A man convicted of the manslaughter of Dragos Carabineanu has appeared in court for sentencing.
Gabriel Silvera, 20 (13.09.04) of Uxbridge Road, Pinner appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Thursday, 31 October where he was sentenced to eight years imprisonment, plus a further four years on licence.
He has previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter at the same court on Monday, 3 June. The plea had been accepted by the court and Silvera was remanded in custody to await sentencing.
Detective Chief Inspector Linda Bradley leading the investigation said: “Nothing can bring Dragos back to his loved ones, however, I was pleased that Silvera’s guilty plea spared them the experience of a trial, where they would have once again heard the details of the incident that took Dragos from them. Our thoughts are with them.”
Shortly after 05:00hrs on Saturday, 28 October, police were alerted by hospital staff when Dragos Carabineanu, aged 46, was brought into a central London hospital for treatment.
Dragos, who was from Burnt Oak, remained at St Mary’s Hospital in a critical condition before he sadly died from his injuries on Wednesday, 1 November 2023.
An investigation found he suffered his injuries just before midnight on Friday, 27 October 2023 outside Burnt Oak Underground Station on Watling Road in Edgware.
Detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command arrested Gabriel Silvera on Monday, 6 November 2023 on suspicion of murder. He was charged on Tuesday, 7 November 2023 and was remanded in custody.
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Two other people were arrested in connection with this incident:
On Thursday, 2 November 2023 a 17-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of theft. He received a caution.
A 38-year-old woman was arrested on Friday, 3 November 2023 on suspicion of theft. Following enquiries she was released with no further action.
London will host the League of Legends World Championship this weekend – one of the biggest and most popular esports events in the world.
The O2 arena’s tickets sold out in minutes and millions are set to watch from around the world.
The Mayor continues to support London’s thriving games and esports industry bringing significant investment and jobs to the capital.
London will host the League of Legends World Championship this weekend – one of the biggest and most popular esports events in the world.
The O2 arena’s tickets sold out in minutes and millions are set to watch from around the world. The Mayor continues to support London’s thriving games and esports industry bringing significant investment and jobs to the capital.
One of esports biggest global events, the League of Legends World Championship finals, will take place at London’s O2 Arena tomorrow (Saturday 2 November) – boosting the capital’s economy and cementing its position as leading destination for sports and esports.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today welcomed the finals to the capital and celebrated the impact of the growing industry. It will be the largest esports event ever to take place in the UK and will bring more opportunities for growth, talent development and skills for young Londoners.
Thousands of fans from all over the world are expected to head to the O2 tomorrow to watch, with London’s business growth and destination agency London & Partners calculating a £12m boost to the London economy from hosting the finals. Millions more are set to watch online – showcasing the capital.
League of Legends is a multiplayer online battle arena game that pits two teams of five against each other. The World Championships, known as ‘Worlds’, were launched in 2009 and have grown to be the most anticipated event of the year in esports. Last year’s finals were held in South Korea. It is the latest major esports event that London has hosted, after welcoming the League of Legends Mid-Season Invitational to the Copper Box Arena in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park last year.
London is home to largest group of games studios in Europe and esports is a growing market offering huge potential for London’s businesses and communities. The Mayor is a big supporter of the games industry, which generates millions of pounds for our economy and is a growing force. His support includes funding Games London who run the UK’s only Games Production Finance Market which brings in new investment to help games businesses grow, and delivers the annual London Games Festival. Through work with London & Partners, Sadiq has also helped to bring esports events to London.
Earlier this week, City Hall convened a panel discussion with key industry leaders and partners Fnatic – a leading esports brand – and London & Partners. Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth, Howard Dawber opened the event at the Fnatic HQ to champion esports and explore ways to further support esports in the capital. City Hall has also commissioned Arena Consultancy to conduct a new piece of research to gain a deeper understanding of what more London needs to do to become a global centre for esports.
The League of Legends World Championship is the latest in a series of global events to take place in London this year, including the UEFA Champions League final, European Professional Club Rugby Finals, NFL, Major League Baseball and Diamond League athletics.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I am delighted that the League of Legends World Championship finals are taking place in the capital this weekend. The event brings together gamers and fans from across the globe, boosting our economy by £12m and showing that London is a leading destination for sports and esports. Gaming is a hugely exciting and fast growing industry, and I will continue to do all I can to support its development and growth in the capital, as we build a better London for everyone.”
Ailsa Buck, Head of Major Events and City Experience at London & Partners, said: “We’re thrilled to host the League of Legends World Championship Finals. The excitement is electric and we can’t wait for fans to have an unforgettable experience in the capital. Hosting such a huge esports event shows that London is a top destination for the industry. Tickets flew off the shelves in minutes. That tells us there’s a huge demand for more esports in the city. We’re ready to make this day special for everyone.”
Sam Mathews, CEO at Fnatic, said: “Partnering with the GLA and London & Partners to bring this event to life is an exciting step for Fnatic and esports in London. As one of the world’s leading esports organizations, Fnatic has always pushed boundaries—and there’s no better place to showcase that than in our home city. London’s support shows a real commitment to making this city a global hub for gaming. We’re looking forward to creating an unforgettable experience for our fans and the community right here and forging the future of esports in the city.”
This information letter follows the Council Tax (Prescribed Classes of Dwellings and Consequential Amendments) (England) Regulations 2024 coming into force on 1 November. This provides an update on the changes which have been introduced in these regulations and the guidance the government has issued for councils and taxpayers.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
CMA’s Phase 1 investigation has found GXO’s purchase of Wincanton could reduce competition in the mainstream contract logistics services market.
iStock
Following a Phase 1 investigation, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has found that GXO Logistics’ (GXO) completed purchase of Wincanton PLC could reduce competition in the supply of mainstream contract logistics services (CLS) in the UK.
Contract logistics services include distribution, transport, warehousing and other supply chain services. GXO is the world’s largest contract logistics services company, and Wincanton is a British supplier of these services. Both companies supply mainstream contract logistics services to business customers in both retail (such as groceries, fashion and apparel) and non-retail (such as manufacturing and construction) sectors.
The CMA’s investigation found that GXO and Wincanton compete closely, particularly for contracts with large retail customers. Although GXO will continue to face competition from other contract logistics providers, many of these are significantly smaller, or focus on specific industries or types of logistics services (such as transport). Although some businesses have the option to bring services in-house if contract logistics suppliers do not offer good value, the ability to do this varies by customer.
The CMA is therefore concerned that the deal could raise costs for businesses that rely on contract logistics suppliers to move goods around the UK and for other supply chain activities.
GXO has 5 working days to submit proposals to address the CMA’s concerns. If suitable proposals are not submitted, the CMA will progress to an in-depth Phase 2 investigation.
Naomi Burgoyne, Senior Director of Mergers at the CMA, said:
Contract logistics services are critical for the flow of goods around the country, reducing delays, and ensuring that products reach their destinations efficiently and reliably. These services are essential for millions of people who rely on timely deliveries or being able to buy products off the shelf.
This market is worth £16 billion in the UK, and we’re concerned that this merger could reduce competition, resulting in higher costs being passed down to consumers. We consider that these competition concerns warrant an in-depth Phase 2 investigation, unless GXO offers solutions which address them.
More information on this case is available on the GXO / Wincanton case page.
Notes to Editors:
GXO announced their deal to acquire Wincanton in February 2024. The deal was then completed in April 2024, although an interim enforcement order (IEO) is in place to prevent the two organisations integrating while the CMA conducts its merger review.
CLS encompass a range of B2B and B2C supply chain-related services, which enable businesses to supply goods to customers and consumers. These services include transport and distribution, warehousing and additional value-added services.
CLS in the retail market includes the provision of services to customers whose products are consumer-facing such as groceries or fashion and apparel. This includes products that are ordered online, products that sell quickly and have a short shelf life due to high consumer demand or perishability (known as Fast Moving Consumer Goods), and products that require temperature-controlled logistic services (including certain food and drink products). CLS in the non-retail market involves the provision of services to customers whose products or services are not consumer-facing, such as automotive, construction, energy and manufacturing businesses.
The CMA found that customers often prioritise reputation, reliability and track record when choosing CLS providers. Despite there being other alternatives in the CLS market, GXO and Wincanton (alongside DHL) are regarded as leading suppliers of mainstream CLS services, particularly for grocery retail customers.
Guidance on the CMA’s mergers jurisdiction and procedure can be read here.
All media enquiries should be directed to the CMA press office by email on press@cma.gov.uk or by phone on 020 3738 6460.
City leaders have welcomed findings from an Ofsted focused visit that highlighted that the work of children’s services is making a positive difference and improving outcomes.
The Ofsted visit to Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Children and Family Services, focusing on children in need or subject to a protection plan found that positive progress has been made and children’s outcomes are improved.
The inspection found that ‘services for children are a high priority’ and that ‘political support is strong’.
Ofsted highlighted that:
Most children receive support and protection addressing risk and need
Thresholds were applied correctly
Most assessments and plans were timely and comprehensive and assessed risk well
Services made a positive difference and improved children’s outcomes
There were areas for improvement identified by Ofsted. These highlighted a small number of cases where there was not consistent management oversight or supervision. They also believed we could improve our quality assurance work, including ensuring that the audit of individual cases made more impact on practice.
Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for children’s services said: “It’s great to see that Ofsted inspectors saw that children in the city are receiving support and protection and that our teams are making a positive difference and improving children’s outcomes.
“The outcomes of our last two inspections highlighted these as critical areas where we needed to improve to keep children safe so it’s really good to see that this improvement work has been successful.
“We are working incredibly hard to support children in the city and ensure that as many as possible have safe, secure and loving homes. We will, of course, always continue to strive to be even better. We will be taking on board the feedback from Ofsted about areas where can improve further. Our ambition is for the whole service to be assessed as “good” when Ofsted return for a full inspection next year.”
This November, art enthusiasts and pop culture aficionados are invited to immerse themselves in POP LIFE, an exhibition that explores the intersection of popular culture and contemporary figurative drawing, challenging traditional distinctions between high and low art.
Opening on Saturday, 2 November, POP LIFE features works by 13 Scottish and international artists, many of whom will be exhibiting in Scotland for the first time. Each artist uniquely engages with popular culture, referencing diverse influences such as music, film, fashion, literature, social media, and celebrities. The exhibition highlights this interplay, using familiar language to delve into themes that expand traditional drawing practices.
Co-curated by artists Euan Gray and Witte Wartena, POP LIFE is a travelling exhibition previously showcased in Sweden (2022-23) and the Netherlands (2023). This iteration has been tailored to include Scottish artists and underscores the enduring allure of the human form as a reflection of identity and societal norms, drawing inspiration from art history, socio-political movements, and cultural shifts over the past six decades.
Visitors can look forward to works by renowned and early-career artists including Marcel van Eeden, Euan Gray, Paul McDevitt, Charlotte Schleiffert, Sandra Vásquez de la Horra, Witte Wartena, David Shrigley, Andrew Cranston, Laura Bruce, Marc Brandenburg, Donald Urquhart, Jamie Fitzpatrick, and Fiona Michie—all of whom draw inspiration from the imagery and messages of pop culture.
Over 80 works will be presented, with several new pieces created specifically for this exhibition.
Marc Brandenburg has transformed a room of the gallery with UV light, to explore unseen sides of Tiergarten Park in Berlin, whilst Laura Bruce accompanies her drawn tributes to country music icons with vocal renditions of their biggest hits. Edinburgh-based artist Jamie Fitzpatrick is showing his large-scale drawings alongside a new monumental sculpture, looking critically and who in society is publicly memorialised. Internationally renowned artist David Shrigley will present 16 brand new drawings, showcasing his absurd and humorous work.
Culture and Communities Convener, Val Walker said:
I’m delighted that the City Art Centre can showcase this fantastic iteration of the POP LIFE exhibition featuring the works of 13 exciting artists. I’m especially proud that it will mark the first time some of these artists have displayed in Scotland, and that we will be presenting works created especially for the exhibition.
I’m sure visitors will be captivated by these pieces and engage with the ever-changing dynamics of art within society.
Curator Euan Gray, said:
In an era dominated by computer generated images, AI and 3D printing, this exhibition offers us a wonderful opportunity to champion the enduring appeal of traditional drawing, wholeheartedly embrace the language of pop culture and promote a remarkable group of Scottish and international artists for whom the human form remains an essential motif.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Cold Weather Payments take effect from today as low-income households set to get £25 during cold snaps.
Comes alongside the £150 Warm Home Discount to support eligible customers with energy bills and extension to Household Support Fund
Pensioners urged to check eligibility for Pension Credit to claim Winter Fuel Payment
From 1 November, households receiving certain benefits including Pension Credit could be eligible for extra money to help keep warm during the cold weather until the end of March 2025.
DWP’s Cold Weather Payments are an automatic bank top-up of £25, triggered to be paid to eligible households when the average temperature has been recorded as, or is forecast to be, zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days at the weather station linked to an eligible person’s postcode.
The £25 payments will be paid automatically to households receiving certain benefits including, Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Universal Credit and Support for Mortgage Interest.
The money will appear in bank statements within 14 days of each seven-day period of very cold weather between 1 November 2024 and 31 March 2025, with the payment reference starting with the customer’s national Insurance number followed by ‘DWP CWP’ for people in England and Wales.
Minister for Pensions Emma Reynolds said:
As we head into the winter months, I want to ensure the most vulnerable in our society are getting the support they need, and that’s why we have a range of measures targeted at helping low-income households, such as Cold Weather Payments and the Warm Homes Discount.
With the dire state of the public finances, we have had to make some tough choices, including means-testing the Winter Fuel Payment so that it goes to those most in need.
And while these choices were not made lightly, this Government is doing everything it can to ensure maximum take-up of Pension Credit while also continuing to support pensioners through our commitment to the Triple Lock which will mean an increase in the full state pension of up to £1,700 over the next 5 years.
The £150 Warm Home Discount scheme has also been extended as we continue to stand behind households in, or at risk of, fuel poverty with direct energy bill payments as well as other financial and energy-related support.
On top of this, struggling households can receive further help with their bills and essential costs through the extension of the Household Support Fund – adding to the six months already announced, an additional £1 billion, including Barnett impact, will be invested to extend this support by a full year, and to maintain Discretionary Housing Payments in England and Wales.
Anyone struggling to heat their homes or afford other essential items over the colder months should contact their local council to see what support may be available to them.
Many councils also use the Fund beyond emergency support, including working with local charities and community groups to provide residents with key appliances, school uniforms, cookery classes, and items to improve energy efficiency in the home.
Eligible pensioners can also receive up to £300 for the Winter Fuel Payment which is set to land in bank accounts in the next two months. We continue to urge anyone who thinks they may be entitled to Pension Credit to check now.
This could be worth up to £3,900 a year on average and open the doors to other benefits including help with housing costs, council tax reduction as well as a Winter Fuel Payment, and all eligible Pension Credit claims can be backdated.
Winter support is part of the government’s wider drive to support vulnerable households with the cost of living, as we continue our work to fix the foundations of the economy.
This includes working closely with Local Authorities to bring together the administration of Pension Credit and Housing Benefit as soon as operationally possible.
As confirmed in the budget earlier this week, millions of pensioners will also receive an increase of 4.1 percent to their State Pension, which means the full rate of the new State Pension will rise to over £12,000 a year, while Pension Credit standard minimum guarantee will soon be worth £227.10 a week for a single person and £346.60 for a couple.
Working age people on Universal Credit, PIP, ESA, and other vital benefits will also see their incomes protected, as they are set to increase by 1.7 percent, ensuring incomes of the most vulnerable aren’t outstripped by inflation.
More than one million households will get a £420 boost thanks to the introduction of the Fair Repayment rate, a cap the amount that can be cut from benefit payments each month to repay short-term loans and debts.
The Chancellor has also confirmed a 6.7 percent increase in the National Living Wage to over 3 million workers, which will boost the National Living Wage from £11.44 to £12.21 an hour from April 2025 and will be worth £1,400 a year for an eligible full-time worker. It is a significant step towards delivering the manifesto commitment to make sure the minimum wage is a genuine living wage, helping unlock opportunity and potential in every area of the country.
The cost of bus travel will also be kept down at £3 for an additional year – saving up to 80% on some routes – to ensure fares remain affordable.
This Government will continue to provide that safety net for the most vulnerable as it ushers in the biggest reform to employment support in a generation to get people into work and make work pay. This includes by overhauling jobcentres, introducing our employment rights bill, delivering a Youth guarantee so every young person is learning or earning, and new work, health and skills plans to tackle inactivity.
Additional information
The new rates for benefits and the State Pension will apply from 7 April 2025.
The Warm Home Discount is applied automatically on energy bills in the majority of cases. If a household believes they are eligible, they should first wait to see if they receive a letter, letters will arrive with households between October and January
If they have not received a letter by early January, they should check their energy account to see whether they have received the rebate automatically and, if not, they should contact the Warm Home Discount helpline on 0800 030 9322. Eligibility can be checked on gov.uk: https://www.gov.uk/check-if-youre-eligible-for-warm-home-discount
Ambassador Barbara Woodward, Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the UN and President of the Security Council for the month of November 2024 will brief reporters on the programme of work of the Security Council in November 2024.
Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – Pope Francis has accepted the resignation from the pastoral governance of the Diocese of Laghouat (Algeria) presented by His Exc. Msgr. John Gordon MacWilliam, M. Afr. At the same time the Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Fr. Diego Ramón Sarrió Cucarella, M.Afr., former dean of the Pontifical Institute of Arabian and Islamic Studies (PISAI) in Rome, as bishop of Laghouat, Algeria.Msgr. Diego Ramón Sarrió Cucarella was born on 20 July 1971 in Valencia, Spain. He studied philosophy at the Faculty of Theology of Madrid, and theology at Tangaza University, Nairobi, Kenya.He was ordained a priest on 2 June 2001.After ordination, he held the role of animator at the Cultural and Saharian Documentation Centre in Ghardaïa, diocese of Laghouat (2001-2003). He was awarded a licentiate at PISAI (2004-2006) and went on to serve as director of the diocesan library of Tunisi (2006-2009). He obtained a doctorate in Islamic studied from Georgetown University in Washington D.C. (2009-2013), and went on to serve as director (2014-2017) and president (2017-2024) of PISAI.He teaches Islamic subjects at the Pontifical Lateran University of Rome, and is a consultor of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue. (Agenzia Fides, 25/1/2025)
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Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has erected the new diocese of Mindat, Myanmar, with territory taken from the diocese of Hakha, making it a suffragan of the metropolitan archdiocese of Mandalay.The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Augustine Thang Zawm Hung, of the clergy of Hakha, until now responsible for the translation of the Bible into local languages and parish vicar of Sacred Heart in Mindat, as first bishop of Mindat.Msgr. Augustine Thang Zawm Hung was born on 4 December 1973 in Mindat. He studied philosophy at the major seminary of Pyin Oo Lwin, and theology at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Major Seminary of the archdiocese of Yangon.He was ordained a priest on 17 November 2002 for the clergy of Hakha.After ordination, he first served as parish priest of Saint Michael’s, Kanpetlet, Mindat (2003-2005). He was awarded a licentiate in sacred scripture from the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome (2005-2009), and went on to serve as secretary of the diocese of Kalay (2009-2010), secretary of the diocese of Hakha (2010-2012). He obtained a doctorate in sacred scripture from the Universität Innsbruck in Austria (2013-2018) and held the role of professor at the Saint Joseph Major Seminary in Yangon (2018-2022). Since 2022 he has been parish vicar of Sacred Heart, Mindat, and head of translation of the Bible into local languages.The new diocese of Mindat [Mindatin(us)] in Myanmar is located in the district of Mindat, in the southern part of the Chin State, including the division of Magwem. The See of the diocese is the city of Mindat. The Cathedral Church of the new Ecclesiastical Circumscription is the current parish Church of Most Sacred Heart of Jesus in Mindat. (Agenzia Fides, 25/1/2025)
Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has accepted the resignation from the pastoral care of the diocese of Nouna, Burkina Faso, presented by Bishop Joseph Sama.The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Guy Mukasa Sanon, of the clergy of Bobo-Dioulasso, until now rector of the Saint Pierre-Saint Paul Seminary of Kossoghin, Ouagadougou, in Burkina Faso, as bishop of the diocese of Nouna, Burkina Faso.Msgr. Guy Mukasa Sanon was born on 14 September 1968 in Toussiana. After studying philosophy at the Saint Jean Baptiste de Wayalghin Major Seminary, Ouagadougou, he attended the theology cycle at the Saint Pierre Claver de Koumi Major Seminary in Bobo-Dioulasso.He was ordained a priest on 14 July 1996 and incardinated in the archdiocese of Bobo-Dioulasso.After ordination, he held the roles of parish vicar of Saint Vincent de Koko in Bobo-Dioulasso (1996-1998); and formator and director of studies in the Minor Seminary of Nasso, Bobo-Dioulasso (2001-2005). He was awarded a doctorate in philosophy at the Université catholique de Louvain in Belgium (2005-2010), and went on to serve as parish vicar (2010-2011) and parish priest (2011-2016) of the Cathedral of Bobo-Dioulasso, visiting professor at the Saint Pierre-Saint Paul Major Seminary of Kossoghin a Ouagadougou (2011-2016); and permanent formator and professor of philosophy at the Saint Pierre-Saint Paul Major Seminary of Kossoghin a Ouagadougou (2016-2019). Since 2019 he has been rector of the same seminary. (Agenzia Fides, 25/1/2025)
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The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, is visiting Saudi Arabia on 25 and 26 January. After arriving in Jeddah earlier today, President Meloni greeted the crew aboard the Amerigo Vespucci, the Italian Navy’s historical training ship which set sail from Genoa on 1 July 2023 for a tour around the world, stopping at 35 ports in 5 continents.
Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland
Statement by TUV Leader Jim Allister:-
“It was marvellous to see the huge turnouts at today’s Farmers’ Protest over the Government’s punitive death tax on family farms.
“I attended the Ballymena protest in which over 300 tractors took part. It was great to see the determination among farmers to keep the pressure on the government over this vital issue.
“I will continue the fight on their behalf despite the size of the government’s majority, believing that in the end this ruinous policy is unsustainable. With farmers united across the United Kingdom on the issue, the government must be made to continue to feel the pressure until they retreat from burying family farms under the weight of their greedy death taxes.”
At this sombre occasion, I want to acknowledge that more than a year has passed since the appalling 7th October terror attacks by Hamas. We welcome, at long last, the ceasefire and hostage release deal. The deal offers hope, as well as much needed relief. The United Nations will do our utmost to ensure it leads to the release of all hostages and a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
Dear Friends,
This year marks eighty years since the end of the Holocaust.
The history of the Holocaust is one of total moral collapse, dehumanisation, complicity, and unimaginable atrocities. But amidst all the horror, there are also stories of humanity, and of courage.
I think of those victims who resisted Nazi brutality and supported one another with kindness and solidarity. I think of those survivors who have told their stories to the world, including Rabbi Schneier and others present today. We owe you — and the children of survivors who made sure those stories lived on – a profound debt of gratitude. And I think of those noble people of conscience who may not have been targeted by the Nazis but were so horrified by what they saw that they felt compelled to act.
That includes a number of diplomats who used their power to save lives. They were from a variety of countries, including many represented here today.
One important example from my own country, Portugal, is Aristides de Sousa Mendes. Stationed in Bordeaux, as the Nazis approached in 1940, Sr. Sousa Mendes faced crowds desperate for visas out of France.
The orders of the Portuguese Government were clear. The infamous “Circular 14” had been issued, denying visas for refugees’ safe passage to Portugal – with Jews named specifically. Sr. Sousa Mendes decided to disobey, and worked quite literally day and night to issue thousands of visas, saving countless lives.
The government punished Sr. Sousa Mendes for his defiance. He died in poverty, after being expelled from the diplomatic corps without pension. But his extraordinary efforts have not been forgotten. In 1966, he was recognised as one of the Righteous Among the Nations, and, last year, I was pleased to support the opening of a museum in his honour in Portugal.
In these days of global turmoil, rising antisemitism, and growing hate towards many communities, it is vital that we remember the stories of people like Sr. Sousa Mendes, who used their power for good in the worst of times. They remind us that it is our duty – individually and collectively – to stand with humanity and against bigotry and discrimination.
In that spirit, I am pleased to report that the United Nations has launched an Action Plan to Enhance Monitoring and Response to Antisemitism. We have long worked to combat this evil, through a wide range of activities, including our Holocaust Outreach program. This new Plan builds on that work, and the insights of people like Rabbi Schneier, to recommend ways the United Nations system will further enhance efforts to combat antisemitism.
This goes to the heart of the mission of the United Nations, which was established in the aftermath of the Holocaust. We will never waiver in the fight for a world that promotes and protects the human rights of all.
At this sombre occasion, I want to acknowledge that more than a year has passed since the appalling 7th October terror attacks by Hamas. We welcome, at long last, the ceasefire and hostage release deal. The deal offers hope, as well as much needed relief. The United Nations will do our utmost to ensure it leads to the release of all hostages and a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
Dear Friends,
This year marks eighty years since the end of the Holocaust.
The history of the Holocaust is one of total moral collapse, dehumanisation, complicity, and unimaginable atrocities. But amidst all the horror, there are also stories of humanity, and of courage.
I think of those victims who resisted Nazi brutality and supported one another with kindness and solidarity. I think of those survivors who have told their stories to the world, including Rabbi Schneier and others present today. We owe you — and the children of survivors who made sure those stories lived on – a profound debt of gratitude. And I think of those noble people of conscience who may not have been targeted by the Nazis but were so horrified by what they saw that they felt compelled to act.
That includes a number of diplomats who used their power to save lives. They were from a variety of countries, including many represented here today.
One important example from my own country, Portugal, is Aristides de Sousa Mendes. Stationed in Bordeaux, as the Nazis approached in 1940, Sr. Sousa Mendes faced crowds desperate for visas out of France.
The orders of the Portuguese Government were clear. The infamous “Circular 14” had been issued, denying visas for refugees’ safe passage to Portugal – with Jews named specifically. Sr. Sousa Mendes decided to disobey, and worked quite literally day and night to issue thousands of visas, saving countless lives.
The government punished Sr. Sousa Mendes for his defiance. He died in poverty, after being expelled from the diplomatic corps without pension. But his extraordinary efforts have not been forgotten. In 1966, he was recognised as one of the Righteous Among the Nations, and, last year, I was pleased to support the opening of a museum in his honour in Portugal.
In these days of global turmoil, rising antisemitism, and growing hate towards many communities, it is vital that we remember the stories of people like Sr. Sousa Mendes, who used their power for good in the worst of times. They remind us that it is our duty – individually and collectively – to stand with humanity and against bigotry and discrimination.
In that spirit, I am pleased to report that the United Nations has launched an Action Plan to Enhance Monitoring and Response to Antisemitism. We have long worked to combat this evil, through a wide range of activities, including our Holocaust Outreach program. This new Plan builds on that work, and the insights of people like Rabbi Schneier, to recommend ways the United Nations system will further enhance efforts to combat antisemitism.
This goes to the heart of the mission of the United Nations, which was established in the aftermath of the Holocaust. We will never waiver in the fight for a world that promotes and protects the human rights of all.
Council continues to work with local agencies in the ongoing emergency response to Storm Éowyn which has resulted in some damage to roads and property throughout the City and District.
Staff continue to be on site carrying out health and safety inspections and providing services from early this morning. Teams from across all Council services have been meeting and co-ordinating efforts throughout the weekend and this work will continue over the coming days.
The health and safety of both staff and the general public is our first priority and for that reason we would encourage the public to be patient and to expect some delays to services.
As we continue to work with partner agencies work to assess and remedy damage caused by Storm Éowyn members of the public should exercise caution when close to obvious debris and damage, including power lines. The public are also advised to take note of further yellow weather warnings in place over the weekend relating to winds, snow and ice and to take the appropriate measures to keep them and their property safe. Please follow the Met Office for updates.
Bin collections
Refuse Collection crews are out working today servicing bins that were missed from Fridaydq. For any bins not emptied today the advice is to make contact with our Customer Services Team on 028 71 374107 on Monday morning or by email at refuse&[email protected] and arrangements will be made to have them emptied as soon as possible.
Cemeteries and outdoor sites
The City Cemetery, Ballyoan, Altnagelvin and Strabane Cemeteries are all open to the public. Users are strongly advised to take due care and attention at all facilities both for fallen trees and for slippy pathways. The public are urged not to visit historical sites. Our staff are on site to clear all main arterial routes at our facilities as a priority.
Recycling Centres
All of our recycling centres, with the exception of Plumbridge, are open.
Leisure Centres
All Council Leisure centres are open as normal.
Community Assistance
All of our Leisure Centres are open and available to the public who are without power or water and who require assistance with heat, tea/coffee and phone charging and shower facilities. We have extended the opening hours at Templemore, Melvin and Derg Valley Leisure Centre to 10pm tonight, Saturday.
Tomorrow Sunday, Templemore, Foyle Arena and Melvin will be open from 9am – 6pm while Riversdale and Derg Valley Leisure Centres will open from 1pm – 6pm
Council facilities
The Guildhall, Tower Museum and the Alley Theatre are open and operating as normal.
Street cleansing
Our street cleansing teams have been out and about from this early morning servicing the city and towns and working with grounds maintenance teams to make sure Council facilities are safe to access.
Grass pitches
All Council grass pitches and 3g pitches will remain closed for the weekend. User groups are being contacted.
Parks and play parks
Ongoing health and safety inspections are ongoing today to get as many of our parks, play areas and greenways open to the public. There are several trees down at the Bay Road and Strathfoyle greenways and a number of other parks, we have teams out on site carrying out clearance and repair works. The public are asked to avoid areas where there are trees and to take due care and attention as there may be debris or fallen branches etc.
Again, the public are asked to be patient and expect some delays to opening of facilities after the storm to allow these checks and possible clean-up work to be carried out.
Looking ahead
Please take note of further weather warnings in place over the weekend including a YELLOW warning for SNOW & ICE for Northern Ireland between 1800hrs on Saturday 25th and 1000hrs on Sunday 26th January 2025: MEDIUM Likelihood of LOW Impacts and a YELLOW warning for WIND for Northern Ireland between 1000hrs and 1900hrs on Sunday 26th January 2025: MEDIUM Likelihood of LOW Impacts
Strong winds affecting Northern Ireland, potentially disrupting transport and infrastructure
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
PARIS, France, January 25, 2025/APO Group/ —
NBA Africa (www.NBA.com) and University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P), through its subsidiary EVOSPORT, today announced a new collaboration to support youth basketball in Morocco. The collaboration marks the league’s most expansive youth basketball development programming ever in Morocco and makes UM6P an official partner of NBA Africa.
UM6P is a Moroccan university that focuses on developing solutions to specific continental and, more broadly, global challenges. The university is engaged in economic and human development and puts innovation at the forefront of African growth. In alignment with this vision, UM6P has launched EVOSPORT, its subsidiary dedicated to sports development, with the ambition of contributing to the creation of a dynamic and sustainable Moroccan and African sports ecosystem.
The collaboration between NBA Africa and UM6P will be implemented by EVOSPORT, in collaboration with Act4Community, which is a part of OCP Group’s ecosystem. Together, they will launch four Jr. NBA leagues that will reach nearly 2,000 boys and girls ages 18 and under annually in Khouribga, Gantour, Laayoune and El Jadida, as well as Morocco’s first NBA Basketball Schools in all four locations. More than 200 local coaches will also participate in Jr. NBA Coaches Workshops in each city.
The announcement was made today at a signing ceremony at UM6P France in Paris, the university’s branch in Europe, by UM6P President Hicham El Habti, NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum, NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi and Basketball Africa League (BAL) President Amadou Gallo Fall.
“We have seen firsthand through our previous initiatives in Morocco that there is incredible passion for basketball across the country,” said Akamanzi. “Together with UM6P and ahead of the first BAL games in Morrocco in April, we look forward to significantly expanding our youth basketball development efforts in the country and providing opportunities for thousands of Moroccan youth to learn and play the game.”
“We are thrilled to work with NBA Africa to bring this transformative youth basketball program to Morocco,” said El Habti. “At UM6P, we believe in the power of sports to inspire and develop young minds. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to foster innovation and contribute to the socio-economic development of Africa. Through EVOSPORT, we are committed to creating opportunities for young athletes to thrive and achieve their full potential.”
UM6P, as a key component of OCP Group’s ecosystem, has significantly contributed to the group’s long-standing commitment to sports development in Morocco. The collaboration with NBA Africa supports the youth targeted by the Act4Community program and reflects OCP Group’s corporate social responsibility aiming for sustainable and tangible improvements in living standards through job creation, entrepreneurship, culture and sports.
The announcement builds on NBA Africa’s and the OCP Group’s previous collaboration that has featured previous Jr. NBA leagues in the cities of Benguerir and Khouribga. NBA Africa has reached more than 100,000 Moroccan youth and coaches through youth basketball development programming to date.
A co-founder of a national Palestinian solidarity network in Aotearoa New Zealand today praised the “heroic” resilience and sacrifice of the people of Gaza in the face of Israel’s ruthless attempt to destroy the besieged enclave of more than 2 million people.
Speaking at the first solidarity rally in Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau since the fragile ceasefire came into force last Sunday, Janfrie Wakim of the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA) also paid tribute to New Zealand protesters who have supported the Palestine cause for the 68th week.
“Thank you all for coming to this rally — the first since 7 October 2023 when no bombs are dropping on Gaza,” she declared.
“The ceasefire in Gaza is fragile but let’s celebrate the success of the resistance, the resilience, and the fortitude — the sumud [steadfastness] — of the heroic Palestinian people.
“Israel has failed. It has not achieved its aims — in the longest war [15 weeks] in its history — even with $40 billion in aid from the United States. It has failed to depopulate the north of Gaza, it has a crumbling economy, and 1 million Israelis [out if 9 million] have left already.”
Wakim said that the resistance and success in defeating Israel’s “deadly objectives” had come at a “terrible cost”.
“We mourn those with families here and in Gaza and now in the West Bank who made the ultimate sacrifice with their lives — 47,000 people killed, 18,000 of them children, thousands unaccounted for in the rubble and over 100,000 injured.
Grieving for journalists, humanitarian workers “We grieve for but salute the journalists and the humanitarian workers who have been murdered serving humanity.”
Janfrie Wakim speaking at today’s Palestine rally in Tamaki Makaurau. Video: APR
She said the genocide had been enabled by the wealthiest countries in the world and the Western media — “including our own with few exceptions”.
“Without its lies, its deflections, its failure to report the agonising reality of Palestinians suffering, Israel would not have been able to commit its atrocities,” Wakim said.
“And now while we celebrate the ceasefire there’s been an escalation on the West Bank — air strikes, drones, snipers, ethnic cleansing in Jenin with homes and infrastructure being demolished.
“Checkpoints have doubled to over 900 — sealing off communities. And still the Palestinians resist.
“And we must too. Solidarity. Unity of purpose is all important. Bury egos. Let humanity triumph.”
Palestinian liberation advocate Janfrie Wakim . . . “Without its lies, its deflections, its failure to report the agonising reality of Palestinians suffering, Israel could not have been able to commit its atrocities.” Image: David Robie/APR
90-year-old supporter During her short speech, Wakim introduced to the crowd the first Palestinian she had met in New Zealand, Ghazi Dassouki, who is now aged 90.
She met him at a Continuing Education seminar at the University of Auckland in 1986 that addressed the topic of “The Palestine Question”. It shocked the establishment of the time with Zionist complaints and intimidation of staff which prevented any similar academic event until 2006.
Wakim called for justice for the Palestinians.
“Freedom from occupation. Liberation from apartheid. And peace at last after 76 years of subjugation and oppression by Israel and its allies,” she said
She called on supporters to listen to what was being suggested for local action — “do what suits your situation and energy. Our task is to persist, as Howard Zinn put it”.
“When we organise with one another, when we get involved, when we stand up and speak out together, we can create a power no government can suppress,” she said.
“We don’t have to engage in grand, heroic actions to participate in the process of change. Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.”
Introduced to the Auckland protest crowd today . . . Ghazi Dassouki, who is now aged 90.
As a symbol for peace and justice in Palestine, slices of water melon and dates were handed out to the crowd.
Calls to block NZ visits by IDF soldiers Among many nationwide rallies across Aotearoa New Zealand this weekend, were many calls for the government to suspend entry to the country from soldiers in the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF).
“New Zealand should not be providing rest and recreation for Israeli soldiers fresh from the genocide in Gaza,” said PSNA national chair John Minto.
“We wouldn’t allow Russian soldiers to come here for rest and recreation from the invasion of Ukraine so why would we accept soldiers from the genocidal, apartheid state of Israel?”
As well as the working holiday visa, since 2019 Israelis have been able to enter New Zealand for three months without needing a visa at all.
This visa-waiver is used by Israeli soldiers for “rest and recreation” from the genocide in Gaza.
Minto stressed that IDF soldiers had killed at least 47,000 Palestinians — 70 percent of them women and children.
“All these red flags for genocide have been visible for months but the government is still giving the green light to those involved in war crimes to enter New Zealand,” Minto said.
Last month, PSNA again wrote to the government asking for the suspension of travel to New Zealand for all Israeli soldiers and reservists.
Meanwhile, 200 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails have been set free under the terms of the Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. Seventy of them will be deported to countries in the region, reports Al Jazeera.
Masses of people have congregated in Ramallah, celebrating the return of the released Palestinian prisoners.
A huge crowd waved Palestinian flags, shouted slogans and captured the joyful scene with their phones and live footage shows.
The release came after Palestinian fighters earlier handed over four female Israeli soldiers who had been held in Gaza to the International Red Cross in Palestine Square.
The smiling and waving soldiers appeared to be in good health and were in high spirits.
Dundee City Council is providing an update on its services on Saturday (Jan 25) following a day of disruption due to Storm Eowyn on Friday.
Families are being advised that all local authority nursery, primary and secondary schools are preparing to open as normal on Monday January 27.
Some damage has been reported at Grove Academy which means that the swim and sport centre operated by Leisure & Culture Dundee will remain closed on Saturday and Sunday.
Work will be carried out over the weekend so that Grove Academy opens on Monday as normal.
Saturday operating arrangements are in place for Council services and buildings, and council buildings will open as usual on Monday.
Any changes to the above arrangements will be shared via our social media channels.
Re-arranged waste collections will also be put in place from Monday after services were stood down on Friday.
These are:
Grey bin (general waste) collections that were scheduled for Friday January 24 will now be collected on Monday January 27.
Any bulky uplifts that were scheduled for Friday January 24 will now be uplifted on Monday January 27.
Blue bin (paper/cardboard) collections that were scheduled for Friday January 24 will now take place on Wednesday January 29
Burgundy bin (metals, plastics, cartons) and food waste collections will be uplifted at the next scheduled pick-up day.
Commercial waste (including recycling) collections will also be uplifted at the next scheduled date.
Baldovie & Riverside Household Waste Recycling centres re-opened on Saturday.
Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice remain in place for the city on Saturday.
For the latest updates on all our services, please visit our Storm Éowyn page.
Updates will also be posted on our social media channels, including Facebook and X.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Foreign Secretary announces £20 million in additional funding while visiting the Adré on the Chad-Sudan border.
Foreign Secretary to drive new international commitment to a political process towards ending this conflict
On first UK Foreign Secretary visit ever, David Lammy sees impact of UK aid supporting nearly 800,000 on Chad-Sudan border town of Adré
UK addresses upstream drivers of migration as the FCDO continues its drive to secure borders
Refugees fleeing war-torn Sudan will receive further UK support to increase food production and lifesaving sexual and reproductive health services, as Foreign Secretary announces £20 million in additional funding while visiting the Adré on the Chad-Sudan border.
This builds on the doubling of UK aid in November to address the humanitarian emergency in Sudan to £226.5 million. These UK funds are providing emergency food assistance to nearly 800,000 displaced people, of whom over 88% are women and children, as well as improving access to shelter, drinking water, emergency health care and education.
Not only is this aid vitally needed on humanitarian grounds, but it will also help people to stay within their immediate region meaning that they are better able to return when conditions allow. Since the conflict began, 3.6 million refugees have fled to neighbouring countries, with a significant number travelling on to Europe and the UK.
Unscrupulous smuggling gangs are looking to profit from the misery in Sudan. And the longer this war lasts, the greater its ripple effect. We must give credit to countries like Egypt, Chad, and South Sudan for managing this crisis alongside others nearby.
Nearly 2,000 Sudanese nationals arrived on small boats in the year ending September 2024. As part of the Plan for Change, the Government is determined to reduce the number of people making dangerous small boat crossings across the Channel and net migration.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:
Sudanese people are facing violence on an unimaginable scale. This is the biggest humanitarian crisis in the world.
Millions have already fled their homes – in the face of a struggle for power that has led to abhorrent atrocities against civilians and famine on an unconscionable scale.
The international community must wake up and act urgently to avoid this horrific death toll escalating further in the coming months, driving instability and irregular migration into Europe and the UK. Under this government’s Plan for Change, we are addressing upstream drivers of migration to secure UK borders.
The UK will not let Sudan be forgotten. To do so would be unforgiveable.
Working with partners, the Foreign Secretary is determined to re-energise a political process on this issue. He plans to convene a meeting of Foreign Ministers to galvanise international efforts to work towards an end to the conflict and get aid to where it is needed the most.
This builds on the UK and Sierra Leone’s resolution at the UN in November, which gained the support of every UN Security Council member except Russia. He will build consensus on how the international community can support region-led mediation efforts that have Sudanese voices at the centre.
The UK is calling for greater access so aid can get to where it is needed most and will continue to push for every border crossing and route to be open, accessible, and safe.
In 2021, Ireland’s then Taoiseach (prime minister), Enda Kenny, delivered a formal apology to the survivors of the Magdalene laundries. The laundries were religious institutions where unmarried mothers and other “fallen” women were forced into slave labour.
“It struck me,” he said, “that for generations Ireland had created a particular portrait of itself as a good living God-fearing nation. Through this and other reports we know this flattering self-portrait to be fictitious … by any standards it was a cruel, pitiless Ireland distinctly lacking in a quality of mercy.”
His words might well serve as a prologue to the new film adaptation of Claire Keegan’s 2020 novella, Small Things Like These. So too might a brief moment in the equally excoriating, if less nuanced film, The Magdalene Sisters (2002). In it, one of the young women begs a local delivery boy to help her escape, but in the end he lets her down.
History films work in various ways. One is to comfort the viewer that such a time is consigned to the past. Melodramas like The Magdalene Sisters and that other notable Magdalene story, Philomena (2013), find a form of closure when their victims confront their oppressors.
Another is to refuse a neat ending, to force us to imagine what might happen in the lives of the protagonists after the final credits have rolled. In Small Things Like These, that protagonist is coal-man, Bill Furlong (Cillian Murphy), who finds himself inexplicably troubled as he is finishing off his delivery business in the days before Christmas 1985.
All is well at home, where his five daughters quarrel amicably around the kitchen table as they do their homework under the eye of his wife, Eileen (Eileen Walsh). Money is tight but they’re getting by.
Making a delivery to the local convent, he comes across a young woman, Sarah (Zara Devlin), locked in the coal shed. The discovery sets off his own memories of being brought up by a single mother, and, after her death, by a wealthy landowner, Mrs Wilson (Michelle Fairley). The film confronts kindly Bill with a dilemma: to shut his eyes, as do the other inhabitants of New Ross, to what is going on in the convent, or to aid the young woman.
The mother superior, Sister Mary (Emily Watson), knows that the stooped coal-man standing uneasily in her office is no match for her. As she warns him, the future education of his younger daughters in the school adjacent to the convent is not guaranteed. Other of the villagers, who sense his confusion, tell him not to involve himself. His wife, even as she doesn’t fully understand what is going through his head, is horrified by the merest suggestion that he will disrupt the status quo.
The price of compassion
In a less nuanced film, this advice might prompt the viewer to further empathise with Bill, egging him on to action. But here, the suffocating moral blanket that lies over the city – visually rendered as a thick fog that merges into a drizzle and occasional snow, and the narrow, constricting streets through which he moves – remind us that nonconformity comes with a heavy price.
The community may pile into the church for Christmas mass but, as Eileen admonishes Bill, there is no point in helping the starving child he meets on the road with the spare coins from his pocket – his father will only drink the money. What small closure comes at the film’s end is fragile and contingent.
The trailer for Small Things Like These.
Another risk of telling stories from history is to sacrifice the particular for the universal. Small Things Like These manages, through its visuals and its achingly believable performances (Murphy’s most of all) to be a film rooted in the Ireland that Kenny evoked in his speech. At the same time, it prompts us to question the limits of compassion – how much easier is it to conform to social norms than step outside them.
The film ends fittingly with a tribute to the more than 56,000 young women who were sent to Magdalene institutions for “penance and rehabilitation” between the years 1922 and 1996. And the children who were taken from them.
It is not history’s job to impose lessons on the present. But at the same time, it would be inadequate for viewers not to ask what we would have done in Bill’s place. And, more uncomfortably, what, faced with the knowledge of the multiple injustices of our own society, we ourselves are doing now.
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Ruth Barton 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.
Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English
The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) warns consumers about the website investi-ray.com. According to information available to BaFin, financial and investment services are being provided on these websites without the required authorisation. The company is not supervised by BaFin.
The operator claims to be supervised by “Crypto AssetsControl”, which is not an official financial market authority. Anyone providing financial or investment services in Germany may do so only with authorisation from BaFin. Crypto AssetsControl does not have the power to grant such authorisation.
Information on whether particular companies have been authorised by BaFin can be found in BaFin’s database of companies.
Theinformation provided by BaFin is based on section 37 (4) of the German BankingAct (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG).
Please be aware:
BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.
Justice Secretary Angela Constance has updated Parliament on proposed amendments to the Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform Bill.
The Justice Secretary told MSPs that, having listened to the cross-party Criminal Justice Committee and a wide range of other views, a plan to enable a time-limited pilot of single-judge trials for rape and attempted rape cases will not be pursued.
The Government also plans to amend the Bill, subject to MSPs’ approval, to enable more detailed research into jury deliberations, including how rape myths may affect verdicts.
The Bill includes measures to remove Scotland’s ‘not proven’ verdict and to increase the current simple majority required for a criminal conviction to a two-thirds majority of jurors. However, in line with committee recommendations, proposals to cut the jury size from 15 to 12 will be dropped.
Victims of crime are to receive improved support, advice and information as part of planned reforms to the Victim Notification Scheme – to be delivered through the Bill – as announced earlier this month.
Ms Constance said:
“This Bill proposes a significant package of reforms to ensure victims are placed at the heart of Scotland’s justice system, such as creating a specialist Sexual Offences Court, establishing a Victims & Witnesses Commissioner and abolishing the ‘not proven’ verdict.
“I want to build as much consensus as possible for this important legislation. Clearly there is not enough parliamentary support at this time for the proposal to enable a time-limited pilot of single-judge trials for cases of rape and attempted rape, so we will no longer pursue this.
“I remain concerned by the substantial evidence that juries may be influenced by rape myths and I will introduce amendments to the Bill to allow for more detailed research into jury deliberations. We will undertake further work with justice partners to agree how to challenge and reduce the impact of rape myths. This might include, for example, further interventions or educational resources for jurors and the wider public.
“I believe that the most prudent approach to jury reform, including the abolition of the ‘not proven’ verdict, is to seek support for a model with two verdicts – ‘guilty’ and ‘not guilty’ – 15 jurors, and a two-thirds majority requirement for conviction.
“I look forward to working with partners and colleagues across Parliament to deliver what I believe is a shared ambition to ensure victims and witnesses are placed at the heart of the justice system and treated with compassion.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Ambassador Holland says the OSCE is uniquely placed to view the climate crisis though a security lens.
Location:
Vienna
Delivered on:
(Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)
It has been more than six months since your inaugural address in your new role, and we continue to remain dismayed by the devastating economic and environmental effects Russia’s war of choice against Ukraine are having on our region.
We are pleased that your office continues to work on assessing the environmental impact of Russia’s war. The careful documentation of environmental damage provided by this project and its recommendations will be invaluable in holding Russia to account and supporting Ukraine’s recovery efforts after the war.
Water management was the theme of EEDIM earlier this week. As I said there, we must recognise that rivers, lakes, aquifers and glaciers often straddle borders, so regional cooperation and cross-border solutions are crucial to prevent conflicts over control of water resources.
At the same time, the scarcity of this natural resource is tied up with the threats posed by climate change. The OSCE is uniquely placed to view the climate crisis though a security lens, and we welcome the work your office has done via your climate security project to identify where these risks are most acute.
Alongside conflict and economic opportunity, climate change is one of many drivers of migration. If migration is not safe, orderly and regular it can make those on the move vulnerable to risks, put a strain on communities, and undermine public confidence in states’ and the international community’s ability to manage migration effectively.
In this vein, the UK is pleased to be able to contribute to the project “Strengthening the evidence-based understanding of the climate change, migration and security nexus in South-Eastern Europe”, which, as you highlight in your report, should improve our understanding of the interlinkages between climate change and human mobility, as well as of the impacts of emigration and depopulation on the environment.
Our work to combat money laundering and illicit finance is made more challenging by innovations in digital finance and the increasing use of virtual assets, including by serious organised crime. The UK co-funds the ExB project “Innovative Policy Solutions to Mitigate Money Laundering Risks of Virtual Assets” to build capacity in Central Asia, Eastern Europe and the South Caucasus, to deal with this fast-evolving area.
Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the outgoing chair of the second dimension committee and thank Ambassador Raunig for chairing this committee so ably, including by keeping the war against Ukraine a focus of the committee’s work. We look forward to working with the new chair of the second dimension committee in addressing the most pressing economic and environmental issues facing our region.
Ambassador, thank you again for your report, and we look forward to supporting you and your able team in the months ahead.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Charity Commission Chair, Orlando Fraser KC, and Chief Executive, David Holdsworth, invite you to our Annual Public Meeting on Tuesday 26 November at 11:00am.
You are invited to join our Annual Public Meeting on Tuesday 26 November 2024 at 11:00am. Attend in-person in London or join online via our livestream.
About the event
Our Chair Orlando Fraser KC, Chief Executive David Holdsworth and colleagues will provide updates and insight into the Commission’s activities and answer questions about our work.
This is a hybrid event open to all members of the public and charity representatives who wish to attend in-person or join online.
In-person attendees will have the opportunity to visit our exhibition stands and speak to members of our staff both before and after the main meeting. In addition, a light lunch will be available at the conclusion of the main meeting, with an opportunity to network.
This event is free of charge but registration is required. Please book online to join this event in-person or online.
Date & Time
Tuesday 26 November 2024
11:00am to 12:30pm
In-person attendees should please arrive from 10:00am for registration.
Venue
Kings Place (Hall 2)
90 York Way
London
N1 9AG
Our privacy notice for the live broadcast of our Annual Public Meeting can be found on GOV.UK.
HWI (HarbisonWalker International), one of the leading suppliers of refractory products and services in the United States and member of the Calderys Group, announced today that it will expand in Fulton, investing $13.9 million and creating 11 new jobs.
“We’re excited to see an innovative and world-class company like HWI continuing to invest in Fulton,” said Governor Mike Parson. “From day one, our administration remained committed to improving infrastructure and strengthening our workforce to ensure a thriving economy. As a result, more and more quality employers like HWI are growing and improving the lives of Missourians and their families.”
HWI’s expansion includes the construction of an additional, state-of-the-art, lightweight monolithics refractories manufacturing facility that will increase production capacity by approximately 60 percent while enhancing product availability. The facility will feature cutting-edge technology and process automation advancements, including a new furnace and automated robotic packaging and material handling systems. HWI currently employs more than 70 people at its existing Fulton location.
“We’re proud of our company’s more than 100-year legacy in the Callaway County community, and we are thrilled to further expand operations here,” said Ross Wilkin, Senior Vice President of Americas for Calderys Group. “Our growth in Fulton is a testament to our confidence in our people and the community.”
HWI’s new plant will provide access to local, high-quality clay reserves, allowing the company to increase the production of its Greenlite aggregate-containing products, including the GREENLITE®-45-L family of monolithics and GREENLITE® 115 AR brick. These products are used extensively in many applications, including petrochemical, power generation, and other heater linings. Their unique strength-to-density ratios optimize thermal insulation with minimal structural bulk to reduce energy consumption and support customers’ goals. The company’s new facility is expected to be completed in July 2025.
“HWI’s expansion in Fulton is another exciting example of the rapid growth of our state’s manufacturing industry,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “We’re pleased to support HWI as it continues to build on its long history of helping Missourians prosper in Callaway County.”
New jobs added as part of HWI’s expansion will pay an average wage well above the county average.
For this expansion, HWI will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation.
What others are saying
“This investment demonstrates our commitment to meeting our customers’ evolving needs and reinforcing our market leadership position,” said Michel Cornelissen, President and CEO of Calderys.
“This project represents a significant step forward for our community,” said Kim Barnes, President of the Fulton Area Development Foundation. “It underscores the importance of collaboration and strategic planning in attracting high-quality investments that will benefit the residents of Callaway County for years to come.”
“We are thrilled to see HWI’s additional growth in Callaway County,” said Callaway County Commissioner Gary Jungermann. “This expansion is a testament to the ongoing efforts of our community to attract and retain quality businesses. We look forward to seeing an even greater positive impact from HWI on the local workforce and economy.”
“The collaboration between our local entities and state agencies was critical to making this happen,” said Tom Howard, IDA Board Member. “HWI’s decision to relocate here highlights the strength of our business environment, and we are excited to see this partnership grow.”
About HWI, a member of Calderys
HWI is one of the leading suppliers of refractory products and services in the United States, with a history that spans more than 150 years. It is part of Calderys and is the brand for the Americas region of the Group. HWI counts 25 manufacturing sites and 20 distribution centers in the Americas, as well as the largest refractory industry research facility in North America. Serving virtually every major industry that requires refractory solutions to enhance production and protect assets, HWI is consistently recognized for its talented experts, industry firsts, and intensely driven excellence.
To learn more about HWI, visit thinkhwi.com.
About Calderys
Calderys is a leading global provider for industries operating in high-temperature conditions with 2023 revenue at circa €1.6bn and over €220m of adjusted EBITDA. The Group specializes in thermal protection for industrial equipment with a wide range of refractory products and advanced solutions to enhance steel casting, metallurgical fluxes, and molding processes. With a presence in more than 30 countries and a strong footprint in the Americas through the brand HWI (HarbisonWalker International), Calderys’ international network of experts ensures an end-to-end offer with tailored services. Drawing on over 150 years of experience, Calderys supports its customers in their energy transition needs. Headquartered in Paris, France, the Group counts 5,800 employees and contractors, and 50 plants on five continents.
To learn more about Calderys, visit calderys.com.
About the Missouri Department of Economic Development
The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri’s businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.
For the latest updates on DED’s current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED’s website.
About the Missouri Works Program
As the state’s number one incentive tool for expansion and retention, the Missouri Works Program helps businesses access capital through withholdings or tax credits to embark on facility expansions and create jobs. This program can also help businesses purchase equipment to maintain its facility in Missouri.
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Christopher Isike, Director, African Centre for the Study of the United States, University of Pretoria
In his first year in office, US president Joe Biden committed to resetting US-Africa relations based on a doctrine of equal partnership.
He sent his secretary of state, Antony Blinken, to Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria. The visit was used to outline the administration’s policy outlook towards Africa. It laid the ground for the official US-Africa policy commitment that Blinken launched the following year in South Africa.
Since then, there have been high level engagements between the US and African countries to deepen ties. They included visits by top cabinet members of the administration: vice-president Kamala Harris, secretary of defence Lloyd Austin and treasury secretary Janet Yellen. First lady Jill Biden also came.
Biden hosted a well attended US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington DC in December 2022. Kenyan president William Ruto paid a state visit to the White House in May.
Yet our view, which is based on years of studying and writing on US and Africa relations, is that the Biden administration has not fulfilled its commitment to resetting US-Africa relations based on an equal partnership. It hasn’t recognised Africa’s growing agency in international affairs.
We argue that there has been a mismatch between the rhetoric and practice of an equal partnership. For example, African leaders or the African Union were not consulted about the agenda of the 2022 US-Africa Leaders Summit. This was also the case with the US’s Africa strategy.
This reflects the traditional paternalistic relationship of the US with Africa.
Biden is due to visit Angola in December – his only African visit as president. A much more encouraging message of equal partnership would have been delivered if the US-Africa Leaders Summit, for example, had been held at the African Union headquarters in Ethiopia. Biden would have then been able to engage with African leaders in the continent early in his term.
A full diary of engagements
There are a number of positive indicators of Biden’s commitment to reset relations with Africa.
Priorities included fostering open societies, delivering democratic and security dividends, advancing pandemic recovery and economic opportunity, and supporting the climate agenda.
December 2022: The US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington DC was attended by 49 African leaders, three months after the release of the Africa strategy. The focus was on
strengthening ties with African partners based on principles of mutual respect and shared interests and values.
Biden pledged US$55 billion in investments until 2025 to advance goals that aligned with shared priorities. The US is said to have allocated 80% of said funds.
November 2023: Biden hosted Angolan president João Lourenço at the White House on an official visit. They discussed cooperation on the economy, security, energy, transport, telecommunications, agriculture and outer space.
September 2024: US ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield announced US support for Africa getting two permanent seats on the UN security council.
It’s possible to see serious flaws in the US approach towards Africa set against the expectation of an equal partnership.
Firstly, the US has attempted to undermine African agency through its bid to pressure African countries to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Many African countries chose non-alignment.
Secondly, the US championing two seats for Africa on the security council looks commendable on the surface. But the lack of veto power perpetuates power imbalances between Africa and the current permanent security council members – the US, France, the UK, Russia and China.
US vice-president Kamala Harris visited Zambian president Hakainde Hichilema in 2023.Salim Dawood/AFP via Getty Images.
The question again is how equal the partnership is if Africa will be a junior member of the security council.
Thirdly, there has been a lack of joint agenda setting. African countries have made no input into US-Africa strategy or the US-Africa Leaders Summit.
Failing to consult African leaders, institutions and civil society on the continent’s own priorities reflects the same old practice of imposing priorities on African states. It looks like a continuation of the usual passing off of American national interests as African interests.
Fifth, the Biden administration has used the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) as diplomatic leverage over African countries. For example, in October 2023 it announced the removal of Uganda, Niger, Gabon and Central African Republic from the beneficiaries. Earlier, the administration removed Ethiopia, Guinea, Mali and Burkina Faso. These countries were removed from Agoa for not complying with US human rights and political demands.
Lastly, the fact that Biden is only visiting Africa in the last days of his presidency suggests Africa is not a priority. The fact that only one African head of state has been afforded a state visit to Washington reinforces this thinking.
If the US is serious about equal partnership, it mustn’t treat Africa as an afterthought. It must always consult African states in shaping policies that affect them and the continent.
Ruth Kasanga, a postgraduate student in the Department of Political Sciences and Research Assistant at the African Centre for the Study of the United States, University of Pretoria, made contributions to this article.
– US-Africa relations under Biden: a mismatch between talk and action – https://theconversation.com/us-africa-relations-under-biden-a-mismatch-between-talk-and-action-242307
Facility tailored to strengthen small businesses and boost regional trade
The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) has initiated a new partnership in Armenia by providing USD 10 million to Evocabank. With USD 9 million of the loan dedicated to financing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and USD 1 million for trade finance operations, the BSTDB facility is specifically designed to address the capital expenditure and working capital needs of Armenian SMEs, including those engaged in trade with other countries in the Black Sea region. Evocabank will utilize these funds to support domestic SMEs, helping them deliver their investment programmess, expand into new markets, and strengthen their competitiveness and export capabilities.
As a new partner for BSTDB in Armenia, Evocabank’s advanced digital channels and extensive branch network, will play a crucial role in delivering this support to SMEs across Armenia. This collaboration opens new opportunities for Armenian companies to engage in cross-border trade and foster stronger economic ties within the region, in line with BSTDB’s mandate to promote intra-regional cooperation.
Upon signing the loan agreement, Dr. Serhat Köksal, BSTDB President said: “Supporting the development of the SME sector is a core strategic priority for BSTDB, not just in Armenia but across all our member countries. Small and medium-sized enterprises are the backbone of any economy, and in Armenia, they play a crucial role in driving growth, innovation, and employment. The funds we are providing will support these businesses in enhancing their operations and building resilience, ultimately contributing to the overall development and sustainable growth of the country’s economy.”
Karen Yeghiazaryan, Chairman of the Management Board of Evocabank, said: “We are excited to announce a transformative partnership with The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank, aimed at boosting Armenia’s micro, small, and medium-sized enterprise sector. This collaboration marks a significant milestone, with BSTDB providing a substantial investment of USD 10 mln to Evocabank. Of this, USD 9 mln will be directed to empowering SMEs, while USD 1 mln will facilitate trade finance operations. This initiative is tailored to address the challenges faced by Armenian SMEs, ensuring they have the necessary means for growth and innovation. By supporting enterprises involved in trade within the Black Sea region, we are not only enhancing their operational capacity but also fostering a more robust and competitive business landscape. At Evocabank, we are committed to leveraging these funds to help local SMEs realize their investment goals, expand into new markets, and enhance their competitiveness and export potential.”
Founded in 1990, Evocabank is the first registered commercial bank in Armenia with over 34 years of experience in the banking market. Headquartered in Yerevan, Evocabank provides inclusive financial services to individuals, MSMEs, and larger businesses through its extensive network in Yerevan and regions. The bank is aimed at delivering financial services with extensive application of the latest technologies in a fast, simple and convenient way, operating in a mobile- first format. Focused on innovative digital approach Evocabank is one of the fastest growing banks in Armenia. The bank has received a number of international awards including “The Best SME Bank of Armenia” and “The Best Digital Bank of Armenia” awards by Global Finance Magazine. More information at: www.evoca.am
The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB)is an international financial institution established by Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Türkiye, and Ukraine. The BSTDB headquarters are in Thessaloniki, Greece. BSTDB supports economic development and regional cooperation by providing loans, credit lines, equity and guarantees for projects and trade financing in the public and private sectors in its member countries. The authorized capital of the Bank is EUR 3.45 billion. For information on BSTDB, visit www.bstdb.org.
The Scottish Government must reverse the cuts it made to key budgets.
More in Climate
The First Minister must use any new funding from Westminster to reverse the damaging cuts that the Scottish Government has made to climate and nature budgets, says Scottish Green Co-leader Lorna Slater.
Speaking at First Minister’s Questions, Ms Slater underlined the importance of nature restoration and walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure in hitting Scotland’s climate targets.
“Yesterday the UK Government presented a budget that they claim will put £1.5bn back into the Scottish Government’s budget for this year.
“This money should ensure that some of the most damaging cuts announced by the Scottish Government earlier this year should not now need to go ahead.
“Spending on the climate and nature emergencies is essential to ensure our planet has a liveable future. Whilst the Scottish Greens were in government, climate and nature spending reached record levels.
“Will the First Minister commit to using the additional funding announced yesterday for this financial year to restore the funding cuts to the Nature Restoration Fund and active travel budgets, and does this mean that the Scottish Government no longer needs to use up all of the ScotWind funding which was supposed to be invested in our Green future?”
Following an answer from the First Minister, in which he did not commit to reversing the vast in-year cuts that have been made, Ms Slater called for the First Minister to halt his recent U-turn on rolling out universal free school meals for all primary school pupils.
Ms Slatersaid:
“That’s very disappointing to hear about this year, I’ll ask the First Minister about next year.
“One of our proudest moments for the Scottish Greens during our time in Government was rolling out free school meals for all children in primary 4 and 5, because we know it’s a simple and effective way to address the impacts of child poverty and make sure every child has the best chance at school.
“We were on course to expand that to every child in primary school by the end of this session of Parliament, until the Scottish Government put in an indefinite delay on the rollout in this year’s programme for Government.
“Given the predicted £3.4bn due to be added to next year’s Scottish Budget, will the First Minister reinstate the promise to deliver free school meals for the remaining pupils in primary 6 and 7 by 2026, as endorsed by this Parliament just a few weeks ago?”
Source: The White House
Oval Office
12:06 P.M. EDT
PRESIDENT BIDEN: Well, Mr. President, welcome. Welcome to the Oval Office.
PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES: Thank you very much, Mr. President.
PRESIDENT BIDEN: Good to see you. Good to see you.
It was 10 years ago when I visited Cyprus last, as vice president of the United States. And — and, as I said, there is no limit to what our nations can achieve if we work together.
PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES: Exactly.
PRESIDENT BIDEN: And we’ve been doing that for a long time.
But I think that’s even more true today. Today, we stood against Russia’s vicious onslaught against Ukraine. We launched a strategic dialogue to increase cooperation across a range of issues, from energy security to artificial intelligence. And we surged humanitarian aid, delivering 8,000 metric tons to Gaza.
So, Mr. President, Cyprus made all this possible. I want thank you for your leadership in making that happen.
And this year also marks the 50th anniversary of the artificial division of the island. I remember it well. It was my first year as a U.S. senator. I remember sitting with (inaudible) — anyway, it’s — it’s a sad day.
PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES: (Inaudible.)
PRESIDENT BIDEN: But as a — it was a sad occasion, but I remain optimistic about the possibility that a u- — reunited Cyprus and bizonal, bicommunal federation is possible. And the United States ready — stands ready to provide any support we can toward that goal.
Mr. President, thank you, again, for being here, and I look forward to our conversation.
The floor is yours.
PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES: Mr. President, it’s a great honor to be at the White House. Thank you very much for your invitation.
As you very well know, our countries have been — have built a truly strategic partnership and — and our relations — our relations are at a strategic and historical high.
At the bilateral level, we are working closely on defense and security, on energy, law enforcement, technology innovation. There is a top potential, and there is a clear and strong political will from both countries, following also the first strategic dialogue that took place in Cyprus last week to further enhance our partnership.
Mr. President, at — at the regional level, Cyprus is a predictable and reliable partner of the United States in a region of great geopolitical importance. We are the member state of the European Union in the region. We have excellent relations with all of our neighbors. And we’re working closely with the United States and other partners to face the current challenges, to send much-needed humanitarian assistance to Gaza, to evacuate third-country nationals from — from the region.
With regards to — to Ukraine, Cyprus stands on the right side of history. And, Mr. President, it could have been different, having in mind that my country is under Turkish occupation the last 50 years.
And, Mr. President, I count on your support and the support of the United States to resume negotiations and find a solution of the Cyprus problem — solution in line with the U.N. Security Council resolution, solution that is based on our common values and principles: democracy and respect of human rights.
So, Mr. President, once again, thank you very much. I’m looking forward to our discussions. Thank you very much.
PRESIDENT BIDEN: I’m looking forward to it as well. You’re a good friend. (Inaudible.)
PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES: Thanks. Thank a lot.
12:20 P.M. EDT