NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Councils collaborate on devolution plans

    Source: City of Plymouth

    In a bold move towards greater local autonomy, the Leaders of Plymouth City Council, Devon County Council, and Torbay Council are working together to explore the creation of a Mayoral Strategic Authority.

    A part of the Government’s new devolution plans, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to take power out of Whitehall, bring decision-making closer to the people of Devon, Plymouth and Torbay and unlock unprecedented opportunities for growth and innovation.

    A Mayoral Strategic Authority promises to supercharge the region’s ability to access greater powers and unlock additional funding for economic growth and infrastructure development, such as housing and transport.

    By working together, the councils aim to ensure that Devon, Plymouth and Torbay are ready to seize this unique opportunity when the government calls for further submissions of interest.

    Councillor Tudor Evans OBE, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said, “Devolution is a game-changer for our communities. The devolution of powers and funding to local decision makers will enhance our ability to focus on our priorities such as increasing investment in our roads and public transport, providing better access to education and skills, tackling health inequalities and building new homes.

    “By exploring the formation of a Mayoral Strategic Authority with Devon and Torbay, we’re taking decisive action to ensure that the region can harness the full benefits of local control and enhanced public services.

    “Whilst Plymouth, Devon and Torbay are different places with our own cultures and identities, we also share distinct geographic characteristics, have clearly established economic connections, share existing public service boundaries, and of course already work together closely across a number of major programmes. By working together we can not only unlock greater powers and funding, but we can also ensure that our unique interests are understood by central government.”

    Councillor James McInnes, Leader of Devon County Council, commented: “The formation of a mayoral strategic authority represents an opportunity for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay to speak with one voice at Westminster and attract significant additional funding and autonomy for the county of Devon.

    “Other English regions have delivered more integrated transport networks, kickstarted economic development and focussed on health improvements for their residents through a mayoral model. We have already delivered a successful combined authority deal for Devon and Torbay and it is absolutely right we work together, and with the Government, to explore the potential benefits of deeper devolution for those we serve. Our part of the world is already a fantastic place to live and to do business. This has the potential to make it even better for all.”

    Councillor David Thomas, Leader of Torbay Council, added, “The Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority already gives us and our residents and businesses a stronger voice with Government.  Working together – as councils and with the Government and our stakeholders – is key to us meeting our ambitions.

    “It is really important that we explore the benefits that a Mayoral Strategic Authority could achieve for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay.  Without exploring this there is a risk that our area will be left behind. We cannot allow that to happen”.

    The councils also emphasised that Cornwall Council is welcome to join their discussions at any time, should they choose to reconsider. This inclusive approach highlights the commitment to regional cooperation and shared prosperity.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Italy: EIB and INWIT sign €350 million agreement to develop digital telecommunications infrastructure

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • EIB financing to support the deployment and dissemination of digital telecommunications infrastructure and improve mobile coverage and connectivity.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) has granted INWIT €350 million in funding to boost digitalisation and connectivity in Italy, so improving mobile coverage even in the most rural areas. The agreement was signed today in Rome by EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti and INWIT General Manager Diego Galli.

    The funding aims to support the development and implementation of macro-grid telecommunications infrastructure (raw land and rooftop towers), dedicated to enabling the connectivity of mobile network operators, including 5G and fixed wireless access (FWA) connections. Investments are also planned for micro-grid infrastructure, both outdoors (small cells) and indoors with multi-operator DAS (Distributed Antenna Systems) coverage, to improve mobile connectivity in locations such as hospitals, museums, shopping centres, underground lines and motorway tunnels.

    “This financing confirms the EIB’s commitment to supporting the development of digital infrastructure in Italy, fostering technological growth and the transition to increasingly advanced and efficient connectivity. The agreement further strengthens the partnership between the EIB and INWIT, validating the Bank’s strategic role in supporting telecommunications and promoting digital innovation in Italy,” said EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti.

    “This partnership represents further recognition of our business model and the strategic value of our investment plan in digital and shared infrastructure, which drives economic and industrial efficiency across the value chain for the benefit of our customers. This agreement further strengthens the already solid and long-standing cooperation between INWIT and the EIB,” commented Diego Galli, General Manager of INWIT.

    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. The EIB Group signed 99 operations totalling €10.98 billion in Italy in 2024, helping to unlock almost €37 billion of investment in the real economy. 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.

    INWIT

    INWIT, Italy’s first tower company and one of the country’s digital infrastructure leaders, builds and manages digital shared infrastructure enabling mobile telecommunication connectivity. Its assets form part of an integrated ecosystem of macro-grids (around 25 000 towers) and micro-grids (some 600 dedicated indoor DAS roofs), including 4G and 5G of the main mobile operators, FWAs and IoT sensors. INWIT contributes to more efficient development of the telco ecosystem, which is key for the digital transition and 5G, and is also committed to reducing the digital divide via the implementation of the 5G national recovery and resilience plan. INWIT is listed on the Italian Stock Exchange (FTSE MIB – benchmark stock market index)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Spain: EIB Group and Santander provide €163 million to support energy efficiency projects

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • The EIB Group has invested €121 million in an asset-backed securitisation operation by Santander.
    • This EIB Group investment will enable Santander to mobilise some €163 million to promote green loans for real estate.
    • The operation will support energy efficiency and sustainability projects in Spain’s residential real estate market.

    The EIB Group – made up of the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Investment Fund (EIF) – signed a new synthetic securitisation operation with Santander to provide financing for energy efficiency investments in the Spanish real estate sector, including the construction of new near zero-emission buildings and the renovation of existing residential properties to meet sustainability standards.

    The operation will allow new green and sustainable mortgages to be granted to individuals investing in the renovation or construction of buildings with high energy efficiency standards that meet the eligibility conditions set by the EIB.

    The projects financed by this operation will improve energy efficiency, reduce CO2 emissions and help mitigate climate change. The operation contributes to EIB Group priorities such as climate action, cohesion and developing the securitisation market in Europe.

    The EIB’s commitment amounts to around €76 million, while the EIF has committed €45 million. The full EIB Group investment is being executed in a single securitisation, optimally structured to give Santander capital relief on a portfolio of residential mortgages. Under the transaction, the EIB Group will provide a €121 million unfunded guarantee in a mezzanine tranche with the goal of enabling Santander to finance new energy efficiency investments for an amount equal to 1.34 times the size of the EIB Group guarantee.

    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.

    In Spain, the EIB Group signed €12.3 billion of new financing for more than 100 high-impact projects in 2024, helping power the country’s green and digital transition and promote economic growth, competitiveness and better services for inhabitants.

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

    About Santander

    Banco Santander (SAN SM) is a leading commercial bank, founded in 1857 and headquartered in Spain and one of the largest banks in the world by market capitalization. The group’s activities are consolidated into five global businesses: Retail & Commercial Banking, Digital Consumer Bank, Corporate & Investment Banking (CIB), Wealth Management & Insurance and Payments (PagoNxt and Cards). This operating model allows the bank to better leverage its unique combination of global scale and local leadership. Santander aims to be the best open financial services platform providing services to individuals, SMEs, corporates, financial institutions and governments. The bank’s purpose is to help people and businesses prosper in a simple, personal and fair way. Santander is building a more responsible bank and has made a number of commitments to support this objective, including raising €220 billion in green financing between 2019 and 2030. At the end of 2024, Banco Santander had €1.3 trillion in total funds, 173 million customers, 8,000 branches and 207,000 employees.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ECB Consumer Expectations Survey results – January 2025

    Source: European Central Bank

    28 February 2025

    Compared with December 2024:

    • median consumer perceptions of inflation over the previous 12 months decreased, as did median inflation expectations for the next 12 months, while median inflation expectations for three years ahead remained unchanged;
    • expectations for nominal income growth over the next 12 months decreased, while expectations for spending growth over the next 12 months increased;
    • expectations for economic growth over the next 12 months became less negative, while the expected unemployment rate in 12 months’ time decreased;
    • expectations for growth in the price of homes over the next 12 months increased, while expectations for mortgage interest rates 12 months ahead declined.

    Inflation

    The median rate of perceived inflation over the previous 12 months decreased slightly in January to 3.4%, from 3.5% in December. Median expectations for inflation over the next 12 months also decreased, to 2.6% from 2.8%. In both instances, these decreases reversed the increases observed in the December 2024 data. Median expectations for inflation three years ahead were unchanged at 2.4% in January 2025. Inflation expectations at the one-year and three-year horizons thus remained below the perceived past inflation rate. Uncertainty about inflation expectations over the next 12 months remained unchanged, for the sixth month in a row, at its lowest level since February 2022. While the broad evolution of inflation perceptions and expectations remained relatively closely aligned across income groups, expectations for lower income quintiles were slightly above those for higher income quintiles. Younger respondents (aged 18-34) continued to report lower inflation perceptions and expectations than older respondents (those aged 35-54 and 55-70), albeit to a lesser degree than in previous years. (Inflation results)

    Income and consumption

    Consumers’ nominal income growth expectations over the next 12 months decreased to 0.9% in January from 1.1% in December. The drop in income growth expectations was mainly driven by the lowest income quintile, while the income growth expectations of the two highest quintiles remained unchanged. Perceived nominal spending growth over the previous 12 months decreased to 5.1% in January, from 5.2% in December, while expected nominal spending growth over the next 12 months increased to 3.6%, from 3.5% in December. (Income and consumption results)

    Economic growth and labour market

    Economic growth expectations for the next 12 months were less negative, standing at -1.1%, compared with -1.3% in December. Expectations for the unemployment rate 12 months ahead decreased to 10.4%, from 10.5% in December. Consumers continued to expect the future unemployment rate to be only slightly higher than the perceived current unemployment rate (9.9%), implying a broadly stable labour market. Quarterly data showed that unemployed respondents reported a decrease in their expected probability of finding a job over the next three months, which declined to 25.1% in January, from 29.3% in October. Employed respondents, by contrast, reported that their expected probability of job loss over the next three months decreased to 8.6% in January, from 9.0% in October. (Economic growth and labour market results)

    Housing and credit access

    Consumers expected the price of their home to increase by 3.0% over the next 12 months, which was slightly higher compared than in December (2.9%). Households in the lowest income quintile continued to expect higher growth in house prices than those in the highest income quintile (3.4% and 2.8% respectively), although the difference narrowed compared with earlier months. Expectations for mortgage interest rates 12 months ahead declined slightly to 4.5%, their lowest level since July 2022. As in previous months, the lowest income households expected the highest mortgage interest rates 12 months ahead (5.1%), while the highest income households expected the lowest rates (3.9%). The net percentage of households reporting a tightening (relative to those reporting an easing) in access to credit over the previous 12 months increased, as did the net percentage of those expecting a tightening over the next 12 months. The share of consumers who reported having applied for credit during the past three months, which is measured on a quarterly basis, declined to 15.0% in January from 15.9% in October. (Housing and credit access results)

    The release of the Consumer Expectations Survey (CES) results for February is scheduled for 28 March 2025.

    For media queries, please contact: Nicos Keranis, Tel: +49 172 758 7237

    Notes

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – STMicroelectronics’ plans to lay off 2 500 workers at its Catania facility and the effectiveness of state aid for employment in the semiconductor sector – P-000759/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000759/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Giuseppe Antoci (The Left)

    In May 2024, the Commission approved, under EU state aid rules, a EUR 2 billion Italian measure to support STMicroelectronics (STM) in the construction and operation of an integrated chip production plant for silicon carbide electrical devices in Catania.

    Recently, STM applied for wage support measures for 2 500 of its 5 400 Catania-based employees[1].

    The company’s reorganisation could lead to the closure of the Catania facility’s oldest production plant (known as CT6) and raises concerns about the prospects of the sectors linked to Europe’s automotive and semiconductor industries.

    In the light of the Commission’s Communication[2] concerning a chips act for Europe, of its package of measures on semiconductors and of Regulation (EU) 2023/1781 – which established a framework of measures for strengthening Europe’s semiconductor ecosystem – could the Commission answer the following questions:

    • 1.Given the plight of STM’s Catania facility, how effective does the Commission think that Italy’s state aid measures have been?
    • 2.How will the funds allocated to STM’s Catania project support stability and growth in employment and long-term strategic investments within the framework of the EU’s semiconductor strategy?

    Submitted: 19.2.2025

    • [1] https://www.lasicilia.it/economia/la-crisi-di-stmicroelectronics-a-catania-2-500-dipendenti-in-cassa-integrazione-per-due-settimane-2406167/.
    • [2] COM(2022) 45 final.
    Last updated: 28 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Use by Danish Fishers PO of EMFAF funding intended to promote sustainable fisheries – P-000770/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000770/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sigrid Friis (Renew)

    It has been reported in the Danish media that the producers’ organisation Danish Fishers PO (DFPO) is using money from the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) in a way that might be at odds with the aims of the fund. Although the funding is intended to promote sustainable fishing, the DFPO is allegedly using it to influence policymakers with a view to weakening or reversing sustainability measures[1].

    • 1.When the Commission approved Denmark’s EMFAF programme in December 2022, it was with a clear objective of supporting the sustainable development of fisheries. Can the Commission confirm whether it is aware of these allegations about the DFPO’s use of funds?
    • 2.Does the Commission take the view that the Danish system for checking and supervising EMFAF funding is sufficient to ensure that the funds are being used in accordance with EMFAF’s aims?
    • 3.If not, what steps can the Commission take, in cooperation with the Danish authorities, to ensure better compliance with the rules?

    Submitted: 19.2.2025

    • [1] https://www.dr.dk/nyheder/indland/organisationer-danmarks-fiskeriforening-bruger-baeredygtighedsmidler-paa-modarbejde
    Last updated: 28 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Granting EU funds to media outlets during the European election campaign – E-000804/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000804/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Friedrich Pürner (NI)

    According to several media reports, the EU awarded approximately EUR 132 million to media companies for use during campaigning for the 2024 European elections.

    Instead of public invitations to tender, this funding was granted under a ‘framework contract’, which transferred it to the advertising agency Havas Media France, a member of the Vivendi group. The agency then decided on how to allocate the funds in consultation with the EU’s leadership – but without transparency and public scrutiny.

    • 1.Under which criteria – listed according to importance – were funds to be distributed under the contract with this advertising agency?
    • 2.Were the articles, reports, contributions or similar items that appeared in the media under the framework contract during the European election campaign labelled as such – for example as ‘paid content’ or as ‘advertising’? If not, why not?
    • 3.Were German media outlets also funded under the framework contract with Havas Media France and, if so, which outlets received funding and in what amounts?

    Submitted: 21.2.2025

    Last updated: 28 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: New EU Commission proposal turns supply chain law into empty shell

    Source: Oxfam –

    The EU Commission has just presented its plans for the European Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) as part of the omnibus legislation.

    In response, Franziska Humbert, lawyer and Policy Advisor at Oxfam Germany, said:

    “The removal of civil liability equates to a loss of hard-fought legal recourse for survivors, who would finally have been able to litigate for years of human rights violations. For instance, they could have taken companies to court over health damage caused by pesticide use on banana plantations.

    “With the omnibus package, Commission President Von der Leyen is taking a chainsaw to environmental and human rights protections. The Directive is a milestone. Without binding due diligence obligations, companies will not take responsibility – something the disasters of recent years have made painfully clear: collapsing textile factories, dam failures in mining, and pesticide poisoning on banana plantations.

    “A retreat from responsibility would be disastrous. The CSDDD is a response to decades of turning a blind eye and sends a clear message: those who profit from international markets must also protect people and the environment. Undermining the law’s core obligations would harm not only the people in producing countries but also the EU’s credibility as an economic partner.”

    The proposal includes catastrophic changes to civil liability provisions and a shift away from climate protection legislations – ultimately dismantling the core of the EU’s Supply Chain Directive. The proposal put forward by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen significantly weakens existing European supply chain regulations, affecting both environmental standards and human right obligations that companies must uphold along their global supply chains.

    Joint NGO statement: “Omnibus proposal will create costly confusion and lower protection for people and the planet.”

    Giulia Melchionda  | Brussels, Belgium | giulia.melchionda@oxfam.org

    Jade Tenwick | Brussels, Belgium | jade.tenwick@oxfam.org | mobile +32 473 56 22 60 | WhatsApp only +32 484 81 22 94  (currently on leave)       

    For more information on our work and to see our latest press releases, please visit oxfam.org/eu.      
     
    For updates, follow us on Twitter, BlueSky and LinkedIn.       

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wild beavers: Nature’s engineers to return to English waterways

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Wild beavers: Nature’s engineers to return to English waterways

    Government to allow reintroduction of beavers into the wild after centuries of absence in a huge boost for nature conservation

    Credit: Beaver Trust

    • Brilliant beavers reduce flood risk, create new wetlands, and boost biodiversity
    • Reintroductions to be carefully managed under licence from Natural England

    Nature’s original master builder – the Eurasian beaver – is set to return to our waterways after centuries of absence, following a government decision to allow wild release.   

    Beavers are prodigious ecosystem engineers and proven climate champions – creating natural flood defences that can reduce flood risks and building wetlands which are thriving havens for wildlife.   

    Known as a keystone species because the habitats they create benefit myriad other species, they were once abundant in England but became extinct due to overhunting. In recent years, beavers have been returning to our waterways through a system of licensed releases into enclosures, and a limited trial of wild release in Devon.  

    Now in a major boost for conservation, the government has today (Friday 28 February) set out a new approach which will allow beavers to live wild in England’s treasured landscapes.  

    Ministers have set out how we will provide the certainty needed for conservationists, landowners and farmers in a new policy statement. It includes the detail of a new licensing system, support for landowners and farmers, and a commitment to produce a plan in consultation with these stakeholders for the long-term management of beavers in England.  

    The return of beavers will be carefully managed to avoid impacts on farming, food production and infrastructure. New wild release projects will need to have a project plan in place covering a 10-year period to support the introduction of beavers into a landscape before Natural England would consider granting a licence. 

    Nature Minister Mary Creagh said:  

    “Beavers are cherished creatures who bring so many benefits for people and our precious natural environment. They create wetlands which are havens for wildlife, reduce flood risk and improve the water quality of our rivers.  
       
    “Reintroducing beavers to the wild is a critical milestone for this Government’s plan to protect and restore our natural world.” 

    Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England, said:   

    “Beavers have been missing from our landscapes for about four hundred years and this careful approach for their planned return is a significant landmark for Nature recovery in England. 

    “Beavers are environmental engineers. The dams, ponds and canals they build not only create amazingly rich habitats for many other species, but can also help reduce flood risk, purify water and catch carbon.  

    “Under licence from Natural England, the release of wild beavers will be managed to secure the long-term environmental benefits while seeking to minimise and avoid unwanted impacts.” 

    All existing beaver populations will be allowed to remain and expand naturally and will ensure that appropriate management measures are put in place. Existing populations of wild beavers will continue to be proactively managed by their local beaver management group.    

    Through this carefully planned reintroduction programme which is defined by a 5 step management approach, we will support farmers and communities to live alongside beavers, ensuring these natural problem-solvers benefit everyone.  

    The government will also now begin work on developing a long-term beaver management plan in England. This will build on the approach announced today and be developed with input from key stakeholders, to ensure we meet the challenges and opportunities posed by an expanding beaver population well into the future.  

    It is expected that the first release of wild beavers will happen at Purbeck Heaths National Nature Reserve soon with a licence issued to the National Trust.

    Hilary McGrady, Director General of the National Trust said:  

    “This is fantastic news for nature recovery and people’s livelihoods. Beavers are unparalleled in their ability to restore landscapes, create wetlands that manage flood risk, improve our water quality, and bring back wildlife.   

    “Since 2020, we’ve introduced beavers at three National Trust sites through licensed, enclosed releases. We’ve seen first-hand the amazing benefits these fascinating mammals provide, and we’re thrilled to receive a licence for the first wild beaver release in England.  

    “It’s important to us, and the communities we work in, that beaver releases across wider landscapes happen in a responsible, carefully managed way. This licensing process is in everyone’s best interests. It will lead to well-chosen sites, minimise disruption to other landowners, and ensure local communities are fully consulted and involved enabling both people and nature thrive.”   

    Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency said:  

    “As part of our work to reduce flood risk and restore rivers to good health, the return of wild beavers will improve water quality, boost biodiversity and build resilience to climate change through nature-based solutions.  

    “Beavers help reduce flooding in nearby towns, remove pollutants from our precious waterways and help to create clean water. Working alongside our partners, the Environment Agency will continue to support the careful management of wild beavers”. 

    Applications for further wild release licences will first need to submit an ‘expression of interest’ to Natural England. The deadline for the first round of applications is 2 May 2025, with further application windows due to open in due course.   

    Additional information: 

    Dr Roisin Campbell-Palmer of Beaver Trust said: 

    “This landmark moment in England’s beaver story could be a significant step toward helping to address some of the key environmental challenges we face. We welcome Government recognition of beavers’ potential and hope they now demonstrate their commitment through widespread license granting and proactive restoration of this species across England.  

    “We are generations behind the rest of Europe in bringing this species back, we have high levels of public support for their return, so we now need a government-led national strategy and effective mitigation framework in order to facilitate population expansion and to realise the valuable societal benefits beavers can bring.  

    “We look forward to seeing details of the government’s announcement and hope that it will support measures that encourage people to live alongside beavers and form a productive step toward normalising this native species.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plan to tackle £70 million in unclaimed benefits in Highland

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Independent research shows that there is an estimated total of £70 million of unclaimed benefits in the Highland area, including £6.9 million unclaimed pension credits affecting 3000 people.  

    This means that thousands of people across Highland are currently missing out on additional financial help they are entitled to.  Securing these additional sources of income will support people to live independently and well in their communities. 

    Convener Bill Lobban added: “We are proposing the establishment of a Commission, funded by £0.300m of Reserves, to accelerate our approach to tackling poverty by identifying direct actions to shape service delivery, improve early intervention and develop integrated approaches to tackling poverty and inequality in Highland. The work would also link to other Council Delivery Plan themes such as employability, housing and health and wellbeing.” 

    Leader of the Council Raymond Bremner said: “Our proposed investment programme would target £0.870m to deliver direct support and consider ways to improve our collective approach to tackling poverty and inequality in the Highlands. This will be supported by increased funding of £0.250m to support new posts in existing Welfare services to help people draw down more of their entitled benefits. 

    “Proposals also include investing £0.320m to increase the provision of Pupil Equity Funding direct to schools and to provide targeted support within schools and the wider community to support those families experiencing poverty, as well as maximising the take-up of unclaimed welfare benefits.”  

    You can find help and advice with regard to welfare on our website. https://www.highland.gov.uk/welfare 

    Budget proposals will be considered by Council at its meeting on 6 March. 

    28 Feb 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from areas in Poland and Sweden suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Import of poultry meat and products from areas in Poland and Sweden suspended
    Import of poultry meat and products from areas in Poland and Sweden suspended
    *****************************************************************************

         ​The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (February 28) that in view of notifications from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Kościan District of Wielkopolskie Region in Poland, and in Municipality of Kristianstad of Skåne County in Sweden, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.     A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 6 600 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Poland, and about 110 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Sweden last year.     “The CFS has contacted the Polish and Swedish authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

     
    Ends/Friday, February 28, 2025Issued at HKT 17:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Today is the annual sitting of UK Youth Parliament. 🗳️

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    More than 200 Members of Youth Parliament will participate in debates in the House of Commons Chamber. This is an important opportunity for young people to speak in the House of Commons about issues that matter to them.

    Follow along here on YouTube in BSL and non-BSL.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nq-Ii5miAYI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE helps Kyrgyz law enforcement develop strategic approaches to training on cybercrime and electronic evidence

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

    Headline: OSCE helps Kyrgyz law enforcement develop strategic approaches to training on cybercrime and electronic evidence

    Workshop participants discuss in groups a competencies matrix on investigating cybercrimes and handling electronic evidence for different criminal justice roles in Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, 27 February 2025. (OSCE/Juraj Nosal) Photo details

    The OSCE Transnational Threats Department held a national workshop for 15 senior representatives of Kyrgyz law enforcement agencies in Bishkek on 27 and 28 February. The event aimed at building the agencies’ capacities to provide systematic and sustainable professional training and development on investigating cybercrimes and other crimes involving electronic evidence.
    “The complex nature of digital technologies and electronic evidence makes it impossible for all law enforcement practitioners to be experts in this field. For professional training and development to be effective, it is thus essential to first define what types of competencies are necessary for each law enforcement role. Training and educational programmes then need to be adjusted to these requirements,” said Konstantin Bedarev, Head of the Politico-Military Department of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, during his opening remarks. 
    The participants from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Office of the Prosecutor General, State Committee for National Security and their respective educational institutions discussed the development of two strategic documents in this regard: a competency framework and a training strategy. The competency framework defines skill sets and skill levels for different law enforcement roles involved in the investigation and prosecution of cybercrimes and other crimes involving electronic evidence. The training strategy then outlines a plan for the development and provision of professional training to build the necessary competencies amongst law enforcement practitioners.
    “Today, nearly all crimes include some sort of electronic evidence. Developing adequate skills and competencies in this area among law enforcement and judiciary actors is necessary for effective and efficient criminal investigations and prosecutions in every country,” emphasized Ion Gaina, a digital forensic expert from Moldova and keynote speaker at the event.
    The workshop followed the regional event on this topic held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on 5-6 December 2024 and was implemented under the second phase of the OSCE’s regional capacity-building project on combating cybercrime in Central Asia, launched in September 2024 and funded by Germany and the United States of America.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Winchester City Council Approves Budget for 2025/26

    Source: City of Winchester

    Winchester City Council has approved a balanced budget for the upcoming year, which supports vulnerable people, addresses the climate emergency, improves recycling and protects our environment.  

    The budget sets out a commitment to the roll out of weekly food waste recycling collections to all households later this year with £595,000 allocated this year (£460,000 as one-off funding).

    It has a strong emphasis on supporting vulnerable people, with additional funding to help prevent homelessness (an additional £300,000) and a revision of income bands for the council tax reduction scheme – ensuring that support continues to be received after the changes to the DWPs universal credit scheme.

    Recognising the ongoing impact of the cost of living, the council has also extended the Council Tax Exceptional Hardship Fund into 2025/6.

    The budget also allocates funding to increase capacity for planning enforcement cases, to help protect the district’s communities, its heritage and the natural environment from harmful unauthorised development.

    The budget has been aligned to help achieve the council’s priorities following approval of the new council plan, which was developed following public consultation. The Plan’s priorities include:

    • Going Greener Faster
    • Thriving Places
    • Healthy Communities
    • Good homes for all

    The council has committed to do this in a way that’s:

    • Efficient and effective
    • And where it’s listening and learning

    The full council meeting also approved an average council tax increase of 2.7%.  For a Band D property, the City Council’s share of the council tax bill will be £163.66 per year (an increase of £4.30 per year).

    The council’s immediate financial position is stable. However, as with many local authorities, it faces increasing budget pressure long term, which it is addressing through its transformation programme, focusing on reviewing contracts, creating an effective and efficient digital service and generating more income.

    Speaking about the budget, Cabinet Member for Finance and Performance Cllr Neil Cutler said:

    “I’m very pleased that we continue to be able to present a balanced budget for the forthcoming year. It is a budget that ensures we continue to enhance services for our residents and invest in projects that will create healthier communities, tackle climate change, increase access to housing and make the district a more vibrant place for residents, visitors and businesses. It also recognises future funding challenges which we’re addressing ahead of time. While we don’t have the same urgency as some of our neighbours, we expect government funding to reduce in future so we need to plan for these now.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: A letter from a mother in Gaza: Hardships, heartbreak and hope

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Health

    ‘‘This story doesn’t start from day one. It starts from nine months ago – the day I learned I was going to be a mother.”

    That day was in November 2023, around a month into the war in Gaza. Ala’a is among an estimated 155,000 pregnant women and new mothers in the Gaza Strip who for the past year have been forced to give birth under fire, in tents, while fleeing bombs and often without assistance, medication or even clean water.

    “The sound of the rockets and bombs was louder than my happiness, but I decided that with my little baby, we would overcome all difficulties,” she wrote in a letter thanking the tireless health staff who helped her deliver her baby in a field hospital in Khan Younis.

    “We will survive whatever happens.”

    UNFPA

    A letter from a mother in Gaza.

    Catastrophic situation

    The situation for pregnant women in Gaza is catastrophic: Exhausted, weak from hunger, with health services nearly completely destroyed and none of the hospitals fully operational, they have few places to turn for care and treatment.

    After hundreds of attacks on medical facilities, just 17 out of 36 hospitals are even partially functioning.

    Fuel and supplies are also running dangerously short, health-care workers are being killed or forced to flee and those that remain are stretched thin at a time when Gaza’s whole population is facing a surge in injuries, illnesses and diseases, including the first case of polio in over 25 years.

    Perils of displacement

    More than 500,000 women in Gaza have lost access to vital services like pre- and postnatal care, family planning and treatment for infections. Among them, over 17,000 pregnant women are on the brink of famine.

    “After seven months, I was forced to leave my home and live in a tent,” Ala’a continued in her letter. “I cried a lot, feeling that my brave baby would never see the walls of his room that I had always dreamed of preparing for him.”

    But, her anguish didn’t end there, as she was soon evacuated yet again.

    “It was a cry from the depths of my heart [that I had] to give birth out of my home,” wrote Ala’a. “After 50 days I fled under fire, running, screaming and crying because of the bombs. At that moment, I feared I might lose my baby.”

    Some 1.9 million people are currently displaced in Gaza, many of whom have already been forced to move multiple times over the past year. Since the start of the war, miscarriages, obstetric complications, low birth weight and premature births are reported to have risen at alarming rates, mainly due to stress, malnutrition and a near-total lack of maternity care.

    Recalling her time escaping the bombardments, Ala’a wrote, “We are here, starting from nothing – no shelter, no home, not even a destiny. We built a tent again, and we promised each other again that we must survive, whatever happens.”

    A glimmer of light

    “Two weeks later I felt some pain…It was labour pains! [I thought] ‘No. It’s too early, I want to give birth at home.’”

    After four days of labour, Ala’a visited a field hospital in Khan Younis run by UK-Med, a humanitarian non-governmental organization (NGO) that has a specialised maternity unit supported by the United Kingdom and the UN agency for sexual and reproductive health, UNFPA.

    “I came for a check-up and everything was great,” she continued. “The midwife and nurses were kind and warm. I spoke to Dr. Helen, and she encouraged me to come and give birth there.”

    When the time came, they made sure Ala’a delivered her baby safely.

    “I went directly to the hospital at 2am and all the midwives were ready. But, they told me there was no way for a natural birth, it was too dangerous.”

    UNFPA provides the hospital’s maternity unit with reproductive health kits and supplies and ensures staff can offer comprehensive care, including for obstetric emergencies.

    Ala’a and her newborn Mohammad have recovered well, despite the ongoing war and lack of clean water, food or security.

    “It was the best decision to come here to give birth,” she wrote. “I like that they smile all the time even though they are under pressure. They are a great team.”

    © UK-Med

    More than 500,000 women in Gaza have lost access to vital health services.

    Health care under fire

    The impact of the war in Gaza on women and girls is staggering: More than 500,000 women have lost access to vital services like pre- and postnatal care, family planning and treatment for infections; over 17,000 pregnant women are in severe stages of hunger.

    UNFPA and its partners are dedicated to providing reproductive health support, distributing life-saving medicines, medical equipment and supplies and deploying teams of midwives and health-care workers at both official and makeshift camps.

    Six mobile maternal health units have also been set up in field hospitals to deliver emergency obstetric care to mothers and their newborns wherever they are. But it is impossible to provide continuous support without a ceasefire, full access to health services and sustained funding.

    Despite all the hardships she has endured, Ala’a refuses to lose heart.

    “From Mohammad, my son, thanks for everything,” she wrote, expressing gratitude to the staff at the hospital.

    “We are grateful for you. I hope that we meet again in better times.”

    Donate to UNFPA here.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: No. 5/2025 – Notice to convene annual general meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nasdaq Copenhagen                                                                                   
    Nikolaj Plads 6
    DK-1067 Copenhagen K   

    Copenhagen, 28 February 2025
    ANNOUNCEMENT no. 5/2025

    CEMAT A/S
    Company reg. (CVR) no. 24 93 28 18
    Annual general meeting

    The Board of Directors hereby convene the annual general meeting of Cemat A/S (the “Company”) for Wednesday, 26 March 2025, at 1:00 pm at the office of DLA Piper Denmark, Oslo Plads 2, 2100 Copenhagen OE, Denmark.

    Agenda

    The agenda of the annual general meeting is the following:

    1. The management’s report on the Company’s activities during the past financial year.
    1. Presentation of the audited annual report for adoption.
    1. The Board of Directors’ proposal for appropriation of profit or covering of loss according to the adopted annual report.
    1. Presentation of and indicative vote on remuneration report.
    1. Approval of the Board of Directors’ fees for the current financial year.
    1. Election of members to the Board of Directors.
    2. Appointment of auditor.
    1. Proposals from the Board of Directors or shareholders.
    1. Any other business.

    Complete proposals

    Re item 1     The management’s report on the Company’s activities during the past financial year.

    The Board of Directors proposes that the general meeting takes note of the management’s report.

    Re item 2     Presentation of the audited annual report for adoption.

    The Board of Directors proposes that the general meeting adopts the annual report.

    Re item 3     The Board of Directors’ proposal for appropriation of profit or covering of loss according to the adopted annual report.

    The Board of Directors proposes that the profit for the year as recorded in the Annual Report as adopted by the general meeting be carried forward to next year.   

    Re item 4     Presentation of and indicative vote on remuneration report.

    The Board of Directors proposes that the general meeting adopts the presented remuneration report.

    Re item 5     Approval of the Board of Directors’ fees for the current financial year.

    The Board of Directors proposes that members of the Board of Directors will receive the basic fee of DKK 220,000 for the financial year 2025.

    The chairman of the Board of Directors will receive the basic fee multiplied by a factor of 2.5, and the vice-chairman will receive the basic fee multiplied by a factor of 1.75.

    Re item 6     Election of members to the Board of Directors.

    The Board of Directors proposes to re-elect:

    Frede Clausen, chairman, born 1959
    Professional board member
    Various banking qualifications
    Graduate Diploma in Business Administration
    Elected chairman in 2018
    Other duties and offices:
    Frede Clausen Holding ApS (CEO)
    Core Poland Residential V (board member)
    Malik Supply A/S (chairman)
    Developnord A/S (chairman)
    Søndergaard Holding Aalborg ApS (chairman)
    Palma Ejendomme ApS (chairman)
    Ejendomsselskabet Gøteborgvej 18 ApS (vice-chairman)
    PL Holding Aalborg A/S (chairman)
    Radioanalyzer ApS (chairman)
    Independent
    Special qualifications: Strategic management, business development and real estate
    Languages: Danish and English

    Eivind Dam Jensen, vice-chairman, born 1951
    Estate Agent
    Member of the Danish Association of Chartered Estate Agents
    Diploma in Administration
    Elected vice-chairman in 2005
    Other duties and offices:
    Owner of Chartered Estate Agency E. Dam Jensen
    Chairman and sole shareholder of A/S Eivind Dam Jensen
    Owner of Brundtland Golfcenter (via A/S Eivind Dam Jensen)
    Non-independent
    Special competences: Purchase, sale, valuation and letting of commercial and
    investment properties and property management
    Languages: Danish, English and German.

    Joanna L. Iwanowska-Nielsen, born 1968
    Real Estate Expert
    Degree in International Trade, Organisation and Management
    from the Warsaw School of Economics
    Joined the Board of Directors in 2016
    Directorships and other managerial positions:
    Member of the board of directors of Sustainable Malkowo
    Advisor to the Board of Directors, Ecofarm Foundation
    Member of the board of directors of Coille Righ Green Energy, Scotland
    Member of the board of directors of WildaNova
    Member of the board at NielsenNielsen Ltd (UK)
    Managing Partner in NOLTA Consultants and NOLTA Career Experts
    Board Member of EPI (European Property Institute) think tank
    Member of Warsaw Women in Real Estate & Development
    Founding Member of Women in Global Health’s CEE Chapter
    No directorships in other Danish companies
    Independent
    Special qualifications:
    Experience in the real estate trade in Poland, CEE and
    internationally (development, strategy, sales and project
    management in both the commercial and residential property
    sectors, including sustainable housing, farming enterprises and energy solutions)
    EMCC accredited business coach & mentor
    Languages: Polish, English and Russian.

    Brian Winther Almind, born 1966
    Executive Vice President, DSV Group Property
    Joined the Board of Directors in 2023
    Other duties and offices:
    Shipping agent – Ellegard Transport, of which 2 years were in Verona, Italy
    Traffic manager – DFDS Transport
    Traffic manager – DHL A/S
    Executive Vice President – DSV A/S since 1997
    Directorships and other managerial positions:
    Member of the board in several companies owned by DSV A/S
    Network – European Logistics Forum (ELF), VL 111
    No directorships in other Danish companies
    Special competences:
    Generel management, business development, integration of companies. Property in relation with purchase of land, public sector handling, project management, building activities, purchase and sale, leasing, law, strategy, finances, various large projects in more than 90 countries.  
    Languages: Danish and English.

    Re item 7     Appointment of auditor.

    The Board of Directors proposes that BDO Statsautoriseret Revisionsaktieselskab be reappointed.

    Re item 8     Proposals from the Board of Directors.

    No proposals have been received from the board of directors or executive board

    General information

    The Company’s nominal share capital amounts to DKK 4,997,006.06, divided into 249,850,303 shares of DKK 0.02 each. Each share of DKK 0.02 entitles the holder to one vote.

    The Company has concluded a connection agreement with VP Securities A/S. The financial rights of the shareholders may thus be exercised through VP Securities A/S.

    Requirements for adoption

    Items 2-7 considered at the general meeting will be determined by a simple majority of votes, see article 10.1 of the Company’s articles of association as well as section 105 of the Danish Companies Act.

    The Company’s website

    This notice, including the agenda, remuneration report, information about the total number of shares and voting rights on the date of the notice and proxy, postal voting and registration forms for ordering an entry card, will be made available to the shareholders on the Company’s website, www.cemat.dk, under “Investor/General Meetings” from 28 February 2025.

    This notice has also been published via Nasdaq Copenhagen A/S, the IT system of the Danish Business Authority and the Company’s website as well as by e-mail to the shareholders having requested e-mail notification of general meetings when stating their e-mail addresses.

    Date of registration

    The shareholders will be entitled to exercise the right to vote attaching to the shareholders’ shares, by attendance at the Company’s general meetings or by post pro rata to their shareholding at the date of registration, which is one week before the general meeting.

    The date of registration is Wednesday, 19 March 2025.

    The shareholding of each individual shareholder will be determined at the end of the date of registration based on the number of shares held by the shareholder according to the register of shareholders as well as any notice of ownership received by the Company for the purpose of registration in the register of shareholders, but not yet been registered. In order to be registered in the register of shareholders and included in the calculation, notices of shareholdings must be documented by a transcript from VP Securities A/S or other similar documentation. This documentation must be received by the Company before the end of the date of registration.

    Only the persons who are shareholders of the Company on the date of registration will be entitled to participate and vote at the general meeting but see below regarding the shareholders’ timely request for entry cards.

    Accordingly, any person who has purchased shares, whether by transfer or otherwise, will not be entitled to vote on the shares in question at the general meeting, unless he or she has been recorded in the register of shareholders or has notified the Company and provided documentation of his or her acquisition, no later than on the date of registration, which is Wednesday, 19 March 2025.

    Entry cards

    In order to participate in the general meeting, the shareholders must request an entry card for the general meeting no later than Friday, 21 March 2025. Entry cards may be requested electronically via www.cemat.dk until Friday, 21 March 2025, at 23:59 using MitID or custody account number and password on the Company’s shareholder portal. Shareholders registering for the general meeting electronically will immediately receive a confirmation of their registration.

    It is also possible to request an entry card by forwarding a completed registration form to the Company’s keeper of the register of shareholders, Computershare A/S, Lottenborgvej 26D, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark, which must receive the form by Friday, 21 March 2025 at 23.59. The registration form is available at www.cemat.dk.

    Please notice that ordered admission cards will no longer be sent out by ordinary mail.

    Admission cards ordered via the shareholder portal will be sent out electronically via email to the email address specified in the shareholder portal upon registration. The admission card must be presented at the annual general meeting either electronically on a smartphone/tablet or in a printed version.

    Admission cards can be picked up at the entrance of the general meeting upon presentation of a valid ID.

    Proxy

    Shareholders are entitled to attend by proxy. An electronic proxy instrument may also be submitted via the shareholder portal until Friday, 21 March 2025, at 23:59.

    The complete proxy form must be received by the Company’s keeper of the register of shareholders, Computershare A/S, by Friday, 21 March 2025, at 23:59. The proxy form is available at www.cemat.dk.

    Postal voting

    Shareholders may elect to vote by post, i.e., by casting their votes in writing, before the general meeting, instead of attending the general meeting and voting there.

    Shareholders who elect to vote by post may submit their postal vote electronically via the shareholder portal or send their postal vote to Computershare A/S where it must be received by Tuesday, 25 March 2025, at 16:00.

    Once received, a postal vote cannot be recalled. Please note that letters may sometimes take several days to reach their destination.

    Questions

    Shareholders will have an opportunity to ask questions to the agenda as well as to the other materials for the general meeting before the general meeting.

    Any questions concerning this announcement may be directed to info@cemat.dk.

    Cemat A/S

    Frede Clausen
    Chairman of the Board of Directors

    This announcement has been issued in Danish and English. In case of any inconsistencies, the Danish version will prevail.

    Please write to investor@cemat.dk to deregister from this mailing list.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Meeting with the President of the Basilicata Region

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    28 Febbraio 2025

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, met with the President of the Basilicata Region, Vito Bardi, at Palazzo Chigi today.

    The meeting focused on improving Basilicata’s water infrastructure and attracting new investments in order to foster economic and social development in the region.

    During the meeting, President Meloni also took the opportunity to wish President Bardi all the best with his work.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK UK Youth Parliament 2025 – morning session

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Today is the annual sitting of UK Youth Parliament.

    Watch UK Youth Parliament 2025 with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://youtube.com/live/n3bc0NYtOYE

    More than 200 Members of Youth Parliament will participate in debates in the House of Commons Chamber. This is an important opportunity for young people to speak in the House of Commons about issues that matter to them.

    Watch proceedings throughout the day here on YouTube.

    Please note: there will be an approximately 20 minute delay on the live feed from the chamber.

    Learn more about this year’s Youth Parliament: https://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2025/february/uk-youth-parliament-annual-session-2025/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hV_pxDQ-KHg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK UK Youth Parliament 2025 (BSL) – morning session

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Today is the annual sitting of UK Youth Parliament.

    More than 200 Members of Youth Parliament will participate in debates in the House of Commons Chamber. This is an important opportunity for young people to speak in the House of Commons about issues that matter to them.

    Watch proceedings throughout the day here on YouTube.

    Please note: there will be an approximately 20 minute delay on the live feed from the chamber.

    Learn more about this year’s Youth Parliament: https://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2025/february/uk-youth-parliament-annual-session-2025/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3bc0NYtOYE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK UK Youth Parliament 2025 (BSL) – afternoon session

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Today is the annual sitting of UK Youth Parliament.

    More than 200 Members of Youth Parliament will participate in debates in the House of Commons Chamber. This is an important opportunity for young people to speak in the House of Commons about issues that matter to them.

    Watch proceedings throughout the day here on YouTube.

    Please note: there will be an approximately 20 minute delay on the live feed from the chamber.

    Learn more about this year’s Youth Parliament: https://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2025/february/uk-youth-parliament-annual-session-2025/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kc3XrbcEYcA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK UK Youth Parliament 2025 – afternoon session

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Today is the annual sitting of UK Youth Parliament.

    Watch UK Youth Parliament 2025 with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://youtube.com/live/Kc3XrbcEYcA

    More than 200 Members of Youth Parliament will participate in debates in the House of Commons Chamber. This is an important opportunity for young people to speak in the House of Commons about issues that matter to them.

    Watch proceedings throughout the day here on YouTube.

    Please note: there will be an approximately 20 minute delay on the live feed from the chamber.

    Learn more about this year’s Youth Parliament: https://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2025/february/uk-youth-parliament-annual-session-2025/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WA0XhX-jI8A

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-Italy Trustworthy AI Visiting Researcher Programme

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    UK-Italy Trustworthy AI Visiting Researcher Programme

    From 2023 to 2024 over 30 researchers from the UK and Italy participated in the UK-Italy Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence (AI) Visiting Researcher Programme

    Conference of UK-Italy Trustworthy AI Visiting Researcher Programme

    From 2023 to 2024 over 30 researchers from the UK and Italy participated in the UK-ItalyTrustworthy Artificial Intelligence (AI) Visiting Researcher Programme, fostering collaboration across diverse AI fields such as healthcare, cybersecurity, and machine learning. Supported by the FCDO Tech Standard and Partnership Fund, the initiative strengthened bilateral ties and advanced ethical AI research.

    Programme Highlights

    Launched at the Ital-IA conference in May 2023, the programme was delivered in collaboration with The Alan Turing Institute and FAIR Foundation. It tackled the challenges of developing trustworthy AI, ensuring AI systems are resilient, safe, secure and ethical.

    This critical area benefits from international collaboration to establish shared standards and practices. The exchange saw 36 researchers spending one week to two months in host institutions, generating 70 research outputs, including joint publications, conference submissions, and project proposals for European and national funding.

    Conference panel

    Key Impacts

    With an average cost of £2,400 per exchange, the initiative was a cost-effective way to generate impactful outcomes and foster a shared commitment to ethical AI research.

    • Enhanced Collaboration: Researchers developed joint algorithms, methodologies, and solutions in safety-critical domains. This fostered alignment in approaches and laid the groundwork for future long-term placements.
    • New Opportunities: Participants advanced proposals for initiatives like Horizon Europe and a Marie Curie Fellowship, ensuring continued innovation and funding prospects.
    • Widespread Engagement: Institutions across the whole of the UK and Italy accessed the programme, ensuring a balanced geographical representation and broadening research networks.
    • Professional Development: The programme supported early-career researchers, offering valuable opportunities to establish international partnerships and enhance expertise.

    Closing Workshop and Future Directions

    The programme culminated in November 2024 with a workshop, “UK-Italy Exchange of Researchers in Trustworthy AI: A Blueprint for Future Collaboration?”

    Hosted by SIN Italy, the event celebrated achievements and identified priorities for strengthening UK-Italy AI collaboration, aligning with the upcoming Science and Technology Dialogue between the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and the Italian Ministry for University and Research.

    The UK-Italy Trustworthy AI Visiting Researcher Programme demonstrated the power of international cooperation in addressing the challenges of trustworthy AI. By creating lasting networks, advancing research, and aligning on ethical principles, this initiative sets a strong foundation for future bilateral collaboration in science and technology.

    For more information on this, please contact Alessandra Ferraris, SIN Italy: alessandra.ferraris@fcdo.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Publication of Wildlife Crime in Scotland 2023

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Official Statistics in Development publication for Scotland

    The latest statistics on wildlife crime in Scotland were published today by the Chief Statistician for Scotland. Recorded wildlife crime offences were down by 23%, from 286 offences in 2021-22 to 220 offences in 2022-23, bringing recorded wildlife crime back close to pre-pandemic levels.

    These statistics also contain data on Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service cases, criminal proceedings and scientific evidence and intelligence. Key results from the report include:

    • Over half of all recorded wildlife crimes were categorised as either offences involving birds (31%) or fish poaching (25%).
    • The Police Scotland divisions with the highest recorded wildlife offences in 2022-23 were the Highlands and Islands (35), the Lothians and Scottish Borders (32) and the North East (31).
    • The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service received 63 cases in 2022-23 relating to wildlife crime (which may include more than 1 offence per case), with fish poaching being the most common category (30 cases). Of these 63 cases, 37 (59%) received an alternative to prosecution (e.g. fine), 15 (24%) were prosecuted, and 11 (17%) resulted in no action.
    • Criminal proceedings statistics for 2022-23 show that 36 people were proceeded against for wildlife crimes – a substantial increase from 2021-22 (20 people) and 2020-21 (2 people) which had been impacted by court closures and reduced capacities.

    Background

    When a wildlife crime is suspected, the first step is for it to be reported to the police (or detected by the police), and then recorded. Further steps may include investigation to assess whether the recorded crime should be part of a case submitted to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) and then a decision on whether there is sufficient evidence for the case to be prosecuted. Ultimately a court case may result in a conviction or acquittal. All these stages may be supported by relevant scientific evidence and intelligence.

    This report presents statistics relating to 2022-23 for the various stages described above. Although these sets of statistics are related, direct comparisons between them cannot be made due to differences in data sources, timing and the bases on which statistics were collated. For example, several recorded crimes may be included in one COPFS case (involving multiple sources of scientific evidence), and subsequent criminal proceedings may occur in a different year.

    Official statistics are produced in accordance with the Code of Practice for Statistics

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New traffic calming measures to be introduced

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    The measures, devised in conjunction with community representatives and local Elected Members, aim to reduce vehicle speeds within each village and deter unnecessary commercial traffic along certain routes.

    The work will be completed in phases, starting with the installation of ramps across the main roads at the entrances to the villages of Abernyte, Balbeggie, Burrelton/Woodside, Guildtown, and Meigle.

    This work is scheduled to take place throughout March, ahead of the new road’s opening.

    The Council will monitor vehicle speeds and consult with each community before deciding on the installation of additional ramps or speed cushions within the villages.

    In addition, the 20mph speed limits in the centres of Burrelton, Coupar Angus, Meigle, and Scone will be extended to cover all residential streets, aligning with other communities in the area.

    Further measures will include the installation of Puffin crossings and electronic vehicle-activated signs in communities currently lacking these safety features. The Council will continue to assess and prioritise future road safety projects in consultation with local elected members and community councils.

    Councillor Eric Drysdale, Convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee said: “The opening of Destiny Bridge and New Kingsway will make a huge difference to traffic flow and reduce journey times but will lead to a rise in traffic in some areas.

    “We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents. These traffic calming measures are essential to manage the expected increase in traffic and to maintain the quality of life in our villages.

    “We will work closely with the communities to monitor the effectiveness of these measures and make any necessary adjustments.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Smoker ordered to pick up the tab for dropping cigarette

    Source: City of Sunderland

    A Hendon resident has been ordered to pay out more than £500 in fines and costs after being taken to court by Sunderland City Council for dropping a cigarette in the city centre.

    Vicky Hodgson of Hendon Road, Sunderland, had also ignored repeated reminders to pay a £150 fixed penalty notice served on her for the littering offence.

    Hodgson was found guilty in her absence after failing to attend the hearing at South Tyneside Magistrates Court on Tuesday 25 February.

    She was fined £220 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £88, in addition to legal costs of £150 and enforcement costs of £85.

    The court heard that Hodgson had been seen dropping a cigarette end in Waterloo Place in Sunderland city centre in July last year, despite there being litter bins nearby.

    A council neighbourhood warden who observed this, approached Hodgson and offered her the chance to accept a Fixed Penalty Notice.

    Sunderland City Council began legal proceedings after Hodgson ignored repeated reminders about the £150 Fixed Penalty Notice.

    Councillor Lindsey Leonard, Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Net Zero at Sunderland City Council, said: “There really is no excuse for this kind of behaviour, especially when there were littler bins nearby.

    “We know that our residents want to live in a clean and litter-free city and we will continue to take action against anyone who fails to dispose of their cigarette ends or other litter responsibly.

    “People who drop litter are not only risking a fixed penalty notice of £150 but could end up being taken to court and ordered to pay even more if they fail to pay up, so it’s both better for the environment and cheaper to use a litter bin.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City leaders reaffirm that innovation and growth remains priority

    Source: City of Leeds

    In response to the Government’s announcement of delays to the development of the new hospital at Leeds General Infirmary, leaders from Leeds City Council, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett University and Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust have reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to innovation and growth across the city.

    The partnership has confirmed it would continue to deliver on its long-term vision for driving innovation and growth in the city to create a healthier, greener and more inclusive future for all.

    This follows the confirmation of funding and a start date of between 2033 and 2035 for the development of the new hospital at Leeds General Infirmary.

    Despite the Government’s announcement of delays to the development of the new hospital at Leeds General Infirmary, City leaders are pleased to announce that plans for the Leeds Innovation Village, a key neighbourhood within the city’s £2 billion Leeds innovation Arc, and one of the flagship projects of the £160 million West Yorkshire Investment Zone – will still go ahead, with ambitions to start construction later this year.

    The Village, which is set to bring about £13 billion in economic growth for the city and around 4,000 jobs will continue and is already into its first phase. This includes the redevelopment of the Old Medical School on the Leeds General Infirmary site into a cutting-edge healthtech innovation hub by one of the UK’s most active, privately-owned, mixed-use developers, Scarborough Group International.

    Dame Linda Pollard DBE DL Hon. LLD, Chair of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said:

    “Our plans for a new hospital are more than healthcare and play a pivotal role in harnessing innovation and stimulating growth across Leeds and beyond. Despite the announcement of disappointing delays to our new hospital at Leeds General Infirmary, plans for the Leeds Innovation Village will still go ahead, with early phases already underway.”

    The development of a new hospital at Leeds General Infirmary, alongside wider plans to boost growth and innovation across the city, are a central part of the West Yorkshire Mayor’s local growth plan, which aims to boost the region’s fastest growing business sectors with a special focus on health and life sciences, in line with the Government’s emerging national industrial strategy.

    This latest commitment builds on a wide range of successful innovation assets across the Innovation Arc including:

    · The successful and vibrant community of innovators and entrepreneurs at Nexus, a state-of-the-art innovation hub on the University of Leeds campus. Nexus has raised £134m in private investment since launching in 2019, with a return on investment of £1.92 for every £1. To date, it has worked with 191 companies and brings together the brightest minds in business, technology and academia and cites over half of its member businesses as healthtech innovators.

    · Leeds Teaching Hospital’s fast-growing Innovation Pop Up, located in the Innovation Village on the Leeds General Infirmary site, has grown its membership to over 50 industry members

    during its first three years and is currently collaborating on around 40 projects with industry partners. The Pop Up brings work nationally and internationally to bring together world-leading clinicians and healthtech industry partners to grow innovation, research and technology for the benefit of patients.

    · Leeds Becket University’s £80m Leeds School of Art building which provides industry standard facilities for over 2500 students and 100 staff studying and researching in film, TV, technology, sound, music, drama, dance and fashion. The centre provides wider cultural and industry partnerships across Leeds.

    · An envisaged route of the West Yorkshire Mayor’s Mass Transit system would see trams run along the spine of the Innovation Arc, linking Leeds station and the South Bank to Harehills. This would bring modern, sustainable transport modes to the heart of the Innovation Arc, reducing north-south travel times, creating potential hubs around stops, and providing connections to the wider area.

    The renewed commitment will see Leeds continue its journey as one of the UK’s most stable, forward-thinking and attractive locations for health and care research and innovation. With the backing of strong collaborative leadership, Leeds ranks as the third most attractive location for healthtech firms which are ready to launch or looking to move, having the highest number of biomedical scientist undergraduates in the country and being home to nine of the top 10 investors in research and development.*”

    Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said:

    “As the home of NHS England and Europe’s largest teaching hospital, Leeds is an international magnet for health innovation, and there is no setback that can stop us from realising our potential.

    “With our multimillion-pound Investment Zone driving the development of the Old Medical School into a world-leading centre of medical and technological innovation, we will deliver jobs and growth here in West Yorkshire while transforming the lives of patients worldwide.

    “We will also continue to make the case for the all-important new hospital at Leeds General Infirmary to be built as soon as possible, as part of our wider plans to build a well-connected Innovation Arc across the city of Leeds through our new Mass Transit system, driving growth.

    Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council said:

    “We remain absolutely committed to our long-term vision for the city of stimulating innovation and economic growth that drives and delivers measurable impact towards a healthier, greener and inclusive future for all.

    “The Leeds Innovation Village, a key neighbourhood within the city’s £2 billion Innovation Arc, will progress as planned, and we’re excited about the potential it holds to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve healthcare. The transformation of the Old Medical School into a new cutting-edge health innovation hub will further solidify Leeds’ position as a global healthtech hub.”

    -ENDS-

    For further information, please contact Jessica Hardman, Head of Communications (BtLW), Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Jessica.hardman3@nhs.net

    Notes

    This recommitment has been made by:

    Professor Phil Wood, Chief Executive, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust; Cllr James Lewis, Leader, Leeds City Council; Tracy Brabin, Mayor, West Yorkshire Combined Authority; Professor Shearer West, Vice-Chancellor and President, University of Leeds; Professor Peter Slee, Vice Chancellor, Leeds Beckett University.

    *Pursing excellence report, an independent analysis of Leeds’ research and innovation in health and care, March 2024 (commissioned by Leeds Academic Health Partnership)

    The Leeds Innovation Arc, the city’s £2billion city centre science park, is a global destination for people, investment and innovation in one of the UK’s fastest growing and greenest cities with an ecosystem addressing the biggest societal challenges of our time through collaborative, diverse and innovative solutions. The Arc is home to some of the most significant innovation assets in the north of England, both public and private sector, including our two biggest universities, the hospital and Nexus at the University of Leeds, a hub for an increasing number of innovative businesses including SeeAI, Itecho Health and Atlas Endoscopy.

    Leeds City Council’s work as a city on innovation builds on our participation in the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology Regional Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program (MIT REAP) which fueled Leeds’ drive to grow the regional innovation ecosystem and bench mark ourselves and our progress.

    The Government review into the New Hospital Programme, which the new hospital at Leeds General Infirmary was part, has now concluded. The Secretary of State for Health announced on Monday 20 January that the new hospital at Leeds General Infirmary has been included in Wave 2 of the programme and will not now start construction until some time between 2033-2035.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lancaster City Council sets its budget for 2025/26 Maintaining a resilient financial foundation and protecting essential services are at the heart..

    Source: City of Lancaster

    Lancaster City Council has set its budget for 2025/26

    Maintaining a resilient financial foundation and protecting essential services are at the heart of Lancaster City Council’s budget for 2025/26, which was agreed on Wednesday (February 26).

    Like many local authorities, the city council has to deal with increases in its operating costs, along with higher interest rates, and a real-terms cut in core funding from the Government.

    Following months of hard work by officers and councillors, a balanced budget has been achieved for 2025/26 without use of reserves.

    The city council’s component of Council Tax, its most stable source of funding, will increase by an average of 2.99%, or 14p a week, for a Band D property. Once again, this increase is lower than the percentage hikes imposed by other authorities that receive the majority of residents’ council tax payments.

    In the next financial year, Band D property residents will pay an average of £5.08 a week (£264.30 a year) to the city council for the services which it provides.

    As 80% of the district’s homes are in the lowest bands (A to C) the actual increase will be lower for most households. The council has also agreed to continue 100% Council Tax Support benefit for those on the lowest incomes, one of a minority of local authorities in England to do so.

    Councillor Tim Hamilton-Cox, cabinet member with responsibility for finance, said: “As with all public services, the city council remains under pressure financially but is determined to protect the vital services it provides for the community.

    “With those significant challenges in mind I can be satisfied that we have delivered a balanced budget, maintained the range of our services and external grants, and ensured that we can continue to invest in the future of our district.

    “A majority of councillors supported the £27m (which includes over £6m of external funding) programme of capital investment in 2025/26. The programme includes replacement of half of the refuse collection vehicle fleet in order to maintain reliability of service; investment in the council’s existing assets to reduce operating costs; and in new assets to generate new long-term income streams for the council.”

    2024/25

    2025/26

    Increase

    £

    £

    £

    %

    Lancashire County Council

    1,653.29  

    1,735.79

    82.50

    4.99

    Lancashire Police & Crime

    263.40

    277.40  

    14

    5.32

    Lancashire Fire Authority

    84.73

    89.73

    5 

    5.90

    Lancaster City Council  

    256.63

    264.30

    7.67

    2.99

    Total

    2,258.05     

    2,367.22

    109.17

    4.83

    In addition, residents living in areas with a parish council pay an additional precept to their parish council.

    Last updated: 28 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coming up next week at the London Assembly W/C 3 March

    Source: Mayor of London

    PUBLIC MEETINGS
      
    Tuesday 4 March
     
    Q&A with the Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy
    Environment Committee     – Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    The London Assembly Environment Committee will meet with the Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy for a question and answer session, exploring the progress made in achieving the Mayor’s manifesto priorities, as well as wider progress on areas in the London Environmental Strategy and London’s 2030 net zero target.

    Other topics will include noise pollution, airport expansion, the proposed new green roots fund, and swimmable rivers.

    The guests are:

    • Mete Coban MBE, Deputy Mayor of London for Environment and Energy
    • Megan Life, Assistant Director for Environment and Energy, Greater London Authority (GLA)
    • Pete Daw, Head of Climate Change, GLA

    MEDIA CONTACT: Tony Smith on 07763 251727 / [email protected] 
     
    Wednesday 5 March
     
    End-of-life Care in London
    Health Committee – Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    The London Assembly Health Committee will ask guests about the state of end-of-life care provision in London, with a particular focus on end-of-life care for elderly people.

    The guests are:

    Panel 1: 10am – 11.25am

    •    Dr Katherine Buxton, Clinical Director for Palliative and End-of-Life Care Network, NHS England, London
    •    Dr Lyndsey Williams, General Practitioner and Clinical Lead for End-of-Life Care, North West London Integrated Care Board
    •    Sarah Scobie, Deputy Director of Research, Nuffield Trust

    Panel 2: 11.30am – 1pm

    • Becca Trower, Joint CEO and Clinical Director, St Raphael’s Hospice
    • Ruth Driscoll, Associate Director for Policy & Public Affairs, Marie Curie
    • Dr Armita Jamali, Consultant in Palliative Medicine, The Royal Marsden and Royal Brompton Hospitals
    • Dr Libby Sallnow, Associate Professor, Head of Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, University College London

    MEDIA CONTACT: Alison Bell on 07887 832918 / [email protected]  
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: mRESVIA RSV vaccine approved to protect patients aged 60 and over

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    mRESVIA RSV vaccine approved to protect patients aged 60 and over

    A study found that around 4 months after vaccination, people who received the RSV vaccine had a 79% reduction in their risk of getting lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV, compared with those who received placebo.

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved an mRNA respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine (brand name mRESVIA) to protect patients aged 60 and over against lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV.

    RSV is a common virus that spreads very easily and causes respiratory tract disease in people of all ages. RSV infection can be mild, with cold-like symptoms including blocked nose, cough, and/or sore throat. However, the virus can also cause more serious problems, such as lung infections and pneumonia. Older adults are at risk of more serious complications that can lead to hospital admission and even death.

    Julian Beach, MHRA Interim Executive Director, Healthcare Quality and Access, said:

    “Keeping patients safe and enabling their access to high quality, safe and effective medical products are key priorities for us.

    “We’re assured that the appropriate regulatory standards for the approval of this medicine have been met.

    “As with all products, we will keep its safety under close review.”

    This vaccine is administered as an intramuscular injection in the top of the arm by a doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. The recommended dose is 0.5 mL.

    The vaccine works by preparing the body to defend itself against RSV. It contains an active substance called messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) to carry instructions that cells in the body can use to make the same protein that is also present on the virus. This protein stimulates the body’s natural defences (immune system) to produce antibodies which help protect against lung diseases caused by RSV.

    This national approval is supported by evidence from a study in over 35,000 adults who were age 60 or older. In this study, participants were given either a single dose of the RSV vaccine or a placebo (dummy) injection.

    The study found that around 4 months after vaccination, people who received the RSV vaccine had a 79% reduction in their risk of getting lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV, compared with those who received placebo.

    The most common side effects of the vaccine, which may affect more than 1 in 10 people, include swelling/tenderness in the underarm, headache, muscle ache, joint aches, pain at the injection site, tiredness, and chills.

    As with any medicinal product, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of this RSV vaccine under close review. Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this vaccine are encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist, or nurse and report it directly to the Yellow Card scheme, either through the website (https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/) or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card.

    Notes to editors 

    1. The new marketing authorisation was granted on 27 February 2025 to Moderna Biotech Spain.
    2. More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information Leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval.
    3. For more information can be found on the NHS website about respiratory tract disease and RSV
    4. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.
    5. The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.
    6. For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor says acquisition of Timberquay is significant milestone in university expansion plans

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Mayor says acquisition of Timberquay is significant milestone in university expansion plans

    28 February 2025

    The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr has welcomed news that the Department for the Economy and Ulster University have acquired the Timber Quay building on Derry’s Strand Road as part of plans to expand the university.

    Mayor Barr said the news marked a significant milestone for the city and district that would bolster the expansion of Ulster University’s Derry~Londonderry campus.

    She said: “We continue to champion the growth of Magee, recognising its transformative potential to drive economic prosperity, create opportunities for our young people, and enhance our city’s vibrant cultural and intellectual landscape. The expansion of the university is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about investing in our future. It’s about creating a dynamic learning environment that attracts and retains talent, fosters innovation, and strengthens our position as a hub for education and research. The availability of Timber Quay will enable the university to increase its student numbers and drive forward the ambition to reach 10,000 students by 2032.”

    Mayor Barr added that the expansion of the university will further contribute to the catalytic investment that is the cornerstone of the Derry and Strabane City Deal, playing a crucial role in driving economic and social transformation for the region.

    “This expansion is not merely about increasing student numbers; it’s about creating a hub of innovation, research, and skilled workforce development. Projects like the Cognitive Analytics & Digital Robotics Innovation Centre (CADRIC) and the School of Medicine are designed to attract further investment, stimulate job creation, and create class leading research that will enhance our local economy ultimately securing a prosperous future for Derry and Strabane.”

    The Mayor concluded that the acquisition of Timber Quay would also have a positive impact on the wider community including local businesses who will benefit from increased footfall, with the potential to attract further investment, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

    “I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Department, Ulster University, and all the stakeholders who have played a crucial role in making this happen. This achievement is an example of successful collaboration to achieve a common goal.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –