines have also played an important role in holding clubs to account and driving change in the game too.

    “We saw this week just how much football means to the fans, and we’re excited to be celebrating their creations and working with the British Library to bring so many different examples of supporters’ voices together.”

    The exhibition will also feature more influential publications from the British Library’s collection including The End and other Yorkshire zines such as Y-Front, Just Another Wednesday and Smile Awhile.

    Laurence Byrne, lead curator, Latin American and Caribbean collections at the British Library, said: “It’s been a pleasure to be involved with Voice of the Fans, an exhibition the British Library has co-produced with Leeds Libraries. This special exhibition features a number of loans from the Library’s collection of zines, created by football fans from the 1970s onwards, including Foul, widely regarded as the first football fanzine.

    “As historical documents fanzines are invaluable, reflecting contemporary politics and changing social values while representing the incredible creativity and ingenuity of fans. I hope that researchers and the public will continue to be inspired by them.”

    Kenn Taylor, lead culture producer north at the British Library, said: “We are thrilled to be co-producing Voice of the Fans with Leeds Libraries. We’ve long had a presence in Leeds through working with local partners to deliver inspiring exhibitions and also more widely in West Yorkshire, with over 70 per cent of our collection being cared for in Boston Spa, near Wetherby.

    “This collaboration with Leeds Libraries is part of the British Library’s wider commitment to the region, working closely with the local community in Leeds and opening up our collection for everyone.”

    Voice of the Fans is open from May 9 until August 10 at Leeds Central Library and is free to visit.

    Councillor Mary Harland, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, customer service and community safety, said: “This week has been a huge moment for football in Leeds and a time when we’ve seen in spectacular style just how much love for the game there is in the city.

    “We’re thrilled to be showcasing how much football has meant to fans through the years and to be celebrating the unique place the beautiful game has in the hearts of supporters.”

    More information about Voice of the Fans can be found at: Voice of the Fans exhibition | Leeds Library

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Call for Leeds to come out and play for global day of family fun

    Source: City of Leeds

    Residents across Leeds are being invited to stop the traffic on June 11 and host a play street in their neighbourhoods to help mark International Day of Play.

    Applications are open until May 16 for communities to register to close their roads and host family fun on their doorsteps for the global awareness day to celebrate the power of play.

    Hosting a play street is completely free and offers the chance for neighbours to come together in an open and safe space to allow all children and families to ‘play out’.

    Leeds City Council has an award-winning play streets scheme which first began over a decade ago and last year alone saw 78 play streets across the city, totalling over 300 hours of play.

    The scheme is co-ordinated by the Child Friendly Leeds team – which works towards the ambition of making Leeds the best UK city for children and young people to grow up in – in partnership with the highways department.

    Leeds has been ahead of the curve when it comes to play – with the council becoming the first in England to complete a ‘play sufficiency assessment’ in 2023, creating an action plan optimising play opportunities for children and young people.

    A list of priorities developed with children and young people led to the Child Friendly Leeds 12 Wishes’ – with ‘Wish Two’ to ensure that children ‘have safe spaces to play, hang out and have fun’.

    International Day of Play began last year when the United Nations declared the awareness day would take place annually on June 11, to showcase how central play is to every child’s development.

    To mark this year’s event, Leeds City Council is hoping many streets across the city will join in the celebration and is urging people to register now before the May 16 deadline.

    To apply, simply gather support from neighbours to ensure there are enough adults to supervise on the day, then email play.streets@leeds.gov.uk with the street name to check eligibility.

    Successful applicants will receive advice from the authority about which part of the street is safe to close and will be supplied with a road closure notice and ‘road closed’ stickers to display on wheelie bins.

    Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for children and families, said: “As the Play Champion for Leeds, I’m really looking forward to seeing as many streets as possible come alive with play for this global awareness day.

    “Play is vitally important to a child’s wellbeing and Leeds has been proudly leading the way on this for a number of years, helping to inspire playfulness in our neighbourhoods and ensure our city’s children get the best start in life.

    “Let’s celebrate the power of play and take the opportunity for all – young and old – to get outside and have fun right on our doorsteps.”

    For more information, view the play streets toolkit on the Child Friendly Leeds website.

    Any schools which would also like to support event can find suggestions on how to get involved on the Leeds for Learning website, including access to free Child Friendly Leeds resources to support a playful curriculum for the day.

    Other ways to celebrate International Day of Play in Leeds could include visiting a local park or green space or one of the mini playboxes in the city’s libraries and community hubs.

    ENDS

    For media enquiries please contact:

    Leeds City Council communications and marketing,

    Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk

    Tel: 0113 378 6007

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Stabilization Notice – PRE Stab – Accorinvest Group SA x 3 Tranches

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    [8/05/2025]

    Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.

    [Accorinvest Group SA]

    Pre-stabilisation Period Announcement

    BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222 hereby gives notice, as Stabilisation Coordinator, that the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below may stabilise the offer of the following securities in accordance with Commission Delegated Regulation EU/2016/1052 under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014).

    The securities:1  
    Issuer: Accorinvest Group SA
    Guarantor (if any): N/A
    Aggregate nominal amount: TBC
    Description: EUR 5YR FIXED
    EUR 7YR FIXED
    EUR 7yr FRN
    Offer price: TBC
    Other offer terms:  
    Stabilisation:  
    Stabilisation Manager(s) BNP Paribas, Credit Agricole, Natixis, Commerzbank, MUFG, Bank of America, CIC, ICBC, Natwest, Goodbody
    Stabilisation period expected to start on: 8/05/2025
    Stabilisation period expected to end no later than: 22/6/2025
    Existence, maximum size and conditions of use of over‑allotment facility: The Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities to the extent permitted in accordance with applicable law.
    Stabilisation trading venue: [Over the counter (OTC)] [insert venue name] [To be confirmed]

    In connection with the offer of the above securities, the Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities or effect transactions with a view to supporting the market price of the securities during the stabilisation period at a level higher than that which might otherwise prevail. However, stabilisation may not necessarily occur and any stabilisation action, if begun, may cease at any time. Any stabilisation action or over‑allotment shall be conducted in accordance with all applicable laws and rules.

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

    This announcement and the offer of the securities to which it relates are only addressed to and directed at persons outside the United Kingdom and persons in the United Kingdom who have professional experience in matters related to investments or who are high net worth persons within Article 12(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the United Kingdom.

    In addition, if and to the extent that this announcement is communicated in, or the offer of the securities to which it relates is made in, the UK or any EEA Member State before the publication of a prospectus in relation to the securities which has been approved by the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (the “Prospectus  Regulation”) (or which has been approved by a competent authority in another Member State and notified to the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation), this announcement and the offer are only addressed to and directed at persons in the UK or that Member State who are qualified investors within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (or who are other persons to whom the offer may lawfully be addressed) and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the UK or that Member State.

    This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There will be no public offer of securities in the United States. 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Himax Technologies, Inc. Declares Cash Dividend for FY2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TAINAN, Taiwan, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Himax Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: HIMX) (“Himax” or “Company”), a leading supplier and fabless manufacturer of display drivers and other semiconductor products, today declared a cash dividend of 37.0 cents per ADS, equivalent to 18.5 cents per ordinary share, for the year of 2024.

    The cash dividend will be payable on July 11, 2025 to all the shareholders of record as of June 30, 2025. The ADS book will be closed for issuance and cancellation from June 23, 2025 to June 30, 2025. Typically, Himax pays out its yearly dividend at approximately the middle of its current calendar year based on the Company’s previous year financial performance.

    “Since our IPO in 2006, we have consistently rewarded shareholders for their ongoing commitment with our dividend policy,” said Mr. Jordan Wu, President and Chief Executive Officer of Himax. “This year we are pleased to declare an annual cash dividend of 37.0 cents per ADS, representing a payout ratio of 81.1% of last year’s profit. Himax will continue to focus on maintaining a healthy balance sheet while driving sustainable long-term growth to deliver value for our shareholders through high dividends and share repurchases,” concluded Mr. Wu.

    About Himax Technologies, Inc.

    Himax Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: HIMX) is a leading global fabless semiconductor solution provider dedicated to display imaging processing technologies. The Company’s display driver ICs and timing controllers have been adopted at scale across multiple industries worldwide including TVs, PC monitors, laptops, mobile phones, tablets, automotive, ePaper devices, industrial displays, among others. As the global market share leader in automotive display technology, the Company offers innovative and comprehensive automotive IC solutions, including traditional driver ICs, advanced in-cell Touch and Display Driver Integration (TDDI), local dimming timing controllers (Local Dimming Tcon), Large Touch and Display Driver Integration (LTDI) and OLED display technologies. Himax is also a pioneer in tinyML visual-AI and optical technology related fields. The Company’s industry-leading WiseEyeTM Ultralow Power AI Sensing technology which incorporates Himax proprietary ultralow power AI processor, always-on CMOS image sensor, and CNN-based AI algorithm has been widely deployed in consumer electronics and AIoT related applications. Himax optics technologies, such as diffractive wafer level optics, LCoS microdisplays and 3D sensing solutions, are critical for facilitating emerging AR/VR/metaverse technologies. Additionally, Himax designs and provides touch controllers, OLED ICs, LED ICs, EPD ICs, power management ICs, and CMOS image sensors for diverse display application coverage. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Tainan, Taiwan, Himax currently employs around 2,200 people from three Taiwan-based offices in Tainan, Hsinchu and Taipei and country offices in China, Korea, Japan, Germany, and the US. Himax has 2,603 patents granted and 389 patents pending approval worldwide as of March 31, 2025.

    http://www.himax.com.tw

    Forward Looking Statements

    Factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those described in this conference call include, but are not limited to, the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on the Company’s business; general business and economic conditions and the state of the semiconductor industry; market acceptance and competitiveness of the driver and non-driver products developed by the Company; demand for end-use applications products; reliance on a small group of principal customers; the uncertainty of continued success in technological innovations; our ability to develop and protect our intellectual property; pricing pressures including declines in average selling prices; changes in customer order patterns; changes in estimated full-year effective tax rate; shortage in supply of key components; changes in environmental laws and regulations; changes in export license regulated by Export Administration Regulations (EAR); exchange rate fluctuations; regulatory approvals for further investments in our subsidiaries; our ability to collect accounts receivable and manage inventory and other risks described from time to time in the Company’s SEC filings, including those risks identified in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in its Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the SEC, as may be amended.

    Company Contacts:
      
    Karen Tiao, Head of IR/PR
    Himax Technologies, Inc.
    Tel: +886-2-2370-3999
    Fax: +886-2-2314-0877
    Email: hx_ir@himax.com.tw
    www.himax.com.tw

    Mark Schwalenberg, Director
    Investor Relations – US Representative
    MZ North America
    Tel: +1-312-261-6430
    Email: HIMX@mzgroup.us
    www.mzgroup.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKSPF funding unlocks skills, confidence and opportunity for Oxford people

    Source: City of Oxford

    Thursday, 8 May 2025

    Oxford residents have gained new skills, qualifications, and life-changing opportunities thanks to projects funded through the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

    From helping people into jobs and training to supporting new businesses and improving the city’s public spaces, the funding has boosted opportunity, community pride and economic growth across the city. 

    In December 2022, Oxford City Council secured £1 million in UKSPF funding as part of the government’s Levelling Up agenda. Since then, it has focused the funding on local priorities identified in the Oxford Economic Strategy and City Centre Action Plan, including tackling inequality, supporting the economy’s shift to net zero, and enhancing the experience of the city centre. 

    Results 

    Delivered in collaboration with local partners, UKSPF funding has already made a measurable difference across Oxford by helping local people build skills and confidence, supporting businesses to grow, and enhancing public spaces. Highlights include: 

    • over 100 residents gained qualifications, 
    • 84 people directly helped into employment, 
    • 58 people funded onto courses 

    UKSPF-funded projects have also provided a boost to local businesses and high streets: 

    • 648m2 of public realm created or improved
    • 158m of new or improved cycleways or footpaths 
    • 14 businesses received direct support  

    2025/26 funding 

    The Council has successfully secured an additional £327,146 to fund a year-long programme of activity for 2025/26. The programme will be split into city centre, capital and economic development activity.  

    One of the requirements of the fund means all projects must be delivered within 12 months. Given this timeframe, the Council has predominantly extended projects already underway to maximise results.  Some of the projects identified include:  

    • support the visitor economy by collecting and utilising better data about footfall and spending in the city centre
    • explore ways the city can maximise the benefits of its successful visitor industry
    • develop better wayfinding through the introduction of an app
    • support people to progress towards and into employment through Enterprise Oxfordshire’s No Limits Programme 
    • restarting a Social Economy Business Support Programme to support start-ups and the wider social economy
    • developing a city-wide skills framework to improve opportunities for local people into certain trades, including green skills. 

    Comment 

    “Whether it’s new qualifications, support for businesses, or an improved city centre, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund has brought real change to Oxford and the people who live here.  

    “By supporting local projects, we’ve given people the tools, confidence and support to thrive and every project has helped to make the local economy fairer.” 

    Councillor Alex Hollingsworth, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture and Inclusive Economy at Oxford City Council 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sentence increase for child groomer following intervention by Solicitor General

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Sentence increase for child groomer following intervention by Solicitor General

    A man who groomed and sexually abused a child has had his sentence increased after the Solicitor General intervened.

    Yusuf Kayat, 54, from Leeds has had his sentence increased by four years after the Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP referred his case to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

    The court heard that the offences took place more than 30 years ago between 1989 and 1992. Kayat, who was known to the victim as ‘Kosh’, met the victim when he was 19 years old, and she was 10 years old.

    Kayat started the offending by grooming the victim, driving her around in his car and buying her gifts, including alcohol, cigarettes, and cannabis.

    After gaining her trust, he had sexual intercourse with the victim in various locations including in his car.

    Kayat also forced the victim to perform sexual acts on his friends. Sometimes there would be multiple men, and Kayat would reward the victim with food from takeaways.

    In a Victim’s Impact Statement, the victim said that since the offending she has experienced constant fear, anxiety, flack backs and panic attacks. The impact on the victim’s life has been profound and devastating.

    The Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:

    Yusuf Kayat’s crimes were abhorrent. His grooming of the victim was highly calculated, who was only 10 years old when the abuse first began, before carrying out multiple sexual offences over several years.

    I welcome the court’s decision to increase Kayat’s sentence. Today my thoughts are with Kayat’s victim & her family.

    On 5 February 2025, Yusuf Kayat was sentenced to 20 years and a further one year on licence, after he was found guilty on 17 charges at Leeds Crown Court.

    On 7 May 2025, Kayat’s sentence was quashed and substituted with a 24-year sentence and a further one year on licence after it was referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN road safety exhibition at the Palais des Nations to raise awareness about risk factors on the road and existing solutions

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    On the eve of the 8th UN Road safety Week, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, with support of the Permanent Representation of Malaysia to the UN and International Organizations in Geneva, will launch the UN road safety exhibition. Taking place at the Palais des Nations, Geneva, on Friday, 9 May, the exhibition aims to raise awareness about the risk factors on the road and existing solutions that can improve road safety and save millions of lives worldwide.

    In line with the main theme of the 8th UN Road Safety Week – making cycling and walking safe – the exhibition will feature the “Helmets for Hope” project, which consists of 17 helmets compliant with UN safety standards, and painted by refugees and artists from all over the world. This project is an initiative of the Secretariat of the Special Envoy, in collaboration with Artolution and with the support of Keep Fighting Foundation.

    Motorcycle users are particularly vulnerable on the road. Wearing a helmet that complies with UN safety standards is a game changer. It can reduce the risk of death by over 6 times and reduce the risk of brain injury by up to 74% (WHO 2021). It is therefore urgent to promote the widespread use of UN certified helmets.

    The exhibition will also feature 17 visuals of the UN-JCDecaux campaign #MakeASafety Statement, with the support of the International Olympic Committee.  In addition, there will be vehicle safety demonstrations on the prevention and management of car crashes, including extinguishing battery fire, and a simulation test of driving tired and under influence.

    The exhibition will be followed by a conversation on safe and sustainable mobility in the city, hosted by the Permanent Representation of Belgium to the United Nations and International Organizations in Geneva.

    The silent pandemic on the road

    The Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, qualified road crashes as “The Silent Pandemic on the Road”. Every year, the staggering toll of road-related fatalities globally claims the lives of 1.19 million people, leaving 50 million others with severe injuries. Furthermore, road crashes are the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged 5–29 years (WHO 2021). Two months after the Declaration of Marrakesh where Member States further engaged to accelerate the efforts to achieve the new Decade of Action for Road Safety, it is urgent to act together to achieve the goal of halving the number of the victims on the road by 2030.

    “Road crashes are not a fatality. This is why this exhibition on road safety at the Palais des Nations is important for raising awareness about the risk factors on the road. It also demonstrates the importance of building a global partnership for achieving road safety SDG targets,” the Special Envoy noted.

     

    Make a Safety Statement

    The UN Global Campaign for Road Safety – #MakeASafetyStatement, in partnership with JCDecaux, is part of UN efforts to raise public awareness of life-saving initiatives on the road. By the end of 2025, the campaign will appear on billboards and in public places in 80 countries, thanks to a global partnership with JCDecaux. It will be broadcast in about 1,000 towns and cities in 30 languages.

    Under the slogan #MakeASafetyStatement, the campaign brings together celebrities worldwide, such as Patrick Dempsey, Michelle Yeoh, Charles Leclerc, Didier Drogba, Teddy Riner, Kylie Minogue, Mick Schumacher or Naomi Campbell, to encourage users to adopt simple but effective rules to keep their roads safe. Olympic athletes also joined the campaign, thanks to the support of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

    With making walking and cycling safe in the focus of the 8th UN road safety week, the Office of the Special Envoy has strengthened its collaboration with the International Union of Cyclists (UCI), thanks to the participation of Tadej Pogačar who is one of the champions of the MakeASafetyStatement campaign.

    Towards zero victims on the road in Switzerland

    According to the Swiss Federal Roads Office, road crashes caused 250 deaths in Switzerland in 2024, the highest figure since 2015. There were 47 deaths among motorcyclists with an increase among young people, 25 on electric bicycles, 20 among “conventional” cyclists, and 48 among pedestrians, the majority of whom were outside of pedestrian crossings.

    Of the total, alcohol was the suspected primary cause in 34 cases (+31% year-on-year), ahead of speeding, with 33 cases, and then inattention or distraction.  Among deaths in passenger car accidents, the sharpest increase was observed among those aged 25 to 34 and those aged 75 and over.

    However, the number of people seriously injured decreased. Switzerland is one of the countries that has invested in road safety with zero tolerance, and has achieved a road fatality rate of 2 per 100,000 inhabitants (compared to 6.5/100,000 in Europe and 19.5/100,00 in Africa (WHO 2021). The country can therefore show good practices that could be implemented in other countries.

    Risk factors that are often neglected                                                                           

    Only 7 countries in the world have laws that comply with WHO best practices for all the risk factors (France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Portugal, Sweden) on speeding, driving under the influence or distracted driving, use of UN-standard motorbike helmets, and use of seatbelts and child restraints as regulated by UNECE.

    For example, safety-belts remain the best vehicle safety device to protect passengers from being severely injured in a crash or being ejected from the vehicle.  Over the past several decades regulation and consumer demand have led to increasingly safe cars in higher income countries, in turn leading to fewer road fatalities. For example, in the UNECE region, total road fatalities decreased by 25% in between 2000 and 2010, and by 15% in the period 2010-2019. In particular, this drop was more significant among car occupants (UNECE 2024).

    Malaysia supports the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety

    One study by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) revealed that many young riders in Malaysia begin as early as the age of 12, often without licenses or proper training. These insights have helped Malaysia shape more targeted interventions, because when we understand the behaviour, we are better positioned to implement solutions that are both smart and achievable.

    In support of this, Malaysia continues to prioritise helmet use among young motorcyclists. In addition to education and awareness campaigns in schools and rural areas, Malaysia introduced a Helmet Exchange Programme that allows riders to swap old or non-compliant helmets for new, safety-certified ones. This effort is vital as motorcyclists account for over 60% of road traffic fatalities in Malaysia, with the highest risk group being those aged 16 to 20. By improving access, building awareness, and fostering behavioural change, we aim to instill a culture of safety from early age.

    Malaysia firmly embraces the vision of the UN Decade of Action, to reduce road traffic fatalities by 50% by 2030. To this end, Malaysia continues to work closely with key road safety stakeholders, including the WHO.

     

    Learn more about the programme of the exhibition here.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 27th China Beijing International High-Tech Expo kicks off

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    The 27th China Beijing International High-Tech Expo opened Thursday at the National Convention Center and will run through May 11. 

    This year’s event features over 600 new products across six themed exhibition zones of information technology, smart manufacturing, healthcare, green development, the digital economy, and regional innovation. 

    More than 800 enterprises and organizations from home and abroad are participating, with the total exhibition area reaching about 50,000 square meters – more than doubled that of last year. 

    International exhibitors from countries including Russia, France, Japan, the U.S., and ASEAN nations occupy over 3,000 square meters, according to a Beijing municipal official responsible for promoting international trade. 

    Headline exhibits include China’s first 1,000-qubit coherent optical quantum computer, capable of accelerating tasks like drug discovery; AI-powered orthopedic surgical robots already in clinical use at over 100 hospitals; wall-climbing robots for infrastructure inspections; and a new generation of humanoid robots. 

    The expo also showcases key breakthroughs driving emerging industries. Highlights include a domestically developed fuel cell air compressor that lowers hydrogen fuel costs, a turboshaft engine built for unmanned helicopters and eVTOL aircraft, and the first bioengineered heart valve product developed specifically for infants.

    In parallel with the exhibition, a series of trade and investment promotion events are being held, covering themes such as international investment, Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei trade cooperation, and international business law.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Art dealer charged as part of investigation into terrorist financing

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    An art dealer from London has become the first person to be charged with a specific offence under section 21A of the Terrorism Act 2000.

    Oghenochuko Ojiri 53 (05.05.72) of west London, has been charged following an investigation into terrorist financing by officers from the National Terrorist Financial Investigation Unit (NTFIU), part of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.

    Following CPS authorisation, he has been charged with eight counts of failing to make a disclosure during the course of business within the regulated sector, contrary to section 21A of the Terrorism Act 2000. The charges relate to a period from October 2020 to December 2021.

    Mr Ojiri is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Friday 9 May.

    The investigation has been carried out in partnership with the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) in HM Treasury, HMRC (the organisation that regulates the art sector), and the Met’s Arts & Antiques Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Helping government tackle policy challenges with expert insight

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Helping government tackle policy challenges with expert insight

    Our new overview sets out the Open Innovation Team’s approach and offer

    The Open Innovation Team (OIT) has published an updated introduction to its services “The Open Innovation Team: Who we are, what we do, and how we can help” showcasing how we support colleagues across government to generate analysis and ideas for policy.

    The deck highlights our track record of delivering over 150 projects since our creation in 2016, engaging more than 2,500 experts and saving government more than £5 million in 2023–24 alone.

    Operating like an in-house consultancy, the OIT is a government team that works on a cost-recovery basis to deliver bespoke support across all stages of policy development – from early scoping through to implementation planning. The deck sets out our core services – expert engagement, research synthesis and policy development – as well as our wider offer including training, events and our new Evaluation Services Unit.

    We have five university partners – Brunel, Essex, Lancaster, Surrey and York – but we work with academics and industry experts worldwide.

    If you have a complex policy challenge, get in touch to find out how we can support you. We’re also happy to present at team meetings or events – contact us to find out more. 

    View Introducing the Open Innovation Team 2025 (PDF, 621 KB, 9 pages)

    Get in touch

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to the news that Ørsted are to discontinue the Hornsea 4 offshore wind project in its current form

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on Ørsted discontinuing the Hornsea 4 offshore wind project. 

    Prof Jun Liang, Professor of Power Electronics and Power Networks, Cardiff University, said:

    What does this mean for the UK’s net zero by 2030 aim?

    “This development undoubtedly impacts the UK’s Net Zero ambitions, as renewable energy—particularly offshore wind power from the North Sea—is a key driver in achieving this goal.  While the discontinuation of a single offshore wind farm due to an isolated issue may not be catastrophic, the underlying reasons behind this decision raise significant concerns.  If these challenges reflect broader systemic issues, they could have far-reaching implications for other similar projects, potentially hindering progress toward the 2030 target.

     

    Is there anything the government can do to encourage projects like this?

    “Although the UK government seems to be not doing anything wrong directly towards this wind farm development, the government must take proactive measures to address supply chain challenges and prevent further project cancellations.  While we recognise the broader economic pressures facing the UK—including global trade uncertainties—sustained focus on economic growth is essential to strengthen investment capacity and build a resilient supply chain.  The challenges facing offshore wind projects, such as Hornsea 4, are not isolated incidents but rather symptoms of the current economic climate.  Without decisive intervention, similar setbacks could jeopardize the UK’s renewable energy ambitions.

     

    Is this a blow to the UK’s renewable energy efforts – what else do we have; was this a significant part of it or is there still plenty more?

    “Based on available information, the discontinuation of this offshore wind project does not appear to stem from inherent issues in renewable energy development—such as turbine technology, transmission infrastructure, or grid capacity.  Instead, broader economic and supply chain challenges seem to be the primary drivers.

    “While offshore wind is a cornerstone of the UK’s renewable energy strategy, other sources—such as onshore wind and solar PV—remain critical.  However, these sectors may face similar supply chain constraints, as the root cause lies in macroeconomic pressures rather than sector-specific limitations.  The key question is whether the UK can mitigate these systemic risks to sustain progress across all renewable energy avenues.”

     

    Prof John Loughhead, Industrial Professor of Clean Energy, University of Birmingham, said:

    “This is certainly a significant setback to the Government’s ambitions for a rapid increase in offshore wind capacity.  Hornsea 4 represented about 10% of the planned increase to meet its aggressive 2030 low carbon electricity targets, and as it has been in development since 2018 it’s very unlikely an alternative could be identified and delivered within that timescale.  Achieving the 2030 targets has become even more challenging.  It appears a combination of supply chain inflation and delivery challenges meant the project became economically unattractive given the CfD price agreed with Government only last September, which also suggests future offshore wind will need a higher guaranteed price than foreseen.”

     

     

     

    https://orsted.com/en/company-announcement-list/2025/05/orsted-to-discontinue-the-hornsea-4-offshore-wind–143901911

     

     

    Declared interests

    Prof John Loughhead: “No interests to declare.”

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Ireland

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Ireland

    Ms Kara Owen has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to Ireland.

    Ms Kara Owen CMG CVO has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to Ireland in succession to Mr Paul Johnston.  Ms Owen will take up her appointment during September 2025.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Kara Justine Owen

    Year Role
    July 2024 to present Projects/ pre-posting preparation with FCDO  
    2019 to 2024 Singapore, British High Commissioner  
    2016 to 2019 FCO, Director, Americas  
    2012 to 2016 Paris, Deputy Head of Mission  
    2011 to 2012 FCO, Head of Strategy and Network Department, Consular  
    2009 to 2011 FCO, Director for Diversity and Equality  
    2005 to 2009 Hanoi, Deputy Head of Mission  
    2003 to 2005 FCO, Private Secretary to the Foreign Secretary  
    2001 to 2003 FCO, Assistant Private Secretary to Junior Ministers  
    2000 to 2001 FCO, EU Policy Officer  
    1996 to 2000 Hong Kong, Vice Consul and later Vice Consul political  
    1995 to 1996 FCO, Cantonese language training  
    1993 to 1995 FCO, Joint Assistance Unit (Know How Fund)  
    1993 Joined FCO  

    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 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Delivering our Plan for Change for workers

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    Delivering our Plan for Change for workers

    The Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting spoke at the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (Usdaw) Annual Conference in Blackpool.

    It’s great to be here in Blackpool.

    Paddy (Lillis), you stood in the tradition of the greatest leaders of our movement, who believed it was not enough to walk through the streets demanding change, but that we had to walk through the corridors of power to deliver it.

    I also want to say thank you to Dave (McCrossen) for his leadership as Deputy General Secretary.

    Paddy, Dave, what you and your team have achieved in Usdaw is truly remarkable.

    Given the challenges facing retail and food distribution and the high turnover rates in the sector, maintaining your membership is a tough enough challenge, but with your leadership, Usdaw has grown. 

    With the switch to online shopping and the decline of our high streets, accelerated by the pandemic, others would have thrown in the towel. 

    Instead, your Retail Recovery Plan is helping the sector to come back stronger.

    Usdaw is an example to the trade union and labour movement:

    • to focus on the issues that matter most in the workplace
    • to keep our heads screwed on and our feet on the ground
    • to always champion the interests of working people

    Paddy, Dave, on behalf of everyone here and on behalf of the Prime Minister and the government, thank you for everything you’ve done for Usdaw and for our country.

    I’m also delighted to welcome Joanne as Usdaw’s new General Secretary. Joanne, you made history as Usdaw’s youngest regional secretary and now you’ve made history as the first woman to become general secretary – and the youngest, too!

    It’s clear the whole conference is excited to see what you do in the role. Congratulations and good luck! 

    I owe so much to Usdaw.

    [Redacted political content.]

    And having had my life saved by the NHS when I had kidney cancer at the age of 38, I can think of no better way of repaying the debt I owe to the NHS than by saving our National Health Service. 

    We should be in no doubt about the threat to our NHS.

    When we came into government, we took over an NHS going through the worst crisis in history:

    • waiting lists at historic highs
    • patient satisfaction at record lows
    • people struggling to see a GP
    • dental deserts in huge swathes of the country
    • ambulances not turning up on time
    • A&E departments full to bursting
    • doctors on picket lines, instead of the front line
    • that founding promise, that the NHS would always be there for us when we needed it, broken

    The NHS was broken.

    [Redacted political content.]

    Broken, but not beaten. Because every day there are amazing people delivering outstanding and compassionate care, despite all those challenges.

    Not beaten, because as Nye Bevan is often quoted as saying: “The NHS will last as long as there’s folk with faith left to fight for it.”

    Well, every day since I became Health Secretary, I’ve gone into work fighting for our NHS.

    To restore that basic founding principle that the NHS should always be there for us when we need it.

    With our Plan for Change, we’ve hit the ground running.

    As our first step, we promised 2 million more appointments in our first year.

    Promise made, promise kept:

    • we delivered our promise 7 months early and we’ve smashed our target – delivering not 2, but 3 million extra appointments since July and rising
    • we’ve got waiting lists down 6 months on the trot, including during peak winter pressures
    • we ended the strikes within 3 weeks and delivered an above-inflation pay rise for NHS staff
    • we’ve invested an extra £26 billion in health and care
    • we’ve recruited 1,500 more GPs – and agreed a GP contract for the first time since the pandemic
    • we’ve delivered the biggest investment to hospices in a generation
    • the biggest expansion of Carer’s Allowance since the 1970s
    • a massive boost for older and disabled people through the Disabled Facilities Grant
    • the biggest real-terms increase to the Public Health Grant in nearly a decade
    • we’ve given pharmacies the biggest funding uplift in a generation
    • and last week we froze prescription charges for the first time in years

    A lot done, but there is more to do:

    • our bill on smoking and vapes will protect children and the most vulnerable and make this generation of kids the first smoke-free generation
    • our Mental Health Bill will stop the disgraceful incarceration of learning disabled adults
    • the ban on junk food advertising targeted at children will be a first step in addressing the growing problem of childhood obesity
    • we are working with health unions, councils and employers to deliver the first ever fair pay agreement for social care staff
    • and Louise Casey is leading a Commission on Social Care which will finally get a grip on a system that is broken for too many families

    [Redacted political content.]

    We will always defend our NHS as a publicly funded, public service, free at the point of use, so that when you fall ill you never have to worry about the bill. 

    Our job is twofold.

    First, to get the NHS back on its feet and treating patients on time again.

    And second, to reform the service for the long-term, so it is fit for the future.

    This summer we will publish our 10 Year Plan for Health:

    • shifting the focus of healthcare out of hospital and into the community, with more investment in primary and community care  
    • bringing our analogue health service into the digital age, arming staff with modern equipment and cutting-edge technology
    • turning our sickness service into a preventative health service, to help people live well for longer and tackle the biggest killers

    This cannot be done by one man sat behind a desk in Whitehall. We will only succeed if this is a team effort, from the Prime Minister to the 1.5 million people who work in the health service. And the millions of us who use it taking the decisions needed to live healthier, more active lives.

    Mental health

    I know Usdaw have long campaigned on the impact poor mental health and stress can have at work. And your ‘It’s good to talk’ campaign is helping to overcome stigma and offering practical support to members who may be struggling.

    Failing to take mental health seriously doesn’t just have an enormous impact on people. Absences take their toll on businesses, our NHS and our economy as a whole. 

    In the NHS, we’re expanding talking therapies. Last year, we provided almost 70,000 people with the support they need at work, up more than 60% on the year before. 

    We know a timely intervention on mental health can save anguish and distress further down the line, and to deliver this we need to expand the mental health workforce so everyone can access the right people, with the right support, at the right time. 

    That’s why our manifesto promised an extra 8,500 mental health staff: tackling mental ill-health and the causes of mental ill-health. 

    New deal for working people

    Central to good health and good mental health are good jobs.

    So while I’m focused on fixing the foundations of our NHS, the whole government is working hard to deliver our manifesto promise to deliver the new deal for working people.

    [Redacted political content.]

    Last month, our landmark Plan to Make Work Pay passed the House of Commons. It will mean: 

    • jobs that are more secure and family friendly 
    • a real living wage people can live on 
    • going further and faster to close the gender pay gap 
    • sick pay for the lowest earners 
    • day one rights from unfair dismissal 
    • ending fire and rehire  
    • and banning exploitative zero-hour contracts once and for all 

    Conference, this will be the biggest upgrade of workers’ rights in a generation.  

    Campaigned for by Usdaw, delivered by this government. 

    Of course change – real change – takes time. As I said to Laura Kuenssberg on the BBC over the weekend, I’m pretty sure when I talk about falling waiting lists, there are people shouting at the telly: “What are you talking about? I’m still waiting!”

    Both things are true. Waiting lists are falling and are over 200,000 lower today than they were when we came into office. But if you’re one of 7 million cases still on the list, you’re not feeling it yet.

    Similarly, the decisions I took within weeks of taking office that allowed us to employ 1,500 GPs are making a difference, but there will still be people going bananas trying to get through at 8am tomorrow morning after the bank holiday.

    If the Chancellor were standing here today, she’d also report that interest rates have fallen 3 times and wages are finally rising above inflation. But that doesn’t wash away the cost of living crisis.

    People are really struggling at the moment.

    Not living, just surviving.

    It’s not good for our health and it’s not good for our country.

    We were elected with a simple promise: change.

    It won’t be enough for people to see it in the statistics – you need to feel it in your lives.

    Is my family better off?

    Is the NHS there for me when I need it?

    Do my kids attend good schools?

    Are my streets safe?

    Am I getting a fair wage for a hard day at work?

    [Redacted political content.]

    Those are the questions we as politicians need to help you as union reps answer. 

    I want all of you to know that, in government, all of us feel that pressure to deliver the change people voted for. We don’t want to let you or our country down. 

    [Redacted political content.]

    At the weekend, I asked people to give us the time we need to deliver as we grapple with an enormous breadth and depth of challenges.

    [Redacted political content.]

    But day by day, week by week, step by step, we will rebuild our economy, rebuild our public services and rebuild trust in politics.

    There’ll be bumps in the road and we won’t get everything right.

    [Redacted political content.]

    This government has already:

    • increased the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage, giving over 3 million workers a pay rise
    • delivered breakfast clubs at 750 primary schools, so that they start the day with hungry minds instead of hungry bellies
    • scrapped the wasteful Rwanda scheme and launched our Border Security Command
    • overhauled apprenticeships through a new Growth and Skills Levy
    • and switched on Great British Energy

    We’re:

    • bringing the UK’s railways back into public ownership
    • banning no-fault evictions and introducing new protections for renters
    • delivering the New Deal for Working People
    • and cutting NHS waiting lists

    Lots done, so much more to do. 

    [Redacted political content.]

    Change has begun and the best is still to come.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK 🔴 LIVE | Watch Members of the Houses of Parliament process to Westminster Abbey for #VE80

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    To mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, Members of the House of Commons and House of Lords attended a service at Westminster Abbey on Thursday 8 April 2025.

    Both Houses left their respective chambers and met in Central Lobby, where they jointly processed with their maces to the Abbey.

    This display of bicameral unity was a symbolic recreation of the events of VE Day in 1945. We will be covering the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII throughout the year. Be sure to check our information hub on our website for more information and resources: https://www.parliament.uk/visiting/remembering-parliaments-world-war-two-contributions/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aVfQt_LWah4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Carla denyer MP announces she will not be re-standing as Co-Leader in up-coming internal elections

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    Green Party Co-Leader, Carla Denyer MP, has today announced that she is not standing in the up-coming internal Green Party leadership elections. Announcing her decision Carla said:

    “It’s been an enormous privilege to lead the Green Party alongside my excellent co-leader Adrian, wonderfully supported by our deputy leaders – first Amelia and then Zack. We’ve achieved so much, taking the party from one MP to four, from 450 councillors to over 850, and winning nearly two million votes at the last General Election. But this is just the start for me and the party.

    “For me, my guiding light has always been ‘How can I make the biggest positive impact?’. And I’ve decided that for the next few years, the best way I can serve the party and the country is to pour all of my skills, passion and energy into being the best MP I can be, in Parliament and in Bristol Central. 

    “We’re at a critical juncture in British politics. People are feeling deeply let down and are looking for real alternatives. And with the hard-right on the rise in the UK and across the world, it’s never been more important for Greens to offer a genuinely hopeful vision for our future – and crucially to put forward real solutions to make people’s lives better. 

    “That’s what I’ll be focussing on over the next four years as an MP: fighting for rent controls so that everyone can afford a decent roof over their heads, to futureproof British industry to secure good green jobs for this generation and the next, and to replace the racism and xenophobia at the heart of our migration system with common sense and compassion. These are all issues that my constituents in Bristol Central feel passionate about. This city which I am so proud to live in and represent will continue to be at the heart of everything I do as an MP. 

    “Thank you to our membership for trusting me and Adrian to lead this party through challenges and successes. It has been a pleasure to work alongside him and with fellow members, staff and elected representatives at all levels of the party, especially my wonderful fellow Green MPs. For the next four months I will continue to serve alongside my brilliant leadership colleagues, Adrian and Zack. Then I will hand over the baton to the new leadership team in the Autumn when the results of the internal election are announced. 

    “In this new five-party political system it’s all to play for. The future of the Green Party is bright, and I’m so excited to play my part in this next chapter as a committed and passionate Green MP.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Families enjoy Go Walks launch

    Source: City of Coventry

    The city’s new Go Walks scheme has been launched, giving families the chance to explore their local area, improve their health and build stronger communities.

    The series of walks is based around the City’s Family Hubs that provide welcoming, safe spaces where children, young people and families can access services and help, while enjoying fun activities and building friendships.

    The launch which took place on the 25 April saw families set out on one of the walks at the Moat Family Hub, hosted by guest of honour, and much-loved children’s TV presenter, Gemma Hunt, an Ambassador for The Outdoor Guide Foundation.

    Gemma said: “Go Walks is brilliant for these wonderful Family Hubs in Coventry.

    “There are different walks you can go on with your families and they’re all really easily accessible for all ages, so breathe in the fresh air and get outdoors.”

    After enjoying the walk, local families gave the scheme the thumbs-up, with comments including:

    • “The walk was amazing and I enjoyed it. It helped with my mental health and wellbeing. I’ll do more walks. It was good to meet new people.”
    • “The walk was beautiful. I saw places I never knew were there and enjoyed ice cream and seeing Gemma Hunt.”
    • “The walk was very exciting and the trail map is good. It’s a healthy way of engaging the kids.”

    See photos from the day – Family Hubs launch Go Walks | Flickr.

    Go Walks is the result of a new partnership between the City Council and The Outdoor Guide – an organisation that strongly believes in the value of enjoying a healthy life outdoors – which has built a national network of walks throughout the UK in both cities and the countryside.

    The aim of the walks is to link residents with green spaces in their areas. Showing local families the amazing facilities right on their doorstep – from parks and woodland to social supermarkets, food banks, drop-in centres, places of worship, medical centres and primary schools.  This initiative delivers on our pledge to children and young people to help them be and feel healthy as part of Child Friendly Cov.

    As well as enabling residents to get to know their area better and see the numerous facilities and support on offer, the walks will also introduce new arrivals to the City to their neighbourhood and bring people together. Families will be able to connect with their local Family Hub and discover all the free activities and resources available for them.

    Cllr Patricia Seaman, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “The Go Walks scheme is a wonderful idea and you could see how valued they will be by the reaction of people at the launch.

    “They will bring people together, get people talking and build communities, and they will help many to enjoy more of our great city while getting a little healthier.”

    Cllr Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Sport, said: “We all know how important exercise is for our mental and physical wellbeing, and the Go Walks are a great way to enjoy some gentle activity in the fresh air.

    “They are ideal for families to spend some time together and to take a few minutes to relax away from the everyday pressures. I am sure they will be a popular addition to our city.”

    To learn more about Go Walks, visit The Outdoor Guide’s website. To find out more about your local Family Hub offer please visit www.coventryfamilies.co.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos Ireland – JACKBIT Ranked #1 Irish Casino Site of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBLIN, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — JACKBIT, a globally acclaimed platform with a strong presence across Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond, has been named the “Best Online Casino in Ireland 2025” following a rigorous review of the Irish online gambling industry. Conducted by experienced iGaming specialists, this evaluation highlights why JACKBIT stands out as the premier choice among the best online casinos in Ireland, delivering an exceptional gaming experience tailored to Irish players.

    New players can dive into the excitement with JACKBIT’s generous welcome bonus by signing up today:

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    JACKBIT sets the benchmark for a new online casino with its compelling welcome offer: 30% Rakeback + 100 First Deposit Free Spins with no KYC requirements. This player-centric approach, combined with a vast game library and innovative features, solidifies JACKBIT’s position as the top pick in the best online casinos Ireland for 2025.

    Featuring over 7,000 real money games from 85 top-tier providers, JACKBIT caters to every gaming preference, offering the best online pokies, table games, live dealer experiences, and a comprehensive sportsbook with 140+ sports types. From spinning slots to betting on Gaelic football, JACKBIT ensures a thrilling and rewarding experience that resonates with Irish players.

    “Our mission is to guide Irish players to the Best Online Casinos in Ireland that deliver excitement, security, and value,” said the review team. “JACKBIT excels in every critical area, making it the ultimate destination for online gaming in Ireland.”

    A Player-Centric Review of the Best Online Casinos in Ireland

    The review team conducted a thorough analysis, prioritizing the needs of Irish players. The evaluation criteria included:

    • License: Ensuring compliance with global gambling regulations.
    • Fairness: Independent audits for game integrity.
    • Quality of Games: Diverse and high-quality gaming options.
    • Bonuses and Promotions: Generous and transparent rewards.
    • Payment Methods: Secure, flexible, and fast transactions.
    • Online Security: Robust protection for player data.
    • Mobile Experience: Seamless gaming across devices.
    • Sportsbook Quality: Comprehensive and competitive betting options.
    • KYC: Minimal or no identity verification requirements.
    • Deposit and Withdrawal Limits: Flexible and player-friendly.
    • Customer Support: Responsive, multilingual assistance.

    These criteria formed the foundation for assessing the best online casinos in Ireland, with JACKBIT emerging as the top performer. Its status as an anonymous online casino and its commitment to player satisfaction make it the leading platform for Irish players.

    Why JACKBIT Is the Best Online Casino in Ireland 2025

    JACKBIT’s outstanding performance across all review categories makes it the unrivaled leader in the best online casinos in Ireland. Below is a detailed exploration of its standout features:

    JACKBIT operates under a Curacao Gaming License, a globally recognized credential that ensures legal and regulated operations. This license provides Irish players with confidence in the platform’s legitimacy, positioning JACKBIT as a trusted name in the best online casinos Ireland.

    All games on JACKBIT are audited by independent third-party firms to ensure fairness and transparency. This commitment to integrity reassures players that they’re engaging with a platform that prioritizes trust, a key factor in ranking among the best online casinos Ireland.

    • Quality of Games

    JACKBIT’s game library is a treasure trove, offering over 7,000 games from 85 renowned providers. Irish players can enjoy the best online pokies, including classic slots, progressive jackpots, and digital scratch cards. The platform also features a wide range of table games like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, alongside immersive live dealer options that bring the thrill of a real casino to your screen. The sportsbook, with 140+ sports types, includes local favorites like GAA, horse racing, and soccer, making JACKBIT a versatile choice in the best online casinos Ireland.

    Game Category Examples Providers
    Slots Starburst, Mega Moolah NetEnt, Microgaming
    Table Games Blackjack, Roulette Evolution, Pragmatic Play
    Live Dealer Live Poker, Baccarat Evolution, Ezugi
    Sportsbook GAA, Soccer, Rugby Proprietary
    • Quality of Bonuses and Promotions

    JACKBIT’s bonuses are designed to maximize player value, starting with a Welcome Bonus of 30% Rakeback + 100 First Deposit Free Spins with no KYC requirements. Additional promotions include:

    • Weekly Giveaways: $10,000 cash and 10,000 free spins.
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    • Social Media Bonuses: Free rewards for engaging with JACKBIT online.
    • Pragmatic Drops & Wins: €2,000,000 in prize pools.
    • Weekly Sports Tournament: 20,000$

    These promotions, paired with low wagering requirements, make JACKBIT a leader in the best online casinos Ireland for bonus offerings.

    ✅ GRAB YOUR WELCOME BONUS OF 30% RAKEBACK + 100 FREE SPINS

    • Payment Methods and Banking Experience

    As a premier pay ID casino, JACKBIT offers seamless transactions tailored to Irish players. The platform supports over 17 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Tether (USDT), Ripple (XRP), and Solana (SOL), ensuring instant, fee-free deposits and withdrawals.

    For those preferring traditional methods, JACKBIT accepts fiat options like Visa, MasterCard, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and bank transfers. This flexibility enhances JACKBIT’s appeal in the best online casinos Ireland.

    Payment Method Type Processing Time Fees
    Bitcoin (BTC) Crypto Instant None
    Ethereum (ETH) Crypto Instant None
    Tether (USDT) Crypto Instant None
    Visa/MasterCard Fiat Instant None
    Google Pay/Apple Pay Fiat Instant None
    Bank Transfer Fiat 1-3 Days None
    • Online Security

    JACKBIT prioritizes player safety with military-grade encryption, secure servers, and a dedicated security team. As an anonymous online casino, it eliminates KYC requirements, allowing Irish players to enjoy gaming without sharing personal details. This focus on privacy and security makes JACKBIT a top choice in the best online casinos in Ireland.

    • Mobile Experience

    JACKBIT’s HTML5-powered mobile platform delivers a flawless gaming experience on iOS and Android devices. Whether you’re spinning the best online pokies, placing sports bets, or enjoying live dealer games, the mobile site offers intuitive navigation, fast load times, and full functionality. This mobile excellence reinforces JACKBIT’s position of the best online casino in Ireland.

    • Quality of Sportsbook

    JACKBIT’s sportsbook is a standout feature, offering 82,000+ live monthly events, 75,000+ pre-match events, and 4,500+ betting types. Irish players can wager on local sports like Gaelic football, hurling, and horse racing, alongside global options like soccer, rugby, and esports.

    Exclusive bonuses, such as free bets, deposit bonuses, and cashback, enhance the betting experience, making JACKBIT a leader in the best online casinos Ireland.

    As a new online casino, JACKBIT eliminates KYC requirements, enabling players to sign up and play anonymously. This privacy-first approach is a major draw for Irish players, positioning JACKBIT as a premier anonymous online casino in the best online casinos Ireland.

    • Customer Support

    JACKBIT provides 24/7 customer support via live chat, email, and phone, with multilingual assistance in English, German, French, and more. The professional support team ensures rapid resolutions, making JACKBIT a reliable choice in the online casinos Ireland.

    Join JACKBIT today to explore 7,000+ games and claim your exclusive welcome bonus:

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    JACKBIT’s Commitment to Responsible Gambling

    Responsible gambling is a cornerstone of JACKBIT’s operations, setting it apart from the best online casinos Ireland. The platform employs advanced technology to detect problematic gambling patterns, offering affected players immediate support and resources. Tools like deposit limits, session timers, and self-exclusion options empower players to manage their gaming responsibly.

    JACKBIT’s 24/7 support team is trained to handle responsible gambling concerns, ensuring players can access assistance at any time. This dedication to player welfare underscores why JACKBIT is a trusted new online casino in the best online casinos Ireland.

    “Safety and enjoyment are inseparable,” said the review team. “JACKBIT’s proactive approach to responsible gambling makes it a standout in the best online casinos in Ireland.”

    Steps to Join JACKBIT Crypto Casino:

    1. Visit the JACKBIT Website:
      Go to the official JACKBIT Crypto Casino website.
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      After your first deposit, you’ll receive:
      • 30% Rakeback
      • 100 Free Spins
        This bonus is a great way to start your journey at JACKBIT.
    6. Start Gaming or Betting:
      With over 7,000 games and a sportsbook, you can immediately begin exploring your options. Choose your favorite game or place your bets and enjoy!
    7. Ensure Legal Age:
      Make sure you meet the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction (typically 18 or 19) before signing up.

    ✅ SIGN UP AT JACKBIT – GRAB YOUR WELCOME BONUS & HIT THE SLOTS IN SECONDS!

    Why JACKBIT Excels in 2025

    JACKBIT’s blend of a vast game library, generous bonuses, and player-centric features makes it the undisputed leader in the best online casinos Ireland. Its anonymous online casino model, with no KYC requirements, appeals to privacy-conscious players, while its pay ID casino capabilities ensure seamless transactions.

    The platform’s sportsbook, with extensive coverage of Irish sports, adds a local touch that resonates with players. Combined with a user-friendly mobile experience, robust security, and a commitment to fairness, JACKBIT delivers everything Irish players need for a thrilling and secure gaming experience.

    Exploring JACKBIT’s Unique Features

    • Multilingual Platform

    JACKBIT supports multiple languages, including English, German, and French, ensuring accessibility for Ireland’s diverse population. This inclusivity enhances its appeal in the best online casinos in Ireland, catering to both native and international players.

    • Rakeback VIP Club

    The Rakeback VIP Club rewards loyal players with up to 30% Rakeback, based on their activity level. This program adds significant value, particularly for high rollers, making JACKBIT a top choice in the best online casinos in Ireland.

    • Crypto-Based Mini-Games

    JACKBIT offers a selection of crypto-based mini-games, adding a modern twist to its offerings. These games appeal to tech-savvy players, further solidifying JACKBIT’s reputation as a new online casino in the best online casinos Ireland.

    • Social Media Engagement

    JACKBIT’s Free Social Media Bonuses encourage players to interact with the platform online, offering rewards like free spins and cashback. This innovative approach boosts player engagement, making JACKBIT a standout in the best online casinos Ireland.

    • Tournaments and Leaderboards

    JACKBIT hosts regular tournaments and leaderboards, allowing players to compete for cash prizes, free spins, and exclusive rewards. These events add an extra layer of excitement, reinforcing JACKBIT’s position as the best online casinos in Ireland.

    • Fast Payouts

    JACKBIT’s commitment to fast payouts ensures players receive their winnings promptly, whether using cryptocurrencies or fiat methods. This efficiency is a key reason JACKBIT ranks among the best online casinos Ireland.

    • Community Focus

    JACKBIT fosters a sense of community through its social media presence and player-focused initiatives. By engaging with players online and offering tailored promotions, JACKBIT builds loyalty, making it a top contender in the best online casinos Ireland.

    The Irish Gaming Experience with JACKBIT

    JACKBIT’s appeal to Irish players extends beyond its technical features. The platform’s inclusion of sports like Gaelic football and hurling in its sportsbook reflects an understanding of Ireland’s cultural passions. Its best online pokies feature themes inspired by Irish folklore, such as leprechauns, Celtic knots, and shamrocks, adding a local flavor to the gaming experience.

    The absence of KYC requirements aligns with the preferences of many Irish players who value privacy, making JACKBIT a leading anonymous online casino in the best online casinos Ireland. Additionally, the platform’s support for Google Pay and Apple Pay caters to the growing popularity of mobile payments in Ireland, enhancing its status as a pay ID casino.

    JACKBIT’s multilingual support ensures that players from Ireland’s diverse communities, including those in Dublin, Cork, Galway, and beyond, can navigate the platform with ease. This tailored experience feels both global and distinctly Irish, making JACKBIT a standout in the best online casinos in Ireland.

    JACKBIT’s Role in Ireland’s Online Gambling Evolution

    Ireland’s online gambling scene has grown rapidly, with players demanding platforms that offer convenience, variety, and security. JACKBIT has emerged as a trailblazer in this space, redefining what it means to be a new online casino in the best online casinos Ireland. Its innovative features, such as crypto-based gaming and no-KYC policies, align with the preferences of modern Irish players who seek flexibility and privacy.

    The platform’s Pragmatic Drops & Wins promotion, with a €2,000,000 prize pool, has captured the attention of Irish players, offering opportunities to win big while playing the best online pokies. JACKBIT’s regular tournaments and leaderboards further enhance its appeal, creating a competitive yet fun environment that keeps players engaged.

    JACKBIT also contributes to the local economy by partnering with Irish payment providers and supporting local sports betting markets. Its commitment to offering odds on GAA and horse racing events strengthens its connection to Ireland’s cultural heritage, making it a beloved choice in the best online casinos in Ireland.

    How JACKBIT Supports Irish Players

    JACKBIT goes beyond gaming to provide a holistic experience for Irish players. Its 24/7 customer support team is trained to address the unique needs of Irish users, offering assistance in English and other languages. Whether you’re troubleshooting a payment issue or seeking advice on responsible gambling, JACKBIT’s support team is always ready to help, reinforcing its position of the best online casinos in Ireland.

    The platform’s VIP Rakeback Club is particularly appealing to Irish high rollers, offering tailored rewards that enhance the gaming experience. By providing up to 30% Rakeback, JACKBIT ensures that loyal players are recognized and rewarded, making it a top pay ID casino in the best online casinos Ireland.

    JACKBIT’s social media engagement strategy also resonates with Ireland’s tech-savvy population. By offering Free Social Media Bonuses, the platform encourages players to stay connected, fostering a sense of community that is rare among online casinos. This approach makes JACKBIT a leader in the best online casinos Ireland.

    Comparing JACKBIT to Other Platforms

    While many platforms compete for a spot in the best online casinos Ireland, JACKBIT’s comprehensive offerings set it apart. Unlike competitors that may impose lengthy KYC processes, JACKBIT’s anonymous online casino model prioritizes player privacy. It’s 7,000+ games surpass the libraries of most rivals, and its sportsbook offers more betting options, particularly for Irish sports.

    JACKBIT’s bonuses, with low wagering requirements and high value, outshine those of other platforms. The 30% Rakeback + 100 Free Spins welcome offer is more generous than standard deposit matches, and the Pragmatic Drops & Wins promotion adds a competitive edge. These factors make JACKBIT the top new online casino in the best online casinos Ireland.

    Tips for Maximizing Your JACKBIT Experience

    To get the most out of JACKBIT, consider these tips:

    1. Claim the Welcome Bonus: Start with the 30% Rakeback + 100 Free Spins to boost your bankroll.
    2. Join the VIP Club: Increase your activity to unlock higher Rakeback percentages.
    3. Bet on Irish Sports: Wager on GAA, hurling, and horse racing for a local experience.
    4. Use Cryptocurrencies: Enjoy instant, fee-free transactions with BTC, ETH, or USDT.
    5. Participate in Tournaments: Compete in leaderboards for cash and spins.
    6. Set Responsible Limits: Use deposit limits and session timers to manage your playtime.
    7. Follow Social Media: Stay updated on Free Social Media Bonuses for extra rewards.

    These strategies will enhance your experience, ensuring you make the most of JACKBIT’s offerings in the best online casinos Ireland.

    JACKBIT’s Future in Ireland

    As Ireland’s online gambling market continues to evolve, JACKBIT is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in the best online casinos in Ireland. Its commitment to innovation, from crypto-based mini-games to a no-KYC model, ensures it remains ahead of the curve. The platform’s focus on Irish sports and cultural themes further strengthens its appeal, making it a beloved choice for players across the country.

    JACKBIT’s ongoing investment in technology, such as enhanced mobile features and AI-driven responsible gambling tools, signals its dedication to improving the player experience. By continuing to offer competitive bonuses and a diverse game library, JACKBIT is poised to remain a top pay ID casino in the best online casinos Ireland.

    To celebrate its 2025 ranking, JACKBIT is offering new players an exclusive welcome bonus:

    ✅ CLAIM YOUR WELCOME BONUS AND PLAY 7,000+ GAMES AT JACKBIT CASINO

    Final Words About The Best Online Casinos Ireland

    JACKBIT Casino is the definitive choice for Irish players seeking the best online casinos Ireland in 2025. With its expansive game library, generous bonuses, secure payment options, and unwavering commitment to responsible gambling, JACKBIT delivers a gaming experience that is both thrilling and trustworthy. As a new online casino and anonymous online casino, it blends innovation with player-focused features, making it the premier pay ID casino for Irish players.

    Whether you’re spinning the best online pokies, betting on your favorite sports, or enjoying live dealer games, JACKBIT offers endless entertainment. Sign up today to claim your welcome bonus and discover why JACKBIT is the #1 choice in online casinos in Ireland.

    Email: support@jackbit.com

    Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

    This article is for general information and promotional purposes only and shouldn’t be taken as legal, financial, or professional advice. While we aim for accuracy, we can’t guarantee everything is up-to-date or complete. Please double-check details before acting. Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we could earn a commission at no extra cost to you, but this doesn’t affect our content or opinions. Online gambling is for adults of legal age (typically 19+ in Ireland) and carries financial risk. Play responsibly and seek help if needed. Brand names mentioned belong to their respective owners. By reading this, you accept full responsibility for how you use the information.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9a494bed-945b-4b42-8b9d-25f7f239b9f2

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: SNP must rethink conversion practices snub

    Source: Scottish Greens

    08 May 2025 Equality Ban Conversion Practices

    Scotland must defend the rights of LGBTQIA+ people.

    More in Equality

    The Scottish Government must rethink their decision to drop pledges to end conversion practices and protect LGBTQIA+ people in Scotland, says Scottish Greens MSP Maggie Chapman. 

    Despite consistent calls from the Greens and campaign groups, the SNP have opted to delay ending the cruelty towards LGBTQIA+ people, stating they will work with Westminster, or schedule plans for next year if that fails. 

    Maggie Chapman, who is the Scottish Greens spokesperson for equality, says that the Government must stop dragging its heels and end conversion practices in Scotland now.

    Ms Chapman said:

    “Scotland does not need to wait for Westminster to put an end to the cruelty and trauma that so-called “conversion therapies” cause. We have the power to end this now. The Government must stop dragging its heels and rethink this latest delay. 

    “Human rights cannot be put on the back-burner. LGBTQIA+ people have always existed. They will always exist. They have a right to exist, to be welcomed and to live without fear or judgment.

    “Conversion practices are utterly immoral, and take away people’s rights to live authentically and safe from harm. We must ensure that they become a thing of the past. 

    “And we know that there is parliamentary consensus to ban these practices: the Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice committee was unanimous in its support for a comprehensive ban.

    “I urge the Scottish Government to rethink delaying progress that they can make today, and end conversion practices in Scotland now.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Planning permission granted for 161 new homes in Newbuildings

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Planning permission granted for 161 new homes in Newbuildings

    7 May 2025

    Planning permission for 161 new homes in the Newbuildings area has been approved by Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Planning Committee.

    The application by Benamara Properties Limited is for a residential development comprising 161 dwellings (2 detached chalet bungalows, 17 detached houses, 14 semi-detached chalet bungalows, 82 semi-detached houses, and 46 townhouses), including a flood alleviation scheme and all associated site works.

    The application site is located on lands to the South of Gortinure Road and immediately East of Silverbrook Park and Primity Crescent in Newbuildings.

    The chairman of the Planning Committee, Cllr Fergal Leonard welcomed the decision. “The addition of 161 new homes is a significant and timely development for the Newbuildings area and will directly address the growing housing needs in this part of our district. The thoughtfully planned mix of housing types – from spacious detached homes to modern townhouses and accessible bungalows – ensures we’re creating a truly inclusive community that caters to first-time buyers, growing families, and residents looking to downsize.  This development highlights our commitment to supporting growth and providing quality residential development in the district” 

    All planning application forms, drawings, letters etc. relating to this planning application are available to view on www.planningni.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor to attend author talk at DC Public Library on civil rights movement in US and Derry

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Mayor to attend author talk at DC Public Library on civil rights movement in US and Derry

    7 May 2025

    “Good Trouble” Book Discussion at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library to Explore Impact of the 1965 Selma to Montgomery Marches

    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr will attend an author talk in Washington this week celebrating the strong connection between the Black Civil Rights Movement in the United States and the Civil Rights Movement in Northern Ireland, specifically the influence of the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches on the 1969 Belfast to Derry march.

    The event, to be held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Washington, on Thursday May 08 at 7.00pm, will celebrate the work of award-winning author Forest Isaac Jones and his recent publication – “Good Trouble: The Selma, Alabama and Derry, Northern Ireland Connection 1963-1972.”

    2025 commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Selma marches and his book includes interviews with Richard Smiley and Sheyann Webb-Christburg, who were both at Bloody Sunday in Selma and in the march to Montgomery at ages sixteen and eight respectively, as well as relatives of the Courageous Eight, whose family members were Selma citizens who started the movement and invited Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to Selma to help fight with them.

    The ‘Good Trouble’ study also focuses on the pivotal incidents at Burntollet Bridge and the Battle of the Bogside and provides a very comprehensive narrative of the connection between the two movements that have transformed both countries by examining the movements’ origins, its links, marches, protests, riots and dangerous confrontations, and the roles of individuals that helped bring change in both countries.

    Mayor Barr has been invited to attend the Talk by Forest Jones at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library during her visit to Washington next week. Speaking ahead of the event Mayor Barr said she was truly honoured to be invited to be part of it.

    She said: “As the world commemorates the 60th anniversary of the seminal events at Selma I am delighted and honoured to be part of this fantastic event that discusses the affinities between the Civil Rights struggles in the United States and in Derry. It is a very proud moment for me as the first Black Mayor of Northern Ireland and a political and community activist to be part of this fantastic opportunity to share experiences and look at ways of how we can learn from the past to create a better future for all. My attendance at the talk in Washington is recognition of the profound and enduring connection between the civil rights movement in the United States and the struggle for equality here in our own city and region. The bravery and determination of activists in the US inspired many in Northern Ireland, demonstrating the power of peaceful protest in the face of injustice. We continue to learn from their experiences as we work towards a truly inclusive and equitable future for all our citizens.”

    “Dr. King’s approach to protest continues to resonate across generations and continents,” said Richard Reyes-Gavilan, Executive Director of DC Public Library. “By highlighting the connections between the American Civil Rights and Catholic Civil Rights Movement in Northern Ireland, this program offers another example of what the beloved community that Dr. King believed in looked like and celebrates the people who have continued to embody his ideals.”

    Forest Isaac Jones said: “I have been a long time admirer of Mayor Barr. She is a fierce advocate for the beautiful city of Derry and its citizens. I appreciate her diligent work to bring more resources to the city. Derry is known as the ‘civil rights’ city of Northern Ireland. It is going to be a thrill for me and a pleasure to share the stage with her and talk about the book, Good Trouble, and the connections between our country and Northern Ireland.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Law Commissioners to the Law Commission

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Appointment of Law Commissioners to the Law Commission

    The Lord Chancellor has approved the appointment of Professor Solene Rowan and Professor Lisa Webley as Commissioners of the Law Commission of England and Wales.

    The Lord Chancellor has approved the appointment of:

    • Professor Solene Rowan as the Law Commissioner for Commercial & Common Law from 8 September 2025 to 7 September 2030
    • Professor Lisa Webley as the Law Commissioner for Property, Family & Trust Law from 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2030.

    Professor Solène Rowan

    Professor Solène Rowan is currently the Chair of Contract Law, the Vice-Dean for Students, Culture & Community, and the Director of the LLB / Master 1 programme at the Dickson Poon School of Law, King’s College London. She is also an Honorary Professor at the Australian National University and a Visiting Professor at Paris Panthéon-Assas University. 

    Solène’s principal areas of expertise are contract law, commercial law, and comparative law, all with a particular focus on remedies. She is an award-winning author of two monographs and articles in leading international legal publications, and a member of the editorial team of Chitty on Contracts. Her work has been widely cited by law reformers and courts domestically and abroad.

    Solène was previously a Professor at the University of Oxford, an Associate Professor at the London School of Economics and Political Science and the Australian National University, and a Fellow and College Lecturer in Law at Queens’ College, Cambridge. She read law as an undergraduate at King’s College London and Paris Panthéon-Sorbonne University and obtained an LLM and a PhD from the University of Cambridge.

    Professor Lisa Webley

    Since 2018, Professor Webley has been the Chair in Legal Education and Research for the Birmingham Law School, University of Birmingham. From 2019 –2023, she served as Head and Dean of Birmingham Law School.

    Both did not declare any political activity.

    The Law Commission aims to ensure that the law is as fair, modern, simple and as cost-effective as possible. It conducts research and consultations to make systematic recommendations for consideration by Parliament.

    Appointments of Commissioners to the Law Commission are made by the Lord Chancellor under the Law Commissions Act 1965.  Appointments are regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments and recruitment processes comply with the Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia launches Aurelis Optical LAN, a future-ready fiber solution for in-building enterprise connectivity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Nokia launches Aurelis Optical LAN, a future-ready fiber solution for in-building enterprise connectivity

    • Nokia Aurelis Optical LAN is a next generation, fiber-based solution purpose-built to deliver simple, reliable and future-proof LAN connectivity for enterprises.
    • Optical LAN uses up to 70% less cabling and 40%* less power than copper-based technologies, with fiber lasting 50+ years – enabling up to 50% savings in TCO.
    • Nokia´s optical LAN technology is already adopted by 700 hotels, hospitals, university campuses, and airports worldwide.

    8 May 2025
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced the launch of Aurelis Optical LAN, its next-generation fiber-based LAN solution developed to meet the evolving demands of enterprise connectivity. Designed as a future-ready solution, it brings fiber’s unmatched longevity, performance and efficiency to in-building and campus environments.

    Optical LAN offers a significant leap forward, requiring up to 70% less cabling and 40% less power compared to traditional copper-based LAN networks. With a lifespan of more than 50 years, Optical LAN delivers up to 50% reduction in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

    Nokia’s Aurelis Optical LAN is built for simplicity, reliability and long-term performance. Supporting current speeds of 1Gb/s, 10Gb/s and 25Gb/s with a clear upgrade path to 50Gb/s and 100Gb/s, Aurelis Optical LAN ensures enterprises are ready for what’s next. Open APIs allow seamless integration with existing enterprise environments while advanced automation features help to simplify and streamline operations. Six-nines availability and robust security ensure it can deliver fast and seamless LAN connectivity, essential for Wi-Fi 7 and other high-bandwidth applications.  

    With over 700 installations across hotels, university campuses, airports, hospitals and more, Nokia’s Optical LAN technology is already helping organizations around the globe stay ahead in an evolving digital world.

    “Deploying Optical LAN across our campus was a strategic move to modernize connectivity across multiple buildings. It gives us a reliable, high-performance backbone for Wi-Fi, printers, and all our office endpoints—while significantly lowering power and cabling needs. The fiber-based infrastructure supports our long-term vision for a more efficient, future-ready network,” said Daniel Schach, Head of OT-Infrastructure at FairNetz GmbH

    “Aurelis Optical LAN delivers the simplicity, reliability, and scalability enterprises need to succeed in a digital-first world. With a 50+ year lifespan, fiber infrastructure ensures you’re ready for whatever comes next—without the disruption and cost of constant upgrades. Optical LAN gives enterprises a future-proof foundation for connectivity, at a dramatically lower total cost,” said Geert Heyninck, General Manager of Broadband Networks at Nokia.

    Multimedia, technical information and related news 
    Product Page: Nokia Aurelis Optical LAN solution

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together. 

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation. 

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NXP Unveils Third-Generation Imaging Radar Processors for Level 2+ to 4 Autonomous Driving

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • S32R47 family are NXP’s highest performing radar processors, addressing the demanding requirements of Level 2+ to 4 autonomous driving
    • Higher resolution sensing enables advanced use cases like detection of vulnerable road users (VRUs) and lost cargo
    • More compute capability allows OEMs to develop advanced applications like navigation on autopilot while meeting the demands of tomorrow’s software-defined vehicles (SDVs) at scale

    EINDHOVEN, The Netherlands, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NXP Semiconductors N.V. (NASDAQ: NXPI) today unveiled its new S32R47 imaging radar processors in 16 nm FinFET technology, building on NXP’s proven expertise in the imaging radar space. The third generation of imaging radar processors delivers up to twice the processing power versus the previous generation, alongside improved system cost and power efficiency. In combination with NXP’s mmWave radar transceivers, power management and in-vehicle networking solutions, the S32R47 family meets functional safety ASIL ISO 26262 ASIL B(D) requirements and prepares the automotive industry for new levels of autonomous driving.

    According to Yole Intelligence’s Status of the Radar Industry 2024 report, by 2029, approximately 40% of vehicles entering the road will be passenger cars with driving automation Level 2+(L2+)/ Level 3 (L3) as well as an increasing number of vehicles with Level 4 (L4). To serve the fast-growing autonomous driving market for SDVs, automotive OEMs and tier 1 suppliers need to improve radar performance as it is essential for safe, advanced autonomy features such as piloted driving or fully automated parking.

    “The S32R47 can efficiently process three times, or more, antenna channels in real time than today’s production solutions. It enables improved imaging radar resolution, sensitivity and dynamic range – required by demanding autonomous driving use cases – while still meeting the stringent power and system cost targets set by OEMs for volume production,” said Meindert van den Beld, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Radar & ADAS.

    Imaging radar leverages richer point cloud data for more detailed modeling of the environment. This is a key enabler for AI based perception systems which allow for assisted and autonomous driving in the most challenging environmental conditions, such as complex urban scenarios.

    The S32R47 integrates a high-performance multi-core radar processing system, allowing denser point cloud output and enhanced algorithms that enable next-generation ADAS systems. This results in better separability of objects, improved detection reliability and more accurate classification of objects such as vulnerable road users or lost cargo.

    NXP’s 3rdgeneration imaging radar solutions

    • Built on know-how and the proven technology of two previous generations​, the new solution delivers up to 2x processing performance in the radar MPU in a 38% smaller IC footprint. It also includes AI/ML support for features like enhanced Direction of Arrival (DoA) processing and object classification
    • NXP’s next generation imaging radar solutions enable new imaging radars with optimized bill of material and increased scalability in terms of antenna channels and processing capability
    • NXP’s solution achieves comparable or better performance with up to 89% less antenna channels than alternative solutions, solving integration challenges with reduced system cost, size and power consumption

    To learn more, visit S32R47 Imaging Radar Processors.

    NXP’s radar portfolio

    Already sampling to lead customers and targeting next-generation OEM platforms, NXP’s new S32R47 radar processing solution builds upon a comprehensive, scalable portfolio of radar sensing solutions, tailored to cover car OEMs’ ever-diversifying use cases and architectures, from corner radar to high-resolution 4D imaging radar. The S32R platform offers a common architecture for software reuse and speedy development along with a high-performance hardware security engine, OTA update support and compliance with the newest cybersecurity standards.

    About NXP Semiconductors
    NXP Semiconductors N.V. (NASDAQ: NXPI) is the trusted partner for innovative solutions in the automotive, industrial & IoT, mobile, and communications infrastructure markets. NXP’s “Brighter Together” approach combines leading-edge technology with pioneering people to develop system solutions that make the connected world better, safer, and more secure. The company has operations in more than 30 countries and posted revenue of $12.61 billion in 2024. Find out more at www.nxp.com.

    NXP and the NXP logo are trademarks of NXP B.V. All other product or service names are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved. © 2025 NXP B.V

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d29518f1-82f5-437b-9bd0-dbb01d76b303

    For more information, please contact:

    NXP-Corp
    NXP-Auto

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Columbus Interim Report Q1 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company announcement no. 5/2025

    Solid operational performance in Q1 2025

    Columbus delivered a solid start to 2025, driven by improved earnings, confirming the robustness of the strategy and business model. Despite a slight decline in revenue of 2%, a 32% improvement in EBITDA was achieved, significantly strengthening profitability and increasing the EBITDA margin to 10.7% compared to 7.9% in Q1 2024, adjusted for the extraordinary gain of DKK 20m from the M3CS legal case. Overall, a satisfactory start to the year.

    “Despite global uncertainty, Q1 2025 reflects steady execution – confirming that our strategy supports both resilience and improved profitability.” CEO & President Søren Krogh Knudsen.

    Q1 2025 highlights

    • Revenue declined by 2%, amounting to DKK 434m.
    • EBITDA amounted to DKK 46m, up 32% compared with the adjusted EBITDA in Q1 2024.
    • EBITDA margin was 10.7%, compared to 7.9% in Q1 2024 when adjusted for the M3CS legal case.
    • Efficiency of 62% in Q1 2025, compared to 62% in Q1 2024.
    • Consistent solid cash flow achieved with DKK 17m from operating activities.

    Service revenue split on Business Lines

           
    DKK ´000 Q1 2025 Q1 2024 ∆%
           
    Dynamics 365 253,059 257,433 -2%
    M3 84,814 93,074 -9%
    Digital Commerce 47,242 53,379 -11%
    Data & AI 23,950 18,707 28%
    Other Local Business 4,958 6,249 -21%
    Total sale of services 414,023 428,842 -3%
           
    Total sale of products 19,932 15,398 29%
           
    Total net revenue 433,955 444,240 -2%

    Service revenue split on Market Units

           
    DKK ´000 Q1 2025 Q1 2024 ∆%
           
    Sweden 130,943 147,946 -11%
    Denmark 102,318 108,318 -6%
    Norway 54,217 66,115 -18%
    UK 88,369 75,534 17%
    US 29,336 19,555 50%
    Other 8,575 10,104 -15%
    GDC 265 1,270 -79%
    Total sale of services 414,023 428,842 -3%
           
    Total sale of products 19,932 15,398 29%
           
    Total net revenue 433,955 444,240 -2%

    Outlook for 2025
    Based on the financial performance in Q1 2025 and the current order book and pipeline forecast, we maintain our full year guidance for 2025, as announced in Company release no. 1/2025 of 17 January 2025:

    • Organic revenue growth of 7-9%
    • EBITDA margin of 10-12%

    Live webcast and conference call
    Columbus is hosting a live webcast and conference call on 8 May 2025 at 13:00 CET. The webcast is hosted by CEO & President Søren Krogh Knudsen and CFO Brian Iversen.

    Webcast: Please log in to the webcast via Columbus’ investor site where you can follow the presentation and submit your written questions during the call: https://ir.columbusglobal.com/calendar-and-events

    Conference call:

    1. Participants are required to register in advance of the conference using the link provided below. Upon registering, each participant will be provided with Participant Dial In Numbers, and a unique Personal PIN.

    2. In the 10 minutes prior to call start time, Participants will need to use the conference access information provided in the e-mail received at the point of registering. Participants may also use the call me feature instead of dialling the nearest dial in number.

    Online Registration to the call: https://register.vevent.com/register/BI4a2761164a604663a705eed93a1f9f7c

    Live presentation on 12 May 2025
    HC Andersen Capital will host a live presentation of Q1 2025 results on 12 May 2025 at 11:00 CET. Presenters from Columbus A/S will be CEO & President Søren Krogh Knudsen and CFO Brian Iversen.

    You can already now submit questions and sign up for the event via this link: https://www.inderes.dk/videos/columbus-q1-2025-report-presentation

    A recording of the presentation will be available via the same link.

    For further information, please contact:

    • Søren Krogh Knudsen, CEO & President, Tel.: +45 7020 5000

    About Columbus 
    Columbus is a consultancy company helping organisations drive business value by defining, executing, and evolving their entire business. We deliver digital value through human intelligence, enabling our customers to innovate and grow. Our more than 1,500 digital explorers guide our customers through their digital transformation, delivering lasting value in Manufacturing, Retail & Distribution, Food & Beverage, and Life Science.

    We advise, implement and manage business critical solutions within Cloud Services, Data & AI, Sales, Marketing, Customer & Field Service, Digital Commerce, Managed Services, Business Process Automation & Apps, Finance & Supply Chain, Enterprise Information Management, Cybersecurity and Transformation Strategy. Headquartered in Denmark, we have offices and partners worldwide – delivering locally on a global scale.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –