NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: In Haiti, escalating violence increases displacement

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    Since 24 February, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) teams in Haiti have witnessed a surge in violence, increasing the number of wounded people and medical needs. Clashes between armed groups and police are intensifying, leaving people trapped under constant threat of crossfire. Today, 85 per cent of the capital, Port-au-Prince, is under the control of armed groups, and movement through many neighbourhoods puts lives at risk.

    From 24 February to 2 March, MSF medical teams at the Turgeau emergency centre treated 314 patients, including 90 direct victims of violence – double the usual number. Some patients requiring surgery were transferred to the MSF hospital in Tabarre, where the trauma capacity was expanded from 50 to 75 beds. For the past 10 days, the hospital has been running at near full capacity, with teams working under extreme pressure to admit new patients.

    Since 14 February, attacks by armed groups in several neighbourhoods of the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area have forced over 24,000 people to flee, and this number continues to rise amid the ongoing violence. As of today, the International Organisation for Migration estimates that more than 180,000 internally displaced people are living in over 140 sites. These vulnerable people, some of whom have been displaced multiple times, are seeking refuge in makeshift camps where access to clean water is either extremely limited or completely non-existent.

    For over a month, the suspension of US funding has deprived many humanitarian organisations of their resources, forcing groups like Solidarités International to suspend the distribution of drinking water in displacement camps. According to the NGO, in these camps, displaced people are trying to survive on just one litre of water per day. This is far below the international emergency standard, which recommends 15 litres per person per day. In response, we are currently implementing a water distribution system via tanker trucks to provide water for more than 13,000 people living in four camps.

    A woman, injured during a wave of violence that swept Port-au-Prince in February and March 2024, rests her leg with external fixators attached on a hospital bed in MSF’s hospital in the Tabarre neighbourhood. Haiti, March 2024.
    Luce Cloutier/MSF

    “We have identified more than 100 displacement camps in the metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince, but the scale of this crisis far exceeds what MSF can respond to alone, especially with the rainy season approaching,” warns Christophe Garnier, MSF’s head of mission in Haiti.

    With the imminent arrival of the first rains, sanitation systems are flooding, hygiene conditions are deteriorating, and the risk of deadly disease outbreaks, including cholera, is rising. UNICEF estimates that more than 180,000 displaced people are sheltering in over 100 sites, while 140 additional sites remain unassessed.

    “The humanitarian response plan in Haiti is severely underfunded, even as the conflict escalates and thousands of people are repeatedly forced to flee, seeking refuge in makeshift camps with limited access to basic services such as water and sanitation,” says Garnier. “Without urgent action, the situation will turn into a humanitarian catastrophe, as relentless violence continues to deepen the suffering of an already exhausted community.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Managing woodlands with community groups in the National Forest

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Managing woodlands with community groups in the National Forest

    Read how the National Forest’s community groups support sustainable woodland management, improve health and wellbeing, enhance woodland access, and support wildlife.

    National Forest facts:

    • established in the 1990s: the first broadleaf forest to be created at scale in England for more than 900 years 
    • spans 200 square miles of the Midlands (Leicestershire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire) 
    • overseen by the National Forest Company (NFC), with a mission to increase forest cover from 6% in the early 1990s to 33%; 25% cover has been achieved to date 
    • mainly rural and peri-urban native broadleaf woodlands 
    • woodlands are planted on both private and public land 
    • most community woods are managed for recreation and wildlife rather than timber production 
    • aims for 80% of the woodlands to have some level of public access, for walking and, in some cases, cycling and horse riding

    Community groups play a vital role in maintaining woods. By engaging local residents, these groups contribute to the sustainable management of woodlands through activities including:  

    • tree thinning 
    • habitat management and creation 
    • wildlife surveys 
    • litter picking 
    • organising local events 
    • helping to maintain newly planted trees 
    • leading guided walks  

    Thousands of people are already involved, volunteering through 70 community woods groups and conservation organisations. In 2021, these groups were brought together in an informal Community Woods network.

    Zoe Sewter, NFC Volunteer and Wellbeing Officer said:

    We have found that the range of works volunteers can undertake is limited only by skills, time and available resources. Given sufficient training, access to funding and a pool of able and motivated volunteers, the sky is the limit.

    Two community woods volunteers carrying out woodland thinning operations. Copyright Darren Cresswell Photography.

    Growing urban woodlands 

    In the National Forest, urban woodlands are typically on reclaimed land or within housing developments. It’s normally these types of woodlands that are community-managed, close to homes, often planted in the last 30 years and publicly owned. As part of a recent National Lottery Heritage Fund funded project, 9 new sites have been planted and 3 older woods brought under community management. 

    Public rights of way and permissive routes connect communities to the woods and link to nearby footpath networks. In urban woodlands, paths are mostly surfaced enabling year-round access. In the rural and peri-urban sites the paths are usually grassed rides, meaning that maintaining the paths and woodland can be tricky in wet winters.

    Pupils from Fairmeadow Primary School helping to create Oversetts community wood, a new woodland on the outskirts of Swadlincote. Copyright NFC.

    Funding and income 

    The NFC has secured external grants over the past 6 years to support its Community Woods programme, covering staff salaries, setup costs, land purchases, capital purchases, community engagement and volunteer training. Outside the National Forest, local councils, parish councils, or voluntary sector organisations may be able to provide seed funding for similar projects.  

    To ensure financial sustainability, community groups have also generated income through various methods, including: 

    • selling community shares 
    • charging annual membership fees 
    • paid events (such as wreath making and guided walks) 
    • renting space/facilities 
    • plant sales and charity events 
    • selling products (such as charcoal and wooden ornaments) 
    • obtaining grants for woodland management and tool purchases 

    Groups like the Heartwood Community Woodland Group have introduced schemes such as ‘logs for labour’, where volunteers can exchange work (helping to fell some trees in thinning operations) for wood fuel or green crafts.

    Heartwood volunteer starting the retort to make charcoal in the woods. Copyright Rod Kirkpatrick.

    Benefits for woodlands and people 

    The involvement of community groups has brought a wide range of benefits, including: 

    • for the woodlands: positive management improves biodiversity and habitat condition, as well as enhancing amenity value
    • for the owners: support with their woodland management; landowners gain committed volunteers who help maintain paths, monitor wildlife, and tackle conservation tasks
    • for the volunteers and local community: volunteering has health and wellbeing benefits and provides a closer connection to nature. Local people feel a stronger sense of connection to the woodlands as they develop, helping reduce anti-social issues like littering and vandalism
    • for visitors: improved quality of access to the woodlands and richer biodiversity to enjoy

    Zoe Sewter, NFC Volunteer and Wellbeing Officer said:

    It also means more eyes are looking at the wood and checking that everything is OK. Volunteers can report issues, flag safety concerns and keep pathways clear. Of increasing importance, regular visits in different seasons can spot signs of pests and disease early, and get reported to the landowner so mitigating action can take place as required.

    Creating a network 

    Before the introduction of the Community Woods programme, volunteer groups within the National Forest largely worked in isolation, each managing their own woodland without broader connections.

    The creation of the Community Woods network has been a transformative initiative, nurturing collaboration and knowledge exchange among these groups. By connecting volunteers, the network provides a platform for sharing experiences, skills, and resources, creating a vibrant community of practice. This peer-to-peer support has been particularly valuable for new groups, who can now learn from the successes and challenges faced by more experienced counterparts. 

    Overcoming challenges 

    Many groups face difficulties with volunteer recruitment, particularly in attracting younger members, but offering varied tasks and flexible schedules can help engage a broader range of people.  

    The departure of important volunteers can lead to a loss of momentum; however, building strong committees and sharing responsibilities can help maintain energy and focus over time. 

    A standout achievement of the Community Woods project has been the tailored training programme. Designed in consultation with the community groups themselves, the programme addresses their specific needs and has been funded through various grants. Training topics have included: 

    • leadership and organisation: leadership sessions for volunteer task days, to enhance confidence and team coordination
    • practical skills: coppicing, small tree felling, pond management, and hedge-laying
    • accredited certifications: emergency First Aid and Forestry, brush-cutter and chainsaw use, and tree inspections

    The programme has received strong engagement and overwhelmingly positive feedback, significantly enhancing the skills and confidence of volunteers across the network. As a result, groups are now better equipped to manage their woodlands effectively, ensuring sustainable conservation practices and fostering stronger community ties. This combined approach of networking and training has proven instrumental in building a resilient, interconnected community of woodland volunteers, capable of sustaining long-term benefits for both people and nature. 

    Volunteers network at the inaugural Community Woods Network gathering at Timber Festival, 2021. Copyright NFC.

    Zoe Sewter, NFC Volunteer and Wellbeing Officer said:

    It’s not just about the trees. Community woodland groups are made up of people with diverse motivations to give their time – passionate individuals committed to making a difference, as well as those seeking solace in nature, such as those dealing with bereavement, health challenges, or life changes. Understanding these personal stories and motivations is vital for creating a supportive and successful volunteer environment.

    Top tips for working with community groups 

    For anyone considering partnering with community groups in their woodland management, here are some top tips: 

    • establish trust and clear communication: building mutual trust between volunteers and landowners is essential; set expectations early and ensure open, ongoing communication
    • set realistic work expectations: ensure that the group has the necessary tools and support to complete tasks, for example, if the use of power tools is not permitted, avoid assigning overly large tasks that could lead to frustration
    • involve the group in management planning: having volunteers contribute to the woodland management plan ensures that potential issues are addressed early and everyone is aligned
    • enter into a formal agreement: use contracts, licences, or leases with clear terms (ideally 5+ years) to outline expectations and responsibilities. Include break clauses to allow for flexibility if circumstances change
    • plan for changes: if the relationship needs to end, ensure there’s an exit strategy in place, with plenty of notice to avoid frustration or feelings of wasted effort
    • build in flexibility: site constraints, such as wildlife designations or securing capital funding, can be challenging. A clear plan of action and thorough research before starting can help, but other problems such as bad weather can be unavoidable. Build flexibility into timescales and have contingency plans

    Zoe Sewter, NFC Volunteer and Wellbeing Officer said:

    Also, be prepared for the unexpected! The Covid pandemic disrupted plans and presented unforeseen challenges for many groups within the Community Woods network. But with resilience and flexibility, these obstacles can be overcome.

    Learn more about the National Forest

    For more information on the National Forest and how you can get involved, visit National Forest.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City’s litter busting volunteers thanked as Great British Spring Clean warms up

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Members of the Friends of Smestow Valley in partnership with the Severn Rivers Trust and other local community volunteers met on Saturday (1 March) to clear along the banks of Smestow Brook and surrounding areas of the nature reserve.

    Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, City of Wolverhampton Council’s cabinet member for resident services, joined in the clean up and council officers helped litter pick and arranged to collect and remove the bags of rubbish.

    Also joining the event on Saturday was Tracey Hodgson, owner of city business Falcon Industrial Supplies in Park Lane. The company has donated 50 high viz vests and 24 pairs of gloves to the council for use during litter picks.

    A further 50 litter pickers and 50 pairs of gloves have been donated by Justin Brown from the Landscape Supply Company, which works with councils across the country.

    Saturday’s litter picking efforts come as plans for this year’s Keep Britain Tidy’s Great British Spring Clean are warming up. The national annual tidy up, which will run from 21 March to 6 April, is now in its tenth year.

    Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, said: “It was great to be able to join such a committed group of volunteers at Smestow Brook.

    “It is clear the pride that they have in their city and I would like to thank them all for giving their time to Wolverhampton. There is no excuse for littering and everyone can help keep their communities clean by disposing of their rubbish properly.

    “Our officers were able to support the volunteers with clearing away bags and I’d also like to thank Tracey and Justin who have donated equipment to help. I hope that these combined efforts will inspire others to get involved in the Great British Spring Clean.”

    This year’s Great British Spring Clean is encouraging people across the country to show they love where they live by taking part in mass action litter picks.

    The charity is calling on communities to pick one bag or more of litter from streets, parks, beauty spots or beaches to protect the country’s vibrant communities and precious wildlife habitats.
    Any local residents who would like to organise a litter picking event, at any time of the year, can complete our online form at Community involvement.

    Event organisers are encouraged to log their litter picks at Great British Spring Clean | Keep Britain Tidy.

    Larger items of rubbish and heavily littered streets can be reported to the council to clean up via the Love Clean Streets App. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City set for return of Midlands’ largest light festival

    Source: City of Leicester

    WITH just days to go before the return of Light up Leicester, organisers are making the final touches to deliver a spectacular festival that will include joyful parades, inspirational performances and amazing light installations.

    Running from Wednesday 12 to Saturday 15 March, the free event will light up the city centre every evening, from 6pm to 10pm.

    Leicester City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said: “This promises to be a wonderful festival with something for everyone, including a unique event taking place on each night of the festival. We look forward to welcoming many thousands of people to our city to enjoy all that Light up Leicester has to offer.”

    Event highlights include:

    Wednesday 12 March

    11am-2pm – Schools’ opening parade. Led by local arts company Inspirate with music from Drum and Brass, 300 children will process from the Cathedral to the Clock Tower and back, with artwork that will form the leaves of the ‘Roots of our Tree’ light installation next to the King Richard lll Visitor Centre.

    6pm – Radiant Routes evening parade. Brazilian beats meet Bhangra in this parade led by Nupur Arts, with dancers performing as they move from the Cathedral to the Clock Tower and back again. They’ll be accompanied by samba band Sambando, with Japanese drumming and lanterns from Leicester Taiko.

    6.30pm – Unveiling of Cathedral, Crown and Culture, a major projection and digital animation installation on Leicester Cathedral, with reference to Leicester’s history, communities and the interment of King Richard lll. Produced by local company Metro Boulot Dodo, this will run for the duration of the festival.

    Thursday 13 March

    6.30-8.30pm – Illuminated Bike Parade. Everyone is invited to bling their bike with stickers and LED lights and join in a 1.5km ride  around the city centre. People can register at www.lightupleicester.com

    Friday 14 March

    6.30pm and 7.30pm – The Holi Experience at the Clock Tower. Nupur Arts bring high-energy dance performances celebrating Holi, to the Clock Tower.

    Saturday 15 March

    7pm-8pm – Fiers a Cheval by Compagnie des Quidams. Stunning four–metre high glowing inflatable horses will promenade their way down New Walk, culminating in an enchanting 30 minute performance outside Mattioli Woods on New Walk Place.

    Visitors to the city on Friday and Saturday evening will be able to see walkabout performances featuring Mexican skeleton puppets, LED ‘Glowbots’ and Enter Edem’s ‘Aquanauts’, as well as spoken word performances by Literati Arts. Light Up Leicester will also offer funfair rides, street food and an artisan night market. Find out more about everything that’s on offer at lightupleicester.com/events/

    Art installations

    In addition to events and performances, fixed art installations will be lighting up the city centre from 6pm to 10pm from Wednesday to Saturday. Highlights include:

    • Evanscent – Giant bubble-inspired structures, Jubilee Square
    • Double Flux – Pulsating waves of light from a mesmerising kinetic sculpture, Bath House Lane (pictured)
    • Hula Hoop – Geometric hoops of light and sound, High Street
    • Chorus – Light and motion sculpture fusing contemporary and classical Indian music sounds, Market Street
    • Noor Tower – LED light tower inspired by Moroccan architecture, Churchgate
    • Beacon – Dramatic 2km high light sculpture, Clock Tower
    • Henge – A light and sound installation inspired by ancient monuments, Town Hall Square
    • Nocturnal – Glowing inflatable wildlife installations, St Martin’s Square

    Light Up Leicester is presented by Leicester City Council, BID Leicester, Leicester Cathedral and Art Reach. It is made possible through the generous support of Arts Council England, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Global Streets, PPL PRS and headline sponsor Highcross.

    Michelle Menezes, centre director, Highcross Leicester said: “It is great that we are once again supporting Light Up Leicester, not only as headline sponsor but also as a location for ‘Double Flux’ a fantastic piece of illuminated artwork that will snake its way down Bath House Lane. This forms part of the new strategy for Highcross which includes developing new partnerships with local stakeholders to bring exciting events to the centre for the community to enjoy. I’m very much looking forward to seeing Light Up Leicester come to life, and delight visitors to the city and Highcross.”

    Simon Jenner, BID Leicester director said: “As a presenting partner and major sponsor, we’re proud to have led the festival’s marketing campaign once again and helped bring this spectacular event to life. Light Up Leicester is a testament to the power of partnership, with our partners working collaboratively together to create something truly special for the city. We can’t wait to see Leicester illuminated once again!”

    Greg Aiello, managing director of PPL PRS said: “It’s great that Light Up Leicester is returning to the city in 2025, with a programme filled not only with  fantastic light installations, but with dance, walking performers and music! PPL PRS is proud to support this event as it will bring additional visitors into the city to enjoy Light Up Leicester, as well as the brilliant hospitality venues we have. It will be a real treat for all that attend, and thanks to all those involved in organising it.”

    Festival organisers are committed to making the festival accessible to everyone. There will be a dedicated access support hub open every evening from 6pm to 10pm at the Visit Leicester information centre, where friendly staff will be ready to assist.

    Accessible tours are available to help people with additional access needs to get around the festival, using rickshaws, box bikes and gazelles which can carry children and wheelchairs.

    Leicester businesses are joining in the festival by offering tasty dining discounts throughout. Diners can enjoy 25% off the total bill at Kayal, Herb, and Merchant of Venice, 20% off at the Queen of Bradgate, Middleton’s and Restaurant 1573, or enjoy three courses for £20 at Turtle Bay. Details of all offers and deals available throughout the festival are on the Light Up Leicester website offers page. Offers – Light Up Leicester

    Full details of the festival, including information about all the installations, the opening day parades, free performances and a Gallowtree Gate night market, are available on the festival website at www.lightupleicester.com 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Outcome of Natural England’s review of bird of prey ‘wild take’ licensing for falconry and aviculture

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Outcome of Natural England’s review of bird of prey ‘wild take’ licensing for falconry and aviculture

    A change in Natural England’s approach means a ‘presumption against’ issuing wild take licensing for falconry and aviculture will be taken in future.

    ·  A Natural England-led review has concluded that taking birds of prey from the wild is not essential to the continued practice of falconry or aviculture in England and licenses will only be granted in exceptional circumstances.

    ·  The move will help to protect wild birds of prey from unnecessary disturbance whilst enabling sustainable falconry practices to continue.

    Natural England has today (Thursday March 06) published the outcome of its review into the licensing of ‘wild take’, a practice that involves taking birds of prey such as peregrine falcon from the wild for use in falconry and aviculture.  

    Defra ministers have endorsed Natural England’s recommendation that there should be a presumption against the granting of future wild take licenses.

    This change will offer certainty for the falconry community and ensure that licenses to take birds from the wild are only issued where there is clear justification for doing. This decision will also help to allay concerns that wild take licenses could be abused, leading to an increase in the illegal export of wild-origin birds.

    This announcement follows a two-year review process during which licensing was suspended. This review involved extensive evidence gathering, including through workshops, interviews, a literature review, and a public call for evidence.

    John Holmes, Natural England’s Strategy Director, said:  

    “This change in approach to licensing will help to protect wild birds of prey whilst enabling sustainable falconry practices to continue unaffected.

    “This announcement will also help allay fears that licenses could be abused, leading to an increase in the illegal export of wild-origin birds.

    “The decision follows an extensive review process, and I would like to thank those who took the time to provide information through the call for evidence or by participating in interviews and workshops.”

    Natural England’s review process concluded that:

    • taking birds of prey from the wild is not essential to the continued practice of falconry or aviculture in England.
    • suitable birds can be readily sourced from existing captive stocks.
    • captive-bred birds can perform to a suitably high standard when appropriately trained and handled

    Natural England has a statutory responsibility, on behalf of Defra, for determining license applications to take birds of prey from the wild for use in falconry and aviculture. Defra ministers have endorsed Natural England’s recommendation to adopt a presumption against issuing licenses to take wild birds of prey for falconry and aviculture.  

    Whilst the power to grant licenses will remain on statute, Defra ministers support the view that licenses should not be issued, other than in exceptional circumstances. No evidence was provided during the review process that would support the issuing of licenses for any specific exceptional circumstances at the present time.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Notice to Aktia Bank Plc’s Annual General Meeting 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Aktia Bank Plc
    Stock Exchange Release
    6 March 2025 at 1.00 p.m.

    Notice to Aktia Bank Plc’s Annual General Meeting 2025

    Notice is hereby given to Aktia Bank Plc shareholders that the Annual General Meeting will be held on Thursday, 3 April 2025 at 4.00 p.m. at Pikku-Finlandia, address Karamzininranta 4, Helsinki. Persons who have registered for the meeting will be welcomed and voting sheets will be distributed from 3.00 p.m. onwards.

    Shareholders of Aktia Bank Plc can also exercise their voting rights by voting in advance. Instructions for advance voting are set out in section C of this notice to the Annual General Meeting.

    It is possible to follow the Annual General Meeting via webcast. Instructions on how to follow the webcast are available on the company’s website www.aktia.com/en/investors/corporate-governance/annual-general-meeting. It is not possible to ask questions, make counterproposals, make other interventions, or vote via webcast. Following the meeting via webcast shall not be considered as participation in the Annual General Meeting or as the exercise of shareholders’ rights.

    A. Matters to be discussed at the Annual General Meeting

    The agenda of the Annual General Meeting will be as follows:

    1.   Opening of the meeting

    2.   Calling the meeting to order

    3.   Election of persons to scrutinise the minutes and to supervise the counting of votes

    4.   Recording the legality of the meeting

    5.   Recording the attendance at the meeting and adoption of the list of votes

    6.   Presentation of the financial statements, consolidated financial statements, report by the Board of Directors and Auditor’s report for 2024

    CEO’s presentation.

    The company’s financial statements and Annual Report, including the report by the Board of Directors, sustainability report, the Auditor’s report and the assurance report on sustainability reporting, will be published no later than 13 March 2025, after which they are available on the company’s website at www.aktia.com.

    7.   Adoption of the financial statements and the consolidated financial statements

    The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting adopts the financial statements. The company’s auditor has recommended adopting the financial statements.

    8.   Resolution on the use of the profit shown in the balance sheet and the payment of dividend

    The Board of Directors proposes that a dividend of EUR 0.82 per share shall be paid for the financial year 2024.

    Shareholders registered in the register of shareholders of the company maintained by Euroclear Finland Ltd on the record date for the dividend payment 7 April 2025 are entitled to the dividend. The Board of Directors proposes that the dividend shall be paid out on 14 April 2025 in accordance with the rules of Euroclear Finland Ltd.

    9.   Resolution on the discharge from liability of the members of the Board of Directors, the CEO and his deputy

    10.   Handling of the Remuneration Report of the governing bodies

    The Board of Directors proposes to the Annual General Meeting that the Remuneration Report for the company’s governing bodies be confirmed.

    The 2024 Remuneration Report of the company’s governing bodies will be published no later than 13 March 2025, after which it is available on the company’s website at www.aktia.com.

    11.   Resolution on remuneration for the members of the Board

    The Nomination Board proposes that the remuneration for the Board of Directors for the term be unchanged and determined as follows:

    • Chair, EUR 75,000 (2024: EUR 75,000)
    • Deputy Chair, EUR 50,000 (2024: EUR 50,000)
    • member, EUR 40,000 (2024: EUR 40,000)

    Annual remunerations for the Chairs of each Committee as well as meeting remunerations are proposed to be unchanged, meaning that it is proposed that the Chair of each Committee will further receive an annual remuneration of EUR 8,000. The proposed meeting remuneration for Board and Committee meetings is EUR 700 per attended meeting for each person (EUR 700 per attended meeting for each person in 2024). If participation in a board meeting requires travelling outside the board member’s country of residence, the remuneration for board meeting is EUR 1,400 per attended meeting for each person (EUR 1,400 per attended meeting for each person in 2024). The remuneration of the members of the Board is not treated as income forming basis for earnings-related pension. Compensation for travel and accommodation expenses as well as a daily allowance is paid in line with the Finnish Tax Administration’s guidelines and the travel instructions of the company.

    The Nomination Board proposes that approximately 40% of the annual remuneration (gross amount) shall be paid to the members in the form of Aktia shares. The company will on account of the Board members acquire Aktia shares on the market to the price that is formed through public trading or it will transfer the company’s own shares to the Board members and the rest of the annual remuneration payable is paid in cash. The shares are acquired or transferred during a two-week time period from the day following the company’s interim report for 1 January 2025–31 March 2025 is disclosed or as soon as possible in accordance with applicable legislation. If the remuneration can’t be paid in shares, it can be paid in cash entirely. The company will be responsible for all expenses and the possible transfer tax for acquiring or transferring the shares.

    12.   Resolution on the number of members of the Board of Directors

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board proposes that the number of members of the Board of Directors be decreased from nine (9) to seven (7) members. However, should any of the candidates proposed under section 13 below not be able to attend the Board, the proposed number of Board members shall be decreased accordingly.

    13.   Election of members of the Board of Directors

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board proposes that of the present members of the Board of Directors Joakim Frimodig, Carl Haglund, Maria Jerhamre Engström, Harri Lauslahti and Matts Rosenberg, based on their consent, shall be re-elected for a term continuing until the next Annual General Meeting has concluded. For more information on the members of the Board of Directors proposed to be re-elected, please see the company’s website at www.aktia.com. The Board members of Aktia Bank Ann Grevelius, Sari Pohjonen, Johannes Schulman and Lasse Svens have informed that they will not be available for re-election.

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board also proposes that Hanne Katrama and Sari Somerkallio are elected as new members of the Board of Directors for the same term, based on their consent. Further information on the new Board members proposed to be elected have been attached to this notice and can be found on the company’s website at www.aktia.com closer to the company’s Annual General Meeting.

    Should any of the candidates presented above not be able to attend the Board, the available candidates are proposed to be elected accordingly.

    All the proposed persons are independent in relation to the company according to the definition of the Corporate Governance Code. Only Matts Rosenberg is not independent of a significant shareholder since he is the Chair of the board of RG Partners Oy, the largest shareholder (10.13%) of Aktia Bank. In addition, Rosenberg is the CEO of Rettig Oy Ab, which is the largest owner of RG Partners Oy.

    All the proposed persons have informed that they intend, if they are elected, to re-elect Matts Rosenberg amongst them as Chair of the Board of Directors and to elect Joakim Frimodig as Deputy Chair.

    14.   Resolution on the auditor’s and sustainability reporting assurance provider’s remuneration

    The Board of Directors proposes, based on the recommendation of the Board of Directors’ Audit Committee, that remuneration shall be paid to the auditor against the auditor’s reasonable invoice. The Board of Directors also proposes that remuneration shall be paid to the sustainability reporting assurance provider against a reasonable invoice for measures related to the assurance of sustainability reporting.

    15.   Determination of the number of auditors and sustainability reporting assurance providers

    The Board of Directors proposes, based on the recommendation of the Board of Directors’ Audit Committee, that the number of auditors and sustainability reporting assurance providers shall be one (1).

    16.   Election of the auditor and the sustainability reporting assurance provider

    The Board of Directors proposes, based on the recommendation of the Board of Directors’ Audit Committee, that KPMG Oy Ab, a firm of authorised public accountants, shall be elected as auditor, with Tiia Kataja, APA, as auditor-in-charge. The Board of Directors also proposes, based on the recommendation of the Board of Directors’ Audit Committee, that KPMG Oy Ab, an Authorised Sustainability Audit Firm, shall be elected as sustainability reporting assurance provider, with Tiia Kataja, Authorised Sustainability Auditor (ASA), as sustainability reporting assurance provider-in-charge. The auditor and the sustainability reporting assurance provider shall be elected for a term of office beginning when the Annual General Meeting 2025 has ended and continuing up until the Annual General Meeting 2026 has ended.

    17.   Authorising the Board of Directors to decide on one or more issues of shares or special rights entitling to shares referred to in Chapter 10 of the Finnish Companies Act

    The Board of Directors proposes that the General Meeting authorises the Board of Directors to issue shares, or special rights entitling to shares referred to in Chapter 10 of the Companies Act, as follows:

    A maximum amount of 7,316,000 shares can be issued based on this authorisation, which corresponds to approximately 10% of all shares in the company.

    The Board of Directors is authorised to decide on all terms for issues of shares and of special rights entitling to shares. The authorisation concerns the issuance of new shares. Issues of shares or of special rights entitling to shares can be carried out in deviation from the shareholders’ pre-emptive subscription right to the company’s shares (directed share issue).

    The Board of Directors has the right to use this authorisation, among other things, to strengthen the company’s capital base, for the company’s share-based incentive scheme, acquisitions and/or other corporate transactions.

    The authorisation is effective for 18 months from the resolution by the General Meeting and revokes the issue authorisation given by the Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024.

    18.   Authorising the Board of Directors to decide on the acquisition of the company’s own shares

    The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting authorises the Board of Directors to decide on the acquisition of 500,000 shares at a maximum, corresponding to approximately 0.7% of the total number of shares in the company.

    The company’s own shares may be acquired in one or several tranches using the unrestricted equity of the company.

    The company’s own shares may be acquired at a price formed in public trading on the date of the acquisition, or at a price otherwise prevailing on the market. The company’s own shares may be acquired in a proportion other than that of the shares held by the shareholders (directed acquisition).

    The company’s own shares may be acquired to be used in the company’s share-based incentive schemes and/or for the remuneration of the members of the Board of Directors, for further transfer, retention, or cancellation.

    The Board of Directors is authorised to decide on all additional terms concerning the acquisition of the company’s own shares.

    The authorisation is effective for 18 months from the resolution by the General Meeting and revokes the authorisation to purchase the company’s own shares given by the Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024.

    19.   Authorising the Board of Directors to decide to divest the company’s own shares

    The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting authorises the Board of Directors to decide on divesting own shares held by the company, as follows.

    Based on the authorisation, a maximum of 500,000 shares may be divested.

    Board of Directors is authorised to decide on all additional terms concerning the divestment of the company’s own shares. The divestment of the company’s own shares can be carried out in deviation from the shareholders’ pre-emptive subscription rights to shares in the company (directed share issue), e.g., for implementing the company’s incentive programs and for remuneration, including divesting the company’s own shares to board members for payment of board remuneration.

    The authorisation is effective for 18 months from the resolution by the General Meeting and revokes the authorisation to divest the company’s own shares given by the Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024.

    20.   Closing of the meeting

    B. Documents of the Annual General Meeting

    The proposals for the decisions on the matters on the agenda of the Annual General Meeting as well as this notice are available on Aktia Bank Plc’s website www.aktia.com. Aktia Bank Plc’s Annual Report including the company’s financial statements, the report by the Board of Directors (including the sustainability report), the Auditor’s report and the assurance report on sustainability reporting, and the 2024 Remuneration Report of the governing bodies, will be available on the above-mentioned website on 13 March 2025, at the latest. The minutes of the Annual General Meeting will be available on the above-mentioned website on 17 April 2025, at the latest.

    C. Instructions for the participants in the Annual General Meeting

    1. Shareholders registered in the shareholders’ register

    Each shareholder, who is registered in the company’s register of shareholders maintained by Euroclear Finland Ltd as at 24 March 2025, has the right to participate in the Annual General Meeting. A shareholder whose shares are registered in their personal Finnish book-entry account is registered in the company’s register of shareholders. Any changes in the ownership of shares that have occurred after the record date of the Annual General Meeting do not affect the right to participate in the Annual General Meeting nor the number of votes of the shareholder.

    Registration for the Annual General Meeting starts on 7 March 2025 at 10.00 a.m. Shareholders who are registered in the company’s register of shareholders and who wish to participate in the Annual General Meeting must register for the General Meeting by 4.00 p.m. on 27 March 2025, at the latest. Participants can register for the Annual General Meeting:

    a) through the company’s website www.aktia.com/en/investors/corporate-governance/annual-general-meeting. Electronic registration requires strong identification of the shareholder or his/her legal representative or proxy with a Finnish, Swedish or Danish bank ID or mobile certificate;

    b) by e-mail to Innovatics Ltd at agm@innovatics.fi. A shareholder registering by e-mail shall include in the message the registration form available on the company’s website www.aktia.com/en/investors/corporate-governance/annual-general-meeting and a possible advance voting form or equivalent information; or

    c) by mail to Innovatics Ltd, Annual General Meeting / Aktia Bank Plc, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, FI-00520 Helsinki. A shareholder registering by mail shall include in the message the registration form available on the company’s website www.aktia.com/en/investors/corporate-governance/annual-general-meeting and a possible advance voting form or equivalent information.

    When registering, please provide the necessary information, such as the shareholder’s name, date of birth or business ID, contact details, the name of any assistant or proxy representative and the proxy’s date of birth. The personal data provided by shareholders to Aktia Bank Plc or Innovatics Ltd will only be used in connection with the Annual General Meeting and the processing of the necessary registrations related thereto.

    The shareholder, his/her representative or proxy must be able to prove his/her identity and/or right of representation at the meeting. Further information on the use of proxy and power of attorney are described below in section C 3.

    Further information on registration and advance voting is available by telephone during the registration period of the Annual General Meeting by calling at +358 10 2818 909 on weekdays from 9.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. and from 1.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m.

    2. Owners of nominee registered shares

    A holder of nominee registered shares has the right to participate in the Annual General Meeting by virtue of such shares, based on which he/she on the record date of the Annual General Meeting 24 March 2025 would be entitled to be registered in the company’s register of shareholders maintained by Euroclear Finland Ltd. Participation also requires that the shareholder has been entered into the company’s temporary register of shareholders, maintained by Euroclear Finland Ltd, on the basis of such shares by 31 March 2025 at 10.00 a.m. at the latest. In the case of nominee-registered shares, this is considered registration for the Annual General Meeting. Changes in the shareholding after the record date of the Annual General Meeting do not affect the right to participate in the Annual General Meeting or the shareholder’s voting rights.

    The holder of nominee-registered shares is advised to request well in advance the necessary instructions from his/her custodian bank regarding temporary registration in the register of shareholders, the issuing of proxy documents and voting instructions, registration, and attendance at the Annual General Meeting and, if necessary, advance voting. The account manager of the custodian bank shall register the holder of nominee-registered shares attending the Annual General Meeting in the temporary register of shareholders of the company by the aforementioned date and time at the latest and, if necessary, arrange for advance voting on behalf of the holder of nominee-registered shares before the end of the registration period for holders of nominee-registered shares.

    3. Proxy representatives and powers of attorney

    A shareholder may attend the Annual General Meeting and exercise his/her rights there through a proxy representative. A shareholder’s proxy may also elect to vote in advance as described in this notice if he/she so wishes. The proxy representative shall authenticate to the electronic registration service and advance voting personally with strong authentication, after which he/she will be able to register and vote in advance on behalf of the shareholder that he/she represents. The shareholder’s proxy must present dated proxy documents, or otherwise in a reliable manner prove that he/she is entitled to represent the shareholder at the Annual General Meeting. You can prove your right to representation by using the Suomi.fi e-Authorisations service available in the electronic registration service.

    Model proxy documents and voting instructions are available on the company’s website www.aktia.com/en/investors/corporate-governance/annual-general-meeting. If a shareholder participates in the Annual General Meeting through several proxies representing the shareholder with shares held in different securities accounts, the shares on the basis of which each proxy represents the shareholder shall be identified in connection with the registration.

    Proxy documents are requested to be submitted preferably as an attachment with the electronic registration or alternatively by mail to Innovatics Ltd, Annual General Meeting / Aktia Bank Plc, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, FI-00520 Helsinki or by e-mail to agm@innovatics.fi before the end of the registration period. In addition to submitting the proxy documents, the shareholder or his/her proxy shall register for the Annual General Meeting in the manner described above in this notice.

    4. Advance voting

    A shareholder whose shares in the company are registered in his/her personal Finnish book-entry account may vote in advance between 7 March 2025 and 27 March 2025 on certain items on the agenda of the Annual General Meeting

    a) via the company’s website at www.aktia.com/en/investors/corporate-governance/annual-general-meeting. Login to the service is done in the same way as for registration in section C.1 of this notice;

    b) by mail by submitting the advance voting form available on the company’s website or equivalent information to Innovatics Ltd at Innovatics Ltd, Annual General Meeting / Aktia Bank Plc, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, FI-00520 Helsinki, Finland; or

    c) by e-mail by submitting the advance voting form available on the company’s website or equivalent information to Innovatics Ltd by e-mail at agm@innovatics.fi.

    Advance votes must be received by the time the advance voting ends. The submission of votes by mail or e-mail before the end of the registration and advance voting period shall be considered registration for the Annual General Meeting, provided that it contains the abovementioned information required for registration.

    A shareholder who has voted in advance cannot exercise the right to ask questions or demand a vote under the Finnish Companies Act unless he/she attends the Annual General Meeting in person or by proxy at the meeting venue.

    With respect to nominee registered shareholders, the advance voting is carried out by the account manager. The account manager may vote in advance on behalf of the holders of nominee-registered shares whom he/she represents in accordance with the voting instructions given by them during the registration period set for the nominee-registered shareholders.

    Proposals for resolution that are subject to advance voting are deemed to have been made at the Annual General Meeting without any changes.

    5. Further instructions for attendees of the Annual General Meeting

    The official language of the meeting is Swedish, but the meeting will be partly conducted also in Finnish. Shareholders may address the meeting and present questions in both Swedish and Finnish. There is no simultaneous interpretation at the meeting.

    Shareholders present at the Annual General Meeting have the right to present questions about the matters discussed at the meeting in accordance with Chapter 5, Section 25 of the Finnish Companies Act.

    Changes in the shareholding after the record date of the Annual General Meeting do not affect the right to participate in the Annual General Meeting or the shareholder’s voting rights.

    Shareholders are welcome to participate in coffee service arranged after the meeting.

    On the date of this notice to the Annual General Meeting the total number of shares in Aktia Bank Plc is 73,161,696 shares, representing 73,161,696 votes. The company holds on the date of this notice a total number of 56,708 of its own shares. The shares held by the company on the record date of the Annual General Meeting do not entitle to vote at the Annual General Meeting.

    Helsinki, 6 March 2025

    AKTIA BANK PLC
    BOARD OF DIRECTORS

    Appendix 1: information on the proposed new members of the Board of Directors

    For more information, please contact:
    Lasse Svens, Chair of the Board, tel. +358 500 562 945
    Ari Syrjäläinen, General Counsel, tel. +358 10 247 6350

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Central media
    www.aktia.com

    Aktia is a Finnish asset manager, bank and life insurer that has been creating wealth and wellbeing from one generation to the next for 200 years. We serve our customers in digital channels everywhere and face-to-face in our offices in the Helsinki, Turku, Tampere, Vaasa and Oulu regions. Our award-winning asset management business sells investment funds internationally. We employ approximately 850 people around Finland. Aktia’s assets under management (AuM) on 31 December 2024 amounted to EUR 14.0 billion, and the balance sheet total was EUR 11.9 billion. Aktia’s shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd (AKTIA). aktia.com.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: EOLO chooses Thales to expand high-speed Internet access in Italy

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: EOLO chooses Thales to expand high-speed Internet access in Italy

    • EOLO partners with Thales to bring ultrafast broadband to underserved Italian communities.
    • Thales’ eSIM solution enables seamless 5G connectivity for EOLO’s new Internet offerings, based on Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology.
    • This initiative supports the EU’s goal of ‘universal 1Gbps broadband by 2030’ as well as EOLO’s and Thales Commitment to Digital Inclusion and to Innovation.

    The European Union aims to ensure that all citizens have access to 1Gbps broadband by 2030 and EOLO selected Thales for its leading connectivity solutions. Achieving this vision requires innovative solutions like Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), which delivers high-speed internet to areas lacking traditional fiber or copper networks. FWA is crucial for connecting people in small towns and rural regions, supporting economic growth, and bridging the digital divide.

    EOLO’s Vision for Faster Connectivity

    As Italy’s leading FWA provider, EOLO has been pioneering radio technology to deliver affordable, high-speed internet. Currently, the company serves more than 700.000 households and FWA connectivity can reach speeds of up to 300 Mbps in download. To furtherly improve customer experience and reach Italian territories with a service able to bridge digital speed divide, EOLO is launching a 1Gbps FWA service in 2025, combining 5G and millimeter wave (mmWave) technology. This rollout will include a new 5G antenna network and thousands of eSIM-enabled devices installed at customer locations.

    Thales’ Expertise in Secure Connectivity

    Thales is playing a key role in this expansion by providing its eSIM Management platform, Thales On-Demand Subscription Manager (OSM). This technology allows EOLO’s 5G Routers to be pre-configured with mobile subscriptions, making installation faster and easier. Customers will benefit from instant activation as soon as they power on their devices, ensuring seamless connectivity.

    “The infrastructure that we are building together will play a pivotal role by complementing fiber coverage in our country. With a connectivity able to reach 1 Gbps, we will meet the ambitious goals of both European and Italian agendas, helping citizens and enterprises to overcome digital divide and digital speed divide”, commented Guido Garrone, CEO at EOLO.

    “Reliable, secure connectivity is essential for digital transformation,” said Eva Rudin, VP Mobile Connectivity Solutions at Thales. “By supporting EOLO with our advanced eSIM technology, we are enabling faster broadband deployment and helping to bridge the digital divide across Europe.”

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies specialized in three business domains: Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital. It develops products and solutions that help make the world safer, greener and more inclusive.

    The Group invests close to €4 billion a year in Research & Development, particularly in key innovation areas such as AI, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, cloud technologies and 6G.

    Thales has nearly 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global: Electric shock equipment widely abused by law enforcement agencies due to alarming lack of regulation

    Source: Amnesty International –

    States and companies are manufacturing, promoting and selling electric shock equipment that is being used for torture and other ill-treatment, said Amnesty International, in a new report calling for a global, legally-binding treaty to regulate the unchecked production of and trade in law enforcement equipment.

    “I Still Can’t Sleep at Night” – The Global Abuse of Electric Shock Equipment, documents how law enforcement agencies are using inherently abusive direct contact electric shock weapons – including stun guns and electric shock batons– on the street, at borders, in migrant and refugee detention centres, mental health institutions, police stations, prisons, and other places of detention.

    These inherently abusive devices, which deliver painful shocks at the press of a button, have been used against protesters, students, political opponents, women and girls (including pregnant women), children and human rights defenders, among others. Survivors have suffered burns, numbness, miscarriage, urinary dysfunction, insomnia, exhaustion and profound psychological trauma.

    The report also looks at the escalating misuse of Projectile Electric Shock Weapons (PESWs), which can have a legitimate role in law enforcement, but are often misused. Cases include the unnecessary and discriminatory use against vulnerable groups resulting in serious injuries and in some cases even death.

    Direct contact electric shock weapons can cause severe suffering, long-lasting physical disability and psychological distress.

    Patrick Wilcken, Amnesty International

    “Direct contact electric shock weapons can cause severe suffering, long-lasting physical disability and psychological distress. Prolonged use can even result in death,” said Patrick Wilcken, Amnesty International’s researcher on military, security and policing issues.

    “PESWs are being used against individuals who pose no risk of violence, simply for punishment or compliance with orders. They are also being used in direct contact ‘drive stun’ mode, which should be prohibited. Despite the clear human rights risks associated with their use, there are no global regulations controlling the production of and trade in electric shock equipment. Direct contact electric shock weapons need to be banned immediately and PESWs subject to strict human-rights-based trade controls.”

    The extensive report draws on research carried out by Amnesty International from 2014 to 2024 in over 40 countries across all regions across the world, where cases involving torture and other ill-treatment using electric shock equipment have been documented.

    Vulnerable groups targeted by electric shock weapons

    Testimonies gathered by Amnesty International are harrowing.

    During the 2022 “Woman Life Freedom” uprising in Iran, the military unit IRGC Basijbattalion forced several boys to stand with their legs apart in a line alongside adult detainees and administered electric shocks to their genitals with stun guns.

    In another case, several schoolboys were abducted for writing the protest slogan “Woman Life Freedom” on a wall. One of the boys told Amnesty International: “They hit my face with the back of a gun, gave electric shocks to my back, and beat me with batons on the bottom of my feet and hands…”

    PESWs have often been used as de facto direct contact electric shock weapons when deployed in “drive stun” mode.

    “I was lying on the ground and still they have used tasers on me three times, and at the same time they beat me with the batons.

    Detainee from Sub-Saharan Africa

    Recounting a raid by border guards on the Medininkai detention centre in Lithuania on 2 March 2022, one detainee from Sub-Saharan Africa said: “I was lying on the ground and still they have used tasers on me three times, and at the same time they beat me with the batons.” Another described being threatened by police officers who placed a “taser” on her forehead, telling her “‘Shut up or I will shoot you!’”

    “Even when used as a stand-off weapon, PESWs have been linked to serious injuries and deaths,” said Patrick Wilcken. “These include dart lacerations and penetration of the skull, eye, internal organs, throat, fingers and testis; electrical discharge induced burns, seizures and arrythmias; and a variety of injuries and deaths from falls.”

    Amnesty’s report reveals patterns of PESWs’ discriminatory deployment against racialized and marginalized groups, such as young Black men. In April 2024, police in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, were filmed using a TASER directly on the leg of a Black protester at a Palestine solidarity demonstration while he was pinned to the ground by three police officers and handcuffed.

    “Given the high risks of primary and secondary injuries, the use of PESWs must be set at a high threshold. These weapons should only be used only in situations involving a threat to life or risk of serious injury which cannot be contained by less extreme options,” said Patrick Wilcken.

    The urgent need for prohibitions and trade regulation

    At least 197 companies from all regions manufactured or promoted direct contact electric shock equipment for law enforcement between January 2018 and June 2023 – with most companies based in countries such as China, India and the USA.

    According to US-based Axon Enterprise, Inc., their TASER brand models are currently used by over 18,000 law enforcement agencies in more than 80 countries.

    “There is an urgent need for a legally-binding treaty which would prohibit inherently abusive electric shock equipment and strictly control the trade in PESWs,” said Patrick Wilcken.

    “Companies should implement robust human rights due diligence and mitigation measures to ensure their products and services are not being systematically misused for torture or other ill-treatment. This includes ceasing production of direct contact electric shock devices and removing the ‘drive stun’ function from PESWs.”

    Amnesty International, along with a global civil society network of over 80 organizations worldwide, is campaigning for the negotiation of a Torture-Free Trade Treaty that would introduce global prohibitions and controls on a wide range of law enforcement equipment, including electric shock weapons and equipment.

    Background

    • In September 2017, the EU, Argentina and Mongolia launched the Alliance for Torture-Free Trade at the margins of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The Alliance currently comprises 62 states from all regions of the world pledging to “act together to further prevent, restrict and end trade” in goods used notably for torture or other ill-treatment. In October 2023, the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture presented a thematic report on the torture trade at the UNGA which argued for a legally binding instrument to regulate the production of and trade in law enforcement equipment and included lists of goods considered prohibited and controlled.
    • This is one of a series of in-depth research reports showing the devastating human rights impact of law enforcement equipment; previous reports include work on tear gas, batons, rubber bullets, and the trade in less lethal weapons used to repress protesters.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global: Electric shock equipment widely abused by law enforcement agencies due to alarming lack of regulation – new report

    Source: Amnesty International –

    40 countries including the UK where cases involving torture and other ill-treatment using electric shock equipment have been documented

    197 companies manufactured or promoted direct contact electric shock equipment for law enforcement – most companies based in China, India and the USA

    Survivors have suffered burns, numbness, miscarriage, urinary dysfunction, insomnia, exhaustion and profound psychological trauma

    Harrowing testimonies of people of electric shock equipment used against people

    ‘They hit my face with the back of a gun, gave electric shocks to my back, and beat me with batons on the bottom of my feet and hands…’ – schoolboy in Iran

    In the UK, Tasers were drawn, aimed or discharged 33,232 times between April 2023 to March 2024

    States and companies are manufacturing, promoting and selling electric shock equipment that is being used for torture and other ill-treatment, said Amnesty International in a new report calling for a global, legally-binding treaty to regulate the unchecked production of and trade in law enforcement equipment.

    The 72-page report – “I Still Can’t Sleep at Night” The Global Abuse of Electric Shock Equipment – draws on research carried out by Amnesty from 2014 to 2024 in over 40 countries including the UK, where cases involving torture and other ill-treatment using electric shock equipment have been documented.

    Law enforcement agencies are using inherently abusive direct contact electric shock weapons – including stun guns and electric shock batons– on the street, at borders, in migrant and refugee detention centres, mental health institutions, police stations, prisons, and other places of detention.

    The devices, which deliver painful shocks at the press of a button, have been used against protesters, students, political opponents, women and girls (including pregnant women), children and human rights defenders, among others. Survivors have suffered burns, numbness, miscarriage, urinary dysfunction, insomnia, exhaustion and profound psychological trauma.

    The report also looks at the escalating misuse of Projectile Electric Shock Weapons (PESWs) which can have a legitimate role in law enforcement but are often misused. Cases include the unnecessary and discriminatory use against vulnerable groups resulting in serious injuries and in some cases even death.

    Trade fairs in the UK

    In September 2024, Amnesty and the Omega Research Foundation found that a British company, The Squad Group Ltd led by retired police officers – including a former Assistant Chief Constable – were caught on camera demonstrating electric-shock torture equipment at a trade fair in Birmingham.

    The revelations raised serious questions about the enforcement of laws in relation to the prohibition of torture equipment as well as the staging of security equipment trade events. The trade in direct-contact and body-worn electric-shock weapons is illegal under laws regulating the arms and security trade, with UK companies and nationals banned from importing, exporting or in any way promoting these goods anywhere in the world. Electric-shock weapons are prohibited under The Trade in Torture etc. Goods (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020, and current Government export control guidance clearly states that all trading activity, including promotion and marketing of these goods anywhere in the world, is prohibited.

    More information about The Squad Group Ltd here.

    Sacha Deshmukh, Amnesty International UK’s Chief Executive, said:

    “It’s shocking that prohibited torture equipment is openly being promoted and demonstrated by a UK company.

    “Despite raising this case directly with the UK government in September last year, no satisfactory answers have been provided to shed light on how these electric shock weapons have been able to be advertised, promoted and demonstrated despite seemingly robust legislation banning these activities. Alarmingly, since first alerting the authorities to this case, it has become clear that they have been demonstrated to several UK policing bodies.

    “Bringing any direct-contact electric-shock weapon into the UK must surely be a serious breach of current UK arms trade regulations that have been in place since prohibitions on electric shock weapons were first introduced by then Labour Foreign secretary Robin Cooke in 1997. To this day, these electric shock weapons are still being promoted for sale, suggesting that our existing rules are either not being properly enforced or are riddled with loopholes.”

    Tasers used in the UK

    In the latest use of force figures for England and Wales published by Home Office for April 2023 to March 2024, Tasers were used – that is drawn, aimed or discharged – a total of 33,232 times and police threatened to use Tasers against children 2,895 times with 66 charges. Five of those incidents, officers threatened to use Tasers against children under the age of 11.

    Tasers were used on Black people at a rate of 4.2 times higher than someone from a white ethnic group in England and Wales (excluding the Metropolitan Police). In the MET police area, Tasers were used at a rate of 4.4 times higher when percentages of Taser use by ethnicity were compared with the breakdown of ethnic groups in the general population in the 2021 Census. According to the Independent Office for Police Conduct found that Black people were more likely to be tasered for prolonged periods (over 5 seconds) than white people.

    Sacha Deshmukh added:

    “The police have a disturbing record of misusing Tasers, using them disproportionately against people from minority ethnic communities and those suffering from mental health crises, and also when people have been running away from officers and presenting no risk to them or the public.  

    “Tasers are potentially lethal weapons and they should only be made available to properly-trained specialist officers, and not normalised as a piece of weaponry available to every police officer operating on our streets.”  

    More information about Tasers used in the UK from page 30 in the report.

    Electric shock weapons used around the world

    During the 2022 “Woman Life Freedom” uprising in Iran, the military unit IRGC Basij battalion forced several boys to stand with their legs apart in a line alongside adult detainees and administered electric shocks to their genitals with stun guns. In another case, several schoolboys were abducted for writing the protest slogan “Woman Life Freedom” on a wall. One of the boys told Amnesty:

    “They hit my face with the back of a gun, gave electric shocks to my back, and beat me with batons on the bottom of my feet and hands…”

    PESWs have often been used as de facto direct contact electric shock weapons when deployed in “drive stun” mode. Recounting a raid by border guards on the Medininkai detention centre in Lithuania on 2 March 2022, one detainee from Sub-Saharan Africa said:

    “I was lying on the ground and still they have used tasers on me three times, and at the same time they beat me with the batons.” Another described being threatened by police officers who placed a “taser” on her forehead, telling her “‘Shut up or I will shoot you!’”

    Amnesty’s report reveals patterns of PESWs’ discriminatory deployment against racialised and marginalised groups, such as young Black men. In April 2024, police in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, were filmed using a Taser directly on the leg of a Black protester at a Palestine solidarity demonstration while he was pinned to the ground by three police officers and handcuffed.

    The urgent need for prohibitions and trade regulation

    At least 197 companies from all regions manufactured or promoted direct contact electric shock equipment for law enforcement between January 2018 and June 2023 – with most companies based in countries such as China, India and the USA.

    According to US-based Axon Enterprise, Inc., their Taser brand models are currently used by over 18,000 law enforcement agencies in more than 80 countries.

    Amnesty along with a global civil society network of over 80 organisations worldwide, is campaigning for the negotiation of a Torture-Free Trade Treaty that would introduce global prohibitions and controls on a wide range of law enforcement equipment, including electric shock weapons and equipment.

    Patrick Wilcken, Amnesty International’s researcher on military, security and policing issues, said:

    “Projectile Electric Shock Weapons are being used against individuals who pose no risk of violence, simply for punishment or compliance with orders.

    “Direct contact electric shock weapons can cause psychological distress, severe suffering, long-lasting physical disability. These include dart lacerations and penetration of the skull, eye, internal organs, throat, fingers and testis; electrical discharge induced burns, seizures and arrythmias; and a variety of injuries and deaths from falls. They are also being used in direct contact ‘drive stun’ mode, which should be prohibited.

    “Despite the clear human rights risks associated with their use, there are no global regulations controlling the production of and trade in electric shock equipment. Direct contact electric shock weapons need to be banned immediately and Projectile Electric Shock Weapons subject to strict human-rights-based trade controls.

    “There is an urgent need for a legally-binding treaty which would prohibit inherently abusive electric shock equipment and strictly control the trade in Projectile Electric Shock Weapons.

    “Companies should implement robust human rights due diligence and mitigation measures to ensure their products and services are not being systematically misused for torture or other ill-treatment. This includes ceasing production of direct contact electric shock devices and removing the ‘drive stun’ function from Projectile Electric Shock Weapons.”

    Alliance for Torture-Free Trade

    In September 2017, the EU, Argentina and Mongolia launched the Alliance for Torture-Free Trade at the margins of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The Alliance currently comprises 62 states from all regions of the world pledging to “act together to further prevent, restrict and end trade” in goods used notably for torture or other ill-treatment. In October 2023, the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture presented a thematic report on the torture trade at the UNGA which argued for a legally binding instrument to regulate the production of and trade in law enforcement equipment and included lists of goods considered prohibited and controlled.

    This is one of a series of in-depth research reports showing the devastating human rights impact of law enforcement equipment; previous reports include work on tear gas, batons, rubber bullets, and the trade in less lethal weapons used to repress protesters.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thurrock Council: Ministerial response to Commissioners’ fourth report

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Thurrock Council: Ministerial response to Commissioners’ fourth report

    Letter from Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing and Local Government, in response to the Commissioners’ fourth report.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Thurrock Council: Ministerial response to Commissioners’ fourth report

    PDF, 170 KB, 1 page

    Details

    A copy of the letter from Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing and Local Government to the Thurrock Commissioners in response to their fourth report. The Minister welcomes the significant progress made by the Council and notes the challenges that remain for Thurrock.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 March 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thurrock Council: Letter to Dr Dave Smith extending his appointment as Managing Director Commissioner

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Thurrock Council: Letter to Dr Dave Smith extending his appointment as Managing Director Commissioner

    A copy of the letter to Dr Dave Smith, regarding the Secretary of State’s decision to extend his appointment as the Managing Director Commissioner at Thurrock Council.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Thurrock Council: Letter to Dr Dave Smith extending his appointment as Managing Director Commissioner

    PDF, 319 KB, 6 pages

    Details

    Copy of the letter from James Blythe, Deputy Director, Local Government Stewardship and Intervention, at Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to Dr Dave Smith, confirming the Secretary of State’s decision to extend his appointment as the Managing Director Commissioner to Thurrock Council until 1 September 2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 March 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Woking Borough Council: Ministerial response to Commissioners’ fourth report

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Woking Borough Council: Ministerial response to Commissioners’ fourth report

    Letter from Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, in response to Commissioners’ fourth report.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Woking Borough Council: Ministerial response to Commissioners’ fourth report

    PDF, 153 KB, 1 page

    Details

    Copy of the letter from Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, to the Woking Commissioners in response to their fourth report. The Minister is reassured by Commissioners’ comments that the Council is committed to achieving the objectives that the Council have worked with Commissioners to set, which will radically overhaul the operation of the Council.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 March 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Tough controls considered to regulate private prosecutors

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Tough controls considered to regulate private prosecutors

    Private prosecutors face greater transparency and accountability over unregulated or unlawful activity following a consultation to overhaul the current system.

    • Consultation launched today (6 March) on reforming private prosecutions and Single Justice Procedure
    • Options include a mandatory code of practice, inspections and requirement to consider mitigating circumstances
    • Announcement follows systematic failures, including the Post Office Horizon scandal and builds on the Government’s pledge to restore confidence in the criminal justice system through its Plan for Change

    Private prosecutions allow people to pursue justice where state prosecutors cannot, or choose not, to prosecute. However, the improper actions of some organisations have resulted in serious and often life-changing miscarriages of justice. Examples include the Post Office Horizon scandal, which saw failings in the prosecutorial practices leading to hundreds of innocent postmasters being wrongfully convicted.

    Thousands of people have also been handed criminal convictions for legitimate mistakes such as unpaid bills and purchasing the wrong train ticket. This includes situations where there have been strong personal mitigating factors, meaning the cases were not pursued in the public interest.

    The government is calling for views on reforms which will enable better oversight and regulation of these prosecutors to prevent such failures in the future. This builds on the government’s broader efforts to restore public confidence in policing and in the criminal justice system through its Plan for Change.

    Lord Chancellor Shabana Mahmood, said:

    Recent catastrophic failures in private prosecutions have highlighted that our current system is open to abuse. That cannot be allowed to continue.

    We will listen carefully to the feedback from this consultation and develop stronger safeguards for the public to restore confidence in our justice system.

    Following proposals made by the Justice Select Committee, the consultation aims to set consistent standards and ensure accountability to improve the behaviour and practice of prosecutors.

    Consultation proposals include the introduction of a mandatory code of practice, establishing an inspection regime, and putting in place a system of accreditation for private prosecutors.
    To make these prosecutions more transparent, measures could also include a requirement for organisations and agencies to register with His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) before bringing a private prosecution, and to publish data on their prosecutions.

    The consultation will also look at how the Single Justice Procedure (SJP) can be improved to ensure all cases brought are in the public interest. Suggested changes include requirements for SJP prosecutors to engage with defendants to assess their vulnerability, and to consider their personal and mitigating circumstances before pursuing a prosecution that might lead to a criminal record.

    Justice Minister, Sarah Sackman KC, said:

    Fairness and transparency are at the heart of our justice system. However, certain organisations have been allowed to bring life-changing and unjust prosecutions affecting thousands of people, without robust checks and balances. 

    It is time to hold prosecutors to account and provide oversight which protects ordinary people. We will ensure that prosecutions are always fair and in the public interest.

    The consultation’s proposals will apply to all private and non-criminal justice agency prosecutors. This includes state-run agencies such as the Driver Vehicle Licensing Agency and TV Licensing, as well as companies and private organisations such as Northern Rail.

    Further information

    • The consultation will close on 8th May.
    • Private prosecutors, as defined in the consultation, excludes those categorised as ‘criminal justice agencies’ – the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), Serious Fraud Office (SFO), police (including British Transport Police), and the National Crime Agency (NCA). For the purposes of this consultation, all other organisations are referred to as ‘private prosecutors’. This includes public agencies that bring prosecutions as well as private or third sector bodies.
    • Individuals who bring private prosecutions on their own behalf are not within the scope of the proposals discussed in the consultation.
    • SJP sees a single magistrate, supported by a legally qualified adviser, try adult summary-only cases, and is important for a streamlined legal process and swift justice.
    • The Office for Rail and Road is conducting a separate independent review of train operators’ revenue protection enforcement practices, including the use of prosecutions. This will report back in May and will support the consultation announced today.

    The Government is consulting on the following policy options:

    • The introduction of a mandatory code of practice for private prosecutors, including requirements for private prosecutors to maintain separation of investigatory and prosecutorial functions, and a requirement to fully consider whether prosecutions are in the public interest.
    • The introduction of mandatory inspections of private prosecutors.
    • The introduction of a system of accreditation for private prosecutors.
    • The introduction of additional requirements for prosecutors using the Single Justice Procedure to engage with the defendant and assess their vulnerability before commencing a prosecution.
    • The introduction of a requirement for all mitigation provided to the court to be sent to prosecutors before the case is decided by a magistrate.
    • The introduction of a requirement for private prosecutors to register with His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service when the number of prosecutions they bring per annum reaches a specified threshold
    • The introduction of a requirement for private prosecutors who bring a specified number of prosecutions per annum to publish their own data on these prosecutions.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wales’s Clean Energy Industry boosted by Minister Nia Griffith’s visit to Copenhagen

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Wales’s Clean Energy Industry boosted by Minister Nia Griffith’s visit to Copenhagen

    Minister highlights Wales’s natural resources, world-class energy sector and skilled workforce on visit to Denmark.

    Wales Office Minister Nia Griffith and His Majesty’s Ambassador to Denmark, Joëlle Jenny

    • Wales at the forefront of the UK’s clean energy mission.
    • Minister highlights Wales’s natural resources, world-class energy sector and skilled workforce on visit to Denmark.
    • Expansion of the renewable energy sector in Wales will help kickstart economic growth and make the UK a clean energy superpower.

    Wales Office Minister, Dame Nia Griffith highlighted Wales’s pivotal role in the United Kingdom’s ambitious clean energy mission to Danish companies and potential investors on a trade mission to Copenhagen this week.

    Dame Nia’s three-day visit to the Danish capital came just one week after a major £600m investment deal in Welsh green energy projects between Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, Bute Energy and Green GEN Cymru was announced. The development of new onshore windfarms planned across Wales by Bute Energy is planned to create up to 2,000 jobs.

    The visit highlighted collaboration between Wales and Denmark in renewable energy projects, including Danish companies already investing in offshore wind off the North Wales coast and in the construction of turbines used in onshore and offshore projects across Wales.

    Currently, 50 per cent of electricity in Denmark is supplied by wind and solar power while making Britain a clean energy superpower is one of the UK Government’s key missions.

    The UK Government is working with the Welsh Government and industry partners to develop floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea. This would see wind turbines built on floating platforms to take advantage of the wind direction and would play a crucial role in the UK Government’s mission to make Britian at clean energy superpower.

    This technology could support up to 5,300 new jobs and generate up to £1.4bn for the UK economy, helping to kickstart economic growth and raise living standards as set out in the UK Government’s Plan for Change. 

    During her visit, Minister Griffith held a series of meetings designed to bolster cooperation on clean energy and explore investment opportunities. The itinerary included visits to leading Danish institutions and companies, discussions on renewable energy projects, and participation in events celebrating St. David’s Day with a focus on promoting Wales as a hub for clean energy innovation.

    Wales Office Minister Nia Griffith said:

    There are tremendous opportunities for partners and investors in Denmark to work with us to boost the clean energy sector in Wales.

    I am determined to make sure we achieve our clean energy mission which will bring energy security, drive down energy bills, create good jobs, and help to protect future generations from the cost of climate breakdown.

    Tim Morris, Head of Communications for Associated British Ports, said:

    Ports in Wales and Denmark share the ambition to play a foundational role in enabling the energy transition.

    It was great to sit down with other port operators and key stakeholders from the wider energy sector from both countries to share knowledge and insights. ABP has strong links with Danish organisations such as Orsted and the Port of Esbjerg and we look forward to deepening these relationships.

    The visit showcased Wales’s potential as a global leader in renewable energy, particularly in floating offshore wind, and set the stage for future collaborations and investments that will drive economic growth and environmental sustainability.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cowes Library set to undergo building works to improve accessibility 6 March 2025 Cowes Library set to undergo building works to improve accessibility

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    Cowes Library is set to undergo major renovations starting Monday, 24 March.

    The project follows a successful application to Arts Council England’s Libraries Improvement Fund and aims to make the library more accessible and user-friendly for all members of the community.

    Key improvements include the installation of an accessible front door and toilet, ensuring the library is welcoming and usable for people with mobility challenges.

    Additionally, the renovations will enhance facilities for community groups, making the library a more inclusive space for various activities and gatherings.

    This project builds on the success of previous works and investment at Lord Louis Library in Newport and Ryde Library.

    Councillor Julie Jones-Evans, Cabinet member for libraries, said: “Libraries are more than just buildings filled with books; they are sanctuaries of learning, creativity, and connection.

    “Making our libraries accessible to all residents is crucial in ensuring everyone can benefit from these vital community resources.”

    To facilitate these important upgrades, Cowes Library will close to the public on Friday, 21 March, and remain closed for around seven weeks.

    During this period, a pop-up library service will be available at the Beckford Centre, opposite the library building, with the following reduced opening hours:

    • Monday: 1.30pm – 4.30pm
    • Tuesday: 10am – 1pm
    • Friday: 10am – 1pm
    • Saturday: 1.30pm – 4.30pm

    There will be no public computers, photocopying services or groups and activities during the renovation period.

    However, staff will continue to engage the community through online Rhyme Times and Lego challenges via the Supporters of Cowes Library Facebook page.

    Photo: Getty Images

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Republic sponging off U.K. and Europe on defence

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV leader, Jim Allister MP:-

    “The current European security crisis brings into focus the sponger status of the Republic of Ireland when it comes to defence.

    “Clinging to neutrality, with derisory spend on defence, the Republic has lived off others paying, in men and money, for the defence of Europe.

    “The Republic can’t hide in the shadows of neutrality if it wants to be seen on the side of Europe in withstanding Putin. 

    “Of course, in Northern Ireland we see a reflection of this anti-West stance in the First Minister’s condemnation of the job-creating military hardware order to Thales.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SITI attends Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, Spain (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SITI attends Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, Spain (with photos)
    *************************************************************************

    The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, leading a delegation of representatives from the innovation and technology (I&T) sector, continued his visit in Barcelona, Spain on March 5 (Barcelona time) and attended the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025.     Delivering a keynote speech at the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) Ministerial Programme “2025+: A Tech Odyssey”, Professor Sun said Hong Kong is actively building a smart city and a digitally inclusive society to bridge digital divide. “One of the best testimonies to a city’s I&T achievement is the degree of digitalisation. In Hong Kong, all submissions and payments to the Government have electronic options. More than three millions of people are enjoying the convenience and efficiency of accessing government services and online identity verification through a mobile application called ‘iAM Smart’. A corporate version of ‘iAM Smart’, nick-named CorpID, is upcoming too.”     He noted that on digital inclusiveness, Hong Kong’s household broadband penetration rate and smartphone penetration rate are both approximately 97 per cent. The internet usage rate among Hong Kong citizens aged 65 and above rocketed, from 56 per cent in 2018 to 84 per cent in 2023, slightly ahead of the European rate of around 78 per cent.     He added, “As society becomes so digitally knitted and increasingly mobile, we recently launched the ‘Smart Silver’ Digital Inclusion Programme for Elders, to address the challenges of an increasingly aging society. This programme fortifies our digital inclusive efforts by providing elders with community-based training and on-the-spot helpdesks to enhance elders’ knowledge on new digital technologies and support their navigation by common mobile applications.”     During the Congress, Professor Sun met with the Head of Greater China of GSMA, Ms Sihan Bo Chen, to learn about the international mobile industry association’s work in developing the mobile communications industry and ecosystem as well as promoting industrial innovation in Asia.     Professor Sun visited various exhibition pavilions on-site, including the EU Quantum Flagship, to learn about the latest quantum technologies and initiatives of companies under the flagship.     Professor Sun and the delegation also visited the Barcelona Supercomputing Center. They were briefed on the technology of MareNostrum 5, one of the most powerful supercomputers in Spain, and quantum computers, the establishment of AI factories, and the innovative achievements in promoting the development of high-performance computing in Spain and the whole of Europe as well as applications.     Members of the delegation include heads from the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC), Cyberport, the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute and the Hong Kong Microelectronics Research and Development Institute, as well as representatives of 24 local I&T enterprises or institutions. The HKSTPC and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council co-ordinated the participation of the I&T representatives of the enterprises and institutions at the MWC 2025.     Professor Sun Dong will proceed to Lisbon, Portugal on March 6 (Lisbon time) to continue his visit.

    Ends/Thursday, March 6, 2025Issued at HKT 9:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke on TikTok

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    6th March 2025

    Minister Peter Burke said:

    “On March 4th 2025, my Department received a Notification of Collective Redundancies from TikTok (Bytedance) following a February announcement by the company that it would be undergoing global restructuring. Affected employees were informed of the decision and a consultation period is now underway. I understand that the proposed redundancies will take effect in April this year, once the statutory consultation process has concluded. The numbers involved are a matter for the company to disclose.

    “My first thoughts are with the employees impacted by this announcement along with their families. My Department, along with our agencies, will work to support workers affected in the period ahead as they pursue alternative employment. TikTok is a significant employer in Ireland and as part of the proposed restructuring, Government understands that there may be a number of open roles available to employees who are at risk of being made redundant.  TikTok has been fully briefed on the IDA’s suite of transformation and training supports available. 

    Equally, the enterprise agencies under my Department will assist in helping those impacted to find alternative employment. This includes sharing the skills profiles of impacted employees to companies who may be hiring, be that with multinationals in IDA’s client base or indigenous companies through Enterprise Ireland. 

    As a country we are close to full employment and the economy is well diversified, with hundreds of thousands of people employed by indigenous SMEs, pharmaceuticals, agri-food, med-tech and financial services. Nonetheless I know this announcement will be very difficult for those impacted and Government is fully committed to supporting affected staff.

    ENDS

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two men charged with murder in connection with fatal shooting in 2016

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two men have been charged with murder following the death of a man, who was shot in Haringey in 2016.

    On Tuesday, 30 August 2016, Joel Bempah-Cumberbatch, 25 was shot on Turnpike Lane, Wood Green at around 15:22hrs.

    He was taken to hospital with a gunshot wound to his head.

    His injuries left him with significant brain damage and on 20, September 2022, he sadly died.

    In 2017 two men were convicted of attempting to murder Joel and sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 13 years.

    Detectives within Specialist Crime North submitted a further file to the Crown Prosecution Service and on Monday, 3 March, the two men appeared at Highbury Magistrates Court in relation to murder charges. They appeared at the Central Criminal Court on the 5 March and a trial date was set for 16 February 2026.

    Jason Diur Kota, 29 (29.12.1995) and Denzican Karadag, 28 (26.03.1996) will next appear at the Old Bailey on 21 May 2025.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: WhiteBIT and Bequant Announce Strategic Partnership to Advance Institutional Crypto Trading

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VILNIUS, Lithuania, March 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The cooperation aims to offer professional investors deeper liquidity, enhanced trading capabilities, and exceptional market access.

    WhiteBIT, Europe’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by traffic, has partnered with Bequant, a leading provider of institutional crypto trading solutions. This collaboration is keen to create a comprehensive ecosystem tailored for institutional traders, offering modern trading tools and compliance-driven infrastructure.

    The crypto industry has witnessed rapid institutional adoption, with professional traders seeking advanced trading capabilities, regulatory compliance, and efficient liquidity access. WhiteBIT and Bequant’s partnership aligns with this evolving landscape, equipping institutional investors with scalable, secure, and efficient trading solutions.

    “This collaboration with Bequant is a strategic move to further enhance institutional crypto trading. By combining our expertise, we’re ensuring that professional traders and institutional clients gain exceptional access to deep liquidity, regulatory-compliant infrastructure, and advanced trading tools,” said Volodymyr Nosov, Founder and President of WhiteBIT.

    Bequant Institutional Expertise

    Bequant is a top-tier proprietary trading firm that focuses on market making, quantitative trading, and institutional crypto services. By employing sophisticated trading strategies and efficient capital allocation, the firm enhances liquidity and improves overall market efficiency. 

    As a regulated entity, Bequant also offers institutional investors a range of services, including OTC trading, lending solutions, and secure custody options.

    “Partnering with WhiteBIT allows us to build deeper liquidity for institutional crypto trading across Europe, combining our expertise to deliver efficient, compliant solutions,” comments George Zarya, Founder of Bequant.

    Key Partnership Benefits

    The partnership between WhiteBIT and Bequant enables institutional clients to access WhiteBIT’s deep liquidity and advanced trading infrastructure through Bequant’s brokerage network. Market makers and high-volume traders using Bequant can now integrate WhiteBIT into their trading strategies, upgrading trade efficiency across different exchanges.

    Through this collaboration, institutional clients benefit from the following key advantages:

    • Deep Liquidity & Market Efficiency. Institutional clients will gain access to over $2 trillion in annual trading volume, ensuring robust market depth and optimal liquidity conditions.
    • Multi-Market Access. The partnership enables trading across spot, futures, and margin markets with competitive leverage options and advanced execution strategies.
    • Regulatory Compliance & Security. WhiteBIT and Bequant adhere to international regulatory standards, including ISO/IEC certification and GDPR compliance, ensuring a secure trading environment.
    • Seamless API Connectivity. REST, WebSocket, and FIX 4.4 integration will provide real-time market data access, automated trading capabilities, and efficient trade execution.

    WhiteBIT’s Institutional Growth and Leadership

    As part of a trusted and scalable ecosystem, WhiteBIT serves over 8 million users and more than 1,300 institutional clients, offering a reliable infrastructure for professional traders seeking efficiency and security in digital asset markets.

    In 2024, WhiteBIT reported a $2.7 trillion annual trading volume, primarily driven by institutional clients, reinforcing its position as a leader in institutional crypto trading.

    About WhiteBIT

    WhiteBIT is the largest European cryptocurrency exchange by traffic, offering over 730 trading pairs, 330+ assets, and supporting 9 fiat currencies. Founded in 2018, the platform is a part of WhiteBIT Group that serves more than 35 million customers globally. WhiteBIT collaborates with Visa, FC Barcelona, Fireblocks, ClearJunction, and Checkout.com. The company is dedicated to driving the widespread adoption of blockchain technology worldwide.

    About Bequant

    Bequant is where traditional investing meets cryptocurrency—a one-stop solution for professional digital asset investors and institutions. Located and regulated in Malta, Bequant’s breadth of products include prime brokerage, custody and fund administration, all enhanced by an institutional trading platform providing low-latency trading, liquidity and direct market access for investors. The Bequant team is composed of experts from institutional, retail and digital financial services with experience in banking, derivatives, electronic trading and prime brokerage.

    Contact
    WhiteBIT
    pr@whitebit.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a10ad6ac-b680-4388-b583-df20f69c57f5

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Portugal financing from EIB Group surpasses €2 billion in 2024 with record investment in green financing and sustainable energy

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • EIB Group affirms strong commitment to Portugal with €2.1 billion in financing last year.
    • Climate and environmental sustainability financing reached 63 % of total amount consolidating the EIB as the Climate Bank in Portugal.
    • Record investment of more than €1.1 billion in sustainable energy and natural resources, nearly double last year’s financing.
    • Key priorities for 2025 include financing the Porto-Lisbon high-speed rail line and reinforce financing for social infrastructures in the country.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group, which comprises the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Investment Fund (EIF), reaffirmed its strong commitment to Portugal in 2024, with new financing of €2.1 billion to foster the country’s sustainable economic development. This financing unlocked a total of around €4.9 billion in investments, equivalent to a 1.7 % of the country’s GDP.

    A significant part of this support was directed at Portuguese projects promoting climate action and environmental protection, as well as investments in health and transport infrastructure. A record of more than €1.1 billion went to clean energy, marking an unprecedented boost for the green transition.

    “Cooperation with the Portuguese authorities is excellent. We have invested more than €2 billion in Portugal in 2024, and we have launched emblematic projects such as the Lisbon Oriental Hospital and the high-speed train between Lisbon and Porto. We will continue to be a very important investment partner for the country to the benefit of Portuguese businesses and citizens”, said EIB Group President Nadia Calviño.

    In 2024, EIB Group financing, supported around 10,000 Portuguese companies and sustained almost 230,000 jobs.

    Record financing in climate action and energy transition in Portugal

    Portuguese projects advancing climate action and environmental sustainability received a record €1.3 billion in EIB Group financing last year, driven by significant investments in sustainable energy. This amount accounts for 63 % of its total investment in Portugal, thus exceeding the 50 % target for the Group in place for 2025.

    Financing in sustainable energy and natural resources surpassed €1.1 billion, a record for the country that nearly doubled last year’s investment. Among the biggest operations: two loans to Portuguese electricity supplier EDP to expand renewable energy generation, wind and solar, and to modernize electricity distribution networks, and two loans to finance Galp Energia for the construction of an advanced biofuels plant and a renewable hydrogen unit in the coastal area of Sines.

    Other relevant projects contributing to the green financing were the EIB loan signed with ANA to support low-carbon initiatives at nine airports in Portugal, and the loan signed with BPI to finance small and medium-sized enterprises, mid-caps, and public sector entities investing in climate action projects.

    Strengthening country’s economic cohesion, innovation and social infrastructure

    Beyond green investments, the EIB last year allocated €1.5 billion to initiatives aimed at enhancing Portugal’s economic and social cohesion.

    It signed a €107 million loan to finance the construction of Hospital de Lisboa Oriental. The new facilities will replace six old hospitals, spread over more than 100 buildings in the Lisbon centre. This will guarantee access to modern health services and improve the distribution of hospital beds around the city.

    Supporting innovation was another priority of the EIB Group in Portugal last year. Special mention deserves the €90 million investment pledged by the EIF into three venture capital funds to accelerate the growth of start-ups in the deep-tech and cybersecurity sectors.

    Looking ahead: reinforce support for social infrastructures and finance Porto-Lisbon high-speed rail line

    Unlocking investment in social infrastructures that address the most pressing needs of European citizens, will continue being a priority for the EIB Group in Portugal in 2025, together with the financing of the first phase of the high-speed railway line between Porto and Lisbon, reinforcing commitment to sustainable transport and regional cohesion.

    Video EIB Group in Portugal in 2024 https://youtu.be/szAUKoTJoP8

    Background information  

    EIB 

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the European Union, and the capital markets union.  

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.  

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.  

    Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: King scallop temporary closure decision

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    King scallop temporary closure decision

    Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has today announced its decision on a temporary closure to fishing with dredges for king scallops in ICES areas 7d and Lyme Bay (7e) in 2025.

    The decision, designed to protect stocks during spawning, is based on extensive analysis of the latest scientific and economic evidence, responses to a consultation last year and wider engagement with stakeholders. 

    The decision is for a temporary closure in 2025 in: 

    • ICES division 7d for UK and EU vessels over 10 m in length from 1 July to 30 September 2025. 

    • Lyme Bay area of 7e (ICES rectangles 29E6, 29E7, 30E6 and 30E7) for UK and EU vessels over 12 m in length from 1 July to 30 September 2025. 

    The latest scientific analysis reveals that the population levels and health of king scallops in the closure area are in a improved state than in preceding years and could support a shorter closure period to support spawning. 

    The length of the closure this year has also been designed to reduce risks of king scallop fishers moving more of their fishing effort to other grounds which may not be able to support the increase in fishing without potentially harming sensitive species.  

    This closure length has sought to balance the environmental needs of the spawning stocks, with the socio-economic impacts expressed by stakeholders during the 2024 extended closure.  

    MMO has continued to permit under 10m vessels to fish in 7d and under 12m vessels to fish in the Lyme Bay area of 7e.  This decision is based on levels of scallop landings observed from these vessels, which at existing levels do not introduce significant risk to the aim of protecting stocks, whilst considering the importance of the inshore fleet to the local communities. 

    The closure will be enacted through a licence variation. Further information on a summary of responses received and reasoning behind the decision is available here.

    Stakeholders can send questions to MMO’s Fisheries Management Team at sustainablefisheries@marinemanagement.org.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AAIB Report: Extra EA-200, G-EEEK, 13 July 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    AAIB Report: Extra EA-200, G-EEEK, 13 July 2024

    Report into fatal accident involving an Extra EA-200 (G-EEEK), Spanhoe Airfield, Northamptonshire on 13 July 2024

    G-EEEK accident site

    After flying to Spanhoe Airfield, Northamptonshire, the pilot of G-EEEK pitched the aircraft into a vertical climb and completed a manoeuvre from which the aircraft entered an upright flat spin to the left. The aircraft was not recovered before it struck the ground, and the pilot was fatally injured.

    The investigation was unable to establish why the pilot flew such manoeuvres, unapproved and at low level. It was not possible to exclude a control restriction or a pilot incapacitation for the lack of sufficient recovery before the aircraft struck the ground.

    Read the report.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Salford and Manchester present draft proposals for major Strangeways and Cambridge regeneration

    Source: City of Salford

    Salford City Council (SCC)  and Manchester City Council (MCC) are working in collaboration on the ambitious long-term regeneration proposals for the Strangeways and Cambridge areas ahead of public consultation.

    The draft Strategic Regeneration Framework (SRF) reports will be heard by both Councils’ respective executive and cabinet committees outlining the vision that will guide widescale investment and development across the 130 hectare city fringe location over the coming decades.

    The draft Strangeways and Cambridge SRF presents a high-level vision for the area, building on the work of the Operation Vulcan policing operation, to provide a platform for legitimate businesses to grow and thrive, alongside a major new urban park, significant new housing – including affordable homes – and significant commercial and employment opportunities.   

    The programme of investment estimates the combined development areas could see up to 7,000 new homes across seven distinct ‘neighbourhood’ areas, increased commercial floorspace of around 1.75m sqft, and the regeneration could support an additional 4,500 jobs.   

    The draft SRF presents a development approach that will support Manchester’s target to become a zero-carbon city by 2038 and reacts to other environmental factors in the areas, including potential flooding linked to climate change.    

    The SRF also reflects how HM Prison Manchester – formerly Strangeways Prison – remains a significant barrier to the regeneration ambitions in this part of the city and the framework will act as an engagement tool with the Ministry of Justice around the long-term future of the prison.  

    The key themes of the SRF include:  

    • Business and employment: Increase business and employment opportunities – supporting ongoing economic growth in both Manchester and Salford 
    • Green and blue infrastructure: Create a network of green spaces and celebrate the River Irwell – including the creation of a large new city centre park (working title: Copper Park) – and respond to flood risk  
    • Movement: Prioritise a ‘people first’ approach to the regeneration, including active travel while carefully managing parking, servicing and delivery requirements.   
    • Heritage and culture: Celebrate the existing architecture and heritage buildings in the area as part of the comprehensive regeneration plans. 

    Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett added: “We’ve been on a journey of growth and regeneration in recent years, and our work has changed the landscape in different parts of Salford for the benefit of our residents. It’s now time to focus on the Cambridge area and working with colleagues in Manchester, this framework provides us with a once in a lifetime opportunity to do that. 

    “This framework proposes options for the Salford part of the SRF, taking into account the requirements of residents and local businesses, and the need for quality housing in the area. The key will be to balance these needs with what the long-term flood data is telling us and how we future-proof the area against climate change. 

    “The proposals in the framework seek to identify the best possible options for this area. These include the exciting opportunity to create a new city park for all, with an option for appropriate levels of mixed-use development, to continue to drive sustainable growth. 

    “I’d urge everyone with a vested interest in this area, whether you’re a resident or business to engage with the consultation process and work with us help shape the future of this part of the city.” 

    Leader of the Council Bev Craig said: “This framework is our shared long-term vision, alongside our colleagues in Salford, to deliver a transformation in the Strangeways and Cambridge communities. 

    “We have an opportunity to create a platform for development and investment, enabled by the successful work carried out by the Operation Vulcan partnership, to support businesses to grow and prosper in these neighbourhoods – creating thousands of new jobs and support the ongoing growth of our city – alongside a major new public park and new homes, including Council, social and genuinely affordable housing. 

    “We know this area has challenges, including the prison that presents a key barrier to the regeneration of the area, but we also know that there is energy and a community brimming with potential. 

    “We will deliver huge change in Strangeways in the coming years, working alongside the people who live and work there, and as we move to consultation in the coming weeks, we want to speak to local people and businesses about how we can make this part of the city thrive.” 
     
    This  draft Strangeways and Cambridge SRF document has been prepared on behalf of MCC and SCC by Avison Young with Maccreanor Lavington Architects, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Schulze+Grassov, Civic Engineers, Useful Projects and PLACED. 
     
    Salford’s Cabinet will meet on Tuesday 11 March.  
    Find the Salford City Council Cabinet Report   

    Manchester’s executive will meet on Friday 14 March. 
    Find the Manchester City Council Executive Report – available from Thursday 6 March  
      
    Following the respective Council approvals, consultation around the SRF document will begin at the end of March, the results of which will be reported to future Executive and Cabinet meetings.   

    Further information will be made available shortly at www.strangewaysandcambridgeSRF.info  

    The draft SRF was in part delivered using Government Funding.

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    Date published
    Thursday 6 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £1.3m self-screening trial aims to close inequity gap in Scotland’s cervical cancer deaths A project to understand the barriers to screening for a preventable cancer and to encourage women in the most deprived parts of Scotland to take part in cervical screening by self-testing has been awarded £1.3million.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    A project to understand the barriers to screening for a preventable cancer and to encourage women in the most deprived parts of Scotland to take part in cervical screening by self-testing has been awarded £1.3million.
    University of Aberdeen researchers will lead the Cancer Research UK-funded initiative to find new ways of reaching women least likely to engage with cervical screening and who are at the greatest risk of dying from cervical cancer.  
    Cervical cancer is a largely preventable cancer and since 2008 girls aged 11-13 have been eligible for the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine which protects against around 90% of cervical cancers, with boys eligible for the vaccine, which can also protect boys from other HPV related cancers such as mouth and throat cancers, since 2019.
    Cervical screening remains an important way to help to prevent the disease, particularly in those who didn’t receive the vaccination in childhood.
    However, cervical screening is still important for all those eligible to detect pre-cancerous cells and enable treatment before they develop further. 
    Data from Public Health Scotland has shown that women in the most deprived areas of Scotland are twice as likely as those in more affluent areas to develop the disease and three times more likely to die from it.  
    Many of these women do not engage with screening and the project, called ‘AYEScreen’ will explore the reasons why – from lack of time or childcare, to fear, embarrassment or cultural and social barriers.  
    This will then inform a trial where women will be provided with self-sampling kits which will allow them to conduct the tests at a time and place of their choosing, and without the need for a medical professional.  
    Dr Sharon Hanley, a cancer epidemiologist at the University of Aberdeen, will lead the project.
    She said: “Cervical cancer is different from many cancers in that it can be detected and treated in the pre-cancerous stage. This is why getting screened regularly is so important. However, since the screening programme targets healthy individuals, many women may not feel the need to attend or for what might be an embarrassing or uncomfortable test.  

    AYEScreen is about empowering those most marginalised in society to make informed choices, including those who could face discrimination and are disproportionately disadvantaged, and help protect them from a highly preventable cancer.” Dr Sharon Hanley

    “In recent years the test has changed. In the past it was necessary to take samples from a specific part of the cervix to look for abnormal cells, now we look for the virus that causes these abnormal cells and the virus can be found in vaginal samples. This makes self-sampling possible. However, more research is needed on the best way to offer self-sampling. 
    “We would also like to include trans-men in the study as they are historically underserved and might be more willing to participate in self-sampling than attend for a test by a medical professional.” 
    The project will assess the effectiveness and cost efficiency of three different methods to reach under screened women in GP practices with the highest proportion of patients from deprived areas as well as those living in remote and rural areas who may have other barriers to testing such as access.  
    The first method will see women who are overdue screening and attend the GP surgery for another reason offered a self-sampling kit, the second will trial a text service offering self-sampling which can be returned by post and in the third, a nurse will call women to understand barriers to screening and offer the option of self-sampling, which will also be sent and returned by post. 
    It is hoped AYEScreen will provide the much-needed evidence base to inform future (Scottish) Government policy and that a nation-wide roll out of self-sampling for under screened women be implemented alongside the current screening programme. 
    “AYEScreen is about empowering those most marginalised in society to make informed choices, including those who could face discrimination and are disproportionately disadvantaged, and help protect them from a highly preventable cancer,” Dr Hanley added.  
    Cancer Research UK Senior Heath Information Manager, Claire Knight, said: “We are delighted to provide funding for this vital research. Cervical screening is a proven way to prevent cancer and stop the disease in its tracks. But some people face barriers to accessing the potentially life-saving test, like finding the test painful or embarrassing, and trials like this bring us closer to ensuring that everyone can benefit from screening health interventions. 
    “By offering an alternative to the standard GP appointment for people who haven’t taken up their invitation, self-sampling may help to address some of these barriers, and in turn tackle health inequalities.
    “If coverage of cervical screening and HPV vaccination increases, it’s possible that we can reduce cervical cancer to the point where almost no one develops it. Further research is now needed to better understand the accuracy of self-sampling and how it can be effectively rolled out to benefit more people.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor backs campaign urging people to quit this No Smoking Month!

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Mayor backs campaign urging people to quit this No Smoking Month!

    6 March 2025

    March is No Smoking Month and the Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, has lent her voice to the campaign by the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, encouraging smokers to ‘Make March Your Month to Quit’.

    Smoking is the single most entirely preventable cause of ill-health, disability and death, in Northern Ireland, responsible for approximately 35,000 hospital admissions and 2,200 deaths each year.

    Speaking today, Mayor Barr appealed for local people to heed the advice and avail of the support out there to help people quit. “Council has a duty to enforce smoke free legislation and ensure compliance by smokers and premises owners. Creating a smoke-free environment is essential for improving public health and wellbeing in our Council area and beyond, and it’s a responsibility we take very seriously.

    “The Make March your Month to Quit programme offers people who currently smoke a timely reminder that help is available when you wish to quit. We would encourage any smoker to avail of the Stop Smoking services available through the PHA and take the first step on their own personal journey to becoming smoke free.”

    Colette Rogers, Strategic Lead for Tobacco Control, with the PHA, said: “March is No Smoking Month and a fantastic opportunity to make the commitment to stop smoking and improve your health.

    “Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do to improve your health and protect people around you from harmful second-hand smoke. Quitting will also save you money which is significant as people face tough times with the increased cost-of-living. You might have tried quitting before, but this March, try again and get support on your journey to healthier you with the help of a PHA-funded Stop Smoking service as it really will make a difference.”

    There is lots of support available throughout Northern Ireland for those who want to quit. A range of services are funded by the PHA and free to use, these services help and support people to quit every year and are offered through many community pharmacies, GP practices, HSC Trust premises, community and voluntary organisations, and by Cancer Focus NI.

    Naomi Thompson, Health Improvement Manager at Cancer Focus NI, is urging those who want to stop smoking to seek help and highlighted that support is available across the country to help make people’s quit journey as easy as possible:

    “Studies have shown that people are four times more likely to quit with help. We would encourage any smoker who is ready to quit, or even curious about giving it a go, to make March their month. Across Northern Ireland specialists are available to provide free tried and tested tips to make quitting as easy as possible.”

    Top tips for quitting smoking

    • Make a date to give up – and stick to it!
    • Make a plan. Think about what could help you stop smoking, such as using a nicotine replacement product, and have it ready before the date you plan to stop.
    • Get support from your local Stop Smoking Service. Also, let your family and friends know that you’re quitting. Some people find that talking to friends and relatives who have stopped can be helpful.
    • Keep busy to help take your mind off cigarettes. Try to change your routine, (and plan alternative activities for places you associate with smoking) and avoid the shop where you normally buy cigarettes.
    • Remind yourself that the money saved now from not smoking can be used for other things you or your family want or need.

    No Smoking Month is coordinated in Northern Ireland by Cancer Focus NI and includes a partnership with the PHA, the Healthy Living Centres Alliance, Health and Social Care Trusts, local councils, and community champions in Health Living Centres.

    For more information on the services available and useful tips to stop smoking, visit www.cancerfocusni.org/stopsmoking or www.stopsmokingni.info

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Acclaimed writer Michelle Nic Pháidín to deliver Strabane Irish Language Event

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Acclaimed writer Michelle Nic Pháidín to deliver Strabane Irish Language Event

    6 March 2025

    Strabane’s Irish language enthusiasts will have a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in literature during Seachtain na Gaeilge, with a special evening featuring acclaimed journalist Michelle Nic Pháidín at the Alley Theatre on March 11th.

    The free event, part of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s annual Seachtain na Gaeilge’ programme, will showcase readings from Michelle Nic Pháidín’s critically acclaimed short story collection ‘Súile Éisc agus Scéalta Eile’.

    “We are delighted to offer an event entirely in Irish that invites fluent speakers to engage directly with a remarkable author,” said Erin Hamilton from the Council’s Languages Team. “Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the themes of Michelle’s stories, ask questions, and connect with fellow Irish language enthusiasts.”

    The event is scheduled for March 11th at 6.30pm in the Alley Theatre. It is designed for fluent Irish language speakers, offering a unique opportunity to experience literature in its native tongue. The evening will be conducted entirely in Irish, providing a rich, immersive experience for the audience.

    Admission is free, but booking is essential. Attendees will enjoy light refreshments at the start of the event, creating a welcoming atmosphere for conversation and cultural exchange.

    To reserve a place please email [email protected]. Those seeking more information about this event or other Seachtain na Gaeilge activities can contact the council’s Irish language team through the same email address.

    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

    An scríbhneoir clúiteach Michelle Nic Pháidín le hImeacht Gaeilge a chur ar fáil do phobal an tSratha Báin

    Beidh deis ar leith ag Gaeilgeoirí an tSratha Báin iad féin a thumadh sa litríocht le linn Sheachtain na Gaeilge, le tráthnóna speisialta leis an iriseoir aitheanta Michelle Nic Pháidín in Amharclann na Caolsráide ar an 11 Márta.

    Seo imeacht saor in aisce, atá á eagrú mar chuid de chlár bliantúil Sheachtain na Gaeilge de chuid Comhairle Chathair Dhoire agus Cheantar an tSratha Báin, agus beidh deis ag an lucht éisteachta sult a bhaint as léamha ó chnuasach gearrscéalta Michelle Nic Pháidín, dar teideal ‘Súile Éisc agus Scéalta Eile’.

    “Tá lúcháir orainn an t-imeacht uathúil seo a chur ar fáil trí mheán na Gaeilge le deis a thabhairt do phobal na Gaeilge dul i dtaithí ar shaothar an údair” a dúirt Erin Hamilton ó Fhoireann Teangacha na Comhairle. “Beidh deis ag an lucht éisteachta na téamaí éágsúla a thaiscéaltar i scéalta Mhichelle a fhiosrú, ceisteanna a chur, agus nascadh le cainteoirí Gaeilge eile ar an oíche”

    Tá an t-imeacht ag tarlú ar an 11ú Márta ar 6.30pm in Amharclann na Caolsráide. Tá sé foirfe do chainteoirí atá líofa sa Ghaeilge agus tabharfaidh sé deis uathúil dóibh dul i dtaithí ar litríocht nuascríofa ina dteanga dhúchais. Beidh an oíche á stiúradh go hiomlán trí mheán na Gaeilge, rud a thabharfaidh deis don lucht éisteachta tumadh isteach i litríocht na Gaeilge.

    Tá an t-imeacht saor in aisce ach ní mór duit d’áit a chur in áirithe.  Cuirfear sólaistí ar fáil ag tús an imeachta, agus cruthóidh seo atmaisféar fáilteach le haghaidh comhrá agus malartú cultúrtha.  Le áit a chur in áirithe seol ríomhphost chuig: [email protected].  Is féidir leo siúd atá ag lorg tuilleadh eolais faoin imeacht seo nó faoi imeachtaí eile Sheachtain na Gaeilge dul i dteagmháil le foireann Ghaeilge na comhairle tríd an seoladh ríomhphoist céanna.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New route announced for 10th edition of Strabane Lifford Half Marathon

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    New route announced for 10th edition of Strabane Lifford Half Marathon

    6 March 2025

    Runners taking part in the 2025 Strabane Lifford Half Marathon can look forward to a new, faster route when they take to the start line at the Alley Theatre on Sunday May 18th.

    The 10th edition of the event was formally launched this week on the steps of the venue by Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi-Barr.

    The course will again take runners through Lifford, up to Clady village and back to Strabane for a finish on the Melvin Running Track.
    However runners will now start at the Alley Theatre and finish with a crossing over the Strabane footbridge before entering the running track.

    Significantly, the early miles around Strabane will allow spectators to see the runners on multiple occasions and additional early miles in the town mean they will avoid the challenging climb up the A5 Strabane by-pass between miles 11 and 12 which should lead to faster times.

    The Half Marathon will again feature three separate races: the Half Marathon, Wheelchair Half Marathon and the Three Person Relay event which has been retained following the success of its introduction last year.

    Registrations have been selling fast since they were opened before Christmas and Mayor Barr encouraged runners to seal their place now to avoid disappointment.

    “The Strabane Lifford Half Marathon is now firmly established as a marquee event on the local athletics calendar and I would like to congratulate Council’s Sports Development and Festival and Events Teams on reaching the landmark of its 10th edition,” she said.

    “From the elite runners at the front of the field, to the fun runners and people taking part for the first time it is an inclusive event for all levels of athletes

    “Demand for athletics events are at an all time high and I’m delighted that, as a Council, we are able to cater for that and allow people to reap the health and wellbeing benefits of training and taking part in a Half Marathon.

    “The event is set to sell out in record time so seal your spot now and I’ll see you in Strabane of May 18th.”

    Festival and Events Manager at Council, Jacqueline Whoriskey, explained more about the thinking behind the new course.

    “We are always striving to meet the needs of runners and we take on board all the feedback we receive each year,” she said.

    “While we have retained the bulk of the out and back course from Lifford / Strabane to Clady we wanted runners to be able to take in more of the town centre where the bulk of the spectators are.

    “We also know that the uphill run up the A5 by-pass and downhill run through Ballycolman were particularly challenging for some runners so we have tweaked the course to take those out and also incorporate the Strabane footbridge in the final mile.”

    The Strabane Lifford Half Marathon is hosted by Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Events team.

    All entrants must be 17 or over on race day and all relay entrants must be 15 or over.

    Registrations for the relay, wheelchair and full Half Marathon are open now at www.derrystrabane.com/slhm and close on Saturday 26th April or when it sells out.

    Queries on the event should be directed to [email protected] or by calling 028 71 253 253.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New exhibition celebrating kinship care in the Capital opens at the Museum of Edinburgh

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    Kinship Captured: Kinship Carer Journeys in Photographs, a powerful visual exploration of kinship stories and experiences in Edinburgh, has opened at the Museum of Edinburgh.

    This unique exhibition is the result of the Kinship Captured Project, which uses photography to delve into the journeys of kinship carers and the meaning of ‘wellbeing’ within this context.

    The exhibition features a selection of photo journals created by five Kinship Carers who have been actively involved in the project. Through the lens of their cameras, these carers have shared their personal experiences, providing a deeper understanding of the challenges, rewards, and the powerful connections formed through kinship care.

    Culture and Communities Convener, Val Walker said:

    The photographs on display offer a visual narrative of the kinship care experience, focusing on the joy, love, and resilience that often goes unspoken. Through their work, these carers are helping to shine a light on the vital role they play in the lives of the children they care for.

    We are proud to support this project, which highlights the important work that Kinship Carers do every day. The exhibition provides an opportunity for the community to engage with and understand the journey of kinship carers, and we hope it will inspire others to consider the profound impact of kinship care on both carers and the children they support.

    In addition to showcasing their photographs, the exhibition includes a short film that captures the essence of the project and the lasting impact it has had on the participants.

    The Kinship Captured exhibition will run in conjunction with Kinship Care Week, from 17-21 March 2025, a week dedicated to celebrating the vital role that Kinship Carers play in supporting children and young people. The exhibition highlights the importance of kinship care, not only for the children in need of support but also for the carers who provide it, emphasizing the collective power of community and shared experiences.

    Education, Children and Families Convener, Joan Griffiths said:

    This new exhibition offers a fantastic insight into the unique and rewarding, but often challenging, role of kinship carers. Stepping into this role can often be unexpected and these carers play a vital part in a child’s life, creating stability and helping them to maintain important family and community links. We offer a range of support mechanisms for those in this role, including help to navigate the formal aspects of looking after a child, access to local support groups, services and training as well as everyday help to explore any difficulties or concerns.

    The Kinship Captured exhibition will be open to the public at Museum of Edinburgh from Thursday 6 March until Sunday 6 April. Admission is free.

    Quotes from participants:

    This was a stimulating and therapeutic project which came along at just the right time for me.

    I found that using the camera and especially making the album was a wonderfully creative way to show some of the journey I have been on so far and I loved making it.

    Although it was sad and painful at times exploring all that has happened since I began my kinship journey, being involved in this project has ultimately been life affirming and enriching.

    I loved meeting everyone, and hearing everyone’s stories has been a privilege. Thank you to you for facilitating it all so gently and supportively.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manchester and Salford present draft proposals for major Strangeways and Cambridge regeneration

    Source: City of Manchester

    Manchester City Council (MCC) and Salford City Council (SCC) are working in collaboration on the ambitious long-term regeneration proposals for the Strangeways and Cambridge areas.

    The draft Strategic Regeneration Framework (SRF) reports will be heard by both Councils’ respective executive and cabinet committees outlining the vision that will guide wide-scale investment and development across the 130hectare city fringe location over the coming decades.  

    The draft Strangeways and Cambridge SRF presents a high-level vision for the area, building on the work of the Operation Vulcan policing operation, to provide a platform for legitimate businesses to grow and thrive, alongside a major new urban park, significant new housing – including affordable homes – and significant commercial and employment opportunities.  

    The programme of investment estimates the combined development areas could see up to 7,000 new homes across seven distinct ‘neighbourhood’ areas, increased commercial floorspace of around 1.75m sqft, and the regeneration could support an additional 4,500 jobs.  

    The draft SRF presents a development approach that will support Manchester’s target to become a zero-carbon city by 2038 and reacts to other environmental factors in the areas, including potential flooding linked to climate change.   

    The SRF also reflects how HM Prison Manchester – formerly Strangeways Prison – remains a significant barrier to the regeneration ambitions in this part of the city and the framework will act as an engagement tool with the Ministry of Justice around the long-term future of the prison. 

    The key themes of the SRF include: 
    • Business and Employment: Increase business and employment opportunities – supporting ongoing economic growth in both Manchester and Salford 
    • Green and Blue Infrastructure: Create a network of green spaces and celebrate the River Irwell – including the creation of a large new city centre park (working title: Copper Park) – and respond to flood risk 
    • Movement: Prioritise a ‘people first’ approach to the regeneration, including active travel while carefully managing parking, servicing and delivery requirements.  
    • Heritage and Culture: Celebrate the existing architecture and heritage buildings in the area as part of the comprehensive regeneration plans.

    This  draft Strangeways and Cambridge SRF document has been prepared on behalf of MCC and SCC by Avison Young with Maccreanor Lavington Architects, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Schulze+Grassov, Civic Engineers, Useful Projects and PLACED.

    Salford’s Cabinet will meet on Tuesday 11 March. 

    Find the Salford City Council Cabinet Report  

    Manchester’s executive will meet on Friday 14 March 

    Find the Manchester City Council Executive Report – see agenda item 8

    Following the respective Council approvals, consultation around the SRF document will begin at the end of March, the results of which will be reported to future Executive and Cabinet meetings.  

    Further information on the SRF can be found here. 

    The draft SRF was in part delivered using Government Funding.

    Leader of the Council Bev Craig said:  
    “This framework is our shared long-term vision, alongside our colleagues in Salford, to deliver a transformation in the Strangeways and Cambridge communities.  

    “We have an opportunity to create a platform for development and investment, enabled by the successful work carried out by the Operation Vulcan partnership, to support businesses to grow and prosper in these neighbourhoods – creating thousands of new jobs and support the ongoing growth of our city – alongside a major new public park and new homes, including Council, social and genuinely affordable housing. 

    “We know this area has challenges, including the prison that presents a key barrier to the regeneration of the area, but we also know that there is energy and a community brimming with potential.  

    “We will deliver huge change in Strangeways in the coming years, working alongside the people who live and work there, and as we move to consultation in the coming weeks, we want to speak to local people and businesses about how we can make this part of the city thrive.” 

    Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett added:  
    “We’ve been on a journey of growth and regeneration in recent years, and our work has  changed the landscape in different parts of Salford for the benefit of our residents. It’s now time to focus on the Cambridge area and working with colleagues in Manchester, this framework provides us with a once in a lifetime opportunity to do that. 

    “This framework proposes options for the Salford part of the SRF, taking into account the requirements of residents and local businesses, and the need for quality housing in the area. The key will be to balance these needs with what the long-term flood data is telling us and how we future-proof the area against climate change. 

    “The proposals in the framework seek to identify the best possible options for this area. These include the exciting opportunity to create a new city park for all, with an option for appropriate levels of mixed-use development, to continue to drive sustainable growth. 

    “I’d urge everyone with a vested interest in this area, whether you’re a resident or business to engage with the consultation process and work with us help shape the future of this part of the city.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –