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Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Türkiye’s reaction to the completion of Greece’s mandatory maritime spatial planning – E-000017/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) Directive[1] does not provide exemptions to the obligation to submit a maritime spatial plan by 31 March 2021. Therefore, under the MSP Directive the obligation to establish maritime spatial plans remains applicable irrespective of the existence of challenges regarding the delimitation of maritime zones with a third State. As guardian of the Treaties, the Commission ensures that all EU law obligations are complied with. An infringement procedure[2] against Greece for failure to adopt and submit maritime spatial plans has been referred to the Court of Justice and is now pending judgment.

    2. As guardian of the Treaties, the Commission may take enforcement action in any case of non-compliance by a Member State with its obligations under EU law, including by pursuing infringement procedures. The Commission is committed to supporting Member States in completing their maritime spatial planning obligations. The Commission also engages in dialogue with Member States to address any challenges they may face in implementing the directive.

    3. The Commission remains available to provide technical and financial support to facilitate the implementation of the maritime spatial planning acquis.

    • [1] Directive 2014/89/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 July 2014 establishing a framework for maritime spatial planning.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/atwork/applying-eu-law/infringements-proceedings/infringement_decisions/?langCode=EN&version=v1&typeOfSearch=byDecision&refId=INFR(2021)2226&page=1&size=10&order=desc&sortColumns=decisionDate
    Last updated: 21 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Flood and landslide risk assessment in Sicily: a decade of inertia and consequences for public safety – E-002993/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. Sicily’s second Flood Risk Management Plan[1] plans the updating of flood hazard and risk maps[2]. The Italian authorities informed the Commission that, although the updating of such maps was suspended for administrative reasons, the Regional Council gave a mandate to the Regional Department for Financial Planning and Programming to avail itself of the funding available for updating the maps by 31 December 2026.

    2. Cohesion policy[3] supports climate change adaptation, disaster risk prevention, and resilience. Under the European Regional Development Fund[4], EUR 103 million are indicatively allocated for floods and landslides, with the possibility for prevention measures[5]. Still, under shared management, in line with the applicable regulations, responsibility to select measures lies with the Managing Authority based on a programme approved by the Commission. While the Recovery and Resilience Facility[6] supports Italy in hydrogeological risk reduction and the development of a monitoring system to predict and mitigate climate change risks with a focus on Southern Italy, the Council Implementing Decision Annex[7] does not require resource allocation specifically to Sicily. Any allocation to this region is a decision of the Italian authorities[8].

    3. Existing measures to assess landslides include the European landslide susceptibility map[9] and the European Ground Motion Service[10]. Strengthening the knowledge base and promoting soil health can mitigate floods and droughts whilst making the environment more resilient to landslides and soil erosion thanks to improved water retention[11].

    • [1] Covering 2022-2027, https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/water/floods_en
    • [2] Page 55 https://pti.regione.sicilia.it/portal/page/portal/PIR_PORTALE/PIR_LaStrutturaRegionale/PIR_PresidenzadellaRegione/PIR_AutoritaBacino/PIR_Areetematiche/PIR_Pianificazione/PIR_PianoGestioneDirettiva200760CE/PIR_PianoGestioneRischioAlluvioni2021/PIR_PGRAIICiclo/PIR_RelazioneMedotologicaPGRAIICiclo/Relazione%20metodologica%20PGRA%20II%20ciclo%20di%20gestione.pdf
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/policy/what/investment-policy_en
    • [4] 2021-2027 Regional Programme for Sicily, https://commission.europa.eu/funding-tenders/find-funding/eu-funding-programmes/european-regional-development-fund-erdf_en
    • [5] Such measures could include the implementation of databases, the development of forecasting models and territorial analyses for risk studies and mitigation models.
    • [6] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility_en#national-recovery-and-resilience-plans
    • [7] Annex to the Council Implementing Decision amending Implementing Decision of 13 July 2021 on the approval of the assessment of the recovery and resilience plan for Italy: https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-15114-2024-ADD-1-REV-1/en/pdf
    • [8] For example: https://pnrr.protezionecivile.gov.it/it/il-pnrr-il-dipartimento-della-protezione-civile/. Projects in Sicily are relevant for reporting under the RRF if they contribute to the milestones and targets of the investments mentioned above, as set out in the annex of the Council Implementing Decision.
    • [9] https://esdac.jrc.ec.europa.eu/content/european-landslide-susceptibility-map-elsus-v2
    • [10] https://land.copernicus.eu/en/products/european-ground-motion-service
    • [11] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/qanda_23_3637
    Last updated: 21 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Importing Suicide Drug Into the United States From Mexico

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHICAGO — A man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge for illegally importing the drug Pentobarbital into the United States from Mexico for use in committing suicide.

    DANIEL GONZALEZ-MUNGUIA, also known as “Alejandro Vasquez,” 41, of Puebla, Mexico, pleaded guilty in federal court in Chicago to one count of importing a controlled substance into the United States.  The charge is punishable by a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.  U.S. District Judge Sara L. Ellis set sentencing for Sept. 9, 2025.

    Pentobarbital, also known as Nembutal, is a drug sold in Mexico for the purpose of euthanizing animals.  In the U.S., Pentobarbital is a controlled substance and has been used in state-sponsored executions.  Gonzalez-Munguia admitted in a plea agreement that from 2012 to 2021, he operated an online drug business that sold and distributed bottles of Pentobarbital to hundreds of individuals in the U.S. and throughout the world, including individuals in Illinois.  Many of the buyers consumed the product and died, the plea agreement states.

    The investigation by Homeland Security Investigations began in 2016 after a parcel of the drug was intercepted in a Chicago suburb.  Authorities in the U.S. and several foreign countries conducted well-being checks and recovered Pentobarbital from numerous individuals who admitted to being despondent and ordering the suicide drug online from Gonzalez-Munguia.  Law enforcement provided assistance to those individuals.

    Gonzalez-Munguia admitted that he initially shipped bottles of the drug directly from Mexico and in the manufacturer’s packaging, but thereafter disguised it as a cosmetic product and used intermediaries to transport it into the U.S. before shipping to customers around the world.

    The guilty plea was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Daniel Johnsen, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of Homeland Security Investigations, and Ruth Mendonça, Inspector-in-Charge of the Chicago Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.  Valuable assistance was provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Illinois Army National Guard Counterdrug Program, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas, and law enforcement agencies in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Ireland, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kartik K. Raman is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister announces changes to the parliamentary secretary team

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced changes to the parliamentary secretary team.

    In their new roles, the parliamentary secretaries will support their respective cabinet ministers to make progress on the priorities that matter most to Canadians. They will engage directly with Canadians on key initiatives and represent the government at home and abroad. Their appointments are effective immediately.

    The changes to the parliamentary secretary team are as follows:

    • Vance Badawey becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade
    • Jaime Battiste becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
    • Chris Bittle becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development
    • Mike Kelloway becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
    • Irek Kusmierczyk becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Seniors
    • Bryan May becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister
    • Yasir Naqvi becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health
    • Taleeb Noormohamed becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs (Canada-U.S.)
    • Jennifer O’Connell becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety (Cybersecurity)
    • Marc G. Serré becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    • Terry Sheehan becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
    • Ryan Turnbull becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
    • Adam van Koeverden becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada

    The Prime Minister also welcomed the following new members to the parliamentary secretary team:

    • Kody Blois becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
    • Julie Dzerowicz becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs (Consular Affairs and Latin America)
    • Arielle Kayabaga becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Small Business
    • Viviane Lapointe becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages and Associate Minister of Public Safety
    • Tim Louis becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage
    • Francesco Sorbara becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs

    These new parliamentary secretaries will work to deliver real, positive change for Canadians. They join the following parliamentary secretaries remaining in their portfolio:

    • Paul Chiang, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
    • Julie Dabrusin, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    • Peter Fragiskatos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
    • Lisa Hepfner, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth
    • Anthony Housefather, Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the Treasury Board
    • Iqra Khalid, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Revenue
    • Annie Koutrakis, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
    • Marie-France Lalonde, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence
    • Kevin Lamoureux, Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons
    • Stéphane Lauzon, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Citizens’ Services
    • James Maloney, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada
    • Rob Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs
    • Sherry Romanado, Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness 
    • Randeep Sarai, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
    • Maninder Sidhu, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development
    • Charles Sousa, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Services and Procurement 
    • Anita Vandenbeld, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development
    • Sameer Zuberi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities

    Quote

    “Our government is laser-focused on the issues that matter most to you and your family. With these additions to our strong team, we will create and protect Canadian jobs, build more homes, reduce emissions, make life cost less, and defend Canadian interests.”

    Quick Facts

    • Parliamentary secretaries are chosen by the Prime Minister to assist ministers.
    • The responsibilities of parliamentary secretaries generally fall into two broad categories: House of Commons business and department-related duties.
    • Parliamentary secretaries are not members of Cabinet and do not play a formal role in the Cabinet decision-making process. They support their ministers, but overall responsibility and accountability remains with the minister.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Jacksonville Locates Remains of Missing Man from the UK

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    The FBI Jacksonville Division, with support from state and local law enforcement partners, located the remains of 32-year-old Alex Hodgson Doughty on Tuesday, February 4, in a wooded area on private land near Kingsland, Georgia. FBI Jacksonville’s Evidence Response Team led the search. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation medical examiner confirmed Mr. Doughty’s identity. No criminal charges are expected.

    Mr. Doughty was a citizen of the United Kingdom and was visiting North Florida in September 2022 when his mother contacted local police and reported that she could not reach him and was concerned for his well-being. Investigators from multiple federal, state, local, and international agencies have contributed to the search for answers since that time.

    “While we had hoped to bring Mr. Doughty’s family better news, we are thankful to be able to provide them with some closure,” said Special Agent in Charge Kristin Rehler. “This discovery is the direct result of our partnerships and special agents from FBI Jacksonville’s Cellular Analysis Survey Team (CAST), who were relentless in their efforts to narrow down potential search locations.”

    The FBI’s CAST supports law enforcement investigations through the analysis of historical and realtime mobile communications and geolocation data. CAST experts receive extensive training and are highly proficient at analyzing location data from mobile devices. Throughout fiscal year 2024, CAST experts assisted with more than 6,100 investigations, 54% of which were in support of state and local investigations. The search for Mr. Doughty was among those.

    In addition to the efforts of law enforcement, the Doughty family thanks the volunteer search teams who contributed their time and resources in six additional searches.

    This case was investigated by the FBI Jacksonville Division and State Attorney’s Office for the Fourth Judicial Circuit, Thames Valley (UK) Police Department, Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and Kingsland (Georgia) Police Department. Additional local law enforcement provided resources to aid in the search.

    MIL Security OSI –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple Intelligence comes to Apple Vision Pro in April

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple Intelligence comes to Apple Vision Pro in April

    February 21, 2025

    UPDATE

    Apple Intelligence comes to Apple Vision Pro in April

    visionOS 2.4 advances spatial computing with a powerful set of Apple Intelligence features — including Writing Tools, Image Playground, and Genmoji — and introduces Spatial Gallery, the Apple Vision Pro app for iPhone, and more

    Today, Apple announced Apple Intelligence is coming to Apple Vision Pro in April. With Apple Intelligence for Vision Pro, users will be able to proofread, rewrite, and summarize text using Writing Tools; compose text from scratch using ChatGPT in Writing Tools; explore new ways to express themselves visually with Image Playground; create the perfect emoji for any conversation with Genmoji; and much more. Apple Intelligence will be available in beta on visionOS 2.4 with support for U.S. English. More features and support for additional languages will roll out throughout the year.

    visionOS 2.4 also introduces new apps and features to help users discover and share the magic of spatial computing. Spatial Gallery — a new app for Vision Pro — features a curated collection of spatial photos, spatial videos, and panoramas from artists, filmmakers, photographers, and more. The Apple Vision Pro app for iPhone offers users a new way to download apps and games from the App Store; discover experiences from Apple TV, Spatial Gallery, and more; easily find helpful tips; and quickly access information for their Vision Pro. Enhancements to Guest User make it easier than ever for users to share apps and experiences with family, friends, and colleagues using a nearby iPhone or iPad.

    “Apple Vision Pro is helping users communicate, collaborate, and experience entertainment in entirely new ways — and we’re continuing to push the boundaries of what’s possible in spatial computing with visionOS 2.4,” said Mike Rockwell, Apple’s vice president of the Vision Products Group. “With Apple Intelligence, Vision Pro users will be able to take their productivity and creativity to new heights using features like Writing Tools, Image Playground, and Genmoji. And we’re excited for users to discover and share incredible new experiences with Spatial Gallery.”

    Apple Intelligence on Apple Vision Pro

    Apple Intelligence offers new ways for Apple Vision Pro users to express themselves visually, simplify everyday tasks, and get things done effortlessly — all with groundbreaking privacy protections. An initial set of Apple Intelligence features will be available in April with visionOS 2.4 for users with their device and Siri language set to U.S. English. Support for more Apple Intelligence features and additional languages will roll out throughout the year.

    With Writing Tools, users can refine their words by rewriting, proofreading, and summarizing text nearly everywhere they write, including Mail, Notes, and third-party apps. With Rewrite, users can adjust the tone of their text to make it more friendly, professional, or concise, or specify the change they’d like to make using Describe Your Change. Proofread checks grammar, word choice, and sentence structure with suggested edits. Users can also select text and have it recapped in several formats with Summarize. And with Compose, users can ask ChatGPT to generate content for anything they’re writing about.

    Image Playground allows users to easily create fun and unique images from themes, costumes, accessories, and places. Users can add their own text descriptions, and can even create images in the likeness of a family member or friend using photos from their photo library. The experience is integrated directly into apps like Messages and Freeform, and is also available as a dedicated app for Apple Vision Pro.

    Users will be able to create Genmoji by simply typing or speaking a description into the emoji keyboard. Genmoji can be added inline to messages, shared as a sticker, or sent as a Tapback.

    Smart Reply in Messages and Mail identifies questions and suggests relevant replies, so Apple Vision Pro users can easily respond to texts and emails with just a few taps.

    With Create a Memory Movie in Photos, users can simply type a description, and Apple Intelligence will pick out the best photos and videos, craft a storyline with chapters based on themes identified from the photos, and arrange them into a movie with its own narrative arc and a soundtrack. As with all Apple Intelligence features, user photos and videos are kept private, and are not shared with Apple or anyone else.

    Natural language search in Photos makes it even easier for users to find a specific photo, album, or a moment in a video just by describing it.

    visionOS 2.4 also includes support for Priority Messages in Mail, Mail Summaries, Image Wand in Notes, Priority Notifications in Notification Center, and Notification Summaries. Apple Intelligence uses on-device processing to protect users’ privacy whenever possible. For requests that require even larger models, Private Cloud Compute extends the privacy and security of Apple products into the cloud to unlock even more intelligence. When using Private Cloud Compute, users’ data is never stored or shared with Apple; it is used only to fulfill the request. Independent experts can inspect the code that runs on Apple silicon servers to continuously verify this privacy promise, and are already doing so.

    Introducing Spatial Gallery

    visionOS 2.4 introduces Spatial Gallery, a new app that features a selection of spatial photos, spatial videos, and panoramas curated by Apple for Apple Vision Pro. With Spatial Gallery, users will enjoy breathtaking and intimate moments spanning art, culture, entertainment, lifestyle, nature, sports, and travel, with new content released regularly. At launch, users can discover remarkable perspectives from photographers like Jonpaul Douglass and Samba Diop; new stories and experiences from iconic brands including Cirque du Soleil, Red Bull, and Porsche; behind-the-scenes moments from Apple Originals like Disclaimer, Severance, and Shrinking; and special moments from top artists.

    The Apple Vision Pro App for iPhone

    Starting in April, Apple Vision Pro users will be able to queue apps and games to download, discover new spatial content and experiences, easily find helpful tips, and quickly access information about their device from their iPhone with the new Apple Vision Pro app. The app will appear for Vision Pro users when they update their iPhone to iOS 18.4, and it can also be downloaded from the App Store.

    The Discover page offers curated recommendations for new and noteworthy experiences available on Apple Vision Pro. Users can quickly see popular apps and games on the App Store; nearly 300 3D movies, Apple Immersive titles, and more video content on the Apple TV app; and the latest spatial photos, spatial videos, and panoramas featured in the Spatial Gallery.1 New Apple Immersive titles include “Ice Dive” from the Adventure series; “Sharks” from the Wild Life series; and Man vs. Beast. “Arctic Surfing” — the latest episode of Boundless — debuts worldwide today, while the next episode of Adventure, “Deep Water Solo,” debuts next Friday, February 28.

    On the My Vision Pro page, users will find tips for getting the most out of Apple Vision Pro; can easily access information such as their current visionOS version and device serial number; and set up Personalized Spatial Audio. Users with vision correction needs will be able to store and view the App Clip code for their ZEISS Optical Inserts in the Apple Vision Pro app.

    Guest User with iPhone and iPad

    Apple Vision Pro users around the world have loved sharing the magic of spatial computing with family, friends, and colleagues through Guest User. From Control Center, users can choose which apps their guest can see, and guests can save their eye and hand setup for up to 30 days after their last use.

    With new enhancements to Guest User in visionOS 2.4, users can start a Guest User session with their nearby iPhone or iPad. When their device is unlocked, they can choose which apps are accessible to their guest and start View Mirroring with AirPlay, making it easy to guide a guest through their Vision Pro experience.

    Availability

    • Apple Vision Pro is available in Australia, Canada, China mainland, Hong Kong, France, Germany, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, the U.A.E., the UK, and the U.S.
    • Apple Intelligence will be available in beta on Apple Vision Pro with visionOS 2.4. The first set of features will be available for Vision Pro users with their device and Siri language set to U.S. English. Feature availability varies by region. More features and support for additional languages will roll out throughout the year.
    • Spatial Gallery will be available with visionOS 2.4 for users in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, the U.A.E., the UK, and the U.S. It can be redownloaded from the App Store for Vision Pro.
    • The Apple Vision Pro app for iPhone will be available with iOS 18.4. The app will be available to download from the App Store, and will automatically appear on a user’s iPhone once they update to iOS 18.4 and have both devices associated with the same Apple Account.
    • Customers can book a demo for free online. Demos are hosted at all Apple Store locations where Apple Vision Pro is available.
    1. 3D movie availability varies by country or region.

    Press Contacts

    Zach Kahn

    Apple

    zkahn@apple.com

    Andrea Schubert

    Apple

    a_schubert@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Greenpeace organizations go to trial on high-stakes SLAPP lawsuit that could redefine protest rights

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    430+ orgs and 330,000+ individuals support Greenpeace organizations in fight against abuse of the legal system and corporate overreach

    Mandan, North Dakota (February 21, 2025)–North Dakota is set to become the battleground for one of the most consequential free speech cases in recent history. Energy Transfer, the Big Oil corporation behind the Dakota Access Pipeline, is seeking $300 million in damages from Greenpeace USA and Greenpeace International, accusing these organizations of playing a central role in organizing the Indigenous-led resistance to the pipeline back in 2016. The lawsuit is one of the largest Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP) cases ever filed, and one of the biggest cases to go to court in North Dakota. Trial begins on February 24, 2025.

    “This case is a prime example of corporations abusing the legal system to silence critics and keep their operations secret,” said Sushma Raman, Greenpeace USA Interim Executive Director. “It is also a critical test of the future of the First Amendment – both freedom of speech and peaceful protest – under the Trump Administration and beyond. But we are fighting back, and we are not fighting back alone.”

    More than 430 organizations signed an open letter to Energy Transfer including 350.org, Public Citizen, ACLU North Dakota, SEIU, Indigenous Environmental Network, and Amnesty International USA (view full organization list) along with public figures such as Billie Eilish, Jane Fonda, Adam McKay, and Susan Sarandon – plus more than 350,000 individuals from around the world.

    The claims

    Energy Transfer’s claims against the Greenpeace entities fall into three broad categories: defamation, tortious interference, and on the ground claims. 

    The claims related to defamation allege that the Greenpeace entities made false statements, which caused damages to the company.

    “The important thing to note here is that by the time Greenpeace entities made any of these statements that are at issue, these were statements that were already widely circulated in the public,” said Deepa Padmanabha. “These were not statements that Greenpeace invented, and they were all legitimate expressions of the First Amendment protected right to speak.”

    Energy Transfer also claims that Greenpeace made alleged false statements to financial institutions involved with financing the Dakota Access Pipeline – and that based on those statements, the financial institutions took action that cost Energy Transfer hundreds of millions of dollars in damages. The financial institutions, however, had their own commitments and conducted their own due diligence regarding the Dakota Access Pipeline.

    “The last bucket of claims are related to on the ground incidents such as trespass, conversion, and aiding and abetting,” said Padmanabha. “This is the area of claims that makes it clear that Energy Transfer’s target is much bigger than Greenpeace. Beyond the impact that this could have on the Greenpeace entities, one of the most worrisome things about the case is that it could establish dangerous new legal precedents that could hold any participant at protests responsible for the actions of others at those protests – including unknown individuals. And you can imagine that this would have a serious chilling effect on anybody who wants to engage in protest.”

    “Greenpeace played an extremely limited role at Standing Rock, and is proud of showing up in solidarity with Standing Rock activists. At no time did Greenpeace engage in property destruction or violence. All claims to the contrary are a reckless disregard for the truth.”

    Fighting back against SLAPP lawsuits

    SLAPP stands for Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation. These types of cases masquerade as ordinary civil lawsuits, but their true purpose is to retaliate against those who speak out against harms. Such meritless lawsuits are meant to silence or bankrupt opponents by dragging defendants through a long, lengthy, expensive legal process. 

    As SLAPPs are a growing threat, most U.S. states have put legal protections in place to protect advocates. But in North Dakota – and 17 other states – no anti-SLAPP statutes exist. Last Congress, Representatives Raskin, Wyden, and Kiley introduced bipartisan legislation to deter corporations from filing SLAPP suits and to protect everyone’s right to free speech. In Europe, the European Union’s anti-SLAPP Directive entered into force in May 2024. 

    On Feb 11th, 2025, Greenpeace International initiated the first test of the EU’s new anti-SLAPP Directive by filing a lawsuit against Energy Transfer in the Netherlands.

    “Energy Transfer is attempting to hold Greenpeace International, a dutch-based nonprofit foundation accountable for hundreds of millions of dollars of alleged damages for signing on to a letter with over 500 organisations from more than 50 countries,” said Greenpeace International General Counsel Kristin Casper. “It is this, along with many more reasons, we believe Energy Transfer’s pending US$300 million suit is a contender for the award of the most blatant SLAPP anywhere in the world.”

    Big Oil companies Shell, Total, and ENI have also filed SLAPPs against Greenpeace entities in recent years. Just last year, Shell came after Greenpeace UK and Greenpeace International in a multimillion dollar lawsuit. After a quarter of a million people spoke out, the lawsuit was settled in December 2024.

    “Greenpeace has faced a long history of threats,” said Charlie Cray, Greenpeace USA Senior Strategist. “When the Rainbow Warrior ship was bombed in 1985, we said ‘you can’t sink a rainbow.’ And now we’re saying: ‘you can’t sue a movement.’ Whatever happens in North Dakota, we will continue to campaign for a green and peaceful future.”


    Partner quotes

    “The lawsuit against Greenpeace is also an attack on the Indigenous movement in our fight for self-determination to protect Mother Earth, our waters, sacred and cultural sites and our youth and future generations. These colonialist lawsuits are trying to send a warning to anyone who might consider speaking out and to be quiet – any of you could be next.” – Morgan Brings Plenty, Standing Rock Youth Council

    “The case against Greenpeace illustrates how mega-corporations can use lawsuits to silence, intimidate and ruin their critics. America must demand, and Congress must pass, bipartisan legislation to protect First Amendment rights against ruinous litigation practices.” – Rep. Jamie Raskin

    “Amnesty International USA stands steadfast with Greenpeace USA in their fight against Big Oil’s attempt to punish and silence a strong advocate for environmental rights and climate justice for its fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline. As we experience the continual warming of our planet year over year due to the burning of fossil fuels, we need Greenpeace USA now more than ever to advocate and be a strong voice for the communities most at risk from the impacts of the climate crisis, rather than defending itself against retaliatory lawfare.” – Justin Mazzola, Researcher, Amnesty International USA

    “Everyone who says they care about freedom – of whatever political stripe – should join together to support the Greenpeace campaign to protect people’s right to speak out against corporate abuses. As Greenpeace knows from its own experience, too often corporations use their political, economic and legal power not just to run PR campaigns justifying their wrongdoing, but to threaten public interest advocates with bad-faith lawsuits (SLAPPs) and other intimidation tactics.” – Robert Weissman, Co-president of Public Citizen

    “Protesters and advocacy groups should never have to fear the weight of groups like ETP [Energy Transfer Partners] as a condition for expressing their First Amendment rights. The court should see this lawsuit for what it is and toss it.” – Brian Hauss, Senior Staff Attorney, ACLU 

    “No matter how hard they try, corporate powers will never silence the voice of the people. Working alongside movement allies, we know our collective pursuit of liberation and transformative change endangers what corporations like Energy Transfer rely on: a status quo built on injustice. We know this through our year-round issue-based and electoral organizing. TOP is proud to be in solidarity with Greenpeace as it fights this shameful attempt to stifle dissent and protest.” – David Villalobos, Political Director of Texas Organizing Project (TOP)


    Contact: Madison Carter, Greenpeace USA Senior Communications Specialist, [email protected]

    Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

    MIL OSI NGO –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: York and Yorkshire-based investigators help secure jail for plumbing fraudster who exploited vulnerable homeowners

    Source: City of York

    A man from Bolton who targeted victims across the North West has been sentenced to four years in prison at Bradford Crown Court today, after defrauding vulnerable customers out of a total of £250,000.

    Suhaib Sirajudin, 39, of Fifth Avenue, Bolton, operated as an ‘emergency plumber’ and pleaded guilty to two counts of fraudulent trading on 9 October 2024. The court heard how he took advantage of homeowners’ urgent need for a plumber by charging grossly inflated emergency callout and repair fees, frequently targeting victims who were older, vulnerable or lived alone. As well as seriously overcharging for initial works he often deliberately damaged victims’ properties in order to charge more for repairs.

    Between June 2021 and December 2022, trading as Plumbing Emergency 24/7 Limited and Expert Plumbing Limited 24/7, Mr Sirajudin advertised his services online and responded to emergency callouts from householders seeking urgent help with leaks. Mr Sirajudin would then exploit his victims, pressurising them into paying ‘extortionate’ sums for works that he completed to such a poor standard that the problem was either unresolved, or got worse.

    One older victim watched her kitchen ceiling fall in after Mr Sirajudin said a hole needed to be made in it to repair a bathroom leak. In total she and her husband, who was bedbound, paid almost £10,000 – almost all their savings. Another victim paid over £3,000 for the repair of a toilet leak that should have cost around £300. An expert said even that minor repair was not done properly.

    Another elderly couple were quoted £39,000 to repair their gas fire and boiler – which Mr Sirajudin was not qualified to do. They said Sirajudin made them feel belittled and as though they could not question the bill. They eventually paid £21,000.

    Many victims describe how Mr Sirajudin became aggressive when challenged, shouting and refusing to leave or threatening to take away new parts if payment was not made immediately. When victims or their relatives later contacted the companies to complain, their refund requests were often refused and they were cut off on the phone.

    As well as the financial losses, the emotional, mental and physical toll taken on victims has been significant, with a loss of confidence, depression and problems sleeping being among the lasting impacts of Mr Sirajudin’s crimes.

    The defendant was sentenced following an investigation by the National Trading Standards Yorkshire and Humber Regional Investigations Team, hosted by City of York Council, and the National Trading Standards eCrime Team, hosted by North Yorkshire Council.

    As well as the custodial sentence, Mr Sirajudin is also subject to a £250,000 confiscation order for victim compensation and £30,000 in prosecution costs. He will be disqualified from being a company director for 8 years.

    Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member with portfolio for Trading Standards at City of York Council, said:

    Mr Sirajudin intimidated and exploited people at a time when they needed emergency plumbing help, often late at night, in their own homes. Many victims were elderly or vulnerable and were charged extortionate amounts for often minor repairs which were badly done; in some cases made considerably worse. I hope they gain some small comfort from the sentencing today, and I’m very grateful for the persistence and dedication of our investigating teams here in York and North Yorkshire who worked hard to bring this case to trial.”

    Lord Michael Bichard, Chair, National Trading Standards, said:

    “With householders in desperate need of a plumber, often in the middle of the night, Mr Sirajudin was already in a position of power by the time he arrived at a caller’s home. If he saw that a customer was older, vulnerable or lived alone he took the opportunity to exploit them, leaving many feeling frightened in their own homes as well as thousands of pounds out of pocket.

    “I hope today’s sentencing provides some comfort for those involved and serves as a stark reminder that this type of callous intimidation and deceit will be investigated, and perpetrators brought to justice.

    “If you or someone you know has fallen victim to a fraud like this you should report it to the Citizens Advice consumer service helpline by calling 0808 223 1133.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Canada: Expanding recovery support services in Medicine Hat

    Alberta’s government is building the Alberta Recovery Model to increase access to supports focused on prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery. Everyone deserves an opportunity to pursue recovery from addiction or mental health challenges. Alberta’s government partners with organizations such as the Alberta Division of the Canadian Mental Health Association to ensure recovery-oriented services are accessible to Albertans in need.  

    With support from Alberta’s government, the Canadian Mental Health Association (Alberta Division) and Centre for Suicide Prevention have partnered with Medicine Hat Family Service to operate the recovery college, which will officially open on March 4. For more than a year, recovery college courses have been available in the Medicine Hat region online; this partnership will increase accessibility with both in-person and online options offered within the community. Recovery colleges use an innovative group support model where people in recovery help others build the skills needed to thrive.

    The province has invested $3.6 million over three years to support recovery colleges in Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, Edmonton, Calgary, Grande Prairie, Camrose, Red Deer and Wood Buffalo. Over the past three years alone, Alberta recovery colleges have provided about 2,000 courses to approximately 10,000 participants in 40 communities.

    “I’m so glad Medicine Hat will soon be home to its own fully operational recovery college. Recovery colleges are an excellent resource to support Albertans in their pursuit of recovery as they provide free, recovery-focused mental health services. I want to thank all our partners, professionals and those with lived experiences that have made this project possible. Alberta’s government is proud to continue our work in ensuring Albertans from all across the province can access crucial recovery services.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier and MLA for Brooks-Medicine Hat

    “Establishing meaningful connection with others is an important part of recovery. Our government is grateful for the work done by those across the province to support recovery colleges, establishing connection and providing education to those in need. With this kind of support, Albertans will have the tools they need to live in long-term recovery from addiction or mental health challenges.”

    Dan Williams, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction

    “As a strong advocate for mental health, I am pleased to see expanded support in Medicine Hat for those seeking resources for recovery. Nobody who is dealing with mental illness or addiction should be left wondering how to get help, and I am confident the recovery college will play an important role in many peoples lives.”

    Justin Wright, MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat

    Recovery colleges offer short-term courses and discussion groups on a variety of mental health topics. Delivered online and in-person, courses are facilitated by two trainers: a professional and a person with lived experience. Any Albertan aged 16 and over is welcome to participate. No referral is necessary, and the courses are free.

    The recovery college model in Alberta is based on successful recovery colleges in the United Kingdom, United States and Australia to provide access to mental health supports through a range of courses that help develop resiliency, wellness, connection, belonging and hope.

    “Recovery colleges help people make healing connections by sharing mutual life experiences. Courses embody hope, belonging, meaning and purpose and encourage participants to actively engage their mental health recovery journeys. This partnership with Alberta’s government and Medicine Hat Family Service restores this welcoming program for people in Medicine Hat, delivered by local partners.”

    Mara Grunau, CEO, CMHA Alberta and Centre for Suicide Prevention

    “I came from a dark place in life. They just brought me into the light a little bit – and that’s all it took. That’s what I needed to strive and to be confident within myself.”

    Recovery college participant

    In the 2023-24 recovery college evaluation survey:

    • 92 per cent of respondents said they felt more hopeful about the future after attending recovery college.
    • 62 per cent of respondents said they learned how to address challenges before they became a crisis with learnings from recovery college.
    • 80 per cent of respondents who attended multiple sessions said they were more able to engage in their community, for example, by volunteering, working or doing leisure activities.
    • 88 per cent of respondents said they felt a greater sense of belonging as a result of participating in recovery college.

    Alberta’s government is making record investments in mental health services to support Albertans of all ages in their pursuit of wellness and recovery. This includes investing in digital supports like 211 Alberta and Kids Help Phone; investing in affordable online and in-person counselling; and supporting early intervention initiatives such as in-school mental health services.

    Quick facts

    • Alberta’s government is investing $3.6 million over three years (2024-25 to 2026-27) to support the operation of recovery colleges.
    • Medicine Hat’s recovery college will be fully operational on March 4.  
    • Albertans can call 211 Alberta for information on mental health and addiction supports and services.

    Related information

    • Recovery Colleges in Alberta
    • 211 Alberta
    • Recovery College Medicine Hat

    Related news

    • Supporting mental health and addiction recovery (June 21, 2019)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Last minute tinkering does little to ease pressure of Councils – Plaid Cymru Council leaders

    Source: Party of Wales

    Councils are “in an impossible position”, forced to cut services and increase Council tax, as a result of the Labour Welsh Government’s budget, Plaid Cymru Council leaders have warned.

    Responding to the final budget, the Leaders of Carmarthenshire, Gwynedd, Ynys Môn and Ceredigion councils said that “last minute tinkering” will do little to ease pressures on already fragile services.

    After learning of the Labour government’s final plans, Darren Price, Nia Jeffreys, Gary Pritchard and Bryan Davies said:

    “It has been clear for some time that Councils would be put in an impossible position, forced to cut services, and increase Council tax.

    “Regrettably, that remains the case and this last-minute tinkering from the Labour Welsh Government does little to ease the pressure on already fragile services.

    “Plaid Cymru council leaders warned in December of the perilous financial outlook for local services.

    “We cautioned Ministers that the average 4.3% increase for councils announced for next year clearly falls short of meeting the pressure on council budgets.

    “Despite an additional £30m being made available for social care, the fact that it isn’t included in the base line doesn’t afford councils the opportunity to mitigate the upcoming increases in Council Tax.

    “The increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions announced by the UK Government last year is also a huge cause of concern for councils. The Welsh Local Government Association has estimated that the cost to local authorities stands at £109m, and this cost will not be fully met. That represents yet another cost pressure to councils’ already squeezed budgets.

    “If the Labour Welsh Government’s “partnership in power” with their counterparts in Westminster is to mean anything, then the Spring Statement at the end of March will give Wales a cash injection we so desperately need to make up for decades of unfair funding.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Exercise Cutlass Express 2025 Concludes in Tanzania

    Source: United States Navy

    During the exercise, which took place from Feb. 10-21, over 1000 participants from 20 partner nations supported Exercise Cutlass Express 2025 as part of a global network of partners to enhance cooperation and expertise in maritime security operations in the Western Indian Ocean.

    In Tanzania, 2 national maritime operation centers (MOCs) participated in the exercise to collaborate on real-time scenarios linked to the visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) training hosted in Tanga, Tanzania. Exercise Cutlass Express 2025 also contained linkages with the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa-led exercise Justified Accord 2025, also taking place in Tanzania, to improve coordination between land- and sea-based operations.

    “We value the TPDF’s role as a regional leader in deploying peacekeeping forces, countering violent extremist organizations, and promoting maritime security,” said Andrew Lentz Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the U.S. Embassy in Tanzania. “Through exercises like Cutlass Express, we are building the readiness of our militaries and deepening the bilateral and multilateral relationships required to confront today’s most complex security challenges.”

    Cutlass Express focuses on enabling East African partners to expand their capacity and capability to support maritime security operations and combat threats such as piracy, trafficking and illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The coordination of 10 national MOCs across 8 partner nations sought to improve regional coordination, with this year being the first to feature a U.S. P-8A Poseidon aircraft to establish communication links during a Cutlass Express. VBSS training in both Tanzania and Mauritius, as well as a week-long rule of law course hosted in Seychelles, allowed partners to share and refine their tactics for interdiction operations while ensuring a legal finish to hold malign actors accountable for illicit at-sea activity.

    “Ensuring the free flow of commerce within the region, especially over critical sea lines of communication and the vast expanse of this maritime environment, is vital to the economic stability and security of the region,” said Rear Adm. David E. Ludwa, reserve director of logistics, ordnance and engineering for Navy Reserve U.S. 6th Fleet. “We must work together, deepen our partnerships, and continue to improve the quality of exercises like Cutlass Express to enhance our ability to communicate and synchronize maritime operations to collectively counter the manifold threats we face.”

    Participants in this year’s iteration of Cutlass Express spanned 5 continents and included Australia, Belgium, Comoros, Djibouti, France, Georgia, India, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Senegal, Seychelles, Somalia, Tanzania, Tunisia, and the United Kingdom.

    Cutlass Express is one of three regional maritime exercises led by U.S. 6th Fleet as part of a comprehensive strategy to provide collaborative opportunities to African forces and international partners to address maritime security concerns.

    Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners to advance U.S. national interests, security and stability in Europe and Africa.

    MIL Security OSI –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Department of Health’s Core Grant scheme “exploitative” – Cllr Kendall

    Source: The Green Party in Northern Ireland

    The Department of Health’s Core Grant scheme highlights a stark disconnect between government priorities and community needs.
    Only 25 of 259 applicants secured £1.8m for 2025/26, a drastic cut from £3.6m pre-2024. This reduction reflects the government’s limited value on wellbeing services provided by the community and voluntary sector.
    Green Party NI Councillor Lauren Kendall described the situation as “exploitative,” noting the government relies heavily on voluntary groups yet slashes their funding. “This is an abusive relationship, taking advantage of goodwill in a mental health and homelessness crisis,” she stated.
    The lack of support for essential services is particularly concerning given the sector’s role in alleviating state pressures. The Green Party NI demands immediate funding restoration to properly resource community providers.
    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funding to help build homes in Plymouth

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Nearly £8 million of new funding is set to be invested in accelerating house building across Plymouth.

    The funding will bolster the latest version of the Plan for Homes, which to date has helped deliver more than 7,500 new homes city-wide.

    The plan details the Council’s priorities for ensuring that the city has the housing to tackle the local effects of the national housing crisis as well as cater for the city’s growth agenda.

    By supporting a variety of new and affordable housing to tackle housing needs and homelessness, it sets out a strategy for the future for housing in the city to support the delivery of the Joint Local Plan.

    This new capital investment, added to legacy funding of just over £3.5million, gives the Plan for Homes a total budget of around £11.5million.

    The timing is perfect with the need for new housing across Plymouth has never been higher. A combination of economic factors has exacerbated the housing crisis, played out nationally, which has resulted in record numbers of people approaching the Council for housing support.

    Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Communities and Cooperative Development, said: “I’m really pleased to bolster the power of the Plan for Homes with this funding.

    “I’ve said it before and I’ll keep saying it – we are in the middle of a housing crisis and we must come up with ways we can make things better for families who need somewhere to call home in our city.

    “These families are not just statistics. They are people who want what should be, in 2025, a basic human right; somewhere to call home and we will keep bringing forward innovative ways of tackling the worst of the crisis here in Plymouth.” 

    The new Plan for Homes 4 Programme budget £7,977,853.09 comes from a variety of sources, but a significant £4 million is forecast to be generated from receipts from the sale of Broadland Gardens.

    Broadland Gardens is a development of 10 energy-efficient, sustainable two, three and four bedroomed homes in Plymstock. All 10 homes are being sold on the open market with, as promised at the start of the project, surplus generated invested back into affordable housing elsewhere in the city.

    Other sources include monies from new and unspent Section 106 funding, recycled Right to Buy receipts, repayment of empty homes loans, sales of Council land and Brownfield Land Release funding.

    More details on the Plan for Homes and its achievements to date can be found at www.plymouth.gov.uk/PlanforHomes

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Membership of the offensive weapons homicide review oversight board

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Membership of the offensive weapons homicide review oversight board

    Announcements made about members appointed to the offensive weapons homicide review oversight board.

    Applies to England and Wales

    Documents

    New member of the offensive weapons homicide review oversight board appointed: February 2025

    HTML

    New member of the offensive weapons homicide review oversight board appointed: April 2024

    HTML

    Chair and first member of the offensive weapons homicide reviews oversight board appointed: June 2023

    HTML

    Details

    The Home Secretary has approved these appointments to the offensive weapons homicide review board.

    The oversight board has been established to monitor and oversee the local implementation of the reviews, to consider whether lessons learned are being acted upon, and to draw together thematic learning at a national level.

    The oversight board is a non-statutory committee which will be composed of experts in safeguarding, preventing homicide and serious violence and public protection.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 February 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Man convicted of planning robbery at a jewellers in Richmond

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Analysis of phone data and CCTV by Met officers has led to the conviction of a man who planned a robbery at a jewellers in Richmond. 

    Two men tied up a member of shop staff before stealing around £1.3 million worth of luxury watches during the raid in May 2024. 

    Flying Squad detectives, who specialise in investigating robberies, recovered and trawled through hundreds of hours of CCTV from across the country to piece together what happened. 

    As a result, Mannix Pedro, 37, who organised the raid, was found guilty of conspiracy to rob at Woolwich Crown Court on Wednesday, 19 February. He will be sentenced at a later date.

    Detective Sergeant Matt Hollands, who led the investigation, said: ”This was an audacious robbery that was several months in the planning. I’m pleased our investigation has resulted in a dangerous offender being convicted.

    “Our work is far from over, and our focus remains finding the three other men involved and putting them before the courts.”  

    On the afternoon of 25 May 2024 two men visited the jewellers in Kew Road after making an appointment with the owner. 

    After initially appearing to be normal customers, they tied up a member of staff before filling a rucksack with high-value watches. 

    The Met was called and officers began an investigation. They recovered CCTV from the jewellers which had captured the incident. By working back, they were able to identify the car the men had arrived in. 

    Along with phone data, officers used this evidence to link the two men to three others they believed had been involved in planning the robbery. 

    Sadly, the day after the incident occurred, the member of staff assaulted during the robbery was found dead. He was identified as Oliver White, who was 27 and from Surrey. A full inquest into his death is yet to take place, however it was not treated as suspicious. 

    Detective Sergeant Hollands added: “Throughout this investigation Oliver has been in our thoughts and we have remained committed to securing justice for his family. His death is a tragic reminder that crimes such as robbery have a significant impact on victims.” 

    In a statement paying to tribute to her son, Oliver’s mother, Amy Keane, said: “I would describe Oliver as a huge character, very warm and a brilliant person. He lit up the room when he entered it and was incredibly kind and caring, he would go above and beyond for anyone. He cared deeply for his family, was a wonderful role model for his little brother, as well as his two sisters.

    “Oliver really wanted to make something of himself, he aspired to buy a house, have a family and was planning for his future and this influenced his decision to work 24/7 as he saw his friends doing well in a business they enjoyed.

    “We know Oliver to be trustworthy and honest. Given the jury have convicted a man of planning and organising the robbery of Oliver, we take this as vindication of our firmly held belief he played no role in this offence and was not implicated in any involvement.

    “We are all absolutely devastated with the loss of our funny, thoughtful and kind son Oliver, our lives will never be the same and we feel this loss every minute of every day.”

    Further enquiries are ongoing to locate the three other members of the group and anyone with information about their whereabouts is asked to call 101 quoting the reference 01/MP/11200/24. 

    Information can also be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.  

    Samaritans are here day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch. 

    Conviction details 

    Mannix Pedro, 37 (18.10.87), of Cobbetts Close, Woking, was found guilty of conspiracy to rob at Woolwich Crown Court on Wednesday, 19 February, and will be sentenced at a later date.

    The jury failed to reach a verdict in relation to another man. A re-trial will take place in due course.

    MIL Security OSI –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor welcomes Urban Villages funding to progress Derry “The Realm” project

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Mayor welcomes Urban Villages funding to progress Derry “The Realm” project

    21 February 2025

    News that a £9m extension to funding for the Urban Villages Capital Plan, announced by the First Minister and deputy First Minister this week, has been welcomed by the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr. Among the projects to benefit from the funding is the Council led “The Realm” placemaking scheme.

    Mayor Barr said the funding extension announcement was great news for local communities who will significantly benefit from the investment.

    She said: “I welcome the decision by The Executive Office to extend Urban Villages funding, including the crucial support for Derry’s public realm project. This investment is a significant boost for our city, demonstrating a continued commitment to regeneration and creating a vibrant, attractive space for residents and visitors alike. It will allow us to build on the positive momentum already underway and deliver real, lasting benefits for our community.”

    Derry’s The Realm project will be delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council and encompasses the development of a network of high-quality public realm and green infrastructure improvements across the Fountain, the Bogside and Bishop Street areas of the city that will totally transform and revitalise the local environment by creating high quality public space and improved landscapes.

    The project aims to revitalise these areas of the city to create a more welcoming and attractive environment for the communities there to enjoy. The project will also work to create improvements such as enhanced paving lighting and landscapes and the creation of innovative public spaces that are accessible and support local businesses to create a more vibrant and inviting environment. 

    This is an £11m project and the funding announcement by the First and Deputy First Ministers of £3.4m will enable the first part of the project to proceed. Council will engage with community stakeholders and the urban villages team to deliver on this.

    The Urban Villages Capital Plan – a total investment of more than £124m – builds and transforms community facilities, creating shared spaces and beacons for good relations. It delivers social and physical infrastructure across the Urban Villages areas in Belfast and Derry~Londonderry, promoting good relations, regeneration and wider social, economic and environmental improvements.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strategic Growth Partnership holds first meeting of 2025

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Strategic Growth Partnership holds first meeting of 2025

    21 February 2025

    Members of Derry and Strabane’s Strategic Growth Partnership met today at St Columb’s Park House for the first quarterly meeting of 2025.

    The partnership is a grouping of representatives from community, statutory and voluntary organisations leading on the implementation of the Strategic Growth Plan for Derry and Strabane, a shared, long-term vision to improve the social, economic, and environmental wellbeing of the Council area.

    Mayor Barr began the meeting by paying tribute to the late Kenny McFarland, who had served as Co-Chair of the partnership for a number of years, and actively represented the Faughan DEA as Chair of the Local Growth Partnership for the area. Cllr Barr acknowledged the many years that Kenny had dedicated to promoting good relations and celebrating culture within the local community, and said his loss would be widely felt.

    The Mayor also took the opportunity to thank Pauline Campbell, Director with the Department for Communities, who steps away from her role as Co-Chair. Pauline has played a key role in the partnership since it was first formed in 2017, and her significant contribution over the years was acknowledged today.

    During the meeting partners received a presentation from the President and Chief Executive of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, Andrew Fleming and Anna Doherty, on the Value Proposition of the North West, and future plans to promote investment and growth. They also heard more about the Housing Investment Plan for N. Ireland, including a breakdown of local progress and future strategic priorities taking into account public finance challenges, with a report from Louise Clarke, Head of Place Shaping North at the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.

    Health was also a key focus, with a concerning report on tackling obesity from David Tumilty with the Public Health Agency. Partners heard that a whole system approach to diet and healthy weight is needed to bring about real changes with buy in from local organisations to ensure it remains a priority for Derry and Strabane.

    An update was provided on approaching milestones in the delivery of the Strategic Growth Plan, with work ongoing to deliver a Statement of Progress during 2025, and a Review of the Plan by the end of 2026, in line with the legislative framework set out by the Department for Communities.

    Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Barr said: “Today’s meeting provided an opportunity to acknowledge the significant work to date and the dedication and insight of all our partners to this important process.

    “We are seeing much positive progress, and that is taking into account some significant challenges, particularly over the past five years. With our City Deal plans progressing at pace, and continued commitment from all our partners, I look forward to the next phase of delivery and more positive results in line with our strategic objectives.”

    You can find reports from today’s meeting and more information about the Strategic Growth Plan at growderrystrabane.com

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ending the Universal Credit two-child cap

    Source: Scottish Government

    Views sought on flagship policy.

    The Scottish Government is launching a consultation on its plans to end the two-child cap on benefits.

    Eradicating child poverty is the government’s top priority and ministers have committed to ending the limit by April 2026, or sooner if possible. The Child Poverty Action Group estimate that scrapping the two-child cap in Scotland could lift 15,000 children out of poverty. 

    The consultation is seeking views from the public and stakeholders about the most effective ways to put systems in place to mitigate the effects of the two-child cap. It asks for views on questions such as whether Social Security Scotland should administer top-up payments.

    Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:

    “The UK Government has failed to scrap the two child cap despite it being a key driver of child poverty. In the face of such inaction the Scottish Government is determined to end the impact in Scotland.  If we can safely get the systems up and running earlier than April 2026, then we will make our first payments earlier – helping to lift thousands more children out of poverty.

    “We have launched a consultation calling for people to respond as we look to put the necessary systems in place to achieve our goal. We have made clear to the UK Government what is needed for us to end the impact of this policy and I would urge people and organisations across Scotland to contribute to make their views known.

    “The draft 2025-26 budget continues to invest more than £3 billion to policies which tackle poverty and the cost of living for households – and I would hope that would command widespread support across Parliament.

    “There is irrefutable evidence that the two child limit is increasing poverty and hardship across the UK. We have repeatedly called on the UK Government to end the two-child cap, and we have been just one of many voices saying the same thing. Until they do so, the Scottish Government will do everything in its power to mitigate the policy, which helps create child poverty.”

    Background

    The consultation closes on April 18th 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: National roles for senior ARU Peterborough staff

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    ARU Peterborough’s impact is being recognised on the national stage, with senior staff being appointed to the Boards of leading education organisations.

    Professor Ross Renton, Principal of ARU Peterborough, has joined the Executive Board of GuildHE, while Vice Principal Dr Lucy Jones is now a Board member of the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), in addition to her position at ARU Peterborough.

    The QAA is an independent UK charity with an international footprint and has a leading role in maintaining the standards and quality of Higher Education.

    GuildHE is an organisation that represents the interests of 67 member institutions across the country, including universities, colleges and specialist institutions, all with a focus on delivering vocational and technical Higher Education qualifications.

    “I am delighted that Ross has been appointed to the GuildHE Executive Board. He brings a wealth of experience from different sector and external organisations including significant experience at the University of Hertfordshire, the University of Worcester, and now as Founding Principal at ARU Peterborough.

    “Ross’ energy will be invaluable to our efforts to evolve GuildHE in line with member and sector needs, as will his commitment to inclusion and social justice.  As well as joining the GuildHE Board, he has been nominated and agreed to be the Board member lead for equality, diversity, and inclusion. We look forward to his contribution.”

    Professor Ken Sloan, the Chair of GuildHE

     “ARU Peterborough has been a member of GuildHE since launching in 2022 and I have seen first-hand what a powerful voice it has, helping to promote the interests of universities like ours that specialise in courses with a vocational element; courses that are crucial for delivering key skills and enabling social mobility across the country. It’s an honour to be joining its Board.

    “I’m thrilled that Dr Lucy Jones will be sharing her knowledge with the QAA. As Vice Principal for Academic Development here at ARU Peterborough, Lucy has an instrumental role in the development of the wide range of employment-focused courses we offer, and I know that the QAA will also benefit enormously from her experience and expertise.”

    Professor Ross Renton

    ARU Peterborough is a partnership between Anglia Ruskin University, Peterborough City Council and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority.

    Photo by Richard Fraser Photography

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Team Concludes Site and External Events Design Review for Ghana’s First Nuclear Power Plant

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    An IAEA team of experts visited the candidate site of Ghana’s first nuclear power plant during a Site and External Events Design Review Service mission. (Photo: Nuclear Power Ghana)

    An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts has concluded an eight-day safety review of Ghana’s site selection process for its first nuclear power plant (NPP). Ghana is pursuing the introduction of nuclear power to increase its low carbon power production to meet energy demand, tackle climate change and increase energy security and diversity.

    The Site and External Events Design Review Service (SEED) mission, which took place between 14 to 21 February, reviewed Ghana’s adherence to IAEA guidance on site selection. The SEED mission was the first of its kind to Ghana.

    Ghana has successfully completed the site selection process and identified the candidate site and an alternative site for its first NPP. The next stage following site selection is the characterization stage of the site evaluation process.

    The SEED mission was carried out at the request of the Government of Ghana and hosted by Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG), under the purview of the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition.

    The team comprised four experts from Pakistan, Türkiye, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as one IAEA staff. They reviewed the site selection report, together with the siting process, siting criteria, data collection process and application of the management system for siting activities. The team also visited and observed the candidate site in the Western Region and the alternative site in the Central Region. In addition to the SEED review mission, the IAEA provided a SEED Capacity Building Workshop to support site evaluation. During the workshop, external experts and participants engaged in discussions that will contribute to future progress in the site evaluation process.

    “We confirmed that both the implementing organization and the management system are well-designed with the support of the government and that the Site Approval Report has been systematically and thoroughly prepared. Ghana followed the IAEA safety standards while performing the site selection process,” said mission team leader Kazuyuki Nagasawa, Senior Nuclear Safety Officer at the IAEA.

    The team provided recommendations to improve the quality and optimize the site selection process, aiming to select the most favourable site. This optimization seeks to minimize the potential of the selected site being found to be unsuitable during the site characterization stage. The factors for consideration include the susceptibility to earthquakes, flooding and extreme weather events, as well as the feasibility of the emergency plan.

    As a good practice, the team noted that within NPG, leadership and management for safety have been functioning well since the beginning of the siting process.

    “We acknowledge with deep appreciation the IAEA SEED mission’s technical assistance in assessing our site selection. This mission is of great importance to our nuclear power programme, as it ensures that our decisions are guided by international best practices for safe and secure development of nuclear power infrastructure. The relevance of the mission extends beyond technical assessment, reinforcing our commitment to transparency, regulatory preparedness and sustainable nuclear energy development” said Stephen Yamoah, Executive Director of NPG.

    NPG will continue to receive ongoing technical assistance from the IAEA, while advancing the site approval process in accordance with the IAEA Specific Safety Guide on Site Survey and Site Selection for Nuclear Installations.

    The final SEED mission report will be delivered to the Government of Ghana within three months.

    About Site and External Events Design Review Service (SEED) missions

    SEED missions are expert review missions that assist countries going through different stages in the development of a nuclear power programme. The service offers a choice of modules in which to focus the review, such as site selection, site assessment and design of structures, systems and components, taking into consideration site specific external and internal hazards.

    In the case of site selection review, SEED missions assess the appropriate consideration of the safety issues in the site selection process.

    MIL Security OSI –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Earn Bitcoin Easily Using XRP: DDB Miner Launches New Opportunity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BIRMINGHAM, United Kingdom, Feb. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DDB Miner, a leading cryptocurrency mining platform, has announced a new opportunity for users to start Bitcoin mining using Ripple (XRP). This initiative allows investors to earn up to $5,950 per day through innovative mining technology powered by renewable energy sources.

    The Rise of New Energy Mining

    As the world shifts toward sustainable energy solutions, DDB Miner leads the way by leveraging solar and wind power for its cloud mining operations. This eco-friendly approach not only reduces energy costs but also integrates surplus electricity into the grid, ensuring efficiency while delivering high returns for investors.

    Cloud mining simplifies cryptocurrency mining by eliminating the need for expensive hardware and technical expertise. Through DDB Miner’s remote data centers, users can rent mining algorithms and receive daily profits without complex setups.

    Why Choose DDB Miner?

    DDB Miner stands out as a trusted platform with over 9 million users worldwide and more than 500,000 mining machines across 100 mining farms. Key features include:

    • Renewable Energy-Powered Mining – Low-cost, environmentally friendly operations.
    • User-Friendly Platform – Ideal for beginners and experienced investors alike.
    • Secure & Transparent – Advanced SSL encryption for asset protection.
    • Daily Payouts – Consistent earnings with no hidden fees.
    • 24/7 Support – Live assistance available around the clock.

    How It Works

    Getting started with DDB Miner is simple:

    1. Register & Get $12 Bonus – Sign up on the official website and receive an instant $12 welcome gift.
    2. Choose a Mining Contract – Select from flexible plans, such as:
      • Starter Plan: $12 investment, $0.50 daily return.
      • Boosted Hash Power: $100 investment, $6 daily return.
      • Top Hash Power: $500 investment, $31.50 daily return.
      • Advanced Contracts: From $5,000 to $50,000, offering higher returns.
    3. Earn Daily Profits – Monitor your earnings via a user-friendly dashboard.

    For example, a $5,000 investment generates $75 daily, totaling $7,250 after 30 days, including principal return.

    Affiliate Program & Additional Benefits

    DDB Miner’s affiliate program offers an opportunity to earn without investing. Referring active users can yield bonuses of up to $22,000, with unlimited earning potential.

    Other platform highlights include:

    • No Service or Admin Fees – Transparent pricing.
    • Multi-Crypto Settlement – Supports DOGE, BTC, ETH, SOL, USDT, XRP, and more.
    • 100% Uptime Guarantee – Backed by McAfee® and Cloudflare® security.

    A Smarter Path to Passive Income

    DDB Miner’s XRP-powered Bitcoin mining plans present an accessible, eco-friendly way to build wealth passively. Whether you’re new to crypto or an experienced investor, DDB Miner ensures a hassle-free experience with consistent returns.

    For more details, visit https://ddbminer.com or download the mobile app from Google Play or the Apple App Store.

    Media Contact:
    Katerina Audrey
    DDB Miner Media Relations
    Email: info@ddbminer.com

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by DDB Miner. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the DDB Miner 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/51cc648f-a03e-43f4-985d-87d439ede601

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/23129e63-f17b-4df3-b3e0-08f489954aa0

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e9e29852-4c8a-4ad0-8034-f10ee35dc947

    The MIL Network –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Four men sentenced following Met investigation into death of man in Croydon

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Four men have been sentenced to a total of 67 years in prison following a Met Police investigation into the death of 22-year-old Lavaun Witter in Croydon.

    On 5 February 2021, officers were called to Wisbeach Road at around 20:08hrs, after a member of the public found Lavaun collapsed and seriously injured.

    He sadly died at the scene after sustaining a stab wound to the leg.

    An investigation was launched by the Met’s Specialist Crime South Unit. Enquiries revealed that prior to his death, Lavaun’s flat had been broken into by four men. The men, who were armed with long knives and swords, demanded drugs and slashed through an internal door.

    Lavaun and a 16-year-old boy were stabbed before running from the scene but Lavaun collapsed a short distance away.

    CCTV enquiries quickly identified the suspects as Tyreece Riggon, Julian Russell, Tyreece Wolfries-Parkin and Alex Pasley.

    On 18 February 2021, officers raided an address linked to Riggon and he and Russell were arrested. A subsequent search of an address linked to Russell recovered a Louis Vuitton bag belonging to Lavaun.

    Wolfries-Parkin and Pasley were also arrested in the following weeks.

    All were charged with Lavaun’s murder as well as attempted murder and attempted grievous bodily harm of the 16-year-old.

    Detective Chief Inspector Mike Nolan, Senior Investigating Officer in the case said:

    “These men were prepared to use extreme levels of violence and take Lavaun’s life to gain possession of drugs they believed were inside the property.

    “Lavaun was defenceless against the four men who were each armed with large knives, including a Samurai sword.

    “Levaun’s death devastated his family and his community. I commend the bravery and strength they have shown throughout this lengthy investigation.”

    A trial at the Old Bailey began on 17 July 2023 and Julian Russell (18.09.1998) of Sanfield Road, CR7 and Tyreece Wolfries- Parkins, (06.10.2002) were found guilty of murder. Alex Pasley (01.10.1995) of Paxton Grove, Coulsdon was found guilty of manslaughter.

    A re-trial began on 4 November 2024 and on Thursday, 12 December, Tyreece Riggon, 24 (29.09.2000) of Armistice Gardens, SE25 was found guilty of attempted GBH. Pasley was also found guilty of attempted GBH in relation to the attack on the 16-year-old boy.

    The group appeared at the Old Bailey on Wednesday, 19 February for sentencing.

    Julian Russell was sentenced to life in prison, to serve a minimum of 24 years in prison minus the four years spent on remand.

    Tyreece Wolfries- Parkins was sentenced to life imprisonment to serve a minimum term of 20 years minus the time spent on remand.

    Alex Pasley was sentenced to 17 years in prison and Tyreece Riggon was sentenced to six years, both minus four years spent on remand.

    MIL Security OSI –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Alexis Mac Allister Announces as Jeton’s Latest Brand Ambassador

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, UK, Feb. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jeton, global payment services provider, announces a three-year partnership with global football icon Alexis Mac Allister. The 25-year-old Argentine football player is a midfielder for Premier League Club Liverpool and represents Argentina’s national team. The agreement between the global payment services provider and the footballer will appoint Mac Allister to serve as Jeton’s brand ambassador and represent the brand in various marketing campaigns. Jeton will be authorised to use Mac Allister’s professional name, image, likeness, and biography as part of the partnership.

    “I’m pleased to be Jeton’s brand ambassador,” stated Alexis Mac Allister. ‘I look forward to representing the brand and sharing its values with my fanbase and football lovers worldwide.”

    ‘We are very happy and excited to work closely with Mac Allister. We have strategized these partnerships based on what our customers expect from Jeton and how we can exceed their expectations. We hope to build stronger relations among the football community and reach out to football lovers all around the world through partnerships they desire. As exemplified by our recent partnership with Japanese football player Kou Itakura, we believe we are one step closer to achieving our objectives. We can’t wait to embark on this journey alongside Alexis Mac Allister.’ said Executive Director of Jeton.

    Jeton is known for its ongoing partnerships, marketing activities and close relations with football clubs and the community. The global payment services brand has a long-lasting relationship with West Ham United FC as their official e-Wallet partner and have previously partnered with other notable football clubs such as Aston Villa FC and Hull City AFC. Jeton has recently expanded its reach into the Asian market by partnering with Japanese football player Kou Itakura.

    About Jeton

    LA Orange CY Limited, trading as Jeton, is authorised by the Central Bank of Cyprus under the Electronic Money Law of 2012 and 2018 (Law 81(I)/2012) for distributing or redeeming electronic money (e-money), with Licence No: 115.1.3.66. LA Orange CY Limited has been incorporated in the Republic of Cyprus under the provisions of the Companies Law (Cap 113) with registration number HE 424807, with its registered office address at 116 Gladstonos, M. Kyprianou House, 3rd and 4th Floor, 3032, Limassol, Cyprus.

    © 2024 | LA Orange Limited, trading as Jeton, is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 for distributing or redeeming electronic money (e-money) and providing certain payment services on behalf of an e-money institution, with FCA registration number 902088. LA Orange Limited is registered in England and Wales, Company Number 11535714, with its registered office address at The Shard Floor 24/25, 32 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9SG, United Kingdom.

    Jeton Bank Limited is licensed and authorised by the Financial Services Unit, Ministry of Finance of the Commonwealth of Dominica, licensed as a banking institution under the international Banking Act, fully authorised to provide services to clients worldwide, under the prudential supervision of the Financial Services Unit. Jeton Bank Limited is registered in the Commonwealth of Dominica, Company Number 2022/C0175, with its registered address at 1st Floor, 43 Great George Street, Roseau, Commonwealth of Dominica, Post Code: 00109-8000. – LEI Code: 894500XGIX3R4HCIOC29.

    Social Links

    Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/jetonpayments/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jetonpayments

    X:  https://x.com/jetonpayments

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JetonPayments

    Media contact

    Brand: Jeton

    Contact: Media team

    Email: marketing@jeton.com

    Website: https://www.jeton.com/

    SOURCE: Jeton

    The MIL Network –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Boost for Stoke-on-Trent’s bus revolution

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    New bus routes being introduced in Stoke-on-Trent will make it easier for people to get to shops, hospitals, visitor attractions and key employment sites.

    The changes affect 14 services, being phased in from Sunday 23 February, and will help to meet the ongoing demand from passengers for more evening and weekend services.

    They are being introduced as part of Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) which is transforming the local transport network.

    The new journeys include brand-new services 500 and 501 which link Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station, Hanley Bus Station, Festival Park, Etruria Valley and Wolstanton Retail Park.

    Another brand-new service, service 27A, links Bentilee, Anchor Road and Longton to Trentham Lakes and Radial Park in Stoke, while service 40 has been extended on Saturdays to include the World of Wedgwood in Barlaston.

    Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “We’re bringing buses back. We’re making them work for working people, getting them to and from work, connecting them to family and friends and making everyday life easier.

    “Local people have told us they need better connections to jobs, shops, and hospitals – and we’ve listened. That’s why we’re introducing new and improved routes linking places like Etruria Valley, Trentham Lakes, Festival Park, Wolstanton Retail Park, Haywood Hospital and the World of Wedgwood.

    “Here in Stoke-on-Trent, we are leading the nation in the bus revolution. In just 12 months, we’ve improved 28 services across all six towns, providing more evening and weekend buses, creating new routes where they’re needed most and making sure no community is left behind. And people are seeing the difference. They’re telling us they’re noticing more buses on the roads, running later than they have in years.

    “This is about getting the basics right – buses that turn up on time, go where people need them while supporting jobs, families and our local economy. We are determined that everyone – from students to pensioners – feels the benefits of our Bus Service Improvement Programme.”

    Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan is being funded by £31.6 million of funding from the Department for Transport (DfT).

    In December, following extensive lobbying efforts by councillors and local MPs, the city council was awarded additional government funding of almost £10 million to continue with its efforts to improve the local bus network and build on the success of the scheme in the coming years.

    The new routes, which will operate until at least March 2026, are:

    • Service 2 (Hanley – Birches Head) – new evening services Monday to Saturday, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 5 (Hanley – Abbey Hulton) – new early morning buses from Abbey Hulton into Hanley, Monday to Saturday, along with new evening services, all operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 7A (Hanley – High Lane – Fegg Hayes) – new evening service along High Lane, serving Haywood Hospital, Monday to Saturday, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 8 (Hanley – Norton – Ball Green) – new late evening services to Ball Green, Monday to Friday, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 9 (Fegg Hayes – Bradeley – Hanley – Newcastle) – new evening service along Chell Heath Road, Monday to Saturday, and a new Sunday daytime service along Chell Heath Road, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 23 (Hanley – Blurton – Newstead) – new late evening services to Blurton, Monday to Saturday, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 27A (Bentilee – Longton – Trentham Lakes) – new service running at shift-change times, every day of the week, operated by D&G Bus.

    • Service 36 / 36A (Meir – Longton – Hanley – Tunstall – Kidsgrove) – new Sunday evening service, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 38 / 39 (Hanley – Festival Park – Newcastle) – new late evening service every day, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 40 (Hanley – Mount Pleasant – Longton – Wedgwood) – new Saturday daytime service for Mount Pleasant, also providing a new link to World of Wedgwood, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 501– new link to Wolstanton Retail Park and the Etruria Valley development site from Stoke and Hanley, Monday to Saturday, operated by First Potteries.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Delivering warmer homes and lower energy bills to tenants

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    From today, tenants in nine homes in Edinburgh will benefit from major energy upgrades to improve living standards and lower energy bills.

    The homes, located in the southeast of the city, boast an Energy Performance Certificate ‘B’ rating after a series of improvements including External Wall Insulation (EWI) and window upgrades.

    They are now undergoing monitoring to assess energy consumption, tenant comfort, and overall performance. Data gathered from the homes will provide valuable insight into the effectiveness of these measures and help determine the feasibility of rolling out similar upgrades across other Council housing stock.

    Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener Lezley Marion Cameron said:

    I warmly welcome what’s been achieved in collaboration with our partners, AtkinsRéalis and Anderson Bell + Christie, on this transformative retrofit project. The energy improvements are already delivering real benefits for tenants – lower energy bills, increased comfort, and more sustainable homes.

    The data we’re collecting will be instrumental in scaling up this work to happen across other Council homes in Edinburgh, contributing towards our Net Zero 2030 target. While the work involved is complex, the long-term benefits – for our tenants, communities, and our city’s environment – are undeniable.

    Anderson Bell + Christie Director Jonathan McQuillan said:

    This project signals a real shift change in how Scottish social housing landlords are approaching their obligations to improve the energy and quality of homes ahead of the Scottish Government deadline – taking a co-ordinated, architectural viewpoint to ensure the measures put in place and undertaken are tailed to each and every building to ensure its effectiveness for many generations to come.

    The City of Edinburgh Council have been pioneering in their thinking and as a result of the pilot, on which we spent two years investigating and garnering the right data, the majority of their stock can now be retrofitted with confidence. The improvement works support future measures such as district heating systems, making them ‘net zero-ready’.

    The project adopted a ‘whole house approach’ to implement advanced retrofit standards for the nine pilot homes. The properties were selected following an in-depth review of 52 building types which involved comprehensive surveys, including asbestos checks, air-tightness testing, and extensive energy modelling.

    Published: February 21st 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council to buy former student flats to help meet temporary housing need

    Source: City of Leicester

    THE city council is to buy a block of former student flats to provide much-needed temporary accommodation for single people and couples who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

    The purchase of the building on York Street will bring 134 self-contained units into the council’s ownership, and will save the council £2.6m a year on the rent it currently pays to other landlords in the city.

    The building will help to accommodate many of the single people in the city who are classed as having priority need, and are currently in bed and breakfast or hotel accommodation.

    Built in 2019, the seven-storey building comprises of 132 self-contained, ensuite bedsits, and two one- bedroomed flats which are wheelchair accessible with large wet rooms.  All of the units have fitted kitchens with integral appliances and fitted furniture. The building also has onsite laundry facilities and bike storage.

    Chris Burgin, the council’s director of housing said: “We don’t want people to be in unsuitable B&B accommodation for any length of time, but with increasing numbers of people facing homelessness we have few options available to us.

    “This building will provide good quality units with cooking and washing facilities which are not available in hotels and B&Bs, and will house people for between three and 18 months before they move on to permanent accommodation.”

    The council has set aside £45m to increase the supply of good quality council accommodation including family housing in the city.

    Deputy city mayor Cllr Elly Cutkelvin said: “The purchase of the Yoho building is a small part of our plans to ensure that no-one has to stay in unsuitable temporary accommodation without access to the facilities they need.

    “It is also part of our wider plan to provide 1,500 new affordable homes for the city by 2027, and deliver more than 1,600 new properties. All of these properties will go to those most in need.”

    The cost of the purchase will be made public once the commercial deal has been finalised.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fairer Aberdeen Fund marks anniversary with showcase event

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    The Fairer Aberdeen Fund marked 10 years of supporting organisations to tackle poverty and deprivation across the city in a showcase event today (Friday 21 February).

    Those attending the showcase event were able to hear from projects which have benefited from funding on how they have supported individuals and communities, and watch a selection of short films on the work that they have been carrying out. 

    Councillor Alex McLellan, Convener of Finance and Resources Committee, who is also Chair of the Fairer Aberdeen Board, said: “There is so much positive work being done by the Fairer Aberdeen Funded organisations across Aberdeen to support people and families.

    “Our Fairer Aberdeen funded partners are dealing are helping people struggling wtih the cost-of-living crisis 10 years on from the start of the fund, highlighting that poverty remains a huge issue in our city.” 

    Over the last year, 38 initiatives were delivered across the city by 26 voluntary and third sector organisations, that have supported over 50,000 people to access support for employability, financial inclusion, family support, youth work, mental health, learning and volunteering. 

    The keynote speaker for the event was Ruth Boyle, Policy and Campaign Manager at The Poverty Alliance, and featured talks from Cameron McCready, CEO of Homestart Aberdeen and Graeme Kinghorn, CEO of Mental Health Aberdeen, who highlighted their work tackling social isolation and improving mental health across the city.

    Cameron McCready, CEO of Homestart Aberdeen said: “Poverty in Aberdeen affects families in many ways, from financial insecurity to social isolation. With the support of FAF, we’ve been able to provide early intervention services that strengthen family wellbeing and build stronger, more connected communities.”

    Graham Kinghorn, CEO of Mental Health Aberdeen said: “The Fairer Aberdeen Fund is vital in tackling poverty and inequality, supporting essential services from mental health to financial advice and employability. Continued investment is crucial to strengthening communities and improving lives.”

    Organisations supported by the Fund have included Station House Media Unit (SHMU), Community Food Initiatives North East (CFINE) and Pathways. 

    The Fairer Aberdeen Fund is allocated by Aberdeen City Council and is dispersed by the Fairer Aberdeen Board to third sector organisations, charities and voluntary groups.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Woman convicted of murdering two young children

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A woman has been convicted of murder after her two young children were found dead in their east London home.

    Kara Alexander, 47 (23.12.77), of Cornwallis Road, Dagenham was found guilty at Kingston Crown Court on Friday, 21 February.

    She will be sentenced on Friday, 11 April.

    Detective Chief Inspector Paul Waller, who led the investigation, said: “Our thoughts are with the family, especially the boys’ father who found them dead when he went to collect them for the weekend after Kara Alexander had failed to return his messages.

    “No parent should have to go through such a horrific experience, and then have to listen to the detailed evidence highlighting what led up to these events.

    “I would also like to praise those who were first on scene – our colleagues and the paramedics – who also experienced this traumatic event first hand.

    “This has been a difficult investigation for everyone involved. This guilty verdict cannot turn back the clock but it does provide the children’s family with some form of resolution.”

    Emergency services were called at around 14:00hrs on 16 December 2022, after the bodies of two young children were found by their father in their shared bunkbed inside the house in Dagenham.

    Alexander ran from the address following the discovery but was arrested nearby a short time later.

    Two-year-old Elijah Thomas and five-year-old Marley Thomas were both pronounced dead at the scene.

    Post-mortem examinations established that both boys’ cause of death was interference with the normal mechanics of breathing, through smothering and/or immersion in water.

    An investigation was launched, led by detectives from the Specialist Crime Command.

    A search of the house and garden found no evidence of forced entry. The curtains were closed and the house was in darkness.

    Detectives reviewed footage from local CCTV cameras and doorbells which showed Alexander and the children running a number of errands in the days before 16 December 2022. The last time all three were captured together was on the afternoon of 15 December 2022.

    Forensic analysis of Alexander’s phone, which had been found in a filled sink, showed that it had been in regular use up until 16 December but on the day the children were found, no calls were made or messages sent. This led detectives to believe that she had intentionally been avoiding people following their deaths.

    Alexander was charged on 19 December 2022 with two counts of murder.

    MIL Security OSI –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: STEALTHGAS INC. Reports Fourth Quarter and Twelve Months 2024 Financial and Operating Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATHENS, Greece, Feb. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — STEALTHGAS INC. (NASDAQ: GASS), a ship-owning company serving the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sector of the international shipping industry, announced today its unaudited financial and operating results for the fourth quarter and twelve months ended December 31, 2024.

    OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

    • All-time record Net Income of $69.9 million for the twelve month period of 2024, a 34.7% increase compared to the same period last year. Strong profitability continued for the fourth quarter, with Net income of $14.2 million corresponding to a basic EPS of $0.38.
    • Revenues increased by 27.3% compared to the same period of last year to $43.5 million for the fourth quarter of 2024.
    • Further increased period coverage. About 70% of fleet days for 2025 are secured on period charters, with total fleet employment days for all subsequent periods generating over $200 million (excl. JV vessels) in contracted revenues.
    • Continued reducing leverage, making $108.2 million in debt repayments during the twelve month period of 2024 and $34.4 million in the current quarter of 2025. Currently, 26 out of 28 vessels in the fully owned fleet are unencumbered.
    • Maintaining ample cash and cash equivalents (incl. restricted cash) of $84.5 million as of December 31, 2024 enabling the Company to further reduce debt.

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Results1:

    • Revenues for the three months ended December 31, 2024 amounted to $43.5 million compared to revenues of $34.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023, based on an average of 27.6 vessels and 27.0 vessels owned by the Company, respectively, as the vessels remaining in the fleet earned higher revenues due to better market conditions.
    • Voyage expenses and vessels’ operating expenses for the three months ended December 31, 2024 were $3.2 million and $13.6 million, respectively, compared to $3.3 million and $12.9 million, respectively, for the three months ended December 31, 2023. The $0.7 million increase in vessels’ operating expenses was mainly due to increase in crew costs and maintenance expenses, while the voyage expenses remained stable between 2024 and 2023.
    • Drydocking costs for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 were $1.9 million and $0.03 million, respectively. Drydocking expenses during the fourth quarter of 2024 mainly relate to the completed drydocking of three vessels, compared to no drydocking of vessels in the same period of last year.
    • General and administrative expenses for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 were $3.0 million and $1.7 million, respectively. The change is mainly attributed to the increase in stock-based compensation expense.
    • Depreciation for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was $6.6 million and $5.6 million, respectively, a $1.0 million increase is mainly related to the increase in average number of vessels owned by the Company and to the partial replacement of some of the older vessels with newer and larger ones which have a higher cost.
    • Interest and finance costs for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, were $1.4 million and $2.3 million, respectively. The $0.9 million decrease from the same period of last year is primarily due to continued debt prepayments.
    • Interest income for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, were $1.1 million and $1.0 million, respectively.
    • Equity earnings in joint ventures for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was a gain of $0.5 million and $0.9 million, respectively. The $0.4 million decrease was primarily due to decrease in number of vessels in joint ventures.
    • As a result of the above, for the three months ended December 31, 2024, the Company reported net income of $14.2 million, compared to net income of $8.9 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023. The weighted average number of shares outstanding, basic, for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was 35.3 million and 35.3 million, respectively.
    • Earnings per share, basic, for the three months ended December 31, 2024 amounted to $0.38 compared to earnings per share, basic, of $0.25 for the same period of last year.
    • Adjusted net income was $16.4 million corresponding to an Adjusted EPS, basic, of $0.44 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to Adjusted net income of $10.3 million corresponding to an Adjusted EPS, basic, of $0.29 for the same period of last year.
    • EBITDA for the three months ended December 31, 2024 amounted to $21.2 million. Reconciliations of Adjusted Net Income, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to Net Income are set forth below.
    • An average of 27.6 vessels were owned by the Company during the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to 27.0 vessels for the same period of 2023.

    Twelve months 2024 Results:

    • Revenues for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, amounted to $167.3 million, an increase of $23.8 million, or 16.6%, compared to revenues of $143.5 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, as the vessels remaining in the fleet earned higher revenues due to better market conditions.
    • Voyage expenses and vessels’ operating expenses for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 were $11.7 million and $49.8 million, respectively, compared to $13.2 million and $53.1 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. The $1.5 million decrease in voyage expenses was mainly due to the decrease in spot days, while the $3.3 million decrease in vessels’ operating expenses was mainly due to the decrease in the average number of owned vessels in our fleet.
    • Drydocking costs for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 were $5.3 million and $2.6 million, respectively. The costs for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 mainly related to the completed drydocking of seven vessels, while the costs for the same period of last year mainly related to the completed drydocking of three of the larger handysize vessels.
    • General and administrative expenses for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 were $10.3 million and $5.3 million, respectively. The change is mainly attributed to the increase in stock-based compensation expense.
    • Depreciation for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, was $26.1 million, a $2.4 million increase from $23.7 million for the same period of last year, as the Company partly replaced some of the older vessels with newer and larger vessels which have a higher cost.
    • Impairment loss for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was nil and $2.8 million, respectively. The impairment loss for the year ended December 31, 2023, related to two vessels for which the Company had entered into separate agreements to sell to third parties.
    • Gain on sale of vessels for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 was $0.05 million compared to $7.6 million for the same period last year. The decrease is attributed to the sale of four of the Company’s vessels during the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 compared to the sale of two vessels during the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, which had been classified as held for sale as of December 31, 2023.
    • Interest and finance costs for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 were $9.1 million and $10.0 million, respectively. The $0.9 million decrease from last year is primarily due to continued debt prepayments.
    • Interest income for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was $3.4 million and $3.7 million, respectively. The $0.3 million decrease is mainly attributed to decrease in interest rates and over the corresponding period.
    • Equity earnings in joint ventures for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was a gain of $15.6 million and a gain of $12.3 million, respectively. The $3.3 million increase from the same period of last year is mainly due to a profitable sale of one of the Medium Gas carriers owned by one of our joint ventures.
    • As a result of the above, the Company reported a net income for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 of $69.9 million, compared to a net income of $51.9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. The weighted average number of shares outstanding, basic, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was 35.2 million and 37.2 million, respectively.
    • Earnings per share, basic, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 amounted to $1.91 compared to earnings per share, basic, of $1.38 for the same period of last year.
    • Adjusted net income was $77.3 million, corresponding to an Adjusted EPS, basic, of $2.11 per share, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 compared to adjusted net income of $50.5 million, or $1.34 per share, for the same period of last year.
    • EBITDA for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 amounted to $101.6 million. Reconciliations of Adjusted Net Income, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to Net Income are set forth below.
    • An average of 27.2 vessels were owned by the Company during the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to 29.3 vessels for the same period of 2023.

      As of December 31, 2024, cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash) amounted to $84.5 million and total debt amounted to $84.9 million.

      1  EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS are non-GAAP measures. Refer to the reconciliation of these measures to the most directly comparable financial measure in accordance with GAAP set forth later in this release.

    Fleet Update Since Previous Announcement

    The Company announced the conclusion of the following chartering arrangements (of three or more months duration):  

    • A twelve months time charter for its 2024 built LPG carrier Eco Wizard, until Dec 2025.
    • A twelve months time charter for its 2020 built LPG carrier Eco Alice, until Feb 2026.
    • A twelve months time charter for the JV-owned 2007 built LPG carrier Gas Haralambos, until Dec 2025.
    • A three months time charter for the 2012 built LPG carrier Gas Husky, until April 2025.

    As of February 2025, the Company has total contracted revenues of approximately $200 million.

    As of February 2025, the Company has circa 70% of fleet days secured under period contracts and contracted revenues of approximately $107 million for the remainder of the year.

    On January 21, 2025, the previously announced sale of the Gas Shuriken was concluded and the vessel was delivered to its new owners.

    Share Repurchase Program Increase

    Today the Board of Directors authorized a $5 million increase to the existing $25 million common stock repurchase program for a total aggregate amount of $30 million. Shares of common stock may be purchased, from time to time, in open market or privately negotiated transactions, at times and prices that are considered to be appropriate by the Company, and the program may be suspended or discontinued at any time. As of the date hereof, the Company has repurchased an aggregate of approximately $19.4 million.

    CEO Harry Vafias Commented

    It is with great pride that we announce today for the third consecutive year record annual profits. After a successful fourth quarter we concluded 2024 reporting net income of $70 million for the year, a 35% increase, far outpacing the underlying market improvement for our vessels. We are delivering on our strategic priorities, modernizing the fleet, securing revenues and de-risking the business, aiming to bring strong value to StealthGas shareholders. We can now say we are net debt free, after having further reduced our debt in the current quarter. We are close to completing our deleverage that will bring a long term advantage to the fleet and the Company is in a solid footing. As successful as we have been we are established in the shipping markets long enough not to forget that we operate in a volatile sector where fortunes can be made and lost quite rapidly. We are optimistic for the future albeit evermore cautiously not least because the current global geopolitics that can have a strong influence on shipping markets are for the time being quite opaque with too many developing situations. Finally, in order to give further value back to our shareholders, we are renewing our share repurchases and increasing up to $10.5 million the amount available to us for this task.

     Conference Call details:

    On February 21, 2025 at 10:00 am ET, the company’s management will host a conference call to discuss the results and the company’s operations and outlook.

    Conference call participants should pre-register using the below link to receive the dial-in numbers and a personal PIN, which are required to access the conference call.

    https://register.vevent.com/register/BIa607c71e1abf4ac08816dfc43bd8d733

    Slides and audio webcast:
    There will also be a live and then archived webcast of the conference call, through the STEALTHGAS INC. website (www.stealthgas.com). Participants to the live webcast should register on the website approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the webcast.

    About STEALTHGAS INC.

    StealthGas Inc. is a ship-owning company serving the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sector of the international shipping industry. StealthGas Inc. has a fleet of 31 LPG carriers, including three Joint Venture vessels in the water. These LPG vessels have a total capacity of 349,170 cubic meters (cbm). StealthGas Inc.’s shares are listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market and trade under the symbol “GASS.”

    Visit our website at www.stealthgas.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Matters discussed in this release may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and financial performance and may include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance and underlying assumptions and other statements, which are other than statements of historical facts. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions, including without limitation, management’s examination of historical operating trends, data contained in our records and other data available from third parties. Although STEALTHGAS INC. believes that these assumptions were reasonable when made, because these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies which are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond our control, STEALTHGAS INC. cannot assure you that it will achieve or accomplish these expectations, beliefs or projections. Important factors that, in our view, could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include the strength of world economies and currencies, general market conditions, including changes in charter hire rates and vessel values, charter counterparty performance, changes in demand that may affect attitudes of time charterers to scheduled and unscheduled drydockings, shipyard performance, changes in STEALTHGAS INC’s operating expenses, including bunker prices, drydocking and insurance costs, ability to obtain financing and comply with covenants in our financing arrangements, actions taken by regulatory authorities, potential liability from pending or future litigation, domestic and international political conditions, the conflict in Ukraine and related sanctions, the conflict in Israel and Gaza, potential disruption of shipping routes due to ongoing attacks by Houthis in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden or  accidents and political events or acts by terrorists.

    Risks and uncertainties are further described in reports filed by STEALTHGAS INC. with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Fleet List        
    For information on our fleet and further information:
    Visit our website at www.stealthgas.com

    Fleet Data:
    The following key indicators highlight the Company’s operating performance during the periods ended December 31, 2023 and 2024.

    FLEET DATA Q4 2023   Q4 2024   12M 2023   12M 2024  
    Average number of vessels (1) 27.0   27.6   29.3   27.2  
    Period end number of owned vessels in fleet 27   28   27   28  
    Total calendar days for fleet (2) 2,484   2,542   10,698   9,944  
    Total voyage days for fleet (3) 2,441   2,446   10,566   9,677  
    Fleet utilization (4) 98.3 % 96.2 % 98.8 % 97.3 %
    Total charter days for fleet (5) 2,207   2,265   9,544   8,930  
    Total spot market days for fleet (6) 234   181   1,022   747  
    Fleet operational utilization (7) 96.8 % 95.0 % 96.6 % 95.4 %
                     

    1) Average number of vessels is the number of owned vessels that constituted our fleet for the relevant period, as measured by the sum of the number of days each vessel was a part of our fleet during the period divided by the number of calendar days in that period.
    2) Total calendar days for fleet are the total days the vessels we operated were in our possession for the relevant period including off-hire days associated with major repairs, drydockings or special or intermediate surveys.
    3) Total voyage days for fleet reflect the total days the vessels we operated were in our possession for the relevant period net of off-hire days associated with major repairs, drydockings or special or intermediate surveys.
    4) Fleet utilization is the percentage of time that our vessels were available for revenue generating voyage days, and is determined by dividing voyage days by fleet calendar days for the relevant period.
    5) Total charter days for fleet are the number of voyage days the vessels operated on time or bareboat charters for the relevant period.
    6) Total spot market charter days for fleet are the number of voyage days the vessels operated on spot market charters for the relevant period.
    7) Fleet operational utilization is the percentage of time that our vessels generated revenue, and is determined by dividing voyage days excluding commercially idle days by fleet calendar days for the relevant period.

    Reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EPS:

    Adjusted net income represents net income before loss/gain on derivatives excluding swap interest paid/received, impairment loss, net gain/loss on sale of vessels and share based compensation. EBITDA represents net income before interest and finance costs, interest income and depreciation. Adjusted EBITDA represents net income before interest and finance costs, interest income, depreciation, impairment loss, net gain/loss on sale of vessels, share based compensation and loss/gain on derivatives.

    Adjusted EPS represents Adjusted net income divided by the weighted average number of shares.

    EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS are included herein because they are a basis, upon which we and our investors assess our financial performance. They allow us to present our performance from period to period on a comparable basis and provide investors with a means of better evaluating and understanding our operating performance.

    EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS are not recognized measurements under U.S. GAAP. Our calculation of EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS may not be comparable to that reported by other companies in the shipping or other industries. In evaluating Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted net income and Adjusted EPS, you should be aware that in the future we may incur expenses that are the same as or similar to some of the adjustments in this presentation.

    (Expressed in United States Dollars,
    except number of shares)
    Fourth Quarter Ended
    December 31st,
    Twelve months Periods
    Ended December 31st,
      2023 2024 2023 2024
    Net Income – Adjusted Net Income        
    Net income 8,889,046   14,198,527   51,936,829   69,862,177  
    Plus/(Less) loss/(gain) on derivatives 255,736   —   (237,618 ) (99,286 )
    (Less)/Plus swap interest (paid)/received 216,432   —   1,027,127   208,127  
    (Less)/Plus (gain)/loss on sale of vessels, net —   —   (7,645,781 ) (46,384 )
    Plus impairment loss —   —   2,816,873   —  
    Plus share based compensation 940,216   2,206,295   2,589,405   7,326,807  
    Adjusted Net Income 10,301,430   16,404,822   50,486,835   77,251,441  
             
    Net income – EBITDA        
    Net income 8,889,046   14,198,527   51,936,829   69,862,177  
    Plus interest and finance costs 2,344,430   1,425,886   9,956,712   9,062,562  
    Less interest income (952,287 ) (1,052,786 ) (3,712,239 ) (3,416,221 )
    Plus depreciation 5,565,955   6,598,549   23,707,797   26,076,687  
    EBITDA 15,847,144   21,170,176   81,889,099   101,585,205  
             
    Net income – Adjusted EBITDA        
    Net income 8,889,046   14,198,527   51,936,829   69,862,177  
    Plus/(Less) loss/(gain) on derivatives 255,736   —   (237,618 ) (99,286 )
    (Less)/Plus (gain)/loss on sale of vessels, net —   —   (7,645,781 ) (46,384 )
    Plus impairment loss —   —   2,816,873   —  
    Plus share based compensation 940,216   2,206,295   2,589,405   7,326,807  
    Plus interest and finance costs 2,344,430   1,425,886   9,956,712   9,062,562  
    Less interest income (952,287 ) (1,052,786 ) (3,712,239 ) (3,416,221 )
    Plus depreciation 5,565,955   6,598,549   23,707,797   26,076,687  
    Adjusted EBITDA 17,043,096   23,376,471   79,411,978   108,766,342  
             
    EPS – Adjusted EPS        
    Net income 8,889,046   14,198,527   51,936,829   69,862,177  
    Adjusted net income 10,301,430   16,404,822   50,486,835   77,251,441  
    Weighted average number of shares, basic 35,300,965   35,345,251   37,166,449   35,237,059  
    EPS – Basic 0.25   0.38   1.38   1.91  
    Adjusted EPS – Basic 0.29   0.44   1.34   2.11  
     
    StealthGas Inc.
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
    (Expressed in United States Dollars, except for number of shares)
      Quarters Ended
    December 31,
      Twelve month Periods Ended
    December 31,
      2023   2024   2023   2024
               
    Revenues              
    Revenues 34,139,248     43,467,117     143,527,769     167,262,185  
                   
    Expenses              
    Voyage expenses 2,878,732     2,679,927     11,429,716     9,594,880  
    Voyage expenses – related party 426,108     535,991     1,779,488     2,063,228  
    Vessels’ operating expenses 12,690,873     13,404,725     52,206,248     48,961,137  
    Vessels’ operating expenses – related party 207,500     212,500     911,250     875,002  
    Drydocking costs 27,696     1,855,672     2,641,706     5,312,614  
    Management fees – related party 1,048,800     1,089,040     4,531,920     4,258,240  
    General and administrative expenses 1,657,671     3,010,733     5,331,029     10,309,693  
    Depreciation 5,565,955     6,598,549     23,707,797     26,076,687  
    Impairment loss —     —     2,816,873     —  
    Net gain on sale of vessels —     —     (7,645,781 )   (46,384 )
    Total expenses 24,503,335     29,387,137     97,710,246     107,405,097  
                   
    Income from operations 9,635,913     14,079,980     45,817,523     59,857,088  
                   
    Other (expenses)/income              
    Interest and finance costs (2,344,430 )   (1,425,886 )   (9,956,712 )   (9,062,562 )
    (Loss)/gain on derivatives (255,736 )   —     237,618     99,286  
    Interest income 952,287     1,052,786     3,712,239     3,416,221  
    Foreign exchange (loss)/gain (27,829 )   25,598     (190,722 )   (70,692 )
    Other expenses, net (1,675,708 )   (347,502 )   (6,197,577 )   (5,617,747 )
                   
    Income before equity in earnings of investees 7,960,205     13,732,478     39,619,946     54,239,341  
    Equity earnings in joint ventures 928,841     466,049     12,316,883     15,622,836  
    Net Income 8,889,046     14,198,527     51,936,829     69,862,177  
                   
    Earnings per share              
    – Basic 0.25     0.38     1.38     1.91  
    – Diluted 0.25     0.38     1.37     1.90  
                   
    Weighted average number of shares              
    – Basic 35,300,965     35,345,251     37,166,449     35,237,059  
    – Diluted 35,430,883     35,409,350     37,236,951     35,333,160  
     
    StealthGas Inc.
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (Expressed in United States Dollars)
      December 31,   December 31,  
      2023   2024  
             
    Assets        
    Current assets        
    Cash and cash equivalents 77,202,843     80,653,398  
    Trade and other receivables 4,506,741     6,156,300  
    Other current assets 130,589     193,265  
    Claims receivable 55,475     55,475  
    Inventories 1,979,683     3,891,147  
    Advances and prepayments 1,409,418     733,190  
    Restricted cash 659,137     —  
    Assets held for sale 34,879,925     —  
    Fair value of derivatives —     387,630  
    Total current assets 120,823,811     92,070,405  
             
    Non current assets        
    Advances for vessel acquisitions 23,414,570     —  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets 99,379     —  
    Vessels, net 504,295,083     608,214,416  
    Other receivables 48,040     370,053  
    Restricted cash 5,893,721     3,867,752  
    Investments in joint ventures 39,671,603     27,717,238  
    Deferred finance charges 1,105,790     —  
    Fair value of derivatives 1,858,677     —  
    Total non current assets 576,386,863     640,169,459  
    Total assets 697,210,674     732,239,864  
             
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity        
    Current liabilities        
    Payable to related parties 955,567     388,130  
    Trade accounts payable 9,953,137     10,994,434  
    Accrued liabilities 5,681,144     4,922,587  
    Operating lease liabilities 71,173     —  
    Deferred income 5,386,126     4,304,667  
    Current portion of long-term debt 16,624,473     23,333,814  
    Total current liabilities 38,671,620     43,943,632  
             
    Non current liabilities        
    Operating lease liabilities 28,206     —  
    Deferred income 1,928,712     213,563  
    Long-term debt 106,918,176     61,555,855  
    Total non current liabilities 108,875,094     61,769,418  
    Total liabilities 147,546,713     105,713,050  
             
    Commitments and contingencies        
             
    Stockholders’ equity        
    Capital stock 453,434     370,414  
    Treasury stock (44,453,836 )   —  
    Additional paid-in capital 446,938,868     409,912,934  
    Retained earnings 145,993,681     215,855,858  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income 731,814     387,608  
    Total stockholders’ equity 549,663,961     626,526,814  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity 697,210,674     732,239,864  
     
    StealthGas Inc.
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Expressed in United States Dollars)
     
      Twelve month Periods Ended
    December 31,
      2023   2024
       
    Cash flows from operating activities      
    Net income for the year 51,936,829     69,862,177  
           
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash      
    provided by operating activities:      
    Depreciation 23,707,797     26,076,687  
    Amortization of deferred finance charges 1,345,941     711,378  
    Amortization of operating lease right-of-use assets 99,379     99,379  
    Share based compensation 2,589,405     7,326,807  
    Change in fair value of derivatives 789,509     108,841  
    Proceeds from disposal of interest rate swaps —     1,018,000  
    Equity earnings in joint ventures (12,316,883 )   (15,622,836 )
    Dividends received from joint ventures 14,589,215     20,570,036  
    Impairment loss 2,816,873     —  
    Gain on sale of vessels (7,645,781 )   (46,384 )
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:      
    (Increase)/decrease in      
    Trade and other receivables 238,627     (1,971,610 )
    Other current assets 139,925     (62,676 )
    Inventories 1,365,189     (1,664,736 )
    Changes in operating lease liabilities (99,379 )   (99,379 )
    Advances and prepayments (728,005 )   676,228  
    Increase/(decrease) in      
    Balances with related parties (1,532,943 )   (555,589 )
    Trade accounts payable (1,813,377 )   628,898  
    Accrued liabilities (100,515 )   (758,558 )
    Deferred income 2,058,409     (2,796,608 )
    Net cash provided by operating activities 77,440,215     103,500,055  
           
    Cash flows from investing activities      
    Insurance proceeds 126,666     —  
    Proceeds from sale of vessels, net 80,109,781     34,679,584  
    Acquisition and improvements of vessels (85,201 )   (106,169,013 )
    Maturity of short term investments 26,500,000     —  
    Return of investments from joint ventures 4,688,785     7,007,164  
    Net cash provided by/(used in) investing activities 111,340,031     (64,482,265 )
           
    Cash flows from financing activities      
    Proceeds from exercise of stock options 747,500     356,250  
    Stock repurchase (19,080,455 )   (338,176 )
    Deferred finance charges paid (988,166 )   (22,167 )
    Advances from joint ventures 11,847     —  
    Advances to joint ventures —     (11,847 )
    Loan repayments (154,870,215 )   (108,236,401 )
    Proceeds from long-term debt —     70,000,000  
    Net cash used in financing activities (174,179,489 )   (38,252,341 )
           
    Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 14,600,757     765,449  
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period 69,154,944     83,755,701  
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of year 83,755,701     84,521,150  
    Cash breakdown      
    Cash and cash equivalents 77,202,843     80,653,398  
    Restricted cash, current 659,137     —  
    Restricted cash, non current 5,893,721     3,867,752  
    Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash shown in the statements of cash flows 83,755,701     84,521,150  

    The MIL Network –

    February 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Why Germany’s far right hates the Bauhaus movement

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Katrin Schreiter, Senior Lecturer in German and History, King’s College London

    Shutterstock/meunierd

    At a time of political tension in Germany, the Bauhaus – arguably one of most influential architecture, art and design schools in the world – has become the target of far-right attacks.

    Hans-Thomas Tillschneider, a member of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) and a member of the regional parliament of Saxony-Anhalt in eastern Germany, has blamed his area’s economic problems on Bauhaus modernism.

    His unlikely diagnosis came in response to the regional conservative CDU government’s “think modern” campaign, which seeks to attract investment into the area and cites the Bauhaus movement as an example of locally grown excellence.

    Tillschneider asserts that for the area’s economic stagnation to be resolved “we do not need to think modern, we need to think conservatively.” He rejects Bauhaus ideas as diffused with communist ideology. With these attacks, Tillschneider has started a quasi-re-enactment of a historical culture war over German national identity and social anxieties.

    Bauhaus founder Walter Gropius.
    Wikipedia/Louis Held

    Founded in 1919 by architect Walter Gropius in the German city of Weimar, the Bauhaus and its staff shared a programme of material utopianism. This was expressed via an explorative workshop concept that departed from traditional modes of teaching.

    Such avant-garde practices moved the Bauhaus politically to the left, which would make it vulnerable to ideological attack throughout the Weimar republic, Germany’s first (and failed) democracy.

    In the contentious debate about national identity that followed the end of the monarchy in 1918, Bauhaus artists inhabited an uncomfortable position between two schools of thought among the educated elite.

    One side had opened up to modern aesthetics (such as impressionism and expressionism). The other – the conservatives – instead embraced an artistic nationalism that had manifested with German unification in 1871.

    They saw “true art” as coming from the people and in turn educating them as loyal citizens. Aesthetically, conservatives found these values expressed in Weimar classicism. Curiously, given the emphasis on art by the people, this was a rather exclusive, high-brow form of literature, theatre and visual arts.

    Bauhaus ideas, instead, were anti-bourgeois, avant-garde and experimental, while at the same time postulating the importance of creating art for everyone to access and enjoy. Such democratisation of style, however, was difficult to achieve, and most of what the Bauhaus produced remained unaffordable to the masses. Nevertheless, these clashing visions politicised culture during the interwar years.

    The reconstructed Bauhaus school in Dessau.
    Wikipedia/Lelikron, CC BY-SA

    In 1925, the school had to move from Weimar to Dessau (in Saxony-Anhalt) after it lost its funding. This was the fallout of a dispute with the conservative political parties that ruled the city at the time.

    In Dessau, the Bauhaus teachers built a school building that followed their modern aesthetic principles. Despite repeated attempts by Gropius to depoliticise the Bauhaus by pointing to its aesthetic pluralism, internal debates about the place of architecture in society and politics continued.

    The point of contention was the concept of “New Objectivity” (Neue Sachlichkeit) which found expression in Neues Bauen: modularised construction which introduced the industrialised pre-fabrication of building parts in a turn away from traditional crafts.

    Eventually, Gropius left the Bauhaus and in his place came the openly socialist architect Hannes Meyer. After taking over as director in 1928, he repoliticised the school and moved it back to the left.

    In the heated political climate of the late Weimar republic, the Bauhaus encountered a new existential threat. When the Nazis took over in local elections in 1931, they requested the destruction of the Bauhaus school.

    The Bauhaus moved again in 1932, this time to Berlin, where it continued as a private institution to avoid renewed conflict with the ever more powerful Nazis. Nevertheless, when Adolf Hitler seized power in early 1933, the school and its staff became victims of the Nazis’ anti-socialist measures.

    The Bauhaus school closed on July 20 1933 and its staff dispersed, often to faraway places. Many went to the United States, where they continued in the legacy of the “Bauhaus spirit” by joining the international modernism movement that became the defining Western aesthetic in the 1950s.

    Although the artistic influences and expressions had remained diverse throughout the lifetime of the school, postwar discourse has streamlined it to simple geometric shapes, a preference for the colours white, blue, red and yellow, and an emphasis on horizontal lines and perspectives.

    The Nazis had labelled Bauhaus aesthetics as “degenerate”. In the cold war era, the socialist East German government called out Bauhaus modernism and its disciples as cosmopolitan in the pejorative sense.

    They were accused of abandoning German national heritage for the sake of international “formalism”, elevating form – as pertaining to function – over cultural content. Tillschneider has put it even more provocatively: “They denied man’s connection to land and his cultural roots”. While a huge interpretative overstretch, these statements do not come as a surprise.

    This year marks the centennial of the move to Dessau, where the school building still stands proudly as a Unesco world heritage site. Tillschneider used this moment to perpetuate the culture war that the AfD has become known for over the past decade.

    He is equating the CDU to an oversimplified depiction of the Bauhaus legacy – one that is anti-crafts, anti-bourgeois and internationalist – he implies his political rivals are against German tradition and culture. These are the nativist sentiments that fuel the AfD. It is a strategy of cheap wins at the expense of the electorate’s anxieties about Germany’s cultural and national identity.

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

    – ref. Why Germany’s far right hates the Bauhaus movement – https://theconversation.com/why-germanys-far-right-hates-the-bauhaus-movement-250416

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    February 22, 2025
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