NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Readout of President  Biden’s Meeting with Chancellor Olaf Scholz of  Germany

    Source: The White House

    President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. met today with Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany at the Chancellery to discuss the longstanding U.S.-German relationship, grounded in our shared democratic values.  The two leaders coordinated on support for Ukraine in its self-defense against Russian aggression; efforts to counter antisemitism and other forms of hate at home and abroad; the Middle East; amongst other global issues.  President Biden expressed his appreciation for Chancellor Scholz’s leadership in increasing Germany’s investment in NATO’s collective defense and in securing the release of wrongfully detained Americans, along with other human rights activists and political dissidents from Russian prison, earlier this year. He also underscored the U.S. commitment to continue working together to address the challenges of today and tomorrow and deliver results for both our peoples.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Welsh Secretary hails new era for Wales office on 60th anniversary

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    An event was held at Tŷ William Morgan in Cardiff to mark the 60 years of the creation of the Secretary of State for Wales in 1964.

    From left to right: David TC Davies, Lord Hain, Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens, Alun Michael and Lord Murphy.

    The Welsh Secretary has said the Wales Office will be a “dedicated champion for our nation at the Cabinet Table” as the department marked its 60th anniversary. 

    Jo Stevens said she aimed to reinvigorate the Wales Office on her appointment and had already “forged a new partnership” with Welsh Government as well as beginning to deliver some of the UK Government’s key priorities.  

    On Thursday 17 October, an event was held at Ty William Morgan in Cardiff, one of the Wales Office’s two bases along with Gwydyr House in London, to mark the 60th anniversary of the creation of the Secretary of State for Wales in 1964. 

    Speaking at the event, Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said: 

    The Wales Office exists as a dedicated champion for our nation and I believe it is critical that Wales     has its voice at the Cabinet table, steadfastly advocating on behalf of our country. This is a legacy I will continue to champion and strengthen.   

    But I want to go further and faster in strengthening the voice and the impact of the Wales Office across government and in the experiences of people across Wales.  

    When I came into office in July, I set out my plans to reinvigorate the Wales Office and set a clear vision for its future.  

    The last decade has been characterised by a fractious relationship between Welsh and UK Governments and as a first act, we have fundamentally reset the relationship between the Welsh and UK governments.  

    The First Minister and I are forging a new partnership, based on trust, respect for devolution, cooperation, and delivery. That is the bedrock on which everything else is built.” 

    The Welsh Secretary added that as well as reforming the Wales Office she has begun to deliver on the priorities set out on her appointment to the post. 

    Since July in Wales, announcements have included: 

    • A better deal with Tata Steel that secures the immediate future of Port Talbot steelworks, lays the foundations for future investment and enhances protections for the workforce in Port Talbot, Llanwern, Trostre and Shotton.   

    • £13.5m released from the Port Talbot Transition Board to support the community and supply chain.    

    • Major inward investment successes with Eren Holdings and Kellanova making huge investments in North East Wales which will deliver hundreds of good jobs.   

    • A boost to the number of trains running on the North Wales mainline by 50%, announced alongside the Welsh Government.    

    • Creation of the publicly-owned GB Energy, unleashing the potential we have for clean power in Wales from new nuclear in Ynys Mon, to floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea.  Seven Welsh tidal stream, solar and offshore wind projects across the country were successful in securing contracts earlier this year. 

    • A new partnership between the UK and Welsh governments to drive down NHS waiting lists on both sides of the border.   

    Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said:  

    Our new Wales Office will be bolder, more influential and set a positive vision for our nation, once   again playing a central role in improving people’s day-to-day lives whatever their background and wherever they live. 

    We will work across the two governments to deliver economic stability and growth, clean power by 2030, border security and safer streets and public services fit for the future. 

    We will deliver on our missions for government, for and on behalf of the people of Wales.”  

    The post of Secretary of State for Wales came into existence on 17 October 1964 with Llanelli MP Jim Griffiths the first to hold the position. 

    When the National Assembly for Wales was established in 1999, the new Wales Office replaced the Welsh Office to carry out the remaining functions of the Secretary of State for Wales. 

    Jo Stevens MP was appointed the 22nd holder of the post following the 4 July General Election this year. She became the first woman from the Labour Party to hold the position. 

    Guests at Thursday’s 60th anniversary event included a number of previous Welsh Secretaries, members of public and uniformed services and figures from Welsh public life. Exhibits from the history of the department, provided by the National Library of Wales, were also on display.  

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man guilty of murder after stabbing victim in broad daylight in Brixton

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been found guilty of murder after detectives trawled through hours of CCTV and forensically linked him to the blood trail at the scene.

    Kyiza Sandiford, 24, (19.9.00), of Merton, was found guilty of the murder of 22-year-old Keelen Wong following a trial at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 17 October.

    Detective Inspector Kevin Martin, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: “Today our thoughts are with the Keelen’s family and friends as his attacker was held to account for his murder.

    “While nothing can truly assuage the pain of their loss, I hope today’s conviction allows them to hold on to his memory knowing his killer has been brought to justice.

    “This awful attack took place in broad daylight, in front of people simply going about their business. An innocent young man lost his life to a large knife and this deeply shocked the community at the time.

    “The brutal attack on Keelen was a terrible act of senseless violence. The investigation team and other specialist officers worked tirelessly to secure this conviction, trawling through hours of CCTV in order to follow the defendant’s footsteps.

    “Today shows that the Met remains deeply committed to pursuing and prosecuting those who are willing to commit acts of violence on the streets of London. “

    Police were called at 16:44hrs on Tuesday, 3 October 2023 to reports of a stabbing at Coldharbour Lane, Brixton.

    Officers and the London Ambulance Service attended and Keelen was found with a knife injury. Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, he died at the scene.

    Extensive CCTV trawls were carried out to locate Sandiford, who had injured himself with his own blade, causing a blood trail at the scene.

    Following Sandiford’s self-admission to hospital, police were able to link the two together.

    When questioned about his injuries, Sandiford stated that it was from punching a window, but police forensically linked his blood to the trail at the scene. The blood was then also linked to a recovered sheath at the crime scene.

    Following this discovery, Sandiford was arrested the day after the murder on Wednesday, 4 October 2023 and he was subsequently charged.

    Two teenage defendants were both found not guilty of the murder but one, aged 16, was found guilty of possession of an offensive weapon.

    The teenager and Sandiford will be sentenced at the same court on Friday, 22 November.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Partners gather at Guildhall for Climate Action conference

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Partners gather at Guildhall for Climate Action conference

    18 October 2024

    Some of the leading voices in the campaign for Sustainability and Climate Action gathered this week at the Guildhall for the Derry and Strabane Sustainability and Climate Commission Launch and Community Showcase 2024 Event.

    The event marked the official launch of the Derry & Strabane Sustainability and Climate Commission, a significant cross-sectoral partnership dedicated to working together to identify solutions that meet the climate and ecological needs of the City and District, as well as the broader region.

    Established in January 2024, the Commission is the second of its kind in N. Ireland and members stem from Northern Ireland government departments, agencies, communities, education, and business.

    Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr opened the event, reaffirming Derry City and Strabane District Council’s commitment to working with local partners to address the climate and ecological crisis. “I was delighted to see so many organisations represented at today’s conference, and the shared commitment to pioneering cross-sectoral sustainability and climate action,” she declared. “As a Council we have been working to deliver our Climate Pledge towards a net zero, climate resilient City & District by 2045, but we recognise that we need to work collaboratively with everyone to turn this ambition into action.  In order to bring about impactful and sustainable change on a scale that will really protect and preserve our natural environment and local communities, it’s essential that we work together and draw on the expertise and resources of a wide range of partners,” she stressed.

    The Derry and Strabane Sustainability and Climate Commission chair Professor Ian Montgomery from Ulster University said: “Climate change is the greatest threat facing humanity, with the last ten years being the warmest on record, with shifting weather patterns causing difficulties worldwide. It is incumbent on all of us as world citizens to cutting our carbon emissions and playing our part in saving our planet – the only home we’ve ever known. Derry City and Strabane District Council have shown great leadership in bringing together stakeholders from many sectors to debate and plan how their Climate Commission can take a leading role in positive climate action for all their citizens.”

    Climate Programme Manager with Council, who hosted the event, Cathy Burns, said afterwards: “The conference provided an opportunity to unite national leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and community leaders to address the pressing challenges presented by the climate and ecological crisis. There is recognition by all our partners that we urgently need to address issues of sustainability, biodiversity loss, greenhouse gas emissions and the preservation of our natural environment for the betterment of all our communities. We had the chance to look at some of the fantastic work already ongoing across Derry and Strabane and to hear from some of the leading voices on pioneering climate and sustainability strategies.

    “We are now calling on our communities, businesses, public sector and education to get involved and be part of the dialogue. We need to work in partnership to find solutions and create a better future for all.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on National Hate Crime Awareness Week | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Statement from the Leader of the Council, Councillor Adam Hug on Friday 18 October.

    National Hate Crime Awareness Week is more pertinent than ever following the appalling events seen during the summer, which again highlighted the shameful prevalence of hate crimes. Politicians have a responsibility to promote cohesion rather than sow division and inflame tensions. We must challenge hateful sentiment head on, in order to ensure that such scenes do not occur again. 

    The week ahead is an important opportunity to show solidarity with those affected by hate crime, and to underline the ambition to rid society of prejudice and discrimination. I am proud to be standing alongside many local government colleagues and leaders across the UK in support of this campaign. 

    My hope is for Westminster to be a City where everyone feels welcome, regardless of ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion or disability. I am proud that it is home to people from across the world as well hosting, in Soho, a historic and symbolic home for the UK’s LGBTQ+ community.  Everyone who lives, works and studies here should feel able to live without fear. 

    I would like to encourage people who are subjected to, or witness harmful or hateful incidents in the borough, to report it to the Police and seek help from our community partners. The impacts of hate crime can be devastating and we are here to offer support where possible to victims, their families and loved ones. This council will continue to celebrate our diverse communities and our differences, as well as those things that unite us. We will always strive to improve the support our communities receive. There is not, and never will be, a place for hate in Westminster. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Southsea Coastal Scheme starts new stage of sea defence

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    The latest stage of the Southsea Coastal Scheme will get underway between Blue Reef Aquarium and the Hovertravel terminal on Monday 21 October, with the area due to reopen in summer 2026.

    During construction, Clarence Esplanade and the promenade and road will be closed and a diversion route will be in place for pedestrians and road users. A temporary footpath across Southsea Common, behind the Naval War Memorial, has been constructed to provide pedestrian access along the area during construction.

    Nearby businesses including the Blue Reef Aquarium, Hovertravel and Clarence Pier will remain open, but The Beach Club and Southsea Rowing Club will close. The Rowing Club has been relocated to a temporary building in Pier Road.

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said:

    “The temporary closure of this area is necessary for building essential sea defences to protect Portsmouth for the next 100 years.

    “The coastal team has worked hard to ensure that access around the area is as smooth as possible and, in particular, putting measures in place at the Naval War Memorial.

    “Looking forward, we’ve identified Serpentine Square as a great location for placing artwork along the seafront so that will be an exciting future project for local artists to get involved in.”

    Guy Mason, Project Director of the Southsea Coastal Scheme, added:

    “I’d like to thank the public for their patience as we work to improve the seafront area alongside building the sea defence.

    “Looking at the completed areas around Long Curtain Moat and Southsea Castle, it’s clear that we have vastly enhanced the features along the seafront and, as a result, seen increased visitors to the areas. We’re looking forward to doing the same at this already imposing section of the seafront.”

    Once reopened, visitors to the section of seafront between Blue Reef Aquarium and Hovertravel can expect to see several changes for the better, including:

    • A one-way road system (westbound) with a single carriageway and a reduction in speed limit from 30mph to 20mph.
    • A 3m wide two-way cycle lane running alongside the promenade, segregated from carparking by a 2m buffer strip.
    • An 8m wide promenade in most areas.
    • Grade II listed memorials placed centrally along the promenade to create a ‘memorial walk’.
    • Coastal planted terraces, play areas, new lighting and seating.

    In December 2024, the coastal defences phase between the Pyramids and Speakers’ Corner is scheduled to open.

    The entire scheme is due for completion in early 2029.

    The Portsmouth City Council project is the largest local authority led flood defence scheme in the UK, worth £180m.

    Find out more about this phase of the scheme on the Southsea Coastal Scheme website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of British High Commissioner to Cyprus: Michael Tatham

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Mr Michael Tatham CMG has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Cyprus in succession to Mr Irfan Siddiq OBE

    Mr Michael Tatham CMG has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Cyprus in succession to Mr Irfan Siddiq OBE who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.  Mr Tatham will take up his appointment during November 2024.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Michael Harry Tatham

      2023 to 2024 FCDO, Delivery Director European Political Community Summit
      2018 to 2022 Washington DC, Deputy Head of Mission (Chargé d’Affaires, 2019-20)
      2015 to 2017 FCO, Director Eastern Europe and Central Asia
      2011 to 2015 UK Mission to the United Nations, New York, Political Counsellor
      2008 to 2011 Sarajevo, Her Majesty’s Ambassador
      2006 to 2008 FCO, Head of Western Balkans Department
      2002 to 2005 Prague, Deputy Head of Mission
      1999 to 2002 10 Downing Street, Private Secretary (Foreign Affairs) to the Prime Minister
      1997 to 1999 Sofia, Deputy Head of Mission
      1995 to 1996 FCO, Private Secretary to Minister for Europe
      1995 FCO, Head of East Mediterranean Section, Southern European Department
      1993 to 1995 FCO, European Union Department (Internal)
      1989 to 1993 Prague, Third later Second Secretary (Political/Press)
      1987 to 1988 FCO, Namibia Desk Officer, Southern African Department
      1987 Joined FCO

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General: Strengthening deterrence “top priority”

    Source: NATO

    NATO Defence Ministers wrapped up two days of talks on Friday (18 October) with a commitment to further support Ukraine, strengthen ties with partners in the Asia-Pacific and reinforce the Alliance’s deterrence and defence.

    “Strengthening our deterrence and defence is this Alliance’s top priority, because keeping our one billion people safe is NATO’s most sacred duty,” NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said after the meeting. The Secretary General cited greater defence industrial capacity, more secure supply chains, and new technologies as critical to ensuring the Alliance’s security. Mr. Rutte added that NATO was making a fresh push for common munitions standards and more joint procurement to drive down costs and improve ease of use among Allies. NATO operations in the Western Balkans and Iraq were also on the agenda.

    Addressing the issue of Allied airspace breached by Russian drones, the Secretary General said that air and missile defence remains an Alliance priority. He highlighted the airspace violation in Romania yesterday and affirmed NATO’s solidarity with Romania, commending Romanian authorities and SACEUR for “their quick and effective response.” This was possible, in part, because NATO is stepping up surveillance on its eastern flank as part of a broader effort to reinforce deterrence. Mr Rutte went on to emphasise that Allies are purchasing hundreds of modern fighter aircraft and air defences systems.  

    Warning of Russia’s “increasingly irresponsible rhetoric”, the Secretary General said the Alliance’s nuclear deterrent remains “vital” to preserve peace, prevent coercion and deter aggression.

    On Thursday (17 October), NATO Defence Ministers were joined for the first time by their counterparts from Australia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and New Zealand for talks on common security challenges, including in the context of Ukraine and the support that China, North Korea, and Iran are providing to Russia’s war effort.

    Later on Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky joined Ministers in the NATO-Ukraine Council and provided an overview of his plan for ending the war. The discussion among Defence Ministers with their Ukrainian counterpart, Rustem Umerov, focused on Ukraine’s most urgent needs, including equipment and training. The Secretary General noted that work is well underway to set up NATO’s new command to coordinate security assistance and training for Ukraine, and to deliver on the pledge of 40 billion euros in military aid. He reiterated that Ukraine’s path to NATO membership is irreversible. “Ukraine will be member of NATO, there is no doubt about it, and until that happens we will make sure that Ukraine has everything it needs to prevail,” he said.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Some people love to scare themselves in an already scary world − here’s the psychology of why

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Sarah Kollat, Teaching Professor of Psychology, Penn State

    A controlled scary experience can leave you exhilarated and relaxed afterward. gremlin/E+ via Getty Images

    Fall for me as a teenager meant football games, homecoming dresses – and haunted houses. My friends organized group trips to the local fairground, where barn sheds were turned into halls of horror, and masked men nipped at our ankles with (chainless) chain saws as we waited in line, anticipating deeper frights to come once we were inside.

    I’m not the only one who loves a good scare. Halloween attractions company America Haunts estimates Americans are spending upward of US$500 million annually on haunted house entrance fees simply for the privilege of being frightened. And lots of fright fans don’t limit their horror entertainment to spooky season, gorging horror movies, shows and books all year long.

    To some people, this preoccupation with horror can seem tone deaf. School shootings, child abuse, war – the list of real-life horrors is endless. Why seek manufactured fear for entertainment when the world offers real terror in such large quantities?

    As a developmental psychologist who writes dark thrillers on the side, I find the intersection of psychology and fear intriguing. To explain what drives this fascination with fear, I point to the theory that emotions evolved as a universal experience in humans because they help us survive. Creating fear in otherwise safe lives can be enjoyable – and is a way for people to practice and prepare for real-life dangers.

    Fear can feel good

    Controlled fear experiences – where you can click your remote, close the book, or walk out of the haunted house whenever you want – offer the physiological high that fear triggers, without any real risk.

    When you perceive yourself under threat, adrenaline surges in your body and the evolutionary fight-or-flight response is activated. Your heart rate increases, you breathe deeper and faster, and your blood pressure goes up. Your body is preparing to defend itself against the danger or get away as fast as possible.

    This physical reaction is crucial when facing a real threat. When experiencing controlled fear – like jump scares in a zombie TV show – you get to enjoy this energized sensation, similar to a runner’s high, without any risks. And then, once the threat is dealt with, your body releases the neurotransmitter dopamine, which provides sensations of pleasure and relief.

    In one study, researchers found that people who visited a high-intensity haunted house as a controlled fear experience displayed less brain activity in response to stimuli and less anxiety post-exposure. This finding suggests that exposing yourself to horror films, scary stories or suspenseful video games can actually calm you afterward. The effect might also explain why my husband and I choose to relax by watching zombie shows after a busy day at work.

    Going through something frightening together – like a haunted house attraction – can be a bonding experience.
    AP Photo/John Locher

    The ties that bind

    An essential motivation for human beings is the sense of belonging to a social group. According to the surgeon general, Americans who miss those connections are caught up in an epidemic of loneliness, which leaves people at risk for mental and physical health issues.

    Going through intense fear experiences together strengthens the bonds between individuals. Good examples include veterans who served together in combat, survivors of natural disasters, and the “families” created in groups of first responders.

    I’m a volunteer firefighter, and the unique connection created through sharing intense threats, such as entering a burning building together, manifests in deep emotional bonds with my colleagues. After a significant fire call, we often note the improved morale and camaraderie of the firehouse. I feel a flood of positive emotions anytime I think of my firefighting partners, even when the events occurred months or years ago.

    Controlled fear experiences artificially create similar opportunities for bonding. Exposure to stress triggers not only the fight-or-flight response, but in many situations it also initiates what psychologists call the “tend-and-befriend” system. A perceived threat prompts humans to tend to offspring and create social-emotional bonds for protection and comfort. This system is largely regulated by the so-called “love hormone” oxytocin.

    The tend-and-befriend reaction is particularly likely when you experience stress around others with whom you have already established positive social connections. When you encounter stressors within your social network, your oxytocin levels rise to initiate social coping strategies. As a result, when you navigate a recreational fear experience like a haunted house with friends, you are setting the emotional stage to feel bonded with the people beside you.

    Sitting in the dark with friends while you watch a scary movie or navigating a haunted corn maze with a date is good for your health, in that it helps you strengthen those social connections.

    Consuming lots of horror as entertainment may make some people more resilient in real life.
    Edwin Tan/E+ via Getty Images

    An ounce of prevention = a pound of cure

    Controlled fear experiences can also be a way for you to prepare for the worst. Think of the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the films “Contagion” and “Outbreak” trended on streaming platforms as people around the world sheltered at home. By watching threat scenarios play out in controlled ways through media, you can learn about your fears and emotionally prepare for future threats.

    For example, researchers at Aarhus University’s Recreational Fear Lab in Denmark demonstrated in one study that people who regularly consumed horror media were more psychologically resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic than nonhorror fans. The scientists suggest that this resilience might be a result of a kind of training these fans went through – they practiced coping with the fear and anxiety provoked by their preferred form of entertainment. As a result, they were better prepared to manage the real fear triggered by the pandemic.

    When I’m not teaching, I’m an avid reader of crime fiction. I also write psychological thrillers under the pen name Sarah K. Stephens. As both a reader and writer, I notice similar themes in the books I am drawn to, all of which tie into my own deep-rooted fears: mothers who fail their children somehow, women manipulated into subservience, lots of misogynist antagonists.

    I enjoy writing and reading about my fears – and seeing the bad guys get their just desserts in the end – because it offers a way for me to control the story. Consuming these narratives lets me mentally rehearse how I would handle these kinds of circumstances if any were to manifest in my real life.

    Survive and thrive

    In the case of controlled fear experiences, scaring yourself is a pivotal technique to help you survive and adapt in a frightening world. By eliciting powerful, positive emotions, strengthening social networks and preparing you for your worst fears, you’re better able to embrace each day to its fullest.

    So the next time you’re choosing between an upbeat comedy and a creepy thriller for your movie night, pick the dark side – it’s good for your health.

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

    – ref. Some people love to scare themselves in an already scary world − here’s the psychology of why – https://theconversation.com/some-people-love-to-scare-themselves-in-an-already-scary-world-heres-the-psychology-of-why-240292

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Community sport hub officially opens in Portsmouth

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Dean Potter, Director of Grant Management at the Football Foundation says:

    “It’s great to see the King George V Football Complex officially open today. It’s a brilliant example of how investment from our partners, the Premier League, The FA, Government and Sport England improves grassroots facilities across the country.

    “We know that facilities like this one in Portsmouth are vital for local communities and will enable more people in and around the area to have great places to play.”

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of the Council with responsibility for Culture, Regeneration & Economic Development at Portsmouth City Council, said:

    “We’ve worked in partnership with the Football Foundation and Hampshire FA to bring this much-needed sports facility to the city, to encourage grassroots football and enable children and adults to play football whatever the weather in a welcoming environment.

    “The health and emotional well-being of residents is of paramount importance to us. We are committed to providing sports and leisure facilities across Portsmouth, which are accessible to all and support a wide range of sporting activities. This is why we are so proud of the King George V Football Complex, built to benefit the whole community.”

    Neil Cassar, Hampshire FA CEO said:

    “Hampshire FA is delighted to be appointed as the operator of the fabulous King George V Football Complex in Cosham. We look forward to building a strong network for the local community and for the grassroots game. We are confident that this fantastic site will unite members from Portsmouth and surrounding areas under one roof whilst welcoming all beyond the local boundaries to consider the site for their own provisions, events and more.

    “There is no doubt that King George V Football Complex will provide state of the art football and ancillary facilities, and we welcome the opportunity to use our expertise and experience of operating three other hub sites in the county to promote, develop and progress this exciting new venue. Working with the collective funding partners, we are positive that King George V Football Complex will be a thriving success”

    Find out more about the King George V Football Complex on Hampshire FA’s website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Matchain Hits Major Milestone: Over 9 Million Wallets And Counting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LISBON, Portugal, Oct. 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Matchain, a leading AI blockchain platform, is excited to share the milestones achieved since its mainnet launch on August 28th, recapping all the important metrics of the ecosystem. The platform has reached significant milestones in user adoption, transaction volume, and strategic partnerships, solidifying its position as a frontrunner in the AI & Decentralized Identity space.

    Explosive Growth in User Base and Transactions

    Unlike traditional platforms where data is harvested and monetized without consent, Matchain’s vision is that user data should only be shared with explicit permission. This data, when shared, can be leveraged for training AI models, with users receiving a share of the revenue generated. By enabling individuals to decide how their data is used, Matchain not only fosters greater transparency but also gives users an active role in the growing AI economy, ensuring they benefit from the value of their own contributions.

    To achieve this goal, Matchain has been focused on onboarding Web2 users into the Web3 space, providing a smooth transition to decentralized platforms. At the core of the strategy is leveraging Telegram’s massive web2 reach as a familiar gateway, allowing millions to explore blockchain technology without friction.

    Matchain’s strategy lies in driving real, authentic interactions within its ecosystem. All initiatives were focused on encouraging users to explore and experience the dApps firsthand, of which, LoL, the first AI memecoin on Matchain, quickly gained momentum and sparked engagement within the community.

    The strong and enthusiastic response not only highlighted the community’s support but also served as a powerful driver for increasing Matchain’s visibility and accelerating its growth.

    A Recap of the most important numbers:

    Successful Transition from Testnet to Mainnet

    Matchain’s journey to its current success began with a carefully planned transition from testnet to mainnet. While the testnet was used to validate our core offering and vision, mainnet opened up the doors for the public to join and build on Match.

    How’s it going so far:

    Onchain Activity: The testnet phase lasted a year and saw over 180 million transactions processed, demonstrating the network’s capability to handle high volumes, while the mainnet saw a total of 32 million transactions within less than a month of being launched.

    Community Engagement: With a total user outreach of over 12 million across all channels, Matchain’s mini-app has attracted 3 million+ daily active users, creating strong momentum. This success is amplified by hyper-successful Megadrop campaigns in collaboration with exchange partners, fueled by the enthusiastic support of the Matchain community.

    Ecosystem Growth: We’ve built a network of over 50+ strategic partners across sectors like DEXs, DeFi platforms, games, and AI, creating a solid foundation for seamless building on Matchain. MatchID partners are integrating our identity solution to drive real-world use, while infrastructure partners ensure builders can engage with Matchain easily and securely. With a focus on the future, we’ve also aligned with AI leaders across industries to empower individual sovereignty.

    Get Involved With Matchain

    Matchain’s growth has taken off thanks to strategic partnerships and community-driven efforts led by our Business Development team. Here are some of the key initiatives that are still going strong—and there’s plenty of room for you to jump in and be part of the journey.

    Megadrop Program: A multi-phase reward program designed to incentivize user participation and ecosystem growth in collaboration with industry leaders like OKX, Bitget, and Bybit, expanding Matchain’s integration on leading web3 platforms.

    Mini-App Quests: Over 7 million users engaged through Matchain’s mini-app games, earning Match Points in real time.

    Match Hub: If you share the same vision as Matchain, let’s build something great together! Our BD team’s got your back—offering technical and marketing support to help grow your projects!

    Looking Ahead

    Matchain is set to continue to focus on strengthening its infrastructure, expanding partnerships, and developing AI and Decentralized Identity (DID) solutions to meet the evolving demands of the blockchain community.

    With its rapid momentum, Matchain is poised for significant growth and is on track to expand its user base to over 40 million users in the coming months.

    But that’s just the beginning—stay on the lookout for Matchain. With so much happening behind the scenes, you won’t want to miss out. A lot of exciting updates and insights will be shared at ETH Sofia, where our CEO, Petrix, will join Par from Paris Saint-Germain F.C. (PSG) for a fireside chat.

    Keep an ear for subtle clues about what’s next for Matchain.

    About Matchain
    Matchain is a blockchain platform that offers advanced AI-driven decentralized identity solutions. It ensures privacy, security, and control over personal data, allowing users to own and monetize their digital information within a secure ecosystem.

    For more details, visit Matchain’s website or contact Anastasia Drinevskaya, Chief Marketing Officer, for inquiries and updates.

    Contact:
    Anastasia Drinevskaya
    ana@matchain.org

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by Matchain. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/210903ee-4dc4-43fb-a29c-f0863f1b42b3
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e8fbba70-bbe2-4487-9ff3-8f78cec5bebd

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: East Midlands one year on from Storm Babet

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Today, 18 October 2024, marks one year since Storm Babet hit the UK and brought with it extremely heavy rainfall and very strong winds.

    An Environment Agency Officer fixing the Lowdham flood storage wall.

    In the East Midlands, Storm Babet resulted in the highest recorded river levels at 37 locations. As well as bringing the wettest 3-day period that Nottinghamshire had ever experienced on record.

    Storm Babet was then followed by Storms Ciaran and Henk which led to more significant flooding. Flood defences operated very well overall and protected significant numbers of properties in the region.

    The anniversary also coincides with the Environment Agency’s annual Flood Action Week which is a campaign dedicated to showing people the steps they can take to reduce the devastation caused by flooding. It also aims to encourage people to sign up to the flood warning service that informs you if your home is at risk of flooding.

    In the East Midlands alone, the Environment Agency is currently working on 52 flood risk projects to return assets to the condition they were before the storms last winter. These projects have all been created using evidence from the flooding caused by the 3 storms. Designing and delivering Flood schemes can be complicated and therefore take time to establish.

    In the last 12 months an array of projects have been completed to help better protect communities. In Raynesway in Derbyshire the team installed rock amour along a flood embankment. It had started to erode due to the high-water levels caused by Storm Babet and Storm Henk. Quick action was required to ensure the nearby businesses and critical infrastructure in that area remained protected.

    2180 tonnes of stone was used to fill a hole on the Folly Road Flood Bank in Darley Abbey.

    High levels of water also caused erosion on Folly Road Flood Bank in Darley Abbey. 40 metres was repaired by the Environment Agency, Jackson Civil Engineering and Derby City Council. Over a period of 11 weeks, 2180 tonnes of stone was brought in to fill the large scour hole and protect the bottom of the embankment.

    In Lowdham the high river levels caused by storm Babet resulted in overtopping and the deterioration of the flood storage wall. The wall surrounds the cricket pitch and is the boundary to the storage area. The design of the flood asset means when river levels are high they spill onto the cricket pitch. Therefore the flood storage wall keeps the water in that boundary. The high levels of water that was experienced with storm Babet and then continued very closely with storm Ciaran and Storm Henk resulted in further deterioration of the masonry wall. The Environment Agency Nottingham field team worked quickly to assess the damage, take down the damaged stretch of wall and rebuild it. This work was completed in March, less than a month after the last period of storms.

    Since storm Babet the Environment Agency has been reassessing the areas that are covered by the flood warning service to ensure all at risk areas are targeted. This work has so far resulted in 3 new areas being added to the flood warning system in the East Midlands – Rearsby, Syston and Silbey.

    The Environment Agency are also developing a Property Flood Resilience (PFR) programme for those homes affected by the storms, this could involve them being offered things like air brick covers and demountable barriers to have on the outside their home.

    More than 26 drop-in sessions have been conducted in the East Midlands which more than 1600+ people attended. The Environment Agency spent more than 2,000 hours attending and organising these key sessions. The drop-in sessions provided members of the public with a chance to ask any flood related questions they have. The events are attended by our partners who have a role during flooding so everyone the public needs are all in one room.

    Paul Lockhart, Flood Risk Manager in the East Midlands, for the Environment Agency said:

    We know the devastating impact flooding can have this is why we are working closely with our professional partners on a number of projects to protect communities.

    It is important that the public understand their flood risk and are signed up to our flood warning service and educate themselves on how they can better protect themselves and their property from flooding. There is plenty of information here: Flooding – GOV.UK

    The best way to protect yourself from flooding is early preparation and knowing what to do in advance. Some of the actions people can take to reduce the dangers are:

    • Check your long-term flood risk. You can use this free service to find out the long-term flood risk for an area in England, the possible causes of flooding, and how to manage flood risk.

    • Sign up for flood warnings by phone, text or email
    • Taking steps to protect yourself from future flooding – including storing important documents in a secure, waterproof location, taking rugs and small furniture upstairs, checking how to turn off your electricity and water, preparing a flood kit.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Joint Statement on Arctic Security and Defence

    Source: Government of Iceland

    Under the auspice of the Northern Defence Dialogue meeting held on the margins of the NATO Defence Ministers’ Meeting on 17 October 2024, the defence ministers of Canada, Denmark together with the Foreign Minister of the Faroe Islands and a representative from Greenland, Finland, Norway, and Sweden, and representatives from Iceland and the United States reaffirm their shared commitment to enhanced collaboration on security and defence in the Arctic.

    In a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape marked by new challenges, the region has become a growing global point of focus. Climate change is having profound effects on the strategic and operational environment and growing access to the Arctic’s resource potential is enticing new non-Arctic actors to the region. Potential adversaries are rapidly developing their militaries’ ability to operate both in the High North and the circumpolar Arctic region. Among its many negative consequences, Russia’s illegal and unprovoked further invasion of Ukraine has caused grave impediments to international cooperation and degraded the Euro-Atlantic security environment.

    These unprecedented challenges underline the need to foster deepened collaboration among the like-minded Arctic states. The accession of Sweden and Finland to NATO significantly strengthens NATO’s collective defence posture and capabilities in the region. As all like-minded Arctic states now belong to the Alliance, we affirm our leading role in NATO’s work relating to the region and stress the importance of maintaining a credible deterrence and defence in the entire Euro-Atlantic area—including our northern regions—as well as cooperation with our other NATO Allies to this end.

    At this Northern Defence Dialogue meeting, building on the work of and aiming to also strengthen NATO, we discussed:

    • Our situational awareness of the threat environment in the Arctic, and opportunities to enhance information and intelligence sharing in order to establish a common operating picture;
    • Emerging threats, risks, and geopolitical challenges from potential adversaries at both the national and international level;
    • Our capabilities to deter and, if necessary, defend against threats posed by our potential adversaries in the region, and our commitment to mutual participation in joint operations and exercises to enhance interoperability; and,
    • Ways to increase collaboration to address common threats and challenges posed to the region.

    Our countries’ common ambition to maintain low tension in the region has served as the foundation of our multilateral Arctic relations and will continue to guide our cooperation in the future. Guided by the core principles of multilateral cooperation, territorial integrity, and maintaining the rules-based international order, we are committed to strengthening our collaboration to address complex global challenges and maintain the Arctic as a stable, peaceful, and prosperous region.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council tenants urged to share views on how their rent should be spent

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    The City of Edinburgh Council is asking tenants to give their feedback on how it invests in Council homes, neighbourhoods, and services.

    With just six weeks to go until this year’s consultation closes on Friday 29 November, tenants across the capital are being reminded to share their views on how they’d like their rent to be spent.

    In February this year, councillors agreed to increase rent by 7% every year, for five years, starting in April 2024. The longer-term strategy gives tenants more certainty about the rent they pay and helps the Council better plan spending to improve homes and services.

    The Council also introduced the Tenant Hardship Fund which offers financial assistance for tenants struggling to make rent payments. This year, the fund was increased to a maximum award of two fortnightly rent charges per tenant per year.

    Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener Jane Meagher said:

    We’re determined to provide a better service to our tenants, improve their homes, and build more places for people to live because everyone deserves a suitable and affordable place to call home.

    That’s why we want to make sure as many people as possible have the opportunity to share their views on how we spend and invest in their homes, neighbourhoods, and services. I’d urge every tenant to visit our website and share their priorities for how they’d like their rent to be spent.

    I also want tenants and residents’ groups to know that they can come to us if they’re worried about being able to pay their rent or have already missed payments.

    Find out more and share your views here at the consultation hub. Tenants who are struggling to pay rent can speak to their housing officer or contact tenanthardshipfund@edinburgh.gov.uk.

    Published: October 18th 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Decisions adopted in the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of AB Amber Grid

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AB Amber Grid, legal entity code: 303090867. Address: Laisvės ave. 10, LT-04215 Vilnius, Lithuania.

    The following decisions were adopted in the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of AB Amber Grid on 18 October 2024:

    1. Aproval of the conclusion of the Humanitarian Aid Contract

    1.1. In accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 11(21) of the Law on Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid of the Republic of Lithuania, upon the recommendation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania and the approval of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Lithuania, to enter into a Humanitarian Aid Contract with the Ukrainian company KHMELNYTSKOBLENERGO and to approve the following main terms of the Humanitarian Aid Contract:

    1.1.1. The subject matter of the Contract is humanitarian assistance to Ukraine’s energy sector. The humanitarian aid shall be provided through the transfer of 4 generators and 46 vehicles with a balance sheet value of EUR 60 285,53;

    1.1.2. The parties to the Contract shall be AB Amber Grid and the Ukrainian company KHMELNYTSKOBLENERGO;

    1.1.3. The purpose of humanitarian aid is the operation of energy infrastructure in wartime to meet the basic needs of people in wartime.

    1.2 To authorise the Chief Executive Officer of the Company (with the right to sub-delegate) to sign the Humanitarian Aid Contract in accordance with the material terms and conditions of the Contract as set out in Clause 1.1, and to agree the other (non-material) terms and conditions of the Contract on behalf of the Company.

    More information:
    Laura Šebekienė, Head of Communications of Amber Grid,
    +370 699 61 246, l.sebekiene@ambergrid.lt

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council issues advice in advance of Storm Ashley

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Council issues advice in advance of Storm Ashley

    18 October 2024

    In anticipation of Storm Ashley, which is expected to bring strong winds and could cause possible disruption on Sunday, Derry City and Strabane District Council is encouraging the public to take all the necessary precautions to keep safe.

    In the interests of health and safety, Council is closing all of its public parks, play parks and grass pitches on Sunday and advising the public to avoid using open spaces and areas where there are trees.

    The public are advised that there could also be some disruption to recycling centres across the Council area with Pennyburn, Strathfoyle and Strahan’s Rd Centres remaining closed on Sunday.

    Council outdoor sports and leisure facilities and courts will also be closed. All scheduled matches due to take place on Saturday 19th October on Council pitches will proceed, however all matches scheduled for Sunday 20th October have been cancelled due to the current weather warning and Council is in the process of contacting clubs and user groups accordingly.

    While the Cemeteries will remain open, the public are advised to take extreme care.

    All of our Leisure Centres will open as normal with the exception of Brooke Park Leisure Centre which will be closed and users advised to use facilities at Templemore Sports Complex.

    Routine inspections will be carried out on all facilities on Monday prior to them reopening.

    Householders and businesses across the Council area are encouraged to take the necessary measures to keep them and their property safe.

    The following guidance has been provided by the Met Office.

    Storm Ashley – What to expect

    Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen
    Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
    Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
    Some roads and bridges may close
    Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible

    What steps to take.

    Prepare to protect your property and people from injury. Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences.

    Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

    People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.

    If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

    Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly. When a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.

    Emergency Contact numbers:

    Emergency services 999 or 112

    Flooding Incident Line – 0300 2000 100

    NI Electricity Networks – 03457 643 643

    NI Gas Emergency Service – 0800 002 001

    NI Water – 03457 440 088

    Housing Executive – 03448 920 901

    Report a blocked road – 0300 200 7891

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Acts announced for city’s biggest bonfire & firework display

    Source: City of Leicester

    THE acts appearing at this year’s Abbey Park bonfire and firework display have been announced, with live music, dance, aerial stunts and fire-breathing performances included in the line-up.

    Running from 5-9pm on Saturday 2 November, the event will feature up-and-coming Leicester band The Mercians, who have had three number one’s on the iTunes chart and sell-out shows under their belt.

    There’ll be more live music from the city’s 2Funky Arts’ Mae Flo, Sariah Carter, Jake Thompson, Dani Matty, Edy Muuya and Linzi.

    And the mystical-themed stage show ‘Spellbound’, will feature aerial performers who will wow the audience with gravity-defying feats, alongside songs and dance on stage.

    Also in the line-up are the amazing Fire & Sparks, who will show off their incredible pyrotechnics and flame-throwing  skills, as well as their fire-breathing ‘dragon and bat’.

    The show will be hosted by BBC Radio Leicester’s Ady Dayman and Jo Hayward.

    The stage show will take place before and after the two firework displays, which begin at 6.45pm with a quieter display suitable for children and noise sensitive visitors. There will also be a funfair with rides for all ages, and wide range of street food and licensed bars on the park.

    People are being urged to make savings by snapping up their tickets now. Available online and from De Montfort Hall ticket office, tickets are on sale at reduced prices if bought in advance. Children aged four and under go free.

    Tickets are available online here and in person from De Montfort Hall, Granville Road, Leicester LE1 7RU.

    Prices will rise on the day of the event on 2 November.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Acts announced for city’s biggest bonfire & firework display

    Source: City of Leicester

    THE acts appearing at this year’s Abbey Park bonfire and firework display have been announced, with live music, dance, aerial stunts and fire-breathing performances included in the line-up.

    Running from 5-9pm on Saturday 2 November, the event will feature up-and-coming Leicester band The Mercians, who have had three number one’s on the iTunes chart and sell-out shows under their belt.

    There’ll be more live music from the city’s 2Funky Arts’ Mae Flo, Sariah Carter, Jake Thompson, Dani Matty, Edy Muuya and Linzi.

    And the mystical-themed stage show ‘Spellbound’, will feature aerial performers who will wow the audience with gravity-defying feats, alongside songs and dance on stage.

    Also in the line-up are the amazing Fire & Sparks, who will show off their incredible pyrotechnics and flame-throwing  skills, as well as their fire-breathing ‘dragon and bat’.

    The show will be hosted by BBC Radio Leicester’s Ady Dayman and Jo Hayward.

    The stage show will take place before and after the two firework displays, which begin at 6.45pm with a quieter display suitable for children and noise sensitive visitors. There will also be a funfair with rides for all ages, and wide range of street food and licensed bars on the park.

    People are being urged to make savings by snapping up their tickets now. Available online and from De Montfort Hall ticket office, tickets are on sale at reduced prices if bought in advance. Children aged four and under go free.

    Tickets are available online here and in person from De Montfort Hall, Granville Road, Leicester LE1 7RU.

    Prices will rise on the day of the event on 2 November.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sunderland Festival of Light – everything you need to know

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Stunning light projections created by international visual artists, a spectacular starscape and a giant glitterball are among the dazzling lighting installations visitors can enjoy when Sunderland Festival of Light opens next Friday.

    New lighting features introduced for 2024 include ‘The Mirror’ created by Poland based award-winning visual artist Ari Dykier and ‘Hypha’ by French award-winning multidisciplinary artist Sebastien Labrunie.

    Other new features for 2024 include Starscape which will create the illusion of a brilliant white starfield, Cosmic Oasis which will see trees lit up with UV light, a laser garden and a giant glitter ball in the park’s historic Victorian bandstand which will act as the focal point of the nightly silent disco.

    The sparkling light tunnel over the bridge linking the two sections of the park also make a return after proving popular with visitors last year.

    Councillor Beth Jones, Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism, said: “I’m really excited about this year’s Festival of Light.

    “It’s always a really popular event and we’ve got some fantastic new light installations this year together with favourites like selfie lane, the sparkling light tunnel over the bridge and our famous Sunderland sign.

    “I can’t wait to see the two new light projections created especially for the festival. I think they’ll be real showstoppers and I’m also really looking forward to seeing the giant glitterball in the bandstand and the Starscape star field.”

    Visitors to this year’s festival can also take advantage of 20 per cent off tickets for select performances of this year’s Jack and the Beanstalk panto at the Sunderland Empire.

    The offer will apply to price bands A – C for the following performances only: Fri 13 Dec – 7pm, Sat 14 Dec – 5.30pm, Sun 15 Dec – 5.30pm, Tue 17 Dec – 7pm & Thu 19 Dec – 7pm. To redeem the offer, make sure to opt in to hear from Sunderland City Council events when buying your tickets.

    Sunderland City Council has also partnered with Nation Radio North East as media partner for this year’s Festival of Light.

    Nation Radio North East’s Simon Grundy said: “As a partner this year, I’m so pleased Sunderland City Council are doing the Festival of Light again in Mowbray Park. It brings some brightness into our lives on these dark, cold evenings. There’s something for everyone, and seeing the bairns face’s light up, always brings a smile to my face.”

    For all those planning a visit to this year’s Festival of Light, here’s everything you need to know before you go:

    When and where is the Festival of Light?

    The Festival of Light begins on Friday 25 October and will then take place from 4.30pm – 10pm every day during half term Friday 25 October to Sunday 3 November and then 4.40 to 10pm every Thursday to Sunday until Sunday 24 November with the exception of Remembrance Sunday on 10 November. Last admission will be at 8.30pm, and the event will close at 10pm each night. This year’s event is being held in Mowbray Park, Burdon Road, SR1 1PP in Sunderland city centre.  

    What can I expect?

    A sparkling mix of new lighting installations including two new stunning light projections, Starscape, Cosmic Oasis, a  giant glitter ball in the Victorian Bandstand as well as a ‘selfie lane’ and a twinkling tunnel over the bridge connecting the two sections of the park.

    Do I need to buy a ticket to visit and how much are they?

    All visitors must have a ticket to enter the Festival of Light.  Tickets cost £5 each and must be bought online in advance. They can’t be bought at the gate. Children under two are free.

    Do I have to attend at the time shown on my tickets?

    Yes. When buying your ticket online, you will be asked to select an entry time. All visitors must attend at the time shown on their ticket. 

    Can I change the date and/or time or cancel my ticket once purchased?

    No. Festival of Light tickets are strictly non-transferable and non-refundable. Changes cannot be made to your booking once it is confirmed. 

    Can I leave the Festival of Light and return the same evening with my ticket?

    No. Your ticket is only valid for the entry time stated on the ticket. If you leave you will be unable to return at a later time that evening. Once you have entered the Festival of Light there is no limit on how long you can stay at the event. 

    Is the Festival of Light accessible to pushchairs and wheelchairs?

    Yes. The Festival of Light is fully accessible to pushchair and wheelchair users. 

    Will there be new lighting features and activities at this year’s Festival of Light?

    Yes there will be brand new lighting features combined with some classic favourites. You can expect some very exciting special additions this year. 

    Will there be food and drinks available on site? 

    Yes. There’ll be a great range of food and drinks available to buy in Mowbray Park. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own food and drinks however alcohol is strictly prohibited. 

    Will there be toilets and baby changing facilities available at the event? 

    Yes. Toilets and baby changing facilities will be available. 

    Will Mowbray Park be free to access during the day? 

    Yes. Access to the park will remain as usual until approximately 3pm every event day at which point the park will be closed for preparation of event visitors entering at 4pm. 

    Which roads will be closed during the event? 

    Due to Mowbray Park’s city centre location, no roads will be closed during the event.  

    Where can visitors to the event park?

    Parking is free Monday – Friday after 3pm at the following car parks:

    • Gorse Road
    • West Wear Street
    • Charles Street
    • Tatham Street
    • Nile Street

    On street pay and display parking bays are  chargeable all days between 8am-6pm at the hourly tariff including Sundays
    Riverside, St Marys and Sunniside car parks are chargeable at all times.
    All City Centre car parks are chargeable all day on a Sunday at a flat rate of £3
    You can find out more about where to park and parking fees by clicking the links below:
    Car parks – Sunderland City Council
    On street parking places – Sunderland City Council

    Can I use public transport to get to the event? 

    Visitors can get to the site using both bus and Metro services. Please visit http://www.nexus.org.uk/bus/timetables for the latest information.

    Who do I contact if I have a query about my tickets?

    Please complete the form at http://www.seetickets.com/customerservice and a member of the team will contact you to discuss your booking.

    Who do I contact if I have a question about the Festival of Light?

    Please email events@sunderland.gov.uk and a member of our team will be happy to help.

    Quiet Hour

    A ‘quiet hour’ is available to book on selected dates for visitors looking for a quieter or calmer experience. During this time, music in the park will be turned down. Quiet hours are on from 4.30pm – 5.30pm every Thursday.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Haunting happenings at the Alley Theatre this Halloween

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Haunting happenings at the Alley Theatre this Halloween

    18 October 2024

    Join the Ghostly Gathering at the Alley Theatre this Halloween with a range of spooky shows, marvellous magic and weirdly wonderful workshops,

    Barking Dog Theatre Company presents two shows on Monday 28th October. First up is The Whittaker’s Ghost at 2pm. Enjoy this spine-tingling ghost story, based on a supposedly real-life tale in Montreal in Canada, that’s perfect for ghouls and ghosts aged five to 10-year-olds. Don’t worry about the story being scary, Barking Dog’s two talented actors (with the help of some puppets and children from the audience) present this exciting tale, specially adapted for children.
    With original music and audience participation as well as use of puppetry and mime, this is an ideal Halloween adventure.

    Perfect for little witches and wizards aged under-six ‘Teddy is in Spooky Wood’ will take place at 3.30pm. This is the story of Sammy Ragdoll and her best friend Eddy The Teddy as they take a walk through the woods. Sammy warns Eddy to stick to the path, but Eddy is easily distracted and has a tendency to wander off. Soon he is lost and letting his imagination run away with him. Don’t worry, the only one likely to be scared during this performance is Eddy the Teddy. The production uses many elements of theatre -mime, puppetry and songs for children to join in with. It’s a perfect introduction to live entertainment for children who’ve never been to a show before, and a welcome return for Eddy the Teddy’s young fans.  Tickets are £4 or Family Ticket £13 per show

    The Alley will be the web of entertainment on Halloween Day – Thursday 31st October from 12noon-5pm. Spend some time encouraging your little ones to learn about the world with the use of imaginative and interactive play at the ‘Roarsome Interactive Role Play Village’. Take this opportunity to step into a world where learning meets imagination! Watch as your little ones dive into a realm of make-believe, and explore the world around them in the most magical way possible, and let the adventures begin this Halloween. Various sessions available from 12noon – 4pm. Cost £2, suitable from walking age to five-year-olds.

    Everyone’s favourite magician Parky will also be entertaining all the ghouls, goblins, witches and wizards who visit the Alley for Halloween. His range of magical tricks will leave them spellbound with two shows at 1pm and 3.15pm. Word of warning – Be prepared for spooktacular laughter and giggles. Parky will perform at 1pm and 3.15pm. Admission is free, but must be pre-booked. 

    You can also get creative in the Alley’s Halloween inspired arts and crafts workshops from 1-5pm. A series of drop-in classes are available to allow you to make some Halloween inspired crafts. Free admission.

    For more information and tickets visit http://www.alley-theatre.com or call the box office on 028 71 384444.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council works with regulator to further housing standards

    Source: City of York

    Published Friday, 18 October 2024

    On 1 April 2024, the Social Housing (Regulations) Act 2023 came into force.

    Its new regulatory standards require tenant safety and engagement, decent homes and transparency, and landlords are required to inform the regulator of any non-compliance. The standards also require more frequent surveys of homes and consideration of tenants’ diverse needs and any vulnerabilities.

    Housing associations have been regulated by the Regulator of Social Housing for some time. Now, the 100 or so local authorities in England which own and manage council homes are being regulated on new consumer standards. About half of these councils have already self-referred to the Regulator – 13 since the new regulations came in – and now City of York Council has referred itself as it continues work to improve its homes and landlord services.

    While the Council complies with many of these standards, it knows that more work needs to be done to meet all areas. It has contacted the regulator and is discussing its improvement plans to ensure that services for tenants continue to improve.

    Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing at City of York Council, said:

    This new legislation provides a welcome framework for our improvement. We have developed an action plan to continue our intention to provide the best landlord services and quality of housing. Safety is our priority and any tenants with any concerns about their homes should contact us directly.

    “We’ve written to all our tenants about this self-referral, the changes it brings and new opportunities for them to take part in our journey of improvement. We have also published our latest annual report setting out our current performance and updating tenants on the work we are doing to improve our services.

    “Through this self-referral, we’re fully briefing the Regulator on areas needing improvement and our planned activities and timescales to deliver them.”

    The latest Tenant and Leaseholder Annual Report is available here.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local Democracy Week welcomes new ABC Youth Voice

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Kyle Savage welcomed young people and leaders from the newly established ABC Youth Voice to the Council Chamber on Tuesday (15 October) to participate in Local Democracy Week.

    Council’s Community Development and Community Planning Departments are working in partnership with the Education Authority’s Youth Service to support the group of young people, aged 16 to 19 years old, in the ‘Youth Voice’ project.

    The theme for Tuesday’s event was “Local communities putting democratic resilience at the forefront” and members of ABC Youth Voice had the opportunity to learn how Council operates as well as ask questions to a number of our elected representatives.

    Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Kyle Savage commented:

    “I think I speak for my colleagues when I say that events such as this one are invaluable as we as local representatives get to hear first-hand from our future voters what it is that they want to see from their councillors in their local communities.”

    “The Council has always been a strong supporter of Local Democracy Week as an initiative which helps bring local democracy closer to the people that we as councillors serve – our local citizens.” 

    Jake McCourt, member of ABC Youth Voice said, “This event is a fantastic opportunity for young people to work with our Council to ensure that the voices of young people are being promoted, are being fulfilled, and being taken into consideration.”

    The ABC Youth Voice event took place as part of Local Democracy Week which is an annual initiative designed to foster the knowledge of local democracy and promote the idea of democratic participation at a local level.

    The event was part funded by The Executive Office District Council Good Relations Programme.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Inclusion Conference held to benefit Portsmouth schoolchildren

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Portsmouth City Council’s annual Inclusion Conference was held on 17 October and was attended by 38 Portsmouth schools, from nursery to secondary schools.

    The 11th annual conference, which was fully booked, celebrated and promoted inclusive practice in the city and aimed to develop practitioners’ knowledge and skills to help understand and meet schoolchildren’s needs.

    The event included eight workshops, on various subjects including neurodiversity, and attendance and wellbeing, as well as information from organisations including Solent NHS, Portsmouth Parent Voice, Parent Carer Board, Oarsome Change, Simon Says and Early Help.

    Councillor Suzy Horton, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, said: “As a former schoolteacher, I’m proud that we hold these events to continue to develop our teachers and practitioners in all areas of inclusion, and put children at the heart of everything that we do.”

    Rachel Osborne, Head of Primary at Mayfield School, said: “Because of changes that we’ve seen in recent times in education, we have to rethink and refine our focus to support our pupils with different needs. It’s great to attend this type of event to gain a common understanding and approach in order to improve outcomes and life chances for our young people in the city.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Modern slavery victims to be supported in fresh measures

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Victims of modern slavery will be better supported in fresh measures unveiled by the government.

    For the first time, the government has pledged to eradicate the backlog of decisions on modern slavery cases within 2 years, giving thousands of women, men and children who may have suffered traumatic sexual, physical and economic abuse the clarity needed to assist with their recovery.  

    Currently, many victims face long delays in having their status as a victim of modern slavery confirmed through the national referral mechanism, via a conclusive grounds decision. This can lead to prolonged uncertainty and mental health suffering.    

    Through hiring 200 additional Home Office staff to process cases, thousands of vulnerable people will receive faster decisions on their cases so that they can move forward with their lives, whilst making the process more efficient.   

    These new employees are already being recruited and will be in their posts in early 2025.  

    The Safeguarding Minister pledged the new reforms to a room of charity and law enforcement delegates on Thursday (17 October) to mark national Anti-Slavery Week, before traveling to meet survivors of modern slavery at Salvation Army premises.  

    During the event, Jess Phillips set out that tackling modern slavery is one of her top priorities. She pledged to drive up prosecution numbers for perpetrators of this vile crime and reform the modern slavery system. 

     Minister for Safeguarding, Jess Phillips said:   

    For too long, modern slavery survivors and the harrowing experiences they have lived through have not been given the attention and support they deserve.    

    This is going to change. The actions I have announced today are a first step towards putting survivors first, eradicating the backlog of modern slavery cases to give victims the clarity and peace of mind they need to move on with their lives.

    Supporting victims of modern slavery is one of my top priorities and there is much more to do. But be in no doubt, this government will use every lever at its disposal to support them while we pursue those who callously profit from their trauma and misery.

    Major Kathy Betteridge, Director for Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery, The Salvation Army, said: 

    We welcome today’s announcement as a positive step towards prioritising the needs of survivors of modern slavery. Far too often, we see individuals in our support services whose recovery is delayed because they feel trapped in limbo, unable to move forward with their lives while awaiting decisions on their cases.

    This is an encouraging sign that the new government recognises the needs of survivors and is actively listening to them and those who support them.

    We look forward to working with the minister on the many challenges that remain in restoring the UK’s position as a world leader in the protection and support of survivors of modern slavery.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New gate installed at Leigh flood storage area

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    More than 1,400 homes better-protected from flooding as Kent facility will hold 25 per cent more water than now, enough to fill 600 Olympic swimming pools

    Three new gates at the Leigh flood storage area will add 200 homes and businesses to the 1,200 already better-protected from flooding

    The Leigh flood storage area (FSA) currently reduces the risk of flooding from the River Medway to 1,200 homes and businesses in Tonbridge and Hildenborough in Kent. It works by holding peak floodwater in the storage area to minimise flows downstream.

    Coinciding with the Environment Agency’s Flood Action Week, a milestone has been reached this month with the installation of a new gate to control the flow of water.

    Lifted into place by a 300-tonne crane, this is the first of three new gates that will be installed during construction.

    The new gates were delivered in pieces and welded together on site. Each gate weighs around 12.5 tonnes – the equivalent to the weight of a single-decker bus!

    By replacing the gates and raising sections of the embankment, the FSA will be able to store approximately 25 per cent more water than it does now; in total, more than 7 million cubic metres of floodwater that will help to better-protect more than 200 additional homes from flooding.

    Scheme progress

    It is expected that the scheme will be completed by the end of 2025.

    This is a complex programme and timings could change depending on external factors, such as the weather. Regular scheme updates will be provided to residents and stakeholders via newsletters and on GOV.UK.

    Sally Harvey, the Environment Agency’s area director for Kent, South London and East Sussex, said:

    The installation of the new gate is a huge achievement and a great step forward in the project to reduce the flood-risk to more than 1,400 homes in Tonbridge and Hildenborough.

    People can be assured that the flood storage area will remain operational throughout the project continuing to protect people, homes and businesses.

    Thank you to local residents for the continued patience while the work is ongoing.

    Barrier: The first of three new gates being installed at the Leigh flood storage area, which will soon hold 25 per cent more water back from communities

    Cllr Matt Boughton, leader of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, said:

    The completion of this major milestone is a huge achievement, and I’d like to thank all those who’ve contributed to getting us to this stage of the project. It takes us a step closer to providing even greater protection from the risk of flooding to local homes and businesses that can have a devastating impact.

    I look forward to seeing the scheme continue its progress towards completion and much improved flood protection for the people of Tonbridge, Hildenborough and all communities in the Medway catchment.

    Liz Gibney, Kent and Medway Economic Partnership chair, said:

    We are delighted to see the installation of a new flood gate at Leigh. The Kent and Medway Economic Partnership originally proposed this scheme for central government investment, as we are very mindful of the devasting effects that flooding can have on local residents, businesses and communities.

    Some estimates say that the average cost of flood damage in a commercial setting is around £80,000, and that a small business can lose up to 50 working days following a flood event, which clearly leads to a loss of custom and sales. This new investment will, therefore, bring peace of mind to businesses in the area, and increase confidence to invest in our locality.

    Rob Thomas, cabinet member for environment at Kent County Council, said:

    Completing the installation of the first gate marks a significant milestone in the delivery of the Leigh flood storage area expansion, and Kent County Council is very pleased with the progress being made. This scheme will better-protect homes and business from flooding in Tonbridge and Hildenborough, and offer improved climate resilience.

    For more information please visit the scheme’s online pages.

    How the Leigh flood storage area works – watch the animation:
    You can find out more about how the flood storage area works by watching our YouTube animation.

    Working in partnership

    The Environment Agency is working with Kent County Council, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council and the Kent and Medway Economic Partnership (previously part of the South East Local Enterprise Partnership) to reduce flood risk to over 1,400 homes and businesses in Tonbridge, Hildenborough and downstream communities.

    Funding is through the government’s Flood Defence Grant in Aid (FDGiA), with contributions from Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, Kent County Council and the South East Local Enterprise Partnership, now the Kent and Medway Economic Partnership.

    Background

    This week, 14-20 October, is also the Environment Agency’s Flood Action Week, which aims to help people and businesses prepare for flooding.

    Will the Leigh flood storage area still be operational during construction?

    Yes, the work are planned so that most of the work on the flood storage area will be during summer periods when there is a lower risk of flooding. There are robust contingency plans in place to use the flood storage area whenever needed.

    The Considerate Constructors Scheme

    The Environment Agency is aware of the impact of construction activity on local communities.

    The Considerate Constructors Scheme promotes high standards and accountability within the construction industry. It is a voluntary scheme, meaning that scheme-registered contractors and organisations are actively trying to improve the way they work, by raising their standards in being more considerate to communities, the environment and their own workforce.

    The project’s construction partner, VolkerStevin is signed-up to the scheme. The site reference is: 134154 and people can give feedback on freephone 0800 783 1423. Or email the project team direct at LEHESEnquiries@volkerstevin.co.uk.

    History of the Leigh flood storage area and the Reservoirs Act works

    Current work

    Contact us

    Journalists only – 0800 141 2743 or communications_se@environment-agency.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Thailand: Authorities must urgently enforce arrest warrants for Tak Bai suspects

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Ahead of the 25 October expiry of the statute of limitations in a case in which 85 people died during and after protests in the Tak Bai district of Narathiwat province, Thailand in October 2004, Amnesty International’s Thailand Researcher Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong said:

    “The Thai authorities must take urgent action – before it is too late – to ensure long-delayed justice for the victims of human rights violations committed by state officials violently suppressing a protest in Tak Bai two decades ago.

    “A landmark court decision to accept the lawsuit initiated by the victims and their families in August was a beacon of hope amid entrenched impunity for violations against protesters in Thailand. But days ahead of the expiry of the statute of limitations for these crimes, the legal case raised by victims is in jeopardy.

    “Defendants in this lawsuit, who are all former or current high-ranking officials – including individuals allegedly in Japan and the United Kingdom – have failed to present themselves at court. Unless at least one of them does so before 25 October 2024, this lawsuit will be dismissed.

    “The Thai authorities must take all necessary steps to ensure there is no impunity for those suspected of criminal responsibility for grave human rights violations in this case. This includes by enforcing arrest warrants against suspects and presenting them in court before 25 October 2024 to enable the victims and their families to have the opportunity to

    pursue criminal accountability in this case.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Military Sealift Command Far East Participates in Sama Sama

    Source: United States Navy

    “MSC Far East makes sure every U.S. military ship in the Indo-Pacific region is able to get fuel, ammo, and supplies; this can include services to our allies and partners,” said U.S. Navy Senior Chief Boatswain’s Mate Andrew Werner, MSC Far East, out of Singapore. “Without a Combat Logistics Force (CFL) or refueling ships, our fleet of ships, and those of some allies, such as the Philippines, would not be able to refuel at sea.”

    Sama Sama 2024, which was held Oct. 7-18, was hosted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. Navy, and featured participation from allies and partners throughout the Indo-Pacific region, including personnel and assets from Australia, Canada, France and Japan.

    MSC Far East provided subject-matter-expert instruction for the refueling-at-sea familiarization training, along with members attached to Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, out of Singapore.

    “The purpose of the training was to get the PN familiar with underway replenishment gear on a ship, how to set it up, and how to conduct a safe underway-replenishment,” said Werner. “MSC Far East has Boatswain’s mates that are subject-matter-experts and can train the Philippine Sailors. We do the similar training with other allies and partners.”

    Underway replenishments of allied partners present a unique opportunity to strengthen partnerships and exercise compatibility of logistics systems.

    “The training went over the fundamentals of refueling and replenishing at sea,” said U.S. Navy Chief Boatswain’s Mate Francisco Fuentes, DESRON 7. “We also conducted hands-on training and observed their on-station procedures for refueling-at-sea, and looked at their replenishment-at-sea stations forward of the ship.

    “It was important for us to do hands-on training because it helped them understand our safety procedures, maintenance requirements, and types of equipment we use and our station procedures. This helps with our interoperability.”

    According to Werner, he hopes that the training was beneficial to the PN, and they can mutually build upon interoperability.

    “Every Navy does evolutions a little different and we were able to show them how on our U.S. Navy conducts a safe refueling—just about every week—when underway on deployment,” added Werner. “They were excited and motivated to learn and I look forward to working with them again in the future.”

    Sama Sama 2024 is a multilateral engagement that includes a sea and shore phase that will incorporate medical, engineering, logistics and symposiums, while diving and explosive ordnance disposal teams, naval vessels and maritime surveillance aircraft conduct exercises focused on anti-submarine, surface and air warfare, and maritime domain awareness.

    MSC Far East supports the U.S. 7th Fleet and ensures approximately 50 ships in the Indo-Pacific Region are manned, trained, and equipped to deliver essential supplies, fuel, cargo, and equipment to warfighters, both at sea and on shore.

    U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

    Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2024, MSC exists to support the joint warfighter across the full spectrum of military operations, with a workforce that includes approximately 6,000 Civil Service Mariners and 1,100 contract mariners, supported by 1,500 shore staff and 1,400 active duty and Reserve military personnel.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nine imprisoned for operating illegal Lincolnshire waste site

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Nine people have been sentenced for the operation of an illegal waste site in rural Lincolnshire, following an investigation by the Environment Agency.

    Aerial view of the site during the raid, showing burning waste and a lorry depositing waste.

    The defendants were sentenced today (Friday 18 October) at Nottingham Crown Court to a collective 11 years of imprisonment, including three family members who controlled the illegal waste site at Long Bennington near Newark.

    The investigation, named Operation Lord, saw Environment Agency officers spend months building a picture of evidence of the illegal waste site on Fen Lane, Long Bennington.

    The findings of the investigation led to 12 people and one company being charged, of which 10 pleaded guilty. Following an eight-week trial at Nottingham Crown Court which concluded on 28 June 2024, the remaining three defendants were found guilty.

    Environment Agency officers conducted a raid on the site in April 2020 with Lincolnshire Police. Intelligence revealed lorry-loads of shredded waste were regularly being accepted onto the site the size of a football pitch.

    Waste was burned daily and buried. This activity intensified during the first Coronavirus lockdown in March 2020, and so action was taken to bring it to a halt.

    Environment Agency officers also seized an excavator and a lorry which were actively depositing more waste at the site when officers arrived. Two arrests were made.

    Smoke over the illegal waste site after the burning of waste. Residential properties are in view nearby.

    Prosecution brought against those involved

    The prosecution was brought against individuals that ran the illegal waste site; burned the waste; drove waste to the site and the landowners. Two waste brokers were also prosecuted.

    The Canner family trio of father Paul (53), mother Judith (55) of Main Road, Bilstone, Nuneaton, and son Joshua (29) of Laburnum Avenue, Newbold Verdon, ran the illegal waste site.

    Paul Canner was sentenced today to 26 months in prison, while Judith and Joshua were each sentenced to 16 months. Seven of the nine defendants were sentenced to immediate imprisonment.

    Sentencing the defendants, His Honour Judge Coupland found that the:

    • offending was deliberate for all nine defendants and the harm caused was of the highest level.
    • the illegal activity was deliberately concealed physically and with falsified paperwork.
    • the illegal waste site was close to nearby residents, putting them at harm from toxic fumes.
    • the repeated nature of the offences over a long period of time, and the financial gain obtained by the operation aggravated the offences for all defendants.

    His Honour Judge Coupland said that ‘the custody threshold had been crossed in all cases’.

    Site inflicted ‘misery on the local community’

    Leigh Edlin, Area Director for Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire, said:

    This was a serious illegal waste site which was highly organised and involved multiple offenders.

    Those involved sought to profit from Covid restrictions at the cost of the environment and by inflicting misery on the local community. The site and its operators had a major impact on legitimate businesses and our regulatory work.

    Our enforcement teams will continue to tackle serious illegal waste crime by working with partners such as Lincolnshire Police, fire services and councils, as we did in this case to hold those responsible to account.

    Anyone who suspects illegal waste activity is reminded to report it to our 24-hour hotline. Call 0800 80 70 60, or anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    Background

    Sentences issued to defendants on 18 October 2024:

    • Paul Canner, aged 53 of Main Road, Bilstone, Nuneaton, pleaded guilty to 1) knowingly causing the deposit of waste at the site between 1 October 2019 and 1 May 2020, and 2) knowingly causing the operation of the illegal waste site between 1 October 2019 and 1 May 2020. He was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court to 26 months’ immediate imprisonment.
    • Judith Canner, aged 55 of Main Road, Bilstone, Nuneaton, pleaded guilty to knowingly causing the deposit of waste at the site between 1 October 2019 and 1 May 2020. She was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court to 16 months’ immediate imprisonment.
    • Joshua Canner, aged 29 of Laburnum Avenue, Newbold Verdon, pleaded guilty to knowingly causing the deposit of waste at the site between 1 October 2019 and 1 May 2020. He was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court to 16 months’ immediate imprisonment.
    • Sonial Surpal, aged 52 of Round House Road, Coventry, pleaded guilty to depositing waste at the site between 1 October 2019 and 1 May 2020. He was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court to 13 months’ immediate imprisonment.
    • Luke Woodward, aged 37 of Willow Road, Nuneaton, pleaded guilty to depositing waste at the site between 1 October 2019 and 1 May 2020. He was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court to 11 months’ immediate imprisonment.
    • Marcus Chapman, aged 39 of Egmanton Drive, Mansfield, pleaded guilty to disposing of the waste at the site between 1 October 2019 and 1 May 2020. He was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court to 12 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months. He has been ordered to do 200 hours of unpaid work.
    • Peter Wainwright, aged 32 of Dexter Lane, Hurley, Atherstone, Warwickshire pleaded guilty to disposing of waste at the site between 1 October 2019 and 1 May 2020. He was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court to 16 months’ immediate imprisonment.
    • Nathan Jones, aged 43 of Carnation Road, Shirebrook, Mansfield, pleaded guilty to disposing of waste at the site between 1 October 2019 and 1 May 2020. He was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court to 16 months’ immediate imprisonment.
    • Daniel Lippitt, aged 55 of Lubbersthorpe Road, Leicester, pleaded guilty to depositing waste at the site between 1 October 2019 and 1 May 2020. He was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court to 9 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months. He has been ordered to do 200 hours of unpaid work.

    The following defendants, who were the landowners, will be sentenced on 16 December 2024 at Nottingham Crown Court:

    • James Baggaley, aged 38 of Back Lane, Foston, pleaded not guilty but was found guilty in June 2024 after a trial of 1) knowingly permitting the deposit of waste at the site between 1 October 2019 and 1 May 2020, and 2) knowingly permitting the operation of the illegal waste site between 1 October and 14 April 2022.
    • Marc Greenfield, aged 46 of Fosse Road, Brough, pleaded guilty to knowingly permitting the operation of the illegal waste site between 1 October 2019 and 14 April 2022.

    Proceeds of crime proceedings have commenced against all 13 defendants and the following two defendants will be sentenced at the outcome of those proceedings:

    • Robert Malone, aged 41 of Ribble Prospect, Clitheroe, the sole director of NWR 2004 Limited, pleaded not guilty but was found guilty in June 2024 after a trial of failing to comply with the waste duty of care between 1 October 2019 and 1 May 2020.
    • Fletcher Plant Limited pleaded not guilty but was found guilty in June 2024 after a trial of failing to comply with the waste duty of care between 1 October 2019 and 1 May 2020.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Questions over diligence of Unionist councillors on Ards and North Down Council

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV Strangford chairman Eddie Allen:

    “I want to take this opportunity to both congratulate and thank Mr Bryson for securing permission to challenge the blocking on flying the Union flag permanently at war memorials in Ards and North Down.

    “This is a remarkable achievement and calls into question what on earth the elected Unionist councillors of the area have been doing.

    “It should not be left to a private citizen to take such steps in order to pull Alliance into line and I trust that councillors will be more diligent in future in holding them to account. If they don’t there is of course the option to replace them in a few years’ time.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Selects Crew for 45-Day Simulated Mars Mission in Houston

    Source: NASA

    NASA selected a crew of four research volunteers to participate in its last simulated mission to Mars in 2024 within a habitat at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.
    Obaid Alsuwaidi, Kristen Magas, Tiffany Snyder, and Anderson Wilder will step into the 650-square-foot HERA (Human Exploration Research Analog) facility on Friday, Nov. 1. Once inside, the team will live and work like astronauts for 45 days. The crew will exit the facility on Monday, Dec. 16, after simulating their return to Earth. Jordan Hundley and Robert Wilson also were named as alternate crew members.
    Scientists use HERA studies to examine how crew members adapt to isolation, confinement, and remote conditions before NASA sends astronauts on deep space missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. The studies provide data about human health and performance in an enclosed environment over time with crews facing different challenges and tasks.
    The four volunteers will carry out scientific research and operational tasks throughout their simulated mission, including raising shrimp, growing vegetables, and “walking” on the surface of Mars using virtual reality. They will also experience communication delays lasting up to five minutes as they “near” Mars, allowing researchers to see how crews may respond to the type of delays astronauts will encounter in deep space. Astronauts traveling to the Red Planet may encounter one-way communication delays lasting as long as 20 minutes.
    As with the previous HERA missions, crew members will conduct 18 human health studies during the mission through NASA’s Human Research Program. Collectively, the work helps scientists understand how a spaceflight-like environment contributes to the physiological, behavioral, and psychological health of crew members. Insights gleaned from the studies will allow researchers to develop and test strategies aimed at helping astronauts overcome obstacles on deep space missions.

    Primary Crew

    Obaid Alsuwaidi
    Obaid Alsuwaidi serves as captain engineer for the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) Ministry of Defense. In this role, he provides guidance in civil and marine engineering and addresses challenges facing the organization. Previously, Alsuwaidi worked as a project manager for the defense ministry, helping to streamline productivity, establish high standards of professionalism, and build a team of experts to serve the UAE’s needs.
    Alsuwaidi earned a bachelor’s degree in Engineering from Western Sydney University in Australia, followed by a master’s degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from George Washington University in Washington.
    In his free time, Alsuwaidi enjoys horseback riding, swimming, and running.
    Kristen Magas
    Kristen Magas is an educator and engineer, currently teaching at Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School in Franklin, Massachusetts. She also mentors students involved in a NASA design and prototyping program, helping them develop and fabricate products to improve life in space on both International Space Station and Artemis missions. Magas was a finalist for the 2025 Massachusetts State Teacher of the Year.
    Magas received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. She also holds a master’s degree in Vocational Education from Westfield State University in Massachusetts. She has worked as a community college professor as well as a design engineer in municipal water and wastewater treatment.
    In her spare time, Magas enjoys coaching robotics and track and field, hiking, biking, and staying connected with her community. She has two children and resides in North Attleboro, Massachusetts with her husband of 25 years.
    Tiffany Snyder 
    Tiffany Snyder is a supervisor for the Cybersecurity Mission Integration Office at NASA, helping to ensure agency missions are shielded against cybersecurity threats. She has more than 20 years of information technology and cybersecurity experience, working with the Air National Guard and as a special agent with the Defense Counterintelligence Security Agency. She joined NASA in 2018 as an IT specialist, and later served as the deputy chief information security officer at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, providing cybersecurity oversight.
    Snyder holds a bachelor’s degree in Earth Science from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a master’s degree in Digital Forensics from the University of Central Florida in Orlando.
    In her spare time, she enjoys playing with her dogs — Artemis and Apollo, gardening, running, and visiting the beach with her family.
    Anderson Wilder
    Anderson Wilder is a Florida Institute of Technology graduate student working on his doctorate in Psychology. His research focuses on team resiliency and human-machine interactions. He also works in the campus’s neuroscience lab, investigating how spaceflight contributes to neurobehavioral changes in astronauts.
    Wilder previously served as an executive officer and engineer for an analog mission at the Mars Desert Research Station in Utah. There, he performed studies related to crew social dynamics, plant growth, and geology.
    Wilder received his bachelor’s degrees in Linguistics and in Psychology from Ohio State University in Columbus. He also holds master’s degrees in Space Studies from International Space University in Strasbourg, France, and in Aviation Human Factors from the Florida Institute of Technology. He is completing another master’s degree in Cognitive Experimental Psychology at Cleveland State University in Ohio.
    Outside of school, Wilder works as a parabolic flight coach, teaching people how to fly in reduced gravity environments. He also enjoys chess, reading, video games, skydiving, and scuba diving. On a recent dive, he explored a submerged section of the Great Wall of China.

    Alternate Crew

    Jordan Hundley
    Jordan Hundley is a senior consultant at a professional services firm, offering federal agencies technical and programmatic support. Prior to his current position, he focused on U.S. Department of Defense clients, performing model-based system engineering and serving as a subject matter expert for related operations.
    Hundley was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. While on active duty, he served as an intercontinental ballistic missile operations officer. He later joined the U.S. Air Force Reserve. Currently, he is a space operations officer with experience in space battle management and electromagnetic warfare.
    Hundley earned a master’s degree in Engineering Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. He is currently pursuing a second master’s degree in Systems Engineering at the university.
    Hundley holds a private pilot license and is a certified rescue diver. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking and camping, researching theology, and learning musical instruments.
    Robert Wilson
    Robert Wilson is a senior researcher and project manager at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland. He leads work enhancing human-machine collaborations, developing human prediction models, and integrating that technology into virtual reality and robotic systems designed to operate in isolated, constrained, and extreme environments. His human-machine teaming expertise also extends into responsible artificial intelligence development. He recently participated in a United Nations Roundtable discussion about artificial intelligence in security and defense.
    Wilson received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Biomedical Engineering from Purdue University in 2013 and 2015, respectively. He earned his doctorate in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2020.
    Outside of work, Wilson is an avid outdoors enthusiast. He enjoys scuba diving, winter camping, backcountry skiing, and hiking through the woods or mountains throughout the year. At home, he also likes to tinker in computer networking and self-hosted systems.
    ____
    NASA’s Human Research Program pursues the best methods and technologies to support safe, productive human space travel. Through science conducted in laboratories, ground-based analogs, commercial missions, and the International Space Station, the program scrutinizes how spaceflight affects human bodies and behaviors. Such research continues to drive NASA’s mission to innovate ways that keep astronauts healthy and mission-ready as human space exploration expands to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
    For more information about human research at NASA, visit:
    https://www.nasa.gov/hrp

    MIL OSI USA News –