NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council agrees extra funding for vital care services in 2025/26 budget

    Source: City of Plymouth

    An annual budget that injects more than £30 million of additional funding to meet ongoing cost and demand pressures in essential social care and homelessness services has been agreed by Plymouth City Council. 

    The additional funds have been included in the £253.4 million revenue budget for 2025/26 approved by at the Full Council meeting on Monday (24 February). 

    Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “Despite the huge financial challenges we continue to face, we have not only managed to balance the books but also delivered a budget that remains hugely ambitious for growing Plymouth’s prosperity and delivering what Plymouth residents say matters most – creating jobs, more affordable housing, improving health, increasing safety and most importantly, supporting the elderly and protecting the most vulnerable children in Plymouth. 

    “It is also a budget that protects and enhances valued services such as libraries, grass cutting, street cleansing and repairing our roads and pavements.  

    “This is a budget that allow Plymouth to continue to do remarkable things in difficult circumstances.” 

    The additional funding includes £16 million additional funding for protecting vulnerable children, £2 million for school transport for children with a Special Education Needs and Disability (SEND), £12 million for adult social care and £724,000 to support the homeless. 

    An extra £770,000 has also been allocated to help reduce the Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) waiting list. 

    The additional funding means that 83 per centof the Council’s total revenue budget is now spent on social care services. 

    The 2025/26 budget also maintains a £300,000 uplift in the grass cutting budget and an additional £425,000 to increase the staff resource in the Street Services team, which manages grass cutting, street cleansing and waste collection services. 

    It also includes an additional £250,000 to support funding the Council’s Net Zero commitment, an extra £141,000 to support the Council’s leisure provider Plymouth Active Leisure and £226,000 to support foster carers with an additional allowance. 

    To deliver a balanced budget the Council needs to continue to transform how it operates to increase efficiency and reduce cost. The agreed budget requires that a total of £9.6 million savings need to be delivered by all Council departments.  

    They include £3.1 million of savings plans through the ongoing transformation of Children’s Services and £2.7 million of savings in the Adults, Health and Communities directorate through its modernisation plans and contract savings.  

    To support the budget a Council Tax increase of 2.99 per cent and a two per cent precept to support adult social care services was agreed.  

    The full council also agreed a capital programme of £395.8 million for 2024/25 to 2028/29. 

    This includes funding for the transport improvement schemes, such as the Woolwell to The George scheme; the rail station regeneration scheme; investment in housing projects and tackling homelessness; projects delivering the city’s net zero ambitions; introducing zero emission buses; delivering Plymouth and South Devon Freeport, the Armada Way regeneration scheme; highway maintenance, drainage and essential engineering projects; and the regeneration of key waterfront assets such as Tinside Lido through the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Kneat to Announce 2024 Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year Financial Results February 26, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LIMERICK, Ireland, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — kneat.com, inc. (TSX: KSI) (OTC: KSIOF) (“Kneat” or the “Company”) a leader in digitizing and automating validation and quality processes, announced today that the Company will release its financial results for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, after TSX market close on February 26, 2025.

    Eddie Ryan, Chief Executive Officer and Hugh Kavanagh, Chief Financial Officer, will host a conference call and Q&A for sell side analysts via webcast on February 27, 2025 at 09:00 ET (14:00 GMT).

    Interested parties can register for the live webcast via the following link:

    Register Here

    The fourth-quarter financial results will be available from the Financial Information section of the Investors page on the Kneat Solutions website, at: https://kneat.com/investors/ 

    About Kneat
    Kneat Solutions provides leading companies in highly regulated industries with unparalleled efficiency in validation and compliance through its digital validation platform Kneat Gx. As an industry leader in customer satisfaction, Kneat boasts an excellent record for implementation, powered by our user-friendly design, expert support, and on-demand training academy. Kneat Gx is an industry-leading digital validation platform that enables highly regulated companies to manage any validation discipline from end-to-end. Kneat Gx is fully ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 certified, fully validated, and 21 CFR Part 11/Annex 11 compliant. Multiple independent customer studies show a 40% or more reduction in validation cycle times, nearly 20% faster speed to market, and 80% reduced changeover time. For more information visit www.kneat.com.

    For further information:

    Katie Keita, Investor Relations Lead, +902-706-9074, katie.keita@kneat.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A peace that rewards aggression is not real peace: UK Statement in the UN General Assembly

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    A peace that rewards aggression is not real peace: UK Statement in the UN General Assembly

    Explanation of vote by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, in the UN General Assembly Emergency Special Session on Ukraine.

    The United Kingdom welcomes the resumption of this Special Session on Ukraine.

    Three years on, Russia’s illegal and unprovoked invasion has caused untold suffering, most recently in the massive wave of drone attacks over the weekend, reportedly the largest in a single night in three years.

    Millions of Ukrainians have fled their homes, tens of thousands of civilians have been killed.

    Children forcibly deported. 

    Schools, homes, hospitals, places of worship destroyed.  

    And Russia’s forces have committed the most appalling crimes – summary executions, torture, rape.

    Enough is enough, as the Secretary-General reminded us.

    Russia’s aggression did not begin three years ago, but long before that. 

    When my Prime Minister spoke to President Zelenskyy this week, he was clear that any outcome to the war must safeguard Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. 

    A peace that rewards aggression is not a real peace.

    And a peace that rewards aggression will not last.

    Because Putin has a long track record of making deals with his fingers crossed behind his back.   

    Well, not this time.

    We must not make the mistake of weak deals of the past. 

    This time, there must be peace through strength.

    And that is why there can be no negotiations about Ukraine, without Ukraine.

    Colleagues, it is not just Ukraine’s security that is at stake.  

    It is Britain’s too.  

    But it is the security of all of us.  

    Every single Member State who does not want to see tanks driving over their border, killing their people, stealing their children and redrawing their borders on a whim.

    Today 93 countries again stood with Ukraine, voting to reaffirm our respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and for the UN Charter.

    We all want an end to this war.

    No country more so than Ukraine and its people.

    As my Prime Minister has said, the UK is ready to play its part to support efforts for peace.  

    We will continue to support Ukraine to defend itself and to have its voice heard.

    But let us not forget a simple truth: that Russia could end this war tomorrow, by ceasing its aggression and withdrawing its forces from Ukraine.

    But the Kremlin shows no more sign of that than they have done at any point in the last three years.

    So today, as for the last three years and for the future, we stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine and with our allies for as long as it takes.

    Until Ukraine wins a peace that respects the UN Charter and delivers a secure future for its people and for all of us.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: G7 Leaders’ video conference meeting

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    24 Febbraio 2025

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, attended today’s video conference of G7 leaders, organised by the Group’s current Canadian Presidency on the third anniversary of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. President Meloni reiterated that Italy’s priority is to build a just and lasting peace, together with European and Western partners and together with Ukraine. This prospect of peace is possible today thanks to the heroic resistance of the Ukrainian people and Western support, which has never faltered over the last three years, and it must be based on the definition of real and effective security guarantees. Italy has been there over these three difficult years, and will continue to be, together with the rest of Europe and the West, for a future of sovereignty, prosperity and, above all, freedom.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of Spain Pedro Sánchez

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, in Kyiv, Ukraine, where they joined other world leaders to mark three years since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

    The prime ministers discussed their unwavering support for a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine, stressing that any peaceful end to the conflict must include Ukraine at the negotiating table. Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated that Ukraine’s long-term interests and security must be guaranteed as part of any outcome of negotiations.

    The leaders also shared their concern over the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, including the Maduro regime’s persistent disregard for the principles of democratic governance, rule of law, and human rights.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Sánchez agreed to stay in touch and to continue working together on shared priorities, including in the areas of climate action and multilateralism.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Names Acting Associate Administrator, More Leadership Changes

    Source: NASA

    NASA acting Administrator Janet Petro announced Monday Vanessa Wyche will serve as the acting associate administrator for the agency at NASA Headquarters in Washington, effective immediately. Wyche, who had been the director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, is detailed as Petro’s senior advisor leading the agency’s center directors and mission directorate associate administrators. She will act as the agency’s chief operating officer for about 18,000 civil servant employees and an annual budget of more than $25 billion. Stephen Koerner will become the acting center director of NASA Johnson.
    The agency also named Jackie Jester as associate administrator for the Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs and announced Catherine Koerner, associate administrator for the agency’s Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate will retire effective Friday, Feb. 28. Lori Glaze, currently the deputy associate administrator for Exploration Systems Development will become the mission directorate’s acting associate administrator.
    “As we continue to advance our mission, it’s crucial that we have strong, experienced leaders in place,” Petro said. “Vanessa will bring exceptional leadership to NASA’s senior ranks, helping guide our workforce toward the opportunities that lie ahead, while Steve will continue to provide steadfast leadership at NASA Johnson. Jackie’s return to the agency will ensure we remain closely aligned with national priorities as we work with Congress. Cathy’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication to human spaceflight, and we are grateful for her years of service. Lori’s leadership will continue to build on that legacy as we push forward in our exploration efforts. These appointments reflect NASA’s unwavering commitment to excellence, and I have full confidence that each of these leaders will carry our vision forward with purpose, integrity, and a relentless drive to succeed.”
    Prior to her new role, Wyche was the director NASA Johnson – home to America’s astronaut corps, Mission Control Center, International Space Station, Orion and Gateway Programs, and its more than 11,000 civil service and contractor employees. Her responsibilities included a broad range of human spaceflight activities, including development and operation of human spacecraft, NASA astronaut selection and training, mission control, commercialization of low Earth orbit, and leading NASA Johnson in exploring the Moon and Mars.
    During her 35-year career, Wyche has served in several leadership roles, including Johnson’s deputy center director, director of Exploration Integration and Science Directorate, flight manager of several Space Shuttle Program missions, and executive officer in the Office of the Administrator. A native of South Carolina, Wyche earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and Master of Science in Bioengineering from Clemson University. 
    As deputy director of NASA Johnson, Stephen Koerner, oversaw strategic workforce planning, serves as the Designated Agency Safety Health Officer, and supported the Johnson center director in mission reviews. Before his appointment in July 2021, Koerner held various leadership roles at NASA Johnson, including director of the Flight Operations Directorate, associate director, chief financial officer, deputy director of flight operations, and deputy director of mission operations.
    In her new role as the associate administrator for the Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, Jester will direct a staff responsible for managing and coordinating all communication with the U.S. Congress, as well as serve as a senior advisor to agency leaders on legislative matters.  
    Jester rejoins the agency after serving as the senior director for government affairs at Relativity Space’s Washington office where she led policy engagement for the company. Prior to her time with Relativity, she served as a policy advisor at NASA and at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. She has served as a professional staff member for the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. She has spent time in state government as the Chief Legislative Aide to a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Jester has significant experience advising on space policy issues, aviation operations and safety policy, and has helped develop numerous pieces of legislation.
    With a 34-year career at NASA, Catherine Koerner has been instrumental in leading NASA’s Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, overseeing the development of the agency’s deep space exploration approach. Previously, she was the deputy associate administrator for the mission directorate. Her extensive career at NASA includes roles such as the Orion program manager, director of the Human Health and Performance Directorate, former NASA flight director, several leadership positions within the International Space Station Program during its assembly phase and helping to foster a commercial space industry in low Earth orbit.
    Glaze has a distinguished background in planetary science, previously serving as the director of NASA’s Planetary Science Division before joining Explorations Systems Development. Prior to her tenure at NASA Headquarters in Washington, she was the chief of the Planetary Geology, Geophysics and Geochemistry Laboratory at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, and the Deputy Director of Goddard’s Solar System Exploration Division. She has been a leading advocate for Venus exploration, serving as the principal investigator for the Deep Atmosphere Venus Investigation of Noble gases, Chemistry, and Imaging mission. Glaze earned her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science degrees in Physics from the University of Texas at Arlington and a doctorate in Environmental Science from Lancaster University in the United Kingdom. Her prior experience includes roles at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and at Proxemy Research as Vice President and Senior Research Scientist.
    For more about NASA’s missions, visit:

    Home Page

    -end-
    Amber Jacobson / Kathryn HambletonHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600amber.c.jacobson@nasa.gov / kathryn.a.hambleton@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 24.02.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    24 February 2025 at 22:30 EET

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 24.02.2025

    Espoo, Finland – On 24 February 2025 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 1,317,492 4.75
    CEUX – –
    BATE – –
    AQEU – –
    TQEX – –
    Total 1,317,492 4.75

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 22 November 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to offset the dilutive effect of new Nokia shares issued to the shareholders of Infinera Corporation and certain Infinera Corporation share-based incentives. The repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 25 November 2024 and end by 31 December 2025 and target to repurchase 150 million shares for a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 900 million.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 24 February 2025 was EUR 6,260,063. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 257,147,700 treasury shares.

    Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement.

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

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

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

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

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 931 580 507
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Harmonisation of cargo securing regulations – E-000565/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000565/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Liesbet Sommen (PPE)

    Annex 3 to Directive 2014/47/EU on roadside inspection covers the securing of cargo (cargo securing). However, the directive merely constitutes a recommendation and not an obligation. This has resulted in some countries transposing it in full, others only partially and some not at all. These differences mean that different parties are treated differently, especially carriers, and there is an increased risk of accidents and work-related injuries for drivers.

    Within Europe, there is a lot of intermodal traffic, with loads often leaving in CTUs (containers) or vehicle units (semi-trailers) that remain the same from start to finish. Because of the large number of cross-border transportations, there is no uniformity with regard to how to secure cargo or what regulations loading units must comply with to be fit for transport. This leads to strange situations, for example, where goods are allowed to be transported in France but are stopped in Belgium.

    Questions:

    • 1.Does the European Commission recognise that this issue hinders the free movement of goods in the internal market?
    • 2.Will the revision of Annex 3 make the inclusion of cargo securing regulations a legal requirement?
    • 3.Will there be more harmonisation to avoid strange situations and fines in cross-border transportation, and could generally valid physical formulae be used instead of the current multitude of standards (such as EUMOS, VDI, DIN)?

    Submitted: 7.2.2025

    Last updated: 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission’s opinion on the clear abuses of the judiciary for settling political scores with the current opposition in Slovenia – P-000655/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000655/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Branko Grims (PPE)

    Again and again we have seen obviously politically motivated proceedings being launched against Janez Janša in the run-up to elections. Then after the elections the proceedings are halted, only to be revived when the next elections are approaching. This has been going on for two decades, so it is obvious that this abuse is politically motivated.

    In the Kafkaesque Patria case, which went on for a decade, Janez Janša was tried for having ‘somewhere’, ‘at some time’ made an ‘unknown promise’ and on the basis of that absurd construct was imprisoned ahead of an election. After the election, Slovenia’s Constitutional Court quashed the ruling.

    Now he is on trial in what is referred to as the ‘Trenta’ case. Some thirty years ago, Mr Janša bought a plot with a house in the Trenta valley. It was in the national park, where new building is not permitted. But replacement construction is permitted so these properties change hands at higher prices. In 2005 he sold the property for a higher price. The prosecution argues that the acquisition of the property by the management of a private company was ‘financially detrimental’, even though many properties in tourist areas and in Ljubljana were bought and sold for a substantially bigger price difference in a comparable period.

    What is the Commission’s opinion on this clear abuse of the judiciary to politically discredit the opposition in Slovenia?

    Submitted: 12.2.2025

    Last updated: 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Portugal Presents Credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    João António da Costa Mira Gomes, the new Permanent Representative of Portugal to the United Nations Office at Geneva, today presented his credentials to Tatiana Valovaya, the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva.

    Prior to his appointment to Geneva, Mr. da Costa Mira Gomes had been serving as Portugal’s Ambassador to Spain since February 2020. He served as Ambassador to Germany from 2015 to 2020, and as Permanent Representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in Brussels from 2010 to 2015.  He was also Embassy Secretary at the Portuguese Delegation to the Organization from 1987 to 1993.       

    Mr. da Costa Mira Gomes was Portugal’s Secretary of State for National Defence and Maritime Affairs from 2006 to 2009.  He was Portugal’s Representative to the European Union’s Political and Security Committee and Permanent Representative to the Western European Union in Brussels in 2005 and 2006.  Other positions he has held include being Minister Counsellor at the Portuguese Embassy in Paris from 2001 to 2005; Chargé d’Affaires at the Portuguese Embassy in Sofia, on special assignment, in 2000 and 2001; and Chief of Staff to the Director-General for Foreign Policy in 1996 and 1997.

    Mr. da Costa Mira Gomes has a law degree from the Portuguese Catholic University.  He joined the Diplomatic Service in 1984.  He was born in Lisbon on 4 December 1959 and is married with two children.

    ________

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

    CR.25.054E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Joint Statement on the resumption of India-UK trade negotiations

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 5:08PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom the Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer met on the sidelines of the G-20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in November 2024 to underline the importance of resuming trade negotiations at an early date.

    Today the Republic of India and the United Kingdom have resumed negotiations towards a trade deal between our two countries. This announcement has been made by Minister for Commerce and Industry of India Shri Piyush Goyal and Secretary of State for the Department for Business and Trade of the United Kingdom the Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds who is in Delhi. This announcement is an outcome of the above stated discussions held at the level of Prime Ministers of the two countries.

    India and the United Kingdom have a close partnership, built through collaboration on security and defence, new and emerging technologies, climate, health, education, research and innovation, green finance and people-to-people contacts. At the centre of this relationship is the collective aspiration to deliver economic growth and sustainable development.

    Both sides have agreed to resume negotiations towards a balanced, mutually beneficial and a forward-looking deal that delivers mutual growth and builds on the strengths of the two complementary economies. The strengthening of the trading relationship between our two countries has the potential to unlock opportunities for business and consumers across both our nations and build further on our already deep ties.

    The two leaders directed the negotiators to work together to resolve the outstanding issues in the agreement to ensure a fair and equitable trade deal for shared success.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijeet Narayanan

    (Release ID: 2105784) Visitor Counter : 116

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panel to examine measures adopted by Türkiye targeting Chinese electric vehicle imports

    Source: World Trade Organization

    DS629: Türkiye — Measures Concerning Electric Vehicles and Other Types of Vehicles from China

    China submitted its second request for the establishment of a dispute panel to rule on various measures taken by Türkiye concerning electric vehicles (“EVs”) and certain other types of vehicles originating in China. China’s first request was blocked by Türkiye at the previous DSB meeting on 27 January. China said challenges faced by one member’s industry need to be addressed in a way consistent with its WTO obligations and should not be used as an excuse for abandoning the core principle of non-discrimination that is the bedrock of the WTO and of the rules-based international trading system.

    Türkiye said it is deeply concerned that China is making such a request before all possible bilateral consultations are exhausted. China’s request relates to a major sector that has been facing strong challenges for many years due to uncompetitive practices, subsidization and excess capacity, Türkiye said.

    The DSB agreed to the establishment of the panel. The European Union, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Brazil, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Switzerland, Norway, Singapore, the Russian Federation, Thailand and India reserved their third-party rights to participate in the panel proceedings.

    DS593: European Union — Certain Measures Concerning Palm Oil and Oil Palm Crop-Based Biofuels

    Indonesia noted the panel ruling circulated on 10 January, which it said found that the European Union’s 2018 renewable energy directive and related regulations unfairly discriminated against Indonesia’s palm oil biofuels. The economic impact of these discriminatory measures is substantial and has severely affected Indonesian palm oil exports, impacting millions of farmers and businesses, Indonesia said. It called on the EU to adjust its policy and the measures at issue so that they are in line with the WTO agreements; Indonesia will closely monitor implementation and expects swift compliance.

    The European Union said it welcomed the panel’s findings, which confirm that the EU has the right to take measures to ensure that its policies on renewable fuels do not exacerbate greenhouse gas emissions associated with indirect land-use change. While it raised some concerns regarding the panel’s findings, the EU said the panel found that the EU measures aim to achieve legitimate environmental objectives and that they are science-based.

    Russia, Brazil, the United States, and St Vincent and the Grenadines (for the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States) took the floor to comment on the panel report.

    The DSB took note of the statements and adopted the panel report.

    DS599: Panama — Measures Concerning the Importation of Certain Products from Costa Rica

    Costa Rica made a statement criticizing Panama’s decision to appeal the panel report in DS599, which upheld Costa Rica’s complaint regarding Panama’s import restrictions on various fruit, dairy and meat products from Costa Rica. Costa Rica proposed a bilateral agreement to Panama that would enable both parties to proceed to arbitration under Article 25 of the Dispute Settlement Understanding (DSU), but Panama refused, Costa Rica said. Panama’s appeal “into the void” should serve to highlight the importance of alternative avenues under the DSU to resolve disputes, Costa Rica said.

    Panama said it reaffirms its commitment to international law and to the WTO agreements in general and the DSU in particular, and its willingness to settle any dispute with its trading partners.

    The European Union, Canada and Colombia made statements on the matter.

    Appellate Body appointments

    Colombia, speaking on behalf of 130 members, introduced for the 84th time the group’s proposal to start the selection processes for filling vacancies on the Appellate Body. The extensive number of members submitting the proposal reflects a common interest in the functioning of the Appellate Body and, more generally, in the functioning of the WTO’s dispute settlement system, Colombia said.

    The United States repeated that the US is currently transitioning to a new administration and that, as US concerns with WTO dispute settlement remain unaddressed, it does not support the proposed decision.

    Twenty-two members then took the floor to comment, one speaking on behalf of the ACP Group. Most reiterated their support for the joint proposal and for the urgent need to restore a fully functioning dispute settlement system. Several welcomed the progress made in the dispute settlement reform discussions last year and supported the proposal by the previous General Council Chair to commence consultations on advancing the discussions.

    Ten members (China; Canada; Hong Kong, China; Switzerland; Singapore; the European Union; Australia; Norway; Japan; and New Zealand) urged members to consider joining the Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arrangement (MPIA), a contingent measure to safeguard the right to appeal in the absence of a functioning Appellate Body.

    Colombia said on behalf of the 130 members that it regretted that, on 84 occasions, members have not been able to launch the selection processes. Ongoing conversations about reform of the dispute settlement system should not prevent the Appellate Body from continuing to operate fully, and, in line with 17.2 of the DSU, members shall comply with their obligation under the Dispute Settlement Understanding to fill the vacancies as they arise, Colombia said on behalf of the group.

    Surveillance of implementation

    The United States presented status reports with regard to DS184, “United States — Anti-Dumping Measures on Certain Hot-Rolled Steel Products from Japan”, DS160, “United States — Section 110(5) of US Copyright Act”, DS464, “United States — Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Measures on Large Residential Washers from Korea”, and DS471, “United States — Certain Methodologies and their Application to Anti-Dumping Proceedings Involving China.”

    The European Union presented a status report with regard to DS291, “EC — Measures Affecting the Approval and Marketing of Biotech Products.”

    Indonesia presented its status reports in DS477 and DS478, “Indonesia — Importation of Horticultural Products, Animals and Animal Products.” 

    Election of Chairperson

    At the end of the meeting, the DSB elected Ambassador Clare Kelly of New Zealand as Chair of the DSB for the coming work year.

    Next meeting

    The next regular DSB meeting will take place on 24 March.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Germany: Human rights must be a priority for new government after ‘poisonous’ electoral campaign

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Reacting to the Bundestag elections results, Julia Duchrow, Amnesty International Germany’s Secretary General, said:

    “This election campaign was divisive poison for our society. It is not mistrust or racist agitation that makes our coexistence safe, but a commitment to the fundamental values of our society: inalienable human rights.

    “We therefore call on all parties tasked with forming a government to recognise the non-negotiability of human rights and international law.

    “The next German government must work to build a strong civil society, bring an end to misanthropic debates and strengthen international law and the institutions that uphold it.

    “In recent weeks, a huge wave of solidarity has emerged in Germany and the activists who stand up for human rights and challenge racism and discrimination need our support, now more than ever.

    “We must ensure that this wave of solidarity does not ebb away and that we remain active and united. We must demonstrate our commitment to the rule of law and human rights wherever we are: in our neighbourhoods, our workplaces and our homes.”

    View latest press releases

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Telephone conversation with the leader of the CDU, Friedrich Merz

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    24 Febbraio 2025

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, had a telephone conversation today with the leader of the CDU, Friedrich Merz. 

    First of all, President Meloni offered her congratulations for his victory in the German elections, and confirmed the hope to be able to further intensify the already excellent bilateral relations. President Meloni also expressed her readiness to immediately work closely together in order to strengthen Europe’s security, revitalise its competitiveness and address the numerous common challenges, starting with the fight against irregular immigration.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Excess mortality since 2020 – E-002411/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Data on excess mortality in EU/European Economic Area (EEA) countries is collected by the EuroMOMO project and by the Eurostat, the Statistical Office of the EU.

    The EuroMOMO project is a European mortality monitoring activity based on overall mortality, but not cause-specific, supported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), and hosted by Statens Serum Institut, Denmark[1].

    The statistical office of the European Union (DG ESTAT) publishes an excess mortality indicator, which is based on data from National Statistical Institutes on weekly deaths on a voluntary basis since April 2020[2].

    In the years 2020-2023 the excess deaths rates correlate with the COVID-19 waves and are inversely correlated with vaccination coverage, as highlighted by the WHO[3].

    The Commission supports ongoing studies on post-COVID and its link to various disease outcomes, such as heart disease, diabetes, cancers, or neural dysfunctions[4].

    The ECDC recommends further immunisation as the most effective measure to protect against severe viral respiratory diseases[5] and scenario modelling has shown that high vaccine uptake at the population level is strongly correlated with reduced disease burden.

    • [1] https://www.euromomo.eu/
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?oldid=509982#Recent_data_on_excess_mortality_in_the_EU
    • [3] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-05522-2
    • [4] https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/research-area/health/coronavirus_en
    • [5] https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/news-events/acute-respiratory-infections-eueea-epidemiological-update-and-current-public-health-0
    Last updated: 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Inadequate impact assessment of the proposal for a directive harmonising certain aspects of insolvency law (2022/0408(COD)) – E-002904/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The impact assessment on the proposal for the Insolvency Directive[1] included a direct consultation carried out by the Commission, and an additional study which included further consultations. The Study was published on the Commission website[2].

    The Commission ensured that there was a balanced geographical distribution of stakeholders and experts consulted. Its direct consultation was open to all stakeholders and published on the Commission website[3]: stakeholders consulted came from 18 Member States and dedicated workshops with private and governmental experts were organised.

    Contractor’s consultation was performed via direct interviews with stakeholders from 15 EU Member States, including the Netherlands, and through an online survey targeting more than 800 stakeholders covering 24 Member States with 120 completed responses[4].

    Since most stakeholders and experts favoured a harmonisation of directors’ duties in the vicinity of insolvency and in view of its economic benefits as assessed in the impact assessment, the Commission proposed a requirement to request the opening of insolvency proceedings within three months[5].

    • [1] SWD(2022) 395 final.
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/civil-justice/civil-and-commercial-law/insolvency-proceedings_en#research-and-key-documents.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/12592-Insolvency-laws-increasing-convergence-of-national-laws-to-encourage-cross-border-investment/public-consultation_en
    • [4] Annex 2 of the impact assessment and Section 2.3. of the impact assessment study.
    • [5] Sections 2.2., 2.6. and 3 of Appendix to Annex 2 of the impact assessment.
    Last updated: 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – NRRP funds for Poland – E-000001/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has received on 27 December 2024 Poland’s third payment request under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF).

    This payment request brings together a total of 41 milestones and targets from the fourth and fifth instalments (both loan and grant parts) identified in the Council Implementing Decision Annex[1].

    The payment request covers reforms aimed at matching skills with labour market needs, advancing hydrogen technology development, and improving public employment services. In the field of public health, reforms include the entry into force of the Act on the National Cardiological Network, and the introduction of low-emission zones for the largest and most polluted cities.

    The request also covers investments aiming to shorten the supply chain of agricultural and food products, investments in the replacement of heat sources and the improvement of energy efficiency in single family residential buildings, as well as projects improving road safety. 

    The Commission has generally up to two months to share its preliminary assessment of the satisfactory fulfilment of milestones and targets with the Economic and Financial Committee (EFC), asking for its opinion. This period can be extended upon request of the Member State, in particular in case where the Member State decides to revise its plan.

    In case of a positive preliminary assessment, and following the EFC’s opinion, the Commission will adopt the final decision on the disbursement of the financial contribution, in accordance with the Comitology examination procedure. Following the adoption of the decision by the Commission, the disbursement to Poland can take place. 

    • [1] See p. 212 — 251 of the Council Implementing Decision Annex, available through the following link: https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/3a4cd838-426b-449d-98fb-49d33ba854db_en?filename=COM_2024_284_1_EN_annexe_proposition_cp_part1_v4.pdf
    Last updated: 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Inaugurates the First-ever Regional Dialogue on Social Justice

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Inaugurates the First-ever Regional Dialogue on Social Justice

    74th Foundation Day of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Celebrated

    Director General, ILO, Gilbert F. Houngbo Praises India’s Efforts in Doubling Social Protection Coverage to 49%

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 8:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the first-ever two-day Regional Dialogue on Social Justice under the Global Coalition for Social Justice in New Delhi today. Director General, International Labour Organization (ILO), Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, graced the event with his presence. Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Ms. Shobha Karandlaje, Secretary (Labour & Employment), Ms. Sumita Dawra, along with other dignitaries were also present at this prestigious international dialogue.

    Commemorating the 74th Foundation Day of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), an award ceremony to felicitate achievements across its organisations was also held.

    Launched in 2023, the Global Coalition for Social Justice calls for a collaborative approach and commitment towards promoting decent work, social protection, responsible business conduct and fair work. The Global Coalition has around 340 members of the Global Coalition including Governments, academia, private sector, financial institutions, etc.

    Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, emphasized India’s role as a proud member of the Asia Pacific Coordinating Group, leading the first Regional Dialogue. He expressed joy in championing the key Coalition intervention, stating, “India is privileged to spearhead the initiative on Responsible Business Practices for Sustainable and Inclusive Societies.” Union Minister commended the BMS and the CII-EFI’s shared commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices, respect for workers’ rights, and inclusive economic growth. “Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has undertaken significant steps towards economic transformation. The next five years present a unique opportunity to realize our vision of ‘Sabka Vikas’—balanced growth for all regions and communities,” he asserted.

    During the occasion, Dr. Mandaviya launched the e-Shram mobile app, a key step in strengthening social benefits delivery by offering real-time access to government welfare schemes, intelligent benefit filtering, curated job listings aligned with users’ skills and location, and multilingual support.

    Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the ILO, congratulated the Government of India for the efforts in doubling India’s social protection from 24.4% to 48.8% as reported in the World Social Protection Report (WSPR) 2024. Recognizing India’s important role in ILO’s leadership, DG ILO remarked that India’s efforts in business growth along with social protection serves as a good example to inspire change and improve social protection systems across the world. He mentioned that this remarkable achievement is an outcome of the decisive actions taken by the Central Government in expanding social protection in the past few years.

    Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Smt. Shobha Karandlaje, emphasized that social justice cannot be achieved through a one-size-fit-all approach. She underscored that social justice is embedded in India’s constitutional commitments. Reiterating India’s remarkable progress reported in the WSPR, she highlighted that India’s efforts in improving social protection, drove a 5% increase in the global social protection coverage. Congratulating ESIC on its 74th Foundation Day, she acknowledged its role in strengthening social security and announced the government’s plans to extend coverage to unorganized, agricultural, construction, gig, and platform workers.

    Addressing the gathering, Secretary MoLE, Smt. Sumita Dawra, praised the ILO’s Global Coalition for Social Justice for strengthening global cooperation. Highlighting India as the fastest-growing major economy with a vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, she emphasized the country’s foundation on social justice principles, strong demographic dividend with 65% of the population under the age of 35, and a commitment to employment generation, equity, and welfare. She reiterated India’s goal of achieving 70% females engaged in economic activity by 2047, and applauded industry leaders for adopting responsible business practices, including youth skill development, education, and women’s workforce participation.

    During the occasion, India’s largest workers association, the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) joined the Global Coalition for Social Justice. Through a Joint Statement on Responsible Business Conduct presented by the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) and the Confederation of Indian Industry-Employers’ Federation of India (CII-EFI), these organisations showcased their commitment towards this agenda.

    Additionally, several key publications were unveiled, including Best Practices on Responsible Business Conduct in India, Position Paper on Transforming India’s Social Protection Landscape through Data Pooling, Compendium of Social Protection in India, Social Security for Informal Workers: Reflections & Learnings from ISSA-ESIC International Seminar, 2025, and Shram Samarth: A Journey to Excellence.

    An exhibition on the sidelines of the event showcased the innovative use of technology in labour welfare, social security, medical care, personnel management, industrial safety, and more. Participants demonstrated how technology is driving positive change in the ecosystem, enhancing services and outreach for workers.

    A series of insightful technical sessions brought together global experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to advance discussions on youth empowerment, social justice, and inclusion. These sessions explored strategies to bridge the education-to-employment gap, expand social protection for informal workers, and promote gender equality in the workforce. Key stakeholders from India, the Philippines, Namibia, Germany, Australia, Brazil, and international organizations such as the ILO and UN Women shared best practices, including digital skilling platforms, social security frameworks, and gender-responsive workplace policies. Emphasizing collaboration and innovation, the discussions reinforced the importance of public-private partnerships in fostering inclusive economic growth and ensuring equitable opportunities for all.

    Today’s event showcases the progress India has made on the global centre stage. India’s social justice growth journey including 3.2% unemployment rate, modernized labour codes, 48.8% social protection coverage, partnering with ILO on determining living wages, building responsible business conduct, showcasing success business case studies, leading the regional agenda in Asia Pacific, is an epitome of India’s confidence and critical positioning.

    Taking a collaborative approach to further strengthening India’s social protection coverage, making significant strides in developing the G20 international referencing classification of occupations, and advancing the decent work country programme with focus on living wages, AI and Future of Work and Global Value Chains, the two-day summit will prove to be a pathbreaking initiative and a global movement for strengthened cooperation.

    *****

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2105900) Visitor Counter : 28

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland schools attendance survey

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    At the November 2024 Education Committee, the Council reported a review of the Highland Raising Attainment Strategy. Part of that review involves work around better understanding attendance challenges and the reasons for repeat absence from school. Two surveys are being distributed to schools across Highland for either pupils or parent/carers who struggle with regular school attendance to complete the short survey. The survey is anonymous and will run from Monday 24 February until Friday 14 March 2025.

    The surveys are available here:

    Parent survey on attendance: https://forms.office.com/e/vYZvATHXtC

    Pupil survey on attendance : https://forms.office.com/e/QgeMqY21UT

    Education Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “Highland’s Raising Attainment Strategy includes engaging with pupils and parents/carers through the GIRFEC agenda, as part of that work a survey has been distributed to all schools across Highland, and we ask pupils or the parents/carers of children who struggle attending school on a regular basis to take part in the survey.

    “Findings from the survey will be collated to assist our approaches to raise attainment, support health and wellbeing of learners and to help close the poverty related attainment gap.”

    24 Feb 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Construction underway at new Nairn Academy  

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Construction work is taking place on the new Nairn Academy which is programmed to be operational in August 2026.  

    The school has a planning capacity of 800 pupils and is part of the Scottish Government’s Learning Estate Investment Programme (LEIP).  

    Chair of the Education Committee, Cllr John Finlayson said: “This is an exciting development for the area and for members of the community who I am sure are eagerly awaiting its completion. 

    “The Highland Council is committed to improving the Education estate across Highland. Nairn Academy is a pilot project for us and is one of the first low energy complete ‘Passivhaus’ schools to be constructed in Highland.  

    “Improving our school estate is a challenge, but it is one we are committed to addressing with the support of our partners to offer more quality learning environments for school communities. We look forward in anticipation to a fantastic new school building for the pupils of Nairnshire.” 

    Housing & Property Committee Chair, Cllr Glynis Campbell Sinclair said: “A great amount of work has taken place already in the preparation of the new school build, and we are beginning to see results of those great efforts from those involved in the project. The community will now be able to see the new school take shape as the steelwork goes up on site. This is really exciting, and we wish the construction team the very best with the build phase and look forward to progress updates.” 

    The campus will become Balfour Beatty’s second Passivhaus certified school building in Scotland – a quality assurance certification for the design and construction of low energy buildings and is due to be complete by August 2026.  

    Hector MacAulay MBE, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty’s regional business in Scotland said: “We are delighted to have been appointed to deliver this latest new project, further enhancing our legacy in delivering state-of-the-art, sustainable educational facilities across Scotland. 

    “With works now underway, we are working closely and collaboratively with The Highland Council to successfully deliver this new school which will provide an exciting and inspirational learning environment for hundreds of students and teachers, serving both current and future generations.” 

    The £61m contract awarded to Balfour Beatty is funded from Phase 2 of the Scottish Government’s LEIP announced in December 2020, and capital funding for the project was approved by The Highland Council in September 2023. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canada’s productivity strategy needs to centre workers

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ako Ufodike, Associate Professor, Administrative Studies, York University, Canada

    As Canada moves into 2025, its productivity still lags, despite efforts by the federal government to address the issue in the 2024 federal budget.

    Canada’s productivity has declined in nine of the last 10 quarters. Between 2015 and 2023, Canadian productivity fell by an average of 0.8 per cent per year. This means that, for every hour worked by Canadian employees, their output decreased by about eight per cent over that entire period.

    Labour productivity measures how much an economy produces per hour of work. Increasing productivity means finding ways to help people create more value in the time they spend working. However, how productivity is measured — and who benefits from productivity stimulation initiatives — varies.



    Read more:
    Canada’s lagging productivity affects us all — and will take years to remedy

    From an employer’s perspective, the main factor influencing productivity is the number of hours worked. For employees, the best proxy is wages received per hour worked — two related variables with differing implications.

    To date, Canada’s strategy to improve productivity has been very traditional, in that its primary aim has been to provide incentives for improved business performance.

    Global productivity issues

    Canada’s productivity stagnation struggles are not unique. A December 2024 OECD working paper highlighted a widespread slowdown across the OECD nations.

    From 1995 to 2023, ouputs from labour and capital inputs — know as multifactor productivity — declined sharply in both small and large advanced OECD countries.

    In Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Spain and the United Kingdom, productivity has nearly stalled. Greece, Italy, Luxembourg and Mexico experienced prolonged periods of negative growth.

    The OECD paper also found a link between productivity decline and stagnating human capital development. Since 2003, young citizens of OECD countries have underperformed on standardized tests in science, math and reading.

    At the same time, many skilled immigrants to these countries are selected from the sciences and must score exceptionally high on language proficiency exams such as the International English Language Testing System.

    This raises questions about how countries assess and utilize human capital, and whether traditional productivity measures fully capture workforce potential.

    Innovation in productivity approaches

    Innovation improves productivity, yet Canada’s 2024 budget fails to embrace this principle. The 2024 budget prescribed five main strategies to address Canada’s productivity issues:

    • incentives for entrepreneurs;
    • fiscal incentives for productivity-enhancing assets;
    • regulatory sandboxes to reduce bureaucratic red tape;
    • enhanced federal research support;
    • a $200-million investment in the Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative.

    However, the initiatives largely continue to follow the traditional approach which focuses on incentivizing businesses to increase output, rather than focusing on workers — the factor most relevant to productivity.

    One of the budget’s major assumptions, which has so far failed to materialize, was that productivity would grow by 1.8 per cent between 2024 and 2028, despite a 1.8 per cent decline over the previous three years and a 0.8 per cent decline over the preceding decade.

    Another overlooked factor is that declining wages also decrease productivity. Instead of focusing solely on business incentives, a more effective labour-agency approach would also incentivize those who own the denominator in the productivity formula — workers.

    Addressing immigrant underemployment

    Immigrants are the primary drivers of population growth in most OECD countries, yet many end up in precarious employment or underemployed, despite being exceptionally qualified.

    Even when immigrants are employed at the appropriate level, many are underpaid in comparison to non-immigrant workers or their predecessors in the same roles. This wage suppression is at odds with efforts to improve productivity.



    Read more:
    I’ve worked in precarious jobs for more than 10 years – here’s what unions should do to support migrant workers

    This issue is particularly evident in Canada, where conversations about productivity are being shaped by immigration trends. In 2023, Canada welcomed one million new immigrants without a corresponding increase in economic output. From July 2023 to July 2024, immigrant underemployment rose by 3.1 to 12.6 per cent.

    Labour market integration varies across regions. In Alberta, for example, 80 per cent of new jobs between 2018 and 2022 were filled by immigrants, yet, productivity did not rise.

    Some critics have blamed immigrants for Canada’s productivity struggles, but this narrative risks fostering anti-immigrant sentiment. While population growth may contribute to declining per capita productivity, in reality, many highly qualified immigrants end up underemployed or unemployed through no fault of their own.

    A 2024 Statistics Canada report highlighted this missed economic opportunity, stating: “recent immigrants were more likely than people born in Canada to be employed in professional occupations and lower-skilled and labourer occupations.”

    Despite this, the 2024 budget doesn’t address harmful “unproductive immigrant” narratives.

    Driving productivity growth

    Canada’s current approach to productivity is incomplete. While business incentives play a role, productivity growth cannot be achieved without investing in workers — particularly immigrants, who represent a growing share of the workforce.

    Canada and other OECD nations are missing an opportunity by failing to fully utilize immigrant talent. Rather than blaming immigrants for productivity declines, countries should recognize immigrants as valuable contributors. Proper credential recognition and expanding workforce integration programs could allow immigrants to contribute at their full economic potential.



    Read more:
    Canadian immigrants are overqualified and underemployed — reforms must address this

    A truly innovative productivity strategy would fund reskilling, upskilling and mentorship programs for immigrants and youth. It would also support equity initiatives to ensure immigrants aren’t exploited or paid less than their counterparts.

    Improving career mobility is also essential. Helping immigrants transition into high-output sectors, such as technology or engineering, through retraining programs and targeted incentives could strengthen productivity.

    Addressing wage inequity is also crucial. Ensuring immigrants receive fair wages aligned with their qualifications will improve worker motivation and productivity, consistent with the arguments of efficient wage theory.

    If these issues remain unaddressed, Canada risks continued productivity stagnation by overlooking a key opportunity to harness the potential of its immigrant workforce.

    Ako Ufodike receives funding from Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.

    – ref. Canada’s productivity strategy needs to centre workers – https://theconversation.com/canadas-productivity-strategy-needs-to-centre-workers-249669

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 58: Annual High-Level Mainstreaming Panel

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UN Human Rights Council 58: Annual High-Level Mainstreaming Panel

    Annual High-Level Mainstreaming Panel. As delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Simon Manley, at the 58th HRC session in Geneva.

    Thank you Mr President,

    In this 30th anniversary year for gender equality, let me reaffirm the British government’s commitment to the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

    My government’s dedication to advancing gender equality at home has led to a narrowing of the gender pay gap, more women on the boards of the largest companies than ever before and stronger action to protect women and girls from violence and abuse. And we have put women and girls at the heart of our international work, from our diplomacy to our development spend.

    But while it is important to acknowledge the progress made, quite clearly no country – the UK included – has achieved or even got close to achieving gender equality. Indeed, we are seeing a growing international trend of efforts to undermine and roll back the rights of women, girls and other marginalised groups.

    We must resist that roll back, take concerted action to build on the progress we have made both at home and overseas. That is why we are putting women’s voices at the heart of everything we do and will make the changes needed so gender equality can, at last, become a reality.

    We call on all Members of the Council and states to use this landmark year to accelerate action towards empowering all women and girls.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Wales stands with Ukraine’ – Plaid Cymru statement on the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion

    Source: Party of Wales

    On the third anniversary of the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Plaid Cymru’s leader, Rhun ap Iorwerth, and the party’s Westminster leader, Liz Saville Roberts said:

    “Today, on the third anniversary of Russia’s inhumane and illegal invasion of Ukraine, Plaid Cymru reiterates our unwavering support for Ukraine’s security and its sovereignty. We stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine. 

    “We are deeply concerned about the decision by the President of the United States to exclude Ukraine from discussions whilst engaging directly with Russia. Decisions about Ukraine’s future must include Ukraine itself. We also believe it is vital that the UK does not capitulate to continued Russian aggression. 

    “The only route to a just peace includes Ukraine as a full and equal partner in any future negotiations.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Labour First Minister admits £1.5bn spent on tackling NHS waiting lists isn’t yielding results

    Source: Party of Wales

    The Labour Welsh Government “doesn’t have a plan to follow the pounds”, Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth MS said as he challenged the First Minister on whether she was getting “bang for her buck” on health spending.

    During First Minister’s Questions today (Tuesday, 18 February 2025), Mr ap Iorwerth challenged First Minister over the £1.5bn spent on bringing down NHS waiting lists since 2021 despite waiting lists hitting a record high every month since March 2024.

    There are currently 802,268 patient pathways waiting to start treatment in Wales, made up of about 619,100 individual patients.

    The First Minister responded by saying “we’re not quite seeing the kind of outcomes that we think we should be seeing from the investment that’s gone in.”

    Criticising Labour’s failure to deliver on their promise to tackle growing NHS waiting lists Plaid Cymru Leader, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS said:

    “The Labour First Minister promised to prioritise tackling record-high NHS waiting lists. Yet six months on, the First Minister has admitted that the investment hasn’t delivered better outcomes for patients.

    “Despite this admission, there is no sense there’ll be a change of approach from government or a focus on preventative health measures – it doesn’t have a plan to follow the pounds.

    “Having spent £1.5bn since the 2021 Senedd election on tackling NHS waiting lists, it should not be the case that 1 in 5 people are waiting for a referral for treatment.

    “Only Plaid Cymru offers the NHS a fresh start, with a clear plan to tackle NHS waiting lists and proposals to change how our health service is run to ensure it is fit for the future.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: BsvCloud Announces 2025 Cloud Mining Plans to Help Beginners Mine Bitcoin Easily

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    UXBRIDGE, United Kingdom, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin continues to dominate the cryptocurrency world, BsvCloud, a trusted leader in cloud mining solutions, announces its new 2025 mining plans tailored to help beginners mine Bitcoin easily. Since its founding in 2017, BsvCloud has empowered over 500,000 users globally, and now it’s breaking down barriers with user-friendly, secure, and innovative cloud mining packages designed to simplify Bitcoin mining for newcomers.

    Making Bitcoin Mining Easy for Beginners in 2025

    With Bitcoin’s popularity soaring in 2025, many beginners are eager to join the mining craze but often face complex hardware setups and technical challenges. BsvCloud’s new cloud mining plans eliminate these hurdles, offering a straightforward way for novices to start mining Bitcoin. Backed by cutting-edge technology, these plans make the process accessible, letting anyone dip their toes into the world of cryptocurrency with confidence.

    Key Features of BsvCloud’s New Cloud Mining Plans

    • Beginner-Friendly Options: Start with simple, affordable plans crafted for those new to Bitcoin mining.
    • Higher Profitability: Optimized contracts ensure returns exceed industry benchmarks.
    • Advanced Tech: Powered by renewable energy and AI-driven hardware, BsvCloud maximizes efficiency.
    • Unmatched Security: Multi-layer encryption and offline storage safeguard your assets.
    • 24/7 Support: A friendly team is available anytime to assist beginners every step of the way.

    How to Start Mining Bitcoin with BsvCloud
    Getting into Bitcoin mining has never been easier:

    1. Sign Up: Register at bsvcloud.com and claim a $15 signup bonus in minutes.
    2. Select a Plan: Pick a cloud mining package that fits your budget and goals.
    3. Start Mining: Launch your operation instantly—no hardware or expertise needed.
    4. Track Earnings: Monitor daily profits on a user-friendly dashboard, with withdrawals in under 5 minutes.

    Why BsvCloud Stands Out for Beginners

    Traditional Bitcoin mining can intimidate newcomers with its costly equipment and steep learning curve. BsvCloud changes that by leveraging green energy and smart automation to simplify the process.

    “We’re here to help beginners mine Bitcoin without the stress,” said Thomas Simatos, CEO of BsvCloud. “Our 2025 plans are all about ease and accessibility, backed by reliable technology.” Users like Sarah from London agree: “I signed up in minutes and started mining Bitcoin without any stress—BsvCloud makes it so easy!”

    Get Started with Bitcoin Mining Today

    BsvCloud’s new cloud mining plans are live now, ready to help beginners explore Bitcoin mining in 2025. Visit bsvcloud.com to learn more and take your first step into the crypto world with ease.

    About BsvCloud

    Founded in 2017, BsvCloud is a global leader in cloud mining, serving over 500,000 users across 100+ countries. Based in Uxbridge, UK, the company uses renewable energy and AI technology to make Bitcoin mining sustainable and beginner-friendly. With a focus on transparency and simplicity, BsvCloud is committed to opening up cryptocurrency mining to everyone.

    Contact Details

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by BsvCloud. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in cloud mining and related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f481c7cd-44bd-49d8-9964-2b42ac9aee96

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a29ccc22-1d4f-4f56-887f-df6c491b90f5

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Your life becomes a nightmare’: how scam operations exploit those trapped inside – Scam Factories podcast, Ep 2

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Gemma Ware, Host, The Conversation Weekly Podcast, The Conversation

    A few weeks after Ben Yeo travelled to Cambodia for what he thought was a job in a casino, he found himself locked up in a padded room. “It’s a combination between a prison and a madhouse,” he remembers. He was being punished for refusing to conduct online scams.

    “They tried all kinds of coercive manoeuvres, using a fire extinguisher to try to hit me, to scare me, using a plastic bag over my head to suffocate me … Whatever you see in the movies that actually happened.”

    Scam Factories is a podcast series from The Conversation Weekly taking you inside Southeast Asia’s brutal fraud compounds. It accompanies a series of multimedia articles on The Conversation.

    In the second episode, Inside the Operation, we explore the history of how scam compounds emerged in Southeast Asia and who is behind them. We hear about the violent treatment people receive inside through the testimonies of two survivors, Ben, and another man we’re calling George to protect his real identity.

    The Conversation collaborated for this series with three researchers: Ivan Franceschini, a lecturer in Chinese Studies at the University of Melbourne, Ling Li, a PhD candidate at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, and Mark Bo, an independent researcher.

    They’ve spent the past few years researching the expansion of scam compounds in the region for a forthcoming book. They’ve interviewed nearly 100 survivors of the compounds, analysed maps and financial documents related to the scam industry and tracked scammers online to find out how these compounds work.

    Read an article by Ivan Franceschini and Ling Li which accompanies this episode about the rise of the scamming industry.

    The Conversation contacted AsiaHR international for comment. We did not receive a response. We contacted all the other companies mentioned in this multimedia series for comment, except Jinshui who we could not contact. We did not receive a response from them either.

    This episode was written and produced by Gemma Ware, with assistance from Mend Mariwany and Katie Flood. Leila Goldstein was our producer in Cambodia and Halima Athumani recorded for us in Uganda. Hui Lin helped us with Chinese translation. Sound design by Michelle Macklem and editing help from Ashlynee McGhee and Justin Bergman.

    Listen to The Conversation Weekly podcast via any of the apps listed above, download it directly via our RSS feed or find out how else to listen here.

    Mark Bo, an independent researcher who works with Ivan Franeschini and Ling Li, is also interviewed in this podcast series. Ivan, Ling, Mark, and others have co-founded EOS Collective, a non-profit organisation dedicated to investigating the criminal networks behind the online scam industry and supporting survivors.

    – ref. ‘Your life becomes a nightmare’: how scam operations exploit those trapped inside – Scam Factories podcast, Ep 2 – https://theconversation.com/your-life-becomes-a-nightmare-how-scam-operations-exploit-those-trapped-inside-scam-factories-podcast-ep-2-250464

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: A Palestinian-Israeli film is an Oscars favorite − so why is it so hard to see?

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Drew Paul, Associate Professor of Arabic, University of Tennessee

    Directors Basel Adra, left, and Yuval Abraham on stage at the 62nd New York Film Festival on Sept. 29, 2024. Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

    For many low-budget, independent films, an Oscar nomination is a golden ticket.

    The publicity can translate into theatrical releases or rereleases, along with more on-demand rentals and sales.

    However, for “No Other Land,” a Palestinian-Israeli film nominated for best documentary at the 2025 Academy Awards, this exposure is unlikely to translate into commercial success in the U.S. That’s because the film has been unable to find a company to distribute it in America.

    “No Other Land” chronicles the efforts of Palestinian townspeople to combat an Israeli plan to demolish their villages in the West Bank and use the area as a military training ground. It was directed by four Palestinian and Israeli activists and journalists: Basel Adra, who is a resident of the area facing demolition, Yuval Abraham, Hamdan Ballal and Rachel Szor. While the filmmakers have organized screenings in a number of U.S. cities, the lack of a national distributor makes a broader release unlikely.

    Film distributors are a crucial but often unseen link in the chain that allows a film to reach cinemas and people’s living rooms. In recent years it has become more common for controversial award-winning films to run into issues finding a distributor. Palestinian films have encountered additional barriers.

    As a scholar of Arabic who has written about Palestinian cinema, I’m disheartened by the difficulties “No Other Land” has faced. But I’m not surprised.

    The role of film distributors

    Distributors are often invisible to moviegoers. But without one, it can be difficult for a film to find an audience.

    Distributors typically acquire rights to a film for a specific country or set of countries. They then market films to movie theaters, cinema chains and streaming platforms. As compensation, distributors receive a percentage of the revenue generated by theatrical and home releases.

    The film “Soundtrack to a Coup D’Etat,” another finalist for best documentary, shows how this process typically works. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2024 and was acquired for distribution just a few months later by Kino Lorber, a major U.S.-based distributor of independent films.

    The inability to find a distributor is not itself noteworthy. No film is entitled to distribution, and most films by newer or unknown directors face long odds.

    However, it is unusual for a film like “No Other Land,” which has garnered critical acclaim and has been recognized at various film festivals and award shows. Some have pegged it as a favorite to win best documentary at the Academy Awards. And “No Other Land” has been able to find distributors in Europe, where it’s easily accessible on multiple streaming platforms.

    So why can’t “No Other Land” find a distributor in the U.S.?

    There are a couple of factors at play.

    Shying away from controversy

    In recent years, film critics have noticed a trend: Documentaries on controversial topics have faced distribution difficulties. These include a film about a campaign by Amazon workers to unionize and a documentary about Adam Kinzinger, one of the few Republican congresspeople to vote to impeach Donald Trump in 2021.

    The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, of course, has long stirred controversy. But the release of “No Other Land” comes at a time when the issue is particularly salient. The Hamas attacks of Oct. 7, 2023, and the ensuing Israeli bombardment and invasion of the Gaza Strip have become a polarizing issue in U.S. domestic politics, reflected in the campus protests and crackdowns in 2024. The filmmakers’ critical comments about the Israeli occupation of Palestine have also garnered backlash in Germany.

    Locals attend a screening of ‘No Other Land’ in the village of A-Tuwani in the West Bank on March 14, 2024.
    Yahel Gazit/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images

    Yet the fact that this conflict has been in the news since October 2023 should also heighten audience interest in a film such as “No Other Land” – and, therefore, lead to increased sales, the metric that distributors care about the most.

    Indeed, an earlier film that also documents Palestinian protests against Israeli land expropriation, “5 Broken Cameras,” was a finalist for best documentary at the 2013 Academy Awards. It was able to find a U.S. distributor. However, it had the support of a major European Union documentary development program called Greenhouse. The support of an organization like Greenhouse, which had ties to numerous production and distribution companies in Europe and the U.S., can facilitate the process of finding a distributor.

    By contrast, “No Other Land,” although it has a Norwegian co-producer and received some funding from organizations in Europe and the U.S., was made primarily by a grassroots filmmaking collective.

    Stages for protest

    While distribution challenges may be recent, controversies surrounding Palestinian films are nothing new.

    Many of them stem from the fact that the system of film festivals, awards and distribution is primarily based on a movie’s nation of origin. Since there is no sovereign Palestinian state – and many countries and organizations have not recognized the state of Palestine – the question of how to categorize Palestinian films has been hard to resolve.

    In 2002, The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences rejected the first ever Palestinian film submitted to the best foreign language film category – Elia Suleiman’s “Divine Intervention” – because Palestine was not recognized as a country by the United Nations. The rules were changed for the following year’s awards ceremony.

    In 2021, the cast of the film “Let It Be Morning,” which had an Israeli director but primarily Palestinian actors, boycotted the Cannes Film Festival in protest of the film’s categorization as an Israeli film rather than a Palestinian one.

    Film festivals and other cultural venues have also become places to make statements about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and engage in protest. For example, at the Cannes Film Festival in 2017, the right-wing Israeli culture minister wore a controversial – and meme-worthy – dress that featured the Jerusalem skyline in support of Israeli claims of sovereignty over the holy city, despite the unresolved status of Jerusalem under international law.

    Israeli Culture Minister Miri Regev wears a dress featuring the old city of Jerusalem during the Cannes Film Festival in 2017.
    Antonin Thuillier/AFP via Getty Images

    At the 2024 Academy Awards, a number of attendees, including Billie Eilish, Mark Ruffalo and Mahershala Ali, wore red pins in support of a ceasefire in Gaza, and pro-Palestine protesters delayed the start of the ceremonies.

    So even though a film like “No Other Land” addresses a topic of clear interest to many people in the U.S., it faces an uphill battle to finding a distributor.

    I wonder whether a win at the Oscars would even be enough.

    This article has been updated to clarify that the film was a collaborative effort between Palestinian and Israeli filmmakers.

    Drew Paul does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. A Palestinian-Israeli film is an Oscars favorite − so why is it so hard to see? – https://theconversation.com/a-palestinian-israeli-film-is-an-oscars-favorite-so-why-is-it-so-hard-to-see-249233

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright to Deliver Keynote Address at 10th Powering Africa Summit

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

    LONDON, United Kingdom, February 24, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Secretary Chris Wright, U.S. Department of Energy, has been confirmed as a speaker and guest of honour at the 10th Powering Africa Summit (PAS), taking place at JW Marriott Washington, D.C. across March 6-7. This is an important step to provide an answer to the question that all of African energy is now asking: how will the new Administration approach the strategic energy relationship between the U.S. and Africa?

    Under the Summit theme, The Future of the US & Africa Energy Partnership, U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright will deliver a keynote address at the 10th annual Powering Africa Summit. Wright will be joined by representatives from the U.S. Department of State: Ambassador Troy Fitrell, Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of African Affairs; Kimberly Harrington, Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Energy Resources; and Stephen Banks, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Diplomacy, Bureau of Energy Resources. All will share their vision for this future relationship between African countries and the US-based investors that are so vital to realizing their energy ambitions.

    “As Secretary of Energy, I am committed to unleashing all forms of affordable, reliable and secure energy here at home and advancing that mission of energy security around the world – and nowhere is that more critical than the continent of Africa. I look forward to joining the Summit to reaffirm the strategic energy partnership between the U.S. and Africa and share my vision for advancing innovation and removing barriers to energy access, both at home and around the world,” Secretary Wright said.

    Ministers and governments from 19 African countries will arrive in Washington D.C., where the Africa Welcome Address will be given by H.E. Honourable Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Power, Nigeria. Together with H.E. Honourable Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Vice President, Liberia; H.E. Honourable Dr. Dele Alake, Minister for Solid Minerals Development, Nigeria; H.E. Honourable Mahmoud Mustafa Esmat, Minister of Electricity & Renewable Energy, Egypt; H.E. Honourable Karim Badawi, Minister of Petroleum & Mineral Resources, Egypt; H.E. Honourable Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, Minister of Minerals & Energy, Botswana; H.E. Honourable Alex Wachira, Principal Secretary, Ministry of Energy & Petroleum, Kenya; and Amina Benkhadra, Director General, Office National des Hydrocarbures et des Mines (ONHYM), Morocco, he will meet distinguished Ministers and leaders from South Africa, Senegal, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Togo, Sierra Leone and more to drive energy development across the continent.

    Flagship ministerial boardrooms and regional energy cooperation sessions will discuss and debate   derisking projects, South Africa’s energy future, the need for West African regulatory reforms, and the role of hydrogen in North Africa. New areas of opportunity such as bitcoin mining and data centers will be discussed through an East African lens. The Mission 300 initiative, set to provide electricity access to 300 million people in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030, is also high on the agenda.

    The 10th Anniversary Gala Drinks Reception sponsored by Genesis Energy, will celebrate International Women’s Day, ahead of March 8.

    Critical to the week’s discussions will be a host of private players including Alliant Insurance Services, GE Vernova, ARM-Harith Infrastructure Investment, Globeleq, Africa50, Nextracker, Schneider Electric, Newmarket Capital and the summit’s general sponsor, Sun Africa, who are looking to a new future for the U.S.-Africa relationship.   

    Sun Africa CEO, Adam Cortese said: “We are seeing a sea change in how the U.S. participates in foreign infrastructure development and our unique model of development is an excellent illustration of how U.S. energy companies can thrive in emerging markets on a strictly commercial basis. Sun Africa remains committed to harnessing Africa’s immense energy resources through innovative structures, state-of-the-art technology and strong alliances while maintaining our long-standing market-based approach to development.  At Sun Africa, we believe energy development on the continent truly represents an opportunity for win-win partnerships and look forward to sharing our experience.”

    Simon Gosling, MD of EnergyNet added: “This summit has always been about bringing together African countries seeking investment with U.S.-based investors who see the vast potential on the continent.  It is more important than ever to establish the crucial energy projects that Africa needs. PAS25 will put the continent center stage and make sure that both sides have a future relationship to be excited about.”

    Media Credentials Requited for Powering Africa Summit

    The Secretary will open the Summit on 6 March, delivering a Keynote Speech at 09:45, followed by a Fireside Chat with Mission 300 Accelerator CEO, Andrew Herscowitz.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City Walls to be Illuminated to commemorate Joseph Rowntree

    Source: City of York

    To mark the 100th anniversary of Joseph Rowntree’s death, City of York Council will illuminate the city walls in blue and orange tonight, paying tribute to his lasting impact on the city.

    Joseph Rowntree is one of York’s most well-known names, not just for his business success but for his significant contributions to social reform and community development. As the owner of Rowntree’s from 1869, Joseph helped grow the chocolate company into an internationally recognised name, employing thousands and strengthening York’s position in the confectionery industry. 

    However, it is his commitment to social causes that remains a cornerstone of his legacy. Inspired by a desire to improve the lives of his workers, Joseph founded several trusts to address social issues, promote education, and advocate for reform. His son, Seebohm Rowntree, furthered this work with the publication of Poverty: A Study of Town Life in 1901, which highlighted the extent of poverty in York and sparked change. 

    Joseph’s vision for a better quality of life for York’s residents also led to the creation of New Earswick, a model village offering affordable housing, and the donation of Rowntree Park to the city in 1921, both of which continue to benefit the city today. 

    To remember Joseph Rowntree’s contributions, the city walls will be lit up in blue and orange, representing the Rowntree family’s connection to York, from dusk until 11pm this evening. 

    Councillor Pete Kilbane, Deputy Leader of the Council said: 

    “Joseph Rowntree’s influence on York cannot be overstated. His commitment to improving the lives of those who lived and worked in the city is as relevant today as it was during his lifetime.

    “This lighting is a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy, and I’m proud that we can acknowledge his contributions in this way.” 

    Councillor Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing, Planning and Safer Communities will be speaking at a special event marking Joseph Rowntree’s funeral, which takes place on Saturday 1 March at the Friargate Quaker Meeting House in the city, and he said: 

    “Joseph Rowntree’s vision of social justice, alongside his entrepreneurial spirit, has shaped York into the city we know and love today.

    “The lighting of the walls reminds us of his remarkable legacy and the values he instilled in York — values that continue to guide us as a city to this day.”

    The city is also supporting The Rowntree Society’s year-long programme of events.

    Nick Smith, Executive Director of The Rowntree Society said:

    “The impact that Joseph Rowntree had particularly on York is still felt today; both through the tangible assets he provided for us which still exist and with the example he gave in making life better for so many people.  We would like all of York to get involved in marking the Joseph Rowntree Centenary.”   

    For more information on The Rowntree Society’s work and how to get involved with the Centenary visit www.rowntreesociety.org.uk. 
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Securing Grangemouth’s future

    Source: Scottish Government

    First Minister writes to Scottish Labour Party Leader.

    Following news the UK Government will invest in Grangemouth’s future, First Minister John Swinney has written to Scottish Labour Party Leader Anas Sarwar inviting him to vote for the 2025-26 Scottish Budget in a “spirit of cooperation” and deliver investment worth almost £90 million to support jobs at the site.

    The full text of the First Minister’s letter to Anas Sarwar: Scottish Budget Bill – Grangemouth Industrial Cluster: letter to Anas Sarwar – gov.scot

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –